1. What is Alzheimer’s disease, recently seen in the news?
[A] A progressive brain condition affecting memory and cognitive skills
[B] A disorder primarily affecting the lungs
[C] A contagious viral infection
[D] A type of cancer
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [A progressive brain condition affecting memory and cognitive skills]
Notes:
Alzheimer’s disease is a prevalent brain condition, responsible for 60-80% of dementia cases, affecting memory, thinking, and daily activities. Recent studies suggest rare medical accidents can transmit the disease between humans. Typically impacting those aged 65 and older, with unknown exact causes, it involves genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Symptoms range from forgetting recent events to serious memory loss, and while there’s no cure, certain medications and therapies can temporarily manage the symptoms.
2. “Bharat 5G Portal- an integrated portal”, recently seen in the news, is launched by which ministry?
[A] Ministry of Communication
[B] Ministry of Finance
[C] Ministry of Commerce & Industry
[D] Ministry Of Information & Broadcasting
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [Ministry of Communication]
Notes:
The Secretary, Department of Telecommunications, Ministry of Communications, unveiled the “Bharat 5G Portal” during ‘Bharat Telecom 2024.’ This integrated platform focuses on quantum, 6G, IPR, and 5G domains, catering to startups, industry, and academia. In collaboration with PANIIT USA, it introduces the Future Tech-Experts registration portal to support India’s Telecom ecosystem. The portal serves as a centralized hub for quantum, IPR, PoCs/Pilot, 5G, and 6G, promoting innovation, collaboration, and knowledge-sharing in the telecom sector for Atmanirbhar Bharat.
3. “Ungalai Thedi, Ungal Ooril” (Come Look for You, In Your Village) scheme, recently seen in the news, is launched by which state?
[A] Kerala
[B] Tamil Nadu
[C] Andhra Pradesh
[D] Karnataka
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [Tamil Nadu]
Notes:
The Government of Tamil Nadu introduces the Ungalai Thedi Ungal Ooril Scheme 2024, offering citizens monthly access to state government schemes and scholarships. This initiative aims to review project performance, inspect infrastructure, and address public concerns, ensuring effective implementation of government programs.
4. Recently, which neurotechnology company has embedded the first computer chip in a human brain?
[A] Neuralink
[B] Kernel
[C] Blackrock Neurotech
[D] Neurable
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [Neuralink ]
Notes:
Neuralink is the first company to implant a computer chip in a human brain. Neuralink is a neurotechnology company founded in 2016 by Musk and seven other scientists and engineers. The company’s implant, known as the “Link,” is a small device that’s surgically placed inside the human brain. Neuralink says its device can interpret neural activity so a person can operate a computer or smartphone by simply thinking. The company ultimately hopes to use the brain-machine interface to restore sensory and motor functions in people with disabilities, treat neurological conditions like dementia and depression, and even enable telepathic communication.
5. Karaivetti Bird Sanctuary and Longwood Shola Reserve Forest, recently seen in the news, are located in which state?
[A] Tamil Nadu
[B] Andhra Pradesh
[C] Gujarat
[D] Karnataka
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [Tamil Nadu]
Notes:
India has included five additional wetlands in the Ramsar Convention’s global list of significant wetlands, bringing the nation’s total to 80. Announced by Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav, the newly added wetlands include Magadi Kere Conservation Reserve, Ankasamudra Bird Conservation Reserve, and Aghanashini Estuary from Karnataka, along with Karaivetti Bird Sanctuary and Longwood Shola Reserve Forest from Tamil Nadu. This designation underscores India’s commitment to preserving vital waterlogged ecosystems.
6. ‘Economics of the Food System Transformation’ report, recently seen in the news, is released by which organization?
[A] International Monetary Fund (IMF)
[B] Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)
[C] Food System Economics Commission (FSEC)
[D] World Bank
Show Answer
Correct Answer: C [Food System Economics Commission (FSEC)]
Notes:
The Economics of the Food System Transformation report is a global policy report from the Food System Economics Commission (FSEC). The report estimates that transforming the global food system could create economic benefits of 5–10 trillion USD per year. The report also states that the policies and implementation to achieve these transformations would cost only 0.2–0.4% of global GDP. The report discusses the unsustainable trajectory of the global food system and the potential economic benefits of a transformation. It also states that transforming food systems worldwide could help address global climate, nature, and health emergencies.
7. What is the main objective of ‘Ministry of Education-AICTE Investor Network’, recently seen in the news?
[A] Providing infrastructure mainly in rural areas
[B] Digitalize the education sector
[C] Strengthening the support ecosystem for edu-tech innovators
[D] Promoting yoga education to students
Show Answer
Correct Answer: C [Strengthening the support ecosystem for edu-tech innovators]
Notes:
Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan inaugurated the ‘Ministry of Education – AICTE Investor Network,’ a collaborative effort by AICTE and the Ministry of Education’s Innovation Cell. The initiative aims to boost innovation and entrepreneurship in education by offering financial support, mentoring, and strategic guidance to early-stage student or faculty-led startups. Aligned with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision, the network seeks to encourage private investment, empower educational institutions as innovation hubs, and foster a better environment for startup development.
8. What is the total estimated expenditure in the Budget for FY 2024-25?
[A] Rs 47.66 lakh crore
[B] Rs 33.56 lakh crore
[C] Rs 48.20 lakh crore
[D] Rs 45.15 lakh crore
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [Rs 47.66 lakh crore]
Notes:
The 2024-25 government budget is projected at Rs 47, 65,768 crore (47.66 lakh crore), indicating a 6% rise from the revised 2023-24 estimate. Anticipated growth includes a 3.2% increase in revenue expenditure and a significant 16.9% surge in capital expenditure, reflecting fiscal priorities and economic strategies for the upcoming year.
9. Which one of the following best describes the term ‘Blue Economy 2.O’, recently seen in the budget 2024?
[A] Sustainable development related to oceans, seas, and coasts
[B] Providing new agricultural practice methods
[C] Improving urban infrastructure
[D] Renewable energy sources
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [Sustainable development related to oceans, seas, and coasts]
Notes:
The Interim Budget prioritizes the advancement of ‘Blue Economy 2.0,’ concentrating on sustainable development concerning oceans, seas, and coasts. Key initiatives include schemes for coastal restoration, aquaculture, and mariculture, with an integrated approach. Plans encompass setting up five integrated aquaparks and enhancing the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana for increased productivity, exports, and job creation. The Blue Economy is defined by the World Bank as the sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth and improved livelihoods, preserving ocean ecosystem health.
10. Recently, which state government police adopted Self-Balancing e-scooters For Smart Patrols?
[A] Uttarakhand
[B] Himachal Pradesh
[C] Punjab
[D] Uttar Pradesh
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [Uttarakhand]
Notes:
In February 2024, the Uttarakhand Police adopted self-balancing electric scooters to patrol the streets of Haridwar. The scooters are part of a new law enforcement method and are intended to improve safety for locals and tourists. The scooters are donated by Utkarsh Small Finance Bank and are intended to be used in crowded and narrow areas.