Current Affairs Q&A

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Current Affairs Questions &Answer PDF 2018

Table of Contents Current Affairs Q&A PDF - August 2018 ...... 2 Static GK question from August Current Affairs 2018 ...... 153

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Current Affairs Q&A PDF

Current Affairs Q&A PDF - August 2018

1. How many amendments of GST Laws were approved in a Cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 1st August 2018? 1.46 2.35 3.26 4.15 5.None of these Answer - 1.46 Explanation: On August 1, 2018, In a Cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi amendments of GST Laws were approved. It has 46 amendments. It includes hiking threshold limit to Rs.1.5 crore, allowance of employers to claim input tax credit on food, transport and insurance provided to employees under any law. It also has modification of reverse charge mechanism, separate registration for companies having different business verticals, cancellation of registration, new return filing norms and issuance of consolidated debit/credit notes covering multiple invoices.

2. On August 1,2018, the Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, cleared the purchase of 51 % controlling stake in IDBI bank by which entity? 1.Life Insurance Corporation (LIC) 2.State Bank of India 3.Reserve Bank of India 4.Aditya Birla Insurance 5.None of these Answer - 1.Life Insurance Corporation (LIC) Explanation: On August 1,2018, The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi , cleared the purchase of 51 per cent controlling stake in IDBI bank by state-run insurer Life Insurance Corporation (LIC). According to the deal the bank will get Rs 10,000 crore to Rs 13,000 crore depending on the share price. This was done to raise the capital of the IDBI Bank to pay off debts. Earlier LIC had 7-7.5 per cent stake in the bank.

3. On August 1, 2018, India and Germany signed an agreement on financial and technical cooperation. As per this agreement, Germany will give _____ for development of India? 1.Rs 8,500 crore 2.Rs 2,500 crore 3.Rs 3,786 crore 4.Rs 4,789 crore 5.None of these Answer - 1.Rs 8,500 crore Explanation: On August 1, 2018, India and Germany signed an agreement on financial and technical cooperation. According to this agreement, Germany will give nearly Rs 8,500 crore (1,055 million Euros) for development of India. This will focus on sustainable urban development and renewable energy in areas of sanitation, solid waste management and promotion of urban mobility. This cooperation will help reduce the greenhouse gases emission.

4. Where did Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for AYUSH Shripad Yesso Naik lay the foundation stone of the 2nd Phase of Construction of North East Institute of Ayurveda & Homeopathy (NEIAH) on 29th July 2018? 1.Mawdiangdiang, Shillong 2.Changlang, Itanagar 3.Kiphire, Kohima 4.Longleng, Itanagar 5.None of these Answer - 1.Mawdiangdiang, Shillong Explanation:

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On July 29, 2018, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for AYUSH Shri Shripad Yesso Naik laid the foundation stone of the 2nd Phase of Construction of North East Institute of Ayurveda & Homeopathy (NEIAH) at NEIAH Campus in Mawdiangdiang, Shillong. The estimated cost of the construction is Rs 40.80 crore. The area of the project is : 10481.53 sqm. It will have residential accommodation for students, doctors and staff and guest house.

5. Named the portal launched by the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) to connect cargo owners and shippers with real time data on availability of vessels? 1.FOCAL (Forum of Cargo-Owners and Logistics-Operators) 2.WConnect 3.CLAP (Cargo-Owners and Logistics-Operators Association Portal) 4.VConnect 5.None of these Answer - 1.FOCAL (Forum of Cargo-Owners and Logistics-Operators) Explanation: To know the availability of vessels in the market. The name of the portal is : Forum of Cargo-Owners and Logistics- Operators (FOCAL). It has been designed and developed by IT Department and the Traffic Wing of IWAI. This would ensure direct interaction among the vessel operators, shippers and cargo owners.

6. On 10th August 2018, NITI Aayog will host an Investors’ Conference for the Holistic Development of Islands in which city? 1.Port Blair 2.Chennai 3.Panaji 4.New Delhi 5.None of these Answer - 4.New Delhi Explanation: This Conference will be inaugurated by Amitabh Kant, CEO, NITI Aayog. It is expected to gain investment for the sustainable development of eco-tourism projects in Andaman & Nicobar and Lakshadweep islands. The Conference is organized by NITI Aayog along with the respective UT Administration. NITI Aayog has been mandated to look over the Holistic Development of Islands program, along with the respective UT administration and State Governments. Under the first phase of this program, 10 Islands in Andaman & Nicobar and Lakshadweep have been considered for holistic development.

7. ____ that implements Ayushman Bharat-National Health Protection Mission (AB-NHPM) and Common Service Centres (CSC) have signed a MoU to provide information and eligibility validation services to beneficiaries, mainly in remote areas? 1.National Health Agency (NHA) 2.Indian Medical Association (IMA) 3.Rural Welfare Association (RWA) 4.Rural Health Association (RHA) 5.None of these Answer - 1.National Health Agency (NHA) Explanation: National Health Agency (NHA) functions under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. Its objective is to implement Ayushman Bharat-National Health Protection Mission (AB-NHPM). The MoU was signed by Dr. Indu Bhushan, CEO, National Health Agency (NHA) and Dr. Dinesh Tyagi, CEO, CSC-SPV. More than 3 lakh CSCs in 2.5 lakh Panchayats of India will become the major point of information for potential beneficiaries and help in validating the entitlement of beneficiaries. AB-NHPM aims to cover nearly 10.74 crore poor families. It has identified occupational category of urban workers’ families according to the latest Socio-Economic Caste Census (SECC) data, for both rural and urban India.

8. Which has become the first state to implement Centre’s ‘Biofuel Policy’? 1.Rajasthan 2.Gujarat 3.Madhya Pradesh

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4.Assam 5.None of these Answer - 1.Rajasthan Explanation: For this Rajasthan has established a Centre of Excellence in Udaipur to promote research in alternate fuels and energy sources. To expand ethanol production, it has allowed using sugarcane juice and starch containing materials for production of ethanol. The state installed a biodiesel plant of capacity of 8 tonnes a day with the financial assistance of Indian Railways. These steps will help in increase in production of oil seeds and reduce country’s oil import.

9. Name the smartphone distribution scheme under the Sanchar Kranti Yojna (SKY), launched by Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh and actress Kangana Ranaut? 1.Mobile Vision 2.Mobile for All 3.Mobile Tihar 4.Mobilise the State 5.None of these Answer - 3.Mobile Tihar Explanation: On 30th July 2018, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh and actress Kangana Ranaut launched 'Mobile Tihar', a smartphone distribution scheme under the Sanchar Kranti Yojna (SKY) in Raipur, Chhattisgarh. The scheme has been launched to distribute smartphones to women and students. It will benefit more than 50 Lakh people. As a part of this scheme, 556 new mobile towers will be set up in Chhattisgarh.

10. Where was the first 'Nepal-India Think Tank' Summit held on 31st July 2018? 1.Kathmandu, Nepal 2.New Delhi, India 3.Mumbai, India 4.Bengaluru, India 5.None of these Answer - 1.Kathmandu, Nepal Explanation: It was inaugurated by Former Prime Minister of Nepal and Co-Chairman of ruling Nepal Communist Party, Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda'. It was jointly organized by the Asian Institute of Diplomacy and International Affairs and Nehru Memorial Museum Library. It consisted of 4 sessions. The summit will be hosted alternatively in Nepal and India annually.

11. On August 1, 2018, India imposed safeguard duty on solar panels imported from China and Malaysia for how many years? 1.5 2.3 3.4 4.2 5.None of these Answer - 4.2 Explanation: This was recommended by the Directorate General of Trade Remedies (DGTR), under the commerce ministry. As per the notice from Finance Ministry, • 25 per cent safeguard duty have been imposed for July 30 to July 29, 2019, • 20 per cent during July 30, 2019 to January 29, 2020 and • 15 per cent during January 30, 2020 to July 29, 2020. Solar tariffs are currently at around Rs 2.75 per unit, on par with that of thermal power, but safeguard duty is expected to raise it by at least 50 paise.

12. What is the current repo rate, as per the 3rd bi-monthly policy, released by RBI on August 1, 2018? 1.6.50 % 2.6.25 %

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3.6.00 % 4.6.75 % 5.None of these Answer - 1.6.50 % Explanation:

Policy rates 2nd bi-monthly in June 6th 2018 3rd bimonthly in August 1,2018 Repo Rate 6.25% 6.50% Reverse Repo Rate 6.0% 6.25% Marginal Standing Facility (MSF) 6.5% 6.75% Bank Rate 6.5% 6.75% Reserve Ratios: Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR) 4% 4% Statutory Liquidity Ratio (SLR) 19.5% 19.5%

13. To provide financial assistance to commodity traders and farmers, StarAgri Finance signed a MoU with which bank, on August 1, 2018? 1.Karur Vysya Bank 2.HDFC Bank 3.Axis Bank 4.ICICI Bank 5.None of these Answer - 1.Karur Vysya Bank Explanation: On August 1, 2018, To provide financial assistance to commodity traders and farmers, StarAgri Finance signed MoU with private lender Karur Vysya Bank. Micro-lending would be provided to traders and farmers in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Maharashtra. The assistance would be provided against the commodities stored in warehouses of StarAgri Finance.

14. Who took charge as Director (Finance) of Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) on 1st August 2018? 1.Gopala Krishnan 2.C B Ananthakrishnan 3.Ravi Sundaram 4.Sharad Kumar 5.None of these Answer - 2.C B Ananthakrishnan Explanation: On 1st August 2018, C B Ananthakrishnan took charge as Director (Finance) of Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL). Earlier, C B Ananthakrishnan was the Executive Director (Finance) at HAL Corporate Office. He joined HAL as Chief Manager (Finance) at Helicopter Division, Bengaluru, in 2004. He was also HAL nominee Director in the Board of three joint ventures of HAL.

15. Name the new 3D shape that has been discovered by scientists during a study on how tissues are moulded to form the skin, cavity linings and the building blocks of organs? 1.scutoid 2.stelloid 3.arondum 4.bromb 5.None of these Answer - 1.scutoid Explanation: Scutoid has 5 sides on one end and 6 on the other end. It has a triangular surface on one of its longer edges. Scientists refer this as a twisted prism kind of shape. It enables the tissue to mould around organs. The name Scutoid refers to its similarity to the scutellum. Scutellum is the lowest segment of an insect’s midsection.

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Epithelial cells that cover the surface of various organs as safety shield adopt a certain geometric shape, which was earlier believed to be columnar or bottle-like. Now, the shape has been named ‘Scutoid’.

16. Who won the Hungarian Grand Prix for the 6th time, at the Hungaroring circuit, in Hungary, on 29th July 2018? 1.Valterri Bottas 2.Sebastian Vettel 3.Lewis Hamilton 4.Daniel Riccardio 5.None of these Answer - 3.Lewis Hamilton Explanation: Position Driver Team Country 1 Lewis Hamilton Mercedes United Kingdom 2 Sebastian Vettel Ferrari Germany 3 Kimi Raikkonen Ferrari Finland 4 Daniel Ricciardo Red Bull Australia 5 Valtteri Bottas Mercedes Finland

17. The World Junior Squash Championships 2018 was held in Chennai, from 18th to 29th July 2018. Which men’s team emerged as the 2018 World Junior Squash Champions? 1.England 2.India 3.Egypt 4.Spain 5.None of these Answer - 3.Egypt Explanation:

Event Winner Runner-up Men’s Individual Mostafa Asal (Egypt) Marwan Tarek (Egypt) Women’s Individual Rowan Elaraby (Egypt) Hania El Hammamy(Egypt) Men’s Team Egypt England

18. When was Earth Overshoot Day 2018 observed to commemorate that we all have consumed more from nature than our planet can renew in the entire year? 1.July 31 2.August 3 3.August 2 4.August 1 5.None of these Answer - 4.August 1 Explanation: Earth Overshoot Day is an initiative of Global Footprint Network. Global Footprint Network is an international research organization that is changing how the world measures and manages its natural resources. The date of Earth Overshoot Day is calculated from data of Global Footprint Network. Earth Overshoot Day marks the date when we all have consumed more from nature than our planet can renew in the entire year.

19. Which football club has been recognised by the United Nations as the World's first certified carbon neutral football club? 1.Forest Green Rovers Football Club 2.PSG Football Club 3.Real Madrid Football Club 4.Liverpool Football Club 6 | Page Follow Us - FB.com/AffairsCloudOfficialPage Copyright 2018 @ AffairsCloud.Com

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5.None of these Answer - 1.Forest Green Rovers Football Club Explanation: The Forest Green Rovers Football Club announced on being recognised by the United Nations as the World's first certified carbon neutral football club, after signing up to the UNFCCC Climate Neutral Now initiative for the upcoming season. The UN campaign, launched in 2015, encourages companies, organisations, governments and citizens to reduce their climate footprints, with the aim of achieving a climate neutral world by the middle of this century.

20. On August 1, 2018, Lucknow Metro Rail Corporation (LMRC) and which telecom service provider signed an MoU for extending benefits in customer services? 1.Vodafone India 2.Bharti Airtel 3.BSNL 4.Reliance Jio 5.None of these Answer - 3.BSNL Explanation: On August 1, 2018, Lucknow Metro Rail Corporation (LMRC) and BSNL have signed an MoU for extending benefits in customer services. BSNL will use the smart card services of LMRC for collection of post-paid bills. It will also involve sale of pre-paid products like recharge vouchers and electronic top-up at LMRC Ticket Office Machine (TOM) station counters.

21. Name the scheme that Union Cabinet has approved the first extension to support Indian Entities bidding for strategically important infrastructure projects abroad. 1. Pooled Finance Development Fund Scheme 2. National Pension Scheme 3. Concessional Financing Scheme 4. National Rural Livelihood Mission 5. None of the above Answer - 3. Concessional Financing Scheme Explanation: On August 2, 2018, the Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has approved the first extension of Concessional Financing Scheme (CFS) to support Indian Entities bidding for strategically important infrastructure projects abroad.The total outlay for this scheme is Rs.625.63 crore .

22. Which state has released its final draft of National Registry of Citizens and 40 lakh declared 'illegal citizens' of India? 1. Meghalaya 2. Arunachal Pradesh 3. Nagaland 4. Assam 5. None of the above Answer - 4. Assam Explanation: Assam government released its final draft of National Registry of Citizens of Assam. According to the release, Out of 3,29,91,384 (3.29 crore) total applicants, 2,89,83,677 (2.9 crore) people have been found eligible to be included in the National Register of Citizens.

23. What is the name of new scheme launched by Ministry of Culture in India and total outlay of the scheme is Rs. 325.00 Crores for financial years 2018-19 and 2019-20? 1.Sukanya Samridhi Yojana 2.Seva Bhoj Yojna 3.Rashtriya Swasthya Bima Yojna 4.Pradhan Manthri Mudra Yojna 5.None of the above Answer - 2.Seva Bhoj Yojna

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Explanation: On August 2, 2018, the Ministry of Culture, Government of India launched the new scheme Seva Bhoj Yojna.Total outlay of the scheme is Rs. 325.00 Crores for financial years 2018-19 and 2019-20.To reimburse the CGST and IGST to Religious / Charitable Institutions who provide Food free of cost without any discrimination to Public/Devotees.

24. Who has launched Logo, tagline for Geographical Indications (GI) by Commerce and Industry? 1.Minister of Statistics and Programme Implementation 2.Minister of Science and Technology 3.Minister of External affairs 4.Minister of Information and broadcasting 5Minister of Commerce and Industry Answer - 5.Minister of Commerce and Industry Explanation: On August 2, 2018, the Commerce and Industry Minister Suresh Prabhu launched a logo and tagline for Geographical Indications (GI) to create awareness about Intellectual Property Rights (IPRs)

25. How much has sanctioned by NABARD for 8 water projects in Haryana? 1. Rs 928 crore 2. Rs 722 crore 3. Rs.469 crore 4. Rs. 655 crore 5. None of the above Answer - 2. Rs 722 crore Explanation: On August 2, 2018, NABARD sanctioned Rs 722 crore for eight water projects in the rural areas of Haryana.These projects will supply water to 256 villages and 72 hamlets.Additionally, the state government has sent three more project proposals, costing Rs 236.85 crore.

26. Find the name of award which will be honored to all sportspersons and coaches who won a position or medal in Olympics as per the new policy implemented by Union Minister of Railways for promotion of Railway Sportspersons. 1. Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Ekalavya Award .2 Padma Vibhushan .3 Padma Shri .4 Padma Bhushan .5 - Answer 4. Padma Shri Explanation: Union Minister of Railways, Coal, Finance & Corporate Affairs, Piyush Goyal has approved a new policy for promotion of Railway Sportspersons.As per this new policy, in addition to the sportspersons who won a position or medal in Olympics, all the sportspersons and coaches who have been awarded with Padma Shri will also be promoted as officers. Sportspersons, who have made two appearances in Olympics, won a medal in Asian Games or Common Wealth Games, will be promoted as officers.

27. Which country based SBM Group became the first foreign lender has received Reserve Bank of India’s approval to operate in the country as SBM Bank (India)? 1. Maldives 2. Bahamas 3. Seychelles 4. Namibia 5. Mauritius Answer - 5. Mauritius Explanation: On August 2, 2018, RBI has given approval to State Bank of Mauritius to operate in the country through a wholly- owned subsidiary route under the name SBM Bank(India) . It is the first such bank to get such approval

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28. Indian Bank revises interest rates on Foreign Currency Non-Resident (Banking) deposits from to 3.89 % to ______for 3 years and above but less than 4 years. 1. 3.97 % 2. 3.93 % 3. 3.95 % 4. 3.91 % 5. 3.94 % Answer - 1. 3.97 % Explanation: On 1st August 2018, Indian Bank has revised interest rates on Foreign Currency Non-Resident (Banking) - FCNR(B)deposits with immediate effect. Indian Bank revises interest rates on FCNR(B) deposits:

Deposit period Revised Interest Rate Previous Interest Rate 1 year and above but less than 2 years (in US 3.68 % 3.59 % Dollar terms) 2 years and above, but less than 3 years 3.88 % 3.77 % 3 years and above but less than 4 years 3.97 % 3.89 % 4 years and above but less than 5 years 3.99 % 3.92 % up to 5 years 4 % 3.93 %

29. Which of the below payment bank has barred by Reserve Bank of India (RBI) from adding new customers after it observed anomalies regarding deposits in the existing accounts? 1. Cholamandalam Distribution Services 2. Sun Pharmaceuticals 3. Aditya Birla Nuvo 4. Fino Payments Bank 5. None of above Answer - 4. Fino Payments Bank Explanation: Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has barred Fino Payments Bank from adding new customers after it observed anomalies regarding deposits in the existing accounts.Fino Payments Bank has been

30. Name the Bank which surpasses YES Bank market capitalization and becomes 7th most valued bank. 1. Bandhan Bank 2. Dena Bank 3. Allahabad Bank 4. IDFC Bank 5. Kotak Mahindra Bank Answer - 1. Bandhan Bank Explanation: On 1st August 2018, Bandhan Bank surpassed YES Bank's market capitalisation (m-cap) and became the sixth most valuable private sector bank and seventh most valued listed lender. Bandhan Bank with a market capitalisation (m-cap) of Rs 840 billion surpassed YES Bank with m-cap of Rs 838 billion.

31. How much percent that India’s gross domestic product (GDP) to grow in this financial year 2018 – 2019? 1. 7.1 2. 7.2 3. 7.3 4. 7.4 5. 7.5 Answer - 5. 7.5 9 | Page Follow Us - FB.com/AffairsCloudOfficialPage Copyright 2018 @ AffairsCloud.Com

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Explanation: Morgan Stanley has predicted, India’s gross domestic product (GDP) to grow by 7.5 % in this financial year 2018 - 2019. Morgan Stanley said that, India’s GDP is expected to grow by 7.5 % in this financial year 2018-19 as against 6.7 % in 2017-18.

32. Which agency of the Government of India made an agreement with SBI to receive an unsecured loan of Rs 25,000 crore from State Bank of India (SBI) for 10 years with 3 years of moratorium on repayments? 1. Indian Oil Corporation 2. National Thermal Power Corporation Limited 3. National Buildings Construction Corporation Ltd 4. National Highways Authority of India 5. National Hydroelectric Power Corporation Answer - 4. National Highways Authority of India Explanation: National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is getting an unsecured loan of Rs 25,000 crore from State Bank of India (SBI) for 10 years with 3 years of moratorium on repayments. This is the largest amount of loan that has been sanctioned to NHAI in one shot. Also, this is the largest long term unsecured loan sanctioned by SBI at a time to any entity.

33. Which Indian company has topped in the Indian Private sector in the Fortune’s 500 list 2018? 1. Reliance Industries 2. Hindustan Petroleum 3. Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited 4. Tata Consultancy Services 5. Coal India Answer - 1. Reliance Industries Explanation: On August 2, 2018, 7 Indian companies have been listed in Fortune’s 500 list 2018 of world biggest corporations. RIL is the top private sector company in India. It ranked 148th in 2018 from 203rd from 2017. IOC is the highest ranked company from India followed by RIL which jumped 55 places.

34. Name the Indian origin mathematician wins prestigious Fields Medal. 1. Manjul Bhargava 2. Akshay Venkatesh 3. Kannan Soundarajan 4. Srinivasa Reddy 5. None of above Answer - 2. Akshay Venkatesh Explanation: On 1st August 2018, Akshay Venkatesh, an Indian-Australian mathematician, was awarded the Fields medal at the International Congress of Mathematicians in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Akshay Venkatesh is one of the 4 winners of the Fields medal. Fields medal is also known as the Nobel prize for mathematics.

35. On 1st August 2018, President Ram Nath Kovind, presented the Outstanding Parliamentarian Award for the years 2013-2017, in New Delhi.Who was the winner of the year 2014? 1. Bhartruhari Mahtab 2. Dr Najma Heptullah 3. Dinesh Trivedi 4. Ghulam Nabi Azad 5. Hukum Dev Narayan Answer - 5. Hukum Dev Narayan Explanation: The Outstanding Parliamentarian Award was presented to the Best Parliamentarians from 2013 to 2017 for their remarkable contributions. Winners of the award are listed below:

Award Winner For the Year

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Dr Najma Heptullah 2013 Hukum Dev Narayan 2014 Ghulam Nabi Azad 2015 Dinesh Trivedi 2016 Bhartruhari Mahtab 2017

36. Deepak Parekh re-appointed as Non-Executive Director on the board of ______. 1. Axis Bank 2. ICICI Bank 3. HDFC 4. Indian Bank 5. City Bank Answer - 3. HDFC Explanation: On 30th July 2018, Deepak Parekh was re-appointed as a Non-Executive Director on the board of HDFC. Also, J.J. Irani and Keki Mistry were reappointment as directors to HDFC’s board.

37. Oscar Kerketta appointed the next High Commissioner of India to the Republic of ______1.Uganda 2.Burundi 3.Zambia 4.Rwanda 5. Tanzania Answer - 4.Rwanda Explanation: On 1st August 2018, Oscar Kerketta was appointed the next High Commissioner of India to the Republic of Rwanda.At present, Oscar Kerketta is Additional Secretary in the Foreign Service Institute (FSI).

38. Which entity launches Mission Solar Charkha for implementation of 50 Solar Charkha Clusters across India ? 1. Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) 2. Khadi and Village Industries Commission 3. Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship 4. Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) 5. None of the above Answer - 1. Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Explanation: The Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) has launched Mission Solar Charkha for implementation of50 Solar Charkha Clusters throughout India. The budget for this mission is: Rs 550 crore for 2018-19 and 2019-20. The Solar Charkha Units have been classified as village industries.

39. ______is celebrated as Nature Conservation Day. 1. July 23rd 2. July 25th 3. July 26th 4. July 28th 5. July 21st Answer - 4. July 28th Explanation: Every Year July 28th is celebrated as Nature Conservation Day. It is observed to create awareness about the exploitation and to protect natural resources.

40. Name the mobile app launched by FICCI Ladies Organisation that is aimed at creating awareness on preventive healthcare? 1.WOW (Wellness of Women)

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2.EOW (Empowerment of Women) 3.Women Warriors (WW) 4.Rise of Women (ROW) 5.None of these Answer - 1.WOW (Wellness of Women) Explanation: It is powered by ‘Ask Apollo’ of the city-based Apollo Hospitals Group. This platform allows users to talk to doctors through video conferencing or connect with them via voice or email. Users can also upload clinical information such as reports, images, and scans so that experts can provide an opinion.

41. On August 2, 2018, where was the 2-day 17th Indo-US Military Cooperation Meeting held? 1.New York, United States 2.New Delhi, India 3.Mumbai, India 4.Pune, India 5.None of these Answer - 2.New Delhi, India Explanation: The meeting was co-chaired by Indian Side: Lt Gen Satish Dua, Chief of Integrated Defence Staff to the chairman, Chiefs of Staff Committee (CISC) and US Side: Lt Gen Bryan Fenton, Deputy Commander, Indo-Pacific Command. In the 2+2 dialogues the MEA Sushma Swaraj and Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman would meet their US counterparts. India and the US were also working to have a joint drill of all the three armed forces of the two countries.

42. Where was the 'Bridging Japan and India by Bamboo' workshop held on 2nd August 2018? 1.Agartala, Tripura 2.Shillong, Meghalaya 3.Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh 4.Aizwal, Mizoram 5.None of these Answer - 1.Agartala, Tripura Explanation: On August 3, 2018, a team from the Japanese Embassy in New Delhi and stakeholders in the Bamboo handicraft sector of Tripura took part in a workshop called 'Bridging Japan and India by Bamboo'. The Japanese team, led by Kenko Sone, Minister, Economic and Development, Embassy of Japan, India.

43. On 1st August 2018, Maharashtra state government approved ____ to finish 6,624 water projects in 10,583 villages under the National Rural Drinking Water Scheme? 1.Rs 7,952 crore 2.Rs. 2,467 crore 3.Rs. 6000 crore 4.Rs. 3567 crore 5.None of these Answer - 1.Rs 7,952 crore Explanation: On August 1 2018, Maharashtra state minister informed that Maharashtra govt. has approved over Rs 7,000 crore to fulfill the drinking water projects in scarcity hit regions. The government has approved Rs 7,952 crore to finish 6,624 water projects in 10,583 villages under the National Rural Drinking Water Scheme. The government has aimed to provide water supply to all regions and villages that are perennially drought-hit and also to finish the project in Konkan, Nashik, Aurangabad, Amravati, Nagpur and Pune divisions. Around 6,500 projects have already been completed in the last four years by spending Rs 5,500 crore.

44. Which state government has launched the 'Mukhya Mantri-Yuva Nestham' scheme to provide allowance to unemployed youth in the state? 1.Telengana 2.Andhra Pradesh 3.Maharashtra

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4.Tamil Nadu 5.None of these Answer - 2.Andhra Pradesh Explanation: On August 3, 2018, Andhra Pradesh CM Chandrababu Naidu launched 'Mukhya Mantri-Yuva Nestham' scheme to allowance to unemployed youth in the state. The allowance will be of Rs 1000 per month. 12 lakh youths in the age group of 22-35 years will get the benefit. The scheme is eligible even if there are more than one beneficiary in a family. The money will be credited directly into the bank accounts through biometric authentication after 15 days of registration which will start from either third or fourth week of August.

45. On August 3, 2018, Kadaknath chicken meat from Jhabua district of which state was awarded a Geographical Indication (GI) tag? 1.Chhattisgarh 2.Jharkhand 3.Madhya Pradesh 4.Uttarakhand 5.None of these Answer - 3.Madhya Pradesh Explanation: On August 3, 2018, the famous Kadaknath chicken meat from Jhabua district of Madhya Pradesh has now got a Geographical Indication (GI) tag. The application was made in the category of "Meat Product, Poultry & Poultry Meat", was approved on July 30. The Gramin Vikas Trust of Krishak Bharati Cooperative (KRIBHCO) had sought GI tag. Chhattisgarh-based Global Business Incubator Private Limited (GBIPL) had also sought GI tag for the chicken breed which is bred in the state'sDantewada district.

46. On August 3,2018, which bank launched a new deposit scheme called Vikas Bonanza 456 for a tenure of 456 days with interest rate of 7.10 % for public and 7.60 % for senior citizens? 1.Karnataka Vikas Grameena Bank (KVGB) 2.Andhra Pradesh Vikas Grameen Bank (APVGB) 3.City Cooperative Bank (CCB) 4.Hindustan Cooperative Bnak (HCB) 5.None of these Answer - 1.Karnataka Vikas Grameena Bank (KVGB) Explanation: The scheme is of a tenure of 456 days with interest rate of 7.10 per cent for public and 7.60 per cent for senior citizens. It also offers annualized return of 7.35% for the general public and 7.89% for senior citizens. A minimum of Rs.10,000 and maximum of Rs.1 crore can be deposited under this scheme.

47. Which company has become the world's first publicly traded company to be valued at USD 1 trillion? 1.Amazon 2.Apple 3.Microsoft 4.Google 5.None of these Answer - 2.Apple Explanation: On August 3 2018, Apple is the world's first publicly traded company to be valued at USD 1 trillion.It marks the latest triumph of a trend-setting company that two mavericks named Steve started in a Silicon Valley garage 42 years ago. According to FactSet Apple's shares gained USD 5.89 to close at USD 207.39, leaving the company's market value a notch above USD 1 trillion around USD 1,001,679,220,000.

48. On August 3, 2018, which ministry tied up with Invest India to offer three-month programme ‘Integrate to Innovate’ for startups in energy sector? 1.Ministry of Science and Technology 2.Ministry of Commerce and Industry 3.Ministry of Home Affairs

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4.Minsitry of Human Resource Development 5.None of these Answer - 2.Ministry of Commerce and Industry Explanation: On August 3, 2018, the commerce and industry ministry joined hands with Invest India to offer its three-month programme ‘Integrate to Innovate’ for startups in the sector. This programme would be carried out by the department of industrial policy and promotion (DIPP). The selected start-ups will receive a cash prize grant of up to Rs 5 lakh along with an opportunity to pilot their product with corporates. The corporates would offer them access to technology, technical and commercial mentorship and access to customers through networks.

49. Which bank has signed an agreement with Reliance Jio Infocomm to integrate its digital banking solution YONO with MyJio application? 1.ICICI Bank 2.Axis Bank 3.State Bank of India (SBI) 4.YES Bank 5.None of these Answer - 3.State Bank of India (SBI) Explanation: SBI said Yono would now be preloaded on Reliance Jio handsets. SBI customers would benefit from Jio Prime with exclusive deals from Reliance Retail, Jio and partner brands. MyJio app will now offer financial services of SBI and Jio Payments Bank. SBI will also be engaging Jio as one of its preferred partners for designing and providing network and connectivity solutions.

50. Telangana State Information Technology, Electronics and Communication department (ITE&C) has signed an MoU with which firm to launch India's first Blockchain district in Telengana at the International Blockchain Congress 2018? 1.Tech Mahindra 2.Google 3.Infosys 4.Wipro 5.None of these Answer - 1.Tech Mahindra Explanation: On August 3, 2018, the Telangana State Information Technology, Electronics and Communication department (ITE&C) signed an MoU with Tech Mahindra to launch India's first Blockchain district in Telengana at the International Blockchain Congress 2018. It will be a centre of excellence and an incubator. It will have process development for the emerging technology with innovative infrastructure and facilities. This will start the growth of Indian blockchain start-ups and companies.

51. Who has received the Hindi Sahitya Academy’s Shalaka Samman for 2017-18? 1.Javed Akhtar 2.Tarun Mehta 3.Mansoor Ali 4.Rohan Sharma 5.None of these Answer - 1.Javed Akhtar Explanation: Hindi Academy Delhi has given its highest Shalaka Samman for 2017-18 to bollywood lyricist and poet Javed Akhtar. He is a father of Actor-filmmaker Farhan Akhtar. The scriptwriter, lyricist and poet has five National Awards for Best Lyricist to his name for works such as Border, Refugee and Lagaan. The lyricist has also been honoured with the Padma Shri in 1999 and the Padma Bhushan in 2007. He is also a recipient of the Sahitya Akademi Award in Urdu for his collection of poems entitled Lava.

52. Who was re-elected as Zimbabwe's president on 3rd August 2018? 1.Emmerson Mnangagwa 2.Nichol Pashniyan

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3.Infantino Galili 4.Robert Patterson 5.None of these Answer - 1.Emmerson Mnangagwa Explanation: On August 3, 2018, Incumbent Emmerson Mnangagwa has been re-elected as Zimbabwe's president. 75-year-old Mnangagwa, of the ruling ZANU-PF party, won 50.8 percent against Nelson Chamisa, of the Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) Alliance. He has bee in power since November 2017. Earlier he was the Vice-President and is called ‘the crocodile’. ZANU-PF, which has ruled the southern African country since independence in 1980.

53. India test-fired _____ from the Abdul Kalam Island off the Odisha coast on 2nd August 2018? 1.Advanced Air Defence (AAD) interceptor missile 2.Advanced Air Combat (AAC) interceptor missile 3.High-Tech Air Combat (HTAC) interceptor missile 4.New Air Combat (NAC) interceptor missile 5.None of these Answer - 1.Advanced Air Defence (AAD) interceptor missile Explanation: On August 2 2018, India test-fired the endo-atmospheric Advanced Air Defence (AAD) interceptor missile from the Abdul Kalam Island off the Odisha coast. It is a part of the country's ballistic missile defence (BMD) shield against a multiple target scenario. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) test-fired the AAD interceptor from a canister against multiple simulated targets. The interceptor is a 7.5-meter long single stage solid rocket propelled guided missile.

54. Who has become the sixth Indian woman tennis player to enter the top-200 rankings in singles in the WTA chart with rank 200? 1.Karman Kaur Thandi 2.Ankita Agrawal 3.Aruna Budda Reddy 4.Poornima Rao 5.None of these Answer - 1.Karman Kaur Thandi Explanation: On August 3, 2018, Karman Kaur Thandi became the sixth Indian woman tennis player to crack the top-200 rankings in singles in the WTA chart. She is now ranked 200. She jumped 32 places to reach a career-best 200 in the WTA chart. She her maiden ITF singles title in Hong Kong and making the semifinals in two others in China.

55. Name the 10 year-old swimmer who broken a record set by Olympian Michael Phelps in 1995, in the 100 meter butterfly, in the Far West International Swimming Championship? 1.Clark Kent Apuada 2.Tom Clark 3.Michael Gregory 4.John Freeman 5.None of these Answer - 1.Clark Kent Apuada Explanation: n August 1 2018, Ten-year-old swimmer Clark Kent Apuada of California placed first in all seven events at the Far West International Swimming Championship and broke Olympian Michael Phelps record. In the 100 meter butterfly, he broke a record set by Olympian Michael Phelps at the same meet back in 1995. He broke the records by 1.1 seconds.

56. A MoU was signed on 3rd August 2018 between the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change and which Ministry for upskilling and certification of 100,000 RAC (refrigeration and air- conditioning) service technicians? 1.Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship 2.Minsitry of Science and Technology 3.Ministry of MSME (Micro Small and Medium Enterprises)

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4.Ministry of Home Affairs 5.None of these Answer - 1.Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship Explanation: On August 3, 2018, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed between the Ministries of Environment, Forest and Climate Change and Skill Development and Entrepreneurship took place upskilling and certification of 100,000 RAC service technicians. It was attended by representatives of UN Environment, UNDP, Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ),etc. This is under under the Skill India Mission - Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY). There are around 200,000 refrigeration and air-conditioning (RAC) service technicians in the country mainly in the informal sector.

57. On August 3, 2018, Ministry of Textiles and which Ministry joined hands under the SAATHI (Sustainable and Accelerated Adoption of efficient Textile technologies to Help Small Industries) initiative to sustain and accelerate the adoption of energy efficient textile technologies in the powerloom sector? 1.Ministry of Urban Development 2.Ministry of Agriculture and Farmer Welfare 3.Ministry of Power 4.Minsitry of Human Resource Development 5.None of these Answer - 3.Ministry of Power Explanation: On August 3, 2018 Ministry of Textiles and Ministry of Power have joined hands under the initiative SAATHI(Sustainable and Accelerated Adoption of efficient Textile technologies to Help Small Industries) in order to sustain and accelerate the adoption of energy efficient textile technologies in the powerloom sector. These efficient equipments causes energy savings and cost savings to the unit owners.

58. Name the mobile app that has been launched by Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur as a part of the first phase of 'horn not ok' awareness campaign in Manali and Shimla? 1.No horn 2.Shaur Nahin 3.Say no to horns 4.Peaceful driving 5.None of these Answer - 2.Shaur Nahin Explanation: It is an initiative of the Department of Environment Science and Technology in association with National Informatics Centre, Himachal Pradesh. The app will let the general public to report cases of noise pollution. It will have 2 types of users: general public and officers, both of whom would be authenticated with an one-time password (OTP). Complaints will be made available to deputy commissioner, superintendent of police, sub- divisional magistrate and sub-divisional police officer.

59. Which state government launched ‘Swachha Meva Jayate’ cleanliness campaign on 2nd August 2018? 1.Madhya Pradesh 2.Karnataka 3.Gujarat 4.Jharkhand 5.None of these Answer - 2.Karnataka Explanation: On August 2,2018, Karnataka government launched ‘Swachha Meva Jayate’ campaign. It was launched by Dr G Parameshwara, deputy chief minister of Karnataka. The department of Rural Development also released the logo of the campaign: a little boy and a little girl standing in front of the map of Karnataka. The campaign coincides with the Swachh Survekshan Grameen 2018 (SSG 2018) survey, being undertaken by the Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation, under the Swachh Bharat Mission (Grameen).

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60. _____ topped N-SIPI (State Investment Potential Index) series by economic think-tank NCAER, as the top 'most investor-friendly' destination, on 4th August 2018? 1.Gujarat 2.Delhi 2.Tamil Nadu 4.Andhra Pradesh 5.None of these Answer - 2.Delhi Explanation: On August 4, 2018, according to a report called N-SIPI (State Investment Potential Index) series by economic think- tank NCAER, Delhi has topped the list and has replaced Gujarat. Delhi jumped one spot from 2017. The ranking was done of 20 states and one Union Territory of Delhi. It was done based on 6 parameters: land, labour, infrastructure, economic climate, governance and political stability and business perceptions.

Rank State/UT 1 Delhi 2 Tamil Nadu 3 Gujarat 4 Haryana 5 Maharashtra 6 Kerala 7 Andhra Pradesh 8 Telangana 9 Karnataka 10 West Bengal

61. Where has the World’s First Intertidal Art Gallery named Coralarium been opened? 1.Mauritius 2.Maldives 3.Seychelles Island 4.Sri Lanka 5.None of these Answer - 2.Maldives Explanation: The Intertidal art gallery called Coralarium is located at the Fairmont Madives Sirru Fen Fushi resort. The Art Gallery is filled with around 30 Sculptures acting as a habitat for coral and other marine species. The frame of the gallery is made up of pH-neutral marine steel and designed to reflect the blue hues surrounding it.

62. Which country was elected as the President of the Asia-Pacific Institute for Broadcasting Development (AIBD) for a period of two years, on 4th August 2018? 1.China 2.India 3.United States 4.Canada 5.None of these Answer - 2.India Explanation: On August 4, 2018, India was elected as the President of the Asia-Pacific Institute for Broadcasting Development (AIBD) for a period oftwo years. India won for the first time against Iran. Director General of All India Radio F. Sheheryar was re-elected as chair of the executive board. Sri Lanka was elected as vice-chair. This took place at the 44th annual gathering of AIBD in Colombo in August 3,2018. The three-day gathering was inaugurated by Sri

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Lankan Minister of Finance and mass media Mangala Samarweera.

63. HDFC Life Insurance and which bank signed a MoU on 4th August 2018 where the bank will sell the insurer's products through its branches? 1.Canara Bank 2.YES Bank 3.Vijaya Bank 4.Karnataka Bank 5.None of these Answer - 3.Vijaya Bank Explanation: On August 4, 2018, HDFC Life Insurance and Vijaya Bank signed an MoU where the bank will sell the insurer's products through its branches. This Mou is aimed at serving the semi urban rural regions where the insurance products don’t have a reach. Apart from deposits and loans, the bank’s customers will also get access to life insurance products. HDFC Life already has 163 bancassurance partners.

64. Edelweiss Tokio Life Insurance has tied up with which small finance bank to offer specialised product offerings to the bank customers? 1.Fincare Small Finance Bank 2.Jana Small Finance Bank 3.City Small Finance Bank 4.AU Small Finance Bank 5.None of these Answer - 1.Fincare Small Finance Bank Explanation: On August 4, 2018, Edelweiss Tokio Life Insurance has tied up with Fincare Small Finance Bank to offer specialised product offerings to the bank customers. It aims is to push life insurance to the rural population. As per the Mou, two products will be offered: Point of Sale (POS) product (‘Saral Navesh’ endowment life insurance plan ) and a protection product. The PoS product offers a sum assured from Rs 50,000 to Rs 1 million, with premium payments from Rs 5,000 to Rs 100,000 (annually) for a policy term of 10-20 years which may be purchased for either a death benefit or maturity benefit. This will give Edelweiss Tokio Life Insurance access to a customer base.

65. Who has become the first Indian to receive the International Contributions Award given by the Association for Educational Communications and Technology (AECT), USA? 1.K.Anvar Sadath 2.Jalal Sadiq 3.Parekh Sharma 4.Vineeth Singh 5.None of these Answer - 1.K.Anvar Sadath Explanation: On August 4, 2018, K.Anvar Sadath is the first Indian to receive the International Contributions Award given by the Association for Educational Communications and Technology (AECT), USA. He is the vice chairman and executive director of the Kerala Infrastructure and Technology for Education (KITE) also known as IT@school Project. This award is because of Sadath's outstanding and continuous contributions to the field of educational communication and technology.

66. Name the Indian-origin prison guard from Adelaide who has won the title of MasterChef Australia 2018? 1.Sashi Cheliah 2.Gagandeep Sidhu 3.Arjun Rampal 4.Surendra Saini 5.None of these Answer - 1.Sashi Cheliah Explanation: On August 4, 2018, Sashi Cheliah, A 39-year-old prison guard from Adelaide, won the title of MasterChef Australia

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2018. It was the 10th Season. He got 93 out of 100 points on the final day. He defeated fellow contestant Ben Borsht, who scored 77 out of 100. He won a MasterChef Australia trophy and a winning amount of $2,50,000 (almost Rs 1.7 crore). He has also served as a police officer in Singapore for 12 years before he moved to Adelaide six years ago.

67. Who has been appointed as Managing Director of Dedicated Freight Corridor Corporation of India Ltd. (DFCCIL)? 1.Anurag Sachan 2.Lalit Kumar 3.Pramod Sharma 4.Animesh Banerjee 5.None of these Answer - 1.Anurag Sachan Explanation: Anurag Sachan was appointed as Managing Director of Dedicated Freight Corridor Corporation of India Ltd. (DFCCIL). He is a 1981-batch officer of Indian Railway Service of Engineers (IRSE), is at present Chief Administrative Officer of Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla rail link project.He has been appointed to the post for a period up to July 31, 2020.

68. Name the Madras High Court Chief Justice who was appointed as Supreme Court justice, on 4th August 2018? 1.Punita Manohar 2.Anil Mehta 3.Indira Banerjee 4.Sashank Singh 5.None of these Answer - 3.Indira Banerjee Explanation: On August 4, 2018, 3 High court judges were appointed to the Supreme Court. The appointed judges are: • Uttarakhand High Court Chief Justice KM Joseph, • Madras High Court Chief Justice Indira Banerjee and • Orissa HC Chief Justice Vineet Saran. The number of judges in the top court after the fresh appointments has gone up to 25. There would still be six vacancies.

69. Who was appointed as the next Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of India to the Republic of Equitorial Guinea, on 4th August 2018? 1.Man Mohan Bhanot 2.Savitha Ramakrishnan 3.Arun Prabhu 4.Sanjay Sharma 5.None of these Answer - 1.Man Mohan Bhanot Explanation: On August 4, 2018, Man Mohan Bhanot appointed as the next Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of India to the Republic of Equitorial Guinea. He will be the first resident Ambassador of India to the Republic of Equitorial Guinea. He is presently Ambassador to Syria.

70. In the 29th GST Council meeting, a sub-committee was formed to address issues of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector. Who is the head of the committee? 1.B S Behera 2.Ravindra Kumar Dholakia 3.Veerapa Moili 4.Shiv Pratap Shukla 5.None of these Answer - 4.Shiv Pratap Shukla Explanation:

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The committee will consist of Manish Sisodia, Sushil Modi, Himanta Biswa Sarma, Thomas Isaac and Manpreet Badal. The issues related to law would be taken up by the law committee and issues related to rates would be taken up by the fitment committee. The reports would be presented before the sub-committee.

71. On 5th August 2018, the government approved 122 new research projects at a cost of _____ under IMPRINT-2 initiative? 1.Rs 456 crore 2.Rs 200 crore 3.Rs 112 crore 4.Rs 888 crore 5.None of these Answer - 3.Rs 112 crore Explanation: It would cover the fields of Energy, Security, Healthcare, Advanced Materials, ICT and Security/Defence. Of the 122 new IMPRINT projects sanctioned, 81 are sponsored by industry. These include: 35 (ICT); 18 (Advanced Materials), 17 (Healthcare Technology), 12 (Energy Security); 11 (Security &Defence); 9 (Sustainable Habitat); 7 Water Resource & River Systems; 5 (Environment & Climate); 4 (Manufacturing); and 4 (Nano Technology). Private institutions have been invited to participate in the IMPRINT programme.

72. On 5th August 2018, President Ram Nath Kovind gave his assent to _____, that will prevent offenders from avoiding legal process and escaping the country? 1.Fugitive Economic Offenders Bill, 2018 2.Fugitive Financial Offenders Bill, 2017 3.Tax Evaders Prevention Bill, 2016 4.Finacial Offenders Prevention Bill, 2018 5.None of these Answer - 1.Fugitive Economic Offenders Bill, 2018 Explanation: Fugitive Economic Offenders Bill 2018 was passed by the Parliament on 25th July 2018. It was introduced in Rajya Sabha by Union Finance Minister Piyush Goyal. The Fugitive Economic Offenders Bill 2018 enables authorities to attach and confiscate properties and assets of economic offenders who escape from India. As per the bill, the accused will be forced to return to India and face prosecution. One of the provisions under this bill is formation a Special Court under the Prevention of Money-Laundering Act, 2002 to declare Fugitive Economic Offenders.

73. On August 5, 2018, India imposed new higher tariffs of ____% against 29 goods imported from the United States? 1.120 % 2.150 % 3.100 % 4.80 % 5.None of these Answer - 1.120 % Explanation: On August 5, 2018, India imposed new higher tariffs of 120% against 29 goods imported from the United States. These will come into effect from September 18,2018. The products include: almonds, walnuts and apples. This is in response to rise in the import levies on certain steel and aluminium products earlier this year by US, which had a tariff implication of Rs.241 million on India.

74. How many additional days will be provided for resolution of 34 stressed power projects, according to a report by government committee under Cabinet Secretary Pradeep Kumar Sinha? 1.120 2.60 3.90 4.180 5.None of these Answer - 4.180 Explanation:

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On August 5, 2018, according to a government report, additional 180 days will be provided for resolution of 34 stressed power projects. This would be allowed to commissioned power projects which have been commissioned before February 12 or have not been referred to NCLT. During this time banks should undertake more intensive monitoring of the said assets to avoid them into turning into NPAs. Power plants with capacity of about 40,000 MW will be considered differently.

75. On August 5, 2018, which country surpassed China and became the world's second-largest stock market, according to Bloomberg’s data? 1.Japan 2.Russia 3.Germany 4.India 5.None of these Answer - 1.Japan Explanation: On August 5, 2018, according to Bloomberg’s data Japan is now the world's second-largest stock market. It has overthrown China as its total equity is $6.17 trillion and that of China’s is $6.09 trillion. The United States is the world’s biggest market for stocks, with total worth just over $31 trillion. Earlier, China overtook Japan in 2014.

76. When will the India Post Payments Bank be launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi with a focus on rural areas? 1.August 21, 2018 2.March 2, 2019 3.January 1, 2019 4.April 3, 2019 5.None of these Answer - 1.August 21, 2018 Explanation: On August 5, 2018, the central government announced that PM Modi will launch India Post Payments Bank on August 21 with a focus on rural areas. 648 branches will be launched across country in every district. Government will link all the 1.55 lakh post office branches with IPPB services. This will create the country's largest banking network.

77. Name the Indian-origin U.S. astronaut who has been selected by NASA as one among the 9 astronauts to fly the first missions into space on commercial spacecraft, starting in 2019? 1.Sunita Williams 2.Piyush Chawla 3.Rahul Singh 4.Karan Chatterjee 5.None of these Answer - 1.Sunita Williams Explanation: These nine astronauts will launch on the first crewed test flights and missions of new commercial spacecraft built and operated by the Boeing Company and SpaceX. The astronauts will launch on Boeing CST-100 Starliner and SpaceX Dragon capsules to the International Space Station starting in 2019. These missions will be the first crewed launches from United States soil after the end of the space shuttle programme in 2011.

78. Scientists from which country have created the first single-chromosome yeast without affecting the majority of its functions? 1.Russia 2.China 3.United States 4.Australia 5.None of these Answer - 2.China Explanation: Brewer's yeast consists of 16 chromosomes. Chinese scientists have created a single-chromosome yeast which has

Current Affairs Q&A PDF almost all the genetic material of Brewer's yeast. Molecular biologists at the Centre for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, China used CRISPR-Cas9 genome-editing to develop a single-chromosome yeast strain. A paper regarding this has been published in journal Nature. This finding can help in advancing research related to aging and diseases in humans. It could also lead to the creation of new man-made species in future.

79. Which Indian golf player has won his first European Tour title at the Fiji International, at Natadola Bay Championship Golf Course, in Fiji? 1.Ajeetesh Sandhu 2.Navjeet Siddhu 3.Gaganjeet Bhullar 4.Pranesh Mathur 5.None of these Answer - 3.Gaganjeet Bhullar Explanation: Gaganjeet Bhullar won the title at the Fiji International with a six-under 66 for a four-day total of 14-under 274. Australia’s Anthony Quayle finished in the second position. South Africa's Ernie Els finished at tied third with Australia’s Ben Campbell. Another Indian Ajeetesh Sandhu finished at tied 43rd position. This is Gaganjeet Bhullar’s 10th overall title. Now he has become the most successful Indian golf player on Asian Tour.

80. Which Indian cricketer has reached number 1 position in the ICC Player Rankings for Test Batsmen, as per the latest ICC ranking released on 5th August 2018? 1.Shikhar Dhawan 2.Virat Kohli 3.Rohit Sharma 4.MS Dhoni 5.None of these Answer - 2.Virat Kohli Explanation: Virat Kohli’s century against England in the opening Test at Edgbaston, has helped him reach the top position. Now Virat Kohli has replaced Steve Smith as the as the top-ranked batsman. Virat Kohli (934 points) leads Steve Smith by 5 points. This is the first time Virat Kohli has reached top position in the ICC Player Rankings for Test Batsmen. Virat Kohli has become the 7th India batsman and first since Sachin Tendulkar (in 2011) to reach the top position in the ICC Test Batsmen ranking.

81. On August 4, 2018, Krishna Shripadrao Deshpande passed away in Karnataka. He was a ____? 1.library scientist 2.social activist 3.scientist 4.football coach 5.None of these Answer - 1.library scientist Explanation: On August 4,2018, eminent library scientist Krishna Shripadrao Deshpande passed away at his residence in Malamaddi of Dharwad, Karnataka. He was 95 and survived by wife, son and daughter. He became the chief librarian and professor in the department of library science. He had participated in the freedom movement and was the president of Gandhi Peace Foundation.

82. How many Israeli startups working on healthcare, agriculture and water management sectors have been selected under the "Israel-India Bridge to Innovation" program to interact with various Indian businesses? 1.5 2.10 3.15 4.6 5.None of these Answer - 4.6 Explanation:

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The 6 startups that have been selected include: Amaizz, Biofeed, Zebra Medical, MobileODT, etc. The 6 selected startups possess innovative technologies in healthcare, agriculture and water management sectors. These startups had participated in the innovation week from 23-27 July 2018. The innovation week was started by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu along with Israel Innovation Authority (IIA) and Invest India in 2017.

83. Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has allowed non-fund-based _____ at State levels to revive India’s cooperative banking sector? 1.Umbrella organisations (UO) 2.Prime organisations (PO) 3.Terminal organisations (CO) 4.Central Organisations (CO) 5.None of these Answer - 1.Umbrella organisations (UO) Explanation: On August 5, 2018, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has allowed non-fund-based Umbrella organisations(UO) at State levels to revive India’s co-operative banking sector. It would conduct non-fund activities in the areas of training, capacity building and IT infrastructure and research. Gujarat is the first State in the country to have an UO for the UCB sector. Along with this, it is conducting a two-day conference and exhibition of co-operative banking sector under the name Sahakar Setu 2018, in Ahmedabad, from August 4-5.

84. Who has become the first Japanese man to win the badminton World Championships? 1.Kento Momota 2.Naomi Sakoi 3.Jijing Hanoi 4.Namita Sikoa 5.None of these Answer - 1.Kento Momota Explanation: Kento Momota of Japan defeated Shi Yuqi of China 21-11, 21-13 in the men’s final at the badminton world championships on 5thAugust 2018. In men’s doubles, China’s Li Junhui and Liu Yuchen beat Takeshi Kamura and Keigo Sonoda of Japan 21-12, 21-19 for their first world title.

85. Where was NITI Aayog’s International Conference on “Sustainable Growth through Material Recycling: Policy Prescriptions” held on 6th August 2018? 1.New Delhi 2.Mumbai 3.Chennai 4.Guwahati 5.None of these Answer - 1.New Delhi Explanation: On August 6, 2018, NITI Aayog’s International Conference on “Sustainable Growth through Material Recycling: Policy Prescriptions” was inaugurated by the Union Minister of Road Transport, Highways & Ganga Rejuvenation, Shri. Nitin Gadkari at Pravasi Bharatiya Kendra in New Delhi. Development and growth of material recycling in India, creating jobs , reducing exports and protecting the environment. It had 5 technical sessions.

86. Which state government has constituted two committees to deal with illegal migrants, following the final draft of National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Assam? 1.Mizoram 2.Odisha 3.Arunachal Pradesh 4.Manipur 5.None of these Answer - 4.Manipur Explanation: The first is State Level Monitoring Committee which will monitor the entry or presence of illegal immigrants in the

Current Affairs Q&A PDF state. It is headed by Special Secretary (Home) and includes all the Deputy Commissioners and SPs as its members. The second is : the District Level Monitoring Committee with respective deputy commissioners as its chairman.

87. India and Sri Lanka will hold the _____ round of talks on free trade agreements and aims at concluding the negotiations by December 2018? 1.3rd 2.4th 3.5th 4.10th 5.None of these Answer - 4.10th Explanation: On August 6, 2018, India and Sri Lanka are going to hold the 10th round of talks on free trade agreements and aims at concluding the negotiations by December. The Economic and Technology Co-operation Agreement (ETCA) would help in boosting economic ties between the two countries by liberalising trade norms. This would widen the scope by including services and investments in it.

88. Which state government is setting up a biotech and pharma facility named B-Hub, which will be India’s first organised cluster for life sciences Research & Development at Genome Valley? 1.Gujarat 2.Tamil Nadu 3.Kerala 4.Telangana 5.None of these Answer - 4.Telangana Explanation: It has been built with an investment of Rs.60 crore. The space for the facility is: 40,000 square feet. The B-Hub will be set up through the PPP (Public-Private Partnership) model. Along with this a dedicated web portal for the life sciences sector has been launched. It would create an interface between the government, Industries, Research Institutions and Start-ups.

89. Which Indian state unveiled the world's first-ever thermal battery on 6th August 2018? 1.Telengana 2.Andhra Pradesh 3.Madhya Pradesh 4.Chhattisgarh 5.None of these Answer - 2.Andhra Pradesh Explanation: On August 6, 2018, Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu unveiled the world's first-ever thermal battery in Amravati, Andhra Pradesh state. It has been manufactured by the Bharat Energy Storage Technology Private Limited (BEST). It had an estimated cost of Rs 660 crore. It has a capacity of 1,000 MW and would be enhanced to 10 GW in the next six to seven years. The plant in Andhra Pradesh is expected to start commercial operations by May 2019.

90. Where was the 5th Act East Business Show -2018 held from 20th to 23rd June 2018? 1.Guwahati, Assam 2.Agartala, Tripura 3.Shillong, Meghalaya 4.Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh 5.None of these Answer - 3.Shillong, Meghalaya Explanation: Aim: to strengthen business ties between ASEAN countries and northeastern states. Also, to explore the potential of Meghalaya and its neighboring states. Organised by: Indian Chamber of Commerce along with Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (MDoNER).

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Participation: delegates from ASEAN countries like Singapore, Taiwan, and Vietnam, etc. participated. Inaugurated by: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma. Main focus was to boost the bamboo sector of the region. North eastern states have great potential for development of bamboo-based industries.

91. On August 6, 2018, 21 public sector banks and 3 major private sector lenders collected _____ from customers for non-maintenance of minimum balance in their accounts in 2017-18? 1.Rs 4,989.55 crore 2.Rs 3,678.78 crore 3.Rs 6,789.78 crore 4.Rs 2,789.89 crore 5.None of these Answer - 1.Rs 4,989.55 crore Explanation: SBI collected Rs.2433 crore nearly half the amount raised by the 24 banks put together. Another 30% of the fines were raised by three large private lenders HDFC, ICICI and Axis. HDFC collected Rs 590.84 crore, Axis Bank collected Rs 530.12 crore and ICICI collected Rs. 317.6 crore. Accounts under Basic Savings Bank Deposit (BSBD) scheme as well as Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojna are not required to maintain any minimum balance.

92. On August 6, 2018, HDFC increased fixed deposit rates on various maturities by up to _____ %? 1.0.6 2.0.5 3.0.7 4.0.9 5.None of these Answer - 1.0.6 Explanation:

Tenors Final increased rates (in %) 6 months to 9 months 6.75 9 months three days to 1 year 7 1 year to 2 years 7.25 2 years to 5 years 7.10

93. _____ has launched the “Startup Academia Alliance programme”, which is a special mentorship opportunity between academic scholars and startups working in similar domains? 1.Startup India 2.Skill India 3.Innovate India 4.Shine India 5.None of these Answer - 1.Startup India Explanation: Aim: to minimize the gap between scientific research and its industrial applications to enhance the impact of these technologies. This programme tries to implement the Industry Academia Partnerships and Incubation, which is the third pillar on which the Startup India Action Plan is based. The first phase of Startup Academia Alliance was initiated through partnering with Regional Centre for Biotechnology, The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI), Council on Energy, Environment and Water, and TERI School of Advanced Studies. Scholars from these institutes working in renewable energy, biotechnology, healthcare and life sciences fields provided mentorship to startups.

94. Who was appointed as member of the Country Code Names Supporting Organisation (ccNSO), on 3rd August 2018? 1.Ajay Thakur 2.Ajay Data 3.Sathyan Mahil

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4.Shivam Reddy 5.None of these Answer - 2.Ajay Data Explanation: Ajay Data has become the first Indian to be made member of the Country Code Names Supporting Organisation (ccNSO). He is the founder and CEO of Data XGen Plus. He will take up this position at ICANN’s 63rd Annual General Meeting in Barcelona, Spain, in October 2018. He will represent India at the global level. He will also be the custodian of Asia, Australia and Pacific Islands as a member of ccNSO.

95. Name India’s first humanoid robot developed by Ranjit Srivastava, which can speak Hindi, Bhojpuri, Marathi and English? 1.Shrishti 2.Rashmi 3.Prithvi 4.Rathi 5.None of these Answer - 2.Rashmi Explanation: Ranjit Srivastava hails from Ranchi. He is 38 years old. He has developed Rashmi, which is said to be the Indian version of ‘Sophia’ (a social humanoid robot developed by a Hong Kong based company). Ranjit Srivastava claimed Rashmi as the world’s first Hindi speaking realistic humanoid robot and India’s first lip-synching robot. Rashmi uses linguistic interpretation (LI), artificial intelligence (AI), visual data and facial recognition systems. It gives facial, eye, lips, and eyebrow expressions. It can move its neck. Ranjit Srivastava has developed Rashmi in 2 years at a cost of Rs 50,000. Head and body of Rashmi have been developed. He said that, a complete human shape would be achieved in a month’s time.

96. Which country successfully tested “Xingkong-2” or “Starry Sky-2”, its first waverider hypersonic aircraft that could carry nuclear warheads and penetrate any current generation anti-missile defence systems, on 3rd August 2018? 1.Russia 2.Japan 3.United States 4.China 5.None of these Answer - 4.China Explanation: Xingkong-2 or Starry Sky-2 was launched in a target range in Northwest China. It was launched in a rocket and was released in the air after 10 minutes. It flew independently and landed in the targeted area after making large-angle turning maneuvers. It reached an altitude of30 km with a speed of Mach 5.5-6. It was designed by the China Academy of Aerospace Aerodynamics (CAAA) along with the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation. Waverider is a flight vehicle that flies in the atmosphere and utilises shockwaves produced by its own hypersonic flight with the air to glide at high speed.

97. BWF World Championships 2018 also known as TOTAL BWF World Championships 2018 was held in Nanjing, China, from 30th July to 5th August 2018. Name the Mascot of the Championship? 1.Shi Tzu 2.Yu Bao 3.Min Juh 4.Rhi nao 5.None of these Answer - 2.Yu Bao Explanation: Mascot: was named “Yu Bao”. Its head resembled a badminton shuttlecock and the figure was holding a rocket in hand. Emblem: was a personified shuttlecock. It featured Nanjing’s “City Wall” on its headband. Motto: Sports of Inspiration, City of sensation.

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This was the 24th edition of BWF World Championships. 359 athletes from various countries participated and 251 games were conducted.

98. Who won the women’s singles title of BWF World Championships 2018, held in Nanjing, China? 1.Carolina Marin 2.P V Sindhu 3.Naomi Okura 4.Mayu Matsumoto 5.None of these Answer - 1.Carolina Marin Explanation:

Event Gold medal Silver medal Men’s Singles Kento Momota (Japan) Shi Yuqi (China) Women’s Singles Carolina Marin (Spain) P V Sindhu (India) Li Junhui (China), Liu Yuchen Takeshi Kamura (Japan), Keigo Men’s Doubles (China) Sonoda (Japan) Mayu Matsumoto (Japan), Wakana Yuki Fukushima (Japan), Sayaka Women’s Singles Nagahara (Japan) Hirota (Japan) Zheng Siwei (China), Huang Yaqiong Wang Yilü (China), Huang Mixed Doubles (China) Dongping (China)

99. On July 28th to August 3, 2018, the biennial Asian Nations Cup Chess Tournament was held in Hamadan, Iran. What was India’s position in the overall ranking of the tournament? 1.3 2.5 3.4 4.2 5.None of these Answer - 4.2 Explanation: India won 5 medals: 1 gold, 2 silver, 2 bronze. India ranked 2nd in the overall ranking. The winning team of Gold consisted of : Grand Master Harika Dronavalli , International Master Eesha Karavade, International Master Padmini Rout and Women's International Masters (WIMs) Vaishali R, Aakanksha Hagawane. The hosts made it compulsory for all the women participants to wear a headscarf.

100. Who created a world record for the 50 metres backstroke as he won the European Championship title in Glasgow, Scotland, on 4th August 2018? 1.Kliment Kolesnikov 2.Liam Tancock 3.Robert-Andrei Glinta 4.Robert Alimov 5.None of these Answer - 1.Kliment Kolesnikov Explanation: On 4th August 2018, Kliment Kolesnikov of Russia created a world record for the 50 metres backstroke as he won the European Championship title in Glasgow, Scotland. Kliment Kolesnikov recorded 24 seconds and broke the previous record by 0.04 seconds which was set by Britain’s Liam Tancock at the world championships in Rome in 2009. Kliment Kolesnikov won the gold medal and Romanian Robert-Andrei Glinta won the silver medal.

101. Name the Indian table tennis player who won a bronze medal in the junior girls' doubles along with Singapore's Jingyi Zhou in the 2018 Hang Seng Hong Kong Junior and Cadet Open, in Hong Kong, on 4th August 2018? 1.Swastika Ghosh 2.Apoorva Sen 27 | Page Follow Us - FB.com/AffairsCloudOfficialPage Copyright 2018 @ AffairsCloud.Com

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3.Mantra Singhvi 4.Pooja Banerjee 5.None of these Answer - 1.Swastika Ghosh Explanation: Swastika Ghosh and Jingyi Zhou pair was defeated by Li Lin Jassy Tan of Singapore and Ruei Ling Wen of Taipei 2-3 in the semi finals. In the junior boys' doubles category, Indian pair of Raegan Alberquerque and Payas Jain pair reached pre-quarters. But they were knocked out as they lost to Yanapong Panagitgun and Supakron Pankhaoyoy of Thailand.

102. Los Cabos Open 2018 also known as the Abierto Mexicano de Tenis Mifel presentado por Cinemex was held in Los Cabos, Mexico, from 30th July to 4th August 2018. Who won the men’s single title of the tournament? 1.Fabio Fognini 2.Juan Martín del Potro 3.Marcelo Arévalo 4.Miguel Ángel Reyes-Varela 5.None of these Answer - 1.Fabio Fognini Explanation: Italy’s Fabio Fognini defeated Argentina’s Juan Martín del Potro 6–4, 6–2 in the finals and won the men’s singles title.El Salvador’s Marcelo Arévalo and Mexico’s Miguel Ángel Reyes-Varela defeated United States of America’s Taylor Fritz and Australia’s Thanasi Kokkinakis 6-4, 6-4 in the finals and won the men’s doubles title.

103. Which country won the Women's Hockey World Cup 2018 that concluded in London on 5th August 2018, becoming world champions in Women’s hockey for a record 8th time? 1.Iran 2.Ireland 3.Netherlands 4.South Korea 5[/.None of these Answer - 3.Netherlands Explanation: Defending champions the Netherlands defeated Ireland 6-0 in the finals and won the Women's Hockey World Cup 2018 title. The Netherlands have emerged as the world champions in Women’s hockey for a record 8th time. They have extended their unbeaten performance in all competitions to 32 matches. Kitty van Male, one among the 6 different goal scorers emerged as the top scorer of the tournament with 8 goals. Spain won the third place match by defeating Australia 3-1 and won their first World Cup medal. India finished the tournament at 8th position.

104. When was 73rd Hiroshima day observed? 1.August 5 2.August 4 3.August 3 4.August 6 5.None of these Answer - 4.August 6 Explanation: August 6, 2018, marks the 73rd anniversary of the bombing of Hiroshima. On this day in 1945, the US bomber Enola Gay dropped the first atomic bomb nicknamed ‘Little Boy’ ever used in military combat on Hiroshima. The Atomic Bomb Dome was located almost directly underneath the explosion was designated as a World Heritage Site in 1996.

105. Mughalsarai Junction of Uttar Pradesh was renamed as ______on 5th August 2018? 1.Deen Dayal Upadhyay Junction 2.B R Ambedkar Junction 3.Chatrapati Shivaji Junction 4.Rajiv Gandhi Junction

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5.None of these Answer - 1.Deen Dayal Upadhyay Junction Explanation: The Mughalsarai Junction was officially renamed after RSS ideologue Deen Dayal Upadhyay. The leaders also laid the foundation stone for a 63-feet-tall statue of Upadhyay. The BJP and RSS had been demanding that the junction be renamed after Deen Dayal Upadhyay who was found dead near this station on February 24, 1968, under mysterious circumstances.

106. August 7, 2018, the Minister for Road Transport & Highways, Shipping, Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation Nitin Gadkari launched a portal named BIMS. Expand BIMS? 1.Biofuel Information Management System 2.Bidder Information Management System 3.Banking Internal Management System 4.Boosting Information Management System 5.None of these Answer - 2.Bidder Information Management System Explanation: The portal will work as a data base of information about bidders, covering basic details, civil works experience, cash accruals and network, annual turnover etc. It will streamline the process of pre-qualification of bidders by analyzing data already stored in the portal. BIMS will be used by all the project implementation agencies of the Ministry for maintenance and evaluation of technical information of civil works. The bidders would be responsible for ensuring that their latest details are available on the BIMS portal. 107. On August 7, 2018, the National Academy of Art, Lalit Kala Akademi (LKA) celebrated its 64th Foundation Day, in which the book “A Painter of Eloquent Silence” was launched. Name the author of the book? 1.Anshul Agarwal 2.Rajesh Vidyarthi 3.Pranav Ranjan Ray 4.Krishnamoorthy S 5.None of these Answer - 3.Pranav Ranjan Ray Explanation: Dr. Mahesh Sharma released the logo of the 12th Triennale India which is scheduled to be organised by the Akademi in December 2018. A book on eminent artist Ganesh Pyne- “A Painter of Eloquent Silence” written by Pranav Ranjan Ray was launched. A demonstration of clay modelling named ‘AAO..MITTI ME KHELE...’was organised by the Akademi at Dr. Rajendra Prasad Sarvodaya Vidyalaya situated at the President Estate. The objective of the workshop was to inculcate creativity in the children.

108. On 7th August 2018, Parliament passed Constitution (123rd Amendment) Bill, 2017 to provide constitutional status to the ______? 1.National Commission for Backward Classes 2.National Commission for Scheduled Tribes 3.National Commission for Scheduled Languages 4.National Commission for Scheduled Banks 5.None of these Answer - 1.National Commission for Backward Classes Explanation: The Constitution (123rd Amendment) Bill 2017 was passed 156 votes to nil. The amendment entails: • Inclusion of a female representation, • Making the findings of the caste census public and formulating reservation according to that, • Relook or removal of the creamy layer formula and • introduction of reservation in the judiciary.

109. Name the bill that was passed by the Parliament on 6th August 2018, which ensures severe punishment for those convicted of raping girls below 12 years of age? 1.Criminal Law (Amendment) Bill, 2018 2.Sexual Offenders (Amendment) Bill, 2018

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3.Women’s Safety (Amendment) Bill, 2018 4.Rape victims Safety Bill, 2017 5.None of these Answer - 1.Criminal Law (Amendment) Bill, 2018 Explanation: As per Criminal Law (Amendment) Bill, 2018: • For the rape of a girl under 12 years of age: minimum jail term of 20 years and it can be increased to life time imprisonment or death sentence. • For gangrape of a girl below 12 years of age: life imprisonment or death. • For rape of a girl below 16 years of age: minimum punishment has been increased from 10 to 20 years and it can be extended to life imprisonment. • For gang-rape of a girl below 16 years of age: imprisonment for the rest of the life of the convict.

110. The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has constituted a committee, to be headed by a former Allahabad High Court judge, to monitor the rejuvenation project of which river from Haridwar to Unnao in Uttar Pradesh? 1.River Ganga 2.River Narmada 3.River Yamuna 4.River Brahmaputra 5.None of these Answer - 1.River Ganga Explanation: Chief Justice of Allahabad High Court will nominate a former judge of Allahabad High Court to head the committee. The committee will also have the following experts: one from Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), one from the Ministry of Forests, Environment and Climate Change, one from the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) and one from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT). The committee will assume charge within a month’s time. The committee would function from Kanpur.

111. Name Goa Tourism's app-based taxi service flagged off by Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar on 7th August 2018? 1.Goamiles 2.GoGoa 3.GoaConnect 4.GoaOnTheGo 5.None of these Answer - 1.Goamiles Explanation: On August 7, 2018, Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar and Tourism Minister Manohar Ajgaonkar flagged off the Goa Tourism Development Corporation's app-based taxi service called ‘GOAMILES’ in Panaji. It would ensure that commuters are not cheated as there would be transparency in fares for the customers. It will also ensure the increase in earnings of taxi drivers by "two to three" times.

112. On August 7, 2018, Andhra Pradesh Government signed an MoU with which electronics company, through which the company will set up its plant in 75 acres land in Tirupati and Chittoor districts? 1.Siemens 2.Rockwell Automation 3.Holytech 4.Honeywell 5.None of these Answer - 3.Holytech Explanation: On August 7, 2018, Andhra Pradesh Government signed an MoU with electronics company Holytech. Under this MoU, Holytech will set up its plant in 75 acres land in Tirupati and Chittoor districts. It will have cost of Rs. 1400 crores. This would be the first-of-its-kind facility in India. It will create 6000 direct and indirect job opportunities.

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113. Name the joint military exercise between Indian Army and Royal Thai Army, that began on 7th August 2018, in Chachoengsao province , Thailand? 1.Exercise Maitree 2.Exercise Bimbax 3.Exercise Garuda Shakthi 4.Exercise Vijay Prahar 5.None of these Answer - 1.Exercise Maitree Explanation: On August 7, 2018, the opening ceremony of Exercise Maitree, a joint military exercise between Indian Army and Royal Thai Army , was held in Chachoengsao province , Thailand. It will be conducted between August 6-19th 2018. The exercise will comprise of • honing of tactical and technical skills in joint counter insurgency and • counter terrorist operations in rural and urban scenario under UN mandate, • increasing interoperability between forces from both countries , • tactical drills for neutralization of likely threats in urban warfare scenario

114. Name the 2 persons who were appointed as members of Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) on 6th August 2018? 1.Aditya Vikram, Pramod Chandra Mody 2.Namrata Rai, Prithvi Raj 3.Ranjith Singh, Debashish Banerjee 4.Pramod Advani, Sathya Gopal 5.None of these Answer - 1.Aditya Vikram, Pramod Chandra Mody Explanation: The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has approved the appointment of Aditya Vikram and Pramod Chandra Mody as members of CBDT. Aditya Vikram is a 1981 batch Indian Revenue Service (Income Tax) officer. He is the principal director general (logistics) in Delhi. Pramod Chandra Mody is a 1982 batch Indian Revenue Service (Income Tax) officer. He is the principal chief commissioner, Mumbai. After these two appointments, there is a vacancy of two more members in CBDT. Other two members of CBDT are: Shabri Bhattasali and Arbind Modi.

115. Who was appointed the Director and General Manager of United India Insurance Company on 7th August 2018? 1.Rajesh Mishra 2.Pradeep Kumar 3.Rajesh Kanwar 4.S Gopakumar 5.None of these Answer - 4.S Gopakumar Explanation: On 7th August 2018, United India Insurance Company appointed S Gopakumar as its Director and General Manager with immediate effect. Earlier, S Gopakumar was Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of GIC Housing Finance Ltd. S Gopakumar started his career with National Insurance Company. He has an experience of more than 30 years.

116. ISRO has announced that it would launch the heaviest communication satellite _____ from French Guiana on November 30, 2018? 1.GSAT -11 2.GSAT -12 3.PSAT -10 4.ISAT -10 5.None of these Answer - 1.GSAT -11 Explanation: On August 7, 2018, ISRO announced that it would launch the heaviest communication satellite GSAT -11 from French Guiana on November 30, 2018. This satellite weighs over 5.7 tonnes or 5700 kg. It will be launched from

Current Affairs Q&A PDF the European spaceport Arianespace. This will help in increasing internet speed of the country of 14 gigabit per second data transfer speed.

117. Which tennis player has secured the top spot in the men's Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) world singles rankings released on 6th August 2018? 1.Roger Federer 2.Rafael Nadal 3.Dominic Thiem 4.Novac Djokovic 5.None of these Answer - 2.Rafael Nadal Explanation:

Rank Player Points 1 Rafael Nadal (Spain) 9310 2 Roger Federer (Switzerland) 7080 3 Alexander Zverev (Germany) 5665 4 Juan Martin del Potro (Argentina) 5455 5 Grigor Dimitrov (Bulgaria) 4610 6 Kevin Anderson (South Africa) 4355 7 Marin Cilic (Croatia) 3905 8 Dominic Thiem (Austria) 3665 9 John Isner (USA) 3490 10 Novak Djokovic (Serbia) 3355

118. What is the rank of Indian men's hockey team in the latest FIH rankings released on 7th August 2018? 1.4 2.3 3.6 4.5 5.None of these Answer - 4.5 Explanation:

Rank Country Points 1 Australia 1906 2 Argentina 1883 3 Belgium 1709 4 Netherlands 1654 5 India 1484

119. Which country won the Under 16 West Asian Football Federation Cup (WAFF) held in Valencia, Spain? 1.India 2.Australia 3.South Korea 4.Malaysia 5.None of these

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Answer - 1.India Explanation:

Event Winner Runners-up Under 20 COTIF Cup India Argentina Under 16 West Asian Football India Iraq Federation Cup (WAFF)

120. On August 7, 2018, Mario Gomez announced his retirement from international football. Which country does he belong to? 1.Germany 2.France 3.Australia 4.Brazil 5.None of these Answer - 1.Germany Explanation: On August 7, 2018, Veteran German striker Mario Gomez announced his retirement from international football. The 33-year-old made his debut for Germany in 2007. He scored 31 goals in 78 international appearances. He also represented his country at the FIFA World Cup in 2010 and 2018 and the Euro Cup in 2008 and 2012.

121. On 6th August 2018, Rajinder Kumar Dhawan, passed away due to old age related ailments, at a hospital in Delhi. What was his profession? 1.Politician 2.Doctor 3.Musician 4.Film maker 5.None of these Answer - 1.Politician Explanation: On 6th August 2018, former Congress MP, Rajinder Kumar Dhawan, passed away due to old age related ailments, at a hospital in Delhi. Rajinder Kumar Dhawan was 81 years old. He was personal secretary to Indira Gandhi when she was Prime Minister of India from 1962 to 1984. He was elected to Rajya Sabha in 1990. He was also a member of the Congress Working Committee. He was made minister of state (independent charge) Housing and Urban Development during 1995-1996.

122. On 7th August 2018, Mony K. Mathew passed away following a heart attack. He was a _____? 1.financial journalist 2.sports journalist 3.food critic 4.educationalist 5.None of these Answer - 1.financial journalist Explanation: On 7th August 2018, senior financial journalist Mony K. Mathew passed away following a heart attack. Mony K. Mathew was 66 years old. He was a senior assistant editor at The Hindu BusinessLine. He had worked with The Indian Express and The Financial Express before joining The Hindu BusinessLine. He served as chief of bureau and resident editor of The Financial Express, Chennai.

123. Name the bill that was passed by the Parliament on 7th August 2018, regarding the compensation payable for acquisition of immovable property by the Centre for defence and security purposes? 1.Requisitioning and Acquisition of Immovable Property (Amendment) Bill 2.Assurance and Compensation of Immovable Property (Amendment) Bill 3.Acquisition and Compensation of Immovable Property (Amendment) Bill 4.Compensation and Requisition of Immovable Property (Amendment) Bill 5.None of these 33 | Page Follow Us - FB.com/AffairsCloudOfficialPage Copyright 2018 @ AffairsCloud.Com

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Answer - 1.Requisitioning and Acquisition of Immovable Property (Amendment) Bill Explanation: The Requisitioning and Acquisition of Immovable Property (Amendment) Bill was passed by the Rajya Sabha on 18th July 2018 with some minor amendments. It was returned to the Lok Sabha. Now the Lok Sabha has approved it through a voice vote without debate. The act enables central government to requisition immovable property (or land) for any public purpose like defence and security purposes. The amendments included changing the year of the Bill. The Bill will be considered to have come into force on March 14, 1952, the date of the enactment of the Act.

124. Maharashtra Government has announced a special assistance of _____ for OBC community to help them develop employment opportunities for the youth? 1.Rs 700 crore 2.Rs 500 crore 3.Rs 350 crore 4.Rs 900 crore 5.None of these Answer - 2.Rs 500 crore Explanation: This announcement was made by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis at the 3rd National Convention of National OBC Association in Mumbai. He denied reports stating that, Maratha community may be included in the OBC category for reservation purpose. Maharashtra government has also recommended to the Centre to award Bharat Ratna posthumously to 19th-century social reformer Jyotiba Phule and his wife Savitribai Phule, who is a pioneer of women’s education. The government will assess the extent of representation offered to OBCs in jobs and take measures to address the backlog, in a timely manner.

125. PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI) and Confederation of Nepalese Industries (CNI) have signed a MoU to establish India-Nepal Centre. Who is the President of PHDCCI? 1.Anil Khaitan 2.Arjun Rampal 3.Surjit Singh 4.Karan Thapa 5.None of these Answer - 1.Anil Khaitan Explanation: The MoU was signed by Anil Khaitan, President of PHDCCI and Hari Bhakta Sharma, President of CNI, in Kathmandu, Nepal. This MoU will help in strengthening economic engagement between India and Nepal. This MoU aims to promote Indian investment in Nepal, work with Indian ventures in Nepal to tackle problems faced by them, enhance industrialization in Nepal and train Nepali entrepreneurs. Finance Minister of Nepal, Dr.Yuba Raj Khatiwada and Indian Ambassador to Nepal Manjeev Singh Puri were also present when the MoU was signed.

126. On 6th August 2018, a revised Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) was signed by which ministry with NABARD and National Water Development Agency (NWDA) for funding of central share of 99 prioritized irrigation projects under Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY)? 1.Ministry of Science and Technology 2.Ministry of Urban Affairs 3.Ministry of Home Affairs 4.Ministry of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation 5.None of these Answer - 4.Ministry of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation Explanation: This MoU will help Ministry of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation (MoWR, RD & GR) to release Central Assistance to prioritized projects under PMKSY according to the needs in a timely manner. Under PMKSY, 99 ongoing irrigation projects were identified to be finished in mission mode by December 2019. Total fund needed for finishing these projects was estimated at Rs. 77,595 crore (with a split up of Rs. 48,546 crore for project works; Rs. 29,049 crore for Command Area Development works) with Central Assistance of Rs. 31,342 crore. On 6th September 2018, a tripartite Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) was signed by Government of India (through MoWR, RD & GR), NABARD and NWDA for funding of Central Assistance for 99 irrigation projects

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127. Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has launched integration & availability of TRAI Mobile Apps namely DND 2.0 & MyCall on which platform? 1.UMANG (Unified Mobile Application for New-age Governance) 2.BharatNet 3.T App Folio 4.AppWare 5.None of these Answer - 1.UMANG (Unified Mobile Application for New-age Governance) Explanation: It is an application for crowd sourced Voice Call Quality Monitoring. It helps Mobile phone users to rate their experience about voice call quality in real time. The customers would select their rating in the form of stars and indicate if the calls were made in indoor, outdoor or while travelling. Callers can also provide additional details such as noise or audio delay or mark a call-drop.

128. Which state government launched Mukhyamantri Kanya Utthan Yojana for empowerment of women, on 8thAugust 2018? 1.Rajasthan 2.Maharashtra 3.Gujarat 4.Bihar 5.None of these Answer - 4.Bihar Explanation: On August 8, 2018, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar launched Mukhyamantri Kanya Utthan Yojana for empowerment of women. A sum of Rs 7221 crore will be spend in a year on the programme. It will be run by three departments -- education, health and social welfare. It will provide Rs 54,100 from the birth of a girl child till she graduates.

129. Where was 51st ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting was held on 2nd August 2018? 1.Malaysia 2.Singapore 3.China 4.India 5.None of these Answer - 2.Singapore Explanation: On August 2, 2018, 51st ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting was held in Singapore. Singapore was the rotating president of the meeting. Negotiations on regional comprehensive economic partnership agreement was held between the ASEAN national. Further meetings of China-ASEAN foreign ministers meeting, the foreign minister meetings of the East Asia Summit and the ASEAN-China, Japan and Republic of Korea (10+3) foreign ministers' meeting will be held in Singapore.

130. State Bank of India (SBI) has launched a payments machine called MOPAD. What is the full form of MOPAD? 1.Multi Option Payment Acceptance Device 2.Multi Outlet Payment Acceptance Device 3.Multi Option Payment Availability Device 4.Master Output Payment Acceptance Device 5.None of these Answer - 1.Multi Option Payment Acceptance Device Explanation: On August 8, 2018, State Bank of India launched a payments machine called MOPAD. The full form of MOPAD is Multi Option Payment Acceptance Device. It is a Point of Sale (PoS) terminal that will allow to facilitate transactions from cards to QR code based payments. It would accept payments through UPI, Bharat QR, and SBI Buddy wallet which till now required different tools to receive payments. Customers won’t have to carry cards and

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131. On August 8, 2018, the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Custom (CBIC) doubled import duty on 328 textile products to 20% under which section of the Customs Act, 1962? 1.Section 159 2.Section 142 3.Section 21 4.Section 35 5.None of these Answer - 1.Section 159 Explanation: On August 8, 2018, the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Custom (CBIC) doubled import duty on 328 textile productes to 20% under Section 159 of the Customs Act, 1962. Earlier, the government had last month doubled import duty on over 50 textile products-- including jackets, suits and carpets to 20 per cent. This would boost production as it would give an edge to domestic manufacturers. The manufaturig sector provides employment to 10.5 crore people.

132. Name the 2 persons who were appointed as part-time directors on the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) board for a four-year term, on August 8, 2018? 1.S Gurumurthy, Satish Marathe 2.Raghu Ram Krishnan, Sathya Kumar 3.Puneeth Rai, Rajinish Kumar 4.Amar Kashyap, Kunal Singh 5.None of these Answer - 1.S Gurumurthy, Satish Marathe Explanation: On August 8, 2018, S Gurumurthy and Satish Marathe were appointed as part-time directors on the Reserve Bank of India board by The Cabinet’s Appointments Committee for a four-year term. These appointments were proposed by the Department of Financial Services. S Gurumurthy is the editor of Tamil political weekly Thuglak and the co-convener of RSS affiliate Swadeshi Jagran Manch. This is his 1st term as an RBI director.

133. Washington Open (tennis) 2018 or Citi Open 2018 was held at Rock Creek Park Tennis Center in Washington DC, United States, from 28th July to 5th August 2018. Who won the Men’s Singles title of the tournament? 1.Alexander Zverev 2.Svetlana Kuznetsova 3.Alex de Minaur

5.None of these Answer4.Donna - Vekić 1.Alexander Zverev Explanation: Event Winner Runner-up Men’s Singles Alexander Zverev (Germany) Alex de Minaur (Australia)

Men’s Singles Jamie Murray (United Kingdom), Bruno Soares (Brazil) Mike Bryan (United States), Édouard Roger- VasselinWomen’s (France) Singles Svetlana Kuznetsova (Russia) Donna Vekić (Croatia) Women’s Doubles Han Xinyun (China), Darija Jurak (Croatia) Alexa Guarachi (Chile), Erin Routliffe (New Zealand)

134. Which will be the first Olympics to deploy facial recognition technology to increase security? 1.Qatar Olympics 2022 2.Tokyo Olympics 2020 3.London Olympics 2020 4.Canada Olympics 2020 5.None of these Answer - 2.Tokyo Olympics 2020 Explanation: On August 8, 2018, it was announced that the Tokyo 2020 will be the first Olympics to deploy facial recognition

Current Affairs Q&A PDF technology to increase security. The Olympic organizers have partnered with NEC, a Japanese telecommunications and information technology firm, to develop the first system of this kind. It will use IC chips within identification cards to automatically verify the identity of those entering over 40 venues. It is the fastest system where the technology takes only 0.3 seconds to match up face with pre-registered photo.

135. On August 8, 2018, DMK chief M Karunanidhi died at the age of 94. He was a five-time Chief Minister of which state? 1.Andhra Pradesh 2.Telengana 3.Tamil Nadu 4.Karnataka 5.None of these Answer - 3.Tamil Nadu Explanation: On August 8, 2018, DMK chief and five-time Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu M Karunanidhi died at the age of 94 in Chennai. Mr Karunanidhi became a Chief Minister in 1969,1971,1989,1996 & 2006. He was popularly referred to as Kalaignaror the artist. Maanavanesan was his first manuscript magazine. In 1971 he created history by winning 184 Assembly constituencies.

136. On 7th August 2018, writer, poet, critic and translator Sumatheendra R. Nadig, died following a short term illness. In which language did he write? 1.Kannada 2.Telegu 3.Malayalam 4.Urdu 5.None of these Answer - 1.Kannada Explanation: Sumatheendra Nadig was 83 years old. He was an advocated of the Navya literature movement (modernist tradition) in Kannada language. He had published 11 poetry collections. His popular poetry collection Dampatya Geeta has been translated into several languages. He had published 10 translations from several languages. He taught at Viswa Bharati, Shantiniketan, as a visiting professor. He was also a Fellow at Jadhavpur University. Also, he taught part-time at the Department of English, Temple University, Philadelphia. He was the editor at Bappco Publishing and a reader of English at Bangalore University.

137. Who will replace Indra Nooyi as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of PepsiCo Inc, on 3rd October 2018? 1.Louis Kirkby 2.Ramon Laguarta 3.Sharon Andrews 4.Gissele Mathew 5.None of these Answer - 2.Ramon Laguarta Explanation: On 6th August 2018, PepsiCo Inc said that Indra Nooyi would step down as its long time chief executive officer. She will replaced by Ramon Laguarta. He will take over on October 3 and will also join the board. Laguarta oversaw global operations, corporate strategy, public policy and government affairs in his role as president. He has also served as CEO of the company's Europe Sub-Saharan Africa division.

138. Name India’s World Champion weightlifter who has withdrawn from the Asian Games 2018 due to health issues? 1.Mirabai Chanu 2.Sanjita Chanu 3.Shreyasi Singh 4.Poonam Yadav 5.None of these Answer - 1.Mirabai Chanu Explanation:

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World Champion and 2018 Gold Coast CWG gold medallist, Mirabai Chanu, has decided not to compete at the upcoming Asian Games after a repeating niggle in her lower back. She had suffered a lower back injury.

139. Name the mobile app that has been launched by Union Minister of Commerce & Industry and Aviation Suresh Prabhu which provides wide range of information required to undertake international trade? 1.Niryat Mitra 2.Niryat Samachar 3.Trade Focus 4.Trade Assist 5.None of these Answer - 1.Niryat Mitra Explanation: It has been developed by the Federation of Indian Export Organizations (FIEO). It has the following features: • It will provide information regarding policy provisions for export and import, applicable GST rate, available export incentives, tariffetc. • It internally maps the ITC HS code of other countries with that of India and providesthe tariff line. Presently the app comes with the data of 87 countries. • Human Resource tool of the app enables candidates to register and apply against the vacancies in international trade sector. • Companies can also search the profiles of the candidates and engage them.

140. Which Union Minister launched Bid round –II under Discovered Small Field Policy, on 9th August 2018? 1.Rajnath Singh 2.Dharmendra Pradhan 3.RK Singh 4.Ananth Kumar 5.None of these Answer - 2.Dharmendra Pradhan Explanation: On August 9, 2018, Bid round –II under Discovered Small Field Policy was launched by Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas & Skill Development and Entrepreneurship. The government aims to increase India’s growth to become the 4th largest economy and is bringing policy reforms to the energy sector. They are focused on: Energy Access, Energy Efficiency, Energy Sustainability and Energy Security. Discovered Small Fields (DSF) policy is a part of that reform.

141. Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India Ltd. (TRIFED) has signed MoU with _____ to promote primary level value addition to MAPs produce from forest area? 1.National Medicinal Plants Board (NMPB) 2.National Herbal Plants Board (NHPB) 3.National Rare Plants Board (NRPB) 4.National Herbal Plantation Board (NHPB) 5.None of these Answer - 1.National Medicinal Plants Board (NMPB) Explanation: On August 9, 2018, Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India Ltd. (TRIFED) under the Ministry of Tribal Affairs & National Medicinal Plants Board (NMPB), Ministry of AYUSH signed an MoU to promote primary level value addition to MAPs produce from forest area. It is aimed to promote Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (MAPs) forest produce for livelihood development of tribal people.

142. Who is the head of the 4-member Group of Ministers (GoM) that has been constituted to discuss concerns of trade pact with RCEP countries? 1.Sushma Swaraj 2.Suresh Prabhu 3.Rajnath Singh 4.Piyush Goyal

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5.None of these Answer - 2.Suresh Prabhu Explanation: On August 9, 2018, four-member Group of Ministers (GoM) headed by Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Suresh Prabhu has been constituted to to discuss concerns of trade pact with RCEP countries. This meeting will determine whether India is willing to give 92% of its market access to these countries or not for free trade or not. The trade pact will affect the sectors of steel, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, electronics, heavy industry, textiles and chemicals as there will be an influx of Chinese products effecting the domestic markets. These talks are to be held before the upcoming trade negotiations in RCEP Summit with member nations -- including Japan, China, Australia, New Zealand and South Korea in November 2018.

143. The government has announced that it would implement _____ Committee’s report to improve living standards of farmers and upliftment of farm sector? 1.Narasimhan 2.Swaminathan 3.Madhavan 4.Surjit Singh 5.None of these Answer - 2.Swaminathan Explanation: On August 9, 2018, the agriculture minister Radha Mohan Singh announced that government would implement Swaminathan Committee’s reportto improve living standards of farmers and upliftment of farm sector. In 2006, President of the National Commission on Farmers (NCF) Swaminathan had recommended the following: • reformatory schemesfor welfare of farmers, • transparency in the market, increase productivity and eliminate malnutrition. • sustainable production and development on erosion of natural resources and climate change • improving the infrastructure.

144. Which is the 11th Biosphere Reserve from India to be included in the World Network of Biosphere Reserves (WNBR) of UNESCO? 1.Pachmarhi Biosphere Reserve 2.Great Nicobar Island Biosphere Reserve 3.Khangchendzonga Biosphere Reserve 4.Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve 5.None of these Answer - 3.Khangchendzonga Biosphere Reserve Explanation: On August 9, 2018, UNESCO designated World Network of Biosphere Reserves (WNBR) included Khangchendzonga Biosphere Reserve in its list. This decision was taken at the 30th Session of International Coordinating Council (ICC) of Man and Biosphere (MAB) Programme of UNESCO held at Palembang, Indonesia, from July 23-27, 2018. It is India’s 11th Biosphere Reserve that has been included so far.

145. Haryana Finance Minister ____ launched an online portal for releasing grant-in-aid to government departments, on 8th August 2018? 1.Abhimanyu Singh Sindhu 2.Ram Bilas Sharma 3.O P Dhankar 4.Anil Vij 5.None of these Answer - 1.Abhimanyu Singh Sindhu Explanation: On 8th August 2018, Haryana Finance Minister Captain Abhimanyu Singh Sindhu launched an online portal for releasing grant-in-aid to government departments. Abhimanyu Singh Sindhu made the first transaction using the electronic system. He released Rs 84.58 crore to the health department under the National Health Mission. This online system will make budgetary process more transparent and enhance working efficiency of finance department officials.

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146. Which state has imposed a total ban on smoking and substance abuse by enthusiasts when they perform rafting, kayaking or canoeing in the state? 1.Himachal Pradesh 2.Uttarakhand 3.Arunchal Pradesh 4.Uttarakhand 5.None of these Answer - 2.Uttarakhand Explanation: On 8th August 2018, Uttarakhand Cabinet chaired by Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat approved a revised policy on adventure sports. It has imposed a total ban on smoking and substance abuse by enthusiasts when they perform rafting, kayaking or canoeing in Uttarakhand. As per the revised policy, a minimum qualification has been fixed for raft operators. Also, stricter penal provisions have been formulated for violators. Uttarakhand Cabinet also approved revised rules on paragliding and aero sports to improve public safety.

147. Where did, Pacific Endeavor-2018 (PE-18), a communication exercise under the Multinational Communications Interoperability Program (MCIP) begun on 6th August 2018? 1.Kathmandu, Nepal 2.New Delhi, India 3.Washington DC, United States 4.London, United Kingdom 5.None of these Answer - 1.Kathmandu, Nepal Explanation: Pacific Endeavor-2018 (PE-18) is held for 12 days. It was inaugurated by Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) of Nepal, Major General Prabhuram Sharma Main objective: to develop common communications operating procedures to enable military forces in the Asia Pacific region to work together in times of disaster. Participation: nearly 270 personnel from 20 Asia-Pacific Countries are taking part. Organised by: Nepali Army and United States Pacific Command.

148. Name the digital platform launched by HSBC to simplify capital raising process through capital markets by offering real-time access to information like investors’ feedback, profiles, client orders and deal pricing? 1.MyDeal 2.InfoView 3.KnowYourBank 4.InfoDeal 5.None of these Answer - 1.MyDeal Explanation: MyDeal consists of all information related to a client’s capital markets transaction. It is updated on real time basis. MyDeal has raised more than USD 25 billion in its pilot phase in the first 7 months through more than 30 transactions worldwide. MyDeal can be accessed using a tablet or desktop. It uses application programming interface (API) technology to centralise data from multiple channels. The data is presented through custom-made graphs and visuals. The app would be released through the online store later in 2018, for direct use of clients.

149. PayPal has partnered with which bank to offer safer, faster and convenient payment experiences to bank’s card holders? 1.HDFC Bank 2.Axis Bank 3.ICICI Bank 4.State Bank of India (SBI) 5.None of these Answer - 1.HDFC Bank Explanation: On August 9, 2018, PayPal and HDFC Bank partnered to offer safer, faster and convenient payment experiences to

Current Affairs Q&A PDF bank’s card holders. This would enable consumers to easily open PayPal accounts and set it as their preferred payment method. This will enable the customers to shop how, where and when they choose. This will benefit both consumers and merchants.

150. PayU India has partnered with _____ to offer personal loans via LazyPay? 1.Reliance Money 2.AU Small Finance Bank 3.Jana Small Finance Bank 4.ICICI Bank 5.None of these Answer - 1.Reliance Money Explanation: This facility will be available to consumers in 10 cities, including metro cities and tier-II cities like Ahmedabad, Jaipur, Hyderabad, Bangalore, Chandigarh, Lucknow. The loan amount will start from Rs. 100 and will extend up to Rs. 1,00,000 with a duration varying from 15 days to 24 months. Reliance Money would carry out a one-step digital KYC process reducing the time to check. Customers would get an instant credit through a paperless process.

151. International Monetary Fund (IMF) has projected India’s GDP (Gross Domestic Product) to grow at _____ % in the 2019-2020 fiscal year, as per its report released on 7th August 2018? 1.7.6 2.7.7 3.7.5 4.7.4 5.None of these Answer - 3.7.5 Explanation: On 7th August 2018, International Monetary Fund (IMF) has projected India’s GDP (Gross Domestic Product) to grow at 7.5 % in the 2019-2020 fiscal year. IMF has stated in its report that, this growth is attributed to strengthening of investment and strong private consumption. It has said that, the near-term macroeconomic outlook for India is broadly favourable. India’s GDP forecast is 7.3 % in fiscal year 2018/19 and 7.5 % in 2019/20. Headline inflation is projected to increase to 5.2 % in fiscal year 2018/19 due to tightening of demand conditions, recent depreciation of the rupee and higher oil prices, housing rent allowances and agricultural minimum support prices.

152. Who was elected as Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman, on 9th August 2018? 1.B K Hariprasad 2.Harivansh 3.Amith Bharghav 4.Saran Singh 5.None of these Answer - 2.Harivansh Explanation: The election process in Rajya Sabha was initiated by Rajya Sabha Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu. Harivansh secured 125 votes and defeated Congress MP B K Hariprasad who got 105 votes. The post of Rajya Sabha deputy chairman has been vacant since 1st July 2018, following the retirement of P J Kurien.

153. Who was sworn in as the 60th and youngest president of Colombia? 1.Jane Martin 2.Juan Manuel Santos 3.Ivan Duque 4.Morris Mano 5.None of these Answer - 3.Ivan Duque Explanation: On August 9, 2018, Colombia's President-elect 42-year-old Ivan Duque has been sworn in as the country's 60th president. He replaced Juan Manuel Santos and became the youngest president in Colombia's recent history. He

Current Affairs Q&A PDF defeated left-leaning candidate, Gustavo Petro, in a presidential runoff in June with 54 percent of the vote.

154. Australia’s Jarrod Lyle died after fighting cancer on 9th August 2018. He was a _____? 1.Writer 2.Golfer 3.Musician 4.Politician 5.None of these Answer - 2.Golfer Explanation: On 9th August 2018, Australian golfer Jarrod Lyle died after fighting cancer in Australia. Jarrod Lyle was 36 years old. He had won the feeder Web.com tour two times. He had played 121 US PGA Tour tournaments in his career.

155. On 7th August 2018, former 400m hurdles world champion Nicholas Bett died in a car accident. Which country did he belong to? 1.Kenya 2.South Africa 3.United States 4.France 5.None of these Answer - 1.Kenya Explanation: On 7th August 2018, former 400m hurdles world champion Nicholas Bett of Kenya died in a car accident. Nicholas Bett was 28 years old. In 2015 IAAF World Championship held in Beijing, he won gold medal. He had made a Kenyan record of 47.79. In Commonwealth Games 2018 in Australia, he finished at 8th position in the 400m hurdles event.

156. When was the 76th anniversary of Quit India movement named as August Kranti Day observed in India? 1.August 8 2.August 9 3.August 10 4.August 7 5.None of these Answer - 2.August 9 Explanation: On 9th August 1942, father of the nation Mahatma Gandhi started the Do or Die campaign to drive away Britishers from India. The movement started from Gawalia Tank in Mumbai. This day is observed as August Kranti Day every year. To observe the anniversary of Quit India movement, President Ram Nath Kovind hosted the freedom fighters at an At-Home reception at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi.

157. Where did Indian External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj inaugurate Mango Festival organised by government of Uttar Pradesh? 1.Tashkent, Uzbekistan 2.Astana, Kazakhstan 3.Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan 4.Madrid, Spain 5.None of these Answer - 1.Tashkent, Uzbekistan Explanation: On August 4-5, 2018 , External Affairs Minister Smt. Sushma Swaraj visited the Republic of Uzbekistan. Ms Swaraj, who is on her first visit to Uzbekistan, was personally received by her Uzbek counterpart Abdulaziz Kamilov at the airport. She also inaugurated a two-day Uttar Pradesh Mango Festival in Tashkent.

158. When did Madhya Pradesh government observe Adivasi Diwas? 1.August 8 2.August 9

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3.August 10 4.August 7 5.None of these Answer - 2.August 9 Explanation: The Madhya Pradesh government observed Adivasi Diwas on 9th August 2018. It has also announced a holiday in 20 tribal-dominated districts. The State government would felicitated achievers from the tribal community and distributed certificates to beneficiaries of various welfare schemes.

159. The Parliament passed the National Sports University Bill 2018 on 9th August 2018. This Bill aims to set up a first-of-its-kind National Sports University in which state? 1.Manipur 2.Himachal Pradesh 3.Andhra Pradesh 4.Telengana 5.None of these Answer - 1.Manipur Explanation: On 9th August 2018, Parliament passed the National Sports University Bill 2018, as the Rajya Sabha approved it. The Lok Sabha had passed this Bill on 3rd August 2018. This Bill aims to set up a first-of-its-kind National Sports University in Manipur to promote sports. The main campus will be in Manipur. Regional centres of the university will also be set up in other parts of India and other countries. The Chancellor of the University will be from the sports field. Also, the academic council and academic activities will have members from sports field.

160. The Global Innovation Index 2018 (GII- 2018) has been launched in India in New Delhi. What is India’s rank on the Global Innovation Index (GII) in 2018? 1.69 2.57 3.48 4.78 5.None of these Answer - 2.57 Explanation: The launch event was organized by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) along with the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), in collaboration with Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP). CII is one of the founding partners of GII. Global Innovation Index 2018 is the 11th edition of GII. The theme for GII 2018 is: “Energizing the World with Innovation”. The GII 2018 analyses the energy innovation landscape of the next decade and identify possible new technological breakthroughs and innovative approaches and their sources at the country, region, or firm level.

161. Where was ‘One District one Product’ Summit inaugurated by President Ram Nath Kovind on August 10, 2018? 1.Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh 2.Guwahati, Assam 3.Patna, Bihar 4.Ahmedabad, Gujarat 5.None of these Answer - 1.Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh Explanation: 2 MoUs were also signed with US-based companies. They were: • MOU between Amazonand Quality Control of India to market products of artisans and • Another between NSEand BSE with Wipro GE Health Care. Under this, Amazon will train the artisans and small entrepreneurs of districts, including Lucknow, Gorakhpur, Allahabad, Ferozabad, Moradabad, Agra, Kanpur, Meerut, Bhadohi and Varanasi. A 3-day exhibition was inaugurated in which one product of each district would be on display.

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162. Name the web-based common platform that has been launched recently to bring together every stakeholder contributing to the Swachh Bharat Mission? 1.Swachh Manch web portal 2.Swachh Sudeshi web portal 3.Swachh India web portal 4.Swachh Bharat web portal 5.None of these Answer - 1.Swachh Manch web portal Explanation: It is a web-based common platform which aims to bring together every stakeholder contributing to the Swachh Bharat Mission. It will enable uploads of pictorial evidence of citizens and organizations participating in the initiatives. The Swachh Manch will also be integrated with the Swachhata App as a citizens’ grievance redressal platform.

163. Where did Parijat Urja Chakra in collaboration with Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) organize a special campaign to create awareness about the ill effects of crop residue burning, on 10th August 2018? 1.Ambala, Haryana 2.Patiala, Punjab 3.Cuttack, Odisha 4.Hyderabad, Telengana 5.None of these Answer - 1.Ambala, Haryana Explanation: The campaign focused on sensitizing the participants about the importance of straw management and recommended machinery and techniques of straw management. Safety handbooks were also distributed amongst the farmers on safe use of crop protection products.

164. Name the environmental single window hub for Environment, Forest, Wildlife and CRZ clearances launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on World Biofuel Day (10th August 2018)? 1.PARIVESH 2.SAMIKSHA 3.DIKSHA 4.SRAVESH 5.None of these Answer - 1.PARIVESH Explanation: PARIVESH - Pro-Active and Responsive facilitation by Interactive, Virtuous and Environmental Single-window Hub PARIVESH is a Single-Window Integrated Environmental Management System, developed in line with ‘Digital India’ initiative. It also follows the Minimum Government and Maximum Governance ideology. PARIVESH automates the complete process of submitting the application and tracking the status of proposals at every stage of processing. It will deal with proposals submitted by Project Proponents to the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MOEFCC), State Level Environmental Impact Assessment Authorities (SEIAA), to obtain clearances from Central, State and district-level authorities. It is a workflow based application. It is based on the concept of web architecture.

165. Bajaj Allianz General Insurance entered into a bancassurance deal with which bank on August 10, 2018? 1.Vijaya Bank 2.Canara Bank 3.IDFC Bank 4.DBS Bank 5.None of these Answer - 1.Vijaya Bank Explanation: On August 10, 2018, Bajaj Allianz General Insurance entered into a bancassurance deal with Vijaya Bank. The General Insurance products would be available through the bank’s network of 2,129 branches. Insurance products such as health, personal accident, home, motor and travel along with a commercial line of insurance products will

Current Affairs Q&A PDF be offered. The partnership will strengthen the presence of Bajaj Allianz General Insurance in southern India.

166. Which bank has become the first bank in India to introduce Iris Scan Authentication feature for Aadhaar -based transactions through its micro ATM tablets? 1.ICICI Bank 2.Axis Bank 3.HDFC Bank 4.State Bank of India (SBI) 5.None of these Answer - 2.Axis Bank Explanation: On August 10, 2018, Axis bank has become the first bank in the country to introduce Iris Scan Authentication feature for Aadhaar -based transactions through its micro ATM tablets. This is being run as a pilot project in 8 branches of rural Punjab, Haryana, Gujarat and Andhra Pradesh. The bank will be launching the same process for loan processing, insurance, eKYC account opening and others sections mostly extending to the semi-urban and urban regions as well.

167. Who was appointed as a member of National Commission for Protection of Child Rights recently? 1.Dr. R. G Anand 2.Mahendra Singh 3.Aman Mittal 4.Sumit Rawat 5.None of these Answer - 1.Dr. R. G Anand Explanation: Dr. R. G Anand has been appointed as member of National Commission for Protection of Child Rights. Government has appointed Dr. R. G Anand as Member of National Commission for Protection of Child Rights with effect from 13th July 2018 for a period of 3 years, or until he attains 60 years of age, or until further orders, whichever is earlier.

168. Which country’s U-20 football team won Torneo Internacional de Fútbol Sub-20 de L'Alcúdia (L'Alcúdia International Under-20 Football Tournament) also known as COTIF Tournament, held at Valencia, Spain? 1.Brazil 2.Argentina 3.Russia 4.France 5.None of these Answer - 2.Argentina Explanation: Argentina’s U-20 football team won Torneo Internacional de Fútbol Sub-20 de L'Alcúdia by defeating Russian team in the Extra Time by 2-1 goals. India was playing for the first time in the tournament. Floyd Pinto was the coach of the Under 20 team appointed by AIFF (All India Football Federation). Indian team won over Argentina in the final group stage match, which held on August 5th, 2018 by 2-1 & Created History by defeating the 6 time Champion. Deepak Tangri's goal in the fourth-minute at the start of the game was the first goal from India. Anwar Ali scored the second goal in free kick which lead India to win the match.

169. Who won the FIFA eWorld Cup held at The O2 Arena in London, Britain, on 4th August 2018? 1.Rashid Ali Khan 2.Mosaad Aldossary 3.Gregor Mendelev 4.Peter Heinstein 5.None of these Answer - 2.Mosaad Aldossary Explanation: On 4th August 2018, Saudi Arabia’s Mosaad Aldossary won the FIFA eWorld Cup held at The O2 Arena in London, Britain. Mosaad Aldossary defeated Belgium’s Stefano Pinna 4-0 on aggregate in the two-legged FIFA eWorld Cup

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Grand Final. Mosaad Aldossary won a prize money of $250,000. He is 18 years old. He competes with the name ‘MSDossary’.

170. Name the author of the book ‘Untold Story of Broadcasting’ released by Minister of state for Culture (I/C), Dr. Mahesh Sharma, on 9th August 2018? 1.Dr. Gautam Chatterjee 2.Dr. Gulab Kothari 3.Sachidanand Joshi 4.Kiran Kumar 5.None of these Answer - 1.Dr. Gautam Chatterjee Explanation: On 9th August 2018, Minister of state for Culture (I/C), Dr. Mahesh Sharma, released 3 books: ‘Jewellery’, ‘Ghats of Banaras’and ‘Untold Story of Broadcasting’, at IGNCA (Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts), in New Delhi. ‘Jewellery’ was written by Dr. Gulab Kothari. ‘Ghats of Banaras’ was written by Dr. Sachidanand Joshi and ‘Untold Story of Broadcasting’ was written by Dr. Gautam Chatterjee.

171. When was World Biofuel Day observed all over the world? 1.August 9 2.August 11 3.August 12 4.August 10 5.None of these Answer - 4.August 10 Explanation: The World Biofuel Day is being observed by the Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas for the last three years. Prime Minister Narendra Modi was the Chief Guest for the inaugural session of the World Biofuel Day programme. On the occasion, Prime Minister launched web portal PARIVESH, a single window for environmental, wildlife, forest and Coastal Regulation Zone clearances. The Prime Minister also released a booklet on“National Policy on Biofuels 2018”.

172. What was the theme of International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples observed on 9th August 2018? 1.Indigenous peoples’ self-respect and dignity 2.Indigenous peoples’ migration and movement 3.Indigenous peoples’ development and sustainability 4.Life and welfare of indigenous peoples 5.None of these Answer - 2.Indigenous peoples’ migration and movement Explanation: In 1994, the United Nations General Assembly declared August 9 as International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples. This date marks the day of the first meeting, of the UN Working Group on Indigenous Populations of the Sub-Commission on the Promotion and Protection of Human Rights in 1982. This day is observed to promote and protect the rights of the world’s indigenous population. The theme for International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples 2018 is: Indigenous peoples’ migration and movement.

173. What is the rank of Indian shuttler Saina Nehwal in women’s singles rankings in the Badminton World Federation (BWF) rankings released on 9th August 2018? 1.11 2.10 3.8 4.7 5.None of these Answer - 1.11 Explanation: Following poor performance at the badminton World Championship, the ranks of Saina Nehwal and Kidambi Srikanth have dropped. Saina Nehwal has been ranked world number 11 currently, in women’s singles rankings.

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Kidambi Srikanth has gone down two places and has reached 8th position in men's singles rankings.

174. Name the Indian-American high school student who won the world championship at the International Geography Bee's junior varsity division held in Berlin, Germany, in July 2018? 1.Akash Karath 2.Avi Goel 3.Samuel D’souza 4.Vivian Richards 5.None of these Answer - 2.Avi Goel Explanation: Avi Goel is 14 years old. He is a tenth grader at Silver Creek High School in Evergreen, San Jose. He won a gold medal in seven out of the 10 medal events, and a silver medal in two of the events, topping the overall medals table. He also bagged the top spot in all the three events counting towards the world championship title: the International Geography Exam, the International Geography Showdown, and the International Geography Bee.

175. Who was appointed as United Nation’s next human rights chief on 10th August 2018? 1.Gina Haspel 2.Michelle Bachelet 3.Ballerina Hunsington 4.Diana Edward 5.None of these Answer - 2.Michelle Bachelet Explanation: Michelle Bachelet was Chile's first female president. She served for two terms from 2006-2010 and 2014-2018. She was also the first head of UN Women. UN Women is an agency dealing with gender equality. It was formed in 2010. She will succeed Zeid Ra'ad Al-Hussein as the head of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights.

176. On August 10, 2018, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the project for construction of 6.930 km long 4-lane bridge on which river at Phulaut in Bihar? 1.River Yamuna 2.River Ganga 3.River Kosi 4.River Brahmaputra 5.None of these Answer - 3.River Kosi Explanation: On August 10, 2018, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, approved the project for construction of 6.930 km long 4-lane bridge at Phulaut in Bihar. There is a 10 km missing link between Phulaut and Bihpur on NH-106 which takes a detour of approximate 72 km. This bridge will take it down to 12 km. It will also fill the existing 30 km long gap between Udakishanganj and Bihpur of National Highway Number 106 in Bihar.

177. On August 10, 2018, the Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi approved the joint issue of Postage Stamps on India-South Africa. What will be the theme of the postage stamp? 1.20 Years of Strategic Partnership between India and South Africa 2.India South Africa Strengths and Ties 3.Growth of India, South Africa Partnership 4.Next level of India South Africa Partnership 5.None of these Answer - 1.20 Years of Strategic Partnership between India and South Africa Explanation: On August 10, 2018, the Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi approved the joint issue of Postage Stamps on India-South Africa. The Theme of the postage stamp will be : "20 Years of Strategic Partnership between India and South Africa". The Joint Issue depicts image of Deendayal Upadhyaya and Oliver Reginald Tambo of South Africa. This is a part of the MOU signed in May 2018. The joint stamps were released in

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June 2018.

178. Which bill was passed in Lok Sabha on 9th August 2018, to overturn a Supreme Court order concerning certain safeguards against arrest under the Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe law? 1.Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Amendment Bill, 2018 2.Violence Against Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes Amendment Bill, 2017 3.Safeguard of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes Amendment Bill, 2018 4.Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes Protection Amendment Bill, 2018 5.None of these Answer - 1.Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Amendment Bill, 2018 Explanation: On 9th August 2018, the bill was passed by Rajya Sabha through voice vote. It was passed in Lok Sabha on 6th August 2018. Section 18A has been inserted to eliminate the need for a preliminary enquiry before registration of an FIR, or obtain approval of any authority before arrest of an accused, and to restore the provisions of Section 18 of the Act. The amended bill has removed the provision to obtain prior permission for the arrest of those committing atrocities against Dalits. Under the legislation, there is a provision to set up special courts to handle cases related to atrocities against SCs and STs.

179. On 8th August 2018, the NITI Aayog and the CII announced a partnership to work on meeting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of India. Expand CII? 1.Committee of Indian Industries 2.Confederation of Indian Industries 3.Commission of Indian Industries 4.Commercial and Industrial Institutions 5.None of these Answer - 2.Confederation of Indian Industries Explanation: On 8th August 2018, the NITI Aayog and the Confederation of Indian Industries (CII) announced a partnership to work on meeting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of India. This announcement was made at the Government and Business Partnership Conclave held at New Delhi. It was organised by the NITI Aayog, CII and the United Nations. Minister of State for Power and Renewable Energy, Raj Kumar Singh, said that, a solar power plant with storage facilities and a 35,000 MW potential will be built in Ladakh. Recently, the CII launched its report: Indian Solutions for the World to Achieve SDGs. The report covers individual SDG, targets and business implications.

180. Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath inaugurated the first phase of UP Deference Corridor in _____ on 11th August 2018? 1.Aligarh 2.Lucknow 3.Kanpur 4.Chitrakoot 5.None of these Answer - 1.Aligarh Explanation: On 11th August 2018, Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath inaugurated thefirst phase of UP Deference Corridor in Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh. 6 nodal points have been identified for the corridor: Agra, Aligarh, Lucknow, Kanpur, Chitrakoot and Jhansi. Stakeholder interactions have begun in Lucknow, Kanpur, Agra and Jhansi.

181. Which city was declared as India’s most polluted city by Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) in its Air quality index (AQI), on 5th August 2018? 1.New Delhi 2.Varanasi 3.Gurugram 4.Noida 5.None of these Answer - 3.Gurugram

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Explanation: As on August 5, the AQI of Gurugram has crossed 300 mark marking it in the ‘Very Poor’ category of AQI. It scored 321 marks. 6 cities have been marked as ‘Poor’, 1 City (Gurugram) has been marked as ‘Very Poor’, 2 cities has been marked as ‘Good’, 26 cities marked as ‘Satisfactory’ and 27 cities as ‘Moderate’.

182. The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has approved the continuation of PMGSY beyond the 12th five year plan period. What does “S” represent in PMGSY? 1.Siksha 2.Sadak 3.Saubhagya 4.Samar 5.None of these Answer - 2.Sadak Explanation: PMGSY - Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana On August 11, 2018, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi , approved the continuation of Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) beyond the 12th five year plan period. It has an estimated cost of Rs. 84,934 crore. The Cente's share in this will be Rs 54,900 crore and the states' share is Rs 30,034 crore. Initially the targets of PMGSY were to be achieved by March 2022, however date of achievement of PMGSY-I was pre-poned to March, 2019.

183. Name the Union science ministry’s communication wing that has launched the India Science Technology and Innovation portal? 1.Vigyan Prasar 2.Prasar Bharti 3.IndiaConnect 4.All India Network 5.None of these Answer - 1.Vigyan Prasar Explanation: On August 11, 2018, the Union science ministry’s communication wing, Vigyan Prasar launched the India Science Technology and Innovation portal. It would invest Rs. 15 crore for development and upgradation of portal. The portal is to reach out to students, researchers, scholars, scientists both from India and abroad. The portal follows a launch of India Science (indiascience.in ), an Internet-based science channel, to showcase the developments in science and technology in India.

184. Where was Operation “Madad” launched by the Southern Naval Command (SNC) on 9th August 2018, to carry out disaster relief operations due to the floods? 1.Tamil Nadu 2.Kerala 3.Andhra Pradesh 4.Telengana 5.None of these Answer - 2.Kerala Explanation: On 9th August 2018, Operation “Madad” was launched by the Southern Naval Command (SNC) at Kochi, in Kerala, to assist the Kerala state administration and to carry out disaster relief operations due to the floods. Several parts of Kerala have been flooded due to continuous rainfall and release of excess water from Idukki and other dams. Naval helicopters are used for ferrying divers, power tools, axes and relief material to the flooded areas to speed up the relief operations.

185. Where will the SCO Peace Mission Exercise 2018 be conducted from 22nd August to 29th August 2018? 1.Pakistan 2.Russia 3.China 4.Japan

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5.None of these Answer - 2.Russia Explanation: SCO Peace Mission Exercise is conducted as part of Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) initiatives. It is conducted biennially for SCO member states. India is participating for the first time in the exercise after becoming a full member of the SCO in June 2017. The exercise consists of tactical level operations in an international counter insurgency or counter terrorism environment under SCO Charter. Indian contingent of 200 personnel for this exercise, mainly consist of troops from infantry and affiliated arms and services along with Indian Air Force.

186. Which country has emerged as the top source of inward remittances, according to Reserve Bank of India’s survey of inward remittances for 2016-17? 1.United Arab Emirates (UAE) 2.India 3.United States 4.China 5.None of these Answer - 1.United Arab Emirates (UAE) Explanation: UAE’s share in total remittances was 26.9%. It is followed by the United States (22.9%), Saudi Arabia (11.6%), Qatar (6.5%) and Kuwait (5.5%).As per the survey, 82% of the total remittances received by India originated from 8 countries: UAE, the U.S., Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, the United Kingdom and Malaysia. Kerala has the highest share with 19%, among destinations. It is followed by Maharashtra (16.7%), Karnataka (15%), Tamil Nadu (8%) and Delhi (5.9%). Kerala, Maharashtra, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu altogether received 58.7% of total remittances.

187. Reserve Bank of India (RBI) will transfer surplus amounting to _____ for the year ended June 30, 2018 to the Government of India? 1.Rs.50,000 crore 2.Rs.90,000 crore 3.Rs.25,000 crore 4.Rs.45,000 crore 5.None of these Answer - 1.Rs.50,000 crore Explanation: On August 11, 2018, RBI announced that the Central Board of Directors of the Reserve Bank of India, at its meeting held on August 8, 2018, approved the transfer of surplus amounting to Rs. 500 billion or Rs.50,000 crore for the year ended June 30, 2018 to the Government of India. As per the Budget Estimate, the government projected to collect Rs 54,817.25 crore as dividend or Surplus of Reserve Bank of India, Nationalised Banks and Financial Institutions. Also the RBI had paid interim dividend of Rs 10,000 crore to the government to support fiscal position in March. Earlier, the RBI made a dividend payout of Rs 30,659 crore for the fiscal ended June 2017 which is less than half of the amount paid in June 2016 (Rs 65,876 crore).

188. DHFL Pramerica Life Insurance and Aditya Birla Health Insurance Co have partnered with which bank for bankassurance? 1.SVC Co-operative Bank Limited 2.Karnataka Bank 3.Canara Bank 4.Axis Bank 5.None of these Answer - 1.SVC Co-operative Bank Limited Explanation: On August 11, 2018, Insurers DHFL Pramerica Life Insurance and Aditya Birla Health Insurance Co announced their bancassurance partnership with SVC Co-operative Bank Limited. It aims to offer easy access to simple life insurance products and strengthen the distribution network of DHFL Pramerica Life Insurance. Aditya Birla Health Insurance will market its retail and group products to all the customers of SVC bank. DHFL Pramerica Life Insurance will provide life insurance by offering customised products to the customers.

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189. Which firm has partnered with Uttar Pradesh government to provide support to MSME entrepreneurs across nine districts, as part of the One District One Product (ODOP) scheme? 1.Google 2.Microsoft 3.Amazon 4.Facebook 5.None of these Answer - 3.Amazon Explanation: On August 11, 2018, as part of the One District One Product (ODOP) scheme, Amazon partnered with UP government to provide support MSME entrepreneurs across nine districts. This will be a part of Amazon India’s Kala Haat programme which aims to help traditional industries to enter in to ecommerce business. Under the programme, 300 MSME sellers registered under UP government's ODOP scheme would be benefitted. Amazon would provide training, account management guidance, marketing tools and world-class infrastructure of storage and delivery network to these sellers.

190. Who was appointed the Chief Justice of the Madras High Court, on 11th August 2018? 1.Justice Vijaya Kamlesh Tahilramani 2.Justice Sumitra Ranga Rajan 3.Justice Thamarai Kannan 4.Justice Indu Kumari 5.None of these Answer - 1.Justice Vijaya Kamlesh Tahilramani Explanation: On August 11, 2018, Justice Vijaya Kamlesh Tahilramani was appointed as the Chief Justice of the Madras High Court. Tamil Nadu Governor Banwarilal Prohit will administer the oath of office. She replaced Justice Indira Banerjee who has been appointed as Supreme Court judge. She obtained her law degree and became an advocate with the Bar Council of Maharashtra and Goa in July 1982. She was appointed on the panel of defence lawyers in the Sessions Court.

191. Who has become the first-ever woman Chief Justice of Jammu and Kashmir High Court? 1.Justice Gita Mittal 2.Justice Preethi Reddy 3.Justice Kamila Jahan 4.Justice Ramya Menon 5.None of these Answer - 1.Justice Gita Mittal Explanation: On August 11, 2018, Justice Gita Mittal became the first-ever woman Chief Justice of Jammu and Kashmir High Court. Her oath was administered by Governor NN Vohra in Srinagar. She succeeded Ramalingam Sudhakar.

192. Who was sworn-in as the 12th Chief Justice of Jharkhand High Court, on 11th August 2018? 1.Justice Aniruddha Bose 2.Justice Ravindra Menon 3.Justice Samuel Thomson 4.Justice Anil Mathew 5.None of these Answer - 1.Justice Aniruddha Bose Explanation: On August 11, 2018, Justice Aniruddha Bose took an oath as the 12th Chief Justice of Jharkhand High Court. His oath was administered by Jharkhand governor Droupadi Murmu. He was an advocate of Bar Council of West Bengal in 1985. He practised in the Calcutta High Court and was elevated to the Bench in 2004.

193. Who was sworn-in as the Chief Justice of Delhi High Court, on 11th August 2018? 1.Justice Rajendra Menon 2.Justice Pranesh Datchanamoorthy 3.Justice Kamaljith Singh

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4.Justice Amarinder Singh 5.None of these Answer - 1.Justice Rajendra Menon Explanation: On August 11, 2018, Justice Rajendra Menon was sworn in as Chief Justice of Delhi High Court. Delhi Lt Governor Anil Baijal administered the oath of office to Justice Menon. He was earlier the Chief Justice of Patna High Court. He had also served as a judge in the Gwalior Bench of the Madhya Pradesh High Court.

194. Who has been appointed the chairperson of National Commission for Women (NCW)? 1.Rekha Sharma 2.Anu Keerthana 3.Pavithra Samar 4.Mahisha Sharma 5.None of these Answer - 1.Rekha Sharma Explanation: Rekha Sharma was previously a member of NCW. She was holding the additional charge of chairperson after Lalitha Kumaramangalam stepped down from the position in September 2017. Rekha Sharma is 54 years old. She hails from Haryana. Earlier, she was a member of District Consumer & Redressal Forum with the Haryana Government. She runs an event management center named 'Chavi'. She has set up a registered NGO named 'Haryana Mahila Uthan Samiti' that works for the empowerment of rural women in Haryana.

195. Who has been given two-year extension as chairperson of Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI)? 1.Ram Sewak Sharma 2.Abhijit Sharma 3.Pawan Kumar Singh 4.P K Singh 5.None of these Answer - 1.Ram Sewak Sharma Explanation: The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has approved the reappointment of Ram Sewak Sharma as chairperson of TRAI for a further period of 2 years till 30th September 2020, that is the date on which he attains 65 years of age. In July 2015, he was appointed the Chairman of TRAI for a period of 3 years. He is a retired IAS officer of 1982 batch of Jharkhand cadre. Earlier, he had worked in several government departments involving IT-enabled programmes. He was also Director General and Mission Director of the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) or Aadhaar.

196. Name the deputy managing director of HDFC Bank who resigned from his post on 11th August 2018? 1.Praveen Mathur 2.Kiran Kumar 3.Paresh Sukthankar 4.Himanshu Singh 5.None of these Answer - 3.Paresh Sukthankar Explanation: On August 11, 2018, Paresh Sukthankar, deputy managing director of HDFC Bank resigned from his post. He will be serving the 90-day notice period, effective from August 10. The 55-year-old deputy managing director has worked at HDFC Bank since its inception in 1994. He was appointed to the post of deputy managing director in March 2017. Currently, he is overseeing the banks’ credit and risk management departments and finance and human resources.

197. Which digital payments major has acquired Balance Technology, a Bengaluru-based savings management start-up? 1.PayPal 2.Paytm

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3.Mobikwik 4.Freecharge 5.None of these Answer - 2.Paytm Explanation: On August 11, 2018, digital payments major Paytm acquired Bengaluru-based savings management start-up, Balance Technology, for an undisclosed amount. The transaction is expected to be about $2 million. This would enhance its user and merchant interfaces with customised and intuitive user experiences. A six-member team of Balance Technology has joined the product and design team.

198. Who has written the Book ‘Bebak Baat’, that was released by Vice President M. Venkaiah Naidu on 9th August 2018? 1.Adharsh Goel 2.Vijay Goel 3.Vivek Singh 4.Karthik Nagarajan 5.None of these Answer - 2.Vijay Goel Explanation: On 9th August 2018, Vice President M. Venkaiah Naidu released the Book ‘Bebak Baat’ written by Vijay Goel, Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs and Statistics & Programme Implementation, in New Delhi. Venkaiah Naidu said that, continuous communication between public representatives and the public is important for the development of our country.

199. When was National Handloom Day celebrated all over India? 1.August 8 2.August 9 3.August 7 4.August 11 5.None of these Answer - 3.August 7 Explanation: The National Handloom Day was launched in 2015. It marks the day on which Swadeshi movement was launched. The Swadeshi Movement was started on 7th August 1905. It celebrated India’s indigenous fabrics, weavers and artisans. Every year artisans and weavers are awarded ‘Sant Kabir’ awards to encourage their handiwork and Indian crafts.

200. What will be the theme of Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit-2019, that will be held from 18th to 20th January 2019? 1.Moulding a New World 2.Shaping of a New India 3.New Horizons to Reach 4.Dream Big Achieve Great 5.None of these Answer - 2.Shaping of a New India Explanation: The theme of Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit-2019 will be 'Shaping of a New India'. It was decided at the first meeting of the Advisory Committee of the event. The summit is proposed to be held between January 18 and 20 next year.

201. Who is writing the book named ‘The Book of Untold Stories’? 1.Survin Chawla 2.Amitabh Bachchan 3.Narendra Modi 4.Manisha Koirala 5.None of these Answer - 4.Manisha Koirala

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Explanation: Actress Manisha Koirala is writing her first book titled The Book of Untold Stories. She was diagnosed with cancer in 2012. The book is said to be based on her experience of surviving the illness.

202. President Ram Nath Kovind has given assent to the Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, 2018, that provides death penalty for convicts accused of raping girls below the age of _____ years? 1.10 2.12 3.9 4.5 5.None of these Answer - 2.12 Explanation: On August 12, 2018, President Ram Nath Kovind has given assent to the Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, 2018, that provides death penalty for convicts accused of raping girls below the age of 12 years. It has been deemed to have come into force on the 21st day of April, 2018. It will further amend the Indian Penal Code, Indian Evidence Act, 1872, the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973 and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act, 2012.

203. Name the bill that was passed in the Parliament on 12th August 2018 that seeks to clarify that allottees under a real estate project should be treated as financial creditors? 1.Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (Second Amendment) Bill, 2018 2.Recovery of Non-Performing Assets Bill, 2017 3.Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (First Amendment) Bill, 2017 4.Recovery of Non-Performing Assets (Amendment) Bill, 2018 5.None of these Answer - 1.Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (Second Amendment) Bill, 2018 Explanation: On August 12, 2018, Parliament has passed the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (Second Amendment) Bill,2018 with the Rajya Sabha’s approval. The Bill seeks to clarify that allottees under a real estate project should be treated as financial creditors. Home buyers will get due representation in the Committee of Creditors and make them an important part of decision making process. Setting up of a special dispensation for small sector enterprises has also been made.

204. Which Union Minister released ‘Digital North East Vision 2022’ in Guwahati, on 12th August 2018? 1.Manoj Sinha 2.Mahesh Kumar 3.Rajnath Singh 4.Ravi Shankar Prasad 5.None of these Answer - 4.Ravi Shankar Prasad Explanation: The Document identifies eight digital thrust areas – • Digital Infrastructure, • Digital services, • Digital empowerment, • Promotion of Electronics Manufacturing, • Promotion of IT and ITES including BPOs, • Digital Payments, Innovation & Startups and • Cybersecurity

205. Israel opened a visa application centre in which Indian city of for tourists from West Bengal and north eastern states, on 12th August 2018? 1.Aizwal 2.Shillong 3.Kolkata 4.Guwahati 5.None of these

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Answer - 3.Kolkata Explanation: On August 12, 2018, Israel opened a visa application centre in the city of Kolkata for tourists from West Bengal and north eastern states. Visa applications in the jurisdiction under the New Delhi centre would also be accepted here. The visa application categories include: employment, business, tourism, meeting and conferences, students. The new centre in Kolkata will no longer require residents from West Bengal and NE states to send in their documents to the Israeli embassy in New Delhi.

206. Which bank has signed an MoU with member development banks of BRICS on collaboration in Blockchain Techonology? 1.Axis Bank 2.ICICI Bank 3.Exim Bank 4.HDFC Bank 5.None of these Answer - 3.Exim Bank Explanation: Exim Bank of India is the nominated member development bank under the BRICS Interbank Cooperation Mechanism. Other member banks under this umbrella are: • Banco Nacional de Desenvolvimento Economico e Social – BNDES, Brazil; • State Corporation Bank for Development and Foreign Economic Affairs – Vnesheconombank, Russia; • China Development Bank Corporation, and • Development Bank of Southern Africa.

207. Name the Indian-American who is one of the 3 women honoured with 'Women in Business: Making a Difference Award' at the 19th annual Indo-American Chamber of Commerce of Greater Houston (IACCGH) gala, in Houston, United States? 1.Deepa Karmakar 2.Aruna Vishwanathan 3.Susheela Jayapal 4.Ananthi Krishnakumar 5.None of these Answer - 2.Aruna Vishwanathan Explanation: The 3 women honoured with 'Women in Business: Making a Difference Award' are: • Aruna Vishwanathan (Indian) • Carlecia Wright (American) • Jewel Smith (American) They were honoured for their remarkable contributions in entrepreneurship, economic development, innovation and community service. Aruna Viswanathan is the Chief Operating Manager at Alphax Decision Sciences. Carlecia Wright is the Director, City of Houston Office of Business Opportunity. Jewel Smith is Supplier Diversity Manager at CenterPoint Energy.

208. Who has been adjudged the most influential woman in history, through a poll conducted by BBC History Magazine? 1.Marie Curie 2.Rosa Parks 3.Emmeline Pankhurst 4.Ada Lovelace 5.None of these Answer - 1.Marie Curie Explanation: Top 5 persons in the list are: 1 – Marie Curie (Nobel Prize-winning scientist) 2 - Rosa Parks (US civil rights activist) 3 - Emmeline Pankhurst (leader of the British suffragette movement) 4 - Ada Lovelace (early computer programmer)

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5 - Rosalind Franklin (British chemist)

209. Which is the first Indian tribal language to get a Wikipedia edition in its own script? 1.Konkani 2.Maithili 3.Tulu 4.Santhali 5.None of these Answer - 4.Santhali Explanation: On August 12, 2018, Santhali has become the first Indian tribal language to get a Wikipedia edition in its own script. Wikipedia contributors from India, Bangladesh and Nepal generated the content. It has content of about 70,000 words. The home page of the Santhali edition of Wikipedia carries an article on Raghunath Murmu, who created the Ol Chiki script.

210. Name the 2 non-executive independent directors appointed by IndusInd Bank board on 12th August 2018? 1.Akila Krishnakumar, Anil Tiwari 2.Sudha Balakrishnan, Jasjeet Kaur 3.Pramod Narayan, Shiv Shankar Moorthy 4.Sandeep Nanda, Surjit Bhalla 5.None of these Answer - 1.Akila Krishnakumar, Anil Tiwari Explanation: On August 12, 2018, IndusInd Bank board has appointed 2 non-executive independent directors. They are : Akila Krishnakumar and Anil Tiwari. Their appointment is with effect from August 10,2018.

211. Who has been appointed the Chief Justice of Patna High Court? 1.Justice Manish Chaudhary 2.Justice Savitha Rai 3.Justice Pihu Chawla 4.Justice M R Shah 5.None of these Answer - 4.Justice M R Shah Explanation: On August 12, 2018, Justice M R Shah has been appointed as Chief Justice of Patna High Court. He was a judge of the Gujarat High Court. Justice Shah enrolled as an advocate of the Gujarat High Court in 1982. He became a judge of the Gujarat High Court on March 7, 2004 and was confirmed as permanent judge on June 22, 2005.

212. Name the world’s first mission to touch the Sun that was launched by NASA from Space Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, in United States? 1.Parker Solar Probe 2.Insider Solar Probe 3.Insight Solar Probe 4.Helio Solar Probe 5.None of these Answer - 1.Parker Solar Probe Explanation: The Parker Solar Probe was carried by a United Launch Alliance Delta IV Heavy rocket. The Parker Solar Probe has been sent on a 7 year long mission to study the Sun’s outer atmosphere and its effects on space weather. The spacecraft is of the size of a car. It will directly travel into the Sun’s atmosphere, nearly 4 million miles from its surface and more than 7 times closer than any spacecraft has gone before. The spacecraft has an innovative Thermal Protection System. The heat shield has been designed to withstand radiation equivalent to up to 500 times the Sun's radiation here on Earth. The mission costs USD 1.5 billion.

213. Which Indian cricketer has secured the top spot in the list of highest run scorers in international cricket in 2018?

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1.Rohit Sharma 2.MS Dhoni 3.Virat Kohli 4.Shikhar Dhawan 5.None of these Answer - 3.Virat Kohli Explanation: Virat Kohli has surpassed England’s Jonny Bairstow. At present, Virat Kohli has 509 runs in Test cricket, 146 in T20Is and 749 in ODis. His cumulative total is 1404 runs in 25 innings. Shikhar Dhawan is the second Indian in the list with 1055 runs. In overall record, former Sri Lankan captain Kumar Sangakkara has the record for the most international runs in a calendar year, with 2868 runs. Australia’s Ricky Ponting is next in the list with 2833 runs reached in 2005. Virat Kohli is third in the list with 2818 reached in 2017.

214. Who won the Men’s Singles title of the ITF men’s Futures tennis tournament that was held in Indonesia, from 6th August to 12th August 2018? 1.Justin Barki 2.Christopher Rungkat 3.Niki Kaliyanda Poonacha 4.Sumit Rawat 5.None of these Answer - 3.Niki Kaliyanda Poonacha Explanation:

Event Name Country Men’s Singles Niki Kaliyanda Poonacha India Men’s Doubles Justin Barki & Christopher Rungkat Indonesia

215. Name the Indian golfer who won the Hong Kong Junior Golf Championship 2018 title in the girls 13- 14 years age category? 1.Pallavi Yadav 2.Sunita Battacharya 3.Hitaashee Bakshi 4.Vanitha Sundar 5.None of these Answer - 3.Hitaashee Bakshi Explanation:

Event Name Country Overall Boys Champion Kho Taichi Hong Kong Overall Girls Champion Li Jieni China Boys 15-17 Kho Taichi Hong Kong Girls 15-17 Li Jieni China Boys 13-14 Nguyen Bao Long Vietnam Girls 13-14 Hitaashee Bakshi India Boys 11-12 Lee Isaac Hong Kong Girls 11-12 Yan Hiu Yau Covi Hong Kong

216. Who was made the captain of Barcelona football team, on 11th August 2018? 1.Christiano Ronaldo 2.Lionel Messi 3.Mohammed Salah 4.Neymar 57 | Page Follow Us - FB.com/AffairsCloudOfficialPage Copyright 2018 @ AffairsCloud.Com

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5.None of these Answer - 2.Lionel Messi Explanation: On 10th August 2018, Lionel Messi was made the captain of Barcelona football team. Sergio Busquets and Gerard Pique will be his lieutenants. Lionel Messi will lead the team in the Spanish SuperCup. Lionel Messi has won the prestigious Ballon d’Or award five times.

217. Indian-origin British national VS Naipaul died at his residence in London, on 11th August 2018. He was a ____? 1.Musician 2.Film Maker 3.Writer 4.Geologist 5.None of these Answer - 3.Writer Explanation: On 11th August 2018, Indian-origin British author VS Naipaul died at his residence in London. V S Naipaul was 85 years old. He was born as Vidiadhar Surajprasad Naipaul on 17th August 1932 in Trinidad. He received the Booker Prize in 1971 and Nobel Prize in Literature in 2001. He received a knighthood from Queen Elizabeth in 1989. Some of his popular books are: A House for Mr Biswas, An Area of Darkness, India: A Million Mutinies Now, The Middle Passage and The Overcrowded Barracoon.

218. What was the theme of International Youth Day celebrated on 12th August 2018? 1.Sustainable Development of Youth 2.Safe spaces for Youth 3.Peaceful Future for Youth 4.Holistic Development for Youth 5.None of these Answer - 2.Safe spaces for Youth Explanation: August 12 is annually celebrated as International Youth Day. It is an awareness day designated by the United Nations to draw attention to cultural and legal issues surrounding youth. The Theme for IYD 2018 is: “Safe spaces for Youth”. The first IYD was observed on 12 August, 2000. It was designated by the United Nations in 1999 with the adoption of Resolution 54/120.

219. When was World Elephant Day 2018 celebrated? 1.August 11 2.August 7 3.August 12 4.August 13 5.None of these Answer - 3.August 12 Explanation: August 12 is annually celebrated as World Elephant Day. It is an international annual event dedicated to the preservation and protection of the world's elephants. To celebrate this day in India, the Coochbehar Mountaineers Club (CMC) have started awareness programmes and campaigns at Jaldapara National Park, West Bengal. It was first conceived by Canadian filmmakers Patricia Sims and Michael Clark of Canazwest Pictures, and Sivaporn Dardarananda, Secretary-General of the Elephant Reintroduction Foundation in Thailand. It was started in August 12, 2012. It is now supported by over 65 wildlife organizations across the globe.

220. Anant Bajaj, passed away following a heart attack, on 10th August 2018. What was his profession? 1.Politician 2.Businessman 3.Doctor 4.Scientist 5.None of these Answer - 2.Businessman

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Explanation: Anant Bajaj, managing director (MD) of Bajaj Electricals, passed away on 10th August 2018 following a heart attack. He was 41 years old. He was the only son of company chairman Shekhar Bajaj, took over as MD in June.

221. Which city has topped the ‘Ease of Living Index 2018’ released by Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Hardeep Singh Puri, on 13th August 2018? 1.Indore 2.Bhopal 3.Pune 4.Hyderabad 5.None of these Answer - 3.Pune Explanation:

Rank City 1 Pune 2 Navi Mumbai 3 Greater Mumbai 4 Tirupati 5 Chandigarh 6 Thane 7 Raipur 8 Indore 9 Vijaywada 10 Bhopal

222. Which ministry has approved the proposal for setting up of water aerodromes in India to enhance air connectivity through amphibian planes? 1.Civil Aviation Ministry 2.Defence Ministry 3.Home Ministry 4.External Affairs Ministry 5.None of these Answer - 1.Civil Aviation Ministry Explanation: On August 13, 2018, the Civil Aviation Ministry has approved a proposal for setting up of water aerodromes in the country. To enhance air connectivity through amphibian planes. In the first phase the places chosen for the development of such facilities are: Chilika Lake in Odisha, Sardar Sarovar Dam and Sabarmati River Front in Gujarat. Under the proposal, water aerodrome would be set up near locations of tourist and religious importance.

223. The National Green Tribunal has formed a committee to monitor consistency of the sub-regional plans for protection of Natural Conservation Zones (NCZs). Which is the nodal agency of the committee? 1.Ministry Agriculture and Farmers Welfare 2.Ministry of Environment and Forests 3.National Bank For Agriculture And Rural Development (NABARD) 4.Minsitry of Science and Technology 5.None of these Answer - 2.Ministry of Environment and Forests Explanation: The committee will comprise • Secretary, Ministry of Environment and Forests, • Secretary, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, • Chairman, Central Pollution Control Board, 59 | Page Follow Us - FB.com/AffairsCloudOfficialPage Copyright 2018 @ AffairsCloud.Com

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• National Remote Sensing Centre, • Indian Space Research Organisation and • secretaries of Urban Development Departments of Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Haryana and Delhi. Each participating state would submit a report within one month. The secretaries of Urban Development Departments of the states will be responsible for submitting the sub-regional plans.

224. On August 13, 2018, Union minister of science and technology Harsh Vardhan inaugurated National Wildlife Genetic Resource Bank (NWGRB), which is India’s only lab for conservation of endangered species, in which city? 1.New Delhi 2.Bengaluru 3.Mumbai 4.Hyderabad 5.None of these Answer - 4.Hyderabad Explanation: On August 13, 2018, Union minister of science and technology Harsh Vardhan inaugurated and dedicated first scientific and most modern national wildlife genetic resource bank for conservation of Endangered Species at Hyderabad. It will be a part of Laboratory for the Conservation of Endangered Species (LaCON ES), a research wing of the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB). It contains genetic resources of about 250 wildlife species. Presently it holds genetic material like DNA/RNA, cell lines, blood, semen, eggs and tissues of 23 endangered animals from India including Tiger, Lion, Thamin, Hyena, Wild Dog and Wild Ass.

225. Which state government has started a ‘Tatkal sewa’ for property registration across the state? 1.Telengana 2.Madhya Pradesh 3.Rajasthan 4.Punjab 5.None of these Answer - 4.Punjab Explanation: On August 13, 2018, the Punjab government started a ‘Tatkal sewa’ for property registration across the state. Under this, people can seek appointment for 'tatkal' (instant) registration for properties for an hour-long slot from 9 am to 10 am. The facilitation charges for the service would be Rs. 5000. 20 additional dedicated sub-registrars had been deputed at Ludhiana (East), Jalandhar, Amritsar, Patiala, Kharar and some more districts.

226. Which state has become the first in India to provide Right to Skills' Development to the youth? 1.West Bengal 2.Odisha 3.Haryana 4.Chhattisgarh 5.None of these Answer - 4.Chhattisgarh Explanation: Chhattisgarh has become the first state in India to provide Right to Skills' Development to the youth. This was said by Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh after he flagged off 15 Skill Chariots to launch the government's'Skills on Wheels' project in Chhattisgarh. The chariots are aimed to spread awareness about the project. They will tour 13 districts in the first phase and the remaining 14 districts in the second phase.

227. Which state/Union Territory Police has inducted India's first all-woman Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team for anti-terrorist operations? 1.Telengana 2.Punjab 3.Goa 4.Delhi 5.None of these Answer - 4.Delhi

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Explanation: On 10th August 2018, Delhi Police has inducted India's first all-woman Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team for anti-terrorist operations. The all-woman SWAT team was formally inducted by Home Minister Rajnath Singh. The team has undergone training for nearly 15 months. The team consists of 36 women commandos from the northeastern states. 13 of the members are from Assam. Remaining members are from Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim and Manipur.

228. Which will be the first city in North India to get a full-fledged Space Technology Research Centre? 1.Jammu 2.Guwahati 3.Lucknow 4.Kanpur 5.None of these Answer - 1.Jammu Explanation: On August 13, 2018, the Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER), MoS PMO, Personnel, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr Jitendra Singh announced that Jammu will be the first city in North India to get a full-fledged Space Technology Research Centre. It would be devoted to research, academics and post-graduation study and would be under Central University Jammu. Another Space Technology Research Centre will be set up in Agartala, Tripura in the Northeast. It would work under National Institute of Technology (NIT) Agartala.

229. Which railway station has emerged as the cleanest railway station in the A1 category, in the ‘Swach Rail’ ranking announced on 13th August 2018? 1.Karwar, Karnataka 2.Jodhpur, Rajasthan 3.Jaipur, Rajasthan 4.Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh 5.None of these Answer - 2.Jodhpur, Rajasthan Explanation:

Cleanest Railway Station (A1 category) Rank Railway Station 1 Jodhpur (Rajasthan) 2 Jaipur (Rajasthan) 3 Tirupati (Andhra Pradesh) Cleanest Railway Station (A category) 1 Marwar (Rajasthan) 2 Phulera (Rajasthan) 3 Warangal (Telangana) Cleanest Zone 1 North Western Railway 2 South Central Railway 3 East Coast Railway

230. Which entity has been ranked as India's most patriotic brand, according to a survey conducted by YouGov, a UK-based online market research and data analytics firm? 1.Amul 2.State Bank of India 3.Tata Motors 4.Reliance Jio 61 | Page Follow Us - FB.com/AffairsCloudOfficialPage Copyright 2018 @ AffairsCloud.Com

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5.None of these Answer - 2.State Bank of India Explanation: The results as per the sectors are as follows: • Financial Sector: SBI , LIC. • Auto sector: Tata Motors, Bharat Petroleum, Maritu Suzuki. • Food sector: Amul. • Personal care: Patanjali. • Oral Care: Colgate, Dabur , Vicco. • Telecom sector: BSNL, Reliance Jio. • Homecare products: Nirma. • Beverages category: Tata Tea, Taj Mahal. The Over-all list of the ‘Most Patriotic brand’: Rank Brand 1 SBI 2 TATA Motors 3 Patanjali 4 Reliance Jio 5 BSNL

231. Who was awarded the Hindu Playwright Award 2018 for the play Untitled-1, at the 14th edition of The Hindu Theatre Fest in Chennai, on 9th August 2018? 1.Rithu Kumar 2.Anil Shetty 3.Annie Zaidi 4.Susheel Kumar 5.None of these Answer - 3.Annie Zaidi Explanation: Annie Zaidi was presented the award by Ratna Pathak Shah, actor and director. The award was given for the best new unpublished and unperformed playscript in English. The award carried a cash prize of Rs 2 lakh. The winner was chosen by a panel of 3 judges: Ramu Ramanthan, Shernaz Patel and Parvathi Nayar. Yes Bank was the Title Sponsor for the fest. Other event partners were: Girias, Fever FM, UBER, Zebronics, Taj Coromandel and Evam. The Hindu Theatre Fest was held from 10th August to 12th August 2018 in Chennai.

232. Who was appointed as the 30th new Chief Justice of Orissa High Court (HC), on 13th August 2018? 1.Justice Hemlatha Subramaniam 2.Justice Kalpesh Satyendra Jhaveri 3.Justice Sudeep Dayal 4.Justice Sonal Doomra 5.None of these Answer - 2.Justice Kalpesh Satyendra Jhaveri Explanation: On August 13, 2018, Justice Kalpesh Satyendra Jhaveri has been appointed as the 30th new Chief Justice of Orissa High Court (HC). He will succeed Chief Justice Vineet Saran, who has been elevated to the Supreme Court. He has earlier been a Gujarat HC Judge and a Rajasthan HC judge. He obtained BSc and LLB degree from Gujarat Univeristy had started his career as lawyer at Gujarat HC in 1983. He was elected as Joint Secretary in 1984 and General Secretary of Gujarat High Court Advocates’ Association in 1988.

233. Who was appointed the Chairperson of Appellate Tribunal for Electricity (APTEL), on 13th August 2018? 1.Justice Manjula Chellur 2.Justice Majid Khan 3.Justice Manish Sharma 4.Justice Apoorva Reddy 5.None of these Answer - 1.Justice Manjula Chellur

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Explanation: On August 13, 2018, Justice Manjula Chellur has been appointed as Chairperson of Appellate Tribunal for Electricity (APTEL) by the power ministry. Prior to this, she was Chief Justice of Bombay High Court. She was the first woman Chief Justice of Calcutta High Court. She has served as the Chief Justice of Kerala High Court and the first female judge of the Karnataka High Court.

234. Who was appointed the vice president of the newly formed South West Asian Football Federation (SWAFF), on 12th August 2018? 1.Harpal Singh 2.Rajinder Singh 3.Subrata Dutta 4.Praful Patel 5.None of these Answer - 3.Subrata Dutta Explanation: On 12th August 2018, All India Football Federation (AIFF) senior vice president Subrata Dutta was elected as a vice president of the newly formed South West Asian Football Federation (SWAFF). Subrata Dutta was elected as vice president of SWAFF at the General Assembly of SWAFF in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. He has been elected for a period of 4 years. The President of SWAFF is Dr. Adel Ezzat. He is also, the President and Chairman of Saudi Arabian Football Federation. SWAFF consists of 10 member countries: India, Maldives, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates (UAE), Bahrain, Bangladesh, Kuwait, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Yemen.

235. The lander on the Chandrayaan-2 mission, which is scheduled to be launched in 2019, will be named as _____? 1.Dhanush 2.Vikram 3.Samarth 4.Raman 5.None of these Answer - 2.Vikram Explanation: On August 13, 2018, the Space Commission has approved ISRO’s proposal of naming the Chandrayaan-2 lander ‘Vikram’ after Vikram Sarabhai, the father of Indian space programme. Apart from this, as part of the centenary celebrations of Vikram Sarabhai next year, It has planned a series of lectures at the national and international level. An international innovation award named after Sarabhai has been approved worth Rs.50 crore. ISRO would set up Sarabhai chairs at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Cambridge University and Gujarat University.

236. Which tennis player won the Toronto Masters title on 11th August 2018? 1.Dominic Thiem 2.Rafael Nadal 3.Roger Federer 4.Novac Djokovic 5.None of these Answer - 2.Rafael Nadal Explanation: On 11th August 2018, Rafael Nadal won the Toronto Masters title, in Toronto, Canada. Rafael Nadal defeated Stefanos Tsitsipas 6-2, 7-6 (7/4) in the final and won the Toronto Masters title. Through this win Rafael Nadal has gained a record-extending 33rd trophy at the elite Masters level and his 80th title. Rafael Nadal currently leads the all-time list of Masters 1000 titles on 32. Earlier, he has won the Canadian title in 2005, 2008 and 2013.

237. Which cricketer has become the first player to take 100 wickets at Lord's? 1.James Anderson 2.Virat Kohli 3.Steve Smith 4.Rashid Khan 5.None of these Answer - 1.James Anderson

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Explanation: On 12th August 2018, English cricketer James Anderson became the first player to take 100 wickets at Lord's. James Anderson achieved this feat during the fourth day of the second Test against India. He took the wicket of Murali Vijay in the second over of India's second innings to achieve this feat. Also, this was his 550th Test wicket. Overall, James Anderson is the second bowler to take 100 wickets at a single venue after Sri Lanka's Muttiah Muralitharan, who has taken more than 100 wickets at 3 separate venues in Test matches.

238. Name the Indian golfer who has become the youngest Indian to win on the Asian Tour, as he won his first title on the Asian Tour at Take Solutions Masters in Bengaluru? 1.Gaganjeet Bhullar 2.Viraj Madappa 3.Sathya Paul 4.Ahish Kumar 5.None of these Answer - 2.Viraj Madappa Explanation: On 12th August 2018, Indian golfer Viraj Madappa became the youngest Indian to win on the Asian Tour, as he won his first title on the Asian Tour at Take Solutions Masters in Bengaluru. Viraj Madappa scored a total of 16- under 268 at the Asian Tour event. He is 20 years old and has become the youngest Indian to win on the Asian Tour. Earlier this record was held by Gaganjeet Bhullar, who won the Indonesia Invitational, when he was 21 years and three months. Viraj Madappa is also the first rookie and youngest player to win on the continental Tour this season.

239. Who won the men’s singles title in the 2018 Vietnam Open held in Vietnam, from 7th to 12th August 2018? 1.Ajay Jayaram 2.Shesar Hiren Rhustavito 3.Ko Sung-hyun 4.Shin Baek-cheol 5.None of these Answer - 2.Shesar Hiren Rhustavito Explanation:

Event Winner Runner-Up Men's Singles Shesar Hiren Rhustavito (Indonesia) Ajay Jayaram (India) Women's Yeo Jia Min (Singapore) Han Yue (China) Singles Men's Doubles Ko Sung-hyun, Shin Baek-cheol (South Korea) Lee Sheng-mu, Yang Po-hsuan (Chinese Taipei) Women's Misato Aratama, Akane Watanabe (Japan) Nami Matsuyama, Japan Chiharu Shida (Japan) Doubles Nipitphon Phuangphuapet, Savitree Amitrapai Alfian Eko Prasetya, Marsheilla Gischa Islami Mixed Doubles (Thailand) (Indonesia)

240. Somnath Chatterjee died following multiple organ failure, in Kolkata, on 13th August 2018. He was a former ____? 1.Chief Justice of India 2.Speaker of the Lok Sabha 3.Governor of Bengal 4.Presisent of BCCI 5.None of these Answer - 2.Speaker of the Lok Sabha Explanation: On 13th August 2018, former Speaker of the Lok Sabha and 10 time MP, Somnath Chatterjee died following multiple organ failure, in Kolkata. Somnath Chatterjee was 89 years old. He was a barrister by profession. He was the first and the last communist leader to be elected as Speaker of the Lok Sabha. He held that position from 2004 64 | Page Follow Us - FB.com/AffairsCloudOfficialPage Copyright 2018 @ AffairsCloud.Com

Current Affairs Q&A PDF to 2009. He was central committee member of CPI(M) from 1998 to 2008. He was also the leader of CPI(M) in the Parliament from 1989 to 2004.

241. Central Government approved more than _____ to increase the country’s forest cover, on 14th August 2018? 1.Rs 10,050 crore 2.Rs 66,000 crore 3.Rs 23,000 crore 4.Rs 45,000 crore 5.None of these Answer - 2.Rs 66,000 crore Explanation: On August 14, 2018, Centre has approved more than 66,000 crore rupees to increase the country’s forest cover. It is an accumulation of money given by the user agencies as a compensation for diverting forest land for non-forest purposes, including industries and infrastructure, over the last 10 years. This money has been divided among the states and union for afforestation and conservation purposes and required authorities are being set up for monitoring purposes also. 80 percent of the compensatory afforestation amount will be utilized by the states in 13 activities.

242. Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has constituted a 7 member working group for norms regarding insurance surveyors. Who is the head of the group? 1.Yegna Priya Bharat 2.Sunil Mehta 3.Neerav Shah 4.Amit Ghosh 5.None of these Answer - 1.Yegna Priya Bharat Explanation: On August 14, 2018, Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) constituted a 7 member working group for norms regarding insurance surveyors. The group will headed by Yegna Priya Bharat, Chief General Manager (Nonlife), IRDAI. The group will work on the following : • areas pertaining to licensing, renewal and others as per the existing regulatory framework for Surveyors and Loss Assessors. • analysis of the existing regulatory framework as per requirements of the industry. • study the Memorandum of Association and Articles of Association of the Indian Institute of Insurance Surveyors and Loss Assessors (IISLA). • make recommendations to bring about clarity and alignment with the Surveyor Regulations. • issues related to the membership of IIISLA.

243. Ministry of AYUSH has introduced new Central Sector scheme for promoting pharmacovigilance of Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani and Homoeopathy (ASU&H) Drugs. Which has been designated as National Pharmacovigilance Centre? 1.National Institute for Ayurveda 2.All India Institute of Ayurveda 3.All India Centre for Natural Medicine 4.National Institute for Homeopathy 5.None of these Answer - 2.All India Institute of Ayurveda Explanation: Government has sanctioned grant of Rs 10.60 Crore for the establishment of pharmacovigilance network. The three-tier network consists of: • National Pharmacovigilance Centre (NPvCC), • Intermediary Pharmacovigilance Centres (IPvCCs) and • Peripheral Pharmacovigilance Centres (PPvCC). Additionally, All India Institute of Ayurveda, New Delhi, an autonomous body under the Ministry of AYUSH, has been designated as National Pharmacovigilance Centre. It received the grant from the government. The

Current Affairs Q&A PDF government aims to achieve the target of 100 peripheral pharmacovigilance centres by 2020.

244. Which city has topped the Economist Intelligence Unit’s Global Liveability Index as ‘world’s most pleasant city to live in’? 1.Vienna, Austria 2.Melbourne, Australia 3.Osaka, Japan 4.Calgary, Canada 5.None of these Answer - 1.Vienna, Austria Explanation:

Rank City 1 Vienna (Austria) 2 Melbourne (Australia) 3 Osaka (Japan) 4 Calgary (Canada) 5 Sydney (Australia) 6 Vancouver (Canada) 7 Toronto (Canada) and Tokyo (Japan) 9 Copenhagen (Denmark) 10 Adelaide (Australia)

245. Recently which country decided to recommence the Adoption Programme with India, that was put on hold 8 years ago? 1.United States of America 2.Australia 3.Canada 4.Germany 5.None of these Answer - 2.Australia Explanation: The Australian Government had put on hold adoptions from India, 8 years ago, due to allegations of child trafficking for Inter-country adoption by some recognized Indian placement agencies. Inter-country adoption regulations have been made stricter by the Indian Government with the passing of Juvenile Justice Act, 2015 and notification of Adoption Regulations, 2017. The Ministry of Women & Child Development and Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA) had been requesting the Australian Government for recommencement of the Adoption Programme.

246. Where was the two-day Nepal-India Literature Festival 2018 inaugurated on 14th August 2018? 1.New Delhi, India 2.Kathmandu, Nepal 3.Birgunj, Nepal 4.Mumbai, India 5.None of these Answer - 3.Birgunj, Nepal Explanation: On August 14, 2018, Chief Minister of Province 2 Mohammad Lalbabu Raut of Nepal inaugurated the 2 day Nepal- India Literature Festival 2018 in Birgunj, Nepal. The event was organised by Nepal India Co-operation Forum. This was a literary exchange programme that aims to strengthen the old religious, cultural and social relations between the two countries. Around 250 participants from India and Nepal participated in this event. On this occasion eminent writers from both the countries were also felicitated.

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247. ICICI Bank increased its fixed deposit interest rates for select maturities and amounts with effect from 14th August 2018. What is the fixed deposit interest rate for 7 days to 14 days period? 1.4.5 % 2.4 % 3.5 % 4.7.5 % 5.None of these Answer - 2.4 % Explanation:

248. Which bank’s server was under a malware attack for 2 days between August 11 and August 13 and an amount of Rs 94 crore has been transferred off? 1.Canara Bank 2.Karnataka Bank 3.Cosmos Bank 4.DBS Bank 5.None of these Answer - 3.Cosmos Bank Explanation: On August 14, 2018, Cosmos bank announced that the server of Pune-based bank was under a malware attack for 2 days between August 11 and August 13 and an amount of Rs 94 crore has been transferred off. The fraudulent transactions were carried out via cloning of thousands of the bank's debit cards and 25 ATMs located in Canada, Hong Kong and a few in India. The cards of the cooperative bank customers that were cloned were of Visa and Rupay. The malware attack was on the switch, which is operative for payment gateways of Visa and Rupay debit cards.

249. Head Constable Mohd Tafail of the CRPF has been conferred the President’s Police Medal for Gallantry (PPMG) posthumously. What does “R” represent in CRPF? 1.Report 2.Reserve 3.Radar 4.Rashtriya 5.None of these Answer - 2.Reserve Explanation: On 14th August 2018, the government announced service medals for 942 state police and paramilitary personnel for the upcoming 72nd Independence Day. Constable Sharief-ud-din Ganaie and Head Constable Mohd Tafail of the CRPF (Central Reserve Police Force) have been conferred the President’s Police Medal for Gallantry (PPMG) posthumously. Also, 89 other CRPF personnel have been conferred the Police Medal for Gallantry (PMG) for their brave actions. This is the highest-ever gallantry medals count for CRPF.

250. Who was appointed the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY), on 13thAugust 2018? 67 | Page Follow Us - FB.com/AffairsCloudOfficialPage Copyright 2018 @ AffairsCloud.Com

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1.Ashish Kumar Bhutani 2.Amritha Kumari 3.Sudeep Bhagat 4.Samar Mishra 5.None of these Answer - 1.Ashish Kumar Bhutani Explanation: On 13th August 2018, Ashish Kumar Bhutani was appointed the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY). Ashish Kumar Bhutani is an IAS officer of the 1992 batch of Assam-Meghalaya cadre. He has been appointed the CEO of PMFBY till 9th May 2020.

251. Name the non-executive chairman of Canara Bank who was given extension for 2 years on 14th August 2018? 1.Gopalaraman Padmanabhan 2.Thothala Narayanasamy Manoharan 3.Anshul Agarwal 4.Rajat Bhullar 5.None of these Answer - 2.Thothala Narayanasamy Manoharan Explanation: On August 14, 2018, the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) approved the extension terms of non- executive chairmen of Canara Bankand Bank of India for two years. The non-executive chairmen are : Canara Bank: Thothala Narayanasamy Manoharan. Bank of India: Gopalaraman Padmanabhan. Their terms for the post of part-time non-official director on the board of the banks has been extended as well. The appointments are effective from 15th August 2018.

252. Who has been appointed as head coach of the women’s national cricket team till the ICC World T20, to be held in November 2018? 1.Sunil Gavaskar 2.Rahul Dravid 3.Ramesh Powar 4.Tushar Arothe 5.None of these Answer - 3.Ramesh Powar Explanation: On August 14, 2018, 40-year-old former India spinner Ramesh Powar has been appointed as head coach of the women’s national cricket team till the ICC World T20, scheduled to be held in November, by BCCI. He was appointed interim coach of the team in July after the resignation of Tushar Arothe. He is the third coach of women’s team in past one and a half year after Purnima Rau and Tushar Arothe. Powar has played 31 ODIs and two Tests from 2004 to 2007, picking 34 wickets with a best of 54 in the 50-over format.

253. Who was appointed as the acting chief executive officer of UTI Mutual Fund on 14th August 2018? 1.Leo Puri 2.Rahul Srivastava 3.Imtaiyazur Rahman 4.Manish Sharma 5.None of these Answer - 3.Imtaiyazur Rahman Explanation: On August 14, 2018, UTI Mutual Fund appointed Imtaiyazur Rahman as the acting chief executive officer after Leo Puri stepped down as MD and CEO. Prior to this, he was the Group President and Chief Finance Officer of UTI MF. His appointment has been made effective from 14th August 2018.

254. Name Allahabad Bank's MD and CEO, who was fired from her position on 14th August 2018? 1.Shikha Sharma 2.Chanda Kochar

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3.Usha Ananthasubramanian 4.Ritu Bannerjee 5.None of these Answer - 3.Usha Ananthasubramanian Explanation: On August 14, 2018, Allahabad Bank's MD and CEO Usha Ananthasubramanian was fired on her last day in office. She had served as the CEO and Managing Director of PNB from 2015 to 2017. Before that, she had also served as PNB's Executive Director from 2011 to 2013. She has been named in a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) chargesheet in the Rs 14,000 crore Punjab National Bank (PNB) fraud.

255. Which country unveiled the latest generation of its Fateh ballistic missile named Fateh Mobin or Bright Conqueror, on 13th August 2018? 1.Pakistan 2.Iran 3.Russia 4.North Korea 5.None of these Answer - 2.Iran Explanation: On 13th August 2018, Iran has successfully test fired and unveiled the latest generation of its Fateh ballistic missile named Fateh Mobin or Bright Conqueror. It is a short-range ballistic missile. It has a range between 300-500 kilometers. It is capable of striking targets on land and sea. It has been indigenously designed. It is an agile, radar- evading and tactical missile with pinpoint accuracy.

256. Name the girl who became India's latest Woman Grandmaster (WGM), on 12th August 2018? 1.M Swetha 2.R Vaishali 3.Pinky Reddy 4.Pihu Chawla 5.None of these Answer - 2.R Vaishali Explanation: On 12th August 2018, R Vaishali became India's latest Woman Grandmaster (WGM). She is the elder sister of R. Praggnanandhaa, who became the second youngest Grand Master in the world in June 2018. She is 17 years old. She completed her third and final WGM norm in the Riga Technical University Open chess tournament in Riga, Latvia.

257. Balramji Dass Tandon, died following a heart attack, on 14th August 2018. He was the Governor of which state? 1.Jharkhand 2.Chhattisgarh 3.Rajasthan 4.Gujarat 5.None of these Answer - 2.Chhattisgarh Explanation: Balramji Dass Tandon was 90 years old. He was born on 1st November 1927. In 1953, he became a Corporator in Amritsar Municipal Corporation. He was a six-time MLA. He was also deputy chief minister of Punjab. He was jailed from 1975 to 1977 during Emergency. He was one of the founding members of Jan Sangh, BJP’s parent organization. He became the Governor of Chhattisgarh in July 2014.

258. Hakam Singh died due to liver and kidney ailments in Sangrur, Punjab, on 14th August 2018. He was a _____? 1.Politician 2.Actor 3.Film Maker 4.Athlete

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5.None of these Answer - 4.Athlete Explanation: On 14th August 2018, Asian Games gold medallist athlete Hakam Singh died due to liver and kidney ailments in Sangrur, Punjab. Hakam Singh was 64 years old. He had won gold medal in 20 km race walk event at the 1978 Asiad at Bangkok. He received the Dhyan Chand Award in 2008. He ended his career as an athlete in in 1981 following a major accident. He served as Havaldar in the 6 Sikh regiment.

259. Name the book written by Prime Minister Narendra Modi that was released in Odia by Union Minister for Oil and Natural Gas Dharmendra Pradhan in Bhubaneswar on 13th August 2018? 1.Stress Buster 2.Champion’s Guide 3.Exam Warriors 4.A guide to success 5.None of these Answer - 3.Exam Warriors Explanation: On 13th August 2018, Union Minister for Oil and Natural Gas Dharmendra Pradhan launched the Odia edition of the book 'Exam Warriors' written by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. The Odia edition of the book was released by Odisha Book Emporium. It is a motivational book for children. It helps children to handle examination stress. It was earlier released in English and Hindi in February 2018. regiment.

260. When was International left handers day celebrated? 1.August 13 2.August 14 3.August 15 4.August 12 5.None of these Answer - 1.August 13 Explanation: August 13 is celebrated as International left handers day annually. It aims to celebrate the uniqueness and differences of the left handers. The day was first observed in the year 1976 by Dean R. Campbell, founder of the Lefthanders International, Inc.

261. When was Shaheed Saman Diwas observed in all districts of Madhya Pradesh, to honour families of martyrs of Madhya Pradesh origin? 1.August 13 2.August 14 3.August 12 4.August 11 5.None of these Answer - 2.August 14 Explanation: Madhya government had decided to honour families of martyrs of Madhya Pradesh origin, who sacrificed their lives during war, military action and internal security. Minister-In-Charge of Districts, Member of Parliament, MLA and other Public Representatives took part in the Shaheed Samman Diwas. Programmes in memory of 602 Martyrs were organised. Families of 13 martyrs were honoured in the programme at Bhopal. Families of 312 Martyrs of Defence, 119 Martyrs of Para Military Forces, 171 of Madhya Pradesh Police were honoured in various districts.

262. On 12th August 2018, Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman dedicated a bridge at the Hussainiwala border in Ferozepur district of which state to the nation? 1.Haryana 2.Punjab 3.Chandigarh 4.Karnataka 5.None of these

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Answer - 2.Punjab Explanation: Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman today dedicated to the nation a bridge at the Hussainiwala border in Ferozepur district of Punjab. It is a permanent bridge as the old one was demolished in 1971 during the Indo-Pak war to stop the advancement of the Pakistani forces. The bridge is the only lifeline for nearly 10 villages connecting Hussainiwala enclave with the rest of the country.

263. Name the Indian Naval Ship that is one a goodwill visit to Fiji? 1.INS Sahyadri 2.INS Trikhand 3.INS Vindhya 4.INS Sashank 5.None of these Answer - 1.INS Sahyadri Explanation: Indian Naval Ship (INS) Sahyadri which was on a good will visit to the island nation entered the Port of Suva on 13th August 2018. The naval ship is visiting the Republic of Fiji en route to India after participating in the Rim of the Pacific Exercise (RIMPAC)-2018 organised at Hawaii. During the visit, the Indian naval ship personnel will have professional interaction with their Republic of Fiji counterparts and the ship will have an ‘Open Day’ for general public.

264. On 12th August 2018, India handed over the first lot of houses built for Indian-origin people in Sri Lanka, which is the largest Indian assistance project in any country. How much grant has been provided for this project? 1.$350 million 2.$500 million 3.$450 million 4.$700 million 5.None of these Answer - 1.$350 million Explanation: India handed over the first lot of houses built for Indian-origin people in Sri Lanka’s tea plantation areas. Prime Minister Narendra Modi joined a special ceremony through video conference at Dunsinane Estate, Nuwara Eliya to hand over the houses built under the Indian Housing Project in Plantation Areas. It is the largest Indian assistance project in any country with a grant of over $350 million.

265. Which Union Minister inaugurated Smart City projects undertaken by the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC), in New Delhi, on 13th August 2018? 1.Hardeep Puri 2.Dharmendra Pradhan 3.Rajnath Singh 4.Harsh Vardhan 5.None of these Answer - 3.Rajnath Singh Explanation: Projects inaugurated by Rajnath Singh include: Smart Poles, Solar Tree, Ideation Centre, 50 LED interactive screens, Ambedkar Vatika and 2 hi-tech nurseries, 4 mechanical road sweepers, 2 litter picking machines and 10 auto tippers. MTNL’s (Mahanagar Telephone Nigam Limited) hi-speed Broadband on Optical Fiber and Hi-Speed Wi-Fi were also launched in Connaught Place. New Delhi was one of the 20 cities included in the First Phase of the Smart City Mission in January 2016 announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

266. Who has been appointed the brand ambassador for road safety campaign? 1.MS Dhoni 2.Amitabh Bacchan 3.Rajini Kanth 4.Akshay Kumar 5.None of these

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Answer - 4.Akshay Kumar Explanation: On 14th August 2018, actor Akshay Kumar was appointed Road Safety Brand Ambassador. This announcement was made at an event in New Delhi. Union Minister for Road Transport & Highways, Shipping, Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation Nitin Gadkari launched three short films for creating public awareness on road safety. These films featured Akshay Kumar. The films were directed by R.Balki.

267. The E-committee of the Supreme Court headed by _____ has launched 3 mobile applications for the benefit of litigants and lawyers, namely e-courts services, E-pay and NSTEP (National Service and Tracking of Electronic Processes)? 1.Justice M B Lokur 2.Justice Suresh Mathur 3.Justice Arun Prabhu 4.Justice Vijay Wandhakar 5.None of these Answer - 1.Justice M B Lokur Explanation: These software have been developed on “open source technology” and thus has saved Rs 1,670 crore. The litigants and the lawyers would be able to file petitions in almost 17,000 district and ‘taluka’ courts in the country. e-pay would enable the litigants to pay court fees, costs imposed by courts, maintenance in matrimonial cases through digital means. The NSTEP would be connected to GPRS and the judges would be able to monitor any services being done by the court staff.

268. Rythu Bima and Kanti Velugu schemes were launched on August 15, 2018, on the eve of 72nd Independence Day, in which state? 1.Andhra Pradesh 2.Telengana 3.Tamil Nadu 4.Gujarat 5.None of these Answer - 2.Telengana Explanation: On August 15, 2018, on the eve of 72nd Independence Day, Telengana Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao launched two major schemes: • Rythu Bima: insurance to farmers • Kanti Velugu: free eye screening for all citizens.

269. Governor of Manipur Dr. Najma A. Heptulla, inaugurated project “Development of North East Circuit: Imphal & Khongjom”, under which scheme of Ministry of Tourism? 1.Discover India 2.Swadesh Darshan 3.Incredible North East 4.New India 5.None of these Answer - 2.Swadesh Darshan Explanation: On August 14, 2018, governor of Manipur Dr. Najma A. Heptulla, inaugurated project “Development of North East Circuit: Imphal & Khongjom” implemented under the Swadesh Darshan Scheme of Ministry of Tourism in Imphal, Manipur. It is the first project under the Swadesh Darshan Scheme being inaugurated in the country. The project under inauguration was sanctioned by the Ministry of Tourism in September 2015 for Rs.72.30 Crores. Under this project Ministry has carried out developmental works at a cost of Rs. 63.90 Crore.

270. IDBI Bank has increased the marginal cost of funds based lending rate (MCLR) by up to what per cent for various tenors, with effect from 12th August 2018? 1.0.10 % 2.0.25 % 3.0.50 % 72 | Page Follow Us - FB.com/AffairsCloudOfficialPage Copyright 2018 @ AffairsCloud.Com

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4.0.75 % 5.None of these Answer - 1.0.10 % Explanation:

Tenors New Interest Rate (in %) Overnight 8 One month 8.25 Three months 8.45 Six Months 8.60 One year 8.85 Three years 8.90

271. Rural Electrification Corporation (REC) has signed a loan agreement with which German bank for EUR 200 million? 1.KfW Bank 2.Deutsche Bank 3.DZ Bank 4.Commerz Bank 5.None of these Answer - 1.KfW Bank Explanation: On August 15, 2018, Rural Electrification Corporation (REC) inked a loan agreement with German bank KfW in Frankfurt for EUR 200 million. This would be used to finance clean energy projects in India. This is REC's fourth line of credit under Indo-German development cooperation.

272. As per ‘Ficci's Economic Outlook Survey’, the Indian economy is expected to grow at ____ per cent in the current fiscal? 1.7.5 % 2.7.4 % 3.7.3 % 4.7.7 % 5.None of these Answer - 2.7.4 % Explanation: On August 15, 2018, as per Ficci’s survey ‘Ficci's Economic Outlook Survey’, the Indian economy is expected to grow at 7.4 per cent in the current fiscal. It projects that GDP will grow at 7.4 per cent for 2018-19, with a minimum and maximum range of 7.1 per cent and 7.5 per cent, respectively. The economic activity on the first quarter of the current fiscal would be 7.1 per cent. The study further said the median growth forecast for agriculture and allied activities has been put at 3 per cent for 2018-19. Industry and services sector are expected to grow by 6.9 per cent and 8.3 per cent, respectively in 2018-19.

273. How many gallantry awards were conferred to Armed Forces Personnel and members of Paramilitary Forces, this year? 1.125 2.140 3.150 4.131 5.None of these Answer - 4.131 Explanation: Rifleman Aurangzeb has been honoured posthumously. He was abducted and killed by terrorists in Pulwama district of Jammu and Kashmir in June 2018. Also, Sepoy Vrahma Pal Singh has been conferred with Kirti Chakra posthumously. Also, Vayu Sena Medal (Gallantry) has been conferred on Group Captain Abhishek Sharma, Squadron Leader Vernon Desmond Keane and Sergeant Shashidhar P Prasad. The President has approved 131 73 | Page Follow Us - FB.com/AffairsCloudOfficialPage Copyright 2018 @ AffairsCloud.Com

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Gallantry Awards to Armed Forces Personnel and members of Paramilitary Forces. This consists of: 1 Kirti Chakra, 20 Shaurya Chakras, three Bar to Sena Medals (Gallantry), 93 Sena Medals (Gallantry), 11 Nao Sena Medals (Gallantry) and three Vayu Sena Medals (Gallantry).

274. President Ram Nath Kovind approved Nao Sena (Gallantary) medal for the 6 women crew members of Indian Naval Sailing Vessel (INSV) Tarini, who circumnavigated the globe. Name the captain of the crew? 1.Lt Cdr Vartika Joshi 2.Lt Cdr Pratibha Jamwal 3.Lt Cdr P Swathi 4.Lt Cdr Vijaya Devi 5.None of these Answer - 1.Lt Cdr Vartika Joshi Explanation: Lt Cdr Vartika Joshi captained the 194-day mission. The mission started on 10th September 2017. Other crew members are: Lt Cdr Pratibha Jamwal, and Lts P Swathi, Vijaya Devi, B Aishwarya and Payal Gupta. Nao Sena Gallantary medals were also announced for marine Lt Cdr Anil Raina and Kunal Saini for anti-insurgency operations. The president also approved Shaurya Chakra for Capt P Rajkumar for his work during Cyclone Ockhi.

275. Who was given the additional charge as Governor of Chhattisgarh, on 15th August 2018? 1.Jagdish Mukhi 2.Anandiben Patel 3.Raghubar Das 4.Vidyasagar Rao 5.None of these Answer - 2.Anandiben Patel Explanation: On 15th August 2018, Madhya Pardesh Governor Anandiben Patel was sworn in as Governor of Chhattisgarh. President Ram Nath Kovind gave Anandiben Patel the additional charge as Governor of Chhattisgarh following the death of Chhattisgarh governor Balramji Dass Tandon. Chhattisgarh High Court Chief Justice Ajay Kumar Tripathi administered the oath of office to Anandiben Patel. Anandiben Patel will perform additional duties as Chhattisgarh governor until regular arrangements for the office of the governor of Chhattisgarh are made.

276. Who was appointed as the Ambassador to Russia, on 15th August 2018? 1.Pankaj Saran 2.D Bala Venkatesh Varma 3.Mohammed Rasool Khan 4.Vijay Shekhar Varma 5.None of these Answer - 2.D Bala Venkatesh Varma Explanation: On August 15, 2018, D Bala Venkatesh Varma has been appointed as the Ambassador to Russia. He is currently serving as Indian envoy in Spain. He will succeed Pankaj Saran who has been appointed as the deputy National Security Advisor. Varma is a 1988 batch IFS officer.

277. Who has assumed charge as Director (Pipelines) of Indian Oil Corp (IOC)? 1.Dhilip Chakraborthy 2.Binay Chatterjee 3.Prabath Singh 4.Akshay Kumar Singh 5.None of these Answer - 4.Akshay Kumar Singh Explanation: Akshay Kumar Singh will be in charge of IOC's 13,400-km network of crude oil, petroleum product and gas pipelines with a throughput capacity of 94.79 MTPA of oil and 9.5 million metric standard cubic metres per day of gas. IOC operates the world's largest oil pipeline network. Akshay Kumar Singh is 57 years old. He joined GAIL in 1985. He was made Executive Director (Project) of GAIL in 2013. He has 32 years of experience in the petroleum

Current Affairs Q&A PDF and natural gas sector.

278. Name the Managing Director of National Housing Bank (NHB) who has recently resigned from his post? 1.Ranjit Sitharaman 2.Sriram Kalyanaraman 3.Surjeet Bhalla 4.Ravi Verma 5.None of these Answer - 2.Sriram Kalyanaraman Explanation: The government has accepted the resignation of National Housing Bank (NHB) Managing Director Sriram Kalyanaraman. Sriram Kalyanaraman was alleged for adopting unethical practices for sanctioning refinance facility to several housing finance companies. The Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) ordered an inquiry against him, few months back. Sriram Kalyanaraman was the first private sector candidate to be appointed as MD &CEO of NHB in 2015. He was appointed for a five-year term. Earlier, he was Director-Business Development at Equifax Credit Information Services Pvt Ltd.

279. Manchester City midfielder David Silva announced his retirement from international football. Which country does he belong to? 1.Argentina 2.Brazil 3.Spain 4.France 5.None of these Answer - 3.Spain Explanation: On August 15, 2018, Manchester City midfielder 32 year old David Silva announced his retirement from international football. He is also known as "Spain's Lionel Messi".He was in the Spanish team which won the 2010 World Cup as well as the 2008 and 2010 European Championships. He made 125 appearances and scored 35 goals over 12 years. His final match was the penalty shootout defeat to Russia in the 2018 World Cup round of 16.

280. Which team won their first Tamil Nadu Premier League 2018 title, at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, on 12th August 2018? 1.Dindigul Dragons 2.Tuti Patriots 3.Trichy Warriors 4.Madurai Panthers 5.None of these Answer - 4.Madurai Panthers Explanation: On 12th August 2018, Madurai Panthers won their first Tamil Nadu Premier League 2018 title, at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Madurai Panthers beat Dindigul Dragons by seven wickets in the final and won the 2018 Tamil Nadu Premier League title. Madurai Panthers’ Arun Karthik scored his sixth fifty of this season and remained the highest run scorer in the tournament. Dindigul Dragons scored 117 runs and all out in 19.5 overs. They lost to Madurai Panthers 119/3 in 17.1 overs by seven wickets.

281. Chemmanam Chacko died on 15th August 2018, in Kakkanad, Kerala. What was his profession? 1.Politician 2.Scientist 3.Poet 4.Cricket Player 5.None of these Answer - 3.Poet Explanation: On August 15, 2018, noted Malayalam poet and Sahitya Akademi awardee 92 year old Chemmanam Chacko died in Kakkanad. He is survived by wife and two daughters. He is known for his satirical works on contemporary socio-

Current Affairs Q&A PDF political issues of Kerala through his poems. He taught Malayalam at schools and colleges, worked at Kerala University and then the Publication Department.

282. India celebrated its _____ Independence Day on 15th August 2018? 1.72nd 2.65th 3.70th 4.75th 5.None of these Answer - 1.72nd Explanation: India attained independence from the British rule on 15 August 1947. This day is celebrated as Independence Day, every year on August 15, in India. This day remembers and honours all those who fought and sacrificed their lives for the freedom of India. This year the Indian Navy was the coordinating service for Independence Day celebrations. The Guard of Honour was commanded by Commander PR Jagan Mohan of the Indian Navy. India's first all-women SWAT team recently inducted by Delhi Police, provided security cover to the Red Fort in Delhi, for the Independence Day celebrations.

283. JSW Group launched Inspire Institute of Sports (IIS) at _____ on 15th August 2018? 1.Vijaynagar, Karnataka 2.Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh 3.Bellary, Karnataka 4.Hyderabad, Telengana 5.None of these Answer - 1.Vijaynagar, Karnataka Explanation: The Inspire Institute of Sport (IIS), claiming to be India's first privately-funded High Performance Training Institute, was inaugurated in the presence of Olympic gold medallists Balbir Singh Sr. and Abhinav Bindra. The Institute aims to provide a world class training centre which can provide Indian athletes access to the most advanced infrastructure, coaching and sports science within the country. It is an initiative led by the JSW Group.

284. Name the programme launched by Ministry of Railways to spread awareness about Indian Railways Heritage? 1.Stories of India 2.Indian Heritage 3.Digital Screens 4.Digital Stories 5.None of these Answer - 3.Digital Screens Explanation: On August 16, 2018, Ministry of Railways launches “Digital Screens” to spread awareness about Indian Railways Heritage. From the Independence Day on (August 15, 2018), “digital screens” has been made operational at 22 railway stations. Addirionally, QR code based posters on Railway Heritage are also being displayed at these stations. These would allow passengers to scan and view a streaming video on their mobile on Railway heritages. Dedicated heritage video walls are being installed in New Delhi and Howrah.

285. Which state government has lifted family income ceiling for the beneficiaries of women welfare scheme 'Kanyashree'? 1.Maharashtra 2.Andhra Pradesh 3.Assam 4.West Bengal 5.None of these Answer - 4.West Bengal Explanation: On August 16, 2018, West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee lifted family income ceiling for the beneficiaries of women

Current Affairs Q&A PDF welfare scheme 'Kanyashree'. Earlier the ceiling was : Rs 120,000 or less. This would cost the state government an additional Rs 200 crore. The state had already incurred an annual expenditure of Rs 1200 crore under the scheme in 2017.

286. Which state has launched Dial 100 Mobile app, to help the needy at the time of emergency? 1.Chhattisgarh 2.Uttar Pradesh 3.Madhya Pradesh 4.Uttarakhand 5.None of these Answer - 3.Madhya Pradesh Explanation: On 15th August 2018, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan launched Dial 100 Mobile app, to help the needy at the time of emergency. Once Madhya Pradesh Police receive a call through Dial 100 mobile app, they will reach the location as soon as possible, to help the people in distress. Shivraj Singh Chouhan also announced that more CCTV cameras will be fixed outside schools, public and private areas.

287. Indian Government released additional _____ for the Postal Highway being constructed in Southern Plains of Nepal? 1.NPR 470 million 2.NPR 570 million 3.NPR 320 million 4.NPR 670 million 5.None of these Answer - 1.NPR 470 million Explanation: On 14th August 2018, Indian Government released additional NPR 470 million for the Postal Highway being constructed in Southern Plains of Nepal. Indian Ambassador to Nepal Manjeev Singh Puri handed over NPR 470 million to the Secretary of Nepal's Minister for Physical Infrastructure and Transport Madhusudan Adhikari. This amount has been released for the ongoing construction of 14 road packages under Postal Highway Project. With this payment, a total of NPR 2.35 billion has been released to Nepal out of the total grant assistance of NPR 8 billion committed by Indian Government for implementing 14 road packages.

288. Where was the 24th World Congress of Philosophy (WCP) themed "Learning To Be Human” held on 13th August 2018? 1.Beijing, China 2.Tokyo, Japan 3.New York, United States 4.New Delhi, India 5.None of these Answer - 1.Beijing, China Explanation: On August 13, 2018, the 24th World Congress of Philosophy (WCP) was held in Beijing, China for the first time. This event will continue till Aug. 20, 2018. The theme for this event is: "Learning To Be Human”. This event has been organized by the International Federation of Philosophical Societies, and Peking University. It consists of more than 1,000 activities, such as plenary sessions, symposia, lectures and roundtables.

289. Bharti AXA has partnered with which bank to offer Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana? 1.Karur Vysya Bank 2.Airtel Payments Bank 3.Vijaya Bank 4.Karnataka Bank 5.None of these Answer - 2.Airtel Payments Bank Explanation: On August 16, 2018, Bharti AXA, Airtel Payments Bank team up to offer Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana. This aims to increase penetration of life insurance products among the underinsured masses and boost financial

Current Affairs Q&A PDF inclusion. IT is aimed to reach the 190 million under-insured Indians under Airtel Payments Bank. This would help to strengthen Bharti AXA Life Insurance’s presence in India.

290. Andhra Bank raised MCLR (Marginal Cost of funds based Lending rate) by what percent for various tenors, on 16th August 2018? 1.0.15 % 2.0.25 % 3.0.50 % 4.0.75 % 5.None of these Answer - 1.0.15 % Explanation: Tenors New Rates (in %) Overnight 8.15 One Month 8.20 Three months 8.40 Six months 8.55 One year 8.70

291. On August 16, 2018, India Ratings reduced growth forecast of India to ____% from 7.4% for FY19? 1.7.1 % 2.7.2 % 3.7.3 % 4.7.0 % 5.None of these Answer - 2.7.2 % Explanation: On August 16, 2018, according to India Ratings, growth forecast of India has been cut to 7.2% from 7.4% for FY19. Increasing crude prices and the goverment's decision to fix tfix the minimum support prices of all kharif crops at 1.5 times of the production cost.high level of bad loans. The private final consumption expenditure to grow 7.6% in FY19 compared to 6.6% in FY18. The annual value of exports to touch USD345 billion in FY19.

292. Which entity has announced partnership with IRCTC app ‘IRCTC Rail Connect’, to facilitate convenient, fast and secure payments? 1.Paytm 2.PayPal 3.PhonePe 4.MobiKwik 5.None of these Answer - 3.PhonePe Explanation: On August 16, 2018, PhonePe announced partnership with IRCTC app ‘IRCTC Rail Connect’, to facilitate convenient, fast and secure payments. This will enable PhonePe's 100 million plus users to now pay directly from their bank accounts using UPI, credit and debit cards and also the PhonePe wallet. IRCTC app will have a trusted digital payment platform for the transactions.

293. James P. Allison, Carl June and _____, have been conferred the 2018 Albany Medical Center Prize in Medicine and Biomedical Research? 1.Steven A. Rosenberg 2.Michael Habbard 3.Henry Wittsburg 4.William Hensworth 5.None of these Answer - 1.Steven A. Rosenberg Explanation: James P. Allison, Carl June and Steven A. Rosenberg, have been conferred the 2018 Albany Medical Center Prize in Medicine and Biomedical Research. James P. Allison is from the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in

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Houston. Carl June is from the University at Pennsylvania's Perelman School of Medicine in Philadelphia. Steven A. Rosenberg is from the National Institutes of Health's National Cancer Institute in Maryland. These have made significant contribution to the field of immunotherapy and have revolutionized cancer treatment.

294. Who has emerged as India’s wealthiest woman as per the Kotak Wealth Hurun - Leading Wealthy Women 2018 list? 1.Roshni Nadar 2.Indu Jain 3.Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw 4.Smitha Crishna 5.None of these Answer - 4.Smitha Crishna Explanation:

Rank Name Wealth (Rs crore) Company 1 Smitha Crishna 37,570 Godrej 2 Roshni Nadar 30,200 HCL 3 Indu Jain 26,240 Bennett Coleman & Co Group 4 Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw 24,790 Biocon 5 Kiran Nadar 20,120 HCL 6 Leena Gandhi Tewari 10,730 USV 7 Sangita Jindal 10,450 JSW Steel 8 Jayshree Ullal 9,490 Arista Networks 9 Anu Aga 8,550 Thermax 10 Shradha Agarwal 8,200 Outcome Health

295. Which entity has been named as a ‘Knowledge Partner’ to the Banks Board Bureau (BBB)? 1.Egon Zehnder International 2.Mark Tucker Consultants Ltd 3.Edelweiss Consultants 4.E&Y Consultants Pvt Ltd 5.None of these Answer - 1.Egon Zehnder International Explanation: Indian Banks’ Association has appointed Egon Zehnder International as a ‘Knowledge Partner’ to the Banks Board Bureau (BBB). As a Knowledge Partner, Egon Zehnder International will help to design, implement and institutionalise a flagship leadership development strategy for public sector banks in India. Also, Hay Consultants Private Limited, a part of Korn Ferry Group, will help BBB to assess leadership competencies and potential capabilities of candidates appearing for appointment as wholetime directors of public sector banks.

296. Who has been elected the Chair of the International Nitrogen Initiative (INI), a global policy making initiative? 1.P K Singh 2.Natwaralal Khureshi 3.N Raghuram 4.Ranjit Prabhu 5.None of these Answer - 3.N Raghuram Explanation: N Raghuram has been elected the Chair of the International Nitrogen Initiative (INI), a global policy making initiative. N Raghuram is an Indian scientist and academician. He is a professor at the GGS Indraprastha University, New Delhi. He has been the President of the Indian Nitrogen Group and a Steering Committee member of the UNEP Global Partnership on Nutrient Management. He is the first Indian and Asian to be elected as Chair of INI. He will

Current Affairs Q&A PDF succeed Mark Sutton as chair of INI.

297. Name the person who has been appointed as the Chairman of Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA) under Union Commerce Ministry? 1.Anupradha Sharma 2.K S Srinivas 3.Kishan Das 4.Pranab Banerjee 5.None of these Answer - 2.K S Srinivas Explanation: On August 14, 2018, IAS officer K S Srinivas has been appointed as the Chairman of Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA)under Union Commerce Ministry. He assumed his charge on August 13, 2018. He had served as Joint Secretary in the Department of Agriculture Cooperation and Farmers' Welfare in the Ministry of Agriculture.

298. Who was re-elected as president of Mali, on 16th August 2018? 1.Soumaila Cisse 2.Ibrahim Boubacar Keita 3.Abdul Wahab 4.Masood Ali Sahad 5.None of these Answer - 2.Ibrahim Boubacar Keita Explanation: On 16th August 2018, Ibrahim Boubacar Keita was re-elected as president of Mali. Ibrahim Boubacar Keita won 67 percent of the vote and defeated his opponent Soumaila Cisse in the presidential election. Ibrahim Boubacar Keita will serve his second five-year term as President of Mali. He is 73 years old. He will assume office on 4th September 2018.

299. Who was sworn in as the new President of Paraguay, on 16th August 2018? 1.Pedro Sanchez 2.Murrari Bennet 3.Mario Abdo Benítez 4.Lee Bennet 5.None of these Answer - 3.Mario Abdo Benítez Explanation: On August 16, 2018, 46-year-old Mario Abdo Benítez has been sworn in as the new President of Paraguay. He replaced Horacio Cartes. He belongs to the conservative Colorado Party.

300. Name the multi-purpose missile defence system, jointly developed by India and Israel, that is to be procured by the Israeli Navy? 1.Barak 8 2.Minaaz – 4 3.Surya – 3 4.Shakthi –II 5.None of these Answer - 1.Barak 8 Explanation: The multi-purpose Barak 8 missile defence system, jointly developed by India and Israel, will be procured by the Israeli Navy. Barak 8 has been developed by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), India's DRDO, Israel's Administration for the Development of Weapons and Technological Infrastructure, Elta Systems, Rafael and few other Indian defence companies. It is referred to as Barak-8 by Israel and LR-SAM (long-range surface-to-air missile) by India. It has variants with maximum ranges of 70km and 150km.

301. Atal Bihari Vajpayee, passed away following a long term illness, in Delhi, on 16th August 2018. How many times did he serve as Prime Minister of India?

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1.4 2.3 3.5 4.2 5.None of these Answer - 2.3 Explanation: In 1996, Atal Bihari Vajpayee became Prime Minister of India. However, he held the position for only 13 days due to lack of majority. In 1998, he was again elected as Prime Minister. But his term ended in 13 months, due to lack of stable majority. In 1999, he was re-elected as Prime Minister and served a full five-year term. He was the first non- Congress Prime Minister to serve a full five-year term. He was also the first BJP leader to become Prime Minister of India. He also served three terms as Prime Minister of India (first term: 1996, second term: 1998–1999, third term: 1999–2004).

302. Ajit Wadekar, died following a long term illness, in Mumbai, on 15th August 2018. What was his profession? 1.Writer 2.Film Maker 3.Educationalist 4.Cricketer 5.None of these Answer - 4.Cricketer Explanation: On 15th August 2018, former Indian cricket captain Ajit Wadekar, died following a long term illness, at the Jaslok Hospital in South Mumbai. Ajit Wadekar was 77 years old. He was born in Mumbai. He made his international cricket debut in 1966. He was India’s first ODI (One Day Internatioanl) captain. He had scored 2,113 runs in his Test career.

303. Who has been appointed as the Chief Executive Officer of DocPrime, the new healthtech venture of Policybazaar? 1.Ashish Gupta 2.Siddharth Malhotra 3.Ratan Parthib 4.Prathik Pandey 5.None of these Answer - 1.Ashish Gupta Explanation: Policybazaar has appointed Ashish Gupta as the Chief Executive Officer of its new healthtech venture, DocPrime. It has named Richit Ummat as the Chief Operating Officer of the new venture. Ashish Gupta, who has been serving as Chief Technology Officer (CTO) at PolicyBazaar since November 2015. He will continue in his current role of CTO until a successor is announced.

304. Following heavy rainfall and flood in Kerala, the Central government has constituted a coordination committee to work on the discharge of floodwaters between Kerala-Tamilnadu. Name the head of the committee? 1.Narendra Kumar 2.Dharmendra Upadhyay 3.Parasuram Nair 4.Anitha Menon 5.None of these Answer - 1.Narendra Kumar Explanation: On August 17, 2018, on the event of heavy rainfall and flood in Kerala, the Central government has constituted a coordination committee to work on the discharge of floodwaters between Kerala-Tamilnadu. The committee is headed by the Central Water Commission Chairman Narendra Kumar to coordinate the discharge of floodwaters from inter-State projects involving Kerala and Tamil Nadu. The inter-state projects would include Mullaperiyar and Aliyar. The Chairman of the CWC will monitor the situation at Mullaperiyar dam in view of rising water level

Current Affairs Q&A PDF and continued heavy inflow.

305. Which organization launched a new campaign named 'Our Safety, Our Rights', among children against sexual abuse, on 17th August 2018? 1.Infosys Foundation 2.Gates Foundation 3.Amnesty International India 4.Save the girl child 5.None of these Answer - 3.Amnesty International India Explanation: On August 17, 2018, Amnesty International India launched a new campaign named 'Our Safety, Our Rights', among children against sexual abuse. The campaign will culminate on October 11 - International Day of the Girl Child. To help them understand and identify sexual abuse. The campaign in collaboration with Bharat Gyan Vigyan Samiti, People's Action for Rural Awakening (PARA) and Institute of Social Education. 50,000 students, parents, teachers and children from 400 schools, across four Indian states will be participating in this campaign.

306. Where is the ‘iCRAFPT ’18’ (International Conference on Recent Advances in Food Processing Technology) held from 17th to 19th August 2018? 1.Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu 2.Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu 3.Mandya, Karnataka 4.Calicut, Kerala 5.None of these Answer - 2.Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu Explanation: On August 17, 2018, commemorating its golden jubilee ‘iCRAFPT ’18’ , the Indian Institute of Food Processing Technology (IIFPT), started an international conference on recent advances in food processing technology till August 19, 2018 at its campus in Thanjavur. It would be inaugurated by union minister of food processing industries, Harsimrat Kaur Badal. The theme of the conference is: ‘Doubling Farmers Income through Food Processing’.

307. Name the head of the panel formed to review red-labelling draft of Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI)? 1.Arpit Bandari 2.B Sesikeran 3.Shekhar Reddy 4.Pritham Singh 5.None of these Answer - 2.B Sesikeran Explanation: On August 17, 2018, bill for red-labelling of packaged products containing fat, sugar and salt has been halted by the government as per FSSAI’s report. Additionally, a group of experts from health and nutrition background has been set up to look into the issue of labeling. The group is headed by B Sesikeran, former director of National Institute of Nutrition (NIN) as well as the current director Hemalatha and doctor Nikhil Tandon. It will study in detail the concerns of the industry and make recommendations.

308. Where was the special film festival on the theme “Freedom Struggle and Freedom Fighters” held to mark India’s 72nd Independence Day, on 15th August 2018? 1.Mumbai 2.Bengaluru 3.New Delhi 4.Hyderabad 5.None of these Answer - 1.Mumbai Explanation: On 15th August 2018, a special film festival on the theme “Freedom Struggle and Freedom Fighters” was held to

Current Affairs Q&A PDF mark India’s 72nd Independence Day, in Mumbai. The festival was organized by Films Division, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. It was inaugurated by Smt. Rama Khandwala, a freedom fighter and Indian National Army (INA) veteran. Documentary films on freedom struggle and freedom fighters were screened at the festival.

309. RBI Governor Urjit Patel has unveiled UPI (Unified Payments Interface) version 2.0. Which entity has developed this new version? 1.National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) 2.National Informatics Centre (NIC) 3.NITI Aayog 4.Microsoft 5.None of these Answer - 1.National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) Explanation: On August 17, 2018, RBI Governor Urjit Patel unveiled UPI version 2.0. The new version has been developed by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI). It will allow the customers to use overdraft limit for making payments for merchants. This has been made in need for ensuring adequate importance on cyber security. UPI 2.0 member banks as on date are: State Bank of India, HDFC Bank, Axis Bank, ICICI Bank, IDBI Bank, RBL Bank, YES Bank, Kotak Mahindra Bank, IndusInd Bank, Federal Bank and HSBC.

310. Sarvatra Technologies has launched ______as 450th co-operative bank on National Financial Switch (NFS)? 1.Sevalia Urban Co-operative Bank 2.Sadapthi Urban Co-operative Bank 3.Sarvatra Urban Co-operative Bank 4.Samiksha Rural Co-operative Bank 5.None of these Answer - 1.Sevalia Urban Co-operative Bank Explanation: On August 17, 2018, Sarvatra Technologies has launched ‘Sevalia Urban Co-operative Bank’ as 450th co-operative bank on National Financial Switch (NFS). Sarvatra brings many co-operative banks on digital payment platform by making them inter-operable with large banks. It aims to add another 50 plus co-operative banks by FY 2019. It has provided digital payment platform to larger banks like ICICI and IDBI bank and payment banks like Paytm Payments Bank, Equitas Small Finance Bank etc.

311. Which company surpassed Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) to become most valued Indian company, on 17thAugust 2018? 1.Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) 2.Infosys 3.Wipro 4.Tata Motors 5.None of these Answer - 1.Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) Explanation: On August 17, 2018, according to BSE data, TCS overtakes RIL to become most valued Indian company. The market capitalisation (m-cap) of • TCS stood at Rs 7,69,065.04. • RIL stood at Rs 7,60,644.73 crore. There is a difference of total Rs 8,420.31 crore in m cap. Earlier, on July 31st 2018, RIL was ranked the top company according to m cap crossing the USD 100-billion market capitalisation mark.

312. Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has launched RUCO initiative for collection and conversion of used cooking oil into bio-diesel. Expand RUCO? 1.Re Use Cooking Oil 2.Repurpose Used Cooking Oil 3.Re Use Crude Oil 4.Re Use and Collect Cooking Oil 5.None of these

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Answer - 2.Repurpose Used Cooking Oil Explanation: On 10th August 2018, Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) launched RUCO (Repurpose Used Cooking Oil) initiative for collection and conversion of used cooking oil into bio-diesel. Under RUCO, 64 companies at 101 locations have been identified to enable collection of used cooking oil. According to FSSAI, India has the potential to recover 220 crore litres of used cooking oil for the production of biodiesel by 2022. As per FSSAI regulations, the maximum permissible limits for Total Polar Compounds (TPC) is 25 %. Beyond this limit, the cooking oil is not safe for consumption.

313. What is the rank of Indian football team in the latest FIFA world rankings, released on 16th August 2018? 1.110 2.55 3.46 4.96 5.None of these Answer - 4.96 Explanation: Rank Country 1 France 2 Belgium 3 Brazil 4 Croatia 5 Uruguay

314. Which body will host the 2018 Asia Cup (cricket) from 15th to 28th September 2018? 1.Asian Cricket Council (ACC) 2.Board of Cricket Control of India (BCCI) 3.Emirates Cricket Board 4.International Cricket Committee (ICC) 5.None of these Answer - 3.Emirates Cricket Board Explanation: On August 17, 2018, BCCI officially handed over its hosting rights to the Emirates Cricket Board for the upcoming Asia Cup 2018. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the Emirates Cricket Board signed an agreement for this purpose. This tournament would be held from September 15 to 28 in Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Countries participating in the event are :Afghanistan, Bangladesh, India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka .They will be joined by a sixth team -- the winner of the Asian Cricket Council qualifier event. The major attraction of this tournament is two assured Indo-Pakistan clashes.

315. Who became India’s 53rd Grandmaster (GM) on 14th August 2018? 1.Raghav Nagpal 2.Ajit Dubey 3.Prashanth Mishra 4.Nihal Sarin 5.None of these Answer - 4.Nihal Sarin Explanation: On 14th August 2018, Nihal Sarin became India’s 53rd Grandmaster (GM) after finishing his third and final GM- norm in the Abu Dhabi Masters. Nihal Sarin had already reached the stipulated rating of 2500. In the 8th round of the Abu Dhabi Masters, he reached 5.5 points and sealed the norm. Even though he lost the final round to Hungary’s GM Richard Rapport, his minimum rating performance of 2626 was enough to secure the title-winning norm. Nihal Sarin is 14 years old. He hails from Thrissur.

316. Name the Indian cyclist who won a silver medal in the Men’s Keirin event, at the 2018 UCI Junior Track Cycling World Championships in Aigle, Switzerland? 1.Ravindra Bhatia

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2.Arun Kumar 3.Esow Alben 4.Ravi Parthiban 5.None of these Answer - 3.Esow Alben Explanation: Indian cyclist Esow Alben has won India's first medal (a silver medal) at the 2018 UCI Junior Track Cycling World Championships in Aigle, Switzerland. In the Men’s Keirin event, Czech Republic's Jakub Stastny won gold medal. Esow Alben finished 0.017 seconds behind him and won silver medal. Kazakhstan’s Andrey Chugay won the bronze medal. Esow Alben also participated in the men's team sprint event with Mayur Pawar and James Keithellakpam Singh. But the team did not qualify for the finals.

317. Aretha Franklin passed away after fighting pancreatic cancer in Detroit, the United States of America, on 16thAugust 2018. What was her profession? 1.Politician 2.Astronaut 3.Singer 4.Writer 5.None of these Answer - 3.Singer Explanation: On 16th August 2018, US singer Aretha Franklin passed away after fighting pancreatic cancer at her residence in Detroit, the United States of America. Aretha Franklin was 76 years old. She was born in Memphis, Tennessee, US. She made her debut performance in 1961. In the late 1960s, she earned the title "Queen of Soul". Some of her hit songs are: "Respect", "Natural Woman" and "Chain of Fools." She won the Grammy Award 18 times. She was the first female vocalist to be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. In 2006, she received the Presidential Medal of Freedom. She performed at the inaugurations of three US Presidents: Jimmy Carter, Bill Clinton, and Barack Obama.

318. Hologram-based colour coded stickers on vehicles to indicate nature of fuel, will be implemented in the Delhi-National Capital Region by 30th September 2018. What is the colour code for vehicles using diesel? 1.Blue 2.Green 3.Orange 4.Red 5.None of these Answer - 3.Orange Explanation: Hologram-based light blue colour sticker will be used in vehicles using petrol and CNG fuel. Hologram-based orange sticker will be used in vehicles using diesel. Also, the date of registration of the vehicle will be printed on these stickers. Suggestions of MoRTH was accepted by a bench of Justices Madan B Lokur, S Abdul Nazeer and Deepak Gupta. The colour-coded sticker system for vehicles will be implemented in the Delhi-National Capital Region by 30th September 2018.

319. The 11th World Hindi Conference was inaugurated on 18th August 2018 in Port Louis, Mauritius. What is the theme of the conference? 1.Stories of India 2.Evolution of Hindi 3.Hindi World and Indian Culture 4.Cultural Significance of Hindi 5.None of these Answer - 3.Hindi World and Indian Culture Explanation: On August 18, 2018, the Mauritian Prime Minister Pravind Kumar Jagnauth inaugurated the 3 day 11th World Hindi Conference in capital city Port Louis in Mauritius. The theme for 2018 World Hindi Conference is : “Hindi World and Indian Culture”. A report will also be released on the recommendation made during the 10th

Current Affairs Q&A PDF conference held in Bhopal in 2015. This would be the first time that representatives from all 29 states and Union Territories of Delhi, Chandigarh and Puducherry will be attending the conference along with External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj.

320. As per data of SEBI, investments through participatory notes into Indian capital markets declined to over nine-year low of _____ till July-end? 1.Rs 80,341 crore 2.Rs 78,890 crore 3.Rs 35,989 crore 4.Rs 99,789 crore 5.None of these Answer - 1.Rs 80,341 crore Explanation: On August 18, 2018, according to SEBI data, investments through participatory notes into Indian capital markets declined to over nine-year low ofRs 80,341 crore till July-end. This is a total value of P-note investments in Indian markets - equity, debt, and derivatives taken together. This is the lowest level since April 2009 when the cumulative value of such investments stood at Rs 72,314 crore.

321. Who is the world's highest paid female actress according to Forbes? 1.Angelina Jolie 2.Scarlett Johansson 3.Jennifer Aniston 4.Sandra Bullock 5.None of these Answer - 2.Scarlett Johansson Explanation: Actress Scarlett Johansson has emerged as the world's highest paid female actress according to Forbes. Scarlett Johansson is 33 years old. She earned $ 40.5 million in pre-tax earnings from June 1, 2017, to June 1, 2018. Angelina Jolie has ranked second with $28 million and actress Jennifer Aniston, is in third position with $19.5 million.

322. Name the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of Infosys, who resigned from his position on 18th August 2018? 1.Salil S Parekh 2.MD Ranganath 3.Murali Sankar 4.Anubrata Biswas 5.None of these Answer - 2.MD Ranganath Explanation: On 18th August 2018, Infosys’ Chief Financial Officer (CFO) MD Ranganath resigned from his position. MD Ranganath became Chief Financial Officer of Infosys in 2015 following the exit of Rajiv Bansal. MD Ranganath will continue as CFO till 16th November 2018. He has worked with Infosys for 18 years. He has been a part of the Infosys Leadership team. He has worked in the areas of consulting, finance, strategy, risk management and M&A. He has been involved in formulating and executing strategic priorities for Infosys.

323. Name India’s first mission to study the solar corona, that is planned to be launched in 2019-2020, by Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV-XL) from Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh? 1.Akash – I 2.Apoorva – I 3.SuryaDev – M1 4.Aditya-L1 5.None of these Answer - 4.Aditya-L1 Explanation: ISRO’s Aditya-L1 mission, India’s first mission to study the solar corona, is planned to be launched in 2019-2020, by Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV-XL) from Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. Aditya - L1 will be inserted in a halo

Current Affairs Q&A PDF orbit around the Lagrangian point 1 (L1) that is 1.5 million km from the Earth. Solar corona is the outer layers of the Sun. Lagrangian point is a point where the attraction by the Sun and the Earth becomes equal. This point does not experience gravitational force. This satellite will observe the Sun's Photosphere and the Chromosphere and will also conduct additional experiments.

324. Where has the world's oldest cheese been discovered? 1.Egypt 2.China 3.Germany 4.Australia 5.None of these Answer - 1.Egypt Explanation: World's oldest cheese has been discovered inside an Egyptian tomb. The world's oldest cheese was found in the tomb of Ptahmes, mayor of Memphis in Egypt during the 13th century BC. His tomb was first unearthed in 1885. It was lost under drifting sand, and was rediscovered in 2010. Archeologists found a jar with a solidified whitish mass inside the tomb. After liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry, researches identified it as cheese. This cheese is nearly 3,200 years old.

325. Kofi Annan, passed away following a short term illness, at a hospital in Bern, Switzerland, on 18th August 2018. He was the former secretary general of _____? 1.International Cricket Council (ICC) 2.United Nations 3.World Trade Organisation (WHO) 4.World Bank 5.None of these Answer - 2.United Nations Explanation: On 18th August 2018, former UN secretary general Kofi Annan, passed away following a short term illness, at a hospital in Bern, Switzerland. Kofi Annan was 80 years old. He was born on 8th April 1938 in Kumasi, Ghana. He was the seventh UN secretary general. He served two terms between 1997 and 2006. He received the Nobel peace prize for his humanitarian work jointly with the UN as an organisation in 2001.

326. Chennupati Vidya passed away following a heart attack, in Andhra Pradesh, on 18th August 2018. What was her profession? 1.Politician 2.Singer 3.Poet 4.Spiritual Leader 5.None of these Answer - 1.Politician Explanation: On 18th August 2018, former member of Lok Sabha, Chennupati Vidya passed away following a heart attack, in Andhra Pradesh. Chennupati Vidya was 84 years. She was elected to the Parliament as a Congress contestant from Vijayawada constituency in 1980 and 1989. She had won the Jamnalal Bajaj Award in honour of her services to women. She was involved in social service through the Atheist Centre in Vijayawada, established by her father Goparaju Ramachandra Rao (GoRa), who was an atheist movement leader.

327. Which state will observe September as ‘month of nutrition’? 1.Kerala 2.Madhya Pradesh 3.Rajasthan 4.Gujarat 5.None of these Answer - 3.Rajasthan Explanation: On August 15, 2018, on the eve of 72nd Independence Day, Rajasthan government announced that it would

Current Affairs Q&A PDF observe September as ‘month of nutrition’. The schemes introduced from the ‘month of nutrition’. The Rajasthan CM launched ‘Annapurna Milk Scheme’. Students of Class 1 to 8 of government schools will be given milk daily instead of thrice a week. This would cost the government an additional Rs.203 crore.

328. India has proposed to declare which year as “International Year of Millets” to the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of the United Nations? 1.2020 2.2022 3.2021 4.2019 5.None of these Answer - 4.2019 Explanation: India has proposed to declare 2019 as “International Year of Millets” to the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of the United Nations. India’s agriculture minister Radha Mohan Singh has written a letter to Jose Graziano da Silva, director-general, United Nations FAO, in this regard. This proposal aims to create awareness about millets among consumers, policy makers, industry and R&D sector.

329. Which body has announced a phased rollout of live face recognition feature with telecom service providers from September 15, 2018? 1.NITI Aayog 2.CSO (Central Statistics Office) 3.UIDAI (Unique Identification Authority of India) 4.RBI (Reserve Bank of India) 5.None of these Answer - 3.UIDAI (Unique Identification Authority of India) Explanation: On August 18, 2018, UIDAI announced a phased rollout of live face recognition feature with telecom service providers from September 15. This would be used as an additional mode of authentication by the telecom service providers. The 'live face photo' capture would be done to obtain eKYC for issuance of mobile SIMs. The TSP shall store both the photos in its database for audit purpose. At least 10 per cent of their total monthly authentication transactions shall be performed using face authentication.

330. PFRDA has set up a standing committee to suggest steps to deal with cyber security challenges. What does “F” represent in PFRDA? 1.Finance 2.Fund 3.Fiscal 4.Forum 5.None of these Answer - 2.Fund Explanation: PFRDA - Pension Fund and Regulatory Development Authority On August 19, 2018, Pension fund regulator, Pension Fund and Regulatory Development Authority (PFRDA), set a standing committee to suggest steps to deal with cyber security challenges. The focus area of the committee is on ‘Information Systems and Technology and Cyber Security’. It would suggest ways to integrate the technology of PFRDA with the best in industry to protect the subscribers.

331. As per All India Financial Inclusion Survey (NAFIS) by NABARD more than what per cent of rural households have bank accounts? 1.95 % 2.55 % 3.75 % 4.88 % 5.None of these Answer - 4.88 % Explanation:

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On August 19, 2018, All India Financial Inclusion Survey (NAFIS) by NABARD was released. According to the survey: • more than 88 per cent of rural householdshave bank accounts. • only about 24per cent of the 88% of rural households use ATM services at least once in three months, • 7.4per cent of these households use debit or credit card, • 7.5per cent use cheque to make a payment at least once in three months

332. As per a report by Nomura, India's current account deficit (CAD) is expected to widen to ____ per cent of the GDP in FY19 from 1.9 per cent of GDP, in 2017-18 fiscal? 1.2.8 % 2.2.9 % 3.4.4 % 4.3.9 % 5.None of these Answer - 1.2.8 % Explanation: On August 19, 2018, according to a report by Nomura, India's current account deficit (CAD) is expected to widen to 2.8 per cent of the GDP in FY19 from 1.9 per cent of GDP, in 2017-18 fiscal. Reasons for this are: rising oil prices, depreciating rupee and outflow of portfolio investments. Further, balance of payment (BOP) (current account + net FDI) is negative and portfolio flows are also said to remain negative. Earlier, CAD jumped to USD 48.7 billion, or 1.9 per cent of GDP, in 2017-18 fiscal. This was higher than USD 14.4 billion, or 0.6 per cent, CAD in 2016-17 fiscal.

333. Name the Retired chief of the Army staff, Indian Army, who was awarded the Legion of Merit (Degree of Commander) by the United States government, on 19th August 2018? 1.General Mahavir Singh Bhagat 2.General Dalbir Singh Suhag 3.General Prathik Singh Talwar 4.General Sushil Kumar Shindey 5.None of these Answer - 2.General Dalbir Singh Suhag Explanation: On August 19, 2018, the United States government awarded the Legion of Merit (Degree of Commander) to General Dalbir Singh Suhag (Retired) chief of the Army staff, Indian Army. This was earlier announced by the US Government in March 2016. It was presented to him on August 17, 2018, at Pentagon, Washington DC.

334. Which state government has announced that it will name three awards after former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee for poetry, journalism and administration? 1.Maharashtra 2.Madhya Pradesh 3.Gujarat 4.Rajasthan 5.None of these Answer - 2.Madhya Pradesh Explanation: On August 19, 2018, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Chouhan announced that the state government will name three awards after former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. One ward will be for poets (as former PM was also a poet). The second ward will be for the outstanding contribution in the field of journalism. And the third ward would be for good work in administration.

335. Who has been appointed as the Independent Director of Indiabulls Housing Finance for a term of 3 years with effect from 18th August 2018? 1.Raghavan Muralidaran 2.Subhash Sheoratan Mundra 3.Praveen Mandanna 4.Ritesh Deshpande 5.None of these Answer - 2.Subhash Sheoratan Mundra

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Explanation: On August 19, 2018, board of Indiabulls Housing Finance has appointed Subhash Sheoratan Mundra as the Independent Director for a period of three years, effective August 18. He is presently on the Board of the Bombay Stock Exchange and DSP Blackrock Investment Managers and is also on the Governing Council of several financial research and academic institutes. He is a former Deputy Governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) till July 2017.

336. Which firm completed the acquisition of 77% stake in Flipkart for $16 billion, on August 19, 2018? 1.Walmart 2.Amazon 3.Google 4.Microsoft 5.None of these Answer - 1.Walmart Explanation: On August 19, 2018, Walmart and Flipkart announced the completion of the $16-billion deal. Walmart now holds 77 per cent stake in the Indian firm. According to the deal: • Flipkart’s CEO Kalyan Krishnamurthywill continue to run the company, • Co-founder Binny Bansal, apart from representatives from Tencentand Tiger Global, will continue with their seats as well, • Walmart will appoint five members to the eight-member board of Flipkartout of which 2 will be independent directors, • Initially, Steuart Walton, Judith McKennaand Dirk Van den Berghe, regional CEO of Walmart Canada and Asia, will join the Flipkart board.

337. Fast bowler Mitchell Johnson retired from all forms of cricket on 19th August 2018. Which country does he belong to? 1.South Africa 2.Australia 3.Zimbabwe 4.New Zealand 5.None of these Answer - 2.Australia Explanation: On August 19, 2018, 36-year-old Australian fast bowler Mitchell Johnson retire from all forms of cricket. He would retire from the franchise-based Big Bash League. He announced his retirement during the Indian Premier League 2018. He still expects to play in the various Twenty20 competitions till mid 2019.

338. A 99 million-year-old beetle trapped in amber has been discovered in which country? 1.Myanmar 2.Mongolia 3.Egypt 4.Spain 5.None of these Answer - 1.Myanmar Explanation: On August 19, 2018, Scientists discovered a two-millimeter-long beetle trapped in amber that dates back to 99 million year. To explore the beetle's family tree, researchers also conducted an extensive phylogenetic analysis. The study published in the journal Current Biology. It reveals that an ancient boganiid beetle preserved in Burmese amber has been found along with grains of cycad pollen. It was named Cretoparacucujus cycadophilus : Greek word Kykas (meaning cycad ) and philia (meaning friendly love or affection).

339. When was the 15th World Humanitarian Day observed throughout the world? 1.August 18 2.August 17 3.August 16 4.August 19 5.None of these

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Answer - 4.August 19 Explanation: August 19th is annually observed as World Humanitarian Day 2018. It is observed to pay tribute to aid workers who risk their lives for humanitarian services. The theme for the 2018 World Humanitarian Day is : #NotATarget. The day was designated by the UN General Assembly to commemorate the 19 August 2003 bombing of the United Nations headquarters in Baghdad, Iraq.

340. When was World photography day celebrated throughout the world? 1.August 21 2.August 17 3.August 18 4.August 19 5.None of these Answer - 4.August 19 Explanation: August 19 is celebrated as World photography day. It is celebrated in order to inspire photographers to share their work and to celebrate the art of photography. The birth of this day dates back to 1839 in France, but it came in to force in 2009.

341. Rajabhau Godse died following a short term illness on 18th August 2018, in Maharashtra. What was his profession? 1.Actor 2.Business man 3.Politician 4.Writer 5.None of these Answer - 3.Politician Explanation: Former Shiv Sena member of parliament from Nashik in Maharashtra Rajabhau Godse died following a short term illness. He was elected to the Lok Sabha from Nashik constituency in 1996. He had also been the city and district unit chief of the Sena.

342. Which state Government has launched Disaster Response Force (DRF) vehicles in Hyderabad to handle situations like flash floods, heavy rains, building collapse and fire mishaps? 1.Rajasthan 2.Kerala 3.Himachal Pradesh 4.Telengana 5.None of these Answer - 4.Telengana Explanation: Telangana Government has launched Disaster Response Force (DRF) vehicles in Hyderabad to handle situations like flash floods, heavy rains, building collapse and fire mishaps. The DRF vehicles will be parked at 24 locations with Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) DRF staff. It will reached affected spots for relief work during necessary situations. DRF personnel will be available on the field for 24/7. This initiative has been launched with the main aim that Telengana should have its own disaster force.

343. Where did the Esala Maha Perehera festival start on 16th August 2018? 1.Birgunj, Nepal 2.Dhaka, Bangladesh 3.Kandy, Sri Lanka 4.Jammu & Kashmir, India 5.None of these Answer - 3.Kandy, Sri Lanka Explanation: On 16th August 2018, the historic Esala Maha Perehera festival started in Kandy, Sri Lanka. The festival will be held for 10 days. It started with a grand procession from Sri Dalada Maligawa, the biggest Buddhist temple in Sri

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Lanka. This festival is held in the month of Esala (July or August). This month is believed to commemorate the first teaching of Buddha after his enlightenment. The procession is carried out to obtain the blessings of the Gods for cultivation of crops and enrichment of the kingdom.

344. According to Ifo institute, which country’s current account surplus will remain the world's largest in 2018? 1.Japan 2.China 3.United States 4.Germany 5.None of these Answer - 4.Germany Explanation: On 20th August 2018, the Ifo institute said that, Germany's current account surplus will remain the world's largest in 2018, in spite of increased trade tensions. Current account surplus measures the flow of goods, services and investments. Germany's current account surplus will remain the world's largest for the third year in 2018 at $299 billion. It is followed by Japan in second position with $200 billion. The Netherlands would be third with a current account surplus of around 110 billion dollars.

345. As per All India Rural Financial Inclusion Survey 2016-17, more than half of the agricultural households in India have outstanding debts. Which entity conducted this survey? 1.NITI Aayog 2.NABARD (National Bank For Agriculture And Rural Development) 3.Central Statistics Office (CSO) 4.Ministry of Finance 5.None of these Answer - 2.NABARD (National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development) Explanation: As per NABARD All India Rural Financial Inclusion Survey 2016-17, more than half the agricultural households in India have outstanding debts. Sample size of the survey: 1.88 lakh people from 40,327 rural households. Only 48% of these households are defined as agricultural households that have at least one member self-employed in agriculture and received over Rs 5,000 as value of produce from agricultural activities last year. 52.5% of the agricultural households had an outstanding loan. Whereas 42.8% of the non-agricultural households in rural India had an outstanding loan.

346. ____ has directed all insurance companies to create provision to cover mental illness in policies? 1.Ministry of Finance 2.Ministry of Family Welfare 3.Reserve Bank of India (RBI) 4.Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) 5.None of these Answer - 4.Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) Explanation: Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has directed all insurance companies to create provision to cover mental illness in policies. IRDAI has notified all insurance companies to comply with the Mental Healthcare Act, 2017 that came to effect on 29th May 2018, and make provisions for medical insurance of treatment for medical illness with immediate effect. According to Sec 21(4) of the Mental Healthcare Act, 2017, every insurer is supposed to make provision for medical insurance for treatment of mental illness on the same basis that is available for treatment of physical illness.

347. Name the Indian who has been awarded the WHO World No Tobacco Day 2018 Award for his remarkable contribution towards tobacco control? 1.Sunil Mehta 2.Sapna Twivedi 3.Manjunath S 4.S.K. Arora 5.None of these

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Answer - 4.S.K. Arora Explanation: Delhi government’s additional director of health S.K. Arora has been awarded the WHO World No Tobacco Day 2018 Awardfor his remarkable contribution towards tobacco control. Tobacco prevalence in Delhi has reduced by 6.5% in the last 6 years. This is more than the rest of India average figures. National Health Policy 2017 has fixed targets of relative reduction in tobacco prevalence by 15% by 2020 and 30% by 2025. These targets have already been achieved by Delhi before 2017.

348. Who was appointed the next Ambassador of India to the Democratic Republic of Sao Tome and Principe, on 20thAugust 2018? 1.Partha Satpathy 2.Bala Venkatesh Verma 3.Srikumar Menon 4.Surjith Sharma 5.None of these Answer - 3.Srikumar Menon Explanation: On 20th August 2018, Srikumar Menon was appointed the next Ambassador of India to the Democratic Republic of Sao Tome and Principe. Currently, he is the Ambassador of India to Angola. He has been concurrently appointed the next Ambassador of India to the Democratic Republic of Sao Tome and Principe, with residence in Luanda. He will take up this new assignment soon.

349. Name India’s indigenously developed helicopter launched Anti-Tank Guided Missile that was successfully flight tested in Pokhran, Rajasthan, on 19th August 2018? 1.Vindhya 2.Helina 3.Rana 4.Shakath 5.None of these Answer - 2.Helina Explanation: On 19th August 2018, India successfully flight tested the indigenously developed helicopter launched Anti-Tank Guided Missile ‘HELINA’ from Army helicopter in Pokhran, Rajasthan. HELINA is an indigenously designed and developed long-range precision-guided anti-airfield bomb. It was tested for its full range. It was released smoothly from the launch platform. The missile tracked the target and hit it with high precision. The missile is guided by an Infrared Imaging Seeker (IIR) operating in the Lock on Before Launch mode. This is one of the most advanced Anti- Tank Weapons in the world.

350. Which Country won the 2018 SAFF U-15 Women's Championship that was held at Changlimithang Stadium, in Bhutan, from 9th to 18th August 2018? 1.Bhutan 2.Bangladesh 3.India 4.Nepal 5.None of these Answer - 3.India Explanation: From 9th to 18th August 2018, the 2018 SAFF U-15 Women's Championship was held at Changlimithang Stadium, in Bhutan. It was the 2nd edition of the SAFF U-15 Women's Championship. Six countries participated: Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka. Indian U-15 women’s team emerged as champions of the SAFF U-15 Championship. India defeated defending champions Bangladesh 1-0 in the final. Sunita Munda scored a goal for India in the second-half.

351. When was World Mosquito Day observed throughout the world? 1.August 20 2.August 19 3.August 17

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4.August 16 5.None of these Answer - 1.August 20 Explanation: World Mosquito Day, observed on 20th August every year. This day is a honor of British doctor Sir Ronald Ross's discovery in 1897 that female mosquitoes transmit malaria between humans. Mosquitoes have been around for over a hundred million years. Mosquitoes spread diseases like malaria, West Nile virus, dengue, chikungunya, Zika among human beings. The London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine holds Mosquito Day celebrations every year, including events such as parties and exhibitions, a tradition dating back to as early as the 1930s.

352. Who won the Men’s single title of the Cincinnati Masters also known as Western & Southern Open 2018 held in Cincinnati, United States? 1.Roger Federer 2.Rafael Nadal 3.Novak Djokovic 4.Dominic Thiem 5.None of these Answer - 3.Novak Djokovic Explanation:

Name of the title Winner Runner Men’s single Novak Djokovic of serbia Swizerland’s Roger Federer Women’s single Kiki Bertens of Netherland Romania’s Simona Halep Men’s Doubles Brazil's Bruno Soares and Colombia’s Juan United Kingdom's Jamie Sebastian Cabal and Murray Robert Farah Women’s Doubles Czech Republic’s Lucie Belgium’s Elise Hradecka and Russia’s Mertens and Ekaterina Makarova Netherland’s Demi Schuurs

353. Who won the Women’s single title of the Cincinnati Masters also known as Western & Southern Open 2018 held in Cincinnati, United States? 1.Kiki Bertens 2.Simona Halep 3.Sloane Jones 4.Serena Williams 5.None of these Answer - 1.Kiki Bertens Explanation:

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354. Which centre won an award for Outstanding Contribution to Gold Policy Research in 2017-18 at the 15th India International Gold Convention held in Kochi? 1.India Gold Policy Centre (IGPC), IIM Ahmedabad 2.Centre for Research on Gold (CRG), IIT Madras 2.Indian Institute for Gold Policy (IIGP), IIM Kozhikode 4.Centre for Gold Policy Formulation (CGPF), IIM Mumbai 5.None of these Answer - 1.India Gold Policy Centre (IGPC), IIM Ahmedabad Explanation: The India Gold Policy Centre (IGPC), IIM Ahmedabad won an award for Outstanding Contribution to Gold Policy Research in 2017-18 at the 15th India International Gold Convention held in Kochi. The award was received by Professor Arvind Sahay, Chairman of IGPC, along with his team. The convention was held at Le Meridien Convention Centre. Around 400 delegates participated.

355. Uri Avnery, died following a stroke on 20th August 2018 in Tel Aviv, Israel. What was his profession? 1.Scientist 2.Politician 3.Journalist 4.Musician 5.None of these Answer - 3.Journalist Explanation: Uri Avnery, an Israeli journalist and peace activist died at the age of 94 on 20th August 2018. He was one of the first to openly advocate for a Palestinian state. He was a symbol of the Israeli peace camp. He was a publisher, member of parliament, author and activist.

356. Chhattisgarh Cabinet has approved the proposal to rename Naya Raipur, capital of Chhattisgarh as ______, to honour former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee? 1.Atalji City 2.Vajpayee Nagar 3.Atal Nagar 4.ABJ City 5.None of these Answer - 3.Atal Nagar Explanation: On August 21,2018 Chhattisgarh Cabinet approved the proposal to rename Naya Raipur , capital of Chhattisgarh as 'Atal Nagar'. Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh announced the renaming of some other institutions and projects after Vajpayee. The Bilaspur University will be known as Atal Bihari Vajpayee University. Narrow Gauge Line will be called Atal Path. The Central Park, which is being constructed will be named as Atal Park.

357. Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Rajasthan, Uttarakhand, Delhi and Chandigarh have decided to set up a centralised secretariat at _____, to tackle drug menace? 1.Panchkula, Haryana 2.Hisar, Haryana 3.Patiala, Punjab 4.Shimla, Himachal Pradesh 5.None of these Answer - 1.Panchkula, Haryana Explanation: On 20th August 2018, 5 Northern States: Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Rajasthan, Uttarakhand and Union Territories: Delhi and Chandigarh decided to set up a centralised secretariat at Panchkula, in Haryana, to tackle drug menace. This decision was taken at the regional conference of the Chief Ministers organised by the Haryana government on “Drug menace, challenges and strategies” in Chandigarh. At the centralised secretariat at Panchkula nodal officers from each State will be assigned to share intelligence and information.

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358. Which institute has launched the ‘Aditya Choubey Center for Re-Water Research’ to treat and convert sewage water into potable water? 1.IIT-Madras 2.IIT-Bombay 3.IIT-Kanpur 4.IIT-Kharagpur 5.None of these Answer - 4.IIT-Kharagpur Explanation: On 17th August 2018, Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur (IIT-Kharagpur) launched ‘Aditya Choubey Center for Re-Water Research’ to treat and convert sewage water into potable water. Aditya Choubey Center for Re-Water Research has been set up by a seed fund created by IIT alumni Anant Choubey and Aneesh Reddy. This has been launched to handle the issues of sewage disposal in urban areas and access to clean potable water.

359. Where did the first-ever joint air exercise involving the Indian Air Force (IAF) and the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) begin on 20th August 2018? 1.Subang, Malaysia 2.New Delhi, India 3.Mumbai, India 4.Pune, India 5.None of these Answer - 1.Subang, Malaysia Explanation: On August 20 2018, The first-ever joint air exercise involving the Indian Air Force (IAF) and the the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) commenced at Subang Air Base in Malaysia. This is the inaugural bilateral exercise between IAF & RMAF. It was inaugurated by Gp Capt CUV Rao, team leader IAF & Col Mahadzer, Ex director of RMAF. It's a platform to exchange Knowledge & Good practices with each other. RMAF and IAF ended its first ever bilateral exercise launching two Sukhoi Su-30MKM and Su-30MKI Flankers each from Subang airport.

360. As per the new Standard Operating Procedures (SoPs) for refilling of ATMs (Automated Teller Machine), cash loading of the ATMs or cash transportation activities will not be done after _____ in rural areas? 1.4 pm 2.9 pm 3.6 pm 4.8 pm 5.None of these Answer - 3.6 pm Explanation: Home Ministry has specified new Standard Operating Procedures (SoPs) for refilling of ATMs (Automated Teller Machine), which will come to effect on 8th February 2019. The new SoPS have been formulated to prevent attacks on cash vans, cash vaults, ATM frauds and other internal frauds. As per the new SoPS, Cash loading of the ATMs or cash transportation activities will not be done: • After 9 pm- in urban areas • After 6 pm- in rural areas • Before 9 am or after 4 pm- in districts notified by the central government as Left Wing Extremism affected areas or Naxal-hit areas

361. Who was awarded the 24th Rajiv Gandhi National Sadbhavana Award on the occasion of 74th birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, in New Delhi, on 20th August 2018? 1.Gopalkrishna Gandhi 2.Satyajit Gandhi 3.Rajiv Menon 4.Lenin Martha Antony 5.None of these Answer - 1.Gopalkrishna Gandhi Explanation:

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On 20th August 2018, former West Bengal Governor Gopalkrishna Gandhi was awarded the 24th Rajiv Gandhi National Sadbhavana Award on the occasion of 74th birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, in New Delhi. Gopalkrishna Gandhi was awarded the 2018 Rajiv Gandhi National Sadbhavana Award for promoting communal harmony and peace. The award includes a citation and a cash award of Rs 10 lakh. Gopalkrishna Gandhi was conferred the award by chairperson of the Congress Parliamentary party Sonia Gandhi, former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and chairperson of the advisory committee for the award Karan Singh.

362. Who has become the 4th Indian wicket-keeper to take 5 catches on Test debut? 1.Rithvik Jain 2.Rishabh Pant 3.Ajinkya Rahane 4.Cheteshwar Pujara 5.None of these Answer - 2.Rishabh Pant Explanation: On 19th August 2018, Rishabh Pant became the 4th Indian wicket-keeper to take 5 catches on Test debut during the second day of the third cricket Test against England, in Nottingham, England. Other Indians who had achieved this feat of taking 5 catches on Test debuts: Naren Tamhane, Kiran More and Naman Ojha. Rishabh Pant achieved this feat by taking the catches of Alastair Cook, Keaton Jennings, Ollie Pope, Chris Woakes and Adil Rashid in England’s first innings.

363. Name the Australian cricketer who has planned to publish his autobiography 'No Spin' in October 2018? 1.Tim Paine 2.Shane Warne 3.Steve Smith 4.Aaron Flinch 5.None of these Answer - 2.Shane Warne Explanation: Australia Cricketer and bowling spin legend Shane Warne plan to release his extraordinary cricketing career and his life off the pitch besides unveiling several unknown facts in his autobiography ‘No Spin ‘which will be published on October 2018. Andrew Goodfellow, deputy publisher at Ebury press announced that Warne's memoir "No Spin" will have a global release on October 4 2018.

364. Which Indian cricketer has planned to release his autobiography "281 and Beyond" on November 20, 2018? 1.Sachin Tendulkar 2.Anil Kumble 3.Sunil Gavaskar 4.VVS Laxman 5.None of these Answer - 4.VVS Laxman Explanation: Indian cricketer VVS Laxman, known for the suppleness of his wrists, plans to release his emotional journey as cricket player through his autobiography "281 and Beyond" on November 20,2018. The title has been borrowed from the Hyderabad stylist's fabulous series-turning innings of 281 against Australia at the Eden Gardens in 2001. Westland Publications will release the former Indian cricketer's autobiography "281 and Beyond".

365. When was International Day of Remembrance and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism 2018 observed? 1.August 22 2.August 21 3.August 23 4.August 19 5.None of these Answer - 2.August 21

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Explanation: UN Secretary-General, António Guterres informed that General Assembly to establish an International Day of Remembrance of and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism due to Terrorism continues to pose a major threat to international peace and security. It undermines the core values of the United Nations and is an indiscriminate threat that affects people and countries across the globe. Observance of the International Day of Remembrance of and Tribute to Victims of Terrorism represents a major step forward in standing in solidarity with victims of terrorism. By inviting Member States, the United Nations, international organizations and civil society entities to observe the Day, attention to victims will be focused at the national, regional and international levels.

366. When was World Senior Citizen Day, 2018 celebrated throughout the world? 1.August 21 2.August 22 3.August 23 4.August 20 5.None of these Answer - 1.August 21 Explanation: World Senior Citizen Day, 2018 will be observed worldwide on August 21. The history of International Senior Citizens Day comes from the period of 1988. It was officially established by the former president of United States of America i.e. Ronald Reagan. He had signed the 5847 promulgation on August 19, 1988, which manifested August 21 as the National Senior Citizens Day.

367. When was Sadbhavana Diwas 2018 (74th birth anniversary of Rajiv Gandhi) celebrated all over India? 1.August 21 2.August 22 3.August 20 4.August 19 5.None of these Answer - 3.August 20 Explanation: Sadbhavana Diwas 2018 (74th birth anniversary of Rajiv Gandhi) will be celebrated all over the India at on 20th of August. The Sadbhavana (means having good feelings for others) Diwas or Harmony Day is celebrated to commemorate the birth anniversary of the earlier Prime Minister of India named Rajiv Gandhi. It was also used to celebrate by many of the people in order to give the Respect and Salutations to many of the good people in India and many other Countries.

368. Which month will be celebrated as the National Nutrition Month every year to mark India’s fight against malnutrition? 1.August 2.October 3.September 4.November 5.None of these Answer - 3.September Explanation: This announcement was made by the Ministry of Women and Child Development at the second meeting of National Council on India's Nutrition Challenges under the Poshan Abhiyaan on 25th July 2018. The Ministry of Women and Child Development will conduct programmes to create awareness on issues related to malnutrition like stunting, under-nutrition, anemia and low birth weight in children. The programmes will be focused on adolescent girls, pregnant women and lactating mothers.

369. India has banned the import of _____ for fuel use? 1.carbon 2.pet coke 3.poly propylene 4.ethanol

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5.None of these Answer - 2.pet coke Explanation: India banned the import of pet coke as fuel use but it will be allowed to use as feedstock in some industries. Cement, lime kiln, calcium carbide and gasification industries are only allowed to use import of pet coke as the feedstock or in the manufacturing process on actual user condition. Pet coke is one of the world's largest consumers and imports over 27 million tones from the United States. India is the world's biggest consumer of petroleum coke, which is a dark solid carbon material that emits 11 per cent more greenhouse gases than coal, according to the CarnegieTsinghua Center for Global Policy.

370. Which Union Ministry has notified a new set of specified health warnings for all tobacco products manufactured or imported or packaged on or after September 1, 2018? 1.Ministry of External Affairs 2.Ministry of Health and Family Welfare 3.Ministry of Commerce and Industry 4.Ministry of Food Processing 5.None of these Answer - 2.Ministry of Health and Family Welfare Explanation: Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has notified a new set of specified health warnings for all tobacco products manufactured or imported or packaged on or after September 1.It issued new images for the pictorial warning on packs of cigarette and other tobacco products. Health ministry ordered all packs of tobacco products must have “tobacco causes cancer" and "tobacco causes painful death"written in white on a red background, and the words "quit today call 1800-11-2356" in white on a black background. The government released two separate set of images.The first set will be used on tobacco products from September 1,2018 for a period of 12 months whereas the second set of images will be used from September 1,2019.

371. Which state cabinet approved amendments to the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) to make disrespect of religious texts punishable with life imprisonment, on 21st August 2018? 1.Haryana 2.Punjab 3.Maharashtra 4.Tamil Nadu 5.None of these Answer - 2.Punjab Explanation: On August 21st 2018, The Punjab Cabinet approved amendments to the Indian Penal Code (IPC) as well as the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) to make disrespect of religious texts punishable with life imprisonment. The Cabinet has approved the withdrawal of the Code of Criminal Procedure (Punjab Amendment) Bill, 2016 and the Indian Penal Code (Punjab Amendment) Bill, 2016, passed in the 12th Session of 14th Vidhan Sabha, 2016. The decision was taken at a meeting chaired by Chief Minister Amarinder Sing.

372. Central Government declared the floods occurred in which state as a calamity of “severe nature”, on 21st August 2018? 1.Tamil Nadu 2.Kerala 3.Karnataka 4.Gujarat 5.None of these Answer - 2.Kerala Explanation: On August 21 2018 , Centre has declared the Kerala floods as a calamity of “severe nature”. The central government has also scaled up its relief and rescue operations. Minister of State for Home Kiren Rijiju said the Kerala floods were being treated as natural calamity of severe nature. National Crisis Management Committee (NCMC), chaired by Cabinet Secretary PK Sinha informed that Centre dispatched 100 tonnes of pulses and 52 tonnes of essential medicines to the State. Around 20 tonnes of bleaching powder and 1 crore chlorine tablets.

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Ministry of Power has moved equipment such as electricity meters, coils and transformers to restore the distribution network.

373. The 11th World Hindi Conference (WHC) was held in Port Louis, Mauritius, from 18th to 20th August 2018. In which, Mauritius Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth announced that Mauritius cyber tower will be named as _____? 1.Atal Bihari Vajpayee tower 2.Mahatma Gandhi Tower 3.Subash Chandra Bose Tower 4.Narendra Modi Tower 5.None of these Answer - 1.Atal Bihari Vajpayee tower Explanation: From 18th to 20th August 2018, the 11th World Hindi Conference (WHC) was held at Swami Vivekanand International Convention Centre in Port Louis, Mauritius. It 11th World Hindi Conference (WHC) was organized by the Ministry of External Affairs, India in collaboration with the Government of Mauritius. It was inaugurated by Mauritius Prime Minister Pravind Kumar Jugnauth. Over 2,000 delegates participated in the conference. Main theme of the Conference was "Hindi Vishwa Aur Bharatiy Sanskriti" (Hindi World and Indian Culture). Mauritius Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth announced that Mauritius cyber tower, for which Atal Bihari Vajpayee had contributed, will be named as Atal Bihari Vajpayee tower.

374. A team of international researchers including 18 Indians have decoded the genome of _____? 1.rice 2.wheat 3.corn 4.barley 5.None of these Answer - 2.wheat Explanation: On August 19 2018, A team of international researchers have decoded the wheat genome. Eighteen Indian scientists from that team played a crucial role in cracking the genetic code of wheat – the world's most widely cultivated crop. The research article is authored by more than 200 scientists from 73 research institutions in 20 countries. A team of 18 Indian scientists co-authoring this paper, led by Dr Kuldeep Singh at Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) Ludhiana, Professor JP Khurana at the University of Delhi South Campus, and Professor Nagendra Singh at ICAR-National Research Centre on Plant Biotechnology, Delhi, contributed to the decoding of Chromosome 2A of the wheat genome. The genetic information, scientists say, would help Indian plant breeders create better wheat varieties capable of tolerating heat and drought without compromising the yield.

375. On 21st August 2018, the Supreme Court declared that, the NOTA option will not be available for elected MPs and MLAs voting in the coming Rajya Sabha elections. What does “N” represent in NOTA? 1.Now 2.Not 3.None 4.New 5.None of these Answer - 3.None Explanation: NOTA - None of The Above On August 21,2018 None of The Above (NOTA) option will not be available for elected MPs and MLAs voting in the coming Rajya Sabha elections, with the Supreme Court cancelling an Election Commission notification which had provided such option in Upper House. A Bench, led by Chief Justice of India (CJI) Dipak Misra held that the NOTA option is meant only for universal right of voting and direct elections and not polls held in the Rajya Sabha. The Bench had reserved for judgment on a petition filed in 2017 by Gujarat Congress leader Shailesh Manubhai Parmar to do away with the ‘NOTA’ option in Rajya Sabha elections.

376. Home Minister Rajnath Singh has assigned which body as the nodal agency for monitoring child pornography and sexual violence videos?

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1.National Informatics Centre (NIC) 2.National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) 3.National Cyber Crime Bureau (NCCB) 4.National Cyber Crime Tribunal (NCCT) 5.None of these Answer - 2.National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) Explanation: On August 21,2018 ,An important meeting was held under the head of Home Minister Rajnath Singh to discuss recommendations on ways to curb “sexual violence” videos involving women and children. National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) would be the designated nodal agency for monitoring the complaints received on a government portal that records child pornography and sexual violence videos. The NCRB would coordinate with service providers such as Facebook, YouTube and WhatsApp to block malicious videos and contents. A notification has been issued to NCRB under the Information Technology Act, 2000 to enable us take action against such videos and to ask the service providers to block the content.

377. Routesonline, global airlines events organiser’s Survey has adjudged which Indian airport as the second fastest growing airport in the world during January to June 2018? 1.Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru 2.Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi 3.Chatrapathi Shivaji International Airport, Mumbai 4.Biju Patnaik International Airport, Bhubaneswar 5.None of these Answer - 1.Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru Explanation: On August 22, According to Routesonline, global airlines events organiser’s Survey Bengaluru Kempegowda International Airport Secured Second Spot and Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport Secured Sixth Spot as fastest growing airport in the world during January to June this year. Kempegowda International Airport recorded 1,58,50,352 passengers at the same time Indira Gandhi International Airport recorded 3,49,05,629 passengers during January to June 2018. Tokyo's Haneda Airport topped the Survey.Other airport on the top 10 are Jakarta(3rd), Chicago(4th ), Madrid(5th),Dallas Fort Worth (7th ), Los Angeles (8th ), Frankfurt (9th) and Nanchang (10th ).

378. On August 21, 2018, the Union Ministry of Earth Sciences proposed to set up a Cyclone Warning Centre in _____? 1.Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala 2.Chennai, Tamil Nadu 3.Mumbai, Maharashtra 4.Vishakapatnam, Andhra Pradesh 5.None of these Answer - 1.Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala Explanation: On August 21 2018, the Union Ministry of Earth Sciences is proposing to set up a Cyclone Warning Centre in Thiruvananthapuram,Kerala which will provide regular coastal bulletins and heavy rainfall alerts. It is expected to be serviceable within a month. India Meteorological Department(IMD)has only 6 cyclone warning centres at Chennai,Vishakhapatnam, Bhubaneswar, Kolkata, Ahmedabad and Mumbai. The ministry has also proposed setting up another C-band Doppler weather radar at Mangalore to provide “nowcast” alerts for severe weather, including thunderstorms triggered by heavy rain for the next 2-3 hours.

379. Odisha government has decided to set up a state-of-the-art interpretation centre at which National Park to showcase its flora, fauna and rich biodiversity? 1.Simplipal National Park 2.Manas National Park 3.Bhitarkania National Park 4.Keoladeo National Park 5.None of these Answer - 3.Bhitarkanika National Park Explanation:

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On August 21 2018 ,Odisha government has decided to set up a state-of-the-art interpretation centre at Bhitarkanika National Park to showcase its flora, fauna and rich biodiversity. Now, the national park has an interpretation centre at Dangmal but it proved to be inadequate in preserving the vast reserve of the finest biodiversity.So Government plan to set up a specialized and world-class interpretation centre at Bhitarkanika to showcase its efforts in protecting crocodiles and preserving its rich mangrove diversity. The project has been approved under the Integrated Coastal Zone Management Programme (ICZMP)at an estimated cost of Rs 3 crore.

380. Iran unveiled its first domestic fighter jet at the National Defence Industry exhibition in _____, on 21st August 2018? 1.New York, United States 2.Tehran, Iran 3.London, United Kingdom 4.Tokyo, Japan 5.None of these Answer - 2.Tehran, Iran Explanation: On August 21,2018 Iran unveiled its first domestic fighter jet at the National Defence Industry exhibition in Tehran. President Hassan Rouhaniinsisting that Tehran's military strength was only designed to deter enemies and create "lasting peace".

381. According to the Receivables Exchange of India (RXIL) which Public Sector Unit became the first to transact on RXIL Trade Receivable e-Discounting System (TReDS) platform? 1.GAIL (Gas Authority of Indian Limited) 2.HPCL (Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited) 3.Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) 4.Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) 5.None of these Answer - 4.Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) Explanation: The Receivables Exchange of India (RXIL) informed that Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) became first Public Sector Unit to transact on RXIL Trade Receivable e-Discounting System (TReDS) platform. It executed its first digitized invoice discounting transaction on RXIL TReDS platform, when it accepted the digital invoice uploaded by Narendra Udyog , a Nasik-based MSME vendor. The transaction was financed by Bank of Baroda.

382. Which football player received the UEFA (Union of European Football Associations) President’s Award on August 21,2018? 1.Mohammed Salah 2.Christiano Ronaldo 3.David Beckham 4.Neymar 5.None of these Answer - 3.David Beckham Explanation: On August 21,2018 An English retired professional footballer David Beckham will be presented the 2018 UEFA President’s Award by European football's governing body, in recognition of his remarkable career and humanitarian efforts. UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin called Beckham as the “a true football icon of his generation” after selecting the former Manchester United and Real Madrid midfielder to receive the award in Monaco later. The President’s Award recognises outstanding achievements, professional excellence and exemplary personal qualities.

383. Which Assamese film has won award for screenplay at Treasure Coast International Film Festival in Florida? 1.Village Rockstars 2.Xhoixobote Dhemalite (Rainbow fields) 3.Raktabeez 4.Mission China 5.None of these

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Answer - 2.Xhoixobote Dhemalite (Rainbow fields) Explanation: "Xhoixobote Dhemalite" (Rainbow fields), an Assamese film directed by Bidyut Kotoky has won an another award for screenplay at Treasure Coast International Film Festival in Florida.This film narrates sensitive issue of children growing up in violent times. The film also features seasoned actors like Victor Banerjee, Nakul Vaid, Naved Aslam, Nipon Goswami and Nikumoni Barua. The film is produced by 'India Stories', a Mumbai-based production house and co-produced by Kotoky's Dhruv Creative Productions and US-based Kurmasana Kreates. This film already won three awards, including that of best film, in the Love international Film Festival, Los Angeles.

384. Who was appointed the new Governor of Bihar, on 21st August 2018? 1.Lal Ji Tondon 2.Madan Guljit 3.Rishi Patel 4.Videsh Satyarthi 5.None of these Answer - 1.Lal Ji Tondon Explanation: On August 21,President Ram Nath Kovind appointed Governors for seven States viz Bihar, Haryana, Jammu and Kashmir, Meghalaya, Sikkim, Tripura and Uttarakhand. Senior BJP leader Lal Ji Tondon has been appointed as the new Governor of Bihar.He Succeeds Satyapal Malik.In May 2009, Tondon was elected to the 15th Lok Sabha from Lucknow. He has been a member of Uttar Pradesh Vidhan Parishad (Legislative Council) for two terms(1978–84) and remained the Leader of House,of the Council(1990–96),He remained a member of Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly (MLA) for three terms(1996–2009), and remained the Leader of Opposition in the Assembly(2003- 07).He had also served as Urban Development minister in the Uttar Pradesh cabinet under Mayawati(in the BSP- BJP combine), and also in the Kalyan Singh ministry.

385. Who was appointed the governor of Haryana on 21st August 2018? 1.Satyadev Narayan Arya 2.Satya Pal Malik 3.Vishwa Manishankar 4.Ramjit Singhania 5.None of these Answer - 1.Satyadev Narayan Arya Explanation: Satyadev Narayan Arya was appointed as the Governor of Haryana.He succeeds Kaptan Singh Solanki.Satyadev is a former minister of mines and geology of Bihar,He is an eight time member of the Bihar Legislative Assembly from Rajgir. Bihar governor Satya Pal Malik was appointed as the Governor of Jammu and Kashmir.He replaces N.N.Vohra.Earlier, he was the member of the 9th Lok Sabha and represented Aligarh Constituency from 1989 to 1991. He was member of Rajya sabha from Uttar Pradesh during two term of 1980-86 and 1986-1992. He was also member of Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly during 1974-77. Former Agra mayor and ex-member of National Commission for Women (NCW) Baby Rani Maurya was appointed as the Governor of Uttarakhand.She Replaces K.K.Paul.

386. Who was appointed the Governor of Tripura, on 21st August 2018? 1.Kaptan Singh Solanki 2.N N Vohra 3.Jagdish Mukhi 4.Vidyasagar Rao 5.None of these Answer - 1.Kaptan Singh Solanki Explanation: Tripura governor Tathagata Roy has been appointed as Governor of Meghalaya.He replaces Ganga Prasad.Roy was the President of the West Bengal state unit of BJP from 2002 till 2006. Governor of Meghalaya,Ganga Prasad has been appointed as Governor of Sikkim.He Succeeds Shriniwas Dadasaheb Patil. Prasad was elected to the Legislative Council of Bihar in 1994 and had been a member for 18 years.On 30 September 2017, Prasad was appointed by President Ram Nath Kovind as the new Governor of Meghalaya. Haryana governor Kaptan Singh Solanki has been appointed as Governor of Tripura,He succeeds Tathagata Roy. Since August 2009 Kaptan was the

Current Affairs Q&A PDF member of the Parliament of India representing Madhya Pradesh State in the Rajya Sabha,the upper house until May 2014.

387. Name the person who was appointed the new chief Lokayukt of the Chhattisgarh on 20th August 2018? 1.T P Sharma 2.Mahesh Sharma 3.Sandeep Rao 4.Manush Joshi 5.None of these Answer - 1.T P Sharma Explanation: On August 20,2018 Retired judge of the Chhattisgarh High Court T P Sharma was appointed the new chief Lokayukt of the state. Sharma will head the Chhattisgarh Lok Ayog, set up to deal with corruption cases against public servants.

388. Who resigned from the post of Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman, on 20th August 2018? 1.Abu Backer Deen 2.Mushthak Sulaiman 3.Najam Sethi 4.Abdul Hassan 5.None of these Answer - 3.Najam Sethi Explanation: On August 20,2018 Najam Sethi quits from the post of Pakistan Cricket Board chairman.Prime Minister Imran Khan nominated former ICC president Ehsan Mani as his successor. Sethi, nominated to the PCB Board of Governors by ex-Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif from 2014-2017 and then again from 2017-2020 by ex-Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi.

389. Scientists have found frozen water deposits in the darkest and coldest parts of the Moon’s polar regions using data from which spacecraft? 1.Kepler 2.Chandrayaan-I 3.Parker 4.Lunatrics – II 5.None of these Answer - 2.Chandrayaan-I Explanation: NASA informed that Scientists have found frozen water deposits in the darkest and coldest parts of the Moon’s polar regions using data from the Chandrayaan-I spacecraft, that was launched by India ten years ago. With enough ice sitting at the surface within the top few millimetres—water would possibly be accessible as a resource for future expeditions to explore and even stay on the Moon, and potentially easier to access than the water detected beneath the Moon’s surface.

390. Which state is organizing the 14th Men's Hockey World Cup 2018 from 28 November to 16 December 2018? 1.Odisha 2.Gujarat 3.Kerala 4.Madhya Pradesh 5.None of these Answer - 1.Odisha Explanation: Odisha for the First time is Organizing the 2018 Men's Hockey World Cup,which will be the 14th edition of the Hockey World Cup field hockey tournament.It is scheduled to be held from 28 November to 16 December 2018, at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar, India. 16 Teams are to be participated in the Tournament. The Hague in Netherland hosted the Previous tournament in the year 2014,in which Australia won the title which is their third

Current Affairs Q&A PDF title and the Netherland became the Runner Up.Only 12 Teams Participated in this Tournament. Ahead of this tournament Odisha government has decided to launch a build-up campaign in 17 cities from August 29. The campaign will be organised in Rourkela, Mumbai, New Delhi, Bhubaneswar and other important cities and hockey states.

391. Gurudas Kamat passed away due to Heart Attack, on 22nd August 2018. What was his profession? 1.Cricketer 2.Film maker 3.Businessman 4.Politician 5.None of these Answer - 4.Politician Explanation: On August 22,Senior Congress leader and five-time parliamentarian Gurudas Kamat passed away due to Heart Attack.He was 63 year old. Kamat was a commerce graduate and had a law degree from the Government Law College, Mumbai. Kamat served as a Union minister in the UPA-II government. He was a Member of Parliament from the Mumbai North West Constituency in 2009 and Mumbai North East Constituency in 1984,1991,1998 and 2004. From 2009 to 2011,he served as the Minister of State for Home Affairs with Additional Charge of Communications and Information Technology.

392. Jadunath Das Mohapatra passed away due to prolonged illness, on 21st August 2018. He was the former education minister of which state? 1.Gujarat 2.Rajasthan 3.Bihar 4.Odisha 5.None of these Answer - 4.Odisha Explanation: On August 21,Former Odisha Minister,Multi-faceted Personality and three-time MLA Jadunath Das Mohapatra passed away due to Prolonged illness. Das Mohapatra begun his political career as a student leader and joined Congress in early sixties and was the general secretary of Balasore District Congress Committee from 1964 to 1967. He was also made education minister in the cabinet of late Chief Minister Janaki Ballabh Patnaik in 1985. He was also a renowned litterateur.He has written 20 novels, 16 plays, 12 anthologies of poems and literary write-ups and won several awards.

393. Indian Institute of Technology rejected the proposal of Human Resource and Development ministry for setting up a panel to recommended changes in the JEE- Advanced. What does “J” represent in JEE? 1.Junior 2.Joint 3.Judicial 4.Judge 5.None of these Answer - 2.Joint Explanation: JEE - Joint Entrance Examination On August 21,2018, Indian Institute of Technology rejected the proposal of Human Resource and Development ministry for setting up a panel to recommended changes in the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE- Advanced).

394. What is the theme of the 6th “International Buddhist Conclave (IBC), 2018” held in India from 23rd to 26thAugust 2018? 1.Buddha Path – The Living Heritage 2.Evolution and spread of Buddhism 3.Buddhism and its Glory 4.The Noble Path of Buddha 5.None of these Answer - 1.Buddha Path – The Living Heritage

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Explanation: On 23rd August 2018, Indian President Ram Nath Kovind inaugurated the “International Buddhist Conclave (IBC), 2018” at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi. The Minister of State (Independent charge), K.J. Alphons presided over the inaugural function. The Conclave is held for 4 days till 26th August 2018. It is organized by the Ministry of Tourism along with the State Governments of Maharashtra, Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. The conclave is held in New Delhi and Ajanta (Maharashtra). Site visits will be held in Rajgir, Nalanda and Bodhgaya (Bihar) and Sarnath (Uttar Pradesh).

395. Which is the partner country of the 6th “International Buddhist Conclave (IBC), 2018” held in India from 23rd to 26th August 2018? 1.China 2.Nepal 3.Sri Lanka 4.Japan 5.None of these Answer - 4.Japan Explanation: This is the 6th International Buddhist Conclave. Theme of this conclave is: “Buddha Path – The Living Heritage”. Partner Country for IBC 2018 is Japan. This conclave aims to project the Buddhist Heritage in India and enhance tourism in Buddhist sites of India and develop friendly ties with countries and communities interested in Buddhism. An ‘Investors’ Summit’ is also organized by the Ministry of Tourism during the Conclave to attract investments to develop world class infrastructure at Buddhist sites. The Ministry of Tourism, India, organises the International Buddhist Conclave biennially.

396. The 'India Wage Report: Wage policies for decent work and inclusive growth' was released on 20th August 2018. Which organization released this report? 1.ILO (International Labour Organization) 2.World Bank 3.International Monetary Fund (IMF) 4.Asian Development Bank (ADB) 5.None of these Answer - 1.ILO (International Labour Organization) Explanation: On 20th August 2018, ILO (International Labour Organization) released its 'India Wage Report: Wage policies for decent work and inclusive growth'. This report states that, India needs to improve its wage policies to promote inclusive growth. As per ILO’s report, low pay and wage inequality prevent India from achieving decent working conditions and inclusive growth. As per the report, nearly 33 % i.e. 62 million workers were paid less than the indicative national minimum wage. Also, the rate of low pay was higher in women.

397. Punjab Cabinet has approved the formation of the state higher education council. Who will be the head of the council? 1.Amarinder Singh 2.Kaptan Singh Solanki 3.Navjit Singh Siddu 4.Sumit Rawat 5.None of these Answer - 1.Amarinder Singh Explanation: On 21st August 2018, the Punjab Cabinet approved the formation of the state higher education council to offer quality education. A bill regarding this will be introduced in the Punjab Vidhan Sabha. The Punjab State Higher Education Council will be headedby Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh. Higher education minister will be the vice chairman. Administrative secretary, higher education will be the member secretary. Other members of the council: vice-chancellors of state universities, principals of government colleges and eminent persons from the fields of arts, science, technology, culture, industry etc.

398. Which state government has decided to name the upcoming Bundelkhand Expressway as 'Atal Path' to honour former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajyapee? 1.Jharkhand

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2.Gujarat 3.Madhya Pradesh 4.Uttar Pradesh 5.None of these Answer - 4.Uttar Pradesh Explanation: Uttar Pradesh government has decided to name the upcoming Bundelkhand Expressway as 'Atal Path' to honour former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajyapee. A notification in this regard will be issued soon. The upcoming Bundelkhand Expressway is proposed as a 289-km, 4-lane, access-controlled highway. It will start from Jhansi and passing through Chitrakoot, Banda, Hamirpur, Auraiya and Jalaun. It will reach Etawah and join Agra-Lucknow expressway. It is proposed to be developed by the Uttar Pradesh Expressway Industrial Development Authority (UPEIDA).

399. According to a report by Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) the maximum number of cyber attacks on official Indian websites during from April-June 2018 were from which country? 1.China 2.United States of America 3.Russia 4.Japan 5.None of these Answer - 1.China Explanation: The intruding activities on Indian cyber space is as follows:

Country % China 35 USA 17 Russia 15 Pakistan 9 Canada 7 Germany 5 Netherlands 4 North Korea 2 France 2 Others 4

400. Ujjivan Small Finance Bank has announced the launch of its overdraft facility for micro and small enterprises (MSE). It will be offered to all MSEs with a turnover of _____ or more? 1.Rs 50 lakh 2.Rs 1 crore 3.Rs 10 lakh 4.Rs 25 lakh 5.None of these Answer - 1.Rs 50 lakh Explanation: On August 23, 2018, Ujjivan Small Finance Bank announced the launch of its overdraft facility for micro and small enterprises (MSE). This is aimed at the MSEs who don't have easy access to formal credit. It would be offered to all MSEs with a turnover of Rs 50 lakh or more. This interest rate on the overdraft is for one year with a minimum credit of Rs 11 lakh to a maximum of Rs 50 lakh renewed on an annual basis. A key feature of the facility is that it allows MSE customers to pay EMI only on the utilised amount and repay the amount at any time during the tenure of the OD facility.

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401. As per Moody’s Investor services report called Global Macro Outlook for 2018-19, the Indian economy will grow by what per cent in 2018 and 2019? 1.7.7 % 2.7.5 % 3.7.8 % 4.7.6 % 5.None of these Answer - 2.7.5 % Explanation: On August 23, 2018, according to Moody’s Investor services report called Global Macro Outlook for 2018-19, the Indian economy will grow by around 7.5 per cent in 2018 and 2019. The main reasons behind this is: strong urban and rural demand and improved industrial activity. Also due to the rise in energy prices the Headline inflation would rise as well temporarily. Earlier in in May, Moody’s cut the GDP from 7.5% to 7.3%.Retail inflation in India has been predicted to be around 5% and core inflation has risen to 6.2%.

402. Forbes has released its top 10 highest paid list in different categories and professions. Who has ranked number 1 in the Forbes list of highest paid actors for 2018? 1.George Clooney 2.Dwayne Johnson 3.Robert Downey Jr 4.Chris Hemsworth 5.None of these Answer - 1.George Clooney Explanation: Top 10 highest Paid Actors 2018:

Rank Actor 1 George Clooney 2 Dwayne Johnson 3 Robert Downey Jr 4 Chris Hemsworth 5 Jackie Chan 6 Will Smith 7 Akshay Kumar 8 Adam Sandler 9 Salman Khan 10 Chris Evans

Top 10 highest Paid Sportswomen:

Rank Sportswomen 1 Serena Williams 2 Caroline Wozniacki 3 Sloane Stephens 4 Garbine Muguruza 5 Maria Sharapova 6 Venus Williams 7 P.V. Sindhu 8 Simona Halep 9 Danica Patrick

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10 Angelique Kerber

Top 10 Highest paid Actresses in the World:

Rank Actress 1 Scarlett Johansson 2 Angelina Jolie 3 Jennifer Aniston 4 Jennifer Lawrence 5 Reese Witherspoon 6 Mila Kunis 7 Julia Roberts 8 Cate Blanchett 9 Melissa McCarthy 10 Gal Gadot

403. Who was reappointed as Finance Minister by President Ram Nath Kovind after he recovered from a kidney ailment, on August 23, 2018? 1.Arun Jaitley 2.Suresh Prabhu 3.Piyush Goyal 4.Anant Kumar 5.None of these Answer - 1.Arun Jaitley Explanation: On August 23, 2018, President Ram Nath Kovind re appointed Arun Jaitley as Finance Minister after he recovered from a kidney ailment. Jaitley will resume charge of both finance and corporate affairs portfolios. Earlier from May 14, Minister for Railways and Coal Piyush Goyal was appointed as the Finance minister on an interim basis as Mr.Arun Jaitley underwent a kidney surgery.

404. Who has been appointed by the National Green Tribunal (NGT) as the head of the three-member committee formed to decide Vedanta's plea challenging closure of Sterlite copper plant at Tuticorin? 1.Aharsh Kumar Goel 2.Sunil Shetty 3.Veer Das 4.SJ Vazifdar 5.None of these Answer - 4.SJ Vazifdar Explanation: On August 23, 2018, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has appointed retired judge S J Vazifdar as head of a three- member committee. This decision was taken by a bench headed by chairperson A K Goel. To decide mining company Vedanta's plea challenging closure of its Sterlite copper plant at Tuticorin. S J Vazifdar is a former Punjab and Haryana High Court Chief Justice. The committee will also include representatives of the Central Pollution Control Board and the Ministry of Environment and Forests.

405. Who was appointed the head of India investments by Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA) on 23rd August 2018? 1.Kabir Mathur 2.Rahul Srivastava 3.Anup Matthew 4.Praveen Hebbal 5.None of these Answer - 1.Kabir Mathur

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Explanation: On August 23, 2018, Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA), the world’s second largest sovereign wealth fund, has hired private equity veteran Kabir Mathur to head operations in India. He is a former director with US fund KKR & Co. L.P and has worked with the firm during 2008 -2017 on investing and portfolio management activities across Southeast Asia. Prior to this, he worked with TPG Capital as Associate on the investment activities in Southeast Asia.

406. Who was appointed as the brand ambassador of the Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP) based in Mumbai, on 22nd August 2018? 1.Deepika Padukone 2.Shah Rukh Khan 3.Raveena Tandon 4.Shilpa Shetty 5.None of these Answer - 3.Raveena Tandon Explanation: On 22nd August 2018, Maharashtra Forest Minister Sudhir Mungantiwar announced the appointment of actor Raveena Tandon as the brand ambassador of the Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP) based in Mumbai. SGNP is rich in flora and fauna. It provides water to a major portion of Mumbai. As the brand ambassador of SGNP, Raveena Tandon will work with Maharashtra forest department to create awareness about its initiatives, like the 50 crore tree plantation drive, eco-tourism in SGNP, conservation of leopards in SGNP, etc.

407. Name the European wind survey satellite launched from French Guyana, on August 23, 2018? 1.Aeolus 2.Zeus 3.Venus 4.Adolan 5.None of these Answer - 1.Aeolus Explanation: On August 23, 2018, Europe launched a rocket named "Aeolus" from French Guyana. This satellite will be put into orbit at an altitude of 320 kilometres (200 miles) above the Earth which will track global winds, allowing for improved weather forecasting. It is part of the Copernicus project, a joint initiative of the European Union and the European Space Agency (ESA) to track environmental damage and aid disaster relief operations. The new mission is also Arianespace's 50th launch for the European Space Agency.

408. Which institute has announced the launch of Fabless Chip Design Incubator (FabCI) exclusively for startups in chip design? 1.IIT-Bombay 2.IIT-Madras 3.IIT-Hyderabad 4.IIT-Kharagpur 5.None of these Answer - 3.IIT-Hyderabad Explanation: On 21st August 2018, Indian Institute of Technology, Hyderabad, announced the launch of Fabless Chip Design Incubator (FabCI) exclusively for startups in chip design. FabCI is said to be the first-of-its-kind in India. It focuses on developing an ecosystem for supporting startups in chip design. It offers facilities like free software tools with leading technology partners in Electronic Design Automation (EDA), etc. FabCI aims to incubate a minimum of 50 'Make-in-India' chip design companies that can compete globally and generate Intellectual Property Rights (IPRs).

409. Name the wireless 'in-body GPS' system that can accurately locate ingestible implants and track tumours inside the body, developed by US scientists? 1.iTrack 2.Entour 3.ReMix 4.FindnFix

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5.None of these Answer - 3.ReMix Explanation: Scientists have developed a wireless 'in-body GPS' system named “ReMix” that can accurately locate ingestible implants and track tumours inside the body. ReMix was able to track implants with centimetre-level accuracy in animal tests. Similar implants can be used to deliver drugs to specific regions of the body. The test was conducted by scientists from Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) in the US. ReMix could be used in proton therapy, a type of cancer treatment through bombardment of tumours with beams of magnet-controlled protons.

410. Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) recently recognised which indigenous sport of India? 1.Kho-Kho 2.Kabbadi 3.Shot Put 4.Pole Vault 5.None of these Answer - 1.Kho-Kho Explanation: Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) has given recognition to Kho-Kho, India's indigenous sport. This was announced at the General Assembly of the OCA on 19th August 2018. Kho-Kho will be included as a demonstration sport in the Asian Indoor Games. Also, it has the possibility to be included as a discipline in the next Asian Games. Rajeev Mehta is the Secretary General of Indian Olympic Association (IOA). He is also the president of Asian Kho-Kho Federation.

411. Kuldip Nayar passed away in Delhi, on 23rd August 2018. He was a _____? 1.journalist 2.author 3.human rights activist 4.All the above 5.None of these Answer - 4.All the above Explanation: On August 23, 2018, renowned journalist, author and human rights activist Kuldip Nayar passed away in Delhi at 95. He is survived by his wife and two sons. He was a former editor at The Indian Express. He also served as High Commissioner of India to the United Kingdom. e served as a press information officer to former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shashtri and former Union Home Minister Govind Ballabh Pant.

412. The book "Sea Prayer", a tribute to Alan Kurdi, the 3-year-old Syrian boy whose body washed upon a beach in Turkey in 2015, will be in August 2018. Who has written this book? 1.Khaled Hosseini 2.Salman Rushdie 3.Andrew Simons 4.Philip Sanders 5.None of these Answer - 1.Khaled Hosseini Explanation: "Sea Prayer", the new book of writer Khaled Hosseini will be released on 30th August 2018. It is a tribute to Alan Kurdi, the 3-year-old Syrian boy whose body washed upon a beach in Turkey in September 2015. Earlier "Sea Prayer" was produced in collaboration with UNHCR (United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees) and released as a Guardian virtual film on 1st September 2017. Now, Sea Prayer has been written in the form of a letter and will be published by Bloomsbury. Bloomsbury will donate one pound from the sale of each print book to UNHCR.

413. When was International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and Its Abolition 2018 celebrated? 1.August 23 2.August 22 3.August 21

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4.August 20 5.None of these Answer - 1.August 23 Explanation: On 23rd August 2018, International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and Its Abolition was observed throughout the world. On the night of 22 to 23 August 1791, Santo Domingo (today Haiti and the Dominican Republic) experienced the beginning of the uprising that played an important role in the abolition of the transatlantic slave trade. This day is commemorated as International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition on 23rd August every year.

414. Name the Defence Minister of Japan who visited India at the invitation of the Defence Minister of India, Nirmala Sitharaman from 19 to 20 August 2018? 1.Itsunori Onodera 2.Nami Nagamatsu 3.Naomi Okawa 4.Minsoi Phugata 5.None of these Answer - 1.Itsunori Onodera Explanation: The Defence Minister of Japan Mr. Itsunori Onodera visited India for the first time for 2 days at the invitation of the Defence Minister of India Smt Nirmala Sitharaman from 19 to 20 August 2018. Objective: • To further strengthen defence and security cooperation under the ‘Japan-lndia Special Strategic and Global Partnership’ , • To work on Japan’s ‘Free and Open Indo-Pacific Strategy’ with India’s ‘Act East Policy’

415. Central Government has launched Draft International Air Connectivity (IAC) scheme to extend which air travel programme to international circuits? 1.All India Air Connectivity Programme (AIACP) 2.UDAN (Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik) 3.Air Connectivity for India (ACI) 4.National Civil Aviation Scheme (NCAS) 5.None of these Answer - 2.UDAN (Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik) Explanation: On 21st August 2018, Central Government launched Draft International Air Connectivity (IAC) scheme to extend affordable air travel programme UDAN (Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik) to international circuits. The draft International Air Connectivity (IAC) scheme aims to increase international ticketing to 20 crore by 2027. This will be made operational only for states that express commitment to implement and offer necessary support to promote operations under the scheme.

416. The government has given standard environment clearing conditions to give proper general guidance to companies seeking environment clearance for how many sectors? 1.15 2.20 3.25 4.45 5.None of these Answer - 3.25 Explanation: On August 24, 2018, to give proper general guidance to companies seeking environment clearance, the government has given standard environment clearing conditions for 25 sectors. This would ensure uniformity on stipulated terms and conditions across the projects and sectors. The 25 sectors include: iron, steel, cement, coal, petroleum refineries industry, paper and pulp industries, hydro-electric projects, industrial estates, among others. The government has also constituted green panel called Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) that would assess projects.

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417. NITI Aayog has released how many Thematic Reports on Sustainable Development in Indian Himalayan Region that was prepared by the 5 Working Groups (WGs) in June 2017? 1.5 2.3 3.4 4.10 5.None of these Answer - 1.5 Explanation: On August 24, 2018, NITI Aayog released the 5 Thematic Reports on Sustainable Development in Indian Himalayan Region that had been prepared by the 5 Working Groups (WGs) in June 2017. The reports from the five working groups discuss the significance, the challenges, the ongoing actions and a future roadmap in that region.

418. Name the digital platform, that is to be set up to ease transportation of goods across India and exports, following the approval of committee of secretaries? 1.Import Export Portal (IEP) 2.National Logistics Portal (NLP) 3.Indian Commerce Portal (ICP) 4.National Commerce Portal (NCP) 5.None of these Answer - 2.National Logistics Portal (NLP) Explanation: On August 24, 2018, A committee of secretaries has approved a proposal by department of commerce (DoC) to setup a National Logistics Portal (NLP). To ease transportation of goods across the country and export. The portal is being planned in three phases- • development of a logistics e-marketplace whose test run is being planned by March, • single window certification by bringing in 81 authorities on board, and • integrating financial services on the platform. It will have a common online platform to integrate all transactions involved in their production and export.

419. Which state cabinet approved a bill for creation of a price stabilisation fund to ensure that the state farmers get minimum support price (MSP), on 24th August 2018? 1.Punjab 2.Gujarat 3.Rajasthan 4.Madhya Pradesh 5.None of these Answer - 1.Punjab Explanation: On August 24, 2018, The Punjab cabinet approved a bill for creation of a price stabilisation fund. This decision was taken by the cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Amarinder Singh. This would ensure that state farmers get minimum support price (MSP). It would protect the interests of farmers in the event of a sudden fall in prices of certain agricultural commodities. Amendments will be made to sections 25 (A), 26 and 28 of the Punjab Agricultural Produce Markets Act, 1961.

420. Which is the partner country for the 2nd edition of the ‘Make in Odisha Conclave 2018’ that will be held from 11thto 15th November 2018, in Odisha? 1.Japan 2.United States 3.United Kingdom 4.Russia 5.None of these Answer - 1.Japan Explanation: In the 2nd edition of Make in Odisha Conclave 2018, Japan will be the ‘partner country’ and State Bank of India will be the banking partner. It will be the only country partner for Make in Odisha Conclave-2018. This would include investment opportunities in the state across six focus sectors including: food processing and seafood, chemicals,

Current Affairs Q&A PDF plastics and petrochemicals, ancillary and downstream industries in the metal sector, electronic manufacturing, textiles, apparel and tourism. The state has also earmarked 600 acres of land in Bhubaneswar for the Japanese investors.

421. Where was India’s largest Business Incubator “Bhamashah Techno Hub” launched on 24th August 2018? 1.Jaipur, Rajasthan 2.Mumbai, Maharashtra 3.Kochi, Kerala 4.Chennai, Tamil Nadu 5.None of these Answer - 1.Jaipur, Rajasthan Explanation: On August 24, 2018, Chief Minister of Rajasthan Vasundhara Raje launched India’s largest Business Incubator “Bhamashah Techno Hub” In Jaipur. It will provide free space, easier funding avenues and mentorship to startups. The Rajasthan government announced setting up of a Rs 500-crore startup fund – Bhamashah Techno Fund. Out of the total amount, Rs 50 crore has been earmarked for green startups and Rs 100 crore for women startups. The hub has an 1.50 lakh square feet of incubation space and would be able to accommodate over 700 startup ventures.

422. Where will be the mega anti-terror drill of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) named The Peace Mission 2018 held from 22nd to 29th August 2018, in which Indian and Pakistani troops will participate for the first time? 1.Russia 2.China 3.Pakistan 4.Egypt 5.None of these Answer - 1.Russia Explanation: On August 22, 2018, for the first time, the militaries of India and Pakistan are taking part in a mega anti-terror drill of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) named The Peace Mission 2018 in Russia. India is participating in the drill for the first time since becoming a full member of the SCO in June 2017. It is aimed at expanding cooperation among the member countries to deal with terrorism and extremism. The joint exercise is being conducted by the Central Military Commission of Russia from August 22 to August 29 at Chebarkul, Russia.

423. Name India's only aircraft carrier which will get an upgrade for its air wing by Russian company Technodinamika? 1.INS Sahyadri 2.INS Vikramaditya 3.INS Kalvari 4.INS Prithvi 5.None of these Answer - 2.INS Vikramaditya Explanation: On August 24, 2018, India's only aircraft carrier INS Vikramaditya will be upgraded and fitted with a marine hydraulic system to boost the air operations of the ship for the first time. This will be done by Technodinamika, a subsidiary of Russia's Rostec State Corporation by May 2019. Hydraulics technology uses fluid pressure to power machines and the systems to be installed are named “GS-1MF" and "GS-3".They will be used for refuelling, cleaning and pressurisation of hydraulic systems of aircraft and helicopters on board the INS Vikramaditya.

424. The United States has imposed preliminary anti-dumping duty of _____% on India-made metal pipes? 1.25 % 2.34 % 3.45.5 % 4.50.55 %

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5.None of these Answer - 4.50.55 % Explanation: The United States has imposed preliminary anti-dumping duty of 50.55 % on India-made metal pipes. This move has been made to protect the American industry and reduce the trade deficit. In January 2018, 6 US pipe manufacturers had filed antidumping complaint with the US Department of Commerce. On 21st August 2018, after preliminary analysis, the US Department of Commerce stated that, China, Greece, Canada, South Korea, Turkey and India were selling the large diameter-welded pipe used to transport oil, gas and other fluids very much below the fair price. This dumping is harmful to the US industry.

425. Name Flipkart’s dedicated portal for refurbished goods, including mobile phones, laptops and tablets, that was launched on 24th August 2018? 1.2Gud 2.GudforYou 3.GoodBuy 4.BuynTry 5.None of these Answer - 1.2Gud Explanation: On August 24, 2018, Flipkart unveiled a dedicated portal '2Gud' for refurbished goods, including mobile phones, laptops and tablets. It is aimed to bring affordability, accessibility and availability to the refurbished market. It would offer refurbished mobile phones, tablets, laptops and other electronic accessories along with a 3-12 month warranty. The platform would also allow customers to return their products. It will soon be accessible through desktop browsers and a mobile application.

426. Which company has become the first Indian company to cross Rs 8 lakh crore market capitalization? 1.TCS 2.Infosys 3.Tata Steel 4.Reliance Industries (RIL) 5.None of these Answer - 4.Reliance Industries (RIL) Explanation: On August 24, 2018, Reliance Industries (RIL) became the first Indian company to cross Rs 8 lakh crore market capitalization. The company’s market valuation soared to Rs 8,04,247.76 crore. M-cap of TCS' Rs 7,77,870 crore m- cap.

427. Which company has topped Fortune’s 4th annual ‘Change the World’ List 2018, released on 24th August 2018? 1.Google 2.Microsoft 3.Reliance Jio 4.Apple 5.None of these Answer - 3.Reliance Jio Explanation: Fortune’s 4th annual ‘Change the World’ List 2018:

Rank Company Industry 1 Reliance Jio Telecommunications 2 Merck Pharmaceuticals 3 Bank of America Commercial Bank 4 Inditex Specialty Retailers 5 Alibaba Group Internet Services and retailing

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6 Kroger Food and Drug Store 7 Xylem Industrial Machinery 8 ABB Industrial Machinery 9 Weight Watchers International Business Services Network and other 10 Hughes Network System communications

428. Paytm has launched “Paytm AI Cloud for India” for developers, start-ups, and enterprises in partnership with which company? 1.Google 2.Microsoft 3.Alibaba 4.Wipro 5.None of these Answer - 3.Alibaba Explanation: Paytm has launched “Paytm AI Cloud for India” for developers, start-ups, and enterprises in partnership with Alibaba, a global tech giant. This is a made-in-India AI-powered cloud. It offers ready-to-use services to automate workflow, easy to integrate payments, messaging and customer engagement without the trouble of managing hardware and software, in-built CRM, Campaign Management. It also offers affordable, easy-to-access computing services, ready-to-use apps, pattern recognition technology, pre-trained models and predictive computation to businesses.

429. Who took charge as Member (Planning) at the Airports Authority of India (AAI), on 21st August 2018? 1.Guruprasad Mohapatra 2.Anil Kumar Pathak 3.Raveendra Shivan 4.Kanvar Singh 5.None of these Answer - 2.Anil Kumar Pathak Explanation: On 21st August 2018, Anil Kumar Pathak took charge as Member (Planning) at the Airports Authority of India (AAI). Earlier, Anil Kumar Pathak was Executive Director of Planning and Engineering at the headquarters. He had also worked in Corporate Planning, Traffic Forecasting, and Airport Infrastructure Planning. AAI manages over 120 airports in various parts of India.

430. Who was appointed the Secretary General of Assocham (Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India) on 23rd August 2018? 1.Shiva Kumar Prasad 2.Manish Vidyarthi 3.Vivek Kumar Singh 4.Uday Kumar Varma 5.None of these Answer - 4.Uday Kumar Varma Explanation: On August 23, 2018, Industry chamber Assocham appointed former bureaucrat Uday Kumar Varma as its new Secretary General. He will succeed DS Rawat. Mr.Varma was a former Secretary, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India. He has served administrative role in the state government of Madhya Pradesh as well.

431. FIFA (International Federation of Association Football) has taken temporary control over which football association due to governance issues? 1.Uruguayan Football Association (AUF) 2.South African Football Association (SAFA)

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3.Indian Football Association (IFA) 4.Mexican Football Association (MFA) 5.None of these Answer - 1.Uruguayan Football Association (AUF) Explanation: FIFA (International Federation of Association Football) has taken temporary control over the Uruguayan Football Association (AUF) due to governance issues. AUF’s president Wilmar Valdez resigned from his position in July 2018, just before a day he was to stand for re-election. The election was put on hold. FIFA will look over a transparent election for a new president for AUF. A normalization committee will be formed to run AUF till 28th February 2019.

432. Cricketer Jhulan Goswami has announced her retirement from Twenty-20 Internationals (T20Is). Which country does she belong to? 1.Sri Lanka 2.India 3.Bangladesh 4.Nepal 5.None of these Answer - 2.India Explanation: Indian cricketer Jhulan Goswami has announced her retirement from Twenty-20 Internationals (T20Is). She will only play ODIs hereafter. Jhulan Goswami is 35 years old. She represented India in 68 T20Is and has taken 56 wickets at an economy rate of 5.45. She played her first T20I in August 2006. She has played 10 Tests and 169 ODIs so far. At present, she is the leading wicket-taker in the women's ODI format. She is also the first woman cricketer to take 200 ODI wickets.

433. NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration) has designed 2 virtual reality applications named NASA Selfies app and NASA's Exoplanet Excursions, to celebrate the 15th anniversary of the which Space Telescope? 1.Kepler 2.Spitzer 3.Parker 4.Neo 5.None of these Answer - 2.Spitzer Explanation: NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration) has designed 2 virtual reality applications named: NASA Selfies appand NASA's Exoplanet Excursions, to celebrate the 15th anniversary of the Spitzer Space Telescope. Through the NASA Selfies app users can take selfies in a virtual spacesuit and can pose in front of various cosmic locations. The NASA's Exoplanet Excursions takes the users on a virtual guided tour of the TRAPPIST-1 planetary system. Users are taken around 5 planets. Spitzer telescope detects these planets and provides information about the planets.

434. Where was India Banking Conclave 2018 held on 23rd and 24th August 2018? 1.Chennai 2.Mumbai 3.Bhopal 4.New Delhi 5.None of these Answer - 4.New Delhi Explanation: On 23rd and 24th August 2018, India Banking Conclave 2018 was held in New Delhi. The India Banking Conclave 2018 was organized by Centre for Economic Policy Research (CEPR). Knowledge Partner of the conclave was NITI Aayog. The conclave focused on reforming the banking sector. Politicians, Industrialists, Bureaucrats, Analysts, Academicians, Chartered Accountants, Company Secretary, Corporate Lawyers, top bankers and ministers participated in the conclave.

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435. With which country did India sign the Second Protocol amending the Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA) in New Delhi, on 24th August 2018? 1.Mauritius 2.United States 3.Singapore 4.Germany 5.None of these Answer - 3.Singapore Explanation: On 24th August 2018, India and Singapore signed the Second Protocol amending the Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA) in New Delhi. The Protocol was signed by Deputy Chief Negotiators, Rajneesh, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, India and Francis Chong, Senior Director, Ministry of Trade and Industry, Singapore. CECA was the 1st comprehensive agreement covering trade in goods, services and investments, signed by India with any of its trade partners. CECA was signed on 29th June 2005. Its first review concluded on 1st October 2007. Signing of the Second Protocol concludes the negotiations on 2nd review of CECA that started on 11th May 2010.

436. A part capacity of 126 MW wind power of India’s first Inter-State Transmission System (ISTS) auction, was commissioned in _____, by Ostro Kutch Wind Private Ltd, on 24th August 2018? 1.Alwar, Rajasthan 2.Bhuj, Gujarat 3.Uttarakhand, Dehradun 4.Vishakapatanm, Andhra Pradesh 5.None of these Answer - 2.Bhuj, Gujarat Explanation: On 24th August 2018, a part capacity of 126 MW wind power of India’s first Inter-State Transmission System (ISTS)auction, was commissioned in Bhuj, Gujarat, by Ostro Kutch Wind Private Ltd. Solar Energy Corporation of India Ltd (SECI) had conducted India’s first auction of wind power projects in February 2017. Tariff of Rs 3.46 was discovered in that, which was much lower than feed in current tariffs. It was a 1,000 MW bid for projects to be connected on ISTS. Through ISTS power generated from one state (renewable resource rich state) can be transmitted to other renewable deficient states. Mytrah, Inox, Ostro, Green Infa and Adani won this auction. Ostro Kutch Wind Private Ltd was issued letter of award for 250 MW capacity on 5th April 2017, with commissioning period of 18 months.

437. Name the app that has been launched by former President Pranab Mukherjee to enable voters to rate and review their political representatives? 1.Report Card app 2.Neta app 3.Rate the Leaders app 4.VotenReview app 5.None of these Answer - 2.Neta app Explanation: On 24th August 2018, Neta app that allows voters to rate and review their political representatives was launched by former President Pranab Mukherjee. The Neta App aims to build political accountability and transparency among leaders. It will enable users to rate their MLAs and MPs. It is billed as an instrument to measure voter sentiment in Indian constituencies. The Neta app has been developed by Pratham Mittal, a 27-year-old entrepreneur. It uses Artificial Intelligence, advanced algorithms, one time password and Aadhaar numbers to make sure that the users are genuine.

438. On 25th August 2018, high-level 5G Forum submitted its 62-page report to the Department of Telecommunication (DoT). Who is the head of the committee? 1.Raghavendra Rao 2.S Sadhasivam 3.AJ Paulraj 4.David Kingsley

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5.None of these Answer - 3.AJ Paulraj Explanation: On August 25, 2018, high-level 5G Forum headed by Stanford University’s Professor Emeritus AJ Paulraj, submitted its 62-page report to the Department of Telecommunication (DoT) and suggested the following measures to be taken. The recommendations are as follows: • announcement of a 5G spectrum policy, • earmarking additional airwave bandsthat may have an economic impact of more than $1 trillion by 2035, • assignment of free bandwidthfor trials for a fixed time frame of 6 months, • provision of spectrum licensefor 12 months after the trials, • most guidelines on regulatory matters must be promulgated by March 2019to facilitate early 5G deployment, • Even after 5G spectrum, 2G, 3G and 4G will continue to remain in use and it may take 10 or more years to phase out. • DoT may provide financial support to telcos related to deployment and • additional financial support may be offered to internet service providers (ISPs), technology companies, local governments to participate in the trials • India is likely to see the first 5G commercial launch in 2020.

439. _____ has launched The Stores, Proactive, Efficient and Expeditious Despatch of Extra Size/ Wt Consignment (SPEEDEX) contract to reduce the time taken for transportation of items and ensure early availability of stores to the field units? 1.Indian Navy 2.Indian Air Force 3.Indian Coast Guard 4.Border Roads Organisation 5.None of these Answer - 2.Indian Air Force Explanation: On August 25, 2018, Air Marshal RKS Shera, Air Officer-in-charge Maintenance, IAF formally launched The Stores, Proactive, Efficient and Expeditious Despatch of Extra Size/ Wt Consignment (SPEEDEX) contract. To reduce the time taken for transportation of items and ensure early availability of stores to the field units. This contract was concluded on 28 Jun 18 with M/s Balmer Lawrie & Co Ltd and M/s Ashok Travel and Tours for the Air & Surface component respectively. The theme of the contract is: ‘lift, shift and move’, that on all principles of Military Logistics.

440. Which State Government has increased the free electricity supply to the families of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes for domestic purpose from the current 50 units to 101 units? 1.Gujarat 2.Tamil Nadu 3.Kerala 4.Telangana 5.None of these Answer - 4.Telangana Explanation: On 24th August 2018, Telangana State Government increased the free electricity supply to the families of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes for domestic purpose from the current 50 units to 101 units. This was announced by Telengana Chief Minister Chandrasekhar Rao at a review meeting in Hyderabad. This decision has been made keeping in mind, the increasing usage of electrical appliances. The state government will pay these charges to the distributary agencies. Telangana State Government has also increased the honorarium paid to Imams and Moazins of Masjids to 5000 rupees from the current 1500 rupees per month.

441. Where was the 9th edition of Mountain Echoes Literary Festival 2018 held from 23rd to 25th August 2018? 1.Jakarta, Indonesia 2.Jammu & Kashmir, India 3.Thimphu, Bhutan 4.Sydney, Australia

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5.None of these Answer - 3.Thimphu, Bhutan Explanation: From 23rd to 25th August 2018, 9th edition of Mountain Echoes Literary Festival 2018 was held in Thimphu, Bhutan. This festival is an initiative of the India-Bhutan Foundation and Siyahi, an Indian literary agency. It was presented by the Jaypee Group and powered by the Department of Tourism, Government of Rajasthan. This year’s festival celebrated 50 years of formal diplomatic relations between India and Bhutan.

442. World Bank has launched “BONDI Bond”, the world’s first public bond created and managed using only blockchain technology. What does “D” represent in BONDI? 1.Development 2.Debt 3.Distribution 4.Dependent 5.None of these Answer - 2.Debt Explanation: Bondi stands for Blockchain Operated New Debt Instrument. On August 25, 2018, the World Bank has launched the world’s first public bond created and managed using only blockchain technology. The Commonwealth Bank of Australia is the sole manager of the deal that has been priced by the World Bank at A$100 million ($73.16 million) with a two-year maturity. The price for the “kangaroo” deal at 23 basis points above benchmark rates. This will be the first time that capital is raised from public investors through a legally valid bond using blockchain technology.

443. Name the Vice Chancellor of University of Hyderabad (UoH) who has been selected for the J C Bose Fellowship of Department of Science and Technology by the Government? 1.Sudip Krishna 2.Appa Rao Podile 3.Ramji Mohan 4.Manohar Rao 5.None of these Answer - 2.Appa Rao Podile Explanation: Appa Rao Podile, Vice Chancellor, University of Hyderabad (UoH) has been selected for the J C Bose Fellowship of Department of Science and Technology by the Government. This fellowship has been awarded as a recognition of his work in plant-microbe interactions and induced resistance in plants. He will receive a fellowship amount of Rs 25,000 pm and a research grant of Rs. 15 lakhs per annum. It is initially provided for 5 years. Later, the fellowship can be extended based on performance during the first 5 years. Appa Rao Podile has published more than 100 original research papers.

444. Who was appointed as the chairman of DRDO (Defence Research and Development Organisation) for a two year term, on 25th August 2018? 1.K Sivan 2.Dr. G Satheesh Reddy 3.Manohar Reddy 4.Dr. S Vijay Narayanan 5.None of these Answer - 2.Dr. G Satheesh Reddy Explanation: On August 25, 2018, Dr. G Satheesh Reddy has been appointed as the chairman of DRDO for a two year term. He will also be the Secretary, Department of Defence Research and Development (DoDRD). He is currently serving as the scientific advisor to the defence minister and is also the Director General of the strategic missile division. He also heads the Research Centre Imarat (RCI).

445. Who was sworn in as Australia's 30th prime minister, on 24th August 2018? 1.Scott Morrison 2.Malcolm Turnbull

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3.Josh Frydenberg 4.Peter Dutton 5.None of these Answer - 1.Scott Morrison Explanation: On 24th August 2018, Scott Morrison was sworn in as Australia's 30th prime minister. Scott Morrison is 50 years old. He was serving as Australia’s treasurer. He defeated former Home Affairs Minister Peter Dutton by 45 – 40 votes in an internal vote. This vote was conducted after former prime minister Malcolm Turnbull lost majority support of the Liberal party MPs. Josh Frydenberg was sworn in as the treasurer.

446. Which company won the Gold Flame Award in the Energy Efficiency Improvement category of the Best Energy Services Company, in the Sri Lanka National Efficiency Awards 2018 in Colombo, Sri Lanka, on 25th August 2018? 1.ABB 2.Honeywell 3.Forbes Marshall 4.Yokogawa 5.None of these Answer - 3.Forbes Marshall Explanation: On August 21, 2018, the Sri Lanka National Efficiency Awards 2018 commenced in Colombo. The Sri Lanka National Efficiency Awards 2018 was instituted by Sri Lanka Sustainable Energy Authority. Forbes Marshall won the Gold Flame Award in the Energy Efficiency Improvement category of the Best Energy Services Companyfor its contribution to reduce energy use through energy management efforts. This award ceremony was organised annually by the Sri Lankan Ministry of Power and Renewable Energy and Sri Lanka Sustainable Energy Authority.

447. On 23rd August 2018, Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid foundation stone of Astole Water Supply Scheme for providing clean drinking water at the cost of Rs.586 crore in Valsad district of which state? 1.Kerala 2.Rajasthan 3.Bihar 4.Gujarat 5.None of these Answer - 4.Gujarat Explanation: On August 23,2018, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached Surat, where he was received by Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani. During his day long visit, he visited Junagarh, Valsad and addressed the 4th convocation of Gujarat Forensic Science University in Gandhinagar. During his visit in Valsad, the PM inaugurated multiple projects, these include: • More than 1.15 lakh houses have been built in Gujarat at a cost of Rs 1,727 crore under the scheme across 26 districts. • He distributed e-Gruhpravesh certificates to beneficiaries of Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana Gramin. • Beneficiaries from five districts of south Gujarat -- Valsad, Navsari, Tapi, Surat and Dangs – were present for the distribution of the certificates in Valsad. • On the sideline of this mission he announced the target of every family owning a home by 2022. • Laid foundation stone of Astole Water Supply Scheme for providing clean drinking water at the cost of Rs.586 crore in Kaprada region in Valsad district. • He also distributed certificates and employment letters to select beneficiaries under various development schemes, including Deen Dayal Upadhyay Grameen Kaushal Vikas Yojana, Mukhya Mantri Gramodaya Yojana and National Rural Livelihood Mission.

448. Which University has announced that it will rename its School of Management and Entrepreneurship as Atal Bihari Vajpayee School of Management and Entrepreneurship? 1.Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) 2.Aligarh University 3.Banaras University 4.Delhi University

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5.None of these Answer - 1.Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) Explanation: On August 25, 2018, after the demise of the former PM of India MR. Atal Bihari Vajpayee, various states and institutions renamed themselves after Late PM. Some of them are: The Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) announced its decision to rename its School of Management and Entrepreneurship as Atal Bihari Vajpayee School of Management and Entrepreneurship. Chhattisgarh CM Raman Singh renaming upcoming capital of the state Naya Raipur as Atal Nagar. Yogi Adityanath-led Uttar Pradesh government to name the proposed Bundelkhand Expressway as ‘Atal Path’.

449. Name the Defence Minister of China who visited New Delhi for an official visit from 21st to 24th August 2018? 1.Lieutenant General Wei Fenghe 2.Lieutenant General Shin Moi 3.Lieutenant General Wuhei Loo 4.Lieutenant General Lang Wann 5.None of these Answer - 1.Lieutenant General Wei Fenghe Explanation: On August 21, 2018, the Defence Minister of China Lieutenant General Wei Fenghe visited New Delhi for an official visit for 4 days till August 24, 2018. Fenghe was leading a 24-member delegation from China to India- the first high level one after the 73 day-long Doklam military standoff. This visit comes on the backdrop of the Wuhan informal summit between Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping in April 2018. This will be the second meeting this year between the defence ministers after their meeting during the defence ministers' meeting of theShanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) in April.

450. Which Indian city topped in clean transport based on Overall emissions and energy consumption, as per “The Urban Commute” analysis by Centre for Science and Environment (CSE), released on 26th August 2018? 1.Bhopal 2.Vijayawada 3.Chandigarh 4.Lucknow 5.None of these Answer - 1.Bhopal Explanation: The Rankings as per the study: Overall emissions and energy consumption:

Rank City 1 Bhopal 2 Vijayawada 3 Chandigarh 4 Lucknow 5 Kochi 6 Jaipur 7 Kolkata 8 Ahmedabad 9 Pune 10 Mumbai 11 Hyderabad 12 Bengaluru 13 Chennai 122 | Page Follow Us - FB.com/AffairsCloudOfficialPage Copyright 2018 @ AffairsCloud.Com

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14 Delhi

Per-travel trip emissions and energy consumption:

Rank City 1 Kolkata 2 Mumbai 3 Bhopal 4 Delhi 5 Ahmedabad 6 Lucknow 7 Vijayawada 8 Pune 9 Jaipur 10 Chennai 11 Bengaluru 12 Kochi 13 Chandigarh 14 Hyderabad

451. Tamil Nadu has launched a campaign to highlight the impact of plastic pollution. Who has been appointed the brand ambassador of the project? 1.Rajinikanth 2.Kamal Hassan 3.Vivek 4.Nayantara 5.None of these Answer - 3.Vivek Explanation: On 23rd August 2018, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister E.Palanisamy launched an app and a website on plastic pollution free Tamilnadu. He inaugurated a campaign to highlight the impact of plastic pollution. He appointed actor Vivek as the brand ambassador of the project. Tamil Nadu Government has announced plastic ban with effect from 1st January 2019.

452. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K Palaniswami laid the foundation stone for developing a Special Investment Region (SIR) in which district of Tamil Nadu, on 25th August 2018? 1.Namakkal 2.Coimbatore 3.Krishnagiri 4.Salem 5.None of these Answer - 3.Krishnagiri Explanation: On 25th August 2018, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K Palaniswami laid the foundation stone for developing a Special Investment Region (SIR) in Krishnagiri district, Tamil Nadu. The Special Investment Region (SIR) is developed as part of Tamil Nadu’s efforts to enhance economic growth in northern parts of the state. The SIR will be developed by GMR Infrastructures Ltd and Tamil Nadu Industrial Development Corporation Ltd (TIDCO). The GMR Krishnagiri SIR will be developed on an area of 2,100 acres in Denkanikottai and Shoolagiri taluks of Krishnagiri.

453. Who will be honoured with the Game Changer of the Year title of the 2018 Asia Game Changer Awards in October 2018? 1.Sundar Pichai 123 | Page Follow Us - FB.com/AffairsCloudOfficialPage Copyright 2018 @ AffairsCloud.Com

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2.Mukesh Ambani 3.Indra Nooyi 4.PV Sindhu 5.None of these Answer - 3.Indra Nooyi Explanation: On August 26, 2018, Asia Society, a global cultural organization announced that PepsiCo’s CEO Indra Nooyi will be honoured with the Game Changer of the Year title of the 2018 Asia Game Changer Awards in October 2018. Citi is the founding partner of Asia Society’s Asia Game Changer Awards. Indra Nooyi will be honored in recognition of her business achievements, humanitarian record and advocacy for women and girls around the world. Under her guidance, Pepsi had a life-saving collaboration with the United Nations on food, nutrition, global water, climate, and women’s empowerment issues.

454. Reliance Power Netherlands BV won an international arbitration award of ______from the Arbitration Tribunal regarding a dispute, on 26th August 2018? 1.$56 million 2.$112 million 3.$45 million 4.$67 million 5.None of these Answer - 1.$56 million Explanation: On August 26, 2018, Reliance Power Netherlands BV, a wholly owned subsidy of Reliance Power won an international arbitration award of $56 million (Rs 390 crore) from the Arbitration Tribunal regarding a dispute. This sum of money will be paid to Reliance Power Netherlands BV by Prestige Capital Holdings (a Seychelles-based company) and Kokos Jiang. This decision was taken by the Arbitration Tribunal constituted under Singapore International Arbitration Centre (SIAC). This is related to a contractual dispute in the context of the company’s coal mines in Indonesia.

455. Name the former Indian cricketer who was appointed the head coach of Zimbabwe national cricket team, on 26thAugust 2018? 1.Lalchand Rajput 2.Anil Kumble 3.Sunil Gavaskar 4.Saurav Ganguly 5.None of these Answer - 1.Lalchand Rajput Explanation: On August 26, 2018, former India opener Lalchand Rajput was appointed the head coach of Zimbabwe national cricket team by the Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC). He is likely to remain in charge for the 2020 World T20 and beyond. He was earlier appointed as the interim head coach of Zimbabwe in May. He has been the manager of the MS Dhoni-led Indian team during the T20 World Cup in South Africa in 2007. He has secured Full Membership at the ICC and won six limited-overs series under Rajput Afghanistan.

456. Which country successfully sent twin BeiDou 3 navigation satellites into the space on the Long March-3B carrier rocket, on 26th August 2018? 1.Japan 2.China 3.South Korea 4.Russia 5.None of these Answer - 2.China Explanation: On August 26, 2018,China successfully sent twin BeiDou 3 navigation satellites into the space on the Long March- 3B carrier rocket from Xichang Satellite Launch Center in southwest China's Sichuan Province. This was the 283rd mission of the Long March-3B carrier rocket. They were developed by the Innovation Academy for Microsatellites of the Chinese Academy of Sciences. The twin satellites entered orbit more than three hours after the launch. They

Current Affairs Q&A PDF will work together with 10 other BeiDou-3 satellites already in orbit.

457. Name the Indian-American scientist who has identified 50 protein biomarkers that can non- invasively detect inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)? 1.Vijay Krishnan 2.Chander Mohan 3.Kuljit Singh 4.Pranab Bannerjee 5.None of these Answer - 2.Chander Mohan Explanation: Chander Mohan, an Indian-American scientist, has identified 50 protein biomarkers that can non-invasively detect inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). IBD is caused when the body's immune system fights its intestinal cells. It leads to diarrhea, abdominal cramps, blood in stools and weight loss. Chander Mohan is a professor at University of Houston in the US. He has received a grant of USD 347,490 from the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America. He is examining stool protein biomarkers that indicate IBT along with Subra Kugathasan, an IBD expert and a gastroenterologist at Emory University in the US.

458. Which country won its first FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup title at the La Rabine Stadium in Vannes, France, on 24th August 2018? 1.South Korea 2.England 3.Germany 4.Japan 5.None of these Answer - 4.Japan Explanation: On 14th August 2018, Japan won its first FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup title at the La Rabine Stadium in Vannes, France. Japan defeated Spain 3-1 in the final and won its first FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup. England defeated France 4-2 and finished in the third position.

459. Gopal Bose passed away on 26th August 2018. What was his profession? 1.Writer 2.Film Maker 3.Cricketer 4.Politician 5.None of these Answer - 3.Cricketer Explanation: On August 26, 2018, the former Bengal opener and captain Gopal Bose passed away at 71. He started his career with the first-class cricket in the 1968-69 season and accumulated 3757 runs at an average of 30.79. He was part of India's squad for the England tour in 1974 and played one one-day international. He was the selector and coach of the Bengal junior team. He was also appointed manager for the Virat Kohli-led India Under-19 side during the 2008 Under 19 World Cup.

460. Nand Lal Passi died following a long term illness, in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, on 24th August 2018. He was a ______? 1.Scientist 2.Social Activist 3.Surgeon 4.Politician 5.None of these Answer - 4.Politician Explanation: On 24th August 2018, Former MLA and Samajwadi Party leader Nand Lal Passi died following a long term illness, at Dr Ram Manohar Lohia hospital, in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. Nand Lal Passi was 84 years old. In 1993, he was

Current Affairs Q&A PDF elected to the Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly as a Samajwadi Party candidate.

461. Who is the author of the book "Atal Ji Ne Kaha" that was released by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on 24thAugust 2018? 1.Brijendra Rehi 2.Sumit Rawat 3.Vivek Kumar Singh 4.Ranveer Sinha 5.None of these Answer - 1.Brijendra Rehi Explanation: On 24th August 2018, "Atal Ji Ne Kaha" a book on former Indian Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Atal Ji Ne Kaha has been written, compiled and edited by Brijendra Rehi. The book has been published by Darpan Publication. The book consists of 320 pages and 26 chapters. It has Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s select speeches on economy, policies, small industries, social development, nuclear programme, science and technology, terrorism etc. It also has his photographs and three interviews by Brijendra Rehi.

462. Dudhwa Tiger Reserve has set up a helpline with toll-free number 1926 to control man-animal conflicts. Dudhwa Tiger Reserve is located in which state? 1.Madhya Pradesh 2.Uttar Pradesh 3.Rajasthan 4.Uttarakhand 5.None of these Answer - 2.Uttar Pradesh Explanation: The Dudhwa Tiger Reserve (DTR) has set up a toll-free number 1926 to curtail man-animal conflicts. The forest department has done this in collaboration with the Reliance Foundation. The helpline will work in tandem with the 'Dial 100' emergency service. This initiative will be launched in other tiger reserves also.

463. Who resigned as director of Reliance Naval and Engineering Ltd (RNAVAL) on 25th August 2018? 1.Anil D Ambani 2.Mukesh Ambani 3.Akash Ambani 4.Ajay Ambani 5.None of these Answer - 1.Anil D Ambani Explanation: Reliance Naval and Engineering Ltd (RNAVAL) announced that Anil D Ambani has resigned as director of the company. He has resigned in compliance with provisions of Section 165 of the Companies Act, 2013, prescribing the limit on directorships to only 10 public companies. RNAVAL operates India’s largest integrated shipbuilding facility. It has obtained licence and contract to build warships.

464. Which Indian actor has joined Maharashtra Government's Mission Shakti' initiative to help sportspersons with medal-winning potential for the upcoming 2024 Paris Olympiad? 1.Shah Rukh Khan 2.Aamir Khan 3.Shahid Kapoor 4.Ranveer Singh 5.None of these Answer - 2.Aamir Khan Explanation: Aamir Khan will be part of Maharashtra Government's Mission Shakti' initiative to groom sportspersons with medal-winning potential for the upcoming 2024 Paris Olympiad. 'Mission Shakti' will target sports like weightlifting, archery, shooting, swimming, athletics, volleyball and gymnastics, with excellence in physical endurance, fitness, superior stamina and other features included in a rigorous selection test.

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465. The Committee for reviewing framework dealing with offences under the Companies Act, 2013 submitted its report to the Union Minister for Finance & Corporate Affairs Arun Jaitley on 27th August 2018. Who is the chairperson of the committee? 1) Anil Kumar Jha 2) Injeti Srinivas 3) Pramod Singhvi 4) Rajat Bhatia 5) None of these Answer - 2) Injeti Srinivas Explanation: On August 27, 2018, the Committee constituted by Government of India in July 2018 to review framework dealing with offences under the Companies Act, 2013 submitted its report to the Union Minister for Finance & Corporate Affairs, Shri Arun Jaitley. This report as presented by the Secretary, Ministry of Corporate Affairs, Shri Injeti Srinivas, who chaired the committee. It had a detailed analysis of all penal provisions in 8 categories based on the nature of offences.

466. Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas & Skill Development & Entrepreneurship Dharmendra Pradhan launched an online portal for Common carrier capacity booking on which enterprise’s pipelines? 1) GAIL 2) IOCL 3) ONGC 4) HPCL 5) None of these Answer - 1) GAIL Explanation: On 27th August 2018, Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas & Skill Development & Entrepreneurship Dharmendra Pradhan launched an online portal for enabling easy, efficient and transparent booking of Common carrier capacity for natural gas transmission services under GAIL’s pipelines. The online portal is available at: www.gailonline.com. It is the first of its kind portal in the natural gas sector of India. This portal offers the facility to register pipeline capacity bookings online to gas consumers. It will serve on first come-first served basis.

467. Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) approved approximately Rs 46,000 crore for procurement of services for Indian Army and Navy, on 27th August 2018. Who is the chairperson of DAC? 1) Nirmala Sitharaman 2) Narendra Modi 3) Rajnath Singh 4) Sushma Swaraj 5) None of these Answer - 1) Nirmala Sitharaman Explanation: On August 27, 2018, Defence Acquisition Council, DAC chaired by Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman approved approximately 46,000 crore rupees for procurement of services. These include: • procurement of 111 Utility Helicopters for the Indian Navy at a cost of over 21,000 crore rupees and • other proposals amounting to around 25 thousand crore rupees.

468. Which airlines operated India’s first biofuel-powered flight from Dehradun to Delhi on its Bombardier Q400 turboprop aircraft from Dehradun's Jolly Grant airport? 1) Air India 2) IndiGo 3) SpiceJet 4) AirCarnival 5) None of these Answer - 3) SpiceJet Explanation: On August 27, 2018, SpiceJet would fly India’s first biofuel-powered flight from Dehradun to Delhi on its Bombardier Q400 turboprop aircraft from Dehradun's Jolly Grant airport. It has used a blend of the aviation turbine fuel and biofuel to power the flight. The flight had 20 people, including officials from aviation regulator

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DGCA and SpiceJet and was around 25 minutes. It would encourage sustainable and alternative fuels for the transportation & aviation sector under National Biofuels Policy. With this test, India will be among the first developing nations to adopt the sustainable alternative jet fuel.

469. Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS) opened its first regional centre near which lake? 1) Chilika Lake 2) Wular Lake 3) Vembanad Lake 4) Sambal Lake 5) None of these Answer - 1) Chilika Lake Explanation: On August 27, 2018, Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS) opened its first regional centre near Chilika Lake. The regional branch was inaugurated in the premises of the Wetland Research and Training Centre (WRTC) of the Chilika Development Authority (CDA) at Chandrapur in Chilika. The branch would be engaged in the following activities: • Identifying the air route of the foreign birds flocking the Chilika lake during winter, • Sample collection, • Training related to bird census, • Publishing bird migration atlas books, • Examining various diseases among the birds and • To review the condition of the Nalabana bird sanctuary along with counting the birds.

470. Where was the 8th meeting of India-Kenya Joint Trade Committee held from August 22-25, 2018? 1) Nairobi, Kenya 2) New Delhi, India 3) Mumbai, India 4) Kuala Lampur, Malaysia 5) None of these Answer - 1) Nairobi, Kenya Explanation: From August 22-25, 2018, the 8th meeting of India-Kenya Joint Trade Committee was held in Nairobi, Kenya. The meeting was co-chaired by: Indian side: Union Minister of Commerce & Industry and Civil Aviation, Mr.Suresh Prabhu. Kenya’s Side: Cabinet Secretary (Minister) for Industry, Trade and Cooperatives, Government of Kenya Mr. Peter Munya. The last meeting of Joint Trade Committee was held in New Delhi in February 2015.

471. Where was the G20 Digital Economy Ministerial Meeting held from August 23-24, 2018? 1) Bern, Germany 2) Toronto, Canada 3) Wuhan, China 4) Salta, Argentina 5) None of these Answer - 4) Salta, Argentina Explanation: From August 23-24, 2018, the G20 Digital Economy Ministerial Meeting was held at Salta’s Fine Arts Museum, and Salta Convention Centre in Salta, Argentina. It was chaired by Andrés Ibarra, Argentine Minister of Modernization, and Lino Barañao, Argentine Minister of Science, Technology and Innovative Production. It is a part of Sherpa Track for the 2018 G20 Leader’s Summit, which is to be hosted by Argentina at the end of 2018. The theme for the 2018 meeting was : 'Building consensus for fair and sustainable development’. The agenda of the meeting was on 3 issues: the future of work, infrastructure for development, and a sustainable food future.

472. Which bank was rated as number one state-owned bank in terms of digital transactions, as per a report of Department of Financial Services, on 27th August 2018? 1) Canara Bank 2) Punjab National Bank 3) Indian Bank 4) Corporation Bank

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5) None of these Answer - 2) Punjab National Bank Explanation: On August 27, 2018, according to a report of Department of Financial Services, Punjab National Bank has been rated as number one state-owned bank in terms of digital transactions. The bank is rated as 'Good' by the government with a score of 71 which is the highest category of performance. In Digital performance, it ranked sixth overall amongst all banks.

473. According to the report named Ecowrap published by SBI, the current account deficit of India will rise to _____% of the GDP in the current financial year (FY 19)? 1) 2.8 % 2) 3.2 % 3) 3.4 % 4) 1.9 % 5) None of these Answer - 1) 2.8 % Explanation: On August 27, 2018, according to a report named Ecowrap published by SBI, the current account deficit of the country will rise to 2.8% of the GDP in the current financial year. This is due to rise in oil prices and moderate growth in exports. The merchandise trade imbalance is also expected to rise to USD 188 billion in FY19, compared with USD 160 billion in FY18. In July, the trade deficit jumped to USD 18 billion. The CAD is still expected to be majorly financed by non-debt creating (FDI and FPI) capital inflows having around 44 per cent of the total capital flows.

474. Which bank was named the world's best bank for digital innovation while still maintaining stable operations for its customers, by Global Finance magazine, on 27th August 2018? 1) State Bank of India (SBI) 2) DBS Bank 3) HDFC Bank 4) ICICI Bank 5) None of these Answer - 2) DBS Bank Explanation: On August 27, 2018, Global Finance magazine named DBS Bank as the world's best bank for digital innovation while still maintaining stable operations for its customers. It is the first Asian bank to receive the accolade. It was given to ING Bank in 2017. In 2016, finance magazine Euromoney named DBS the world's best digital bank. It also received the Asia's best bank title. In 2014, Ms Tan Su Shan, DBS' group head of consumer banking and wealth management, was recognised as the world's best leader in private banking at the PWM/The Banker Global Private Banking Awards.

475. Who was appointed as an independent director on the board of Indiabulls Ventures for a period of 3 years? 1) Joshua Holla 2) Joshwin S 3) Abhaya Prasad Hota 4) Ravi Kumar Nandan 5) None of these Answer - 3) Abhaya Prasad Hota Explanation: On 25th August 2018, Indiabulls Ventures appointed Abhaya Prasad Hota, as an independent director on the board for a period of 3 years. Abhaya Prasad Hota is a former managing director at the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI). He was involved in designing the operating payments eco-system. He had worked with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) for 27 years. He had played a major role in launching payment systems like MICR (Magnetic Ink Character Recognition), RTGS (Real Time Gross Settlement), NEFT (National Electronic Funds Transfer), IMPS (Immediate Payment Service) and Aadhaar based system with UIDAI (Unique Identification Authority of India).

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476. Goldman Sachs appointed _____ as the managing director and chief India economist, on 27th August 2018? 1) Prachi Mishra 2) Sanjay Kanwar 3) Athul Bohra 4) Ranveer Mishra 5) None of these Answer - 1) Prachi Mishra Explanation: On 27th August 2018, Goldman Sachs appointed Prachi Mishra as the managing director and chief India economist. Prachi Mishra will be based in Mumbai. Earlier, she was the deputy division chief of the western hemisphere department at the International Monetary Fund (IMF). She was the head of the strategic research unit at the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) from February 2016 to May 2017. She was also a specialist adviser at the RBI between November 2014 and February 2016. She was the first lateral recruit at the RBI. She also worked as a senior economist at IMF and the Finance Ministry of India.

477. Who was appointed as the next High Commissioner of India to the Republic of Namibia, on 21st August 2018? 1) Amarnath Singh 2) Manohar Jain 3) Varun Acharya 4) Prashant Agrawal 5) None of these Answer - 4) Prashant Agrawal Explanation: On 21st August 2018, Prashant Agrawal was appointed as the next High Commissioner of India to the Republic of Namibia. Prashant Agrawal is an Indian Foreign Service (IFS) Officer of the 1998 batch. At present he is Joint Secretary at Headquarters. He has been appointed as the next High Commissioner of India to the Republic of Namibia. He will take up this assignment soon.

478. Who was appointed as the next Ambassador of India to Ireland, on 20th August 2018? 1) Arun Valsad 2) Sandeep Kumar 3) Sadhana Varma 4) Pranesh Dachanamoorthy 5) None of these Answer - 2) Sandeep Kumar Explanation: On 20th August 2018, Sandeep Kumar was appointed as the next Ambassador of India to Ireland. Sandeep Kumar is an Indian Foreign Service (IFS) Officer of the 1985 batch. Currently, he is the Ambassador of India to Croatia. He has been appointed as the next Ambassador of India to Ireland. He will take up this assignment soon.

479. NASA’s OSIRIS-Rex (Origins, Spectral Interpretation, Resource Identification, Security-Regolith Explorer), an asteroid sampling spacecraft, has caught its first image of which asteroid? 1) Bennu 2) Spheiner 3) Krauss 4) Hally 5) None of these Answer - 1) Bennu Explanation: NASA’s OSIRIS-Rex (Origins, Spectral Interpretation, Resource Identification, Security-Regolith Explorer), an asteroid sampling spacecraft, caught its first image of asteroid Bennu, last week after a 2-year journey. OSIRIS-Rex has started its final approach towards its target asteroid Bennu. The mission’s asteroid operations started on 17thAugust. OSIRIS-Rex’s PolyCam camera secured the image from a distance of 1.4 million miles (2.2 million km).

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480. Which country will host the 2019 Asian Youth and Junior Weightlifting Championships that will commence from October 27, 2019? 1) Japan 2) China 3) India 4) North Korea 5) None of these Answer - 4) North Korea Explanation: On August 27, 2018, North Korea announced that it would be the host for the 2019 Asian Youth and Junior Weightlifting Championships that will commence from October 27, 2019. The Asian Weightlifting Federation and North Korea's Sports Minister Kim Il Guk signed an agreement for the championship to be held in capital Pyongyang. Earlier in September 2013, the Asian Cup and Interclub Junior and Senior Weightlifting Championship was held in North Korea.

481. Which cricketer set the world record for the most economical four-over bowling figures in the history of T20 cricket, on 27th August 2018? 1) Virat Kohli 2) Shikhar Dawan 3) Mohammad Irfan 4) Rashid Khan 5) None of these Answer - 3) Mohammad Irfan Explanation: On August 27, 2018, Pakistani fast bowler Mohammad Irfan set the world record for the most economical four- over bowling figures in the history of T20 cricket. This feat was achieved while playing for Barbados Tridents in the Caribbean Premier League 2018. He bowled 23 dot balls in a row, picking two wickets in the process. This record was previously shared by South Africa’s Chris Morris and Sri Lanka’s Chanaka Welegedara.

482. Neil Simon died following complications from pneumonia in Manhattan, United States, on 26th August 2018. He was a _____? 1) social activist 2) playwright 3) scientist 4) politician 5) None of these Answer - 2) playwright Explanation: On 26th August 2018, Neil Simon, a playwright and Broadway's master of comedy, died following complications from pneumonia in Manhattan, United States. Neil Simon was 91 years old. He was a playwright and had also written for movies. He had received: 4 Tony Awards, the Pulitzer Prize, the Kennedy Center honors (1995), 4 Writers Guild of America Awards, an American Comedy Awards Lifetime Achievement honor, Mark Twain Prize for American Humor (2006). In 1983, a Broadway theater was named after him as the Neil Simon Theatre.

483. John McCain passed away after fighting brain cancer, in United States, on 25th August 2018. What was his profession? 1) Football player 2) Politician 3) Athlete 4) Writer 5) None of these Answer - 2) Politician Explanation: On 25th August 2018, US senator John McCain passed away after fighting glioblastoma, a form of brain cancer, in United States. He was 81 years old. He was a 6-term Republican senator and presidential nominee. He had spent more than 30 years in the Senate. He was elected to the House of Representatives in 1983. He was one of the most influential US politicians of his generation. Before entering politics in 1980s, he served as a pilot in the US Navy. He

Current Affairs Q&A PDF was held as a prisoner of war camp for 6 years during the Vietnam War.

484. Where was MGR Centenary Film Studio, the tallest such structure in India, inaugurated on 26th August 2018? 1) Kochi, Kerala 2) Hyderabad, Telangana 3) Paiyanur, Tamil Nadu 4) Bengaluru, Karnataka 5) None of these Answer - 3) Paiyanur, Tamil Nadu Explanation: MGR Centenary Film Studio, the tallest such structure in India, was inaugurated by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K Palaniswami. The 56 feet tall, 110 metres long and 100 feet wide studio was constructed using funds collected by the Federation of Film Employees Union of South India (FEFSI), at Paiyanur, Tamil Nadu.

485. Name India’s first Humboldt penguin chick that died on 22nd August 2018, at Veermata Jijabai Bhosale Udyan and Zoo in Mumbai? 1) Sakshi 2) Srishti 3) Freedom Baby 4) Indie Chick 5) None of these Answer - 3) Freedom Baby Explanation: Freedom Baby died on August 22 at Veermata Jijabai Bhosale Udyan and Zoo in Byculla due to newborn anomalies. Anomalies like liver dysfunction and yolk sac retention led to the newborn penguin's death. The chick, which was named Freedom Baby. It was hatched on August 15, weighing around 75 grams.

486. Union Water Resources Minister Nitin Gadkari signed a MoU with how many states for the construction of the Lakhwar multi-purpose project in the upper Yamuna basin, in Uttarakhand, worth Rs 3,966.51 crore, on 28thAugust 2018? 1) 5 2) 6 3) 4 4) 8 5) None of these Answer - 2) 6 Explanation: On August 28, 2018, Union Water Resources Minister Nitin Gadkari signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with 6 states for the construction of the Lakhwar multi-purpose project in the upper Yamuna basin. The total project is worth Rs 3,966.51 crore. The 6 states are: Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan , Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana and Delhi. 90 per cent of the project will be funded by the Centre while the remaining amount will be paid by the six states. Out of this, 1388.28 crore rupees will be borne totally by the Uttarakhand government. It would also get the benefit of total power generation once the project is complete.

487. Union Minister of Civil Aviation Suresh Prabhu has announced the Drone Regulations 1.0 with effect from December 1, 2018. Name the first-of-its-kind national unmanned traffic management (UTM) platform that has been introduced as a part of it? 1) Auto Fly Platform 2) Digital Sky Platform 3) Self Regulating Platform 4) Digital Fly Platform 5) None of these Answer - 2) Digital Sky Platform Explanation: ON August 28, 2018, the Union Minister of Civil Aviation Shri Suresh Prabhu announced the Drone Regulations 1.0. These regulations will enable the safe, commercial usage of drones starting December 1, 2018. They are intended

Current Affairs Q&A PDF to enable visual line-of-sight daytime-only and a maximum of 400 ft altitude operations. According to the regulation, Air space has been partitioned into Red Zone (flying not permitted), Yellow Zone (controlled airspace), and Green Zone (automatic permission). Introduction of the Digital Sky Platform , the first-of-its-kind national unmanned traffic management (UTM) platform that implements “no permission, no takeoff” (NPNT).

488. Where was the International water colour festival held from August 23-27, 2018? 1) Raipur, Chhattisgarh 2) Ranchi, Jharkhand 3) Guwahati, Assam 4) Indore, Madhya Pradesh 5) None of these Answer - 2) Ranchi, Jharkhand Explanation: From August 23-27, 2018, Jharkhand government held the International water colour festival at the Audrey House in capital city of Ranchi. It promotes rich culture and art of Jharkhand and international art and give recognition to local artists. It was organized by Department of Tourism, Art-Culture, Sports & Youth Affairs. 56 internationally renowned artists -- from as many as 24 countries and 25 Indian states -- participated in the five-day festival.

489. Indian government has joined hands with _____ for Rs. 240 crore research programme to develop a Next Generation Influenza Vaccine? 1) United Arab Emirates (UAE) 2) European Union (EU) 3) United States 4) Germany 5) None of these Answer - 2) European Union (EU) Explanation: On 28th August 2018, Indian government and the European Union (EU) partnered for Rs. 240 crore research programme to develop a Next Generation Influenza Vaccine to protect people throughout the world. EU and the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Government of India, have committed EUR 15 million each to fund for this cause through "Horizon 2020" programme. The projects require 3 applicants from both 3 European member states and India respectively.

490. Which firm has launched commodity broking services with MCX and has become the first bank subsidiary to enter the commodity broking business? 1) Axis Securities 2) ICICI Mutual Funds 3) HDFC Securities 4) YES Financial Services 5) None of these Answer - 1) Axis Securities Explanation: On August 28, 2018, Axis Securities launched commodity broking services with MCX and became the first bank subsidiary to enter the commodity broking business. All existing Axis Direct customers can now trade in 29 commodity futures and contracts through a one-time online registration process. These cover: industrial metals, energy and agricultural segments.

491. Prasar Bharati and Mizzima Media Group of which country have signed an MoU for cooperation and collaboration in broadcasting and content sharing in New Delhi? 1) Nepal 2) Myanmar 3) Bangladesh 4) Sri Lanka 5) None of these Answer - 2) Myanmar Explanation: On August 28, 2018, Prasar Bharati and Mizzima Media Group of Myanmar signed an MoU for cooperation and

Current Affairs Q&A PDF collaboration in broadcasting and content sharing in New Delhi. The agreement was signed in the presence of Prasar Bharati CEO, Shashi Shekhar Vempati and Editor-in-chief and MD, Mizzima. This would include culture, entertainment, education, science, news and sports along with other areas of mutual interest. Also media exchange will take place in News and cultural contents.

492. Who has been appointed as Senior Executive Vice-President & Chief Operating Officer (COO) of DHFL Pramerica Life Insurance (DPLI)? 1) Sudha Singh 2) Prakash Ramjit 3) Sumit Shetty 4) Kalpana Sampat 5) None of these Answer - 4) Kalpana Sampat Explanation: DHFL Pramerica Life Insurance (DPLI) has appointed Kalpana Sampat as Senior Executive Vice-President & Chief Operating Officer (COO). Earlier, Kalpana Sampat was the Chief Executive Officer of Swiss Re India. She has more than 34 years of experience in the financial services sector.

493. Who has been appointed as the Assistant Secretary General and Head of the New York Office of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)? 1) A S Kiran 2) Praneeta Roy 3) Danushree Dutta 4) Satya S Tripathi 5) None of these Answer - 4) Satya S Tripathi Explanation: Satya S Tripathi, an Indian development economist, has been appointed as the Assistant Secretary General and Head of the New York Office of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). This appointment was made by UN (United Nations) Chief António Guterres. Satya S Tripathi will succeed Elliott Harris of Trinidad and Tobago. Since 2017, Satya S Tripathi has served as Senior Adviser on the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development at UNEP. He has worked for the UN since 1998.

494. Name the racer who won the Belgian Grand Prix 2018 on 26th August 2018? 1) Sebastian Vettel 2) Lewis Hamilton 3) Kimi Raikkonen 4) Valterri Bottas 5) None of these Answer - 1) Sebastian Vettel Explanation: On 26th August 2018, Sebastian Vettel won the Belgian Grand Prix 2018 at Spa-Francorchamps Track in Belgium. Ferrari's Sebastian Vettel beat Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton who tops the driver standings by a 17-point lead, and secured the first position. Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton finished in the second position. He was followed by Red Bull’s Max Verstappen in the third position.

495. NBA (National Basketball Association) champion Manu Ginobili announced his retirement from basketball, on 27th August 2018. Which country does he belong to? 1) Brazil 2) Argentina 3) Russia 4) France 5) None of these Answer - 2) Argentina Explanation: On 27th 2018, Manu Ginobili, Argentine basketball player, announced his retirement from basketball. Manu Ginobili is 41 years old. He had helped the San Antonio Spurs team win 4 NBA (National Basketball Association)

Current Affairs Q&A PDF championships in 16 seasons with the club. He has played in 23 seasons in his professional career. He was a two- time All-Star and was the league’s Sixth Man of the Year for the 2007-08 season.

496. 'Mu Hero Mu Odisha' (I am hero, I am Odisha), a campaign to identify agents of change and recognise their contribution to the state, was launched on 27th August 2018, in which state? 1) Assam 2) Gujarat 3) Kerala 4) Odisha 5) None of these Answer - 4) Odisha Explanation: Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik launched the 'Mu Hero Mu Odisha' (I am hero, I am Odisha) campaign that aimed at identifying agents of change and recognising their contribution to the state. The 'Mu Hero Mu Odisha' programme will connect with the potential and aspirations of people from all sections of the society.

497. NAA has launched a helpline number for complaints regarding GST rate cuts. Expand NAA? 1) National Anti-profiteering Authority 2) National Anti-money laundering Authority 3) National Accounting Authority 4) National Association for Accountants 5) None of these Answer - 1) National Anti-profiteering Authority Explanation: On August 28, 2018, the National Anti-profiteering Authority (NAA) launched a helpline number for complaints regarding GST rate cuts. It has been introduced to encourage consumers to file complaints against the companies that are not passing GST rate cut benefits. The number is : 011-21400643. Consumers to register their complaints, provide information and resolve queries regarding profiteering under GST.

498. Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare, J P Nadda launched the logo of the Ayushman Bharat or Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojna (PMJAY) on August 27, 2018. When will the Ayushman Bharat scheme be launched? 1) September 25, 2018 2) September 5, 2018 3) January 1, 2019 4) December 25, 2018 5) None of these Answer - 1) September 25, 2018 Explanation: Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojna (PMJAY) or Ayushman Bharat will be launched on September 25 on the birth anniversary of Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay. On August 28, 2018, prior to the launch of Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Abhiyan, known also as Ayushman Bharat scheme on September 25, 2018,Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare, Shri J P Nadda lauched its logo at an event in New Delhi. MoU has been signed between the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship and the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare where one lakh 'Aa rogya Mitras' will be trained by Skill India.

499. As per Drone Regulations 1.0 released by Union Minister of Civil Aviation Suresh Prabhu, in which zone flying is not permitted? 1) Black Zone 2) Blue Zone 3) Red Zone 4) Yellow Zone 5) None of these Answer - 3) Red Zone Explanation: ON August 28, 2018, the Union Minister of Civil Aviation Shri Suresh Prabhu announced the Drone Regulations 1.0. These regulations will enable the safe, commercial usage of drones starting December 1, 2018. They are intended

500. Name the Union Minister of Steel who launched the corporate sports policy for Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs) under the Ministry of Steel, on 28th August 2018? 1) Ananth Kumar 2) Narendra Singh Tomar 3) Ananth Geete 4) Chaudhary Birender Singh 5) None of these Answer - 4) Chaudhary Birender Singh Explanation: On August 28, 2018, Union Minister of Steel, Chaudhary Birender Singh, unveiled the corporate sports policy for Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs) under the Ministry of Steel. It would provide a framework for promotion of sports by Steel Ministry CPSEs. All the Steel Ministry CPSEs will form an Apex Sports Body affiliated to National Level Sports Associations and Federations, Indian Olympic Association (IOA) and Para Olympic Federation and Association. Maharatna and Navaratna CPSEs may set up Sports Academy in at least one of the identified sports discipline and maintain infrastructure.

501. Name the Chairperson of the Drone Task Force that has been set up to provide draft recommendations for Drone Regulations 2.0? 1) Jayant Sinha 2) Manoj Sinha 3) Suresh Prabhu 4) Piyush Goyal 5) None of these Answer - 1) Jayant Sinha Explanation: On August 28, 2018, the Union Minister of Civil Aviation Shri Suresh Prabhu announced the Drone Regulations 1.0. These regulations will enable the safe, commercial usage of drones starting December 1, 2018. They are intended to enable visual line-of-sight daytime-only and a maximum of 400 ft altitude operations. According to the regulation, Air space has been partitioned into Red Zone (flying not permitted), Yellow Zone (controlled airspace), and Green Zone (automatic permission). Introduction of the Digital Sky Platform , the first-of-its-kind national unmanned traffic management (UTM) platform that implements “no permission, no takeoff” (NPNT). Users will be required to do a one-time registration of their drones, pilots and owners. Further, the Drone Task Force under the chairmanship of the Minister of State Shri Jayant Sinha has been set up. This will provide draft recommendations for Drone Regulations 2.0.

502. Which company has become the Deep learning technology partner of NITI Aayog for “MoveHack”, a global mobility hackathon? 1) Google 2) Microsoft 3) Intel 4) NVIDIA 5) None of these Answer - 4) NVIDIA Explanation: On 28th August 2018, computer chip manufacturer NVIDIA collaborated with NITI Aayog as its Deep learning technology partner to support NITI Aayog’s "MoveHack" hackathon. MoveHack is a global mobility hackathon to crowdsource solutions, which focuses on the future of mobility in India. As deep learning partner of "MoveHack", NVIDIA will offer participants with graphics processing unit (GPU), deep learning technologies, and remote access to NVIDIA DGX systems, purpose built deep learning supercomputers. It will also mentor the participants. Deep learning technology comes under machine learning (ML) in artificial intelligence (AI). It has networks capable of learning unsupervised from data that is unstructured or unlabelled.the Uttarakhand government. It would also get the benefit of total power generation once the project is complete.

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503. Who was appointed as the next High Commissioner of India to the United Kingdom on 28th August 2018? 1) Sharmila Kumar 2) Ruchi Ghanashyam 3) Randeep Vijay 4) Sushil Kumar 5) None of these Answer - 2) Ruchi Ghanashyam Explanation: On 28th August 2018, Ruchi Ghanashyam was appointed as the next High Commissioner of India to the United Kingdom. Ruchi Ghanashyam is an Indian Foreign Service (IFS) Officer of the 1982 batch. She is at present Secretary at Headquarters. She has been appointed as the next High Commissioner of India to the United Kingdom. She will take up this assignment soon.the Uttarakhand government. It would also get the benefit of total power generation once the project is complete.

504. Name the platform that has been launched by Google to enable Indian publishers of regional languages to publish their content online? 1) Swadesh 2) Navlekha 3) Kithab 4) Write India 5) None of these Answer - 2) Navlekha Explanation: On 28th August 2018, Google announced Project Navlekha at its 4th edition of Google for India Event held in New Delhi. Project Navlekha has been launched to enable Indian publishers of regional languages to publish their content online, without facing the trouble of selling printed copies. The official website of Navlekha can be easily interpreted by users. Users can also obtain help from experts to set up their publication website. Google will not charge for its publication tools and the domain name for the first 3 years. Users can also sign up for Google’s advertising placement service AdSense and monetise their website.the Uttarakhand government. It would also get the benefit of total power generation once the project is complete.

505. Name the Indian who won gold medal in the men's 800 metres event of Asian Games 2018 in Indonesia? 1) Manjit Singh 2) Jinson Johnson 3) Ranjit Singh 4) Madan Karthik 5) None of these Answer - 1) Manjit Singh Explanation: Manjit Singh won gold medal in the men's 800 metres event by finishing the race in 1:46.15 minutes. Jinson Johnson won silver medal in men's 800 metres event by finishing in 1:46.35 minutes. This is India's only second one-two finish in 800m at the Asian Games after Ranjit Singh and Kulwant Singh achieved the feat at the inaugural edition held in New Delhi in 1951. Manjit Singh who hails from Haryana has beaten Sriram Singh’s 42-year-old national record a few months ago. Jinson Johnson is from Kerala.the Uttarakhand government. It would also get the benefit of total power generation once the project is complete.

506. Which Indian athlete won gold medal in the men's triple jump event in the Asian Games 2018, in Indonesia? 1) Darun Ayyasamy 2) Arpinder Singh 3) Vinit Joshi 4) Shibu Joseph 5) None of these Answer - 2) Arpinder Singh Explanation:

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Arpinder Singh made a best jump of 16.77m in his third attempt and won gold medal in the men's triple jump event. This is India’s first men’s triple jump gold medal in 48 years after Mohinder Singh Gill won it in 1970.the Uttarakhand government. It would also get the benefit of total power generation once the project is complete.

507. When was International Day against Nuclear Tests observed all over the world? 1) August 29 2) August 28 3) August 27 4) August 26 5) None of these Answer - 1) August 29 Explanation: On 29th August 2018, International Day against Nuclear Tests was observed all over the world. In 2009, the United Nations General Assembly declared 29 August as the International Day against Nuclear Tests. The first International Day against Nuclear Tests was observed in 2010. This day is observed to create awareness on the importance of banning nuclear weapon tests among the United Nations Member States, intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations, academic institutions, youth networks, media, etc. Activities like symposia, conferences, exhibits, competitions, publications, lectures in academic institutions, media broadcasts, etc are conducted on this day.the Uttarakhand government. It would also get the benefit of total power generation once the project is complete.

508. When was National Sports Day celebrated in India commemorating the birth anniversary of Indian hockey legend Major Dhyan Chand? 1) August 30 2) August 28 3) August 27 4) August 29 5) None of these Answer - 4) August 29 Explanation: On 29th August 2018, National Sports Day was celebrated all over India. In India, National Sports Day is celebrated on August 29 every year on the birth anniversary of Indian hockey legend Major Dhyan Chand. Major Dhyan Chand who was born on 29 August 1905 was known for his extraordinary goal-scoring skills. He had won 3 Olympic gold medals in hockey. He passed away on 3rd December 1979. Every year on National Sports Day, Arjuna and Khel Ratna awards are conferred by the President to extraordinary Indian athletes.the Uttarakhand government. It would also get the benefit of total power generation once the project is complete.

509. Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi approved the increase in project outlay for the India Post Payments Bank (IPPB) from Rs. 800 crore to _____, on August 29, 2018? 1) Rs. 1,435 crore 2) Rs. 1,879 crore 3) Rs. 1,500 crore 4) Rs. 2,890 crore 5) None of these Answer - 1) Rs. 1,435 crore Explanation: On August 29, 2018, the Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi gave its approval for increase in project outlay for the India Post Payments Bank (IPPB) from Rs. 800 crore to Rs. 1,435 crore. The additional Rs. 635 crore has been given in the following manner: Rs 400 crore for Technology Costs and Rs 235 crore for Human Resource Costs.

510. The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved he umbrella scheme “Ocean Services, Technology, Observations, Resources Modelling and Science (O-SMART)” of which Ministry? 1) Ministry of Science and Technology 2) Ministry of Earth Sciences 3) Ministry of Human Resource Development

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4) Ministry of Urban Development 5) None of these Answer - 2) Ministry of Earth Sciences Explanation: On August 29, 2018, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi approved he umbrella scheme “Ocean Services, Technology, Observations, Resources Modelling and Science (O-SMART)”. This is aimed to help in addressing issues relating to Sustainable Development Goal-14: to conserve use of oceans, marine resources.

511. The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi approved the signing of MOU between India and Bulgaria for strengthening cooperation in which field, on August 29, 2018? 1) Tourism 2) Medical Research 3) Airways Development 4) Science and Technology 5) None of these Answer - 1) Tourism Explanation: On August 29, 2018, the Union Cabinet, chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi approved the signing of MOU between India and Bulgaria for strengthening cooperation in the field of Tourism. Focus areas are: to exchange information and data related to tourism and in Human Resource Development, to exchange visits of Tour Operators / Media /Opinion Makers for promotion of two way tourism, to encourage cooperation between tourism stakeholders including Hotels and Tour operators.

512. National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) approved projects worth ____ in Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and West Bengal under the Namami Gange programme, on 28th August 2018? 1) Rs 200 crores 2) Rs 150 crores 3) Rs 300 crores 4) Rs 400 crores 5) None of these Answer - 2) Rs 150 crores Explanation: On 28th August 2018, the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) approved projects worth Rs 150 crores in Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and West Bengal under the Namami Gange programme, in its 5th Executive Committee meeting held in New Delhi. These projects comprise Interception and Diversion (I&D) works in which small rivers, rivulets and drains are intercepted before they empty into the main river. They are diverted to Sewage Treatment Plants (STP), hence the water that drains into the main river is clean. Development of Ghats is also included in the projects.

513. National Health Agency (NHA) has signed a MoU with which entity to provide skill development for “Arogyamitras” under Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY)? 1) Google 2) Microsoft 3) National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) 4) Indian Institute of Skill Development (IISD) 5) None of these Answer - 3) National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) Explanation: On 27th August 2018, a MoU was signed between the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) and National Health Agency (NHA) to provide capacity building for Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY) for effective launch and implementation. The MoU was signed by Dr Indu Bhushan, CEO, NHA and Manish Kumar, MD & CEO, NSDC. According to the MoU, NSDC will train the Arogyamitras through its Skill Development Centres operating under Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) and Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Kendras (PMKK).

514. The Ministry of Tourism sanctioned two new projects under Heritage and North East Circuits of Swadesh Darshan Scheme for _____ in Punjab and Tripura, on 29th August 2018?

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1) Rs. 256.78 crore 2) Rs. 164.95 crore 3) Rs. 456.78 crore 4) Rs. 788.90 crore 5) None of these Answer - 2) Rs. 164.95 crore Explanation: On August 29, 2018, the Ministry of Tourism sanctioned two new projects under Heritage and North East Circuits of Swadesh Darshan Scheme for Rs 164.95 crore in Punjab and Tripura. In Punjab, the project covers sites of Anandpur Sahib, Fatehgarh Sahib, Chamkaur Sahib, Ferozpur, Amritsar, Khatkar Kalan Kalanour Patiala. The sites of Surma Cherra- Unakoti- Jampui Hills- Gunabati-Bhunaneshwari- Matabari- Neermahal- Boxanagar- Chotta khola- Pilak- Avangchaarra have been covered under Tripura.

515. RBI Annual Report has stated that, India remains a preferred destination for foreign direct investment (FDI). What was the capital inflow received by India in 2017-18? 1) $43.7 billion 2) $37.3 billion 3) $25.7 billion 4) $34.7 billion 5) None of these Answer - 2) $37.3 billion Explanation: On August 29, 2018, according to RBI Annual Report, India remains a preferred destination for foreign direct investment (FDI). This is due to strong domestic consumption from the both services and agriculture sectors and manufacturing sector. India received $37.3 billion capital inflow in 2017-18 as compared to $36.3 billion in the previous fiscal. During the 2015-16, the country received $36.06 billion. The increase in foreign capital flow was mainly due to higher flows into the communication services, retail and wholesale trade, financial services and computer services.

516. Government of India and International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) of World Bank signed an agreement for _____ under the India Energy Efficiency Scale-Up Program in Delhi, on 29th August 2018? 1) $300 million 2) $250 million 3) $200 million 4) $150 million 5) None of these Answer - 1) $300 million Explanation: On August 29, 2018, the Government of India and the IBRD of World Bank signed a total of $300 million agreement for the India Energy Efficiency Scale-Up Program in Delhi. Out of the $300 million, $220 million is a Loan Agreement and a $80 million is a Guarantee Agreement. The $220 million loan,from the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) to EESL, has a 5-year grace period, and a maturity of 19 years. The $80 million IBRD guaranteewill partially repay to commercial lenders or investors and enable EESL to raise funds. The program will be implemented by the Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL).

517. Which bank has changed names and IFSC codes of nearly 1,300 branches in India, after merger with its associates and BMB (Bharatiya Mahila Bank)? 1) Axis Bank 2) State Bank of India (SBI) 3) ICICI Bank 4) YES Bank 5) None of these Answer - 2) State Bank of India (SBI) Explanation: SBI has published a list of new branch codes as well as the IFSC codes of these branches. The merger of six associate banks and Bhartiya Mahila Bank (BMB) with State Bank of India (SBI) came to effect from April 1, 2017

Current Affairs Q&A PDF resulting into increase in size and valuation of the bank. A total of 1,295 branches have been changed across the country as per the SBI list enlisting the old and new IFSC codes after rationalisation/merger with associate banks and BMB.

518. Name the Indian Police Officer who successfully completed the 'Ironman Triathlon' event on 26th August 2018 in France? 1) Ravinderkumar Singhal 2) Mahinder Singh 3) Raj Kumar Saini 4) Vivek Kumar Singh 5) None of these Answer - 1) Ravinderkumar Singhal Explanation: Nashik Police Commissioner Ravinderkumar Singhal has successfully completed the immensely difficult 'Ironman Triathlon', which involves a set of physically grueling activities. The event, which includes cycling non-stop for a staggering 180 km, followed by swimming for around 4 km and finally by a 42-km full marathon, was held in France on 26th August 2018. Mr Singhal, 53, completed the triathlon in 15 hours and 13 minutes as against the stipulated time of 17 hours.

519. Which Union Ministry has launched Atal Ranking of Institutions on Innovation Achievements (ARRIA) to promote innovation and research in higher education? 1) Union Ministry of Science and Technology 2) Union Ministry of Human Resource Development 3) Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry 4) Union Ministry of Urban Development 5) None of these Answer - 2) Union Ministry of Human Resource Development Explanation: On August 31, 2018, the Union HRD Minister Prakash Javadekar announced the introduction of Atal Ranking of Institutions on Innovation Achievements (ARRIA), an initiative of the union ministry to promote innovation. This has been established at the premises of All India Council of Technical Education (AICTE) in New Delhi. It aims to promote a culture of innovation and research in higher education. It will rank educational institutions for innovation output based on all major indicators and parameters used globally. It would encourage every college to have an innovation cell.

520. Union Ministry for Environment, Forest and Climate Change has launched National Reducing Emission from Deforestation and Forest Degradation (REDD+) plus strategy. Who is the chairperson of National Governing Council of REDD+? 1) Manoj Sinha 2) Dr. Harsh Vardhan 3) Subhatra Mohan 4) Sharmila Kishore 5) None of these Answer - 2) Dr. Harsh Vardhan Explanation: On August 31, 2018, Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Dr. Harsh Vardhan introduced the ‘National REDD+ Strategy India’ for the implementation of the REDD+ strategy. This has been constituted in line with India’s National Action Plan on Climate Change, Green India Mission and India’s Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) to UNFCCC. Under the strategy following are to be established: • A National Governing Councilof REDD+ chaired by the Union Environment Minister at the national level and • 2 technical committees, headed by DG, Forest Survey of India and DG, ICFRE.

521. IWAI has made public 13 standardised advanced ship designs suitable for large barge haulage on river Ganga (National Waterway-1). What does “I” represent in IWAI? 1) Indian 2) International

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3) Internal 4) Inland 5) None of these Answer - 4) Inland Explanation: IWAI - Inland Waterways Authority of India On 31st August 2018, Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) made public 13 standardised advanced ship designs suitable for large barge haulage on river Ganga (National Waterway-1). The Government is implementing Jal Marg Vikas Project (JMVP) for capacity enhancement of navigation on NW-1 (Varanasi-Haldia stretch) at a cost of Rs 5369.18 crore. Technical assistance and investment support is provided by the World Bank. The new designs will help shipyards build vessels of standardised dimensions and capacity, and will lead to reduced fuel costs and lesser logistics costs. It will bring in savings of Rs 30-50 lakhs in building of a vessel. It will also eliminate the dependence on foreign ship designs for Inland Water Transport (IWT) and contribute to ‘Make in India’.

522. Name the Union MSME Minister who announced the launch of ‘One District One Product’ scheme in Odisha, on 31st August 2018? 1) Rajnath Singh 2) Jual Oram 3) Narendra Singh Tomar 4) Giriraj Singh 5) None of these Answer - 4) Giriraj Singh Explanation: On August 31, 2018, Union MSME Minister Giriraj Singh announced the launch of ‘One District One Product’ scheme in Odisha at a function of the SC-ST State Conclave cum Exhibition under National SC-ST Hub. Under this scheme, the Union MSME secretary Arun Panda will be conducting a survey of the potential of the MSME sector. This survey will be conducted in the following sectors: aromatic, agro, marine food processing, organic food marketing, turmeric and ginger processing and other section.

523. National Small Industries Corporation Limited (NSIC) signed how many MoUs to enhance technology adoption in MSMEs (Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises) to enhance skills of youths in Odisha, on 30th August 2018? 1) 4 2) 2 3) 3 4) 5 5) None of these Answer - 3) 3 Explanation: The 3 MoUs are as follows: • NSIC signed a MoU with SAP India Pvt Ltd:to utilise the network of NSIC Technical Services Centres and other institutions under its administrative control to develop a future-ready workforce through training on ‘Business One’ software. • NSIC signed a MoU with Rourkela Steel Plantand National Scheduled Tribe Finance Development Corporation (NSTFDC): to establish a livelihood business incubator at Rourkela to improve self-employment potential of tribal youths. • NSIC signed a MoU with Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI): to offer financial support to village- level entrepreneurs.

524. How many new districts have been created in Arunachal Pradesh by passing the Arunachal Pradesh Re-Organisation of Districts (Amendment) Bill 2018? 1) 2 2) 3 3) 4 4) 6 5) None of these Answer - 2) 3

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Explanation: On August 31, 2018, the Arunachal Pradesh Assembly passed a bill for the creation of three new districts namely- Pakke-Kesang, Lepa Rada and Shi Yomi, in the state. The name of the bill is the Arunachal Pradesh Re-Organisation of Districts (Amendment) Bill 2018. Now Arunachal Pradesh would have 25 districts in total after the addition of these 3 districts from earlier 22. Creation of these districts were necessary to meet the growing demands of the people and bring administration to everyone.

525. Name the module launched in Punjab to facilitate online property transactions that has been provided by Punjab Urban Planning and Development Authority (PUDA)? 1) PUDA360 2) PUDA e-transfer 3) PUDA properties 4) PUDA e-site 5) None of these Answer - 1) PUDA360 Explanation: On August 31, 2018, Punjab chief minister Amarinder Singh launched PUDA360 module to facilitate online property transactions. The facility has been provided by Punjab Urban Planning and Development Authority (PUDA). It would offer the following services: • E-auction, • Give a common platform to the promoters/ builders for advertisement, • Checking of delays in sanction of building plans, • Issuance of no objection certificate, • Issuance of conveyance deed and transfer of property, • Facility of selling, renting and leasing out their properties.

526. Which state government obtained extension under Section 3 Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958 (AFSPA) for another 6 months declaring the entire state as ‘Disturbed Area’, on 31st August 2018? 1) Arunachal Pradesh 2) Assam 3) Sikkim 4) Nagaland 5) None of these Answer - 2) Assam Explanation: On August 31, 2018, the state government of Assam sought extension under Section 3 Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958 (AFSPA) for another 6 months declaring entire state as ‘Disturbed Area’. This Act will be in continuation till the National Register of Citizen (NRC) is updated. The final draft NRC is likely to be published by end of 2018. In September 2017, Union Home Ministry had delegated to Assam and Manipur Governors power to impose or withdraw AFSPA.

527. Where was the first South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) Agri Cooperative Business Forum held from on August 28-30, 2018? 1) Beijing, China 2) Kathmandu, Nepal 3) New Delhi, India 4) Kuala Lampur, Malaysia 5) None of these Answer - 2) Kathmandu, Nepal Explanation: From August 28-30, 2018, the 3 day first South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) Agri Cooperative Business Forum was held in Kathmandu, Nepal. The theme of three-day Forum is the ‘Organizing and Strengthening Family Farmers’ Cooperatives to attain the Sustainable-Development-Goals-1 and 2 in South Asia’. It was organized by Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of United Nations and Asian Farmers’ Association with the support from International Fund for Agricultural Development. Dignitaries present were: representatives both from the government and non-governmental entities from the Member States of SAARC and regional and

Current Affairs Q&A PDF international organizations.

528. Asian Development Bank (ADB) approved a financing package worth _____ million to three districts of West Bengal, on 31st August 2018? 1) $200 million 2) $245 million 3) $275 million 4) $300 million 5) None of these Answer - 2) $245 million Explanation: On August 31, 2018, the Board of Directors of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a financing package totaling $245 million to three districts of West Bengal state. It aims to provide safe, sustainable, and inclusive drinking water service. The total project cost is $349 million.

529. National Council of Applied Economic Research (NCAER) report for 2018-19, has predicted India's growth for the current fiscal (FY19) as what per cent? 1) 7.5 % 2) 7.4 % 3) 7.6 % 4) 7.7 % 5) None of these Answer - 2) 7.4 % Explanation: On August 31, 2018, according to National Council of Applied Economic Research (NCAER) report for 2018-19, India's growth forecast for the current fiscal is at 7.4 per cent. The reasons cited for this are: Good agriculture due to rainfall and prices and, Improvement in the external sector.

530. Several Indian IT firms have joined the Call for Code initiative to develop global solutions for disaster management. Which is the founding member of the initiative? 1) Wipro 2) Infosys 3) IBM 4) HCL 5) None of these Answer - 3) IBM Explanation: IBM, Persistent Systems, Invest India, Wipro, Capgemini and Nasscom have joined the ‘Call for Code’ Global Initiative to involve startups, academic and developers to respond to and recover from natural disasters. Call for Code was announced in May 2018. IBM is the founding member along with American Red Cross and United Nations Human Rights Organisation. IBM has also joined hands with David Clark Cause, a global leader in creating cause brands and initiatives, for Call for Code. IBM will offer access to cloud, data, AI (Artificial Intelligence), blockchain technologies, training and code to developers.

531. Indian Railways signed a MoU with which firm for supply of Natural Gas to Indian Railways Workshops, Production Units and Depots at Rail Bhavan in New Delhi, on 31st August 2018? 1) GAIL (India) Limited 2) IOCL India Ltd 3) HPCL 4) BPCL 5) None of these Answer - 1) GAIL (India) Limited Explanation: On August 31, 2018, Indian Railways has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with M/s GAIL (India) Limited, for supply of Natural Gas to Indian Railways Workshops, Production Units and Depots at Rail Bhavan in New Delhi. To replace Industrial gases like Dissolved Acetylene, LPG, BMCG and Furnace Oil / High Speed Diesel

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(HSD) oil with environment friendly Natural Gas.

532. Which football player was named UEFA Player of the Year 2018 on 31st August 2018? 1) Keylor Navas 2) Sergio Ramos 3) Luka Modric 4) Christiano Ronaldo 5) None of these Answer - 3) Luka Modric Explanation: On August 31, 2018, in the UEFA Awards, Croatia captain Luka Modric was voted the best player in Europe. He also won the Midfielder of the Season. Real Madrid was named the best player in last season’s Champions League. The best women’s player award was won by Pernille Harder of Denmark and Wolfsburg. Best goalkeeper of the season was: Keylor Navas. Best defender of the season was: Sergio Ramos. Ronaldo won the Forward of the Season. 2018 UEFA President's Award was given to David Beckham, Johan Cruyff, Franz Beckenbauer, Eusebio and Sir Bobby Charlton.

533. Who was reappointed as a director on the board of ICICI Securities, on 31st August 2018? 1) Shikha Sharma 2) Sandeep Bakshi 3) Chanda Kochhar 4) Radhakrishnan Nair 5) None of these Answer - 3) Chanda Kochhar Explanation: On August 31, 2018, ICICI Bank reappointed Chanda Kochhar as a director on the board of ICICI Securities. Earlier, Kochhar was charged with quid pro quo in disbursing loans to Venugopal Dhoot-led Videocon Group. One-man panel constituting retired Supreme Court judge Justice BN Srikrishna is probing the matter.

534. Idea Cellular and Vodafone have merged their India operations and the merged entity is named Vodafone Idea LTd. Who is the CEO of Vodafone Idea LTd? 1) Balesh Sharma 2) Himanshu Singh 3) Kumar Mangalam Birla 4) Prathik Pandey 5) None of these Answer - 1) Balesh Sharma Explanation: On August 31, 2018, Idea Cellular and Vodafone completed their merger of India operations. This deal is valued at roughly a $23 billion (roughly Rs. 1.6 lakh crores). The name of the merged entity is: Vodafone Idea LTd. It is the country's largest telecom operator by subscribers and revenue. The combined entity will have a revenue share of about 40 percent in the market and a total customer base of around 408 million.

535. Which cricketer became the second-fastest Indian to score 6,000 runs in Test cricket, on 31st August 2018? 1) Shikhar Dhawan 2) Virat Kohli 3) Rohit Sharma 4) MS Dhoni 5) None of these Answer - 2) Virat Kohli Explanation: On 31st August 2018, Indian cricket captain Virat Kohli became the second-fastest Indian to score 6,000 runs in Test cricket. Virat Kohli has achieved this feat in his 119th Test. The fastest Indian to reach the 6,000-run mark was Sunil Gavaskar, who made it in 117 innings. Virat Kohli has surpassed Sachin Tendulkar (120 innings), Virender Sehwag (121 innings) and Rahul Dravid (125 innings).

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536. Who has become the first Indian boxer to win 3 medals in the Asian Games, after winning bronze in men's middle 75 kg boxing event, at Asian Games 2018 in Indonesia? 1) Manjit Singh 2) Sushil Kumar 3) Vikas Krishan 4) Ravi Thapar 5) None of these Answer - 3) Vikas Krishan Explanation: Vikas Krishan pulled ou8t of the semi-final of the men's middle 75 kg boxing event, following an eye injury. Hence he received a bronze medal. He became the first Indian boxer to win 3 medals in the Asian Games. He had won gold medal in the 60 kg category in 2010 Asian Games in Guangzhou and bronze medal in middleweight category at 2014 Asian Games in Incheon.

537. Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport has been renamed as Chhatrapati Shivaji ‘Maharaj’ International Airport. Where is this airport located? 1) Pune 2) Hyderabad 3) Bengaluru 4) Mumbai 5) None of these Answer - 4) Mumbai Explanation: Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport has been rechristened as Chhatrapati Shivaji ‘Maharaj’ International Airport. The Maharashtra government decided to insert the word ‘Maharaj’ to the Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport and the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus as it felt the Maratha warrior king deserved to be paid more respect. A proposal was passed in the Assembly and forwarded to the Centre in December 2016.

538. Yes Bank has received RBI's approval for the continuance of _____ as managing director and CEO of the bank till further notice from RBI? 1) Abhishek Sharma 2) Rana Kapoor 3) B Sriram 4) Rajesh Lal 5) None of these Answer - 2) Rana Kapoor Explanation: Yes Bank has received RBI's approval for the continuance of Rana Kapoor as managing director and CEO of the bank till further notice from RBI. In June 2018, Yes Bank's shareholders had approved the re-appointment of Rana Kapoor as the chief executive and managing director for three years, subject to final approval from the Reserve Bank of India.

539. The Central Government sanctioned _____ crore for the Gujarat's Sardar Sarovar Dam project on the Narmada river, on 30th August 2018? 1) Rs 730 crore 2) Rs 890 crore 3) Rs 546 crore 4) Rs 978 crore 5) None of these Answer - 1) Rs 730 crore Explanation: On August 30, 2018, the Centre sanctioned Rs 730 crore for the Gujarat's Sardar Sarovar Dam project on the Narmada river. It also granted soft loan of Rs 1,500 crore for the state's other irrigation projects. The Rs. 1500 crore loan will be repaid by the state in 15 years, with installments starting after a three-year grace period.

540. The Government has constituted a 21 member PM-STIAC (Science, Technology, Innovation Advisory Committee) to advise PM on science, tech-related policy issues. Who is the Chairperson of the committee?

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1) K Vijay Raghavan 2) Sathish Reddy 3) P K Malhotra 4) Ramandeep Roy 5) None of these Answer - 1) K Vijay Raghavan Explanation: On August 30, 2018, the Government has constituted a 21 member high power committee to advise it on policy matters related to science, technology and innovation. The committee will advise the Prime Minister on all matters related to S&T, innovation and monitor the implementation of PM’s vision. The name of the committee is : PM- STIAC (Science, Technology, Innovation Advisory Committee). It is chaired by K Vijay Raghavan, Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government. There are 9 permanent members. Among them some are: VK Saraswat, Member NITI Aayog and former DG of DRDO; A S Kiran Kumar, ex-Chairman ISRO etc.

541. The Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Ministry of Science and Technology signed a MoU with which organization on innovation in clean energy transition, on 30th August 2018? 1) International Energy Alliance (IEA) 2) International Energy Agency (IEA) 3) International Solar Alliance (ISA) 4) International Energy Management (IEM) 5) None of these Answer - 2) International Energy Agency (IEA) Explanation: On August 30, 2018, the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Ministry of Science and Technology, and the International Energy Agency (IEA) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on innovation in clean energy transition. This agreement will be coordinated : • In India by Mission Innovation IndiaUnit set up by DBT (under Ministry of Sceince & Technology) and • International Partnership and Initiatives Unit (IPI) of IEA.

542. Which state has signed MoU with two US-based agencies namely 'Malaria No More' and 'Malaria Elimination Trust' to eradicted malaria? 1) Kerala 2) Assam 3) Odisha 4) Karnataka 5) None of these Answer - 3) Odisha Explanation: On August 30, 2018, Odisha government signed an MOU with two US-based agencies to eradicted malaria. The 2 agencies are: 'Malaria No More' and 'Malaria Elimination Trust'. They will prepare a strategy on how to overcome the disease and help in preparing the public awareness campaign materials. The state has an existing anti-malaria campaign called: the Durgama Anchalare Malaria Nirakaran (DAMaN) Scheme that has brough down 85% of the malaria cases.

543. What is the rank of Odisha in implementation of Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT) scheme, as per the National Level Rating Framework assessment? 1) 1 2) 2 3) 5 4) 10 5) None of these Answer - 2) 2 Explanation: On August 30, 2018, in the National Level Rating Framework assessment, Odisha ranked second with a score of 53.19 in implementation of Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT) scheme. The assessment was taken upto August 21, 2018. Andhra Pradesh scored highest with 54.11 score.

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544. As per RPAS regulations, foreigners have been barred from flying drones in India. What does “P” represented in RPAS? 1) Prohibited 2) Piloted 3) Prevention 4) Protection 5) None of these Answer - 2) Piloted Explanation: RPAS - Remotely Piloted Aircraft System On August 30, 2018, as per the Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS) regulations, foreigners have been barred from flying drones in India. For commercial purpose, they need to lease RPAS to an Indian entity who in-turn will obtain UIN and UAOP from DGCA. Furthermore, micro drones could be allowed during night subject to various conditions and up to a height of 200 feet above ground level. These regulations would come into force from December 1, 2018.

545. Where was the 4th version of Asian electoral stakeholders forum (AESF-IV) held on August 27-28, 2018? 1) Kathmandu, Nepal 2) Colombo, Sri Lanka 3) New Delhi, India 4) Dhaka, Bangladesh 5) None of these Answer - 2) Colombo, Sri Lanka Explanation: From August 27-28, 2018, the 2 day fourth version of Asian electoral stakeholders forum (AESF-IV) was held Colombo, Sri Lanka. It was jointly organised by Election Commission of Sri Lanka and Asian community for free of charge elections (ANFREL). The concept of AESF-IV was ‘Advancing Election Transparency and Integrity: Advertising and marketing and Defending Democracy Together’.

546. Which Indian Naval Ship entered the Port of Darwin, Australia on 29th August 2018 to participate in Exercise KAKADU 2018? 1) INS Kalvari 2) INS Sahyadri 3) INS Vindhya 4) INS Vikram 5) None of these Answer - 2) INS Sahyadri Explanation: On August 30, 2018, after participating in the MALABAR 18 at Guam and RIMPAC 18 at Hawaii, INS Sahyadri entered the Port of Darwin, Australia on 29 Aug 18 to participate in Exercise KAKADU 2018. It is the 14th edition of the exercise and will be conducted from 29 Aug – 15 Sep 18. 23 warships, one submarine, 45 aircraft, 250 marines and approx 52 foreign staff from over 25 different countries would participate in it. From the Indian side INS Sahyadri is taking part under the captainship of Captain Shantanu Jha.

547. What percent of the demonetized currency notes have been counted and accounted for by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), according to its annual report released recently? 1) 98.80 % 2) 99.30 % 3) 85.50 % 4) 87.78 % 5) None of these Answer - 2) 99.30 % Explanation: On August 30, 2018, in the annual report published by RBI, it announced that 99.30% of all of the demonetized currency notes have been counted and accounted for by the central bank. Rs 15.31 lakh crore worth currency notes have now been returned, since November 8, 2016. The total worth of notes that was in circulation at the time

Current Affairs Q&A PDF of demonetization was : Rs 15.41 lakh crore. Rs 10,720 crore of the currency did not return to the banking system.

548. According to Reserve Bank of India (RBI)’s annual report, India's economic growth rate will grow at what per cent in the current financial year 2018-19? 1) 7.4 % 2) 7.6 % 3) 7.8 % 4) 7.9 % 5) None of these Answer - 1) 7.4 % Explanation: On August 30, 2018, its annual report, RBI stated that India's economic growth rate will grow at 7.4 per cent in the current financial year. The reasons cited for better GDP are: Increased industrial activityand, Good Monsson. According to the report, agricultural production is likely to remain strong. The headline inflation may increase in the remaining portion of the year. RBI will work toward the medium term target for retail inflation of 4 percent.

549. Government of India and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) signed a loan agreement worth _____ million to double farming incomes in Madhya Pradesh, on 30th August 2018? 1) $375 million 2) $250 million 3) $500 million 4) $465 million 5) None of these Answer - 1) $375 million Explanation: On August 30, 2018, Government of India and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) signed a $375 million loan agreement to double farming incomes in Madhya Pradesh. It would be done via The Madhya Pradesh Irrigation Efficiency Improvement Project. It will cover 2 large irrigation systems: the Kundalia irrigation project, the existing Sanjay Sarovar Irrigation Project. The projects include developing 125,000 hectares of climate resilient and efficient irrigation networks. It would expand irrigation networks and system efficiency in more than 400 villages, benefiting over 800,000 people in Madhya Pradesh.

550. The Government of India, the Government of Rajasthan and the World Bank signed a Development Policy Loan (DPL) worth _____ million for Rajasthan, on 29th August 2018? 1) $250 million 2) $200 million 3) $150 million 4) $400 million 5) None of these Answer - 1) $250 million Explanation: On August 29, 2018, the Government of India, the Government of Rajasthan and the World Bank signed a $250 million Development Policy Loan (DPL) for Rajasthan. To improve the performance of its Electricity Distribution Sector under the State’s 24x7 Power for All program. The name of the loan is : The Second Programmatic Electricity Distribution Reform Development Policy Loan. The loan from the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD), has a 3-year grace period, and a maturity of 21 years.

551. When was International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances observed all over the world? 1) August 29 2) August 30 3) August 31 4) August 28 5) None of these Answer - 2) August 30 Explanation: On 30th August 2018, International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances was observed all over the

Current Affairs Q&A PDF world. In 2010, the United Nations General Assembly declared 30th August as the International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances. This day was first observed on 30th August 2011. Enforced disappearance occurs when a person is secretly kidnapped or imprisoned by a state or political organization or a third party, with support of the State, following concealment of information about the person. This day creates awareness on enforced or involuntary disappearances like arrest, detention, abduction or any other form of enforced disappearances.

552. Google has rebranded its payment app Google Tez to _____? 1) Google Transfer 2) Google Pay 3) Google Bills 4) Google Funds 5) None of these Answer - 2) Google Pay Explanation: Google has rebranded its payment app Google Tez to Google Pay to improve its growth in India to add more features. This announcement was made at the 4th edition of Google for India event in New Delhi on 28th August 2018. Google has partnered with 4 banks: HDFC Bank, Kotak Mahindra Bank, ICICI Bank and Federal Bank, to enable instant disbursement of pre-approved loans to user’s account. If a user has pre-approved loans from one of these banks, they can use Google Pay, to mention the amount they want to borrow and input time period needed to repay. The amount will then be credited to the user's account.

553. Government of India has signed a $346 million loan to finance Karnataka State Highways lmprovement lll Project (KSHIP-lll) with which bank? 1) Asian Development Bank (ADB) 2) World Bank 3) International Monetary Fund (IMF) 4) Soft Bank 5) None of these Answer - 1) Asian Development Bank (ADB) Explanation: On August 30, 2018, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Government of lndia signed a $346 million loan to finance Karnataka State Highways lmprovement lll Project (KSHIP-lll). This involves improvement of 419 kilometers of state highways to enhance connectivity to economic centers across 12 districts in Kamataka. The agreement was signed between: Shri Sameer Kumar Khare, Joint Secretary (Fund Bank and ADB), Department of Economic Affairs and Mr Kenichi Yokoyama, Country Director of ADB's lndia Resident Mission.

554. Germany announced a grant of _____ million soft loan for Clean Ganga Mission to India through German Development Bank KfW, on 30th August 2018? 1) Euro 120 million 2) Euro 150 million 3) Euro 230 million 4) Euro 450 million 5) None of these Answer - 1) Euro 120 million Explanation: On August 30, 2018, German envoy Jasper Wieck on behalf of Germany announced grant of Euro 120 mn soft loan for Clean Ganga Mission to India through German Development Bank KfW. The project would focus on: • Extension and replacement of sewerage system (around 360 kilometres), • Construction of sewage treatment plants of around 15 million litres per day (mld). • Construction of 13sewage pumping stations.

555. Who was conferred Praful Bidwai memorial award 2018, on 30th August 2018? 1) Pratyusha Singh 2) Gowri Mandal 3) Tanwar Bhatiya 4) Ulka Mahajan

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5) None of these Answer - 4) Ulka Mahajan Explanation: On August 30, 2018, Ulka Mahajan was conferred Praful Bidwai memorial award 2018. The award was presented to her by social activist Medha Patkar. She is one of the 3 founders of Sarvahara Jan Andolan. The SJA has been working to empower extremely impoverished and marginalised communities of Raigad, Maharashtra, through people's action.

556. Which payments service provider will acquire the all-in-one aggregator app Tapzo? 1) PayPal 2) Paytm 3) Amazon Pay 4) PhonePe 5) None of these Answer - 3) Amazon Pay Explanation: On August 30, 2018, Amazon announced that Amazon Pay, the payments arm of Amazon India, will acquire Sequoia-backed Tapzo. The deal values at about $35-40 million. Tapzo has so far raised over $20 million from Sequoia Capital and American Express Co.

557. Which space agency will launch Ice, Cloud and land Elevation Satellite-2 (ICESat-2) in to the space on 12th September 2018, to measure the changes in the heights of Earth's polar ice? 1) China National Space Administration (CNSA) 2) Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) 3) National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) 4) Roscosmos State Corporation for Space Activities 5) None of these Answer - 3) National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Explanation: National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) will launch Ice, Cloud and land Elevation Satellite-2 (ICESat-2) in to the space on 12th September 2018, to measure the changes in the heights of Earth's polar ice. ICESat-2 is the most advanced laser instrument of its kind. It will measure the average annual elevation change of land ice covering Greenland and Antarctica to within the width of a pencil. It will capture 60,000 measurements every second. Its Advanced Topographic Laser Altimeter System (ATLAS) measures height by timing how long it takes individual light photons to travel from the spacecraft to Earth and back.

558. Name India’s manned space mission that will be launched into space by 2022, by Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO)? 1) Mission Shakthi 2) Gaganyaan Mission 3) Vayushakthi Mission 4) Mission Brahma 5) None of these Answer - 2) Gaganyaan Mission Explanation: On 28th August 2018, Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO), unveiled India's Gaganyaan programme for manned space flight that will be launched by 2022. The manned mission to space will have 3 crew members. It will be in space for 5 to 7 days and conduct experiments on micro-gravity. After the takeoff, the manned flight will reach the orbit in 16 minutes. When the crew returns to the Earth, it might land in the Arabian Sea off the Gujarat coast or in the Bay of Bengal or even on land. The mission would be executed 6 months prior to India’s 75th Independence Day. It will be executed using GSLV Mk-III launch vehicle.

559. Jamie Vardy and Gary Cahill announced their retirement from the international Football Team of which country on 28th August 2018? 1) Australia 2) New Zealand 3) England

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4) Brazil 5) None of these Answer - 3) England Explanation: On 28th August 2018, Jamie Vardy and Gary Cahill announced their retirement from England international Football Team. Jamie Vardy and Gary Cahill said that, they will still be available for the team in emergency situations. Jamie Vardy is a striker with Leicester City team. He is 31 years old. He entered international football in 2015. He had scored 7 goals in 26 appearances for England. Gary Cahill is a defender in the Chelsea team. He is 32 years old. He made his international debut in 2010.

560. Which organization has developed the book on “Weather Information Portal for Indian Power System” along with IMD (India Meteorological Department), that has been released by R K Singh, Minister of State (IC) for Power and New & Renewable Energy? 1) Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) 2) Power System Operation Corporation limited (POSOCO) 3) National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC) 4) Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) 5) None of these Answer - 2) Power System Operation Corporation limited (POSOCO) Explanation: On 29th August 2018, R K Singh, Minister of State (IC) for Power and New & Renewable Energy released a book on “Weather Information Portal for Indian Power System”, at Power System Operation Corporation limited (POSOCO), New Delhi. This book is a reference document developed by POSOCO along with IMD (India Meteorological Department) to enable better usage of Weather Portal in all areas of Power Sector. POSOCO manages the Inter- State Transmission of Power to utilities throughout India.

561. Who has won the first gold medal for India in the women's heptathlon event at the Asian Games 2018, in Indonesia? 1) Swapna Barman 2) Chitra Unnikrishnan 3) Seema Johnson 4) Anshula Singh 5) None of these Answer - 1) Swapna Barman Explanation: Swapna Barman won gold medal in the women’s heptathlon event with a score of 6026 points. She has crossed the landmark of 6000 points mark in Heptathlon. She has won the first gold medal for India in the women's heptathlon event at the Asian Games.

562. Which Indian athlete won gold medal in the men’s 1500m event, at the Asian Games 2018, in Indonesia? 1) Manjit Singh 2) Preetam Singh 3) Jinson Johnson 4) Ravi Muthiah 5) None of these Answer - 3) Jinson Johnson Explanation: Jinson Johnson won gold medal in the men’s 1500m event. He finished in 3:44.72 sec. Manjit Singh finished in fourth position with a timing of 3:46.57sec.

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Static GK question from August Current Affairs 2018

1. Who is the Chairman of Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL)? T Suvarna Raju

2. Where is Kanger Ghati National Park located? Chhattisgarh

3. What is the tag line of IDBI Bank? Aao Sochein Bada

4. Who is the President of World Squash Federation (WSF)? Jacques Fontaine

5. Where is Bakhshi Stadium located? Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir

6. Where is Chidambaram Stadium located? Chennai, Tamil Nadu

7. Who is the MD & CEO of Fino payment bank? Rishi Gupta

8. Who is the chairman of National Highways Authority of India? Chairman – Yudhvir Singh Malik ; Headquarters – New Delhi

9. Where is the Headquarters of HDFC bank located? Mumbai ; MD – Aditya Puri

10. What is the currency of Rwanda? Rwandan franc ; Capital – Kigali

11. Who is the President of FICCI Ladies Organisation? Pinky Reddy

12. Where is Clouded Leopard National Park located? Tripura

13. Who is the Chairman of Karnataka Vikas Grameena Bank (KVGB)? S Ravindran

14. Name the MD and CEO of Jio Payments Bank? H Srikrishnan

15. Who is the Chairman of Mahindra Group? Anand Mahindra 16. Name the MD and CEO and headquarters of Vijaya Bank? MD CEO: Sankara Narayanan; Headquarters: Bengaluru

17. Where is the headquarters of Asia-Pacific Institute for Broadcasting Development (ABID)? Kuala Lumpur , Malaysia

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18. Where is the Great Himalayan Park located? Himachal Pradesh

19. What is the capital and currency of Republic of Equitorial Guinea? Capital: Malabo; Currency: Central African CFA Franc

20. When was Fincare Small Finance Bank incorporated? 2017

21. Where is YS Raja Reddy Stadium located? Kadapa, Andhra Pradesh

22. Name the CEO and headquarters of International Cricket Council (ICC)? CEO - David Richardson; Headquarters – Dubai, United Arab Emirates

23. Who is the Chairman of Rajya Sabha? M. Venkaiah Naidu

24. Who is the Administrator of National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) headquartered in Washington DC, United States? Jim Bridenstine

25. Who is the Minister of State for Commerce and Industry? C R Chaudhary

26. Name the President and headquarters of BWF (Badminton World Federation)? President - Poul-Erik Høyer; Headquarters - Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

27. Who is the Chairperson of Country Code Names Supporting Organisation (ccNSO)? Katrina Sataki

28. Who is the secretary general of Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN)? H.E. Dato Lim Jock Hoi

29. Name the President of Hockey India? Rajinder Singh

30. Who is the Chairman of Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP)? Kadapa, Andhra Pradesh 31. Who is the Chairman of Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT)? Sushil Chandra

32. Where is Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary located? Goa

33. Who is the Chairperson of National Green Tribunal (NGT)? Justice Adarsh Kumar Goel

34. Name the President of FIH (Fédération Internationale de Hockey or International Hockey Federation) headquartered in Lausanne, Switzerland? Narinder Dhruv Batra

35. Name the speaker of Lok Sabha? Sumitra Mahajan

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36. Where is Gugamal National Park located? Maharashtra

37. Where is the headquarters of ASEAN? Jakarta, Indonesia

38. Name the Chairman of National Book Trust, India? Baldeo Bhai Sharma

39. Where is the headquarters of PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI)? New Delhi

40. When was the Washington Open (tennis) Tournament started? 1969

41. Name the CEO and headquarters of International Monetary Fund (IMF)? CEO - Christine Lagarde; Headquarters - Washington, D.C., United States

42. What is the tag line of HDFC Bank? We Understand your world

43. Who is the Prime Minister of the Republic of Uzbekistan? Abdulla Nigmatovich Aripov

44. What is the capital and currency of Kyrgyzstan? Capital - Bishkek; Currency - Kyrgyzstani som

45. Where is Jim Corbett National Park located? Uttarakhand

46. Who is the Chairperson of National Commission for Protection of Child Rights? Ms. Stuti Kacker

47. What is the tag line of Vijaya Bank? A Friend you can bank upon

48. Name the Director General and headquarters of World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO)? Director General - Francis Gurry; Headquarters – Geneva, Switzerland

49. What is the capital and currency of Canada? Capital - Ottawa; Currency - Canadian dollar

50. Who is the director general of National Informatics Centre (NIC)? Ms. Neeta Verma

51. Name the CEO and Headquarters of HDFC Bank? Answer - CEO - Aditya Puri; Headquarters – Mumbai

52. Where is the headquarters of SVC Co-operative Bank Limited? Answer - Mumbai

53. When was Reserve Bank of India (RBI) established? Answer - 1 April 1935

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54. Who is the secretary general of Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) headquartered in Beijing, China? Answer - Rashid Alimov

55. Who is the CEO of NITI Aayog? Answer - Amitabh Kant

56. Name the President and headquarters of New Development Bank? Answer - Headquarters - Shanghai, China; President - K. V. Kamath

57. Where is Kaziranga National Park located? Answer - Assam

58. Who is the President of ITF (International Tennis Federation)? Answer - David Haggerty

59. Who is the President of Indo-American Chamber of Commerce of Greater Houston (IACCGH)? Answer - Swapan Dhairyawan

60. When was the BRICS founded? Answer – 2006 61. Who is the Chairman of Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)? Answer - K. Sivan

62. Where is Indravati National Park located? Answer - Chhattisgarh

63. Who is the President of Badminton Association of India? Answer - Himanta Biswa Sarma

64. Where is Dhyan Chand National Stadium located? Answer - Delhi

65. Who is the President of All India Football Federation (AIFF)? Answer - Praful M Patel

66. Name the Chairman and headquarters of Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI)? Answer - Chairman - Subhash Chandra Khuntia; Headquarters – Hyderabad

67. What is the tag line of ICICI Bank? Answer - Hum Hain Na

68. Name the CEO and headquarters of Canara Bank? Answer - CEO - Rakesh Sharma; Headquarters – Bengaluru

69. When was Bank of India founded? Answer - 1906

70. Where is Achanakmar Wildlife Sanctuary located? Answer – Chhattisgarh

71. Who is the Chairman of Indian Oil Corp (IOC)? Answer - Sanjiv Singh

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72. Where is Indravati National Park located? Answer - Chhattisgarh

73. Where is the headquarters of Rural Electrification Corporation (REC)? Answer - New Delhi

74. Who is the Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) of India? Answer - General Bipin Rawat

75. When was the National Housing Bank (NHB) set up? Answer - 1988

76. Name the Indian Ambassador to Nepal? Answer - Manjeev Singh Puri

77. When was ‘Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana’ (PMJJBY) launched? Answer - 2015

78. Who is the CEO of PhonePe? Answer - Sameer Nigam

79. Where is the headquarters of Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA)? Answer - Kochi, Kerela

80. What is the capital and currency of Mali? Answer - Capital – Bamako; Currency - West African CFA franc

81. Name the Non-executive Chairman and headquarters of National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI)? Answer - Non-Executive Chairman - Biswamohan Mahapatra; Headquarters - Mumbai

82. Where is Indian Institute of Food Processing Technology located? Answer - Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu

83. Which state houses the Mullaperiyar Dam? Answer - Kerala

84. When was UPI (Unified Payments Interface) launched? Answer - 2016

85. Where is the headquarters of Asian Cricket Council (ACC)? Answer - Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

86. Who is the Chairman of UIDAI (Unique Identification Authority of India)? Answer - J Satyanarayana

87. Name the CEO & MD of Infosys? Answer - Salil S. Parekh

88. Who is the Director-General of Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of the United Nations? Answer - Jose Graziano da Silva

89. Who is the Prime Minister of Mauritius? Answer - Pravind Kumar Jugnauth

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90. Where is Keoladeo National Park located? Answer - Rajasthan

91. Where is Satkosia Wildlife Sanctuary located? Answer - Odisha

92. Name the Chairman and headquarters of National Bank For Agriculture And Rural Development (NABARD)? Answer - Headquarters – Mumbai, Chairman - Dr. Harsh Kumar Bhanwala

93. Where is the headquarters of Indiabulls Housing Finance? Answer - New Delhi

94. Who is the Chairman of Pension Fund and Regulatory Development Authority (PFRDA)? Answer - Hemant G Contractor

95. Name the President and Group CEO of Nomura, a financial services company? Answer - Koji Nagai

96. Name the Chairman and headquarters of Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI)? Answer - Chairman – Subhash Chandra Khuntia; Headquarters – Hyderabad

97. Who is the President of South Asian Football Federation (SAFF)? Answer - Kazi Salahuddin

98. Name the Chairman and headquarters of Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)? Answer - Chairman - Sanjay Mitra; Headquarters – New Delhi

99. Who is the Director-General of WHO (World Health Organization)? Answer - Tedros Adhanom

100. Where is the Sri Dalada Maligawa Buddhist temple located? Answer - Sri Lanka

101. Name the Chairperson of National Crisis Management Committee (NCMC)? Answer - PK Sinha

102. Where is Kalesar National Park located? Answer - Haryana

103. What is the currency and capital of Mauritius? Answer - Capital – Port Louis; Currency - Mauritian rupee

104. Who is the Executive Director of United Nations office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC)? Answer - Yury Fedotov

105. What is the constituency of Maneka Gandhi, Minister of Women and Child Development? Answer - Pilibhit, Uttar Pradesh

106. Who is the director of National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB)? Answer - Ish Kumar

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107. Name the Governor of Jammu and Kashmir? Answer - Satya Pal Malik

108. Who is the Chief Justice of India (CJI)? Answer - Dipak Misra

109. Who is the President of Iran? Answer - Hassan Rouhani

110. Receivables Exchange of India Ltd (RXIL) is a joint venture between which 2 entities? Answer - Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) & National Stock Exchange of India Limited (NSE)

111. Name the Director General and headquarters of ILO (International Labour Organization)? Answer - Director-General - Guy Ryder; Headquarters – Geneva, Switzerland

112. Name the MD & CEO and headquarters of Ujjivan Small Finance Bank? Answer - MD & CEO: Samit Ghosh; Headquarters: Bengaluru

113. Who is the chairperson of National Green Tribunal (NGT)? Answer - Adarsh Kumar Goel

114. Who is the President of Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) headquartered in Kuwait? Answer - Sheikh Ahmad Fahad Al-Sabah

115. Where is Gugamal National Park located? Answer - Maharashtra

116. Where is Abohar wildlife sanctuary located? Answer – Punjab

117. Where is Chilika Lake located? Answer - Odisha

118. Who is the Chairman of Airports Authority of India (AAI)? Answer - Guruprasad Mohapatra 119. When was Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) established? Answer – 2001

120. Name the President of FIFA (International Federation of Association Football)? Answer - Gianni Infantino

121. Where is Jambughoda Wildlife Sanctuary located? Answer – Gujarat

122. Who is the Chairman of Solar Energy Corporation of India Ltd (SECI)? Answer - Anand Kumar

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123. Where is Rohtang Tunnel located? Answer - Himachal Pradesh

124. Name the President and Headquarters of World Bank? Answer - President – Jim Yong Kim, Headquarters - Washington, D.C., U.S.

125. What is the capital and currency of Australia? Answer - Capital – Canberra; Currency - Australian dollar

126. Where is the headquarters of Centre for Science and Environment (CSE)? Answer - New Delhi

127. Who is the President of Zimbabwe? Answer - Emmerson Mnangagwa

128. Where is the headquarters of Asia Society, a global cultural organization? Answer - New York City, USA

129. Line of Control separates India with which country? Answer – Pakistan

130. Who is the governor of Uttarakhand? Answer - Baby Rani Maurya

131. Who is the President of Kenya? Answer - Uhuru Kenyatta

132. When was Punjab National Bank founded? Answer - 1894

133. What is the capital and currency of Republic of Ireland? Answer - Capital – Dublin; Currency – Euro (EUR)

134. Name the largest saline water lake in India? Answer - Chilika Lake, Odisha

135. Where is the headquarters of DBS Bank? Answer – Singapore

136. Where is Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary located? Answer - Jharkhand

137. Who is the Ambassador of the European Union to India? Answer - H.E. Mr Tomasz Kozlowski

138. Name the CEO of Prasar Bharati? Answer - Shashi Shekhar Vempati

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139. Where is the headquarters of Axis Bank? Answer - Mumbai

140. Who is the Governor of Jharkhand? Answer - Draupadi Murmu

141. Who is the CEO of National Health Agency (NHA)? Answer - Dr Indu Bhushan

142. Name the MD & CEO of National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC)? Answer - Manish Kumar

143. Who is the director general of National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG)? Answer - Rajiv Ranjan Mishra

144. What is the capital and currency of Rwanda? Answer - Capital: Kigali; Currency: Rwandan franc

145. Who is the Chairman of Insurance Regulatory Development Authority of India (IRDAI)? Answer - Subhash Chandra Khuntia

146. Where is Bir Motibagh Wild Life Sanctuary located? Answer - Punjab

147. Name the Secretary-General and headquarters of SAARC? Answer - Secretary-General - Amjad Hussain B. Sial; Headquarters - Kathmandu, Nepal

148. What is the tag line of ICICI Bank? Answer - Hum Hain Na!

149. Name the Chairman and Managing Director of GAIL? Answer - B C Tripathi

150. Who is the Chairman cum Managing Director of National Small Industries Corporation Limited (NSIC)? Answer - Ravindra Nath

151. Where is Vansda National Park located? Answer - Gujarat

152. Where is the headquarters of International Energy Agency (IEA)? Answer - Paris

153. Who is the Chairman & Managing Director of Power System Operation Corporation limited (POSOCO): Answer - Mr. K. V. S. Baba

154. Name the CEO and headquarters of World Bank? Answer - Headquarters: Washington D.C.; CEO: Kristalina Georgieva

155. Where is the headquarters of Asian Development Bank (ADB)? Answer - Manila, Philippines

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