Spotlight Oct'23

SPOTLIGHT
Monthly Current Affairs

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RBI - NABARD - SEBI

SPOTLIGHT - OCTOBER 2023
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Contents
NATIONAL NEWS ......................................................................................................................................................... 2
STATE NEWS............................................................................................................................................................... 43
INTERNATIONAL NEWS............................................................................................................................................ 61
BANKING AND ECONOMY ....................................................................................................................................... 72
REPORTS AND INDICES ........................................................................................................................................ 116
GDP FORECAST ....................................................................................................................................................... 122
DEFENCE NEWS ...................................................................................................................................................... 123
AGRICUTLURE AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT................................................................................................... 132
AWARDS ..................................................................................................................................................................... 133
IMPORTANT DAYS ................................................................................................................................................... 141
SPORTS ...................................................................................................................................................................... 150
MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING .............................................................................................................. 161
APPOINTMENTS ....................................................................................................................................................... 171
MISCELLANEOUS..................................................................................................................................................... 180
QUESTIONS ............................................................................................................................................................... 183
pg. 1
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NATIONAL NEWS
1. Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has amended the Cable Television Network
Rules, 1994 for introducing a procedure for the renewal of Multi-System Operator (MSO)
Registrations.
• The salient features of the amended Rules for MSO Registration are:
o Registration or renewal will be done on Broadcast Seva Portal of MIB
o MSO registrations shall be granted or renewed for a period of 10 years
o The processing fee is Rs. 1 lakh for renewal of registration
• Another provision -
o Cable Operators will share their infrastructure with broadband service providers
for the twin benefit of enhanced internet penetration and efficient utilization of
resources.
Knowledge Nuggets
• An MSO receives the signals of different television channels, combines the same and
transmits this combined feed to multiple Local Cable Operators.
• MSOs stand at the middle point in the hierarchy of the cable services sector between the
broadcasters on one side and local cable operators on the other.
Source: PIB MSO
2. India and Argentina have signed a 'Social Security Agreement' for protecting the rights of
professionals and workers in both countries, allowing for risk-free international mobility.
• This agreement ensures that Indian nationals working in various Indian and international
companies in Argentina, as well as Argentine nationals seeking employment in India, do not
lose their social security benefits or contributions.
• It covers old age and survivor's pensions, disability pensions, and other social security
aspects based on the national laws of both countries.
Source: The Hindu
3. IGMS 2.0 Public Grievance portal and Automated Analysis in Tree Dashboard portal of
the Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG) have been
launched.
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• IGMS 2.0 provides instant tabular analysis of grievances filed and disposed of state-wise
and district-wise grievances filed, and ministry-wise data.
• The dashboard helps officials identify the root cause of grievances, and it aims to
expedite the grievance redressal process by the concerned ministry/department.
• The Swachhata Special Campaign 3.0 was also launched as part of the initiative.
• This campaign focuses on field/outstation offices responsible for service delivery or having
a public interface, in addition to ministries/departments and their attached/subordinate
offices.
• DARPG is the Nodal Department for implementation of Special Campaign 3.0.
Source: PIB
4. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a week-long program called "Sankalp
Saptaah" for Aspirational Blocks in India.
• The program aims to improve governance at the block level to enhance the quality of life for
citizens.
• It covers 500 Aspirational Blocks across 329 districts in the country.
• Each day of the week focuses on a specific development theme, including health, nutrition,
cleanliness, agriculture, education, and prosperity.
Source: PIB
5. India will host the 46th edition of the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) Travel Mart
2023 in New Delhi from October 4th to 6th, 2023.
• The Mart will bring together exhibitors and attendees from diverse sectors, offering a unique
platform for networking, learning and collaboration.
• This year, the event will feature different activities, including the prestigious PATA Gold
Award, the PATA Youth Symposium, PATA Forum on Sustainability besides the B2B Mart.
• Ministry of Tourism will set up a PATA desk to strengthen engagement with PATA on
Travel for LiFE and other areas of cooperation in tourism sector.
Knowledge Nuggets
About PATA -
pg. 3
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• The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), founded in 1951, with its headquarters in
Bangkok, is a renowned not-for-profit association recognized internationally for its role as
a catalyst in the responsible development of travel and tourism in the Asia Pacific region.
• PATA Travel Mart is one of the important international trade exhibitions catering to
the tourism sector and it serves as a platform for trade interactions between global buyers
and sellers mostly from the Asia Pacific region.
About Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) -

• It is a global mass movement led by India which urges individuals and communities to
act for protection of the environment against the effects of the climate change
• It was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 19th October 2022, in the
presence of the UN Secretary General António Guterres, at the Statue of Unity, Ekta
Nagar, Gujarat.
About Travel for LiFE -

• It is a program launched by the Ministry of Tourism during the 46th PATA Travel Mart.
• Purpose – to position India as leader in promoting sustainable and responsible tourism
and using tourism as a vehicle for achieving Sustainable Development Goals by 2030
• It has a basic principle of “Lifestyle of the planet, for the planet and by the planet”.
• Travel for LiFE Program will encourage the Tourism Businesses to deepen their
sustainability practices by observing adherence to Travel for LiFE- Signed up badge.
• Subsequently, the tourism businesses can get the Travel for LiFE certification in
bronze, silver and gold.
Source: PIB and PIB
6. A nationwide cleanliness drive and shramdaan initiative were carried out on October 1,
2023.
• Recently, the Ministry of Civil Aviation and its organizations participated in Swachhata
Hi Seva campaign.
• Banners, posters, and selfie points were placed at airports to spread the message of
cleanliness.
Source: PIB
pg. 4
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7. Central Reserve Police Force and the Ministry of Women and Child Development
launched a cross-country bike expedition called "Yashaswini" with women CRPF officers.
• Purpose - The expedition promotes the "Beti Bachao Beti Padhao" program and
showcases the resilience and strength of women
• The Lieutenant Governor of Jammu & Kashmir, Manoj Sinha, flagged off the rally from
Lal Chowk, Srinagar, and it will conclude on October 31 (birth anniversary of Sardar
Vallabhbhai Patel or Rashtriya Ekta Diwas) in Gujarat.
Source: PIB
8. The Ministry of Home Affairs held a meeting of multi-agency centre (MAC), a common
counter-terrorism grid, for discussing about issues related to Pakistan.
Knowledge Nuggets
• India’s Multi-Agency Centre (MAC) is the country’s biggest intelligence input
sharing platform.
• MAC was set up in 2001 after the Kargil War under the Intelligence Bureau.
• The centre is headquartered in Delhi and 28 agencies like the R&AW, state police,
financial intelligence bodies and defence intelligence bodies, are part of the system
through which they share intelligence inputs.
• State-level MACs coordinate with the centre through nodal officers.
Source: IE News18
9. The Regional Conference on Good Governance will begin at Jaipur.

• Objectives –
o To bring national and state level public administration organizations on the same
platform to share experiences in Innovations in public administration,
o Transforming future public solutions for improving quality of life, good governance, e-
governance, Digital Governance, etc.
Source: PIB
10. The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs approved a proposal from the Department of
Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation, Ministry of Jal Shakti for
completing the remaining work of the North Koel Reservoir Project at a revised cost of Rs.
2,430.76 crore.
• Centre’s share - Rs. 1,836.41 crore
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• Location of the project - Jharkhand and Bihar

• Purpose – to provide additional annual irrigation to 42,301 hectares in four drought-prone
districts of Jharkhand and Bihar
• River – North Koel (flows through Jharkhand)
Source: PIB
11. The Union Cabinet has approved for introduction of the Central Universities (Amendment),
Bill, 2023 in Parliament to further amend the Central Universities Act, 2009.
• Purpose of amendment - setting up of Sammakka Sarakka Central Tribal University at
Mulugu District in the State of Telangana
• The provision for setting up this university was given in the Thirteenth Schedule to the
Andhra Pradesh Re-organisation Act, 2014.
Source: PIB
12. Union Minister for Tribal Affairs, Shri Arjun Munda, inaugurated the Aadi Mahotsav - the
National Tribal Festival - in Jamshedpur, Jharkhand.
• Organizer - Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India Limited
(TRIFED)
Source: PIB
13. The Ministry of Civil Aviation has notified New Drone (Amendment) Rules 2023.
• The rule is effective from 27 September 2023.
• The key features of the Amendments are-
o Citizens can become drone pilots.
o The mandatory requirement of a passport has been removed.
o Any government-issued Identity proof such as Voter ID, Driving-License, etc. can be
accepted for applications.
• Ministry of Corporate Affairs also announced that certain provisions of the Insolvency
and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) won't apply to aircraft, engines, and related parts.
• Specifically, Section 14(1) of IBC, which enforces a moratorium during insolvency
proceedings, will not apply to transactions involving aircraft, aircraft engines, airframes, and
helicopters.
Source: ET and LiveMint
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14. India and the UAE discussed a bilateral investment treaty to encourage UAE investments in
India's renewable energy, health, semiconductor, and asset monetization sectors.
• Progress on the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), which
came into force in May 2022, was reviewed.
• The UAE-India High Level Joint Task Force on Investments in Abu Dhabi assessed
progress on a mechanism to fast-track Indian investments into the UAE.
• NPIC International Payments Limited (NIPL) and Al Etihad Payments (AEP) will work
together to create and run the UAE's Domestic Card Scheme (DCS), and NIPL will give
them RuPay stack and extra value-added services.
Source: LiveMint
15. The Union Cabinet has increased the subsidy on LPG cylinders under the Ujjwala scheme.
• The subsidy was raised from ₹200 to ₹300 per cylinder for up to 12 refills per year.
• In 2022-23, ₹6,100 crore was allocated for Ujjwala subsidies, which increased to ₹7,680
crore in 2023-24.
• The Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) aims to provide clean cooking fuel to rural
households that previously used traditional fuels like firewood and cow-dung cakes.
Source: The Hindu
16. The Indian Council for Cultural Research (ICCR), in collaboration with Savitribai Phule
Pune University, organized the soft launch of the "Universalization of Traditional Indian
Knowledge System (UTIKS) portal".
• The portal was launched at the Manipal Academy of Higher Education.
• Purpose - to provide short courses on Traditional Indian Knowledge which provides an
authentic single-window source of introductory-level knowledge on a range of subjects
under the Traditional Indian Knowledge System
Knowledge Nuggets
About Indian Council for Cultural Relations-

The Indian Council for Cultural Relations is an autonomous organization, involved in India's
global cultural relations, through cultural exchange with other countries and their people.
• Founder- Maulana Azad
• Founded- 9 April 1950
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• President- Vinay Shashrabuddhe

• Director General- Kumar Tuhin
• Headquarter- New Delhi
Source: BS
17. President of India Smt Droupadi Murmu inaugurated an International Research

Conference on ‘From research to impact: Towards Just and Resilient Agri-Food
Systems’ in New Delhi.
• Hosts - Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and CGIAR GENDER Impact
Platform
• The conference welcomed gender researchers from 68 countries to share cutting-edge
knowledge on gender and inclusion in food systems.
Knowledge Nuggets
• The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) is an autonomous organisation
under the Department of Agricultural Research and Education (DARE), Ministry of
Agriculture and Farmers Welfare.s
• Headquarter- New Delhi, India
Source: PIB, ICAR
18. The 50th India International Knit Fair (IIKF) will be held from October 12–14, 2023 at the
India Knit Fair Association (IKFA) complex in Tiruppur, Tamil Nadu.
• Theme - Active and Sportswear, Environmental Social Governance, Artificial Intelligence
and digitalisation
Source: NoA
19. India has launched National Framework for Climate Services (NCFS), its maiden national-
level framework towards providing climate services and information.
• The program is led by India Meteorological Department.
• Objectives-
o To bring a seamless working platform for users of climate information and services,
o To help decide and mitigate climate risks for key sectors — agriculture, energy,
disaster management, health and water.
• NFCS is based on The Global Framework for Climate Services (GFCS).
• Nodal Agency - India Meteorological Department (IMD).
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Knowledge Nuggets
About IMD-
• The India Meteorological Department is an agency of the Ministry of Earth Sciences.
• It is the principal agency responsible for meteorological observations, weather forecasting
and seismology.
o Headquarters- New Delhi, India
o Founded- 1875
About GFCS-
• The Global Framework for Climate Services (GFCS) is a partnership of governments and
organisations at a global level, for the production and better usage of climate information
and services.
• Objective- The objective of GFCS is to facilitate researchers and users of climate
information and services to join hands in order to make informed and actionable
decisions for the long-term betterment.
• It was established during the 3rd World Climate Conference held in Geneva in 2009.
Source: Indian Express
20. Ministry of Culture organized curtain raiser and logo launch for India Art Architecture
Design Biennale (IAADB).
• The event was held at the National Gallery of Modern Art, Delhi.
• IAADB is scheduled to be held in December 2023 with events scheduled in Delhi, Mumbai
and Bengaluru.
• About IAADB -
o The objective of IAADB is to bring traditional grassroots artists and contemporary
designers, curators, architects, and thought leaders to the forefront, transcending
age, gender, and genre boundaries.
Source: PIB
21. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has started preparing for the flight test for
Gaganyaan mission and Vehicle Abort Mission 1 (TV-D1) for the Gaganyaan mission.
• About the flight test-
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o The test involves launching a crew module to outer space and bringing it back to
Earth and recovering it after touchdown in the Bay of Bengal.
o The test is to be conducted at Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota.
o Crew Module will carry the astronauts during the Gaganyaan mission to outer space.
Knowledge Nuggets
About ISRO-
• Headquarter- Bengaluru
• Chairperson- S Somnath
• Establishment Year - 1969
• Founder – Vikram Sarabhai (Father of Indian Space Program)
• Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) was formed on August 15, 1969, by the
Department of Atomic Energy.
• It was previously known as the Indian National Committee for Space Research
(INCOSPAR), which was established in 1962 by the first PM of India, Pt. Jawahar Lal
Nehru.
About Gaganyaan Mission-

• Gaganyaan will launch 3 crew members to an orbit of 400 km for 3 days.
• It will bring them back safely to earth by landing in Indian sea waters.
Source: AIR ISRO ISRO Missions
22. Ministry of Commerce and Industry unveils system based automatic ‘status holder’
certificate under Foreign Trade Policy, 2023.
• Key Features-
o Now, the exporter will not be required to apply to the office of Directorate General
of Foreign Trade (DGFT) for a Status Certificate.
o The export recognition will be provided by the IT system based on available
Directorate General of Commercial Intelligence and Statistics (DGCIS)
merchandise export electronic data and other risk parameters.
o Reduces compliance burden and promotes ease of doing business
o The Department of Commerce, Ministry of Commerce and Industry will be
recognizing about 20,000 exporters under FTP 2023 as Status Holders which will be
a quantum jump from the earlier number of 12,518 exporters.
Source: PIB, Economic Times
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23. Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL) has set up South Asia’s first aircraft
recovery training school at Bengaluru airport.
• The facility is set at the premises of Kempegowda International Airport.
• It is set up for providing specialised aircraft recovery hands-on training, equipped with state-
of-the-art Disabled Aircraft Recovery Equipment (DARE).
• BIAL will form a strategic partnership with KUNZ GmbH Aircraft Equipment, Germany.
Source: Economic Times
24. Mumbai Airport (Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport) is first in Asia to
commission Disabled Aircraft Recovery Kit (DARK) to help stranded aircrafts.
• The DARK facility includes advance techniques which will require minimal manpower for
operating and enhance passenger safety and operational resilience.
• It will provide more efficient aircraft recovery process.
25. KCP Ltd, a diversified business group, has delivered the integrated air drop test (IADT) crew
module structure to ISRO for the Gaganyaan mission.
Source: ET
26. The Ministry of Education has introduced draft guidelines for schools to address self-harm
concerns, known as the UMMEED guidelines.
• UMMEED - Understand, Motivate, Manage, Empathise, Empower, Develop
• The guidelines recommend the formation of School Wellness Teams (SWT) led by the
School Principal, equipped to handle crisis situations and take immediate action when
students show warning signs.
• The guidelines suggest actions such as securing empty classrooms, improving lighting
in dark areas, and maintaining school gardens.
• The draft promotes integrating mental well-being into school functioning, creating safe
environments within and outside schools, and being vigilant at locations with suicide risks.
Source: TOI
27. The Union Ministry of Chemical and Fertilizer has launched a web portal named Charak for
providing the statistical data related to chemical sector.
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• Portal name- www.charak.chemicals.gov.in.

• The portal will facilitate collection of statistics related to various aspects of chemical sector,
such as production, import, export, installed capacity, purchases and sales, etc.
• Developed by- Department of Chemicals and Petrochemicals and National Informatics
Centre
• Launched at- Workshop hosted by FICCI in New Delhi
• Objective- To increase the value of chemical and petrochemical industries by provide
information on the latest sectoral innovations
• Usage-
o Users - researchers, academicians and policymakers can create innovative products
needed for the chemical sector
o Industries - The portal will also enable support system for promoting industries for
best practices and create authentic inventory of chemical data system.
Source: economic times
28. India has launched Operation Ajay to facilitate the return Indians from Israel and Palestine.
• A 24-hour Control Room has also been set up in the Ministry of External Affairs to
monitor the situation and provide information and assistance.
29. Union Minister Shri Anurag Thakur launched the trailer of KTB- Bharat Hain Hum, an
animated series consisting of two seasons, produced by Central Bureau of Communication,
Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and Graphiti Studios.
• The series consists of 52 episodes, 11 minutes each, featuring stories from Indian Freedom
struggle from 1500s to 1947.
• The series is hosted by the iconic animated characters Krish, Trish and Balti boy.
• The series has been created by the creator duo of Munjal Shroff and Tilakraj Shetty from
Graphiti Studios.
• The series is being produced in the following 12 Languages:
o Hindi (Master), Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam, Marathi, Gujarati, Punjabi,
Bengali, Assamese, Odia and English.
• The series will also be dubbed in following international languages.
o French, Spanish, Russian, Arabic, Chinese, Japanese, and Korean.
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About KTB-Bharat Hain Hum-

• Ministry - Ministry of Information and Broadcasting
• Purpose - to raise awareness amongst the children about India’s glorious freedom struggle
and freedom fighters
Source: PIB
30. Union Minister of Women and Child Development, Smt Smriti Zubin Irani has launched
new Standardised Protocol for Management of Malnutrition in Children.
• The Protocol has been jointly prepared by the Ministry of Women and Child
Development and the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
• About Protocol-
o It will reduce malnutrition through Mission Saksham Anganwadi and Nutrition 2.0.
o The protocol clearly describes the process of assessing and caring for malnourished
children through the Anganwadi and medical ecosystem.
Source: PIB
31. The Union Cabinet has approved the establishment of an autonomous body named Mera
Yuva Bharat (MY Bharat).
• Objective-
o Youth development using technology
o Equitable access to youth
• About MY Bharat-
o It will benefit the youth in the age group of 15-29 years (as per the definition of
‘Youth’ in the National Youth Policy).
o The Mera Yuva Bharat (MY Bharat) will be launched on 31st October, 2023 on
National Unity Day.
Source: PIB
32. Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment launched Scheme for Residential Education
for Students in High School in Targeted Areas (SHRESTHA) to ensure quality education
to school students.
• Under the scheme, students belonging to Scheduled Castes (SC) will be provided with
high quality school education by different methods.
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• Implementing agencies - selected grant-in-aid institutions run by NGOs and residential

high schools offering high-quality education
• Provision of Schooling under CBSE/State Board Affiliated Private Residential School-
o Meritorious students will get admission in selected private schools of CBSE and
State Boards.
o These students will be selected through the National Entrance Test for SHRESHTA
(NETS), conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA).
o Selected students will be admitted to private residential schools in the 9th and 11th
grades, enabling them to complete their education up to the 12th standard.
• Eligibility-
o Around 3000 SC students with parents' annual income up to Rs 2.5 lakh are
selected annually based on their merit.
• Benefits-
o For the students taking admission under this scheme, their entire fee including
school fees (tuition fees) and hostel fees (mess charges) will be waived off.
o Admissible fees for each class are specified as follows- 9th: ₹1,00,000,
10th: ₹1,10,000, 11th: ₹1,25,000, 12th: ₹1,35,000.
Source: livemint
33. Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying under Ministry of Fisheries, Animal
Husbandry and Dairying has launched Accredited Agent for Health and Extension of
Livestock Production (A-HELP) programme in the state of Jharkhand.
• Objective- To empower women by engaging them as accredited agent who contribute
significantly to disease control, animal tagging and livestock insurance.
Knowledge Nuggets
About A-HELP-
• A-HELP will act as a “Livestock Resource Person” for the designated area/village.
• The selected person will serve as a last-mile extension worker providing 24×7 services at
the doorstep of farmers.
• She will sensitise livestock owners on ear-tagging, registration on the Information
Network for Animal Productivity & Health (INAPH), scientific health management of
livestock, basic sanitation and hygienic practices.
pg. 14
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• A-HELP has already initiated across different States/UTs including Bihar, Gujarat, Jammu
and Kashmir, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Jharkhand.
Source: PIB
34. Intensified Mission Indradhanush 5.0, the flagship immunization campaign of Union
Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, has concluded for 2023.
• About IMI 5.0-
o It has special focus on Measles and Rubella elimination by 2023.
o This year, the campaign is being conducted across all districts of the country, with
a special emphasis on including children up to 5 years of age, unlike previous
campaigns that targeted children up to 2 years of age.
o The campaign also highlights the use of the U-WIN digital platform for Routine
Immunization in a pilot mode across all districts in the country, emphasizing the
integration of technology in the immunization process.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Mission Indradhanush-

• Mission Indradhanush is a flagship program of the Government of India.
• Launched- December 2014.
• Objective-
o The primary goal of Mission Indradhanush is to immunize children under the age
of two and pregnant women against seven vaccine-preventable diseases,
including diphtheria, whooping cough, tetanus, polio, tuberculosis, measles, and
hepatitis B.
Source: PIB
35. Competition Commission of India hosted 8th BRICS International Competition

Conference 2023 (BRICS ICC 2023) in New Delhi.
• Key outcomes-
o Release and discussion of BRICS joint documents, including the Leniency
Programme and Digital Economy Reports
o Signing of a Joint Statement by the heads of BRICS competition authorities
emphasizing the importance of sharing information and best practices
• India specific outcomes-
pg. 15
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o Introduction of a Committee on Digital Competition Law to examine the need for

regulatory mechanisms for digital markets.
o Recent amendments to the Competition Act in India, including provisions for
settlement and commitments and the implementation of deal value thresholds for
merger notification.
• CCI handed over the responsibility of hosting the 9th BRICS International Competition
Conference to South Africa in 2025.
Source: PIB
36. Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal flagged off the passenger ferry service between
Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu, and Kankesanturai, Sri Lanka.
Source: livemint
37. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is establishing a second spaceport in
Kulasekarapattinam, Thoothukudi district, Tamil Nadu.
• About Kulasekarapattinam spaceport-
o The dedicated launch pad will cater exclusively to SSLV launches by private
companies, with no ISRO rockets scheduled for launch from this facility.
o The new spaceport will cover approximately 2,000 acres, and the launch centre is
expected to be fully operational within two years.
• Advantages of Kulasekarapattinam Spaceport:
o Reduced fuel consumption for rocket launches
o Improved performance for small rockets, benefiting private industry
o Streamlined launch operations due to unobstructed trajectory path
Source: The Hindu
38. India has launched three indigenously developed technologies at 11th Traffic Expo and
Smart Mobility Conference.
Details of technologies-
1. CMOS Sensor based Camera for Industrial Vision Applications (iViS)-
o This technology facilitates automated inspection and identification of objects, utilizing
AI-based applications that incorporate Machine Learning and Deep Learning
Techniques.
pg. 16
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2. Thermal Sensor based Camera (TvITS):

o This AI-powered thermal sensor-based smart vision camera is designed for road
traffic applications.
3. Online Sucro Crystal Imaging System (OSIS):
o Developed using industrial cameras, this system is specifically designed for the
measurement of crystal size in sugar industries.
Source: PIB
39. India has launched state-of-art National Survey named “Continuously Operating
Reference Stations" (CORS) Network for providing world-class precise Location-based
service.
• Key feature-
o It offers centimetres-level positioning services in real-time.
• Operated by- Survey of India
• Objective-
o To aid in scientific studies such as Upper Atmosphere and Space weather studies,
Meteorology, Plate motion and Tectonic studies, Seismology, and Hydrology.
Source: PIB
40. 51st meeting of the executive committee of National Mission for Clean Ganga has
approved seven projects worth Rs 285 crore.
• Key projects-
• Three projects for sewerage management-
o Two in West Bengal and one in Uttarakhand
• Project for extension of Composite Ecological Task Force (Ganaga Task Force)
o For continue assisting the rejuvenation of River Ganga
• Project related to Fish stock enhancement including Hilsa and livelihood improvement
for sustainable fisheries and conservation in River Ganga.
• Proposal for wetland conservation by effective management of –
o Kalewala Jheel in Muzaffarnagar, Numaiya Dahi Jheel (Kheduva Taal) in
Prayagraj and Dahtal Reoti wetland in Ballia District was also approved.
• One proposal to develop Ganga Vatika Park in Dhalwala, Uttarakhand
Source: PIB
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41. IRCON International Limited (IRCON) and RITES Limited (RITES) have been announced
15th and 16th Navratna company among CPSE.
• The status has been granted by Ministry of Finance.
• Benefit of status-
o The award of Navratna status will enable them to further nurture their brand,
compete more effectively in the global market and pursue new frontiers more
aggressively for growth.
Knowledge Nuggets
About IRCON-
• Headquarters- New Delhi
• Established- 1976
• Chairman & MD- Yogesh Kumar Misra
About RITES-
• Headquarters- Gurugram, Haryana
• Chairman & MD- Rahul Mittal
Source: PIB
42. PM Narendra Modi has virtually inaugurated the third edition of Global Maritime India
Summit (GMIS 2023) at MMRDA Grounds, Mumbai.
• Focus Areas of Summit-
o maritime sector with sessions and discussions around ports of the future;
o decarbonisation;
o coastal shipping & IWT;
o shipbuilding;
o repair and recycling;
o finance,
o insurance & arbitration;
o maritime clusters;
o innovation & technology;
o maritime safety and security;
o and maritime tourism, among others.
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• Representation in Summit-
o 115 officials from 28 countries
Source: PIB
43. India and United Kingdom held their first 2+2 Foreign and Defence dialogue in New Delhi.
• About 2+2 dialogue-
o It is a comprehensive mechanism to discuss and review all aspects of
comprehensive strategic partnership.
o Various assessments about recent international development are discussed.
Source: TOI
44. Ministry of Forest, Environment and Climate Change has launched Green Credit Program
(GCP) and Ecomark Scheme to encourage environment friendly practices.
• Objective-
To encourage environmentally friendly practices rooted in tradition and conservation along-
with reflecting the idea of Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE) movement.
• About Green Credit Program-
It is an innovative market-based mechanism designed to incentivize voluntary
environmental actions across diverse sectors, by various stakeholders like individuals,
communities, private sector industries, and companies.
o Notified on- October 13, 2023
o Focus areas- Water conservation & afforestation
• About Ecomark Scheme-
It provides accreditation and labelling for household and consumer products that meet
specific environmental criteria while maintaining quality standards as per Indian norms.
The scheme seeks to ensure accurate labelling and prevent misleading information about
products.
o Administration- Central Pollution Control Board administers the Ecomark Scheme
in partnership with Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS)
Source: PIB
45. National Skill Development Corporation has announced partnership with Coca-Cola India
to launch the Super Power Retailer Program as part of Skill India Mission.
pg. 19
[Type here]
• Objective- To empower the retailer community in states of Odisha and Uttar Pradesh.
• About Super Power Retailer Program-
o It empowers retailers by enhancing their skills in the modern retail sector and offering
training to small and micro retailers to understand consumer behaviour and
preferences including
o Customer management
o Inventory and stock management
o Financial Management
o The program is already being run on pilot basis in Odisha.
Knowledge Nuggets
About NSDC-
• National Skill Development Corporation is a not-for-profit public limited company.
• NSDC aims to promote skill development by catalyzing creation of large, quality and for-
profit vocational institutions.
• Headquarters- New Delhi, India
• CEO- Ved Mani Tiwari
Source: NSDC
46. President of Tanzania Samia Suluhu Hassan arrived in New Delhi on a four-day State visit
to India
Source: Business Standard
47. India and Sri Lanka have restarted ferry service after 40 years.
• Route-
o Nagapattinam in Tamil Nadu to Kankesanthurai in Jaffna, Northern Sri Lanka
• Objective-
o To boost bilateral ties, increase tourism and enhance people-to-people relations
• Name of vessel- Cheriyapani
48. Union Power and New & Renewable Energy Minister has launched dashboard for Data on
Adoption and Forecast of Electric Vehicles in New Delhi.
pg. 20
[Type here]
• About Dashboard-
• The dashboard is a free digital platform focussed on near real-time Electric Vehicle
adoption and forecasts, associated battery demand, charging density, and market growth
trends.
• Objective- To facilitate greater inclusion across audiences, for the industry, policymakers
and end users of electric vehicles.
o Name of dashboard- EV Ready India Dashboard
o Website- evreadyindia.org
o Developed by- OMI Foundation
• Forecast- 45.5% Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) in electric vehicles between
calendar year (CY) 2022 and CY 2030, increasing from annual sales of 6,90,550 electric
two-wheelers (E2Ws) in 2022 to 1,39,36,691 E2Ws in 2030.
Source: PIB
49. 9th G20 Parliamentary Speaker’s Summit has been hosted by Parliament of India at
Yashobhoomi, New Delhi.
• About 9th G20-
o Theme- Parliaments for One Earth, One Family, One Future
o The 9th P20 Summit will be hosted by Parliament of India in cooperation with International
Parliamentary Union.
o The Summit will host four high-level sessions on-
o Accelerating SDGs;
o Sustainable Energy Transition;
o Women led Development; and
o Transformation in Peoples’ Lives through Public Digital Platforms.
Knowledge Nuggets
About International Parliamentary Union-

• The Inter-Parliamentary Union is an international organization of national parliaments.
• Its primary purpose is to promote democratic governance, accountability, and cooperation
among its members.
• Headquarters- Geneva, Switzerland
• President- Duarte Pacheo
pg. 21
[Type here]
Source: IPU
50. World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH) has approved India’s self- declaration of
freedom from bird flu in specific poultry compartments in Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Uttar
Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh.
• Important Points-
o Bird flu is also known as Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI).
o The approval provides new opportunities for Indian poultry in global market.
o The recognition by WOAH signifies India’s commitment to International Biosecurity
standards.
o India is currently the 3rd largest producer of eggs and 5th largest producer of poultry
meat in the world.
Knowledge Nuggets
About World Organization for Animal Health

It is an intergovernmental organisation, which focuses on transparently disseminating
information on animal diseases, improving animal health globally and thus build a safer,
healthier and more sustainable world.
Headquarters- Paris, France
Established- 1924
Director- General- Dr Monique Eloit
Members- 183
Source: TOI, woah.org
51. Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has launched NCERT’s web portal ‘Apna
Chandrayaan’ for students.
• He also released 10 special modules on Chandrayaan-3 for school students.
• About Portal-
o The web portal offers various activities such as quizzes, puzzles, colouring books,
online interactive quizzes, jigsaw puzzles, and graphic novels related to
Chandrayaan 3 for different stages of schooling, along with digital certificates and
rewards for top performers.
• Objective-
pg. 22
[Type here]
o The portal aims to develop critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and

interdisciplinary learning, aligning with the vision of the National Education Policy
2020 (NEP 2020) and promoting India as a Vishwa Guru (global leader).
Knowledge Nuggets
About National Council of Education Research and Training (NCERT)

Source: PIB
52. Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has approved the country’s first ever indigenously
developed AC and DC Combined Charging connector standard for light electric vehicles
(LEVs), IS17017 (Part 2 / Sec 7): 2023.
• About standards-
o This standard has been developed through a collaborative effort of NITI Aayog,
Department of Science and Technology, ARAI, EV makers, and the Bureau of Indian
Standards.
o The national standard for LEV charging connectors addresses the unique
requirements of 2-wheelers, 3-wheelers, and microcars, filling a significant gap in the
market.
o It allows for an interoperable network for both fast and slow charging, which reduces
the need for customers to carry bulky chargers.
o The development of the indigenous technology is a significant achievement for making
India, a global leader in the EV-automobile sector.
o The initiative aligns with the 'Make in India' policy.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Bureau of Indian Standards-

Headquarters- New Delhi
Established- 1987
Director General- Pramod Kumar Tiwari
Source: Financial Express
53. Ministry of Civil Aviation has amended the Aircraft Rules, 1937 to increase the validity of
Air Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL) and Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) from 5 years to 10
years.
pg. 23
[Type here]
• Objectives-
o To improve the ease of doing business in aviation sector.
o To reduce administrative burden on pilots and aviation authorities like DGCA.
o To promote a more streamlined and efficient licensing process.
54. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has unveiled Mahatma Gandhi’s bust in Ho Chi
Minh City, Vietnam.
• The event highlights Mahatma Gandhi’s global recognition for his principles of truth and
non-violence.
55. Institute of Chartered Accountant of India (ICAI) has received ISAR Honours 2023 by
United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) for its initiative
Sustainability Reporting Standards Board (SRSB).
• The award is given by UNCTAD’s working group on International Standards for
Accounting and Reporting.
• The ICAI sustainability initiatives received the highest score amongst 70 initiatives received
from around the world.
• UNCTAD has announced the winners of the sixth edition of ISAR Honours during the 8th
World Investment Forum in Abu Dhabi.
Source: Hindu Business Line
56. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has inaugurated the first leg of the Regional Rapid Transit
System (RRTS) connecting Delhi and Meerut in Uttar Pradesh.
• What is RRTS?
o It is India’s first mass rapid system dedicated to regional connectivity.
o It is capable of running at speeds up to 180 km/hour.
o It is developed by the National Capital Region Planning Board (NCRPB) under its
“Functional Plan on Transport for NCR-2032”.
• Objective-
o To ensure balanced and sustainable urban development through better connectivity
and access across the National Capital Region (NCR)
pg. 24
[Type here]
57. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that India should aim to set up Bhartiya Antriksha
Station (Indian Space Station) by 2035 and sending first Indian to moon by 2040.
• PM chaired a high-level meeting to assess the progress of India’s Gaganyaan Mission and
India’s space exploration program.
• India’s space exploration program include-
o Chandrayaan Mission,
o Development of Next Generation Launch Vehicle,
o Construction of new launch pad,
o Setting up human-centric Laboratories and
o Associated technologies
Knowledge Nuggets
About Gaganyaan mission-
pg. 25
[Type here]
o Gaganyaan mission consists of a demonstration of human spaceflight capability by

launching a crew of 3 members to an orbit of 400 km for a 3-day mission and bringing
them back safely to earth, by landing in Indian sea water.
Source: TOI
58. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has unveiled ‘Amrit Kaal Vision 2047’, the long-term
blueprint for Indian maritime blue economy during Global India Maritime Summit 2023.
• Key Objectives-
o enhancing port facilities,
o promoting sustainable practices,
o and facilitating international collaboration
• Vision 2047 initiatives-
o Next Generation Mega Port,
o International Container Trans-shipment port,
o island development,
o inland waterways, and
o multi-modal hubs
• Benefits of Vision 2047 initiatives-
o reduction in cost of doing business and
o environmental degradation
Knowledge Nuggets
Government vision related to Maritime Blue Economy
• Ports for Prosperity
• Ports for Progress
• Ports for Productivity

Source: The Hindu
59. Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare has released the 2nd Advance Estimates of
the area and production of various horticultural crops for the year 2022-23.
• Key Observations-
o Total horticulture production in the year 2022-23 is estimated to be 351.92 million
tonnes, an increase of about 4.74 million tonnes (1.37%) as compared to the year
2021-22 (final).
pg. 26
[Type here]
o Fruit production is estimated to be 108.34 million tonnes in the year 2022-23 as

compared to 107.51 million tonnes in the year 2021-22.
o The production of vegetables is estimated to be 212.91 million tonnes in the year
2022-23 compared to 209.14 million tonnes in the year 2021-22.
o Production of plantation crops is estimated to increase from 15.76 million tonnes in
2021-22 to 16.05 million tonnes in 2022-23, which is an increase of about 1.78%.
o Potato production is expected to be 60.54 million tonnes, compared to 56.18 million
tonnes in the year 2021-22.
Total Horticulture 2021-22 2022-23 2022-23
(Final) (First Adv. Est.) (Second Adv. Est.)
Area (in million hectares) 28.04 28.28 28.12
Production (in million tonnes) 347.18 350.87 351.92
Source: PIB
60. International Centre for Automotive Technology (ICAT) under the Ministry of Heavy
Industries has announced “THE ADAS SHOW 2023” event.
• About THE ADAS SHOW 2023
o The event will take place on the 7 December, 2023 at the ICAT Track in Manesar,
Gurugram.
o It is a significant event in the automotive industry, focusing on Advanced Driver
Assistance Systems (ADAS) and their impact on safety, convenience, and the overall
driving experience.
• Objective-
o To bring together experts, enthusiasts, and industry professionals to showcase and
discuss the latest advancements and innovations in ADAS technology.
Source: PIB
61. The Union Cabinet has approved to release an additional instalment of Dearness
Allowance (DA) to Central Government employees and Dearness Relief (DR) to
pensioners.
• It represents an increase of 4% over the existing rate of 42% of the Basic Pay/Pension,
to compensate against price rise.
• This increase is in accordance with the accepted formula, which is based on the
recommendations of the 7th Central Pay Commission.
pg. 27
[Type here]
• The increase is effective from 1 July, 2023.

Source: PIB
62. Ministry of Home Affairs has granted FCRA license to the Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Teerth
Kshetra to receive contributions from foreign sources for the construction of Ram temple
in Ayodhya.
• The contributions can be deposited to a designated bank account of the trust in the SBI's
main branch located in Delhi.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Foreign Contribution (regulation) Act, 2010

• It is an act to regulate the acceptance and utilisation of foreign contribution or foreign
hospitality by certain individuals or associations or companies and
• to prohibit acceptance and utilisation of foreign contribution or foreign hospitality for any
activities detrimental to the national interest and for matters connected therewith or
incidental thereto.
63. India's contribution to global economic growth is expected to increase by 2% points in the
next 5 years due to the projected faster growth of the Indian economy as per IMF.
• Key observations-
o Currently, India contributes 16% to global growth, while the rest is contributed by
China.
o This 16% contribution is expected to increase to 18% in the next five years.
o The Asia Pacific region is expected to grow by 4.6% in 2023 and 4.2% in 2024,
making it a significant contributor to global growth.
o India's growth remains strong, with a projected growth rate of 6.3% for FY2023-24,
supported by government capital expenditure and private sector investment, as well
as continued consumption growth despite weakening external demand.
Source: The Hindu
64. Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has launched Operation Chakra-II to fight against
transnational organised cyber-enabled financial crimes in India.
pg. 28
[Type here]
• CBI has partnered with Microsoft, Amazon and other international agencies to combat
and breakdown of illegal call centres.
Source: TOI
65. Government has launched Ghar-Ghar KCC Abhiyan scheme to cover all fish farmers with
Kisan Credit Card.
• Objectives-
o To achieve universal financial inclusion and
o To ensure that every farmer has unhindered access to credit facilities that drive their
agricultural pursuits
• Benefits-
o The campaign will play an important role in reaching out to non-KCC account holder
PM KISAN beneficiaries and
o It will encourage the saturation of KCC accounts among eligible PM Kisan
beneficiary farmers.
• Implementing Agency- NABARD
Knowledge Nuggets
About Kisan Credit Card-

• The Kisan Credit Card scheme is a credit scheme by Indian public sector banks to issue
kisan credit card to the farmers of India.
• This model scheme was prepared by the NABARD on the recommendations of the R. V.
Gupta Committee to provide advances for agricultural needs.
• Total number of operative KCC Accounts as on March 2023 are 7.35 Crores with total
sanctioned limit of Rs. 8.85 lakh crores
• Launched- 1998
• Objective- to meet the comprehensive credit requirements of the agriculture sector
Source: ET , PIB
66. Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY) has launched Indigenous
Portable DC charger to boost electric vehicle adoption.
• About Portable DC charger-
o 2KW DC Portable Charger is developed by Centre of Excellence at IIT Madras
Research Park.
pg. 29
[Type here]
o These chargers have an efficiency more than 95% and they can function at a maximum
operating ambient of 50 Degree Celsius.
o The chargers are designed to meet safety Standard IEC 60950-11.
• Benefit-
o It will reduce the current dependence on imported charging solutions
Source: PIB
67. United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) awarded Dhordo village in
Gujarat’s Kutch district with the prestigious ‘Best Tourism Village’ title.
• The award is given for Dhordo’s outstanding contribution to sustainable tourism, cultural
preservation, and rural development.
• About Dhordo-
Dhordo is renowned for hosting the annual Rann Utsav which is a vibrant cultural festival
that showcases the region’s traditional arts, music, and crafts.
Knowledge Nuggets
About UNWTO-
• The United Nations World Tourism Organization is a specialized agency of the United
Nations which promotes responsible, sustainable and universally accessible tourism.
• Headquarters- Madrid, Spain
• Secretary-General- Zurab Pololikashvili
Source: TOI
68. Kerala’s Kasargod district has become 1st district in India to declare official tree, flower,
bird and turtle as district species.
Key declarations-
• District tree- Kanjiram (Strychnos nux-vomica)
• District flower- Periya Polathali (Malabar River lily)
• District Bird- Vellavayaran Kadal Paranthu (White-bellied Sea eagle)
• District creature- Palappoovan Amma (Cantor’s Giant Softshell Turtle)
Source: Deccan Herald
pg. 30
[Type here]
69. Sir Jamsetjee Jeejeebhoy (JJ) School of Art has been declared a de novo Deemed
University.
• About JJ School of Art-
o The Sir Jamsetjee Jeejeebhoy School of Art is the oldest art institution in Mumbai,
India, and is affiliated with the University of Mumbai.
o The school grants bachelor's degrees in fine art and sculpture, and Master's degrees
in fine art.
o Established- 1857
Knowledge Nuggets
What is de novo Deemed University status?

• The de novo category is awarded to institutions devoted to innovations in teaching and
research in unique and emerging areas of knowledge.
Source: PIB
70. Indian Textile Industry’s Export Promotion Councils (EPCs) will organize world’s largest
textiles event ‘Bharat Tex 2024’ from February 26 to February 29, 2024 in New Delhi.
• Objective-
o To position India as a global sourcing destination in textile industry.
• Key features-
o It will feature over 1000 exhibitors and more than 30000 visitors from 40 countries.
o It will showcase India’s cultural heritage, traditional practices and innovations in
technology.
o It represents India’s 5F vision which includes- Farm to Fibre to Factory to Fashion
to Foreign
• Venue- Bharat Mandapam & Yashobhoomi in New Delhi
Source: ET
71. Union minister Amit Shah has inaugurated IFFCO’s Nano DAP (diammonium phosphate
Liquid) manufacturing plant at Kalol in Gandhinagar in Gujarat.
• Key point-
o Nano urea and nano DAP will help farmers to shift to natural farming without
compromising on output.
• Benefits of Nano DAP-
pg. 31
[Type here]
o Being liquid, the nano DAP will minimally contaminate the land
o Farmers can increase the number of earthworms in their land
o Farmers can move towards natural farming without reducing production and income.
Source: TOI
72. Pradhan Mantri Anusuchit Jaati Abhuyday Yojana (PM- AJAY) has been launched.
• PM-AJAY is a merged scheme comprising three centrally sponsored schemes:
o Pradhan Mantri Adarsh Gram Yojana (PMAGY),
o Special Central Assistance to Scheduled Castes Sub Plan (SCA to SCSP), and
o Babu Jagjivan Ram Chhatrawas Yojana (BJRCY)
• Objective-
o To reduce poverty among Scheduled Caste (SC) communities by generating
additional employment opportunities
o To improve socio-economic developmental indicators by ensuring adequate
infrastructure and requisite services in SC-dominated villages.
• Components of the Scheme:
o Development of SC Dominated Villages: Aiming to transform these villages into
"Adarsh Grams" by ensuring integrated development and providing necessary
infrastructure for socio-economic development.
o Grants-in-Aid for District/State-level Projects: These projects focus on the
socio-economic betterment of SCs, including comprehensive livelihood projects,
skill development, infrastructure development, and funding for assets acquisition
for livelihood generation.
o Construction of Hostels: Construction of hostels in higher educational institutions
and schools, with funding from the Centre/State/UT Governments.
• Special Provisions:
o Focus on SC Women: Up to 15% of the total grants are dedicated to viable
income-generating economic development schemes/programs for SC women.
o Infrastructure Development: Up to 30% of the total grants are allocated for
infrastructure development.
o Skill Development: At least 10% of the total funds are dedicated to skill
development initiatives.
pg. 32
[Type here]
o Promotion of SC Women Cooperatives: The scheme promotes SC women

cooperatives engaged in the production and marketing of consumer goods and
services, facilitating their socio-economic empowerment.
Source: PIB
73. Union Home Minister has launched the logo, website and brochure of National
Cooperative for Export Limited (NCEL).
About NCEL-
• The National Cooperative for Exports Limited is the newly established umbrella
organisation for cooperative sector exports.
• Registered under- Multi-State Co-operative Societies Act, 2002 on
• Established- 25th January, 2023
Activities covered-
• It covers agriculture and allied activities as well as handloom and handicrafts items by
enrolling a large number of co-operatives under its fold
• Target to double its revenue by 2025 from the current level of about Rs 2,160 crore.
Source: PIB
74. All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA) has celebrated its 6th foundation day on 20th October
in New Delhi.
• Key events-
• The late Padma Vibhushan Vaidya Bṛihaspati Dev Triguna's statue was unveiled by Union
Minister of Ayush Shri Sarbananda Sonowal.
• Six MoUs have been signed between AIIA and different well-known institutions like
Hindustan Salt, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and Heartfulness Institute.
• Institute has got a new -
o molecular biology lab for advance research
o manuscript Unit and
o Center of Excellance Dakshya
Knowledge Nuggets
pg. 33
[Type here]
About All India Institute of Ayurveda-

• AIIA was established for the promotion and advancement of the knowledge and practice
of Ayurveda, an ancient Indian system of medicine.
• Over the past six years, the institution has made tremendous strides in this field,
becoming a hub for Ayurvedic education and research not only in India but on global
scale.
• Established- 17th Oct, 2017
Source: PIB
75. Union Cabinet has approved ₹22,303 crore nutrient-based fertilizer subsidy for 2023-24
Rabi season.
• The government will provide subsidies at the rate of-
Nutrient Subsidy/ kg
Nitrogen ₹ 47.02
Phosphorus ₹ 20.82
Potash ₹ 2.83
Sulphur ₹ 1.89
76. Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh has inaugurated Pre-Retirement counselling workshop
for central government employees, conferred ANUBHAV AWARDS 2023 and launched
Integrated Pensioners Portal.
• Pre-Retirement Counselling (PRC) Workshop
o Objective- To improve the ease of living for pensioners by preparing them for a
smooth transition into retirement.
o Equips employees with relevant details on financial aspects and post-retirement
formalities.
o Provides insights into the procedure for obtaining retirement benefits.
• Anubhav Portal-
o The portal provides an online system for the retiring/retired employees to submit and
showcase their commendable work done;
o to share their experiences of working in the Government and to give suggestions for
improvement in governance.
pg. 34
[Type here]
o Participation-
o 96 Ministries/ Departments/ Organizations have registered on Anubhav Portal of
this Department
o more than 10000 write-ups have been published so far
• Anubhav Awards Details-
o 4 Anubhav Awards and 9 Jury Certificates to be conferred
o Awardees from 8 different Ministries/Departments/Organizations
o Cash prize of Rs. 10,000/- along with a Medal and Certificate for Anubhav Awardees
• Integrated Pensioners’ Portal-
o Integration of various portals for the ease of pensioners
o Pension Disbursing Bank portals, ANUBHAV, CPENGRAMS, CGHS integrated
Source: PIB
77. PM Narendra Modi has chaired the 43rd edition of the PRAGATI.
• About PRAGATI-
o It is an ICT-based multi-modal platform for Pro-Active Governance and Timely
Implementation involving both Centre and State governments.
• Projects reviewed-
o Eight projects were reviewed, with a focus on water supply, irrigation, national
highways, connectivity, and rail and metro rail connectivity.
o Projects are spread across 7 states: Bihar, Jharkhand, Haryana, Odisha, West
Bengal, Gujarat, and Maharashtra, with a cumulative cost of approximately Rs.
31,000 Crore.
Source: PIB
78. Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has recommended the inclusion of
QR code on food products to help visually impaired individuals.
• Objective-
o It will ensure access to safe food for all including individuals with special needs such
as visually Impaired individuals.
Knowledge Nuggets
About FSSAI-
pg. 35
[Type here]
• Food Safety and Standards Authority of India is a statutory body established under the
Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India.
• It is established under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006
• Chairperson- Sudhansh Pant
Source: The Hindu
79. One Nation, One Election website has been launched during High Level Committee’s
second meeting.
• High level committee was constituted by the Government under chairmanship of former
President of India, Ram Nath Kovind.
• Objective-
o To examine the issue of holding simultaneous elections in the country and make
recommendations.
• About Website-
o Website- www.onoe.gov.in
o It is a repository of all relevant information on one nation, one election.
o It will also provide a platform for interaction and receiving suggestions from all
stakeholders
Source: ET
80. Competition Commission of India has become a part of the prestigious 18-member
steering committee of the International Competition Network (ICN)
• About ICN-
o It provides an informal specialized venue to antitrust authorities for maintaining
regular contacts and addressing practical competition concerns
o It is only global body dedicated exclusively to competition law enforcement
o Members- 140 national and multinational competition authorities
Knowledge Nuggets
Competition Commission of India-

• The Competition Commission of India is the chief national competition regulator in India.
pg. 36
[Type here]
• It is responsible for enforcing the Competition Act, 2002 to promote competition and
prevent activities that have an appreciable adverse effect on competition in India.
• Chairperson- Ravneet Kaur
Source: ET
81. 54th International Film Festival of India has announced Indian Panorama lineup to be
showcased in the event.
• Event Details:
o The 54th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) is scheduled to be held in Goa
from 20th to 28th November 2023.
• Film categories-
o The Indian Panorama comprises two categories: 25 feature films and 20 non-
feature films.
• Selection Criteria-
o Films are selected which demonstrate cinematic, thematic, and aesthetic excellence,
in adherence to the guidelines set forth by the Indian Panorama.
Source: PIB
82. NCERT panel has approved the proposal to replace India with Bharat in textbooks.
• Other recommendations-
o Replacing ‘ancient history’ with ‘classical history’.
o Include Indian Knowledge System (IKS) in syllabus for all subjects.
Knowledge Nuggets
About NCERT-
• National Council of Educational Research and Training is an autonomous organisation of
the Government of India.
• Objective- to assist and advise the Central and State Governments on policies and
programmes for qualitative improvement in school education.
• Established-1961
Source: TOI
pg. 37
[Type here]
83. Regional Connectivity Service (RCS)- UDAN (Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik) has completed 6
years.
• About UDAN-
• It is an initiative to improve infrastructure and connectivity in remote and underserved
regions.
• It is an important component of India's National Civil Aviation Policy (NCAP) 2016.
• Launched by- Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA)
• Launch Date- October 21, 2016
• Vision- 10-year vision
Source: PIB
84. Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) has launched India’s first specialised reference petrol and
diesel.
• About reference petrol and diesel-
o These fuels have higher specifications.
o They are used for calibrating and testing automobiles by manufacturers and testing
agencies.
Knowledge Nuggets
About IOC-
• Indian Oil Corporation Limited is an Indian multinational oil and gas company under the
ownership of the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Government of India.
• It has been granted a Maharatna status.
• Chairperson- Shrikant Madhav Vaidya
Source: ET
85. Ministry of Coal and Ministry of New & Renewable Energy have decided to work together
for the promotion of Green Energy.
• Initiatives under the partnership-
• Net Zero Plan and Solar Energy Capacity:
pg. 38
[Type here]
o Over 1600 MW of solar energy generation capacity already installed and another
500 MW at various stages of development.
• Utilization of Surplus Land:
o The surplus land from de-coaled coal companies, including open cast mines with
naturally available water storage reservoirs and sufficient elevation, will be
repurposed for green hydrogen projects.
• Capacity Building and Knowledge Partnerships:
o The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy will support the capacity building of
engineers, technicians, and other personnel through the National Institute of Solar
Energy (NISE)
• Future Generation Capacity and Land Identification:
o CPSEs under the Ministry of Coal aim to create a generation capacity of about
12GW by 2030 and are in the process of identifying suitable land patches of more
than 300 acres each to offer to private investors for setting up green hydrogen
projects in alignment with the policies of the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy.
Source: PIB
86. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has released 3 books at Tulsi Peeth in Chitrakoot, Madhya
Pradesh.
• Books Released-
o Ashtadhyayi Bhashya
o Ramanandacharya Charitram
o Bhagwan Shri Krishna ki Rashtraleela
Source: ANI
87. PM Narendra Modi will kickstart Nationwide Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra to promote
awareness about welfare schemes on the birth anniversary of Birsa Munda on November 15.
• Objective:
o To create awareness and ensure Jan Bhagidari in developmental and welfare
schemes to achieve India's goal of becoming a developed country by 2047.
• Key features of campaign-
• Coverage:
o All gram panchayats and over three thousand 700 Urban Local Bodies, covering
around 14 thousand locations in urban areas.
pg. 39
[Type here]
• Key Schemes to be Showcased:

o Jal Jeevan Mission, Ayushman Bharat Yojana, Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna
Yojana, Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana, Jan Dhan Yojana, PM Awas Yojana, PM
PRANAM Yojana, and Urea Subsidy Scheme among others.
• On-the-Spot Services:
o Health camps, Aadhaar enrolment, MY BHARAT volunteer enrolment, and Krishi
activities like drone demonstrations and interaction with progressive farmers on soil
health cards and natural farming.
Source: AIR
88. Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri has inaugurated 16th Urban Mobility India Conference
& Exhibition 2023 in New Delhi.
• The event was organized by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs and Delhi Metro Rail
Corporation Ltd.
• Awards for ‘Excellence/best practice projects in Urban Transport’ is distributed.
• Theme- Integrated and Resilient Urban Transport
Source: PIB
89. Central Government has launched Dark Pattern Hackathon 2023 to combat deceptive
practices in E-Commerce.
• Objective-
o To provide protection to consumers from all types of unfair trade practices.
• Collaboration-
o Department of Consumer Affairs, Government of India in collaboration with IIT BHU
• Solution will be provided on -
o Browser extension, plugins, add-ons, mobile application etc.
Source: PIB
90. Union Government has appointed Boston Consulting Group (BCG) to help prepare a
Vision 2047 document.
• About Vision 2047 document-
o The document will set India’s medium-term goals and priorities for becoming a
developed economy in the next quarter of a century.
pg. 40
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Knowledge Nuggets
About BCG-
• Boston Consulting Group, Inc. is an American global management consulting firm.

• Headquarters- Boston, Massachusetts, US
• CEO- Christoph Schweizer
Source: livemint
91. REC Power Development and Consultancy Limited (RECPDCL) has handed over the
project specific Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) to Power Grid Corporation of India Limited.
• SPV is formed for the construction of ‘Ramgarh II Transmission Limited’
• SPV involves the implementation of a 765/400kV & 2x500 MVA 400/220 kV pooling station
at Ramgarh along with 765kV D/c line (Ramgarh PS to Bhadla-3 PS) in the state of
Rajasthan.
Knowledge Nuggets
What is Special Purpose Vehicle-

• A special purpose vehicle, also called a special purpose entity (SPE), is a subsidiary
created by a parent company to isolate financial risk.
• Its legal status as a separate company makes its obligations secure even if the parent
company goes bankrupt.
About REC Limited-

• It is a Maharatna Central Public Sector Enterprise under the Ministry of Power, is an
NBFC focusing on Power Sector Financing and Development across India.
• Chairman & MD- Vivek Kumar Dewangan
Power Grid Corporation of India Limited-
pg. 41
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• Power Grid Corporation of India Limited (POWERGRID), a Schedule ‘A’ ‘Maharatna’

Public Sector Enterprise under the Ministry of Power.
• Chairman & MD- K. Shreekant
Source: PIB, REC,
92. Ericsson has announced to set up a 6G Research and Development centre in Chennai,
Tamil Nadu.
• Objective-
• To develop the technology which will help to deliver a cyber-physical continuum where
networks will deliver-
o critical services
o immersive communications
o omnipresent IoT
• To ensure the integrity of the delivered information.
93. Norway will support India’s Hunger Project in Uttarakhand.

• Objective-
o To help strengthen women leaders to protect the environment and promote food
security in Uttarakhand.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Hunger project-

• The hunger project organizes capacity-building training for elected women
representatives (EWRs) and federations.
• It focuses on strengthening van panchayats (forest councils) which in turn will ensure
food security and livelihood opportunities for marginalized households.
• The programme will strengthen elected women’s leadership in gram panchayats so that
they can play an important role in conserving forests and natural resources.
• Project Implementation- Implemented in-
3 districts, 9 blocks, 172-gram panchayats and 145 van panchayats of Uttarakhand
Source: livemint
pg. 42
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STATE NEWS
1. Noida's upcoming Jewar airport has been assigned the three-letter code 'DXN' by the
International Air Transport Association (IATA), signifying its proximity to Noida, Delhi, and
western Uttar Pradesh.
• This code, given by IATA, aids in the easy identification of airports worldwide. The 'DXN'
code will help travellers and aviation professionals identify the airport accurately.
• Noida Airport will be India's largest airport being developed in four phases across 5,000
hectares.
• The airport is being constructed by Yamuna International Airport Private Limited, a
subsidiary of Swiss company Zurich Airport International AG.
Source: ET
2. Arunachal Pradesh has signed an MoU with the Norwegian Geotechnical Institute (NGI) to
explore the feasibility of harnessing geothermal potential in the state's hot springs.
• The Centre for Earth Sciences & Himalayan Studies (an autonomous organization of
Department of Science & Technology), Government of Arunachal Pradesh, has been
partnering with NGI for this MOU.
Source: ET
3. Chhattisgarh CM Bhupesh Baghel unveiled development works worth Rs 1021.59 crore for
Raipur.
• An Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) based e-detection system will be
established to enforce fines for vehicles without fitness and tax documents automatically.
• A Nirbhaya command center and GPS-based vehicle tracking software for women's
safety will be established to enhance safety measures using panic buttons installed in
passenger buses and school buses.
Source: TOI
4. Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha launched an e-cabinet system at Agartala to promote
digital infrastructure development and digitisation of government services and information.
• Tripura has become the fourth state—and second in the Northeast—after Uttarakhand,
Uttar Pradesh and Arunachal Pradesh, to have introduced an e-cabinet system.
pg. 43
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• The e-cabinet system is expected to eliminate delays caused by the physical movement of
paper documents and to infuse dynamism in the government’s decision-making process.
• The government had earlier introduced e-file and office systems in keeping with the
Digital India campaign.
• Implementation Agency - National Informatics Centre
Source: IE
5. Jammu & Kashmir has declared all its 6650 villages in 20 districts as ODF Plus Model
during the 'Swachhata Hi Seva' Campaign.
• When a village achieves a condition where it is visually clean with minimal litter and
stagnant water, apart from solid and liquid waste management (SLWM) and adequate
cleanliness awareness generation activities, it is declared as ODF plus Model.
• India's highest gallantry awardee, the Param Var Chakra recipient Captain Bana Singh,
has been chosen as the ambassador for the "War Against Waste" initiative in Jammu &
Kashmir.
Efforts by J&K Administration -

• Plastic Waste Management Units (PWMU) are being established in each block.
• 'Swachhata Bulletin' has been launched to monitor and share daily updates on
Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) activities conducted by districts
Source: PIB
6. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has announced a cash reward of ₹25 lakh each for
nine space scientists hailing from Tamil Nadu, in recognition of their outstanding contributions
to the nation.
• Additionally, a scholarship programme for nine engineering students pursuing
graduation with financial assistance from the government was launched.
• These scholarships will be named after the nine scientists.
• It will be given to government school students under the state’s 7.5% reservation for them.
• A corpus of ₹10 crore is set aside for the scholarship program.
• Nine Scientists -
o Former Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) chairperson K. Sivan
o Former Director of ISRO’s Satellite Centre Mylswamy Annadurai;
o Director of ISRO’s Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre V. Narayanan;
pg. 44
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o ISRO’s Launch Authorisation Board chief A. Rajarajan;

o Director of U.R. Rao Satellite Centre M. Sankaran;
o ISRO’s Propulsion Complex Director J. Asir Packiaraj;
o Project Director of the Chandrayaan-2 lunar mission V. Vanitha;
o Project Director of the Aditya-L1 mission Nigar Shaji; and
o Chandrayaan-3 Project Director P. Veeramuthuvel
Source: The Hindu
7. Assam is promoting pipe composting as an effective method for managing biodegradable

waste at the household level during the Swachhata Hi Seva campaign.
• Pipe composting technology is a method of converting organic waste into compost using
PVC pipes 8 - 10 inches in diameter and 1.25 metres in length. The pipes are placed
vertically keeping them 25-30 cm inside the ground.
• Some of the benefits of pipe composting are -
o it converts biodegradable waste into manure within a short time without harming the
environment;
o it helps maintain a clean and hygienic environment on the school campus;
o it is odourless and fly-proof; and
o it is space efficient
Source: PIB
8. Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami announces Rs 12,500 crore foreign investment

agreement in the UK.
pg. 45
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• Total investment proposals received: Rs 20,000 crore

• During the visit, roadshows were held in London and Birmingham to attract investments.
• In December, Uttarakhand will organize the Global Investor Summit on the theme of
“Peace to Prosperity”.
Source: ET ANI
9. Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha launched the “Yuba Tripura, Natun Tripura,
Atmanirbhar Tripura" to encourage youth to set up industrial and business units in the state.
• Under the scheme, 100 youths from each district of the state would get opportunities to visit
the industrial estates and gather knowledge on various matters.
Source: ANI
10. India's first-ever Solar Roof Cycling Track has been inaugurated in Hyderabad.
• The 23-kilometre track will be known as Healthway.
• The track has been covered with a roof, made up of solar panels. This will ensure a better
experience for cyclists.
• This track is prepared with 16000 solar panels and is supposed to generate 16 MW of
power.
Source: The Hindu
11. PM Modi visited Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan.

Visit to Madhya Pradesh
• Development projects worth Rs 19,260 crore unveiled.
• Delhi-Vadodara Expressway inaugurated
• Grih Pravesh ceremony under PMAY-Gramin and Urban organized
• Foundation stone for 9 healthcare centres under Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure
Mission was laid
pg. 46
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• Atal Bihari Training Centre for Disability Sports (country's first high-tech sports training
centre for Divyangjan) was inaugurated at Gwalior in Madhya Pradesh.
Visit to Rajasthan
• Dedicated permanent campus of Indian Institute of Information Technology, Kota
Source: PIB IIIT DD News
12. Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma launched Mukhya Mantri Lok Sewak Arogya Yojana, an
online medical bill reimbursement scheme for government employees, pensioners, and their
dependents.
• Under this initiative, medical bills shall be reimbursed at rates equivalent to that of Central
Government Health Schemes (CGHS) and these shall be credited directly towards the
accounts of the claimant employees within a stipulated time frame.
• From October 2, 2024, treatments under the scheme at leading hospitals across the
country shall also be made cashless.
Source: ANI
13. Himachal Pradesh CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu formally launched the "Mukhyamantri
Sukh Ashraya Yojana" from the Ridge in Shimla.
• Purpose - to provide comprehensive support to orphans, specially abled children, destitute
women, and elderly individuals in the state
Source: TOI
14. Prime Minister inaugurated India’s first 800 MW Super Thermal Power Project in Peddapalli
district, Nizamabad, Telangana.
• Developer – NTPC
• Cost – ₹ 10,998 crore
• Location - premises of NTPC’s existing Ramagundam station in Peddapalli district
• Usage - It will supply 85% of its power to the state of Telangana.
• Second phase – to be operationalized very soon. Upon completion, the installed capacity of
the power plant would rise to 4,000 MW.
Source: Hindustan Times
15. Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated several developmental projects worth over ₹13,500
crore in Telangana.
pg. 47
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• Major Projects -
o Nagpur - Vijayawada Economic Corridor
o Greenfield highway from Warangal to Khammam section
o Greenfield highway from Khammam to Vijayawada
o Four-lane of the 59 km Suryapet to Khammam section of NH-365BB, part of the
Hyderabad - Visakhapatnam Corridor, under the Bharatmala Pariyojana
Source: ET
16. Madhya Pradesh CM Shivraj Singh Chouhan inaugurated India's largest pumped storage
project, developed by Greenko Group (India’s largest energy storage company).
• The project is located in the Khemla block, Neemuch district, Madhya Pradesh.
• The total investment will be Rs 11,500 crore over the next 3 years.
Source: ET
17. The Department of Fisheries, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying, along with
other organizations, organized the Sagar Parikrama Phase-IX event in Tamil Nadu.
• The event included interactions with fishermen and fisherwomen, discussions on the use of
new technology in the fishery sector, and distribution of Kisan Credit Cards to beneficiaries.
• Shri Parshottam Rupala inaugurated a fish farmer producer cooperative society during
the event.
• The Sagar Parikrama initiative aims to disseminate information on fisheries-related
schemes, promote responsible fisheries, and ensure government subsidies reach
beneficiaries.
Source: LiveMint
18. The 49th All India Police Science Congress was organized by the Bureau of Police
Research and Development (BPR&D) in Dehradun.
Source: TOI
19. Rajasthan government announces three new districts namely, Malpura, Sujangarh, and
Kuchaman City.
• Now, the total number of districts in Rajasthan stands at 53.
Knowledge Nuggets
pg. 48
[Type here]
About Rajasthan-
• Capital- Jaipur
• Chief Minister- Ashok Gehlot
• Governor- Kalraj Mishra
Source: HT
20. Uttar Pradesh has declared Gangetic Dolphin as the state aquatic animal.
• The Gangetic Dolphins are found in rivers such as Ganga, Yamuna, Chambal, Ghaghra,
Rapti, and Gerua.
• Their population is estimated to be around 2,000 in Uttar Pradesh.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Gangetic Dolphin-
• Scientific name- Platanista gangetica gangetica
• IUCN Status- Endangered
Source: ANI
21. Eight products from Arunachal Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Jammu and Kashmir, Odisha and
Goa received GI Tag.
Arunachal Pradesh Yak Churpi
Khaw Tai (Khamti rice)
Tangsa Textile Product
Tamil Nadu Udangudi Panangkarupatti
pg. 49
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Jammu & Kashmir Basohli Pashmina Woolen Product

(Kathua district)
Udhampur Kaladi (Udhampur)
Odisha Kendrapara Rasabali (Food item)
Goa Goa Cashew
Knowledge Nuggets
About Geographical Indication (GI) tag-

• A geographical indication (GI) is a sign used on products that have a specific
geographical origin and possess qualities or a reputation that are due to that origin.
• Legislation- Products are registered under Geographical Indication of Goods
(Registration and Protection) Act,1999.
• Validity- 10 Years
Source: TOI NIE TOI NIE
22. Uttarakhand Chief Minister launched “Rozgar Prayag Portal” at Uttarakhand Youth
Mahotsav.
• Objective- To provide employment opportunities in state on a single portal.
• ‘Yuva Uttarakhand App’ is also launched to make schemes run by various departments
available at one place.
• An MoU was also signed between Skill Development and Employment Department and
IIT Roorkee to upskill the state manpower.
• IIT Roorkee and Microsoft have provided the technical support for the app.
23. Hyderabad's Old City is set to welcome a technology revolution with the construction of the
iTEK Nucleus IT tower at Malakpet, with a budget of Rs 700 crore.
• The project is a public-private partnership between the Telangana government and the
Finczars from Hyderabad, Varma Constructions from Mumbai, and YFC Projects from
Gurugram.
• The tower is expected to generate 50,000 job opportunities.
Source: ET
pg. 50
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24. Metro train trial runs in Bhopal and Indore have been successful, and the metros will become
operational by mid-2024.
Source: MP Rail
25. Delhi govt has established a ‘Green War Room’ at the Delhi secretariat to help the
government monitor air pollution.
Source: HT
26. Rajasthan has introduced the exclusive Valley Queen Heritage Train service, offering
passengers a nostalgic journey with a 150-year-old steam engine.
• The train features a 60-seat Vistadome AC coach and operates four days a week, with
tickets priced at INR 2,000 per person.
• The Valley Queen Heritage Train is the sixth of its kind in India, offering a scenic route
through lush green valleys, hills, rare flora, and fauna.
Source: ToI
27. Tamil Nadu government announced a new Samadhan Scheme for the settlement of the
pending tax dues under the erstwhile Tamil Nadu Value Added Tax and other legacy tax
legislations.
• The scheme has classified the tax dues under five broad categories —
o ₹50,000 and below,
o above ₹50,000 to ₹10 lakh,
o above ₹10 lakh to ₹1 crore,
o above ₹1 crore to ₹10 crore and
o above ₹10 crore.
• The new scheme offers a complete waiver of tax arrears, interest, and penalty if the
total tax arrears for an assessment year is below ₹50,000, and this is for every assessment
year.
• For the tax dues that fall in the category of ₹50,000-₹10 lakh, traders can just pay 20% of
the dues or by paying a portion of the tax, interest, and fine to settle the disputes once and
for all.
• In the other three categories, traders could pay the mentioned portion of the tax,
interest, and fine and move out.
pg. 51
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28. Chhattisgarh Baiga tribe gets habitat right under Forest Right Act, 2006.
• The habitat right is a provision meant for Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTG) of
the country.
• Total PVTG tribes - 75
Source: TOI
29. The Himachal Pradesh State Cabinet has approved Van Mitra scheme to strengthen the
involvement of local communities in protection, conservation and development of forest areas
by roping in grassroot level institutions.
Source: ANI
30. Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has launched Location Accessible Multi-modal
Initiative (LAccMI) scheme for establishing a seamless public transport network from
Gram Panchayat level to state capital.
31. United Kingdom and Tamil Nadu collaborated on smart technology project for sustainable
water, waste and resource management.
• It will be done under UK backed Smart district project.
• Objective-
o To address global sustainability challenges by developing sensors across the district,
gathering real-time data on water and waste management, and environment quality.
Source: The Hindu
32. Asian Development Bank has approved 181 million USD loan to build infra in
Ahmedabad’s peri-urban areas.
• Objective-
o To build quality infrastructure and services toward improving urban livability and
mobility in the peri-urban areas of Ahmedabad, Gujarat.
o To upgrade basic infrastructure and services and strengthen urban management in
these areas to raise the quality of life of its residents and sustain economic growth.
Knowledge Nuggets
pg. 52
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About Asian Development Bank-

• The Asian Development Bank is a regional development bank.
• Headquarters- Manila, Philippines
• President- Masatsugu Asakawa
33. Kerala’s Vizhinjam port welcomes its first vessel Zhen Hua 15.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Vizhinjam port-

• It is India’s first deep-water container transshipment port.
• Location- Vizhinjam, near Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
34. Bhopal’s Mahila Thana has become country’s first women police station to get ISO
9001:2015 certification.
• Reason for certification- Improvement in infrastructure.
• Validity of certificate- 3 years.
Knowledge Nuggets
About ISO
• It is an international standard development organization composed of representatives
from the national standards organizations of member countries.
pg. 53
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• Members - 169 national standards bodies
About ISO 9001:2015-

• ISO 9001:2015 specifies requirements for a quality management system when an
organization:
o Needs to demonstrates its ability to consistently provide products and services that
meet customer and applicable statutory and regulatory requirements, and
o Aims to enhance customer satisfaction through the effective application of the
system.
Source: ANI
35. Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath has announced one free LPG Cylinder for Ujjwala
beneficiaries as Diwali Gift.
• The decision is expected to benefit 1.75 crore families in the state.
Knowledge Nuggets
About UJJWALA Scheme-

• It is a scheme of Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas for providing LPG
connections to women from Below Poverty Line household.
• Launched- 1st May 2016
Source: livemint
pg. 54
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36. Kati Bihu festival has been celebrated on October 18, 2023 in Assam to mark the time of
relocation of rice sapling.
• About Kati Bihu-
o It is also known as Kongali Bihu.
o It is celebrated by lightning the earthen lamps or candles in the house.
• There are three Bihu festivals celebrated in Assam which are connected with agriculture.
• Other two Bihu festivals are-
• Bhogali or Magh Bihu (observed in January)
• Rongali or Bohag Bihu (observed in April)
Source: TOI
37. Karnataka Chief Minister has launched a logo to mark the Golden Jubilee of Renaming
State.
• More Information-
• The launch of the logo marks the golden jubilee of the renaming of the Mysore State as
Karnataka on 1st November,1973
• Year-long program Karnataka Sambhrama involving youth, women and others will be
organised by various departments.
• Theme- Hesarayitu Karnataka, Usiragali Kannada
38. Arunachal Pradesh State Cabinet has approved the formation of Special Tiger Protection
Force (STPF) in the state for three Tiger Reserves.
• Three tiger reserves are-
o Namdapha,
o Pakke and
o Kamlang
• Objectives-
o Protection of Tigers and their habitats,
o Protection of wildlife habitats and
o Prevention of other illegal activities in these tiger reserves
Source: news on air
pg. 55
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39. President of India Droupadi Murmu has launched the fourth Krishi Road Map (2023-2038)
of Bihar in Patna.
Source: PIB
40. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has launched 511 Pramod Mahajan Grameen Kaushalya
Vikas Kendras across 34 rural districts in Maharashtra.
• Objective-
o To conduct skill development training programs across various sectors to provide
employment opportunities to rural youth.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Pramod Mahajan Grameen Kaushalya Vikas Kendras-

• Each Kendra will train about 100 youngsters in at least two vocational courses.
• The training will be provided by empanelled industry partners and agencies under the
National Skill Development Council.
• The establishment of these Kendras will help the region attain significant strides towards
developing a more competent and skilled manpower.
Source: PIB
41. The Andhra Pradesh School Education Department has launched a doubt clearance bot
(app) for government school students to offer a comprehensive educational experience.
• Objective-
o to clarify doubts beyond school hours in the disciplines of physics, chemistry, biology,
mathematics, English, and TOEFL preparation.
• Developed by- ConveGenius
Source: India Today
42. Indian Council of Medical Research has delivered medicines using drones across Himachal
Pradesh.
• The drone has successfully transported more than 100 units of essential medications over
20 kilometres.
• It also reduces the time from 120 minutes to 26 minutes.
• It is the first high-altitude, low-temperature venture of ICMR.
• Objective-
pg. 56
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o to streamline the distribution of essential medical provisions from regional hospitals

in Keylong to more than eight Primary Health Centres (PHCs) in the region.
Source: The Hindu
43. ‘Heartland Tripura’ project has been launched to enhance the employability and skills of the
youth of Tripura.
• About Heartland Tripura-
o Launched in partnership between Deloitte India and the National Institute of
Electronics and Information Technology (NIELIT).
• Objective-
o To deliver a specific set of skill development certification courses through NIELIT –
Agartala for the state
o To provide internship opportunities to select professionals, and
o To provide job opportunity upon successful completion of certification and internship
requirements.
Source: PIB
44. Rajasthan Government has launched ‘iStart Talent Connect Portal’ to boost employment
opportunities.
• The portal has been launched under the state government’s flagship initiative, iStart
Rajasthan, in collaboration with Jaipur-based startup Hyrefox.
• Objective-
o to serve as a user-friendly platform for both job providers and job seekers
Source: inc42
45. Uttar Pradesh Government has set up the Urban Road Infrastructure Development Agency
(URIDA) for infrastructure development in state.
• Functions of URIDA-
o To develop and mainstream roads in cities
o To develop an urban road management system
o To improve the financial condition of urban local bodies and
o To adopt new technologies in road infrastructure
Source: ANI
pg. 57
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46. Uttarakhand Chief Minister has launched Nandagaura Yojana portal for girls and portal for
monitoring Mahalaxmi Kit Yojana
• About Nandagaura Yojana Portal-
• It will be available to about 50,000 girls every year
• Girls will get-
o ₹11,000 on birth
o ₹51,000 on passing class 12th
• About Mahalaxmi Kit Scheme-
• Under this scheme necessary clothes and kit material will be given to lactating mothers and
newborn girl children.
Source: ET
47. Kerala government has set up a ₹237 Crore Graphene production facility in public-private
partnership.
• Objective-
o To build a Graphene ecosystem to encourage future material technologies
• About Graphene-
o Graphene is the thinnest and strongest material in the world ever known
o It has good chemical stability and high electrical conductivity
o It has a large surface area while being transparent and lightweight
• Implementing Agency-
o Kerala Digital University
Source: livemint
48. Shillong has hosted Green Tourism India Conclave for the promotion of responsible
tourism in Northeast.
• Objective-
o promotion of green and responsible tourism in India, with a particular emphasis on
the Northeastern region and Odisha.
• Participating entities-
o Meghalaya Tourism,
o Incredible India,
o Odisha Tourism and
o Arunachal Tourism
pg. 58
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49. Union Government has approved the inclusion of the Jamrani Dam Multipurpose Project
of Uttarakhand under the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana-Accelerated Irrigation
Benefit Programme (PMKSY-AIBP).
• About Jamrani Dam Multipurpose Project-
o Project includes the construction of a dam near Jamrani village across river Gola
o Dam will feed the existing Gola barrage through its 40.5 km length of canal system
and 244 km long canal system completed in 1981.
• Project cost- ₹2,584 crore.
Source: The Hindu
50. Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has launched ‘Swayampurna e-bazaar’ platform.
• Objective-
o To provide self-help groups and local artisans with global platform to sell their
products.
Source: TOI
51. Kerala has become the first state in India to have gold hallmarking centres in all districts.
• Objective-
o To make Kerala a hub of gold business and make it most reliable market in country
to buy gold ornaments.
• About Kerala Gold Business-
o Gold business in Kerala is worth more than ₹1 lakh crore with annual sales of around
250 tonnes.
o There are around 12,000 gold merchants in the State.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Hallmarking-
• Hallmarking is the accurate determination and official recording of the proportionate

content of precious metal in precious metal articles.
• It is used as a guarantee of purity or fineness of precious metal articles.
pg. 59
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• Mandatory hallmarking of gold jewellery/artefacts is done under Hallmarking of Gold

Jewellery and Gold Artefacts order, 2020
• It is administered by Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) Act, 2016.
52. 24th Hornbill festival 2023 will be celebrated in Nagaland from December 1.
• About Hornbill Festival-
o The Hornbill Festival is an annual festival celebrated from 1 to 10 of December in the
Northeastern Indian state of Nagaland.
o The festival represents all ethnic group of Nagaland for which it is also called
the Festival of Festivals.
Source: morung
53. Delhi Government has launched Jai Bhim Mukhyamantri Pratibha Vikas Yojana to provide
free coaching to medical, engineering and civil services.
• Objective-
o To provide quality coaching for economically disadvantaged Scheduled Castes (SCs)
candidates.
o To enable them to compete in competitive examinations and secure jobs in the public
or private sector.
• Courses Covered:
o Group A and B examinations by UPSC, SSC, RRBs, and Judicial Services
Examination.
o Group A and B examinations by State Public Service Commission.
o Officers’ Grade examinations by Banks, Insurance Companies, and PSUs.
o Premier Entrance Examinations for Engineering, Medical, Management, Law, and
other disciplines.
• Implementing Agencies:
o Reputed institutions/centres run by registered private institutions/NGOs.
Source: TOI
54. Karnataka has launched Hostile Activity Watch Kernel (HAWK) system to monitor all
aspect of forest and wildlife crime.
pg. 60
[Type here]
• Launched by-
o Karnataka Forest Department and Wildlife Trust of India
• Supported by-
o Digital Services Company NTT Data
• What will the system do?
o It would help the department monitor such as the death of wildlife, suspected
criminal activities, and the movement of suspicious vehicles in real-time basis.
o Information will be fed into a centralised system so that effective and pre-emptive
responses, including counteraction, could be initiated.
Source: The Hindu
55. Indigenously built Air Traffic Management Automation System (ATMAS) has been
inaugurated at the Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneshwar, Odisha.
• What is ATMAS?
o It is an automation system which will provide information conflict prediction or Alert
warning and decision-making tools to Air Traffic Controllers.
• Developed by-
o Airport Authority of India (AAI) and Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL)
• Benefits-
o ATMAS will help to improve safety, efficiency, and capacity of air traffic management
in India.
o It will reduce the dependency on foreign system
Source: TOI
INTERNATIONAL NEWS
1. The extended 45th Session of the World Heritage Committee was held in Riyadh, Saudi
Arabia, from 10 to 25 September.
• During the session, 42 new sites (33 cultural, 9 natural) were added on the UNESCO
World Heritage List, bringing the total to 1199 (993 cultural, 227 natural, 39 mixed).
• The Committee decided to remove the site of the Tombs of the Buganda Kings in
Kasubi (Uganda) from the List of World Heritage in Danger, following the successful
restoration work carried out by Uganda with UNESCO’s support.
pg. 61
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• Ukraine’s sites in Kyiv and L’viv were added into the List of World Heritage in Danger.
• Sites from India included in the World Heritage Sites list -
o Sacred ensembles of Karnataka's Hoysala Temples (Hoysala Temples of Belur,
Halebid, and Somnathapura)
o Santiniketan, a town in West Bengal
• After addition, a total of 42 sites (34 cultural, 7 natural, and 1 mixed site) of India are
listed on the UNESCO’s list.
o The only Mixed (natural + cultural) site is Khangchendzonga National Park (2016)
in Sikkim.
Source: UNESCO TOI WHS
2. Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) launched its third military imaging satellite,
Nour 3.
• The satellite was launched from Iran's Shahroud Spaceport.
pg. 62
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Source: Al Jazeera
3. The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved significant capital management
reforms, resulting in an additional $100 billion in funding capacity over the next decade.
• These reforms are aimed at addressing multiple crises in the Asia-Pacific region, including
the climate crisis.
• ADB's annual new commitments capacity will expand to over $36 billion, an increase of
about 40%.
• This expanded funding will be used to provide support for various critical development
initiatives and climate change mitigation efforts.
Source: ADB
4. Indonesia has launched Southeast Asia's first high-speed railway, which is funded by
China.
• This project was inaugurated by Indonesian President Joko Widodo.
• The project is largely funded by China, as part of the Belt and Road infrastructure
initiative.
Source: The Hindu
5. The “largest” statue of B R Ambedkar outside India has been constructed in Maryland,
North America on October 14.
• The 19-foot statue, named “Statue of Equality”, has been made by renowned artist and
sculptor Ram Sutar, who also built the statue of Sardar Patel installed in Ahmedabad,
Gujarat.
• The statue of Ambedkar is part of the Ambedkar International Center (AIC).
Source: Hindu
6. The United Kingdom has awarded a £4 billion contract to BAE Systems, Rolls-Royce, and
Babcock as part of the AUKUS program to design and manufacture nuclear-powered
submarines for the Royal Navy.
Knowledge Nuggets
• In September 2021, leaders of Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States
announced the creation of an enhanced trilateral security partnership called "AUKUS."
pg. 63
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• AUKUS promotes deeper information sharing and technology sharing; and fosters deeper
integration of security and defence-related science, technology, industrial bases and
supply chains.
Source: Al Jazeera and US
7. The 78th session of UN General Assembly was organized in New York on the theme of
“Rebuilding trust and reigniting global solidarity: Accelerating action on the 2030 Agenda and
its Sustainable Development Goals towards peace, prosperity, progress and sustainability for
all.”
Highlights
A) United Nations Resident Coordinator in India Shombi Sharp announced an exchange of
Letters of Intent with the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation to launch a new
partnership to help amplify India and South-South cooperation.
B) The Global Sustainable Development Report 2023
• It is published once in every four years.
• It is published by United Nations Sustainable Development Network.
C) WHO and World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA based in Montreal, Canada) have signed
MOU to collaborate on clean, drug-free sport.
Knowledge Nuggets
About WHO-
The World Health Organization is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for
international public health.
• Headquarters- Geneva, Switzerland.

• Director General- Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus
• Members- 194
About WADA-
It is an independent authority which leads the collaborative worldwide movement for doping-free
sports.
pg. 64
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• Headquarters- Montreal, Canada.

• Director General- Witold Bańka
Source: UN ANI SDG WHO
8. The R21/Matrix-M malaria vaccine, developed by the University of Oxford and the Serum
Institute of India, has been recommended for use by the World Health Organisation (WHO)
after meeting required safety, quality and effectiveness standards.
• R21/Matrix-M malaria vaccine was sold under the brand Mosquirix.
Source: LiveMint
9. Armenia's Parliament voted to join the International Criminal Court.

Source: Wion
10. The World Trade Organization (WTO) has reduced its global merchandise trade growth
forecast to 0.8%.
• The 2024 growth projection remains at 3.3%.
• Real GDP of the world is expected to grow by 2.6% in 2023 and 2.5% in 2024.
Source: LiveMint
11. France’s highest mountain Mount Blanc has shrunk by 2.22 metres.
• It is also the highest mountain range in Alps.
• Location - France, Italy and Switzerland
Source: BBC
12. Europe’s first fully private rocket Miura-1 was launched from Spain.
• Spain's company PLD Space launched Miura-1 rocket.
• It is a recoverable rocket.
Source: WION
13. NASA is going to launch Psyche mission, which will travel to an asteroid, on October 12.
• Objective- to conduct an in-depth study of the asteroid, which could provide valuable insights
into the early formation of our planet and the nature of planetary cores
pg. 65
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• Psyche mission is named after an asteroid that orbits the sun in the space region between
Mars and Jupiter.
• This is NASA’s first mission to study an asteroid that has more metal than rock or ice.
Knowledge Nuggets
About NASA-
• The National Aeronautics and Space Administration is an independent agency of the U.S.
federal government responsible for the civil space program, aeronautics research, and
space research.
• Founded- 1958
• Headquarters- Washington, D.C., United States
Source: TOI
14. The first ever Gandhi Museum in North America, dedicated to the life and legacy of
Mahatma Gandhi, has been inaugurated in the US city of Houston in Texas.
• The Eternal Gandhi Museum is the only Gandhi-related Museum in the United States,
dedicated to Gandhi, to preserve and promote his ever-lasting legacy of nonviolent conflict
resolution.
Source: HT
15. The International Energy Agency hosted the first ever “Critical Minerals and Clean
Energy Summit” on 28 September 2023 at the IEA headquarters in Paris.
• The 1st edition of the ‘Critical Minerals Market Review’ was published.
• The report provides a major update on the investment, market, technology and policy
trends of the critical minerals sector in 2022 and an initial reading of the emerging picture
for 2023.
• Key observations of the report -
o In 2022, electric car sales increased by 60%, surpassing 10 million units, and energy
storage systems experienced rapid growth with doubled capacity additions.
o Solar PV installations broke records, and wind power is set to rise after two
subdued years, leading to a significant increase in demand for critical minerals.
o Investment in energy transition minerals has doubled over the past 5 years,
reaching a market size of USD 320 billion in 2022, similar to the iron ore mining
market.
Source: IEA and IEA
pg. 66
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16. European Union has approved world’s first green bond standard to avoid greenwashing.
• The new standards will help investors to pick sustainable companies and avoid
greenwashing or misleading climate-friendly claims.
• These new voluntary standards will initiate the use of ‘European Green Bond label’,
which are first of its kind globally.
• How will this work?
o Companies who want to label their bonds as “green” in EU would have to disclose
information about how bonds proceeds would be used.
o At least, 85% of funds raised would have to be allocated to activities in line with EU’s
“taxonomy” of sustainable activities.
o Also, firms would have to show that how these investments are made for transition to
a net zero carbon emission economy.
• These standards set up a registration system and a supervisory framework for external
reviewers of European green bond.
Knowledge Nuggets
About European Union-

• The European Union is a supranational political and economic union of 27 member states
that are located primarily in Europe.
• Founded- 1993
17. UNICEF's Passport to Earning (P2E) programme in India has skilled and certified more than
one million young people.
• About P2E programme-
o It is a global learning-to-earning solution that focuses on providing young individuals
with essential skills and certifications to prepare them for the demands of the future
workforce.
o The programme focuses on areas such as financial literacy, digital productivity,
employability skills, and other job-ready skills.
• P2E programme in India-
o 62% of the learners benefiting from the P2E courses are adolescent girls and young
women
pg. 67
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o P2E in India aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, providing free
access to certificate courses in various skills.
• Goals of P2E-
o The P2E initiative aims to skill 5 million youth in the age group of 14-29 by 2024 and
provide them with opportunities in jobs, self-employment, and entrepreneurship.
Knowledge Nuggets
About UNICEF-
• United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund is a United Nations agency
dedicated to providing humanitarian and developmental assistance to children and
mothers globally.
• Headquarters- New York, USA
• Head- Catherine M. Russel
Source: PIB
18. Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina inaugurated the 82-km Padma Bridge Rail Link.
• It is the country's most significant infrastructure project developed under China's Belt and
Road Initiative.
• The rail link will connect section of the rail route between Dhaka and Jashore through the
Padma Bridge.
19. Eight-foot-tall statue of Mahatma Gandhi has been unveiled at Tolstoy Farm, South Africa.
• Historical Significance-
o Tolstoy Farm is the commune that he had started during his tenure as a lawyer in
South Africa.
o The farm was donated by Gandhi's friend Herman Kallenbach, became a symbol of
resistance against discriminatory laws, with the community cultivating fruits and
vegetables for sustenance.
Source: The Hindu
20. Sri Lanka has taken over as the Chair and India as vice-chair of Indian Ocean Rim
association (IORA) for the period of 2023 to 2025.
pg. 68
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• Location- Colombo, Sri Lanka

• Theme- Reinforcing Indian Ocean Identity
Knowledge Nuggets
About IORA-
o IORA was formed in 1997 (then called the Indian Ocean Region-Association for
Regional Cooperation) in Mauritius.
Objective-
o Promoting balanced development and sustainable growth in the region.
Membership-
o Includes 23 member countries - Australia, Bangladesh, the Comoros, France, India,
Indonesia, Iran, Kenya, Madagascar, Malaysia, the Maldives, Mauritius, Mozambique,
Oman, Seychelles, Singapore, Somalia, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Thailand, the
UAE and Yemen.
o Operates with a rotating chairmanship among its members.
Source: The Hindu
21. Daniel Noboa has become the youngest president of Ecuador’s history.
• He is a 35-year-old businessman and a member of National Democratic Action.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Ecuador-
• Capital- Quito
• Currency- USD
Source: BBC
22. United Nations and Food and Agriculture Organization have released the 1st ever global
estimation of the impact of disaster on agriculture production in report ‘The Impact of
Disasters on Agriculture and Food Security’
o An estimated $3.8 trillion worth of crops and livestock production has been lost due to
natural disasters over the last 30 years.
o Asia is experiencing the largest share of the total economic losses.
pg. 69
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o The loss corresponded to an average of $123 billion per year, or 5% of annual global
agricultural gross domestic product (GDP).
o Losses in cereals were followed by fruits and vegetables and sugar crops, with each
witnessing average losses of 40 million tonnes per year.
o For fruits and vegetables, losses corresponded to the entire production of fruits and
vegetables in Japan and Vietnam in 2021.
Knowledge Nuggets
About United Nation-

• Headquarters- New York
• Secretary General- Antonio Guterres
About Food and Agriculture Organization-

• Headquarters- Rome, Italy
• Director General- Qu Dongyu
Source: downtoearth
23. Bharti Group has signed an agreement with its partner AXA to acquire the 49% stake of AXA
in Bharti AXA Life Insurance.
• Bharti Life Ventures, the group’s holding company for Bharti AXA Life Insurance, will
become the sole owner of the life insurance post the stake sale.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Bharti AXA Life Insurance

• Bharti group has a 51% stake and AXA group has 49% stake in Bharti AXA Life
Insurance.
• Headquarters- Mumbai, Maharashtra
• MD & CEO- Parag Raja
pg. 70
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24. Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has approved Green Energy Corridor Phase-II
Inter-Sate Transmission System for 13-gigawatt renewable energy project in Ladakh.
• Implementing agency- Power Grid Corporation
• The transmission line will pass through Himachal Pradesh, Punjab and up to Kaithal in
Haryana.
• Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs is chaired by Prime Minister.
Source: livemint
25. Saudia Arabia has hosted Middle East and North Africa Climate Week (MENACW) in
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
• About Middle East and North Africa Climate Week-
o It is an annual event that brings together leaders from governments, businesses,
international organizations and civil society.
o It is organized into four systems-based tracks, each focusing on specific themes:
o Energy systems and industry
o Cities, urban and rural settlements, infrastructure and transport
o Land, ocean, food and water
o Societies, health, livelihoods, and economies
• Objective-
o To explore ways to reduce greenhouse gas emissions while adapting to the
mounting fallout from the climate crisis.
Source: UNEP
26. Sri Lanka has waived the visa fee for Indians and tourist from six other countries in order
to boost tourism.
• It approved a pilot project to issue free tourist visas to tourists from China, India, Russia,
Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Japan.
• It is valid until March 31, 2024
Source: The Hindu
27. China has launched Shenzhou-17 manned spacecraft to its space station.
Source: CNN
pg. 71
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28. Financial Action Task Force (FATF) has removed Cayman Island from its grey list in its
review published on 27 October, 2023.
• About FATF Grey list-
o These are jurisdiction which are actively working with the FATF to address strategic
deficiencies in their regimes to counter money laundering, terrorist financing, and
proliferation financing.
• Other countries removed-
o Panama, Jordan and Albania
• Country added to the list-
o Bulgaria
Knowledge Nuggets
About FATF-
• The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) is the global money laundering and terrorist
financing watchdog.
• The inter-governmental body sets international standards that aim to prevent these illegal
activities and the harm they cause to society.
• Headquarters- Paris
• President- T. Raja Kumar of Singapore
• Tenure of T. Raja Kumar is from 2022 to 2024
Source: Business Standard, FATF
BANKING AND ECONOMY

1. RBI has revoked the banking license of Nashik Zilla Girna Sahakari Bank Limited due to
its inability to maintain adequate capital and sustain profitable operations.
• This means the bank can no longer engage in banking activities, including accepting and
repaying deposits, with immediate effect.
• The Commissioner and Registrar of Cooperative in Maharashtra will oversee the bank's
closure and appoint a liquidator.
pg. 72
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• Depositors will be eligible to claim a deposit insurance amount, with a maximum limit of Rs
5 lakh, from the Deposit Insurance and Credit Guarantee Corporation (DICGC) upon
the bank's liquidation.
Source: ET
2. Karnataka Bank has partnered with SahiBandhu, an aggregator platform for gold loans, to
launch a "doorstep gold loan" service named 'KBL-Swarna Bandhu’.
• The bank will offer gold loan services directly to customers at their doorstep. Initially, the
service will be available in select bank branches and will gradually expand to all branches.
• SahiBandhu will act as a corporate business correspondent and lending service
provider in this partnership.
Source: HBL
3. The Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance has increased the interest rate
for the small savings schemes for the Q3 of 2023-24.
Saving Schemes Interest Rates
Savings deposits 4%
1-year term deposit 6.9%
2-year and 3-year term deposit 7%
Senior citizens savings scheme 8.2%
Monthly income account scheme 7.4%
National Savings Certificate 7.7%
Public Provident Fund (PPF) scheme 7.1%
Kisan Vikas Patra 7.5% (maturity - 115 months)
Sukanya Samriddhi Account 8%
Source: LiveMint
4. The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has extended the deadline for mutual
fund unit holders to nominate their beneficiaries to December 31, 2023, from the previous
deadline of September 30, 2023.
• Further, with respect to demat accounts, SEBI has extended the last date for submission
of ‘choice of nomination’ to December 31.
Source: ET
pg. 73
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5. RBI has granted approval to the International Finance Corporation (IFC) to acquire a 9.7%
stake in Federal Bank.
• IFC is the member of the World Bank Group.
Source: LiveMint
6. The Central government hiked special additional excise duty (SAED) on crude petroleum
to ₹12,100 per tonne with effect from September 30.
• The windfall tax on domestically produced crude oil was set at ₹10,000 per tonne.
• Besides, the SAED or duty on export of diesel will be cut to ₹5 per litre, from ₹5.50 per litre
currently.
• India first imposed windfall profit taxes on July 1, 2022.
Source: HBL
7. National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) announced the listing of
its ‘Social Bonds’ on the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE).
• The bank had raised ₹1,040 crore through this offering.
• The funds would be used to refinance the Jal Jeevan Mission (the Union government’s
drinking water project) in Telangana.
Source: The Hindu
8. RBI has issued fresh instructions to banks not to receive any ₹2,000 currency notes from
October 8 onwards.
pg. 74
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• However, the central bank reiterated that ₹2,000 banknotes will continue to be legal tender.
Source: The Hindu
9. From October 1, online gaming companies will charge 28% GST on full value of bets.
• The offshore platforms would also be required to have GST registration to operate in India.
• October 1 is the appointed date for the amended provisions in Central GST and Integrated
GST laws to come into effect.
Source: The Hindu
10. HDFC Pension has launched a first-of-its-kind NPS Preference Index to highlight the
preference for the National Pension Scheme amongst different consumer groups.
• At present, the NPS Preference Index stands at 54 (on a scale of 0 to 100), which means
that the index is currently at a moderate level.
• Pillars of assessment of this index - familiarity, appeal and consideration
• Observation of the index -
o NPS Preference Index improves with increasing income level of the consumers.
o North Indian region has the highest NPS preference index (score 57) compared
to other regions
• Methodology -
o Face-to-Face personal interviews of people with annual household income above
INR 10 lakhs (above INR 7 lakhs for Tier III cities) between Aug-Sep 2023 across 12
cities in India.
Knowledge Nuggets
HDFC Pension -
• HDFC Pension is the fastest growing legacy Pension Fund Manager in India, under
Retail and Corporate NPS segments with the highest number of subscribers as on
September 1st, 2023.
• HDFC Pension has been awarded as the 'Best Performing PFM' by Money Today for 3
consecutive years from 2019 to 2022.
• HDFC Pension is licensed as a Pension Fund Manager (PFM) and as a Point of
Presence (POP) under the National Pension Fund.
pg. 75
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National Pension Scheme –

• NPS is a market-linked, defined contribution product.
• Under NPS, a unique Permanent Retirement Account Number (PRAN) is generated and
maintained by the Central Recordkeeping Agency (CRA) for individual subscriber.
• NPS offers two types of accounts, namely Tier-I and Tier-II.
o Tier-I: This is a pension account with limited withdrawals, designed for long-term
savings.
o Tier-II: A voluntary account offering more liquidity for investments and withdrawals,
but it can only be opened if there's an active Tier-I account
• Exit - Upon retirement or superannuation, at least 40% of the corpus must be used to
purchase a life annuity from a life insurance company, providing a lifelong pension. The
remaining corpus can be taken as a lump sum.
• Different Models - NPS has various models tailored for different user segments,
including government employees, corporate employees, and all citizens aged 18 to 65.
o Government Model: Mandatory for Central Government employees (excluding
Armed Forces) recruited after 01.01.2004. It involves monthly contributions by
employees and matching contributions from the government
o Corporate Model: Companies can adopt NPS for their employees with
contribution rates as per employment conditions
o All Citizens Model: Allows all Indian citizens aged 18-65 to join NPS on a
voluntary basis
• NPS Architecture – intermediaries appointed by the PFRDA viz. Pension Funds,
Custodian, Central Recordkeeping Agency (CRA), National Pension System Trust,
Trustee Bank, Points of Presence (PoP) and Annuity Service Providers (ASPs)
• NPS Tier I holders also get tax deductions.
Source: ANI and NPS
11. The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (IBBI) celebrated its Seventh Annual Day
on October 1.
• Justice Shri Ashok Bhushan, Chairperson, National Company Law Appellate Tribunal,
presided over the event.
• As part of the Annual Day celebrations, IBBI released annual publication, “IBC: Evolution,
Learnings and Innovation”.
• A research publication, “Navdrishti: Emerging Ideas on IBC” was also released.
pg. 76
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o This publication is a compact collection of research papers from leading

academicians and practitioners in the field of insolvency and bankruptcy, presented
at the 2nd International Research Conference on Insolvency and Bankruptcy.
o This Conference was held in association with IIM Bangalore at their campus in
February 2023.
Knowledge Nuggets
• The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (IBBI) was established on October 1,
2016, under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016.
• Objective of IBBI -
o to expedite the insolvency resolution process,
o maximize the value of assets of the entities undergoing insolvency,
o promote entrepreneurship, enhance access to credit, and
o ensure the interests of all stakeholders are balanced
• Functions -
o IBBI is a unique regulator with a dual role. It regulates both a specific
profession (of Resolution Professionals) and the processes (insolvency and
resolution) related to insolvency and bankruptcy.
o Regulation of Professionals -
▪ It has regulatory oversight over the Insolvency Professionals, Insolvency
Professional Agencies, Insolvency Professional Entities and Information
Utilities.
o Regulation of Processes -
▪ It writes and enforces rules for processes, namely, corporate insolvency
resolution, corporate liquidation, individual insolvency resolution and
individual bankruptcy under the Code.
• Chairperson of IBBI - Shri Ravi Mital
Source: PIB and IBBI
12. SBI Life Insurance and the State Bank of Sikkim (SBS) have entered into a bancassurance
pact to offer insurance products to residents of Sikkim.
Source: ANI
pg. 77
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13. The Indian Oil Corporation (IOCL) has set up joint ventures with EverEnviro Resource
Management Pvt Ltd and GPS Renewables Pvt Ltd for setting up compressed biogas
(CBG) plants.
• The board of directors approved the formation of 50:50 joint venture company in India
between EverEnviro Resource Management Pvt. Ltd. for setting up of compressed biogas
plants.
o It will be done through Indian Oil (wholly owned subsidiary of IOCL).
• Similarly, the joint venture with GPS Renewables will also be formed with IOCL or a
subsidiary of the company.
• Both these companies are based in India.
Knowledge Nuggets
• IOCL aims to achieve net zero by 2046.
• By the end of 2022-23, IOCL had commissioned 22 CBG plants, offering biogas through
46 Indigreen outlets.
• At its 64th annual general meeting last month, the CMD of IOCL, Shrikant Madhav
Vaidya, announced $30 billion investment in its green initiatives.
Collaborations for Green Energy -

• Last month, its joint venture company with ReNew and L&T for a green hydrogen
business named ‘GH4India Pvt Ltd’ was incorporated.
• In March, it signed a pact with NTPC Green Energy Limited for setting up renewable
energy projects to meet the round-the-clock power requirement of IOCL refineries
Source: LiveMint
14. The National Investment and Infrastructure Fund Limited (NIIF), a government-owned
entity, collaborated with the Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC) to launch a
$600 million India-Japan Fund.
• JBIC contributes 51% of the fund's corpus, with the Indian government providing the
remaining 49%.
• India and Japan have set a joint goal to attract 5 trillion yen in public and private
investments and financing from Japan to India by March 2027.
Knowledge Nuggets
About NIIFL-
pg. 78
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• MD & CEO- Rajiv Dhar
About JBIC-
• Headquarters- Tokyo, Japan
• MD & Chairman- Tadashi Maeda
Source: BS
15. Outlook Group launched "40After40," a retirement planning event, in partnership with IDFC
FIRST Bank at Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai.
• IDFC FIRST Bank is the presenting sponsor, adding expertise to the event.
• It aims to reach a wide audience and generate debates on retirement savings and planning.
• It’s a one-stop shop for all conversations around timely retirement, panel discussions,
chats, masterclasses, interactions with planners, product presentations, etc.
Source: The Week
16. IndusInd Bank has launched a hyper-personalized financial super-app called 'INDIE,' to
provide personalized insights to users.
• For the first time in the industry, the app will offer an ultra-flexible line of credit of up to Rs. 5
lakh, transparent rewards program, and high-interest-bearing savings accounts and fixed
deposits.
• INDIE also introduces industry-first safety and security features, including numberless debit
cards, single-use disposable virtual debit cards, dynamic PINs, and a 'Super OTP' feature.
Source: IndusInd
17. Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has approved the merger of the fintech start-up Slice and the
North-East Small Finance Bank (NESFB).
• The merger will transform slice into a Small Finance Bank (SFB).
• The exact shareholding details of the merged entity are undisclosed.
Source: HBL
pg. 79
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18. The Reserve Bank Innovation Hub (RBIH) and Digital India Bhashini Division (DIBD) have
signed an MoU for enabling communication in local languages to extend digital financial
services to a wider audience.
• The partnership aims to make financial services accessible in native languages for a
seamless banking experience.
• Bhashini plans to launch a Public Tech Platform for Frictionless Credit in multiple
languages to improve credit delivery by financial institutions and enhance financial
inclusion.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Digital India Bhashini Division -

• Digital India Bhashini Division is a section 8 company under the Ministry of
Electronics and Information Technology.
• It operates under Digital India Corporation.
• Bhashini's vision is to use natural language technologies to overcome language barriers
and promote digital inclusion and empowerment in an Aatma Nirbhar Bharat.
• CEO of Digital India Bhashini Division - Amitabh Nag
About RBIH -
• The Reserve Bank Innovation Hub (RBIH) is a wholly owned subsidiary of the RBI
working to enable frictionless finance for a billion Indians.
• RBIH serves as a facilitator in the financial ecosystem, bringing together stakeholders
from financial, technological, and academic institutions to drive innovation in the financial
sector.
• RBIH aims to strengthen the Indian financial system and position India as a leader in
global financial innovation.
• CEO of RBIH - Rajesh Bansal
Source: PIB
19. Axis Bank has launched 'open by Axis Bank,' its digital bank mobile app.
• The Open 2023 campaign showcases the top 15 features of the Bank's digital offerings and
represents the Bank's efforts to deliver a personalized, intuitive, and hassle-free digital
banking experience.
Source: Axis Bank
pg. 80
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20. The YES BANK has become the first bank in India to issue an 'ONDC Network Gift Card', in
partnership with the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC), to transform the shopping
experience for Indian consumers.
• The ONDC Network Gift Card is available for corporate and individual customers, enabling
thoughtful gestures to customers, employees, or loved ones.
• The card uses the Rupay network and allows loading up to Rs. 10,000.
Source: Yes Bank
21. RBI Governor has released 4th bi-monthly monetary policy announcement for FY 2024
• Key highlights-
o Policy Rates -
o GDP forecast FY24 - 6.5%

o Inflation for FY24 - 5.4%
Knowledge Nuggets
About Monetary Policy Committee-

• MPC is a statutory and institutionalized framework under the Reserve Bank of India
Act, 1934, responsible for maintaining price stability, while keeping in mind the objective
of growth.
• The Governor of RBI is ex-officio Chairman of the committee.
• The MPC determines the policy interest rate (repo rate) required to achieve the inflation
target.
Source: HBL RBI MPC
pg. 81
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22. Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a $200 million loan to strengthen flood and
riverbank erosion risk management along the main stem of the Brahmaputra River in
Assam.
• The project will benefit about 1 million people and increase crop production by over 50,000
hectares.
Knowledge Nuggets

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) is a regional development bank.
• Founded- 19 December 1966
Source: ADB
23. Rural Electrification Corporation Limited launched the ‘SUGAM REC’ mobile app for
investors of its 54EC Bonds.
• The app is exclusive for current and future investors in REC’s 54EC Capital Gain Tax
Exemption Bonds.
• Purpose of the app -
o The app will offer investors complete details of their investment in REC 54EC Bonds.
o Investors will be able to download their e-bond certificates, apply for fresh
investment, download important forms related to updating KYC, and connect with
REC’s Investor Cell via call/email / WhatsApp.
• The mobile application can be downloaded free of charge, on Android and iOS platforms.
Source: PIB
24. State Bank of India has launched Mobile Handheld Device to provide banking services to
customers.
• Purpose - improving accessibility in availing banking services, increasing financial
inclusion, and extending essential banking services to the masses
• Handheld Devices will increase accessibility by bringing kiosk banking directly to
customer’s doorstep.
• The initiative will particularly benefit customers who face challenges in accessing
Customer Service Point (CSP) outlets.
pg. 82
[Type here]
• The Mobile Handheld Device will provide five core banking services in its initial phase-
o cash withdrawal,
o cash deposit,
o fund transfer,
o balance inquiry and
o mini statement
• These services account for more than 75% of the total transactions conducted at SBI's CSP
outlets.
Knowledge Nuggets
About State Bank of India-

State Bank of India is an Indian multinational public-sector bank.
• Chairperson- Dinesh Kumar Khara
• Founded- 1 July 1955
• Headquarters- Mumbai
25. According to the Controller General of Accounts, the fiscal deficit of India has increased to
Rs 6.42 trillion in the first half of the year, which is 36% of FY24 target of Rs 17.87 trillion.
• India aims to reduce its fiscal deficit to 5.9% of GDP by the end of the current financial year,
against 6.4% last year.
Categories Performance in the first half of FY24
Primary deficit (fiscal deficit without the interest Rs 2.75 trillion (38.9% of the full-year target of
payment) Rs 7.06 trillion)
Revenue deficit Rs 2.84 trillion (32.7% of the full-year estimate
of Rs 8.70 trillion)
Net tax revenue Rs 8.04 trillion (34.5% of the annual estimate)
Knowledge Nuggets
About Controller General of Accounts-

• Controller General of Accounts (CGA) is ‘the Principal Advisor’ on accounting matters to
the Union Government.
pg. 83
[Type here]
• CGA is responsible for establishing and managing a technically sound Management

Accounting System and preparation & submission of the accounts of the Union
Government.
• Controller General of Accounts - S. S. Dubey
26. The Reserve Bank of India announced Open Market Operation (OMO) sale of government
securities for managing liquidity in the system.
• About Open Market Operation-
o It is a tool of RBI to adjust the rupee liquidity conditions in the market on a durable
basis.
o Reserve Bank sells the government securities when there is excess liquidity in the
market, thereby sucking out the rupee liquidity.
o RBI buys the government securities when there is less liquidity in the system,
thereby releasing liquidity into the market.
• Objective- Maintaining price stability while keeping in mind the objective of growth.
Knowledge Nuggets
About RBI-
• India's central bank and regulatory body responsible for regulation of the Indian banking
system
• Governor- Shaktikanta Das
• Established- 1 April 1935
• Headquarters- Mumbai, India
27. GST council reaffirmed 28% tax on online betting and reduced the tax on certain millet-
based products.
• GST on millet flour food preparations - current 18% to 5%
• The council also ceded the taxation rights on extra neutral alcohol to the States, while
lifting the haze on several long-hanging issues.
Knowledge Nuggets
About GST council-
pg. 84
[Type here]
• The GST council is a constitutional body which is responsible for providing

recommendation on issues related to implementation of GST in India.
• It was established by 101st Constitutional Amendment Act, 2016.
• Chairperson- Union Finance Minister
Source: The Hindu ET
28. Star Health Insurance has launched a health cover for women that extends coverage to
surrogate mothers and egg donors for any complications from assisted reproductive
treatment procedures.
• The policy will be known as Star Women Care Insurance Policy.
• The policy is available for a sum insured up to 1 crore and is available for females aged
between 18 and 75 years.
• It will be provided to policyholders at no extra cost.
• The policy will provide coverage for inpatient hospitalization expenses covering post-
partum delivery complications for 36 months.
• The policy will also provide coverage for inpatient hospitalization expenses for any
complication for the oocyte donor for 12 months.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Star Health-

• Headquarters- Chennai
• Founded- 2006
• MD & CEO- Anand Roy
Source: Times of India
29. India Infrastructure Finance Company Limited (IIFCL) sanctioned loans worth 8800 crore
to boost civil aviation infrastructure.
• IIFCL already disbursed 4000 Crore from the 8800 Crore sanctioned amount.
Knowledge Nuggets
About IIFCL-
• IIFCL is a wholly owned Government of India company.
pg. 85
[Type here]
• Objective- to provide long-term financial assistance to viable infrastructure projects

through the Scheme for Financing Viable Infrastructure Projects.
• IIFCL has been registered as a NBFC-ND-IFC with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) since
September 2013 and follows the applicable prudential norms of the RBI.
• Founded- 2006
• Managing Director- Padmanabhan Raja Jaishankar
Source: livemint
30. The RBI has formed an external working group to provide input on the expected credit loss
(ECL) framework for bank provisioning.
• The ECL approach represents a shift from the current incurred loss-based provisioning
system.
• Chair of the working group - R. Narayanaswamy (former Professor, IIM Bangalore)
• Total members – 9
• Purpose – to monitor the implementation of the ECL framework
Source: RBI
31. Amazon launched its first prototype satellites for the Kuiper internet network to compete
with SpaceX's Starlink.
• The United Launch Alliance's Atlas 5 rocket carried the two test satellites into space.
• Amazon is investing $10 billion in the Kuiper project, aiming to target consumers and
enterprise customers.
• Project Kuiper is Amazon's initiative to deploy a large constellation of low Earth orbit (LEO)
satellites to provide global broadband internet services.
Source: Reuters
32. SEBI has created a centralised mechanism for reporting and verification through KYC
Registration Agency (KRA) in case of the demise of an investor to smoothen the
transmission process in securities market.
• Effective from - January 1, 2024
• How will it work? [only for reading purpose]
o Upon receiving notification of an investor's demise, the intermediary must obtain the
death certificate and PAN from the notifier or nominee, verify the certificate the next
working day, and treat it as "Original Seen and Verified" (OSV).
pg. 86
[Type here]
o After verifying the death certificate, the intermediary must submit a KYC modification
request to the KRA, block debit transactions in the investor's account, and, if the
death certificate is not received, submit a KYC modification request stating,
"confirmation awaited."
o The KRA will validate and verify the request and update the KYC record as "Blocked
Permanently" and inform linked intermediaries.
• To ensure consistency in operations, stock exchanges, depositories, industry associations,
and KRAs will establish common Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
Source: LiveMint
33. Mahindra Last Mile Mobility (MLMML) has received Rs 300 crore as the first tranche of its
investment from the International Finance Corporation (IFC).
• MLMML is a subsidiary of Mahindra and Mahindra.
• The investment is as per agreement which was signed in March 2023, when IFC agreed to
invest Rs 600 crore in MLMML.
Knowledge Nuggets
About IFC-
• Objective – for offering investment, advisory, and asset-management services to
encourage private-sector development in less developed countries
• The IFC is a member of the World Bank Group.
• Parent Organization- World Bank
• Founded- 1956
• Headquarters- Washington, D.C.
34. Federal Bank has extended Unified Payment Interface (UPI) services to Non-Resident
Indians for enhancing seamless transactions.
• The UPI services for NRE will be available on FedMobile (mobile banking platform).
• This service will be available in NPCI approved countries, which are Singapore, Australia,
Malaysia, Canada, Hong Kong, Oman, Qatar, USA, Saudi Arabia, UAE and United
Kingdom.
• This feature will also be available on other UPI Apps which supports global UPI
transactions.
pg. 87
[Type here]
Source: TOI
35. Payment aggregator Paysharp Pvt Ltd gets ISO 27001:2022 certification - an international
standard on how to manage information security.
• Published by - International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and the International
Electrotechnical Commission (IEC)
• Objectives of the standard –
o To encourage companies to establish, maintain, and continually improve an
information security management system (ISMS) within the organization
o To assess and treat information security risks associated with people, processes,
and technology aspects to protect businesses
Knowledge Nuggets
About Paysharp-
• Paysharp is an RBI in-principle approved payment aggregator, which provides various

UPI products to B2B and B2C businesses.
o Established- 2019
o Founder & CEO- Krishna Kumar Mani
o Headquarters- Chennai
36. Axis Bank has launched the country’s first numberless credit card in partnership with
fintech startup Fibe.
• The card offers enhanced security as it doesn’t have a card number, expiry date or CVV
printed on it which reduces the risk of identity theft or unauthorized access to cards details.
• The card will be powered by RuPay and it can be linked to UPI.
• The card will be accepted across all offline stores as well as digital platforms except for
international transactions.
• The card will also offer tap and pay feature and also offers a cashback on certain
transactions.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Axis Bank
pg. 88
[Type here]

• MD & CEO- Amitabh Chaudhry
About Fibe-
• Headquarters- Pune, Maharashtra

• CEO- Akshay Mehrotra
Source: TOI
37. Union Cabinet has fixed the royalty rates for lithium, niobium and rare earth elements
(REE).
• Under the new regime, the mines will be auctioned by Centre and the royalty will continue
to be accrued to the states where these minerals lie.
• This provision was made in the Mines and Minerals (Regulation and Development)
Amendment Act, 2023.
38. Foreign companies without PAN can open bank account in IFSC-Gift City.
• The companies opening bank account at IFSC will have to file declaration in Form 60 and
should not have any tax liability in India.
• The Finance Ministry has amended Income Tax Rules exempting non-residents opening a
bank account from submitting PAN.
Source: livemint
39. National Statistics Office (NSO), Ministry of Statistics & Programme Implementation has
released the 6th Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) for the period of 2022-23 (July 2022
and June 2023).
• Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR) –
pg. 89
[Type here]
o LFPR in Rural areas: Increased from 50.7% (2017-18) to 60.8% (2022-23)

o LFPR in Urban areas: Increased from 47.6% (2017-18) to 50.4% (2022-23)
o LFPR for male: Increased from 75.8% (2017-18) to 78.5% (2022-23)
o LFPR for female: Increased from 23.3% (2017-18) to 37.0% (2022-23)
• Worker Population Ratio
o WPR in Rural Areas: Increased from 48.1% (2017-18) to 59.4% (2022-23)

o WPR in Urban areas: Increased from 43.9% 2017-18) to 47.7% (2022-23)
o WPR for male: Increased from 71.2% (2017-18) to 76.0% (2022-23)
o WPR for female: Increased from 22.0% (2017-18) to 35.9% (2022-23)
• Unemployment Rate
o UR in Rural areas: Decreased from 5.3% (2017-18) to 2.4% (2022-23)
o UR in urban areas: Decreased from 7.7% (2017-18) to 5.4% (2022-23)
o UR for male: Decreased from 6.1% (2017-18) to 3.3% (2022-23)
pg. 90
[Type here]
o UR for female: Decreased from 5.6% (2017-18) to 2.9% (2022-23)
Knowledge Nuggets
About Periodic Labour Force Survey-

• Started in – 2017
• Released by – National Statistical Office
• Objectives –
o First, to assess the employment and unemployment indicators in urban areas
only in the ‘Current Weekly Status’ in the short time interval of three months
o Second, to assess national employment and unemployment indicators in both
‘Usual Status’ and in ‘Current Weekly Status’.
Important Terms Associated with PLFS –
A) Status
• ‘Usual Status’ – Employment status of people during the reference period of last 365
days preceding the date of survey
• ‘Current Weekly Status’ – Employment status of people on the basis of a reference
period of last 7 days preceding the date of survey
B) Ratios
• Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR): It is a percentage of persons who are either
working or seeking or available for work.
pg. 91
[Type here]
o Calculation – Labour Force/Total Population X 100
• Worker Population Ratio (WPR): WPR is defined as the percentage of employed

persons in the total population.
• Unemployment Rate (UR): UR is defined as the percentage of persons unemployed

among the persons in the labour force.
Source: PIB
40. Reserve Bank of India has announced that government owned non-banking financial
companies will be subject to strict supervisory norms of Prompt Corrective Action (PCA)
Framework starting from October 2024.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Prompt Corrective Action (PCA)

• This framework for taking corrective measures was first introduced in 2002 for scheduled
commercial banks to enable supervisory intervention at appropriate time and guide
financially weak banks with high ratio bad assets and lower level of capital adequacy to
take remedial measures to restore financial health.
41. SBI Mutual Fund gets RBI nod for buying 9.99% stake in IndusInd Bank
• SBIMF will have the time of one year i.e., till October 10,2024 to acquire the shareholding.
Knowledge Nuggets
About SBIMF-
• It is a joint venture between State Bank of India and AMUNDI Asset Management
(European Asset Management Company).
• MD & CEO- Shamsher Singh
About IndusInd Bank-
pg. 92
[Type here]
• IndusInd is a private sector bank.

• MD & CEO- Sumant Kathpalia
42. Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has launched a pilot program for the wholesale segment of
its central bank digital currency (CBDC) in the interbank call money market.
• Key features of program
o Nine banks, including four public sector banks and five private sector banks, are
participating in the e-rupee call money pilot.
o The pilot aims to cover various use cases, including asset tokenization and repo
transactions.
o Settlements will be carried out using the CBDC instead of the real-time gross
settlement.
o The settlements will be in T+0 mode, ensuring trades are settled on the same day.
43. India's industrial output increased to a 14-month high at 10.3% in August, up from a 6% rise
in July.
• Sector-Wise Performance
o Electricity and mining sectors saw a significant rise at 15.3% and 12.3%,
respectively.
o Manufacturing output experienced a 9.3% growth, with notable contractions seen in
the apparel, chemicals, and computers/electronics sectors.
Source: The Hindu
44. RBI imposed a monetary penalty of Rs 5.39 crore on Paytm Payments Bank for violating
multiple regulatory norms.
• Reasons for penalty-
o Paytm Payments Bank was found in violation of several regulatory provisions,
including Know Your Customer (KYC) norms and the regulatory ceiling of the end-of-
day balance.
pg. 93
[Type here]
o The bank was found to be non-compliant with the 'Cyber Security Framework in
Banks,' specifically in terms of reporting unusual cyber security incidents and
securing mobile banking applications, including the Unified Payments Interface (UPI)
ecosystem.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Paytm Payment Bank-

• Headquarter- Noida
• Founder- Vijay Shekhar Sharma
45. International Monetary Fund (IMF) has released its "Global Policy Agenda" at Marrakesh,
emphasizing the urgent need for member countries' support to increase quota resources.
• Why increase quota-
o For Poverty Reduction and Growth Trust (PRGT) and the Resilience and
Sustainability Trust (RST) to aid the most vulnerable members.
• Global Economic Outlook-
o The global economy has shown resilience, although the recovery has been slow and
uneven.
o Medium-term growth projections remain weak due to fragmented trade, high debt
levels, and potential long-lasting higher interest rates.
o Risks include geopolitical tensions, the climate crisis, and persistent inflation in
certain regions.
Knowledge Nuggets
About IMF-
• IMF is a specialized agency of the United Nations (UN) with the goal of fostering global
monetary cooperation, securing financial stability, facilitating international trade,
promoting high employment and sustainable economic growth, and reducing poverty
around the world.
• Headquarters- Washington D.C., USA
pg. 94
[Type here]
• MD- Kristalina Georgieva

• Members- 190
About PGRT-
• The PRGT provides concessional financing for poverty reduction in low-income countries.
About RST-
• The RST, established in 2021, aims to assist low-income and vulnerable middle-income
countries in building resilience to climate change and other external risks.
46. Reserve Bank India has directed Bank of Baroda to suspend customers onboarding on ‘bob
World’ mobile banking application.
• Reason for suspending customer onboarding-
o The action is taken based on certain supervisory concerns observed in manner of
customer onboarding onto this mobile application.
47. As per a medium-term forecast by International Energy Agency, India’s natural gas
demand is set to grow by 4% in 2023 and to rise at an average annual rate of over 8% till 2026.
• The report also showed that global gas demand is on course to grow by an average 1.6% a
year between 2022 and 2026, down from an average of 2.5 per cent a year between 2017
and 2021.
Knowledge Nuggets
About International Energy Agency-

• The International Energy Agency is an autonomous intergovernmental organisation,
established in 1974, that provides policy recommendations, analysis and data on the
entire global energy sector.
• Founded- 1974
• Headquarters- Paris, France
• Executive Director- Fatih Birol
48. RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das has been awarded for being ranked A+ in Global Finance
Central Banker Report Cards at Marrakesh, Morocco.
pg. 95
[Type here]
• Shaktikanta Das has been placed at the top of the list of three central bank governors who
have been rated A+.
• Apart from Shaktikanta Das, Switzerland Thomas J Jordan and Vietnam’s Nguyen Thi Hong
also received award for being ranked A+.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Global Finance Central Banker Report Cards-

• The report grades the central bank governors of 101 key countries, territories and
districts.
• Published- Annually since1994
• Grading- From ‘A’ to ‘F’
o ‘A’ represents an excellent performance and ‘F’ represents outright Failure.
Source: TOI
49. Indian economy is expected to grow at 6.3% in FY 2024, according to latest Economic
Outlook Survey released by Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry
(FICCI).
• Key observation for FY 24-
• Contributing factors-
o The healthy financial sector,
o robust urban demand,
o uptick in private investment over government’s front-loading of capex,
o pick-up in real estate and
o festival season.
• Minimum and maximum growth estimate- 6.0% and 6.6%
• Sector wise Growth
o Agriculture & Allied- 2.7%
o Industry- 5.6%
o Services- 7.3%
• CPI Inflation- 5.5%
pg. 96
[Type here]
50. Wholesale price index (WPI) based inflation remained in negative territory for the sixth
consecutive month and Consumer Price Index (CPI) eased for second consecutive month
in September 2023.
• WPI Data-
o Negative growth of 0.26% in September 2023
o Vegetable price inflation- Reduced to 1.54% in September from 5.62% in August
• CPI Data-
o Reduced for the second consecutive month in September to 5.02%
Knowledge Nuggets
About WPI-
• It measures the changes in the price of goods sold and traded in bulk by wholesale
business.
• Released by- Office of Economic Advisor, Ministry of Commerce and Industry
• Base year- 2011-2012
About CPI-
• It measures the changes in the price of goods from the perspective of a buyer.
• Released by- National Statistical office
• Base year- 2012
Source: AIR
51. Sberbank of Russia has become the first Russian bank to register with the Indian markets
regulator as a Category I foreign portfolio investor (FPI).
• About Category I FPI-
o FPIs with category I licence have to follow less lenient beneficial ownership
disclosures,
o It can subscribe to overseas derivative instruments which have Indian stocks as
underlying and also enjoy certain taxation benefits.
o It is only granted to government or government related foreign investors or regulated
entities such as banks, sovereign wealth funds, investment trusts, pension funds,
asset management companies.
Knowledge Nuggets
pg. 97
[Type here]
About Sberbank-
• Headquarters- Moscow, Russia
• CEO- Herman Gref
52. Indian Oil to Invest ₹1660.15 crore in NTPC Joint Venture for setting up renewable power
plant.
• About Joint Venture-
o It is a 50:50 joint venture company between Indian Oil and NTPC Green Energy Pvt
Ltd
• Objective-
o To set up renewable energy projects to meet 24X7 power requirements of refineries
of the IOC
Source: livemint
53. Central Government has approved 4% hike in dearness allowance for central government
employees.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Dearness Allowance-

• Dearness allowance is a cost-of-living adjustment that the Government pays to public
sector employees and pensioners. I
• t is calculated as a percentage of the basic salary to curb the effect of inflation.
54. Competition Commission of India has approved the merger of IDFC Ltd with IDFC First
Bank.
• Approval- Granted under the Green Channel Route, which is a mechanism under which a
company can get automatic approval upon filing a form, without having to get formal
approval from the commission.
• Provision- The approval has been granted in accordance with section 6(2) of the
Competition Act, 2002 read with regulation 5 and SA of Competition Commission of India
pg. 98
[Type here]
(Procedure in regard to the transactions of business relating to combinations) Regulations,

2011.
Knowledge Nuggets
About CCI-
• Chairperson- Ashok Kumar Gupta
55. Tata Motor has invested 150 Crore to acquire 27% stake in Software as a Service (SaaS)
company ‘Freight Tiger’.
• The agreement also includes a provision enabling Tata Motors to further invest ₹100 crore
over the next two years, at the then prevailing market value.
• About Freight Commerce Solutions Pvt Ltd (Freight Tiger)-
o It is a digital platform that provides end-to-end logistics value chain solutions for
cargo movement in the country.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Tata Motors-

• Chairman- N Chandrasekaran
Source: livemint
56. India will spend nearly ₹143 lakh crore on infrastructure between 2024 and 2030 as per
CRISIL India Ltd Infrastructure’s Yearbook 2023.
Key observations-
• Infrastructure spending-
o Spending of ₹143 lakh crore on infrastructure between FY 24 and FY 30 is more
than double of ₹67 lakh crore spent during the past seven financial years from 2017.
• Focus on Green Investment-
pg. 99
[Type here]
o ₹36.6 lakh crore, will be allocated for green investments, showing a significant
fivefold increase compared to the expenditure between fiscals 2017 and 2023.
• GDP Growth-
o India's GDP is expected to grow at an average rate of 6.7% through fiscal 2031.
• CRISIL InfraInvex Index-
o Index scores across various sectors, including roads and highways, power
transmission, renewable energy, and ports.
o Score across various sectors has improved significantly, reflecting the positive
impact of policy interventions and an encouraging investment climate.
Knowledge Nuggets
About CRISIL-
• Credit Rating Information Services of India Limited, is an Indian analytical company
providing ratings, research, and risk and policy advisory services and is a subsidiary of
American company S&P Global.
• CEO- Amish Mehta
Source: The Hindu
57. Google has announced that it will manufacture Pixel phones in India from 2024.
• Other announcements -
o to make its AI products available in more Indian languages,
o and measures to harden protections against financial fraud during its annual Google
for India
Source: The Hindu
58. Google India has launched ‘DigiKavach’ at 9th Edition of Google for India annual event in
Delhi to combat online financial frauds.
• About DigiKavach-
o It is an early threat detection and warning system designed to identify and study
emerging financial fraud patterns.
o It is launched in collaboration between Google and Fintech Association for
Consumer Empowerment (FACE)
pg. 100
[Type here]
• How it will work?

o FACE will support Google with market intelligence to inform detection and enable
swift action against personal loan apps in India non-complaint with play store’s
policies.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Fintech Association for Consumer Empowerment-

o It is an industry association and self-regulatory body for fintech lenders set up as a non-
profit company.
o It brings together fintech lenders and other stakeholders committed to advancing fair and
responsible digital lending practices through self-regulation and customer-centricity.
o Headquarters- Mumbai
o Established- 2020
o CEO- Sugandh Saxena
Source: ET, CFI
59. HDFC ERGO has launched a new policy with enhanced benefits named Optima Secure.
• Key features of Optima Secure-
o Age limit-
o Can buy insurance policy until 65 years.
o Coverage-
o There is no age when coverage stops
o Policy options-
o Families and individuals can choose coverage from ₹5 lakhs to ₹2 crore, with
different options available.
o Time frame-
o Policy can be brought for 1, 2 or 3 years.
Key benefits under policy-
• Secure Benefit-
o Automatically provides twice the coverage of the purchased insurance without any
additional action or payment.
• Plus Benefit-
o Increases insurance coverage by 50% after the first year and by 100% after the
second year, irrespective of any claims made.
pg. 101
[Type here]
• Restore Benefit-
o Guarantees that in the event of a claim, whether for a partial or full amount, the
insurance coverage will be reinstated to its full extent without any extra charges.
Knowledge Nuggets
About HDFC ERGO

• HDFC ERGO General Insurance Company Limited is a 51:49 joint venture firm
between HDFC and ERGO International AG.
• It offers various products like health insurance, vehicle insurance, travel insurance, home
insurance, personal accident insurance and cyber insurance. The Corporate sector
includes products like liability, marine and property insurance.
• MD & CEO- Ritesh Kumar
Source: livemint
60. US International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) has offered 30 million USD to
Dalmia Polypro Industries for the establishment of an innovative greenfield recycling
facility in Nashik, Maharashtra.
• Objective- to spur transformative projects in key areas such as Healthcare, E-mobility,
Infrastructure, finance, microfinance, small businesses, defence, wind, and solar energy.
61. HDFC Bank has launched ‘XpressWay’ digital platform offering banking products and services
and enabling customers to experience the fast-banking services.
• About XpressWay-
o It offers multiple banking services designed to cater to diverse customer needs.
o XpressWay is a part of HDFC Bank ‘NOW’, an umbrella brand for the Bank’s digital
products and services.
Source: financial express
62. Kotak Mahindra Bank has received RBI’s nod for acquisition of microlender Sonata
Finance.
• Kotak Mahindra will acquire Sonata Finance for 537-crore.
pg. 102
[Type here]
• Sonata Finance will become wholly owned business correspondent subsidiary of Kotak
Mahindra Bank.
• The acquisition will help Kotak bank to increase its presence in rural and semi-urban areas
of north India.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Kotak Mahindra Bank-

• Kotak Mahindra Bank Limited is an Indian banking and financial services company.
• Founder- Uday Kotak
About Sonata Finance-

• Sonata is a Non-Banking Financial Corporation (NBFC – MFI).
• Headquarters- Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh
Source: ET
63. European Union tax observatory has recommended 2% global wealth tax on billionaires in
Global Tax Evasion Report 2024.
• Key observations of report-
o Tax evasion helps billionaires to enjoy an effective tax rate of 0% to 0.5% of their
wealth.
o The 2% tax rate will nearly generate $250 billion from less than 3,000 individuals.
o The wealth of billionaires has grown at 7% a year annually on average since 1995
(net of inflation).
Source: The Hindu
64. RBI has announced the result of 2nd edition of its Global Hackathon ‘HARBINGER 2023-
Innovation for Transformation’.
• Winners’s list-
Category Winner
Innovative, easy-to-use, digital banking Ezetap Mobile Solutions Pvt Ltd (Now
services for differently abled (Divyaang). acquired by Razorpay), India
pg. 103
[Type here]
RegTech solutions to facilitate more efficient WeavAir, Singapore

compliance for Regulated Entities (REs)
Exploring use cases/solutions for CBDC-R Dygnify Ventures Private Limited, India
transactions, including transactions in offline
mode
Increasing Transactions Per Second (TPS)/ Fortis Net Ltd., UK
throughput and scalability of blockchains.
Knowledge Nuggets
About HARBINGER 2023-

• It is the second edition of the RBI’s Global Hackathon HARBINGER.
• The Hackathon invites participants to develop solutions that have the potential to-
o Make digital financial services accessible to the differently abled,
o facilitate efficient compliance,
o extend the reach of Central Bank Digital Currencies and
o enhance the scalability of blockchains.
• Prize-
o Winner: ₹40 lakh
o Runner-up: ₹20 lakh
Source: rbi, rbi
65. Asian Development Bank has granted approval for USD 175 million loan to enhance road
connectivity and climate resilience in Madhya Pradesh.
• Objectives-
o To increase the connectivity between rural areas and growth centres
o To support industrial corridors and
o To ensure creation of safe, climate resilient roads
o To utilize green technology in road construction
o To establish charging infrastructure for electric vehicles
Knowledge Nuggets
The Asian Development Bank is a regional development bank.
pg. 104
[Type here]

• Members- 68
Source: ET
66. RBI has allowed retail investors to subscribe Floating Rate Saving Bonds (FRSB), 2020
(Taxable) through Retail Direct Portal.
• More info-
o The subscription of bonds will be in the form of cash (up to ₹20,000 only), drafts,
cheques or any electronic mode.
o Earlier, retail investors were allowed to invest in central government securities,
treasury bills, state government securities, and sovereign gold bonds through
the Retail Direct Portal.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Retail Direct Portal-

• RBI’s Retail Direct scheme is a one-stop solution to facilitate investment in Government
securities by an individual investor.
• Retail investors (individuals) will have the facility to open and maintain the Retail Direct
Gilt Account (RDG Account) with RBI.
• Announced- 2021
Floating Rate Saving Bonds-

• RBI Floating Rate Savings Bonds 2020 (Taxable) allow customers to make convenient
investments with low-risk returns.
• Key features- high interest rates and a longer maturity period.
• Minimum investment amount- is Rs.1,000 and in multiples of Rs.1,000 thereof.
• Upper limit- There is no upper limit on investment for these Bonds.
• Tax liability- The interest on these Bonds is taxable.
Source: livemint
67. Securities and Exchange Board of India has empanelled 12 entities to provide assistance
to its search team for onsite data acquisition during search and seizure operations.
pg. 105
[Type here]
• This empanelment will be valid for a period of 2 years.

• The agencies will provide digital forensic services to SEBI.
• List of empanelled agencies-
o Ernst & Young LLP, KPMG Assurance, Baker Tilly Business Advisory, Cybermate
Forencisc, Cyint Technologies, ECS Infotech, Innefu Labs, Mahen Technologies,
Nangia & Co LLP, Netrika Consulting India, Pelorus Technologies and Systools
Software.
Source: ET
68. Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) has won a bid to acquire PTC India Ltd wind
power unit for ₹925 crore.
Knowledge Nuggets
About ONGC-
• The Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Limited is an Indian central public sector
undertaking under the ownership of Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Government
of India.
• Chairman & CEO- Arun Kumar Singh
Source: ET
69. India will surpass Japan to become 2nd largest economy in Asia by 2030 as per S&P
Global Market Intelligence in its latest issue of PMI.
Key observations-
• Expected Gross Domestic Product (GDP): 6.2%-6.3% in FY 2024
• Nominal GDP- expected to rise from USD 3.5 trillion in 2022 to USD 7.3 trillion by 2030
• Digital transformation- Internet users projected to double from 500 million in 2020 to 1.1
billion by 2030
Knowledge Nuggets
About S&P Global Market Intelligence-
pg. 106
[Type here]
• S&P Global Market Intelligence is a provider of multi-asset class and real-time data,
research, news and analytics to investment and commercial banks, insurance
companies, investment advisors and wealth managers, etc.
• Headquarters- Manhattan, New York
• President & CEO- Douglas L Peterson
70. National Payment Corporation of India (NPCI) Bharat BillPay has launched a new
business-to-business payments service in partnership with Axis Bank.
• About service-
o It will provide value-added services like flexible invoice presentation, complaint
management, MIS, etc to businesses.
o Under B2B category Bharat BillPay will onboard sellers as ‘billers’ and enable their
buyers to pay for purchased goods and services across Bharat BillPay enabled
channels.
o The category is live for the first time on MyJio app for the Biller Arzoo with Axis Bank
as the Biller Operating Unit (BOU)
Knowledge Nuggets
About NPCI Bharat BillPay-

• It is an RBI initiative which offers accessible and interoperable bill payment services to
consumers across India.
• CEO- Noopur Chaturvedi
About Axis Bank-

Source: ET
71. Kotak Mahindra Bank has formed a strategic partnership with National E-Governance
Services Limited (NeSL) for the issuance of electronic Bank Guarantee (e-BG).
• Key benefits-
pg. 107
[Type here]
o The digital transformation will significantly reduce the guaranteed turnaround time
(TAT)
o Implementation of e-BG (electronic bank guarantee) system will contribute to
enhanced security by reducing authentication risks
• Digital Documents Execution (DDE) technology of NeSL allows recipients to quickly
access digitally issued bank guarantees through the NeSL portal.
Knowledge Nuggets
About NeSL-
• NeSL is a regulated entity whose prime function is collection, collation and dissemination
of financial information.

About eBG
• eBG is the electronic form of Bank Guarantees
• Bank Guarantees (BG) in India are issued as paper documents by banks, on request
from customers (Applicant) and in favour of beneficiaries.
Source: livemint
72. NLC India has established a wholly owned subsidiary NLC India Green Energy (NIGEL) to
focus on renewable energy projects.
• Objective-
o To expand the renewable power generation capacity
o To establish projects with a capacity of 6 GW by 2030.
Knowledge Nuggets
About NLC India Ltd-
pg. 108
[Type here]
• Neyveli Lignite Corporation (NLC) India Limited is a Navratna company under the
government of India.
• Headquarters- Chennai, Tamil Nadu
• CMD- Prasanna Kumar Motupalli
Source: ET
73. Paras Aerospace Pvt Ltd has received a 2nd type certification from Directorate General of
Civil Aviation (DGCA) for its agricultural drone.
• It received certification for Paras-Agricopter V2.1.
• It is issued for MEDIUM Drone Category
Source:
74. PM Street Vendor's AtmaNirbhar Nidhi (PM SVANidhi) Scheme is a gender equaliser as
per State Bank of India’s report.
• Key Findings-
• Female Empowerment:
o The PM Street Vendor’s AtmaNirbhar Nidhi (PM SVANidhi) Scheme has achieved a
43% female share, indicating the empowerment of entrepreneurial capabilities
among urban females
• Impact on Non-General Category:
o Around 75% of loan beneficiaries come from the "non-general category
• Spending Patterns:
o The average debit card spending of PM SVANidhi account holders increased by 50%
to about ₹80,000 in FY23 compared to FY21, showcasing the impact of the scheme
on the spending behaviour of the urban poor.
Knowledge Nuggets
About PM SVANidhi-
• PM SVANidhi Scheme is a micro-credit scheme for urban street vendors, offering
collateral-free working capital loans up to ₹50,000 in incremental tranches.
• Launched on- June 1, 2020
• Ministry- Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs
pg. 109
[Type here]
75. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has reached Bishkek for the 22nd Shanghai
Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Council of Heads of Government (CHG) to be held under
the chairmanship of Kyrgyzstan.
Knowledge Nuggets
About SCO-
• The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) is a Political, economic, international
security and defence organization established by China and Russia in 2001.
• It is the world's largest regional organization in terms of geographic
scope and population, covering approximately 80% of the area of Eurasia, 40% of the
world population.
• Headquarters- Beijing, China
• Members- China, India, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Pakistan, Tajikistan,
Uzbekistan, Iran
Source: The Print
76. Reserve Bank of India has directed Private Banks to have mandatory two-whole time
Directors.
• Why?
o To address the growing complexity in the banking sector and
o To tackle emerging challenges
Source: BW
77. Asian Development Bank has approved USD 400 million loan to support urban reforms
and creating high-quality urban infrastructure and efficient governance system in India.
• Objective-
o To support the government’s urban reform agenda for improving the quality of urban
life.
o Creation of high-quality urban infrastructure, assured public services, and efficient
governance system.
Knowledge Nuggets
pg. 110
[Type here]

• Members- 68
Source: TOI
78. Zerodha Fund House has launched its maiden mutual fund schemes.
• About schemes-
• Name of schemes-
o Zerodha Nifty LargeMidcap 250 Index Fund and
o Zerodha ELSS Tax Saver Nifty LargeMidcap 250 Index Fund
• Category-
o Open-ended, passive, index equity mutual fund schemes
Knowledge Nuggets
About Zerodha Fund House-

• Zerodha Fund House is a joint venture between Zerodha Broking Limited and smallcase
Technologies Pvt Ltd.
• It is a passive-only AMC which aims to build simple, transparent, and affordable mutual-
fund.
• CEO- Vishal Jain
Nifty LargeMidcap 250 Index

• The 250 stocks of Nifty LargeMidcap 250 Index are the combination of-
o Nifty 100 Index and Nifty Midcap 150 Index.
• LargeMidcap 250 Index aims to reflect the performance of the large and midcap
companies listed at NSE with 50% weight allocated to each segment.
79. Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology has requested RBI to design a more
detailed KYC process for greater transparency.
pg. 111
[Type here]
• Objective-
o To trace the fraudulent loan applications
• Know Your Digital Finance App (KYFDA)-
o Companies have to go through KYFDA in same manner as customers have to go
through KYC to open bank accounts.
• Benefits of KYFDA-
o It will ensure that only legitimate and scrutinized financial apps can access and use
the Indian Banking System
o It will help in traceability and origin of the app
Source: moneycontrol
80. Ministry of Finance has notified 18% GST on parent corporate guarantee.
• Key points-
o Parent company’s corporate guarantee to its subsidiary for a bank loan will attract
18% GST.
o The value of supply of services will be deemed to be 1 % of the amount of such
guarantee offered, or the actual consideration, whichever is higher.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Parent Corporate Guarantee-

o A parent company guarantee (PCG) is a contract between a company and its client to
ensure a performance requirement is met.
o These agreements are used when a contractor or subsidiary enter into a contract with
clients.
Source: Hindu Business Line, contractcounsel
81. IndusInd Bank has collaborated with Viamericas to offer inward remittance service to NRIs
in USA.
• About collaboration-
o This collaboration has enabled NRIs in USA to use effortless inward remittance
services to India.
o This partnership works under the Rupee Drawing Arrangement scheme of RBI.
o It will allow NRIs to effectively transfer funds to their beneficiaries in India through the
reliable Indus Fast Remit platform.
pg. 112
[Type here]
• About Indus Fast Remit platform-

o It offers NRIs the flexibility to initiate remittance transactions using the auto-debit
payment method (Automated Clearing House - ACH) or by transferring funds directly
from their overseas bank accounts.
o With its established IndusInd Bank Vostro relationship Viamericas Corporation will
utilise the RBI’s RDA scheme to credit the beneficiary’s account in India.
Knowledge Nuggets

• IndusInd Bank Ltd is one of the new generation private sector banks in India.
• CEO- Sumanth Kathpalia
About Viamericas Corporation-

Headquarters- Florida, USA
Established- 1999
CEO- Paul S Dwyer
Source: livemint, BS
82. Yes Bank has raised its stake to 9.9% in JC Flower Asset Reconstruction Company.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Yes Bank-

• Yes Bank is a Private Sector Indian bank.
• CEO- Prashant Kumar
About JC Flower ARC-

• JC Flowers ARC is a company incorporated under the Companies Act, 1956 and existing
under the Companies Act, 2013.
pg. 113
[Type here]
• It is registered as an asset reconstruction company pursuant to section 3 of the

Securitisation and Reconstruction of Financial Assets and Enforcement of Security
Interest Act, 2002.
83. AU Small Finance Bank board has approved merger with Fincare SFB.
• Objective-
o To extend the bank's footprint in southern India and entering the microfinance sector
• Managing Director & CEO of Fincare SFB will become the Deputy CEO of AU SFB after the
merger.
• The shareholders of Fincare SFB will receive 579 shares in AU SFB for every 2000 shares
they hold in Fincare SFB.
Source: livemint
84. RBI has raised the criteria for ‘Bulk deposits’ for Regional Rural Banks from ₹ 15 lakh to ₹1
Crore.
• “Bulk Deposit” means:
o Single Rupee term deposits of Rupees two crore and above for Scheduled
Commercial Banks (excluding Regional Rural banks) and Small Finance Banks.
o Single Rupee term deposits of Rupees one crore and above for RRBs.
pg. 114
[Type here]
Knowledge Nuggets
About RRB-
• Regional Rural Banks were established under the provisions of an Ordinance passed on
26 September 1975 and the RRB Act 1987 to provide sufficient banking and credit facility
for agriculture and other rural sectors.
• Regional Rural Banks (RRB) are Indian Scheduled Commercial Banks (Government
Banks) operating at regional level in different states of India.
• They have been created with a view of serving primarily the rural areas of India with basic
banking and financial services.
Source: RBI, ET, UBI
pg. 115
[Type here]
85. Swan Energy has paid ₹231.42 crore to acquire Reliance Naval & Engineering.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Swan Energy-

Swan Energy Limited is an India-based company engaged in the textile, real estate, energy and
petrochemical sectors.
Established-1909
Source: ET
REPORTS AND INDICES

1. The Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2024 has been released.
• Parameters - teaching, research environment, research quality, industry, and international
outlook
• Top 5 Universities -
• India’s top universities -

o 201-205 – IISc Bangalore
o 501-600 – Anna University, Mahatma Gandhi University and Jamia Milia Islamia
• Other facts -
pg. 116
[Type here]
o The US is the most-represented country overall, with 169 institutions, and the
most-represented in the top 200 (56). With 91 institutions, India is now the fourth
most-represented nation, overtaking China (86).
o Four countries enter the ranking for the first time – all of them in Europe. The
addition of Kosovo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, North Macedonia and Armenia is in
contrast to last year’s trend when all the new entrants were from Africa.
Source: Times
2. UNCTAD has released the Review of Maritime Transport 2023.
Present Scenario -
• As per the report, the shipping industry has seen a 20% increase in greenhouse gas
emissions over the past decade.
• The industry relies heavily on fossil fuels and operates an aging fleet.
• Ahead of the upcoming UN climate conference (COP28), UNCTAD calls for achieving full
decarbonization of the industry by 2050.
• Despite challenges, such as the conflict in Ukraine, the report predicts a 2.4% growth in
maritime trade in 2023 and over 2% growth between 2024 and 2028.
Challenges -
• Moving the shipping industry towards cleaner energy is estimated to cost between $8
billion to $28 billion annually for decarbonization by 2050.
• For infrastructure supporting carbon-neutral fuels, the cost could be even higher, ranging
from $28 billion to $90 billion per year. This full decarbonization could potentially double
annual fuel costs.
Knowledge Nuggets
• UNCTAD is a permanent intergovernmental body established by the United Nations
General Assembly in 1964.
• UNCTAD is part of the UN Secretariat. It reports to the UN General Assembly and the
Economic and Social Council. But the organization has its own membership,
leadership, and budget.
• It is also part of the United Nations Development Group.
pg. 117
[Type here]
• Rebeca Grynspan of Costa Rica is the first woman and Central American to serve as
UNCTAD’s secretary-general.
• Headquarters - Geneva, Switzerland
Source: UNCTAD and About UNCTAD
3. According to the Speedtest Global Index (August 2023) of Ookla, India is at the 47th
position in terms of high-speed internet availability.
• UAE is at the top position.
Source: LiveMint
4. India has been ranked 111th out of 125 countries in the Global Hunger Index (GHI) 2023.
• Key observation-
o India has a score of 28.7, which indicates a serious level of hunger.
o Undernourishment rate in India stood at 16.6%, with under-five mortality at 3.1%
o Anaemia prevalence in women aged 15-24 years was 58.1%.
o India recorded the highest child wasting rate globally at 18.7%.
• Comparison with neighbouring countries-
o India came behind neighbouring countries Pakistan (102nd), Bangladesh (81st),
Nepal (69th) and Sri Lanka (60th).
• Regional comparison-
o India fared better than South Asia and Africa South of the Sahara, which recorded a
score of 27 each.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Global Hunger Index-

• The Global Hunger Index (GHI) is a peer-reviewed report, published on an annual basis
by Concern Worldwide and Welthungerhilfe.
• Undernourishment: The share of the population with insufficient caloric intake.
• Child stunting: The share of children under age five who have low height for their age,
reflecting chronic undernutrition.
• Child wasting: The share of children under age five who have low weight for their height,
reflecting acute undernutrition.
pg. 118
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• Child mortality: The share of children who die before their fifth birthday, partly reflecting
the fatal mix of inadequate nutrition and unhealthy environments.
Source: Indian Express, global hunger index
5. India has been ranked 45 out of 47 in 15th annual Mercer CFA Institute Global Pension
Index 2023.
• India had an overall index value of 45.9 in 2023 from 44.5 in 2022
• The Netherlands had the highest overall index value (85.0)
• Global Pension Index compares 47 retirement income systems across the globe and covers
64% of the world's population.
• The 2023 Global Pension Index includes three new retirement income systems: Botswana,
Croatia, and Kazakhstan.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Mercer-
• Chief Executive Officer- Martine Ferland
Source: NDTV
6. Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) has launched

International Migration Outlook: 2023
• India's Immigration Rate:
o India has maintained its top position as the leading country of origin for new
immigrants to OECD nations in 2021
o 407,000 Indians have migrated which marks an 86% increase from 2020.
• Total Acquisitions: Out of the Indians who migrated to OECD countries, 133,000
individuals were granted nationality, marking the highest number among all countries.
• Top Countries of Acquisition:
Country Immigrant’s acquisitions
United States 56,000
pg. 119
[Type here]
Australia 24,000
Canada 21,000
• In taking nationality, India was followed by Mexico and Syria.

• Canada's Immigration Trends:
o Canada witnessed the highest number of immigrants in 2022, with 375,000 new
citizens.
o Main Countries of Birth for New Canadians: The top countries of birth for new
Canadian citizens were as follows:
India 60,000
The Philippines 42,000
Syria 20,000
• The second largest absolute increase was observed in the United States, which
granted citizenship to 970,000 people in 2022, the highest level since 2008.
• Rising International Students:
o Asia, particularly China and India, accounted for a significant percentage of
international students in OECD countries
o Share of Asian students is increasing over the years
• The top countries of origin of international students in OECD countries are-
Country Students
China 885,000
India 424,000
Vietnam 133,000
Knowledge Nuggets
About OECD-
• The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development is an
intergovernmental organisation with 38 member countries to stimulate economic
progress and world trade.
• Secretary-General- Mathias Cormann
pg. 120
[Type here]
7. Mahatma Gandhi National Rual Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) has seen a
7.5% decrease in active workforce participation as per the report by LibTech India.
• Workforce Contraction:
o The data analysis for April-September 2023 shows a 7.5% reduction in the number
of active workers, from 15.49 crore to 14.33 crore.
o There has been a net deletion of 80 lakh workers in the ongoing financial year.
• Increased Demand for Work:
o Despite the reduction in the workforce, there has been a 9% increase in person days
(total work days by a person registered under the scheme in a financial year)
compared to the previous fiscal year.
• Interesting Trend in Person Days:
o 188 crore person days were generated in the ongoing fiscal year compared to
172.24 crore person days in the previous fiscal year, despite the reduction in the
number of active job cards and workers, indicating a persistent demand for
employment opportunities.
• State-level Variations:
o Fourteen states reported an increase in employment, while six states experienced a
decline.
o West Bengal witnessed a significant drop (99.5%) as the scheme was suspended by
the Union government due to alleged corruption.
o Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, and Tamil Nadu saw the highest increases in employment.
Knowledge Nuggets
About MGNERGS-
• Mahatma Gandhi National Rual Employment Guarantee Scheme is an Indian social
measure welfare which aims to guarantee the right to work under MGNREGA Act,2005,
• It aims to enhance livelihood security in rural areas by providing at least 100 days of
wage employment in a financial year to at least one member of every household whose
adult members volunteer to do unskilled manual work.
About LibTech India-

pg. 121
[Type here]
• Liberation Technology (LibTech India) is a team of engineers, social workers, and social
scientists who, inspired by the Right to Information movement and the idea of social
audits, focus on various aspects of improving transparency, accountability, and
democratic engagement in rural public services delivery.
Source: The Hindu, LibTech.in
GDP FORECAST
1. India Development Update of the World Bank forecasted a 6.3% growth in 2023-24.
• The India Development Update is released in biannual.
• The GDP forecast was 7.2% in 2022-23.
• Inflation projection for FY24 - 5.9%
o Reason - risks from the monsoon deficiency and its evolving impact on prices, El-
Nino phenomena, and global supply chain disruptions
Knowledge Nuggets
The World Bank is an international financial institution that provides loans and grants to the
governments of low- and middle-income countries for the purpose of pursuing capital projects. It
was founded in July 1944 by Bretton Woods Conventions.
• President- Ajay Banga
Source: ET
2. International Monetary Fund has released the World Economic Outlook Report- October
2023 edition.
Year World India
2023-24 3% 6.3%
2024-25 2.9% 6.3%
• Reason for increase in India’s forecast - stronger-than-expected consumption during
April-June quarter of FY24
• Inflation projections for India - 5.5% in fiscal 2023-24 before easing to 4.6% in 2024-25.
Knowledge Nuggets
pg. 122
[Type here]
About IMF-
• The International Monetary Fund (IMF) is a major financial agency of the United
Nations and an international financial institution funded by 190 member countries.
• Headquarters- Washington DC
• Founded- 1945
Source: Mint and IMF
DEFENCE NEWS
1. The Indian Air Force (IAF) has received the first of six new Dornier Do-228 aircraft
manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).
• The Dornier-228 is versatile and well-suited for short-haul operations on semi-prepared or
short runways, making it valuable for use in the northeastern and island regions of India
• Cost of procurement - Rs 667 crore
• Recently, the Indian Navy has provided a Dornier Do-228 maritime patrol aircraft to the Sri
Lanka Air Force (SLAF).
Source: ET
2. Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh launched several digital initiatives of Defence
Accounts Department (DAD) during its 276th Annual Day celebrations.
• Initiatives -
o ‘SARANSH’ - Summary of Accounts, Budget and Expenditure for Raksha
Mantralaya is a data analytics tool that provides a real-time comprehensive platform
to visualize and analyze defence financial data.
o BISWAS - Bill Information and Work Analysis System helps monitor and analyze bill
management. It provides real-time analysis of bill processing, with interactive
visualizations of data.
o e-Raksha Awaas – a centralized software package that helps the Defence Services
generate and collect rent and allied charges for buildings. It is a unified online
platform for all stakeholders involved in the process.
• Collaboration -
pg. 123
[Type here]
o Raksha Mantri recommended collaboration with reputed institutions like the IIMs and
the ICAI to develop and adopt customised training modules
• Awards -
o Raksha Mantri Awards for Excellence 2023 were given to five team for
implementing key department projects.
o Projects include new training methodology, CBT systems, SARANSH dashboard,
Dolphin 2.0 system, and KPIs for field offices.
▪ Project Dolphin is a computer system that helps the Indian Army pay its
soldiers. It is fast, accurate, and easy to use. This means that soldiers can get
their pay sooner and more easily. Their payment-related grievances are also
resolved quickly on this platform.
Knowledge Nuggets
• Defence Accounts Department (DAD) functions under the administrative control of
Ministry of Defence and is headed by Controller General of Defence Accounts.
• DAD is responsible for managing the finances of the Indian Armed Forces. This
includes paying soldiers and civilians, paying for supplies and services, and accounting
for all the money that is spent on the military.
Source: PIB CGDA DAD
3. The Indian Air Force (IAF) has placed two contracts with Bharat Dynamics Ltd. (BDL) for
the indigenous Astra Beyond Visual Range (BVR) air-to-air missile.
• The IAF plans to conduct the Astra missile's deployment by the end of 2023.
• This missile, developed domestically with a range of over 100 km, is a significant addition to
India's defence capabilities, enhancing its air-to-air combat capabilities.
• The more advanced and longer-range Astra-Mk2 is under development.
Source: Hindu
4. Indian Air Force has presented a proposal to acquire three airborne intelligence gathering
aircraft under a project that will see the development of indigenous sensor technologies and
systems.
• The new airborne intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition and reconnaissance
(ISTAR) platform will be able to map out battlefields and monitor enemy movements in real
time.
pg. 124
[Type here]
• This will cost ₹6,000 crore project.

• Recently, the air force cleared the acquisition of more indigenous 'Netra' early warning
and control aircraft to its fleet.
• Six additional aircraft are planned to be acquired by the air force as part of a $1 billion plan
to add force multipliers in the air force.
Source: ET
5. India and Bangladesh commenced the 11th edition of annual joint military exercise,
SAMPRITI in Umroi, Meghalaya.
• The exercise underscores the importance of enhancing interoperability between the two
armies, sharing tactical drills, and promoting best practices.
Source: NoA
6. 'Swavlamban 2.0' - Indian Navy's Naval Innovation and Indigenisation (NIIO) Seminar –
was organized on October 4-5, 2023, in New Delhi.
• Highlights -
o The fifth Positive Indigenisation List consisting of 98 items was released by the
Department of Military Affairs (DMA).
o 76 challenges for the industry under the 10th Defence India Start-up Challenges &
DISC 10 PRIME, along with five problem statements under iDEX for Fauji were
launched.
o In addition, two INDUS X challenges under ‘INDUS-X Mutual Promotion of
Advanced Collaborative Technologies’ (IMPACT) challenges jointly finalised by
iDEX and United States Department of Defense (US DoD) were launched.
o SBI NAVeCash Card, a dual-chip debit card for the Navy, was launched. This card
can be used onboard the ships, eliminating the need of using cash.
o Products developed under the SPRINT (Supporting Pole-vaulting in R&D through
iDEX, NIIO and TDAC) initiative were showcased in an exhibition during the
seminar.
▪ Under the SPRINT, launched during the first Swavlamban, the Indian Navy
aimed to develop at least 75 technologies.
Knowledge Nuggets
• The 1st edition of Swavlamban was organized in 2022.
• At the seminar, iDEX DISC7 (SPRINT) challenge was launched by the Prime Minister.
pg. 125
[Type here]
• SPRINT (Supporting Pole-vaulting in R&D through iDEX, NIIO and TDAC) is a

collaborative project between the Defence Innovation Organisation (DIO) and NIIO aimed
at developing at least 75 indigenous technologies / products as a part of Azadi Ka
Amrit Mahotsav.
• Naval Innovation and Indigenisation Organisation (NIIO) was launched in 2020 by the
Defence Minister of India.
• The NIIO is a three-tiered organisation -
o Naval Technology Acceleration Council (N-TAC)
o Working group under the N-TAC
o Technology Development Acceleration Cell (TDAC)
Source: PIB
7. Indian Air Force (IAF) chief Air Chief Marshal V.R. Chaudhari unveiled the new Indian Air
Force ensign on its 91st anniversary at Bamrauli Air Force Station in Prayagraj of Uttar
Pradesh.
Source: Deccan Chronicle
8. Indian Navy hosted the 2023 edition of Annual Joint Humanitarian Assistance and
Disaster Relief (HADR) Exercise- CHAKRAVAT at Goa.
• The last edition (2022) of the exercise was conducted at Agra by IAF.
• It is a joint exercise of Indian Navy, Air Force, and Army. It is hosted by one of these forces
on a rotational basis.
• Logo-
o The Logo for this year’s exercise depicts crests and logos of all participating
agencies and flags of all nations subsumed into one single entity to signify that
HADR will hinge on joint and integrated action by the all the agencies.
pg. 126
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• Invitee Countries – Comoros, Madagascar, Maldives, Mauritius, Mozambique, Seychelles,

Sri Lanka, and Tanzania
Source: PIB and Deccan Herald
9. National Security Council Secretariat has organized 2nd edition of National Cyber Security
Exercise named ‘Bharat NCX 2023’ for government, public and private sector organizations.
• Purpose - To train senior management and technical personnel of these organizations in
handling cyber incidents and response
• The program is conducted by the National Security Council Secretariat (NSCS), in
strategic partnership with Rashtriya Raksha University (RRU).
Source: PIB
10. DRDO INS Sagardhwani sets sail on mission to establish scientific partnership with IOR
countries under Sagar Maitri initiative.
• Sagar Maitri initiative of DRDO seeks to promote closer cooperation in socio economic
aspects as well as more significant scientific interaction, especially in ocean research
among Indian Ocean Rim (IOR) countries.
• INS Sagardhwani is an oceanographic research vessel.
11. Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh has conducted the 5th Annual Defence Dialogue with
French Minister of Armed Forces Mr Sebastien Lecornu in Paris.
• Key points of discussions-
pg. 127
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o Assessment of regional situation

o Ongoing military-to-military engagements
o Enhancing defence industrial cooperation
o Review of ongoing defence projects
o Collaboration in niche domains: space, cyber, and Artificial Intelligence
Source: PIB
12. Indian Army has established the first-ever BSNL base transceiver station (BTS) on world’s
highest battlefield, Siachen Glacier.
• BTS station is established in collaboration with Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited.
Source: ANI
13. Army Chief presents the President’s Colours to the third battalion of Naga Regiment at
Kumaon Regimental Centre, Ranikhet (Uttarakhand).
Knowledge Nuggets
About President’s Colour-

• The President's Colour Award is the highest honour that can be bestowed upon any
military unit of India.
• It is also known as Nishaan, which is an emblem that is worn by all unit officers on the
left-hand sleeve of their uniform.
Source: PIB
14. Coastal security exercise ‘Sagar Kavach’ involving all maritime security agencies has been
conducted by Indian Navy in Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and Puducherry.
• Objective-
To assess the efficiency and robustness of the coastal security mechanism while dealing
with asymmetric threat originating from sea.
• Participation- Indian navy, coast guard, state and Union Territory administration, marine
Police, fisheries, custom, intelligence agencies, lighthouse, ports and forest have
participated in the exercise.
pg. 128
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15. The Indian Army’s 3/5 Gorkha Rifles (Frontier Force) team has won gold medal at the
Cambrian Patrol Competition 2023 International Military Exercise in Wales, UK.
• About Cambrian Patrol Exercise-
o Exercise CAMBRIAN PATROL is the British Army’s premier patrolling event.
o It is also referred as the Olympics of Military Patrolling.
o Place- Wales, United Kingdom
o Hosted by- Headquarters 160th (Welsh) Brigade.
Source: TOI
16. Indian Navy has conducted security exercise ‘Prasthan 2023’ in Andhra Pradesh’s
Kakinada.
• Objectives-
o To ensure the security of offshore development areas in Kakinada
o To rehearse responses in handling contingencies
• About Prasthan 2023
o The exercise was conducted on Rig Ship Platinum Explorer of ONGC and RG Fixed
Oil Platform of Vedanta Ltd.
o Conducted under the aegis of Eastern Naval Command
o It witnessed participation from multiple organization
Source: ET
17. Yard 12706 (Imphal) the third of Project 15B stealth guided missile destroyer has been
delivered to the Indian Navy.
• About Yard 12706-
o It is designed by the Indian Navy’s Warship Design Bureau (WDB) and built by
M/s Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd, Mumbai.
o The Project is a follow-on of the Kolkata class (Project 15A) destroyers
commissioned in the last decade.
o The ship contains indigenous mate of approximately 75%.
Source: PIB
18. Udhampur military station has been awarded ‘Best Green Military Station’ award during
the army commanders conference in New Delhi.
• Key points-
pg. 129
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o Dehradun Military Station has been awarded ‘Second Best’ award.

o Bikaner Military Station has been awarded ‘Best Transformative Station’ trophy.
Source: ET
19. Defence minister Rajnath Singh has launched Indian Military Heritage Festival ‘Project
Udbhav’ in Delhi.
• Objective-
To rediscover the profound Indian heritage of spacecraft and strategic thoughts derived
from ancient Indian text of spacecraft, warcraft, diplomacy and grand strategy.
Source: Print
20. Indian Army and Malaysian Army have conducted joint bilateral ‘Exercise Harimau Shakti
2023’ in Umroi cantonment, India.
• Objectives-
o To increase military capability for conduct of Multi Domain Operations in a sub
conventional scenario.
o To improve the level of defence co-operation between Indian Army and the
Malaysian Army
• Participation- Rajput Regiment of Indian Army and 5th Royal Battalion of Malaysian Army
• Last edition of the Exercise was conducted in Pulai, Kluang, Malaysia in November 2022.
Source: PIB
21. Japan has become the 1st country to fire Electromagnetic Railgun from an offshore vessel.
• Japanese Maritime Self-Defence Force (JMSDF) collaborated with the Acquisition
Technology & Logistics Agency (ATLA) for this.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Railgun-
• A railgun is an electromagnetic weapon that can shoot projectiles at about Mach 7, or
seven times the speed of sound, on targets like ships, missiles, and aircraft.
Source: eurasiantimes
22. Indian Army has inaugurated its first Vertical Wind Tunnel (VWT) at a training school in
Himachal Pradesh.
pg. 130
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• Inaugurated at-
o Special Forces Training School (SFTS) at Bakloh
• Benefits-
o It will provide a controlled environment for military trainees to-
o improve their skills in simulating real-life free-fall conditions
o improve Combat Free Fall (CFF) skills of armed forces personnel by simulating
different CFF scenarios
Knowledge Nuggets
About Vertical Wind Tunnel-

• A vertical wind tunnel is a wind tunnel that moves air up in a vertical column.
Source: ET
23. Indian Air Force has signed a contract with an Indian Manufacturer for the procurement of
Automatic Weather Stations at 82 IAF stations.
• Objectives-
o To improve aerospace safety by providing real time weather updates during flying
and training operations
o To uphold the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS),
emphasizing the importance of adhering to international maritime law
Source: IDRW
24. India and European Union have conducted their first joint Naval Exercise in Gulf of
Guinea.
• Objective-
o To reinforce naval maritime security cooperation in support of the region.
• Participation-
o Indian Navy Ship- INS Sumedha, an Offshore Patrol Vessel
o Italian Navy Ship- ITS Foscari
o French Navy Ship- FS Ventôse
o Spanish Navy Ship- Tornado
• Knowledge Sharing-
o A knowledge sharing session took place in Accra, Ghana, following the maritime
exercises.
pg. 131
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• Benefits-
• To strengthen commitment of India and the EU to assist coastal states and reinforce
the Yaoundé Architecture for ensuring maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea.
Source: PIB
25. 25T Bollard Pull (BP) Tug, ‘Mahabali’ has been launched at M/s Shoft Shipyard Pvt Ltd,
Bharuch, Gujarat.
• These Tugs are built under the classification rules of Indian Register of Shipping (IRS).
• Uses-
o The availability of Tug will provide momentum to Operational commitments of Indian
Navy by facilitating assistance to Naval ships and submarines during berthing and
un-berthing, turning and manoeuvring in confined waters.
Source: PIB
26. Personnel from the Indian Army and the Indian Air Force have departed for Kazakhstan to
participate in the 7th edition of the Joint Military ‘Exercise KAZIND-2023.’
• Participation- India & Kazakhstan
• Venue- Otar, Kazakhstan
• Objective-
o To improve the capabilities of both sides in counter-terrorism operations within a sub-
conventional environment under the purview of United Nations mandates.
AGRICUTLURE AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT

1. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced the setting up of a National Turmeric Board
in Telangana and, also ₹900 crore Sammakka-Sarakka Central Tribal University in Mulug.
• The Turmeric Board aims to support farmers in the region by providing necessary
infrastructure, value addition, research facilities, and professional assistance for exports.
• Prime Minister laid foundation stones for projects worth over ₹13,500 crore in
Mahabubnagar on October 1.
Source: Hindu
pg. 132
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2. Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) will expand the cultivation area of Musk Budji, an indigenous
aromatic variety of rice from Kashmir.
• The plan is to expand its cultivation area to 5,000 hectares within the next three years.
• Mushk Budji rice was already granted a Geographical Indication (GI) tag.
Source: Daily Excelsior
3. Indian government has granted the permission to export 1.34 million tonne of non-
basmati white rice to seven Asian and African nations in humanitarian efforts.
• Exporting authority- National Cooperative Exports Ltd
Knowledge Nuggets
About National Cooperative Exports Ltd

• It is a government export body that was set up under the Multi-State Cooperative
Societies (MSCS) Act, 2002 to export agriculture produce and allied items.
Source: livemint
AWARDS
1. Kantar BrandZ Most Valuable Indian Brands 2023 (10th edition) list has been released.
• The International Monetary Fund is predicting growth of 6.1% for India in 2023
• Top 5 -
o Tata Consultancy Services (for the 2nd year) with a brand value of $43 billion
o HDFC Bank
o Infosys
o Airtel
o SBI
• There are four newcomers and two re-entrants in the 2023 ranking, including PhonePe,
Cred, ShareChat, and Star.
• The combined brand value of India's top 75 brands is $379 billion, a 4% decline from
2022, attributed to global economic volatility.
• Financial services brands grew by 6%, driven by digital banking. Axis Bank and ICICI
Bank are among the top brands in this category.
Source: ET
pg. 133
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2. The President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu presented the National Service Scheme
Awards for the year 2021-2022 at Rashtrapati Bhavan.
• Winners under Programme coordinator/Officer category -
S. No. Name Institution
1. Dr Ramvir Singh Chauhan Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar
University, Agra (Uttar
Pradesh)
2. Dr Mitali Kathkatia Dakshin Kamrup Girls’
College, Mirza (Assam)
3. Dr Ranjana Sharma Post Graduate Govt.
College for Girls,
Chandigarh
4. Dr Malkiat Singh Government Degree
College, Dharamshala,
Kangra (Himachal
Pradesh)
5. Dr Raghavendra R Seshadripuram Degree
College, Mysuru
(Karnataka)
6. Dr S. Lekshmi Sanatana Dharma
College, Alappuzha
(Kerala)
7. Dr Indira Barman Institute for Excellence in
Higher Education, Bhopal
(Madhya Pradesh)
8. Dr Pawan Ramesh Naik Kewalramji Harde
Mahavidyalaya,
Chamorshi (Maharashtra)
9. Joseph Vanlalhuraia Sailo Synod Higher Secondary
School, Aizawl (Mizoram)
pg. 134
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10. Dr Renu Bisht Bhartiya Shaheed Sainik

Vidhyalaya, Nainital
(Uttarakhand)
11. Babita Prasad Surya Sen
Mahavidyalaya, Siliguri
(West Bengal)
Source: NSS
3. Ruixiang Zhang, Assistant Professor, University of California, Berkeley, USA will be awarded
with the 2023 SASTRA Ramanujan Prize for his outstanding contributions in mathematics.
• The annual cash prize of USD 10,000 will be given at an International Conference in
Number Theory during December 20 and December 22 at SASTRA University in
Kumbakonam, mathematician Srinivasa Ramanujan’s hometown.
• The age limit for the prize has been set at 32, influenced by Ramanujan’s achievements in
his brief life of 32 years.
Source: The Hindu
4. International Olympic Committee (IOC) has announced the winners of the 1st edition of
the Climate Action Awards, recognising the athletes, International Federations (IFs) and
National Olympic Committees (NOCs) who are taking tangible steps to tackle the climate crisis.
• Winners -
o Athletes - Marcus Mepstead (fencing, Great Britain) and Paloma Schmidt (sailing,
Peru)
o NOCs - World Rugby, World Sailing, the Colombian Olympic Committee and the
Spanish Olympic Committee
• Categories of awards - sustainable travel, innovation, and athlete advocacy
• The awards are supported by Worldwide Olympic and Paralympic Partners Airbnb, Deloitte
and P&G.
Source: Olympics.com
5. Nobel Prizes 2023 -

Category Winner Reason
pg. 135
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Physics Pierre Agostini (France) “For experimental methods

Ferenc Krausz (Hungarian- that generate attosecond
Austrian) pulses of light for the study of
Anne L’Huillier (French) electron dynamics in matter”
Physiology or Medicine Katalin Karikó (Hungarian “For their discoveries
American) concerning nucleoside base
Drew Weissman (American) modifications that enabled the
development of effective
mRNA vaccines against
COVID-19”
Chemistry Moungi G. Bawendi for the discovery and
(American- Tunisian- French) synthesis of quantum dots
Louis E. Brus (American)
Alexei I. Ekimov (Russian)
Literature Jon Fosse (Norwegian) for his innovative plays and
prose which give voice to the
unsayable
Peace Narges Mohammadi (Iran) for her fight against the
oppression of women in Iran
and her commitment to
promoting human rights and
freedom
Economics Claudia Goldin (American) for her research into the
factors that explain pay gaps
She is the third woman to between men and women
receive the Nobel Prize in
economics
Source: Nobel
6. Sudha Murty has become the 1st woman to receive the Global Indian Award by the Canada
India Foundation.
• The Global Indian Award, which is worth $50, 000, is given each year to a prominent Indian
who has made a major mark in his or her chosen field.
Source: Indiatimes
pg. 136
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7. Reliance Industries Limited Chairman Mukesh Ambani has topped in the Hurun India
Rich List 2023.
• 2nd position - Adani Group Chairman Gautam Adani (who topped the list in 2022)
• Key Findings-
o The list includes Kaivalya Vohra (20), Founder of Zepto, as the youngest
member, underscoring the impact of India's startup revolution.
Source: India Today
8. Tamil writer Sivasankari has been awarded the esteemed 'Saraswati Samman' 2022 for her
book of memoirs, ‘Surya Vamsam’.
• The award was given at the National Museum, New Delhi.
• She is the 32nd recipient of the award.
About Saraswati Samman-

• Institution- Given by K.K. Birla Foundation
• Award- Award consists of citation, plaque and prize money of 15 lakhs.
Source: HT
9. President Droupadi Murmu has conferred the 69th National Film Awards 2023 in New Delhi.
• These awards are recognized as one of the highest honours in the field of film-making.
• Winner’s list-
Category Winner (Film)
Best Actor Allu Arjun (Pushpa)
Best Actress Alia Bhatt (Gangubai Kathiawadi) and Kriti

Sanon (Mimi)
Best Feature Film Rocketry: The Nambi Effect
Best Director Nikhil Mahajan (Godavari)
Nargis Dutt Award for Best Film on National The Kashmir Files
Integration
Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome RRR
Entertainment
pg. 137
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10. Mukesh Ambani, Chairman and MD of Reliance Industries Ltd. is the richest Indian as per
the Forbes India’s 100 Richest 2023 List with USD 92 billion.
• Key rankings-
• Gautam Adani, Chairperson Adani Group has been ranked 2nd
• Richest Women- Savitri Jindal of O.P. Jindal Group, she ranked 4th overall
• Youngest billionaire- Nikhil Kamath, co-founder of trading platform Zerodha
Knowledge Nuggets
About Forbes
• Forbes is a media and publishing company
• CEO- Mike Federle
• Headquarters- Jersey City, New Jersey
Source: Forbes India
11. Hollywood actor and producer Michael Douglas has been awarded Satyajit Ray Lifetime
Achievement Award at 54th International Film Festival of India (IFFI).
• About IFFI-
o The International Film Festival of India, founded in 1952, is one of the film festivals in
Asia.
o Place- Goa
o Date- November 20,2023- November 28,2023
Source: PIB
12. President Droupadi Murmu has conferred the prestigious Dada Saheb Phalke Award 2021
to Indian actress Waheeda Rahman.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Dadasaheb Phalke Award-

o The Dadasaheb Phalke Award is the highest award in Indian cinema.
pg. 138
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o It is annually presented at the National Film Awards ceremony by the Directorate of Film
Festivals.
o The award is named after Dhundiraj Govind Phalke.
o Dadasaheb Phalke is regarded as the ‘father of Indian cinema’.
Source: PIB
13. Rural Electrification Corporation Limited, a Maharatna Central Public Sector Enterprise
under the Ministry of Power has been awarded prestigious Golden Peacock Award in Risk
Management by the Institute of Directors (IOD).
• Golden Peacock Awards -
o The Golden Peacock Awards are internationally recognized as a standard for corporate
excellence
o Established- 1991
o Organization- Institute of Directors (IOD) in India
Source: PIB
14. Mahsa Amini of Iran has been posthumously awarded the European Union’s top Human
Rights Prize.
• She has been awarded European Union’s Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought.
• She was protesting against Iran’s mandatory headscarf law.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Sakharov Prize

• Objective- To recognize individuals or groups who defend human rights and fundamental
freedom
Source: TOI
15. Nobel Laureate Narges Mohammadi has been awarded Mother Teresa Memorial Award
for Social Justice 2023.
• She is awarded to recognize her undaunted courage to put her life on the line as a fearless
defender and advocate of human rights against the fundamentalist regime of Iran.
• The award will be given on 26 November in Mumbai.
• She is awarded Nobel Peace Prize for 2023.
pg. 139
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Knowledge Nuggets
About Mother Teresa Memorial Award-

• Mother Teresa Memorial Awards for Social Justice are presented annually to honour
individuals and organizations that promote peace, equality and social justice.
• Objective-
o To encourage the cause of justice and peaceful coexistence, while providing an
impetus for society to imbibe these values.
Source: TOI
16. Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud has received the 'Award for Global
Leadership', the highest professional distinction handed out by Harvard Law School.
• He was announced as the recipient of the award on January 11, this year, in an online
ceremony.
17. US President Joe Biden has honoured two Indian-American with the highest scientific
awards in the United States for their contribution to the field of science and technology.
Award Winner Reason
National Medal of Technology Ashok Gadgil for providing life-sustaining
and Innovation resources to communities
around the world.
National Medal of Science Subra Suresh for pioneering research across

engineering, physical
sciences, and life sciences.
18. UST has won the 2023 Mahatma Awards for sustainable and impactful contributions to
corporate social responsibility (CSR).
• About Mahatma Awards-
• It is an initiative of Aditya Birla Group.
• Award is presented on Mahatma Gandhi’s birth anniversary.
pg. 140
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• Mahatma Award is the highest honour for social impact leaders and change makers,
who are working towards making this world a better place.
Knowledge Nuggets
About UST-
• UST is a global digital transformation solution provider.
• Headquarters- California, USA
• CEO- Krishna Sudheendra
What is CSR?
• Corporate Social Responsibility is a management concept whereby companies integrate
social and environmental concerns in their business operations and interactions with their
stakeholders.
Source: ANI, mahatma award, UN
19. Nita Ambani has received US-India Strategic Partnership Forum’s 2023 Global
Leadership Award for Philanthropy and CSR.
• She has been awarded for being at the forefront of women's empowerment, children's
education, promoting Indian arts and sports.
Knowledge Nuggets
About US-India Strategic Partnership Forum-

• The US-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF), is an independent non-profit, non-
governmental, and non-partisan organization.
• Headquarter- Washington, D.C
Source: Business Today, usispf
IMPORTANT DAYS
1. September 28 - 197th Gunners Day (Regiment of Artillery was raised in 1827)
• Motto of Artillery Regiment: "Sarvatra Izzat-O-IqbaI - Everywhere with Honour and Glory"
pg. 141
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Source: PIB NoA
2. September 29 - International Day of Awareness on Food Loss and Waste Reduction; Theme -
“Reducing food loss and waste: Taking Action to Transform Food Systems”
Source: UN
3. September 30 - International Translation Day (to honour Saint Jerome, the Bible translator);
Theme - 'Translation unveils the many faces of humanity’
Source: ET
4. October 1 - National Pension System Diwas (NPS Diwas)

Source: PIB
5. Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2023 is observed throughout the month of October.
• Ribbon colour for awareness - pink
Source: breastcancer.org
6. October 1 - International Day of Older Persons; Theme - Fulfilling the Promises of the
Universal Declaration of Human Rights for Older Persons: Across Generations
Source: UN
7. October 1 - International Coffee Day; Theme - promoting the right to a safe and healthy
working environment in the coffee supply chain
Knowledge Nuggets
• There are two main types of coffee beans used in commercial coffee production – Arabica
and Robusta.
• The International Coffee Organization (ICO) is the main intergovernmental organization
for coffee, bringing together exporting and importing Governments to tackle the
challenges facing the world coffee sector through international cooperation.
• Its Member Governments represent 98% of world coffee production and 67% of world
consumption.
• The ICO was set up in London in 1963 under the auspices of the United Nations.
Source: Al Jazeera ICO
pg. 142
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8. October 1 - World Vegetarian Day

Source: HT
9. October 2 - 154th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi

Source: Wion
10. October 2 - World Habitat Day; Theme - Resilient urban economies. Cities as drivers of
growth and recovery
Source: UN
11. October 2 - International Day of Non-Violence (17th edition); Message - Say No to Violence
Source: UN
12. October 2-8 - Wildlife week (69th edition); Theme - ‘Partnership for Wildlife Conservation’
Source: PIB
13. October 4- World Animal Day; Theme - Great or Small Love Them All
Source: worldanimalday.org
14. October 4-10- World Space Week; Theme- Space and Entrepreneurship
Source: worldspaceweek.org
15. October 5- World Teachers Day; Theme- The Teacher we need for the education we want:
The global imperative to reverse the teacher shortage.
Knowledge Nuggets
About UNESCO-
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization is a specialized agency of
the United Nations aimed at promoting world peace and security through international
cooperation in education, arts, sciences and culture.

• Founded- 16 November 1995
• Head- Audrey Azoulay
Source: UNESCO
pg. 143
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16. October 6 - World Cerebral Palsy Day; Theme - Together Stronger

• A film on Sambhav: Making Inclusion possible (Assistive Devices for Persons with
Cerebral Palsy) was displayed.
Source: PIB
17. First Friday in October (October 6) - World Smile Day; Theme - Radiate Joy
Source: LiveMint
18. October 7- World Cotton Day; Theme -Making cotton fair and sustainable for all: from farm to
fashion
Source: UN
19. October 8 - Indian Air Force Day (established on 8 October 1932); Theme – IAF-Airpower
Beyond Boundaries
• Motto - Touching the sky with Glory (नभः स्पृशं दीप्तम्)
• New ensign of Indian Air Force -
Source: LiveMint
20. October 8 - World Hydrogen and Fuel Day

Source: PIB
21. October 8- World Dyslexia Awareness Day; Theme – ‘Uniquely You’

• Dyslexia Awareness Week is observed from 2nd – 8th October.
pg. 144
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Knowledge Nuggets
About Dyslexia-
• Dyslexia is a disorder in which person might struggle with reading, writing, vocabulary,
and tasks that require hand-eye coordination.
Source: AIR
22. October 9- World Post Day; Theme - "Together for Trust: Collaborating for a safe and
connected future
Source: Live Mint
23. October 10- Good Manufacturing Practice Day

Source: Live Mint
24. October 10- National Post Day

• October 9-13- National Postal week
• October 9- World Post Day; Theme-"Together for Trust: Collaborating for a safe and
connected future."
Knowledge Nuggets
About World Post Day-

• The event was declared by the 1969 Universal Postal Congress in Tokyo as a means to
mark the anniversary of the Universal Postal Union (UPU) creation in 1874.
• The objective of World Post Day is to bring awareness to the Post’s role in the everyday
lives of people and businesses, as well as its contribution to global social and economic
development.
Source: Business Standard, PIB
25. October 10- World Day Against the Death Penalty

Source: worldcoalition.org
26. October 10- World Mental Health Day; Theme- “Mental health is a universal human right”
• Green Ribbon Campaign- The green ribbon is the international symbol of mental
health awareness.
pg. 145
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• World Mental Health Day is sponsored by World Health Organization, the World Federation
for Mental Health, and its member organizations
Knowledge Nuggets
About World Federation for Mental Health-

• The World Federation for Mental Health is an international, multi-professional non-
governmental organization, including citizen volunteers and former patients.
• Founded- 1948
About World Health Organization-

• The World Health Organization is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible
for international public health.
• Director-general- Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus
Source: WHO
27. October 10- National Current Good Manufacturing Day (cGMP) Day; Theme- cGMP:
Transforming Healthcare.
• 10th October 2023 is the first ever National cGMP day.
Source: livemint
28. October 11- International Day of Girl Child 2023; Theme- Invest in Girls Rights: Our
Leadership, Our Well-being.
Source: UNICEF
29. Second Thursday of October (October 12, 2023)- World Sight Day; Theme- “love your eyes
at work”
Source: livemint
30. October 12- World Arthritis Day; Theme- Living with an RMD at all stages of life
Source: livemint
31. October 14- World Migratory Bird Day; Theme- Water: Sustaining Bird Life.
• It is celebrated across globe on 2nd Saturday of May and October.
pg. 146
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Source: worldmigratorybirdday.org
32. October 14- World Standards Day; Theme- Our shared vision for a better world
Source: ISO
33. October 15- International Day of Rural Women; Theme- Rural Women Cultivating Good Food
for All
Source: UN Women
34. October 15- Global Handwashing Day; Theme- clean hands are within reach
Source: globalhandwashing.org
35. October 15- World White Cane Day

36. October 15- World Students Day

• It is celebrated to commemorate the birth anniversary of 11th President and Missile Man of
India Dr APJ Abdul Kalam.
Source: livemint
37. October 16- World Food Day; Theme- “Water is life, water is food. Leave no one behind.”
Source: livemint
38. October 16- Raising Day of the NSG

Source: TOI
39. October 17- International Day for Eradication of Poverty; Theme- Decent Work and Social
Protection: Putting dignity in practice for all
Source: UN
40. October 17- World Trauma Day; Theme- Embracing Resilience, Overcoming Trauma’s Impact
• As per some newspapers, the theme of this day is not confirmed.
Source: ETV Bharat
pg. 147
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41. October 20- International Chefs Day; Theme- Growing Great Chefs
Source: FRP
42. October 21- World Iodine Deficiency Day

Source: TOI
43. October 21- Police Commemoration Day (Police Martyr’s Day)

• The day marks the sacrifice of 10 CRPF men who lost their lives to a Chinese attack in
1959.
Source: ET
44. October 22- International Stuttering Awareness Day; Theme- “One Size Does NOT Fit All”
• About Stuttering-
o It is a disruption in speech pattern involving dysfluencies in a person’s speech.
Source: HT
45. October 22-28- International Lead Poisoning Prevention Week; Theme- End Childhood Lead
Poisoning
Source: WHO
46. October 23- World Snow Leopard Day

Source: wwf
47. October 24- UN Day; Theme- The Frontlines of Climate Action

Source: UN
48. October 24- World Polio Day

Source: livemint
49. October 24- UN’s World Development Information Day

Source: iisd
50. October 24-31- Global Media and Information Literacy Week; Theme- Media and Information
Literacy in Digital Spaces: A Collective Global Agenda
pg. 148
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Source: UNESCO
51. October 24-31- UN Disarmament Week

Source: UN
52. October 24- 62nd Indo Tibetan Border Police Raising Day
Source: PIB
Source: UNESCO
54. October 25- World Dwarfism Day

• Dwarfism is a medical condition which causes short stature.
• It is generally defined as an adult height of 4 feet 10 inches (147 centimetres) or less. The
average adult height among people with dwarfism is 4 feet (122 cm).
Source: PIB
55. October 26- Accession Day

Source: livemint
56. October 27- World Day for Audiovisual Heritage; Theme- ‘Your Window to the World’
Source: UNESCO
57. October 27- 77th Infantry Day

Source: livemint
58. October 27- 76th Shaurya Diwas

Source: ANI
59. October 28- International Animation Day

Source: asifa
60. October 29- International Day of Care and Support
pg. 149
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Source: UN
61. October 29- World Stroke Day; Theme- Together we are #Greater Than Stroke
Source: livemint
62. October 30- November 5- Vigilance Awareness Week; Theme- Say no to corruption; Commit
to the Nation
Source: AIR
63. October 30- Birth Anniversary of Dr Homi Jehangir Bhabha

Source: CNBC
64. October 31- World Cities Day; Theme- Financing a sustainable urban future for all
Source: UN
SPORTS
1. 19th Asian Games highlights -
• SHOTPUT - Kiran Baliyan has become the first Indian woman to win an Asian Games
medal in shot put event in 72 years.
o Tajinderpal Singh Toor won gold in Shotput.
• SQUASH - Indian women's squash team comprised of Joshna Chinappa, Tanvi
Khanna and Anahat Singh won bronze medal after losing to Hong Kong, China, in the
semifinals.
o India’s men’s team won the gold medal at the Asian Games squash.
• ATHLETICS - Indian long-distance runners Kartik Kumar and Gulveer Singh bagged a
silver and bronze medal respectively in the men's 10,000 metre race.
o Avinash Sable won gold in Asian Games 3000m steeplechase.
o Parul Chaudhary won silver in 3000m steeple chase.
o Race - Harmilan Bains (women’s 1500m), Murali Sreeshankar (men’s long jump),
Ajay Kumar Saroj (men’s 1500m) and Jyothi Yarraji (women’s 100m hurdles) won
silver.
pg. 150
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• SHOOTING - Indian shooting duo of Sarabjot Singh and Divya Subbaraju won silver
medal in the mixed 10m air rifle pistol team event at the ongoing Asian Games in
Hangzhou.
• TENNIS - The mixed doubles tennis pair of Rohan Bopanna and Rutuja Bhosale
defeated Chinese Taipei pair En-shuo Liang and Tsung-hao Huang in the finals to win the
gold medal.
• TABLE TENNIS - Ayhika Mukherjee and Sutirtha Mukherjee won the bronze medal in
women's table tennis doubles event. This is first ever medal in the women's doubles
event by India at the Asian Games.
• BADMINTON - Indian Men’s Badminton Team won the silver medal, with China winning the
gold
Source: TOI ET TOI The Hindu LiveMint Sportstar Hindu Hindu ET TOI
2. 2026 Asian Games will be hosted by Japan in Aichi-Nagoya.

• China has announced three mascots namely Chenchen, Congcong, and Lianlian, a group
of three robot mascots of the Hangzhou 2022 Asian Games.
Source: Sportstar
3. Parul Chaudhary and Annu Rani won gold medals in athletics at the Asian Games 2023 in
Hangzhou, the People’s Republic of China in the 5000m race and javelin throw, respectively.
Source: olympics.com
4. India concluded Asian Games with 4th rank and 107 medals, which is the highest ever tally of
medals for India in the history of Asian Games.
• The first rank is obtained by China with the total medal tally of 383.
Rank Country Gold Silver Bronze Total
1 People's Republic of 201 111 71 383
China
2 Japan 52 67 69 188
3 Republic of Korea 42 59 89 190
4 India 28 38 41 107
Winners -
• HOCKEY - Indian men's hockey team secured a gold medal by defeating Japan in the
Asian Games and booked a place in the Paris Olympics.
pg. 151
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• BADMINTON -
o HS Prannoy won the bronze medal in men’s singles.
o The doubles pair of Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty made history by
winning India's first-ever gold medal.
• JAVELINE THROW – Neeraj Chopra won gold. Kishore Kumar Jena won silver.
• ARCHERY - Jyothi Sureka Vennam and Ojas Pravin Deotale won mixed team compound
gold
Source: Olympic.com, Olympic Olympic TOI
5. Nobel Prize 2023 -

freedom
economics
• The economic sciences award was added by Sweden’s central bank in 1968, called the
Sveriges Riksbank Prize in Economic Sciences in memory of Alfred Nobel.
Source: Nobel LiveMint
6. Indian badminton player Ayush Shetty won a bronze medal in men’s singles at the BWF
World Junior Championships 2023 in Spokane, USA.
Knowledge Nuggets
• Overall, Indian badminton players have won one gold, four silvers and six bronze
medals at the BWF World Junior Championships since it began in 1992.
• Saina Nehwal clinched a gold medal in 2008 and it remains India’s best result at the
event.
pg. 152
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7. The International Olympic Committee (IOC), Olympic Museum and Reliance Foundation
signed an agreement to promote Olympic values Education Programme (OVEP) through
sports among children.
• It has started in the Mumbai region and it will soon expand across Maharashtra.
• The agreement will focus on grade specific activities in selected schools.
• Sessions will be held between athletes and students to promote physical activity and
raising awareness to promote Olympic values.
Knowledge Nuggets
About OVEP-
• OVEP is an initiative led by Olympic Museum to promote Olympic Values.
• OVEP was launched in India in 2022, in partnership with Abhinav Bindra Foundation
in Odisha.
• Olympic Values Education Program is based on Olympic philosophy that learning
takes place through the balanced development of body and mind.
8. Max Verstappen (Dutch) of Red Bull won Qatar GP 2023 at Lusail International Circuit in
Qatar.
Source: TOI
9. Jannik Sinner (Italy) won the men’s single title in China Open 2023 (tennis) by defeating
Daniil Medvedev of Russia.
• Women’s Singles - Iga Świątek (Poland)
Source: ESPN
10. India to spend 3000 crores for promotion of sports in next 5 years.
• Objective-
o To provide for the construction of modern sports facilities across India, ensuring
athletes have access to the best training and resources.
o To provide additional support to the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) and
Khelo India initiatives that have significantly contributed to the growth and success of
Indian athletes.
Source: AIR
pg. 153
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11. India’s grandmaster Raunak Sadhwani has won FIDE World Junior Rapid Chess
Championship 2023 title in open category.
• FIDE World Junior Under 20 Rapid & Blitz Championship was held in Italy.
Knowledge Nuggets
About FIDE-
• Headquarters- Lausanne, Switzerland
• President- Arkady Dvorkovich
Source: TOI
12. Mohammad Shami has been appointed as the brand ambassador of PUMA India.
• Shami will endorse Puma’s footwear, apparel and accessories through multiple activities
and campaigns throughout the year.
• Other ambassadors of PUMA-
Sportsperson Sports Country
Virat Kohli Cricket India
Usain Bolt Sprint Jamaica
Neymar Jr Football Brazil
Sunil Chhetri Football India
MC Mary Kom Boxing India
Harmanpreet Kaur Cricket India
Harleen Deol Cricket India
Source: livemint
13. Railway’s Ashutosh Sharma has broken the record of Yuvraj Singh for the fastest fifty by an
Indian.
• He achieved this in a Group C clash against Arunachal Pradesh in Ranchi during Syed
Mushtaq Ali trophy T 20 tournament.
pg. 154
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Knowledge Nuggets
About Syed Mushtaq Ali trophy-

• The Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy is a domestic T20 cricket championship in India, organized
by the Board of Control for Cricket in India, among the teams from the Ranji Trophy.
• First edition- 2006-2007
Source: TOI
14. 141st session of the Indian Olympic Council has been held at Nita Mukesh Ambani
Cultural Centre (NMACC) in Mumbai.
• Key Facts-
• The IOC Session, held at least once every year, is the general meeting of the members of
the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
• This is only the second time in history that an IOC Session is being held in India.
• India hosted the 86th session (1st in India) of IOC in New Delhi, back in 1983.
• Key outcomes-
o Approval for the proposal of Organising Committee of the Olympic Games Los
Angeles 2028 to include five new sports in the programme has been accepted by
the IOC Session.
o Five sports include-
o Baseball/softball,
o Cricket (T20),
o Flag football,
o Lacrosse (sixes) and
o Squash
Knowledge Nuggets
About International Olympic Council-

Headquarters- Lausanne, Switzerland
Established- 1894
President- Thomas Bach
Source: Olympics.com, Business Standard
pg. 155
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15. Union Minister for Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan has
launched the IndiaSkills 2023-24 and felicitated the World Skills 2022 Winners at an event
held at Kaushal Bhawan, New Delhi.
• Key Highlights-
• It is the largest skill competition in the world, held every two years, aiming to assess
vocational excellence.
• Conducted by- WorldSkills International with 86 member countries.
• WorldSkills 2022 was conducted from September to November 2022 across Europe, North
America, and East Asia, with 1,000+ competitors from 58 countries in 61 skills.
• Host Countries- 15 countries hosted the competition in more than 20 cities.
o India's Performance at WSC 2022:
o India secured 11th position
o 2 Silver Medals
o 3 Bronze Medals
o 13 Medallions for Excellence
o It is the best ranking for India at the WorldSkills Competition so far.
• Participant Demographics: 56 competitors, 50 Experts, and 11 Interpreters participated,
with 19% being female (11 competitors).
• New-age Skills: Some competitors participated in new-age skills such as Robot System
Integration, Additive Manufacturing, Industry 4.0, Digital Construction, Mobile Application
Development, and Renewable Energy.
Source: PIB
16. Karthikeyan Murali has defeated Magnus Carlsen to win Qatar Masters 2023.
• He became just the third player from the country to defeat World number one Magnus
Carlsen in classical chess.
pg. 156
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Source: sports star
17. Volleyball has been removed from National Games held in Goa.
• New sports playing games - beach football, roll ball, golf, sepaktakraw, sqay martial arts,
Kalliyarapattu, and pencak silat
• Additionally, yachting and taekwondo are making a return after their exclusion during the
last edition.
• Traditional sports lagori and gatka have been included as demonstration sports.
• The National Games, formerly known as the Indian Olympic Games, made its debut in
Lahore, undivided India, in 1924.
Source: The Hindu and Bridge
18. Hyderabad will host its second edition of the Indian e-prix next year, with Formula E
returning to India for the 2024 edition of the Indian ePrix.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Hyderabad e-prix-

• The 2023 Hyderabad ePrix, also known as the 2023 Greenko Hyderabad is a Formula E
electric car race held at the Hyderabad Street Circuit in the city of Hyderabad in
Telangana.
Source: sport star
19. England has booked its place at Euro 24 after defeating England with a big margin at
Wembley.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Euro 24-

• The 2024 UEFA European Football Championship, commonly referred to as UEFA Euro
2024
• will be the 17th edition of the UEFA European Championship
• Host- Germany
• Participating teams- 24
• Dates- 14 June, 2024- 14 July, 2024
Source: goal.com
pg. 157
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20. India’s Unnati Hooda has won women’s singles title in Abu Dhabi Masters 2023.
• She has defeated Samiya Imad Farooqui from India to win the women's singles title at
the Abu Dhabi Masters 2023.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Abu Dhabi Masters 2023-

The 2023 Abu Dhabi Masters is a badminton tournament.
• Venue- ADNEC Marina Hall in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates,
• Date- 17 to 22 October 2023
• Prize money- USD 120,000.
Source: AIR
21. Uzbekistan grandmaster Nodirbek Yakubboev has won Qatar Masters chess
championship in Doha.
• He defeated GM Nodirbek Abdussatorov of Uzbekistan.
• India’s SL Narayanan has secured 3rd place in Qatar Masters Open.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Qatar Masters Open-

• The Qatar Masters Open is an open chess tournament organized by the Qatar Chess
Association in Doha, Qatar.
Source: chessbase
22. Red Bull’s Max Verstappen has won 50th Formula 1 (F1) United States Grand Prix 2023
held at the Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas, USA.
• Rankings-
Rank Player
1 Max Verstappen (Red Bull)
2 Londo Norris (McLaren)
3 Carlos Sainz (Ferrari)
Knowledge Nuggets
pg. 158
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About United States Grand Prix 2023-

• The 2023 United States Grand Prix was a Formula One motor race that took place on
October 22, 2023 at the Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas, United States.
Source: Telegraph
23. Paralympics champion Sumit Antil breaks world record in Javelin throw.
Source: The Hindu
24. Glenn Maxwell of Australia has scored the fastest World Cup Century playing against
Netherland in New Delhi.
• He took 40 balls to complete his century.
Source: ESPN
25. England’s FIFA World Cup winner Sir Bobby Charlton has passed away.
• He was one of the members of the England team which won FIFA World Cup in 1966.
Knowledge Nuggets
About FIFA World Cup-

• The FIFA World Cup is an international association football competition between the
senior men’s and women’s national teams of the members of the Fédération
Internationale de Football Association (FIFA), the sport's global governing body.
About FIFA-
• Headquarters- Zurich, Switzerland
• President- Gianni Infantino
Source: sportstar
26. Virat Kohli has surpassed Sachin Tendulkar to become the fastest player to score 26,000
International runs.
• He achieved this in 567th inning.
Source: TOI
27. Paytm has become the official sponsor of 37th National Games to be held in Goa.
pg. 159
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Knowledge Nuggets
About Paytm-
• Paytm is an Indian multinational financial technology company, that specializes in digital
payments and financial services.
• Headquarters- Noida, Uttar Pradesh
• CEO- Vijay Shekhar Sharma
• Parent Organization- One97 Communications
About National Games-

• The National Games are India’s homespun Olympic-style multi-sport event where
athletes from the various states and Union Territories compete for medals.
• National Games 2023 will be held in Goa from October 26 to November 9.
Source: ET, Olympics.com
28. India has won 111 Medals at 4th Asian Para Games held in Hangzhou, China.
• It is the biggest victory for the country in any major international multi-sport event.
• India finished at fifth place in the medals tally.
• Medal tally-
1 China 214 167 140 521

2 Iran 44 46 41 131
3 Japan 42 49 59 150
4 Korea 30 33 40 103
5 India 29 31 51 111
Source: The Hindu
pg. 160
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MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING
1. The Indian Railways has signed a supply contract with Kinet Railway Solutions, a joint
venture between Russian companies Metrowagonmash (MWM) and Locomotive Electronic
Systems (LES), along with India's Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL), to produce Vande
Bharat trains.
• Kinet Railway Solutions will manufacture and maintain 120 Vande Bharat passenger
sleeper train sets, as well as provide maintenance services for 35 years.
Source: TOI
2. Warehousing Development Regulatory Authority (WDRA) has signed an MoU with Bank of
India to fund against e-NWRs (electronic negotiable warehouse receipts) to provide low-
interest rate loans to farmers and traders.
Knowledge Nuggets
• WDRA was established by Government of India in 2010.
• Purpose: Implement provisions of the Warehousing (Development & Regulation) Act,
2007
• Main objective: Implement Negotiable Warehouse Receipt (NWR) System
• Functions: Develop and regulate warehouses, make NWRs negotiable, register
warehouses, promote scientific warehousing, enhance trust and liquidity, improve supply
chain
• NWR allows farmers to store produce in nearby scientific storage and obtain bank loans
against NWR
• WDRA has setup a portal for online registration of warehouses.
• WDRA has also setup two repositories, namely, M/s National Electronic Repository
Limited (NERL) and CDSL Commodity Repository Limited (CCRL) for creation and
management of electronic Negotiable Warehouse Receipts (e-NWRs).
• Both the repositories and the portal started functioning w.e.f. 2017
• All registered warehouses are mandated to issue only e-NWRs w.e.f., 1st August 2019.
• The e-NWR has been integrated with e-National Agriculture Market (e-NAM) platform
by providing interface between e-NAM and repositories.
Source: ET WDRA
pg. 161
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3. The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of
Commerce & Industry and Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya, Vadodara have signed an MoU to
advance the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan.
• Another MOU -
o In September, the Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya and Airbus have signed an MOU
to ensure co-development of skilling courses, joint research, internships, and
placements for students, creating job opportunities in Airbus' Indian operations
Knowledge Nuggets
• In 2022, Parliament had passed the Central Universities (Amendment) Bill to convert
the National Rail and Transportation University, a deemed-to-be university, into Gati
Shakti Vishwavidyalaya, an autonomous central institution.
• Location – Vadodara, Gujarat
• Main Responsibilities - PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan, 2021 and National
Logistics Policy, 2022
o It will create, develop, and provide courses and curriculum related to them at
various centres in different states
• Funding – Sponsored by Ministry of Railways
• Vice-Chancellor - Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, Minister of Railways, Communications,
Electronics and IT (First Chancellor)
Source: PIB LiveMint ET
4. India and Dominican Republic signed two MoU in ocean sciences and medical product
regulation.
• 1st MOU -
o Central Drug Control Organization of India (CDSCO) and the General
Directorate of Medicines, Food, and Health Products of the Dominican
Republic (DIGEMAPS) for scientific cooperation in ocean sciences
• 2nd MOU -
o CSIR-National Institute of Oceanography of India and the National Authority for
Maritime Affairs of the Dominican Republic on medical product regulation
Knowledge Nuggets
About CDSCO-
pg. 162
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The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation is India's national regulatory body for
cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and medical devices.
• Organization Executive- Dr Rajeev Singh
• Ministry- Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
About Dominican Republic-

The Dominican Republic is a Caribbean nation that shares the island of Hispaniola with Haiti to
the west.
• Capital- Santo Domingo
• President- Luis Abinader
• Currency- Dominican Peso
Source: MoneyControl
5. India and Saudi Arabia signed an MOU in Electrical Interconnections, Green/Clean

Hydrogen and Supply Chains.
• The Objectives of MOU are-
o To establish a general framework for cooperation between the two countries in the
field of electrical interconnection;
o To exchange of electricity during peak times and emergencies;
o To co-development of projects; co-production of green / clean hydrogen and
renewable energy; and
o To establish secure, reliable and resilient supply chains of materials used in green /
clean hydrogen and the renewable energy sector.
Source: PIB
6. UAE and India have signed an MoU for sustainable industrial development.
• The MoU focuses on industrial investments, technology transfer, and key technology
deployment.
• Seven key areas of focus include supply chain resilience, renewable energy, health and
life sciences, space systems, AI, Industry 4.0, and standardization and metrology.
• The collaboration will extend to AI deployment, 4IR technologies, and standardization
efforts.
Source: PIB
pg. 163
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7. Automotive Research Association of India has signed an MoU with IIT Guwahati to
establish the "Digital Twin Center for Emerging Automotive Systems" as part of the
Capital Goods scheme Phase II of the Ministry of Heavy Industries.
• This Common Engineering Facility Center (CEFC) will facilitate "SAMARTH Udyog
Bharat 4.0" and benefit industries, especially MSMEs and Start-ups, by creating digital
twins for various systems.
• The CEFC components include digitization of data, environment, system controls, material
development, and manufacturing processes, all of which can be used for technology
development, experimentation, design, simulation, and validation across industries.
Knowledge Nuggets
• SAMARTH Udyog Bharat 4.0 is an Industry 4.0 initiative of Ministry of Heavy Industry &
Public Enterprises.
• It operates under the Ministry’s Scheme on Enhancement of Competitiveness in
Indian Capital Goods Sector.
• SAMARTH Udyog focuses on manufacturers, vendors, and customers as key
stakeholders and aims to promote Industry 4.0 (I4.0) awareness in Indian manufacturing
industries.
• It encourages resource sharing, create a common industry 4.0 platform, and facilitate
network connections among themselves to maximize resource utilization.
Source: PIB and Samarth
8. Assam Skill Development Mission (ASDM) has signed an MoU with Indian Army for
upskilling of ex-servicemen and their dependent.
• Purpose - to help them get remunerative employment and self-employment opportunities
• During the event CM has also unveiled statue of Lachit Borphukan and Swahid
Smarak.
o The statue of Lachit Borphukan is unveiled inside the Narengi Military Station.
o Swahid Smarak (Martyr’s column) was unveiled at Lachit Borphukan Park inside
Narengi Military Station in Guwahati, Assam.
Knowledge Nuggets
• Lachit Borphukan was the legendary Assamese general and folk hero.
• He was the army general of the Ahom dynasty.
pg. 164
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Source: Economic Times IE
9. Union Cabinet has approved the signing of the MoU between India and France in the field of
Digital Technologies.
• Objective- To promote closer cooperation and exchange of information pertaining to the
digital technologies
• Impact of MoU-
o It will improve the bilateral cooperation in the field of digital technologies between
both G2G and B2B.
o Improved collaboration leading to employment opportunities in the field of IT.
• Duration of cooperation- Five years from the date of signing by both the participants.
Source: PIB
10. Union Cabinet has approved three separate MoUs with Papua New Guinea, France,
Trinidad and Tobago in the field of digital technologies.
• Objective- to promote closer cooperation and exchange of experience and digital
technologies-based solutions (such as India Stack) in the implementation of digital
transformational initiatives
Source: The Hindu
11. Skyroot Aerospace has signed a bilateral MoU with French firm Promethee Earth
Intelligence and a trilateral agreement with firms Expleo and ConnectSAT.
• MoU with Promethee-
To provide satellite launch services aboard its Vikram rockets for their JAPETUS earth
observation constellation.
• MoU with Expleo and ConnectSAT-
To provide Reconfigurable Software for ConnectSAT’s IoT Satellite, set to be launched on
Vikram-1.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Skyroot Technologies-
• Skyroot Aerospace Private Limited is an Indian private aerospace manufacturer and
commercial launch service provider.
• Skyroot has launched India’s first privately-built rocket named ‘Vikram-S’ under ‘Mission
Prarambh’ in 2022.
pg. 165
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• Headquarters- Hyderabad, Telangana

• Co-founder & CEO- Pawan Kumar
Source: The Hindu
12. ISRO’s Space Application Centre (SAC) has signed a three-year MoU with Nav Wireless
Technologies Pvt Ltd (NavTech) to use light-based high-speed communication for
satellite communication in space.
• Benefits of MoU-
o SAC can use high-speed, secure quantum key communication using light from base
station to satellite in space and terrestrial communication.
o By using LiFi technology, SAC will be able to do the pointing acquisition and tracking
for satellite-to-satellite communications in the space.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Space Application Centre-

• Space Applications Centre (SAC), is a major research and development centre of the
Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). It plays a key role in realizing vision and
mission of ISRO.
• Headquarters- Ahmedabad, Gujarat
• Director- Nilesh M. Desai
13. Rural Electrification Corporation (REC) has signed an MoU with National Informatics
Centre Services Inc. (NICSI) for various Information and Communication Technology
(ICT) and digital transformation services.
• The MoU will benefit the REC ecosystem by facilitating exploration of latest technology in
evolving areas like Artificial Intelligence, Internet of Things, Machine Learning, Data
Analytics, Blockchain Technology, Cyber Security, etc.
14. Qatar Airways has signed an agreement with SpaceX to make Starlink Wi-Fi available to
every passenger in the sky at no cost.
pg. 166
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Source: livemint
15. Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs (IICA) has signed an MoU with National Institute of
Communication Finance (NICF) to synergise professional capabilities of both Institutions.
• Objectives-
o To establish more structured approach to collaboration between two institutions
o For exchange of knowledge and resources between NICF and IICA for conducting
research, training, capacity building, and advocacy.
o To enhance the competitive edge of officers in dealing with the challenges of VUCA
(volatility, uncertainty, complexity, ambiguity) environment.
Knowledge Nuggets
About IICA
• Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs (IICA) is an an autonomous body to act as a think-
tank and a centre of excellence to support the growth of the corporate sector in India
through an integrated and multi-disciplinary approach.
• Ministry- Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA)
• Director General & CEO- Praveen Kumar
About NICF
• National Institute of Communication Finance (NICF) is an apex level training institute,
operating under the aegis of the Department of Telecommunications, which caters to the
training needs of Indian Posts and Telecom Accounts and Finance Service (IP&TAFS)
officers.
• Ministry- Ministry of Communications
• Director General- Awadhesh Kumar
Source: PIB
pg. 167
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16. Department of Land Resources (DOLR) and National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC)
signed an MoU for monitoring of Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana - Watershed
Development Component (WDC 2.O_.
• Objective-
o It aims to restore the ecological balance by harnessing, conserving, and developing
degraded natural resources such as soil and water.
• Under the MoU NRSC will provide-
o high resolution satellite data for all the WDC 2.0 projects in States/UTs across the
country
o online image comparison and visualization with respect to detailed project reports
o create customized Bhuvan web page Srishti for WDC 2.0 project
o customized mobile application Drishti for field data collection and data transfer to
Bhuvan
• The event also included the release of Manuals by NRSC for the mobile application
DRISHTI 2.0 and web-portal SRISHTI 2.0 for WDC-PMKSY 2.0.
Source: PIB
17. IBM has signed three Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with three entities engaged with
the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) to advance and accelerate
innovation in AI, semiconductor, and quantum technology for India.
• Comprehensive National Strategy for AI
o IBM will collaborate with IndiaAI - Digital India Corporation to establish a world-
class national AI Innovation Platform (AIIP) for India.
o Objective- The AIIP will focus on
o AI skilling,
o ecosystem development, and
o integrating advanced foundation models and generative AI capabilities to
support India's scientific, commercial, and human-capital development in AI
technology
• Accelerating Semiconductor Competency
o IBM will work as a knowledge partner of the India Semiconductor Mission (ISM)
to promote innovation in semiconductor technologies.
o Objective-
pg. 168
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o To develop advance research in areas such as logic, advanced packaging,

heterogeneous integration, and advanced chip design technologies.
• Advancement of National Quantum Mission
o IBM and the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC) will
explore opportunities to support India's National Quantum Mission by developing
competency in quantum computing technology.
o Objective-
o development of industries and startups,
o research and development in the field of quantum computing, and
o the provision of quantum services and infrastructure.
Source: EET
18. Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IITK) and Airbus have signed a Memorandum of
Understanding (MoU) to boost aerospace talent base in India.
• Objective-
o To promote research in advanced technologies and develop programmes and
activities to enhance technical capabilities for aerospace students in India.
o To explore collaboration opportunities with global institutes where students will get to
work on projects relevant to the sector.
19. Union Cabinet has approved Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) between India and
Japan on Semiconductor Supply Chain Partnership.
• MoC will remain in force for 5 years from the date of signing the pact.
Source: ET
20. Indian Red Cross Society of Andhra Pradesh has signed an MoU with National Cadet
Corps (NCC) to provide better services in Andhra Pradesh.
• About MoU-
o It will help to extend more services to the needy during emergencies in State.
o About 1.60 lakh NCC students will be enrolled as Youth Red Cross Volunteers in
State.
Knowledge Nuggets
pg. 169
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About Indian Red Cross Society-
• The Indian Red Cross Society is a voluntary humanitarian organization to protect human
life and health based in India.
About National Cadet Corps-
• It is the youth wing of the Indian Armed Forces.

• It is open to school and college students on voluntary basis as a Tri-Services
Organisation, comprising the Army, the Navy and the Air Force.
• Director General- Lt General Gurbirpal Singh
Source: The Hindu
21. India’s Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) and France’s Safran have signed MoU to
develop industrial cooperation in ring forging manufacturing for commercial engines.
• Objective-
o HAL will produce LEAP (Leading Edge Aviation Propulsion, powering the Airbus
A320 Neo family and Boeing 737 Max) engine forgings at its foundry and forge
facility in Bengaluru.
Knowledge Nuggets
About HAL-
• Hindustan Aeronautics Limited is an Indian public sector aerospace and defence

company.
• Headquarters- Bengaluru, Karnataka
• CMD- CB Ananthakrishnan
pg. 170
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About Safran-

• CEO- Jean-Paul Alary
APPOINTMENTS
1. Chipmaker Intel has promoted Gokul Subramaniam to the post of Intel India president.
• Intel's headquarters – California, USA
• Intel’s Global CEO - Patrick Gelsinger
Source: LiveMint and Intel
2. RBI cleared the appointment of K N Madhusoodanan as a part-time chairman of Kerala-

based Dhanlaxmi Bank.
Source: BS
3. K.N. Shanth Kumar of The Printers (Mysore) Pvt. Ltd was elected Chairman of the Press
Trust of India for a one-year term.
Source: The Hindu
4. Mohamed Muizzu has won the Presidential election in Maldives.

Source: LiveMint
5. Union Government gave a nine-month extension in service "on contract basis" to Central
Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) Chairperson Nitin Gupta.
Source: The Hindu
6. MyGov chief executive Akash Tripathi will take over as CEO of the India Semiconductor
Mission (ISM).
Source: ET
7. Sachin Tendulkar named as Global Ambassador for ICC ODI World Cup 2023.
pg. 171
[Type here]
• The ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 is scheduled from 5th October,2023 to 19th
November 2023.
• England won the last edition in 2019.
• The mascots for the 2023 Men's Cricket World Cup are Blaze and Tonk.
Knowledge Nuggets
About ICC
• The International Cricket Council is the global governing body of cricket.

• It was founded as the Imperial Cricket Conference in 1909 by representatives from
Australia, England and South Africa.
• It was renamed as the International Cricket Conference in 1965 and took up its current
name in 1987.
• Headquarters- Dubai, UAE
• Founded-15 June 1909
• Chairman- Greg Barclay
Source: ICC
8. Anirban Mukherjee, the CEO of PayU India, has been promoted to the position of global
CEO of PayU.
Source: TOI
pg. 172
[Type here]
9. General Insurance Corporation of India (GIC Re) appointed Ramaswamy N as its new
Chairman and Managing Director (CMD), effective from October 1, 2023.
Source: ET
10. India has been re-elected as the President of the Asia-Pacific Institute for Broadcasting
Development for a third successive term.
• Earlier, India served as President of Asia-Pacific Institute for Broadcasting
Development (AIBD) General Conference from 2018-2021 and 2021-2023.
• The 21st General Conference & Associated Meetings 2023 of Asia-Pacific Institute for
Broadcasting Development (AIBD) was chaired by its President Shri Gaurav Dwivedi
(CEO of Prasar Bharati) in Port Louis, Mauritius.
Knowledge Nuggets
About AIBD-
• AIBD, established in 1977 under the auspices of UNESCO, is a unique regional inter-
governmental organization.
• India is one of the founding members of AIBD and Prasar Bharati, India’s public service
broadcaster is the representative body of the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, at
AIBD.
• Headquarters- Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
• Members- Currently, it has 92 member organizations from across 44 countries, including
26 Government Members.
Source: PIB
11. Nandini Azad, president of the Chennai-based Indian Cooperative Network for Women
(ICNW), has been elected to the board of the International Raiffeisen Union (IRU).
• International Raiffeisen Union (IRU) is one of the oldest cooperative bodies in the world
which is responsible for evolving a global policy on cooperatives in agriculture and other
allied sectors.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Indian Cooperative for Women-
• The ICNW is the first women’s cooperative in South India for, by, and of poor women.
• It facilitates access to credit, providing opportunities to learn new skills, and securing
employment for women.
pg. 173
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• Founded- 1981
12. RBI has appointed Muneesh Kapur as the Executive Director (ED). Kapur will look after the
Department of Economic and Policy Research.
Source: ET
13. Navneet Munot, MD and CEO of HDFC Asset Management has been elected as the
Chairman of Association of Mutual Funds in India (AMFI).
• The Board of AMFI also elected Mr. Anthony Heredia, MD and CEO, Mahindra Manulife
Mutual Fund as the Vice-Chairman of AMFI.
Knowledge Nuggets
Association of Mutual Funds in India is the association of all the asset management
companies of SEBI registered mutual funds in India.
• CEO- N.S. Venkatesh
• Members- All 44 AMCs registered with SEBI
14. Former Sri Lankan cricketer Kumar Sangakkara appointed as New Chair of MCC’s World
Cricket Committee.
• Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) also announced Mark Nicholas as the new President of
the club.
Source: News18
15. Justice Siddharth Mridul has been appointed as Chief Justice of Manipur High Court.
16. Christopher Luxon is set to become next Prime Minister of New Zealand after win of
conservative party.
Source: TOI
pg. 174
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17. Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Arindam Bagchi has been appointed as
Permanent Representative of India to UN in Geneva.
• He would succeed Indra Mani Pandey, the current Indian envoy to the UN in Geneva.
Source: livemint
18. President Droupadi Murmu has appointed Raghubar Das as Governor of Odisha and Indra
Sena Reddy Nallu as Governor of Tripura.
19. Former Jharkhand Chief Minister Raghubar Das and Telangana BJP leader Indra Sena
Reddy Nallu have been appointed as the Governors of Odisha and Tripura, respectively.
Source: The Hindu
20. Sanjay Kumar Jain has been appointed as Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of
Indian Railway Catering & Tourism Corporation (IRCTC).
Source: indianmandarins
21. Personal Computer maker Hewlett-Packard (HP) Company has appointed Ipsita Dasgupta
as Senior Vice President (SVP) and Managing Director (MD) for HP India.
Source: livemint
22. Ashok Vaswani has been appointed as the new MD & CEO of Kotak Mahindra Bank
Limited.
• He has been appointed for a term of 3 years.
Knowledge Nuggets

Source: IIFL
pg. 175
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23. PepsiCo India has appointed Indian cricketer Mahendra Singh Dhoni as the brand
ambassador for its potato chips brand Lay’s.
24. Election Commission has appointed actor Rajkumar Rao as its ‘National Icon’.
• Objective-
o To motivate voters to participate in elections
Source: The Hindu
25. Prof. Sarang Deo of the Indian School of Business (ISB) has been appointed as a member
of the Strategic and Technical Advisory Group (STAG) for Tuberculosis by World Health
Organisation (WHO).
• Objective of STAG-TB-
o The mission of the STAG-TB is to contribute to ending the tuberculosis epidemic,
o Eliminating the disease by providing state-of-the-art scientific and technical guidance
to WHO.
Source: ISB
26. Amol Muzumdar has been appointed as the head coach of India’s women cricket team.
• Appointment-
o He is appointed till the Women’s Cricket World Cup which is to be played in
India in September-October 2025.
Source: The Hindu
27. Swarup Mohanty has been appointed as the Vice-President of Mirae Asset Financial
Group.
• He is first non- Korean person to hold the post.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Mirae Asset Financial Group-

• Mirae Asset provides comprehensive financial services including asset management,
wealth management, investment banking, and life insurance.
• Headquarters- Seoul, South Korea
pg. 176
[Type here]
Source: livemint
28. Robert Fico has been appointed as the Prime Minister of Slovakia.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Slovakia-
• Slovakia, officially the Slovak Republic, is a landlocked country in Central Europe.
• Capital- Bratislava
• Currency- Euro
Source: Reuters
29. Air Marshal Sadhna Saxena Nair has been appointed Director General Hospital Services
(Armed Forces).
• She became the 1st woman to hold this position.
• Awards-
o Vishisht Seva Medal by President of India
o AOC-in-C (WAC)
o CAS Commendations
Source: ET
30. Chetan Bhagat has been appointed as the brand ambassador of Edtech startup Henry
Harvin Education.
• Henry Harvin is an online university with 800+ upskilling and reskilling programs.
• It works as a career and competency development organization.
Source: FPJ
31. The US House of Representatives has elected Republican Mike Johnson as House
Speaker.
• He is a conservative leader.
Source: Reuters
32. Odisha government has appointed VK Pandian as the Chairman of 5T (transformational

initiatives) and Nabin Odisha.
• About 5T-
pg. 177
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• Meaning:
o 5T stand for Transparency, Teamwork, Technology, Time, leading to
Transformation.
• Objectives:
o The initiative focuses on streamlining governance, enhancing efficiency, and
promoting accountability within the various departments of the state government
• About Nabin Odisha-
• What?
o Nabin Odisha is a rural development program aimed at promoting the overall
development of villages in the state.
• Budget and Allocations:
• The Nabin Odisha program has an estimated budget of Rs 4,000 crore.
• Each panchayat is allocated Rs 50 lakh to undertake various development projects that
include strengthening internet connectivity, creating science parks, etc.
33. Three Indians have been named in 39-member UN High-level advisory body on Artificial
Intelligence announced by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.
• Objective-
o To support the international community’s efforts to govern artificial intelligence.
• This body consists of eminent technology experts from various sectors, including
government, private sector, research community, civil society, and academia .
• Members from India:
1. Amandeep Singh Gill, the Secretary-General's Envoy on Technology
2. Sharad Sharma, co-founder of iSPIRT Foundation
3. Nazneen Rajani, Lead Researcher at Hugging Face, India
Knowledge Nuggets
About UN-
• Headquarters- New York City, USA

• Secretary-General- Antonio Guterres
Source: The Hindu
pg. 178
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34. World Steel Association has elected Leon Topalian as 45th Chairman and India’s TV
Narendran as Vice Chairman.
• TV Narendran is MD & CEO of Tata Steel Limited.
Source: ET
94. Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar has been appointed as the 17th King of Malaysia.
• He is a sultan from southern state of Johor.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Malaysia-
• Malaysia is a constitutional monarchy, with a unique arrangement where the throne
changes hands every five years between rulers of the nine Malaysian states headed by
centuries-old Islamic royalty.
• Capital- Kuala Lumpur
• Prime Minister- Anwar Ibrahim
• Currency- Malaysian Ringgit
Source: The Hindu
35. State Bank of India has appointed Indian cricketer MS Dhoni as the bank’s official Brand
Ambassador.
• Objective-
o To strengthen its connection, especially with the younger population.
• He will play an important role in various marketing and promotional campaigns of SBI.
Knowledge Nuggets
About SBI-
36. Katrina Kaif has been appointed as the brand ambassador of Swiss Watchmaker Rado.
Source: HT
pg. 179
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MISCELLANEOUS
1. Ashwin Dani, former vice chairman and managing director of India's largest paints company
Asian Paints, has passed away.
Source: ET
2. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has released books revolving around the success of India's
G20 presidency.
• Books -
o The Grand Success of G20 Bharat Presidency: Visionary Leadership,
o Inclusive Approach; India's G20 Presidency: Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam; and,
o Compendium of G20 University Connect Programme.
Source: BW
3. Syrian author, poet and screenwriter Khaled Khalifa, has passed away.
Source: Guardian
4. NASA scientists found water and carbon from the sample of 4.5-billion-year-old asteroid
Bennu.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Bennu-
• Bennu is a carbonaceous asteroid in the Apollo group discovered by the LINEAR Project
on 11 September 1999.
Source: livemint
5. Former Chief Election Commissioner M.S. Gill passed away.

Source: TOI
6. A cloud burst over Lhonak Lake in South Sikkim resulted in a flash flood in the Teesta River
in Lachen Valley.
pg. 180
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Source: Hindu
7. Renowned Indian Sanskrit scholar and founder of Brahmarshi Sanskrit Mahavidyalaya Dr

Dahyabhai Karunashankar Shashtri passed away.
• He was awarded Padma Shri in 2016.
Source: PM India
8. Finnish Nobel Peace laureate and former President of Finland, Martti Ahtisaari passed
away.
• He was awarded Nobel Peace Prize in 2008 for his efforts to resolve international
conflict.
Source: Reuters
9. Nobel Prize winning American poet Louise Gluck has passed away.
• She has won the 2020 Nobel Prize in Literature.
pg. 181
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10. BlueKraft Digital Foundation has launched a book on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s
radio show ‘Mann ki Baat’.
• Title of the book - ‘Igniting Collective Goodness: MKB@100’
• The book captures the journey of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 100 episodes of Mann
Ki Baat, which has been broadcasted on a monthly basis since October, 2014.
Source: HT
11. Eminent Assamese scholar and Padma Shri awardee Birendra Nath Dutta has passed
away.
• Awards won-
Awards Year
Padma Shri 2009
Shri Shri Mahadeva award 2006
Ajan Pir Award 2008
Tagore award of Sangeet Natak Akademi 2011
Source: northeastlive
12. Former Indian cricketer and Padma Shri awardee Bishan Singh Bedi has passed away.
• Awards won-
Awards Year
Padma Shri 1970
Arjuna Award 1969
Source: sportstar
13. Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri has launched a new book ‘The Reverse Swing:
Colonialism to Cooperation’ authored by Ashok Tandon.
Source: UNI
14. China is building an enormous telescope in the western Pacific Ocean to detect “ghost
particles”, also known as neutrinos.
• What is a ghost particle?
o It is a neutrino, which are a type of electron but, like neutrons, they do not have any
charge.
pg. 182
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15. Book titled “The Lords of Wankhede: Tales Between Two Title’ has been launched in
Bengaluru, Karnataka.
• Authored by- Indian cricketer WV Raman and Senior journalist R Kaushik
• Published by- Rupa Publication
• About- The book describes the changes happened
Source: Rupa_publication
16. One of the first black action hero Richard Roundtree has passed away.
• He became famous for his role in movie ‘Shaft’
Source: NYT
17. Former RBI Governor Raghuram Rajan and Economist Rohit Lamba have authored a new
book ‘Breaking the Mould: Reimagining India’s Economic Future’
• Book is published by Penguin Business.
Source: livemint
18. Former Chinese Premier Li Keqiang has passed away.

Source: Reuters
19. Actor Mathew Perry has died at the age of 54.

• He was best known for his portrayal of the wise-cracking Chandler Bing on the most
famous show ‘Friends’.
Source: The Hindu
20. Baijnath Agarwal, Trustee of Geeta Press Gorakhpur has passed away.
Source: HT
QUESTIONS
Q.1) Recently, the Ministry of Information and the renewal of MSO Registrations. What does ‘M’
Broadcasting has amended the Cable Television stand for in the full form of MSO?
Network Rules, 1994 for introducing a procedure for
[A] Media
pg. 183
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[B] Multi 1) It was formed in 2001 under the Intelligence Bureau
[C] Maximum 2) It is headquartered in Delhi and 28 agencies are

part of the system through which they share
[D] Margin
intelligence inputs
[E] Markup
3) It is the country’s biggest intelligence input sharing
platform
Q.2) Recently, India has signed a 'Social Security 4) It was formed after the Mandai massacre in Tripura
Agreement' with a Latin American country for
protecting the rights of professionals and workers in
both countries, allowing for risk-free international [A] Only 1
mobility. Identify the country.
[B] Only 1, 2, and 3
[A] Chile
[C] Only 1 and 3
[B] Argentina
[D] Only 2, 3, and 4
[C] Peru
[E] Only 1, 3 and 4
[D] Ecuador
[E] Brazil
Q.5) Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha launched an e-
cabinet system at Agartala to promote digital
infrastructure development and digitisation of
Q.3) India will host the 46th edition of the Pacific Asia
government services and information. After this
Travel Association (PATA) Travel Mart 2023 in New
addition, how many states have the e-cabinet system
Delhi from October 4th to 6th, 2023. The Pacific Asia
as of October 2023?
Travel Association (PATA) is a renowned not-for-profit
association recognized internationally for its role as a [A] Two
catalyst in the responsible development of travel and
[B] Six
tourism in the Asia Pacific region. When and where
was the Association founded? [C] Four
[A] 1951, Bangkok [D] Twenty
[B] 1987, Manila [E] Five
[C] 1978, Shanghai
[D] 1999, Beijing Q.6) Jammu & Kashmir has declared all its 6650
villages in 20 districts as ODF Plus Model during the
[E] 1965, Ulaanbaatar
'Swachhata Hi Seva' Campaign. Which of the following
criterion is followed for giving this status to the
villages?
Q.4) Recently, the Ministry of Home Affairs held a
meeting of multi-agency centre (MAC), a common [A] The villages should ensure proper disposal of
counter-terrorism grid, for discussing about issues household waste and recycling efforts
related to Pakistan. Identify the correct statement(s)
[B] The villages should encourage implementation of
with regards to the MAC.
composting and green waste management
pg. 1
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[C] The presence of litter and garbage in public spaces Q.9) The International Finance Corporation (IFC)
and streets is a criterion primarily supports private sector development in
emerging markets by providing investment and
[D] The villages should appear visually clean with
advisory services to promote sustainable economic
minimal litter and stagnant water, apart from solid and
growth and reduce poverty. Recently, the Reserve
liquid waste management
Bank of India has granted approval to the
[E] Monitoring of air quality and pollution control International Finance Corporation (IFC) to acquire a
measures ____% stake in ____ Bank.
[A] 10.3%; IndusInd Bank
Q.7) The extended 45th Session of the World Heritage [B] 9.7%; Federal Bank
Committee was held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from 10
[C] 2.3%; Dhanlaxmi Bank
to 25 September. A total of 42 sites have been
included in the list of the World Heritage Sites. From [D] 1.4%; Karnataka Bank
India, two sites have been selected. After this
[E] 2.7%; Axis Bank
addition, India has a total of 42 sites in this list. These
sites are divided into cultural, natural, and mixed sites.
How many sites from India are cultural and natural in
Q.10) In October 2023, the Central government hiked
this list?
SAED on crude petroleum to ₹12,100 per tonne with
[A] 17 cultural and 4 natural effect from September 30. What is the full form of
SAED?
[B] 20 cultural and 2 natural
[A] Supplementary additional excise duty
[C] 29 cultural and 10 natural
[B] Special additional excise duty
[D] 34 cultural and 7 natural
[C] Supplementary appendage excise duty
[E] 40 cultural and 2 natural
[D] Special adjustment environment duty
[E] Selective Ad Valorem excise duty

Q.8) Recently, the “largest” statue of B R Ambedkar
outside India has been constructed in Maryland,
North America on October 14. The 19-foot statue,
Q.11) What is the objective of the “Yuba Tripura,
named “Statue of Equality”, has been made by
Natun Tripura, Atmanirbhar Tripura" scheme?
renowned artist and sculptor ______, who also built
the statue of Sardar Patel installed in Ahmedabad, [A] It aims to promote environmental sustainability by
Gujarat. inspiring young entrepreneurs to establish eco-
friendly startups and embrace green technologies
[A] D.P Roy Chowdhury
within the state
[B] Jasu Shilpi
[B] It aims to reduce income inequality by
[C] Sahej Rahal empowering marginalized communities and
encouraging them to initiate their own industrial and
[D] Ram Sutar
business ventures, thereby fostering economic
[E] Kanaka Murthy inclusivity
[C] It aims to encourage youth to set up industrial and

business units in the state
pg. 2
[Type here]
[D] It aims to combat food insecurity by encouraging Q.14) Recently, the 78th UN General Assembly took
the younger generation to venture into agribusiness place from September 18-26,2023 at UN
and food production, ensuring a steady supply of Headquarters, New York City, USA. State the correct
nutritious, locally sourced products to meet the option related to the same.
community's needs
1) The theme of the event was “Rebuilding trust and
[E] It aims at addressing unemployment issues by reigniting global solidarity: Accelerating action on the
motivating the youth to create their own job 2030 Agenda and its Sustainable Development Goals
opportunities through the establishment of small- towards peace, prosperity, progress and sustainability
scale enterprises in the region for all”.
2) This event is conducted once in every three years
Q.12) Merging solar technologies into culture, health, 3) During UNGA 78, world leaders discussed about
and lifestyle promotes sustainable living, reduces finding strategies to accelerate action for achieving
energy costs, and contributes to a healthier planet. 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
Recently, India's first-ever Solar Roof Cycling Track has
4) The 2023 Global Sustainable Development Report,
been inaugurated at ____. The 23-kilometre track will
"Times of Crisis, Times of Change: Science for
be known as Healthway. It will connect lifestyle with
Accelerating Transformations to Sustainable
sustainable development.
Development".
[A] Chennai
[A] 1, 2 & 3 are correct
[B] Surat
[B] 2 & 3 are correct
[C] Ahmedabad
[C] 1, 3 & 4 are correct
[D] Hyderabad
[D] 2, 3 & 4 are correct
[E] Bengaluru
[E] 1 & 4 are correct
Q.13) The inclusion of people with disabilities in sports

Q.15) Bancassurance is a financial services model that
fosters diversity, promotes equality, and empowers
involves the distribution of insurance products
individuals to overcome challenges and excel. It also
through banks. It allows banks to offer insurance
inspires society to redefine its perceptions of ability
policies to their customers, providing a convenient
and opens opportunities for everyone to participate in
one-stop solution for both banking and insurance
the joy of sports. To achieve this goal only, the Atal
needs. In accordance with this, the State Bank of
Bihari Training Centre for Disability Sports has been
Sikkim signed a bancassurance pact to offer insurance
recently inaugurated in ______.
products to the residents of Sikkim. With which
[A] Bhopal organization has SBS partnered for the insurance
products?
[B] Indore
[A] HDFC Life Insurance
[C] Ujjain
[B] ICICI Prudential Life Insurance
[D] Gwalior
[C] Tata AIA Life Insurance
[E] Vidisha
[D] SBI Life Insurance
[E] Max Life Insurance

pg. 3
[Type here]
[E] New Development Bank
Q.16) This is one of India's largest state-owned

enterprises, it plays a pivotal role in the country's
Q.19) Who has become the 1st woman to receive the
energy sector, encompassing refining, marketing, and
Global Indian Award by the Canada India Foundation?
distribution of petroleum products. With an extensive
network of fuel stations and a diverse range of [A] Sunita Narain
products, it serves as a cornerstone of India's energy
[B] Sudha Murty
infrastructure. It has set a target of net zero emissions
by 2046. Identify the company. [C] Kiran Bedi
[A] HPCL [D] Aruna Roy
[B] ONGC [E] Medha Patkar
[C] BPCL
[D] IOCL Q.20) The International Coffee Organization (ICO) is

the main intergovernmental organization for coffee,
[E] OIL
bringing together exporting and importing
Governments to tackle the challenges facing the world
coffee sector through international cooperation. Its
Q.17) The National Investment and Infrastructure
Member Governments represent 98% of world coffee
Fund Limited (NIIF), a government-owned entity,
production and 67% of world consumption. When was
collaborated with the Japan Bank for International
this organization set up?
Cooperation (JBIC) to launch a ______ India-Japan
Fund. [A] 1963
[A] $200 million [B] 1988
[B] $600 million [C] 1956
[C] $100 million [D] 1949
[D] $500 million [E] 1978
[E] $800 million
Q.21) The North Koel River, a lifeline of Jharkhand,

winds through rugged terrain, its waters bringing
Q.18) The India Development Update offers a detailed
sustenance to the arid landscape it embraces. It's a
analysis of India's economic performance, policy
symbol of nature's resilience in an unforgiving region.
initiatives, and challenges, providing valuable insights
Recently, the North Koel Reservoir Project has been
for policymakers and stakeholders interested in the
launched, with an increased budget. How much is the
country's development trajectory. Which organization
Centre’s share in this project?
releases this report?
[A] Rs 1800 crore
[A] International Monetary Fund
[B] Rs 2500 crore
[B] World Bank
[C] Rs 1900 crore
[C] World Economic Forum
[D] Rs 1100 crore
[D] Asian Development Bank
pg. 4
[Type here]
[E] Rs 2300 crore different elevations. Recently, India’s largest pumped

storage project has been inaugurated in Madhya
Pradesh. The project requires an investment of Rs
Q.22) Which of the following statement(s) is/are 11,500 crore over the next 3 years. Where is the
correct about the Central Universities (Amendment), project being developed and which company has been
Bill, 2023? given the contract to develop it?
[A] It aims to create Sammakka Sarakka Central Tribal [A] Ujjain district; Brookfield Renewable Partners
University in Telangana
[B] Neemuch district; Greenko Group
[B] It aims to advance studies in renewable energy
[C] Chhindwara district; NextEra Energy
with a prestigious research grant awarded to the
University of Delhi [D] Morena district; Vestas
[C] It aims to explore the ethical implications of [E] Barwani district; Suzlon
artificial intelligence in higher education through a
new interdisciplinary program
Q.25) The Gangetic Dolphin, also known as the Ganges
[D] It aims to support underprivileged students in
River Dolphin, is an endangered freshwater mammal
pursuing higher education with a nationwide
that inhabits the murky waters of the Ganges and
scholarship initiative introduced by the Ministry of
Brahmaputra rivers. With its distinctive long snout and
Education
a propensity for leaping gracefully above the water's
[E] It aims to convert the National Rail and Transport surface, this species holds a special place in the
Institute into the Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya cultural and ecological heritage of South Asia. Which
Indian state has declared Gangetic Dolphin as the
state aquatic animal?
Q.23) Recently, the Indian Council for Cultural
[A] Bihar
Research (ICCR), in collaboration with Savitribai Phule
Pune University, organized the soft launch of the [B] Uttar Pradesh
"Universalization of Traditional Indian Knowledge
[C] Uttarakhand
System (UTIKS) portal". At which institute was the
portal launched? [D] Madhya Pradesh
[A] Indian Institute of Engineering Science and [E] Chhattisgarh

Technology
[B] Atal Bihari Vajpayee Indian Institute of Information

Q.26) A Geographical Indication (GI) tag is a form of
Technology and Management
intellectual property protection that recognizes and
[C] Manipal Academy of Higher Education designates products as originating from a specific
geographical region, known for their unique qualities,
[D] Tata Institute of Social Sciences
characteristics, or reputation linked to that place. In
[E] Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical the month of October, a product from Odisha received
Education & Research a GI tag. Identify the product.
[A] Basohli Pashmina Woolen Product
Q.24) A pumped storage project is a type of [B] Kendrapara Rasabali

hydropower facility that serves as a form of energy
[C] Udangudi Panangkarupatti
storage. It consists of two water reservoirs located at
pg. 5
[Type here]
[D] Tangsa Textile Product country, connecting even the remotest regions. With
its rich history and widespread reach, it remains a vital
[E] Yak Churpi
communication lifeline for millions of Indians. When is
the Post Day celebrated in the world?
Q.27) Which of the following statement(s) is/are [A] October 21

correct with regards to the Digital India Bhashini
[B] October 27
Division?
[C] October 11
1) Digital India Bhashini Division is a section 8
company [D] October 9
2) It operates under National Skill Development [E] October 18

Corporation
3) The CEO of Digital India Bhashini Division is Amitabh

Q.30) Recently, India has been re-elected as the
Nag
President of the Asia-Pacific Institute for Broadcasting
4) It is under the administrative aegis of the Ministry Development for a third successive term. Identify the
of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship incorrect statement(s) with regards to the Asia-Pacific
Institute for Broadcasting Development (AIBD).
1) It was established in 1977

[A] Only 1 and 3
2) Established under UNDP, it is a unique regional
inter-governmental organization
[C] Only 3 and 4
3) Prasar Bharati is the representative of India in the
[D] Only 2 and 4 body
[E] Only 1 and 2 4) It is headquartered in Manilla, Philippines
Q.28) Which bank has launched Mobile Handheld [A] 1 and 2

Device for providing banking services to customers
[B] 2 and 3
and improving their accessibility in availing banking
services, increasing financial inclusion, and extending [C] 1 and 3
essential banking services to the masses?
[D] 3 and 4
[A] SBI
[E] 2 and 4
[B] PNB
[C] BOB
Q.31) The India Meteorological Department (IMD) is
[D] CSB the country's premier agency for weather forecasting
and monitoring. Established in 1875, it plays a crucial
[E] ICICI
role in providing accurate and timely weather
information, cyclone warnings, and climate services
for India. Recently in the month of October, IMD has
Q.29) The Indian postal network, one of the largest in
been appointed as the nodal agency for implementing
the world, spans the length and breadth of the
a framework. Identify the framework.
pg. 6
[Type here]
[A] National Climate Action Framework established for providing these services. Which airport
has launched the school?
[B] National Framework for Climate Services
[A] Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport
[C] National Climate Resilience Framework
[B] Kempegowda International Airport
[D] National Carbon Offset and Trading Framework
[C] Hanimaadhoo International Airport
[E] National Greenhouse Gas Reduction Framework
[D] Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport
[E] Bir Tikendrajit International Airport

Q.32) ISRO's missions encompass a wide range of
objectives, including satellite launches for
communication, Earth observation, and navigation
Q.34) DARK is a specialized set of equipment and tools
systems. They also involve lunar and interplanetary
designed to assist in the recovery and removal of
exploration, with the Chandrayaan and Mars Orbiter
disabled or damaged aircraft from runways, taxiways,
missions expanding our knowledge of celestial bodies.
or other locations. These kits typically include items
ISRO’s importance with regards to the nascent global
like aircraft lifting bags, winches, rigging gear, and
space sector is rising. In the below-mentioned table,
other resources to safely and efficiently recover and
column A consists of the landmark ISRO missions and
relocate aircraft involved in accidents or incidents.
column B consists of their years of launch. Identify the
DARKs are essential for rapid response and ensuring
correctly matched pairs.
the safety and effectiveness of aircraft recovery
Missions operations. Which of the following airports has
Launch Years
P. Aryabhata I. 1979 established Asia’s first ever DARK system and what is
II. 1980 the full form of DARK?
[A] Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport;
Q.3 Bhaskar
Disaster Aircraft Response Kit
R. Rohini III. 1975
S. Kalpana-1 IV. 2002 [B] Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport;
[A] P-IV; Q-III; R-I; S-II Distressed Aircraft Retrieval Kit
[B] P-II; Q-IV; R-III; S-IV [C] Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport;
Disabled Aircraft Recovery Kit
[C] P-I; Q-II; R-IV; S-III
[D] Chennai International Airport; Dynamic Aircraft
[D] P-III; Q-I; R-II; S-IV Rescue Kit
[E] P-IV; Q-II; R-III; S-I [E] Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport;
Deployable Aircraft Recovery Kit
Q.33) An Aircraft Recovery Training School (ARTS) is a

facility that provides training for personnel in the safe Q.35) This majestic peak stands as the tallest in the
and efficient recovery of aircraft involved in accidents European Alps, attracting climbers and nature
or emergency situations, covering aspects like aircraft enthusiasts from around the world. Its pristine glaciers
securing, fire safety, and rescue procedures. ARTS and rugged beauty make it an iconic symbol of alpine
enhances the skills and preparedness of professionals grandeur. In the recent times, the news of it getting
in aircraft recovery operations. Recently, South Asia’s shrunk is doing the rounds. This mountain is spread
first aircraft recovery training school has been across France, Switzerland and Italy. Identify the
mountain.
pg. 7
[Type here]
[A] Matterhorn
[B] Elbrus [A] Only 1 and 2
[C] Ben Nevis [B] Only 1, 2, and 3
[D] Mont Blanc [C] Only 2 and 3
[E] Gran Paradiso [D] Only 3 and 4
[E] Only 1 and 4
Q.36) NASA is going to launch ____ mission, which will

travel to an asteroid, on October 12. It will conduct an
Q.38) GST (Goods and Services Tax) is a
in-depth study of the asteroid, which could provide
comprehensive indirect tax system in India that
valuable insights into the early formation of our planet
subsumed various state and central taxes to create a
and the nature of planetary cores. This is NASA’s first
unified taxation structure. It has simplified tax
mission to study an asteroid that has more metal than
compliance, reduced tax cascading, and fostered a
rock or ice. Identify the mission.
more efficient and transparent tax regime, benefiting
[A] Juno both businesses and consumers. It was inserted into
the Constitution through _____________ Act.
[B] Galileo
[A] 121st Constitutional Amendment Act, 2016
[C] Dawn
[B] 101st Constitutional Amendment Act, 2016
[D] Stardust
[C] 81st Constitutional Amendment Act, 2018
[E] Psyche
[D] 71st Constitutional Amendment Act, 2017
[E] 103rd Constitutional Amendment Act, 2017

Q.37) The Reserve Bank of India has recently
announced to conduct the sale of government
securities in the Open Market Operation (OMO) for
Q.39) World Dyslexia Day, observed on October 8th,
managing liquidity in the system. Considering this,
raises awareness about dyslexia and aims to promote
identify the correct statement(s) from the options
understanding, support, and early intervention for
given below.
individuals with dyslexia, a specific learning disability
affecting reading and language skills. It seeks to
reduce the stigma associated with dyslexia and
1) It is a tool of RBI to adjust the rupee liquidity
encourage inclusive education for all. In 2023, it was
conditions in the market on a durable basis.
organized on a specific theme. Identify the theme.
2) Reserve Bank buys the government securities when
[A] Strength in Diversity
there is excess liquidity in the market, thereby sucking
out the rupee liquidity. [B] Celebrating Individuality
3) RBI sells the government securities when there is [C] Embrace Your Differences
less liquidity in the system, thereby releasing liquidity
[D] Uniquely You
into the market.
[E] Be Your Own Light
4) The objective of Open Market Operation is to
maintain price stability while keeping in mind the
objective of growth.
pg. 8
[Type here]
Q.40) World Mental Health Day is a day when we talk import, export, installed capacity, purchases and sales,
about mental health, understand its importance, and etc. What is the name of the portal?
show our support to those who may be going through
[A] Dhanvantari
tough times. It's like a global event to say, "It's okay
not to be okay," and remind everyone that help and [B] Vagbhata
understanding are available. This day is observed on
[C] Sushruta
October 10 every year. Which color’s ribbon is used on
this day to spread awareness? [D] Charak
[A] Purple [E] Bhela
[B] Pink
[C] Green Q.43) In October 2023, Union Minister Shri Anurag

Thakur launched the trailer of KTB- Bharat Hain Hum,
[D] Yellow
an animated series consisting of two seasons,
[E] Red produced by Central Bureau of Communication,
Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and Graphiti
Studios. Which iconic animated characters will host
Q.41) Recently, the Ministry of Education has the series?
introduced draft guidelines for schools to address self-
[A] Suppandi, Mighty Raju, and Little Krishna
harm concerns, known as the UMMEED guidelines.
The guidelines recommend the formation of School [B] Chutki, Raju, and Jaggu
Wellness Teams (SWT) led by the School Principal,
[C] Hanuman, Ganesha, and Krishna
equipped to handle crisis situations and take
immediate action when students show warning signs. [D] Shaktimaan, Motu Patlu, and Chhota Bheem
What is the full form of UMMEED?
[E] Krish, Trish and Balti boy
[A] Unite, Mentor, Mobilize, Educate, Empower,
Deliver
Q.44) Recently, the Union Cabinet has approved the
[B] Uplift, Manifest, Motivate, Engage, Empower,
establishment of an autonomous body named Mera
Develop
Yuva Bharat (MY Bharat). The body will benefit the
[C] Upbeat, Motivate, Mentor, Empathize, Empower, youth, as defined by the National Youth Policy. Which
Drive of the following is the correct definition of youth as
per the policy?
[D] Understand, Motivate, Manage, Empathise,
Empower, Develop [A] People who are in the age group of 20-29 are
called ‘Youth’
[E] Unfold, Maximize, Mentor, Empathize, Elevate,
Discover [B] People who are in the age group of 15-29 are
called ‘Youth’
[C] People who are in the age group of 16-35 are

Q.42) Recently, the Union Ministry of Chemical and
called ‘Youth’
Fertilizer has launched a web portal for providing the
statistical data related to chemical sector. The portal [D] People who are in the age group of 18-30 are
will facilitate collection of statistics related to various called ‘Youth’
aspects of chemical sector, such as production,
pg. 9
[Type here]
[E] People who are in the age group of 14-25 are [A] Uttar Pradesh
called ‘Youth’
[B] Madhya Pradesh
[C] Chhattisgarh
Q.45) Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment
[D] Jharkhand
launched Scheme for Residential Education for
Students in High School in Targeted Areas (SHRESTHA) [E] Odisha
to ensure quality education to school students. Under
the scheme, students belonging to Scheduled Castes
(SC) will be provided with high quality school Q.48) Critical minerals, such as rare earth elements,
education by different methods. What is the eligibility lithium, and cobalt, play a vital role in the production
criterion to enrol in the scheme? of clean energy technologies like solar panels and
electric vehicle batteries. Their extraction and
[A] Parents' annual income should up to Rs 2.5 lakh
sustainable supply are essential for advancing the
[B] Parents' annual income should up to Rs 3 lakh transition to a cleaner and more sustainable energy
future. Recently, the first ever “Critical Minerals and
[C] Parents' annual income should up to Rs 0.5 lakh
Clean Energy Summit” was organized at ___ by ____
[D] Parents' annual income should up to Rs 8 lakh organization.
[E] Parents' annual income should up to Rs 1 lakh [A] Paris; International Energy Agency
[B] Geneva; Organization for Economic Cooperation

and Development
Q.46) Heritage trains are like old, special trains that
show us how people used to travel in the past. When [C] Vienna; World Economic Forum
we ride them, it feels like we're going back in time and
[D] Dublin; European Union
seeing how trains were a long time ago. The Valley
Queen Heritage Train, the sixth of its kind in India, has [E] New York; United Nations Economic and Social
been recently inaugurated in _____? Council
[A] Telangana
[B] Rajasthan Q.49) Greenwashing is a deceptive marketing practice

where a company exaggerates or falsely claims its
[C] Gujarat
environmental responsibility to appear more eco-
[D] Maharashtra friendly than it actually is. It misleads consumers,
undermining genuine sustainability efforts. Recently, a
[E] Tamil Nadu
regional multilateral organization has launched world’s
first green bond standard to avoid greenwashing.
Identify the organization.
Q.47) The Baiga tribe is an ethnic group in central
India. They are primarily located in the state of [A] SCO
Madhya Pradesh, with smaller numbers in the
[B] ASEAN
surrounding states of: Uttar Pradesh, Chhattisgarh,
Jharkhand. The Baiga are one of the Particularly [C] EU
Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs). Recently, a state has
[D] AU
given them habitat right under Forest Right Act, 2006.
Identify the state. [E] ECOWAS
pg. 10
[Type here]
[C] India in 2024
Q.50) RBI had released the Discussion Paper on [D] Saudi Arabia in 2027
"Introduction of Expected Credit Loss Framework for
[E] Egypt in 2028
Provisioning by Banks" on January 16, 2023, soliciting
inputs from all stakeholders. The ECL approach to
provisioning is a paradigm shift from the current
Q.53) Recently, India has launched state-of-art
incurred loss-based provisioning regime. In order to
National Survey named “Continuously Operating
monitor the implementation of the ECL framework,
Reference Stations" (CORS) Network for providing
RBI has constituted a working group under the
world-class precise Location-based service. Which of
chairpersonship of _____.
the following agency is operating the system?
[A] Sanjay Kallapur
[A] National Remote Sensing Centre
[B] Rajosik Banerjee
[B] Indian Space Research Organization
[C] S Srinivasa Rao
[C] National Informatics Centre
[D] R. Narayanaswamy
[D] Survey of India
[E] Rajendra Khandelwal
[E] National Spatial Data Infrastructure
Q.51) Recently, the Intensified Mission Indradhanush

Q.54) Which state has launched Van Mitra scheme to
5.0, the flagship immunization campaign of Union
strengthen the involvement of local communities in
Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, has concluded
protection, conservation and development of forest
for 2023. Which two diseases are focused upon in this
areas by roping in grassroot level institutions?
version?
[A] Assam
[A] Rotavirus and Lead Poisoning
[B] Himachal Pradesh
[B] Dengue and TB
[C] Gujarat
[C] Malnutrition and Diarrhoea
[D] Madhya Pradesh
[D] Measles and Rubella
[E] Tamil Nadu
[E] Down Syndrome and Cystic Fibrosis
Q.55) Passport to Earning (P2E) programme in India

Q.52) Competition Commission of India hosted 8th
has skilled and certified more than one million young
BRICS International Competition Conference 2023
people. It is a global learning-to-earning solution that
(BRICS ICC 2023) in New Delhi. During the conference,
focuses on providing young individuals with essential
India decided to set up a Committee on Digital
skills and certifications to prepare them for the
Competition Law to examine the need for regulatory
demands of the future workforce. Which multilateral
mechanisms for digital markets. CCI handed over the
organization has launched the program?
responsibility of hosting the 9th BRICS International
Competition Conference to ____ in ____. [A] UNESCO
[A] Brazil in 2029 [B] WMO
[B] South Africa in 2025 [C] UNICEF

pg. 11
[Type here]
[D] ILO Q.59) Which of the following statement(s) is/are not

true about the International Monetary Fund (IMF)?
[E] UNDP
1) The headquarters of the organization is located in
Washington D.C., USA
Q.56) From which date will RBI put the government
2) IMF was established in 1944, along with European
owned non-banking financial companies under the
Investment Bank
strict supervisory norms of Prompt Corrective Action
(PCA)? 3) It has 190 members at present
[A] October 2024 [A] Only 1
[B] July 2025 [B] Only 1 and 3
[C] April 2024 [C] Only 2
[D] September 2027 [D] Only 3
[E] August 2024 [E] Only 2 and 3
Q.57) ____ Mutual Fund has received approval from Q.60) What is India’s rank in the Global Hunger Index
RBI for buying ____ stake in IndusInd Bank. (GHI) 2023?
[A] HDFC Mutual Fund; 7.08% [A] 103
[B] SBI Mutual Fund; 9.99% [B] 98
[C] ICICI Prudential Mutual Fund; 10.87% [C] 78
[D] UTI Mutual Fund; 6.87% [D] 111
[E] Axis Mutual Fund; 5.97% [E] 123
Q.58) Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has launched a pilot Q.61) Where is the government planning to set up
program for the wholesale segment of its central bank Ganga Vatika Park?
digital currency (CBDC) in the interbank call money
[A] Himachal Pradesh
market. What is the tenure of the trade settlement
cycle in CBDC? [B] Tamil Nadu
[A] T+1 [C] Uttarakhand
[B] T+0 [D] Telangana
[C] T+2 [E] Gujarat
[D] T+6
[E] T+3 Q.62) Recently, IRCON International Limited (IRCON)

and RITES Limited (RITES) have been announced 15th
and 16th Navratna company among CPSE. Which
pg. 12
[Type here]
Ministry has conferred this status upon these [A] Sri Lanka
companies respectively?
[B] Singapore
1) Ministry of Railways
[C] Philippines
2) Ministry of Corporate Affairs
[D] Malaysia
3) Ministry of Finance
[E] Indonesia
4) Ministry of Commerce and Industry
[A] Only 1 and 4

Q.66) Identify the incorrect statement(s) with regards
[B] Only 3 to the Indian Ocean Rim Association?
[C] Only 2 and 3 1) IORA was formed in 1997
[D] Only 1, 2, and 4 2) IORA consists of 23 member countries
[E] Only 2 and 4 3) IORA is headquartered in Malaysia
[A] Only 1, 2, and 3
Q.63) Which edition of the Global Maritime India [B] Only 3

Summit was organized in India recently?
[C] Only 1 and 2
[A] 2nd
[D] Only 2 and 3
[B] 4th
[E] Only 2
[C] 3rd
[D] 5th
Q.67) The Wholesale Price Index (WPI) is an economic
[E] 7th indicator used in India to measure changes in the
average price of goods at the wholesale level. It helps
gauge inflationary pressures in the early stages of the
Q.64) Asian Development Bank has approved 181 supply chain. What is the base year of WPI?
million USD loan to build infra in peri-urban areas of
[A] 2018-19
____?
[B] 2011-12
[A] Bangalore
[C] 2005-06
[B] Surat
[D] 1987-88
[C] Chennai
[E] 2017-18
[D] Ahmedabad
[E] Lucknow
Q.68) World Migratory Bird Day is an annual
observance celebrated on the second Saturday in May
Q.65) Which country has taken over as the Chair of and October, highlighting the importance of
Indian Ocean Rim association (IORA) for the period of conserving migratory birds and their habitats. It raises
2023 to 2025? awareness about the challenges these birds face
during their long journeys and the need for
pg. 13
[Type here]
international cooperation in their protection. What is Q.71) Ministry of Forest, Environment and Climate
the theme of this day in 2023? Change has launched Ecomark Scheme to encourage
environment friendly practices. The scheme provides
[A] Forests: A Haven for Biodiversity
accreditation and labelling for household and
[B] Oceans: Guardians of Marine Life consumer products that meet specific environmental
criteria while maintaining quality standards as per
[C] Wetlands: Vital Ecosystems for Wildlife
Indian norms. Which agency administers this scheme?
[D] Landscapes of Diversity: Protecting Endangered
[A] Central Pollution Control Board
Species
[B] National Mission for Clean Ganaga
[E] Water: Sustaining Bird Life
[C] Centre for Clean Energy Technology
[D] India Meteorological Department

Q.69) World Standards Day is celebrated on October
14th each year to honor the efforts of organizations, [E] Ministry of New and Renewable energy
experts, and stakeholders in developing international
standards that improve product quality, safety, and
efficiency across industries. What is the theme of this Q.72) National Skill Development Corporation has
day in 2023? announced partnership with Coca-Cola India to launch
the Super Power Retailer Program as part of Skill India
[A] Unity for a Brighter Tomorrow
Mission. The objective of the program is to empower
[B] Our shared vision for a better world the retailer community in states of
_________________ and _________________.
[C] Building Together for a Sustainable Future
[A] Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand
[D] Empowering Communities, Changing Lives
[B] Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh
[E] Inclusivity: A Path to a Shared Vision
[C] Andhra Pradesh and Telangana
[D] Uttar Pradesh and Odisha

Q.70) International Day of Rural Women recognizes
the critical role of rural women in agriculture, food [E] Rajasthan and Telangana
security, and sustainable development. It highlights
the need for gender equality, empowerment, and
improved living conditions for rural women who Q.73) Mukesh Ambani, Chairman and MD of Reliance
contribute significantly to their communities and Industries Ltd., is the richest Indian as per the Forbes
economies. What is the theme of this day in 2023? India’s 100 Richest 2023 List with USD 92 billion.
_____________ is the richest women according to the
[A] Nurturing the Earth, Feeding the World
Forbes India’s Richest 2023 List.
[B] Rural Women Cultivating Good Food for All
[A] Nita Ambani
[C] Fields of Equality: Rural Women in Agriculture
[B] Rekha Jhunjhunwala
[D] Bountiful Harvests: Empowering Rural Women
[C] Renuka Jagtiani
[E] Rural Resilience: Women and Sustainable
[D] Savitri Jindal
Agriculture
[E] Leena Tewari
pg. 14
[Type here]
Q.77) President Droupadi Murmu has conferred the

69th National Film Awards 2023 in New Delhi. These
Q.74) India and Sri Lanka have restarted ferry service
awards are recognized as one of the highest honours
after 40 years. The objective of the service is to boost
in the field of film-making. Which film has won the
bilateral ties, increase tourism and enhance people-to-
Nargis Dutt Award for Best Film on National
people relations. The ferry service will connect
Integration?
_______________ in Tamil Nadu to
________________ in Northern Sri Lanka. [A] Pushpa
[A] Ennore, Galle [B] Gadar 2
[B] Chennai, Trincomalee [C] The Kashmir Files
[C] Nagapattinam, Kankesanthurai [D] RRR
[D] Thootukudi, Hambantota [E] Rocketry: The Nambi Effect
[E] Tuticorin, Oluvil
Q.78) World Students Day is celebrated to

commemorate the birth anniversary of 11th President
Q.75) The 35-year-old businessman and a member of
and Missile Man of India Dr APJ Abdul Kalam. On
National Democratic Action, has become the youngest
which date it is celebrated?
President of Ecuador’s history. What is the name of
the person? [A] September 29
[A] Lenin Moreno [B] August 12
[B] Guillermo Lasso [C] October 21
[C] Daniel Noboa [D] September 21
[D] Fernando Villavicencio [E] October 15
[E] Lasso
Q.79) Who has been appointed as the brand

ambassador of PUMA India in month of October to
Q.76) Indian Navy has conducted coastal security
endorse Puma’s footwear, apparel and accessories
exercise involving all maritime security agencies has
through multiple activities and campaigns throughout
been conducted in Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and
the year?
Puducherry. What is the name of the exercise?
[A] Shubhman Gill
[A] Sagar Rakshak
[B] Mohammad Shami
[B] Sagar Kavach
[C] Smriti Mandhana
[C] Sagar Prahari
[D] Rohit Sharma
[D] Tat Rakshak
[E] Saina Nehwal
[E] Sagar Manthan
pg. 15
[Type here]
Q.80) Who has broken the record of Yuvraj Singh for Q.83) ________________ and ________________
the fastest fifty by an Indian in Syed Mushtaq Ali have released the 1st ever global estimation of the
trophy T 20 tournament? impact of disaster on agriculture production in report
‘The Impact of Disasters on Agriculture and Food
[A] Yash Dhull
Security’.
[B] Sarfaraz Khan
[A] WEF and UN
[C] Ashutosh Sharma
[B] FAO and IMF
[D] Baba Indrajith
[C] IMF and UNDP
[E] Shams Mulani
[D] UN and FAO
[E] FAO and WEF

Q.81) Union Power and New & Renewable Energy
Minister has recently launched dashboard for Data
Adoption and Forecast of Electric Vehicles. The Q.84) Bharti Group has signed an agreement with its
dashboard is a free digital platform focussed on near partner AXA to acquire the 49% stake of AXA in Bharti
real-time Electric Vehicle adoption and forecasts, AXA Life Insurance. After this, Bharti Life Ventures, the
associated battery demand, charging density, and group’s holding company for Bharti AXA Life
market growth trends. What is the name of the Insurance, will become the sole owner of the life
dashboard? insurance post the stake sale. Where is the
headquarters of Bharti AXA Life Insurance?
[A] EV for India Dashboard
[A] New Delhi
[B] Green Power India Dashboard
[B] Calcutta
[C] FAME India Dashboard
[C] Mumbai
[D] EV Ready India Dashboard
[D] Hyderabad
[E] Adopt EV Dashboard
[E] GIFT City, Gujarat
Q.82) Mercer CFA Institute Global Pension Index

2023.Global Pension Index compares 47 retirement Q.85) Recently, Cabinet Committee on Economic
income systems across the globe and covers 64% of Affairs has approved Green Energy Corridor Phase-II
the world's population. What is the rank of India in the Inter-Sate Transmission System for 13-gigawatt
Index? renewable energy project in which state/ UT?
[A] 32 [A] Jammu & Kashmir
[B] 47 [B] Jharkhand
[C] 45 [C] Ladakh
[D] 37 [D] Hyderabad
[E] 43 [E] Rajasthan
pg. 16
[Type here]
Q.86) Which bank of Russia has become the first [C] Michael Douglas
Russian bank to register with the Indian markets
[D] Gerard Butler
regulator as a Category I foreign portfolio investor
(FPI)? [E] Kirk Douglas
[A] VTB Bank
[B] Sberbank Q.90) Which day is celebrated as the International Day

for Eradication of Poverty?
[C] Alfa-Bank
[A] October 15
[D] Otkritie FC Bank
[B] September 17
[E] Gazprombank
[C] October 17
[D] September 23
Q.87) Which oil company has announced to invest
₹1660.15 crore in NTPC Joint Venture for setting up [E] November 11
renewable power plant?
[A] BPCL
Q.91) 9th G20 Parliamentary Speaker’s Summit has
[B] Reliance Energy been hosted by Parliament of India at Yashobhoomi,
New Delhi. It has been hosted by Parliament of India
[C] Indian Oil
in cooperation with International Parliamentary
[D] Hindustan Petroleum Union. What was the theme of the event?
[E] ONGC [A] Response to the Social and Employment Crisis
[B] Recover Together, Recover Stronger
Q.88) The Indian Army’s 3/5 Gorkha Rifles (Frontier [C] Parliaments for One Earth, One Family, One Future
Force) team has won gold medal at the
[D] Parliament for Mission LiFE
___________________ International Military Exercise
in Wales, UK. [E] Parliament for a Greener and Cleaner world
[A] Exercise Fabius
[B] Cambrian Patrol Competition 2023 Q.92) World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH)
has approved India’s self- declaration of freedom from
[C] Exercise Purple Warrior
bird flu in specific poultry compartments in four
[D] Vigilant Isles 2023 states. The two states are Maharashtra and Tamil
Nadu, which are the other two states?
[E] Army Manoeuvres 2023
[A] Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh
[B] Uttar Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh

Q.89) Who has been awarded Satyajit Ray Lifetime
Achievement Award at 54th International Film Festival [C] Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat
of India?
[D] Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh
[A] Ryan Reynolds
[E] Gujarat and Tamil Nadu
[B] Ed Harris
pg. 17
[Type here]
[D] Jeddah
Q.93) Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has [E] Dubai

launched NCERT’s web portal which offers various
activities such as quizzes, puzzles, colouring books,
online interactive quizzes, jigsaw puzzles, and graphic Q.96) Prime Minister Narendra Modi has inaugurated
novels related to Chandrayaan 3 for different stages of the first leg of the Regional Rapid Transit System
schooling, along with digital certificates and rewards (RRTS) to ensure balanced and sustainable urban
for top performers. What is the name of the web development through better connectivity and access
portal? across the National Capital Region (NCR). The first leg
will connect Delhi and _____________.
[A] Chandrayan for Champs
[A] Meerut
[B] Sunahra Chandrayaan
[B] Hapur
[C] Hamara Chandrayaan
[C] Gurugram
[D] Apna Chandrayaan
[D] Panipat
[E] Mission Chandrayaan
[E] Faridabad
Q.94) Ministry of Civil Aviation has amended the

Aircraft Rules, 1937 to increase the validity of Air Q.97) This state has recently launched a logo to mark
Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL) and Commercial Pilot the Golden Jubilee of Renaming State. The
Licence (CPL) from _______ years to _________ years. celebrations will include Year-long program involving
The amendment will promote a more streamlined and youth, women and others to be organised by various
efficient licensing process. departments. What is the name of the state?
[A] 3 years to 5 years [A] Kerala
[B] 5 years to 10 years [B] Karnataka
[C] 5 years to 8 years [C] Uttar Pradesh
[D] 10 years to 12 years [D] Tamil Nadu
[E] 10 years to 15 years [E] Madhya Pradesh
Q.95) Institute of Chartered Accountant of India (ICAI) Q.98) Arunachal Pradesh State Cabinet has approved
has received ISAR Honours 2023 by United Nations the formation of Special Tiger Protection Force (STPF)
Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) for in the state for three Tiger Reserves for the Protection
its initiative Sustainability Reporting Standards Board of Tigers and their habitats, protection of wildlife
(SRSB). UNCTAD has announced the winners of the habitats and prevention of other illegal activities in
sixth edition of ISAR Honours during the 8th World these tiger reserves. The three tiger reserves are
Investment Forum in ___________. Namdapha, _____________ and ____________.
[A] Cairo [A] Mouling and Kamlang
[B] Riyadh [B] Pakke and Kamlang
[C] Abu Dhabi

pg. 18
[Type here]
[C] Mouling and Pakke Station) by ____ and sending first Indian to moon by
_____.
[D] Manas and Kamlang
[A] 2030 and 2035
[E] Pakke and Manas
[B] 2032 and 2041
[C] 2035 and 2047

Q.99) ____________ has hosted Middle East and
North Africa Climate Week (MENACW) in [D] 2035 and 2040
______________. It is an annual event that brings
[E] 2040 and 2050
together leaders from governments, businesses,
[A] Kuwait, Kuwait City Q.102) India's Maritime Blue Economy emphasizes
sustainable development and resource utilization of its
[B] Qatar, Doha
vast coastal and marine resources, fostering economic
[C] Saudi Arabia, Riyadh growth while preserving the marine ecosystem. Which
of the following is a part of the government’s vision on
[D] Oman, Muscat
Maritime Blue Economy?
[E] Egypt, Cairo
1) Ports for Prosperity
2) Ports for Progress

Q.100) Competition Commission of India has recently
3) Ports for Productivity
approved the merger of ______________with
________________ under the Green Channel Route, 4) Ports for Proceed
which is a mechanism under which a company can get
automatic approval upon filing a form, without having
to get formal approval from the commission. [A] Only 1 and 4
[A] Jana Small Finance Bank and Jana Equity Limited [B] Only 1, 2, and 3
[B] ICICI Bank and ICICI Securities [C] Only 2 and 3
[C] HDFC and HDFC Bank [D] Only 2, 3 and 4
[D] IDFC and IDFC First Bank [E] Only 3
[E] Axis Bank and Axis Securities Ltd
Q.103) Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare

has released the 2nd Advance Estimates of the area
Q.101) Indian space industry has experienced
and production of various horticultural crops for the
significant growth and development over the years,
year 2022-23. How much is the target for horticulture
primarily driven by the Indian Space Research
production in the year 2022-23?
Organisation (ISRO). The Indian space industry's
growth continues to be marked by a series of [A] 119.54 million tonnes
successful missions, increasing international
[B] 231.56 million tonnes
collaboration, and a focus on promoting commercial
space activities. India PM has recently announced to [C] 376.49 million tonnes
set up Bhartiya Antriksha Station (Indian Space
[D] 351.92 million tonnes
pg. 19
[Type here]
[E] 198.78 million tonnes measures to hold perpetrators accountable and

promote tolerance and inclusivity
Q.104) Dearness Allowance (DA) or Dearness Relief

(DR) is a financial component added to the salaries Q.106) A Krishi Roadmap is a strategic plan for the
and pensions of government employees and agricultural sector, outlining key objectives, policies,
pensioners to offset the impact of inflation and rising and initiatives to boost productivity, ensure food
living costs, ensuring their real income remains security, and promote sustainable farming practices.
relatively stable. Recently, the government of India President of India Droupadi Murmu has launched the
has increased the rate of DA for the Central fourth Krishi Road Map (2023-2038) in _____ state.
Government employees and DR for the pensioners by
___ to ___ w.e.f., _____.
[B] Bihar
[A] 2%; 40%; 1 January 2023
[C] Gujarat
[B] 3%; 38%; 1 April 2023
[D] Madhya Pradesh
[C] 5%; 41%; 1 October 2023
[E] Kerala
[D] 4%; 46%; 1 July 2023
[E] 6%; 45%; 1 June 2023

Q.107) Prime Minister Narendra Modi has launched
511 Pramod Mahajan Grameen Kaushalya Vikas
Q.105) The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has Kendras in ______ to conduct skill development
launched Operation Chakra-II. CBI has partnered with training programs across various sectors to provide
Microsoft, Amazon and other international agencies employment opportunities to rural youth.
for this operation. Which of the following statement(s)
[A] Tamil Nadu
clearly states the purpose of this operation?
[B] Telangana
[A] Its primary objective is to combat human
trafficking by raising awareness, providing victim [C] Odisha
support, and collaborating with law enforcement
[D] Maharashtra
agencies to prosecute offenders
[E] Gujarat
[B] It aims to fight against transnational organised
cyber-enabled financial crimes in India
[C] The initiative seeks to address drug trafficking Q.108) Which PSU has been awarded prestigious
through a multi-pronged approach, including inter- Golden Peacock Award in Risk Management by the
agency cooperation, international partnerships, and Institute of Directors?
rehabilitation programs for addicts
[A] ONGC Videsh
[D] It focuses on tackling environmental crimes, such
[B] Bharat Earth Movers Limited
as illegal wildlife trade and poaching, by enforcing
stringent regulations, conducting sting operations, and [C] Bharat Coking Coal Limited
protecting endangered species
[D] REC Ltd
[E] Its core mission is to reduce hate crimes through
[E] Steel Authority of India Limited
public education, community engagement, and legal
pg. 20
[Type here]
Q.112) Which has become 1st district in India to

declare turtle as district species?
Q.109) Mahsa Amini of Iran has been awarded
Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought. Which [A] Alappuzha
regional organization has given this award?
[B] Kasargod
[A] African Union
[C] Ernakulam
[B] SAARC
[D] Idukki
[C] BIMSTEC
[E] Wayanad
[D] European Union
[E] Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation

Q.113) Which of the following is a correct statement
with regards to the de novo Deemed University
status?
Q.110) The modern National Games of India are an
Olympic-style event with multiple sports and athletes [A] It is dedicated to pioneering innovations in
from states and Union Territories competing for emerging technologies and cutting-edge industries
medals. The Games will be held in Goa. Which of the
[B] It is given to universities that are committed to
following games will not be played as part of the
pushing the boundaries of research and development
National Games?
in new and unexplored fields
[A] Roll ball
[C] It is awarded to IITs which create startups that
[B] Beach football excel in fostering innovations in unique and evolving
areas of business and entrepreneurship
[C] Volleyball
[D] It is reserved for institutes which are at the
[D] Golf
forefront of pioneering innovations in new and
[E] Sqay martial arts emerging markets
[E] It is awarded to institutions devoted to innovations

in teaching and research in unique and emerging areas
Q.111) Recently, the Government has launched Ghar-
of knowledge
Ghar KCC Abhiyan scheme to cover all fish farmers
with Kisan Credit Card. The Kisan Credit Card scheme
is a credit scheme by Indian public sector banks to
Q.114) Which company has launched ‘DigiKavach’ - an
issue kisan credit card to the farmers of India. Which
early threat detection and warning system designed to
committee has recommended the creation of the KCC
identify and study emerging financial fraud patterns?
scheme?
[A] Google
[A] S. N. Commission
[B] Flipkart
[B] K. M. Sharma Task Force
[C] Meta
[C] A. P. Singh Committee
[D] Amazon
[D] R. V. Gupta Committee
[E] LTIMindtree
[E] N. K. Reddy Commission
pg. 21
[Type here]
Q.115) Fintech Association for Consumer security of offshore development areas and to
Empowerment is an industry association and self- rehearse responses in handling contingencies?
regulatory body for fintech lenders set up as a non-
[A] Vishakhapatnam
profit company. It brings together fintech lenders and
other stakeholders committed to advancing fair and [B] Kochi
responsible digital lending practices through self-
[C] Haldia
regulation and customer-centricity. Where is the
headquarters of the company located? [D] Kakinada
[A] Surat [E] Kolkata
[B] Mumbai
[C] Gandhinagar Q.119) Indian Military Heritage Festival has been

inaugurated by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh to
[D] Chennai
rediscover the profound Indian heritage of spacecraft
[E] Hyderabad and strategic thoughts derived from ancient Indian
text of spacecraft, warcraft, diplomacy and grand
strategy. Where was the festival held?
Q.116) Which company has launched Optima Secure?
[A] Guwahati
[A] SBI General Insurance
[B] Delhi
[B] Tata AIG General Insurance Company
[C] Surat
[C] HDFC ERGO General Insurance Company
[D] Chennai
[D] National Insurance Company
[E] Bangalore
[E] IFFCO Tokio General Insurance
Q.120) International Stuttering Awareness Day,

Q.117) Which bank has launched ‘XpressWay’ digital observed on October 22nd, aims to raise global
platform offering banking products and services and awareness about stuttering, promote understanding,
enabling customers to experience the fast-banking and support individuals who stutter. It's a day for
services? It offers multiple banking services designed advocacy, education, and breaking down stigmas
to cater to diverse customer needs. surrounding this speech disorder. What is the theme
of the day?
[A] Bank of Baroda
[A] Tailored Solutions for Individual Needs
[B] HDFC Bank
[B] Diverse Paths to Success
[C] Indian Bank
[C] Personalized Approaches to Growth
[D] State Bank of India
[D] One Size Does NOT Fit All
[E] Central Bank of India
[E] Customized Solutions for Unique Challenges
Q.118) Which Indian Armed Force has conducted the

security exercise ‘Prasthan 2023’ to ensure the Q.121) Indian Textile Industry’s Export Promotion
Councils (EPCs) will organize world’s largest textiles
pg. 22
[Type here]
event __________________ from February 26 to Q.124) RBI has recently announced the results of 2nd
February 29, 2024 in New Delhi. edition of its Global Hackathon ‘HARBINGER 2023-
Innovation for Transformation’. Who has won the
The event represents India’s 5F vision which includes-
award in RegTech solutions to facilitate more efficient
Farm to Fibre to Factory to Fashion to Foreign.
compliance for Regulated Entities (REs) category?
[A] Bharat Vision 24
[A] Fortis Net Ltd., UK
[B] Bharat Tex 2024
[B] WeavAir, Singapore
[C] Bharat Textile Expo
[C] Dygnify Ventures Private Limited, India
[D] Textile Mart 24
[D] Ezetap Mobile Solutions Pvt Ltd
[E] Textile Export Expo
[E] Razorpay, India
Q.122) Rajasthan Government has launched a portal

Q.125) Asian Development Bank has granted approval
to boost employment opportunities. The portal has
for ______________loan to enhance road connectivity
been launched under the state government’s initiative
and climate resilience in________________ to
in collaboration with Jaipur-based startup Hyrefox.
increase the connectivity between rural areas and
The portal will serve as a user-friendly platform for
growth centres and establish charging infrastructure
both job providers and job seekers. What is the name
for electric vehicles.
of the portal?
[A] USD 185 million, Madhya Pradesh
[A] talent youth connect portal
[B] USD 175 million, Uttar Pradesh
[B] iStart Talent Connect Portal
[C] USD 175 million, Madhya Pradesh
[C] New start Talent Portal
[D] USD 120 million, Gujarat
[D] e-xl talent portal
[E] USD 185 million, Rajasthan
[E] Raj-youth portal
Q.126) RBI has recently allowed retail investors to

Q.123) Uttarakhand Chief Minister has launched a
subscribe Floating Rate Saving Bonds (FRSB), 2020
portal for girls. The portal will be available to about
(Taxable) through Retail Direct Portal. The subscription
50,000 girls every year. Girls will get ₹11,000 on birth
of bonds will be in the form of cash only up to
and ₹51,000 on passing class 12th. What is the name
______________, drafts, cheques or any electronic
of the portal?
mode.
[A] Gauri Kalyan Yojana
[A] Rs 20,000
[B] Kanya Sabal Yojana
[B] Rs 30,000
[C] Nandagaura Yojana
[C] Rs 40,000
[D] Riddhigaura Yojana
[D] Rs 10,000
[E] Kanyadevi Yojana
[E] Rs 50,000
pg. 23
[Type here]
Q.127) Securities and Exchange Board of India has

empanelled _____________ entities to provide
Q.130) United Nations Day marks the anniversary of
assistance to its search team for onsite data
the entry into force in 1945 of the UN Charter. With
acquisition during search and seizure operations. This
the ratification of this founding document by the
empanelment will be valid for a period of
majority of its signatories, including the five
_______________ years. The agencies will provide
permanent members of the Security Council, the
digital forensic services to SEBI.
United Nations officially came into being. The UN day
[A] 10, 2 is celebrated on ______.
[B] 12, 2 [A] 28 September
[C] 12, 5 [B] 24 November
[D] 10, 5 [C] 22 October
[E] 15, 3 [D] 24 October
[E] 28 November
Q.128) National Payment Corporation of India (NPCI)

Bharat BillPay has launched a new business-to-
Q.131) Union minister Amit Shah has inaugurated
business payments service in partnership with
IFFCO’s Nano DAP (diammonium phosphate Liquid)
________________. It will provide value-added
manufacturing plant at ___________
services like flexible invoice presentation, complaint
in____________. Nano urea and nano DAP will help
management, MIS, etc. to businesses.
farmers to shift to natural farming without
[A] HDFC Bank compromising on output.
[B] ICICI Bank [A] Churu, Rajasthan
[C] Axis Bank [B] Kalol, Gandhinagar
[D] IDFC First Bank [C] Ambala, Haryana
[E] Kotak Mahindra Bank [D] Bhatinda, Punjab
[E] Faridkot, Punjab
Q.129) _____________ and ____________ have

conducted joint bilateral exercise ‘Exercise Harimau
Q.132) Organisation for Economic Co-operation and
Shakti 2023’ to increase military capability to conduct
Development (OECD) has launched International
of Multi Domain Operations in a sub conventional
Migration Outlook: 2023. India has maintained its top
scenario.
position as the leading country of origin for new
[A] Indian Navy, Sri Lankan Navy immigrants to OECD nations in 2021. Canada has
witnessed the highest number of immigrants. Which
[B] Indian Army, Bhutan Army
country has seen the second largest absolute
[C] Indian Army, Malaysian Army increase?
[D] Indian Navy, Malaysian Navy [A] Australia
[E] Indian Army, Sri Lankan Army [B] USA
[C] Singapore
pg. 24
[Type here]
[D] Germany Q.136) _________________ has recently formed a

strategic partnership with National E-Governance
[E] Japan
Services Limited (NeSL) for the issuance of electronic
Bank Guarantee (e-BG). The digital transformation will
significantly reduce the guaranteed turnaround time
Q.133) Union Cabinet has recently approved
(TAT) and allows recipients to quickly access digitally
___________ nutrient-based fertilizer subsidy for
issued bank guarantees through the NeSL portal.
2023-24 Rabi season. The government will provide the
subsidy for NPK based fertilizers. [A] HDFC Bank
[A] 21,500 Crore [B] Kotak Mahindra Bank
[B] 22,100 Crore [C] Axis Bank
[C] 22,303 Crore [D] Jana Small Finance Bank
[D] 18,000 Crore [E] Bandhan Bank
[E] 19,500 Crore
Q.137) External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has

attended the 22nd Shanghai Cooperation Organisation
Q.134) Which state government has set up a ₹237
(SCO) Council of Heads of Government (CHG) to be
Crore Graphene production facility in public-private
held in ___________ under the chairmanship of
partnership to build a Graphene ecosystem for
____________.
encouraging future material technologies?
[A] Dushanbe, Tajikistan
[A] Tamil Nadu
[B] Astana, Kazakhstan
[B] Kerala
[C] Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan
[C] Telangana
[D] Tashkent, Uzbekistan
[D] Karnataka
[E] Moscow, Russia
[E] Orissa
Q.138) Recently PepsiCo India has appointed Indian

Q.135) Which state has hosted Green Tourism India
which famous sportsperson as the brand ambassador
Conclave for the promotion of responsible tourism in
for its potato chips brand Lay’s?
Northeast for the promotion of green and responsible
tourism in India, with a particular emphasis on the [A] Subhman Gill
Northeastern region and Odisha?
[B] Virat Kohli
[A] Assam
[C] Mahendra Singh Dhoni
[B] Arunachal Pradesh
[D] Hardik Pandya
[C] Meghalaya
[E] Rohit Sharma
[D] Manipur
[E] Mizoram
Q.139) In the month of October 2023, Election
Commission has appointed actor _______________ as
pg. 25
[Type here]
its ‘National Icon’ to motivate voters to participate in legitimate and scrutinized financial apps can access
elections. and use the Indian Banking System
[A] Manoj Bajpayee [A] Ministry of Communication
[B] Rajkumar Rao [B] Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology
[C] Amitabh Bachchan [C] Ministry of Finance
[D] Pankaj Tripathi [D] Ministry of Telecommunication
[E] Aditya Kapoor [E] Ministry of Home Affairs
Q.140) Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IITK) has Q.143) Indian Army has inaugurated its first Vertical
signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Wind Tunnel (VWT) at a training school in
____________ to boost aerospace talent base in India ______________. The facility will provide a controlled
and explore collaboration opportunities with global environment for military trainees to improve their
institutes where students will get to work on projects skills in simulating real-life free-fall conditions and
relevant to the sector. improve Combat Free Fall (CFF) skills of armed forces
personnel by simulating different CFF scenarios.
[A] Bombardier
[A] Ladakh
[B] DGCA
[B] Uttarakhand
[C] Boeing
[C] Himachal Pradesh
[D] Airbus
[D] Punjab
[E] General Electric
[E] Karnataka
Q.141) Asian Development Bank has approved

____________loan to support urban reforms and Q.144) Global Media and Information Literacy Week,
creating high-quality urban infrastructure and efficient commemorated annually, is a major occasion for
governance system in India for improving the quality mobilizing worldwide stakeholders to raise awareness
of urban life. in order to increase national take-up and celebrate the
progress achieved towards Media and Information
[A] USD 300 million
Literacy for All – underlining the importance of this
[B] USD 350 million Global Week, celebrated since 2011.
[C] USD 400 million In which month it is observed in year 2023?
[D] USD 450 million [A] November
[E] USD 500 million [B] October
[C] December
Q.142) _____________________has requested RBI to [D] August

design a more detailed KYC process for greater
[E] July
transparency and to trace the fraudulent loan
providing applications. It will ensure that only
pg. 26
[Type here]
Q.145) Which cricketer has surpassed Sachin committee of the _____________________. It

Tendulkar to become the fastest player to score provides an informal specialized venue to antitrust
26,000 International runs? authorities for maintaining regular contacts and
addressing practical competition concerns.
[A] Ishan Kishan
[A] World Competition Council
[B] Shubman Gill
[B] International Competition Consortium
[C] Rohit Sharma
[C] International Competition Network
[D] Virat Kohli
[D] International Competition Council
[E] Ravindra Jadega
[E] Competition Commission for World
Q.146) Mirae Asset provides comprehensive financial

services including asset management, wealth Q.149) The 54th International Film Festival of India
management, investment banking, and life insurance. (IFFI) is scheduled to be held in Goa from 20th to 28th
Who has become the first non- Korean person to hold November 2023. 54th International Film Festival of
the post of Vice-President of Mirae Asset Financial India has announced Indian Panorama lineup to be
Group? showcased in the event. The Indian Panorama
comprises two categories of __________ feature films
[A] Amit Doshi
and __________ non-feature films.
[B] Swarup Mohanty
[A] 15,15
[C] Axis Bank
[B] 10, 15
[D] Nimesh Shah
[C] 25, 20
[E] Samir Seksaria
[D] 18, 18
[E] 15,10
Q.147) Book titled “The Lords of Wankhede: Tales
Between Two Title’ has been launched in Bengaluru,
Karnataka. The book discusses journey of Indian Q.150) Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has
cricket and the changes which have happened in past launched which platform to provide self-help groups
years. The book is authored by ______________ and and local artisans with global platform to sell their
Senior journalist R Kaushik. products?
[A] Ravi Shashtri [A] Apna e-mart
[B] Kapil Dev [B] Swayam e-Bazaar
[C] WV Raman [C] Goa Rozgaar e- mart
[D] Sourav Ganguli [D] Swayampurna e-bazaar
[E] Rahul Dravid [E] Sampoorna Kranti e-bazaar
Q.148) Competition Commission of India has become Q.151) Which oil company has launched India’s first
a part of the prestigious 18-member steering specialised reference petrol and diesel? Reference
pg. 27
[Type here]
petrol and diesel are fuels that have higher Q.154) Central Government has recently launched a
specifications. They are used for calibrating and hackathon to combat deceptive practices in E-
testing automobiles by manufacturers and testing Commerce. The Hackathon is launched with the
agencies. objective of providing protection to consumers from
all types of unfair trade practices. The Hackathon has
[A] Reliance Petroleum
been launched by Department of Consumer Affairs,
[B] Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited Government of India in collaboration with IIT BHU.
What is the name of Hackathon?
[C] Indian Oil Corporation
[A] Hackout 2023
[D] Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited
[B] Engage Hackathon 2023
[E] ONGC
[C] Dark Pattern Hackathon 2023
[D] Hack Sphere

Q.152) _____________ and _______________ have
decided to work together for the promotion of Green [E] Hack Spjinx 2023
Energy. Over 1600 MW of solar energy generation
capacity already installed and another 500 MW at
various stages of development. Q.155) Which state has become the first state in India
to have gold hallmarking centres in all districts?
[A] Ministry of Communication & Ministry of Finance
[A] Tamil Nadu
[B] Ministry of Coal & Ministry of New and Renewable
Energy [B] Maharashtra
[C] Ministry of Finance & Ministry of New and [C] Karnataka

Renewable Energy
[D] Kerala
[D] Department of Telecommunication & Ministry of
[E] Rajasthan
Coal and Ministry
[E] Telecom Regulatory Authority of India & Ministry

of Finance Q.156) Which state Government has launched ‘Jai
Bhim Mukhyamantri Pratibha Vikas Yojana’ to provide
free coaching to medical, engineering and civil
Q.153) Which company has become India’s first services? The scheme will enable students to compete
iPhone Manufacturer after buying Wistron plant near in competitive examinations and secure jobs in the
Bengaluru? public or private sector.
[A] Vedanta Group [A] Uttar Pradesh
[B] Foxconn Group [B] Delhi
[C] TATA Group [C] Madhya Pradesh
[D] Infosys [D] Rajasthan
[E] Micromax informatics [E] Uttarakhand
pg. 28
[Type here]
Q.157) Union Government has appointed which

company to help prepare a Vision 2047 document?
Q.160) Dwarfism is a medical condition which causes
The document will set India’s medium-term goals and
short stature. It is generally defined as an adult height
priorities for becoming a developed economy in the
of 4 feet 10 inches (147 centimetres) or less. The
next quarter of a century.
average adult height among people with dwarfism is 4
[A] KPMG feet (122 cm). On which day World Dwarfism Day is
celebrated?
[B] BCG
[A] October 18
[C] E&Y
[B] September 27
[D] PwC
[C] October 25
[E] Deloitte
[D] October 27
[E] September 25
Q.158) The company has recently received India’s first
digital regulatory fintech authorization from
International Financial Services Centres Authority
Q.161) ____________ has announced to set up a 6G
(IFSCA). The authorisation will provide secure and
Research and Development centre in Chennai, Tamil
efficient financial solutions to 70 million SMEs in India.
Nadu to develop the technology which will help to
It will enable the company to improve its offering and
deliver a cyber-physical continuum where networks
commence cross-border transaction in over 14
will deliver critical services, immersive
countries. What is the name of the company?
communications, omnipresent IoT.
[A] Pine Labs
[A] Qualcomm
[B] Escrowpay
[B] Ericsson
[C] Mswipe
[C] Samsung
[D] PayU
[D] Cisco
[E] AGS Transact Technologies
[E] Intel
Q.159) India has conducted their first joint Naval

Q.162) The hunger project organizes capacity-building
Exercise in Gulf of Guinea to reinforce naval maritime
training for elected women representatives (EWRs)
security cooperation in support of the region. A
and federations. Which country will support India’s
knowledge sharing session took place in Accra, Ghana,
Hunger Project in Uttarakhand to help strengthen
following the maritime exercises. With which country
women leaders to protect the environment and
India has conducted this Naval Exercise?
promote food security in Uttarakhand?
[A] USA
[A] Japan
[B] France
[B] Norway
[C] European Union
[C] Germany
[D] South Africa
[D] France
[E] Australia
pg. 29
[Type here]
[E] Finland [A] Satark Bharat, Samriddh Bharat
[B] Corruption free India for a developed Nation
Q.163) Financial Action Task Force (FATF) has recently [C] Say no to corruption; commit to the Nation
removed Cayman Island from its grey list in its review
[D] Satarkta Se Samriddhi
published on 27 October, 2023. The Financial Action
Task Force (FATF) is the global money laundering and [E] No to corruption, for a developed nation
terrorist financing watchdog. The inter-governmental
body sets international standards that aim to prevent
these illegal activities and the harm they cause to Q.166) The US-India Strategic Partnership Forum
society. Where is the headquarter of FATF situated? (USISPF), is an independent non-profit, non-
governmental, and non-partisan organization. It gives
[A] Manhattan
Global Leadership Award for Philanthropy and CSR
[B] Paris every year. Who has won the award for the year 2023?
[C] Bonn [A] Ratan Tata
[D] Washington DC [B] Nita Ambani
[E] London [C] Azim Premji
[D] Rohini NIlekani
Q.164) _______________ has collaborated with [E] Shiv Nadar

Viamericas to offer inward remittance service to NRIs
in USA. This collaboration has enabled NRIs in USA to
use effortless inward remittance services to India and Q.167) Bulk deposit means Single Rupee term
It will allow NRIs to effectively transfer funds to their deposits of Rupees two crore and above for Scheduled
beneficiaries in India through the reliable Indus Fast Commercial Banks (excluding Regional Rural banks)
Remit platform. and Small Finance Banks. Reserve Bank of India has
recently raised the criteria for ‘Bulk deposits’ for
[A] ICICI Bank
Regional Rural Banks from _________ to _________.
[B] HDFC Bank
[A] ₹20 lakh, ₹50 lakh
[C] IndusInd Bank
[B] ₹15 lakh, ₹1 Crore
[D] Kotak Mahindra Bank
[C] ₹10 lakh, ₹25 lakh
[E] IDFC First Bank
[D] ₹50 lakh, ₹1 Crore
[E] ₹1 Crore, ₹2 Crore

Q.165) Bringing transparency and accountability in
governance remains one of the primary means to
achieve all round development of the country. Q.168) AU Small Finance Bank board has approved
Vigilance Awareness Week is one of the tools of the merger with ___________ to extend the bank's
Commission in increasing public awareness about the footprint in southern India and entering the
perils of corruption. Vigilance Awareness Week is microfinance sector. The merger will help AU Small
observed every year during the week in which the Finance Bank to increase its reach and efficiency.
birthday of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel (31st October)
[A] Equitas Small Finance Bank
falls in. What is the theme for the year for 2023.
pg. 30
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[B] Capital Small Finance Bank Limited [B] CyberArk
[C] Fincare Small Finance Bank [C] UST
[D] Utkarsh Small Bank [D] InfoObjects
[E] ESAF Small Finance Bank [E] Deloitte Consulting
Q.169) Mahatma Award is the highest honour for Q.170) Which company has become the official
social impact leaders and change makers, who are sponsor of 37th National Games to be held in Goa?
working towards making this world a better place. It is
[A] MobiKwik
an initiative of Aditya Birla Group. Award is presented
on Mahatma Gandhi’s birth anniversary. Which [B] Paytm
organization has won the 2023 Mahatma Awards for
[C] Reliance Jio
sustainable and impactful contributions to corporate
social responsibility (CSR). [D] PhonePe
[A] Navisite Services [E] RazorPay
1 B 51 D 101 D 151 C
2 B 52 B 102 B 152 B
3 A 53 D 103 D 153 C
4 B 54 B 104 D 154 C
5 C 55 C 105 B 155 D
6 D 56 A 106 B 156 B
7 D 57 B 107 D 157 B
8 D 58 B 108 D 158 B
9 B 59 C 109 D 159 C
10 B 60 D 110 C 160 C
11 C 61 C 111 D 161 B
12 D 62 B 112 B 162 B
13 D 63 C 113 E 163 B
14 C 64 D 114 A 164 C
15 D 65 A 115 B 165 C
16 D 66 B 116 C 166 B
17 B 67 B 117 B 167 B
18 B 68 E 118 D 168 C
19 B 69 B 119 B 169 C
20 A 70 B 120 D 170 B
21 A 71 A 121 B
22 A 72 D 122 B
23 C 73 D 123 C
24 B 74 C 124 B
25 B 75 C 125 C
pg. 31
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26 B 76 B 126 A
27 A 77 C 127 B
28 A 78 E 128 C
29 D 79 B 129 C
30 E 80 C 130 D
31 B 81 D 131 B
32 D 82 C 132 B
33 B 83 D 133 C
34 C 84 C 134 B
35 D 85 C 135 C
36 E 86 B 136 B
37 E 87 C 137 C
38 B 88 B 138 C
39 D 89 C 139 B
40 C 90 C 140 D
41 D 91 C 141 C
42 D 92 B 142 B
43 E 93 D 143 C
44 B 94 B 144 B
45 A 95 C 145 D
46 B 96 A 146 B
47 C 97 B 147 C
48 A 98 B 148 C
49 C 99 C 149 C
50 D 100 D 150 D
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SPOTLIGHT - OCTOBER 2023
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Contents
NATIONAL NEWS ......................................................................................................................................................... 2
STATE NEWS............................................................................................................................................................... 43
INTERNATIONAL NEWS............................................................................................................................................ 61
BANKING AND ECONOMY ....................................................................................................................................... 72
REPORTS AND INDICES ........................................................................................................................................ 116
GDP FORECAST ....................................................................................................................................................... 122
DEFENCE NEWS ...................................................................................................................................................... 123
AGRICUTLURE AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT................................................................................................... 132
AWARDS ..................................................................................................................................................................... 133
IMPORTANT DAYS ................................................................................................................................................... 141
SPORTS ...................................................................................................................................................................... 150
MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING .............................................................................................................. 161
APPOINTMENTS ....................................................................................................................................................... 171
MISCELLANEOUS..................................................................................................................................................... 180
QUESTIONS ............................................................................................................................................................... 183
pg. 1
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NATIONAL NEWS
1. Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has amended the Cable Television Network
Rules, 1994 for introducing a procedure for the renewal of Multi-System Operator (MSO)
Registrations.
• The salient features of the amended Rules for MSO Registration are:
o Registration or renewal will be done on Broadcast Seva Portal of MIB
o MSO registrations shall be granted or renewed for a period of 10 years
o The processing fee is Rs. 1 lakh for renewal of registration
• Another provision -
o Cable Operators will share their infrastructure with broadband service providers
for the twin benefit of enhanced internet penetration and efficient utilization of
resources.
Knowledge Nuggets
• An MSO receives the signals of different television channels, combines the same and
transmits this combined feed to multiple Local Cable Operators.
• MSOs stand at the middle point in the hierarchy of the cable services sector between the
broadcasters on one side and local cable operators on the other.
Source: PIB MSO
2. India and Argentina have signed a 'Social Security Agreement' for protecting the rights of
professionals and workers in both countries, allowing for risk-free international mobility.
• This agreement ensures that Indian nationals working in various Indian and international
companies in Argentina, as well as Argentine nationals seeking employment in India, do not
lose their social security benefits or contributions.
• It covers old age and survivor's pensions, disability pensions, and other social security
aspects based on the national laws of both countries.
Source: The Hindu
3. IGMS 2.0 Public Grievance portal and Automated Analysis in Tree Dashboard portal of
the Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG) have been
launched.
pg. 2
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• IGMS 2.0 provides instant tabular analysis of grievances filed and disposed of state-wise
and district-wise grievances filed, and ministry-wise data.
• The dashboard helps officials identify the root cause of grievances, and it aims to
expedite the grievance redressal process by the concerned ministry/department.
• The Swachhata Special Campaign 3.0 was also launched as part of the initiative.
• This campaign focuses on field/outstation offices responsible for service delivery or having
a public interface, in addition to ministries/departments and their attached/subordinate
offices.
• DARPG is the Nodal Department for implementation of Special Campaign 3.0.
Source: PIB
4. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a week-long program called "Sankalp
Saptaah" for Aspirational Blocks in India.
• The program aims to improve governance at the block level to enhance the quality of life for
citizens.
• It covers 500 Aspirational Blocks across 329 districts in the country.
• Each day of the week focuses on a specific development theme, including health, nutrition,
cleanliness, agriculture, education, and prosperity.
Source: PIB
5. India will host the 46th edition of the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) Travel Mart
2023 in New Delhi from October 4th to 6th, 2023.
• The Mart will bring together exhibitors and attendees from diverse sectors, offering a unique
platform for networking, learning and collaboration.
• This year, the event will feature different activities, including the prestigious PATA Gold
Award, the PATA Youth Symposium, PATA Forum on Sustainability besides the B2B Mart.
• Ministry of Tourism will set up a PATA desk to strengthen engagement with PATA on
Travel for LiFE and other areas of cooperation in tourism sector.
Knowledge Nuggets
About PATA -
pg. 3
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• The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), founded in 1951, with its headquarters in
Bangkok, is a renowned not-for-profit association recognized internationally for its role as
a catalyst in the responsible development of travel and tourism in the Asia Pacific region.
• PATA Travel Mart is one of the important international trade exhibitions catering to
the tourism sector and it serves as a platform for trade interactions between global buyers
and sellers mostly from the Asia Pacific region.
About Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) -

• It is a global mass movement led by India which urges individuals and communities to
act for protection of the environment against the effects of the climate change
• It was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 19th October 2022, in the
presence of the UN Secretary General António Guterres, at the Statue of Unity, Ekta
Nagar, Gujarat.
About Travel for LiFE -

• It is a program launched by the Ministry of Tourism during the 46th PATA Travel Mart.
• Purpose – to position India as leader in promoting sustainable and responsible tourism
and using tourism as a vehicle for achieving Sustainable Development Goals by 2030
• It has a basic principle of “Lifestyle of the planet, for the planet and by the planet”.
• Travel for LiFE Program will encourage the Tourism Businesses to deepen their
sustainability practices by observing adherence to Travel for LiFE- Signed up badge.
• Subsequently, the tourism businesses can get the Travel for LiFE certification in
bronze, silver and gold.
Source: PIB and PIB
6. A nationwide cleanliness drive and shramdaan initiative were carried out on October 1,
2023.
• Recently, the Ministry of Civil Aviation and its organizations participated in Swachhata
Hi Seva campaign.
• Banners, posters, and selfie points were placed at airports to spread the message of
cleanliness.
Source: PIB
pg. 4
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7. Central Reserve Police Force and the Ministry of Women and Child Development
launched a cross-country bike expedition called "Yashaswini" with women CRPF officers.
• Purpose - The expedition promotes the "Beti Bachao Beti Padhao" program and
showcases the resilience and strength of women
• The Lieutenant Governor of Jammu & Kashmir, Manoj Sinha, flagged off the rally from
Lal Chowk, Srinagar, and it will conclude on October 31 (birth anniversary of Sardar
Vallabhbhai Patel or Rashtriya Ekta Diwas) in Gujarat.
Source: PIB
8. The Ministry of Home Affairs held a meeting of multi-agency centre (MAC), a common
counter-terrorism grid, for discussing about issues related to Pakistan.
Knowledge Nuggets
• India’s Multi-Agency Centre (MAC) is the country’s biggest intelligence input
sharing platform.
• MAC was set up in 2001 after the Kargil War under the Intelligence Bureau.
• The centre is headquartered in Delhi and 28 agencies like the R&AW, state police,
financial intelligence bodies and defence intelligence bodies, are part of the system
through which they share intelligence inputs.
• State-level MACs coordinate with the centre through nodal officers.
Source: IE News18
9. The Regional Conference on Good Governance will begin at Jaipur.

• Objectives –
o To bring national and state level public administration organizations on the same
platform to share experiences in Innovations in public administration,
o Transforming future public solutions for improving quality of life, good governance, e-
governance, Digital Governance, etc.
Source: PIB
10. The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs approved a proposal from the Department of
Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation, Ministry of Jal Shakti for
completing the remaining work of the North Koel Reservoir Project at a revised cost of Rs.
2,430.76 crore.
• Centre’s share - Rs. 1,836.41 crore
pg. 5
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• Location of the project - Jharkhand and Bihar

• Purpose – to provide additional annual irrigation to 42,301 hectares in four drought-prone
districts of Jharkhand and Bihar
• River – North Koel (flows through Jharkhand)
Source: PIB
11. The Union Cabinet has approved for introduction of the Central Universities (Amendment),
Bill, 2023 in Parliament to further amend the Central Universities Act, 2009.
• Purpose of amendment - setting up of Sammakka Sarakka Central Tribal University at
Mulugu District in the State of Telangana
• The provision for setting up this university was given in the Thirteenth Schedule to the
Andhra Pradesh Re-organisation Act, 2014.
Source: PIB
12. Union Minister for Tribal Affairs, Shri Arjun Munda, inaugurated the Aadi Mahotsav - the
National Tribal Festival - in Jamshedpur, Jharkhand.
• Organizer - Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India Limited
(TRIFED)
Source: PIB
13. The Ministry of Civil Aviation has notified New Drone (Amendment) Rules 2023.
• The rule is effective from 27 September 2023.
• The key features of the Amendments are-
o Citizens can become drone pilots.
o The mandatory requirement of a passport has been removed.
o Any government-issued Identity proof such as Voter ID, Driving-License, etc. can be
accepted for applications.
• Ministry of Corporate Affairs also announced that certain provisions of the Insolvency
and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) won't apply to aircraft, engines, and related parts.
• Specifically, Section 14(1) of IBC, which enforces a moratorium during insolvency
proceedings, will not apply to transactions involving aircraft, aircraft engines, airframes, and
helicopters.
Source: ET and LiveMint
pg. 6
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14. India and the UAE discussed a bilateral investment treaty to encourage UAE investments in
India's renewable energy, health, semiconductor, and asset monetization sectors.
• Progress on the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), which
came into force in May 2022, was reviewed.
• The UAE-India High Level Joint Task Force on Investments in Abu Dhabi assessed
progress on a mechanism to fast-track Indian investments into the UAE.
• NPIC International Payments Limited (NIPL) and Al Etihad Payments (AEP) will work
together to create and run the UAE's Domestic Card Scheme (DCS), and NIPL will give
them RuPay stack and extra value-added services.
Source: LiveMint
15. The Union Cabinet has increased the subsidy on LPG cylinders under the Ujjwala scheme.
• The subsidy was raised from ₹200 to ₹300 per cylinder for up to 12 refills per year.
• In 2022-23, ₹6,100 crore was allocated for Ujjwala subsidies, which increased to ₹7,680
crore in 2023-24.
• The Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) aims to provide clean cooking fuel to rural
households that previously used traditional fuels like firewood and cow-dung cakes.
Source: The Hindu
16. The Indian Council for Cultural Research (ICCR), in collaboration with Savitribai Phule
Pune University, organized the soft launch of the "Universalization of Traditional Indian
Knowledge System (UTIKS) portal".
• The portal was launched at the Manipal Academy of Higher Education.
• Purpose - to provide short courses on Traditional Indian Knowledge which provides an
authentic single-window source of introductory-level knowledge on a range of subjects
under the Traditional Indian Knowledge System
Knowledge Nuggets
About Indian Council for Cultural Relations-

The Indian Council for Cultural Relations is an autonomous organization, involved in India's
global cultural relations, through cultural exchange with other countries and their people.
• Founder- Maulana Azad
• Founded- 9 April 1950
pg. 7
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• President- Vinay Shashrabuddhe

• Director General- Kumar Tuhin
Source: BS
17. President of India Smt Droupadi Murmu inaugurated an International Research

Conference on ‘From research to impact: Towards Just and Resilient Agri-Food
Systems’ in New Delhi.
• Hosts - Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and CGIAR GENDER Impact
Platform
• The conference welcomed gender researchers from 68 countries to share cutting-edge
knowledge on gender and inclusion in food systems.
Knowledge Nuggets
• The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) is an autonomous organisation
under the Department of Agricultural Research and Education (DARE), Ministry of
Agriculture and Farmers Welfare.s
• Headquarter- New Delhi, India
Source: PIB, ICAR
18. The 50th India International Knit Fair (IIKF) will be held from October 12–14, 2023 at the
India Knit Fair Association (IKFA) complex in Tiruppur, Tamil Nadu.
• Theme - Active and Sportswear, Environmental Social Governance, Artificial Intelligence
and digitalisation
Source: NoA
19. India has launched National Framework for Climate Services (NCFS), its maiden national-
level framework towards providing climate services and information.
• The program is led by India Meteorological Department.
• Objectives-
o To bring a seamless working platform for users of climate information and services,
o To help decide and mitigate climate risks for key sectors — agriculture, energy,
disaster management, health and water.
• NFCS is based on The Global Framework for Climate Services (GFCS).
• Nodal Agency - India Meteorological Department (IMD).
pg. 8
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Knowledge Nuggets
About IMD-
• The India Meteorological Department is an agency of the Ministry of Earth Sciences.
• It is the principal agency responsible for meteorological observations, weather forecasting
and seismology.
o Headquarters- New Delhi, India
o Founded- 1875
About GFCS-
• The Global Framework for Climate Services (GFCS) is a partnership of governments and
organisations at a global level, for the production and better usage of climate information
and services.
• Objective- The objective of GFCS is to facilitate researchers and users of climate
information and services to join hands in order to make informed and actionable
decisions for the long-term betterment.
• It was established during the 3rd World Climate Conference held in Geneva in 2009.
20. Ministry of Culture organized curtain raiser and logo launch for India Art Architecture
Design Biennale (IAADB).
• The event was held at the National Gallery of Modern Art, Delhi.
• IAADB is scheduled to be held in December 2023 with events scheduled in Delhi, Mumbai
and Bengaluru.
• About IAADB -
o The objective of IAADB is to bring traditional grassroots artists and contemporary
designers, curators, architects, and thought leaders to the forefront, transcending
age, gender, and genre boundaries.
Source: PIB
21. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has started preparing for the flight test for
Gaganyaan mission and Vehicle Abort Mission 1 (TV-D1) for the Gaganyaan mission.
• About the flight test-
pg. 9
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o The test involves launching a crew module to outer space and bringing it back to
Earth and recovering it after touchdown in the Bay of Bengal.
o The test is to be conducted at Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota.
o Crew Module will carry the astronauts during the Gaganyaan mission to outer space.
Knowledge Nuggets
About ISRO-
• Headquarter- Bengaluru
• Chairperson- S Somnath
• Establishment Year - 1969
• Founder – Vikram Sarabhai (Father of Indian Space Program)
• Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) was formed on August 15, 1969, by the
Department of Atomic Energy.
• It was previously known as the Indian National Committee for Space Research
(INCOSPAR), which was established in 1962 by the first PM of India, Pt. Jawahar Lal
Nehru.
About Gaganyaan Mission-

• Gaganyaan will launch 3 crew members to an orbit of 400 km for 3 days.
• It will bring them back safely to earth by landing in Indian sea waters.
Source: AIR ISRO ISRO Missions
22. Ministry of Commerce and Industry unveils system based automatic ‘status holder’
certificate under Foreign Trade Policy, 2023.
• Key Features-
o Now, the exporter will not be required to apply to the office of Directorate General
of Foreign Trade (DGFT) for a Status Certificate.
o The export recognition will be provided by the IT system based on available
Directorate General of Commercial Intelligence and Statistics (DGCIS)
merchandise export electronic data and other risk parameters.
o Reduces compliance burden and promotes ease of doing business
o The Department of Commerce, Ministry of Commerce and Industry will be
recognizing about 20,000 exporters under FTP 2023 as Status Holders which will be
a quantum jump from the earlier number of 12,518 exporters.
Source: PIB, Economic Times
pg. 10
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23. Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL) has set up South Asia’s first aircraft
recovery training school at Bengaluru airport.
• The facility is set at the premises of Kempegowda International Airport.
• It is set up for providing specialised aircraft recovery hands-on training, equipped with state-
of-the-art Disabled Aircraft Recovery Equipment (DARE).
• BIAL will form a strategic partnership with KUNZ GmbH Aircraft Equipment, Germany.
24. Mumbai Airport (Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport) is first in Asia to
commission Disabled Aircraft Recovery Kit (DARK) to help stranded aircrafts.
• The DARK facility includes advance techniques which will require minimal manpower for
operating and enhance passenger safety and operational resilience.
• It will provide more efficient aircraft recovery process.
25. KCP Ltd, a diversified business group, has delivered the integrated air drop test (IADT) crew
module structure to ISRO for the Gaganyaan mission.
Source: ET
26. The Ministry of Education has introduced draft guidelines for schools to address self-harm
concerns, known as the UMMEED guidelines.
• UMMEED - Understand, Motivate, Manage, Empathise, Empower, Develop
• The guidelines recommend the formation of School Wellness Teams (SWT) led by the
School Principal, equipped to handle crisis situations and take immediate action when
students show warning signs.
• The guidelines suggest actions such as securing empty classrooms, improving lighting
in dark areas, and maintaining school gardens.
• The draft promotes integrating mental well-being into school functioning, creating safe
environments within and outside schools, and being vigilant at locations with suicide risks.
Source: TOI
27. The Union Ministry of Chemical and Fertilizer has launched a web portal named Charak for
providing the statistical data related to chemical sector.
pg. 11
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• Portal name- www.charak.chemicals.gov.in.

• The portal will facilitate collection of statistics related to various aspects of chemical sector,
such as production, import, export, installed capacity, purchases and sales, etc.
• Developed by- Department of Chemicals and Petrochemicals and National Informatics
Centre
• Launched at- Workshop hosted by FICCI in New Delhi
• Objective- To increase the value of chemical and petrochemical industries by provide
information on the latest sectoral innovations
• Usage-
o Users - researchers, academicians and policymakers can create innovative products
needed for the chemical sector
o Industries - The portal will also enable support system for promoting industries for
best practices and create authentic inventory of chemical data system.
28. India has launched Operation Ajay to facilitate the return Indians from Israel and Palestine.
• A 24-hour Control Room has also been set up in the Ministry of External Affairs to
monitor the situation and provide information and assistance.
29. Union Minister Shri Anurag Thakur launched the trailer of KTB- Bharat Hain Hum, an
animated series consisting of two seasons, produced by Central Bureau of Communication,
Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and Graphiti Studios.
• The series consists of 52 episodes, 11 minutes each, featuring stories from Indian Freedom
struggle from 1500s to 1947.
• The series is hosted by the iconic animated characters Krish, Trish and Balti boy.
• The series has been created by the creator duo of Munjal Shroff and Tilakraj Shetty from
Graphiti Studios.
• The series is being produced in the following 12 Languages:
o Hindi (Master), Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam, Marathi, Gujarati, Punjabi,
Bengali, Assamese, Odia and English.
• The series will also be dubbed in following international languages.
o French, Spanish, Russian, Arabic, Chinese, Japanese, and Korean.
pg. 12
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About KTB-Bharat Hain Hum-

• Ministry - Ministry of Information and Broadcasting
• Purpose - to raise awareness amongst the children about India’s glorious freedom struggle
and freedom fighters
Source: PIB
30. Union Minister of Women and Child Development, Smt Smriti Zubin Irani has launched
new Standardised Protocol for Management of Malnutrition in Children.
• The Protocol has been jointly prepared by the Ministry of Women and Child
Development and the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
• About Protocol-
o It will reduce malnutrition through Mission Saksham Anganwadi and Nutrition 2.0.
o The protocol clearly describes the process of assessing and caring for malnourished
children through the Anganwadi and medical ecosystem.
Source: PIB
31. The Union Cabinet has approved the establishment of an autonomous body named Mera
Yuva Bharat (MY Bharat).
• Objective-
o Youth development using technology
o Equitable access to youth
• About MY Bharat-
o It will benefit the youth in the age group of 15-29 years (as per the definition of
‘Youth’ in the National Youth Policy).
o The Mera Yuva Bharat (MY Bharat) will be launched on 31st October, 2023 on
National Unity Day.
Source: PIB
32. Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment launched Scheme for Residential Education
for Students in High School in Targeted Areas (SHRESTHA) to ensure quality education
to school students.
• Under the scheme, students belonging to Scheduled Castes (SC) will be provided with
high quality school education by different methods.
pg. 13
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• Implementing agencies - selected grant-in-aid institutions run by NGOs and residential

high schools offering high-quality education
• Provision of Schooling under CBSE/State Board Affiliated Private Residential School-
o Meritorious students will get admission in selected private schools of CBSE and
State Boards.
o These students will be selected through the National Entrance Test for SHRESHTA
(NETS), conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA).
o Selected students will be admitted to private residential schools in the 9th and 11th
grades, enabling them to complete their education up to the 12th standard.
• Eligibility-
o Around 3000 SC students with parents' annual income up to Rs 2.5 lakh are
selected annually based on their merit.
• Benefits-
o For the students taking admission under this scheme, their entire fee including
school fees (tuition fees) and hostel fees (mess charges) will be waived off.
o Admissible fees for each class are specified as follows- 9th: ₹1,00,000,
10th: ₹1,10,000, 11th: ₹1,25,000, 12th: ₹1,35,000.
Source: livemint
33. Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying under Ministry of Fisheries, Animal
Husbandry and Dairying has launched Accredited Agent for Health and Extension of
Livestock Production (A-HELP) programme in the state of Jharkhand.
• Objective- To empower women by engaging them as accredited agent who contribute
significantly to disease control, animal tagging and livestock insurance.
Knowledge Nuggets
About A-HELP-
• A-HELP will act as a “Livestock Resource Person” for the designated area/village.
• The selected person will serve as a last-mile extension worker providing 24×7 services at
the doorstep of farmers.
• She will sensitise livestock owners on ear-tagging, registration on the Information
Network for Animal Productivity & Health (INAPH), scientific health management of
livestock, basic sanitation and hygienic practices.
pg. 14
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• A-HELP has already initiated across different States/UTs including Bihar, Gujarat, Jammu
and Kashmir, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Jharkhand.
Source: PIB
34. Intensified Mission Indradhanush 5.0, the flagship immunization campaign of Union
Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, has concluded for 2023.
• About IMI 5.0-
o It has special focus on Measles and Rubella elimination by 2023.
o This year, the campaign is being conducted across all districts of the country, with
a special emphasis on including children up to 5 years of age, unlike previous
campaigns that targeted children up to 2 years of age.
o The campaign also highlights the use of the U-WIN digital platform for Routine
Immunization in a pilot mode across all districts in the country, emphasizing the
integration of technology in the immunization process.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Mission Indradhanush-

• Mission Indradhanush is a flagship program of the Government of India.
• Launched- December 2014.
• Objective-
o The primary goal of Mission Indradhanush is to immunize children under the age
of two and pregnant women against seven vaccine-preventable diseases,
including diphtheria, whooping cough, tetanus, polio, tuberculosis, measles, and
hepatitis B.
Source: PIB
35. Competition Commission of India hosted 8th BRICS International Competition

Conference 2023 (BRICS ICC 2023) in New Delhi.
• Key outcomes-
o Release and discussion of BRICS joint documents, including the Leniency
Programme and Digital Economy Reports
o Signing of a Joint Statement by the heads of BRICS competition authorities
emphasizing the importance of sharing information and best practices
• India specific outcomes-
pg. 15
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o Introduction of a Committee on Digital Competition Law to examine the need for

regulatory mechanisms for digital markets.
o Recent amendments to the Competition Act in India, including provisions for
settlement and commitments and the implementation of deal value thresholds for
merger notification.
• CCI handed over the responsibility of hosting the 9th BRICS International Competition
Conference to South Africa in 2025.
Source: PIB
36. Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal flagged off the passenger ferry service between
Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu, and Kankesanturai, Sri Lanka.
Source: livemint
37. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is establishing a second spaceport in
Kulasekarapattinam, Thoothukudi district, Tamil Nadu.
• About Kulasekarapattinam spaceport-
o The dedicated launch pad will cater exclusively to SSLV launches by private
companies, with no ISRO rockets scheduled for launch from this facility.
o The new spaceport will cover approximately 2,000 acres, and the launch centre is
expected to be fully operational within two years.
• Advantages of Kulasekarapattinam Spaceport:
o Reduced fuel consumption for rocket launches
o Improved performance for small rockets, benefiting private industry
o Streamlined launch operations due to unobstructed trajectory path
Source: The Hindu
38. India has launched three indigenously developed technologies at 11th Traffic Expo and
Smart Mobility Conference.
Details of technologies-
1. CMOS Sensor based Camera for Industrial Vision Applications (iViS)-
o This technology facilitates automated inspection and identification of objects, utilizing
AI-based applications that incorporate Machine Learning and Deep Learning
Techniques.
pg. 16
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2. Thermal Sensor based Camera (TvITS):

o This AI-powered thermal sensor-based smart vision camera is designed for road
traffic applications.
3. Online Sucro Crystal Imaging System (OSIS):
o Developed using industrial cameras, this system is specifically designed for the
measurement of crystal size in sugar industries.
Source: PIB
39. India has launched state-of-art National Survey named “Continuously Operating
Reference Stations" (CORS) Network for providing world-class precise Location-based
service.
• Key feature-
o It offers centimetres-level positioning services in real-time.
• Operated by- Survey of India
• Objective-
o To aid in scientific studies such as Upper Atmosphere and Space weather studies,
Meteorology, Plate motion and Tectonic studies, Seismology, and Hydrology.
Source: PIB
40. 51st meeting of the executive committee of National Mission for Clean Ganga has
approved seven projects worth Rs 285 crore.
• Key projects-
• Three projects for sewerage management-
o Two in West Bengal and one in Uttarakhand
• Project for extension of Composite Ecological Task Force (Ganaga Task Force)
o For continue assisting the rejuvenation of River Ganga
• Project related to Fish stock enhancement including Hilsa and livelihood improvement
for sustainable fisheries and conservation in River Ganga.
• Proposal for wetland conservation by effective management of –
o Kalewala Jheel in Muzaffarnagar, Numaiya Dahi Jheel (Kheduva Taal) in
Prayagraj and Dahtal Reoti wetland in Ballia District was also approved.
• One proposal to develop Ganga Vatika Park in Dhalwala, Uttarakhand
Source: PIB
pg. 17
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41. IRCON International Limited (IRCON) and RITES Limited (RITES) have been announced
15th and 16th Navratna company among CPSE.
• The status has been granted by Ministry of Finance.
• Benefit of status-
o The award of Navratna status will enable them to further nurture their brand,
compete more effectively in the global market and pursue new frontiers more
aggressively for growth.
Knowledge Nuggets
About IRCON-
• Chairman & MD- Yogesh Kumar Misra
About RITES-
• Chairman & MD- Rahul Mittal
Source: PIB
42. PM Narendra Modi has virtually inaugurated the third edition of Global Maritime India
Summit (GMIS 2023) at MMRDA Grounds, Mumbai.
• Focus Areas of Summit-
o maritime sector with sessions and discussions around ports of the future;
o decarbonisation;
o coastal shipping & IWT;
o shipbuilding;
o repair and recycling;
o finance,
o insurance & arbitration;
o maritime clusters;
o innovation & technology;
o maritime safety and security;
o and maritime tourism, among others.
pg. 18
[Type here]
• Representation in Summit-
o 115 officials from 28 countries
Source: PIB
43. India and United Kingdom held their first 2+2 Foreign and Defence dialogue in New Delhi.
• About 2+2 dialogue-
o It is a comprehensive mechanism to discuss and review all aspects of
comprehensive strategic partnership.
o Various assessments about recent international development are discussed.
Source: TOI
44. Ministry of Forest, Environment and Climate Change has launched Green Credit Program
(GCP) and Ecomark Scheme to encourage environment friendly practices.
• Objective-
To encourage environmentally friendly practices rooted in tradition and conservation along-
with reflecting the idea of Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE) movement.
• About Green Credit Program-
It is an innovative market-based mechanism designed to incentivize voluntary
environmental actions across diverse sectors, by various stakeholders like individuals,
communities, private sector industries, and companies.
o Focus areas- Water conservation & afforestation
• About Ecomark Scheme-
It provides accreditation and labelling for household and consumer products that meet
specific environmental criteria while maintaining quality standards as per Indian norms.
The scheme seeks to ensure accurate labelling and prevent misleading information about
products.
o Administration- Central Pollution Control Board administers the Ecomark Scheme
in partnership with Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS)
Source: PIB
45. National Skill Development Corporation has announced partnership with Coca-Cola India
to launch the Super Power Retailer Program as part of Skill India Mission.
pg. 19
[Type here]
• Objective- To empower the retailer community in states of Odisha and Uttar Pradesh.
• About Super Power Retailer Program-
o It empowers retailers by enhancing their skills in the modern retail sector and offering
training to small and micro retailers to understand consumer behaviour and
preferences including
o Customer management
o Inventory and stock management
o Financial Management
o The program is already being run on pilot basis in Odisha.
Knowledge Nuggets
About NSDC-
• National Skill Development Corporation is a not-for-profit public limited company.
• NSDC aims to promote skill development by catalyzing creation of large, quality and for-
profit vocational institutions.
• CEO- Ved Mani Tiwari
Source: NSDC
46. President of Tanzania Samia Suluhu Hassan arrived in New Delhi on a four-day State visit
to India
47. India and Sri Lanka have restarted ferry service after 40 years.
• Route-
o Nagapattinam in Tamil Nadu to Kankesanthurai in Jaffna, Northern Sri Lanka
• Objective-
o To boost bilateral ties, increase tourism and enhance people-to-people relations
• Name of vessel- Cheriyapani
48. Union Power and New & Renewable Energy Minister has launched dashboard for Data on
Adoption and Forecast of Electric Vehicles in New Delhi.
pg. 20
[Type here]
• About Dashboard-
• The dashboard is a free digital platform focussed on near real-time Electric Vehicle
adoption and forecasts, associated battery demand, charging density, and market growth
trends.
• Objective- To facilitate greater inclusion across audiences, for the industry, policymakers
and end users of electric vehicles.
o Name of dashboard- EV Ready India Dashboard
o Website- evreadyindia.org
o Developed by- OMI Foundation
• Forecast- 45.5% Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) in electric vehicles between
calendar year (CY) 2022 and CY 2030, increasing from annual sales of 6,90,550 electric
two-wheelers (E2Ws) in 2022 to 1,39,36,691 E2Ws in 2030.
Source: PIB
49. 9th G20 Parliamentary Speaker’s Summit has been hosted by Parliament of India at
Yashobhoomi, New Delhi.
• About 9th G20-
o Theme- Parliaments for One Earth, One Family, One Future
o The 9th P20 Summit will be hosted by Parliament of India in cooperation with International
Parliamentary Union.
o The Summit will host four high-level sessions on-
o Accelerating SDGs;
o Sustainable Energy Transition;
o Women led Development; and
o Transformation in Peoples’ Lives through Public Digital Platforms.
Knowledge Nuggets
About International Parliamentary Union-

• The Inter-Parliamentary Union is an international organization of national parliaments.
• Its primary purpose is to promote democratic governance, accountability, and cooperation
among its members.
• President- Duarte Pacheo
pg. 21
[Type here]
Source: IPU
50. World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH) has approved India’s self- declaration of
freedom from bird flu in specific poultry compartments in Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Uttar
Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh.
• Important Points-
o Bird flu is also known as Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI).
o The approval provides new opportunities for Indian poultry in global market.
o The recognition by WOAH signifies India’s commitment to International Biosecurity
standards.
o India is currently the 3rd largest producer of eggs and 5th largest producer of poultry
meat in the world.
Knowledge Nuggets
About World Organization for Animal Health

It is an intergovernmental organisation, which focuses on transparently disseminating
information on animal diseases, improving animal health globally and thus build a safer,
healthier and more sustainable world.
Headquarters- Paris, France
Established- 1924
Director- General- Dr Monique Eloit
Members- 183
Source: TOI, woah.org
51. Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has launched NCERT’s web portal ‘Apna
Chandrayaan’ for students.
• He also released 10 special modules on Chandrayaan-3 for school students.
• About Portal-
o The web portal offers various activities such as quizzes, puzzles, colouring books,
online interactive quizzes, jigsaw puzzles, and graphic novels related to
Chandrayaan 3 for different stages of schooling, along with digital certificates and
rewards for top performers.
• Objective-
pg. 22
[Type here]
o The portal aims to develop critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and

interdisciplinary learning, aligning with the vision of the National Education Policy
2020 (NEP 2020) and promoting India as a Vishwa Guru (global leader).
Knowledge Nuggets
About National Council of Education Research and Training (NCERT)

Source: PIB
52. Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has approved the country’s first ever indigenously
developed AC and DC Combined Charging connector standard for light electric vehicles
(LEVs), IS17017 (Part 2 / Sec 7): 2023.
• About standards-
o This standard has been developed through a collaborative effort of NITI Aayog,
Department of Science and Technology, ARAI, EV makers, and the Bureau of Indian
Standards.
o The national standard for LEV charging connectors addresses the unique
requirements of 2-wheelers, 3-wheelers, and microcars, filling a significant gap in the
market.
o It allows for an interoperable network for both fast and slow charging, which reduces
the need for customers to carry bulky chargers.
o The development of the indigenous technology is a significant achievement for making
India, a global leader in the EV-automobile sector.
o The initiative aligns with the 'Make in India' policy.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Bureau of Indian Standards-

Headquarters- New Delhi
Established- 1987
Director General- Pramod Kumar Tiwari
53. Ministry of Civil Aviation has amended the Aircraft Rules, 1937 to increase the validity of
Air Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL) and Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) from 5 years to 10
years.
pg. 23
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• Objectives-
o To improve the ease of doing business in aviation sector.
o To reduce administrative burden on pilots and aviation authorities like DGCA.
o To promote a more streamlined and efficient licensing process.
54. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has unveiled Mahatma Gandhi’s bust in Ho Chi
Minh City, Vietnam.
• The event highlights Mahatma Gandhi’s global recognition for his principles of truth and
non-violence.
55. Institute of Chartered Accountant of India (ICAI) has received ISAR Honours 2023 by
United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) for its initiative
Sustainability Reporting Standards Board (SRSB).
• The award is given by UNCTAD’s working group on International Standards for
Accounting and Reporting.
• The ICAI sustainability initiatives received the highest score amongst 70 initiatives received
from around the world.
• UNCTAD has announced the winners of the sixth edition of ISAR Honours during the 8th
World Investment Forum in Abu Dhabi.
56. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has inaugurated the first leg of the Regional Rapid Transit
System (RRTS) connecting Delhi and Meerut in Uttar Pradesh.
• What is RRTS?
o It is India’s first mass rapid system dedicated to regional connectivity.
o It is capable of running at speeds up to 180 km/hour.
o It is developed by the National Capital Region Planning Board (NCRPB) under its
“Functional Plan on Transport for NCR-2032”.
• Objective-
o To ensure balanced and sustainable urban development through better connectivity
and access across the National Capital Region (NCR)
pg. 24
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57. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that India should aim to set up Bhartiya Antriksha
Station (Indian Space Station) by 2035 and sending first Indian to moon by 2040.
• PM chaired a high-level meeting to assess the progress of India’s Gaganyaan Mission and
India’s space exploration program.
• India’s space exploration program include-
o Chandrayaan Mission,
o Development of Next Generation Launch Vehicle,
o Construction of new launch pad,
o Setting up human-centric Laboratories and
o Associated technologies
Knowledge Nuggets
About Gaganyaan mission-
pg. 25
[Type here]
o Gaganyaan mission consists of a demonstration of human spaceflight capability by

launching a crew of 3 members to an orbit of 400 km for a 3-day mission and bringing
them back safely to earth, by landing in Indian sea water.
Source: TOI
58. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has unveiled ‘Amrit Kaal Vision 2047’, the long-term
blueprint for Indian maritime blue economy during Global India Maritime Summit 2023.
• Key Objectives-
o enhancing port facilities,
o promoting sustainable practices,
o and facilitating international collaboration
• Vision 2047 initiatives-
o Next Generation Mega Port,
o International Container Trans-shipment port,
o island development,
o inland waterways, and
o multi-modal hubs
• Benefits of Vision 2047 initiatives-
o reduction in cost of doing business and
o environmental degradation
Knowledge Nuggets
Government vision related to Maritime Blue Economy
• Ports for Prosperity
• Ports for Progress
• Ports for Productivity

Source: The Hindu
59. Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare has released the 2nd Advance Estimates of
the area and production of various horticultural crops for the year 2022-23.
o Total horticulture production in the year 2022-23 is estimated to be 351.92 million
tonnes, an increase of about 4.74 million tonnes (1.37%) as compared to the year
2021-22 (final).
pg. 26
[Type here]
o Fruit production is estimated to be 108.34 million tonnes in the year 2022-23 as

compared to 107.51 million tonnes in the year 2021-22.
o The production of vegetables is estimated to be 212.91 million tonnes in the year
2022-23 compared to 209.14 million tonnes in the year 2021-22.
o Production of plantation crops is estimated to increase from 15.76 million tonnes in
2021-22 to 16.05 million tonnes in 2022-23, which is an increase of about 1.78%.
o Potato production is expected to be 60.54 million tonnes, compared to 56.18 million
tonnes in the year 2021-22.
Total Horticulture 2021-22 2022-23 2022-23
(Final) (First Adv. Est.) (Second Adv. Est.)
Area (in million hectares) 28.04 28.28 28.12
Production (in million tonnes) 347.18 350.87 351.92
Source: PIB
60. International Centre for Automotive Technology (ICAT) under the Ministry of Heavy
Industries has announced “THE ADAS SHOW 2023” event.
• About THE ADAS SHOW 2023
o The event will take place on the 7 December, 2023 at the ICAT Track in Manesar,
Gurugram.
o It is a significant event in the automotive industry, focusing on Advanced Driver
Assistance Systems (ADAS) and their impact on safety, convenience, and the overall
driving experience.
• Objective-
o To bring together experts, enthusiasts, and industry professionals to showcase and
discuss the latest advancements and innovations in ADAS technology.
Source: PIB
61. The Union Cabinet has approved to release an additional instalment of Dearness
Allowance (DA) to Central Government employees and Dearness Relief (DR) to
pensioners.
• It represents an increase of 4% over the existing rate of 42% of the Basic Pay/Pension,
to compensate against price rise.
• This increase is in accordance with the accepted formula, which is based on the
recommendations of the 7th Central Pay Commission.
pg. 27
[Type here]
• The increase is effective from 1 July, 2023.

Source: PIB
62. Ministry of Home Affairs has granted FCRA license to the Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Teerth
Kshetra to receive contributions from foreign sources for the construction of Ram temple
in Ayodhya.
• The contributions can be deposited to a designated bank account of the trust in the SBI's
main branch located in Delhi.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Foreign Contribution (regulation) Act, 2010

• It is an act to regulate the acceptance and utilisation of foreign contribution or foreign
hospitality by certain individuals or associations or companies and
• to prohibit acceptance and utilisation of foreign contribution or foreign hospitality for any
activities detrimental to the national interest and for matters connected therewith or
incidental thereto.
63. India's contribution to global economic growth is expected to increase by 2% points in the
next 5 years due to the projected faster growth of the Indian economy as per IMF.
o Currently, India contributes 16% to global growth, while the rest is contributed by
China.
o This 16% contribution is expected to increase to 18% in the next five years.
o The Asia Pacific region is expected to grow by 4.6% in 2023 and 4.2% in 2024,
making it a significant contributor to global growth.
o India's growth remains strong, with a projected growth rate of 6.3% for FY2023-24,
supported by government capital expenditure and private sector investment, as well
as continued consumption growth despite weakening external demand.
Source: The Hindu
64. Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has launched Operation Chakra-II to fight against
transnational organised cyber-enabled financial crimes in India.
pg. 28
[Type here]
• CBI has partnered with Microsoft, Amazon and other international agencies to combat
and breakdown of illegal call centres.
Source: TOI
65. Government has launched Ghar-Ghar KCC Abhiyan scheme to cover all fish farmers with
Kisan Credit Card.
• Objectives-
o To achieve universal financial inclusion and
o To ensure that every farmer has unhindered access to credit facilities that drive their
agricultural pursuits
• Benefits-
o The campaign will play an important role in reaching out to non-KCC account holder
PM KISAN beneficiaries and
o It will encourage the saturation of KCC accounts among eligible PM Kisan
beneficiary farmers.
• Implementing Agency- NABARD
Knowledge Nuggets
About Kisan Credit Card-

• The Kisan Credit Card scheme is a credit scheme by Indian public sector banks to issue
kisan credit card to the farmers of India.
• This model scheme was prepared by the NABARD on the recommendations of the R. V.
Gupta Committee to provide advances for agricultural needs.
• Total number of operative KCC Accounts as on March 2023 are 7.35 Crores with total
sanctioned limit of Rs. 8.85 lakh crores
• Launched- 1998
• Objective- to meet the comprehensive credit requirements of the agriculture sector
Source: ET , PIB
66. Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY) has launched Indigenous
Portable DC charger to boost electric vehicle adoption.
• About Portable DC charger-
o 2KW DC Portable Charger is developed by Centre of Excellence at IIT Madras
Research Park.
pg. 29
[Type here]
o These chargers have an efficiency more than 95% and they can function at a maximum
operating ambient of 50 Degree Celsius.
o The chargers are designed to meet safety Standard IEC 60950-11.
• Benefit-
o It will reduce the current dependence on imported charging solutions
Source: PIB
67. United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) awarded Dhordo village in
Gujarat’s Kutch district with the prestigious ‘Best Tourism Village’ title.
• The award is given for Dhordo’s outstanding contribution to sustainable tourism, cultural
preservation, and rural development.
• About Dhordo-
Dhordo is renowned for hosting the annual Rann Utsav which is a vibrant cultural festival
that showcases the region’s traditional arts, music, and crafts.
Knowledge Nuggets
About UNWTO-
• The United Nations World Tourism Organization is a specialized agency of the United
Nations which promotes responsible, sustainable and universally accessible tourism.
• Headquarters- Madrid, Spain
• Secretary-General- Zurab Pololikashvili
Source: TOI
68. Kerala’s Kasargod district has become 1st district in India to declare official tree, flower,
bird and turtle as district species.
Key declarations-
• District tree- Kanjiram (Strychnos nux-vomica)
• District flower- Periya Polathali (Malabar River lily)
• District Bird- Vellavayaran Kadal Paranthu (White-bellied Sea eagle)
• District creature- Palappoovan Amma (Cantor’s Giant Softshell Turtle)
pg. 30
[Type here]
69. Sir Jamsetjee Jeejeebhoy (JJ) School of Art has been declared a de novo Deemed
University.
• About JJ School of Art-
o The Sir Jamsetjee Jeejeebhoy School of Art is the oldest art institution in Mumbai,
India, and is affiliated with the University of Mumbai.
o The school grants bachelor's degrees in fine art and sculpture, and Master's degrees
in fine art.
o Established- 1857
Knowledge Nuggets
What is de novo Deemed University status?

• The de novo category is awarded to institutions devoted to innovations in teaching and
research in unique and emerging areas of knowledge.
Source: PIB
70. Indian Textile Industry’s Export Promotion Councils (EPCs) will organize world’s largest
textiles event ‘Bharat Tex 2024’ from February 26 to February 29, 2024 in New Delhi.
• Objective-
o To position India as a global sourcing destination in textile industry.
• Key features-
o It will feature over 1000 exhibitors and more than 30000 visitors from 40 countries.
o It will showcase India’s cultural heritage, traditional practices and innovations in
technology.
o It represents India’s 5F vision which includes- Farm to Fibre to Factory to Fashion
to Foreign
• Venue- Bharat Mandapam & Yashobhoomi in New Delhi
Source: ET
71. Union minister Amit Shah has inaugurated IFFCO’s Nano DAP (diammonium phosphate
Liquid) manufacturing plant at Kalol in Gandhinagar in Gujarat.
• Key point-
o Nano urea and nano DAP will help farmers to shift to natural farming without
compromising on output.
• Benefits of Nano DAP-
pg. 31
[Type here]
o Being liquid, the nano DAP will minimally contaminate the land
o Farmers can increase the number of earthworms in their land
o Farmers can move towards natural farming without reducing production and income.
Source: TOI
72. Pradhan Mantri Anusuchit Jaati Abhuyday Yojana (PM- AJAY) has been launched.
• PM-AJAY is a merged scheme comprising three centrally sponsored schemes:
o Pradhan Mantri Adarsh Gram Yojana (PMAGY),
o Special Central Assistance to Scheduled Castes Sub Plan (SCA to SCSP), and
o Babu Jagjivan Ram Chhatrawas Yojana (BJRCY)
• Objective-
o To reduce poverty among Scheduled Caste (SC) communities by generating
additional employment opportunities
o To improve socio-economic developmental indicators by ensuring adequate
infrastructure and requisite services in SC-dominated villages.
• Components of the Scheme:
o Development of SC Dominated Villages: Aiming to transform these villages into
"Adarsh Grams" by ensuring integrated development and providing necessary
infrastructure for socio-economic development.
o Grants-in-Aid for District/State-level Projects: These projects focus on the
socio-economic betterment of SCs, including comprehensive livelihood projects,
skill development, infrastructure development, and funding for assets acquisition
for livelihood generation.
o Construction of Hostels: Construction of hostels in higher educational institutions
and schools, with funding from the Centre/State/UT Governments.
• Special Provisions:
o Focus on SC Women: Up to 15% of the total grants are dedicated to viable
income-generating economic development schemes/programs for SC women.
o Infrastructure Development: Up to 30% of the total grants are allocated for
infrastructure development.
o Skill Development: At least 10% of the total funds are dedicated to skill
development initiatives.
pg. 32
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o Promotion of SC Women Cooperatives: The scheme promotes SC women

cooperatives engaged in the production and marketing of consumer goods and
services, facilitating their socio-economic empowerment.
Source: PIB
73. Union Home Minister has launched the logo, website and brochure of National
Cooperative for Export Limited (NCEL).
About NCEL-
• The National Cooperative for Exports Limited is the newly established umbrella
organisation for cooperative sector exports.
• Registered under- Multi-State Co-operative Societies Act, 2002 on
• Established- 25th January, 2023
Activities covered-
• It covers agriculture and allied activities as well as handloom and handicrafts items by
enrolling a large number of co-operatives under its fold
• Target to double its revenue by 2025 from the current level of about Rs 2,160 crore.
Source: PIB
74. All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA) has celebrated its 6th foundation day on 20th October
in New Delhi.
• Key events-
• The late Padma Vibhushan Vaidya Bṛihaspati Dev Triguna's statue was unveiled by Union
Minister of Ayush Shri Sarbananda Sonowal.
• Six MoUs have been signed between AIIA and different well-known institutions like
Hindustan Salt, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and Heartfulness Institute.
• Institute has got a new -
o molecular biology lab for advance research
o manuscript Unit and
o Center of Excellance Dakshya
Knowledge Nuggets
pg. 33
[Type here]
About All India Institute of Ayurveda-

• AIIA was established for the promotion and advancement of the knowledge and practice
of Ayurveda, an ancient Indian system of medicine.
• Over the past six years, the institution has made tremendous strides in this field,
becoming a hub for Ayurvedic education and research not only in India but on global
scale.
• Established- 17th Oct, 2017
Source: PIB
75. Union Cabinet has approved ₹22,303 crore nutrient-based fertilizer subsidy for 2023-24
Rabi season.
• The government will provide subsidies at the rate of-
Nutrient Subsidy/ kg
Nitrogen ₹ 47.02
Phosphorus ₹ 20.82
Potash ₹ 2.83
Sulphur ₹ 1.89
76. Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh has inaugurated Pre-Retirement counselling workshop
for central government employees, conferred ANUBHAV AWARDS 2023 and launched
Integrated Pensioners Portal.
• Pre-Retirement Counselling (PRC) Workshop
o Objective- To improve the ease of living for pensioners by preparing them for a
smooth transition into retirement.
o Equips employees with relevant details on financial aspects and post-retirement
formalities.
o Provides insights into the procedure for obtaining retirement benefits.
• Anubhav Portal-
o The portal provides an online system for the retiring/retired employees to submit and
showcase their commendable work done;
o to share their experiences of working in the Government and to give suggestions for
improvement in governance.
pg. 34
[Type here]
o Participation-
o 96 Ministries/ Departments/ Organizations have registered on Anubhav Portal of
this Department
o more than 10000 write-ups have been published so far
• Anubhav Awards Details-
o 4 Anubhav Awards and 9 Jury Certificates to be conferred
o Awardees from 8 different Ministries/Departments/Organizations
o Cash prize of Rs. 10,000/- along with a Medal and Certificate for Anubhav Awardees
• Integrated Pensioners’ Portal-
o Integration of various portals for the ease of pensioners
o Pension Disbursing Bank portals, ANUBHAV, CPENGRAMS, CGHS integrated
Source: PIB
77. PM Narendra Modi has chaired the 43rd edition of the PRAGATI.
• About PRAGATI-
o It is an ICT-based multi-modal platform for Pro-Active Governance and Timely
Implementation involving both Centre and State governments.
• Projects reviewed-
o Eight projects were reviewed, with a focus on water supply, irrigation, national
highways, connectivity, and rail and metro rail connectivity.
o Projects are spread across 7 states: Bihar, Jharkhand, Haryana, Odisha, West
Bengal, Gujarat, and Maharashtra, with a cumulative cost of approximately Rs.
31,000 Crore.
Source: PIB
78. Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has recommended the inclusion of
QR code on food products to help visually impaired individuals.
• Objective-
o It will ensure access to safe food for all including individuals with special needs such
as visually Impaired individuals.
Knowledge Nuggets
About FSSAI-
pg. 35
[Type here]
• Food Safety and Standards Authority of India is a statutory body established under the
Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India.
• It is established under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006
• Chairperson- Sudhansh Pant
Source: The Hindu
79. One Nation, One Election website has been launched during High Level Committee’s
second meeting.
• High level committee was constituted by the Government under chairmanship of former
President of India, Ram Nath Kovind.
• Objective-
o To examine the issue of holding simultaneous elections in the country and make
recommendations.
• About Website-
o Website- www.onoe.gov.in
o It is a repository of all relevant information on one nation, one election.
o It will also provide a platform for interaction and receiving suggestions from all
stakeholders
Source: ET
80. Competition Commission of India has become a part of the prestigious 18-member
steering committee of the International Competition Network (ICN)
• About ICN-
o It provides an informal specialized venue to antitrust authorities for maintaining
regular contacts and addressing practical competition concerns
o It is only global body dedicated exclusively to competition law enforcement
o Members- 140 national and multinational competition authorities
Knowledge Nuggets
Competition Commission of India-

pg. 36
[Type here]
• It is responsible for enforcing the Competition Act, 2002 to promote competition and
prevent activities that have an appreciable adverse effect on competition in India.
• Chairperson- Ravneet Kaur
Source: ET
81. 54th International Film Festival of India has announced Indian Panorama lineup to be
showcased in the event.
• Event Details:
o The 54th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) is scheduled to be held in Goa
from 20th to 28th November 2023.
• Film categories-
o The Indian Panorama comprises two categories: 25 feature films and 20 non-
feature films.
• Selection Criteria-
o Films are selected which demonstrate cinematic, thematic, and aesthetic excellence,
in adherence to the guidelines set forth by the Indian Panorama.
Source: PIB
82. NCERT panel has approved the proposal to replace India with Bharat in textbooks.
• Other recommendations-
o Replacing ‘ancient history’ with ‘classical history’.
o Include Indian Knowledge System (IKS) in syllabus for all subjects.
Knowledge Nuggets
About NCERT-
• National Council of Educational Research and Training is an autonomous organisation of
the Government of India.
• Objective- to assist and advise the Central and State Governments on policies and
programmes for qualitative improvement in school education.
Source: TOI
pg. 37
[Type here]
83. Regional Connectivity Service (RCS)- UDAN (Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik) has completed 6
years.
• About UDAN-
• It is an initiative to improve infrastructure and connectivity in remote and underserved
regions.
• It is an important component of India's National Civil Aviation Policy (NCAP) 2016.
• Launched by- Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA)
• Launch Date- October 21, 2016
• Vision- 10-year vision
Source: PIB
84. Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) has launched India’s first specialised reference petrol and
diesel.
• About reference petrol and diesel-
o These fuels have higher specifications.
o They are used for calibrating and testing automobiles by manufacturers and testing
agencies.
Knowledge Nuggets
About IOC-
• Indian Oil Corporation Limited is an Indian multinational oil and gas company under the
ownership of the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Government of India.
• It has been granted a Maharatna status.
• Chairperson- Shrikant Madhav Vaidya
Source: ET
85. Ministry of Coal and Ministry of New & Renewable Energy have decided to work together
for the promotion of Green Energy.
• Initiatives under the partnership-
• Net Zero Plan and Solar Energy Capacity:
pg. 38
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o Over 1600 MW of solar energy generation capacity already installed and another
500 MW at various stages of development.
• Utilization of Surplus Land:
o The surplus land from de-coaled coal companies, including open cast mines with
naturally available water storage reservoirs and sufficient elevation, will be
repurposed for green hydrogen projects.
• Capacity Building and Knowledge Partnerships:
o The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy will support the capacity building of
engineers, technicians, and other personnel through the National Institute of Solar
Energy (NISE)
• Future Generation Capacity and Land Identification:
o CPSEs under the Ministry of Coal aim to create a generation capacity of about
12GW by 2030 and are in the process of identifying suitable land patches of more
than 300 acres each to offer to private investors for setting up green hydrogen
projects in alignment with the policies of the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy.
Source: PIB
86. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has released 3 books at Tulsi Peeth in Chitrakoot, Madhya
Pradesh.
• Books Released-
o Ashtadhyayi Bhashya
o Ramanandacharya Charitram
o Bhagwan Shri Krishna ki Rashtraleela
Source: ANI
87. PM Narendra Modi will kickstart Nationwide Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra to promote
awareness about welfare schemes on the birth anniversary of Birsa Munda on November 15.
• Objective:
o To create awareness and ensure Jan Bhagidari in developmental and welfare
schemes to achieve India's goal of becoming a developed country by 2047.
• Key features of campaign-
• Coverage:
o All gram panchayats and over three thousand 700 Urban Local Bodies, covering
around 14 thousand locations in urban areas.
pg. 39
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• Key Schemes to be Showcased:

o Jal Jeevan Mission, Ayushman Bharat Yojana, Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna
Yojana, Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana, Jan Dhan Yojana, PM Awas Yojana, PM
PRANAM Yojana, and Urea Subsidy Scheme among others.
• On-the-Spot Services:
o Health camps, Aadhaar enrolment, MY BHARAT volunteer enrolment, and Krishi
activities like drone demonstrations and interaction with progressive farmers on soil
health cards and natural farming.
Source: AIR
88. Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri has inaugurated 16th Urban Mobility India Conference
& Exhibition 2023 in New Delhi.
• The event was organized by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs and Delhi Metro Rail
Corporation Ltd.
• Awards for ‘Excellence/best practice projects in Urban Transport’ is distributed.
• Theme- Integrated and Resilient Urban Transport
Source: PIB
89. Central Government has launched Dark Pattern Hackathon 2023 to combat deceptive
practices in E-Commerce.
• Objective-
o To provide protection to consumers from all types of unfair trade practices.
• Collaboration-
o Department of Consumer Affairs, Government of India in collaboration with IIT BHU
• Solution will be provided on -
o Browser extension, plugins, add-ons, mobile application etc.
Source: PIB
90. Union Government has appointed Boston Consulting Group (BCG) to help prepare a
Vision 2047 document.
• About Vision 2047 document-
o The document will set India’s medium-term goals and priorities for becoming a
developed economy in the next quarter of a century.
pg. 40
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Knowledge Nuggets
About BCG-
• Boston Consulting Group, Inc. is an American global management consulting firm.

• Headquarters- Boston, Massachusetts, US
• CEO- Christoph Schweizer
Source: livemint
91. REC Power Development and Consultancy Limited (RECPDCL) has handed over the
project specific Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) to Power Grid Corporation of India Limited.
• SPV is formed for the construction of ‘Ramgarh II Transmission Limited’
• SPV involves the implementation of a 765/400kV & 2x500 MVA 400/220 kV pooling station
at Ramgarh along with 765kV D/c line (Ramgarh PS to Bhadla-3 PS) in the state of
Rajasthan.
Knowledge Nuggets
What is Special Purpose Vehicle-

• A special purpose vehicle, also called a special purpose entity (SPE), is a subsidiary
created by a parent company to isolate financial risk.
• Its legal status as a separate company makes its obligations secure even if the parent
company goes bankrupt.
About REC Limited-

• It is a Maharatna Central Public Sector Enterprise under the Ministry of Power, is an
NBFC focusing on Power Sector Financing and Development across India.
• Chairman & MD- Vivek Kumar Dewangan
Power Grid Corporation of India Limited-
pg. 41
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• Power Grid Corporation of India Limited (POWERGRID), a Schedule ‘A’ ‘Maharatna’

Public Sector Enterprise under the Ministry of Power.
• Chairman & MD- K. Shreekant
Source: PIB, REC,
92. Ericsson has announced to set up a 6G Research and Development centre in Chennai,
Tamil Nadu.
• Objective-
• To develop the technology which will help to deliver a cyber-physical continuum where
networks will deliver-
o critical services
o immersive communications
o omnipresent IoT
• To ensure the integrity of the delivered information.
93. Norway will support India’s Hunger Project in Uttarakhand.

• Objective-
o To help strengthen women leaders to protect the environment and promote food
security in Uttarakhand.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Hunger project-

• The hunger project organizes capacity-building training for elected women
representatives (EWRs) and federations.
• It focuses on strengthening van panchayats (forest councils) which in turn will ensure
food security and livelihood opportunities for marginalized households.
• The programme will strengthen elected women’s leadership in gram panchayats so that
they can play an important role in conserving forests and natural resources.
• Project Implementation- Implemented in-
3 districts, 9 blocks, 172-gram panchayats and 145 van panchayats of Uttarakhand
Source: livemint
pg. 42
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STATE NEWS
1. Noida's upcoming Jewar airport has been assigned the three-letter code 'DXN' by the
International Air Transport Association (IATA), signifying its proximity to Noida, Delhi, and
western Uttar Pradesh.
• This code, given by IATA, aids in the easy identification of airports worldwide. The 'DXN'
code will help travellers and aviation professionals identify the airport accurately.
• Noida Airport will be India's largest airport being developed in four phases across 5,000
hectares.
• The airport is being constructed by Yamuna International Airport Private Limited, a
subsidiary of Swiss company Zurich Airport International AG.
Source: ET
2. Arunachal Pradesh has signed an MoU with the Norwegian Geotechnical Institute (NGI) to
explore the feasibility of harnessing geothermal potential in the state's hot springs.
• The Centre for Earth Sciences & Himalayan Studies (an autonomous organization of
Department of Science & Technology), Government of Arunachal Pradesh, has been
partnering with NGI for this MOU.
Source: ET
3. Chhattisgarh CM Bhupesh Baghel unveiled development works worth Rs 1021.59 crore for
Raipur.
• An Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) based e-detection system will be
established to enforce fines for vehicles without fitness and tax documents automatically.
• A Nirbhaya command center and GPS-based vehicle tracking software for women's
safety will be established to enhance safety measures using panic buttons installed in
passenger buses and school buses.
Source: TOI
4. Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha launched an e-cabinet system at Agartala to promote
digital infrastructure development and digitisation of government services and information.
• Tripura has become the fourth state—and second in the Northeast—after Uttarakhand,
Uttar Pradesh and Arunachal Pradesh, to have introduced an e-cabinet system.
pg. 43
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• The e-cabinet system is expected to eliminate delays caused by the physical movement of
paper documents and to infuse dynamism in the government’s decision-making process.
• The government had earlier introduced e-file and office systems in keeping with the
Digital India campaign.
• Implementation Agency - National Informatics Centre
Source: IE
5. Jammu & Kashmir has declared all its 6650 villages in 20 districts as ODF Plus Model
during the 'Swachhata Hi Seva' Campaign.
• When a village achieves a condition where it is visually clean with minimal litter and
stagnant water, apart from solid and liquid waste management (SLWM) and adequate
cleanliness awareness generation activities, it is declared as ODF plus Model.
• India's highest gallantry awardee, the Param Var Chakra recipient Captain Bana Singh,
has been chosen as the ambassador for the "War Against Waste" initiative in Jammu &
Kashmir.
Efforts by J&K Administration -

• Plastic Waste Management Units (PWMU) are being established in each block.
• 'Swachhata Bulletin' has been launched to monitor and share daily updates on
Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) activities conducted by districts
Source: PIB
6. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has announced a cash reward of ₹25 lakh each for
nine space scientists hailing from Tamil Nadu, in recognition of their outstanding contributions
to the nation.
• Additionally, a scholarship programme for nine engineering students pursuing
graduation with financial assistance from the government was launched.
• These scholarships will be named after the nine scientists.
• It will be given to government school students under the state’s 7.5% reservation for them.
• A corpus of ₹10 crore is set aside for the scholarship program.
• Nine Scientists -
o Former Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) chairperson K. Sivan
o Former Director of ISRO’s Satellite Centre Mylswamy Annadurai;
o Director of ISRO’s Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre V. Narayanan;
pg. 44
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o ISRO’s Launch Authorisation Board chief A. Rajarajan;

o Director of U.R. Rao Satellite Centre M. Sankaran;
o ISRO’s Propulsion Complex Director J. Asir Packiaraj;
o Project Director of the Chandrayaan-2 lunar mission V. Vanitha;
o Project Director of the Aditya-L1 mission Nigar Shaji; and
o Chandrayaan-3 Project Director P. Veeramuthuvel
Source: The Hindu
7. Assam is promoting pipe composting as an effective method for managing biodegradable

waste at the household level during the Swachhata Hi Seva campaign.
• Pipe composting technology is a method of converting organic waste into compost using
PVC pipes 8 - 10 inches in diameter and 1.25 metres in length. The pipes are placed
vertically keeping them 25-30 cm inside the ground.
• Some of the benefits of pipe composting are -
o it converts biodegradable waste into manure within a short time without harming the
environment;
o it helps maintain a clean and hygienic environment on the school campus;
o it is odourless and fly-proof; and
o it is space efficient
Source: PIB
8. Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami announces Rs 12,500 crore foreign investment

agreement in the UK.
pg. 45
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• Total investment proposals received: Rs 20,000 crore

• During the visit, roadshows were held in London and Birmingham to attract investments.
• In December, Uttarakhand will organize the Global Investor Summit on the theme of
“Peace to Prosperity”.
Source: ET ANI
9. Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha launched the “Yuba Tripura, Natun Tripura,
Atmanirbhar Tripura" to encourage youth to set up industrial and business units in the state.
• Under the scheme, 100 youths from each district of the state would get opportunities to visit
the industrial estates and gather knowledge on various matters.
Source: ANI
10. India's first-ever Solar Roof Cycling Track has been inaugurated in Hyderabad.
• The 23-kilometre track will be known as Healthway.
• The track has been covered with a roof, made up of solar panels. This will ensure a better
experience for cyclists.
• This track is prepared with 16000 solar panels and is supposed to generate 16 MW of
power.
Source: The Hindu
11. PM Modi visited Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan.

Visit to Madhya Pradesh
• Development projects worth Rs 19,260 crore unveiled.
• Delhi-Vadodara Expressway inaugurated
• Grih Pravesh ceremony under PMAY-Gramin and Urban organized
• Foundation stone for 9 healthcare centres under Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure
Mission was laid
pg. 46
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• Atal Bihari Training Centre for Disability Sports (country's first high-tech sports training
centre for Divyangjan) was inaugurated at Gwalior in Madhya Pradesh.
Visit to Rajasthan
• Dedicated permanent campus of Indian Institute of Information Technology, Kota
Source: PIB IIIT DD News
12. Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma launched Mukhya Mantri Lok Sewak Arogya Yojana, an
online medical bill reimbursement scheme for government employees, pensioners, and their
dependents.
• Under this initiative, medical bills shall be reimbursed at rates equivalent to that of Central
Government Health Schemes (CGHS) and these shall be credited directly towards the
accounts of the claimant employees within a stipulated time frame.
• From October 2, 2024, treatments under the scheme at leading hospitals across the
country shall also be made cashless.
Source: ANI
13. Himachal Pradesh CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu formally launched the "Mukhyamantri
Sukh Ashraya Yojana" from the Ridge in Shimla.
• Purpose - to provide comprehensive support to orphans, specially abled children, destitute
women, and elderly individuals in the state
Source: TOI
14. Prime Minister inaugurated India’s first 800 MW Super Thermal Power Project in Peddapalli
district, Nizamabad, Telangana.
• Developer – NTPC
• Cost – ₹ 10,998 crore
• Location - premises of NTPC’s existing Ramagundam station in Peddapalli district
• Usage - It will supply 85% of its power to the state of Telangana.
• Second phase – to be operationalized very soon. Upon completion, the installed capacity of
the power plant would rise to 4,000 MW.
15. Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated several developmental projects worth over ₹13,500
crore in Telangana.
pg. 47
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• Major Projects -
o Nagpur - Vijayawada Economic Corridor
o Greenfield highway from Warangal to Khammam section
o Greenfield highway from Khammam to Vijayawada
o Four-lane of the 59 km Suryapet to Khammam section of NH-365BB, part of the
Hyderabad - Visakhapatnam Corridor, under the Bharatmala Pariyojana
Source: ET
16. Madhya Pradesh CM Shivraj Singh Chouhan inaugurated India's largest pumped storage
project, developed by Greenko Group (India’s largest energy storage company).
• The project is located in the Khemla block, Neemuch district, Madhya Pradesh.
• The total investment will be Rs 11,500 crore over the next 3 years.
Source: ET
17. The Department of Fisheries, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying, along with
other organizations, organized the Sagar Parikrama Phase-IX event in Tamil Nadu.
• The event included interactions with fishermen and fisherwomen, discussions on the use of
new technology in the fishery sector, and distribution of Kisan Credit Cards to beneficiaries.
• Shri Parshottam Rupala inaugurated a fish farmer producer cooperative society during
the event.
• The Sagar Parikrama initiative aims to disseminate information on fisheries-related
schemes, promote responsible fisheries, and ensure government subsidies reach
beneficiaries.
Source: LiveMint
18. The 49th All India Police Science Congress was organized by the Bureau of Police
Research and Development (BPR&D) in Dehradun.
Source: TOI
19. Rajasthan government announces three new districts namely, Malpura, Sujangarh, and
Kuchaman City.
• Now, the total number of districts in Rajasthan stands at 53.
Knowledge Nuggets
pg. 48
[Type here]
About Rajasthan-
• Capital- Jaipur
• Chief Minister- Ashok Gehlot
• Governor- Kalraj Mishra
Source: HT
20. Uttar Pradesh has declared Gangetic Dolphin as the state aquatic animal.
• The Gangetic Dolphins are found in rivers such as Ganga, Yamuna, Chambal, Ghaghra,
Rapti, and Gerua.
• Their population is estimated to be around 2,000 in Uttar Pradesh.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Gangetic Dolphin-
• Scientific name- Platanista gangetica gangetica
• IUCN Status- Endangered
Source: ANI
21. Eight products from Arunachal Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Jammu and Kashmir, Odisha and
Goa received GI Tag.
Arunachal Pradesh Yak Churpi
Khaw Tai (Khamti rice)
Tangsa Textile Product
Tamil Nadu Udangudi Panangkarupatti
pg. 49
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Jammu & Kashmir Basohli Pashmina Woolen Product

(Kathua district)
Udhampur Kaladi (Udhampur)
Odisha Kendrapara Rasabali (Food item)
Goa Goa Cashew
Knowledge Nuggets
About Geographical Indication (GI) tag-

• A geographical indication (GI) is a sign used on products that have a specific
geographical origin and possess qualities or a reputation that are due to that origin.
• Legislation- Products are registered under Geographical Indication of Goods
(Registration and Protection) Act,1999.
• Validity- 10 Years
Source: TOI NIE TOI NIE
22. Uttarakhand Chief Minister launched “Rozgar Prayag Portal” at Uttarakhand Youth
Mahotsav.
• Objective- To provide employment opportunities in state on a single portal.
• ‘Yuva Uttarakhand App’ is also launched to make schemes run by various departments
available at one place.
• An MoU was also signed between Skill Development and Employment Department and
IIT Roorkee to upskill the state manpower.
• IIT Roorkee and Microsoft have provided the technical support for the app.
23. Hyderabad's Old City is set to welcome a technology revolution with the construction of the
iTEK Nucleus IT tower at Malakpet, with a budget of Rs 700 crore.
• The project is a public-private partnership between the Telangana government and the
Finczars from Hyderabad, Varma Constructions from Mumbai, and YFC Projects from
Gurugram.
• The tower is expected to generate 50,000 job opportunities.
Source: ET
pg. 50
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24. Metro train trial runs in Bhopal and Indore have been successful, and the metros will become
operational by mid-2024.
Source: MP Rail
25. Delhi govt has established a ‘Green War Room’ at the Delhi secretariat to help the
government monitor air pollution.
Source: HT
26. Rajasthan has introduced the exclusive Valley Queen Heritage Train service, offering
passengers a nostalgic journey with a 150-year-old steam engine.
• The train features a 60-seat Vistadome AC coach and operates four days a week, with
tickets priced at INR 2,000 per person.
• The Valley Queen Heritage Train is the sixth of its kind in India, offering a scenic route
through lush green valleys, hills, rare flora, and fauna.
Source: ToI
27. Tamil Nadu government announced a new Samadhan Scheme for the settlement of the
pending tax dues under the erstwhile Tamil Nadu Value Added Tax and other legacy tax
legislations.
• The scheme has classified the tax dues under five broad categories —
o ₹50,000 and below,
o above ₹50,000 to ₹10 lakh,
o above ₹10 lakh to ₹1 crore,
o above ₹1 crore to ₹10 crore and
o above ₹10 crore.
• The new scheme offers a complete waiver of tax arrears, interest, and penalty if the
total tax arrears for an assessment year is below ₹50,000, and this is for every assessment
year.
• For the tax dues that fall in the category of ₹50,000-₹10 lakh, traders can just pay 20% of
the dues or by paying a portion of the tax, interest, and fine to settle the disputes once and
for all.
• In the other three categories, traders could pay the mentioned portion of the tax,
interest, and fine and move out.
pg. 51
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28. Chhattisgarh Baiga tribe gets habitat right under Forest Right Act, 2006.
• The habitat right is a provision meant for Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTG) of
the country.
• Total PVTG tribes - 75
Source: TOI
29. The Himachal Pradesh State Cabinet has approved Van Mitra scheme to strengthen the
involvement of local communities in protection, conservation and development of forest areas
by roping in grassroot level institutions.
Source: ANI
30. Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has launched Location Accessible Multi-modal
Initiative (LAccMI) scheme for establishing a seamless public transport network from
Gram Panchayat level to state capital.
31. United Kingdom and Tamil Nadu collaborated on smart technology project for sustainable
water, waste and resource management.
• It will be done under UK backed Smart district project.
• Objective-
o To address global sustainability challenges by developing sensors across the district,
gathering real-time data on water and waste management, and environment quality.
Source: The Hindu
32. Asian Development Bank has approved 181 million USD loan to build infra in
Ahmedabad’s peri-urban areas.
• Objective-
o To build quality infrastructure and services toward improving urban livability and
mobility in the peri-urban areas of Ahmedabad, Gujarat.
o To upgrade basic infrastructure and services and strengthen urban management in
these areas to raise the quality of life of its residents and sustain economic growth.
Knowledge Nuggets
pg. 52
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33. Kerala’s Vizhinjam port welcomes its first vessel Zhen Hua 15.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Vizhinjam port-

• It is India’s first deep-water container transshipment port.
• Location- Vizhinjam, near Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
34. Bhopal’s Mahila Thana has become country’s first women police station to get ISO
9001:2015 certification.
• Reason for certification- Improvement in infrastructure.
• Validity of certificate- 3 years.
Knowledge Nuggets
About ISO
• It is an international standard development organization composed of representatives
from the national standards organizations of member countries.
pg. 53
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• Members - 169 national standards bodies
About ISO 9001:2015-

• ISO 9001:2015 specifies requirements for a quality management system when an
organization:
o Needs to demonstrates its ability to consistently provide products and services that
meet customer and applicable statutory and regulatory requirements, and
o Aims to enhance customer satisfaction through the effective application of the
system.
Source: ANI
35. Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath has announced one free LPG Cylinder for Ujjwala
beneficiaries as Diwali Gift.
• The decision is expected to benefit 1.75 crore families in the state.
Knowledge Nuggets
About UJJWALA Scheme-

• It is a scheme of Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas for providing LPG
connections to women from Below Poverty Line household.
• Launched- 1st May 2016
Source: livemint
pg. 54
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36. Kati Bihu festival has been celebrated on October 18, 2023 in Assam to mark the time of
relocation of rice sapling.
• About Kati Bihu-
o It is also known as Kongali Bihu.
o It is celebrated by lightning the earthen lamps or candles in the house.
• There are three Bihu festivals celebrated in Assam which are connected with agriculture.
• Other two Bihu festivals are-
• Bhogali or Magh Bihu (observed in January)
• Rongali or Bohag Bihu (observed in April)
Source: TOI
37. Karnataka Chief Minister has launched a logo to mark the Golden Jubilee of Renaming
State.
• More Information-
• The launch of the logo marks the golden jubilee of the renaming of the Mysore State as
Karnataka on 1st November,1973
• Year-long program Karnataka Sambhrama involving youth, women and others will be
organised by various departments.
• Theme- Hesarayitu Karnataka, Usiragali Kannada
38. Arunachal Pradesh State Cabinet has approved the formation of Special Tiger Protection
Force (STPF) in the state for three Tiger Reserves.
• Three tiger reserves are-
o Namdapha,
o Pakke and
o Kamlang
• Objectives-
o Protection of Tigers and their habitats,
o Protection of wildlife habitats and
o Prevention of other illegal activities in these tiger reserves
Source: news on air
pg. 55
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39. President of India Droupadi Murmu has launched the fourth Krishi Road Map (2023-2038)
of Bihar in Patna.
Source: PIB
40. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has launched 511 Pramod Mahajan Grameen Kaushalya
Vikas Kendras across 34 rural districts in Maharashtra.
• Objective-
o To conduct skill development training programs across various sectors to provide
employment opportunities to rural youth.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Pramod Mahajan Grameen Kaushalya Vikas Kendras-

• Each Kendra will train about 100 youngsters in at least two vocational courses.
• The training will be provided by empanelled industry partners and agencies under the
National Skill Development Council.
• The establishment of these Kendras will help the region attain significant strides towards
developing a more competent and skilled manpower.
Source: PIB
41. The Andhra Pradesh School Education Department has launched a doubt clearance bot
(app) for government school students to offer a comprehensive educational experience.
• Objective-
o to clarify doubts beyond school hours in the disciplines of physics, chemistry, biology,
mathematics, English, and TOEFL preparation.
• Developed by- ConveGenius
Source: India Today
42. Indian Council of Medical Research has delivered medicines using drones across Himachal
Pradesh.
• The drone has successfully transported more than 100 units of essential medications over
20 kilometres.
• It also reduces the time from 120 minutes to 26 minutes.
• It is the first high-altitude, low-temperature venture of ICMR.
• Objective-
pg. 56
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o to streamline the distribution of essential medical provisions from regional hospitals

in Keylong to more than eight Primary Health Centres (PHCs) in the region.
Source: The Hindu
43. ‘Heartland Tripura’ project has been launched to enhance the employability and skills of the
youth of Tripura.
• About Heartland Tripura-
o Launched in partnership between Deloitte India and the National Institute of
Electronics and Information Technology (NIELIT).
• Objective-
o To deliver a specific set of skill development certification courses through NIELIT –
Agartala for the state
o To provide internship opportunities to select professionals, and
o To provide job opportunity upon successful completion of certification and internship
requirements.
Source: PIB
44. Rajasthan Government has launched ‘iStart Talent Connect Portal’ to boost employment
opportunities.
• The portal has been launched under the state government’s flagship initiative, iStart
Rajasthan, in collaboration with Jaipur-based startup Hyrefox.
• Objective-
o to serve as a user-friendly platform for both job providers and job seekers
Source: inc42
45. Uttar Pradesh Government has set up the Urban Road Infrastructure Development Agency
(URIDA) for infrastructure development in state.
• Functions of URIDA-
o To develop and mainstream roads in cities
o To develop an urban road management system
o To improve the financial condition of urban local bodies and
o To adopt new technologies in road infrastructure
Source: ANI
pg. 57
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46. Uttarakhand Chief Minister has launched Nandagaura Yojana portal for girls and portal for
monitoring Mahalaxmi Kit Yojana
• About Nandagaura Yojana Portal-
• It will be available to about 50,000 girls every year
• Girls will get-
o ₹11,000 on birth
o ₹51,000 on passing class 12th
• About Mahalaxmi Kit Scheme-
• Under this scheme necessary clothes and kit material will be given to lactating mothers and
newborn girl children.
Source: ET
47. Kerala government has set up a ₹237 Crore Graphene production facility in public-private
partnership.
• Objective-
o To build a Graphene ecosystem to encourage future material technologies
• About Graphene-
o Graphene is the thinnest and strongest material in the world ever known
o It has good chemical stability and high electrical conductivity
o It has a large surface area while being transparent and lightweight
• Implementing Agency-
o Kerala Digital University
Source: livemint
48. Shillong has hosted Green Tourism India Conclave for the promotion of responsible
tourism in Northeast.
• Objective-
o promotion of green and responsible tourism in India, with a particular emphasis on
the Northeastern region and Odisha.
• Participating entities-
o Meghalaya Tourism,
o Incredible India,
o Odisha Tourism and
o Arunachal Tourism
pg. 58
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49. Union Government has approved the inclusion of the Jamrani Dam Multipurpose Project
of Uttarakhand under the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana-Accelerated Irrigation
Benefit Programme (PMKSY-AIBP).
• About Jamrani Dam Multipurpose Project-
o Project includes the construction of a dam near Jamrani village across river Gola
o Dam will feed the existing Gola barrage through its 40.5 km length of canal system
and 244 km long canal system completed in 1981.
• Project cost- ₹2,584 crore.
Source: The Hindu
50. Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has launched ‘Swayampurna e-bazaar’ platform.
• Objective-
o To provide self-help groups and local artisans with global platform to sell their
products.
Source: TOI
51. Kerala has become the first state in India to have gold hallmarking centres in all districts.
• Objective-
o To make Kerala a hub of gold business and make it most reliable market in country
to buy gold ornaments.
• About Kerala Gold Business-
o Gold business in Kerala is worth more than ₹1 lakh crore with annual sales of around
250 tonnes.
o There are around 12,000 gold merchants in the State.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Hallmarking-
• Hallmarking is the accurate determination and official recording of the proportionate

content of precious metal in precious metal articles.
• It is used as a guarantee of purity or fineness of precious metal articles.
pg. 59
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• Mandatory hallmarking of gold jewellery/artefacts is done under Hallmarking of Gold

Jewellery and Gold Artefacts order, 2020
• It is administered by Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) Act, 2016.
52. 24th Hornbill festival 2023 will be celebrated in Nagaland from December 1.
• About Hornbill Festival-
o The Hornbill Festival is an annual festival celebrated from 1 to 10 of December in the
Northeastern Indian state of Nagaland.
o The festival represents all ethnic group of Nagaland for which it is also called
the Festival of Festivals.
Source: morung
53. Delhi Government has launched Jai Bhim Mukhyamantri Pratibha Vikas Yojana to provide
free coaching to medical, engineering and civil services.
• Objective-
o To provide quality coaching for economically disadvantaged Scheduled Castes (SCs)
candidates.
o To enable them to compete in competitive examinations and secure jobs in the public
or private sector.
• Courses Covered:
o Group A and B examinations by UPSC, SSC, RRBs, and Judicial Services
Examination.
o Group A and B examinations by State Public Service Commission.
o Officers’ Grade examinations by Banks, Insurance Companies, and PSUs.
o Premier Entrance Examinations for Engineering, Medical, Management, Law, and
other disciplines.
• Implementing Agencies:
o Reputed institutions/centres run by registered private institutions/NGOs.
Source: TOI
54. Karnataka has launched Hostile Activity Watch Kernel (HAWK) system to monitor all
aspect of forest and wildlife crime.
pg. 60
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• Launched by-
o Karnataka Forest Department and Wildlife Trust of India
• Supported by-
o Digital Services Company NTT Data
• What will the system do?
o It would help the department monitor such as the death of wildlife, suspected
criminal activities, and the movement of suspicious vehicles in real-time basis.
o Information will be fed into a centralised system so that effective and pre-emptive
responses, including counteraction, could be initiated.
Source: The Hindu
55. Indigenously built Air Traffic Management Automation System (ATMAS) has been
inaugurated at the Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneshwar, Odisha.
• What is ATMAS?
o It is an automation system which will provide information conflict prediction or Alert
warning and decision-making tools to Air Traffic Controllers.
• Developed by-
o Airport Authority of India (AAI) and Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL)
• Benefits-
o ATMAS will help to improve safety, efficiency, and capacity of air traffic management
in India.
o It will reduce the dependency on foreign system
Source: TOI
INTERNATIONAL NEWS
1. The extended 45th Session of the World Heritage Committee was held in Riyadh, Saudi
Arabia, from 10 to 25 September.
• During the session, 42 new sites (33 cultural, 9 natural) were added on the UNESCO
World Heritage List, bringing the total to 1199 (993 cultural, 227 natural, 39 mixed).
• The Committee decided to remove the site of the Tombs of the Buganda Kings in
Kasubi (Uganda) from the List of World Heritage in Danger, following the successful
restoration work carried out by Uganda with UNESCO’s support.
pg. 61
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• Ukraine’s sites in Kyiv and L’viv were added into the List of World Heritage in Danger.
• Sites from India included in the World Heritage Sites list -
o Sacred ensembles of Karnataka's Hoysala Temples (Hoysala Temples of Belur,
Halebid, and Somnathapura)
o Santiniketan, a town in West Bengal
• After addition, a total of 42 sites (34 cultural, 7 natural, and 1 mixed site) of India are
listed on the UNESCO’s list.
o The only Mixed (natural + cultural) site is Khangchendzonga National Park (2016)
in Sikkim.
Source: UNESCO TOI WHS
2. Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) launched its third military imaging satellite,
Nour 3.
• The satellite was launched from Iran's Shahroud Spaceport.
pg. 62
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Source: Al Jazeera
3. The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved significant capital management
reforms, resulting in an additional $100 billion in funding capacity over the next decade.
• These reforms are aimed at addressing multiple crises in the Asia-Pacific region, including
the climate crisis.
• ADB's annual new commitments capacity will expand to over $36 billion, an increase of
about 40%.
• This expanded funding will be used to provide support for various critical development
initiatives and climate change mitigation efforts.
Source: ADB
4. Indonesia has launched Southeast Asia's first high-speed railway, which is funded by
China.
• This project was inaugurated by Indonesian President Joko Widodo.
• The project is largely funded by China, as part of the Belt and Road infrastructure
initiative.
Source: The Hindu
5. The “largest” statue of B R Ambedkar outside India has been constructed in Maryland,
North America on October 14.
• The 19-foot statue, named “Statue of Equality”, has been made by renowned artist and
sculptor Ram Sutar, who also built the statue of Sardar Patel installed in Ahmedabad,
Gujarat.
• The statue of Ambedkar is part of the Ambedkar International Center (AIC).
Source: Hindu
6. The United Kingdom has awarded a £4 billion contract to BAE Systems, Rolls-Royce, and
Babcock as part of the AUKUS program to design and manufacture nuclear-powered
submarines for the Royal Navy.
Knowledge Nuggets
• In September 2021, leaders of Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States
announced the creation of an enhanced trilateral security partnership called "AUKUS."
pg. 63
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• AUKUS promotes deeper information sharing and technology sharing; and fosters deeper
integration of security and defence-related science, technology, industrial bases and
supply chains.
Source: Al Jazeera and US
7. The 78th session of UN General Assembly was organized in New York on the theme of
“Rebuilding trust and reigniting global solidarity: Accelerating action on the 2030 Agenda and
its Sustainable Development Goals towards peace, prosperity, progress and sustainability for
all.”
Highlights
A) United Nations Resident Coordinator in India Shombi Sharp announced an exchange of
Letters of Intent with the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation to launch a new
partnership to help amplify India and South-South cooperation.
B) The Global Sustainable Development Report 2023
• It is published once in every four years.
• It is published by United Nations Sustainable Development Network.
C) WHO and World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA based in Montreal, Canada) have signed
MOU to collaborate on clean, drug-free sport.
Knowledge Nuggets
About WHO-
The World Health Organization is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for
international public health.
• Headquarters- Geneva, Switzerland.

• Director General- Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus
• Members- 194
About WADA-
It is an independent authority which leads the collaborative worldwide movement for doping-free
sports.
pg. 64
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• Headquarters- Montreal, Canada.

• Director General- Witold Bańka
Source: UN ANI SDG WHO
8. The R21/Matrix-M malaria vaccine, developed by the University of Oxford and the Serum
Institute of India, has been recommended for use by the World Health Organisation (WHO)
after meeting required safety, quality and effectiveness standards.
• R21/Matrix-M malaria vaccine was sold under the brand Mosquirix.
Source: LiveMint
9. Armenia's Parliament voted to join the International Criminal Court.

Source: Wion
10. The World Trade Organization (WTO) has reduced its global merchandise trade growth
forecast to 0.8%.
• The 2024 growth projection remains at 3.3%.
• Real GDP of the world is expected to grow by 2.6% in 2023 and 2.5% in 2024.
Source: LiveMint
11. France’s highest mountain Mount Blanc has shrunk by 2.22 metres.
• It is also the highest mountain range in Alps.
• Location - France, Italy and Switzerland
Source: BBC
12. Europe’s first fully private rocket Miura-1 was launched from Spain.
• Spain's company PLD Space launched Miura-1 rocket.
• It is a recoverable rocket.
Source: WION
13. NASA is going to launch Psyche mission, which will travel to an asteroid, on October 12.
• Objective- to conduct an in-depth study of the asteroid, which could provide valuable insights
into the early formation of our planet and the nature of planetary cores
pg. 65
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• Psyche mission is named after an asteroid that orbits the sun in the space region between
Mars and Jupiter.
• This is NASA’s first mission to study an asteroid that has more metal than rock or ice.
Knowledge Nuggets
About NASA-
• The National Aeronautics and Space Administration is an independent agency of the U.S.
federal government responsible for the civil space program, aeronautics research, and
space research.
• Founded- 1958
Source: TOI
14. The first ever Gandhi Museum in North America, dedicated to the life and legacy of
Mahatma Gandhi, has been inaugurated in the US city of Houston in Texas.
• The Eternal Gandhi Museum is the only Gandhi-related Museum in the United States,
dedicated to Gandhi, to preserve and promote his ever-lasting legacy of nonviolent conflict
resolution.
Source: HT
15. The International Energy Agency hosted the first ever “Critical Minerals and Clean
Energy Summit” on 28 September 2023 at the IEA headquarters in Paris.
• The 1st edition of the ‘Critical Minerals Market Review’ was published.
• The report provides a major update on the investment, market, technology and policy
trends of the critical minerals sector in 2022 and an initial reading of the emerging picture
for 2023.
• Key observations of the report -
o In 2022, electric car sales increased by 60%, surpassing 10 million units, and energy
storage systems experienced rapid growth with doubled capacity additions.
o Solar PV installations broke records, and wind power is set to rise after two
subdued years, leading to a significant increase in demand for critical minerals.
o Investment in energy transition minerals has doubled over the past 5 years,
reaching a market size of USD 320 billion in 2022, similar to the iron ore mining
market.
Source: IEA and IEA
pg. 66
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16. European Union has approved world’s first green bond standard to avoid greenwashing.
• The new standards will help investors to pick sustainable companies and avoid
greenwashing or misleading climate-friendly claims.
• These new voluntary standards will initiate the use of ‘European Green Bond label’,
which are first of its kind globally.
• How will this work?
o Companies who want to label their bonds as “green” in EU would have to disclose
information about how bonds proceeds would be used.
o At least, 85% of funds raised would have to be allocated to activities in line with EU’s
“taxonomy” of sustainable activities.
o Also, firms would have to show that how these investments are made for transition to
a net zero carbon emission economy.
• These standards set up a registration system and a supervisory framework for external
reviewers of European green bond.
Knowledge Nuggets
About European Union-

• The European Union is a supranational political and economic union of 27 member states
that are located primarily in Europe.
• Founded- 1993
17. UNICEF's Passport to Earning (P2E) programme in India has skilled and certified more than
one million young people.
• About P2E programme-
o It is a global learning-to-earning solution that focuses on providing young individuals
with essential skills and certifications to prepare them for the demands of the future
workforce.
o The programme focuses on areas such as financial literacy, digital productivity,
employability skills, and other job-ready skills.
• P2E programme in India-
o 62% of the learners benefiting from the P2E courses are adolescent girls and young
women
pg. 67
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o P2E in India aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, providing free
access to certificate courses in various skills.
• Goals of P2E-
o The P2E initiative aims to skill 5 million youth in the age group of 14-29 by 2024 and
provide them with opportunities in jobs, self-employment, and entrepreneurship.
Knowledge Nuggets
About UNICEF-
• United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund is a United Nations agency
dedicated to providing humanitarian and developmental assistance to children and
mothers globally.
• Head- Catherine M. Russel
Source: PIB
18. Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina inaugurated the 82-km Padma Bridge Rail Link.
• It is the country's most significant infrastructure project developed under China's Belt and
Road Initiative.
• The rail link will connect section of the rail route between Dhaka and Jashore through the
Padma Bridge.
19. Eight-foot-tall statue of Mahatma Gandhi has been unveiled at Tolstoy Farm, South Africa.
• Historical Significance-
o Tolstoy Farm is the commune that he had started during his tenure as a lawyer in
South Africa.
o The farm was donated by Gandhi's friend Herman Kallenbach, became a symbol of
resistance against discriminatory laws, with the community cultivating fruits and
vegetables for sustenance.
Source: The Hindu
20. Sri Lanka has taken over as the Chair and India as vice-chair of Indian Ocean Rim
association (IORA) for the period of 2023 to 2025.
pg. 68
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• Location- Colombo, Sri Lanka

• Theme- Reinforcing Indian Ocean Identity
Knowledge Nuggets
About IORA-
o IORA was formed in 1997 (then called the Indian Ocean Region-Association for
Regional Cooperation) in Mauritius.
Objective-
o Promoting balanced development and sustainable growth in the region.
Membership-
o Includes 23 member countries - Australia, Bangladesh, the Comoros, France, India,
Indonesia, Iran, Kenya, Madagascar, Malaysia, the Maldives, Mauritius, Mozambique,
Oman, Seychelles, Singapore, Somalia, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Thailand, the
UAE and Yemen.
o Operates with a rotating chairmanship among its members.
Source: The Hindu
21. Daniel Noboa has become the youngest president of Ecuador’s history.
• He is a 35-year-old businessman and a member of National Democratic Action.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Ecuador-
• Capital- Quito
• Currency- USD
Source: BBC
22. United Nations and Food and Agriculture Organization have released the 1st ever global
estimation of the impact of disaster on agriculture production in report ‘The Impact of
Disasters on Agriculture and Food Security’
o An estimated $3.8 trillion worth of crops and livestock production has been lost due to
natural disasters over the last 30 years.
o Asia is experiencing the largest share of the total economic losses.
pg. 69
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o The loss corresponded to an average of $123 billion per year, or 5% of annual global
agricultural gross domestic product (GDP).
o Losses in cereals were followed by fruits and vegetables and sugar crops, with each
witnessing average losses of 40 million tonnes per year.
o For fruits and vegetables, losses corresponded to the entire production of fruits and
vegetables in Japan and Vietnam in 2021.
Knowledge Nuggets
About United Nation-

• Headquarters- New York
• Secretary General- Antonio Guterres
About Food and Agriculture Organization-

• Headquarters- Rome, Italy
• Director General- Qu Dongyu
Source: downtoearth
23. Bharti Group has signed an agreement with its partner AXA to acquire the 49% stake of AXA
in Bharti AXA Life Insurance.
• Bharti Life Ventures, the group’s holding company for Bharti AXA Life Insurance, will
become the sole owner of the life insurance post the stake sale.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Bharti AXA Life Insurance

• Bharti group has a 51% stake and AXA group has 49% stake in Bharti AXA Life
Insurance.
• MD & CEO- Parag Raja
pg. 70
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24. Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has approved Green Energy Corridor Phase-II
Inter-Sate Transmission System for 13-gigawatt renewable energy project in Ladakh.
• Implementing agency- Power Grid Corporation
• The transmission line will pass through Himachal Pradesh, Punjab and up to Kaithal in
Haryana.
• Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs is chaired by Prime Minister.
Source: livemint
25. Saudia Arabia has hosted Middle East and North Africa Climate Week (MENACW) in
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
• About Middle East and North Africa Climate Week-
o It is an annual event that brings together leaders from governments, businesses,
o It is organized into four systems-based tracks, each focusing on specific themes:
o Energy systems and industry
o Cities, urban and rural settlements, infrastructure and transport
o Land, ocean, food and water
o Societies, health, livelihoods, and economies
• Objective-
o To explore ways to reduce greenhouse gas emissions while adapting to the
mounting fallout from the climate crisis.
Source: UNEP
26. Sri Lanka has waived the visa fee for Indians and tourist from six other countries in order
to boost tourism.
• It approved a pilot project to issue free tourist visas to tourists from China, India, Russia,
Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Japan.
• It is valid until March 31, 2024
Source: The Hindu
27. China has launched Shenzhou-17 manned spacecraft to its space station.
Source: CNN
pg. 71
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28. Financial Action Task Force (FATF) has removed Cayman Island from its grey list in its
review published on 27 October, 2023.
• About FATF Grey list-
o These are jurisdiction which are actively working with the FATF to address strategic
deficiencies in their regimes to counter money laundering, terrorist financing, and
proliferation financing.
• Other countries removed-
o Panama, Jordan and Albania
• Country added to the list-
o Bulgaria
Knowledge Nuggets
About FATF-
• The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) is the global money laundering and terrorist
financing watchdog.
• The inter-governmental body sets international standards that aim to prevent these illegal
activities and the harm they cause to society.
• Headquarters- Paris
• President- T. Raja Kumar of Singapore
• Tenure of T. Raja Kumar is from 2022 to 2024
Source: Business Standard, FATF
BANKING AND ECONOMY

1. RBI has revoked the banking license of Nashik Zilla Girna Sahakari Bank Limited due to
its inability to maintain adequate capital and sustain profitable operations.
• This means the bank can no longer engage in banking activities, including accepting and
repaying deposits, with immediate effect.
• The Commissioner and Registrar of Cooperative in Maharashtra will oversee the bank's
closure and appoint a liquidator.
pg. 72
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• Depositors will be eligible to claim a deposit insurance amount, with a maximum limit of Rs
5 lakh, from the Deposit Insurance and Credit Guarantee Corporation (DICGC) upon
the bank's liquidation.
Source: ET
2. Karnataka Bank has partnered with SahiBandhu, an aggregator platform for gold loans, to
launch a "doorstep gold loan" service named 'KBL-Swarna Bandhu’.
• The bank will offer gold loan services directly to customers at their doorstep. Initially, the
service will be available in select bank branches and will gradually expand to all branches.
• SahiBandhu will act as a corporate business correspondent and lending service
provider in this partnership.
Source: HBL
3. The Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance has increased the interest rate
for the small savings schemes for the Q3 of 2023-24.
Saving Schemes Interest Rates
Savings deposits 4%
2-year and 3-year term deposit 7%
Senior citizens savings scheme 8.2%
Monthly income account scheme 7.4%
National Savings Certificate 7.7%
Public Provident Fund (PPF) scheme 7.1%
Kisan Vikas Patra 7.5% (maturity - 115 months)
Sukanya Samriddhi Account 8%
Source: LiveMint
4. The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has extended the deadline for mutual
fund unit holders to nominate their beneficiaries to December 31, 2023, from the previous
deadline of September 30, 2023.
• Further, with respect to demat accounts, SEBI has extended the last date for submission
of ‘choice of nomination’ to December 31.
Source: ET
pg. 73
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5. RBI has granted approval to the International Finance Corporation (IFC) to acquire a 9.7%
stake in Federal Bank.
• IFC is the member of the World Bank Group.
Source: LiveMint
6. The Central government hiked special additional excise duty (SAED) on crude petroleum
to ₹12,100 per tonne with effect from September 30.
• The windfall tax on domestically produced crude oil was set at ₹10,000 per tonne.
• Besides, the SAED or duty on export of diesel will be cut to ₹5 per litre, from ₹5.50 per litre
currently.
• India first imposed windfall profit taxes on July 1, 2022.
Source: HBL
7. National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) announced the listing of
its ‘Social Bonds’ on the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE).
• The bank had raised ₹1,040 crore through this offering.
• The funds would be used to refinance the Jal Jeevan Mission (the Union government’s
drinking water project) in Telangana.
Source: The Hindu
8. RBI has issued fresh instructions to banks not to receive any ₹2,000 currency notes from
October 8 onwards.
pg. 74
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• However, the central bank reiterated that ₹2,000 banknotes will continue to be legal tender.
Source: The Hindu
9. From October 1, online gaming companies will charge 28% GST on full value of bets.
• The offshore platforms would also be required to have GST registration to operate in India.
• October 1 is the appointed date for the amended provisions in Central GST and Integrated
GST laws to come into effect.
Source: The Hindu
10. HDFC Pension has launched a first-of-its-kind NPS Preference Index to highlight the
preference for the National Pension Scheme amongst different consumer groups.
• At present, the NPS Preference Index stands at 54 (on a scale of 0 to 100), which means
that the index is currently at a moderate level.
• Pillars of assessment of this index - familiarity, appeal and consideration
• Observation of the index -
o NPS Preference Index improves with increasing income level of the consumers.
o North Indian region has the highest NPS preference index (score 57) compared
to other regions
• Methodology -
o Face-to-Face personal interviews of people with annual household income above
INR 10 lakhs (above INR 7 lakhs for Tier III cities) between Aug-Sep 2023 across 12
cities in India.
Knowledge Nuggets
HDFC Pension -
• HDFC Pension is the fastest growing legacy Pension Fund Manager in India, under
Retail and Corporate NPS segments with the highest number of subscribers as on
September 1st, 2023.
• HDFC Pension has been awarded as the 'Best Performing PFM' by Money Today for 3
consecutive years from 2019 to 2022.
• HDFC Pension is licensed as a Pension Fund Manager (PFM) and as a Point of
Presence (POP) under the National Pension Fund.
pg. 75
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National Pension Scheme –

• NPS is a market-linked, defined contribution product.
• Under NPS, a unique Permanent Retirement Account Number (PRAN) is generated and
maintained by the Central Recordkeeping Agency (CRA) for individual subscriber.
• NPS offers two types of accounts, namely Tier-I and Tier-II.
o Tier-I: This is a pension account with limited withdrawals, designed for long-term
savings.
o Tier-II: A voluntary account offering more liquidity for investments and withdrawals,
but it can only be opened if there's an active Tier-I account
• Exit - Upon retirement or superannuation, at least 40% of the corpus must be used to
purchase a life annuity from a life insurance company, providing a lifelong pension. The
remaining corpus can be taken as a lump sum.
• Different Models - NPS has various models tailored for different user segments,
including government employees, corporate employees, and all citizens aged 18 to 65.
o Government Model: Mandatory for Central Government employees (excluding
Armed Forces) recruited after 01.01.2004. It involves monthly contributions by
employees and matching contributions from the government
o Corporate Model: Companies can adopt NPS for their employees with
contribution rates as per employment conditions
o All Citizens Model: Allows all Indian citizens aged 18-65 to join NPS on a
voluntary basis
• NPS Architecture – intermediaries appointed by the PFRDA viz. Pension Funds,
Custodian, Central Recordkeeping Agency (CRA), National Pension System Trust,
Trustee Bank, Points of Presence (PoP) and Annuity Service Providers (ASPs)
• NPS Tier I holders also get tax deductions.
Source: ANI and NPS
11. The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (IBBI) celebrated its Seventh Annual Day
on October 1.
• Justice Shri Ashok Bhushan, Chairperson, National Company Law Appellate Tribunal,
presided over the event.
• As part of the Annual Day celebrations, IBBI released annual publication, “IBC: Evolution,
Learnings and Innovation”.
• A research publication, “Navdrishti: Emerging Ideas on IBC” was also released.
pg. 76
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o This publication is a compact collection of research papers from leading

academicians and practitioners in the field of insolvency and bankruptcy, presented
at the 2nd International Research Conference on Insolvency and Bankruptcy.
o This Conference was held in association with IIM Bangalore at their campus in
February 2023.
Knowledge Nuggets
• The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (IBBI) was established on October 1,
2016, under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016.
• Objective of IBBI -
o to expedite the insolvency resolution process,
o maximize the value of assets of the entities undergoing insolvency,
o promote entrepreneurship, enhance access to credit, and
o ensure the interests of all stakeholders are balanced
• Functions -
o IBBI is a unique regulator with a dual role. It regulates both a specific
profession (of Resolution Professionals) and the processes (insolvency and
resolution) related to insolvency and bankruptcy.
o Regulation of Professionals -
▪ It has regulatory oversight over the Insolvency Professionals, Insolvency
Professional Agencies, Insolvency Professional Entities and Information
Utilities.
o Regulation of Processes -
▪ It writes and enforces rules for processes, namely, corporate insolvency
resolution, corporate liquidation, individual insolvency resolution and
individual bankruptcy under the Code.
• Chairperson of IBBI - Shri Ravi Mital
Source: PIB and IBBI
12. SBI Life Insurance and the State Bank of Sikkim (SBS) have entered into a bancassurance
pact to offer insurance products to residents of Sikkim.
Source: ANI
pg. 77
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13. The Indian Oil Corporation (IOCL) has set up joint ventures with EverEnviro Resource
Management Pvt Ltd and GPS Renewables Pvt Ltd for setting up compressed biogas
(CBG) plants.
• The board of directors approved the formation of 50:50 joint venture company in India
between EverEnviro Resource Management Pvt. Ltd. for setting up of compressed biogas
plants.
o It will be done through Indian Oil (wholly owned subsidiary of IOCL).
• Similarly, the joint venture with GPS Renewables will also be formed with IOCL or a
subsidiary of the company.
• Both these companies are based in India.
Knowledge Nuggets
• IOCL aims to achieve net zero by 2046.
• By the end of 2022-23, IOCL had commissioned 22 CBG plants, offering biogas through
46 Indigreen outlets.
• At its 64th annual general meeting last month, the CMD of IOCL, Shrikant Madhav
Vaidya, announced $30 billion investment in its green initiatives.
Collaborations for Green Energy -

• Last month, its joint venture company with ReNew and L&T for a green hydrogen
business named ‘GH4India Pvt Ltd’ was incorporated.
• In March, it signed a pact with NTPC Green Energy Limited for setting up renewable
energy projects to meet the round-the-clock power requirement of IOCL refineries
Source: LiveMint
14. The National Investment and Infrastructure Fund Limited (NIIF), a government-owned
entity, collaborated with the Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC) to launch a
$600 million India-Japan Fund.
• JBIC contributes 51% of the fund's corpus, with the Indian government providing the
remaining 49%.
• India and Japan have set a joint goal to attract 5 trillion yen in public and private
investments and financing from Japan to India by March 2027.
Knowledge Nuggets
About NIIFL-
pg. 78
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• MD & CEO- Rajiv Dhar
About JBIC-
• Headquarters- Tokyo, Japan
• MD & Chairman- Tadashi Maeda
Source: BS
15. Outlook Group launched "40After40," a retirement planning event, in partnership with IDFC
FIRST Bank at Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai.
• IDFC FIRST Bank is the presenting sponsor, adding expertise to the event.
• It aims to reach a wide audience and generate debates on retirement savings and planning.
• It’s a one-stop shop for all conversations around timely retirement, panel discussions,
chats, masterclasses, interactions with planners, product presentations, etc.
Source: The Week
16. IndusInd Bank has launched a hyper-personalized financial super-app called 'INDIE,' to
provide personalized insights to users.
• For the first time in the industry, the app will offer an ultra-flexible line of credit of up to Rs. 5
lakh, transparent rewards program, and high-interest-bearing savings accounts and fixed
deposits.
• INDIE also introduces industry-first safety and security features, including numberless debit
cards, single-use disposable virtual debit cards, dynamic PINs, and a 'Super OTP' feature.
Source: IndusInd
17. Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has approved the merger of the fintech start-up Slice and the
North-East Small Finance Bank (NESFB).
• The merger will transform slice into a Small Finance Bank (SFB).
• The exact shareholding details of the merged entity are undisclosed.
Source: HBL
pg. 79
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18. The Reserve Bank Innovation Hub (RBIH) and Digital India Bhashini Division (DIBD) have
signed an MoU for enabling communication in local languages to extend digital financial
services to a wider audience.
• The partnership aims to make financial services accessible in native languages for a
seamless banking experience.
• Bhashini plans to launch a Public Tech Platform for Frictionless Credit in multiple
languages to improve credit delivery by financial institutions and enhance financial
inclusion.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Digital India Bhashini Division -

• Digital India Bhashini Division is a section 8 company under the Ministry of
Electronics and Information Technology.
• It operates under Digital India Corporation.
• Bhashini's vision is to use natural language technologies to overcome language barriers
and promote digital inclusion and empowerment in an Aatma Nirbhar Bharat.
• CEO of Digital India Bhashini Division - Amitabh Nag
About RBIH -
• The Reserve Bank Innovation Hub (RBIH) is a wholly owned subsidiary of the RBI
working to enable frictionless finance for a billion Indians.
• RBIH serves as a facilitator in the financial ecosystem, bringing together stakeholders
from financial, technological, and academic institutions to drive innovation in the financial
sector.
• RBIH aims to strengthen the Indian financial system and position India as a leader in
global financial innovation.
• CEO of RBIH - Rajesh Bansal
Source: PIB
19. Axis Bank has launched 'open by Axis Bank,' its digital bank mobile app.
• The Open 2023 campaign showcases the top 15 features of the Bank's digital offerings and
represents the Bank's efforts to deliver a personalized, intuitive, and hassle-free digital
banking experience.
Source: Axis Bank
pg. 80
[Type here]
20. The YES BANK has become the first bank in India to issue an 'ONDC Network Gift Card', in
partnership with the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC), to transform the shopping
experience for Indian consumers.
• The ONDC Network Gift Card is available for corporate and individual customers, enabling
thoughtful gestures to customers, employees, or loved ones.
• The card uses the Rupay network and allows loading up to Rs. 10,000.
Source: Yes Bank
21. RBI Governor has released 4th bi-monthly monetary policy announcement for FY 2024
• Key highlights-
o Policy Rates -
o GDP forecast FY24 - 6.5%

o Inflation for FY24 - 5.4%
Knowledge Nuggets
About Monetary Policy Committee-

• MPC is a statutory and institutionalized framework under the Reserve Bank of India
Act, 1934, responsible for maintaining price stability, while keeping in mind the objective
of growth.
• The Governor of RBI is ex-officio Chairman of the committee.
• The MPC determines the policy interest rate (repo rate) required to achieve the inflation
target.
Source: HBL RBI MPC
pg. 81
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22. Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a $200 million loan to strengthen flood and
riverbank erosion risk management along the main stem of the Brahmaputra River in
Assam.
• The project will benefit about 1 million people and increase crop production by over 50,000
hectares.
Knowledge Nuggets

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) is a regional development bank.
• Founded- 19 December 1966
Source: ADB
23. Rural Electrification Corporation Limited launched the ‘SUGAM REC’ mobile app for
investors of its 54EC Bonds.
• The app is exclusive for current and future investors in REC’s 54EC Capital Gain Tax
Exemption Bonds.
• Purpose of the app -
o The app will offer investors complete details of their investment in REC 54EC Bonds.
o Investors will be able to download their e-bond certificates, apply for fresh
investment, download important forms related to updating KYC, and connect with
REC’s Investor Cell via call/email / WhatsApp.
• The mobile application can be downloaded free of charge, on Android and iOS platforms.
Source: PIB
24. State Bank of India has launched Mobile Handheld Device to provide banking services to
customers.
• Purpose - improving accessibility in availing banking services, increasing financial
inclusion, and extending essential banking services to the masses
• Handheld Devices will increase accessibility by bringing kiosk banking directly to
customer’s doorstep.
• The initiative will particularly benefit customers who face challenges in accessing
Customer Service Point (CSP) outlets.
pg. 82
[Type here]
• The Mobile Handheld Device will provide five core banking services in its initial phase-
o cash withdrawal,
o cash deposit,
o fund transfer,
o balance inquiry and
o mini statement
• These services account for more than 75% of the total transactions conducted at SBI's CSP
outlets.
Knowledge Nuggets
About State Bank of India-

State Bank of India is an Indian multinational public-sector bank.
• Founded- 1 July 1955
25. According to the Controller General of Accounts, the fiscal deficit of India has increased to
Rs 6.42 trillion in the first half of the year, which is 36% of FY24 target of Rs 17.87 trillion.
• India aims to reduce its fiscal deficit to 5.9% of GDP by the end of the current financial year,
against 6.4% last year.
Categories Performance in the first half of FY24
Primary deficit (fiscal deficit without the interest Rs 2.75 trillion (38.9% of the full-year target of
payment) Rs 7.06 trillion)
Revenue deficit Rs 2.84 trillion (32.7% of the full-year estimate
of Rs 8.70 trillion)
Net tax revenue Rs 8.04 trillion (34.5% of the annual estimate)
Knowledge Nuggets
About Controller General of Accounts-

• Controller General of Accounts (CGA) is ‘the Principal Advisor’ on accounting matters to
the Union Government.
pg. 83
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• CGA is responsible for establishing and managing a technically sound Management

Accounting System and preparation & submission of the accounts of the Union
Government.
• Controller General of Accounts - S. S. Dubey
26. The Reserve Bank of India announced Open Market Operation (OMO) sale of government
securities for managing liquidity in the system.
• About Open Market Operation-
o It is a tool of RBI to adjust the rupee liquidity conditions in the market on a durable
basis.
o Reserve Bank sells the government securities when there is excess liquidity in the
market, thereby sucking out the rupee liquidity.
o RBI buys the government securities when there is less liquidity in the system,
thereby releasing liquidity into the market.
• Objective- Maintaining price stability while keeping in mind the objective of growth.
Knowledge Nuggets
About RBI-
• India's central bank and regulatory body responsible for regulation of the Indian banking
system
• Governor- Shaktikanta Das
• Established- 1 April 1935
• Headquarters- Mumbai, India
27. GST council reaffirmed 28% tax on online betting and reduced the tax on certain millet-
based products.
• GST on millet flour food preparations - current 18% to 5%
• The council also ceded the taxation rights on extra neutral alcohol to the States, while
lifting the haze on several long-hanging issues.
Knowledge Nuggets
About GST council-
pg. 84
[Type here]
• The GST council is a constitutional body which is responsible for providing

recommendation on issues related to implementation of GST in India.
• It was established by 101st Constitutional Amendment Act, 2016.
• Chairperson- Union Finance Minister
Source: The Hindu ET
28. Star Health Insurance has launched a health cover for women that extends coverage to
surrogate mothers and egg donors for any complications from assisted reproductive
treatment procedures.
• The policy will be known as Star Women Care Insurance Policy.
• The policy is available for a sum insured up to 1 crore and is available for females aged
between 18 and 75 years.
• It will be provided to policyholders at no extra cost.
• The policy will provide coverage for inpatient hospitalization expenses covering post-
partum delivery complications for 36 months.
• The policy will also provide coverage for inpatient hospitalization expenses for any
complication for the oocyte donor for 12 months.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Star Health-

• Headquarters- Chennai
• Founded- 2006
• MD & CEO- Anand Roy
Source: Times of India
29. India Infrastructure Finance Company Limited (IIFCL) sanctioned loans worth 8800 crore
to boost civil aviation infrastructure.
• IIFCL already disbursed 4000 Crore from the 8800 Crore sanctioned amount.
Knowledge Nuggets
About IIFCL-
• IIFCL is a wholly owned Government of India company.
pg. 85
[Type here]
• Objective- to provide long-term financial assistance to viable infrastructure projects

through the Scheme for Financing Viable Infrastructure Projects.
• IIFCL has been registered as a NBFC-ND-IFC with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) since
September 2013 and follows the applicable prudential norms of the RBI.
• Founded- 2006
• Managing Director- Padmanabhan Raja Jaishankar
Source: livemint
30. The RBI has formed an external working group to provide input on the expected credit loss
(ECL) framework for bank provisioning.
• The ECL approach represents a shift from the current incurred loss-based provisioning
system.
• Chair of the working group - R. Narayanaswamy (former Professor, IIM Bangalore)
• Total members – 9
• Purpose – to monitor the implementation of the ECL framework
Source: RBI
31. Amazon launched its first prototype satellites for the Kuiper internet network to compete
with SpaceX's Starlink.
• The United Launch Alliance's Atlas 5 rocket carried the two test satellites into space.
• Amazon is investing $10 billion in the Kuiper project, aiming to target consumers and
enterprise customers.
• Project Kuiper is Amazon's initiative to deploy a large constellation of low Earth orbit (LEO)
satellites to provide global broadband internet services.
Source: Reuters
32. SEBI has created a centralised mechanism for reporting and verification through KYC
Registration Agency (KRA) in case of the demise of an investor to smoothen the
transmission process in securities market.
• Effective from - January 1, 2024
• How will it work? [only for reading purpose]
o Upon receiving notification of an investor's demise, the intermediary must obtain the
death certificate and PAN from the notifier or nominee, verify the certificate the next
working day, and treat it as "Original Seen and Verified" (OSV).
pg. 86
[Type here]
o After verifying the death certificate, the intermediary must submit a KYC modification
request to the KRA, block debit transactions in the investor's account, and, if the
death certificate is not received, submit a KYC modification request stating,
"confirmation awaited."
o The KRA will validate and verify the request and update the KYC record as "Blocked
Permanently" and inform linked intermediaries.
• To ensure consistency in operations, stock exchanges, depositories, industry associations,
and KRAs will establish common Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
Source: LiveMint
33. Mahindra Last Mile Mobility (MLMML) has received Rs 300 crore as the first tranche of its
investment from the International Finance Corporation (IFC).
• MLMML is a subsidiary of Mahindra and Mahindra.
• The investment is as per agreement which was signed in March 2023, when IFC agreed to
invest Rs 600 crore in MLMML.
Knowledge Nuggets
About IFC-
• Objective – for offering investment, advisory, and asset-management services to
encourage private-sector development in less developed countries
• The IFC is a member of the World Bank Group.
• Parent Organization- World Bank
• Founded- 1956
• Headquarters- Washington, D.C.
34. Federal Bank has extended Unified Payment Interface (UPI) services to Non-Resident
Indians for enhancing seamless transactions.
• The UPI services for NRE will be available on FedMobile (mobile banking platform).
• This service will be available in NPCI approved countries, which are Singapore, Australia,
Malaysia, Canada, Hong Kong, Oman, Qatar, USA, Saudi Arabia, UAE and United
Kingdom.
• This feature will also be available on other UPI Apps which supports global UPI
transactions.
pg. 87
[Type here]
Source: TOI
35. Payment aggregator Paysharp Pvt Ltd gets ISO 27001:2022 certification - an international
standard on how to manage information security.
• Published by - International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and the International
Electrotechnical Commission (IEC)
• Objectives of the standard –
o To encourage companies to establish, maintain, and continually improve an
information security management system (ISMS) within the organization
o To assess and treat information security risks associated with people, processes,
and technology aspects to protect businesses
Knowledge Nuggets
About Paysharp-
• Paysharp is an RBI in-principle approved payment aggregator, which provides various

UPI products to B2B and B2C businesses.
o Established- 2019
o Founder & CEO- Krishna Kumar Mani
o Headquarters- Chennai
36. Axis Bank has launched the country’s first numberless credit card in partnership with
fintech startup Fibe.
• The card offers enhanced security as it doesn’t have a card number, expiry date or CVV
printed on it which reduces the risk of identity theft or unauthorized access to cards details.
• The card will be powered by RuPay and it can be linked to UPI.
• The card will be accepted across all offline stores as well as digital platforms except for
international transactions.
• The card will also offer tap and pay feature and also offers a cashback on certain
transactions.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Axis Bank
pg. 88
[Type here]

About Fibe-
• Headquarters- Pune, Maharashtra

• CEO- Akshay Mehrotra
Source: TOI
37. Union Cabinet has fixed the royalty rates for lithium, niobium and rare earth elements
(REE).
• Under the new regime, the mines will be auctioned by Centre and the royalty will continue
to be accrued to the states where these minerals lie.
• This provision was made in the Mines and Minerals (Regulation and Development)
Amendment Act, 2023.
38. Foreign companies without PAN can open bank account in IFSC-Gift City.
• The companies opening bank account at IFSC will have to file declaration in Form 60 and
should not have any tax liability in India.
• The Finance Ministry has amended Income Tax Rules exempting non-residents opening a
bank account from submitting PAN.
Source: livemint
39. National Statistics Office (NSO), Ministry of Statistics & Programme Implementation has
released the 6th Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) for the period of 2022-23 (July 2022
and June 2023).
• Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR) –
pg. 89
[Type here]
o LFPR in Rural areas: Increased from 50.7% (2017-18) to 60.8% (2022-23)

o LFPR in Urban areas: Increased from 47.6% (2017-18) to 50.4% (2022-23)
o LFPR for male: Increased from 75.8% (2017-18) to 78.5% (2022-23)
o LFPR for female: Increased from 23.3% (2017-18) to 37.0% (2022-23)
• Worker Population Ratio
o WPR in Rural Areas: Increased from 48.1% (2017-18) to 59.4% (2022-23)

o WPR in Urban areas: Increased from 43.9% 2017-18) to 47.7% (2022-23)
o WPR for male: Increased from 71.2% (2017-18) to 76.0% (2022-23)
o WPR for female: Increased from 22.0% (2017-18) to 35.9% (2022-23)
• Unemployment Rate
o UR in Rural areas: Decreased from 5.3% (2017-18) to 2.4% (2022-23)
o UR in urban areas: Decreased from 7.7% (2017-18) to 5.4% (2022-23)
o UR for male: Decreased from 6.1% (2017-18) to 3.3% (2022-23)
pg. 90
[Type here]
o UR for female: Decreased from 5.6% (2017-18) to 2.9% (2022-23)
Knowledge Nuggets
About Periodic Labour Force Survey-

• Started in – 2017
• Released by – National Statistical Office
• Objectives –
o First, to assess the employment and unemployment indicators in urban areas
only in the ‘Current Weekly Status’ in the short time interval of three months
o Second, to assess national employment and unemployment indicators in both
‘Usual Status’ and in ‘Current Weekly Status’.
Important Terms Associated with PLFS –
A) Status
• ‘Usual Status’ – Employment status of people during the reference period of last 365
days preceding the date of survey
• ‘Current Weekly Status’ – Employment status of people on the basis of a reference
period of last 7 days preceding the date of survey
B) Ratios
• Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR): It is a percentage of persons who are either
working or seeking or available for work.
pg. 91
[Type here]
o Calculation – Labour Force/Total Population X 100
• Worker Population Ratio (WPR): WPR is defined as the percentage of employed

persons in the total population.
• Unemployment Rate (UR): UR is defined as the percentage of persons unemployed

among the persons in the labour force.
Source: PIB
40. Reserve Bank of India has announced that government owned non-banking financial
companies will be subject to strict supervisory norms of Prompt Corrective Action (PCA)
Framework starting from October 2024.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Prompt Corrective Action (PCA)

• This framework for taking corrective measures was first introduced in 2002 for scheduled
commercial banks to enable supervisory intervention at appropriate time and guide
financially weak banks with high ratio bad assets and lower level of capital adequacy to
take remedial measures to restore financial health.
41. SBI Mutual Fund gets RBI nod for buying 9.99% stake in IndusInd Bank
• SBIMF will have the time of one year i.e., till October 10,2024 to acquire the shareholding.
Knowledge Nuggets
About SBIMF-
• It is a joint venture between State Bank of India and AMUNDI Asset Management
(European Asset Management Company).
• MD & CEO- Shamsher Singh
pg. 92
[Type here]
• IndusInd is a private sector bank.

• MD & CEO- Sumant Kathpalia
42. Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has launched a pilot program for the wholesale segment of
its central bank digital currency (CBDC) in the interbank call money market.
• Key features of program
o Nine banks, including four public sector banks and five private sector banks, are
participating in the e-rupee call money pilot.
o The pilot aims to cover various use cases, including asset tokenization and repo
transactions.
o Settlements will be carried out using the CBDC instead of the real-time gross
settlement.
o The settlements will be in T+0 mode, ensuring trades are settled on the same day.
43. India's industrial output increased to a 14-month high at 10.3% in August, up from a 6% rise
in July.
• Sector-Wise Performance
o Electricity and mining sectors saw a significant rise at 15.3% and 12.3%,
respectively.
o Manufacturing output experienced a 9.3% growth, with notable contractions seen in
the apparel, chemicals, and computers/electronics sectors.
Source: The Hindu
44. RBI imposed a monetary penalty of Rs 5.39 crore on Paytm Payments Bank for violating
multiple regulatory norms.
• Reasons for penalty-
o Paytm Payments Bank was found in violation of several regulatory provisions,
including Know Your Customer (KYC) norms and the regulatory ceiling of the end-of-
day balance.
pg. 93
[Type here]
o The bank was found to be non-compliant with the 'Cyber Security Framework in
Banks,' specifically in terms of reporting unusual cyber security incidents and
securing mobile banking applications, including the Unified Payments Interface (UPI)
ecosystem.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Paytm Payment Bank-

• Headquarter- Noida
• Founder- Vijay Shekhar Sharma
45. International Monetary Fund (IMF) has released its "Global Policy Agenda" at Marrakesh,
emphasizing the urgent need for member countries' support to increase quota resources.
• Why increase quota-
o For Poverty Reduction and Growth Trust (PRGT) and the Resilience and
Sustainability Trust (RST) to aid the most vulnerable members.
• Global Economic Outlook-
o The global economy has shown resilience, although the recovery has been slow and
uneven.
o Medium-term growth projections remain weak due to fragmented trade, high debt
levels, and potential long-lasting higher interest rates.
o Risks include geopolitical tensions, the climate crisis, and persistent inflation in
certain regions.
Knowledge Nuggets
About IMF-
• IMF is a specialized agency of the United Nations (UN) with the goal of fostering global
monetary cooperation, securing financial stability, facilitating international trade,
promoting high employment and sustainable economic growth, and reducing poverty
around the world.
• Headquarters- Washington D.C., USA
pg. 94
[Type here]

• Members- 190
About PGRT-
• The PRGT provides concessional financing for poverty reduction in low-income countries.
About RST-
• The RST, established in 2021, aims to assist low-income and vulnerable middle-income
countries in building resilience to climate change and other external risks.
46. Reserve Bank India has directed Bank of Baroda to suspend customers onboarding on ‘bob
World’ mobile banking application.
• Reason for suspending customer onboarding-
o The action is taken based on certain supervisory concerns observed in manner of
customer onboarding onto this mobile application.
47. As per a medium-term forecast by International Energy Agency, India’s natural gas
demand is set to grow by 4% in 2023 and to rise at an average annual rate of over 8% till 2026.
• The report also showed that global gas demand is on course to grow by an average 1.6% a
year between 2022 and 2026, down from an average of 2.5 per cent a year between 2017
and 2021.
Knowledge Nuggets
About International Energy Agency-

• The International Energy Agency is an autonomous intergovernmental organisation,
established in 1974, that provides policy recommendations, analysis and data on the
entire global energy sector.
• Founded- 1974
• Executive Director- Fatih Birol
48. RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das has been awarded for being ranked A+ in Global Finance
Central Banker Report Cards at Marrakesh, Morocco.
pg. 95
[Type here]
• Shaktikanta Das has been placed at the top of the list of three central bank governors who
have been rated A+.
• Apart from Shaktikanta Das, Switzerland Thomas J Jordan and Vietnam’s Nguyen Thi Hong
also received award for being ranked A+.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Global Finance Central Banker Report Cards-

• The report grades the central bank governors of 101 key countries, territories and
districts.
• Published- Annually since1994
• Grading- From ‘A’ to ‘F’
o ‘A’ represents an excellent performance and ‘F’ represents outright Failure.
Source: TOI
49. Indian economy is expected to grow at 6.3% in FY 2024, according to latest Economic
Outlook Survey released by Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry
(FICCI).
• Key observation for FY 24-
• Contributing factors-
o The healthy financial sector,
o robust urban demand,
o uptick in private investment over government’s front-loading of capex,
o pick-up in real estate and
o festival season.
• Minimum and maximum growth estimate- 6.0% and 6.6%
• Sector wise Growth
o Agriculture & Allied- 2.7%
o Industry- 5.6%
o Services- 7.3%
• CPI Inflation- 5.5%
pg. 96
[Type here]
50. Wholesale price index (WPI) based inflation remained in negative territory for the sixth
consecutive month and Consumer Price Index (CPI) eased for second consecutive month
in September 2023.
• WPI Data-
o Negative growth of 0.26% in September 2023
o Vegetable price inflation- Reduced to 1.54% in September from 5.62% in August
• CPI Data-
o Reduced for the second consecutive month in September to 5.02%
Knowledge Nuggets
About WPI-
• It measures the changes in the price of goods sold and traded in bulk by wholesale
business.
• Released by- Office of Economic Advisor, Ministry of Commerce and Industry
• Base year- 2011-2012
About CPI-
• It measures the changes in the price of goods from the perspective of a buyer.
• Released by- National Statistical office
• Base year- 2012
Source: AIR
51. Sberbank of Russia has become the first Russian bank to register with the Indian markets
regulator as a Category I foreign portfolio investor (FPI).
• About Category I FPI-
o FPIs with category I licence have to follow less lenient beneficial ownership
disclosures,
o It can subscribe to overseas derivative instruments which have Indian stocks as
underlying and also enjoy certain taxation benefits.
o It is only granted to government or government related foreign investors or regulated
entities such as banks, sovereign wealth funds, investment trusts, pension funds,
asset management companies.
Knowledge Nuggets
pg. 97
[Type here]
About Sberbank-
• Headquarters- Moscow, Russia
• CEO- Herman Gref
52. Indian Oil to Invest ₹1660.15 crore in NTPC Joint Venture for setting up renewable power
plant.
• About Joint Venture-
o It is a 50:50 joint venture company between Indian Oil and NTPC Green Energy Pvt
Ltd
• Objective-
o To set up renewable energy projects to meet 24X7 power requirements of refineries
of the IOC
Source: livemint
53. Central Government has approved 4% hike in dearness allowance for central government
employees.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Dearness Allowance-

• Dearness allowance is a cost-of-living adjustment that the Government pays to public
sector employees and pensioners. I
• t is calculated as a percentage of the basic salary to curb the effect of inflation.
54. Competition Commission of India has approved the merger of IDFC Ltd with IDFC First
Bank.
• Approval- Granted under the Green Channel Route, which is a mechanism under which a
company can get automatic approval upon filing a form, without having to get formal
approval from the commission.
• Provision- The approval has been granted in accordance with section 6(2) of the
Competition Act, 2002 read with regulation 5 and SA of Competition Commission of India
pg. 98
[Type here]
(Procedure in regard to the transactions of business relating to combinations) Regulations,

2011.
Knowledge Nuggets
About CCI-
• Chairperson- Ashok Kumar Gupta
55. Tata Motor has invested 150 Crore to acquire 27% stake in Software as a Service (SaaS)
company ‘Freight Tiger’.
• The agreement also includes a provision enabling Tata Motors to further invest ₹100 crore
over the next two years, at the then prevailing market value.
• About Freight Commerce Solutions Pvt Ltd (Freight Tiger)-
o It is a digital platform that provides end-to-end logistics value chain solutions for
cargo movement in the country.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Tata Motors-

• Chairman- N Chandrasekaran
Source: livemint
56. India will spend nearly ₹143 lakh crore on infrastructure between 2024 and 2030 as per
CRISIL India Ltd Infrastructure’s Yearbook 2023.
Key observations-
• Infrastructure spending-
o Spending of ₹143 lakh crore on infrastructure between FY 24 and FY 30 is more
than double of ₹67 lakh crore spent during the past seven financial years from 2017.
• Focus on Green Investment-
pg. 99
[Type here]
o ₹36.6 lakh crore, will be allocated for green investments, showing a significant
fivefold increase compared to the expenditure between fiscals 2017 and 2023.
• GDP Growth-
o India's GDP is expected to grow at an average rate of 6.7% through fiscal 2031.
• CRISIL InfraInvex Index-
o Index scores across various sectors, including roads and highways, power
transmission, renewable energy, and ports.
o Score across various sectors has improved significantly, reflecting the positive
impact of policy interventions and an encouraging investment climate.
Knowledge Nuggets
About CRISIL-
• Credit Rating Information Services of India Limited, is an Indian analytical company
providing ratings, research, and risk and policy advisory services and is a subsidiary of
American company S&P Global.
• CEO- Amish Mehta
Source: The Hindu
57. Google has announced that it will manufacture Pixel phones in India from 2024.
• Other announcements -
o to make its AI products available in more Indian languages,
o and measures to harden protections against financial fraud during its annual Google
for India
Source: The Hindu
58. Google India has launched ‘DigiKavach’ at 9th Edition of Google for India annual event in
Delhi to combat online financial frauds.
• About DigiKavach-
o It is an early threat detection and warning system designed to identify and study
emerging financial fraud patterns.
o It is launched in collaboration between Google and Fintech Association for
Consumer Empowerment (FACE)
pg. 100
[Type here]

o FACE will support Google with market intelligence to inform detection and enable
swift action against personal loan apps in India non-complaint with play store’s
policies.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Fintech Association for Consumer Empowerment-

o It is an industry association and self-regulatory body for fintech lenders set up as a non-
profit company.
o It brings together fintech lenders and other stakeholders committed to advancing fair and
responsible digital lending practices through self-regulation and customer-centricity.
o Headquarters- Mumbai
o Established- 2020
o CEO- Sugandh Saxena
Source: ET, CFI
59. HDFC ERGO has launched a new policy with enhanced benefits named Optima Secure.
• Key features of Optima Secure-
o Age limit-
o Can buy insurance policy until 65 years.
o Coverage-
o There is no age when coverage stops
o Policy options-
o Families and individuals can choose coverage from ₹5 lakhs to ₹2 crore, with
different options available.
o Time frame-
o Policy can be brought for 1, 2 or 3 years.
Key benefits under policy-
• Secure Benefit-
o Automatically provides twice the coverage of the purchased insurance without any
additional action or payment.
• Plus Benefit-
o Increases insurance coverage by 50% after the first year and by 100% after the
second year, irrespective of any claims made.
pg. 101
[Type here]
• Restore Benefit-
o Guarantees that in the event of a claim, whether for a partial or full amount, the
insurance coverage will be reinstated to its full extent without any extra charges.
Knowledge Nuggets
About HDFC ERGO

• HDFC ERGO General Insurance Company Limited is a 51:49 joint venture firm
between HDFC and ERGO International AG.
• It offers various products like health insurance, vehicle insurance, travel insurance, home
insurance, personal accident insurance and cyber insurance. The Corporate sector
includes products like liability, marine and property insurance.
• MD & CEO- Ritesh Kumar
Source: livemint
60. US International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) has offered 30 million USD to
Dalmia Polypro Industries for the establishment of an innovative greenfield recycling
facility in Nashik, Maharashtra.
• Objective- to spur transformative projects in key areas such as Healthcare, E-mobility,
Infrastructure, finance, microfinance, small businesses, defence, wind, and solar energy.
61. HDFC Bank has launched ‘XpressWay’ digital platform offering banking products and services
and enabling customers to experience the fast-banking services.
• About XpressWay-
o It offers multiple banking services designed to cater to diverse customer needs.
o XpressWay is a part of HDFC Bank ‘NOW’, an umbrella brand for the Bank’s digital
products and services.
Source: financial express
62. Kotak Mahindra Bank has received RBI’s nod for acquisition of microlender Sonata
Finance.
• Kotak Mahindra will acquire Sonata Finance for 537-crore.
pg. 102
[Type here]
• Sonata Finance will become wholly owned business correspondent subsidiary of Kotak
Mahindra Bank.
• The acquisition will help Kotak bank to increase its presence in rural and semi-urban areas
of north India.
Knowledge Nuggets

About Sonata Finance-

• Sonata is a Non-Banking Financial Corporation (NBFC – MFI).
• Headquarters- Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh
Source: ET
63. European Union tax observatory has recommended 2% global wealth tax on billionaires in
Global Tax Evasion Report 2024.
• Key observations of report-
o Tax evasion helps billionaires to enjoy an effective tax rate of 0% to 0.5% of their
wealth.
o The 2% tax rate will nearly generate $250 billion from less than 3,000 individuals.
o The wealth of billionaires has grown at 7% a year annually on average since 1995
(net of inflation).
Source: The Hindu
64. RBI has announced the result of 2nd edition of its Global Hackathon ‘HARBINGER 2023-
Innovation for Transformation’.
• Winners’s list-
Category Winner
Innovative, easy-to-use, digital banking Ezetap Mobile Solutions Pvt Ltd (Now
services for differently abled (Divyaang). acquired by Razorpay), India
pg. 103
[Type here]
RegTech solutions to facilitate more efficient WeavAir, Singapore

compliance for Regulated Entities (REs)
Exploring use cases/solutions for CBDC-R Dygnify Ventures Private Limited, India
transactions, including transactions in offline
mode
Increasing Transactions Per Second (TPS)/ Fortis Net Ltd., UK
throughput and scalability of blockchains.
Knowledge Nuggets
About HARBINGER 2023-

• It is the second edition of the RBI’s Global Hackathon HARBINGER.
• The Hackathon invites participants to develop solutions that have the potential to-
o Make digital financial services accessible to the differently abled,
o facilitate efficient compliance,
o extend the reach of Central Bank Digital Currencies and
o enhance the scalability of blockchains.
• Prize-
o Winner: ₹40 lakh
o Runner-up: ₹20 lakh
Source: rbi, rbi
65. Asian Development Bank has granted approval for USD 175 million loan to enhance road
connectivity and climate resilience in Madhya Pradesh.
• Objectives-
o To increase the connectivity between rural areas and growth centres
o To support industrial corridors and
o To ensure creation of safe, climate resilient roads
o To utilize green technology in road construction
o To establish charging infrastructure for electric vehicles
Knowledge Nuggets
The Asian Development Bank is a regional development bank.
pg. 104
[Type here]

• Members- 68
Source: ET
66. RBI has allowed retail investors to subscribe Floating Rate Saving Bonds (FRSB), 2020
(Taxable) through Retail Direct Portal.
• More info-
o The subscription of bonds will be in the form of cash (up to ₹20,000 only), drafts,
cheques or any electronic mode.
o Earlier, retail investors were allowed to invest in central government securities,
treasury bills, state government securities, and sovereign gold bonds through
the Retail Direct Portal.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Retail Direct Portal-

• RBI’s Retail Direct scheme is a one-stop solution to facilitate investment in Government
securities by an individual investor.
• Retail investors (individuals) will have the facility to open and maintain the Retail Direct
Gilt Account (RDG Account) with RBI.
• Announced- 2021
Floating Rate Saving Bonds-

• RBI Floating Rate Savings Bonds 2020 (Taxable) allow customers to make convenient
investments with low-risk returns.
• Key features- high interest rates and a longer maturity period.
• Minimum investment amount- is Rs.1,000 and in multiples of Rs.1,000 thereof.
• Upper limit- There is no upper limit on investment for these Bonds.
• Tax liability- The interest on these Bonds is taxable.
Source: livemint
67. Securities and Exchange Board of India has empanelled 12 entities to provide assistance
to its search team for onsite data acquisition during search and seizure operations.
pg. 105
[Type here]
• This empanelment will be valid for a period of 2 years.

• The agencies will provide digital forensic services to SEBI.
• List of empanelled agencies-
o Ernst & Young LLP, KPMG Assurance, Baker Tilly Business Advisory, Cybermate
Forencisc, Cyint Technologies, ECS Infotech, Innefu Labs, Mahen Technologies,
Nangia & Co LLP, Netrika Consulting India, Pelorus Technologies and Systools
Software.
Source: ET
68. Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) has won a bid to acquire PTC India Ltd wind
power unit for ₹925 crore.
Knowledge Nuggets
About ONGC-
• The Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Limited is an Indian central public sector
undertaking under the ownership of Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Government
of India.
• Chairman & CEO- Arun Kumar Singh
Source: ET
69. India will surpass Japan to become 2nd largest economy in Asia by 2030 as per S&P
Global Market Intelligence in its latest issue of PMI.
Key observations-
• Expected Gross Domestic Product (GDP): 6.2%-6.3% in FY 2024
• Nominal GDP- expected to rise from USD 3.5 trillion in 2022 to USD 7.3 trillion by 2030
• Digital transformation- Internet users projected to double from 500 million in 2020 to 1.1
billion by 2030
Knowledge Nuggets
About S&P Global Market Intelligence-
pg. 106
[Type here]
• S&P Global Market Intelligence is a provider of multi-asset class and real-time data,
research, news and analytics to investment and commercial banks, insurance
companies, investment advisors and wealth managers, etc.
• Headquarters- Manhattan, New York
• President & CEO- Douglas L Peterson
70. National Payment Corporation of India (NPCI) Bharat BillPay has launched a new
business-to-business payments service in partnership with Axis Bank.
• About service-
o It will provide value-added services like flexible invoice presentation, complaint
management, MIS, etc to businesses.
o Under B2B category Bharat BillPay will onboard sellers as ‘billers’ and enable their
buyers to pay for purchased goods and services across Bharat BillPay enabled
channels.
o The category is live for the first time on MyJio app for the Biller Arzoo with Axis Bank
as the Biller Operating Unit (BOU)
Knowledge Nuggets
About NPCI Bharat BillPay-

• It is an RBI initiative which offers accessible and interoperable bill payment services to
consumers across India.
• CEO- Noopur Chaturvedi
About Axis Bank-

Source: ET
71. Kotak Mahindra Bank has formed a strategic partnership with National E-Governance
Services Limited (NeSL) for the issuance of electronic Bank Guarantee (e-BG).
• Key benefits-
pg. 107
[Type here]
o The digital transformation will significantly reduce the guaranteed turnaround time
(TAT)
o Implementation of e-BG (electronic bank guarantee) system will contribute to
enhanced security by reducing authentication risks
• Digital Documents Execution (DDE) technology of NeSL allows recipients to quickly
access digitally issued bank guarantees through the NeSL portal.
Knowledge Nuggets
About NeSL-
• NeSL is a regulated entity whose prime function is collection, collation and dissemination
of financial information.

About eBG
• eBG is the electronic form of Bank Guarantees
• Bank Guarantees (BG) in India are issued as paper documents by banks, on request
from customers (Applicant) and in favour of beneficiaries.
Source: livemint
72. NLC India has established a wholly owned subsidiary NLC India Green Energy (NIGEL) to
focus on renewable energy projects.
• Objective-
o To expand the renewable power generation capacity
o To establish projects with a capacity of 6 GW by 2030.
Knowledge Nuggets
About NLC India Ltd-
pg. 108
[Type here]
• Neyveli Lignite Corporation (NLC) India Limited is a Navratna company under the
government of India.
• Headquarters- Chennai, Tamil Nadu
• CMD- Prasanna Kumar Motupalli
Source: ET
73. Paras Aerospace Pvt Ltd has received a 2nd type certification from Directorate General of
Civil Aviation (DGCA) for its agricultural drone.
• It received certification for Paras-Agricopter V2.1.
• It is issued for MEDIUM Drone Category
Source:
74. PM Street Vendor's AtmaNirbhar Nidhi (PM SVANidhi) Scheme is a gender equaliser as
per State Bank of India’s report.
• Key Findings-
• Female Empowerment:
o The PM Street Vendor’s AtmaNirbhar Nidhi (PM SVANidhi) Scheme has achieved a
43% female share, indicating the empowerment of entrepreneurial capabilities
among urban females
• Impact on Non-General Category:
o Around 75% of loan beneficiaries come from the "non-general category
• Spending Patterns:
o The average debit card spending of PM SVANidhi account holders increased by 50%
to about ₹80,000 in FY23 compared to FY21, showcasing the impact of the scheme
on the spending behaviour of the urban poor.
Knowledge Nuggets
About PM SVANidhi-
• PM SVANidhi Scheme is a micro-credit scheme for urban street vendors, offering
collateral-free working capital loans up to ₹50,000 in incremental tranches.
• Launched on- June 1, 2020
• Ministry- Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs
pg. 109
[Type here]
75. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has reached Bishkek for the 22nd Shanghai
Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Council of Heads of Government (CHG) to be held under
the chairmanship of Kyrgyzstan.
Knowledge Nuggets
About SCO-
• The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) is a Political, economic, international
security and defence organization established by China and Russia in 2001.
• It is the world's largest regional organization in terms of geographic
scope and population, covering approximately 80% of the area of Eurasia, 40% of the
world population.
• Headquarters- Beijing, China
• Members- China, India, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Pakistan, Tajikistan,
Uzbekistan, Iran
Source: The Print
76. Reserve Bank of India has directed Private Banks to have mandatory two-whole time
Directors.
• Why?
o To address the growing complexity in the banking sector and
o To tackle emerging challenges
Source: BW
77. Asian Development Bank has approved USD 400 million loan to support urban reforms
and creating high-quality urban infrastructure and efficient governance system in India.
• Objective-
o To support the government’s urban reform agenda for improving the quality of urban
life.
o Creation of high-quality urban infrastructure, assured public services, and efficient
governance system.
Knowledge Nuggets
pg. 110
[Type here]

• Members- 68
Source: TOI
78. Zerodha Fund House has launched its maiden mutual fund schemes.
• About schemes-
• Name of schemes-
o Zerodha Nifty LargeMidcap 250 Index Fund and
o Zerodha ELSS Tax Saver Nifty LargeMidcap 250 Index Fund
• Category-
o Open-ended, passive, index equity mutual fund schemes
Knowledge Nuggets
About Zerodha Fund House-

• Zerodha Fund House is a joint venture between Zerodha Broking Limited and smallcase
Technologies Pvt Ltd.
• It is a passive-only AMC which aims to build simple, transparent, and affordable mutual-
fund.
• CEO- Vishal Jain
Nifty LargeMidcap 250 Index

• The 250 stocks of Nifty LargeMidcap 250 Index are the combination of-
o Nifty 100 Index and Nifty Midcap 150 Index.
• LargeMidcap 250 Index aims to reflect the performance of the large and midcap
companies listed at NSE with 50% weight allocated to each segment.
79. Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology has requested RBI to design a more
detailed KYC process for greater transparency.
pg. 111
[Type here]
• Objective-
o To trace the fraudulent loan applications
• Know Your Digital Finance App (KYFDA)-
o Companies have to go through KYFDA in same manner as customers have to go
through KYC to open bank accounts.
• Benefits of KYFDA-
o It will ensure that only legitimate and scrutinized financial apps can access and use
the Indian Banking System
o It will help in traceability and origin of the app
Source: moneycontrol
80. Ministry of Finance has notified 18% GST on parent corporate guarantee.
• Key points-
o Parent company’s corporate guarantee to its subsidiary for a bank loan will attract
18% GST.
o The value of supply of services will be deemed to be 1 % of the amount of such
guarantee offered, or the actual consideration, whichever is higher.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Parent Corporate Guarantee-

o A parent company guarantee (PCG) is a contract between a company and its client to
ensure a performance requirement is met.
o These agreements are used when a contractor or subsidiary enter into a contract with
clients.
Source: Hindu Business Line, contractcounsel
81. IndusInd Bank has collaborated with Viamericas to offer inward remittance service to NRIs
in USA.
• About collaboration-
o This collaboration has enabled NRIs in USA to use effortless inward remittance
services to India.
o This partnership works under the Rupee Drawing Arrangement scheme of RBI.
o It will allow NRIs to effectively transfer funds to their beneficiaries in India through the
reliable Indus Fast Remit platform.
pg. 112
[Type here]
• About Indus Fast Remit platform-

o It offers NRIs the flexibility to initiate remittance transactions using the auto-debit
payment method (Automated Clearing House - ACH) or by transferring funds directly
from their overseas bank accounts.
o With its established IndusInd Bank Vostro relationship Viamericas Corporation will
utilise the RBI’s RDA scheme to credit the beneficiary’s account in India.
Knowledge Nuggets

• IndusInd Bank Ltd is one of the new generation private sector banks in India.
• CEO- Sumanth Kathpalia
About Viamericas Corporation-

Headquarters- Florida, USA
Established- 1999
CEO- Paul S Dwyer
Source: livemint, BS
82. Yes Bank has raised its stake to 9.9% in JC Flower Asset Reconstruction Company.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Yes Bank-

• Yes Bank is a Private Sector Indian bank.
• CEO- Prashant Kumar
About JC Flower ARC-

• JC Flowers ARC is a company incorporated under the Companies Act, 1956 and existing
under the Companies Act, 2013.
pg. 113
[Type here]
• It is registered as an asset reconstruction company pursuant to section 3 of the

Securitisation and Reconstruction of Financial Assets and Enforcement of Security
Interest Act, 2002.
83. AU Small Finance Bank board has approved merger with Fincare SFB.
• Objective-
o To extend the bank's footprint in southern India and entering the microfinance sector
• Managing Director & CEO of Fincare SFB will become the Deputy CEO of AU SFB after the
merger.
• The shareholders of Fincare SFB will receive 579 shares in AU SFB for every 2000 shares
they hold in Fincare SFB.
Source: livemint
84. RBI has raised the criteria for ‘Bulk deposits’ for Regional Rural Banks from ₹ 15 lakh to ₹1
Crore.
• “Bulk Deposit” means:
o Single Rupee term deposits of Rupees two crore and above for Scheduled
Commercial Banks (excluding Regional Rural banks) and Small Finance Banks.
o Single Rupee term deposits of Rupees one crore and above for RRBs.
pg. 114
[Type here]
Knowledge Nuggets
About RRB-
• Regional Rural Banks were established under the provisions of an Ordinance passed on
26 September 1975 and the RRB Act 1987 to provide sufficient banking and credit facility
for agriculture and other rural sectors.
• Regional Rural Banks (RRB) are Indian Scheduled Commercial Banks (Government
Banks) operating at regional level in different states of India.
• They have been created with a view of serving primarily the rural areas of India with basic
banking and financial services.
Source: RBI, ET, UBI
pg. 115
[Type here]
85. Swan Energy has paid ₹231.42 crore to acquire Reliance Naval & Engineering.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Swan Energy-

Swan Energy Limited is an India-based company engaged in the textile, real estate, energy and
petrochemical sectors.
Established-1909
Source: ET
REPORTS AND INDICES

1. The Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2024 has been released.
• Parameters - teaching, research environment, research quality, industry, and international
outlook
• Top 5 Universities -
• India’s top universities -

o 201-205 – IISc Bangalore
o 501-600 – Anna University, Mahatma Gandhi University and Jamia Milia Islamia
• Other facts -
pg. 116
[Type here]
o The US is the most-represented country overall, with 169 institutions, and the
most-represented in the top 200 (56). With 91 institutions, India is now the fourth
most-represented nation, overtaking China (86).
o Four countries enter the ranking for the first time – all of them in Europe. The
addition of Kosovo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, North Macedonia and Armenia is in
contrast to last year’s trend when all the new entrants were from Africa.
Source: Times
2. UNCTAD has released the Review of Maritime Transport 2023.
Present Scenario -
• As per the report, the shipping industry has seen a 20% increase in greenhouse gas
emissions over the past decade.
• The industry relies heavily on fossil fuels and operates an aging fleet.
• Ahead of the upcoming UN climate conference (COP28), UNCTAD calls for achieving full
decarbonization of the industry by 2050.
• Despite challenges, such as the conflict in Ukraine, the report predicts a 2.4% growth in
maritime trade in 2023 and over 2% growth between 2024 and 2028.
Challenges -
• Moving the shipping industry towards cleaner energy is estimated to cost between $8
billion to $28 billion annually for decarbonization by 2050.
• For infrastructure supporting carbon-neutral fuels, the cost could be even higher, ranging
from $28 billion to $90 billion per year. This full decarbonization could potentially double
annual fuel costs.
Knowledge Nuggets
• UNCTAD is a permanent intergovernmental body established by the United Nations
General Assembly in 1964.
• UNCTAD is part of the UN Secretariat. It reports to the UN General Assembly and the
Economic and Social Council. But the organization has its own membership,
leadership, and budget.
• It is also part of the United Nations Development Group.
pg. 117
[Type here]
• Rebeca Grynspan of Costa Rica is the first woman and Central American to serve as
UNCTAD’s secretary-general.
• Headquarters - Geneva, Switzerland
Source: UNCTAD and About UNCTAD
3. According to the Speedtest Global Index (August 2023) of Ookla, India is at the 47th
position in terms of high-speed internet availability.
• UAE is at the top position.
Source: LiveMint
4. India has been ranked 111th out of 125 countries in the Global Hunger Index (GHI) 2023.
• Key observation-
o India has a score of 28.7, which indicates a serious level of hunger.
o Undernourishment rate in India stood at 16.6%, with under-five mortality at 3.1%
o Anaemia prevalence in women aged 15-24 years was 58.1%.
o India recorded the highest child wasting rate globally at 18.7%.
• Comparison with neighbouring countries-
o India came behind neighbouring countries Pakistan (102nd), Bangladesh (81st),
Nepal (69th) and Sri Lanka (60th).
• Regional comparison-
o India fared better than South Asia and Africa South of the Sahara, which recorded a
score of 27 each.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Global Hunger Index-

• The Global Hunger Index (GHI) is a peer-reviewed report, published on an annual basis
by Concern Worldwide and Welthungerhilfe.
• Undernourishment: The share of the population with insufficient caloric intake.
• Child stunting: The share of children under age five who have low height for their age,
reflecting chronic undernutrition.
• Child wasting: The share of children under age five who have low weight for their height,
reflecting acute undernutrition.
pg. 118
[Type here]
• Child mortality: The share of children who die before their fifth birthday, partly reflecting
the fatal mix of inadequate nutrition and unhealthy environments.
Source: Indian Express, global hunger index
5. India has been ranked 45 out of 47 in 15th annual Mercer CFA Institute Global Pension
Index 2023.
• India had an overall index value of 45.9 in 2023 from 44.5 in 2022
• The Netherlands had the highest overall index value (85.0)
• Global Pension Index compares 47 retirement income systems across the globe and covers
64% of the world's population.
• The 2023 Global Pension Index includes three new retirement income systems: Botswana,
Croatia, and Kazakhstan.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Mercer-
• Chief Executive Officer- Martine Ferland
Source: NDTV
6. Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) has launched

International Migration Outlook: 2023
• India's Immigration Rate:
o India has maintained its top position as the leading country of origin for new
immigrants to OECD nations in 2021
o 407,000 Indians have migrated which marks an 86% increase from 2020.
• Total Acquisitions: Out of the Indians who migrated to OECD countries, 133,000
individuals were granted nationality, marking the highest number among all countries.
• Top Countries of Acquisition:
Country Immigrant’s acquisitions
United States 56,000
pg. 119
[Type here]
Australia 24,000
Canada 21,000
• In taking nationality, India was followed by Mexico and Syria.

• Canada's Immigration Trends:
o Canada witnessed the highest number of immigrants in 2022, with 375,000 new
citizens.
o Main Countries of Birth for New Canadians: The top countries of birth for new
Canadian citizens were as follows:
India 60,000
The Philippines 42,000
Syria 20,000
• The second largest absolute increase was observed in the United States, which
granted citizenship to 970,000 people in 2022, the highest level since 2008.
• Rising International Students:
o Asia, particularly China and India, accounted for a significant percentage of
international students in OECD countries
o Share of Asian students is increasing over the years
• The top countries of origin of international students in OECD countries are-
Country Students
China 885,000
India 424,000
Vietnam 133,000
Knowledge Nuggets
About OECD-
• The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development is an
intergovernmental organisation with 38 member countries to stimulate economic
progress and world trade.
• Secretary-General- Mathias Cormann
pg. 120
[Type here]
7. Mahatma Gandhi National Rual Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) has seen a
7.5% decrease in active workforce participation as per the report by LibTech India.
• Workforce Contraction:
o The data analysis for April-September 2023 shows a 7.5% reduction in the number
of active workers, from 15.49 crore to 14.33 crore.
o There has been a net deletion of 80 lakh workers in the ongoing financial year.
• Increased Demand for Work:
o Despite the reduction in the workforce, there has been a 9% increase in person days
(total work days by a person registered under the scheme in a financial year)
compared to the previous fiscal year.
• Interesting Trend in Person Days:
o 188 crore person days were generated in the ongoing fiscal year compared to
172.24 crore person days in the previous fiscal year, despite the reduction in the
number of active job cards and workers, indicating a persistent demand for
employment opportunities.
• State-level Variations:
o Fourteen states reported an increase in employment, while six states experienced a
decline.
o West Bengal witnessed a significant drop (99.5%) as the scheme was suspended by
the Union government due to alleged corruption.
o Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, and Tamil Nadu saw the highest increases in employment.
Knowledge Nuggets
About MGNERGS-
• Mahatma Gandhi National Rual Employment Guarantee Scheme is an Indian social
measure welfare which aims to guarantee the right to work under MGNREGA Act,2005,
• It aims to enhance livelihood security in rural areas by providing at least 100 days of
wage employment in a financial year to at least one member of every household whose
adult members volunteer to do unskilled manual work.
About LibTech India-

pg. 121
[Type here]
• Liberation Technology (LibTech India) is a team of engineers, social workers, and social
scientists who, inspired by the Right to Information movement and the idea of social
audits, focus on various aspects of improving transparency, accountability, and
democratic engagement in rural public services delivery.
Source: The Hindu, LibTech.in
GDP FORECAST
1. India Development Update of the World Bank forecasted a 6.3% growth in 2023-24.
• The India Development Update is released in biannual.
• The GDP forecast was 7.2% in 2022-23.
• Inflation projection for FY24 - 5.9%
o Reason - risks from the monsoon deficiency and its evolving impact on prices, El-
Nino phenomena, and global supply chain disruptions
Knowledge Nuggets
The World Bank is an international financial institution that provides loans and grants to the
governments of low- and middle-income countries for the purpose of pursuing capital projects. It
was founded in July 1944 by Bretton Woods Conventions.
• President- Ajay Banga
Source: ET
2. International Monetary Fund has released the World Economic Outlook Report- October
2023 edition.
Year World India
2023-24 3% 6.3%
2024-25 2.9% 6.3%
• Reason for increase in India’s forecast - stronger-than-expected consumption during
April-June quarter of FY24
• Inflation projections for India - 5.5% in fiscal 2023-24 before easing to 4.6% in 2024-25.
Knowledge Nuggets
pg. 122
[Type here]
About IMF-
• The International Monetary Fund (IMF) is a major financial agency of the United
Nations and an international financial institution funded by 190 member countries.
• Headquarters- Washington DC
• Founded- 1945
Source: Mint and IMF
DEFENCE NEWS
1. The Indian Air Force (IAF) has received the first of six new Dornier Do-228 aircraft
manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).
• The Dornier-228 is versatile and well-suited for short-haul operations on semi-prepared or
short runways, making it valuable for use in the northeastern and island regions of India
• Cost of procurement - Rs 667 crore
• Recently, the Indian Navy has provided a Dornier Do-228 maritime patrol aircraft to the Sri
Lanka Air Force (SLAF).
Source: ET
2. Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh launched several digital initiatives of Defence
Accounts Department (DAD) during its 276th Annual Day celebrations.
• Initiatives -
o ‘SARANSH’ - Summary of Accounts, Budget and Expenditure for Raksha
Mantralaya is a data analytics tool that provides a real-time comprehensive platform
to visualize and analyze defence financial data.
o BISWAS - Bill Information and Work Analysis System helps monitor and analyze bill
management. It provides real-time analysis of bill processing, with interactive
visualizations of data.
o e-Raksha Awaas – a centralized software package that helps the Defence Services
generate and collect rent and allied charges for buildings. It is a unified online
platform for all stakeholders involved in the process.
• Collaboration -
pg. 123
[Type here]
o Raksha Mantri recommended collaboration with reputed institutions like the IIMs and
the ICAI to develop and adopt customised training modules
• Awards -
o Raksha Mantri Awards for Excellence 2023 were given to five team for
implementing key department projects.
o Projects include new training methodology, CBT systems, SARANSH dashboard,
Dolphin 2.0 system, and KPIs for field offices.
▪ Project Dolphin is a computer system that helps the Indian Army pay its
soldiers. It is fast, accurate, and easy to use. This means that soldiers can get
their pay sooner and more easily. Their payment-related grievances are also
resolved quickly on this platform.
Knowledge Nuggets
• Defence Accounts Department (DAD) functions under the administrative control of
Ministry of Defence and is headed by Controller General of Defence Accounts.
• DAD is responsible for managing the finances of the Indian Armed Forces. This
includes paying soldiers and civilians, paying for supplies and services, and accounting
for all the money that is spent on the military.
Source: PIB CGDA DAD
3. The Indian Air Force (IAF) has placed two contracts with Bharat Dynamics Ltd. (BDL) for
the indigenous Astra Beyond Visual Range (BVR) air-to-air missile.
• The IAF plans to conduct the Astra missile's deployment by the end of 2023.
• This missile, developed domestically with a range of over 100 km, is a significant addition to
India's defence capabilities, enhancing its air-to-air combat capabilities.
• The more advanced and longer-range Astra-Mk2 is under development.
Source: Hindu
4. Indian Air Force has presented a proposal to acquire three airborne intelligence gathering
aircraft under a project that will see the development of indigenous sensor technologies and
systems.
• The new airborne intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition and reconnaissance
(ISTAR) platform will be able to map out battlefields and monitor enemy movements in real
time.
pg. 124
[Type here]
• This will cost ₹6,000 crore project.

• Recently, the air force cleared the acquisition of more indigenous 'Netra' early warning
and control aircraft to its fleet.
• Six additional aircraft are planned to be acquired by the air force as part of a $1 billion plan
to add force multipliers in the air force.
Source: ET
5. India and Bangladesh commenced the 11th edition of annual joint military exercise,
SAMPRITI in Umroi, Meghalaya.
• The exercise underscores the importance of enhancing interoperability between the two
armies, sharing tactical drills, and promoting best practices.
Source: NoA
6. 'Swavlamban 2.0' - Indian Navy's Naval Innovation and Indigenisation (NIIO) Seminar –
was organized on October 4-5, 2023, in New Delhi.
• Highlights -
o The fifth Positive Indigenisation List consisting of 98 items was released by the
Department of Military Affairs (DMA).
o 76 challenges for the industry under the 10th Defence India Start-up Challenges &
DISC 10 PRIME, along with five problem statements under iDEX for Fauji were
launched.
o In addition, two INDUS X challenges under ‘INDUS-X Mutual Promotion of
Advanced Collaborative Technologies’ (IMPACT) challenges jointly finalised by
iDEX and United States Department of Defense (US DoD) were launched.
o SBI NAVeCash Card, a dual-chip debit card for the Navy, was launched. This card
can be used onboard the ships, eliminating the need of using cash.
o Products developed under the SPRINT (Supporting Pole-vaulting in R&D through
iDEX, NIIO and TDAC) initiative were showcased in an exhibition during the
seminar.
▪ Under the SPRINT, launched during the first Swavlamban, the Indian Navy
aimed to develop at least 75 technologies.
Knowledge Nuggets
• The 1st edition of Swavlamban was organized in 2022.
• At the seminar, iDEX DISC7 (SPRINT) challenge was launched by the Prime Minister.
pg. 125
[Type here]
• SPRINT (Supporting Pole-vaulting in R&D through iDEX, NIIO and TDAC) is a

collaborative project between the Defence Innovation Organisation (DIO) and NIIO aimed
at developing at least 75 indigenous technologies / products as a part of Azadi Ka
Amrit Mahotsav.
• Naval Innovation and Indigenisation Organisation (NIIO) was launched in 2020 by the
Defence Minister of India.
• The NIIO is a three-tiered organisation -
o Naval Technology Acceleration Council (N-TAC)
o Working group under the N-TAC
o Technology Development Acceleration Cell (TDAC)
Source: PIB
7. Indian Air Force (IAF) chief Air Chief Marshal V.R. Chaudhari unveiled the new Indian Air
Force ensign on its 91st anniversary at Bamrauli Air Force Station in Prayagraj of Uttar
Pradesh.
Source: Deccan Chronicle
8. Indian Navy hosted the 2023 edition of Annual Joint Humanitarian Assistance and
Disaster Relief (HADR) Exercise- CHAKRAVAT at Goa.
• The last edition (2022) of the exercise was conducted at Agra by IAF.
• It is a joint exercise of Indian Navy, Air Force, and Army. It is hosted by one of these forces
on a rotational basis.
• Logo-
o The Logo for this year’s exercise depicts crests and logos of all participating
agencies and flags of all nations subsumed into one single entity to signify that
HADR will hinge on joint and integrated action by the all the agencies.
pg. 126
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• Invitee Countries – Comoros, Madagascar, Maldives, Mauritius, Mozambique, Seychelles,

Sri Lanka, and Tanzania
Source: PIB and Deccan Herald
9. National Security Council Secretariat has organized 2nd edition of National Cyber Security
Exercise named ‘Bharat NCX 2023’ for government, public and private sector organizations.
• Purpose - To train senior management and technical personnel of these organizations in
handling cyber incidents and response
• The program is conducted by the National Security Council Secretariat (NSCS), in
strategic partnership with Rashtriya Raksha University (RRU).
Source: PIB
10. DRDO INS Sagardhwani sets sail on mission to establish scientific partnership with IOR
countries under Sagar Maitri initiative.
• Sagar Maitri initiative of DRDO seeks to promote closer cooperation in socio economic
aspects as well as more significant scientific interaction, especially in ocean research
among Indian Ocean Rim (IOR) countries.
• INS Sagardhwani is an oceanographic research vessel.
11. Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh has conducted the 5th Annual Defence Dialogue with
French Minister of Armed Forces Mr Sebastien Lecornu in Paris.
• Key points of discussions-
pg. 127
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o Assessment of regional situation

o Ongoing military-to-military engagements
o Enhancing defence industrial cooperation
o Review of ongoing defence projects
o Collaboration in niche domains: space, cyber, and Artificial Intelligence
Source: PIB
12. Indian Army has established the first-ever BSNL base transceiver station (BTS) on world’s
highest battlefield, Siachen Glacier.
• BTS station is established in collaboration with Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited.
Source: ANI
13. Army Chief presents the President’s Colours to the third battalion of Naga Regiment at
Kumaon Regimental Centre, Ranikhet (Uttarakhand).
Knowledge Nuggets
About President’s Colour-

• The President's Colour Award is the highest honour that can be bestowed upon any
military unit of India.
• It is also known as Nishaan, which is an emblem that is worn by all unit officers on the
left-hand sleeve of their uniform.
Source: PIB
14. Coastal security exercise ‘Sagar Kavach’ involving all maritime security agencies has been
conducted by Indian Navy in Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and Puducherry.
• Objective-
To assess the efficiency and robustness of the coastal security mechanism while dealing
with asymmetric threat originating from sea.
• Participation- Indian navy, coast guard, state and Union Territory administration, marine
Police, fisheries, custom, intelligence agencies, lighthouse, ports and forest have
participated in the exercise.
pg. 128
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15. The Indian Army’s 3/5 Gorkha Rifles (Frontier Force) team has won gold medal at the
Cambrian Patrol Competition 2023 International Military Exercise in Wales, UK.
• About Cambrian Patrol Exercise-
o Exercise CAMBRIAN PATROL is the British Army’s premier patrolling event.
o It is also referred as the Olympics of Military Patrolling.
o Place- Wales, United Kingdom
o Hosted by- Headquarters 160th (Welsh) Brigade.
Source: TOI
16. Indian Navy has conducted security exercise ‘Prasthan 2023’ in Andhra Pradesh’s
Kakinada.
• Objectives-
o To ensure the security of offshore development areas in Kakinada
o To rehearse responses in handling contingencies
• About Prasthan 2023
o The exercise was conducted on Rig Ship Platinum Explorer of ONGC and RG Fixed
Oil Platform of Vedanta Ltd.
o Conducted under the aegis of Eastern Naval Command
o It witnessed participation from multiple organization
Source: ET
17. Yard 12706 (Imphal) the third of Project 15B stealth guided missile destroyer has been
delivered to the Indian Navy.
• About Yard 12706-
o It is designed by the Indian Navy’s Warship Design Bureau (WDB) and built by
M/s Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd, Mumbai.
o The Project is a follow-on of the Kolkata class (Project 15A) destroyers
commissioned in the last decade.
o The ship contains indigenous mate of approximately 75%.
Source: PIB
18. Udhampur military station has been awarded ‘Best Green Military Station’ award during
the army commanders conference in New Delhi.
• Key points-
pg. 129
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o Dehradun Military Station has been awarded ‘Second Best’ award.

o Bikaner Military Station has been awarded ‘Best Transformative Station’ trophy.
Source: ET
19. Defence minister Rajnath Singh has launched Indian Military Heritage Festival ‘Project
Udbhav’ in Delhi.
• Objective-
To rediscover the profound Indian heritage of spacecraft and strategic thoughts derived
from ancient Indian text of spacecraft, warcraft, diplomacy and grand strategy.
Source: Print
20. Indian Army and Malaysian Army have conducted joint bilateral ‘Exercise Harimau Shakti
2023’ in Umroi cantonment, India.
• Objectives-
o To increase military capability for conduct of Multi Domain Operations in a sub
conventional scenario.
o To improve the level of defence co-operation between Indian Army and the
Malaysian Army
• Participation- Rajput Regiment of Indian Army and 5th Royal Battalion of Malaysian Army
• Last edition of the Exercise was conducted in Pulai, Kluang, Malaysia in November 2022.
Source: PIB
21. Japan has become the 1st country to fire Electromagnetic Railgun from an offshore vessel.
• Japanese Maritime Self-Defence Force (JMSDF) collaborated with the Acquisition
Technology & Logistics Agency (ATLA) for this.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Railgun-
• A railgun is an electromagnetic weapon that can shoot projectiles at about Mach 7, or
seven times the speed of sound, on targets like ships, missiles, and aircraft.
Source: eurasiantimes
22. Indian Army has inaugurated its first Vertical Wind Tunnel (VWT) at a training school in
Himachal Pradesh.
pg. 130
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• Inaugurated at-
o Special Forces Training School (SFTS) at Bakloh
• Benefits-
o It will provide a controlled environment for military trainees to-
o improve their skills in simulating real-life free-fall conditions
o improve Combat Free Fall (CFF) skills of armed forces personnel by simulating
different CFF scenarios
Knowledge Nuggets
About Vertical Wind Tunnel-

• A vertical wind tunnel is a wind tunnel that moves air up in a vertical column.
Source: ET
23. Indian Air Force has signed a contract with an Indian Manufacturer for the procurement of
Automatic Weather Stations at 82 IAF stations.
• Objectives-
o To improve aerospace safety by providing real time weather updates during flying
and training operations
o To uphold the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS),
emphasizing the importance of adhering to international maritime law
Source: IDRW
24. India and European Union have conducted their first joint Naval Exercise in Gulf of
Guinea.
• Objective-
o To reinforce naval maritime security cooperation in support of the region.
• Participation-
o Indian Navy Ship- INS Sumedha, an Offshore Patrol Vessel
o Italian Navy Ship- ITS Foscari
o French Navy Ship- FS Ventôse
o Spanish Navy Ship- Tornado
• Knowledge Sharing-
o A knowledge sharing session took place in Accra, Ghana, following the maritime
exercises.
pg. 131
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• Benefits-
• To strengthen commitment of India and the EU to assist coastal states and reinforce
the Yaoundé Architecture for ensuring maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea.
Source: PIB
25. 25T Bollard Pull (BP) Tug, ‘Mahabali’ has been launched at M/s Shoft Shipyard Pvt Ltd,
Bharuch, Gujarat.
• These Tugs are built under the classification rules of Indian Register of Shipping (IRS).
• Uses-
o The availability of Tug will provide momentum to Operational commitments of Indian
Navy by facilitating assistance to Naval ships and submarines during berthing and
un-berthing, turning and manoeuvring in confined waters.
Source: PIB
26. Personnel from the Indian Army and the Indian Air Force have departed for Kazakhstan to
participate in the 7th edition of the Joint Military ‘Exercise KAZIND-2023.’
• Participation- India & Kazakhstan
• Venue- Otar, Kazakhstan
• Objective-
o To improve the capabilities of both sides in counter-terrorism operations within a sub-
conventional environment under the purview of United Nations mandates.
AGRICUTLURE AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT

1. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced the setting up of a National Turmeric Board
in Telangana and, also ₹900 crore Sammakka-Sarakka Central Tribal University in Mulug.
• The Turmeric Board aims to support farmers in the region by providing necessary
infrastructure, value addition, research facilities, and professional assistance for exports.
• Prime Minister laid foundation stones for projects worth over ₹13,500 crore in
Mahabubnagar on October 1.
Source: Hindu
pg. 132
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2. Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) will expand the cultivation area of Musk Budji, an indigenous
aromatic variety of rice from Kashmir.
• The plan is to expand its cultivation area to 5,000 hectares within the next three years.
• Mushk Budji rice was already granted a Geographical Indication (GI) tag.
Source: Daily Excelsior
3. Indian government has granted the permission to export 1.34 million tonne of non-
basmati white rice to seven Asian and African nations in humanitarian efforts.
• Exporting authority- National Cooperative Exports Ltd
Knowledge Nuggets
About National Cooperative Exports Ltd

• It is a government export body that was set up under the Multi-State Cooperative
Societies (MSCS) Act, 2002 to export agriculture produce and allied items.
Source: livemint
AWARDS
1. Kantar BrandZ Most Valuable Indian Brands 2023 (10th edition) list has been released.
• The International Monetary Fund is predicting growth of 6.1% for India in 2023
• Top 5 -
o Tata Consultancy Services (for the 2nd year) with a brand value of $43 billion
o HDFC Bank
o Infosys
o Airtel
o SBI
• There are four newcomers and two re-entrants in the 2023 ranking, including PhonePe,
Cred, ShareChat, and Star.
• The combined brand value of India's top 75 brands is $379 billion, a 4% decline from
2022, attributed to global economic volatility.
• Financial services brands grew by 6%, driven by digital banking. Axis Bank and ICICI
Bank are among the top brands in this category.
Source: ET
pg. 133
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2. The President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu presented the National Service Scheme
Awards for the year 2021-2022 at Rashtrapati Bhavan.
• Winners under Programme coordinator/Officer category -
S. No. Name Institution
1. Dr Ramvir Singh Chauhan Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar
University, Agra (Uttar
Pradesh)
2. Dr Mitali Kathkatia Dakshin Kamrup Girls’
College, Mirza (Assam)
3. Dr Ranjana Sharma Post Graduate Govt.
College for Girls,
Chandigarh
4. Dr Malkiat Singh Government Degree
College, Dharamshala,
Kangra (Himachal
Pradesh)
5. Dr Raghavendra R Seshadripuram Degree
College, Mysuru
(Karnataka)
6. Dr S. Lekshmi Sanatana Dharma
College, Alappuzha
(Kerala)
7. Dr Indira Barman Institute for Excellence in
Higher Education, Bhopal
(Madhya Pradesh)
8. Dr Pawan Ramesh Naik Kewalramji Harde
Mahavidyalaya,
Chamorshi (Maharashtra)
9. Joseph Vanlalhuraia Sailo Synod Higher Secondary
School, Aizawl (Mizoram)
pg. 134
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10. Dr Renu Bisht Bhartiya Shaheed Sainik

Vidhyalaya, Nainital
(Uttarakhand)
11. Babita Prasad Surya Sen
Mahavidyalaya, Siliguri
(West Bengal)
Source: NSS
3. Ruixiang Zhang, Assistant Professor, University of California, Berkeley, USA will be awarded
with the 2023 SASTRA Ramanujan Prize for his outstanding contributions in mathematics.
• The annual cash prize of USD 10,000 will be given at an International Conference in
Number Theory during December 20 and December 22 at SASTRA University in
Kumbakonam, mathematician Srinivasa Ramanujan’s hometown.
• The age limit for the prize has been set at 32, influenced by Ramanujan’s achievements in
his brief life of 32 years.
Source: The Hindu
4. International Olympic Committee (IOC) has announced the winners of the 1st edition of
the Climate Action Awards, recognising the athletes, International Federations (IFs) and
National Olympic Committees (NOCs) who are taking tangible steps to tackle the climate crisis.
• Winners -
o Athletes - Marcus Mepstead (fencing, Great Britain) and Paloma Schmidt (sailing,
Peru)
o NOCs - World Rugby, World Sailing, the Colombian Olympic Committee and the
Spanish Olympic Committee
• Categories of awards - sustainable travel, innovation, and athlete advocacy
• The awards are supported by Worldwide Olympic and Paralympic Partners Airbnb, Deloitte
and P&G.
5. Nobel Prizes 2023 -

Category Winner Reason
pg. 135
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Physics Pierre Agostini (France) “For experimental methods

Ferenc Krausz (Hungarian- that generate attosecond
Austrian) pulses of light for the study of
Anne L’Huillier (French) electron dynamics in matter”
Physiology or Medicine Katalin Karikó (Hungarian “For their discoveries
American) concerning nucleoside base
Drew Weissman (American) modifications that enabled the
development of effective
mRNA vaccines against
COVID-19”
Chemistry Moungi G. Bawendi for the discovery and
(American- Tunisian- French) synthesis of quantum dots
Louis E. Brus (American)
Alexei I. Ekimov (Russian)
Literature Jon Fosse (Norwegian) for his innovative plays and
prose which give voice to the
unsayable
freedom
economics
Source: Nobel
6. Sudha Murty has become the 1st woman to receive the Global Indian Award by the Canada
India Foundation.
• The Global Indian Award, which is worth $50, 000, is given each year to a prominent Indian
who has made a major mark in his or her chosen field.
Source: Indiatimes
pg. 136
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7. Reliance Industries Limited Chairman Mukesh Ambani has topped in the Hurun India
Rich List 2023.
• 2nd position - Adani Group Chairman Gautam Adani (who topped the list in 2022)
• Key Findings-
o The list includes Kaivalya Vohra (20), Founder of Zepto, as the youngest
member, underscoring the impact of India's startup revolution.
Source: India Today
8. Tamil writer Sivasankari has been awarded the esteemed 'Saraswati Samman' 2022 for her
book of memoirs, ‘Surya Vamsam’.
• The award was given at the National Museum, New Delhi.
• She is the 32nd recipient of the award.
About Saraswati Samman-

• Institution- Given by K.K. Birla Foundation
• Award- Award consists of citation, plaque and prize money of 15 lakhs.
Source: HT
9. President Droupadi Murmu has conferred the 69th National Film Awards 2023 in New Delhi.
• These awards are recognized as one of the highest honours in the field of film-making.
• Winner’s list-
Category Winner (Film)
Best Actor Allu Arjun (Pushpa)
Best Actress Alia Bhatt (Gangubai Kathiawadi) and Kriti

Sanon (Mimi)
Best Feature Film Rocketry: The Nambi Effect
Best Director Nikhil Mahajan (Godavari)
Nargis Dutt Award for Best Film on National The Kashmir Files
Integration
Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome RRR
Entertainment
pg. 137
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10. Mukesh Ambani, Chairman and MD of Reliance Industries Ltd. is the richest Indian as per
the Forbes India’s 100 Richest 2023 List with USD 92 billion.
• Key rankings-
• Gautam Adani, Chairperson Adani Group has been ranked 2nd
• Richest Women- Savitri Jindal of O.P. Jindal Group, she ranked 4th overall
• Youngest billionaire- Nikhil Kamath, co-founder of trading platform Zerodha
Knowledge Nuggets
About Forbes
• Forbes is a media and publishing company
• CEO- Mike Federle
• Headquarters- Jersey City, New Jersey
Source: Forbes India
11. Hollywood actor and producer Michael Douglas has been awarded Satyajit Ray Lifetime
Achievement Award at 54th International Film Festival of India (IFFI).
• About IFFI-
o The International Film Festival of India, founded in 1952, is one of the film festivals in
Asia.
o Place- Goa
o Date- November 20,2023- November 28,2023
Source: PIB
12. President Droupadi Murmu has conferred the prestigious Dada Saheb Phalke Award 2021
to Indian actress Waheeda Rahman.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Dadasaheb Phalke Award-

o The Dadasaheb Phalke Award is the highest award in Indian cinema.
pg. 138
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o It is annually presented at the National Film Awards ceremony by the Directorate of Film
Festivals.
o The award is named after Dhundiraj Govind Phalke.
o Dadasaheb Phalke is regarded as the ‘father of Indian cinema’.
Source: PIB
13. Rural Electrification Corporation Limited, a Maharatna Central Public Sector Enterprise
under the Ministry of Power has been awarded prestigious Golden Peacock Award in Risk
Management by the Institute of Directors (IOD).
• Golden Peacock Awards -
o The Golden Peacock Awards are internationally recognized as a standard for corporate
excellence
o Established- 1991
o Organization- Institute of Directors (IOD) in India
Source: PIB
14. Mahsa Amini of Iran has been posthumously awarded the European Union’s top Human
Rights Prize.
• She has been awarded European Union’s Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought.
• She was protesting against Iran’s mandatory headscarf law.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Sakharov Prize

• Objective- To recognize individuals or groups who defend human rights and fundamental
freedom
Source: TOI
15. Nobel Laureate Narges Mohammadi has been awarded Mother Teresa Memorial Award
for Social Justice 2023.
• She is awarded to recognize her undaunted courage to put her life on the line as a fearless
defender and advocate of human rights against the fundamentalist regime of Iran.
• The award will be given on 26 November in Mumbai.
• She is awarded Nobel Peace Prize for 2023.
pg. 139
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Knowledge Nuggets
About Mother Teresa Memorial Award-

• Mother Teresa Memorial Awards for Social Justice are presented annually to honour
individuals and organizations that promote peace, equality and social justice.
• Objective-
o To encourage the cause of justice and peaceful coexistence, while providing an
impetus for society to imbibe these values.
Source: TOI
16. Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud has received the 'Award for Global
Leadership', the highest professional distinction handed out by Harvard Law School.
• He was announced as the recipient of the award on January 11, this year, in an online
ceremony.
17. US President Joe Biden has honoured two Indian-American with the highest scientific
awards in the United States for their contribution to the field of science and technology.
Award Winner Reason
National Medal of Technology Ashok Gadgil for providing life-sustaining
and Innovation resources to communities
around the world.
National Medal of Science Subra Suresh for pioneering research across

engineering, physical
sciences, and life sciences.
18. UST has won the 2023 Mahatma Awards for sustainable and impactful contributions to
corporate social responsibility (CSR).
• About Mahatma Awards-
• It is an initiative of Aditya Birla Group.
• Award is presented on Mahatma Gandhi’s birth anniversary.
pg. 140
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• Mahatma Award is the highest honour for social impact leaders and change makers,
who are working towards making this world a better place.
Knowledge Nuggets
About UST-
• UST is a global digital transformation solution provider.
• Headquarters- California, USA
• CEO- Krishna Sudheendra
What is CSR?
• Corporate Social Responsibility is a management concept whereby companies integrate
social and environmental concerns in their business operations and interactions with their
stakeholders.
Source: ANI, mahatma award, UN
19. Nita Ambani has received US-India Strategic Partnership Forum’s 2023 Global
Leadership Award for Philanthropy and CSR.
• She has been awarded for being at the forefront of women's empowerment, children's
education, promoting Indian arts and sports.
Knowledge Nuggets
About US-India Strategic Partnership Forum-

• The US-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF), is an independent non-profit, non-
governmental, and non-partisan organization.
• Headquarter- Washington, D.C
Source: Business Today, usispf
IMPORTANT DAYS
1. September 28 - 197th Gunners Day (Regiment of Artillery was raised in 1827)
• Motto of Artillery Regiment: "Sarvatra Izzat-O-IqbaI - Everywhere with Honour and Glory"
pg. 141
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Source: PIB NoA
2. September 29 - International Day of Awareness on Food Loss and Waste Reduction; Theme -
“Reducing food loss and waste: Taking Action to Transform Food Systems”
Source: UN
3. September 30 - International Translation Day (to honour Saint Jerome, the Bible translator);
Theme - 'Translation unveils the many faces of humanity’
Source: ET
4. October 1 - National Pension System Diwas (NPS Diwas)

Source: PIB
5. Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2023 is observed throughout the month of October.
• Ribbon colour for awareness - pink
Source: breastcancer.org
6. October 1 - International Day of Older Persons; Theme - Fulfilling the Promises of the
Universal Declaration of Human Rights for Older Persons: Across Generations
Source: UN
7. October 1 - International Coffee Day; Theme - promoting the right to a safe and healthy
working environment in the coffee supply chain
Knowledge Nuggets
• There are two main types of coffee beans used in commercial coffee production – Arabica
and Robusta.
• The International Coffee Organization (ICO) is the main intergovernmental organization
for coffee, bringing together exporting and importing Governments to tackle the
challenges facing the world coffee sector through international cooperation.
• Its Member Governments represent 98% of world coffee production and 67% of world
consumption.
• The ICO was set up in London in 1963 under the auspices of the United Nations.
Source: Al Jazeera ICO
pg. 142
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8. October 1 - World Vegetarian Day

Source: HT
9. October 2 - 154th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi

Source: Wion
10. October 2 - World Habitat Day; Theme - Resilient urban economies. Cities as drivers of
growth and recovery
Source: UN
11. October 2 - International Day of Non-Violence (17th edition); Message - Say No to Violence
Source: UN
12. October 2-8 - Wildlife week (69th edition); Theme - ‘Partnership for Wildlife Conservation’
Source: PIB
13. October 4- World Animal Day; Theme - Great or Small Love Them All
Source: worldanimalday.org
14. October 4-10- World Space Week; Theme- Space and Entrepreneurship
Source: worldspaceweek.org
15. October 5- World Teachers Day; Theme- The Teacher we need for the education we want:
The global imperative to reverse the teacher shortage.
Knowledge Nuggets
About UNESCO-
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization is a specialized agency of
the United Nations aimed at promoting world peace and security through international
cooperation in education, arts, sciences and culture.

• Founded- 16 November 1995
• Head- Audrey Azoulay
Source: UNESCO
pg. 143
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16. October 6 - World Cerebral Palsy Day; Theme - Together Stronger

• A film on Sambhav: Making Inclusion possible (Assistive Devices for Persons with
Cerebral Palsy) was displayed.
Source: PIB
17. First Friday in October (October 6) - World Smile Day; Theme - Radiate Joy
Source: LiveMint
18. October 7- World Cotton Day; Theme -Making cotton fair and sustainable for all: from farm to
fashion
Source: UN
19. October 8 - Indian Air Force Day (established on 8 October 1932); Theme – IAF-Airpower
Beyond Boundaries
• Motto - Touching the sky with Glory (नभः स्पृशं दीप्तम्)
• New ensign of Indian Air Force -
Source: LiveMint
20. October 8 - World Hydrogen and Fuel Day

Source: PIB
21. October 8- World Dyslexia Awareness Day; Theme – ‘Uniquely You’

• Dyslexia Awareness Week is observed from 2nd – 8th October.
pg. 144
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Knowledge Nuggets
About Dyslexia-
• Dyslexia is a disorder in which person might struggle with reading, writing, vocabulary,
and tasks that require hand-eye coordination.
Source: AIR
22. October 9- World Post Day; Theme - "Together for Trust: Collaborating for a safe and
connected future
Source: Live Mint
23. October 10- Good Manufacturing Practice Day

Source: Live Mint
24. October 10- National Post Day

• October 9-13- National Postal week
• October 9- World Post Day; Theme-"Together for Trust: Collaborating for a safe and
connected future."
Knowledge Nuggets
About World Post Day-

• The event was declared by the 1969 Universal Postal Congress in Tokyo as a means to
mark the anniversary of the Universal Postal Union (UPU) creation in 1874.
• The objective of World Post Day is to bring awareness to the Post’s role in the everyday
lives of people and businesses, as well as its contribution to global social and economic
development.
Source: Business Standard, PIB
25. October 10- World Day Against the Death Penalty

Source: worldcoalition.org
26. October 10- World Mental Health Day; Theme- “Mental health is a universal human right”
• Green Ribbon Campaign- The green ribbon is the international symbol of mental
health awareness.
pg. 145
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• World Mental Health Day is sponsored by World Health Organization, the World Federation
for Mental Health, and its member organizations
Knowledge Nuggets
About World Federation for Mental Health-

• The World Federation for Mental Health is an international, multi-professional non-
governmental organization, including citizen volunteers and former patients.
• Founded- 1948
About World Health Organization-

• The World Health Organization is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible
for international public health.
• Director-general- Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus
Source: WHO
27. October 10- National Current Good Manufacturing Day (cGMP) Day; Theme- cGMP:
Transforming Healthcare.
• 10th October 2023 is the first ever National cGMP day.
Source: livemint
28. October 11- International Day of Girl Child 2023; Theme- Invest in Girls Rights: Our
Leadership, Our Well-being.
Source: UNICEF
29. Second Thursday of October (October 12, 2023)- World Sight Day; Theme- “love your eyes
at work”
Source: livemint
30. October 12- World Arthritis Day; Theme- Living with an RMD at all stages of life
Source: livemint
31. October 14- World Migratory Bird Day; Theme- Water: Sustaining Bird Life.
• It is celebrated across globe on 2nd Saturday of May and October.
pg. 146
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Source: worldmigratorybirdday.org
32. October 14- World Standards Day; Theme- Our shared vision for a better world
Source: ISO
33. October 15- International Day of Rural Women; Theme- Rural Women Cultivating Good Food
for All
Source: UN Women
34. October 15- Global Handwashing Day; Theme- clean hands are within reach
Source: globalhandwashing.org
35. October 15- World White Cane Day

36. October 15- World Students Day

• It is celebrated to commemorate the birth anniversary of 11th President and Missile Man of
India Dr APJ Abdul Kalam.
Source: livemint
37. October 16- World Food Day; Theme- “Water is life, water is food. Leave no one behind.”
Source: livemint
38. October 16- Raising Day of the NSG

Source: TOI
39. October 17- International Day for Eradication of Poverty; Theme- Decent Work and Social
Protection: Putting dignity in practice for all
Source: UN
40. October 17- World Trauma Day; Theme- Embracing Resilience, Overcoming Trauma’s Impact
• As per some newspapers, the theme of this day is not confirmed.
Source: ETV Bharat
pg. 147
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41. October 20- International Chefs Day; Theme- Growing Great Chefs
Source: FRP
42. October 21- World Iodine Deficiency Day

Source: TOI
43. October 21- Police Commemoration Day (Police Martyr’s Day)

• The day marks the sacrifice of 10 CRPF men who lost their lives to a Chinese attack in
1959.
Source: ET
44. October 22- International Stuttering Awareness Day; Theme- “One Size Does NOT Fit All”
• About Stuttering-
o It is a disruption in speech pattern involving dysfluencies in a person’s speech.
Source: HT
45. October 22-28- International Lead Poisoning Prevention Week; Theme- End Childhood Lead
Poisoning
Source: WHO
46. October 23- World Snow Leopard Day

Source: wwf
47. October 24- UN Day; Theme- The Frontlines of Climate Action

Source: UN
48. October 24- World Polio Day

Source: livemint
49. October 24- UN’s World Development Information Day

Source: iisd
pg. 148
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Source: UNESCO
51. October 24-31- UN Disarmament Week

Source: UN
52. October 24- 62nd Indo Tibetan Border Police Raising Day
Source: PIB
Source: UNESCO
54. October 25- World Dwarfism Day

• Dwarfism is a medical condition which causes short stature.
• It is generally defined as an adult height of 4 feet 10 inches (147 centimetres) or less. The
average adult height among people with dwarfism is 4 feet (122 cm).
Source: PIB
55. October 26- Accession Day

Source: livemint
56. October 27- World Day for Audiovisual Heritage; Theme- ‘Your Window to the World’
Source: UNESCO
57. October 27- 77th Infantry Day

Source: livemint
58. October 27- 76th Shaurya Diwas

Source: ANI
59. October 28- International Animation Day

Source: asifa
60. October 29- International Day of Care and Support
pg. 149
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Source: UN
61. October 29- World Stroke Day; Theme- Together we are #Greater Than Stroke
Source: livemint
62. October 30- November 5- Vigilance Awareness Week; Theme- Say no to corruption; Commit
to the Nation
Source: AIR
63. October 30- Birth Anniversary of Dr Homi Jehangir Bhabha

Source: CNBC
64. October 31- World Cities Day; Theme- Financing a sustainable urban future for all
Source: UN
SPORTS
1. 19th Asian Games highlights -
• SHOTPUT - Kiran Baliyan has become the first Indian woman to win an Asian Games
medal in shot put event in 72 years.
o Tajinderpal Singh Toor won gold in Shotput.
• SQUASH - Indian women's squash team comprised of Joshna Chinappa, Tanvi
Khanna and Anahat Singh won bronze medal after losing to Hong Kong, China, in the
semifinals.
o India’s men’s team won the gold medal at the Asian Games squash.
• ATHLETICS - Indian long-distance runners Kartik Kumar and Gulveer Singh bagged a
silver and bronze medal respectively in the men's 10,000 metre race.
o Avinash Sable won gold in Asian Games 3000m steeplechase.
o Parul Chaudhary won silver in 3000m steeple chase.
o Race - Harmilan Bains (women’s 1500m), Murali Sreeshankar (men’s long jump),
Ajay Kumar Saroj (men’s 1500m) and Jyothi Yarraji (women’s 100m hurdles) won
silver.
pg. 150
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• SHOOTING - Indian shooting duo of Sarabjot Singh and Divya Subbaraju won silver
medal in the mixed 10m air rifle pistol team event at the ongoing Asian Games in
Hangzhou.
• TENNIS - The mixed doubles tennis pair of Rohan Bopanna and Rutuja Bhosale
defeated Chinese Taipei pair En-shuo Liang and Tsung-hao Huang in the finals to win the
gold medal.
• TABLE TENNIS - Ayhika Mukherjee and Sutirtha Mukherjee won the bronze medal in
women's table tennis doubles event. This is first ever medal in the women's doubles
event by India at the Asian Games.
• BADMINTON - Indian Men’s Badminton Team won the silver medal, with China winning the
gold
Source: TOI ET TOI The Hindu LiveMint Sportstar Hindu Hindu ET TOI
2. 2026 Asian Games will be hosted by Japan in Aichi-Nagoya.

• China has announced three mascots namely Chenchen, Congcong, and Lianlian, a group
of three robot mascots of the Hangzhou 2022 Asian Games.
Source: Sportstar
3. Parul Chaudhary and Annu Rani won gold medals in athletics at the Asian Games 2023 in
Hangzhou, the People’s Republic of China in the 5000m race and javelin throw, respectively.
Source: olympics.com
4. India concluded Asian Games with 4th rank and 107 medals, which is the highest ever tally of
medals for India in the history of Asian Games.
• The first rank is obtained by China with the total medal tally of 383.
1 People's Republic of 201 111 71 383
China
2 Japan 52 67 69 188
3 Republic of Korea 42 59 89 190
4 India 28 38 41 107
Winners -
• HOCKEY - Indian men's hockey team secured a gold medal by defeating Japan in the
Asian Games and booked a place in the Paris Olympics.
pg. 151
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• BADMINTON -
o HS Prannoy won the bronze medal in men’s singles.
o The doubles pair of Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty made history by
winning India's first-ever gold medal.
• JAVELINE THROW – Neeraj Chopra won gold. Kishore Kumar Jena won silver.
• ARCHERY - Jyothi Sureka Vennam and Ojas Pravin Deotale won mixed team compound
gold
Source: Olympic.com, Olympic Olympic TOI
5. Nobel Prize 2023 -

freedom
economics
• The economic sciences award was added by Sweden’s central bank in 1968, called the
Sveriges Riksbank Prize in Economic Sciences in memory of Alfred Nobel.
Source: Nobel LiveMint
6. Indian badminton player Ayush Shetty won a bronze medal in men’s singles at the BWF
World Junior Championships 2023 in Spokane, USA.
Knowledge Nuggets
• Overall, Indian badminton players have won one gold, four silvers and six bronze
medals at the BWF World Junior Championships since it began in 1992.
• Saina Nehwal clinched a gold medal in 2008 and it remains India’s best result at the
event.
pg. 152
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7. The International Olympic Committee (IOC), Olympic Museum and Reliance Foundation
signed an agreement to promote Olympic values Education Programme (OVEP) through
sports among children.
• It has started in the Mumbai region and it will soon expand across Maharashtra.
• The agreement will focus on grade specific activities in selected schools.
• Sessions will be held between athletes and students to promote physical activity and
raising awareness to promote Olympic values.
Knowledge Nuggets
About OVEP-
• OVEP is an initiative led by Olympic Museum to promote Olympic Values.
• OVEP was launched in India in 2022, in partnership with Abhinav Bindra Foundation
in Odisha.
• Olympic Values Education Program is based on Olympic philosophy that learning
takes place through the balanced development of body and mind.
8. Max Verstappen (Dutch) of Red Bull won Qatar GP 2023 at Lusail International Circuit in
Qatar.
Source: TOI
9. Jannik Sinner (Italy) won the men’s single title in China Open 2023 (tennis) by defeating
Daniil Medvedev of Russia.
• Women’s Singles - Iga Świątek (Poland)
Source: ESPN
10. India to spend 3000 crores for promotion of sports in next 5 years.
• Objective-
o To provide for the construction of modern sports facilities across India, ensuring
athletes have access to the best training and resources.
o To provide additional support to the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) and
Khelo India initiatives that have significantly contributed to the growth and success of
Indian athletes.
Source: AIR
pg. 153
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11. India’s grandmaster Raunak Sadhwani has won FIDE World Junior Rapid Chess
Championship 2023 title in open category.
• FIDE World Junior Under 20 Rapid & Blitz Championship was held in Italy.
Knowledge Nuggets
About FIDE-
• Headquarters- Lausanne, Switzerland
• President- Arkady Dvorkovich
Source: TOI
12. Mohammad Shami has been appointed as the brand ambassador of PUMA India.
• Shami will endorse Puma’s footwear, apparel and accessories through multiple activities
and campaigns throughout the year.
• Other ambassadors of PUMA-
Sportsperson Sports Country
Virat Kohli Cricket India
Usain Bolt Sprint Jamaica
Neymar Jr Football Brazil
Sunil Chhetri Football India
MC Mary Kom Boxing India
Harmanpreet Kaur Cricket India
Harleen Deol Cricket India
Source: livemint
13. Railway’s Ashutosh Sharma has broken the record of Yuvraj Singh for the fastest fifty by an
Indian.
• He achieved this in a Group C clash against Arunachal Pradesh in Ranchi during Syed
Mushtaq Ali trophy T 20 tournament.
pg. 154
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Knowledge Nuggets
About Syed Mushtaq Ali trophy-

• The Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy is a domestic T20 cricket championship in India, organized
by the Board of Control for Cricket in India, among the teams from the Ranji Trophy.
• First edition- 2006-2007
Source: TOI
14. 141st session of the Indian Olympic Council has been held at Nita Mukesh Ambani
Cultural Centre (NMACC) in Mumbai.
• Key Facts-
• The IOC Session, held at least once every year, is the general meeting of the members of
the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
• This is only the second time in history that an IOC Session is being held in India.
• India hosted the 86th session (1st in India) of IOC in New Delhi, back in 1983.
• Key outcomes-
o Approval for the proposal of Organising Committee of the Olympic Games Los
Angeles 2028 to include five new sports in the programme has been accepted by
the IOC Session.
o Five sports include-
o Baseball/softball,
o Cricket (T20),
o Flag football,
o Lacrosse (sixes) and
o Squash
Knowledge Nuggets
About International Olympic Council-

Headquarters- Lausanne, Switzerland
Established- 1894
President- Thomas Bach
Source: Olympics.com, Business Standard
pg. 155
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15. Union Minister for Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan has
launched the IndiaSkills 2023-24 and felicitated the World Skills 2022 Winners at an event
held at Kaushal Bhawan, New Delhi.
• Key Highlights-
• It is the largest skill competition in the world, held every two years, aiming to assess
vocational excellence.
• Conducted by- WorldSkills International with 86 member countries.
• WorldSkills 2022 was conducted from September to November 2022 across Europe, North
America, and East Asia, with 1,000+ competitors from 58 countries in 61 skills.
• Host Countries- 15 countries hosted the competition in more than 20 cities.
o India's Performance at WSC 2022:
o India secured 11th position
o 2 Silver Medals
o 3 Bronze Medals
o 13 Medallions for Excellence
o It is the best ranking for India at the WorldSkills Competition so far.
• Participant Demographics: 56 competitors, 50 Experts, and 11 Interpreters participated,
with 19% being female (11 competitors).
• New-age Skills: Some competitors participated in new-age skills such as Robot System
Integration, Additive Manufacturing, Industry 4.0, Digital Construction, Mobile Application
Development, and Renewable Energy.
Source: PIB
16. Karthikeyan Murali has defeated Magnus Carlsen to win Qatar Masters 2023.
• He became just the third player from the country to defeat World number one Magnus
Carlsen in classical chess.
pg. 156
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Source: sports star
17. Volleyball has been removed from National Games held in Goa.
• New sports playing games - beach football, roll ball, golf, sepaktakraw, sqay martial arts,
Kalliyarapattu, and pencak silat
• Additionally, yachting and taekwondo are making a return after their exclusion during the
last edition.
• Traditional sports lagori and gatka have been included as demonstration sports.
• The National Games, formerly known as the Indian Olympic Games, made its debut in
Lahore, undivided India, in 1924.
Source: The Hindu and Bridge
18. Hyderabad will host its second edition of the Indian e-prix next year, with Formula E
returning to India for the 2024 edition of the Indian ePrix.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Hyderabad e-prix-

• The 2023 Hyderabad ePrix, also known as the 2023 Greenko Hyderabad is a Formula E
electric car race held at the Hyderabad Street Circuit in the city of Hyderabad in
Telangana.
Source: sport star
19. England has booked its place at Euro 24 after defeating England with a big margin at
Wembley.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Euro 24-

• The 2024 UEFA European Football Championship, commonly referred to as UEFA Euro
2024
• will be the 17th edition of the UEFA European Championship
• Host- Germany
• Participating teams- 24
• Dates- 14 June, 2024- 14 July, 2024
Source: goal.com
pg. 157
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20. India’s Unnati Hooda has won women’s singles title in Abu Dhabi Masters 2023.
• She has defeated Samiya Imad Farooqui from India to win the women's singles title at
the Abu Dhabi Masters 2023.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Abu Dhabi Masters 2023-

The 2023 Abu Dhabi Masters is a badminton tournament.
• Venue- ADNEC Marina Hall in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates,
• Date- 17 to 22 October 2023
• Prize money- USD 120,000.
Source: AIR
21. Uzbekistan grandmaster Nodirbek Yakubboev has won Qatar Masters chess
championship in Doha.
• He defeated GM Nodirbek Abdussatorov of Uzbekistan.
• India’s SL Narayanan has secured 3rd place in Qatar Masters Open.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Qatar Masters Open-

• The Qatar Masters Open is an open chess tournament organized by the Qatar Chess
Association in Doha, Qatar.
Source: chessbase
22. Red Bull’s Max Verstappen has won 50th Formula 1 (F1) United States Grand Prix 2023
held at the Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas, USA.
• Rankings-
Rank Player
1 Max Verstappen (Red Bull)
2 Londo Norris (McLaren)
3 Carlos Sainz (Ferrari)
Knowledge Nuggets
pg. 158
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About United States Grand Prix 2023-

• The 2023 United States Grand Prix was a Formula One motor race that took place on
October 22, 2023 at the Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas, United States.
Source: Telegraph
23. Paralympics champion Sumit Antil breaks world record in Javelin throw.
Source: The Hindu
24. Glenn Maxwell of Australia has scored the fastest World Cup Century playing against
Netherland in New Delhi.
• He took 40 balls to complete his century.
Source: ESPN
25. England’s FIFA World Cup winner Sir Bobby Charlton has passed away.
• He was one of the members of the England team which won FIFA World Cup in 1966.
Knowledge Nuggets
About FIFA World Cup-

• The FIFA World Cup is an international association football competition between the
senior men’s and women’s national teams of the members of the Fédération
Internationale de Football Association (FIFA), the sport's global governing body.
About FIFA-
• Headquarters- Zurich, Switzerland
• President- Gianni Infantino
Source: sportstar
26. Virat Kohli has surpassed Sachin Tendulkar to become the fastest player to score 26,000
International runs.
• He achieved this in 567th inning.
Source: TOI
27. Paytm has become the official sponsor of 37th National Games to be held in Goa.
pg. 159
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Knowledge Nuggets
About Paytm-
• Paytm is an Indian multinational financial technology company, that specializes in digital
payments and financial services.
• Headquarters- Noida, Uttar Pradesh
• CEO- Vijay Shekhar Sharma
• Parent Organization- One97 Communications
About National Games-

• The National Games are India’s homespun Olympic-style multi-sport event where
athletes from the various states and Union Territories compete for medals.
• National Games 2023 will be held in Goa from October 26 to November 9.
Source: ET, Olympics.com
28. India has won 111 Medals at 4th Asian Para Games held in Hangzhou, China.
• It is the biggest victory for the country in any major international multi-sport event.
• India finished at fifth place in the medals tally.
• Medal tally-
1 China 214 167 140 521

2 Iran 44 46 41 131
3 Japan 42 49 59 150
4 Korea 30 33 40 103
5 India 29 31 51 111
Source: The Hindu
pg. 160
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MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING
1. The Indian Railways has signed a supply contract with Kinet Railway Solutions, a joint
venture between Russian companies Metrowagonmash (MWM) and Locomotive Electronic
Systems (LES), along with India's Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL), to produce Vande
Bharat trains.
• Kinet Railway Solutions will manufacture and maintain 120 Vande Bharat passenger
sleeper train sets, as well as provide maintenance services for 35 years.
Source: TOI
2. Warehousing Development Regulatory Authority (WDRA) has signed an MoU with Bank of
India to fund against e-NWRs (electronic negotiable warehouse receipts) to provide low-
interest rate loans to farmers and traders.
Knowledge Nuggets
• WDRA was established by Government of India in 2010.
• Purpose: Implement provisions of the Warehousing (Development & Regulation) Act,
2007
• Main objective: Implement Negotiable Warehouse Receipt (NWR) System
• Functions: Develop and regulate warehouses, make NWRs negotiable, register
warehouses, promote scientific warehousing, enhance trust and liquidity, improve supply
chain
• NWR allows farmers to store produce in nearby scientific storage and obtain bank loans
against NWR
• WDRA has setup a portal for online registration of warehouses.
• WDRA has also setup two repositories, namely, M/s National Electronic Repository
Limited (NERL) and CDSL Commodity Repository Limited (CCRL) for creation and
management of electronic Negotiable Warehouse Receipts (e-NWRs).
• Both the repositories and the portal started functioning w.e.f. 2017
• All registered warehouses are mandated to issue only e-NWRs w.e.f., 1st August 2019.
• The e-NWR has been integrated with e-National Agriculture Market (e-NAM) platform
by providing interface between e-NAM and repositories.
Source: ET WDRA
pg. 161
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3. The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of
Commerce & Industry and Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya, Vadodara have signed an MoU to
advance the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan.
• Another MOU -
o In September, the Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya and Airbus have signed an MOU
to ensure co-development of skilling courses, joint research, internships, and
placements for students, creating job opportunities in Airbus' Indian operations
Knowledge Nuggets
• In 2022, Parliament had passed the Central Universities (Amendment) Bill to convert
the National Rail and Transportation University, a deemed-to-be university, into Gati
Shakti Vishwavidyalaya, an autonomous central institution.
• Location – Vadodara, Gujarat
• Main Responsibilities - PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan, 2021 and National
Logistics Policy, 2022
o It will create, develop, and provide courses and curriculum related to them at
various centres in different states
• Funding – Sponsored by Ministry of Railways
• Vice-Chancellor - Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, Minister of Railways, Communications,
Electronics and IT (First Chancellor)
Source: PIB LiveMint ET
4. India and Dominican Republic signed two MoU in ocean sciences and medical product
regulation.
• 1st MOU -
o Central Drug Control Organization of India (CDSCO) and the General
Directorate of Medicines, Food, and Health Products of the Dominican
Republic (DIGEMAPS) for scientific cooperation in ocean sciences
• 2nd MOU -
o CSIR-National Institute of Oceanography of India and the National Authority for
Maritime Affairs of the Dominican Republic on medical product regulation
Knowledge Nuggets
About CDSCO-
pg. 162
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The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation is India's national regulatory body for
cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and medical devices.
• Organization Executive- Dr Rajeev Singh
• Ministry- Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
About Dominican Republic-

The Dominican Republic is a Caribbean nation that shares the island of Hispaniola with Haiti to
the west.
• Capital- Santo Domingo
• President- Luis Abinader
• Currency- Dominican Peso
Source: MoneyControl
5. India and Saudi Arabia signed an MOU in Electrical Interconnections, Green/Clean

Hydrogen and Supply Chains.
• The Objectives of MOU are-
o To establish a general framework for cooperation between the two countries in the
field of electrical interconnection;
o To exchange of electricity during peak times and emergencies;
o To co-development of projects; co-production of green / clean hydrogen and
renewable energy; and
o To establish secure, reliable and resilient supply chains of materials used in green /
clean hydrogen and the renewable energy sector.
Source: PIB
6. UAE and India have signed an MoU for sustainable industrial development.
• The MoU focuses on industrial investments, technology transfer, and key technology
deployment.
• Seven key areas of focus include supply chain resilience, renewable energy, health and
life sciences, space systems, AI, Industry 4.0, and standardization and metrology.
• The collaboration will extend to AI deployment, 4IR technologies, and standardization
efforts.
Source: PIB
pg. 163
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7. Automotive Research Association of India has signed an MoU with IIT Guwahati to
establish the "Digital Twin Center for Emerging Automotive Systems" as part of the
Capital Goods scheme Phase II of the Ministry of Heavy Industries.
• This Common Engineering Facility Center (CEFC) will facilitate "SAMARTH Udyog
Bharat 4.0" and benefit industries, especially MSMEs and Start-ups, by creating digital
twins for various systems.
• The CEFC components include digitization of data, environment, system controls, material
development, and manufacturing processes, all of which can be used for technology
development, experimentation, design, simulation, and validation across industries.
Knowledge Nuggets
• SAMARTH Udyog Bharat 4.0 is an Industry 4.0 initiative of Ministry of Heavy Industry &
Public Enterprises.
• It operates under the Ministry’s Scheme on Enhancement of Competitiveness in
Indian Capital Goods Sector.
• SAMARTH Udyog focuses on manufacturers, vendors, and customers as key
stakeholders and aims to promote Industry 4.0 (I4.0) awareness in Indian manufacturing
industries.
• It encourages resource sharing, create a common industry 4.0 platform, and facilitate
network connections among themselves to maximize resource utilization.
Source: PIB and Samarth
8. Assam Skill Development Mission (ASDM) has signed an MoU with Indian Army for
upskilling of ex-servicemen and their dependent.
• Purpose - to help them get remunerative employment and self-employment opportunities
• During the event CM has also unveiled statue of Lachit Borphukan and Swahid
Smarak.
o The statue of Lachit Borphukan is unveiled inside the Narengi Military Station.
o Swahid Smarak (Martyr’s column) was unveiled at Lachit Borphukan Park inside
Narengi Military Station in Guwahati, Assam.
Knowledge Nuggets
• Lachit Borphukan was the legendary Assamese general and folk hero.
• He was the army general of the Ahom dynasty.
pg. 164
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Source: Economic Times IE
9. Union Cabinet has approved the signing of the MoU between India and France in the field of
Digital Technologies.
• Objective- To promote closer cooperation and exchange of information pertaining to the
digital technologies
• Impact of MoU-
o It will improve the bilateral cooperation in the field of digital technologies between
both G2G and B2B.
o Improved collaboration leading to employment opportunities in the field of IT.
• Duration of cooperation- Five years from the date of signing by both the participants.
Source: PIB
10. Union Cabinet has approved three separate MoUs with Papua New Guinea, France,
Trinidad and Tobago in the field of digital technologies.
• Objective- to promote closer cooperation and exchange of experience and digital
technologies-based solutions (such as India Stack) in the implementation of digital
transformational initiatives
Source: The Hindu
11. Skyroot Aerospace has signed a bilateral MoU with French firm Promethee Earth
Intelligence and a trilateral agreement with firms Expleo and ConnectSAT.
• MoU with Promethee-
To provide satellite launch services aboard its Vikram rockets for their JAPETUS earth
observation constellation.
• MoU with Expleo and ConnectSAT-
To provide Reconfigurable Software for ConnectSAT’s IoT Satellite, set to be launched on
Vikram-1.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Skyroot Technologies-
• Skyroot Aerospace Private Limited is an Indian private aerospace manufacturer and
commercial launch service provider.
• Skyroot has launched India’s first privately-built rocket named ‘Vikram-S’ under ‘Mission
Prarambh’ in 2022.
pg. 165
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• Headquarters- Hyderabad, Telangana

• Co-founder & CEO- Pawan Kumar
Source: The Hindu
12. ISRO’s Space Application Centre (SAC) has signed a three-year MoU with Nav Wireless
Technologies Pvt Ltd (NavTech) to use light-based high-speed communication for
satellite communication in space.
• Benefits of MoU-
o SAC can use high-speed, secure quantum key communication using light from base
station to satellite in space and terrestrial communication.
o By using LiFi technology, SAC will be able to do the pointing acquisition and tracking
for satellite-to-satellite communications in the space.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Space Application Centre-

• Space Applications Centre (SAC), is a major research and development centre of the
Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). It plays a key role in realizing vision and
mission of ISRO.
• Headquarters- Ahmedabad, Gujarat
• Director- Nilesh M. Desai
13. Rural Electrification Corporation (REC) has signed an MoU with National Informatics
Centre Services Inc. (NICSI) for various Information and Communication Technology
(ICT) and digital transformation services.
• The MoU will benefit the REC ecosystem by facilitating exploration of latest technology in
evolving areas like Artificial Intelligence, Internet of Things, Machine Learning, Data
Analytics, Blockchain Technology, Cyber Security, etc.
14. Qatar Airways has signed an agreement with SpaceX to make Starlink Wi-Fi available to
every passenger in the sky at no cost.
pg. 166
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Source: livemint
15. Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs (IICA) has signed an MoU with National Institute of
Communication Finance (NICF) to synergise professional capabilities of both Institutions.
• Objectives-
o To establish more structured approach to collaboration between two institutions
o For exchange of knowledge and resources between NICF and IICA for conducting
research, training, capacity building, and advocacy.
o To enhance the competitive edge of officers in dealing with the challenges of VUCA
(volatility, uncertainty, complexity, ambiguity) environment.
Knowledge Nuggets
About IICA
• Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs (IICA) is an an autonomous body to act as a think-
tank and a centre of excellence to support the growth of the corporate sector in India
through an integrated and multi-disciplinary approach.
• Ministry- Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA)
• Director General & CEO- Praveen Kumar
About NICF
• National Institute of Communication Finance (NICF) is an apex level training institute,
operating under the aegis of the Department of Telecommunications, which caters to the
training needs of Indian Posts and Telecom Accounts and Finance Service (IP&TAFS)
officers.
• Ministry- Ministry of Communications
• Director General- Awadhesh Kumar
Source: PIB
pg. 167
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16. Department of Land Resources (DOLR) and National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC)
signed an MoU for monitoring of Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana - Watershed
Development Component (WDC 2.O_.
• Objective-
o It aims to restore the ecological balance by harnessing, conserving, and developing
degraded natural resources such as soil and water.
• Under the MoU NRSC will provide-
o high resolution satellite data for all the WDC 2.0 projects in States/UTs across the
country
o online image comparison and visualization with respect to detailed project reports
o create customized Bhuvan web page Srishti for WDC 2.0 project
o customized mobile application Drishti for field data collection and data transfer to
Bhuvan
• The event also included the release of Manuals by NRSC for the mobile application
DRISHTI 2.0 and web-portal SRISHTI 2.0 for WDC-PMKSY 2.0.
Source: PIB
17. IBM has signed three Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with three entities engaged with
the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) to advance and accelerate
innovation in AI, semiconductor, and quantum technology for India.
• Comprehensive National Strategy for AI
o IBM will collaborate with IndiaAI - Digital India Corporation to establish a world-
class national AI Innovation Platform (AIIP) for India.
o Objective- The AIIP will focus on
o AI skilling,
o ecosystem development, and
o integrating advanced foundation models and generative AI capabilities to
support India's scientific, commercial, and human-capital development in AI
technology
• Accelerating Semiconductor Competency
o IBM will work as a knowledge partner of the India Semiconductor Mission (ISM)
to promote innovation in semiconductor technologies.
o Objective-
pg. 168
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o To develop advance research in areas such as logic, advanced packaging,

heterogeneous integration, and advanced chip design technologies.
• Advancement of National Quantum Mission
o IBM and the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC) will
explore opportunities to support India's National Quantum Mission by developing
competency in quantum computing technology.
o Objective-
o development of industries and startups,
o research and development in the field of quantum computing, and
o the provision of quantum services and infrastructure.
Source: EET
18. Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IITK) and Airbus have signed a Memorandum of
Understanding (MoU) to boost aerospace talent base in India.
• Objective-
o To promote research in advanced technologies and develop programmes and
activities to enhance technical capabilities for aerospace students in India.
o To explore collaboration opportunities with global institutes where students will get to
work on projects relevant to the sector.
19. Union Cabinet has approved Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) between India and
Japan on Semiconductor Supply Chain Partnership.
• MoC will remain in force for 5 years from the date of signing the pact.
Source: ET
20. Indian Red Cross Society of Andhra Pradesh has signed an MoU with National Cadet
Corps (NCC) to provide better services in Andhra Pradesh.
• About MoU-
o It will help to extend more services to the needy during emergencies in State.
o About 1.60 lakh NCC students will be enrolled as Youth Red Cross Volunteers in
State.
Knowledge Nuggets
pg. 169
[Type here]
About Indian Red Cross Society-
• The Indian Red Cross Society is a voluntary humanitarian organization to protect human
life and health based in India.
About National Cadet Corps-
• It is the youth wing of the Indian Armed Forces.

• It is open to school and college students on voluntary basis as a Tri-Services
Organisation, comprising the Army, the Navy and the Air Force.
• Director General- Lt General Gurbirpal Singh
Source: The Hindu
21. India’s Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) and France’s Safran have signed MoU to
develop industrial cooperation in ring forging manufacturing for commercial engines.
• Objective-
o HAL will produce LEAP (Leading Edge Aviation Propulsion, powering the Airbus
A320 Neo family and Boeing 737 Max) engine forgings at its foundry and forge
facility in Bengaluru.
Knowledge Nuggets
About HAL-
• Hindustan Aeronautics Limited is an Indian public sector aerospace and defence

company.
• Headquarters- Bengaluru, Karnataka
• CMD- CB Ananthakrishnan
pg. 170
[Type here]
About Safran-

• CEO- Jean-Paul Alary
APPOINTMENTS
1. Chipmaker Intel has promoted Gokul Subramaniam to the post of Intel India president.
• Intel's headquarters – California, USA
• Intel’s Global CEO - Patrick Gelsinger
Source: LiveMint and Intel
2. RBI cleared the appointment of K N Madhusoodanan as a part-time chairman of Kerala-

based Dhanlaxmi Bank.
Source: BS
3. K.N. Shanth Kumar of The Printers (Mysore) Pvt. Ltd was elected Chairman of the Press
Trust of India for a one-year term.
Source: The Hindu
4. Mohamed Muizzu has won the Presidential election in Maldives.

Source: LiveMint
5. Union Government gave a nine-month extension in service "on contract basis" to Central
Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) Chairperson Nitin Gupta.
Source: The Hindu
6. MyGov chief executive Akash Tripathi will take over as CEO of the India Semiconductor
Mission (ISM).
Source: ET
7. Sachin Tendulkar named as Global Ambassador for ICC ODI World Cup 2023.
pg. 171
[Type here]
• The ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 is scheduled from 5th October,2023 to 19th
November 2023.
• England won the last edition in 2019.
• The mascots for the 2023 Men's Cricket World Cup are Blaze and Tonk.
Knowledge Nuggets
About ICC
• The International Cricket Council is the global governing body of cricket.

• It was founded as the Imperial Cricket Conference in 1909 by representatives from
Australia, England and South Africa.
• It was renamed as the International Cricket Conference in 1965 and took up its current
name in 1987.
• Headquarters- Dubai, UAE
• Founded-15 June 1909
• Chairman- Greg Barclay
Source: ICC
8. Anirban Mukherjee, the CEO of PayU India, has been promoted to the position of global
CEO of PayU.
Source: TOI
pg. 172
[Type here]
9. General Insurance Corporation of India (GIC Re) appointed Ramaswamy N as its new
Chairman and Managing Director (CMD), effective from October 1, 2023.
Source: ET
10. India has been re-elected as the President of the Asia-Pacific Institute for Broadcasting
Development for a third successive term.
• Earlier, India served as President of Asia-Pacific Institute for Broadcasting
Development (AIBD) General Conference from 2018-2021 and 2021-2023.
• The 21st General Conference & Associated Meetings 2023 of Asia-Pacific Institute for
Broadcasting Development (AIBD) was chaired by its President Shri Gaurav Dwivedi
(CEO of Prasar Bharati) in Port Louis, Mauritius.
Knowledge Nuggets
About AIBD-
• AIBD, established in 1977 under the auspices of UNESCO, is a unique regional inter-
governmental organization.
• India is one of the founding members of AIBD and Prasar Bharati, India’s public service
broadcaster is the representative body of the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, at
AIBD.
• Headquarters- Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
• Members- Currently, it has 92 member organizations from across 44 countries, including
26 Government Members.
Source: PIB
11. Nandini Azad, president of the Chennai-based Indian Cooperative Network for Women
(ICNW), has been elected to the board of the International Raiffeisen Union (IRU).
• International Raiffeisen Union (IRU) is one of the oldest cooperative bodies in the world
which is responsible for evolving a global policy on cooperatives in agriculture and other
allied sectors.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Indian Cooperative for Women-
• The ICNW is the first women’s cooperative in South India for, by, and of poor women.
• It facilitates access to credit, providing opportunities to learn new skills, and securing
employment for women.
pg. 173
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• Founded- 1981
12. RBI has appointed Muneesh Kapur as the Executive Director (ED). Kapur will look after the
Department of Economic and Policy Research.
Source: ET
13. Navneet Munot, MD and CEO of HDFC Asset Management has been elected as the
Chairman of Association of Mutual Funds in India (AMFI).
• The Board of AMFI also elected Mr. Anthony Heredia, MD and CEO, Mahindra Manulife
Mutual Fund as the Vice-Chairman of AMFI.
Knowledge Nuggets
Association of Mutual Funds in India is the association of all the asset management
companies of SEBI registered mutual funds in India.
• CEO- N.S. Venkatesh
• Members- All 44 AMCs registered with SEBI
14. Former Sri Lankan cricketer Kumar Sangakkara appointed as New Chair of MCC’s World
Cricket Committee.
• Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) also announced Mark Nicholas as the new President of
the club.
Source: News18
15. Justice Siddharth Mridul has been appointed as Chief Justice of Manipur High Court.
16. Christopher Luxon is set to become next Prime Minister of New Zealand after win of
conservative party.
Source: TOI
pg. 174
[Type here]
17. Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Arindam Bagchi has been appointed as
Permanent Representative of India to UN in Geneva.
• He would succeed Indra Mani Pandey, the current Indian envoy to the UN in Geneva.
Source: livemint
18. President Droupadi Murmu has appointed Raghubar Das as Governor of Odisha and Indra
Sena Reddy Nallu as Governor of Tripura.
19. Former Jharkhand Chief Minister Raghubar Das and Telangana BJP leader Indra Sena
Reddy Nallu have been appointed as the Governors of Odisha and Tripura, respectively.
Source: The Hindu
20. Sanjay Kumar Jain has been appointed as Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of
Indian Railway Catering & Tourism Corporation (IRCTC).
Source: indianmandarins
21. Personal Computer maker Hewlett-Packard (HP) Company has appointed Ipsita Dasgupta
as Senior Vice President (SVP) and Managing Director (MD) for HP India.
Source: livemint
22. Ashok Vaswani has been appointed as the new MD & CEO of Kotak Mahindra Bank
Limited.
• He has been appointed for a term of 3 years.
Knowledge Nuggets

Source: IIFL
pg. 175
[Type here]
23. PepsiCo India has appointed Indian cricketer Mahendra Singh Dhoni as the brand
ambassador for its potato chips brand Lay’s.
24. Election Commission has appointed actor Rajkumar Rao as its ‘National Icon’.
• Objective-
o To motivate voters to participate in elections
Source: The Hindu
25. Prof. Sarang Deo of the Indian School of Business (ISB) has been appointed as a member
of the Strategic and Technical Advisory Group (STAG) for Tuberculosis by World Health
Organisation (WHO).
• Objective of STAG-TB-
o The mission of the STAG-TB is to contribute to ending the tuberculosis epidemic,
o Eliminating the disease by providing state-of-the-art scientific and technical guidance
to WHO.
Source: ISB
26. Amol Muzumdar has been appointed as the head coach of India’s women cricket team.
• Appointment-
o He is appointed till the Women’s Cricket World Cup which is to be played in
India in September-October 2025.
Source: The Hindu
27. Swarup Mohanty has been appointed as the Vice-President of Mirae Asset Financial
Group.
• He is first non- Korean person to hold the post.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Mirae Asset Financial Group-

• Mirae Asset provides comprehensive financial services including asset management,
wealth management, investment banking, and life insurance.
• Headquarters- Seoul, South Korea
pg. 176
[Type here]
Source: livemint
28. Robert Fico has been appointed as the Prime Minister of Slovakia.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Slovakia-
• Slovakia, officially the Slovak Republic, is a landlocked country in Central Europe.
• Capital- Bratislava
• Currency- Euro
Source: Reuters
29. Air Marshal Sadhna Saxena Nair has been appointed Director General Hospital Services
(Armed Forces).
• She became the 1st woman to hold this position.
• Awards-
o Vishisht Seva Medal by President of India
o AOC-in-C (WAC)
o CAS Commendations
Source: ET
30. Chetan Bhagat has been appointed as the brand ambassador of Edtech startup Henry
Harvin Education.
• Henry Harvin is an online university with 800+ upskilling and reskilling programs.
• It works as a career and competency development organization.
Source: FPJ
31. The US House of Representatives has elected Republican Mike Johnson as House
Speaker.
• He is a conservative leader.
Source: Reuters
32. Odisha government has appointed VK Pandian as the Chairman of 5T (transformational

initiatives) and Nabin Odisha.
• About 5T-
pg. 177
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• Meaning:
o 5T stand for Transparency, Teamwork, Technology, Time, leading to
Transformation.
• Objectives:
o The initiative focuses on streamlining governance, enhancing efficiency, and
promoting accountability within the various departments of the state government
• About Nabin Odisha-
• What?
o Nabin Odisha is a rural development program aimed at promoting the overall
development of villages in the state.
• Budget and Allocations:
• The Nabin Odisha program has an estimated budget of Rs 4,000 crore.
• Each panchayat is allocated Rs 50 lakh to undertake various development projects that
include strengthening internet connectivity, creating science parks, etc.
33. Three Indians have been named in 39-member UN High-level advisory body on Artificial
Intelligence announced by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.
• Objective-
o To support the international community’s efforts to govern artificial intelligence.
• This body consists of eminent technology experts from various sectors, including
government, private sector, research community, civil society, and academia .
• Members from India:
1. Amandeep Singh Gill, the Secretary-General's Envoy on Technology
2. Sharad Sharma, co-founder of iSPIRT Foundation
3. Nazneen Rajani, Lead Researcher at Hugging Face, India
Knowledge Nuggets
About UN-
• Headquarters- New York City, USA

• Secretary-General- Antonio Guterres
Source: The Hindu
pg. 178
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34. World Steel Association has elected Leon Topalian as 45th Chairman and India’s TV
Narendran as Vice Chairman.
• TV Narendran is MD & CEO of Tata Steel Limited.
Source: ET
94. Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar has been appointed as the 17th King of Malaysia.
• He is a sultan from southern state of Johor.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Malaysia-
• Malaysia is a constitutional monarchy, with a unique arrangement where the throne
changes hands every five years between rulers of the nine Malaysian states headed by
centuries-old Islamic royalty.
• Capital- Kuala Lumpur
• Prime Minister- Anwar Ibrahim
• Currency- Malaysian Ringgit
Source: The Hindu
35. State Bank of India has appointed Indian cricketer MS Dhoni as the bank’s official Brand
Ambassador.
• Objective-
o To strengthen its connection, especially with the younger population.
• He will play an important role in various marketing and promotional campaigns of SBI.
Knowledge Nuggets
About SBI-
36. Katrina Kaif has been appointed as the brand ambassador of Swiss Watchmaker Rado.
Source: HT
pg. 179
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MISCELLANEOUS
1. Ashwin Dani, former vice chairman and managing director of India's largest paints company
Asian Paints, has passed away.
Source: ET
2. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has released books revolving around the success of India's
G20 presidency.
• Books -
o The Grand Success of G20 Bharat Presidency: Visionary Leadership,
o Inclusive Approach; India's G20 Presidency: Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam; and,
o Compendium of G20 University Connect Programme.
Source: BW
3. Syrian author, poet and screenwriter Khaled Khalifa, has passed away.
Source: Guardian
4. NASA scientists found water and carbon from the sample of 4.5-billion-year-old asteroid
Bennu.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Bennu-
• Bennu is a carbonaceous asteroid in the Apollo group discovered by the LINEAR Project
on 11 September 1999.
Source: livemint
5. Former Chief Election Commissioner M.S. Gill passed away.

Source: TOI
6. A cloud burst over Lhonak Lake in South Sikkim resulted in a flash flood in the Teesta River
in Lachen Valley.
pg. 180
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Source: Hindu
7. Renowned Indian Sanskrit scholar and founder of Brahmarshi Sanskrit Mahavidyalaya Dr

Dahyabhai Karunashankar Shashtri passed away.
• He was awarded Padma Shri in 2016.
Source: PM India
8. Finnish Nobel Peace laureate and former President of Finland, Martti Ahtisaari passed
away.
• He was awarded Nobel Peace Prize in 2008 for his efforts to resolve international
conflict.
Source: Reuters
9. Nobel Prize winning American poet Louise Gluck has passed away.
• She has won the 2020 Nobel Prize in Literature.
pg. 181
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10. BlueKraft Digital Foundation has launched a book on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s
radio show ‘Mann ki Baat’.
• Title of the book - ‘Igniting Collective Goodness: MKB@100’
• The book captures the journey of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 100 episodes of Mann
Ki Baat, which has been broadcasted on a monthly basis since October, 2014.
Source: HT
11. Eminent Assamese scholar and Padma Shri awardee Birendra Nath Dutta has passed
away.
• Awards won-
Awards Year
Padma Shri 2009
Shri Shri Mahadeva award 2006
Ajan Pir Award 2008
Tagore award of Sangeet Natak Akademi 2011
Source: northeastlive
12. Former Indian cricketer and Padma Shri awardee Bishan Singh Bedi has passed away.
• Awards won-
Awards Year
Padma Shri 1970
Arjuna Award 1969
Source: sportstar
13. Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri has launched a new book ‘The Reverse Swing:
Colonialism to Cooperation’ authored by Ashok Tandon.
Source: UNI
14. China is building an enormous telescope in the western Pacific Ocean to detect “ghost
particles”, also known as neutrinos.
• What is a ghost particle?
o It is a neutrino, which are a type of electron but, like neutrons, they do not have any
charge.
pg. 182
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15. Book titled “The Lords of Wankhede: Tales Between Two Title’ has been launched in
Bengaluru, Karnataka.
• Authored by- Indian cricketer WV Raman and Senior journalist R Kaushik
• Published by- Rupa Publication
• About- The book describes the changes happened
Source: Rupa_publication
16. One of the first black action hero Richard Roundtree has passed away.
• He became famous for his role in movie ‘Shaft’
Source: NYT
17. Former RBI Governor Raghuram Rajan and Economist Rohit Lamba have authored a new
book ‘Breaking the Mould: Reimagining India’s Economic Future’
• Book is published by Penguin Business.
Source: livemint
18. Former Chinese Premier Li Keqiang has passed away.

Source: Reuters
19. Actor Mathew Perry has died at the age of 54.

• He was best known for his portrayal of the wise-cracking Chandler Bing on the most
famous show ‘Friends’.
Source: The Hindu
20. Baijnath Agarwal, Trustee of Geeta Press Gorakhpur has passed away.
Source: HT
QUESTIONS
Q.1) Recently, the Ministry of Information and the renewal of MSO Registrations. What does ‘M’
Broadcasting has amended the Cable Television stand for in the full form of MSO?
Network Rules, 1994 for introducing a procedure for
[A] Media
pg. 183
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[B] Multi 1) It was formed in 2001 under the Intelligence Bureau
[C] Maximum 2) It is headquartered in Delhi and 28 agencies are

part of the system through which they share
[D] Margin
intelligence inputs
[E] Markup
3) It is the country’s biggest intelligence input sharing
platform
Q.2) Recently, India has signed a 'Social Security 4) It was formed after the Mandai massacre in Tripura
Agreement' with a Latin American country for
protecting the rights of professionals and workers in
both countries, allowing for risk-free international [A] Only 1
mobility. Identify the country.
[A] Chile
[C] Only 1 and 3
[B] Argentina
[D] Only 2, 3, and 4
[C] Peru
[E] Only 1, 3 and 4
[D] Ecuador
[E] Brazil
Q.5) Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha launched an e-
cabinet system at Agartala to promote digital
infrastructure development and digitisation of
Q.3) India will host the 46th edition of the Pacific Asia
government services and information. After this
Travel Association (PATA) Travel Mart 2023 in New
addition, how many states have the e-cabinet system
Delhi from October 4th to 6th, 2023. The Pacific Asia
as of October 2023?
Travel Association (PATA) is a renowned not-for-profit
association recognized internationally for its role as a [A] Two
catalyst in the responsible development of travel and
[B] Six
tourism in the Asia Pacific region. When and where
was the Association founded? [C] Four
[A] 1951, Bangkok [D] Twenty
[B] 1987, Manila [E] Five
[C] 1978, Shanghai
[D] 1999, Beijing Q.6) Jammu & Kashmir has declared all its 6650
villages in 20 districts as ODF Plus Model during the
[E] 1965, Ulaanbaatar
'Swachhata Hi Seva' Campaign. Which of the following
criterion is followed for giving this status to the
villages?
Q.4) Recently, the Ministry of Home Affairs held a
meeting of multi-agency centre (MAC), a common [A] The villages should ensure proper disposal of
counter-terrorism grid, for discussing about issues household waste and recycling efforts
related to Pakistan. Identify the correct statement(s)
[B] The villages should encourage implementation of
with regards to the MAC.
composting and green waste management
pg. 1
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[C] The presence of litter and garbage in public spaces Q.9) The International Finance Corporation (IFC)
and streets is a criterion primarily supports private sector development in
emerging markets by providing investment and
[D] The villages should appear visually clean with
advisory services to promote sustainable economic
minimal litter and stagnant water, apart from solid and
growth and reduce poverty. Recently, the Reserve
liquid waste management
Bank of India has granted approval to the
[E] Monitoring of air quality and pollution control International Finance Corporation (IFC) to acquire a
measures ____% stake in ____ Bank.
[A] 10.3%; IndusInd Bank
Q.7) The extended 45th Session of the World Heritage [B] 9.7%; Federal Bank
Committee was held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from 10
[C] 2.3%; Dhanlaxmi Bank
to 25 September. A total of 42 sites have been
included in the list of the World Heritage Sites. From [D] 1.4%; Karnataka Bank
India, two sites have been selected. After this
[E] 2.7%; Axis Bank
addition, India has a total of 42 sites in this list. These
sites are divided into cultural, natural, and mixed sites.
How many sites from India are cultural and natural in
Q.10) In October 2023, the Central government hiked
this list?
SAED on crude petroleum to ₹12,100 per tonne with
[A] 17 cultural and 4 natural effect from September 30. What is the full form of
SAED?
[B] 20 cultural and 2 natural
[A] Supplementary additional excise duty
[C] 29 cultural and 10 natural
[B] Special additional excise duty
[D] 34 cultural and 7 natural
[C] Supplementary appendage excise duty
[E] 40 cultural and 2 natural
[D] Special adjustment environment duty
[E] Selective Ad Valorem excise duty

Q.8) Recently, the “largest” statue of B R Ambedkar
outside India has been constructed in Maryland,
North America on October 14. The 19-foot statue,
Q.11) What is the objective of the “Yuba Tripura,
named “Statue of Equality”, has been made by
Natun Tripura, Atmanirbhar Tripura" scheme?
renowned artist and sculptor ______, who also built
the statue of Sardar Patel installed in Ahmedabad, [A] It aims to promote environmental sustainability by
Gujarat. inspiring young entrepreneurs to establish eco-
friendly startups and embrace green technologies
[A] D.P Roy Chowdhury
within the state
[B] Jasu Shilpi
[B] It aims to reduce income inequality by
[C] Sahej Rahal empowering marginalized communities and
encouraging them to initiate their own industrial and
[D] Ram Sutar
business ventures, thereby fostering economic
[E] Kanaka Murthy inclusivity
[C] It aims to encourage youth to set up industrial and

business units in the state
pg. 2
[Type here]
[D] It aims to combat food insecurity by encouraging Q.14) Recently, the 78th UN General Assembly took
the younger generation to venture into agribusiness place from September 18-26,2023 at UN
and food production, ensuring a steady supply of Headquarters, New York City, USA. State the correct
nutritious, locally sourced products to meet the option related to the same.
community's needs
1) The theme of the event was “Rebuilding trust and
[E] It aims at addressing unemployment issues by reigniting global solidarity: Accelerating action on the
motivating the youth to create their own job 2030 Agenda and its Sustainable Development Goals
opportunities through the establishment of small- towards peace, prosperity, progress and sustainability
scale enterprises in the region for all”.
2) This event is conducted once in every three years
Q.12) Merging solar technologies into culture, health, 3) During UNGA 78, world leaders discussed about
and lifestyle promotes sustainable living, reduces finding strategies to accelerate action for achieving
energy costs, and contributes to a healthier planet. 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
Recently, India's first-ever Solar Roof Cycling Track has
4) The 2023 Global Sustainable Development Report,
been inaugurated at ____. The 23-kilometre track will
"Times of Crisis, Times of Change: Science for
be known as Healthway. It will connect lifestyle with
Accelerating Transformations to Sustainable
sustainable development.
Development".
[A] Chennai
[A] 1, 2 & 3 are correct
[B] Surat
[B] 2 & 3 are correct
[C] Ahmedabad
[C] 1, 3 & 4 are correct
[D] Hyderabad
[D] 2, 3 & 4 are correct
[E] Bengaluru
[E] 1 & 4 are correct
Q.13) The inclusion of people with disabilities in sports

Q.15) Bancassurance is a financial services model that
fosters diversity, promotes equality, and empowers
involves the distribution of insurance products
individuals to overcome challenges and excel. It also
through banks. It allows banks to offer insurance
inspires society to redefine its perceptions of ability
policies to their customers, providing a convenient
and opens opportunities for everyone to participate in
one-stop solution for both banking and insurance
the joy of sports. To achieve this goal only, the Atal
needs. In accordance with this, the State Bank of
Bihari Training Centre for Disability Sports has been
Sikkim signed a bancassurance pact to offer insurance
recently inaugurated in ______.
products to the residents of Sikkim. With which
[A] Bhopal organization has SBS partnered for the insurance
products?
[B] Indore
[A] HDFC Life Insurance
[C] Ujjain
[B] ICICI Prudential Life Insurance
[D] Gwalior
[C] Tata AIA Life Insurance
[E] Vidisha
[D] SBI Life Insurance
[E] Max Life Insurance

pg. 3
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[E] New Development Bank
Q.16) This is one of India's largest state-owned

enterprises, it plays a pivotal role in the country's
Q.19) Who has become the 1st woman to receive the
energy sector, encompassing refining, marketing, and
Global Indian Award by the Canada India Foundation?
distribution of petroleum products. With an extensive
network of fuel stations and a diverse range of [A] Sunita Narain
products, it serves as a cornerstone of India's energy
[B] Sudha Murty
infrastructure. It has set a target of net zero emissions
by 2046. Identify the company. [C] Kiran Bedi
[A] HPCL [D] Aruna Roy
[B] ONGC [E] Medha Patkar
[C] BPCL
[D] IOCL Q.20) The International Coffee Organization (ICO) is

the main intergovernmental organization for coffee,
[E] OIL
bringing together exporting and importing
Governments to tackle the challenges facing the world
coffee sector through international cooperation. Its
Q.17) The National Investment and Infrastructure
Member Governments represent 98% of world coffee
Fund Limited (NIIF), a government-owned entity,
production and 67% of world consumption. When was
collaborated with the Japan Bank for International
this organization set up?
Cooperation (JBIC) to launch a ______ India-Japan
Fund. [A] 1963
[A] $200 million [B] 1988
[B] $600 million [C] 1956
[C] $100 million [D] 1949
[D] $500 million [E] 1978
[E] $800 million
Q.21) The North Koel River, a lifeline of Jharkhand,

winds through rugged terrain, its waters bringing
Q.18) The India Development Update offers a detailed
sustenance to the arid landscape it embraces. It's a
analysis of India's economic performance, policy
symbol of nature's resilience in an unforgiving region.
initiatives, and challenges, providing valuable insights
Recently, the North Koel Reservoir Project has been
for policymakers and stakeholders interested in the
launched, with an increased budget. How much is the
country's development trajectory. Which organization
Centre’s share in this project?
releases this report?
[A] Rs 1800 crore
[A] International Monetary Fund
[B] Rs 2500 crore
[B] World Bank
[C] Rs 1900 crore
[C] World Economic Forum
[D] Rs 1100 crore
[D] Asian Development Bank
pg. 4
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[E] Rs 2300 crore different elevations. Recently, India’s largest pumped

storage project has been inaugurated in Madhya
Pradesh. The project requires an investment of Rs
Q.22) Which of the following statement(s) is/are 11,500 crore over the next 3 years. Where is the
correct about the Central Universities (Amendment), project being developed and which company has been
Bill, 2023? given the contract to develop it?
[A] It aims to create Sammakka Sarakka Central Tribal [A] Ujjain district; Brookfield Renewable Partners
University in Telangana
[B] Neemuch district; Greenko Group
[B] It aims to advance studies in renewable energy
[C] Chhindwara district; NextEra Energy
with a prestigious research grant awarded to the
University of Delhi [D] Morena district; Vestas
[C] It aims to explore the ethical implications of [E] Barwani district; Suzlon
artificial intelligence in higher education through a
new interdisciplinary program
Q.25) The Gangetic Dolphin, also known as the Ganges
[D] It aims to support underprivileged students in
River Dolphin, is an endangered freshwater mammal
pursuing higher education with a nationwide
that inhabits the murky waters of the Ganges and
scholarship initiative introduced by the Ministry of
Brahmaputra rivers. With its distinctive long snout and
Education
a propensity for leaping gracefully above the water's
[E] It aims to convert the National Rail and Transport surface, this species holds a special place in the
Institute into the Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya cultural and ecological heritage of South Asia. Which
Indian state has declared Gangetic Dolphin as the
state aquatic animal?
Q.23) Recently, the Indian Council for Cultural
[A] Bihar
Research (ICCR), in collaboration with Savitribai Phule
Pune University, organized the soft launch of the [B] Uttar Pradesh
"Universalization of Traditional Indian Knowledge
[C] Uttarakhand
System (UTIKS) portal". At which institute was the
portal launched? [D] Madhya Pradesh
[A] Indian Institute of Engineering Science and [E] Chhattisgarh

Technology
[B] Atal Bihari Vajpayee Indian Institute of Information

Q.26) A Geographical Indication (GI) tag is a form of
Technology and Management
intellectual property protection that recognizes and
[C] Manipal Academy of Higher Education designates products as originating from a specific
geographical region, known for their unique qualities,
[D] Tata Institute of Social Sciences
characteristics, or reputation linked to that place. In
[E] Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical the month of October, a product from Odisha received
Education & Research a GI tag. Identify the product.
[A] Basohli Pashmina Woolen Product
Q.24) A pumped storage project is a type of [B] Kendrapara Rasabali

hydropower facility that serves as a form of energy
[C] Udangudi Panangkarupatti
storage. It consists of two water reservoirs located at
pg. 5
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[D] Tangsa Textile Product country, connecting even the remotest regions. With
its rich history and widespread reach, it remains a vital
[E] Yak Churpi
communication lifeline for millions of Indians. When is
the Post Day celebrated in the world?
Q.27) Which of the following statement(s) is/are [A] October 21

correct with regards to the Digital India Bhashini
[B] October 27
Division?
[C] October 11
1) Digital India Bhashini Division is a section 8
company [D] October 9
2) It operates under National Skill Development [E] October 18

Corporation
3) The CEO of Digital India Bhashini Division is Amitabh

Q.30) Recently, India has been re-elected as the
Nag
President of the Asia-Pacific Institute for Broadcasting
4) It is under the administrative aegis of the Ministry Development for a third successive term. Identify the
of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship incorrect statement(s) with regards to the Asia-Pacific
Institute for Broadcasting Development (AIBD).
1) It was established in 1977

[A] Only 1 and 3
2) Established under UNDP, it is a unique regional
inter-governmental organization
[C] Only 3 and 4
3) Prasar Bharati is the representative of India in the
[D] Only 2 and 4 body
[E] Only 1 and 2 4) It is headquartered in Manilla, Philippines
Q.28) Which bank has launched Mobile Handheld [A] 1 and 2

Device for providing banking services to customers
[B] 2 and 3
and improving their accessibility in availing banking
services, increasing financial inclusion, and extending [C] 1 and 3
essential banking services to the masses?
[D] 3 and 4
[A] SBI
[E] 2 and 4
[B] PNB
[C] BOB
Q.31) The India Meteorological Department (IMD) is
[D] CSB the country's premier agency for weather forecasting
and monitoring. Established in 1875, it plays a crucial
[E] ICICI
role in providing accurate and timely weather
information, cyclone warnings, and climate services
for India. Recently in the month of October, IMD has
Q.29) The Indian postal network, one of the largest in
been appointed as the nodal agency for implementing
the world, spans the length and breadth of the
a framework. Identify the framework.
pg. 6
[Type here]
[A] National Climate Action Framework [A] Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport
[B] National Framework for Climate Services [B] Kempegowda International Airport
[C] National Climate Resilience Framework [C] Hanimaadhoo International Airport
[D] National Carbon Offset and Trading Framework [D] Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport
[E] National Greenhouse Gas Reduction Framework [E] Bir Tikendrajit International Airport
Q.32) ISRO's missions encompass a wide range of Q.34) DARK is a specialized set of equipment and tools
objectives, including satellite launches for designed to assist in the recovery and removal of
communication, Earth observation, and navigation disabled or damaged aircraft from runways, taxiways,
systems. They also involve lunar and interplanetary or other locations. These kits typically include items
exploration, with the Chandrayaan and Mars Orbiter like aircraft lifting bags, winches, rigging gear, and
missions expanding our knowledge of celestial bodies. other resources to safely and efficiently recover and
ISRO’s importance with regards to the nascent global relocate aircraft involved in accidents or incidents.
space sector is rising. In the below-mentioned table, DARKs are essential for rapid response and ensuring
column A consists of the landmark ISRO missions and the safety and effectiveness of aircraft recovery
column B consists of their years of launch. Identify the operations. Which of the following airports has
correctly matched pairs. established Asia’s first ever DARK system and what is
the full form of DARK?
Missions Launch Years
P. Aryabhata I. 1979 [A] Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport;
Q. Bhaskar II. 1980 Disaster Aircraft Response Kit
R. Rohini III. 1975
[B] Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport;
S. Kalpana-1 IV. 2002 Distressed Aircraft Retrieval Kit
[A] P-IV; Q-III; R-I; S-II
[C] Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport;
[B] P-II; Q-IV; R-III; S-IV Disabled Aircraft Recovery Kit
[C] P-I; Q-II; R-IV; S-III [D] Chennai International Airport; Dynamic Aircraft
[D] P-III; Q-I; R-II; S-IV Rescue Kit
[E] P-IV; Q-II; R-III; S-I [E] Lal Bahadur Shastri Internastional Airport;
Deployable Aircraft Recovery Kit
Q.33) An Aircraft Recovery Training School (ARTS) is a

facility that provides training for personnel in the safe Q.35) This majestic peak stands as the tallest in the
and efficient recovery of aircraft involved in accidents European Alps, attracting climbers and nature
or emergency situations, covering aspects like aircraft enthusiasts from around the world. Its pristine glaciers
securing, fire safety, and rescue procedures. ARTS and rugged beauty make it an iconic symbol of alpine
enhances the skills and preparedness of professionals grandeur. In the recent times, the news of it getting
in aircraft recovery operations. Recently, South Asia’s shrunk is doing the rounds. This mountain is spread
first aircraft recovery training school has been across France, Switzerland and Italy. Identify the
established for providing these services. Which airport mountain.
has launched the school? [A] Matterhorn
pg. 7
[Type here]
[B] Elbrus [A] Only 1 and 2
[C] Ben Nevis [B] Only 1, 2, and 3
[D] Mont Blanc [C] Only 2 and 3
[E] Gran Paradiso [D] Only 3 and 4
[E] Only 1 and 4
Q.36) NASA is going to launch ____ mission, which will

travel to an asteroid, on October 12. It will conduct an
Q.38) GST (Goods and Services Tax) is a
in-depth study of the asteroid, which could provide
comprehensive indirect tax system in India that
valuable insights into the early formation of our planet
subsumed various state and central taxes to create a
and the nature of planetary cores. This is NASA’s first
unified taxation structure. It has simplified tax
mission to study an asteroid that has more metal than
compliance, reduced tax cascading, and fostered a
rock or ice. Identify the mission.
more efficient and transparent tax regime, benefiting
[A] Juno both businesses and consumers. It was inserted into
the Constitution through _____________ Act.
[B] Galileo
[A] 121st Constitutional Amendment Act, 2016
[C] Dawn
[B] 101st Constitutional Amendment Act, 2016
[D] Stardust
[C] 81st Constitutional Amendment Act, 2018
[E] Psyche
[D] 71st Constitutional Amendment Act, 2017
[E] 103rd Constitutional Amendment Act, 2017

Q.37) The Reserve Bank of India has recently
announced to conduct the sale of government
securities in the Open Market Operation (OMO) for
Q.39) World Dyslexia Day, observed on October 8th,
managing liquidity in the system. Considering this,
raises awareness about dyslexia and aims to promote
identify the correct statement(s) from the options
understanding, support, and early intervention for
given below.
individuals with dyslexia, a specific learning disability
affecting reading and language skills. It seeks to
reduce the stigma associated with dyslexia and
1) It is a tool of RBI to adjust the rupee liquidity
encourage inclusive education for all. In 2023, it was
conditions in the market on a durable basis.
organized on a specific theme. Identify the theme.
2) Reserve Bank buys the government securities when
[A] Strength in Diversity
there is excess liquidity in the market, thereby sucking
out the rupee liquidity. [B] Celebrating Individuality
3) RBI sells the government securities when there is [C] Embrace Your Differences
less liquidity in the system, thereby releasing liquidity
[D] Uniquely You
into the market.
[E] Be Your Own Light
4) The objective of Open Market Operation is to
maintain price stability while keeping in mind the
objective of growth.
pg. 8
[Type here]
Q.40) World Mental Health Day is a day when we talk import, export, installed capacity, purchases and sales,
about mental health, understand its importance, and etc. What is the name of the portal?
show our support to those who may be going through
[A] Dhanvantari
tough times. It's like a global event to say, "It's okay
not to be okay," and remind everyone that help and [B] Vagbhata
understanding are available. This day is observed on
[C] Sushruta
October 10 every year. Which color’s ribbon is used on
this day to spread awareness? [D] Charak
[A] Purple [E] Bhela
[B] Pink
[C] Green Q.43) In October 2023, Union Minister Shri Anurag

Thakur launched the trailer of KTB- Bharat Hain Hum,
[D] Yellow
an animated series consisting of two seasons,
[E] Red produced by Central Bureau of Communication,
Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and Graphiti
Studios. Which iconic animated characters will host
Q.41) Recently, the Ministry of Education has the series?
introduced draft guidelines for schools to address self-
[A] Suppandi, Mighty Raju, and Little Krishna
harm concerns, known as the UMMEED guidelines.
The guidelines recommend the formation of School [B] Chutki, Raju, and Jaggu
Wellness Teams (SWT) led by the School Principal,
[C] Hanuman, Ganesha, and Krishna
equipped to handle crisis situations and take
immediate action when students show warning signs. [D] Shaktimaan, Motu Patlu, and Chhota Bheem
What is the full form of UMMEED?
[E] Krish, Trish and Balti boy
[A] Unite, Mentor, Mobilize, Educate, Empower,
Deliver
Q.44) Recently, the Union Cabinet has approved the
[B] Uplift, Manifest, Motivate, Engage, Empower,
establishment of an autonomous body named Mera
Develop
Yuva Bharat (MY Bharat). The body will benefit the
[C] Upbeat, Motivate, Mentor, Empathize, Empower, youth, as defined by the National Youth Policy. Which
Drive of the following is the correct definition of youth as
per the policy?
[D] Understand, Motivate, Manage, Empathise,
Empower, Develop [A] People who are in the age group of 20-29 are
called ‘Youth’
[E] Unfold, Maximize, Mentor, Empathize, Elevate,
Discover [B] People who are in the age group of 15-29 are
called ‘Youth’
[C] People who are in the age group of 16-35 are

Q.42) Recently, the Union Ministry of Chemical and
called ‘Youth’
Fertilizer has launched a web portal for providing the
statistical data related to chemical sector. The portal [D] People who are in the age group of 18-30 are
will facilitate collection of statistics related to various called ‘Youth’
aspects of chemical sector, such as production,
pg. 9
[Type here]
[E] People who are in the age group of 14-25 are [A] Uttar Pradesh
called ‘Youth’
[B] Madhya Pradesh
[C] Chhattisgarh
Q.45) Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment
[D] Jharkhand
launched Scheme for Residential Education for
Students in High School in Targeted Areas (SHRESTHA) [E] Odisha
to ensure quality education to school students. Under
the scheme, students belonging to Scheduled Castes
(SC) will be provided with high quality school Q.48) Critical minerals, such as rare earth elements,
education by different methods. What is the eligibility lithium, and cobalt, play a vital role in the production
criterion to enrol in the scheme? of clean energy technologies like solar panels and
electric vehicle batteries. Their extraction and
[A] Parents' annual income should up to Rs 2.5 lakh
sustainable supply are essential for advancing the
[B] Parents' annual income should up to Rs 3 lakh transition to a cleaner and more sustainable energy
future. Recently, the first ever “Critical Minerals and
[C] Parents' annual income should up to Rs 0.5 lakh
Clean Energy Summit” was organized at ___ by ____
[D] Parents' annual income should up to Rs 8 lakh organization.
[E] Parents' annual income should up to Rs 1 lakh [A] Paris; International Energy Agency
[B] Geneva; Organization for Economic Cooperation

and Development
Q.46) Heritage trains are like old, special trains that
show us how people used to travel in the past. When [C] Vienna; World Economic Forum
we ride them, it feels like we're going back in time and
[D] Dublin; European Union
seeing how trains were a long time ago. The Valley
Queen Heritage Train, the sixth of its kind in India, has [E] New York; United Nations Economic and Social
been recently inaugurated in _____? Council
[A] Telangana
[B] Rajasthan Q.49) Greenwashing is a deceptive marketing practice

where a company exaggerates or falsely claims its
[C] Gujarat
environmental responsibility to appear more eco-
[D] Maharashtra friendly than it actually is. It misleads consumers,
undermining genuine sustainability efforts. Recently, a
[E] Tamil Nadu
regional multilateral organization has launched world’s
first green bond standard to avoid greenwashing.
Identify the organization.
Q.47) The Baiga tribe is an ethnic group in central
India. They are primarily located in the state of [A] SCO
Madhya Pradesh, with smaller numbers in the
[B] ASEAN
surrounding states of: Uttar Pradesh, Chhattisgarh,
Jharkhand. The Baiga are one of the Particularly [C] EU
Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs). Recently, a state has
[D] AU
given them habitat right under Forest Right Act, 2006.
Identify the state. [E] ECOWAS
pg. 10
[Type here]
[C] India in 2024
Q.50) RBI had released the Discussion Paper on [D] Saudi Arabia in 2027
"Introduction of Expected Credit Loss Framework for
[E] Egypt in 2028
Provisioning by Banks" on January 16, 2023, soliciting
inputs from all stakeholders. The ECL approach to
provisioning is a paradigm shift from the current
Q.53) Recently, India has launched state-of-art
incurred loss-based provisioning regime. In order to
National Survey named “Continuously Operating
monitor the implementation of the ECL framework,
Reference Stations" (CORS) Network for providing
RBI has constituted a working group under the
world-class precise Location-based service. Which of
chairpersonship of _____.
the following agency is operating the system?
[A] Sanjay Kallapur
[A] National Remote Sensing Centre
[B] Rajosik Banerjee
[B] Indian Space Research Organization
[C] S Srinivasa Rao
[C] National Informatics Centre
[D] R. Narayanaswamy
[D] Survey of India
[E] Rajendra Khandelwal
[E] National Spatial Data Infrastructure
Q.51) Recently, the Intensified Mission Indradhanush

Q.54) Which state has launched Van Mitra scheme to
5.0, the flagship immunization campaign of Union
strengthen the involvement of local communities in
Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, has concluded
protection, conservation and development of forest
for 2023. Which two diseases are focused upon in this
areas by roping in grassroot level institutions?
version?
[A] Assam
[A] Rotavirus and Lead Poisoning
[B] Himachal Pradesh
[B] Dengue and TB
[C] Gujarat
[C] Malnutrition and Diarrhoea
[D] Madhya Pradesh
[D] Measles and Rubella
[E] Tamil Nadu
[E] Down Syndrome and Cystic Fibrosis
Q.55) Passport to Earning (P2E) programme in India

Q.52) Competition Commission of India hosted 8th
has skilled and certified more than one million young
BRICS International Competition Conference 2023
people. It is a global learning-to-earning solution that
(BRICS ICC 2023) in New Delhi. During the conference,
focuses on providing young individuals with essential
India decided to set up a Committee on Digital
skills and certifications to prepare them for the
Competition Law to examine the need for regulatory
demands of the future workforce. Which multilateral
mechanisms for digital markets. CCI handed over the
organization has launched the program?
responsibility of hosting the 9th BRICS International
Competition Conference to ____ in ____. [A] UNESCO
[A] Brazil in 2029 [B] WMO
[B] South Africa in 2025 [C] UNICEF

pg. 11
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[D] ILO Q.59) Which of the following statement(s) is/are not

true about the International Monetary Fund (IMF)?
[E] UNDP
1) The headquarters of the organization is located in
Washington D.C., USA
Q.56) From which date will RBI put the government
2) IMF was established in 1944, along with European
owned non-banking financial companies under the
Investment Bank
strict supervisory norms of Prompt Corrective Action
(PCA)? 3) It has 190 members at present
[A] October 2024 [A] Only 1
[B] July 2025 [B] Only 1 and 3
[C] April 2024 [C] Only 2
[D] September 2027 [D] Only 3
[E] August 2024 [E] Only 2 and 3
Q.57) ____ Mutual Fund has received approval from Q.60) What is India’s rank in the Global Hunger Index
RBI for buying ____ stake in IndusInd Bank. (GHI) 2023?
[A] HDFC Mutual Fund; 7.08% [A] 103
[B] SBI Mutual Fund; 9.99% [B] 98
[C] ICICI Prudential Mutual Fund; 10.87% [C] 78
[D] UTI Mutual Fund; 6.87% [D] 111
[E] Axis Mutual Fund; 5.97% [E] 123
Q.58) Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has launched a pilot Q.61) Where is the government planning to set up
program for the wholesale segment of its central bank Ganga Vatika Park?
digital currency (CBDC) in the interbank call money
market. What is the tenure of the trade settlement
cycle in CBDC? [B] Tamil Nadu
[A] T+1 [C] Uttarakhand
[B] T+0 [D] Telangana
[C] T+2 [E] Gujarat
[D] T+6
[E] T+3 Q.62) Recently, IRCON International Limited (IRCON)

and RITES Limited (RITES) have been announced 15th
and 16th Navratna company among CPSE. Which
pg. 12
[Type here]
Ministry has conferred this status upon these [A] Sri Lanka
companies respectively?
[B] Singapore
1) Ministry of Railways
[C] Philippines
2) Ministry of Corporate Affairs
[D] Malaysia
3) Ministry of Finance
[E] Indonesia
4) Ministry of Commerce and Industry
[A] Only 1 and 4

Q.66) Identify the incorrect statement(s) with regards
[B] Only 3 to the Indian Ocean Rim Association?
[C] Only 2 and 3 1) IORA was formed in 1997
[D] Only 1, 2, and 4 2) IORA consists of 23 member countries
[E] Only 2 and 4 3) IORA is headquartered in Malaysia
[A] Only 1, 2, and 3
Q.63) Which edition of the Global Maritime India [B] Only 3

Summit was organized in India recently?
[C] Only 1 and 2
[A] 2nd
[D] Only 2 and 3
[B] 4th
[E] Only 2
[C] 3rd
[D] 5th
Q.67) The Wholesale Price Index (WPI) is an economic
[E] 7th indicator used in India to measure changes in the
average price of goods at the wholesale level. It helps
gauge inflationary pressures in the early stages of the
Q.64) Asian Development Bank has approved 181 supply chain. What is the base year of WPI?
million USD loan to build infra in peri-urban areas of
[A] 2018-19
____?
[B] 2011-12
[A] Bangalore
[C] 2005-06
[B] Surat
[D] 1987-88
[C] Chennai
[E] 2017-18
[D] Ahmedabad
[E] Lucknow
Q.68) World Migratory Bird Day is an annual
observance celebrated on the second Saturday in May
Q.65) Which country has taken over as the Chair of and October, highlighting the importance of
Indian Ocean Rim association (IORA) for the period of conserving migratory birds and their habitats. It raises
2023 to 2025? awareness about the challenges these birds face
during their long journeys and the need for
pg. 13
[Type here]
international cooperation in their protection. What is Q.71) Ministry of Forest, Environment and Climate
the theme of this day in 2023? Change has launched Ecomark Scheme to encourage
environment friendly practices. The scheme provides
[A] Forests: A Haven for Biodiversity
accreditation and labelling for household and
[B] Oceans: Guardians of Marine Life consumer products that meet specific environmental
criteria while maintaining quality standards as per
[C] Wetlands: Vital Ecosystems for Wildlife
Indian norms. Which agency administers this scheme?
[D] Landscapes of Diversity: Protecting Endangered
[A] Central Pollution Control Board
Species
[B] National Mission for Clean Ganaga
[E] Water: Sustaining Bird Life
[C] Centre for Clean Energy Technology
[D] India Meteorological Department

Q.69) World Standards Day is celebrated on October
14th each year to honor the efforts of organizations, [E] Ministry of New and Renewable energy
experts, and stakeholders in developing international
standards that improve product quality, safety, and
efficiency across industries. What is the theme of this Q.72) National Skill Development Corporation has
day in 2023? announced partnership with Coca-Cola India to launch
the Super Power Retailer Program as part of Skill India
[A] Unity for a Brighter Tomorrow
Mission. The objective of the program is to empower
[B] Our shared vision for a better world the retailer community in states of
_________________ and _________________.
[C] Building Together for a Sustainable Future
[A] Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand
[D] Empowering Communities, Changing Lives
[B] Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh
[E] Inclusivity: A Path to a Shared Vision
[C] Andhra Pradesh and Telangana
[D] Uttar Pradesh and Odisha

Q.70) International Day of Rural Women recognizes
the critical role of rural women in agriculture, food [E] Rajasthan and Telangana
security, and sustainable development. It highlights
the need for gender equality, empowerment, and
improved living conditions for rural women who Q.73) Mukesh Ambani, Chairman and MD of Reliance
contribute significantly to their communities and Industries Ltd., is the richest Indian as per the Forbes
economies. What is the theme of this day in 2023? India’s 100 Richest 2023 List with USD 92 billion.
_____________ is the richest women according to the
[A] Nurturing the Earth, Feeding the World
Forbes India’s Richest 2023 List.
[B] Rural Women Cultivating Good Food for All
[A] Nita Ambani
[C] Fields of Equality: Rural Women in Agriculture
[B] Rekha Jhunjhunwala
[D] Bountiful Harvests: Empowering Rural Women
[C] Renuka Jagtiani
[E] Rural Resilience: Women and Sustainable
[D] Savitri Jindal
Agriculture
[E] Leena Tewari
pg. 14
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Q.77) President Droupadi Murmu has conferred the

69th National Film Awards 2023 in New Delhi. These
Q.74) India and Sri Lanka have restarted ferry service
awards are recognized as one of the highest honours
after 40 years. The objective of the service is to boost
in the field of film-making. Which film has won the
bilateral ties, increase tourism and enhance people-to-
Nargis Dutt Award for Best Film on National
people relations. The ferry service will connect
Integration?
_______________ in Tamil Nadu to
________________ in Northern Sri Lanka. [A] Pushpa
[A] Ennore, Galle [B] Gadar 2
[B] Chennai, Trincomalee [C] The Kashmir Files
[C] Nagapattinam, Kankesanthurai [D] RRR
[D] Thootukudi, Hambantota [E] Rocketry: The Nambi Effect
[E] Tuticorin, Oluvil
Q.78) World Students Day is celebrated to

commemorate the birth anniversary of 11th President
Q.75) The 35-year-old businessman and a member of
and Missile Man of India Dr APJ Abdul Kalam. On
National Democratic Action, has become the youngest
which date it is celebrated?
President of Ecuador’s history. What is the name of
the person? [A] September 29
[A] Lenin Moreno [B] August 12
[B] Guillermo Lasso [C] October 21
[C] Daniel Noboa [D] September 21
[D] Fernando Villavicencio [E] October 15
[E] Lasso
Q.79) Who has been appointed as the brand

ambassador of PUMA India in month of October to
Q.76) Indian Navy has conducted coastal security
endorse Puma’s footwear, apparel and accessories
exercise involving all maritime security agencies has
through multiple activities and campaigns throughout
been conducted in Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and
the year?
Puducherry. What is the name of the exercise?
[A] Shubhman Gill
[A] Sagar Rakshak
[B] Mohammad Shami
[B] Sagar Kavach
[C] Smriti Mandhana
[C] Sagar Prahari
[D] Rohit Sharma
[D] Tat Rakshak
[E] Saina Nehwal
[E] Sagar Manthan
pg. 15
[Type here]
Q.80) Who has broken the record of Yuvraj Singh for Q.83) ________________ and ________________
the fastest fifty by an Indian in Syed Mushtaq Ali have released the 1st ever global estimation of the
trophy T 20 tournament? impact of disaster on agriculture production in report
‘The Impact of Disasters on Agriculture and Food
[A] Yash Dhull
Security’.
[B] Sarfaraz Khan
[A] WEF and UN
[C] Ashutosh Sharma
[B] FAO and IMF
[D] Baba Indrajith
[C] IMF and UNDP
[E] Shams Mulani
[D] UN and FAO
[E] FAO and WEF

Q.81) Union Power and New & Renewable Energy
Minister has recently launched dashboard for Data
Adoption and Forecast of Electric Vehicles. The Q.84) Bharti Group has signed an agreement with its
dashboard is a free digital platform focussed on near partner AXA to acquire the 49% stake of AXA in Bharti
real-time Electric Vehicle adoption and forecasts, AXA Life Insurance. After this, Bharti Life Ventures, the
associated battery demand, charging density, and group’s holding company for Bharti AXA Life
market growth trends. What is the name of the Insurance, will become the sole owner of the life
dashboard? insurance post the stake sale. Where is the
headquarters of Bharti AXA Life Insurance?
[A] EV for India Dashboard
[A] New Delhi
[B] Green Power India Dashboard
[B] Calcutta
[C] FAME India Dashboard
[C] Mumbai
[D] EV Ready India Dashboard
[D] Hyderabad
[E] Adopt EV Dashboard
[E] GIFT City, Gujarat
Q.82) Mercer CFA Institute Global Pension Index

2023.Global Pension Index compares 47 retirement Q.85) Recently, Cabinet Committee on Economic
income systems across the globe and covers 64% of Affairs has approved Green Energy Corridor Phase-II
the world's population. What is the rank of India in the Inter-Sate Transmission System for 13-gigawatt
Index? renewable energy project in which state/ UT?
[A] 32 [A] Jammu & Kashmir
[B] 47 [B] Jharkhand
[C] 45 [C] Ladakh
[D] 37 [D] Hyderabad
[E] 43 [E] Rajasthan
pg. 16
[Type here]
Q.86) Which bank of Russia has become the first [C] Michael Douglas
Russian bank to register with the Indian markets
[D] Gerard Butler
regulator as a Category I foreign portfolio investor
(FPI)? [E] Kirk Douglas
[A] VTB Bank
[B] Sberbank Q.90) Which day is celebrated as the International Day

for Eradication of Poverty?
[C] Alfa-Bank
[A] October 15
[D] Otkritie FC Bank
[B] September 17
[E] Gazprombank
[C] October 17
[D] September 23
Q.87) Which oil company has announced to invest
₹1660.15 crore in NTPC Joint Venture for setting up [E] November 11
renewable power plant?
[A] BPCL
Q.91) 9th G20 Parliamentary Speaker’s Summit has
[B] Reliance Energy been hosted by Parliament of India at Yashobhoomi,
New Delhi. It has been hosted by Parliament of India
[C] Indian Oil
in cooperation with International Parliamentary
[D] Hindustan Petroleum Union. What was the theme of the event?
[E] ONGC [A] Response to the Social and Employment Crisis
[B] Recover Together, Recover Stronger
Q.88) The Indian Army’s 3/5 Gorkha Rifles (Frontier [C] Parliaments for One Earth, One Family, One Future
Force) team has won gold medal at the
[D] Parliament for Mission LiFE
___________________ International Military Exercise
in Wales, UK. [E] Parliament for a Greener and Cleaner world
[A] Exercise Fabius
[B] Cambrian Patrol Competition 2023 Q.92) World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH)
has approved India’s self- declaration of freedom from
[C] Exercise Purple Warrior
bird flu in specific poultry compartments in four
[D] Vigilant Isles 2023 states. The two states are Maharashtra and Tamil
Nadu, which are the other two states?
[E] Army Manoeuvres 2023
[A] Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh
[B] Uttar Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh

Q.89) Who has been awarded Satyajit Ray Lifetime
Achievement Award at 54th International Film Festival [C] Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat
of India?
[D] Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh
[A] Ryan Reynolds
[E] Gujarat and Tamil Nadu
[B] Ed Harris
pg. 17
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[D] Jeddah
Q.93) Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has [E] Dubai

launched NCERT’s web portal which offers various
activities such as quizzes, puzzles, colouring books,
online interactive quizzes, jigsaw puzzles, and graphic Q.96) Prime Minister Narendra Modi has inaugurated
novels related to Chandrayaan 3 for different stages of the first leg of the Regional Rapid Transit System
schooling, along with digital certificates and rewards (RRTS) to ensure balanced and sustainable urban
for top performers. What is the name of the web development through better connectivity and access
portal? across the National Capital Region (NCR). The first leg
will connect Delhi and _____________.
[A] Chandrayan for Champs
[A] Meerut
[B] Sunahra Chandrayaan
[B] Hapur
[C] Hamara Chandrayaan
[C] Gurugram
[D] Apna Chandrayaan
[D] Panipat
[E] Mission Chandrayaan
[E] Faridabad
Q.94) Ministry of Civil Aviation has amended the

Aircraft Rules, 1937 to increase the validity of Air Q.97) This state has recently launched a logo to mark
Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL) and Commercial Pilot the Golden Jubilee of Renaming State. The
Licence (CPL) from _______ years to _________ years. celebrations will include Year-long program involving
The amendment will promote a more streamlined and youth, women and others to be organised by various
efficient licensing process. departments. What is the name of the state?
[A] 3 years to 5 years [A] Kerala
[B] 5 years to 10 years [B] Karnataka
[C] 5 years to 8 years [C] Uttar Pradesh
[D] 10 years to 12 years [D] Tamil Nadu
[E] 10 years to 15 years [E] Madhya Pradesh
Q.95) Institute of Chartered Accountant of India (ICAI) Q.98) Arunachal Pradesh State Cabinet has approved
has received ISAR Honours 2023 by United Nations the formation of Special Tiger Protection Force (STPF)
Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) for in the state for three Tiger Reserves for the Protection
its initiative Sustainability Reporting Standards Board of Tigers and their habitats, protection of wildlife
(SRSB). UNCTAD has announced the winners of the habitats and prevention of other illegal activities in
sixth edition of ISAR Honours during the 8th World these tiger reserves. The three tiger reserves are
Investment Forum in ___________. Namdapha, _____________ and ____________.
[A] Cairo [A] Mouling and Kamlang
[B] Riyadh [B] Pakke and Kamlang
[C] Abu Dhabi

pg. 18
[Type here]
[C] Mouling and Pakke Station) by ____ and sending first Indian to moon by
_____.
[D] Manas and Kamlang
[A] 2030 and 2035
[E] Pakke and Manas
[B] 2032 and 2041
[C] 2035 and 2047

Q.99) ____________ has hosted Middle East and
North Africa Climate Week (MENACW) in [D] 2035 and 2040
______________. It is an annual event that brings
[E] 2040 and 2050
together leaders from governments, businesses,
[A] Kuwait, Kuwait City Q.102) India's Maritime Blue Economy emphasizes
sustainable development and resource utilization of its
[B] Qatar, Doha
vast coastal and marine resources, fostering economic
[C] Saudi Arabia, Riyadh growth while preserving the marine ecosystem. Which
of the following is a part of the government’s vision on
[D] Oman, Muscat
Maritime Blue Economy?
[E] Egypt, Cairo
1) Ports for Prosperity
2) Ports for Progress

Q.100) Competition Commission of India has recently
3) Ports for Productivity
approved the merger of ______________with
________________ under the Green Channel Route, 4) Ports for Proceed
which is a mechanism under which a company can get
automatic approval upon filing a form, without having
to get formal approval from the commission. [A] Only 1 and 4
[A] Jana Small Finance Bank and Jana Equity Limited [B] Only 1, 2, and 3
[B] ICICI Bank and ICICI Securities [C] Only 2 and 3
[C] HDFC and HDFC Bank [D] Only 2, 3 and 4
[D] IDFC and IDFC First Bank [E] Only 3
[E] Axis Bank and Axis Securities Ltd
Q.103) Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare

has released the 2nd Advance Estimates of the area
Q.101) Indian space industry has experienced
and production of various horticultural crops for the
significant growth and development over the years,
year 2022-23. How much is the target for horticulture
primarily driven by the Indian Space Research
production in the year 2022-23?
Organisation (ISRO). The Indian space industry's
growth continues to be marked by a series of [A] 119.54 million tonnes
successful missions, increasing international
[B] 231.56 million tonnes
collaboration, and a focus on promoting commercial
space activities. India PM has recently announced to [C] 376.49 million tonnes
set up Bhartiya Antriksha Station (Indian Space
[D] 351.92 million tonnes
pg. 19
[Type here]
[E] 198.78 million tonnes measures to hold perpetrators accountable and

promote tolerance and inclusivity
Q.104) Dearness Allowance (DA) or Dearness Relief

(DR) is a financial component added to the salaries Q.106) A Krishi Roadmap is a strategic plan for the
and pensions of government employees and agricultural sector, outlining key objectives, policies,
pensioners to offset the impact of inflation and rising and initiatives to boost productivity, ensure food
living costs, ensuring their real income remains security, and promote sustainable farming practices.
relatively stable. Recently, the government of India President of India Droupadi Murmu has launched the
has increased the rate of DA for the Central fourth Krishi Road Map (2023-2038) in _____ state.
Government employees and DR for the pensioners by
___ to ___ w.e.f., _____.
[B] Bihar
[A] 2%; 40%; 1 January 2023
[C] Gujarat
[B] 3%; 38%; 1 April 2023
[D] Madhya Pradesh
[C] 5%; 41%; 1 October 2023
[E] Kerala
[D] 4%; 46%; 1 July 2023
[E] 6%; 45%; 1 June 2023

Q.107) Prime Minister Narendra Modi has launched
511 Pramod Mahajan Grameen Kaushalya Vikas
Q.105) The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has Kendras in ______ to conduct skill development
launched Operation Chakra-II. CBI has partnered with training programs across various sectors to provide
Microsoft, Amazon and other international agencies employment opportunities to rural youth.
for this operation. Which of the following statement(s)
[A] Tamil Nadu
clearly states the purpose of this operation?
[B] Telangana
[A] Its primary objective is to combat human
trafficking by raising awareness, providing victim [C] Odisha
support, and collaborating with law enforcement
[D] Maharashtra
agencies to prosecute offenders
[E] Gujarat
[B] It aims to fight against transnational organised
cyber-enabled financial crimes in India
[C] The initiative seeks to address drug trafficking Q.108) Which PSU has been awarded prestigious
through a multi-pronged approach, including inter- Golden Peacock Award in Risk Management by the
agency cooperation, international partnerships, and Institute of Directors?
rehabilitation programs for addicts
[A] ONGC Videsh
[D] It focuses on tackling environmental crimes, such
[B] Bharat Earth Movers Limited
as illegal wildlife trade and poaching, by enforcing
stringent regulations, conducting sting operations, and [C] Bharat Coking Coal Limited
protecting endangered species
[D] REC Ltd
[E] Its core mission is to reduce hate crimes through
[E] Steel Authority of India Limited
public education, community engagement, and legal
pg. 20
[Type here]
Q.112) Which has become 1st district in India to

declare turtle as district species?
Q.109) Mahsa Amini of Iran has been awarded
Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought. Which [A] Alappuzha
regional organization has given this award?
[B] Kasargod
[A] African Union
[C] Ernakulam
[B] SAARC
[D] Idukki
[C] BIMSTEC
[E] Wayanad
[D] European Union
[E] Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation

Q.113) Which of the following is a correct statement
with regards to the de novo Deemed University
status?
Q.110) The modern National Games of India are an
Olympic-style event with multiple sports and athletes [A] It is dedicated to pioneering innovations in
from states and Union Territories competing for emerging technologies and cutting-edge industries
medals. The Games will be held in Goa. Which of the
[B] It is given to universities that are committed to
following games will not be played as part of the
pushing the boundaries of research and development
National Games?
in new and unexplored fields
[A] Roll ball
[C] It is awarded to IITs which create startups that
[B] Beach football excel in fostering innovations in unique and evolving
areas of business and entrepreneurship
[C] Volleyball
[D] It is reserved for institutes which are at the
[D] Golf
forefront of pioneering innovations in new and
[E] Sqay martial arts emerging markets
[E] It is awarded to institutions devoted to innovations

in teaching and research in unique and emerging areas
Q.111) Recently, the Government has launched Ghar-
of knowledge
Ghar KCC Abhiyan scheme to cover all fish farmers
with Kisan Credit Card. The Kisan Credit Card scheme
is a credit scheme by Indian public sector banks to
Q.114) Which company has launched ‘DigiKavach’ - an
issue kisan credit card to the farmers of India. Which
early threat detection and warning system designed to
committee has recommended the creation of the KCC
identify and study emerging financial fraud patterns?
scheme?
[A] Google
[A] S. N. Commission
[B] Flipkart
[B] K. M. Sharma Task Force
[C] Meta
[C] A. P. Singh Committee
[D] Amazon
[D] R. V. Gupta Committee
[E] LTIMindtree
[E] N. K. Reddy Commission
pg. 21
[Type here]
Q.115) Fintech Association for Consumer security of offshore development areas and to
Empowerment is an industry association and self- rehearse responses in handling contingencies?
regulatory body for fintech lenders set up as a non-
[A] Vishakhapatnam
profit company. It brings together fintech lenders and
other stakeholders committed to advancing fair and [B] Kochi
responsible digital lending practices through self-
[C] Haldia
regulation and customer-centricity. Where is the
headquarters of the company located? [D] Kakinada
[A] Surat [E] Kolkata
[B] Mumbai
[C] Gandhinagar Q.119) Indian Military Heritage Festival has been

inaugurated by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh to
[D] Chennai
rediscover the profound Indian heritage of spacecraft
[E] Hyderabad and strategic thoughts derived from ancient Indian
text of spacecraft, warcraft, diplomacy and grand
strategy. Where was the festival held?
Q.116) Which company has launched Optima Secure?
[A] Guwahati
[A] SBI General Insurance
[B] Delhi
[B] Tata AIG General Insurance Company
[C] Surat
[C] HDFC ERGO General Insurance Company
[D] Chennai
[D] National Insurance Company
[E] Bangalore
[E] IFFCO Tokio General Insurance
Q.120) International Stuttering Awareness Day,

Q.117) Which bank has launched ‘XpressWay’ digital observed on October 22nd, aims to raise global
platform offering banking products and services and awareness about stuttering, promote understanding,
enabling customers to experience the fast-banking and support individuals who stutter. It's a day for
services? It offers multiple banking services designed advocacy, education, and breaking down stigmas
to cater to diverse customer needs. surrounding this speech disorder. What is the theme
of the day?
[A] Bank of Baroda
[A] Tailored Solutions for Individual Needs
[B] HDFC Bank
[B] Diverse Paths to Success
[C] Indian Bank
[C] Personalized Approaches to Growth
[D] State Bank of India
[D] One Size Does NOT Fit All
[E] Central Bank of India
[E] Customized Solutions for Unique Challenges
Q.118) Which Indian Armed Force has conducted the

security exercise ‘Prasthan 2023’ to ensure the Q.121) Indian Textile Industry’s Export Promotion
Councils (EPCs) will organize world’s largest textiles
pg. 22
[Type here]
event __________________ from February 26 to Q.124) RBI has recently announced the results of 2nd
February 29, 2024 in New Delhi. edition of its Global Hackathon ‘HARBINGER 2023-
Innovation for Transformation’. Who has won the
The event represents India’s 5F vision which includes-
award in RegTech solutions to facilitate more efficient
Farm to Fibre to Factory to Fashion to Foreign.
compliance for Regulated Entities (REs) category?
[A] Bharat Vision 24
[A] Fortis Net Ltd., UK
[B] Bharat Tex 2024
[B] WeavAir, Singapore
[C] Bharat Textile Expo
[C] Dygnify Ventures Private Limited, India
[D] Textile Mart 24
[D] Ezetap Mobile Solutions Pvt Ltd
[E] Textile Export Expo
[E] Razorpay, India
Q.122) Rajasthan Government has launched a portal

Q.125) Asian Development Bank has granted approval
to boost employment opportunities. The portal has
for ______________loan to enhance road connectivity
been launched under the state government’s initiative
and climate resilience in________________ to
in collaboration with Jaipur-based startup Hyrefox.
increase the connectivity between rural areas and
The portal will serve as a user-friendly platform for
growth centres and establish charging infrastructure
both job providers and job seekers. What is the name
for electric vehicles.
of the portal?
[A] USD 185 million, Madhya Pradesh
[A] talent youth connect portal
[B] USD 175 million, Uttar Pradesh
[B] iStart Talent Connect Portal
[C] USD 175 million, Madhya Pradesh
[C] New start Talent Portal
[D] USD 120 million, Gujarat
[D] e-xl talent portal
[E] USD 185 million, Rajasthan
[E] Raj-youth portal
Q.126) RBI has recently allowed retail investors to

Q.123) Uttarakhand Chief Minister has launched a
subscribe Floating Rate Saving Bonds (FRSB), 2020
portal for girls. The portal will be available to about
(Taxable) through Retail Direct Portal. The subscription
50,000 girls every year. Girls will get ₹11,000 on birth
of bonds will be in the form of cash only up to
and ₹51,000 on passing class 12th. What is the name
______________, drafts, cheques or any electronic
of the portal?
mode.
[A] Gauri Kalyan Yojana
[A] Rs 20,000
[B] Kanya Sabal Yojana
[B] Rs 30,000
[C] Nandagaura Yojana
[C] Rs 40,000
[D] Riddhigaura Yojana
[D] Rs 10,000
[E] Kanyadevi Yojana
[E] Rs 50,000
pg. 23
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Q.127) Securities and Exchange Board of India has

empanelled _____________ entities to provide
Q.130) United Nations Day marks the anniversary of
assistance to its search team for onsite data
the entry into force in 1945 of the UN Charter. With
acquisition during search and seizure operations. This
the ratification of this founding document by the
empanelment will be valid for a period of
majority of its signatories, including the five
_______________ years. The agencies will provide
permanent members of the Security Council, the
digital forensic services to SEBI.
United Nations officially came into being. The UN day
[A] 10, 2 is celebrated on ______.
[B] 12, 2 [A] 28 September
[C] 12, 5 [B] 24 November
[D] 10, 5 [C] 22 October
[E] 15, 3 [D] 24 October
[E] 28 November
Q.128) National Payment Corporation of India (NPCI)

Bharat BillPay has launched a new business-to-
Q.131) Union minister Amit Shah has inaugurated
business payments service in partnership with
IFFCO’s Nano DAP (diammonium phosphate Liquid)
________________. It will provide value-added
manufacturing plant at ___________
services like flexible invoice presentation, complaint
in____________. Nano urea and nano DAP will help
management, MIS, etc. to businesses.
farmers to shift to natural farming without
[A] HDFC Bank compromising on output.
[B] ICICI Bank [A] Churu, Rajasthan
[C] Axis Bank [B] Kalol, Gandhinagar
[D] IDFC First Bank [C] Ambala, Haryana
[E] Kotak Mahindra Bank [D] Bhatinda, Punjab
[E] Faridkot, Punjab
Q.129) _____________ and ____________ have

conducted joint bilateral exercise ‘Exercise Harimau
Q.132) Organisation for Economic Co-operation and
Shakti 2023’ to increase military capability to conduct
Development (OECD) has launched International
of Multi Domain Operations in a sub conventional
Migration Outlook: 2023. India has maintained its top
scenario.
position as the leading country of origin for new
[A] Indian Navy, Sri Lankan Navy immigrants to OECD nations in 2021. Canada has
witnessed the highest number of immigrants. Which
[B] Indian Army, Bhutan Army
country has seen the second largest absolute
[C] Indian Army, Malaysian Army increase?
[D] Indian Navy, Malaysian Navy [A] Australia
[E] Indian Army, Sri Lankan Army [B] USA
[C] Singapore
pg. 24
[Type here]
[D] Germany Q.136) _________________ has recently formed a

strategic partnership with National E-Governance
[E] Japan
Services Limited (NeSL) for the issuance of electronic
Bank Guarantee (e-BG). The digital transformation will
significantly reduce the guaranteed turnaround time
Q.133) Union Cabinet has recently approved
(TAT) and allows recipients to quickly access digitally
___________ nutrient-based fertilizer subsidy for
issued bank guarantees through the NeSL portal.
2023-24 Rabi season. The government will provide the
subsidy for NPK based fertilizers. [A] HDFC Bank
[A] 21,500 Crore [B] Kotak Mahindra Bank
[B] 22,100 Crore [C] Axis Bank
[C] 22,303 Crore [D] Jana Small Finance Bank
[D] 18,000 Crore [E] Bandhan Bank
[E] 19,500 Crore
Q.137) External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has

attended the 22nd Shanghai Cooperation Organisation
Q.134) Which state government has set up a ₹237
(SCO) Council of Heads of Government (CHG) to be
Crore Graphene production facility in public-private
held in ___________ under the chairmanship of
partnership to build a Graphene ecosystem for
____________.
encouraging future material technologies?
[A] Dushanbe, Tajikistan
[A] Tamil Nadu
[B] Astana, Kazakhstan
[B] Kerala
[C] Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan
[C] Telangana
[D] Tashkent, Uzbekistan
[D] Karnataka
[E] Moscow, Russia
[E] Orissa
Q.138) Recently PepsiCo India has appointed Indian

Q.135) Which state has hosted Green Tourism India
which famous sportsperson as the brand ambassador
Conclave for the promotion of responsible tourism in
for its potato chips brand Lay’s?
Northeast for the promotion of green and responsible
tourism in India, with a particular emphasis on the [A] Subhman Gill
Northeastern region and Odisha?
[B] Virat Kohli
[A] Assam
[C] Mahendra Singh Dhoni
[B] Arunachal Pradesh
[D] Hardik Pandya
[C] Meghalaya
[E] Rohit Sharma
[D] Manipur
[E] Mizoram
Q.139) In the month of October 2023, Election
Commission has appointed actor _______________ as
pg. 25
[Type here]
its ‘National Icon’ to motivate voters to participate in legitimate and scrutinized financial apps can access
elections. and use the Indian Banking System
[A] Manoj Bajpayee [A] Ministry of Communication
[B] Rajkumar Rao [B] Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology
[C] Amitabh Bachchan [C] Ministry of Finance
[D] Pankaj Tripathi [D] Ministry of Telecommunication
[E] Aditya Kapoor [E] Ministry of Home Affairs
Q.140) Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IITK) has Q.143) Indian Army has inaugurated its first Vertical
signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Wind Tunnel (VWT) at a training school in
____________ to boost aerospace talent base in India ______________. The facility will provide a controlled
and explore collaboration opportunities with global environment for military trainees to improve their
institutes where students will get to work on projects skills in simulating real-life free-fall conditions and
relevant to the sector. improve Combat Free Fall (CFF) skills of armed forces
personnel by simulating different CFF scenarios.
[A] Bombardier
[A] Ladakh
[B] DGCA
[B] Uttarakhand
[C] Boeing
[C] Himachal Pradesh
[D] Airbus
[D] Punjab
[E] General Electric
[E] Karnataka
Q.141) Asian Development Bank has approved

____________loan to support urban reforms and Q.144) Global Media and Information Literacy Week,
creating high-quality urban infrastructure and efficient commemorated annually, is a major occasion for
governance system in India for improving the quality mobilizing worldwide stakeholders to raise awareness
of urban life. in order to increase national take-up and celebrate the
progress achieved towards Media and Information
[A] USD 300 million
Literacy for All – underlining the importance of this
[B] USD 350 million Global Week, celebrated since 2011.
[C] USD 400 million In which month it is observed in year 2023?
[D] USD 450 million [A] November
[E] USD 500 million [B] October
[C] December
Q.142) _____________________has requested RBI to [D] August

design a more detailed KYC process for greater
[E] July
transparency and to trace the fraudulent loan
providing applications. It will ensure that only
pg. 26
[Type here]
Q.145) Which cricketer has surpassed Sachin committee of the _____________________. It

Tendulkar to become the fastest player to score provides an informal specialized venue to antitrust
26,000 International runs? authorities for maintaining regular contacts and
addressing practical competition concerns.
[A] Ishan Kishan
[A] World Competition Council
[B] Shubman Gill
[B] International Competition Consortium
[C] Rohit Sharma
[C] International Competition Network
[D] Virat Kohli
[D] International Competition Council
[E] Ravindra Jadega
[E] Competition Commission for World
Q.146) Mirae Asset provides comprehensive financial

services including asset management, wealth Q.149) The 54th International Film Festival of India
management, investment banking, and life insurance. (IFFI) is scheduled to be held in Goa from 20th to 28th
Who has become the first non- Korean person to hold November 2023. 54th International Film Festival of
the post of Vice-President of Mirae Asset Financial India has announced Indian Panorama lineup to be
Group? showcased in the event. The Indian Panorama
comprises two categories of __________ feature films
[A] Amit Doshi
and __________ non-feature films.
[B] Swarup Mohanty
[A] 15,15
[C] Axis Bank
[B] 10, 15
[D] Nimesh Shah
[C] 25, 20
[E] Samir Seksaria
[D] 18, 18
[E] 15,10
Q.147) Book titled “The Lords of Wankhede: Tales
Between Two Title’ has been launched in Bengaluru,
Karnataka. The book discusses journey of Indian Q.150) Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has
cricket and the changes which have happened in past launched which platform to provide self-help groups
years. The book is authored by ______________ and and local artisans with global platform to sell their
Senior journalist R Kaushik. products?
[A] Ravi Shashtri [A] Apna e-mart
[B] Kapil Dev [B] Swayam e-Bazaar
[C] WV Raman [C] Goa Rozgaar e- mart
[D] Sourav Ganguli [D] Swayampurna e-bazaar
[E] Rahul Dravid [E] Sampoorna Kranti e-bazaar
Q.148) Competition Commission of India has become Q.151) Which oil company has launched India’s first
a part of the prestigious 18-member steering specialised reference petrol and diesel? Reference
pg. 27
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petrol and diesel are fuels that have higher Q.154) Central Government has recently launched a
specifications. They are used for calibrating and hackathon to combat deceptive practices in E-
testing automobiles by manufacturers and testing Commerce. The Hackathon is launched with the
agencies. objective of providing protection to consumers from
all types of unfair trade practices. The Hackathon has
[A] Reliance Petroleum
been launched by Department of Consumer Affairs,
[B] Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited Government of India in collaboration with IIT BHU.
What is the name of Hackathon?
[C] Indian Oil Corporation
[A] Hackout 2023
[D] Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited
[B] Engage Hackathon 2023
[E] ONGC
[C] Dark Pattern Hackathon 2023
[D] Hack Sphere

Q.152) _____________ and _______________ have
decided to work together for the promotion of Green [E] Hack Spjinx 2023
Energy. Over 1600 MW of solar energy generation
capacity already installed and another 500 MW at
various stages of development. Q.155) Which state has become the first state in India
to have gold hallmarking centres in all districts?
[A] Ministry of Communication & Ministry of Finance
[A] Tamil Nadu
[B] Ministry of Coal & Ministry of New and Renewable
Energy [B] Maharashtra
[C] Ministry of Finance & Ministry of New and [C] Karnataka

Renewable Energy
[D] Kerala
[D] Department of Telecommunication & Ministry of
[E] Rajasthan
Coal and Ministry
[E] Telecom Regulatory Authority of India & Ministry

of Finance Q.156) Which state Government has launched ‘Jai
Bhim Mukhyamantri Pratibha Vikas Yojana’ to provide
free coaching to medical, engineering and civil
Q.153) Which company has become India’s first services? The scheme will enable students to compete
iPhone Manufacturer after buying Wistron plant near in competitive examinations and secure jobs in the
Bengaluru? public or private sector.
[A] Vedanta Group [A] Uttar Pradesh
[B] Foxconn Group [B] Delhi
[C] TATA Group [C] Madhya Pradesh
[D] Infosys [D] Rajasthan
[E] Micromax informatics [E] Uttarakhand
pg. 28
[Type here]
Q.157) Union Government has appointed which

company to help prepare a Vision 2047 document?
Q.160) Dwarfism is a medical condition which causes
The document will set India’s medium-term goals and
short stature. It is generally defined as an adult height
priorities for becoming a developed economy in the
of 4 feet 10 inches (147 centimetres) or less. The
next quarter of a century.
average adult height among people with dwarfism is 4
[A] KPMG feet (122 cm). On which day World Dwarfism Day is
celebrated?
[B] BCG
[A] October 18
[C] E&Y
[B] September 27
[D] PwC
[C] October 25
[E] Deloitte
[D] October 27
[E] September 25
Q.158) The company has recently received India’s first
digital regulatory fintech authorization from
International Financial Services Centres Authority
Q.161) ____________ has announced to set up a 6G
(IFSCA). The authorisation will provide secure and
Research and Development centre in Chennai, Tamil
efficient financial solutions to 70 million SMEs in India.
Nadu to develop the technology which will help to
It will enable the company to improve its offering and
deliver a cyber-physical continuum where networks
commence cross-border transaction in over 14
will deliver critical services, immersive
countries. What is the name of the company?
communications, omnipresent IoT.
[A] Pine Labs
[A] Qualcomm
[B] Escrowpay
[B] Ericsson
[C] Mswipe
[C] Samsung
[D] PayU
[D] Cisco
[E] AGS Transact Technologies
[E] Intel
Q.159) India has conducted their first joint Naval

Q.162) The hunger project organizes capacity-building
Exercise in Gulf of Guinea to reinforce naval maritime
training for elected women representatives (EWRs)
security cooperation in support of the region. A
and federations. Which country will support India’s
knowledge sharing session took place in Accra, Ghana,
Hunger Project in Uttarakhand to help strengthen
following the maritime exercises. With which country
women leaders to protect the environment and
India has conducted this Naval Exercise?
promote food security in Uttarakhand?
[A] USA
[A] Japan
[B] France
[B] Norway
[C] European Union
[C] Germany
[D] South Africa
[D] France
[E] Australia
pg. 29
[Type here]
[E] Finland [A] Satark Bharat, Samriddh Bharat
[B] Corruption free India for a developed Nation
Q.163) Financial Action Task Force (FATF) has recently [C] Say no to corruption; commit to the Nation
removed Cayman Island from its grey list in its review
[D] Satarkta Se Samriddhi
published on 27 October, 2023. The Financial Action
Task Force (FATF) is the global money laundering and [E] No to corruption, for a developed nation
terrorist financing watchdog. The inter-governmental
body sets international standards that aim to prevent
these illegal activities and the harm they cause to Q.166) The US-India Strategic Partnership Forum
society. Where is the headquarter of FATF situated? (USISPF), is an independent non-profit, non-
governmental, and non-partisan organization. It gives
[A] Manhattan
Global Leadership Award for Philanthropy and CSR
[B] Paris every year. Who has won the award for the year 2023?
[C] Bonn [A] Ratan Tata
[D] Washington DC [B] Nita Ambani
[E] London [C] Azim Premji
[D] Rohini NIlekani
Q.164) _______________ has collaborated with [E] Shiv Nadar

Viamericas to offer inward remittance service to NRIs
in USA. This collaboration has enabled NRIs in USA to
use effortless inward remittance services to India and Q.167) Bulk deposit means Single Rupee term
It will allow NRIs to effectively transfer funds to their deposits of Rupees two crore and above for Scheduled
beneficiaries in India through the reliable Indus Fast Commercial Banks (excluding Regional Rural banks)
Remit platform. and Small Finance Banks. Reserve Bank of India has
recently raised the criteria for ‘Bulk deposits’ for
[A] ICICI Bank
Regional Rural Banks from _________ to _________.
[B] HDFC Bank
[A] ₹20 lakh, ₹50 lakh
[C] IndusInd Bank
[B] ₹15 lakh, ₹1 Crore
[D] Kotak Mahindra Bank
[C] ₹10 lakh, ₹25 lakh
[E] IDFC First Bank
[D] ₹50 lakh, ₹1 Crore
[E] ₹1 Crore, ₹2 Crore

Q.165) Bringing transparency and accountability in
governance remains one of the primary means to
achieve all round development of the country. Q.168) AU Small Finance Bank board has approved
Vigilance Awareness Week is one of the tools of the merger with ___________ to extend the bank's
Commission in increasing public awareness about the footprint in southern India and entering the
perils of corruption. Vigilance Awareness Week is microfinance sector. The merger will help AU Small
observed every year during the week in which the Finance Bank to increase its reach and efficiency.
birthday of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel (31st October)
[A] Equitas Small Finance Bank
falls in. What is the theme for the year for 2023.
pg. 30
[Type here]
[B] Capital Small Finance Bank Limited [B] CyberArk
[C] Fincare Small Finance Bank [C] UST
[D] Utkarsh Small Bank [D] InfoObjects
[E] ESAF Small Finance Bank [E] Deloitte Consulting
Q.169) Mahatma Award is the highest honour for Q.170) Which company has become the official
social impact leaders and change makers, who are sponsor of 37th National Games to be held in Goa?
working towards making this world a better place. It is
[A] MobiKwik
an initiative of Aditya Birla Group. Award is presented
on Mahatma Gandhi’s birth anniversary. Which [B] Paytm
organization has won the 2023 Mahatma Awards for
[C] Reliance Jio
sustainable and impactful contributions to corporate
social responsibility (CSR). [D] PhonePe
[A] Navisite Services [E] RazorPay
1 B 51 D 101 D 151 C
2 B 52 B 102 B 152 B
3 A 53 D 103 D 153 C
4 B 54 B 104 D 154 C
5 C 55 C 105 B 155 D
6 D 56 A 106 B 156 B
7 D 57 B 107 D 157 B
8 D 58 B 108 D 158 B
9 B 59 C 109 D 159 C
10 B 60 D 110 C 160 C
11 C 61 C 111 D 161 B
12 D 62 B 112 B 162 B
13 D 63 C 113 E 163 B
14 C 64 D 114 A 164 C
15 D 65 A 115 B 165 C
16 D 66 B 116 C 166 B
17 B 67 B 117 B 167 B
18 B 68 E 118 D 168 C
19 B 69 B 119 B 169 C
20 A 70 B 120 D 170 B
21 A 71 A 121 B
22 A 72 D 122 B
23 C 73 D 123 C
24 B 74 C 124 B
25 B 75 C 125 C
pg. 31
[Type here]
26 B 76 B 126 A
27 A 77 C 127 B
28 A 78 E 128 C
29 D 79 B 129 C
30 E 80 C 130 D
31 B 81 D 131 B
32 D 82 C 132 B
33 B 83 D 133 C
34 C 84 C 134 B
35 D 85 C 135 C
36 E 86 B 136 B
37 E 87 C 137 C
38 B 88 B 138 C
39 D 89 C 139 B
40 C 90 C 140 D
41 D 91 C 141 C
42 D 92 B 142 B
43 E 93 D 143 C
44 B 94 B 144 B
45 A 95 C 145 D
46 B 96 A 146 B
47 C 97 B 147 C
48 A 98 B 148 C
49 C 99 C 149 C
50 D 100 D 150 D
pg. 1
[Type here]
pg. 2
[Type here]
pg. 3
[Type here]
pg. 4
[Type here]
pg. 5
[Type here]
pg. 6

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SPOTLIGHT

Monthly Current Affairs

RBI - NABARD - SEBI

About Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) -

About Travel for LiFE -

9. The Regional Conference on Good Governance will begin at Jaipur.

• Location of the project - Jharkhand and Bihar

About Indian Council for Cultural Relations-

• President- Vinay Shashrabuddhe

17. President of India Smt Droupadi Murmu inaugurated an International Research

About Gaganyaan Mission-

• Portal name- www.charak.chemicals.gov.in.

About KTB-Bharat Hain Hum-

• Implementing agencies - selected grant-in-aid institutions run by NGOs and residential

About Mission Indradhanush-

35. Competition Commission of India hosted 8th BRICS International Competition

o Introduction of a Committee on Digital Competition Law to examine the need for

2. Thermal Sensor based Camera (TvITS):

About International Parliamentary Union-

About World Organization for Animal Health

o The portal aims to develop critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and

About National Council of Education Research and Training (NCERT)

About Bureau of Indian Standards-

Source: Indian Express

About Gaganyaan mission-

o Gaganyaan mission consists of a demonstration of human spaceflight capability by

• Ports for Productivity

o Fruit production is estimated to be 108.34 million tonnes in the year 2022-23 as

• The increase is effective from 1 July, 2023.

About Foreign Contribution (regulation) Act, 2010

About Kisan Credit Card-

What is de novo Deemed University status?

o Promotion of SC Women Cooperatives: The scheme promotes SC women

About All India Institute of Ayurveda-

Competition Commission of India-

• Key Schemes to be Showcased:

• Boston Consulting Group, Inc. is an American global management consulting firm.

What is Special Purpose Vehicle-

About REC Limited-

Power Grid Corporation of India Limited-

• Power Grid Corporation of India Limited (POWERGRID), a Schedule ‘A’ ‘Maharatna’

93. Norway will support India’s Hunger Project in Uttarakhand.

About Hunger project-

Efforts by J&K Administration -

o ISRO’s Launch Authorisation Board chief A. Rajarajan;

Source: The Hindu

7. Assam is promoting pipe composting as an effective method for managing biodegradable

8. Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami announces Rs 12,500 crore foreign investment

• Total investment proposals received: Rs 20,000 crore

Source: The Hindu

11. PM Modi visited Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan.

Jammu & Kashmir Basohli Pashmina Woolen Product

About Geographical Indication (GI) tag-

About Asian Development Bank-

About Vizhinjam port-

Source: Indian Express

• Members - 169 national standards bodies

About ISO 9001:2015-

Spotlight Oct'23

Spotlight Oct'23

Spotlight Oct'23