1. What is Parkinson’s disease, recently seen in the news?
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<p>Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder characterized by the gradual degeneration of nerve cells in the brain's substantia nigra.</p>
<p>This leads to a shortage of dopamine, causing symptoms like tremors, rigidity, and impaired movement. It primarily affects older adults and leads to difficulties with balance and coordination.</p>
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2. Recently, who has become the first woman to be appointed the Director General of Medical Services?
Lt Gen Sadhna Saxena Nair has indeed become the first woman appointed as the Director General Medical Services (Army). She has also achieved notable milestones, including being the first woman to serve as DG Hospital Services (Armed Forces) upon her promotion to Air Marshal.
3. What is the main objective of the Disaster Management (Amendment) Bill, 2024, recently in news?
The Disaster Management (Amendment) Bill, 2024, aims to enhance disaster preparedness by creating a comprehensive disaster database and establishing Urban Disaster Management Authorities.
These measures are designed to improve response efficiency and coordination in urban areas, ensuring better management and mitigation of disaster impacts.
4. Chaliyar River, recently seen in news, originates from which hills?
The Chaliyar River, originating from the Elambalari Hills in Tamil Nadu, is crucial for Kerala's Wayanad region.
Heavy rainfall recently caused landslides and prompted rescue operations along its 169 km course, which flows through Malappuram and Kozhikode districts before draining into the Arabian Sea at Beypore port.
Historically important for timber transport and known for goldfields, the river has faced significant pollution from a pulp factory at Mavoor.
5. Shompen tribes, recently seen in news, belongs to which region of India?
The Central government's Rs 72,000 crore Great Nicobar Island (GNI) project involves constructing an airport, an international container terminal, and a township.
However, it faces legal challenges from the National Green Tribunal (NGT) and the Calcutta High Court due to concerns over insufficient impact assessments on the Shompen and Nicobarese tribes and improper permissions.
The Shompens, being hunter-gatherers, and the Nicobarese, whose ancestral lands could be affected, are central to these concerns.
6. Arun Hydroelectric Project, recently seen in the news, is associated with which country?
The Arun Hydroelectric Project in Nepal involves harnessing the Arun River's energy to generate electricity.
It is a major infrastructure initiative aimed at boosting Nepal’s power supply and supporting economic development.
The project includes the construction of a large dam and hydroelectric power station to utilize the river’s flow.
7. Bluetongue Disease, recently seen in the news, is transmitted by which species?
Bluetongue Disease is spread by Culicoides midges, tiny biting insects. These midges transmit the bluetongue virus to livestock, particularly affecting sheep, cattle, and goats. The disease causes symptoms like fever, swelling, and lameness, impacting animal health and agriculture significantly. It is not transmissible to humans.
8. Recently, which country has been elected Vice-Chair of the Supply Chain Council?
<p>India's election as Vice-Chair of the Supply Chain Council highlights its growing influence in global logistics and trade.</p>
<p>The role involves shaping policies and strategies to enhance global supply chain efficiency.</p>
<p>This position reflects India's increasing importance in international trade networks and its commitment to improving global supply chain management.</p>
9. Zika Virus, which was seen in the news, is transmitted by which mosquito?
<p>India’s Health Minister has unveiled a new action plan to manage Zika virus disease, a mosquito-borne RNA virus first discovered in Uganda in 1947 and reported in humans in 1952.</p>
<p>The virus, transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, primarily affects tropical and subtropical regions. The plan focuses on controlling and mitigating the virus's impact.</p>
10. .“Jhumur”, recently seen in the news, is a traditional dance performed in which state?
Jhumur is a traditional dance from Assam, showcasing the region's rich cultural heritage. It involves lively, rhythmic movements and is typically performed during festivals and celebrations.
The dance reflects the vibrant community spirit of Assam and is an integral part of its folk traditions.
11. According to recent data, which country is the second-largest aluminium producer in the world?
According to recent data, the second-largest aluminium producer in the world is [B] India.
China holds the top position in aluminium production, while India ranks second, reflecting its significant role in the global aluminium industry.
12. What is the rank of India in the Global Agriculture Export?
India remained the eighth-largest exporter of agricultural products in 2023.
This position was maintained despite a drop in exports from $55 billion in 2022 to $51 billion in 2023.
Most of the top ten exporting nations experienced a decline in agricultural exports during this period. However, the WTO Trade Statistics 2023 report indicates that Brazil, the European Union (EU), and Thailand were exceptions, with their exports showing growth.
Brazil’s exports increased by 6% to $157 billion, the EU’s exports rose by 5% to $836 billion, and Thailand’s exports grew by 0.2%.
13. Which two countries have been banned from participating in the Paris Olympics 2024?
Athletes from Russia and Belarus are banned from competing under their national flags at the Paris Olympics 2024.
Instead, they compete as Athlètes Individuels Neutres (AIN), or Individual Neutral Athletes.
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) imposed this ban following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, which violated the Olympic Truce that prohibits attacks between a week before the Olympics and a week after the Paralympics.
14. What is ‘Indian Siris’, recently mentioned in news?
A pall of gloom fell over Kumaradevam gram panchayat in East Godavari district after the death of a century-old Indian Siris tree.
The Indian Siris, or Albizia lebbeck, is a tropical deciduous tree native to India and Southeast Asia, growing up to 20 meters with an umbrella-shaped canopy.
It fixes nitrogen, enriches soil, and helps with soil conservation and erosion control, producing fragrant white flowers.
15. Recently, who has been conferred with Fiji’s highest civilian award ‘Companion of the Order of Fiji’?
During her first official visit to Fiji from August 5 to 7, 2024, President Droupadi Murmu was conferred with Fiji’s highest civilian award, the Companion of the Order of Fiji.
This historic visit marked the first time an Indian President visited Fiji.
President Murmu met with Fiji's Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka and President Ratu William Maivalili Katonivere.
During the visit, the Fiji government allocated land for the construction of a 100-bed Super Speciality Hospital, a project supported by India.
This hospital aims to enhance healthcare services in Fiji, reflecting the strengthening ties between the two nations.
16. Recently, who has been appointed as the Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry?
K. Kailashnathan has taken oath as the Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry in a ceremony at Raj Nivas. Acting Chief Justice D. Krishnakumar administered the oath, with Chief Minister N.
Rangasamy and other officials present. This appointment marks a significant change in Puducherry’s administration, as Kailashnathan, a retired IAS officer from the 1979 batch, brings extensive administrative experience to his new role.
His leadership is expected to influence the governance and development of the union territory, guiding its policies and administration in the coming years. The ceremony was a notable event for Puducherry's political and administrative landscape.
17. Gadgil Committee Report, recently seen in the news, is associated with which geographical area?
The 2011 Gadgil Committee Report, also known as the Western Ghats Ecology Expert Panel (WGEEP) Report, focuses on the protection and sustainable development of the Western Ghats.
Commissioned by India’s Ministry of Environment and Forests, the report emphasizes the need for measures to preserve the rich biodiversity and ecological health of the region.
Despite its critical recommendations for managing the Western Ghats, an area recognized for its significant environmental importance, official notifications designating ecologically sensitive areas have not been issued by the Union environment ministry.
This delay highlights ongoing challenges in implementing the report's recommendations for ecological preservation.
18. Which state government recently approved ‘Wainganga-Nalganga river linking project’?
Maharashtra has approved the Wainganga-Nalganga River Linking Project, aiming to irrigate 3.7 lakh hectares in six Vidarbha districts.
The project involves constructing 426.52 km of link canals to divert excess water from the Gosikhurd dam to the Nalganga dam.
Approved by the Central Water Commission and presented by the National Water Development Agency in 2018, this initiative is part of the broader National River Linking Project.
It seeks to enhance agricultural productivity by better managing water resources and ensuring a more reliable supply for irrigation, addressing water scarcity issues in the region.
19. Which institution has recently developed footwear for the armed forces using Tribo-Electric Nanogenerator (TENG) technology?
Professor Suhas Joshi, Director of IIT Indore, has highlighted the development of advanced footwear using Tribo-Electric Nanogenerator (TENG) technology.
This innovative footwear is designed to enhance the safety and coordination of military personnel. By harnessing TENG technology, the footwear generates electrical energy from mechanical movements, which can power various sensors and communication devices embedded in the shoes.
This capability boosts operational efficiency and security by providing real-time data and alerts to the wearer. The integration of such technology is aimed at improving the performance and safety of armed forces personnel during operations.
20. ‘Earth Observation Satellite-8 (EOS-8)’ mission, recently in news, is associated with which space agency?
ISRO’s Earth Observation Satellite-8 (EOS-8) is scheduled for launch on August 15 using the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV)-D3 from Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh.
The mission focuses on designing and developing a microsatellite equipped with advanced payload instruments and integrating new technologies.
EOS-8 aims to enhance Earth observation capabilities by providing improved data for environmental monitoring, disaster management, and resource management.
This satellite represents a significant advancement in ISRO’s satellite technology, contributing to the broader goal of enhancing space-based observation and surveillance systems for a range of applications.
21. Ladki Bahin Yojana, recently seen in the news, is associated with which state?
The Bombay High Court dismissed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) challenging Maharashtra's Ladki Bahin Yojana, a scheme providing Rs 1,500 monthly to eligible women aged 21-65.
To qualify, women must come from families with an income below Rs 2.5 lakh and no income tax payers.
The petitioner argued that tax revenues should fund infrastructure rather than such welfare schemes.
The court ruled that paying taxes is compulsory and their allocation is determined by government policies, not individual preferences.
The dismissal upholds the legitimacy of the scheme and the government's discretion in using tax revenues for social welfare.
22. Recently, which statutory body has inaugurated the Digital Shakti Center to combat cyber crimes against women?
The National Commission for Women (NCW) inaugurated the Digital Shakti Center in New Delhi to combat cyber crimes against women.
Building on the 2018 Digital Shakti campaign, the center offers awareness and technical support to help women protect themselves from online threats, addressing rising cyber crime rates in India.
23. Which country hosted the ‘Exercise Pitch Black 2024’?
Exercise Pitch Black 2024, hosted by the Royal Australian Air Force in Darwin, was the largest in its 43-year history.
It featured 20 countries, over 140 aircraft, and 4,400 personnel.
The exercise, emphasizing night-time flying, included the Indian Air Force, continuing its participation from previous editions.
24. Which institution recently published a report titled “Strategy for the development of Seaweed Value Chain”?
NITI Aayog’s report, “Strategy for the Development of Seaweed Value Chain,” emphasizes seaweed's economic and environmental benefits.
Seaweed farming supports India’s fishing sector, contributes to GDP, and offers bioactive compounds for food and pharmaceuticals.
It also aids in carbon sequestration, climate resilience, and provides essential nutrients.
25. Sariska Tiger Reserve, recently seen in the news, is located in which state?
The Supreme Court’s Central Empowered Committee raised concerns about wildlife harm in Sariska Tiger Reserve, Rajasthan, due to uncontrolled tourism and traffic.
The committee recommended banning private vehicles to protect the reserve. Sariska, spanning 800 sq km in the Aravali Hills, is known for its successful tiger relocation and diverse wildlife.
26. Auroville cultural township, recently seen in the news, is administered by which ministry?
Auroville cultural township is administered by the Ministry of Education, as established in 1980.
It operates under the Auroville Foundation Act, 1988, passed by the Indian Parliament.
This act outlines the governance and administration of Auroville, a unique international community focused on sustainable living and cultural exchange.
27. What is the main objective of the ‘Nandini Sahakar Scheme’, recently seen in news?
The Nandini Sahakar Scheme, launched by the National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC) under Atmanirbhar Bharat, focuses on empowering women through cooperatives.
It provides financial assistance, project formulation support, and capacity development to women-led cooperatives.
The scheme aims to enhance the socio-economic status of women by fostering entrepreneurship.
There is no cap on financial assistance, and as of March 31, 2024, NCDC has disbursed Rs. 6,426.36 crore to women-led cooperatives nationwide.
However, no proposals have been received from Bihar as of the latest update.
28. Which ministry is responsible for implementing the ‘Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maan-dhan (PM-SYM) Scheme’, recently seen in news?
The Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maan-dhan (PM-SYM) Scheme, introduced in the 2019 Interim Budget, provides social security to unorganized sector workers.
Managed by the Ministry of Labour and Employment through LIC and Common Service Centres (CSCs) since February 15, 2019, it targets around 42 crore workers. LIC oversees the pension fund and disbursements.
By July 2024, over 50 lakh workers had enrolled in this scheme, highlighting its growing reach and impact.
29. Bhoj Wetland, recently seen in the news, is located in which state?
The Union Government recently reassured that Bhoj Wetland in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, will retain its Ramsar site status.
The wetland comprises two interconnected artificial reservoirs: Upper Lake (Bhojtal) and Lower Lake (Chhota Talaab).
The Upper Lake serves as a crucial drinking water source for Bhopal and is surrounded by Van Vihar National Park, human settlements, and agricultural land.
Bhoj Wetland, designated a Ramsar site in 2002, supports rich biodiversity, including over 15 fish species and vulnerable turtles and amphibians.
30. ‘PARIVESH Portal’, recently seen in the news, is developed by which ministry?
The PARIVESH portal, developed by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, has surpassed 50,000 clearances.
PARIVESH, which stands for Pro Active and Responsive Facilitation by Interactive and Virtuous Environmental Single-window Hub, is designed to streamline and monitor the process of obtaining Environment, Forest, Wildlife, and Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) clearances nationwide.
This single-window platform simplifies the clearance process, making it more efficient and transparent for stakeholders.
31. Which state recently became the first in India to buy all crops from farmers at MSP?
Haryana has become the first state in India to procure all crops from farmers at the Minimum Support Price (MSP).
This initiative, announced by the Chief Minister of Haryana, ensures that farmers in the state receive MSP for every crop they produce, enhancing financial stability and supporting agricultural growth.
32. Recently, who has been appointed as the chief adviser to Bangladesh’s interim government?
Muhammad Yunus has been sworn in as the Chief Adviser to Bangladesh's interim government, a position equivalent to the Prime Minister.
He has taken on 27 portfolios, including key ministries such as Defence, Public Administration, Education, Energy, Food, Water Resources, and Information.
33. Recently, the central government has operationalized four major projects of Rs 920 crore under Namami Gange Mission 2.0 in which states?
The central government has launched four major projects under Namami Gange Mission 2.0 in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, totaling Rs 920 crore.
These projects are designed to enhance sewage treatment capacity by 145 megaliters per day and upgrade sewer networks with advanced technology.
The initiative aims to significantly improve the water quality of the Ganga and its tributaries.
Extended until March 2026, Namami Gange 2.0 focuses on comprehensive pollution control and river rejuvenation efforts.
By improving infrastructure and adopting advanced treatment technologies, the mission seeks to reduce pollution and promote the overall health of the river ecosystem.
34. Which two Indians have been selected for Axiom-4 mission recently?
India has selected Group Captains Shubhanshu Shukla and Prasanth Balakrishnan Nair for the Axiom-4 mission.
They will undergo training in the U.S. to prepare for this mission, which is the fourth private astronaut mission by NASA and Axiom Space.
The Axiom-4 mission will dock with the International Space Station (ISS) for fourteen days, with SpaceX providing the launch services.
This selection is a significant step for India's human space program, enhancing its capabilities and international presence in space exploration.
35. Recently, India hosted “14th India-Vietnam Defence Policy Dialogue” in which city?
On August 1, 2024, India hosted the 14th India-Vietnam Defence Policy Dialogue in New Delhi.
The dialogue, co-chaired by Defence Secretary Giridhar Aramane and Vietnam's Deputy Minister Hoang Xuan Chien, aimed to strengthen defence ties, review cooperation, and signed a Letter of Intent to boost training exchanges.
36. Which institution recently approved a $200 million loan to improve solid waste management in India?
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) recently approved a $200 million loan to improve solid waste management in India.
The loan is aimed at enhancing waste management infrastructure and practices across several Indian cities to promote sustainable waste management and environmental protection.
37. What is ‘INS Shalki’, recently seen in news?
INS Shalki, the first submarine built in India, is a Shishumar-class diesel-electric submarine commissioned in 1992.
Constructed by Mazgaon Dock Limited, it is 64.4 meters long, displaces 1450-1850 tons, and can travel at speeds of 11 knots surfaced and 22 knots submerged. It recently visited Colombo.
38. What is ‘Surrogate Advertising’, recently seen in the news?
Surrogate advertising is an advertisement that duplicates the brand image of one product to promote another product of the same brand.
This practice is often used when direct advertising for a product is restricted or banned.
For example, a brand might promote a non-alcoholic product using the same branding as its alcoholic counterpart.
39. Schistura sonarengaensis, recently seen in the news, belongs to which species?
Scientists discovered Schistura sonarengaensis, a new loach species, in Meghalaya’s South Garo Hills.
This cave-dwelling freshwater fish, found near the Bangladesh border, features prominent eyes and 13-26 black blotches.
Unlike other cave species, it retains eyes and has reduced pigmentation, distinguishing it from similar regional species.
40. Chandipura Acute Viral Encephalitis (CHPV), recently seen in the news, is primarily transmitted by which species?
In Gujarat, the Chandipura Virus (CHPV) outbreak, spread by sandflies, has led to 137 suspected and 51 confirmed cases.
CHPV causes acute viral encephalitis, marked by high fever, headache, vomiting, and severe neurological symptoms.
This infection results in brain inflammation, potentially causing seizures and loss of consciousness.
41. Hoollongapar Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary, recently seen in the news, is located in which state?
Hoollongapar Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary in Assam is at risk due to recent approval for oil and gas drilling.
Established in 1997, it is India’s only sanctuary named after gibbons, hosting the densest population of Hoolock gibbons.
The sanctuary's habitat, including waterlogged areas along the Bhogdoi River, is crucial for its biodiversity.
42. Which country hosts the international air exercise ‘Tarang Shakti 2024’?
India's 'Tarang Shakti 2024' is a major international air exercise held in two phases: August in Tamil Nadu and September in Rajasthan.
With 51 countries invited and 30 participating, it includes France, Germany, Spain, and the UK in phase one, and Australia, Bangladesh, and others in phase two. It aims to enhance strategic relations and operational skills.
43. Recently, which armed force has launched the Electronic Services e-Health Assistance and Tele-consultation (E-SeHAT) module?
The Indian Army's E-SeHAT module offers tele-consultations for Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS) beneficiaries, starting with 12 polyclinics in remote areas.
It aligns with Digital India’s vision, providing video-based medical consultations and plans for nationwide expansion by November 2024, including pre-consultation checks and medicine delivery
44. Which ministry recently introduced ‘Bharatiya Vayuyan Vidheyak 2024’ in Lok Sabha?
The Bharatiya Vayuyan Vidheyak 2024, introduced in the Lok Sabha by Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu, aims to update and streamline aviation regulations.
It empowers the government to establish rules for investigating air accidents, and for the design, manufacture, maintenance, and safety of aircraft.
The bill addresses confusion caused by multiple amendments to the Aircraft Act of 1934, seeking to consolidate and clarify these regulations.
45. Ashwini Ponappa, who recently announced her retirement, is associated with which sports?
Indian badminton star Ashwini Ponnappa has announced her retirement following an early exit at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
She, alongside Tanisha Crasto, faced defeat in their final match against Australia’s Setyana Mapasa and Angela Yu, ending their campaign with three consecutive losses.
Ashwini, a three-time Olympian, is renowned for her notable achievements with Jwala Gutta, including winning gold at the 2010 Commonwealth Games and bronze at the 2011 World Championships.
46. Pangong Lake, recently seen in the news, is located in which state/UT?
China's new 400-meter bridge near Pangong Lake enhances troop movement between the lake's banks.
In response, India is constructing the 4.1-kilometer Shinkun La tunnel for year-round connectivity between Himachal Pradesh and Ladakh.
Pangong Lake, located in both Tibet and Ladakh, remains a strategic and disputed region.
47. Where is the 500 MWe sodium-cooled Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) located?
The Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) has approved the criticality approach for India's first 500 MWe sodium-cooled Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) at Kalpakkam, Tamil Nadu.
Operated by Bharatiya Nabhikiya Vidyut Nigam Limited (BHAVINI) under the Department of Atomic Energy, this indigenous reactor represents a significant milestone in India's nuclear energy program.
48. Recently, Indian Coast Guard (ICG) launched ‘Suvidha Software Version 1.0’ in which city?
The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) launched 'Suvidha Software Version 1.0' during its first 'Annual Operational Sea Training Conference' in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh.
The software is designed to standardize and enhance training protocols across all ICG platforms, promoting consistency and excellence in operational training.
49. Which organization developed the ‘KAVACH system’, recently seen in news?
The Kavach system was indeed developed by the Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO). It is designed to enhance railway safety by automatically applying the brakes in emergencies when a driver may not respond in time, even in adverse weather conditions.
50. What is Hypervirulent Klebsiella pneumoniae (hvKp), recently seen in news?
The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned about Hypervirulent Klebsiella pneumoniae (hvKp), a concerning drug-resistant bacteria.
This superbug is capable of causing severe infections, even in otherwise healthy individuals.
Found in environments like soil and water, as well as in the upper throat and gut, hvKp can lead to serious conditions such as pneumonia, urinary tract infections, bloodstream infections, and meningitis.