CURRENT AFFAIRS- 2021 January
CURRENT AFFAIRS- 2021 January: Questions & Answers
1. Name the person who has been announced as the TIME 2020 Q1. Who has been conferred with the Tansen Samman for 2020?
Answer: Pt. Satish Vyas
Renowned santoor player Pt Satish Vyas was conferred upon the prestigious Tansen Samman for 2020. Apart from this, the Bhopal-based institution Abhinav Kala Parishad was honoured with the Raja Mansingh Tomar award.
2. What is the current deadline set for income tax return (ITR) filing for FY 2019-20?
Answer: 10 January 2021
The Central government has further extended the deadline to file an income tax return (ITR) for FY 2019-20 by 10 days, up to January 10, 2021. Earlier this deadline was December 31, 2020.
3. Name India’s first indigenously designed and developed Air Dropped Container, which was test trailed recently by the Indian Navy and DRDO?
Answer: SAHAYAK
The Indian Navy successfully conducted the maiden test trial of ‘SAHAYAK-NG’, off the coast of Goa on 30 December 2020. SAHAYAK-NG is India’s first indigenously designed and developed Air Dropped Container that will enhance the operational logistics capabilities of the navy.
4. The government has extended the tenure of K Sivan as the Chairman of which organisation for a period of one year up to January 2022?
Answer: ISRO
The Central Government has approved the extension of the term of ISRO Chairman K Sivan, for a period of one year. He was due to retire on January 14, 2021. Sivan will now continue as ISRO Chairman and Secretary, Department of Space up to January 14, 2022.
5. The union cabinet has approved the proposal to set up the Multi-Modal Logistics Hub (MMLH) and Multi-Modal Transport Hub in which city?
Answer: Greater Noida
Multi-Modal Logistics Hub (MMLH) and Multi-Modal Transport Hub (MMTH) at Greater Noida in Uttar Pradesh (estimated cost of Rs. 3,883.80 crores).
6. India’s first pollinator park has been developed in which state?
Answer: Uttarakhand
India’s first pollinator park has been developed at Haldwani in Nainital, of the state of Uttarakhand.
7. Government has further extended the deadline for mandatory usage of FASTag. What is the new deadline?
Answer: 01 February 2021
The Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has extended the deadline for mandatory usage of FASTag for all four-wheel on the National Highway till February 1, 2021. Earlier the ministry had announced to make FASTag mandatory for all four-wheel vehicles with effect from January 1, 2021.
8. The Technology Innovation Hub on Autonomous Navigation Systems (TiHAN) is India’s first Testbed for Autonomous Navigation Systems. It has been set up in which city?
Answer: Hyderabad
The Union Minister of Education Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ laid the foundation stone of ‘TiHAN-IIT Hyderabad’, through virtual mode on 29 December 2020 at IIT Hyderabad.. ‘TiHAN-IIT Hyderabad’ is India’s first Testbed for Autonomous Navigation Systems (Terrestrial and Aerial).
9. Which governing body has recently collaborated with the UNDP India to launch India’s first Social Impact Bond (SIB)?
Answer: Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation, Pune
Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation, Pune has recently signed an MoU with UNDP India to co-create India’s first Social Impact Bond (SIB).
10. Indira Joseph Venniyoor, who has passed away recently was renowned ___________
Answer: Broadcaster
Renowned broadcaster, Indira Joseph Venniyoor, has passed away. She was 94. The Kerala-based veteran was the first English news announcer of Travancore Radio when its English service started in 1949.
11. The International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA) has become an Associate Member of the International Organization of Securities Commissions (IOSCO). Where is the headquarter of IOSCO?
Answer: Madrid
The International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA) has become an Associate Member of the International Organization of Securities Commissions (IOSCO). The Headquarter of IOSCO is in Madrid, Spain.
12. Which institution has signed a USD 10 million loan agreement with India to expand horticulture in Himachal Pradesh?
Answer: Asian Development Bank
ADB & India sign $10 million loans to support project preparation to expand horticulture in Himachal Pradesh
13. Who has been appointed as the new Chairman of Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL)?
Answer: Soma Mondal
Soma Mondal has taken over as the new Chairman of Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL) with effect from January 01, 2021. She is the first-ever woman-head of the body.
14. PM Modi recently laid the foundation stone Light House projects (LHPs) in how many states?
Answer: 6
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone of Light House projects (LHPs) at six sites across six States through a video conference on 1st January 2021. The LHPs will be implemented at Indore (Madhya Pradesh), Rajkot (Gujarat), Chennai (Tamil Nadu), Ranchi (Jharkhand), Agartala (Tripura) and Lucknow (Uttar Pradesh).
15. The DRDO observed its ___________ Foundation Day on 01 January 2021
Answer: 63
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) observed the 63rd Foundation Day of its establishment on January 01, 2021.
16. Who has been appointed as the new Chairman & CEO of the Railway Board?
Answer: Suneet Sharma
Suneet Sharma, a Special Class Railway Apprentice Officer of the 1978-batch, has been appointed as the new Chairman & Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Railway Board, Ministry of Railways and ex-officio Principal Secretary to Government of India.
17. Name the institution that has signed a loan agreement worth USD 231 million with the Indian government to augment electricity generation capacity in the state of Assam?
Answer: ADB
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has signed a $ 231 million loan with the Government of India on 30 December 2020 to augment electricity generation capacity in the state of Assam. This is the third tranche loan for the ‘Assam Power Sector Investment Programme’ that was approved by the ADB Board in July 2014.
18. Where is the headquarter of the International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA) located?
Answer: Gandhinagar
19. Who is the Chairman of DRDO?
Answer: G Satheesh Reddy
Dr G Satheesh Reddy – Secretary Department of Defence Research and Development (DDR&D) & Chairman DRDO.
20. RBI has launched Digital Payments Index (DPI) to capture the extent of digitization of digital/electronic payments in India. The index comprises how many parameters?
Answer: 5
Reserve Bank of India has launched a Digital Payments Index (DPI) to capture the extent of digitization of digital/electronic payments across the country. This RBI-Digital Payments Index (DPI) has 5 broad parameters
21. Umesh Sinha has recently been appointed as the deputy election commissioner in the Election Commission of India. How many Deputy EC are there now on the ECI board?
Answer: 4
The Union Government has appointed Umesh Sinha as the deputy election commissioner in the Election Commission of India. With this, the ECI now has 4 deputy election commissioners. The other three are Sudeep Jain, Chandra Bhushan Kumar, and Ashish Kundra.
22. Which country has been chosen as the co-chair of the IUCN-supported Asia Protected Areas Partnership
(APAP)?
Answer: India
India has been chosen as the co-chair of the IUCN-supported Asia Protected Areas Partnership (APAP) for a period of three years till November 2023.
23. The Indian Navy has signed a contract with which company for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation Dazlers (Laser Dazlers)?
Answer: Bharat Electronics Limited
The Indian Navy has signed a contract with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), to procure Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation Dazlers (Laser Dazzlers). Initially, the agreement has been signed for 20 Laser Dazlers.
24. Buta Singh, who has passed away recently was a veteran leader of which party?
Answer: INC
Former Union Minister and senior Rajasthan Congress leader Buta Singh have passed away. He was 86.
25. Renowned music director Shantanu Mohapatra has passed away. He was related to which film industry?
Answer: Odia
Legendary Odia music director Shantanu Mohapatra has passed away due to old age-related ailments. He was 84.
26. What is the base period set for the Digital Payments Index (DPI) by RBI?
Answer: March 2018
The base period for RBI-DPI is March 2018. This means that the DPI score for March 2018 is set at 100. RBI has calculated the DPI for March 2019 and March 2020 at 153.47 and 207.84 respectively, indicating appreciable growth.
27. PM Modi recently inaugurated the National Metrology Conclave 2021. The conclave was organised by CSIR National Physical Laboratory (CSIR-NPL) on the occasion of its _______ foundation year
Answer: 75
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi addressed the National Metrology Conclave, via video conferencing on January 04, 2021. Theme: ‘Metrology for the Inclusive Growth of the Nation’. National Metrology Conclave 2021 was organised by the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research-National Physical Laboratory (CSIR-NPL), New Delhi, to mark its 75th year of inception.
28. World Braille Day is observed on which day?
Answer: January 4
World Braille Day is observed every year on January 4, to commemorate the birth anniversary of Louis Braille, the inventor of Braille.
29. The ‘Malala Yousafzai Scholarship Act’ has been passed by which country for the welfare of Pakistani diaspora female?
Answer: United States
On January 01, 2021, the U.S.Congress has passed the ‘Malala
Yousafzai Scholarship Act’ to increase the number of scholarships
for Pakistani women in higher education under a merit and needs-based programme.
30. Indian Army has inked a contract with which company to procure 12 Fast Patrol Boats for surveillance and patrolling in Pangong Tso lake in Ladakh?
Answer: Goa Shipyard Limited
Indian Army has inked a contract with Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL) to procure 12 Fast Patrol Boats for surveillance and patrolling of large water bodies, including those in high altitude areas like Pangong Tso lake in Ladakh. The indigenously-built boats will be delivered by May 2021 by the Defence sector Public Sector Undertaking (PSU), GSL.
31. Which organisation has approved a USD 100 million loans for India to upgrade the power distribution system in
Bengaluru city?
Answer: Asian Development Bank
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Government of India have signed a $100 million loan on 31st December 2020 to modernise and upgrade the power distribution system in Bengaluru to enhance the quality and reliability of electricity supply in the city.
32. Who has been appointed as the new Chief Justice (CJ) of the Common High Court for the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir and the Union Territory of Ladakh?
Answer: Pankaj Mithal
Justice Pankaj Mithal has been appointed as the new Chief Justice (CJ) of the Common High Court for the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir and the Union Territory of Ladakh in Jammu on January 04, 2021.
33. Bajaj Auto is the world’s first company to cross-market capitalization of above Rs. 1 lakh crore and thus become the most valuable two-wheeler company globally. Where is the headquarter of Bajaj Auto located?
Answer: Pune
Indian multinational two-wheeler and three-wheeler manufacturing company, Bajaj Auto, has become the most valuable two-wheeler company in the world after it crossed a market
34. Indian Navy has received the final and 8th ship of the MK IV Landing Craft Utility (LCU) class vessel ‘IN LCU L-58’ recently. The LCU class vessel has been developed by which company?
Answer: Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers
Kolkata-based defence PSU, Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE), delivered the last ship of the MK IV Landing Craft Utility (LCU) class vessel ‘IN LCU L-58’ (Yard 2099) to the Indian Navy on December 31, 2020. IN LCU L-58 is the eighth and final ship in the series of 8 LCUs manufactured by GRSE for the Indian Navy.
35. Indian soldier Colonel Narendra Kumar, who was popularly known as ‘Bull’ has passed away. He was a veteran _________
Answer: Mountaineer
Ace mountaineer Colonel Narendra ‘Bull’ Kumar, who played an iconic role to help India secure the Siachen Glacier, has passed away due to age-related illness. He was 87.
36. Congress leader Vilas Patil Undalkar, who has passed away, was a former minister of which state cabinet?
Answer: Maharashtra
Former Maharashtra cabinet minister and seven-time Congress MLA Vilas Patil Undalkar have passed away, following a brief illness. He was 82.
37. The 40th Indian Scientific Expedition to Antarctica was flagged off from Mormugao Port recently. Where is the port located?
Answer: Goa
The 40th Indian Scientific Expedition to Antarctica was flagged off on January 05, 2021, from Mormugao Port, Goa onboard chartered ice-class vessel MV Vasiliy Golovnin.
38. The Kochi – Mangaluru Natural Gas Pipeline has been inaugurated by PM Modi recently. What is the estimated length of this project?
Answer: 450 km
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi dedicated Kochi – Mangaluru Natural Gas Pipeline to the Nation. The 450kilometre long pipeline
has been built by GAIL (India) Ltd.
39. The government has set up a high-level group to build a South Asia-focused energy security architecture. Who is the head of this group?
Answer: Ram Vinay Shahi
The Central Government has set up a high-level group to build a South Asia-focused energy security architecture. The high-level group, named the South Asia Group for Energy (SAGE), will be headed by former Union Power Secretary Ram Vinay Shahi.
40. Who has been elected as the new President of the All India Chess Federation (AICF)?
Answer: Sanjay Kapoor
Sanjay Kapoor has been elected as the President of the All India Chess Federation (AICF), during the online polls held on January 04, 2021.
41. Which state has launched the ‘LaunchPad Scheme’ for above 18 years youths, coming out of child care institutions?
Answer: Madhya Pradesh
The government of Madhya Pradesh has launched a ‘LaunchPad Scheme’ for the boys and girls coming out of child care institutions and having completed 18 years of age. This scheme has been launched by the Women and Child Development Department of the state.
42. Filmmaker Pablo Cesar has been appointed as the head of the International Jury of the 51st edition of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI). He is from which country?
Answer: Argentina
The 51st edition of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) will be held in Goa from January 16 to January 24, 2021. The International Jury of IFFI will be headed by iconic Argentine filmmaker Pablo Cesar.
43. The Toycathon-2021 has been launched to develop India as the global Toy manufacturing hub. Toycathon-2021 has how many themes?
Answer: 9
The Union Education Minister Shri Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ and Union Minister WCD and Textiles Smt. Smriti Zubin Irani jointly launched Toycathon-2021 and the Toycathon Portal on January 05, 2021. The Toycathon will be based on nine themes
44. Which state of India marks 6th January every year as Journalist Day?
Answer: Maharashtra
The Journalist Day is observed by the Maharashtra state government on 6th January every year in memory of late journalist Balshastri Jambhekar.
45. Which institution has signed a pact worth $105 million for West Bengal Inland Water Transport, Logistics and Spatial Development Project?
Answer: World Bank
The World Bank has signed a $105 million project with the Government of India and the Government of West Bengal to improve the inland water transport infrastructure in Kolkata, West Bengal.
46. Name the newly appointed Chairman of the All India Gem and Jewellery Domestic Council (GJC)?
Answer: Ashish Pethe
The All India Gem and Jewellery Domestic Council (GJC), has appointed Ashish Pethe as its new Chairman.
47. As per the World Bank, what is the projected GDP rate of India for the financial year 2020-21?
Answer: -9.6%
World Bank has projected the Indian economy to contract by 9.6 per cent in the fiscal year 2020-21, in its Global Economic Prospects report. World Bank estimates Growth to recover to 5.4 per cent in 2021.
48. Name the first urban co-operative bank of India to receive a licence from RBI to transition to Small Finance Bank (SFB)
Answer: Shivalik Mercantile Cooperative Bank
Uttar Pradesh-based Shivalik Mercantile Co-operative Bank (SMCB) has become the first urban co-operative bank (UCB) in India to receive a licence from RBI to operate as a Small Finance Bank (SFB).
49. The RBI has introduced the Legal Entity Identifier (LEI) for all RTGS and NEFT payment transactions made by entities for the value of Rs ________ and above
Answer: Rs 50 crore
The Reserve Bank of India has introduced a Legal Entity Identifier (LEI) for all payment transactions of value Rs 50 crore and above undertaken by entities (non-individuals) via Real Time Gross Settlement (RTGS) and National Electronic Funds Transfer (NEFT).
50. Which financial institution has signed a loan agreement worth USD 646 million with India two road projects in Andhra Pradesh?
Answer: New Development Bank
The New Development Bank (NDB) has signed loan agreements worth USD 646 million with the Government of India for two road projects in Andhra Pradesh.
51. Which country is developing the world’s first wood-based space satellite, to combat the growing problem of space debris?
Answer: Japan
A team of scientists from Japan is developing the world’s first wood-based space satellite. This unique initiative aims to combat the growing problem of space debris or junk. The first satellite is scheduled to be launched in 2023.
52. Olympic bronze medallist Michael Kondo has passed away. He was related to which sports?
Answer: Hockey
World Cup winner and Olympic medallist in Hockey, Michael Kondo. He was a member of the Indian teams which won the 1975 hockey World Cup in Kuala Lumpur and the 1972 Olympics bronze in Munich.
53. The Legal Entity Identifier (LEI) is a ______digit number
Answer: 20
The Legal Entity Identifier (LEI) is a 20-digit number used to uniquely identify parties to financial transactions worldwide.
54. What is the estimated GDP growth projection of the global economy by the World Bank for 2021?
Answer: 4%
The global economy is estimated to expand by 4 per cent in 2021 by World Bank. According to the report, global growth is projected to moderate to 3.8 per cent in 2022.
55. The Medium-Range Surface-to-Air Missile (MRSAM) defence system was tested by India recently. It has been developed by DRDO in collaboration with which country?
Answer: Israel
India and Israel successfully tested a Medium-Range Surface-to-Air Missile (MRSAM) defence system. MRSAM is an air and missile defence system that can destroy enemy aircraft from a distance of 50 to 70 km.
56. The Legal Entity Identifier India Ltd. (LEIL) is a wholly-owned subsidiary of?
Answer: Clearing Corporation of India Ltd (CCIL)
LEI can be obtained from Legal Entity Identifier India Ltd. (LEIL) which is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Clearing Corporation of India Ltd (CCIL).
57. What is the estimated GDP growth rate of India in 2020-21 as per the first advanced estimates of the National Statistical Office (NSO)?
Answer: -7.7%
The GDP of India is expected to contract by 7.7 per cent in the current fiscal year 2020-21, as per the first advanced estimates released by the National Statistical Office (NSO), under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MOSPI) on January 07, 2021.
58. Who will head the ‘College of Supervisors (CoS)’ formed by RBI to further strengthen supervision over regulated entities?
Answer: N S Viswanathan
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has set up an academic advisory council called ‘College of Supervisors (CoS)’ to further strengthen supervision over regulated entities. The Cos will be headed by former deputy governor N S Viswanathan and will have five other members.
59. Which bank has collaborated with IIT Kanpur to launch ‘Fintech Innovation Centre (FIC)’ at its campus?
Answer: Punjab National Bank
Punjab National Bank has partnered with IIT Kanpur and the Foundation for Innovation & Research in Science & Technology (FIRST) to set up a ‘Fintech Innovation Centre (FIC)’ at the institute’s campus.
60. Who has been appointed as the Chief of Google Cloud Asia Pacific division?
Answer: Karan Bajwa
Karan Bajwa, the incumbent head of Google Cloud in India has been elevated as the Chief of Google Cloud Asia Pacific division. Bajwa will succeed Rick Harshman
61. Which state has launched the Krishi Sanjeevani vans to take labs to the agriculture fields to study soil, water and suggest pest control remedies?
Answer: Karnataka
The Chief Minister of Karnataka, Shri B.S. Yediyurappa flagged off 40 Krishi Sanjeevani vans in Bengaluru on January 07, 2021. These vans have been launched by the state Agriculture Department with Central assistance under National Krishi Vikas Yojana to take up this novel programme.
62. Justice Hima Kohli has been appointed as the first-ever female Chief Justice of the High Court of ___________
Answer: Telangana
The senior-most judge of Delhi High Court, Justice Hima Kohli has been appointed as the new Chief Justice of Telangana High Court. She is the first woman to be sworn in as CJ of Telangana HC.
63. Which Asset Management company has launched the investor awareness campaign titled #PaisonKoRokoMat?
Answer: IDFC Mutual Funds
IDFC Mutual Funds has launched its latest pan-India investor awareness campaign titled #PaisonKoRokoMat.
64. Who has been appointed as the head of the Central government committee, to protect the unique language, cultural identity and land of Ladakh?
Answer: G Kishan Reddy
The Central Government has decided to form a committee to protect the unique language, cultural identity and land of Ladakh. The Committee will be headed by the Minister of State for Home G Kishan Reddy.
65. Alan Burgess, who has passed away recently, was the world’s oldest living first-class cricketer. He was from which country?
Answer: New Zealand
Alan Burgess, the world’s oldest living first-class cricketer, from New Zealand has passed away in his sleep. He was aged 100 years and 250 days.
66. The world’s first Double Stack Long Haul Container Train was flagged off by PM Modi recently. The train will run between which states?
Answer: Haryana & Rajasthan
PM Modi flagged off the Double Stack Long Haul Container Train.This1.5 km long train is the first double-stacked container freight train. It will run from New Ateli in Haryana to New Kishanganj in Rajasthan
67. As per the IHS Markit, what is the estimated GDP of India for 2021-22?
Answer: 8.9%
London-based financial services company IHS Markit has projected the Indian economy to rebound by 8.9 per cent in the fiscal year 2021-22, beginning April 2021.
68. India has been appointed as the head of the three important committees of the UN Security Council (UNSC). Which of these committees is not among them?
A) Taliban Sanctions Committee
B) 1718 Sanctions Committee (DPRK)
C) Counter-Terrorism Committee
D) Libyan Sanctions Committee
Answer: B
India has been asked to chair three important committees of the UN Security Council UNSC), during its tenure as a non-permanent member of the powerful 15-nation UN body. The three highly significant committees include the Taliban Sanctions Committee, Counter-Terrorism Committee (CTC) and the Libyan Sanctions Committee.
69. What was the profession of Chitra Ghosh, the niece of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, who passed away recently?
Answer: Academician
Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose’s niece and eminent academician Chitra Ghosh has passed away following a cardiac arrest. She was 90. She made pioneering contributions to academics and community services and dedicated her life to serving the people, teaching & inspiring the youth.
70. Indian-origin Dr Raj Iyer has been appointed as the first-ever Chief Information Officer (CIO) of the Army Force of which country?
Answer: United States
Indian-American Dr Raj Iyer has been appointed as the first Chief Information Officer (CIO) of the US Army, since the creation of the position by the Pentagon in July 2020.
71. The Guided Multi Launch Rocket System, Fatah-1, was tested by which recently?
Answer: Pakistan
The Pakistan Army successfully conducted the test flight of an indigenously developed Guided Multi Launch Rocket System, Fatah-1, on January 07, 2021.
72. Who is the author of the novel “Right Under our Nose”?
Answer: R Giridharan
R Giridharan, a general manager at RBI has come out with his debut novel titled “Right Under our Nose”.
73. What was the profession of Satya Paul who has died recently?
Answer: Fashion designer
Veteran Fashion designer Satya Paul, best known for reinventing the Indian saree for contemporary women, has passed away. He was 78.
74. Claire Polosak has become the first women umpire to officiate a men’s test match. She is from which country?
Answer: Australia
Claire Polosak, an Australian umpire, has become the first-ever woman match official of a men’s Test match.
75. Late Shri K K Ramachandran, a veteran Congress leader, was a former minister of which state cabinet?
Answer: Kerala
Veteran Congress leader and former state minister of Kerala, KK Ramachandran has passed away following a heart attack. He was 84.
76. Raghvendra Singh Chauhan has been appointed as the new Chief Justice of which High Court?
Answer: Uttarakhand
77. When is the World Hindi Day observed globally?
Answer: 10 January
World Hindi Day is celebrated annually on January 10 since 2006 to promote the language at the global stage.
78. Veteran former Foreign minister Madhavsinh Solanki, has passed away. He was the former Chief Minister of which state?
Answer: Gujarat
Veteran Congress leader Madhavsinh Solanki, who served as former External Affairs Minister of India and the Chief Minister of Gujarat, has passed away. He was 93.
79. Who is the Chair of the High-Level Committee (HLC) to commemorate the year-long celebration of the 125th Birth Anniversary of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose?
Answer: Narendra Modi
To commemorate the 125th Birth Anniversary of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, a High-Level Committee (HLC) has been constituted. This HLC will be headed by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi.
80. What was the theme of the Virtual International Akhand Conference ‘EDUCON 2020’?
Answer: Envisioning Education for Transforming Youth to Restore Global Peace
The Union Education Minister Shri Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ inaugurated the Virtual International Akhand Conference ‘EDUCON 2020’ through video conferencing on January 7, 2021. The focal theme of EDUCON-2020 was Envisioning Education for Transforming Youth to Restore Global Peace.
81. The Government of India celebrates the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas on which day annually?
Answer: 9 January
The Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (Non-Resident Indian Day) is observed by the Republic of India on 9 January to mark the favours and contributions made by Non-Resident Indians towards the welfare and development of the nation.
82. What is the term of the MoU signed between IREDA and NHPC to provide technical assistance for green energy projects?
Answer: 5 years
The Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency Ltd. (IREDA), under the administrative control of the Ministry of New & Renewable Energy (MNRE), has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with NHPC Ltd., the PSU under the Ministry of Power. IREDA will assist NHPC in developing an action plan to create and acquire Renewable Energy projects for the next 5 years.
83. Shaurya Salary Account is a new product launched by which bank for the defence personnel?
Answer: Bandhan Bank
Private lender Bandhan Bank has launched ‘Bandhan Bank Shaurya Salary Account’ to provide banking and financial services to the personnel of the Armed Forces and Paramilitary services.
84. The mobile app ‘Satark Nagrik’ and Departmental Vigilance Officers (DVO) Portal has been launched by which state for easy grievance redressal?
Answer: Jammu & Kashmir
Jammu & Kashmir Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha, launched Mobile Application ‘Satark Nagrik’ and Departmental Vigilance Officers (DVO) Portal of J&K Anti Corruption Bureau (ACB) recently.
85. Faustin-Archange Touadera has recently been reelected as the President of which country?
Answer: Central African Republic
Faustin-Archange Touadera has been reelected as the President of the Central African Republic.
86. The Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention 2021 is which edition of the programme?
Answer: 16th
The 16th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention has been organized on 9th January 2021 in virtual format, in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic. The theme of the 16th PBD Convention 2021 is “Contributing to Aatmanirbhar Bharat”.
87. National Youth Day is observed every year on_________
Answer: 12 January
National Youth Day is celebrated in India every year on 12 January to commemorate the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda.
88. What is the projected GDP of India as per ICRA for fiscal 2021-22?
Answer: 10.1%
Domestic rating agency Icra Ratings expects the real gross domestic product (GDP) of India to grow by 10.1% in the financial year 2021-22 (FY2022).
89. The Coastal Research Vessel ‘Sagar Avneshika’ has recently been inaugurated by Dr Harsh Vardhan at which port?
Answer: Chennai Port Trust
The Union Science and Technology Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan launched the state-of-the-art vessel ‘Sagar Avneshika’ on 9 January 2021, at Chennai Port Trust in Chennai.
90. Which country is the focus country of the 51st International Film Festival of India (IFFI)?
Answer: Bangladesh
Bangladesh has been chosen as the ‘Country in Focus’ for the 51st International Film Festival of India (IFFI).
91. Name the coffee table book on PM Modi, launched during the occasion of 2021 Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD)?
Answer: Modi India Calling – 2021
A coffee table book titled “Modi India Calling – 2021” was released on the eve of the 16th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) on 8 January 2021. The book was released by Delhi BJP president Adesh Gupta. The 450-page book is filled with hundreds of photographs of Prime Minister Narendra Modi from his “107 overseas and bilateral visits”.
92. Who has been chosen as the official representative of BCCI for the ICC Board meeting?
Answer: Jay Shah
Jay Shah has been named as the official representative of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) for the International Cricket Council (ICC) Board meetings.
93. The Kolkata International Film Festival (KIFF) 2021 has been organised from January 8 to 15, 2021. The event is which edition of the annual programme?
Answer: 26
The 26th Kolkata International Film Festival (KIFF) was inaugurated by the West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on 8 January 2021, through a virtual platform.
94. What was the profession of Sri Turlapati Kutumba Rao who has passed away recently?
Answer: Journalist
Veteran journalist and orator (public speaker) Sri Turlapati Kutumba Rao has passed away. He was 89 years old. Rao is known for his service to journalism in the Telugu language.
95. Which country has committed an Official Development Assistance loan of Rs 2,113 crore to support India’s
COVID-19 relief efforts?
Answer: Japan
The Government of Japan has committed an Official Development Assistance loan of 30 billion Japanese Yen (approx Rs 2,113 crore) for a programme loan to support India’s COVID-19 relief efforts.
96. The National Road Safety Month 2021 will be organised by the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways from______
Answer: January 18 to February 17
The Ministry of Road Transport & Highways observes the National Road Safety Week every year in the second week of January. However, in 2021, Government has decided to observe National Road Safety Month instead of National Road Safety Week. Accordingly, the National Road Safety Month will be observed from 18th January, 2021′ to 17th February’ 2021.
97. The Indian coastal defence exercise ‘Sea Vigil-21’ was conducted by the Indian Navy recently. It was which edition of the maritime exercise?
Answer: Second
The second edition of the biennial pan-India coastal defence exercise ‘Sea Vigil-21’ has been organised on 12-13 January 2021 by the Indian Navy.
98. Who has been appointed as the head of the empowered committee formed by the Centre to administer the
Covid-19 vaccine?
Answer: R. S. Sharma
The Union government has formed an empowered committee for the administration of the Covid-19 vaccine. The committee formation has come days ahead of the mega vaccination drive which is to start in India on 16 January 2021. This ten-member team will be headed by RS Sharma, former TRAI chief and will include top health
ministry and UIDAI officials as other members.
99. What is the rank of India in the Henley Passport Index 2021?
Answer: 85
India has been ranked 85th among 110 countries, in the Henley Passport Index for 2021, with a visa-free score of 58.
100. The India-Vietnam Defence Security Dialogue 2021 was co-chaired by Defence Secretary Dr Ajay Kumar with his Vietnamese counterpart. The Dialogue was which edition of the annual event?
Answer: 13
The 13th India-Vietnam Defence Security Dialogue was held on 12 January 2021 in virtual format. The virtual event was co-chaired by Defence Secretary Dr Ajay Kumar along with Vietnamese Sr Lt Gen Nguyen Chi Vinh, Deputy Defence Minister, Socialist Republic of Vietnam.
101. Who is the author of the book “The Population Myth: Islam, Family Planning and Politics in India”?
Answer: S Y Quraishi
Former chief election commissioner (CEC) S Y Quraishi has come out with his book titled “The Population Myth: Islam, Family Planning and Politics in India”. The book will hit the stands on February 15, 2021. It has been published by HarperCollins India.
102. Which country was the host of the ‘One Planet Summit’ 2021, held in collaboration with the UN and WorldBank?
Answer: France
The Government of France organised the fourth ‘One Planet Summit on 11 January 2021, through videoconferencing, which aimed at protecting the world’s biodiversity. The theme of the Summit was “Let’s act together for nature!” The Summit was organised in cooperation with the United Nations and the World Bank.
103. RBI has cancelled the licence of Vasantdada Nagari Sahakari Bank Ltd. The bank was based in which state?
Answer: Maharashtra
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has cancelled the licence of Vasantdada Nagari Sahakari Bank Ltd [headquarter Osmanabad,
Maharashtra], with immediate effect. Vasantdada Nagari Sahakari Bank Ltd will now not be allowed to conduct the business of ‘banking’, including acceptance of deposits and repayment of deposits, with effect from the close of business on January11, 2021.
104. Neil Sheehan, a renowned journalist and author has passed away. He was from which country?
Answer: United States
A veteran American reporter and Pulitzer Prize-winning author, Neil Sheehan, has passed away.
105. Which country has topped the Henley Passport Index 2021?
Answer: Japan
Japan has once again topped the list of being the most powerful passport in the world, for a third consecutive year. Japanese citizens can travel to as many as 191 countries visa-free.
106. What is the projected GDP rate of India as per the latest report of Nomura for fiscal 2020-21?
Answer: -6.7 per cent
The Japanese brokerage Nomura has revised upward, the GDP forecast for India in 2020-21 and now expects it to contract to 6.7 per cent.
107. RBI has formed a working group to study digital lending activities to stop the growing frauds in the sector. Who will head this committee?
Answer: Jayant Kumar Dash
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has set up a working group to study the digital lending activities of the regulated and unregulated players, due to the growing instances of frauds in the digital lending space. Jayant Kumar Dash, Executive Director, RBI (Chairman)
108. India’s first ‘Fire Park’ has been inaugurated in which city to educate and bring awareness on basic fire safety measures among people?
Answer: Bhubaneswar
The Chief Minister of Odisha, Naveen Patnaik virtually inaugurated a first of its kind ‘Fire Park’, to educate and bring awareness on basic fire safety measures among the people, particularly the students. The ‘Fire Park’ is located inside the premises of the Odisha Fire and Disaster Academy in Bhubaneswar.
109. What is the new GDP growth rate projection of the Indian economy for the financial year 2020-21 according to the latest report of the UBS Investment Bank?
Answer: -7.5%
Swiss brokerage major UBS Investment Bank has projected the Indian economy to contract 7.5 per cent in the current fiscal FY21, ending March 2021.
110. IRDAI has constituted an expert panel to examine the availability of health insurance products in the country. Who is the head of this committee?
Answer: Subhash Chandra Khuntia
Insurance regulator IRDAI has set up a panel of experts called ‘Health Insurance Advisory Committee to examine the availability of health insurance products in the country, considering the need of the Indian society and recommend suitable products and processes. The expert committee will be headed by IRDAI Chairperson, Subhash Chandra Khuntia
111. When is the Armed Forces Veterans Day observed?
Answer: 14 January
In India, the Armed Forces Veterans Day is observed each year on 14 January since 2017 to acknowledge and honour the selfless devotion and sacrifice of our veterans in the service of the nation.
112. BofA Securities has revised its GDP growth prospect of India and expects the economy at ______ per cent in the current fiscal FY21?
Answer: -6.7%
The BofA Securities expects the GDP growth of India for the current financial year 2020-21 to contract by 6.7 per cent.
113. The book titled “Making of a General-A Himalayan Echo” is a memoir of which Indian Army officer?
Answer: Konsam Himalay Singh
Manipur Governor Dr Najma Heptulla released a book titled “Making of a General-A Himalayan Echo” virtually on January 8, 2021. The book has been authored by (Retd) Lt General Konsam Himalay Singh
114. D Prakash Rao, who has passed away recently was a recipient of Padma Shri honour for contribution in which field?
Answer: Social Activity
Noted social activist and Padma Shri winner, D Prakash Rao has passed away following a brain stroke. He was 63. Rao was basically a tea seller based in Cuttack, who spent his entire earning to educate slum children, through the school ‘Asha O Ashwasana’, which he started in 2000.
115. UBS has estimated the GDP of India at ________ percent for FY22 (2021-22)
Answer: 11.5%
UBS further expects the economy to rebound at 11.5 per cent in FY22. For FY23, GDP growth is expected to stabilise at 6 per cent.
116. The GDP of the Indian economy is projected at _______ per cent for FY22 according to Nomura
Answer: 13.5%
Nomura has projected the GDP of India to rise to 13.5 per cent in FY22 (2021-22).
117. When is the Indian Army Day observed?
Answer: 15 January
The Army Day in India is celebrated on 15 January every year, to salute the valiant soldiers who sacrificed their lives to protect the country and its citizens.
118. What is the projected growth rate of the Indian economy for 2020-21 as per the Fitch Ratings?
Answer: -9.4%
The Fitch Ratings expect the gross domestic product (GDP) of India to contract by 9.4 per cent in FY21 (April 2020 to March 2021).
119. Tesla Inc. has registered its first fully-owned subsidiary in which city of India?
Answer: Bengaluru
Elon Musk-owned electric vehicle (EV) company Tesla has registered a fully-owned subsidiary in Bengaluru. The company will be called ‘Tesla India Motors and Energy Private Limited.
120. Name the President of the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) who has resigned from the post recently?
Answer: Dushyant A. Dave
The Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) President Dushyant A. Dave has resigned from his post with immediate effect on 14 January 2021.
121. Sadyr Japarov has been elected as the President of which country?
Answer: Kyrgyzstan
Sadyr Japarov has won Kyrgyzstan’s presidential election by a landslide victory. The 52-year-old won 79% of the total votes cast.
122. Indian Army has recently inked a USD 20 million deal with ideaForge to buy which of these UAVs?
Answer: SWITCH
The Indian Army has recently signed a contract with Mumbai-based drone manufacturing company, ideaForge, to procure a high-altitude variant of SWITCH unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The total cost of the deal is approximately USD 20 million
123. In 2021, the Indian Army is observing which edition of the Army day of India?
Answer: 73rd
2021 marks the 73rd Indian Army Day.
124. Fitch Ratings has projected the GDP of India to grow at _______________ percent in FY22
Answer: 11%
Fitch further projects the GDP to expand by 11 per cent in FY22 (April 2021 to March 2022).
125. Where is the headquarter of Tesla Inc located?
Answer: California, United States
Tesla headquarter – California, United States
126. If Bishkek is the capital of Kyrgyzstan, then what is the currency of the country?
Answer: som
Kyrgyzstan Capital: Bishkek; Currency: Kyrgyzstani som
127. Name India’s first-ever indigenously developed 9mm Machine Pistol, by the DRDO and Indian Army?
Answer: Asmi
The DRDO and Indian Army have jointly developed India’s first indigenous 9mm Machine Pistol, which has been named “Asmi”, which means “Pride”, “Self-Respect” & “Hard Work”.
128. The India Post Payments Bank (IPPB) has partnered with which digital payments company to promote financial inclusion among underserved and unbanked segments of the country?
Answer: Financial Software and Systems
The India Post Payments Bank (IPPB) has partnered with Financial Software and Systems (FSS), to promote financial inclusion among underserved and unbanked segments.
129. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has unveiled India’s first ‘Driverless Metro Car’ for which city?
Answer: Mumbai
Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh unveiled India’s first ‘Driverless Metro Car’ on 15 January 2021 during a function held at BEML’s Bangalore Complex The indigenously designed & developed state-of-the-art Driverless Metro trains are being manufactured at the BEML Bangaluru manufacturing facility, for Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA).
130. The Government of India has partnered with which country for cooperation in the field of Information and Communications Technologies (ICT)?
Answer: Japan
India and Japan have signed an MoU to enhance cooperation in the field of Information and Communications Technologies (ICT) via videoconferencing on 15 January 2021.
131. The inaugural two-day ‘Prarambh’, Startup India International Summit has been organised in which city?
Answer: New Delhi
The Union Minister of Railways, Commerce and Industry, Consumer Affairs and Food and Public Distribution Shri Piyush Goyal inaugurated the two-day ‘Prarambh’, Startup India International Summit in New Delhi on 15 January 2021. The Summit has been organized by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), under M/o Commerce & Industry. The inaugural event was participated by the members of BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation) countries.
132. What is the total outlay for the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana 3.0, launched by the Government for 2020-21?
Answer: Rs 948.90 crore
The Government of India launched the third phase of Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana on 15 January 2021, an outlay of Rs 948.90 crore. The scheme has been rolled out for the current financial year, ending March 2021, and will be implemented by the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship.
133. For the first time in over five decades, no foreign Government will visit India as the Chief Guest for the Republic Day parade on January 26, 2021. In 2021, we are celebrating ______ Republic Day of the country
Answer: 72nd January 26th,
2021 is the 72nd Republic Day of India
134. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has recently launched ‘Startup India Seed Fund’. What is the total size of the fund?
Answer: Rs 1,000 crore
Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched Rs 1,000-crore ‘Startup India Seed Fund’
135. Who among the following has been appointed as the Vice-Chairs of the 2021 Global Board of Directors of US-India Business Council (USIBC)?
A) Azim Premji
B) Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw
C) Shiv Nadar
D) Dilip Shanghvi
Answer: Option B
The US-India Business Council (USIBC) has selected three top corporate leaders as the Vice-Chairs of the 2021 Global Board of Directors of USIBC with immediate effect on 14 January 2021. The three newly appointed VCs are Biocon Executive Chairperson Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, Amway CEO Milind Pant and Vice-chair at Nasdaq, Edward Knight
136. Which Ministry has organised the month-long mass awareness campaign titled ‘SAKSHAM’?
Answer: Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas
The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has launched a month-long mass awareness campaign titled ‘SAKSHAM’ to spread awareness about green and clean energy. The campaign has been
organised by the Petroleum Conservation Research Association (PCRA), to motivate consumers to switch to cleaner fuels and bring in behavioural change to use fossil fuel intelligently. SAKSHAM stands for Sanrakshan Kshamata Mahotsav.
137. Which bank has partnered with Aditya Birla Wellness Private Limited to launch Wellness themed credit cards?
Answer: Yes Bank
Private sector lender YES BANK has launched ‘YES BANK Wellness’ and ‘YES BANK Wellness Plus’ credit cards in partnership with Aditya Birla Wellness Private Limited, for holistic health, self-care and wellness of consumers.
138. Name the newly appointed President of the UN Human Rights Council for 2021?
Answer: Nazhat Shameem Khan
Nazhat Shameem Khan, the Permanent Representative of Fiji to the United Nations Office at Geneva, has been elected by the UN Human Rights Council as its President for 2021.
139. Recently the Google Doodle honoured Dr James Naismith. He was associated with the invention of which game?
Answer: Basketball
On January 15, 2021, Google Doodle honoured the illustrious legacy of Dr James Naismith, the inventor of the game of Basketball.
140. Name the player to clinch the women’s singles title at the Yonex Thailand Open Super 1000 badminton tournament 2021
Answer: Carolina Marin
Women’s Single – Carolina Marin of Spain
141. How many trains were flagged off by PM Modi recently from different locations for the Kevadiya station in Gujarat to connect them with the Statue of Unity?
Answer: 8
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi flagged off eight trains connecting the Statue of Unity in Kevadiya, Gujarat with different regions of the country, on January 17, 2021, through video conferencing. PM Modi informed that it was the first time in history that so many trains from different locations were flagged off for a common destination. The eight trains flagged off will connect Kevadiya with Varanasi, Dadar, Ahmedabad, Hazrat Nizamuddin, Rewa, Chennai, and Pratapnagar.
142. Yoweri Museveni has won the sixth term as the President of which country after winning the 2021 presidential election?
Answer: Uganda
Uganda’s incumbent President Yoweri Museveni has been declared as the winner of the country’s presidential election for 2021. Museveni secured 58.64 per cent of the total votes cast, to win the sixth term as the President.
143. The National Road Safety Month 2021 is which edition of the month-long programme?
Answer: 1st
The first-ever National Road Safety Month was inaugurated by Union Minister for Defence Shri Rajnath Singh and Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways & MSME Shri Nitin Gadkari on 18 January 2021.
144. The inaugural edition of the Khelo India Zanskar Winter Sport & Youth Festival 2021 has been organised in which place?
Answer: Ladakh
In Ladakh, the inaugural edition of the 13-day Khelo India Zanskar Winter Sport & Youth Festival 2021 kicked off on 18th January 2021.
145. Name the winner of the Yonex Thailand Open Super 1000 badminton tournament 2021 men’s singles title
Answer: Viktor Axelsen
Men’s Single – Viktor Axelsen of Denmark
146. The Padma award winner Ustad Ghulam Mustafa Khan has passed away. He was honoured for his contribution to________
Answer: Indian classical music
Legendary Indian classical musician, Ustad Ghulam Mustafa Khan has passed away. He was 90 years old.
147. India has signed a Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) with which country to promote the movement of skilled workers from India to that country?
Answer: Japan
On 18 January 2021, India and Japan signed a Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) a Basic Framework for Partnership for Proper Operation of the System Pertaining to Specified Skilled Worker (SSW), to promote the movement of skilled workers from India to Japan.
148. Which state has unveiled the ‘One School One IAS’ program to provide free coaching for UPSC Civil Services/ IAS Exams for economically poor meritorious students?
Answer: Kerala
The Governor of Kerala, Arif Mohammad Khan officially launched the ‘One School One IAS’ program recently which aims to provide free coaching for UPSC Civil Services/ IAS Exams for poor meritorious students.
149. Kamal Morarka, who has passed away recently was related to which field?
Answer: Politics
Former Union minister and noted industrialist Kamal Morarka has passed away following a brief illness. He was 74. Morarka served as the Minister of State in Prime Minister’s Office under Prime Minister Chandra Shekhar from 1990 to 1991.
150. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) observed its ________ Raising Day on 19 January 2021
Answer: 16th
The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) celebrates its Raising Day every year on January 19, since it came into existence on January 19, 2006. In 2021, the NDRF is observing its 16th Raising Day.
151. Name the zoo which has recently been renamed by the Maharashtra Government after Balasaheb Thackeray?
Answer: Gorewada International Zoo
The Government of Maharashtra has renamed Gorewada International Zoo in Nagpur as ”Balasaheb Thackeray Gorewada International Zoological Park”
152. Who has been appointed as the new Chairman of the Shree Somnath Trust (SST), which manages the historic Somnath Temple in Gujarat?
Answer: Narendra Modi
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has been appointed as the new chairman of the Shree Somnath Trust (SST), the religious body which manages and maintains the famous Somnath Temple, situated near Veravalat at Prabhas Patan town of Gir-Somnath district in Gujarat.
153. Mark Rutte has resigned as the Prime Minister of which country, along with his entire cabinet?
Answer: Netherlands
The Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte and his entire Cabinet has resigned recently over the childcare subsidies scandal, in which thousands of families were wrongly accused of child welfare fraud.
154. The Government of India has planned to enter into a deal with which country to procure 21 MiG-29 and 12 Sukhoi-30MKI fighter aircraft for the Indian Air Force?
Answer: Russia
The Government of India is set to procure 21 MiG-29 and 12 Sukhoi-30MKI fighter aircraft from Russia.
155. The Central Government has decided to observe ‘Parakram Diwas’ every year, beginning 2021, on the birthday of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. When is the day observed?
Answer: 23rd January
The Government of India has decided to celebrate the birthday of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, which falls on January 23 as ‘Parakram Diwas’ from now on every year.
156. Vishwavir Ahuja has recently been re-appointed as the MD & CEO of which bank?
Answer: RBL Bank
Vishwavir Ahuja has been re-appointed as the Managing Director (MD) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Private sector lender, RBL Bank. Ahuja has been appointed for a period of three years, with effect from June 30, 2021, to June 29, 2024.
157. What was the profession of the Padma award winner V Shanta, who has passed away recently?
Answer: Oncologist
Renowned oncologist Dr V Shanta has passed away, following chest pain. She was 93. Dr Shanta was the chairperson of Adyar Cancer Institute in Chennai.
158. The first-ever Labour Movement Museum is set to be established in which city of India?
Answer: Alappuzha
The first-of-its-kind Labour Movement Museum, in India, would be launched in Alappuzha in Kerala, to showcase the history of a world labour movement.
159. Which state recently organised its first-ever bird festival ‘Kalrav’ at the Nagi-Nakti bird sanctuary?
Answer: Bihar
The Chief Minister of Bihar Nitish Kumar inaugurated the first-ever bird festival of the state, ‘Kalrav’, at NagiNakti bird sanctuary, located in the Jamui district.
160. Which state has topped the India Innovation Index 2021 released by NITI Aayog recently in the Major States category?
Answer: Karnataka
In the ‘Major States’ category, Karnataka occupied the top position, followed by Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu respectively.
161. Name the first woman fighter pilot, who is to take part in the Republic Day parade on 26 January 2021
Answer: Bhawana Kanth
Flight lieutenant Bhawana Kanth, who is one of the first women fighter pilots to be inducted into the IAF, will create a historic moment when she will become the first woman fighter pilot to take part in the Republic Day parade on 26 January 2021.
162. Who has been given the additional charge of the Ministry of AYUSH, in place of Shripad Yesso Naik, who has recently met with an accident?
Answer: Kiren Rijiju
The Minister of State for Youth Affairs & Sports (Independent Charge) and Minister of State, Minority Affairs, Kiren Rijiju, has been given the additional charge of the Ministry of AYUSH.
163. Which bank has launched the mobile app ‘InstaFX’ for authorised money changers, to help customers of any bank get the banks ‘Forex Prepaid Card’ swiftly?
Answer: ICICI Bank
ICICI Bank has launched a new mobile application ‘InstaFX’ for authorised money changers, on January 20, to help customers of any bank get ‘ICICI Bank Forex Prepaid Card’ swiftly. ICICI is the bank that is the first in the country to offer such a facility to money changers.
164. Which state/UT has emerged on top in the NITI Aayog’s India Innovation Index 2021?
Answer: Delhi
In UT and city-states category, Delhi topped followed by Chandigarh.
164. The India Digital Summit 2021 organised by the Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI), was which edition of the annual digital Summit?
Answer: 15th
The two-days India Digital Summit 2021, was organised on January 19 and 20, 2021. 2021 marked the 15th edition of the annual Summit, inaugurated by the honourable Chief Guest Union Minister for Communications, Electronics & IT and Law & Justice, Shri Ravi Shankar Prasad. The theme of the 2021 Summit was ‘Aatmanirbhar
Bharat – Start of New Decade’ India Digital Summit is the flagship event of the Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI).
166. Name the bike-based casualty transport emergency vehicle launched by DRDO for CRPF?
Answer: RAKSHITA
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has launched a bike-based casualty transport emergency vehicle, ’RAKSHITA’ for the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF). The specially designed bike has been developed by the DRDO’s Delhi-based laboratory, the Institute of Nuclear Medicine and Allied Sciences (INMAS).
167. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has recently signed ‘Implementing Agreement on Submarine Rescue Support and Cooperation’ with which country during the Defence Ministers’ Dialogue (DMD) between the two nations?
Answer: Singapore
The 5th edition of the Defence Ministers’ Dialogue (DMD) between India and Singapore was successfully held on 20 January 2021 through a video conference, in an effort to deepen military cooperation. During the meeting, the ‘Implementing Agreement on Submarine Rescue Support and Cooperation’ was signed between the two Navies.
168. Who is the author of the book ‘Manohar Parrikar – Off the Record’?
Answer: Waman Subha Prabhu
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant recently released a book titled ‘Manohar Parrikar – Off the Record’, written by senior journalist Shri Waman Subha Prabhu.
169. Name the state which has topped the India Innovation Index 2021, under the North Eastern/Hill States category?
Answer: Himachal Pradesh
Under the ‘North-Eastern/Hill States’ category, Himachal Pradesh emerged as the top state.
170. The Centre has recently approved the 850 megawatts (MW) Ratle hydropower project in which of these states?
Answer: Jammu and Kashmir
The Union Cabinet has approved an 850 megawatts (MW) Ratle hydropower project worth an Rs. 5281.94 crore on Chenab river in Kishtwar district of Jammu and Kashmir.
171. Indian Railways has renamed the Howrah-Kalka Mail as__________?
Answer: Netaji Express
Indian Railways has renamed the Howrah-Kalka Mail as ‘Netaji Express’, in a tribute to freedom fighter Subhas Chandra Bose who is also known as ‘Netaji’.
172. The Indian Air Force has organised the ‘Ex-Desert Knight 21’ with the navies of which country?
Answer: France
The five-day-long Indo-France bilateral Air exercise ‘Ex-Desert Knight 21’ kicked off on 20 January 2021. It will continue till 24 January 2021.
173. Which bank has launched the AURA Credit Card, loaded with health and wellness benefits?
Answer: Axis Bank
Private sector lender Axis Bank has unveiled a credit ‘AURA’ exclusively loaded with several health and wellness benefits for its users at an affordable price.
174. Joe Biden has been sworn in as the _______ President of United States
Answer: 46
Joseph Robinette Biden Jr., famous as Joe Biden, has been sworn in as the 46th president of the United States.
175. Siddhartha Mohanty has recently been elected as the managing director (MD) of which company?
Answer: LIC
The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has approved the appointment of Siddhartha Mohanty as the new managing director (MD) of Life Insurance Corporation (LIC). He will assume charge with effect from February 1, 2021, till his superannuation on June 30, 2023.
176. Mata Prasad, who recently died at the age of 95, was the former Governor of which state?
Answer: Arunachal Pradesh
Former Governor of Arunachal Pradesh and senior Congress leader Mata Prasad has passed away. He was 95.
177. Name the safe pay gateway launched by the Airtel Payments Bank, as an additional safety feature for its users transacting through UPI or other online modes to protect them from online fraud?
Answer: Airtel Safe Pay
Gurugram-based Airtel Payments Bank has launched a safe mode of pay gateway called ‘Airtel Safe Pay’, to protect Airtel customers from the growing incidents of online payment frauds. The Airtel Safe Pay will prevent online frauds when customers transact through UPI (unified payment interface) or net banking using the Airtel Payments Bank.
178. What was the profession of Unnikrishnan Namboothiri, who has passed away?
Answer: Actor
Veteran Malayalam actor Unnikrishnan Namboothiri has passed away while contracting COVID-19. He was 98.
179. The bilateral Air exercise ‘Ex-Desert Knight 21’ is being held in which state?
Answer: Rajasthan
The exercise is being conducted between the Indian Air Force and French Air and Space Force in Jodhpur, Rajasthan.
180. Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, a Congress leader has passed away. He was an MLA from which state?
Answer: Rajasthan
Rajasthan Congress MLA from Vallabhnagar in Udaipur district, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, has passed away after a prolonged illness.
181. Kamala Harris is the first women and even the first black person to be sworn in as the Vice-President of the US. She has been elected as the _________ VP of the country
Answer: 49
Kamala Harris took oath as 49th Vice President of the country, becoming the first women to hold the post in the history of the United States.
182. Which among these banks is not included in the domestic systemically important banks (D-SIBs) list of RBI?
A) SBI
B) Punjab National Bank
C) ICICI Bank
D) HDFC Bank
Answer: Option B
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has retained the State Bank of India, ICICI Bank and HDFC Bank as domestic systemically important banks (D-SIBs) or banks that are considered as “too big to fail”.
183. The 16th edition of the Global Risks Report was released recently. The report is released annually by which organisation?
Answer: World Economic Forum (WEF)
The World Economic Forum (WEF) recently released the 16th edition of the Global Risks Report, since its inception in 2006.
184. DRDO recently tested the Smart Anti-Airfield Weapon (SAAW) from Hawk-I aircraft. The aircraft has been developed by which company?
Answer: Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)
The DRDO successfully conducted a captive and release trial of indigenously developed Smart Anti-Airfield Weapon (SAAW) from Hawk-I aircraft of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) off the Odisha coast on 21 January 2021. The 125 Kg class smart weapon SAAW was successfully test-fired from Indian Hawk-Mk132 of HAL.
185. Name the National Migration Support Portal launched by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs to formulate state and national level programs for migrant workers?
Answer: Shram Shakti
The Union Minister of Tribal Affairs Shri Arjun Munda launched a National Migration Support Portal “ShramShakti”, during a virtual programme organised at Panjim, Goa, on 22 January 2021. The portal will help the government in the smooth formulation of state and national level programs for migrant workers.
186. Exercise Kavach is a large scale tri-services Joint Military exercise, which is being organised by which command of the Indian military force?
Answer: Andaman and Nicobar Command
Andaman and Nicobar Command (ANC), the only Joint Forces Command of India, will conduct a large scale Joint Military exercise ‘Exercise Kavach’ in the coming week, in the Andaman Sea and Bay of Bengal.
187. Which state has launched the Avolokana software to access data on sanctions and expenditures incurred by the state departments on various programmes?
Answer: Karnataka
The Chief Minister of Karnataka, B. S. Yediyurappa has launched a software called ‘Avolokana’ that will enable the state government to access data on sanctions and expenditures incurred by the state departments on various programmes implemented by them.
188. The new 4-lane Thaltej-Shilaj-Rancharda railway overbridge has been inaugurated in which city recently?
Answer: Ahmedabad
On 21, January 2021, the Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah inaugurated the new 4-lane Thaltej-ShilajRancharda railway
overbridge in Ahmedabad city of Gujarat through video conferencing.
189. The 7th edition of ‘MASCRADE 2021 – Movement against Smuggled & Counterfeit Trade’ was inaugurated by Dr Harsh Vardhan recently. The programme was organised by which body?
Answer: FICCI
The 7th edition of ‘MASCRADE 2021 – Movement against Smuggled & Counterfeit Trade’ was inaugurated by Dr Harsh Vardhan, the Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare, on 21 January 2021. The two-day programme was organized by FICCI CASCADE (Committee Against Smuggling and Counterfeiting Activities Destroying the Economy), to combat illicit trade, especially in a post COVID era.
190. Narendra Chanchal, who has passed away recently was a renowned ___________
Answer: Bhajan singer
The iconic Indian Bhajan singer Narendra Chanchal, who specialized in religious songs and hymns, has passed away. He was 80.
191. India’s longest road arch bridge “Wahrew Bridge” has been launched in which state?
Answer: Meghalaya
Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma inaugurated India’s longest road arch bridge “Wahrew Bridge” at Sohbar in the East Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya on 22 January 2021.
192. The 2021 Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar (PMRBP) has been conferred upon how many students?
Answer: 32
The Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar (PMRBP) for the year 2021 has been conferred to 32 children, hailing from 32 districts of 21 States/UTs.
193. India observes National Voters’ Day annually on____________
Answer: 25 January
India observes “National Voters’ Day” every year on January 25 to encourage more young voters to take part in the political process. 2021 marks the 11th National Voters’ Day (NVD).
194. The BSF has launched the “Operation Sard Hawa” on the international borders of which state to keep a check on instances of infiltration due to the dense fog cover in the area?
Answer: Rajasthan
The Border Security Force (BSF) has launched “Operation Sard Hawa” on the western international border of Rajasthan.
195. Which state has launched the ‘Udyam Sarathi App’ to provide employment-related data for youths?
Answer: Uttar Pradesh
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath launched the ‘Udyam Sarathi App’ on the occasion of the Foundation Day of the state, on 24 January 2021.
196. Which country has emerged as the world’s topmost country with the largest current account surplus in the year 2020 as per a survey by the Munich-based Ifo institute?
Answer: China
China overtook Germany to become the country with the world’s largest current account surplus in the year 2020, as per a survey by the Munich-based Ifo institute.
197. Which day is marked as the National Tourism Day in India every year?
Answer: 25 January
Every year, January 25 is celebrated as National Tourism Day in India.
198. Khurelsukh Ukhnaa has recently resigned as the prime minister of which country?
Answer: Mongolia
The Prime Minister of Mongolia, Khurelsukh Ukhnaa, has resigned along with his entire government, following protests and public outrage over the government’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic.
199. National Girl Child Day (NGCD) is celebrated on __________ by the Government of India
Answer: 24 January
In India, the National Girl Child Day (NGCD) is observed annually on January 24 since 2008.
200. Which team has won the 2021 National Ice Hockey Championship trophy organised by the Ice Hockey Association of India (IHAI)?
Answer: Indo-Tibetan Border Police
The Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) has won the 10th National Ice Hockey Championship trophy, by defeating team Ladakh with the scoreline (goals) 5-1. The National Ice Hockey Championship was organised by the Ice Hockey Association of India (IHAI)
201. Noted historian Narendra Luther has passed away. He was associated with the history of which city?
Answer: Hyderabad
Noted historian, author, poet and retired bureaucrat Narendra Luther has passed. He was 88 A 1955 batch IAS officer, Luther was closely associated with the history and culture of erstwhile Hyderabad state and its rulers.
202. The Government of India has declared to observe the birth anniversary of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose every year on 23rd January as _________
Answer: Parakram Diwas
The inaugural edition of the `Parakram Diwas`is being celebrated on 23 January 2021 all over India. The day has been declared by the Modi Government on the occasion of the 125th birth anniversary of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose.
203. Larry King, the iconic television and radio host has passed away. He was from which country?
Answer: United States
The iconic American radio and television host, and paid spokesman, Larry King, has passed away. He was 87.
204. What is the theme of the National Voters’ Day 2021?
Answer: Making Our Voters Empowered, Vigilant, Safe and Informed
The theme of NVD 2021 is, ‘Making Our Voters Empowered, Vigilant, Safe and Informed’.
205. Uttar Pradesh is celebrating its __________Foundation Day on 24 January 2021.
Answer: 71
The 71st Uttar Pradesh Day celebration will run from 24 January to 26 January 2021. The theme of Uttar Pradesh Day 2021 is ‘Respect for self-reliant Uttar Pradesh, women young farmers, development of all’.
206. The Election Commission of India (ECI) was established in which year?
Answer: 1950
The Election Commission of India (ECI) was established on 25th January 1950.
207. What is the rank of India in the Global Climate Risk Index 2021?
Answer: 7
India has been placed among the top 10 most affected countries by climate change, in the Global Climate Risk Index 2021 published by the Bonn-based environmental think tank Germanwatch. India ranked as the seventh worst-hit country in terms of climate change in 2019.
208. Name the first-ever state of India to have two expressway airstrips?
Answer: Uttar Pradesh
In Uttar Pradesh, a new 3,300-metre-long airstrip has been constructed near Kurebhar on Purvanchal Expressway. With this new airstrip, Uttar Pradesh has become the first state in India to have two airstrips on expressways. Uttar Pradesh also has an airstrip on Lucknow-Agra Expressway.
209. In 2021, India is observing which edition of Republic Day?
Answer: 72
India is observing the 72nd Republic Day on 26 January 2021, with celebrations at the majestic Rajpath in New Delhi.
210. The International Customs Day (ICD) is celebrated on which day?
Answer: 26 January
The International Customs Day (ICD) is observed on 26 January every year. Theme 2021: “Customs bolstering Recovery, Renewal and Resilience”.
211. Which state has launched the scheme ‘PANKH Abhiyan’ for girls empowerment?
Answer: Madhya Pradesh
In Madhya Pradesh, Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan launched a new scheme ‘PANKH Abhiyan’ on 24 January, to mark the occasion of National Girl Child Day. The scheme has been launched under the ‘Beti Bachao Beti Padhao’ scheme for the empowerment and growth of the girl child.
212. Which country was the largest recipient of foreign direct investment (FDI) in 2020, as per the report of UNCTAD?
Answer: China
China was the largest recipient of foreign direct investment (FDI) in 2020, according to a report released by United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD). China overtook the United States to gain the top position in 2020. The country attracted $163 billion inflows in 2020, compared to $134 billion attracted by
the United States,
213. The satellite rideshare mission Transporter-1, was launched by which organisation recently launch record-breaking 143 satellites into space in a single mission?
Answer: SpaceX
SpaceX successfully launched its ambitious rideshare mission called Transporter-1, on 24 January 2021, carrying 143 small satellites, and created a new record of launching many satellites from a single rocket. With this launch, SpaceX broke the record set by ISRO in February 2017 for deploying 104 satellites onboard PSLV in a
single mission. SpaceX used a two-stage Falcon 9 rocket for the mission, from the Space Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida.
214. The tri-service joint amphibious exercise AMPHEX – 21 was held in which place?
Answer: Andaman & Nicobar Islands
A large-scale tri-service joint amphibious exercise AMPHEX – 21 was held in the Andaman & Nicobar group of islands from 21 – 25 Jan 2021.
215. Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa has won the second term as the President of which country?
Answer: Portugal
The incumbent President of Portugal, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa has won a second five-year term after winning the 2021 Portuguese presidential election with a landslide victory.
216. When is the International Day of Education observed across the globe?
Answer: 24 January
The International Day of Education is marked every year on 24 January. The theme of the 3rd International Day of Education is ‘Recover and Revitalize Education for the COVID-19 Generation’.
217. Mozambique is the top country in the Global Climate Risk Index 2021, for being the worst-hit country by climate change. The index is released by which organisation?
Answer: Germanwatch
Mozambique, Zimbabwe and Bahamas were the top three most affected countries in 2019 respectively, in the index published by the Bonn-based environmental think tank Germanwatch.
218. As per the latest World Economic Outlook report of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the GDP of India has been projected at what per cent in fiscal 2020-21?
Answer: -8%
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has pegged the Indian economy to contract by 8 per cent in the current financial year 2020-21, and 11.5 per cent in the next financial year i.e. 2021-22. in its latest World Economic Outlook, released on 26 January 2021.
219. How many Padma awards have been announced for 2021?
Answer: 119
The 2021 Padma Award has been conferred upon 119 winners, which includes 7 Padma Vibhushan, 10 Padma Bhushan and 102 Padma Shri Awards.
220. Who has been felicitated with the Indian Personality of the Year Award at the 51st International Film Festival of India (IFFI)?
Answer: Biswajit Chatterjee
Indian Personality of the Year Award – Biswajit Chatterjee
221. What is the projected GDP of India as per the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA) in the Calendar year 2021?
Answer: 7.3%
The Indian economy is estimated to contract by 9.6 per cent in the Calendar year 2020, as per the World Economic Situation and Prospects 2021, produced by the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA). India’s economic growth is forecast to be 7.3 per cent in the Calendar Year 2021 by the UN.
222. When is the International Holocaust Remembrance Day observed globally?
Answer: 27 January
International Day of Commemoration in memory of the victims of the Holocaust (International Holocaust Remembrance Day) is observed on 27 January every year since 2006 to commemorate the anniversary of the tragedy of the Holocaust that occurred during the Second World War.
223. IMF has revised the economic growth rate of the global economy and has now estimated the economy to grow at _________ per cent in 2021
Answer: 5.5%
The IMF projected the global growth to contract at 3.5 per cent in 2020. The global economy is projected to grow 5.5 per cent in 2021 and 4.2 per cent in 2022 as per IMF.
224. DRDO conducted the first-ever test firing of the Akash-NG missile successfully recently. Akash-NG is a new generation ________missile?
Answer: Surface-to-Air
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) conducted a successful maiden launch of the Akash-NG (New Generation) Missile on 25 January 2021 from the Integrated Test Range off the coast of Odisha. Akash-NG is a new generation Surface-to-Air Missile
225. Prasanta Dora, who has passed away recently, was associated with which sports?
Answer: Football
Former Indian National Football team goalkeeper Prasanta Dora has passed away after suffering from a severe systemic inflammatory syndrome called Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH). He was 44.
226. Name the individual who has won the Subhash Chandra Bose Aapda Prabandhan Puraskar 2021?
Answer: Rajendra Kumar Bhandari
The Subhash Chandra Bose Aapda Prabandhan Puraskar 2021 has been conferred upon Dr Rajendra Kumar Bhandari in the Individual category.
227. The United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA) has projected the global economy to grow at ________ per cent in 2021
Answer: 4.7 per cent
The global economy is estimated to shrink by 4.3 per cent in 2020. The UN has estimated the Global GDP to recover to 4.7 per cent in 2021.
228. J K Shivan has been named as the new managing director and CEO of which bank?
Answer: Dhanlaxmi Bank
The Board of Directors of Dhanlaxmi Bank have approved the appointment of J K Shivan as the next managing director and CEO of the Bank.
229. Bangladesh was the focus country in IFFI 2021. How many films from that country were included in the ‘country of focus’ section?
Answer: 4
Bangladesh was the country of focus at the festival. Four films of Bangladesh was included in the ‘country of focus’ section.
230. Who has been conferred with the Lifetime Achievement Award at 51st IFFI held in Goa?
Answer: Vittorio Storaro
Lifetime Achievement – Vittorio Storaro (Italian cinematographer)
231. FICCI has projected the GDP of India at ________ per cent in FY21
Answer: -8%
The gross domestic product (GDP) of India is expected to contract by 8 per cent in 2020-21, according to the latest Economic Outlook Survey of FICCI.
232. The Subhash Chandra Bose Aapda Prabandhan Puraskar 2021 in the institutional category has been conferred upon?
Answer: Sustainable Environment and Ecological Development Society (SEEDS)
Sustainable Environment and Ecological Development Society (SEEDS) in Institutional category
233. The tableau of which state has won the first prize in the Republic Day parade 2021?
Answer: Uttar Pradesh
The Ram Temple tableau of Uttar Pradesh that was on display during Republic Day 2021 has bagged the first prize among all tableaux.
234. What is the rank of India in the Corruption Perception Index (CPI) 2020?
Answer: 86
India has been ranked 86th among 180 countries in Corruption Perception Index (CPI) 2020, released by Transparency International (Headquarter – Berlin, Germany) on 28 January 2021.
235. Who among these is not the Managing Director of the State Bank of India (SBI)?
A) Swaminathan Janakiraman
B) C.S. Setty
C) Dinesh Kumar Khara
D) Ashwani Bhatia.
Answer: Option C
The appointments committee (ACC) of the Cabinet has approved the appointment of Swaminathan Janakiraman and Ashwini Kumar Tewari as new Managing Directors (MDs) of the State Bank of India (SBI) for a period of three years. Dinesh Kumar Khara is the current Chairman of the bank. The other two MDs of the bank are C.S. Setty
and Ashwani Bhatia.
236. Kaja Kallas has been appointed as the first-ever female Prime Minister of which country?
Answer: Estonia
Kaja Kallas, the leader of the Reform Party in Estonia has been elected as the new Prime Minister of the country.
237. Who has been appointed as the new Vice-chief of Army Staff to replace incumbent VC Lt General SK Saini?
Answer: Chandi Prasad Mohanty
Lieutenant General Chandi Prasad Mohanty has been appointed as the new Vice-chief of Army staff. He would assume the office on February 1, 2021, from Lt General SK Saini, who is superannuating on 31 January 2021.
238. Name the topmost Indian IT services brand as per the latest ranking of Brand Finance?
Answer: TCS
India’s Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) has been ranked the third most-valued IT services brand globally, according to a report by Brand Finance. The brand value of TCS is recorded at USD 15 billion.
239. How much amount has been pledged by the Government of India for the United Nations Peacebuilding Fund (PBF) for the year 2021?
Answer: USD 150,000
India has announced a pledge of USD 150,000 to the United Nations Peacebuilding Fund (PBF) for the year 2021 to support the activities and programs this year.
240. What is the interest rate on Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana in quarter four of 2020-21 fiscal?
Answer: 7.6%
241. What is the rank of India in the Coronavirus Performance Index released by Lowy Institute recently?
Answer: 86
India has been ranked at 86th position among 98 countries in the new Coronavirus Performance Index released by Australia-based Lowy Institute.
242. The government has recently opened a new bench of the National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT) in which city
Answer: Chennai
Union Minister for Finance Nirmala Sitharaman has inaugurated the new Bench of National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT) at Chennai through virtual mode. The newly constituted Chennai Bench of the NCLAT is the first such bench to be launched outside New Delhi.
243. India has inked an MoU with the International Energy Agency (IEA) called a strategic partnership agreement to strengthen cooperation in global energy security. Where is the headquarter of IEA based?
Answer: Paris
India has inked a strategic partnership agreement with the International Energy Agency (IEA), the world’s premier energy monitor, on 27 January 2021.
244. How many PRAGATI meetings have been chaired by PM Modi to date, since its inception?
Answer: 35
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi chaired the 35th PRAGATI meeting on 27 January 2021 to review multiple projects, grievances and programmes. PRAGATI stands for Pro-Active Governance and Timely Implementation. In the meeting, ten agenda items were taken for review worth Rs. 54,675 crore, related to 15 states.
245. New Zealand and Denmark have jointly secured the first position in the Corruption Perception Index (CPI) 2020. The index is released every year by which organisation?
Answer: Transparency International
New Zealand and Denmark have jointly secured the first position with scores of 88. Somalia and South Sudan rank lowest at 179th position with scores of 12.
246. Which country has topped the Coronavirus Performance Index released by Lowy Institute recently?
Answer: New Zealand
New Zealand, Vietnam and Taiwan are the top three countries respectively in the index.
247. The interest rate on Senior Citizen Savings Scheme for Q4 of FY21 is ___________
Answer: 7.4%
248. The Government of India has approved the ‘Start-up India Seed Fund Scheme’ (SISFS) to fund startups. How much amount has been allocated to the scheme?
Answer: Rs 945 crore
The Central Government has approved the ‘Start-up India Seed Fund Scheme’ (SISFS) on January 29, 2021. Total Corpus: Rs 945 crore
249. When is the World Neglected Tropical Diseases Day (World NTD Day) observed?
Answer: January 30
The second World Neglected Tropical Diseases Day (World NTD Day) is being observed on January 30, 2021, to celebrate the achievements made towards control of the world’s NTDs.
250. The Government of India has inked ‘Year of the Environment’ partnership with which country for the year 2021?
Answer: France
The Union Minister of Environment, Forest & Climate Change Prakash Javadekar launched the Indo-French Year of the Environment, along with Barbara Pompili, the French Minister for Ecological Transition in New Delhi on 28 January 2021. The Indo-French Year of the Environment is the Indo-French partnership on Environment, Biodiversity, Climate Change and other allied areas to be undertaken throughout 2021
251. The mobile app ‘Krishi Sakha’ has been launched by which insurance firm?
Answer: Bharti AXA General Insurance
The Bharti AXA General Insurance has launched a new app called ‘Krishi Sakha’ to help farmers in adopting best farming practices and enhancing productivity through catering to the specific needs of the farmers.
252. What is the validity period of the ‘Start-up India Seed Fund Scheme’ (SISFS)?
Answer: 5 years
Five years (2021-25). The scheme will become operational from April 1, 2021.
253. Technology giant Microsoft has recently opened its new India Development Center (IDC) facility in which of these cities?
Answer: Noida
Tech major Microsoft has launched its new India Development Center (IDC) facility in Noida, Uttar Pradesh on 28 January 2021. IDC NCR is the third development centre of Microsoft in India after Bengaluru and Hyderabad.
254. The India-Japan Act East Forum (AEF) 2020 was which edition of the annual forum?
Answer: 5th
The fifth joint meeting of the India-Japan Act East Forum (AEF) was held on 28 January 2021 in New Delhi. The meeting was co-chaired by Foreign Secretary Shri Harsh Vardhan Shringla, and Suzuki Satoshi, Ambassador of Japan to India.
255. Giuseppe Conte has recently resigned as the Prime Minister of which country?
Answer: Italy
Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte has resigned from his post, after losing majority support from his coalition government over his handling of the coronavirus pandemic.
256. The India-Japan Act East Forum (AEF) 2020 was co-chaired by the Foreign Secretary of India and Ambassador of Japan to India. Who is the current Foreign Secretary of India?
Answer: Harsh Vardhan Shringla
The meeting was co-chaired by Foreign Secretary Shri Harsh Vardhan Shringla, and Suzuki Satoshi, Ambassador of Japan to India.
257. The ‘Start-up India Seed Fund Scheme’ (SISFS) will be implemented by which organisation?
Answer: DPIIT
The scheme will be implemented by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DIIT).
258. What is the rank of India in the ”Asia-Pacific Personalised Health Index‘?
Answer: 10
India has been ranked 10th among 11 Asia Pacific countries in a newly-launched ”Asia-Pacific Personalised Health Index‘ by The Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU).
259. Who has been appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Ayushman Bharat?
Answer: RS Sharma
The National Health Authority (NHA) has appointed RS Sharma as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the country’s flagship public health insurance scheme Ayushman Bharat, also called Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana. He would replace Indu Bhushan
260. BCCI has decided to cancel the Ranji Trophy 2020-21 season, for the first time in the game's history. The championship was first held in which season?
Answer: 1934-35
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has decided not to conduct the Ranji Trophy in 2020-21. This will be the first time in 87 years since its inception in 1934-35, that India’s premier first-class cricket national championship will not be held in 2020-21 domestic season.
261. The World Leprosy Day is observed across the globe on________
Answer: Last Sunday of January
World Leprosy Day is observed around the world on the last Sunday of January every year to raise global awareness of this deadly ancient disease and call attention to the fact that it can be prevented, treated and cured. World Leprosy Day 2021: 31 January 2021.Theme 2021: “Beat Leprosy, End Stigma and advocate for Mental Wellbeing ”
262. On 30th January, India observes Martyrs Day commemorate the death anniversary of which leader?
Answer: Mahatma Gandhi
Every year on January 30, India pays homage to Father of the Nation Mahatma Gandhi to mark his death anniversary. The day is also observed as Martyrs’ Day. 2021 marked his 73rd death anniversary.
263. Who has been sworn in as the new President of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC)?
Answer: Jay Shah
Jay Shah, the incumbent Secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has been appointed as the new President of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC).
264. India’s first Gender Park has been set up in which city?
Answer: Kozhikode
The state government of Kerala will launch the first of its kind three-storeyed ‘Gender Park’ in Kozhikode, to promote gender equality and empowerment in the state.
265. Singapore has topped the Asia-Pacific Personalised Health Index. The index has been released by which
body?
Answer: The Economist Intelligence Unit
Overall, Singapore has topped the index. It is followed by Taiwan (2nd), Japan (3rd) and Australia (4th).
266. Oscar-winning actress Cloris Leachman has passed away. She was from which country?
Answer: United States
Academy Award-winning American actor Cloris Leachman, one of the most decorated actors in American television history, has passed away. She was 94.
267. Nobel laureate Paul J. Crutzen has passed away. He received the award in which field?
Answer: Chemistry
The Nobel Prize-winning chemist Paul J. Crutzen has passed away. He was 87.
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