31. Which among the following best describes about Rhodamine B, recently seen in news?
[A] Toxic and carcinogenic chemical used in various industries for dyeing and coloring
[B] Protein found in the flower Rhododendron, used in treating joint pain
[C] Recently developed vaccine against arthritis
[D] Water molecules on the surface of asteroids
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [Toxic and carcinogenic chemical used in various industries for dyeing and coloring]
Notes:
Tamil Nadu has banned the sale and production of cotton candy due to the presence of Rhodamine B, a chemical used in various industries for dyeing and coloring. Despite appearing green in powdered form, it turns pink when added to water. Rhodamine B, also used in incense and match sticks, is highly toxic and carcinogenic even in small quantities. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has prohibited its usage in food products.
32. Vaitarna River, recently seen in the news, originates from which one of the following?
[A] Powai hills
[B] Anamudi hills
[C] Trimbakeshwar Hills
[D] Nilgiri hills
Show Answer
Correct Answer: C [Trimbakeshwar Hills]
Notes:
A recent bull shark attack on a fisherman in Maharashtra’s Vaitarna River marked the first sighting of the aggressive species 40km upstream. Vaitarna, a west-flowing river, originates in Trimbakeshwar Hills and drains 2019 sq km in Thane and Nasik districts. Bull sharks, known for their aggressiveness, can tolerate freshwater and saltwater, venturing into rivers. The species, with a unique viviparity reproduction method, is listed as Vulnerable by the IUCN due to threats.
33. Who has been bestowed with the prestigious ‘Chevalier de la Légion d’Honneur’, France’s highest civilian honour?
[A] Rajnath Singh
[B] Shashi Tharoor
[C] Neeraj Chopra
[D] LK Advani
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [Shashi Tharoor]
Notes:
Shashi Tharoor, a diplomat, author, and politician, has been awarded the prestigious ‘Chevalier de la Légion d’Honneur,’ France’s highest civilian honor, for his lifelong commitment to global understanding and substantial service to India and the world. The Legion of Honour, established in 1802 by Napoleon Bonaparte, symbolizes French recognition for exceptional contributions, transcending nationality. Tharoor’s accolade reflects his notable dedication to fostering international relations and his significant impact on both India and the global community.
34. Ameen Sayani, who passed away recently, was associated with which profession?
[A] Scientist
[B] Politician
[C] Radio Presenter
[D] Cricketer
Show Answer
Correct Answer: C [Radio Presenter ]
Notes:
Renowned Indian Radio Presenter Ameen Sayani, born on December 21, 1932, in Mumbai, passed away at 91 on February 21, 2024, succumbing to heart failure. Known as a Radio Celebrity, his iconic presentation ‘Geetmala’ earned immense popularity, showcasing his charming voice and unique style. A key figure in popularizing radio in India, Sayani’s witty and captivating communication style left a lasting impact. Introduced to All India Radio by his brother, he transitioned from English to Hindi programming during his illustrious career.
35. Where has been ‘World’s highest frozen lake marathon’ organized?
[A] Sikkim
[B] Himachal Pradesh
[C] Arunachal Pradesh
[D] Ladakh
Show Answer
Correct Answer: D [Ladakh]
Notes:
The “world’s highest frozen lake marathon,” Pangong Lake marathon in Ladakh, hosted 120 runners from seven countries in its second edition. Organized by the Adventure Sports Foundation of Ladakh, supported by the Administration Union Territory of Ladakh and the 14 Corps of the Indian Army, the event aimed to raise awareness about melting Himalayan glaciers and their environmental impact. Dubbed ‘theastrun,’ it hinted at the threat posed by climate change to the frozen lake, emphasizing the urgency of addressing environmental concerns.
36. Which north-eastern state recently signed an MoU with NTCA to establish the state’s first Special Tiger Protection Force?
[A] Manipur
[B] Assam
[C] Arunachal Pradesh
[D] Mizoram
Show Answer
Correct Answer: C [Arunachal Pradesh]
Notes:
The Arunachal Pradesh government has partnered with the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) to create its inaugural Special Tiger Protection Force (STPF). Home to three tiger reserves – Namdapha, Kamlang, and Pakke – the state lacked a dedicated protection force. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) outlines the deployment of a specialized force comprising 336 personnel to enhance tiger conservation efforts in these reserves, addressing the previous gap in protection measures.
37. Recently, which institute has launched the India’s largest drone pilot organization?
[A] IIT Bombay
[B] IIT Guwahati
[C] IIT Roorkee
[D] IIT Kanpur
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [IIT Guwahati ]
Notes:
The Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati (IIT-G) has launched India’s largest drone pilot training facility. This program is aligned with PM’s Namo Drone Didi initiative. The program is also tailored for a variety of defense personnel. This initiative supports Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision to position India as a prominent drone hub by 2030.
38. Which one of the following best describes ‘Nihang’, recently mentioned in the news?
[A] Nuclear ballistic submarine
[B] Distinct warrior group
[C] Traditional irrigation technique
[D] Medicinal plant
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [Distinct warrior group]
Notes:
Amid the recent farmers’ protest, Nihang Sikh warriors, an esteemed warrior order with a rich history dating back to Guru Gobind Singh, have joined in solidarity. Known for their distinct blue attire, martial traditions, and weaponry skills, they historically protected Sikh shrines. Today, Nihangs are divided into groups, mainly Buddha Dal and Taruna Dal, with headquarters in Talvandi Sabo and Baba Bakala, respectively. Anandpur Sahib remains their main gathering center, where they celebrate the Hola Mahalla festival showcasing military skills.
39. Which day is celebrated as Central Excise Day in India?
[A] 23rd February
[B] 24th February
[C] 25th February
[D] 26th February
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [24th February]
Notes:
February 24th marks India’s Central Excise Day, commemorating the 1944 enactment of the Central Excise and Salt Act. First celebrated in 1944, it honors CBIC’s contribution to the nation. The day underscores tax obligations for citizens, vital for national development. In 2024, the government focuses on modernizing India’s tax system, prioritizing user-friendliness to advance the nation’s goals. Central Excise Day serves as a timely reminder to promote tax compliance for collective progress.
40. What is Agasthyagama beddomii, recently seen in the news?
[A] Wolf spider
[B] Kangaroo lizard
[C] Desert Rain Frog
[D] Invasive weed
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [Kangaroo lizard]
Notes:
A team of Indian scientists discovered a new species, Agasthyagama Edge, a northern kangaroo lizard, in Kerala’s Idukki district. Differentiated by scale characters and genetics, it’s part of the Agasthyagama genus, previously known for Agasthyagama beddomii. Named for Evolutionarily Distinct and Globally Endangered, it’s small to medium-sized, residing in India’s Western Ghats. Known for bipedal movement, it has a distinctive gait, resembling a kangaroo. The discovery highlights increasing reptile diversity in the Western Ghats, emphasizing the importance of continued exploration in the region.
