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Preface

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Current Affairs Preface ...... 1 Naonal ...... 9 Prime Minister's visit to United Arab Emirates ...... 9 List issued for 98 selected smart cities ...... 11 The visit of President of Seychelles to ...... 12 Religious Communities of Census 2011 ...... 13 Foreign Minister visit to Egypt ...... 14 Forum for India Pacific Island Countries (FIPIC) Summit ...... 16 Agreement between India and Seychelles ...... 17 State visit of President of Mozambique to India ...... 19 Iranian Foreign Minister visit to India ...... 20 Swachh Bharat ranking-2015 ...... 21 Energy Sources of Indian Households for Cooking and Lighting, 2011-12 ...... 22 Tamil Nadu Tops in Organ Donation ...... 23 International...... 24 CERN- First non-European associates ...... 24 BRICS' New Development Bank (NDP) launched in ...... 25 High Level Meeting- Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) ...... 26 World’s highest paid actors-2015 ...... 28 World Population Prospects: The 2015 Revision ...... 29 162th member of WTO ...... 30 South Sudan in International Olympic Committee (IOC) ...... 31 Economy ...... 32 Bandhan Bank ...... 32 Forbes- World's Most Innovative Companies 2015 ...... 33 RBI in-principle nod for payments bank license ...... 34 The Richest People in Tech- Forbes list 2015 ...... 36 Third Bi-monthly Monetary Policy, 2015-16 ...... 37 Science...... 38 Global satellite to be named after Abdul Kalam ...... 38

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ISRO launched GSAT-6 ...... 39 Sports ...... 40 ...... 40 Rogers Cup-2015 ...... 40 Citi Open 2015 ...... 41 Western & Southern Open 2015- Cincinnati ...... 42 Cricket ...... 43 Ashes Test Series-2015 ...... 43 Football ...... 44 U16- South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) Cup 2015...... 44 Spanish Super Cup- 2015 ...... 45 UFEA Super cup-2015 ...... 46 Chess ...... 47 Politiken Cup-2015 ...... 47 ...... 48 World Badminton Championship-2015 ...... 48 Billiards/Snooker/ ...... 50 Victorian Open Squash-2015...... 50 IBSF World Team and 6-Red Snooker Championship ...... 51 Golf ...... 52 US PGA Championship 2015 ...... 52 Ladies British open amateur stroke-play championship ...... 53 Sports Misc ...... 54 Olympic Winter Games 2022 ...... 54 2015 World Championship ...... 55 Working Group Constituted by Central Sports Ministry ...... 56 Sports Personalities ...... 57 ...... 57 Gurbaj Singh ...... 58 Ajinkya Rahane sets World Record...... 59 Sebastian Coe ...... 60

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Clive Rice ...... 61 Snippets ...... 62 PM inaugurates birth centenary celebrations of Rani Gaidinliu ...... 62 Digitalization initiative of the Government- SEHAT ...... 63 Final meeting of the Sub-Group of Chief Ministers- NITI Aayog ...... 64 National Sports Awards- 2015...... 65 Smart street lighting project “RISHTA” ...... 67 Personalities ...... 68 Rajiv Mehrishi ...... 68 Madanlal Laxmandas Tahaliyani ...... 69 Zaina Erhaim...... 70 Neerja Mathur ...... 71 Ranil Wickremesinghe- Sri Lanka’s new PM ...... 72 Suvra Mukherjee- India’s First Lady ...... 73 Appointment of Chairman and Managing Director, Air India Limited ...... 74 Ajit Kumar Seth...... 75 Jethabhai P Patel ...... 76 Amitabh Bachchan ...... 77 Indian socio-biologist Prof. Raghavendra Gadagkar ...... 78 Om Prakash Rawat- new Election Commissioner ...... 79 Sundar Pichai- Google’s new CEO ...... 80 Vasundhara Komkali ...... 82 Places ...... 83 Mumbai gets a flamingo sanctuary ...... 83 Awards ...... 84 National Sports Awards- 2015...... 84 Saraswati Sammaan-2014 ...... 86 Institute of Hindi-Annual Prize distribution-2014 ...... 87 Scheme/Project ...... 88 E-Payment Module ...... 88 Axis Bank launches multi-currency contactless card with Visa ...... 89

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Telecom Ministry-New app launched to promote digital literacy ...... 90 Bio Fuel Blended High Speed Diesel (HSD) launched ...... 91 New central sector scheme “Nai Manzil” launched ...... 92 School Nursery Scheme ...... 93 Operation ...... 94 Exercize-Yudh Abhyas 2015 ...... 94 Treaty ...... 95 Historical peace accord between Government of India and Nationalist Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN) ...... 95 Memorandum on cooperation to establish the Pace Setter Fund ...... 96 MoU between India and Nepal approved...... 97 Government of India and World Bank Sign Agreement ...... 98 Posco Steel teams up with Uttam Galva Steel ...... 99 CBDT Signs Advance Pricing Agreements (APAs) to Usher in Certainty in Taxation ...... 100 Acquisitions ...... 101 Berkshire Hathaway buys Precision Castparts ...... 101 Thomas Cook India announces the acquisition of Kuoni Group’s Travel Operations in India and Hong Kong ...... 102 Law & Justice ...... 103 Resolution against death penalty ...... 103 Year & Day ...... 104 National Sports Day ...... 104 World Humanitarian Day ...... 105 National Sports Day ...... 106 Earth Overshoot Day ...... 107 Miscellaneous ...... 108 Appointment of Governor in the state of Bihar and Himachal Pradesh...... 108

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Date Current Affairs Page No 1 31/08/2015 Rajiv Mehrishi 69 2 29/08/2015 National Sports Day 105 3 27/08/2015 The visit of President of Seychelles to India 13 4 27/08/2015 List issued for 98 selected smart cities 12 5 27/08/2015 ISRO launched GSAT-6 40 6 27/08/2015 Novak Djokovic 58 7 27/08/2015 E-Payment Module 89 8 26/08/2015 Neerja Mathur 72 9 25/08/2015 Religious Communities of Census 2011 14 10 25/08/2015 Foreign Minister visit to Egypt 15 11 25/08/2015 National Sports Awards- 2015 85 12 25/08/2015 Digitalization initiative of the Government- SEHAT 64 13 25/08/2015 Final meeting of the Sub-Group of Chief Ministers- NITI Aayog 65 14 24/08/2015 Ashes Test Series-2015 44 15 24/08/2015 Madanlal Laxmandas Tahaliyani 70 16 24/08/2015 PM inaugurates birth centenary celebrations of Rani Gaidinliu 63 17 23/08/2015 Bandhan Bank 33 18 23/08/2015 Western & Southern Open 2015- Cincinnati 43 19 22/08/2015 Zaina Erhaim 71 20 21/08/2015 Forum for India Pacific Island Countries (FIPIC) Summit 17 21 21/08/2015 Ladies British open amateur stroke-play championship 54 22 21/08/2015 Ranil Wickremesinghe- Sri Lanka’s new PM 73 20/08/2015 Appointment of Chairman and Managing Director, Air India 23 Limited 75 24 20/08/2015 Smart street lighting project “RISHTA” 68 25 20/08/2015 Agreement between India and Seychelles 17 26 19/08/2015 Forbes- World's Most Innovative Companies 2015 34 27 19/08/2015 RBI in-principle nod for payments bank license 35 28 19/08/2015 Sebastian Coe 61 29 19/08/2015 World Humanitarian Day 106 30 18/08/2015 U16- South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) Cup 2015 45 31 18/08/2015 Suvra Mukherjee- India’s First Lady 74 32 18/08/2015 Fully automated digital locker 110 33 17/08/2015 Prime Minister's visit to United Arab Emirates 10 34 17/08/2015 Prime Minister's visit to United Arab Emirates 10 35 17/08/2015 Spanish Super Cup- 2015 46 36 17/08/2015 Ajit Kumar Seth 76 37 17/08/2015 Tamil Nadu Tops in Organ Donation 24 38 16/08/-2015 41 39 16/08/2015 World Badminton Championship-2015 49 40 16/08/2015 US PGA Championship 2015 53 41 15/08/2015 IBSF World Team and 6-Red Snooker Championship 52 42 15/08/2015 Exercize-Yudh Abhyas 2015 95

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43 14/08/2015 Iranian Foreign Minister visit to India 21 44 14/08/2015 Ajinkya Rahane sets World Record 60 45 13/08/2015 Om Prakash Rawat- new Election Commissioner 80 46 13/08/2015 Earth Overshoot Day 108 47 12/08/2015 Jethabhai P Patel 77 48 12/08/2015 Axis Bank launches multi-currency contactless card with Visa 90 49 12/08/2015 Memorandum on cooperation to establish the Pace Setter Fund 97 50 12/08/2015 MoU between India and Nepal approved 98 51 11/08/2015 UFEA Super cup-2015 47 52 11/08/2015 Government of India and World Bank Sign Agreement 99 53 11/08/2015 Posco Steel teams up with Uttam Galva Steel 100 54 10/08/2015 Gurbaj Singh 59 55 10/08/2015 Amitabh Bachchan 78 56 10/08/2015 Sundar Pichai- Google’s new CEO 81 57 10/08/2015 Saraswati Sammaan-2014 87 58 10/08/2015 Bio Fuel Blended High Speed Diesel (HSD) launched 92 59 10/08/2015 School Nursery Scheme 94 60 10/08/2015 Berkshire Hathaway buys Precision Castparts 102 61 09/08/2015 Citi Open 2015 42 62 08/08/2015 State visit of President of Mozambique to India 20 63 08/08/2015 Swachh Bharat ranking-2015 22 64 08/08/2015 Telecom Ministry-New app launched to promote digital literacy 91 65 08/08/2015 New central sector scheme “Nai Manzil” launched 93 08/08/2015 Appointment of Governor in the state of Bihar and Himachal 66 Pradesh 109 67 07/08/2015 Global satellite to be named after Abdul Kalam 39 68 07/08/2015 Indian socio-biologist Prof. Raghavendra Gadagkar 79 07/08/2015 Thomas Cook India announces the acquisition of Kuoni Group’s 69 Travel Operations in India and Hong Kong 103 70 07/08/2015 Resolution against death penalty 104 71 06/08/2015 Mumbai gets a flamingo sanctuary 84 72 05/08/2015 The Richest People in Tech- Forbes list 2015 37 73 04/08/2015 World’s highest paid actors-2015 29 74 04/08/2015 Third Bi-monthly Monetary Policy, 2015-16 38 75 03/08/2015 Uttar Pradesh Institute of Hindi-Annual Prize distribution-2014 88 03/08/2015 Historical peace accord between Government of India and 76 Nationalist Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN) 96 03/08/2015 CBDT Signs Advance Pricing Agreements (APAs) to Usher in 77 Certainty in Taxation 101 78 02/08/2015 Politiken Cup-2015 48 79 02/08/2015 Victorian Open Squash-2015 51 80 02/08/2015 2015 World Archery Championship 56 81 02/08/2015 South Sudan in International Olympic Committee (IOC) 32 82 31/07/2015 CERN- First non-European associates 25 83 31/07/2015 Olympic Winter Games 2022 55

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29/07/2015 Energy Sources of Indian Households for Cooking and Lighting, 84 2011-12 23 85 29/07/2015 World Population Prospects: The 2015 Revision 30 86 29/07/2015 Vasundhara Komkali 83 87 28/07/2015 Working Group Constituted by Central Sports Ministry 57 88 28/07/2015 Clive Rice 62 89 27/07/2015 162th member of WTO 31 90 21/07/2015 BRICS' New Development Bank (NDP) launched in Shanghai 26 91 10/07/2015 High Level Meeting- Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) 27

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Naonal

Prime Minister's visit to United Arab Emirates

Ques: On 16-17 August, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi visited the United Arab Emirates. Who is the former Indian PM, visited UAE before this visit? a. Dr. Manmohan Singh b. Shri Rajiv Gandhi c. Smt. Indira Gandhi d. Shri P. V. Narasimha Rao

Ans: c

Related facts:  At the invitation of His Highness General Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi visited to UAE on 16-17 August, 2015.  The visit of an Indian Prime Minister to UAE after 34 years. Last visited PM was Smt. Indira Gandhi.  In recent decades, UAE's economic progress has been one of the global success stories, transforming the nation into a regional leader and a thriving international centre that attracts people and business from across the world.  India is UAE's second largest trading partner; and UAE not only India's third largest trading partner, but also India's gateway to the region and beyond.  India and UAE share centuries-old ties of commerce, culture and kinship. Today, the Indian community of over 2.5 million is a major part of UAE's vibrant society and its economic success.  UAE is at the heart of the Gulf and West region and its major economic hub. India, with seven million citizens in the Gulf, also has major energy, trade and investment interests in the region.  Both countries leaders agreed on the following important points: I. Elevate the India-UAE relationship to a comprehensive strategic partnership. II. Coordinate efforts to counter radicalization and misuse of religion by groups and countries for inciting hatred. III. Denounce and oppose terrorism in all forms and manifestations. IV. Enhance cooperation in counter-terrorism operations, intelligence sharing and capacity building. V. Work together for the adoption of India’s proposed Comprehensive convention on International Terrorism in the United Nations.

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VI. Work together to control, regulate and share information on flow of funds that could have a bearing on radicalization activities and cooperate in interdicting illegal flows and take action against concerned individuals and organizations. VII. Strengthen cooperation in law enforcement, anti-money laundering, drug trafficking, other trans-national crimes, extradition arrangements, as well as police training. VIII. Promote cooperation in cyber security, including prevention on use of cyber for terrorism, radicalization and disturbing social harmony. IX. Establish a dialogue between their National Security Advisors and National Security Councils. X. Cooperate to strengthen maritime security in the Gulf and the Indian Ocean region, which is vital for the security and prosperity of both countries. XI. Promote collaboration and inter-operability for humanitarian assistance and evacuation in natural disasters and conflict situations. XII. Strengthen defence relations, including through regular exercises and training of naval, air, land and Special Forces, and in coastal defense. XIII. Cooperate in manufacture of defence equipment in India. XIV. Work together to promote peace, reconciliation, stability, inclusiveness and cooperation in the wider South Asia, Gulf and West Asia region. XV. Support efforts for peaceful resolution of conflicts and promote adherence to the principles of sovereignty and non-interference in the conduct of relations between nations and settlement of disputes. XVI. Facilitate participation of Indian companies in infrastructure development in UAE. XVII. Tap India's expertise in Small and Medium Enterprises to create a vibrant industrial base in UAE, which could also be of benefit to Indian enterprises. XVIII. trengthen cooperation between UAE's increasingly sophisticated educational institutions and India's universities and higher research institutions. XIX. Promote cooperation in Space, including in joint development and launch of satellites, ground-based infrastructure and space application. XX. Cooperate in peaceful uses of nuclear energy including in areas like safety, health, agriculture and science and technology.  Prime Minister thanked His Highness the Crown Prince for his decision to allot land for construction of a temple in Abu Dhabi.

Reference: http://www.mea.gov.in/outoging-visit- detail.htm?25733/Joint+Statement+between+the+United+Arab+Emirates+and+the+Republic+of+India http://www.mea.gov.in/outoging-visit- detail.htm?25735/Transcript+of+Media+Briefing+by+Foreign+Secretary+in++on+Prime+Ministers+ ongoing+visit+to+United+Arab+Emirates+August+17+2015

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List issued for 98 selected smart cities

Ques: Recently, Ministry of Urban Development announced a list of 98 cities and towns selected for development as smart cities. Which of the following states got maximum number of cities? a. West Bengal b. Odisha c. New Delhi d. Uttar Pradesh Ans: d

Related facts:  Minister of Urban Development Shri M.Venkaiah Naidu announced a list of 98 cities and towns selected for development as smart cities on 27 August, 2015, under ‘Smart City Mission’.  In the list, 24 cities are capital cities, 24 are business and industrial centers, 18 are of cultural and tourism importance, 5 are port cities and three are educational and healthcare hubs got the place for the mission.  In terms of population, 8 have population up to one lakh, 35 have population between one and five lakhs, 21 cities are in the population range of five to ten lakhs, 25 have population of above 10 lakhs and below 25 lakhs, 5 in the range of 25 to 50 lakhs and Four have population above 50 lakh.  65 small and medium towns and cities making to the list of smart city aspirants.  The 98 cities selected under Smart City Mission have a population of about 13 crore accounting for over 35% of the country’s urban population.  Under Smart City Mission and Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT), 80% of total urban population would benefit from enhanced quality of living.  Maximum 12 cities were selected from the Uttar Pradesh under ‘Smart City Mission’.  The cities are: Moradabad, Aligarh, Saharanpur, Bareilly, Jhansi, Kanpur, Allahabad, Lucknow, Varanasi, Ghaziabad, Agra, and Rampur.  For 13th place, the name is to be decided between Raebareli and Meerut.  Other than this one city has to be shortlisted from Jammu & Kashmir.  Nine cities, Bengaluru, , Shimla, Puducherry, Daman, Patna, Itanagar, Thiruvananthapuram and Gangtok did not qualify for being a smart city.  It is known that the mission launched on 25 June, 2015 from the Prime Minister.

Reference: http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=126382 http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=126384 http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/centre-releases-list-of-98-cities-for-smart-city- project/article7586751.ece

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The visit of President of Seychelles to India

Ques: The President of Seychelles was on India’s visit during 25-27 August, 2015. His name is- a. Joel Morgan b. Jean Paul Adams c. James Alix Michel d. None Ans: c

Related facts:  The President of Seychelles was on India’s visit during 25-27 August, 2015.  Mr Michel's trip comes five months after Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited that country during which a number of agreements were signed to boost cooperation in a range of areas.  It was first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the country in 34 years.  Mr Michel had earlier paid state visits to India in 2005 and 2010, apart from participating in the Delhi Sustainable Development Summits in 2011 and 2012.  India and Seychelles have close and friendly relations.  As maritime neighbors, the partnership is anchored in the need for peace and prosperity in the Indian Ocean region.  Development partnership, especially in the areas of capacity building and human resource development forms an important part of the engagement.  The presence of a strong Indian community in Seychelles, comprising about 11 per cent of the total population, is another significant link between the two countries.  He delivered an address on 'Maritime Security for Blue Economy' at the Indian Council for World Affairs.  List of Agreements/MOUs signed during the visit of President of Republic of Seychelles to India- I. Air Services Agreement between India and Seychelles II. MoU between India and Seychelles for providing one Dornier Maritime Aircraft III. Agreement between India and Seychelles for exchange of information with respect to Taxes IV. MoU between ICAR and Seychelles Agricultural Agency for Cooperation in agricultural research and education V. Protocol on framework of cooperation in the field of Blue Economy between India and Seychelles VI. Presentation of Navigational chart (related to Aldabra Island) Reference: http://www.mea.gov.in/incoming-visit- detail.htm?25763/Media+Statement+by+Prime+Minister+and+President+of+Seychelles+during+the+visi t+of+President+of+Seychelles+to+India+August+26+2015\ http://www.mea.gov.in/incoming-visit- detail.htm?25764/List+of+AgreementsMOUs+signed+during+the+visit+of+President+of+Republic+of+Se ychelles+to+India

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Religious Communities of Census 2011

Ques: The Registrar General and Census Commissioner, India released the data on Population by Religious Communities of Census 2011. What is the percentage of Hindu population according to the survey? a. 78.9 pc b. 79.8 pc c. 75.9 pc d. 76.8 pc Ans: b Related facts:  The Registrar General and Census Commissioner, India released the data on Population by Religious Communities of Census 2011 on 25 August, 2015.  The distribution is total population by six major religious communities namely, Hindu, Muslim, Christian, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain besides “Other Religions and Persuasions” and “Religion not stated”.  The data are released by sex and residence up to sub-districts and towns.  Total Population in 2011 is 121.09 crores.  According to the survey, total Hindu population is 96.63 crores (79.8%).  Total Muslim population is 17.22 crores which is 14.2%.  Rest of the data are; Christian 2.78 crores (2.3%); Sikh 2.08 crores (1.7%); Buddhist 0.84 crores (0.7%); Jain 0.45 crores (0.4%), Other Religions & Persuasions (ORP) 0.79 crores (0.7%) and Religion Not Stated 0.29 crores (0.2%).  The proportion of Hindu population to total population in 2011 has declined by 0.7 percentage point (PP); the proportion of Sikh population has declined by 0.2 PP and the Buddhist population has declined by 0.1 PP during the decade 2001-2011.  The proportion of Muslim population to total population has increased by 0.8 PP.  There has been no significant change in the proportion of Christians & Jains.  The growth rate of population in the decade 2001-2011 was 17.7 %.  The growth rate of population of the different religious communities in the same period was as Hindus: 16.8%; Muslim: 24.6%; Christian: 15.5%; Sikh: 8.4%; Buddhist: 6.1% and Jain: 5.4%.  Population growth rate of Hindu’s in 1991 was 25.1 pc and 20.3 pc in 2001.  Population growth rate of Muslim’s in 1991 was 34.5 pc and 29.5 pc in 2001.  4 most Hindu populous states are: Himachal Pradesh (95.17 pc), Dadar & Nagar Haveli (93.93 pc), Odisha (93.63 pc) and Chhattisgarh (93.25 pc).  4 most Muslim’s populous states are: lakshadweep (96.58 pc), Jammu & Kashmir (68.31 pc), Assam (34.22 pc), West Bengal (27.01 pc) Reference: http://www.censusindia.gov.in/2011census/C-01.html http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=126326 http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/religious-communities-census-2011-what-the-numbers- say/article7582284.ece

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Foreign Minister visit to Egypt

Ques: Recently Indian Foreign Minister was on visit to Egypt. Who is the current President of Egypt? a. Mohamed Morsi b. Omar Suleiman c. Abdel Fattah el-Sisi d. None

Ans: c

Related facts:  External Affairs Minister Smt. Sushma Swaraj was on visit to Egypt on 23-26 August on the invitation of Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Hassan Shoukry.  India’s relationship with Egypt is known for millennia.  Artifacts from the region were found in Lothal in the Indus-Saraswati valley civilization and there are records of our exchanges with Egypt in the Ashokan rock edicts.  Modern Egypt–India relations go back to the contacts between Saad Zaghloul and Mahatma Gandhi on the common goals of their respective movements of independence.  In 1955, Egypt under Gamal Abdel Nasser and India under Jawaharlal Nehru became the founders of the Non-Aligned Movement.  In 1967, following the Arab-Israeli war, India supported Egypt and the Arabs.  In 1977, New Delhi described the visit of President Anwar al-Sadat to Jerusalem as a "brave" move and considered the peace treaty between Egypt and a primary step on the path of a just settlement of the Middle East problem.  India is the fourth largest trade partner of Egypt, after the US, and Saudi Arabia.  Major Egyptian exports to India include raw cotton, raw and manufactured fertilizers, oil and oil products, organic and non-organic chemicals, leather and iron products.  Major imports into Egypt from India are cotton yarn, sesame, coffee, herbs, tobacco and lentils.  In 2004 the Gas Authority of India Limited, bought 15% of Egypt Natural Gas distribution and marketing company.  Since the 1980s, there have been four Prime Ministerial visits from India to Egypt: Shri Rajiv Gandhi (1985) Shri P. V. Narasimha Rao (1995)

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Shri I. K. Gujral (1997) Dr Manmohan Singh (2009).  From the Egyptian side, the President visited India in 1982, in 1983 (NAM Summit) and again in November 2008.  Trade between India and Egypt during the last financial year (April 2012- March 2013) was US $ 5.48 billion.  Since FY 2006-07, India has been among the top five importers of Egyptian products.  The top five Egyptian exports to India are Crude oil and LNG, Rock phosphates, Cotton, oilseeds and fruits.  Indian exports to Egypt during the last financial year were US$ 2.9.  The top five Indian exports during 2012-13 were mineral fuel, cuts of boneless bovine frozen meat, Electrical machinery and parts, cotton and two wheelers motorcycles.  Out of the 50 Indian companies operating in Egypt with a combined investment of roughly US $ 2.5 billion, approximately 25 companies are joint ventures and wholly owned Indian subsidiaries.  Under Technical and Scientific Cooperation program, since the year 2000, over 350 Egyptian candidates have visited India under ITEC Programs.  The strong ties between India and Egypt are evident from the affection towards India amongst the population. Three streets in Cairo are named after Indian leaders namely, Mahatma Gandhi, Pandit Nehru and Dr. Zakir Hussein.  Approximately 85,000 Indian tourists visited Egypt in 2012.

Reference: http://mea.gov.in/Portal/ForeignRelation/India-Egypt_Relations.pdf http://www.mea.gov.in/outoging-visit- detail.htm?25761/Speech+by+External+Affairs+Minister+at+Egyptian+Council+for+Foreign+Affairs+Cair o+August+25+2015 http://www.mea.gov.in/outoging-visit- detail.htm?25754/Remarks+by+External+Affairs+Minister+at+the+Indian+Community+Reception+in+Cai ro+Egypt+August+23+2015

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Forum for India Pacific Island Countries (FIPIC) Summit

Ques: Recently the second Forum for India Island Countries (FIPIC) summit held at- a. New Delhi b. Ahmadabad c. Jaipur d. Mumbai

Ans: c

Related facts:  The Heads of State/Government participated in 2nd Summit of Forum for India-Pacific Island Countries (FIPIC) on August 21, 2015 in Jaipur.  All Head of state/head of government of the above countries met in Suva, Fiji in November 2014 for the first time where the annual summit was conceptualized. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi was also present in that summit.  One of the key outcomes of the first summit in Suva, Fiji was that top leadership of both India and Pacific Islands should meet at regular intervals and that an annual summit must be instituted in this regard.  Forum for India-Pacific Islands cooperation(FIPIC) is a multinational grouping developed in 2014 for cooperation between India and 14 Pacific Islands nations which include Cook Islands, Fiji, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Micronesia, Nauru, Niue, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Tonga, Tuvalu and Vanuatu.  FIPIK summit focused mostly on blue economy (ocean-based economy), oil and natural gas, mining, IT, health care, fishing and marine research etc.  It is known that the trade between India and second Pacific countries is around $ 300m.

Reference: http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=126259 http://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-prime-minister-modi-to-inaugurate-fipic-summit-in-jaipur- today-2116692 http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2015-08-20/news/65667118_1_india-pacific-islands- cooperation-solomon-islands-tuvalu

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Agreement between India and Seychelles

Ques: The Union Cabinet, chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has approved the signing and ratification of the agreement between India and Seychelles for exchange of information with respect to taxes on- a. 18 August, 2015 b. 19 August, 2015 c. 20 August, 2015 d. 21 August, 2015 Ans: c Related facts:  The Union Cabinet, chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has approved the signing and ratification of the agreement between India and Seychelles for exchange of information with respect to taxes on 20 August, 2015

 Negotiations for entering into an agreement for the exchange of information with respect to taxes were conducted at Seychelles from 8th to 9th June, 2015.

 The Agreement will stimulate the flow of exchange of information between India and Seychelles for tax purposes, which will help curb tax evasion and tax avoidance.

 The salient features of the agreement are as follows:

i. It will enable the Competent Authorities of India and Seychelles to provide assistance through exchange of information that is foreseeably relevant to the administration and enforcement of the domestic laws of two countries concerning taxes covered by this agreement.

ii. Information received under the agreement shall be treated as confidential and may be disclosed only to persons or authorities (including courts or administrative bodies) concerned with assessment, collection, enforcement, prosecution or determination of appeals, in relation to taxes covered under the agreement. Information may be disclosed to any other person or entity or

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authority or jurisdiction with the prior written consent of the country sending the information.

iii. The agreement also provides for a Mutual Agreement Procedure for resolving any difference or for agreeing on procedures under the agreement.

iv. The agreement will enter into force on the date of notification of completion of procedures required by the respective laws of the two countries, for entry into force of the agreement.

 As such, the agreement does not have any financial implications. Only in the event of extraordinary costs exceeding US Dollar 500, the Government of India will bear the same, as per Article 9 of the agreement. India has similar provisions in other such tax information exchange agreements.

 Background: The Central Government is authorized under section 90 of the Income Tax Act, 1961 to enter into an agreement with a foreign country or specified territory for exchange of information for the prevention of evasion or avoidance of income-tax chargeable under the Income-tax Act, 1961. Negotiations for entering into an agreement for the exchange of information with respect to taxes were conducted at Seychelles from 8th to 9th June, 2015. Pursuant to this, India Seychelles have agreed on the text of the agreement. India has signed similar bilateral agreements for Exchange of Tax Information with , Bahamas, Bahrain, Belize, Bermuda, British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Gibraltar, Guernsey, Isle of Man, Jersey, Liberia, Liechtenstein, Macao, Monaco and San Marino.

Reference: http://pib.nic.in/newsite/mbErel.aspx?relid=126198 http://www.business-standard.com/article/government-press-release/signing-and-ratification-of- agreement-between-india-and-seychelles-for-the-115082000382_1.html

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State visit of President of Mozambique to India

Ques: 4-8 August 2015, the President of which country visited India? a. b. Mozambique c. Bhutan d. Ans: b Related facts:  State visit of His Excellency Mr. Filipe Jacinto Nyusi, President of the Republic of Mozambique to India from August 4 - 8, 2015.  This was the second visit as he had earlier visited India in 2011 as the Defense Minister.  The visit was special because this is the 40th anniversary year of independence of Mozambique and the 40th anniversary year of the establishment of India- Mozambique diplomatic relations.  India and Mozambique share a history of profitable trade relations. Both the nations' bilateral trade in 2014-15 values at almost USD 2.4 billion.  Indian investments in Mozambique are presently valued at over USD 7 billion primarily in the hydrocarbon and coal sectors.  Mozambique has one of the longest coastlines in Africa about 2500 kilometers.  Mozambique is the prior most priorities for Indian foreign policy (Africa and Indian Ocean).  India is a development partner for Mozambique in several areas, including agriculture, healthcare, energy, infrastructure and human resource development.  Both countries agreed to reactivate the Joint Working Group on Defense.  Shri Piyush Goyal, Minister of State (I/C) Coal, Power and New & Renewable Energy signed the Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of the Republic of India and the Government of Republic of Mozambique on Cooperation in the field of New and Renewable Energy.  Almost 25k Indians live in Mozambique. Reference: http://mea.gov.in/incoming-visit- detail.htm?25653/Transcript+of+Media+Briefing+by+Secretary+West+on+the+State+visit+of+President+ of+Mozambique+to+India+August+05+2015 http://mea.gov.in/incoming-visit- detail.htm?25573/Media+Statement+by+Prime+Minister+during+the+visit+of+President+of+Mozambiq ue+to+India+August+5+2015 http://www.business-standard.com/article/news-ani/mozambique-president-to-hold-bilateral-talks- with-pm-modi-in-delhi-115080300787_1.html http://mea.gov.in/incoming-visit- detail.htm?25572/List+of+AgreementsMoUs+signed+during+the+visit+of+President+of+Mozambique+t o+India http://pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/text-of-pms-statement-at-the-media-briefing-with-president- filipe-nyusi-of-mozambique/

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Iranian Foreign Minister visit to India

Ques: Which country’s Foreign minister visited India on 13 - 14 August, 2015? a. Myanmar b. c. d.

Ans: b Related facts:  Foreign minister of Iran was on India visit on 13-14 August, 2015.  Prime Minister of India congratulated Iran for reaching an agreement with P5+1 countries and expressed confidence that it would contribute to greater peace and stability in the region.  Iran looked forward to working closely in all areas, including connectivity, oil and gas, investments, fertilizers, infrastructure development, among others.  Zarif also met with External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and Minister of Road Transport, Highways & Shipping Shri Nitin Gadkari.  A bilateral meeting was held between Minister of Road Transport, Highways & Shipping Shri Nitin Gadkari and Foreign Minister of Iran Mr. Javad Zarif.  The meeting was held in the backdrop of increased engagement between India and Iran in the infrastructure sectors, with a beginning having been made in the development and operation of Chabahar Port.  A MoU was signed between India and Iran for development and operation of two terminals at Chabahar Port, in May, 2015.  For India, Chabahar is of particular importance as it will allow Indian goods to have land access to Afghanistan, bypassing entirely.  New Delhi also sees a port in Chabahar as a strategic counterweight to China’s pursuit of a civilian port facility in the Pakistani coastal city of Gwadar.

Reference: http://mea.gov.in/incoming-visit info.htm?1/797/Visit+of+Minister+of+Foreign+Affairs+of+the+Islamic+Republic+Iran+to+India+August+ 1314+2015 http://mea.gov.in/incoming-visit- detail.htm?25727/Official+Spokespersons+response+to+a+question+on+the+visit+of+the+Iranian+Forei gn+Minister http://pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/foreign-minister-of-iran-calls-on-the-pm/ http://pib.nic.in/newsite/hindirelease.aspx?relid=39423 http://thediplomat.com/2015/08/iranian-foreign-minister-visits-india/

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Swachh Bharat ranking-2015

Ques: In the following table- S.No Capital city Swachh Bharat Rank 1. Bengaluru 7 2. Trivandrum 8 3. Jaipur 371 4. Imphal 86 Which of the data are correct? a. Only 1 and 2 b. Only 1 c. 1, 2, 3 and 4 d. None of the above Ans: a Related facts:  The Ministry of Urban Development released Swachh Bharat Rankings on 8 August, 2015.  Mysore city in Karnataka topped the Swachh Bharat Rankings of 476 cities in the country.  The city of Mysore leads the cities with minimal open defecation and extensive adoption of solid waste management practices.  The survey conducted during 2014-15 was commissioned by the Ministry of Urban Development as required under the National Sanitation Policy of 2008.  39 cities from the Southern states are among the top 100 followed by 27 from the East, 15 from the West, 12 from the North and 7 from the North-Eastern States.  Bengaluru leads the list of capitals at 7th overall ranking while Patna came at the bottom at 429.  The top 10 ranked cities being: Mysore, Thiruchirapalli (Tamil Nadu), Navi Mumbai, Kochi (Kerala), Hassan, Mandya and Bengaluru from Karnataka, Thiruvananthapuram (Kerala), Halisahar (West Bengal) and Gangtok (Sikkim) in that order.  All the 476 Class-1 cities in 31 States and Union Territories, each with a population of above one lac were surveyed for assessing total sanitation practices covering a set of parameters including the extent of open defecation, solid waste management, sewage management, waste water treatment, drinking water quality, surface water quality of water bodies and mortality due to water born diseases etc.  Number of cities surveyed in major States include : UP (61), West Bengal (60), Maharashtra (43), MP(32), Gujarat (30), AP(30), Tamil Nadu(29), Rajasthan(28), Bihar (27), Karnataka (26), (20), Punjab(16), Telangana (11), Odisha (10), Jharkhand(10), Chhattisgarh(9) and 6 each from Kerala, Uttarakhand and North-Eastern states.

Reference: http://pib.nic.in/newsite/erelease.aspx?relid=124639 http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/mysuru-tops-swachh-bharat-rankings-steep-fall-for- delhi/article7516881.ece

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Energy Sources of Indian Households for Cooking and Lighting, 2011-12

Ques: Which of the Indian state has maximum cooking gas consumption in villages by the data for 68th round of National Sample Survey Office (NSSO)? a. Tamilnadu b. Kerala c. Punjab d. Andhra Pradesh Ans: a Related facts:  NSSO issued data for Energy Source of Indian Households for Cooking and Lighting on 29th July 2015.  The report is based on information collected through Sch. 1.0, Consumer Expenditure, Type 2 during 2011- 12 from 101651 households (59683 rural and 41968 urban) in 7469 villages and 5268 urban blocks spread over the entire country.  At all India level, firewood and chips were used by more than two-third (67.3%) of rural households, followed by LPG, which was used by 15.0% households. Only 9.6% and 1.1% of the rural households used dung cake and coke & coal, respectively, as primary source. 1.3% rural households did not have any arrangement for cooking.  In the urban areas, most of the households used LPG as primary source of energy for cooking. LPG was used by 68.4% of the urban households at all-India level, followed by firewood and chips, used by 14.0 % households and 5.7% of the households used kerosene. 6.9% households did not have any arrangement for cooking.  In rural areas, the percentage of households depending on firewood and chips for cooking exceeded 56.0% in all major states except Punjab and Haryana.  Dung cake was one of the major fuels for cooking for 33.4% of rural households in Uttar Pradesh, 30.3% in Punjab, 24.4% in Haryana, 20.8% in Bihar and 10.6% in Madhya Pradesh.  In rural India, compared to other states, incidence of use of LPG for cooking in households was much higher for Tamil Nadu (37.2%), Kerala (30.8%) and Punjab (30.5%). Use of LPG was least in Chhattisgarh (1.5% households) followed by Jharkhand (2.9%) and Odisha (3.9%).  Nearly 40% or more of the urban households used LPG as principal fuel for cooking in all the major States. It was highest in Haryana (86.5% households), followed by Andhra Pradesh (77.3%), Punjab (75.4%) and Maharashtra (74.5%). It is lowest in Chhattisgarh (39.8%).  In urban India, dependence on firewood and chips for cooking was highest in Odisha (36.5% households) closely followed by Kerala (36.3%) and Chhattisgarh (34.7%).  Followed by Kerala (36.3 pc) and Chhattisgarh (34.7 pc). Reference: http://mospi.nic.in/Mospi_New/upload/nss_report_567.pdf\

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Tamil Nadu Tops in Organ Donation

Ques: Which of the following are correct regarding Organ Donation? a. First steps towards the information regarding organ donation is to sign Donor card. b. Donor card is not a legal document but a wish report. c. Important organs like Heart, Liver, Heart Valves, Veins, and Mussels etc can be donated to a person. d. All of the above Ans: d Related facts:  State Health Minister C Vijaya Bhaskar on 17th August, 2015 said Tamil Nadu leads in organ donation in the country.  Organs of 683 persons being harvested and donated to over 3,000 beneficiaries since the setting up of the Transplant Authority of Tamil Nadu in 2008.  The organ transplantations include 144 heart transplants, 69 lung transplants, 636 liver, 1233 kidney, four pancreas, two small bowels, 618 heart valves, 1,032 cornea, 22 skin and two blood vessels.  Kidney transplants in India first started in the 1970s and since that time, India has been a leading country in this field on the Asian sub-continent.  In India every year nearly: I. 500,000 people die because of non-availability of organs II. 200,000people die of liver disease III. 50,000 people die from heart disease IV. 150,000 people await a kidney transplant but only 5,000 get one V. 1,000,000 lac people suffer from corneal blindness and await transplant  Nationally, with a population of 1.2 Billion people, the statistic stands at 0.08 Persons as organ donors per million populations (PMP).  One organ and tissue donor can transform the lives of 10 or more people.  Vital Organs like heart, liver, kidneys, intestines, lungs, and pancreas can be donated only in case of 'brain death'. However other tissues like corneas, heart valves, skin, bones etc can be donated only in case of natural death. Reference: http://tamilnadu.indiaeveryday.in/fullnews-tamil-nadu-tops-in-organ-donation-health-minister-c-vijaya- 1128-916716.htm http://www.dmrhs.org/tnos/donors-and-transplanted-organs-tamil-nadu-october-2008-july-2015/1842 http://www.aphithendranmemorialtrust.org/home.html http://health.bih.nic.in/Rules/THOA-1994.pdf http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2779960/ http://organdonationday.in/index.php/about/why http://www.dmrhs.org/tnos/faq-information-for-hospitals/how-much-does-india-lag

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International

CERN- First non-European associates

Ques: Recently which of the non- European country formally conferred as associate member of the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN)? a. China b. Pakistan c. India d. Sri Lanka

Ans: b

Related facts:

 The European Organization for Nuclear Research, known as CERN, has formally conferred its associate membership on Pakistan on July 31, 2015.  Pakistan has thus become the first member of CERN among Asian countries.  The membership will allow the country’s scientists to become members of the CERN staff and participate in its training and career-development programs.  The cooperation between Pakistan and CERN rooted back to signing of a cooperation agreement in 1994.  Israel is the first (and the only) non-European country granted full membership.  CERN was established on 29 September 1954 by 12 countries in Western Europe.  CERN discovered the Higgs boson popularly known as the "God particle".  CERN is also the birthplace of the World Wide Web (WWW).  The main site at Meyrin has a large computer facility containing powerful data processing facilities, primarily for experimental-data analysis; because of the need to make these facilities available to researchers elsewhere, it has historically been a major wide area networking hub.

Reference: http://home.web.cern.ch/about/updates/2015/07/pakistan-becomes-associate-member-state-cern http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/home/science/Pakistan-beats-India-in-race-to-become-Cern- associate-member/articleshow/45577152.cms http://www.dawn.com/news/1197791

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BRICS' New Development Bank (NDP) launched in Shanghai

Ques: The statements- (A): The BRICS countries comprise the world's major emerging economies: , Russia, India, China and South Africa. (R): Russia is the only developed nation among its countries. Which statement is/are correct? a. A and R both is correct. R, explain A in better way. b. A and R both is correct. R, doesn’t explain A. c. A is correct and R is incorrect d. R is correct and A is incorrect Ans: b

Related facts:  New Development Bank (NDB) of BRICS commenced business here on 21st July, 2015.  BRICS countries comprise the world's major emerging economies: Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa.  Chinese Finance Minister Lou Jiwei, Shanghai Mayor Yang Xiong, and NDB President K.V. Kamath from India attended the opening ceremony held.  Bank is set up to foster greater financial and development cooperation among the five emerging markets.  Together, the four original BRIC countries comprise in 2014 more than 3 billion people or 41.4 percent of the world’s population, cover more than a quarter of the world’s land area over three continents, and account for more than 25 percent of global GDP.  It will be headquartered in Shanghai, China. Unlike the World Bank, which assigns votes based on capital share, in the New Development Bank each participant country will be assigned one vote and none of the countries will have veto power.  The 7th BRICS summit in July 2015 marked the entry into force of the Agreement. On 11 May 2015, K. V. Kamath was appointed as President of the Bank.  The NDB has an initial capital of $50 billion, which will be raised to $100 billion in a few years. Brazil, India and Russia will each contribute $18 billion, while South Africa will contribute $5 billion.  The NDB will lend money to developing countries to help finance infrastructure projects.  The bank is seen as an alternative to the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund, although the group says it is not a rival.  The bank is expected to issue its first loans early next year. Reference: http://ndbbrics.org/ http://newdevelopmentbank.int/index.html http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2015-07/21/c_134431389.htm http://www.bbc.com/news/33605230 http://www.business-standard.com/article/news-ians/brics-new-development-bank-launched-in- shanghai-roundup-115072100807_1.html

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High Level Meeting- Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO)

Ques: When was the 15th High level meeting of Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) organized at Russian city of Ufa? a. 9-10 June, 2015 b. 8-9 July, 2015 c. 9-10 July, 2015 d. 9-10 August, 2015 Ans: c

Related facts:  On 9-10 July, 2015 The Council of the SCO Interbank Consortium has held its 15th regular meeting in Ufa, attended by representatives of the consortium's member banks.  Its prototype is Shanghai Five mechanism.  It was proclaimed on 15 June 2001 in Shanghai (China) by the Republic of , the People’s Republic of China, the Kyrgyz Republic, the Russian Federation, the Republic of Tajikistan and the Republic of .  The Heads of State Council (HSC) is the highest decision-making body in the SCO. It meets once every year to take decisions and give instructions on all important issues of SCO activity.  The main goals of the SCO are strengthening mutual confidence and good-neighborly relations among the member countries; promoting effective cooperation in politics, trade and economy, science and technology, culture as well as education, energy, transportation, tourism, environmental protection and other fields; making joint efforts to maintain and ensure peace, security and stability in the region, moving towards the establishment of a new, democratic, just and rational political and economic international order.  Mongolia became the first country to receive observer status at the 2004 Tashkent Summit. Pakistan, India and Iran received observer status at the 2005 SCO summit in Astana, Kazakhstan on 5 July 2005.  was granted dialogue partner status in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) in 2009.  Afghanistan received observer status at the 2012 SCO summit in , China on June 6, 2012.  Sri Lanka was granted dialogue partner status in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) at the group's 2009 summit in Yekaterinburg.  , a member of NATO, was granted dialogue partner status in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) at the group's 2012 summit in Beijing.  Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) on July 2015 decided to include India as a full member, prompting Prime Minister Narendra Modi to offer to work with the six-

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member grouping to enhance connectivity, combat terror and create an environment for boosting trade by easing barriers.  India, which has an Observer status for the past 10 years, will technically become the member by next year after completion of certain procedures.  Few important highlights of the 2015 meeting are following: I. Draft and adopt a SCO Development Strategy towards 2025. II. Achieve political consolidation of the SCO, develop common approaches to international challenges, deepen practical interaction with the leading multilateral Organizations and associations, primarily the UN and its agencies, as well as the CIS, the CSTO, ASEAN and CICA, and enhance the effectiveness of permanent SCO agencies. III. Step up cooperation with the SCO observer states, including in assisting Afghanistan and involving it in the SCO activities, the development of relations with the SCO Dialogue Partners, and the creation of conditions for the SCO’s growth. IV. Strengthen the SCO’s role as an efficient multilateral venue for dialogue and cooperation on regional security, the fight against terrorism, separatism, extremism and drug trafficking, and to implement in practice the international information security cooperation agreements signed between the SCO member states’ governments. V. Implement the Russian President’s initiative on creating a centre to deal with the security threats and challenges of the member states at the SCO’s Regional Anti- Terrorist Structure (RATS), with assigning anti-narcotic functions to the RATS as the first step in this direction. VI. Launch multilateral economic projects, first of all in transport, power generation, science and technology, and peaceful space exploration, and to put in place an effective financial support mechanism for them. VII. Expand cultural and humanitarian relations, youth exchanges and tourism; to further develop the SCO University as a network of existing universities in the SCO member states and establish the SCOU administration in Russia. VIII. Implement the SCO plan for marking the 70th anniversary of victory over Nazism in World War II.

Reference: http://www.xinhuanet.com/english/cnleaders/xjp201507/sco.htm http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2015-07/11/c_134402081.htm http://www.narendramodi.in/hi/statement-read-out-by-foreign-secretaries-of-india-and-pakistan-in- ufa-russia http://www.sectsco.org/EN123/brief.asp http://www.mea.gov.in/outoging-visit-detail- hi.htm?25454/Remarks+by+Prime+Minister+at+Plenary+of+the+Shanghai+Cooperation+Organ

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World’s highest paid actors-2015

Ques: How many Indian actors held top ten positions in the Forbes list of World’s Highest Paid Actors 2015? a. 1 b. 3 c. 4 d. 5

Ans: b

Related facts:  On 4th August the famous magazine Forbes, announced annual list “The World’s Highest-Paid Actors: 2015“of 34 highest paid actors across the world.  This is on the basis of earnings between June 2013 to June 2014.  Robert Downey Jr. topped in the list of the highest paid actors in Hollywood with earnings of $ 80m.  Jackie Chan held second position with a $50 million pay packet.  3 Indian actors also entered in top ten lists.  Amitabh Bachchan and Salman Khan entered the list at seventh place (jointly), with estimated earnings of $33.5 million in the past year.  Akshay Kumar follows behind in ninth place with $32.5 million.  Bollywood stars Shah Rukh Khan (18) and Ranbir Kapoor (30) with estimated earnings of $26 Million and $15 Million respectively.

Reference: http://www.forbes.com/sites/natalierobehmed/2015/08/04/the-worlds-highest-paid-actors-2015- robert-downey-jr-leads-with-80-million-haul/ http://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/amitabh-salman-akshay-among-worlds-top-ten-highest-paid- actors/article7502263.ece

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World Population Prospects: The 2015 Revision

Ques: In which year India will surpass China to become the most populous nation in the world as per UN forecast? a. 2022 b. 2023 c. 2024 d. 2025 Ans: a

Related facts:  On 29th July 2015, UN released World Population Prospects: The 2015 Revision report.  Around and after 2022, India’s population is projected to continue growing for several decades to 1.5 billion in 2030 and 1.7 billion in 2050.  While the population of China is expected to remain fairly constant until the 2030s, after which it is expected to slightly decrease.  The current world population of 7.3 billion is expected to reach 8.5 billion by 2030, 9.7 billion in 2050 and 11.2 billion in 2100.  The report said during 2015-2050, half of the world’s population growth is expected to be concentrated in nine countries — India, Nigeria, Pakistan, Congo, Ethiopia, Tanzania, US, and Uganda.  Currently male/female percentage is 50.4/49.6.  India to surpass China by year 2022.  Ten years ago, the world population was growing by 1.24% annually; today, the percentage has dropped to 1.18% – or roughly another 83 million people a year. The overall growth rate, which peaked in the late 1960s, has been falling steadily since the 1970s.  The report suggests that Africa alone will drive more than half of the world’s population growth over the next 35 years, during which time the population of 28 of the continent’s countries will more than double.  It is predicted that by 2050, Nigeria’s population will surpass that of the US, making the West African nation the third most populous country in the world.  By 2050, six countries – China, India, Indonesia, Nigeria, Pakistan and the US – are expected to have populations of more than 300 million.

Reference: http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/india-to-surpass-chinas-population-by- 2022/article7480949.ece http://esa.un.org/unpd/wpp/Publications/Files/Key_Findings_WPP_2015.pdf

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162th member of WTO

Ques: WTO general council approves which country as 162th member? a. Afghanistan b. Kazakhstan c. Belarus d. Sudan

Ans: b

 WTO members adopted Kazakhstan’s WTO terms of entry at the General Council meeting on 27 July 2015, in the presence of Kazakhstan’s President Nursultan Nazarbayev.  Kazakhstan will have until 31 October 2015 to ratify the deal to formally become a WTO member 30 days after it notifies the ratification to the WTO Director-General.  It is known that the negotiations for joining the WTO kicked off in 1996.  Kazakhstan is already a member of Eurasian economic union.  On 26 April 2015, Seychelles became the 161st WTO member.

Reference: https://www.wto.org/english/news_e/news15_e/acc_kaz_27jul15_e.htm http://www.globaltrademag.com/global-trade-daily/news/wto-approves--membership http://www.ictsd.org/bridges-news/bridges/news/wto-accessions-general-council-approves- kazakhstan-entry-liberia-bid http://trade.ec.europa.eu/doclib/press/index.cfm?id=1356

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South Sudan in International Olympic Committee (IOC)

Ques: International Olympic Committee (IOC) organized its 128th Session in? a. b. Singapore c. d. Myanmar

Ans: a

Related facts:

 The International Olympic Committee

(IOC) approved the full recognition of the National Olympic Committee (NOC) of South

Sudan during its 128th Session in on 2nd August, 2015.

 South Sudan became the 206th nation.

 South Sudan was represented by its President Lt. Gen Wilson Deng Kuoirot and its

Secretary General Tong Chor Malek Deran.

 South Sudan became an independent country on 9 July 2011 and shortly thereafter, a

UN Member State on 14 July 2011.

Reference: http://www.olympic.org/news/south-sudan-noc-granted-full-recognition-at-128th-ioc-session/246907

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Economy

Bandhan Bank

Ques: The first commercial bank from Eastern India to get RBI clearance after independence is- a. Bandhan Bank b. Dena Bank c. Bank of India d. None Ans: a

Related facts:  On 23 August, 2015 The Union Finance Minister Shri Arun Jaitley inaugurated the ‘Bandhan Bank’, the first commercial bank from Eastern India to get RBI clearance since independence.  The Kolkata-headquartered bank has two divisions - micro banking and general banking - and will offer complete retail financial solutions, including a variety of savings and loan products.  It is starting operations with 1.43 crore accounts, around Rs.10, 500 crore loan book and 19,500 employees. To begin with, it has got 501 branches, 2022 service centers and 50 ATMs across 24 states.  The bank said over 71 per cent of the branches will be in rural India, including at least 35 per cent in unbanked rural pockets.  State-wise, West Bengal has the maximum number of branches 220, followed by Bihar 67, Assam 60, Maharashtra 21, Uttar Pradesh and Tripura 20 each, and Jharkhand 15.  Chandra Shekhar Ghosh is the Founder, Managing Director and CEO of ‘Bandhan Bank’.

Reference: http://www.thehindu.com/business/Industry/bandhan-bank-joins-indian-banking-league-with-501- branches/article7571972.ece

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Forbes- World's Most Innovative Companies 2015

Ques: Which company topped in the Forbes list of- World’s Most Innovative Companies of 2015? a. Salesforce.com b. Tesla Motors c. Amazon.com d. Hindustan Unilever Ans: b

Related facts:  On 19 August, 2015 the famous magazine Forbes released the list of World Most Innovative Companies-2015.  The list has been topped by Elon Musk's California-Based Tesla Motors which has a market capitalization of USD 25.5 billion (roughly Rs. 1, 67,189 crores).  US based company Salesforce bagged second position with market cap of $44.2 B and Alexion Pharmaceuticals hold third position with $34.5 B.  Hindustan Unilever, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) and Sun Pharma Industries are the three Indian companies that have been named among the world's 100 most innovative companies.  Fast moving consumer goods company Hindustan Unilever has been ranked 41 on the list, followed by TCS at rank 64 and Sun Pharma at rank 71 in the Forbes list of 'The World's Most Innovative Companies'. Reference: http://www.thehindu.com/business/Industry/5-indian-firms-among-forbes-most-innovative- companies/article6337573.ece http://www.forbes.com/innovative-companies/list/#tab:rank http://www.forbes.com/sites/innovatorsdna/2015/08/19/how-we-rank-the-worlds-most-innovative- companies-2015/

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RBI in-principle nod for payments bank license

Ques: Recently RBI grants in-principle nod for how many payments banks? a. 11 b. 12 c. 13 d. 14

Ans: a

Related facts:  The Reserve Bank on Wednesday granted ‘in-principle’ approval to 11 entities to set up payments banks and proposed such licenses ‘on tap’ in future.  They are:  Aditya Birla Nuvo Limited  Airtel M Commerce Services Limited  Cholamandalam Distribution Services Limited  Department of Posts  Fino PayTech Limited  National Securities Depository Limited  Reliance Industries Limited  Shri Dilip Shantilal Shanghvi  Shri Vijay Shekhar Sharma  Tech Mahindra Limited  Vodafone m-pesa Limited  The ‘in-principle’ approval granted will be valid for a period of 18 months, during which time the applicants have to comply with the requirements under the guidelines and fulfill the other conditions as may be stipulated by the Reserve Bank.  The move to allow such differentiated banks came after RBI had found just two entities — infra player IDFC and micro-lender Bandhan from among over two dozen applicants — eligible for setting up commercial banks.

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 Payment banks allow mobile firms, supermarket chains, and others to cater to individuals and small businesses.  The Payments Bank will be set up as a differentiated bank and shall confine its activities to acceptance of demand deposits, remittance services, Internet banking and other specified services.  They will be allowed to issue ATM/debit cards as also other prepaid payment instruments, but not the credit cards.  Payments banks can distribute third-party financial products but can't lend money.  Draft guidelines for licensing of payments banks were released for public comments and the final guidelines were issued on November 27, 2014.  A total of 41 applicants had applied for payments banks.  On the selection process, a detailed scrutiny was undertaken by an External Advisory Committee (EAC) under the chairmanship of Nachiket Mor, Director, Central Board of the Reserve Bank of India.

Reference: http://www.thehindu.com/business/Industry/rbi-grants-inprinciple-nod-for-11-payments- banks/article7557908.ece https://rbi.org.in/scripts/bs_viewcontent.aspx?Id=2857 http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2015-08-20/news/65667188_1_india-post-payments- banks-rbi-governor-raghuram-rajan https://www.rbi.org.in/Scripts/BS_PressReleaseDisplay.aspx?prid=34754

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The Richest People in Tech- Forbes list 2015

Ques: How many Indians got the place in Forbes list 2015 for top 100 Tech list? a. 2 b. 3 c. 4 d. 1 Ans: a

Related facts:  On 5 August, 2015 world famous Forbes magazine issued a list of 100 richest billionaire people in the world of technology.  Microsoft founder Bill Gates topped the list worth $79.6 B USD followed by Larry Ellison with $50 B.  Third spot goes to Amazon founder Jeff Bezos with $47.2 B.  The list includes Facebook co-founder Mark Zuckerberg at rank 4, followed by Google co-founder Larry Page at 5, Alibaba chief Jack Ma (7), Google's Executive Chairman Eric Schmidt (20), Uber CEO Travis Kalanick (35) and Square CEO Jack Dorsey (92).  Wipro Chairman Azim Premji (13th) and HCL founder Shiv Nadar (14th) are the only two Indian tycoons in the list in the world of technology with net worth of $17.4 B and $14.4 B respectively.  Premji is among Asia's most generous tycoons, having given away more than USD four billion of his fortune.

Reference: http://www.forbes.com/sites/kerryadolan/2015/08/05/the-100-richest-tech-billionaires-from-around- the-globe/ http://www.forbes.com/richest-in-tech/list/#tab:overall http://www.forbes.com/profile/bill-gates/?list=richest-in-tech http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/tech/tech-news/Azim-Premji-Shiv-Nadar-among-worlds-20-richest- tech-czars-Forbes/articleshow/48451070.cms http://www.outlookindia.com/news/article/azim-premji-shiv-nadar-among-worlds-20-richest-people-in- technology-forbes/909713

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Third Bi-monthly Monetary Policy, 2015-16

Ques: How much is the growth forecast issued by RBI Governor Dr. Raghuram Rajan during third bi-monthly monetary policy 2015-16 on August 4th, 2015? a. 7.5 pc b. 7.6 pc c. 7.8 pc d. 8.0 pc

Ans: b

Related facts:  Dr. Raghuram G. Rajan, RBI Governor issued a statement regarding third bi- monthly monetary policy 2015-16 on August 4th, 2015.  The policy repo rate under the liquidity adjustment facility (LAF) unchanged at 7.25 per cent.  The cash reserve ratio (CRR) of scheduled banks unchanged at 4.0 per cent of net demand and time liability (NDTL).  It is known that repo rate was lowered to 7.25 pc from 7.50 pc during third bi-monthly monetary policy 2015-16 on June 2nd, 2015.  Statutory Liquidity Ratio retained at 21.5 pc.  The reverse repo rate under the LAF will remain unchanged at 6.25 per cent and the marginal standing facility (MSF) rate and the Bank Rate at 8.25 per cent.  The RBI retains growth target at 7.6 per cent for 2015-16.  Monetary policy is the macroeconomic policy laid down by the central bank of the country, i.e. RBI in India. It involves management of money supply and interest rate and it is used by the government of a country to achieve macroeconomic objectives like inflation, consumption, growth and liquidity.

Reference: https://www.rbi.org.in/Scripts/BS_PressReleaseDisplay.aspx?prid=34614 https://www.rbi.org.in/Scripts/BS_PressReleaseDisplay.aspx?prid=34073

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Science

Global satellite to be named after Abdul Kalam

Ques: A global Satellite named in the memory of Dr. APJ Adbul Kalam by UN is? a. GlobalSat Abdul Kalam b. GlobalSat Kalam DRR c. UN Kalam GlobalSat d. GlobalSat UN DRR Kalam Ans: c

Related facts:  A proposal has been made to name a global satellite on 7th August, 2015 after the late former President Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam who died on 27 July 2015.  The step is being taken to pay tribute to the Missile Man of India.  Global satellite called as GlobalSat for DRR (a satellite for observation of Earth and Disaster Risk Reduction) will be renamed as ‘UN Kalam GlobalSat’ in the memory of the Kalam.  This has been stated by Milind Pimprikar, Chairman of CANEUS (-Europe-US- ASia) Organization on Space Technologies for Societal Applications headquartered in , Canada.  Launch of this satellite was mooted at the third UN World Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction held at Sendai in this March. Disaster Risk Reduction — DRR is a systematic process of identifying, analyzing and reducing the associated with a disaster.UN agencies explain DRR as “The conceptual framework of elements considered with the possibilities to minimize vulnerabilities and disaster risks throughout a society, to avoid (prevention) or to limit (mitigation and preparedness) the adverse impacts of hazards, within the broad context of sustainable development.” Since, such a big project of monitoring Earth and developing sensors and equipment to predict and mitigate disasters cannot be developed by one country so CANEUS initiated the project in partnership with UN agencies that includes UN Office for Outer Space Affairs, the UN International Strategy for Disaster Reduction, the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) and the World Bank. Moreover, CANEUS was founded in 1999 for the development of common platform such that several countries can share their technology and provide solutions for natural and man-made disaster. Reference: https://www.caneus.org/main/ http://caneus.org/undrr/background.html http://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/global-satellite-to-be-named-after-abdul- kalam/article7512030.ece http://www.tecake.com/un-kalam-globalsat-satellite-named-late-dr-apj-abdul-kalam/11994/

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ISRO launched GSAT-6

Ques: Recently, ISRO launched India’s latest communication Satellite GSAT-6 used- a. GSLV-D5 b. GSLV-D3 c. GSLV-D6 d. GSLV-D4 Ans: c

Related facts:  India’s Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV) has successfully deployed a communications satellite on 27 August, 2015, with the rocket’s ninth flight lofting the GSAT-6 spacecraft.  It is known that the first GSLV (GSLV-D1) launch on 18 April, 2011 was unsuccessful.  The launch was on schedule at 16:52 local time (11:22 UTC) with the launch taking place from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre on Sriharikota Island.  It used GSLV-D6 launch vehicle which was intended to further test and qualifies the indigenous Cryogenic Upper Stage (CUS) developed by ISRO.  This was the fifth developmental flight of GSLV and the third to carry the indigenous CUS.  In its oval shaped GTO, the GSAT-6 satellite is now orbiting the Earth with a perigee (nearest point to Earth) of 168 km and an apogee (farthest point to Earth) of 35,939 km with an orbital inclination of 20.01 deg with respect to the equator.  After a smooth 29 hour countdown, the 416 tonne, 49 m tall GSLV-D6 carrying the 2117 kg GSAT-6, lifted off at 16:52 Hrs IST. About seventeen minutes after lift-off, GSAT-6 was successfully placed in GTO.  Soon after its injection into GTO, the two solar arrays of GSAT-6 were automatically deployed and the Master Control Facility (MCF) at Hassan in Karnataka took control of GSAT-6.  Among the GSAT communication series satellites, GSAT-6 is 12th satellite and is 25th communication satellite overall.  GSAT-6 Satellite provides communication through five spot beams in S-band and a national beam in C-band for strategic users.

Reference: http://www.isro.gov.in/update/27-aug-2015/gslv-successfully-launches-india%E2%80%99s-latest- communication-satellite-gsat-6 http://www.isro.gov.in/Spacecraft/gsat-6 http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2015/08/indian-gslv-launch-gsat-6/

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Sports

Tennis

Rogers Cup-2015

Ques: From the statements below: 1. This tournament includes men and women category. 2. won men singles. 3. The tournament organized by National Bank. Which one of the following options is/are correct? a. 1 and 2 b. 1 and 3 c. All d. None Ans: c

Related facts:  The tournament organized by National Bank held in Montreal (men) and Toronto (women), cities of Canada between 10-16 August.  The results are: Men Singles- Andy Murray -Winner Novak Djokovich – Runner up Women Singles- - Winner - Runner up Men Doubles- Winner- (USA) , (USA) Runner up- (CAN), Edouard Roger-Vasselin (FRA) Women Doubles- Winner- (FRA), (SLO) Runner up- Bethanie Mattek-Sands (USA), Lucie Safarova (CZE)  Its Andy Murray’s 35th world title. Reference: http://www.rogerscup.com/ http://www.couperogers.com/en/ http://www.rogerscup.com/bencic-wins-maiden-rogers-cup-title/ http://www.couperogers.com/en/andy-andy-andy/

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Citi Open 2015

Ques: Who won the Women singles title in Citi Open – 2015? a. Sloane Stephens b. c. Belinda Bencic d.

Ans: a

Related facts:  Citi Open 2015 took place at the William H.G. FitzGerald Tennis Center in Washington, D.C., , from August 3 to August 9, 2015.  The Championship results are: Men's singles - Japan - USA Women's singles Sloane Stephens – USA Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova - Russia Men's doubles Bob Bryan/Mike Bryan – USA Van Dodig () / (Brazil) Women's doubles Belinda Bencic () / () Lara Arruabarrena ()/Andreja Klepač () Reference: http://www.citiopentennis.com/ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2015_Citi_Open

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Western & Southern Open 2015- Cincinnati

Ques: Who won the Western & Southern Open - 2015 men’s title? a. b. Novak Djokovic c. d. Andy Murray

Ans: a

Related facts:  The 2015 Western & Southern Open was a men's and women's tennis tournament played on outdoor hard courts August 15–23, 2015.  It was part of the ATP World Tour Masters 1000 of the 2015 ATP World Tour and of the WTA Premier 5 tournaments of the 2015 WTA Tour, as well as a 2015 US Open Series event.  The 2015 tournament wae the men's 114th edition and the women's 87th edition of the Cincinnati Masters.  Roger Federer and were the defending champions and both successfully defended their titles.  Roger Federer Defeated world number one tennis player Novak Djokovic in straight set of 7-6, 6-3.  Williams defeated third-seeded Simona Halep 6-3, 7-6(5).  Daniel Nestor and Edouard Roger-Vasselin won their first title together in men’s double category.  The women’s final took the Grandstand court next, with sister duo Hao-Ching Chan and Yung-Jan Chan of earning at 7-5, 6-4 win against fourth-seeded and .

Reference: http://www.wsopen.com/ResultsAndSchedule/resultsschedule__2011_results/?intloc=headernavsub http://www.wsopen.com/news/serena_williams_completes_title_defense/ http://www.wsopen.com/news/nestor_and_roger- vasselin_win_mens_doubles_chan_sisters_take_womens_crown/

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Cricket

Ashes Test Series-2015

Ques: Who won Ashes Test Series-2015? a. England b. Australia c. South Africa d. India Ans: a

Related facts:  The 2015 Ashes was a series of Test cricket matches played between England and Australia during 8 July – 24 August, 2015.  It was known as ‘Investec Ashes series’ as well.  England won the series by 3–2.  Michael Clark was Australia’s and Alastair Cook was England team captains.  First, third and fourth test match won by England by 169 run/8 wicket, 78 runs and a inning respectively.  Australia won second and fifth test match with 405 runs and 46 runs respectively.  Chris Rogers (AUS) and Joe Root (ENG) collectively got Man of the series award.  Joe Root (ENG) got the Compton–Miller Medal.  Steve Smith (AUS) scored highest runs (508) in the tournament.  Mitchell Starc (AUS) took 18 wickets and Stuart Brad (ENG) took 21 wickets.  The Ashes series started from 1882-83.  It is known that up to 69 Ashes series so far, both the countries won 32 series, however 5 series were drawn. Reference: http://www.icc-cricket.com/match/eng-aus-2015/5 http://www.cricbuzz.com/cricket-schedule/series/2285/the-ashes-2015 http://www.cricbuzz.com/cricket-scorecard/13755/scorecard http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/match/743971.html http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/cricket/34040823

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Football

U16- South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) Cup 2015

Ques: Under 16 SAFF-2015 was organized in-

a. India b. Bangladesh c. Nepal d. Bhutan

Ans: b

 Under 16 SAFF-2015 was hosted by Bangladesh from 9–18 of August, 2015 at Sylhet District Stadium.  The 2015 SAFF U-16 Championship was the 3rd edition of the SAFF U-16 Championship, an international football competition for men's under-16 national teams organized by SAFF.  Bangladesh won their first-ever title of the SAFF Under-16 football championship, beating India by a 4-2 margin in the tiebreaker.  It is known that Pakistan won the first SAFF U16 title on 2011.

Reference: http://www.shillonglajong.com/indian-u-16-finished-runners-up/ http://www.goal.com/en-india/news/136/india/2015/08/18/14546002/india-u16-falter-at-the-final- hurdle-against-bangladesh-in http://en.prothom-alo.com/sports/news/76039/Bangladesh-clinch-SAFF-U-16-title

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Spanish Super Cup- 2015

Ques: Who won the Spanish Super Cup-2015? a. b. Athletic Bilbao c. Real d. Athletico Madrid

Ans: b

Related facts:  Athletic Bilbao claimed their first victory with 5-1 over 10-man Barcelona to win the

Spanish Super Cup on 17 August, 2015.

 It is important to know that Athletic Bilbao won a first trophy in 31 years.

 Bilbao, who only field players of Basque origin, last secured a major trophy when they

won Spain's traditional season opener in 1984.

Reference: http://www.flashscore.com/soccer/spain/super-cup/ http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/33969001 http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/aug/17/athletic-bilbao-barcelona-spanish-super-cup http://uk.reuters.com/article/2015/08/17/uk-soccer-spain-supercup-idUKKCN0QM24L20150817

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UFEA Super cup-2015

Ques: Who won the UFEA Super cup-2015? a. Real Madrid b. Barcelona c. Sevilla d. None of above Ans: b

Related facts:  Annual UFEA Super cup championship organized by Union of European Football association (UFEA) played between the winners of Champions League and Europa League on 11, August 2015.  FC Barcelona (Europa winner) takes on Sevilla FC (Championship League winner) in the second straight all-Spanish UEFA Super Cup at the Boris Paichadze Dinamo Arena in Tbilisi, Georgia.  It was the 40th UEFA Super Cup, an annual tournament contested by the winners of the UEFA Champions League and UEFA Europa League.  Barcelona won the game 5–4 after extra time to claim their fifth Super Cup title, tying Milan's record.  Lionel Messi (Barcelona) got the Man of the match award.

Reference: http://www.uefa.com/uefasupercup/season=2015/matches/round=2000639/match=2015790/postmat ch/report/index.html#pedro+barcelonas+uefa+super+cup+hero+again http://www.uefa.com/uefasupercup/season=2015/final/index.html

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Chess

Politiken Cup-2015

Ques: Who won Politiken Cup-2015? a. Ragger Markus b. Nisipeanu Liviu-Dieter c. Fressinet Laurent d. Marin Mihail Ans: a

Related facts:  The Politiken Cup Chess Tournament was held from July 25 through August 2, 2015, at the Konventum in Helsingør, .  The event was a 10-round Swiss FIDE open with 431 players from 23 different federations, including 27 GMs and 17 IMs.  GM Markus Ragger () won the title this year.  GM Nisipeanu Liviu-Dieter GER was the runner up.  It is important to note that top 10 players had the same points- 10 point each

Reference: https://www.fide.com/component/content/article/4-tournaments/8955-gm-markus-ragger-wins- politiken-cup-2015-on-tie-break.html http://www.ksu.dk/politiken_cup/turnering/stilling.aspx?tur_id=1413&aar=2015 http://www.ksu.dk/politiken_cup/turnering/detaljer.aspx?tur_id=1764&lod=2 http://en.chessbase.com/post/markus-ragger-wins-politiken-cup

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Badminton

World Badminton Championship-2015

Ques: In World Badminton Championship, which Indian player won the Silver medal for the first time? a. P. V. Sindhu b. Saina Nehwal c. d. Prakash Padukon Ans: b Related facts:  The 2015 BWF World Championships was held from 10 to 16 August 2015 in , Indonesia.  The results are following:  Men's Singles Gold- Chen Long, China (CHN) Silver- Lee Chong Wei, Malaysia (MAS) Bronze- Kento Momota, Japan (JPN) Jan O. Jorgensen, Denmark (DEN)  Women’s Singles Gold- Carolina Marín, Spain (ESP) Silver- Saina Nehwal, India (IND) Bronze- Sung Ji-hyun, (KOR) Lindaweni Fanetri, Indonesia (INA)  Men's Doubles Gold-Mohammad Ahsan and Hendra Setiawan, Indonesia (INA) Silver- Liu Xiaolong, and Qiu Zihan, China (CHN) Bronze- Lee Yong-dae and Yoo Yeon-seong, South Korea (KOR) Hiroyuki Endo and Kenichi Hayakawa, Japan (JPN)

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 Women's Doubles Gold- Tian Qing and Zhao Yunlei, China (CHN) Silver- and , Denmark (DEN) Bronze- Nitya Krishinda Maheswari and , Indonesia (INA) and , Japan (JPN)  Mixed Doubles Gold- Zhang Nan and Zhao Yunlei, China (CHN) Silver- Liu Cheng and Bao Yixin, China (CHN) Bronze- and Liliyana Natsir, Indonesia (INA) Xu Chen and Ma Jin, China (CHN)

 In the medal table China was on the top with 3 Gold, 2 Silver and 1 bronze.  India and Malaysia hold 5th position combined with 1-1 Silver.  Saina Nehwal became the first Indian player to win Silver in the World Badminton Championship.  Prakash Padukone was the first Indian to win a bronze at the 1983 edition.  - 2011 Jwala Gutta and Ashwini Ponappa won Bronze in women doubles  P V Sindhu, who clinched the bronze medal twice in 2013 and 2014 in and respectively  Saina Nehwal won Silver medal in singles in Jakarta in 2015.

Reference: http://www.bwfbadminton.org/page.aspx?id=28534 http://bwf.tournamentsoftware.com/sport/winners.aspx?id=196570E9-BF0B-47C8-A3B9- 1F766AAABC36 http://www.livemint.com/Consumer/nwzafpamdXXx760o6EfaKI/Saina-Nehwal-becomes-first-Indian-to- win-silver-at-World-Bad.html http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/sports/saina-nehwal-becomes-first-indian-to-enter-world- championship-finals/articleshow/48495804.cms

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Billiards/Snooker/Squash

Victorian Open Squash-2015

Ques: Victorian Open Squash-2015 organized in?

a. Australia b. Malaysia c. New Zeeland d. China

Ans: a

Related facts:  Victorian Open Squash-2015 was organized in Australia on 27 July-2 August, 2015.  In men’s single, Ryan Cuskelly defeated Greg Lobban with 12-10 13-11 11-9.  In women’s single, Indian player Joshana Chinappa defeated Line Hansen [2] with 11-5 11-4 11-9.  The prize money for men/women category was USD 15,000.

Reference: http://www.squash.org.au/announcements/victorian-open-2015 http://www.tournamentsoftware.com/sport/draw.aspx?id=9135C80E-1417-4DE9-8612- 7A16A50A4591&draw=1 http://www.tournamentsoftware.com/sport/draw.aspx?id=9135C80E-1417-4DE9-8612- 7A16A50A4591&draw=3 http://www.squashsite.co.uk/2009/victorian2015.htm

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IBSF World Team and 6-Red Snooker Championship

Ques: IBSF World Team and 6-Red Snooker Championship organized in? a. Egypt b. Pakistan c. Israel d. Afghanistan Ans: b Related facts:  IBSF-International Billiards and Snooker Federation organized World team and 6-Red Snooker championship during 6- 15 August, 2015 in Karachi, Pakistan.  India's Pankaj Advani won the championship defeating world snooker champion Yan Bingtao of China 6-2.  Its 13th world title for Pankaj Advani.  The IBSF World Snooker Championship tournament was first held in 1963.  He is the first in the world who won Snooker and Billiards in Short/Long both the category.  Hong Kong’s Ng On Yee defeated India’s Vidya Pillai (5-1) to get women’s title.  Malaysia’s Keen Hoo Moh/Kok Leong Lim won their maiden title after defeating Pakistan’s Asjad Iqbal/Shahid Aftab with 5-4 in IBSF Team Championship.  Though Afghanistan’s Zemarai Hassas/Saleh Mohammadi defeated Pakistan’s Mohammad Yousuf/Naveen Perwani with 5-2 to bag Master Championship title. Reference: http://www.ibsf.info/index.php?option=com_k2&view=item&id=384:advani-retains-world-6reds-title- on-yee-claims-her-2nd-world-6reds-title&Itemid=186 http://esnooker.pl/turnieje/2015/dms/en/dmsm_2015.php http://esnooker.pl/turnieje/2015/ms6r/en/ms6rm_2015.php http://esnooker.pl/turnieje/2015/ms6r/en/show_drabinka.php?id_t=73 http://esnooker.pl/turnieje/2015/dms/en/show_drabinka_team.php?id_t=76 http://esnooker.pl/turnieje/2015/dms/en/show_drabinka_team.php?id_t=74 http://esnooker.pl/turnieje/2015/ms6r/en/show_drabinka.php?id_t=72&size=48

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Golf

US PGA Championship 2015

Ques: Who won US PGA Championship 2015? a. Jordan Spieth b. Jason Day c. Bubba Watson d. Jimmy Walker Ans: b Related facts:  The 2015 PGA Championship was the 97th PGA Championship, held August 13–16 on the Straits Course of Whistling Straits in Kohler, Wisconsin  It was the third PGA Championship at Whistling Straits, which previously hosted in 2004 and 2010  Jason Day won his first major championship title with a total score of 268 (−20), the lowest score in relation to par ever recorded in a major.  Three strokes back, runner-up Jordan Spieth surpassed Rory McIlroy as number one in the Official World Golf Ranking.  The winning prize was $ 1.8m.

Reference: http://www.pga.com/pgachampionship/news/australia-celebrates-first-major-win-native-son-jason-day http://www.europeantour.com/europeantour/season=2015/tournamentid=2015062/news/newsid=267 767.html#RThZVosbzbwm7DvG.97 http://www.pga.com/pgachampionship/scoring/leaderboard http://www.golf.com/tour-and-news/jason-day-tops-jordan-spieth-win-2015-pga-championship- whistling-straits http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/golf/33955295

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Ladies British open amateur stroke-play championship

Ques: Who won Ladies British open amateur stroke-play championship? a. Olivia Mehaffey b. Linn Andersson c. Aditi Ashok d. Jessica Ross Ans: c Related facts:  On 19-21 August, Ladies British open amateur stroke-play championship- 2015 organized at Moortown Golf club at Leeds, England.  India's Aditi Ashok became the first from the country to win the Ladies British Amateur stroke play golf championship at the Moortown Golf Club.  The Indian Golf Union's ladies amateur order of merit, Aditi shot four days total of 11- under 285 (71,73,70,71).  She had earlier won the St Rule Trophy at St Andrews in July this year and finished second in the 2015 European Women's Amateur Championship.  Second and third position went to Olivia Mehaffey (6 under-290 points) and Linn Andersson (2 under-294 points) respectively. Reference: http://www.aditiashok.com/?page_id=43 http://golfingindian.com/aditi-ashok-wins-ladies-british-open-amateur-championship/ http://www.lgu.org/EZ/lgu/lgu/Championship_Details.php?PHPSESSID=tc5s486daeh753jntna288ese5& art=991&CShip=178&CPage=news http://www.lgu.org/EZ/lgu/lgu/Championship_Details.php?PHPSESSID=tc5s486daeh753jntna288ese5& art=991&CShip=178&CPage=news http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/golf/top-stories/Aditi-Ashok-becomes-first-Indian-to-win- Ladies-BritishAmateur/articleshow/48623632.cms

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Sports Misc

Olympic Winter Games 2022

Ques: Which country named as the host city for Winter 2022? a. Beijing, China b. , Kazakhstan c. , Switzerland d. , Ans: a

Related facts:  IOC President announced at the 128th IOC Session that Beijing won the right to host the 24th Olympic Winter Games in 2022.  The Chinese capital was chosen over Almaty, Kazakhstan, in a vote at the 128th IOC Session in Kuala Lumpur. Beijing received 44 votes to Almaty’s 40.  As a result, Beijing will become the first city to host both a summer and winter edition of the Olympic Games, following the city’s successful staging of the Summer Games in 2008.  PyeongChang, South Korea was announced to host 2018 on 6th July 2011.

Reference: http://www.olympic.org/news/beijing-named-host-city-of-olympic-winter-games-2022/246674

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2015 World Archery Championship

Ques: The 2015 World Archery Championships event was held in? a. Denmark b. Australia c. New Zeeland d. USA Ans: a

Related facts:  The 2015 World Archery Championships was the 48th edition of the World Archery Championships. The event was held in Copenhagen, the capital city of Denmark from 26 July to 2 August 2015.  Following are the results:  Men’s individual  Gold: Kim Woo-jin -South Korea (KOR)  Silver: Rick van der Ven (NED)  Bronze: Takaharu Furukawa Japan (JPN)

 Women’s Individual:  Gold: Ki Bo-bae- South Korea (KOR)  Silver: Lin Shih-chia – Chinese Taipei (TPE)  Bronze: Choi Mi-sun -South Korea (KOR)  Men’s Team  Gold: Kim Woo-jin, Ku Bon-chan, Oh Jin-hyek- South Korea (KOR)  Silver : Michele Frangilli, Mauro Nespoli, David Pasqualucci- Italy (ITL)  Bronze: Kuo Cheng-wei, Wang Hou-chieh, Yu Guan-lin- Chinese Taipei (TPE)  Women’s team  Gold: Tuyana Dashidorzhieva, Ksenia Perova, - Russia  Silver: Rimil Buriuly, , Laxmirani Majhi—India (IND)  Bronze: Choi Mi-sun, Kang Chae-young, Ki Bo-bae- South Korea (KOR)  Mixed team  Gold: Ki Bo-bae, Ku Bon-chan - South Korea (KOR)  Silver: Lin Shih-chia, Kuo Cheng-wei - Chinese Taipei (TPE)  Bronze: Zhu Jueman, Gu Xuesong – China (CHN)  South Korea topped the list with 6 gold, 3 bronze followed by Denmark with 1 gold and 1 bronze  India and Netherland together positioned seven with 2-2 silver each. Reference: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2015_World_Archery_Championships http://worldarchery.org/news/126063/woojin-wins-second-world-title-copenhagen http://worldarchery.org/competition/14215/copenhagen-2015-world-archery-championships

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Working Group Constituted by Central Sports Ministry

Ques: Working Group Constituted for Re-drafting of the National Sports Development Code of India (NSDCI)-2011: a. 28 August, 2015 b. 28 July, 2015 c. 28 June, 2015 d. None of the above Ans: b

Related facts:  On 28 July, 2015 Sports Ministry constituted a working group for re-drafting of NSDCI- 2011.  To facilitate holding of consultations and prepare a revised draft of the NSDCI, following members appointed- I. Hon’ble Justice C.K. Mahajan (Retd.), Former Judge of Delhi High Court- Chairman II. Smt. Pallavi Shroff, Lawyer- Member III. Sh. Ajitpal Singh, Former Captain of Indian Hockey Team- Member IV. Ms. Indu Puri, Arjuna Awardee, Table Tennis- Member V. Ms. Neeru Bhatia, Sports Journalist- Member VI. Sh. Onkar Kedia, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports- Member VII. Lt. Gen. Rajiv Bhalla, Advisor in MYAS- Member VIII. President, IOA/Secretary General, IOA- Member IX. Secretary, SAI- Member Secretary  The terms of reference of the Working Group shall be as follows: I. To examine the existing NSDCI from both sports governance and legal angles and fine tune/revise the same with the purpose of making it more precise and succinct. II. To make specific recommendations on preparation of Electoral College and streamlining of State/District bodies. III. To make any other recommendations, as deemed fit. Reference: http://pib.nic.in/newsite/erelease.aspx

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Sports Personalities

Novak Djokovic

Ques: Who has been appointed as UNICEF Goodwill Brand Ambassador in recent days? a. Sachin Tendulkar b. Roger Federer c. Serena Williams d. Novak Djokovic Ans: d

Related facts:  On 26 August, UNICEF announced Novak Djokovic’s appointment as a Goodwill Ambassador.  Novak first teamed up with UNICEF in 2011 when he was appointed a UNICEF Ambassador.  The Serbian tennis player founded the Novak Djokovic Foundation in November 2007.  Since then, he has been lending his support to improving the lives of children, especially those who are amongst the most marginalized, with a particular focus on the importance of early childhood education and development in providing children with the best start to life.  Indian actor Mr. Amitabh Bacchan also appointed as Goodwill Brand Ambassador in April, 2005.  Djokovic has won a total of 54 career titles, including 9 Grand Slams, and he was a Medallist at the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing.

Reference: http://www.unicef.org/media/media_82998.html http://www.unicef.org/people/people_57365.html http://novakdjokovicfoundation.org/about-us/history/

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Gurbaj Singh

Ques: Hockey India League Athletes Disputes and Grievance Redressal Committee recently suspended which player? a. Harbeer Singh b. Sardar Singh c. Gurbaj Singh d. Jasbeer Singh Ans: c Related facts:  On 10, August 2015, Hockey India suspends midfielder Gurbaj Singh for nine months for indulging in groupism and creating disharmony within the team.

 He was indulging in groupism and creating disharmony within the team as per the committee.  He will be unable to play for India till May 9, 2016.  Gurbaj, however, has the option to lodge an appeal with HI's appellate tribunal within a month's time.  It is known that He was suspended for a brief period after the London Olympics following similar accusations from the then chief coach Michael Nobbs and his support staff.

Reference: http://hockeyindia.org/news/hockey-india-hockey-india-league-athletes-disputes-and-grievance- redressal-committee-imposes-a-9-month-ban-on-gurbaj-singh.html http://www.thehindu.com/sport/hockey/senior-india-hockey-player-gurbaj-singh-suspended-for-nine- months/article7522386.ece http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/hockey/top-stories/Indisciplined-Gurbaj-suspended-for-9- months-by-Hockey-India/articleshow/48423790.cms http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/hockey-india-suspends-gurbaj-singh-for-9-months/1/457581.html

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Ajinkya Rahane sets World Record

Ques: Which cricketer set world record of taking 8 catches from any fielder in test cricket?

a. Kumar Sangakkara b. Michael Clark c. Ajinkya Rahane d. Rohit Sharma Ans: c

Related facts:  Galle (Sri Lanka), Aug 14: India's Ajinkya Rahane set a world record during the 3rd day's play of the 1st Test against Sri Lanka here at the Galle International Stadium.  27-year-old Rahane, on Friday, took 3 catches in the first inning and 5 catches in the 2nd innings to complete 8 in the match, which is a world record for a fieldsman in Test history.  Yajurvindra Singh (India), Greg Chappell (Australia), Hashan Tilakaratne (Sri Lanka), Stephen Flemimg () and Mathew Hayden (Australia) had held the joint record with 7 catches.  It is known that Jack Russell (1995) from England and AB De Villiers (2013) from South Africa took 11-11 catches as a wicket keeper.

Reference: http://www.espncricinfo.com/sri-lanka-v-india-2015/content/story/909495.html http://www.bcci.tv/sri-lanka-v-india-2015/news/2015/news/10742/dravid-helped-me-with-slip-fielding- rahane http://stats.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/stats/index.html?class=1;filter=advanced;orderby=caught_field er;template=results;type=fielding;

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Sebastian Coe

Ques: Who elected as IAAF president recently? a. Sergey Bubka b. Sebastian Coe c. Lamine Diack d. None

Ans: b

Related facts:  Sebastian Coe was elected as the sixth IAAF President at the 50th IAAF Congress in Beijing, China, on 19 August, 2015  The voting was as follows (207 Member Federations cast their votes): Sebastian Coe (GBR) 115 votes, Sergey Bubka (UKR) 92 votes.  He will take over the charge from Lamine Diack.  Sebastian Coe is a two time Olympic 1500m champion.  The Athletics Federation of India (AFI) president Adille J. Sumariwalla has been elected to the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) council on the same day.  Sumariwalla has been elected as one of the nine individual members of the council at the 50th Congress of the world athletics body, ahead of the IAAF World Athletics Championships.

Reference: http://www.iaaf.org/competitions/iaaf-world-championships/news/iaaf-congress-beijing-2015 http://www.iaaf.org/news/iaaf-news/sebastian-coe-elected-iaaf-president http://indianathletics.in/?p=4740 http://www.business-standard.com/article/news-ians/afi-president-sumariwalla-elected-to-iaaf-council- 115081900747_1.html http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/othersports/athletics/11811181/Lord-Coe-wins-presidency-of- IAAF.html

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Clive Rice

Ques: Recently, famous cricket player Clive Rice died, was playing for which country? a. England b. Australia c. New Zeeland d. None Ans: a

Related facts-  Clive Rice (full name- Clive Edward Butler Rice), the former South Africa captain and Nottinghamshire all-rounder, has died on July 28, 2015 in a Cape Town hospital aged 66.  Rice ended his First Class cricket career with a batting average of 40.95 and a average of 22.49.  His one day cricket career started on November 10, 1991 in Kolkata against India and ended as well against India on November 14, 1991 in Delhi.  He scored 26 runs in his one day international career in three matches.  He played total 482 first class matches.

Reference- http://www.theguardian.com/sport/2015/jul/28/clive-rice-south-africa-cricket-captain-dies http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/cricket/33688075 http://www.independent.co.uk/news/people/former-south-africa-and-nottinghamshire-cricket-captain- clive-rice-dies-aged-66-10421355.html http://www.espncricinfo.com/southafrica/content/player/46976.html

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Snippets

PM inaugurates birth centenary celebrations of Rani Gaidinliu

Ques: Rani Gaidinliu setup which of the following Religious & Political Community? a. Haraka b. Khatka c. Nagraka d. Gaonvaraka Ans: a

Related facts:  Prime Minister inaugurated the birth ceremony of Rani Gaidinliu on 24 August, 2015.  The Prime Minister recalled Rani Gaidinliu’s contribution to India’s freedom struggle.  Speaking after the launch of a commemorative coin to mark the inauguration of the birth centenary celebrations of Rani Gaidinliu, the Prime Minister said it is our misfortune that people such as Rani Gaidinliu have either not been remembered adequately, or have been deliberately forgotten.  The Prime Minister also credited Rani Gaidinliu with spreading the message of Mahatma Gandhi in the North-East.  It was Jawaharlal Nehru who gave the name ‘Rani’ (queen of the people of the northeast) to her.  The Prime Minister also released Rs. 100 commemorative coins and Rs. 5 circulation coins on Rani Gaidinliu on the occasion.  At the age of 13, she joined the ‘Heraka’ religious movement of her cousin Haipou Jadonang. The movement later turned into a political movement seeking to drive out the British from Manipur and the surrounding Naga areas.  Within the Heraka cult, she came to be considered an incarnation of the goddess Cherachamdinliu.  Gaidinliu was arrested in 1932 at the age of 16, and was sentenced to life imprisonment by the British rulers.  She was released in 1947 after India's independence, and continued to work for the upliftment of her people.  She was honored as a freedom fighter and was awarded a ‘Padma Bhushan’ by the Government of India.  She died on 17 February 1993 at the age of 78.  Rani Gaidinliu was also conferred the ‘Birsa Munda’ Award posthumously. Reference: http://pib.nic.in/newsite/erelease.aspx http://www.nagalandpost.com/ChannelNews/National/NationalNews.aspx?news=TkVXUzEwMDA4NTQ 1Mg%3D%3D

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Digitalization initiative of the Government- SEHAT

Ques: To provide healthcare facilities in rural areas, the Communications and IT Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad launched a telemedicine initiative through Common Service Centres (CSCs) on- a. 23 August, 2015 b. 24 August, 2015 c. 25 August, 2015 d. 26 August, 2015

Ans: c

Related facts:  The unique initiative for health care in India-‘SEHAT’ launched on 25 August by the Communication and Telecom Minister of India.  As part of the service named 'SEHAT', people in rural areas can consult doctors online and also order generic drugs through Common Service Centers (CSC).  CSCs have been delivering tele-consultation services with support from Apollo and Medanta in some areas and now with this initiative the tele- consultation services are being extended to 60,000 CSCs across the country.  Under the service, people can visit CSCs and fix an appointment for seeking expert consultancy with a doctor. The doctors at Apollo Hospitals will be able to provide consultancy to the patients using the video link facilities.  In furtherance to digital India objective at least one CSC in every ‘Panchayat’ is being set up. There will be around 2, 50,000 access points for delivery of various Government to citizen (G2C) services.  The Post offices including the EDPOs are being made multi service delivery points and all the CSCs services can be delivered to citizen through the post offices.  It is known that the Postal department has also got a payment bank license and with collaboration between CSC SPV and postal department all the CSC across the country shall be able to provide the banking services to the citizen.

Reference:

http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=126318

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Final meeting of the Sub-Group of Chief Ministers- NITI Aayog

Ques: Who is the Convener of the Sub-Group of Chief Ministers for Skill Development setup by NITI Aayog? a. Prakash Singh Badal b. Nitish Kumar c. Vasundhara Raje d. Naveen Patnayak Ans: a Related facts:  The final meeting of the Sub-Group of Chief Ministers on Skill Development was held at NITI Aayog in New Delhi on 25 August, 2015.  The meeting was presided by the Convener of the Subgroup and the Chief Minister of Punjab, Shri Parkash Singh Badal.  The CEO of NITI AAYOG Smt. Sindhushree Khullar, presented the recommendations of the Draft Report before the Members for their views.  The deliberations focused on empowering and strengthening the State Skill Development Missions to address the challenge of skill development at the State level in a decentralized manner so as to improve the outreach of skill development.  The emphasis was also laid on increasing participation by women and other socio economic groups.  The NITI Aayog Sub-Group on Skill Development was constituted as per the decision taken in the first meeting of the Governing Council of the NITI Aayog chaired by the Prime Minister on 8th February, 2015.

Reference: http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=126315 http://www.uniindia.com/cms-lays-emphasis-on-decentralization-of-skill-development- mission/business-economy/news/176988.html http://www.orissadiary.com/CurrentNews.asp?id=61203

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National Sports Awards- 2015

Ques: Who was not selected for ‘Dronacharya Awards’ in National Spots Awards 2015 announced by Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports? a. Naval Singh b. Anup Singh c. Shiv Prakash Mishra d. Nihar Amin Ans: c

Related facts:  Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports announces “Dronacharya Awards”, “Dhyan Chand Awards” and “Rashtriya Khel Protsahan Puruskar” on 25 August, 2015.  “Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna – 2015” and “Arjuna Awards – 2015” were announced on 14 August, 2015.  The eminent Coaches Shri Naval Singh (Athletics-Para-sports), Shri Anoop Singh (Wrestling), Shri Harbans Singh (Athletics- Lifetime), Shri Swatantar Raj Singh (Boxing- Lifetime), Shri Nihar Ameen (Swimming-Lifetime) were honored with the prestigious “Dronacharya Award-2015”.  Based on the recommendations of the Committee and after due scrutiny, Anoop and Naval’s names were approved on the basis of current performance (2011-2014), while Nihar Amin (swimming), S. R. Singh (boxing) and Harbans Singh (athletics) were selected in the ‘Lifetime Achievement Category’ in which achievements over a period of 20 years is taken into account.  Three-time national champion and international wrestler, Anoop has guided top grapplers such as , , Satyawart Kadian, Bajrang, Amit Dahiya, and around 58 wrestlers to achieve their dream.  The “Dronacharya Award”, instituted in 1985, is given to honor eminent Coaches who have successfully trained sportspersons or teams and enabled them to achieve outstanding results in international competitions.  “Dhyan Chand Award” for ‘Lifetime Achievements’ in Sports and Games, instituted in the year 2002, is given to honor those sportspersons who have contributed to sports by their performance and continue to contribute to the promotion of sports even after their retirement from active sporting career.  This year’s “Dhyan Chand Award” was given to Mr. Romeo James (Hockey), Mr. Shiv Prakash Mishra (Tennis), and Mr. T.P.P. Nair (Volleyball) for their contribution to the sports.  “Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ranta 2015” is given to to recognize and reward excellence in Tennis.  This year’s “Arjuna Awards- 2015” are given to following sports person:

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Naib Subedar Sandeep Kumar -Archery Ms. M.R. Poovamma- Athletics Mr. Kidambi Srikanth Nammalwar- Badminton Mr. Mandeep Jangra- Boxing Mr. Rohit Sharma- Cricket Ms. Dipa Karmakar- Gymnastic Mr. Sreejesh P.R.- Hockey Mr. Manjeet Chhillar- Kabaddi Ms. Abhilasha Shashikant Mhatre- Kabaddi Mr. Sawarn Singh- Rowing Mr. Anup Kumar Yama- Roller Skating Mr. Jitu Rai- Shooting Shri S. Sathish Kumar- Weightlifting Mr. Bajrang- Wrestling Ms. Babita Kumari- Wrestling Ms. Yumnam Sanathoi Devi- Mr. Sharath M. Gayakwad- Para-Swimming

 For “Rashtriya Khel Protsahana Purushkar”, “Directorate General of Military Training” was selected in ‘identification and nurturing of budding/young talent’ category, while “Coal India Limited” has been nominated in ‘encouragement to sports through corporate social responsibility’ category. “Sports Coaching Foundation”, Hyderabad has been in ‘sports for development’ category.  Dronacharya awardees and Dhyan Chand awardees will receive statuettes, certificates and award money of Rs. 5 lac each.  Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Awardee will receive medal, certificate and award money of Rs. 7.5 lac.  Arjuna Awardees will receive statuettes, certificates and award money of Rs.5 lac each.  The awards are to be given away by President Pranab Mukherjee on August 29, National Sports Day. Reference: http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=126306 http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=126073 http://www.thehindu.com/sport/sports-ministry-approves-names-for-dronacharya- awards/article7578156.ece

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Smart street lighting project “RISHTA”

Ques: Which state launched project “RISHTA” (Rajiv Gandhi Illuminating Scheme for Hill Town Advancement) on 20th August, 2015? a. Himachal Pradesh b. Arunanchal Pradesh c. Mizoram d. Bihar Ans: a

Related facts:  August 20, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh launched an efficient smart street lighting project, Rajiv Gandhi Illuminating Scheme for Hill Town Advancement (RISHTA) at Shimla.  Himachal Pradesh is the first state to launch RISHTA in northern India.  Known as LED based, Energy, Efficient and CCMS (Centralized Control and Monitoring System) Smart Street Lighting Scheme for Urban Local bodies, it is named as Rajiv Gandhi Illuminating Scheme for Hill Town Advancement (RISHTA) was a tribute to Former Prime minister Rajiv Gandhi.  The Urban Development (UD) Department has taken up this innovative in collaboration with EESL (Energy Efficient Services Limited) a joint venture company formed by four power sectors, namely National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC), Power Grid Corporation of India (PGCIL), Power Finance Corporation (PFC) and Rural Electrification Corporation (REC).  The (light emitting diode) LED-based scheme to replace 63,484 lights in 56 urban development bodies.  As per the government it would be 45-55 per cent energy savings besides savings of Rs 3.20 crore per annum in monetary terms.  The total savings within a year in terms of operation and maintenance would be Rs 6.5 crore.

Reference: http://himachalpr.gov.in/OneNews.aspx?Language=1&ID=1959 http://www.igovernment.in/article/2015/08/25/himachal-cm-launches-urban-smart-street-lighting- project http://www.uniindia.com/cm-launches-urban-smart-street-lighting-project- rishta/regional/news/171523.html http://www.tribuneindia.com/news/himachal/smart-led-lights-to-illuminate-seven-cities/122211.html http://www.india.com/news/india/himachal-chief-minister-launches-energy-saving-streetlight-project- 512463/

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Personalities

Rajiv Mehrishi

Ques: Who appointed as Home Secretary recently? a. Shaktikant Das b. Hasmukh Adhiya c. Rajiv Mehrishi d. Tapan Rey Ans: c

Related facts:

 On 31 August, 2015 the Prime Minister

has appointed Shri Rajiv Mehrishi Secretary of the Ministry of Home Affairs for a period

of two years with effect from 31.08.2015.

 Shri Rajiv Mehrishi, an IAS of 1978 batch (Rajasthan) earlier was Secretary of

Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance as Home Secretary.

 He succeeds Shri L.C. Goyal.

 The Prime Minister has also approved the request of Shri L.C. Goyal, IAS (KL:1979)

seeking voluntary retirement from Government service due to personal reasons with

immediate effect.

Reference: http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=126473

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Madanlal Laxmandas Tahaliyani

Ques: Madanlal Laxmandas Tahaliyani recently appointed as Lokayukta of Maharashtra. He is going to replace- a. Justice C. K. Prasad b. Justice S. J. Mukhopadhyay c. C. Vidyasagar Rao d. P. B. Gaikwad Ans: d Related facts:

 Justice Madanlal Laxmandas Tahaliyani, retired Judge of the Bombay High Court sworn

in as the new Lokayukta of Maharashtra on 24 August, 2015.

 Governor Ch Vidyasagar Rao administered the oath of office to Justice Tahaliyani at a

brief oath-taking ceremony at the Darbar Hall of Raj Bhavan in Mumbai.

 Justice Tahaliyani succeeds Justice (retd) P B Gaikwad whose term as Lokayukta ended

on 1 July 2014.

 It is known that Supreme Court of India lauded the role of Justice Tahaliyani in

conducting the trial proceedings and maintaining the record of the case in an exemplary

manner for the Mohammed Ajmal Amir Kasab case on August, 2012.

Reference: https://rajbhavan.maharashtra.gov.in/Pages/frm_press_releases.aspx?id=6231

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Zaina Erhaim

Ques: Zaina Erhaim Named 2015 Winner of Peter Mackler Award for Courageous and Ethical Journalism. She belongs to which country? a. Syria b. c. Arab d. Lebnan Ans: a

Related facts:  Zaina Erhaim of Syria Named 2015 Winner of Peter Mackler Award for Courageous and Ethical Journalism on 22 August, 2015.  Over the last two years, she has trained about 100 citizen reporters from inside Syria.  Erhaim is also the Syria project coordinator for the Institute for War and Peace Reporting (IWPR), an international organization that support journalists in countries undergoing conflict, crisis, or transition.  The Peter Mackler Award honors reporters and editors who have demonstrated a commitment to fairness, accuracy and speaking truth to power, and a matching commitment to asserting the right to publish or air that story in countries where independent media is under threat.  Syria is currently ranked 177th out of 180 countries in the World Press Freedom Index published by Reporters without Borders.  The Peter Mackler Award was instituted in 2008 to honor the memory of Mackler, who had died of a heart attack in the same year at the age of 58.

Reference: http://www.pmaward.org/press/ http://www.pmaward.org/

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Neerja Mathur

Ques: On 26 August, 2015, who was appointed as Member of Member of Joint Electricity Regulatory Commission (JERC) For Goa & UTs? a. Ajeet Mathur b. Neera Mathur c. Neeraj Mathur d. Neerja Mathur Ans: d

Related facts:  Ms. Neerja Mathur has taken over as a Member of Joint Electricity Regulatory Commission (JERC) for Goa & UTs on 26 August, 2015.  She was administrated the Oath of Office and Secrecy by the Shri Piyush Goyal, Minister of State (IC) for Power, Coal and New & Renewable Energy in the presence of senior officers of the Ministry of Power and JERC.  Earlier, she was also Member (Grid Operation & Distribution) and held other senior positions in CEA.  Background of JERC: The Joint Electricity Regulatory Commission (JERC) for all Union Territories except Delhi had been established by the Government of India under the provisions of the Electricity Act, 2003. Subsequently, the State of Goa also joined above Joint Commission. The Commission consists of a Chairperson and another Member.

Major functions of JERC for Goa & UTs under the Act are to determine tariff for generation, supply, transmission and wheeling of electricity, regulate electricity purchase and procurement process of distribution licensee, facilitate intra-State transmission and wheeling of electricity, etc. Within the State of Goa and 6 Union territories. Under the Act, the Joint Commission shall also advise the State Government/UT Administration on formulation of National Electricity Policy and tariff Policy; promotion of competition, efficiency and economy in activities of electricity industry; promotion of investment electricity industry, etc

Reference: http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=126345

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Ranil Wickremesinghe- Sri Lanka’s new PM

Ques: Who sworn in as new Sri Lanka Prime Minister on 21 August, 2015? a. Ranil Wickremesinghe b. Mahinda rajapaksa c. Sujeeva Senasinghe d. Ranasinghe Premadasa Ans: a

Related facts:  Hon. Ranil Wickremesinghe was sworn in as the Prime Minister of Sri Lanka for the fourth time on 21st August 2015.  He is the Leader of the United National Party (UNP), Sri Lanka's largest political party.  Wickremesinghe was first appointed as the Prime Minister from 1993 - 1994 after the assassination of President Ranasinghe Premadasa.  He was also elected as the Prime Minister from 2001 - 2004 when the United National Front Government won the general elections in 2001.  A lawyer by profession, he was elected to Parliament in 1977 at the age of 28, having worked in the Youth League of the UNP from his university days.  UNP leader Ranil Wickremesinghe passed the 500,000 preferential vote mark establishing a new record in Sri Lankan General Elections.

Reference: http://www.pmoffice.gov.lk/biography.php?p_type=PM https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ranil_Wickremesinghe http://www.asianmirror.lk/news/item/11024-wickremesinghe-passes-500-000-preferences-from- colombo https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sri_Lankan_parliamentary_election,_2015

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Suvra Mukherjee- India’s First Lady

Ques: On 18 August, 2015 the first woman of India and wife of the President, Suvra Mukherjee passed away. She was vocalist of- a. Drupad b. Rabindra Sangeet c. Kannad d. Tappa Ans: b Related facts:  President Pranab Mukherjee's wife, Suvra Mukherjee, passed away on 18 August, 2015.  Ms Mukherjee was born on September 17, 1940 in Jessore (now in Bangladesh) and married Mr. Mukherjee on July 13, 1957.  Ms Mukherjee was an ardent fan of India’s national poet, Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore.  She was a vocalist of ‘Rabindra Sangeet’ and performed in the poet’s dance-dramas for long years not only in different parts of India, but also in Europe, Asia and Africa.  Ms Mukherjee founded the ‘Geetanjali Troupe’, whose mission is to propagate Rabindranath Tagore’s philosophy as expressed through his songs and dance-dramas.  Ms Mukherjee has written two books: ‘Chokher Aloey’ which is a personal account of her close interaction with Smt. Indira Gandhi and ‘Chena Achenai Chin’ - a travelogue recounting her visit to China.

Reference: http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/first-lady-suvra-mukherjee-passes-away/article7553413.ece

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Appointment of Chairman and Managing Director, Air India Limited

Ques: The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has appointed the Chairman and Managing Director, Air India Limited to- a. Rohit Nandan b. Ashwini Lohani c. Bharath Mahadevan d. Deepak Gupta Ans: b Related facts:  The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has approved the appointment of Shri Ashwani Lohani, IRSME (1980) as Air India Limited, MD for tenure of three years or until further orders, whichever is earlier.  Ashwani Lohani, a 1980-batch Indian Railway Service of Mechanical Engineers (IRSME) official will take charge as Chairman-cum-Managing Director.  He will succeed Rohit Nandan, a 1982-batch UP-cadre IAS officer.  Air India reported a net loss of Rs.5, 547.47 crore in 2014-15 on the back of total revenues of Rs.19, 781 crore.

Reference: http://pib.nic.in/newsite/mbErel.aspx?relid=126220 http://www.railnews.co.in/ashwani-lohani-irsme-now-new-air-india-chief/ http://www.thehindu.com/business/Industry/ashwani-lohani-appointed-new-air-india- chief/article7561532.ece

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Ajit Kumar Seth

Ques: On 17th August, who was appointed as Public

Enterprises Selection Board (PESB) chairman? a. Ajit Kumar Seth b. Rahul Rastogi c. Atul Chaturvedi d. Ashwini Kumar Dutt

Ans: a

Related facts:

 Shri Ajit Kumar Seth, IAS (Retired) (UP: 1974),

Former Cabinet Secretary, Government of India appointed as Chairman, Public

Enterprises Selection Board (PESB) on 17 August 2015.

 He has been appointed for a period of three years or till he attains 65 years of age.

 Seth has been appointed in place of Atul Chaturvedi, who has completed his tenure.

 PESB is entrusted with selection and placement of the posts of chairman, managing

director or chairman-cum-managing director and functional director in central public

sector enterprises, among others.

Reference: http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/business/india-business/Ex-Cabinet-secy-Ajit-Kumar-Seth- appointed-PESB-chief/articleshow/48484765.cms http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/ajit-kumar-seth-appointed-pesb-chairman/article7543075.ece

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Jethabhai P Patel

Ques: Who is elected as Chairman of Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation, Anand (AMUL)? a. Vipul Chaudhari b. Jethabhai Patel c. Verghese Kurien d. I. K. Jadeja Ans: b Related facts:  Shri Jethabhai P Patel has been unanimously elected as the Chairman of Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation (GCMMF) on 12 August, 2015.  Shri Jethabhai P Patel is the Chairman of Sabarkantha District Cooperative Milk Producers Union Ltd., Sabar Dairy since 2010.  GCMMF is India’s largest food products marketing organization with annual sales turnover of Rs 21,000 crores.  The member unions of GCMMF procure an average of 160 lac liters of milk everyday from 36 lac milk producers in 18,000 villages of the state.  The founder was Verghese Kurien who is known as Father of the Milk Revolution in India. Reference: http://www.amul.com/files/pdf/Press-release-GCMMF-(AMUL)-Chairman-election-12th-August- 2015.pdf http://www.univarta.com/news/regional/story/161818.html http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/cons-products/food/jethabhai-patel-re-elected-as-amul- chairman/articleshow/48456163.cms http://indianexpress.com/article/business/business-others/jetha-patel-re-elected-chairman-of- gcmmf/

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Amitabh Bachchan

Ques: Actor Amitabh Bachchan has agreed to become the state ambassador for the Maharashtra Government for which campaign a. Save the Girl b. Tourism c. Save the Tiger d. Polio campaign Ans: c Related facts:  Accepting the proposal by the Maharashtra State government to work for Tiger conservation, Indian film superstar Amitabh Bachchan on 10 August, 2015, agreed to represent the State as its Tiger Ambassador.  On July 29, Maharashtra Forest Minister Sudhir Mungantiwar had written letters to Mr. Bachchan and cricketer Sachin Tendulkar inviting them to be the Tiger Ambassadors.  The state has recorded a steady rise in tiger population from 103 in 2006 to 169 in 2010 and 190 in 2014, as reported in the Tiger Estimation conducted every four years.  India is home to 2,226 tigers in its 46 Tiger reserves.

Reference: http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/mumbai/amitabh-bachchan-signs-up-as-maharashtras-tiger- ambassador/article7522518.ece http://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/bollywood/amitabh-bachchan-to-become- maharashtras-tiger-ambassador/ http://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-amitabh-bachchan-to-be-maharashtra-s-tiger-ambassador- 2113111

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Indian socio-biologist Prof. Raghavendra Gadagkar

Ques: Which of the following Indian honored with the highest civilian German award- ‘The Cross of Order of the Merit’ award in recent days? a. Prof. Sanjay Dande b. Prof. Raghavendra Gadagkar c. Sanjeev Chaturvedi d. Kailash Satyarthi Ans: b

Related facts:  Indian socio-biologist Raghavendra Gadagkar was awarded 's highest civilian honor – “The Cross of Order of the Merit”, on 7 August, 2015.  He was bestowed with the honor for contribution in the field of behavioral ecology and sociobiology.  He is resident of Bengaluru and professor at the Centre for Ecological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science (IISc).  He is also the president of the Indian National Science Academy and has published more than 270 research papers and two books.  His first book, Survival Strategies, has been translated into Chinese and Korean.

Reference: http://www.india.diplo.de/Vertretung/indien/en/02__Bangalore/00__start/Ordensverleihung.html http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Germanys-highest-civilian-honour-conferred-on-Indian- professor/articleshow/48389783.cms http://www.deccanherald.com/content/492059/highest-german-civilian-award-iisc.html

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Om Prakash Rawat- new Election Commissioner

Ques: Who is India’s new Election Commissioner? a. Alka Panda b. Om Prakash Rawat c. Ashok Kumar Anguran d. None

Ans: b

Related facts:

 President Pranab Mukherjee on 13

August appointed Om Prakash Rawat as the Election Commissioner.

 Rawat is an Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer of the 1977 batch from Madhya

Pradesh cadre.

 It is known that other Election Commissionar is Achal Kumar Jyoti.

 The President appoints Chief Election Commissioner and Election Commissioners. They

have tenure of six years, or up to the age of 65 years, whichever is earlier. They enjoy

the same status and receive salary and perks as available to Judges of the Supreme

Court of India. The Chief Election Commissioner can be removed from office only

through impeachment by Parliament.

Reference: http://eci.nic.in/eci_main1/the_setup.aspx#appointment-tenure

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Sundar Pichai- Google’s new CEO

Ques: Who will be the new Chairman of newly created public holding company: Alphabet Inc? a. Larry Page b. Satya Nadela c. Sundar Pichai d. Sergey Brin And: d

Related facts:  Google has unveiled a new parent company called Alphabet Inc on 10th August, 2015.  Under the rebranding, Google will retain its best-known businesses, such as search, apps, YouTube and Android.  Some of the newer entities, such as the investment and research divisions, the "smart- home" unit Nest, and the drone arm will be run under Alphabet.  Other entities under Alphabet will include Google Fiber, a provider of ultrafast Internet service.  There will also be two financial businesses, Google Ventures, the venture capital arm, and Capital, which does private-equity-like deals.  Mr Larry Page became chief executive of Alphabet, with senior vice president Sundar Pichai became CEO of Google.  Google co-founder Sergey Brin will become president of Alphabet, and Eric Schmidt, the current Google chairman, will be executive chairman of the holding company.  The name Alphabet was chosen for two reasons. It represents language, "the core of how we index with Google search", and because Alpha-bet means "investment return above benchmark, which we strive to do".  Google went public in 2004; room to make big new bets to add to Alphabet’s portfolio.  The Alphabet website would be abc.xyz .  Pichai Sundararajan, better known as Sundar Pichai, was a technology executive who was Product Chief at Google Inc.

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 Pichai was born in Madras (now ), Tamil Nadu, India in 1972 to Tamil parents

Lakshmi & Regunatha Pichai. His father Regunatha Pichai was a senior electrical

engineer for the British conglomerate General Electric Company (GEC).

 He is married to Anjali who was his college mate at IIT Kharagpur and has two children.

 Pichai completed his Class X at Jawahar Vidyalaya school located in Ashok

Nagar,Chennai, and completed the Class XII from Vana Vani school located in the IIT

campus,Chennai.

 Pichai earned his degree from Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur (IIT KGP)

in Metallurgical Engineering.

 He holds an MS from Stanford University in Material Sciences and Engineering and

an MBA from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, where he was

named a Siebel Scholar and a Palmer Scholar.

 Pichai joined Google in 2004, where he led the product management and innovation

efforts for a suite of Google's client software products, including Google

Chrome and Chrome OS.

 On 13 March 2013, Pichai added Android to the Google products he oversees.

Reference: https://abc.xyz/ http://www.nytimes.com/2015/08/11/business/sundar-pichai-will-lead-google-with-users-in- mind.html?_r=0 http://www.forbes.com/sites/samanthasharf/2015/08/10/goodbye-google-search-giant-changing-its- name/ http://www.bbc.com/news/business-33857412

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Vasundhara Komkali

Ques: Vasundhara Komkali Passed away on July 29, 2015. She was a-

a. Classical vocalist b. Actress c. Writer d. Politician

Ans: a

Related facts:

 Renowned classical vocalist Vasundhara

Komkali passed away on July 29, 2015

after a brief illness at her residence Dewas (M.P.) at the age of 85.

 She was married to eminent Hindustani classical singer late Pandit Kumar Gandharv.

 Few popular bhajan sang by both Vasundhara Komkali with her husband Pt. Kumar

Gaurav are “Nirbhai nirbhai gun re gaunga” and “Udd jayega panchi akela” .

 A veteran of the arts, Vasundhara Komkali was recognised with several awards,

including one conferred by the ‘Sangeet Natak Academy’ and the prestigious ‘Padma

Shri’ award.

Reference: http://www.indianetzone.com/14/vasundhara_komkali.htm https://www.swarganga.org/artist_details.php?id=168 http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/vasundhara-komkali-obituary-in-a-musical-space-called- faith/article7477943.ece http://www.jagran.com/entertainment/bollywood-classical-singer-vasundhara-komkli-died- 12668413.html http://sangeetnatak.gov.in/sna_hindi/awardeeslist-hindi.htm

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Places

Mumbai gets a flamingo sanctuary

Ques: On 06 August, Maharashtra government declared Thane Creek area as- a. Flamingo Sanctuary b. Tiger Sanctuary c. Lion Safari d. Leopard Sanctuary Ans: a

Related facts:  The Maharashtra state government decided to declare 17 sq km area along Thane Creek as Flamingo Sanctuary on 06 August, 2015.  Thane Creek as a flamingo sanctuary under Section 18 of the Wildlife (Protection Act), 1972.  This sanctuary will be the state’s second marine sanctuary after the one at Malvan.  The 1,690 hectares sanctuary will include 896 hectares of mangroves and 794 hectares of adjacent water body and is located on the western bank, between the Airoli and Vashi bridges that connect Mumbai with Navi Mumbai.  The ‘Mumbai Mangrove Conservation Unit’ under the Mangrove Cell will be responsible for the management of the Sanctuary.  About 200 species of birds have been reported from this area, which include Globally Threatened Species like the Greater Spotted Eagle.

Reference: http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/mumbai/mumbai-gets-a-flamingo-sanctuary/article7513079.ece http://www.indiaenvironmentportal.org.in/content/413394/maharashtra-to-declare-thane-creek-area- as-flamingo-sanctuary/ http://cityofthane.com/news/newsframe.php?id=22626

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Awards

National Sports Awards- 2015

Ques: Who was not selected for ‘Dronacharya Awards’ in National Spots Awards 2015 announced by Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports? a. Naval Singh b. Anup Singh c. Shiv Prakash Mishra d. Nihar Amin Ans: c

Related facts:

 Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports announces “Dronacharya Awards”, “Dhyan Chand Awards” and “Rashtriya Khel Protsahan Puruskar” on 25 August, 2015.  “Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna – 2015” and “Arjuna Awards – 2015” were announced on 14 August, 2015.  The eminent Coaches Shri Naval Singh (Athletics-Para-sports), Shri Anoop Singh (Wrestling), Shri Harbans Singh (Athletics- Lifetime), Shri Swatantar Raj Singh (Boxing- Lifetime), Shri Nihar Ameen (Swimming-Lifetime) were honored with the prestigious “Dronacharya Award-2015”.  Based on the recommendations of the Committee and after due scrutiny, Anoop and Naval’s names were approved on the basis of current performance (2011-2014), while Nihar Amin (swimming), S. R. Singh (boxing) and Harbans Singh (athletics) were selected in the ‘Lifetime Achievement Category’ in which achievements over a period of 20 years is taken into account.  Three-time national champion and international wrestler, Anoop has guided top grapplers such as Sushil Kumar, Yogeshwar Dutt, Satyawart Kadian, Bajrang, Amit Dahiya, and around 58 wrestlers to achieve their dream.  The “Dronacharya Award”, instituted in 1985, is given to honor eminent Coaches who have successfully trained sportspersons or teams and enabled them to achieve outstanding results in international competitions.  “Dhyan Chand Award” for ‘Lifetime Achievements’ in Sports and Games, instituted in the year 2002, is given to honor those sportspersons who have contributed to sports by their performance and continue to contribute to the promotion of sports even after their retirement from active sporting career.  This year’s “Dhyan Chand Award” was given to Mr. Romeo James (Hockey), Mr. Shiv Prakash Mishra (Tennis), and Mr. T.P.P. Nair (Volleyball) for their contribution to the sports.

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 “Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ranta 2015” is given to Sania Mirza to recognize and reward excellence in Tennis.  This year’s “Arjuna Awards- 2015” are given to following sports person:

Naib Subedar Sandeep Kumar -Archery Ms. M.R. Poovamma- Athletics Mr. Kidambi Srikanth Nammalwar- Badminton Mr. Mandeep Jangra- Boxing Mr. Rohit Sharma- Cricket Ms. Dipa Karmakar- Gymnastic Mr. Sreejesh P.R.- Hockey Mr. Manjeet Chhillar- Kabaddi Ms. Abhilasha Shashikant Mhatre- Kabaddi Mr. Sawarn Singh- Rowing Mr. Anup Kumar Yama- Roller Skating Mr. Jitu Rai- Shooting Shri S. Sathish Kumar- Weightlifting Mr. Bajrang- Wrestling Ms. Babita Kumari- Wrestling Ms. Yumnam Sanathoi Devi- Wushu Mr. Sharath M. Gayakwad- Para-Swimming

 For “Rashtriya Khel Protsahana Purushkar”, “Directorate General of Military Training” was selected in ‘identification and nurturing of budding/young talent’ category, while “Coal India Limited” has been nominated in ‘encouragement to sports through corporate social responsibility’ category. “Sports Coaching Foundation”, Hyderabad has been in ‘sports for development’ category.  Dronacharya awardees and Dhyan Chand awardees will receive statuettes, certificates and award money of Rs. 5 lac each.  Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Awardee will receive medal, certificate and award money of Rs. 7.5 lac.  Arjuna Awardees will receive statuettes, certificates and award money of Rs.5 lac each.  The awards are to be given away by President Pranab Mukherjee on August 29, National Sports Day.

Reference: http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=126306 http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=126073 http://www.thehindu.com/sport/sports-ministry-approves-names-for-dronacharya- awards/article7578156.ece

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Saraswati Sammaan-2014

Ques: Who received Saraswati Sammaan-2014 on 10 August, 2015 by President of India? a. Dr. M Veerappa Moily b. Arun Jeitely c. Kashinath Singh d. Namvar Singh Ans: a Related facts:  The President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee presented the 24th Saraswati Sammaan for the year 2014 to Dr. M Veerappa Moily, Member of Parliament (Lok Sabha) today (August 10, 2015) in New Delhi.  He received the award for his Epic ‘Sri Ramayana Mahanveshanam’ written in Kannada.  The Saraswati Samman is an annual award for outstanding prose or poetry literary works in any 22 Indian language listed in Schedule VIII of the Constitution of India.  It is named after an Indian goddess of learning and is considered to be among the highest literary awards in India.  The Saraswati Samman was instituted in 1991 by the K. K. Birla Foundation.  It consists of Rs 10 lac, a citation and a plaque.  The inaugural award was given to Harivanshrai 'Bachchan' for his four volume autobiography, Kya Bhooloon Kya Yaad Karoon, Needa Ka Nirman Phir, Basere Se Door and Dashdwar se Sopan Tak.  It is known that Govinda Mishra was honored with 23rd Saraswati Sammaan for his Novel “Dhool Paudho Par” in the year of 2013. Reference: http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=124738 http://presidentofindia.nic.in/speeches-detail.htm?421 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saraswati_Samman

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Uttar Pradesh Institute of Hindi-Annual Prize distribution-2014

Ques: Who received the prestigious “Bharat-Bharti Samman” announced recently by UP institute of Hindi? a. Vinod Kumar Shukla b. Kashinath Singh c. Mridula Garg d. Prof. Abhiraj Rajendra Singh

Ans: b

Related facts

 Annual awards for the year 2014 were announced by UP institute of Hindi on August 3, 2014.  Renowned Hindi literate Kashinath Singh was given the most prestigious “Bharat-Bharti Samman 2014” award by the institute.  The winner is given 5 lac rupee of prize money under this category.  Rest of the prizes with corresponding amount are as follows:  Lohia Sahitya Samman- Mridula Garg (INR 4 lac)  Hindi Gaurav Samman- Vinod Kumar Shukla (INR 4 lac)  Mahatma Gandhi Sahitya Samman- Dr. Krishna Bihari Mishra (INR 4 lac)  Pt. Dindayal Upadhyay Sahitya Samman- Prof. Abhiraj Rajendra Mishra (INR 4 lac)  Avantibai Sahitya Samman- Dr. Ramkrishna Rajpoot (INR 4 lac)  Rajarshi Purushottam Das Tandon Samman- Karnataka Hindi Prachar Samiti (INR 4 lac)  Sahitya Bhushan Sammangiven to following personalities: (INR 2 lac) 1. Pratap Dixit 2. Dr. Pushpa Bharti 3. Rajkrishna Mishra Reference: http://uphindisansthan.in/Information%20Centre/Web/Page%201.htm

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Scheme/Project

E-Payment Module

Ques: the purpose of E-Payment Module for Deposit of Compensatory Levies into CAMPA Funds launched by Ministry of Environment and Forests, is- a. Speed up the payment method b. To make transparent payment system c. To simplify administrative procedures d. All of the above Ans: d

Related facts:  27 August, 2015 Environment and Forest Minister Shri Prakash Javadekar Launches E-Payment Module for Deposit of Compensatory Levies into CAMPA Funds.  The objective to make the payment of compensatory levies receivable in lieu of diversion of forest land quicker and more transparent.  The Minister said that technology must be used to the advantage of all and that the Government’s endeavour has been to simplify administrative procedures, without compromising on environmental safeguards.  The payment through the e-payment module has to be made to the designated account, depending on the State in which the forest land, proposed to be diverted, is located.  The deposit of compensatory levies through the e-portal will be optional till August 31, 2015.  However, the payment of compensatory levies by User Agencies will be accepted only through the e-module from September 1, 2015.  With the activation of the e-payment portal, no payments will be accepted other than through the portal, unless specifically ordered by Ad-hoc CAMPA.  Initially, payments will be permitted through two modes – online challan mode through RTGS and NEFT and offline challan mode.  The CAMPA had been created by the Supreme Court by Order dated 29th/30th October 2002.  Till now, the verification of receipt of compensatory levies in the Ad-hoc CAMPA has been done manually, involving various steps and is a time-taking process. The launch of e-payment module will end such delays.

Reference: http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=126375

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Axis Bank launches multi-currency contactless card with Visa

Ques: Which is the first bank, to issue multi-currency contactless card with visa? a. Axis bank b. ICICI bank c. HDFC bank d. SBI Ans: a

Related facts:  August 12, 2015, Axis Bank, India’s third largest private sector bank, announced the launch of its Contactless Debit, Credit and Multi-Currency Forex Card.  Axis Bank is the first bank in India to offer a contactless technology enabled Multi- Currency Forex Card, powered by VISA payWave.  With growing acceptance for contactless technology in countries such as Australia, UK and Singapore, Indian travelers can now experience faster and more convenient transactions while they travel abroad.  Axis Bank Contactless cards contain a chip and an antenna (based on radio frequency) that is designed to make payments quicker, seamless and hassle free.  The bank is planning to upgrade close about one-fourth or 50,000 of its point of sale (PoS) machines so that they can accept debit and credit card payments from contactless card.

Reference: http://www.axisbank.com/download/AB-introduces-contactless-debit-credit-and-multi-currency-forex- cards.pdf http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2015-08-13/news/65524003_1_axis-bank-debit-currency http://money.livemint.com/news/company/news/axis-bank-unveils-contactless-cards-390976.aspx

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Telecom Ministry-New app launched to promote digital literacy

Ques: Recently Telecom Ministry launched which of following mobile app to promote Digital Literacy? a. Disha b. Pragati c. Unnati d. None of above Ans: a

Related fact:  Telecom minister Ravi Shankar Prasad launched a ‘Disha’ mobile app on 8 August, 2015 to promote Digital Literacy.  The mobile app is prepared to spread digital literacy through self-learning modules.  The app is free and is available on Google Play Store.  The ‘Disha’ handbook is prepared by the Common Service Centers (CSCs) for the purpose of digital literacy.  Intel in collaboration with the CSC is working towards digital literacy in India.  At present Intel has trained over 200 Dalit women and aims to train over 500 women in Bihar.  Digital Saksharta Abhiyan (DISHA): The Digital Saksharta Abhiyan (DISHA) mission was launched to provide digital literacy to non IT literate citizens. The scheme imparts IT training to 52.5 lac persons that include Anganwadi and ASHA workers and authorized ration dealers in all the States/UTs across the country.

Reference: http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/tech/apps/Telecom-minister-is-set-to-launch-mobile-app- Disha/articleshow/48403846.cms http://indiatoday.intoday.in/education/story/telecom-minister-launches-new-app-disha/1/457553.html

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Bio Fuel Blended High Speed Diesel (HSD) launched

Ques: When Petroleum minister Dharmendra Pradhan launched High Speed Diesel (HSD) blended with bio-diesel? a. 10 August, 2015 b. 12 August, 2015 c. 8 August, 2015 d. 11 August, 2015

Ans: a

Related facts:

 Petroleum minister Dharmendra Pradhan on 10 August, 2015 launched High Speed

Diesel (HSD) blended with bio-diesel in selected retail outlets of OMC’s in New Delhi &

Vishakhapatnam (by HPCL), Haldia (by BPCL) and Vijayawada (by IOCL).

 This was on the day of World Bio-Fuel Day, 10 August.

 Ministry of Petroleum and Natural gas has permitted direct sale of Bio-Diesel (B100) to

bulk consumers like Railways, shipping and State Road Transport Corporations etc.

 Also, Ethanol Blended Petrol program (EBP) is being promoted, where ethanol blending

in petrol is going from 5 to 10 % based on the availability of ethanol.

 Promoting and encouraging Biofuels will not only reduce the import of fossil fuel but

also save foreign exchange and emphasis on “Make in India” mission.

 Biofuels are renewable, biodegradable, sustainable and environmental friendly.

Reference: http://pib.nic.in/newsite/hindirelease.aspx?relid=39346

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New central sector scheme “Nai Manzil” launched

Ques: Which of the following Central Government Scheme recently launched for improving the welfare of minorities specially Muslim’s in the field of education and skill development? a. Nayi Disha Yojna b. Nayi Manzil Yojna c. Nayi Pragati Yojna d. Unnati Yojana Ans: b Related facts:  Dr. Najma Heptulla, the Union Minister for Minority Affairs launched a new Central Sector Scheme – “Nai Manzil” in Patna on August 8, 2015.  The scheme “Nai Manzil” scheme will address educational and livelihood needs of minority communities in general and Muslims in particular as it lags behind other minority communities in terms of educational attainments.  The scheme was announced in the Budget 2015-16 by the Government of India.  The scheme aims at providing educational intervention by giving the bridge courses to the trainees and getting them Certificates for Class XII and X from distance medium educational system.  It will also provide trade basis skill training in 4 courses: I. Manufacturing II. Engineering III. Services IV. Soft skills  The scheme is intended to cover people in between 17 to 35 age group from all minority communities as well as Madrasa students.  This scheme will provide avenues for continuing higher education and also open up employment opportunities in the organized sector. Reference: http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=124731 http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2015-08-06/news/65281196_1_skill-development- minority-community-scheme

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School Nursery Scheme

Ques: Which one of the following government initiatives had launched recently to bring students closer to nature? a. Green School Scheme b. School Nursery Scheme c. Green Environment Scheme d. Clean School Scheme

Ans: b

Related facts:

 On 10th August, the Environment and Forest minister Shri Prakash Javadekar has

launched the School Nursery Scheme.

 This is an initiative to bring students closer to nature, by involving them in rising of

saplings in nurseries created in schools.

 The underlying theme of the Scheme is to plant a tree for sustainable future and to

make the nation clean and green.

 The Scheme is being launched in 1,000 schools this year. It will be expanded to cover

around 5, 000 schools by 2016 and to about 10,000 schools in 2017.

Reference: http://pib.nic.in/newsite/erelease.aspx http://pib.nic.in/newsite/hindirelease.aspx?relid=39341

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Operation

Exercize-Yudh Abhyas 2015

Ques: Consider following statements regarding Exercize-Yudh Abhyas 2015-

1. The India-US Combined Military Training Exercise Yudh Abhyas 2015 will commence from 09 to 23 Sep 2015 at Joint Base Lewis McChord, USA. 2. This was started in 2004 under US Army Pacific partnership program. 3. This will be the eleventh exercise in the Yudh Abhyas series. Which statement is/are correct? a. Only 1 and 3 b. Only 2 c. Only 2 and 3 d. All of above

Ans: d

Related facts:  The India-US Combined Military Training Exercise Yudh Abhyas 2015 will commence from 09 to 23 Sep 2015 at Joint Base Lewis McChord, USA.  This will be the eleventh exercise in the Yudh Abhyas series, which started in 2004 under US Army Pacific partnership program.  Exercise Yudh Abhyas 2015 will witness a Formation Headquarter based Command Post Exercise, an Infantry sub unit carrying out Field Training Exercise, Expert Academic Discussions on strategic issues of mutual concern by experts of both countries and Combined Training between detachments of Infantry of both armies.  The exercise will provide an ideal platform for the personnel of the two countries to share their experiences on Military Operations in Urban Terrain, under the UN mandate.

Reference: http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=126091 http://www.noodls.com/view/C35944EF1C1A8F3900228D48EE70464D2B212994?8157xxx1439658659 http://www.business-standard.com/article/government-press-release/ex-yudh-abhyas-2015- 115081501783_1.html

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Treaty

Historical peace accord between Government of India and Nationalist Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN)

Ques: When the historical peace accord between Government of India and Nationalist Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN) happened? a. 6 August, 2015 b. 3 August, 2015 c. 9 August, 2015 d. 10 August, 2015 Ans: b Related facts:  3 August, 2015 PM witnesses the signing of historic peace accord between Government of India and Nationalist Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN).  The Government of India and the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN) successfully concluded the dialogue on Naga political issue and signed an agreement today in the presence of the Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi.  The issue existed for six decades.  The entire top leadership of the NSCN (IM), including all members of the “collective leadership”, has fully endorsed the agreement and was present during the ceremony.  It will restore peace and pave the way for prosperity in the North East. It will advance a life of dignity, opportunity and equity for the Naga people, based on their genius and consistent with the uniqueness of the Naga people and their culture and traditions.  A fresh attempt for a comprehensive resolution was initiated with the NSCN in 1997.  The ethnic Naga movement began its journey in 1918 with the formation of the Naga Club.  On June 27-28, 1947, the Akbar Hydari Agreement was signed between the then Governor of Assam, Sir Akbar Hydari and the NNC.  The NNC took to arms in 1955. Indian security forces responded with counter- insurgency operations, which resulted in the imposition of the Assam Disturbed Areas Act on the Naga Hills on August 27, 1955.  This later became the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958.  During the dialogue with Union Government of India NSCN split in 1988 to form the two divisions: NSCN (I-M) - held to the ceasefire since its signing in 1997 and the NSCN (K)- it was out of this agreement before March 27, 2015. Reference: http://www.narendramodi.in/PM-witnesses-signing-of-historic-peace-accord-between-GoI-and-NSCN http://pib.nic.in/newsite/hindirelease.aspx?relid=39200 http://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/nagaland-a-long-road-to-peace/article7504003.ece http://www.patrika.com/news/political/govt-nscn-im-sign-historic-peace-accord-1078251/

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Memorandum on cooperation to establish the Pace Setter Fund

Ques: India established a co-operation on Pace Setter Fund with? a. Russia b. USA c. France d. Germany Ans: b

Related facts:  The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, on 12 August, 2015 approved the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on cooperation to establish the Pace Setter Fund with USA.  The fund is to support the Promoting Energy Access through Clean Energy track of the U.S. – India Partnership to Advance Clean Energy (PACE) between India and United States of America.  The signing of MoU will help accelerate commercialization of innovative off-grid clean energy solutions by providing early-stage grant funding, which would allow businesses to develop and test innovative products, systems and business models.  The MoU will help cooperation through technical and commercial innovation and advancement of clean energy in off-grid space. The India-U.S. corpus of about Rs.500 million ($8 million U.S. Dollars) has been drawn on a 50:50 sharing basis.  Background: The Government of India and the United States of America have announced the launch of a new initiative "Promoting Energy Access through Clean Energy (PEACE)". This ambitious cooperation is a new tract under the U.S.-India Partnership to Advance Clean Energy (PACE), a flagship initiative on Clean Energy that combines resources of several U.S. agencies and Government of India ministries. This has also been listed in the Joint Statement during the visit of the President of the USA to India in January, 2015.

Reference: http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=124939 http://mnre.gov.in/mous/MoU-with-USA-on-PACESetter-Fund.pdf

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MoU between India and Nepal approved

Ques: On 12 August, 2015 union cabinet approves MoU for the construction of a petroleum products pipeline with? a. Nepal b. Bhutan c. Sri Lanka d. Bangladesh Ans: a

Related facts:  On 12 August, the Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, today gave its approval for the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Government of India and the Government of Nepal for the construction of a petroleum products pipeline.  The construction will be from Raxaul (India) to Amlekhgunj (Nepal) and re-engineering of Amlekhgunj Depot and allied facilities.  The MoU will promote bilateral cooperation in the oil and gas sector and secure long term supply of petroleum products to Nepal.  It would help preserve the environment along the route and decongest the international border at Raxaul.  Nepal depends on India for meeting all of its fuel requirements. Petrol, diesel, domestic LPG and jet fuel (ATF) are currently trucked from Indian Oil Corp's (IOC) depot at Raxaul to Nepal.  Background:

The Government of Nepal had requested the Government of India, during the visit of the Prime Minister to Nepal on 3-4th August, 2014 for the construction of this petroleum products pipeline. Bearing in mind the close and friendly relations between the two countries and their people, this was agreed to by the Indian Government. On behalf of Indian Government, the Indian Oil Corporation has been entrusted with the job of construction of the pipeline and re-engineering of the Amlekhgunj Depot and allied facilities. The project will be completed in two phases. In the first phase, a petroleum products pipeline from Raxaul in India to Amlekhgunj in Nepal would be constructed. The Indian Oil Corporation will bear a cost of Rs. 200 crore for the first phase of the project. There will be a long term contract of 15 years (initial contract for five years extendable for two terms of five years each) between the Indian Oil Corporation and the Nepal Oil Corporation.

Reference: http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=124943 http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2015-08-12/news/65490487_1_oil-pipeline-nepal-oil- corporation-raxaul

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Government of India and World Bank Sign Agreement

Ques: Recently, Indian Govt. signs an agreement with World Bank, on which financial proposal? a. National Cyclone Risk Mitigation Project b. Flood Control Project c. Malaria Control Project d. None of the above Ans: a

Related facts:  The Financing Agreement for World Bank (IDA) assistance of US$ 104.00 million for Additional Financing under National Cyclone Risk Mitigation Project-I (NCRMP-I) was signed between Government of India and the World Bank on 11 August 2015  Though for second phase assistance of US$ 308.40 million for National Cyclone Risk Mitigation Project-II (NCRMP-II) was signed.  The Financing Agreement was signed by Mr. Raj Kumar, Joint Secretary, Department of Economic Affairs on behalf of the Government of India and Mr. John Blomquist, Program Leader and Acting Country Director in India, on behalf of the World Bank.  The objective of Additional Financing under NCRMP-I is to reduce the vulnerability of coastal communities to cyclone and other hydro meteorological hazards in Andhra Pradesh and Odisha.  The objective of NCRMP-II is to reduce vulnerability to cyclone and other hydro- meteorological hazards of coastal communities in the States of Goa, Gujarat, Karnataka, Kerala, Maharashtra and West Bengal; and increase the capacity of the State entities to effectively plan for and respond to disasters.  Studies indicate that natural disaster losses equate up to 2 percent of India’s GDP and up to 12 percent of federal government revenues.  About 5,700 kilometers of India’s coastline is exposed to severe cyclones and approximately 40 percent of India’s population lives within 100 km of the coastline. Analyzed data for the period 1980-2000 indicates that on an average, annually, 370 million people are exposed to cyclones in India.  The project has four components: (i) Early Warning Dissemination System (EWDS) and Capacity building for coastal communities; (ii) Cyclone Risk Mitigation Infrastructure; (iii) Technical Assistance for National and State Level Capacity Building on Disaster Risk Management; and (iv) Project Management and Implementation Support.  The project is implemented by the Ministry of Home Affairs through National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA). At the State level, it is executed by the respective State Disaster Management Authorities. Reference: http://www.worldbank.org/en/news/press-release/2015/08/11/project-signing-government-india- world-bank-sign-agreement-for-second-phase-national-cyclone-risk-mitigation-program http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=124848 http://www.business-standard.com/article/news-cm/india-signs-financing-agreement-with-world-bank- for-us-308-40-million-for-national-cyclone-risk-mitigation-project-ii-115081200291_1.html

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Posco Steel teams up with Uttam Galva Steel

Ques: Which of the following combination is correct? 1. Posco India- YWN 2. Uttam Galva- Rajindar Miglani 3. Tata Steel- Rajkamal 4. Arcelor Steel- Y. S. Pillai a. Only 1 b. Only 1 and 2 c. 1, 2, and 4 d. None of above Ans: b Related facts:  Steel maker Posco Korea has signed an agreement on 11 August, 2015 with Uttam Galva group to set up a 3 million tonne (mt) steel plant in Maharashtra.  The joint venture will initially be a 80:20 venture, with 80% equity from the Uttam Galva  The proposed project will produce hot rolled coils, largely used in the automobile industry, and will sport a new technology that can convert low-grade iron ore into steel.  The plant will spread in 1,700 acres, which can accommodate steel plant of three-million tonne capacity.

Reference: http://www.business-standard.com/article/companies/posco-partners-uttam-galva-in-bold-move-for- maharashtra-plant-113041500367_1.html http://www.livemint.com/Companies/veq7pAvZVf6gzvxTPs7fwL/Uttam-Galva-Posco-to-set-up-steel- plant-in-Maharashtra.html http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/indl-goods/svs/steel/posco-teams-up-with-uttam-galva- for-1-5-billion-maharashta-steel-plant/articleshow/48446103.cms

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CBDT Signs Advance Pricing Agreements (APAs) to Usher in Certainty in Taxation

Ques: The Chairman of CBDT is? a. Surabhi Sinha b. Arun Kumar Jain c. Anita Kapoor d. None Ans: c

Related facts:  The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) entered into two unilateral Advance Pricing Agreements (APAs) on 3 August, 2015 with two Multi-National Companies (MNCs) which includes the first APA with a “Rollback” provision.  With this, the CBDT has so far signed 14 APAs of which 13 are unilateral APAs and one is a bilateral APA.  The 14 APAs signed relate to various sectors like telecommunication, oil exploration, pharmaceuticals, finance/banking, software development services and ITeS (BPOs).  Unilateral APAs are agreed between Indian taxpayers and the CBDT, without involvement of the tax authorities of the country where the associated enterprise is based.  Bilateral APAs include agreements between the tax authorities of the two countries.  An advance pricing agreement (APA) is an ahead of time agreement between a taxpayer and a taxing authority on an appropriate transfer pricing methodology (TPM) for some set of transactions at issue over a fixed period of time (called "Covered Transactions").  The Central Board of Direct Taxes is a statutory authority functioning under the Central Board of Revenue Act, 1963.  Historical Background of C.B.D.T. The Central Board of Revenue as the apex body of the Department, charged with the administration of taxes, came into existence as a result of the Central Board of Revenue Act, 1924. Initially the Board was in charge of both direct and indirect taxes. However, when the administration of taxes became too unwieldy for one Board to handle, the Board was split up into two, namely the Central Board of Direct Taxes and Central Board of Excise and Customs with effect from 1.1.1964. This bifurcation was brought about by constitution of two Boards u/s 3 of the Central Board of Revenue Act, 1963. Reference: http://www.incometaxindia.gov.in/Pages/about-us/central-board-of-direct-taxation.aspx http://pib.nic.in/newsite/erelease.aspx

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Acquisitions

Berkshire Hathaway buys Precision Castparts

Ques: Chief of the Berkshire Hathaway Inc.is? a. Bill Gates b. Warren Buffett c. Ajay Banga d. Satya Nadela Ans: b

Related facts:  Warren Buffett's investment firm Berkshire Hathaway announced to buy aircraft components manufacturer Precision Castparts Corp (PCC) in a deal worth $37.2bn (£24bn).  The price being paid represents $235 a share.  It would be the biggest buy-out Berkshire has made till date.  The company makes complex metal components for the aerospace, power and industrial sectors.  Berkshire Hathaway: Berkshire Hathaway and its subsidiaries engage in diverse business activities including insurance and reinsurance, utilities and energy, freight rail transportation, finance, manufacturing, retailing and services. Berkshire Hathaway’s common stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange, trading symbols BRK.A and BRK.B.  Precision Castparts Corp.: Precision Castparts Corp. is a worldwide, diversified manufacturer of complex metal components and products. It serves the aerospace, power, and general industrial markets. PCC is a market leader in manufacturing complex structural investment castings and forged components for aerospace markets, machined airframe components, and highly engineered, critical fasteners for aerospace applications, and in manufacturing airfoil castings for the aerospace and industrial gas turbine markets. PCC also is a leading producer of titanium and nickel super alloy melted and mill products for the aerospace, chemical processing, oil and gas, and pollution control industries, and manufactures extruded seamless pipe, fittings, and forgings for power generation and oil and gas applications.

Reference: http://www.berkshirehathaway.com/news/AUG1015.pdf http://www.bbc.com/news/business-33849164

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Thomas Cook India announces the acquisition of Kuoni Group’s Travel Operations in India and Hong Kong

Ques: Where is the headquarters of Thomas Cook India Ltd? a. Mumbai b. New Delhi c. Chennai d. Bangaluru Ans: a

Related facts:  August 7, 2015: Thomas Cook (India) Ltd., India’s premier integrated travel and travel related financial services company announced that it has signed a definitive agreement with Kuoni Group to acquire Kuoni’s Travel businesses across India and Hong Kong in entirety for a consideration of Rs 535 crore.  Mr Prem Watsa, Chairman and CEO of Fairfax Financial Holdings is the controlling share holder of Thomas Cook (India) Ltd.  About Thomas Cook (India) Limited: Thomas Cook (India) Ltd (TCIL) is the leading integrated travel and travel related financial services company in the country offering a broad spectrum of services that include Foreign Exchange, Corporate Travel, MICE, Leisure Travel, Insurance, Visa & Passport services and E-Business. The company set up its first office in India in 1881.

TCIL’s footprint currently extends to over 232 locations (including 23 airport counters) in 95 cities across India, Mauritius & Sri Lanka and is supported by a strong partner network of 115 Gold Circle Partners and 112 Preferred Sales Agents over 130 cities across India.

Reference: http://www.thomascook.in/tcportal/press-release/2015/08/10/thomas-cook-india-announces- the-acquisition-of-kuoni-groups-travel-operations-in-india-and-hong-kong.html

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Law & Justice

Resolution against death penalty

Ques: Which of the eastern state assembly passes resolution against the Death Penalty? a. Manipur b. Meghalaya c. Tripura d. Assam Ans: c

Related facts:  Tripura Assembly has passed a resolution to request the Union Government to amend Section 302 of the IPC to abolish capital punishment.  The adopted resolution would be sent to union government and the Law Commission for consideration.  It requested for necessary amendment in IPC Section 302 for commuting death sentence.

Reference: http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tripura-assembly-passes-resolution-against-death- penalty/article7512195.ece http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/tripura-assembly-passes-resolution-to-end-dealth- penalty/1/457027.html

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Year & Day

National Sports Day

Ques: National Sports Day celebrated on- a. 26 August b. 27 August c. 28 August d. 29 August

Related facts:  August 29 is celebrated as the National Sports Day in dedication to the great hockey player Dhyan Chand.  August 29, 1905 was the day when India’s talented hockey player was born in Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh.  He led India to win three consecutive Olympic Hockey Gold medal for the years 1928, 1932 and 1936.  The lifetime achievement awards in sports, which is regarded as the highest in the field in India, the Dhyan Chand Award was initiated in 2002, to those who have contributed during their career in sports as well as have been major contributors in the promotions of the sports after retirement.  Major Dhyan Chand also has a stadium recognized by his name as the Dhyan Chand National Stadium in New Delhi.  On this day, the President of the country gives away honorable sports awards such as the Arjuna Award, Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna and Dhronacharya Award at the President’s house.

Reference: http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=126449 http://www.children.co.in/india/festivals/national-sports-day.htm https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dhyan_Chand

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World Humanitarian Day

Ques: World Humanitarian Day celebrated on? a. 16 August b. 17 August c. 19 August d. 14 August

Ans: c

Related facts:

 Whole world celebrated ‘World Humanitarian Day’ on 19 August.

 The theme of WHD 2015 was to “Inspire the World’s Humanity.

 It marks the day on which the then Special Representative of the Secretary-General to

Iraq, Sérgio Vieira de Mello and 21 of his colleagues were killed in the bombing of the

UN Headquarters in Baghdad (19 August, 2003).

Reference: http://www.un.org/en/events/humanitarianday/ http://www.un-expo.org/en/un-days/world-humanitarian-day http://www.worldhumanitarianday.org/en

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National Sports Day

Ques: National Sports Day celebrated on- a. 26 August b. 27 August c. 28 August d. 29 August Ans: d

Related facts:  August 29 is celebrated as the National Sports Day in dedication to the great hockey player Dhyan Chand.  August 29, 1905 was the day when India’s talented hockey player was born in Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh.  He led India to win three consecutive Olympic Hockey Gold medal for the years 1928, 1932 and 1936.  The lifetime achievement awards in sports, which is regarded as the highest in the field in India, the Dhyan Chand Award was initiated in 2002, to those who have contributed during their career in sports as well as have been major contributors in the promotions of the sports after retirement.  Major Dhyan Chand also has a stadium recognized by his name as the Dhyan Chand National Stadium in New Delhi.  On this day, the President of the country gives away honorable sports awards such as the Arjuna Award, Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna and Dhronacharya Award at the President’s house.

Reference: http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=126449 http://www.children.co.in/india/festivals/national-sports-day.htm https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dhyan_Chand

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Earth Overshoot Day

Ques: When the Earth Overshoot Day was celebrated in the year 2015? a. 13 August b. 14 August c. 15 August d. 16 August Ans: a

Related facts:  Earth Overshoot Day celebrated on 13 August, 2015.  Earth Overshoot Day marks the date when humanity’s demand for ecological resources and services in a given year exceeds what Earth can regenerate in that year.  It is also known as Ecological Debt Day.  We maintain this deficit by liquidating stocks of ecological resources and accumulating waste, primarily carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.  Earth Overshoot Day is computed by dividing the planet’s biocapacity (the amount of ecological resources Earth is able to generate that year), by humanity’s Ecological Footprint (humanity’s demand for that year), and multiplying by 365, the number of days in 2015.  This year Earth Overshoot Day occurred six days earlier than last year. The Global Footprint Network says that overall, humans would require 1.6 planet earths to support our lifestyle.  Indians consistently have one of the lowest per capita Ecological Footprints in the world, among the lowest 15% of all countries for 2011.  The concept of Earth Overshoot Day was first conceived by Andrew Simms of the UK think tank New Economics Foundation, which partnered with Global Footprint Network in 2006 to launch the first global Earth Overshoot Day campaign.  At that time, Earth Overshoot Day fell in October. WWF, the world’s largest conservation organization, has participated in Earth Overshoot Day since 2007.

Reference: http://www.overshootday.org/newsroom/press-release-hindi/ http://www.overshootday.org/about-earth-overshoot-day/ http://www.overshootday.org/june-30-india-ecological-deficit-day/ http://www.worldwildlife.org/pages/overshoot-day http://time.com/3997388/earth-overshoot-day-2015/

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Miscellaneous

Appointment of Governor in the state of Bihar and Himachal Pradesh

Ques: Who is appointed as Governor of Bihar on August 8, 2015? a. Ram Nath Kovind b. Acharya Dev Vrat c. Ram Narayan Pal d. Sadhvi Trikal Bhavanta

Ans: a

Related facts:

 Shri Ram Nath Kovind appointed as the Governor of Bihar by the President.

 It is known that the Bengal Governor Shri Kesari Nath Tripathi was given additional

charge for Bihar.

 Acharya Dev Vrat appointed as the Governor of Himachal Pradesh.

 It is known that the Rajsthan Governor Shri Kalyan Singh was given additional charge for

Himachal Pradesh.

Reference: http://pib.nic.in/newsite/erelease.aspx

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Fully automated digital locker

Ques: Smart Vault is based on? a. Enabled Engineering b. Robotics c. Locker Engineering d. None Ans: b Related facts:  ICICI Bank, India’s largest private sector bank, on 18 August, 2015 launched the ‘Smart Vault’, a fully automated state-of-the-art locker available 24x7.  The ‘Smart Vault’ uses robotic technology to access the lockers from the safe vault and enables customers to conveniently access their lockers at any time.  Customers can access the lockers in total privacy without any intervention of the branch staff.  The locker is equipped with multi-layer security system, including biometric and PIN authentication and debit cards, among others.  It is known that Ms. Chanda Kochhar, is the MD & CEO of ICICI Bank

Reference: http://www.icicibank.com/aboutus/article.page?identifier=news-cici-bank-launches-smart-vault-a-fully- automated-locker-20151908112444180 http://www.thehindu.com/business/icici-bank-launches-digital-locker/article7553665.ece http://www.businesstoday.in/sectors/banks/icici-bank-launches-digital-locker/story/222853.html

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