Test your knowledge with the latest quiz on current affairs from 18th December 2024! Stay updated and challenge yourself with key events and happenings around the world.
1.In which city has the GSI Geoscience Museum, a state-of-the-art facility housed in the historic Victoria Market Building, been inaugurated by Vice President Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar to serve as a hub of geological knowledge and showcase the contributions of the Geological Survey of India (GSI)?
A)Hyderabad
B)Bengaluru
C)Kolkata
D)Gwalior
E)Jaipur
Answer key :
Gwalior
Explanation:
The GSI Geoscience Museum was inaugurated in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, in the historic Victoria Market Building. This facility combines tradition and innovation to highlight the geological wonders of Earth and the significant role of the Geological Survey of India (GSI) in exploring and utilizing the nation’s geological resources. The inauguration was led by Vice President Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar, along with other dignitaries, celebrating the museum as a center of knowledge and a tribute to India’s geological heritage
2.What significant framework was unveiled by India in December 2024, making it the first country globally to introduce a regulatory approach for sustainable manufacturing in the steel industry?
A)Green Energy Policy
B)Green Hydrogen Initiative
C)Taxonomy of Green Steel
D)Sustainable Steel Alliance
E)Net-Zero Steel Initiative
Answer Key:
C)Taxonomy of Green Steel
Explanation:
In December 2024, Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy from the Ministry of Steel (MoS) and the Ministry of Heavy Industries & Public Enterprises (MoHI&PE) unveiled the ‘Taxonomy of Green Steel’. This groundbreaking framework is the first of its kind globally and aims to define and regulate green steel production based on emission intensity, promoting sustainable manufacturing in the steel industry. The initiative reflects India’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and fostering innovation in environmentally responsible steel production.
3. When is the initiative for visa-free travel to Russia for Indian nationals expected to begin, according to the discussions between India and Russia?
A)Summer 2024
B)Fall 2024
C)Spring 2025
D)Winter 2025
E)Spring 2026
Answer Key: Spring 2025
Explanation:
The initiative for visa-free travel between India and Russia is expected to commence in spring 2025. This follows bilateral discussions held in June 2024, which aimed to ease visa restrictions and promote group tourist exchanges. Currently, Indian nationals require visas to visit Russia, but the anticipated agreement is set to streamline travel, enhance tourism, and strengthen the relationship between the two countries.
4.By how much did food price inflation in India decrease from October 2024 to November 2024?
A)2.1%
B)2.7%
C)3.2%
D)3.5%
E)4.0%
Answer Key: D)3.5%
Detailed Explanation:
In October 2024, food price inflation was recorded at 11.6%.
In November 2024, it moderated to 8.9%.
The difference is calculated as:
11.6% – 8.9% = 3.5%
This 3.5% reduction marks a significant deceleration in food price inflation. It was primarily driven by a sharp slowdown in vegetable price increases, from 63% in October to 28.6% in November, despite the continued sharp rise in potato prices, which increased by 82.8% in November.
5.What was the net profit reported by Public Sector Banks (PSBs) in the first half of FY 2024-25?
A)₹75,000 crore
B)₹85,520 crore
C)₹90,000 crore
D)₹67,850 crore
E)₹95,000 crore
Answer Key: ₹85,520 crore
Detailed Explanation:
In the first half of FY 2024-25, Public Sector Banks (PSBs), including the State Bank of India (SBI), reported a net profit of ₹85,520 crore.
This represents a 26% growth compared to the ₹67,850 crore net profit reported during the same period in the previous year (FY 2023-24).
The growth in profit highlights PSBs’ operational efficiency, improved asset quality, robust credit monitoring, and enhanced operational efficiency.
Key Insights:
The ₹85,520 crore profit is a testament to the increasing financial resilience of PSBs.
The previous year’s profit of ₹67,850 crore served as the benchmark for the impressive 26% growth.
6.Which financial technology company launched the fraud protection plan "Shield" in December 2024 to safeguard users from fraudulent UPI transactions?
A)Paytm
B)BharatPe
C)PhonePe
D)Google Pay
E)Razorpay
Answer Key: BharatPe
Detailed Explanation:
BharatPe, a leading financial technology company, introduced the “Shield” plan in December 2024.
The initiative is aimed at protecting users from fraudulent Unified Payments Interface (UPI) transactions and enhancing digital transaction security.
Key Features of “Shield”:
Complimentary fraud protection for the first 30 days covering up to ₹5,000.
Affordable subscription plan at ₹19 per month after the free period.
Comprehensive coverage for risks like phishing attacks, computer fraud, and unauthorized transactions, including a pre-reporting period of up to 10 days.
24/7 support for reporting fraud and filing claims.
Additional Facts About BharatPe:
Founded in 2018, BharatPe is known for pioneering innovations in the financial sector.
It introduced India’s first UPI-compatible QR code and zero MDR (Merchant Discount Rate) payment service.
In August 2024, BharatPe expanded into consumer payments by rebranding its Postpe app and launching its UPI Third-Party Application Provider (TPAP) services.
This question tests knowledge about a significant initiative in the financial technology sector while reinforcing awareness of BharatPe’s contributions to digital payments in India.
7.What is the primary purpose of INS Nirdeshak, the new survey ship commissioned by the Indian Navy in December 2024?
A)Combat and warfare operations
B)Maritime rescue operations
C)Hydrographic surveys and charting
D)Anti-piracy missions
E)Submarine tracking and monitoring
Answer Key: Hydrographic surveys and charting
Detailed Explanation:
Primary Purpose: INS Nirdeshak is designed for hydrographic surveys and charting. This involves mapping the seabed, identifying navigational hazards, and contributing to safe maritime navigation.
Significance: These surveys play a crucial role in supporting the Indian Navy’s operations and enhancing India’s maritime presence, particularly in the Indian Ocean Region.
Construction: Built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE) in Kolkata, INS Nirdeshak is part of the Survey Vessel (Large) Project. It is the second vessel in this series, demonstrating India’s growing focus on indigenous shipbuilding.
Legacy: The ship carries forward the legacy of the original INS Nirdeshak, which served the Indian Navy for 32 years before its decommissioning in 2014.
8.In which year was the Sri Lanka-India Naval Exercise (SLINEX) first initiated?
A)2000
B)2005
C)2010
D)2015
E)2020
Answer Key: B)2005
Detailed Explanation:
Origin of SLINEX: The Sri Lanka-India Naval Exercise (SLINEX) was first initiated in 2005 to enhance maritime cooperation and interoperability between the navies of India and Sri Lanka.
Purpose: The exercise aims to strengthen mutual understanding, improve operational capabilities, and ensure maritime security in the region.
2024 Edition: The 2024 edition is scheduled to take place from December 17 to December 20, 2024, at Visakhapatnam under the Eastern Naval Command.
Structure of the Exercise: It consists of two phases:
Harbour Phase: Includes pre-sea briefings, professional exchanges, and planning.
Sea Phase: Involves tactical exercises, maneuvers, and joint operations.
Why the Other Options Are Incorrect:
2000: SLINEX was not initiated this early; bilateral naval cooperation gained momentum in 2005.
2010: By 2010, SLINEX was already established and conducted regularly.
2015: SLINEX had been ongoing for a decade by this year.
2020: SLINEX was well underway before this year, with significant progress in its scope and importance.
This question highlights the historical significance of SLINEX and its role in fostering bilateral ties and regional maritime security.
10.Which temple from India won the "Award of Distinction" in the 2024 UNESCO Asia-Pacific Awards for Cultural Heritage Conservation?
A)Brihadeeswarar Temple
B)Abathsahayeshwarar Temple
C)Meenakshi Temple
D)Kanchi Kailasanathar Temple
E)Shore Temple
Answer Key: Abathsahayeshwarar Temple
Detailed Explanation:
Award of Distinction: The Abathsahayeshwarar Temple, located in Tamil Nadu, was recognized with the prestigious “Award of Distinction” for its exceptional conservation efforts. This recognition highlights its significant contribution to preserving India’s cultural and historical heritage.
Other Recognized Indian Project: The Sir Byramjee Jeejeebhoy Parsee Charitable Institution (BJPCI) in Maharashtra received the “Award of Merit.”
Context of the Awards: The 2024 UNESCO Asia-Pacific Awards for Cultural Heritage Conservation honored a total of 8 projects across 5 countries, with India receiving awards for 2 projects.
11.Which of Air India's in-flight products won the Good Design Award Australia 2024?
A)Air India’s Executive Lounge
B)Air India’s Vista Verve in-flight product
C)Air India’s Maharaja Experience
D)Air India’s Premium Class Amenities
E)Air India’s Business Class Cabin
Answer Key: Air India’s Vista Verve in-flight product
Detailed Explanation:
Good Design Award Australia 2024: The Vista Verve in-flight product received the prestigious Good Design Award Australia 2024. This award recognized the excellence in innovation and design of Air India’s in-flight offering, which includes luxurious elements such as exclusive tableware, Slovakian lead-free glassware, premium linens, and mattress toppers, focusing on both sustainability and comfort for passengers.
Why Other Options Are Incorrect:
Air India’s Executive Lounge: This lounge has not been awarded the Good Design Award Australia 2024.
Air India’s Maharaja Experience: Although well-known, this service experience wasn’t recognized with this award in 2024.
Air India’s Premium Class Amenities: This category was not specifically awarded the Good Design Award 2024.
Air India’s Business Class Cabin: The Business Class Cabin was not the focus of this particular award.
11.What is the primary purpose of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya (GSV) and the Indian Navy?
A)To promote collaboration in maritime defense strategy
B)To enhance education, research, and training in logistics for the Navy
C)To develop new naval technology and innovations
D)To establish a new naval base for the Indian Navy
E)To enhance the fleet’s capacity for international missions
Answer Key:
To enhance education, research, and training in logistics for the Navy
Detailed Explanation:
Purpose of the MoU: The MoU signed between Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya (GSV) and the Indian Navy focuses on improving education, research, and training in logistics to enhance the Navy’s logistical capabilities. This partnership aligns with India’s broader initiatives like the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan and National Logistics Policy, aiming to modernize and streamline the logistics sector, especially in defense.
12.By winning the Women’s Junior Asia Cup, India qualified for which upcoming event?
A)2025 FIH Women’s Junior Hockey World Cup
B)2024 Summer Olympics
C)2025 ICC Women’s World Cup
D)2024 FIH Hockey World Cup
E)2024 AFC Women’s Football Championship
Answer Key: 2025 FIH Women’s Junior Hockey World Cup
Detailed Explanation:
India’s Qualification: By winning the Women’s Junior Asia Cup in Muscat, Oman, the Indian women’s junior hockey team secured their qualification for the 2025 FIH Women’s Junior Hockey World Cup to be held in Chile.
Why Other Options Are Incorrect:
- The Summer Olympics is a different event, and winning the Junior Asia Cup does not directly qualify teams for the Olympics.
- The ICC Women’s World Cup is a cricket event, not related to hockey.
- The FIH Hockey World Cup is for senior teams, whereas this qualification is for the Junior Hockey World Cup.
- The AFC Women’s Football Championship is unrelated to hockey, as it is a football (soccer) competition.
This win highlights the growing strength of India’s women’s junior hockey team and their path to further success on the global stage.
13.In November 2024, which cases were declared as "Notifiable Diseases" by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare in India?
A)Malaria cases
B)Snakebite cases
C)Tuberculosis cases
D)Dengue fever cases
E)Leprosy cases
Answer Key: Snakebite cases
Detailed Explanation:
The Declaration: In November 2024, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MOHFW) declared snakebite cases as a Notifiable Disease in India. This means that all government and public health facilities are now required to report snakebite cases and related deaths, ensuring better monitoring and response.
14.On December 12, 2024, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully completed a sea-level hot test of which type of engine?
A)Solid rocket engine
B)Liquid propulsion engine
C)Cryogenic engine
D)Hybrid rocket engine
E)Ion propulsion engine
Answer Key: Cryogenic engine
Detailed Explanation:
The Test Conducted: On November 29, 2024, ISRO completed a sea-level hot test of its CE20 cryogenic engine at the ISRO Propulsion Complex in Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu. This test is a critical step in the development of cryogenic technology for India’s future space missions, particularly for missions requiring higher payloads and advanced propulsion systems.
Why Cryogenic Engine is the Correct Answer:
The CE20 cryogenic engine is designed to use cryogenic fuels (liquid oxygen and liquid hydrogen) and is pivotal for India’s space exploration, as it enables higher thrust and efficiency, especially for heavy payload launches into higher orbits.
15.On December 12, 2024, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully completed a sea-level hot test of which type of engine?
A)Solid rocket engine
B)Liquid propulsion engine
C)Cryogenic engine
D)Hybrid rocket engine
E)Ion propulsion engine
Answer Key: Cryogenic engine
Detailed Explanation:
The Test Conducted: On November 29, 2024, ISRO completed a sea-level hot test of its CE20 cryogenic engine at the ISRO Propulsion Complex in Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu. This test is a critical step in the development of cryogenic technology for India’s future space missions, particularly for missions requiring higher payloads and advanced propulsion systems.
16.Which space technology company successfully delivered the iBooster Green Propulsion System to the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in December 2024?
A)ISRO
B)Manastu Space Technologies Private Limited
C)Skyroot Aerospace
D)Agnikul Cosmos
E)Axiom Space
Answer Key:
Manastu Space Technologies Private Limited
Detailed Explanation:
Company Overview:
Manastu Space Technologies Private Limited, a deep-technology startup based in Mumbai, Maharashtra, successfully delivered the iBooster Green Propulsion System to DRDO in December 2024. This achievement marks a significant milestone in the field of green propulsion technology, which is essential for reducing the environmental impact of space missions.
17.Who is the author of the book titled "New Bharat - Modi's Vision and Development 2019-2024"?
A)Gajendra Singh Shekhawat
B)Ravi Prashar
C)Navneet Sehgal
D)Narendra Modi
E)Rajeev Kumar
Answer Key: Ravi Prashar
Detailed Explanation:
Book Details:
The book titled “New Bharat – Modi’s Vision and Development 2019-2024” was launched by Union Minister of Culture and Tourism, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in December 2024 at the Constitution Club in New Delhi. The book focuses on the developmental initiatives and schemes introduced during the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi from 2019 to 2024, showcasing his vision for India’s progress and growth.
18.Who is the author of the book titled "New Bharat - Modi's Vision and Development 2019-2024"?
A)Gajendra Singh Shekhawat
B)Ravi Prashar
C)Navneet Sehgal
D)Narendra Modi
E)Rajeev Kumar
Answer Key: Ravi Prashar
Detailed Explanation:
Book Details:
The book titled “New Bharat – Modi’s Vision and Development 2019-2024” was launched by Union Minister of Culture and Tourism, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in December 2024 at the Constitution Club in New Delhi. The book focuses on the developmental initiatives and schemes introduced during the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi from 2019 to 2024, showcasing his vision for India’s progress and growth.
Author:
The author of this book is Ravi Prashar, a notable writer who has penned the work focusing on India’s development trajectory under the leadership of Narendra Modi.
Publisher:
The book was published by Hindustan Times, a prominent media house, further lending credibility to its content.
19.Who led the legal battle for pensioners' rights in India, which resulted in the 1982 Supreme Court judgment?
A)D.S. Nakara
B)Manmohan Singh
C)Narendra Modi
D)L.K. Advani
E)Jawaharlal Nehru
Answer Key: D.S. Nakara
Detailed Explanation:
History of Pensioners Day:
Pensioners Day is observed on 17th December every year in India to honor D.S. Nakara, a retired government official who became a symbol of the fight for pensioners’ rights. This day commemorates the 1982 Supreme Court judgment, which ensured equality and justice for pensioners by guaranteeing them the same pension benefits, irrespective of their retirement date.
The Legal Battle:
The battle was led by D.S. Nakara, who had retired from the Department of Defense and fought for the rights of pensioners. He challenged the government’s policy of granting different pension benefits to retirees based on their retirement date, arguing that it was discriminatory and violated the principles of equality enshrined in the Constitution.
1982 Supreme Court Judgment:
The Supreme Court of India ruled in favor of D.S. Nakara and other pensioners, declaring that the pension system should not differentiate between pensioners based on their retirement dates. The judgment ensured that all pensioners would receive the same pension benefits, upholding justice and equality for them.
