Daily Current Affairs Questions
July 2022 Part 25
Why in News
1. Article 142
2. Barry Sinclair
3. Battery Swapping Policy
4. Benjamin Andrew Stokes
5. Board of Trade (BOT)
6. Boris Johnson
7. Bundelkhand Expressway
8. Byju’s
9. cervical cancer
10. Citizens of India
11. Coffee Board
12. Collar of the Supreme Order of the Chrysanthemum
13. Commonwealth Games
14. Constitution Part IX-A
15. Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC)
16.
Denesh Ramdin
17.
Droupadi Murmu
18. edible oils.
19. Election Commission
20. Enforcement Directorate (ED)
21. eurozone
22. FIFA World Cup
23. Financial Stability Report
24. Freedom of Religion
25. fundamental rights
26. G20 Heads of State and Government Summit
27. Global Manufacturing Risk Index
28. Green Strategic Partnership
29.
GST rate
30. Human Papillomavirus Vaccine
31. India – South Korea:
32. Infosys Ltd
33. International Monetary Fund (IMF):
34. James Webb Telescope
35. Jose Eduardo dos Santos
36. Line of Actual Control (LAC)
37. Mario Draghi
38. Paper Import Monitoring System (PIMS)
39. Red Panda
40. start-up company
41. Trading partners
42. UN Department of Economic and Social
Affairs’
43. UN Principles for People with
Disabilities (PwDs),
44. United Nations Framework Convention on
Climate Change (UNFCCC)
45. Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act
46. Wholesale Price Index (WPI)
47. World Paper Bag Day
48.
world's oldest known male giant panda
49. Zonal Councils(ZC)
50. Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC)
1. Consider the following statements:
1. Article 142 of the Indian
constitution provides power to the Supreme Court to do “complete justice” where
at times law or statute may not provide a remedy.
2. There are specific rules provided by
the constitution of India to guide the Supreme Court to invoke article 142 to
do “complete justice”.
Which of the
statements given above is/are correct?
a) 1 only
b) 2 only
c) Both 1 and 2
d) Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: (A)
Explanation:
Article 142 provides a unique power to
the Supreme Court, to do “complete justice” between the parties, where at times
law or statute may not provide a remedy.
In those situations, the Court can extend itself to put a quietus to a dispute
in a manner that would fit the facts of the case.
There is no specific guideline or rule provided by the law which explains when,
where, and under which circumstances the Apex Court can invoke the said article
to do “complete justice”.
2. Former cricketer ‘Barry Sinclair’
recently (in July’22) passed away. He is the former captain of which country? New Zealand
Explanation:
Former New Zealand cricket captain and batter Barry Sinclair passed away at the
age of 85 in Wellington, New Zealand.
i. He captained the team in 3 Tests, initially taking over from injured Murray
Chapple on the 2nd Test against England at Dunedin in 1966, retaining them for
the final Test of the series at Auckland, and for the next Test against India.
3. Consider the following statements:
1. Draft Battery Swapping Policy was proposed by Ministry of Heavy Industries.
2. Draft Battery Swapping Policy has
the provision of financial incentive.
Which of above
statements is/are correct?
a) 1 only
b) 2 only
c) Both1 and 2
d) Neither of these
Answer: (B)
Explanation:
The government think tank NITI Aayog on
21 April, 2022 released the draft battery-swapping policy targeted at electric
two-wheelers and three-wheelers, proposing incentives for electric vehicles
with swappable batteries, subsidies to firms manufacturing swappable batteries,
technical and testing requirements and reduction of GST, among other things.
Draft battery swapping policy provides direct and indirect financial support to
Battery Providers (for the cost of batteries) and EV users.
4. In July 2022, Which Captain of the England Test
team, announced his retirement from the One Day Internationals (ODIs) format,
while Tamim Iqbal, current captain of which country in ODIs announced his
retirement from T20 International Matches. Benjamin Andrew Stokes;
Bangladesh
Explanation:
The New-Zealand born, English cricketer, Ben Stokes (full name: Benjamin Andrew
Stokes), Captain of the England Test team, has announced his retirement from
the One Day Internationals (ODIs) format after England’s first ODI match
against South Africa on 19th July 2022 in Chester-le-Street, Durham, England.
i. Ben Stokes played his 105th and final ODI against South Africa in Durham.
ii. Bangladeshi Cricketer Tamim Iqbal, the current captain of Bangladesh in
ODIs has announced his retirement from T20 International with effect from 16th
July 2022.
iii. Tamim Iqbal announced his retirement after the conclusion of the ODI
series against the West Indies National Cricket Team.
5. In July 2022, Government of India nominated 29
non-official members from various sectors to the Board of Trade (BOT), the
advisory body on foreign trade policy. Name the union minister who is the
current (as of July’22) chairperson of BOT. Piyush Goyal
Explanation:
The Government of India (GoI) has nominated 29 non-official members from large
and small enterprises with diverse sectoral and geographical representation to
the Board of Trade (BOT), the advisory body on foreign trade policy. The
chairperson of the board Union Minister of Commerce and Industry.
i. The BOT, which is chaired by Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal,
advises the GoI on policy initiatives to boost India’s foreign trade.
ii. The GoI amalgamated the Council of Trade Development and Promotion with the
Board of Trade (BOT) in 2019 to improve consistency in the consultation process
with all stakeholders, both at the Central and State levels, for promoting
exports and imports.
6. In July 2022, Boris
Johnson
announced his resignation as Prime Minister (PM) of the United Kingdom (UK).
Which of the following books are authored by Boris Johnson?
1) The Dream of Rome
2) Seventy-Two Virgins
3) Why We Want You to Be Rich
4) Only 1 & 2
5) Only 2 & 3
Answer-4) Only 1 & 2
Explanation:
United Kingdom (UK) Prime Minister (PM), Boris Johnson announced his
resignation as Prime Minister of the UK after he was abandoned by ministers and
own party’s lawmakers. He also stepped down as Conservative Party leader.
i. He was forced to quit when 3 cabinet members and more than 40 ministers
resigned on 5 July 2022 for demanding his resignation. However, he would serve
as the PM until his successor was elected.
ii. He has been serving as PM of the United Kingdom (UK) and Leader of the
Conservative Party since 2019.
Famous Books by Boris Johnson:
‘’Seventy-Two Virgins’’
‘’The Dream of Rome’’
‘’The Churchill Factor: How One Man Made History’’
7. In July 2022, PM Narendra Modi inaugurated the how
long Bundelkhand Expressway at Kaitheri village in Uttar Pradesh (UP). 296 km
Explanation:
Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi inaugurated the 296 km long Bundelkhand
Expressway at Kaitheri village in Orai tehsil of Jalaun, Uttar Pradesh (UP).
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister (CM) Yogi Adityanath was also present at the
inauguration ceremony.
i. It passes through seven districts of UP and was constructed at a cost of
around Rs 14,850 crore. It was developed by Uttar Pradesh Expressway Industrial
Development Authority (UPEIDA).
About the Bundelkhand Expressway:
It is the four-lane expressway, which will be expanded into six lanes, passes
through seven districts of UP- Chitrakoot, Banda, Mahoba, Hamirpur, Jalaun,
Auraiya and Etawah.
It extends from NH (National Highway)-35 at Gonda village near Bharatkoop in
Chitrakoot district to near Kudrail village in Etawah district, where it merges
with the Agra-Lucknow Expressway.
8. First Indian company to sponsor FIFA World Cup? – Byju’s
9. Consider the following statements with
reference to cervical cancer:
1. It is a common sexually transmitted
infection.
2. It is the second most prevalent cancer form and the second leading cause of
cancer death in women of reproductive age.
3. It is mostly caused by long-term infection with particular forms of Human
Papillomavirus (HPV).
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A 1 and 2 only
B 2 and 3 only
C 1 and 3 only
D 1, 2 and 3
Explanation
Cervavac, a vaccine developed by the
Serum Institute of India (SII), has recently acquired market authorization from
the Drugs Controller General of India (DGCI).
It is India's first Quadrivalent Human Papillomavirus Vaccination (qHPV)
designed to protect women from cervical cancer.
Cervical cancer is a prevalent sexually transmitted infection. Hence,
statement 1 is correct.
It’s a type of cancer that occurs in the cells of the cervix, the lower
part of the uterus that connects to the vagina.
It is mostly caused by long-term infection with particular forms of Human
Papillomavirus (HPV). Hence, statement 3 is correct.
It is the second most prevalent cancer form and the second leading cause of
cancer death in women of reproductive age (15-44). Hence, statement 2 is
correct.
Indian Perspective: According to the World Health Organization's
International Agency for Research on Cancer, India accounts for roughly
one-fifth of the global burden, with 1.23 lakh cases and around 67,000
fatalities every year.
10.
Consider the following statements:
1. The citizens of India owe allegiance to
both the Union and State.
2. In India, only a citizen by birth is eligible for the office of President.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) Neither 1 nor 2
(b) Both 1 and 2
(c) 1 only
(d) 2 only
Answer : (A)
11. In July 2022, Coffee
Board has signed an MoU with whom
to develop climate-resistant varieties of the coffee crops. ISRO
State-run Coffee Board is planning to focus on developing new varieties that
will be resistant to the changing climatic patterns. A Memorandum of
Understanding (MoU) between the Coffee Board and ISRO was signed with regard to
breeding climate-resilient varieties and assess the carbon sequestration
potential in coffee among others.
12. In July 2022, The Japan Government honored the
former PM Shinzo Abe with the Collar of the Supreme Order of
the Chrysanthemum,
posthumously. Shinzo Abe became the which PM to receive the award under the
post-war constitution. 4th
Explanation:
The Government of Japan honored the former Prime Minister (PM) Shinzo Abe with
the Collar of the Supreme Order of the Chrysanthemum, posthumously. It is
Japan’s highest award.
i. Shinzo Abe became the fourth PM to receive the award under the post-war
constitution. Before Shinzo Abe, other former PMs including Shigeru Yoshida,
Eisaku Sato and Yasuhiro Nakasone were also awarded with the same honor.
About the award:
It is the highest honor that a Japanese national can receive in his/her
lifetime.
It was introduced by Emperor Meiji of Japan in 1876.
The Supreme Order of the Chrysanthemum is the most prestigious award in Japan.
The Grand Cordon of the Supreme Orders of the Chrysanthemum was established in
1876, and the Collar of the Supreme Orders of the Chrysanthemum in 1888.
Note- India awarded Shinzo Abe the Padma Vibhushan in the field of public
affairs in 2021.
13. How many member Indian contingent has recently been
announced by IOA for Commonwealth Games? – 322 member
14. Consider the following statements
1. Part IX (B) of the Constitution deals with ULBs.
2. Schedule 12 contains more subjects
than Schedule 11.
Which of the
following statement(s) is/are correct?
a) 1 only
b) 2 only
c) Both 1 & 2
d) Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: (D)
Explanation:
Part IX and Part IX-A deal with PRIs
and ULBs respectively.
Schedule 12 contains 18 subjects while Schedule contains 29 subjects.
15. In India, the Section 41 of Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) is associated with which of the following?
A
Cognizance of offences by Magistrates
B Protection against prosecution for
acts done under preceding sections
C Special Judicial Magistrates
D Arrest of persons without warrant
Explanation
Section 41 of
Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) talks about the conditions when the police may arrest without
warrant.
Any police officer may without an order from a Magistrate and without a
warrant, arrest any person-
who has been concerned in any cognizable offence
who has been proclaimed as an offender either under CrPC or by order of the
State Government
in possession of a suspected stolen property
who obstructs a police officer while in the execution of his duty
who is reasonably suspected of being a deserter from any of the Armed Forces of
the Union
whose request (either oral or written) for arrest has been received from
another police officer
Hence, option D is correct.
16.
Denesh Ramdin, who announced his retirement from
international cricket recently, was the captain of which nation's
team? West Indies
Former West Indies captain and wicketkeeper-batsman Denesh Ramdin announced his
retirement from international cricket on July 18, 2022 with immediate effect. The
cricketer had played his last match for West Indies in a T20I in December 2019.
He had played 74 Tests, 139 ODIs and 71 T20Is. He had made his debut in Test
cricket in July 2005 against Sri Lanka.
17.
Droupadi
Murmu
had served as the 9th Governor of which state between 2015 and 2021? Jharkhand
Droupadi Murmu had served as the 9th Governor of Jharkhand between
2015 and 2021. She had become India’s first woman tribal governor and the first
female tribal leader from Odisha to be appointed as a governor of an Indian
state. She also served as a member of the Odisha Legislative Assembly twice
from the Rairangpur constituency, representing the BJP.
18. Consider the following statements:
1. The quantity of imported edible oils
is more than the domestic production of edible oils.
2. India is the world's second-largest
consumer and number one importer of vegetable oil.
Which of the
statements given above is/are correct?
a) 1 only
b) 2 only
c) Both 1 and 2
d) Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: (C)
Explanation:
India is the world's second-largest
consumer and number one importer of vegetable oil, and it meets 55-60 percent
of its need through imports.
The domestic consumption of edible oils is around 250 lakh tonnes, while the
domestic production is only 111.6 lakh tonnes. The gap between demand and
supply of edible oils is about 56 percent and is met through imports.
The Ministry of Agriculture data shows that India is the largest importer of
vegetable oils in the world followed by China and the USA.
19. Consider the following statements:
1. An act of parliament governs the
power of the Election Commission to recognise political parties and
allot symbols.
2. The Election Commission is the only
authority to decide disputes among rival groups or sections of a recognised
political party staking claim on its name and symbol
Which of the
statements given above is/are correct?
a) 1 only
b) 2 only
c) Both 1 and 2
d) Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: (B)
Explanation:
The Election Symbols (Reservation and
Allotment) Order, 1968 empowers the EC to recognise political parties and allot
symbols.
Under Paragraph 15 of the 1968 order, the EC is the only authority to decide
issues on a dispute or a merger. The Supreme Court upheld its validity in Sadiq
Ali and another vs. ECI in 1971.
20. Consider the following statements:
1. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) is a specialized financial investigation
agency under the Ministry of Finance.
2. The ED was initially formed under the Department of Economic Affairs for
handling violations under Foreign Exchange Regulation Act, 1947.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A 1 only
B 2 only
C Both 1 and 2
D Neither 1 nor 2
Explanation
Directorate of Enforcement is a specialized
financial investigation agency under the Department of Revenue, Ministry
of Finance. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
On 1st May 1956, an ‘Enforcement Unit’ was formed, in the
Department of Economic Affairs, for handling Exchange Control Laws violations
under Foreign Exchange Regulation Act, 1947. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
In the year 1957, this Unit was renamed as ‘Enforcement Directorate’.
ED enforces the following laws:
Foreign Exchange Management Act,1999 (FEMA)
Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002 (PMLA)
21. In July 2022, Croatia became which country in the
eurozone to adopt the euro currency from 2023 by replacing the current
currency, the Croatian Kuna. 20th
Explanation:
Croatia will become the 20th member of the eurozone to adopt Euro currency from 1 January 2023,
replacing the current currency Croatian Kuna. The European Union’s (EU) finance
minister formally approved the adoption of the euro single currency.
i. It is the first expansion of the currency bloc in almost eight years since
the euro has dropped to its lowest level against the US dollar in 20 years.
Croatia’s currency Kuna has comparatively low inflation and low-interest rates,
a stable currency regime.
About Croatia:
Capital– Zagreb
President- Zoran Milanović
Official language– Croatian
22. First Indian company to sponsor FIFA World Cup? – Byju’s
23. Consider the following statements:
1. The Financial Stability Report is published annually by the RBI to discuss
development issues related to the financial sector.
2. The Financial Stability and Development Council is headed by the Governor of
RBI.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A 1 only
B 2 only
C Both 1 and 2
D Neither 1 nor 2
Explanation
The Financial Stability Report
(FSR) which is published biannually by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
reflects the collective assessment of the Sub-Committee of the Financial
Stability and Development Council (FSDC - headed by the Governor of RBI)
on risks to financial stability and the resilience of the financial system. Hence,
statement 1 is not correct but statement 2 is correct.
The Report discusses issues relating to development and regulation of the
financial sector.
In a Financial Stability Report released by the RBI in December 2021, there is
a projection of the gross NPAs of banks rising from 6.9% in September 2021 to
8.1% of total assets by September 2022 (under a baseline scenario) and to 9.5%
under a severe stress scenario.
24. Consider the following
statements with respect to Freedom of
Religion
enshrined in the Constitution:
1. It includes the freedom to not follow any religion.
2. It bars all religious conversions.
3. It is not applicable to foreign nationals.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 3 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1, 2 and 3
(d) 1 only
25. First, the difficulties in its
rollout, and later the sanctions imposed by the UK and the US on Russia have
hindered the use and distribution of the Sputnik V vaccine. For all practical
purposes, an individual vaccinated with Sputink V is regarded unvaccinated.
This had restricted lakhs of Indians from visiting these two countries. In such
a condition, the fundamental rights provided under which of the following
articles of Indian constitution have been violated?
1. Article 15
2. Article 19
3. Article 21
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
A 1, 2 and 3
B 2 and 3 only
C 1 and 2 only
D 3 only
Explanation
Article 21 declares that no person
shall be deprived of his life or personal liberty except according to procedure
established by law. This right is available to both citizens and non-citizens.
The right to life is not merely confined to animal existence or survival but
also includes the right to live with human dignity and all those aspects of
life which go to make a man’s life meaningful, complete and worth living.
In Satwant Singh Sawhney v. D. Ramarathnam Assistant Passport Officer (1967),
the right to travel abroad was read as an intrinsic part of Article 21.
Again in 2020, the Supreme Court, in Parvez Noordin Lokhandwalla v. State
of Maharashtra, held that the right to travel abroad is a part of the
fundamental right to dignity and personal liberty.
However, the given condition is not violative of either Article 15 or Article
19 of the Indian Constitution as -
Article 15 provides that no citizen shall be discriminated on grounds only
of religion, race, caste, sex or place of birth.
Article 19 guarantees the right to move freely throughout the territory of
India.
The freedom of movement has two dimensions, viz, internal (right to move
inside the country) (article 19) and external (right to move out of the
country and right to come back to the country) (article 21).
Hence, option D is correct.
26. Consider the following statements:
1. The 17th G20 Heads of State and
Government Summit will
take place at November 2022 in Bali.
2. The G20 or Group of Twenty is an intergovernmental forum comprising 19
countries and the European Union (EU).
Both 1 and 2
About:
It is an informal group of 19 countries and the European Union (EU),
with representatives of the International Monetary Fundand the World
Bank.
It does not have a permanent secretariat or Headquarters.
Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia,
Italy, Japan, Republic of Korea, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa,
Turkey, the United Kingdom, the United States and the EU.
The 17th G20 Heads of State and Government Summit will take place in 2022 on
15-16 November in Bali.
27. Global Manufacturing Risk Index is released by:
a) World Bank
b) IMF
c) World Economic Forum
d) None of the above
Answer: (D)
Explanation:
It is released by the US-based property
consultant Cushman & Wakefield.
It assesses the most advantageous locations for global manufacturing among 47
countries in Europe, the Americas, and Asia-Pacific (APAC).
In the Global Manufacturing Risk Index 2021, India became the second most
sought-after manufacturing destination globally, driven mainly by cost
competitiveness.
28. Green Strategic Partnership has been launched by India jointly with
which country?
a) Germany
b) United Kingdom
c) United States
d) Denmark
Answer: (D)
Explanation:
India has launched Green Strategic
Partnership with Denmark as its partner for the fight against Climate Change.
It is a mutually beneficial arrangement to advance political cooperation,
expand economic relations and green growth, create jobs and strengthen
cooperation on addressing global challenges and opportunities with a focus on
an ambitious implementation of the Paris Agreement and the UN Sustainable
Development Goals.
29.
How much percent GST will be levied on
pre-packaged and labeled food items? 5
percent
The new GST rate for pre-packed,
labeled food items including rice, wheat, atta, paneer, curd, jaggery, lassi,
butter milk, labeled meat (except frozen) and fish has now been fixed at 5
percent. Dried makhana, puffed rice, meslin flour, labeled meat and fish will
also attract 5 percent GST. All these items were exempted from GST tax earlier.
However, loose, unbranded and unlabelled goods will continue to remain exempted
from GST. The new GST rates came into effect from July 18, 2022.
30. In July 2022, Drugs Controller General of India
(DCGI) approved India’s 1st indigenous Quadrivalent Human Papillomavirus Vaccine
(qHPV) to treat cervical cancer in women.
Which company will manufacture the qHPV? Serum Institute of India
Explanation:
Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) has approved India’s 1st indigenous
Quadrivalent Human Papillomavirus Vaccine (qHPV) to treat cervical cancer in
women for market authorisation.
i. The qHPV vaccine will be manufactured by the Serum Institute of India (SII),
Pune, Maharashtra and launched by the end of 2022.
ii. Recently, The National Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (NTAGI) had
also approved the qHPV after reviewing the clinical trial data of the vaccine.
Note- Cervical cancer is the 2nd most frequent cancer among women in India
between 15 years and 44 years.
31. Consider the following statements with
reference to the relations between India – South
Korea:
1. The two
countries have signed Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA).
2. In the past five years, there has been active engagement by both the
countries in the US led multilateral security intiiatives.
3. Sahyog-Hyeoblyeog is an initiative of India and South Korea to facilitate
investment from Korea which provides guidance, assistance and handholding of
investors.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A 1 and 3 only
B 2 and 3 only
C 1 only
D 1, 2 and 3
Explanation
India – South
Korea
Political
Ties:
During the Korean War (1950- 53),
India played a major role in a cease-fire agreement signed between both the
warring sides (North Korea and South Korea) and the ceasefire was declared on
27th July 1953.
In May 2015, the bilateral relationship was upgraded to ‘special strategic
partnership’.
India has a major role to play in South Korea’s Southern Policy under which
Korea is looking at expanding relations beyond its immediate region.
Similarly, South Korea is a major player in India’s Act East Policy.
However, during the past five years, India and South Korea have experienced
considerable divergence in their respective national objectives. There was
a clear drift by South Korea away from multilateral security initiatives led
by the United States, such as the Quad (the U.S., Australia, India and
Japan); meanwhile, India has been actively participating in them.
During the presidency of Moon Jae-In, South Korea was forced to sign the “three
no’s” agreement with China. Under this agreement, Korea agreed to: no
additional Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) deployment; no
participation in the U.S.’s missile defence network, and no establishment of a
trilateral military alliance with the U.S. and Japan. Hence, statement 2 is
not correct.
Trade Relations:
The trade and economic relations
between India and South Korea have gathered momentum in recent years with
annual bilateral trade reaching USD21.5 billion in 2018, crossing the USD20
billion mark for the first time.
The bilateral Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CEPA), set
in place since 2010, has spurred trade and investments both ways. Hence,
statement 1 is correct.
India has signed CEPAs with South Korea and Japan and in 2021, it formally
launched negotiations with UAE on the India-UAE CEPA.
To facilitate investment from Korea, India has launched a "Korea Plus”
facilitation cell under ‘Invest India’ to guide, assist and handhold
investors.
Defence Ties:
So far, the Indian and South Korean
Coast Guards have conducted five exercises with an aim to enhance
interoperability.
The most recent of these exercises was held off the coast of Chennai, named
Sahyog-Hyeoblyeog 2018.
Sahyog - Hyeoblyeog is part of a proposed establishment of a MoU between
the two Coast Guards to improve maritime security in the Indian Ocean
Region. Hence, statement 3 is not correct.
32. In July 2022, who recently (in July’22) signed a definitive
agreement to acquire BASE life science for how much Euro? . Infosys; 110 million
Explanation:
Infosys Ltd signed
a definitive agreement to acquire BASE life science, a leading technology and
consulting firm in the life sciences industry, for up to 110 million Euro
(about USD 111 million). The acquisition is expected to close during the second
quarter (Q2) of FY23.
i. The acquisition of Denmark-based BASE life science is to deepen life
sciences domain capabilities and strengthen footprint across Europe and will
help global life sciences companies realize business value from cloud-first
digital platforms and data, to speed-up clinical trials and scale drug
development.
ii. BASE has about 200 industry experts across Denmark, Switzerland, UK,
Germany, France, Italy, and a nearshore technology hub in Spain. Founded in
2007.
33. Consider the following statements
regarding the International Monetary Fund (IMF):
1. The IMF was conceived at a UN conference
in Bretton Woods in New Hampshire, United States.
2. Countries are not eligible for membership of the IMF unless they are members
of the World Bank.
3. Any state, whether or not a member of the United Nations, may become a
member of the IMF.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A 1 and 3 only
B 2 only
C 1 only
D 1, 2 and 3
Explanation
The IMF, also known as the Fund, was
conceived at a UN conference in Bretton Woods, New Hampshire, United
States, in July 1944. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
The 44 countries at that conference sought to build a framework for
economic cooperation to avoid a repetition of the competitive devaluations that
had contributed to the Great Depression of the 1930s.
The IMF, as per Bretton Woods agreement to encourage international financial
cooperation, introduced a system of convertible currencies at fixed exchange
rates, and replaced gold with the U.S. dollar (gold at $35 per ounce) for
official reserve.
IMF Members: Any state, whether or not a member of the UN, may become
a member of the IMF in accordance with IMF Articles of Agreement and terms
prescribed by the Board of Governors. Hence, statement 3 is correct.
Membership in the IMF is a prerequisite to membership in the World Bank,
the Countries are not eligible for membership in the World Bank unless they are
members of the IMF (vice versa is not true). Hence, statement 2 is not
correct.
34. Consider the following statements
regarding the James Webb Telescope:
1. It is a large infrared telescope.
2. Webb is an international collaboration between NASA and ISRO.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A 1 only
B 2 only
C Both 1 and 2
D Neither 1 nor 2
Explanation
The James Webb Space Telescope
(JWST) is a space telescope designed primarily to conduct infrared
astronomy.
As the largest optical telescope in space, its greatly improved infrared
resolution and sensitivity allows it to view objects too old and distant. Hence,
statement 1 is correct.
JWST was launched in December 2021 on an Ariane 5 rocket from Kourou,
French Guiana.
It is an international collaboration between National Aeronautics and
Space Administration (NASA), the European Space Agency (ESA), and the Canadian
Space Agency (CSA). Hence, statement 2 is not correct.
35. Former President Jose Eduardo dos Santos has
passed away. He is belongs to which country? Angola
Former President of Angolan, Jose Eduardo dos Santos has passed away at the age
of 79.
36. Consider the following statements
regarding the Line of Actual Control (LAC) between India and China:
1. It was designated in 1972,
following the Shimla Agreement between the two countries.
2. India considers the length of LAC to be longer than what China does.
3. Along the LAC, the patrolling points are decided by the Ministry of Defence.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A 1 and 2 only
B 2 only
C 1 and 3 only
D 1, 2 and 3
Explanation
The Line of Actual Control (LAC) is
the demarcation that separates Indian-controlled territory from
Chinese-controlled territory.
LAC is different from the Line of Control (LoC) with Pakistan:
The LoC emerged from the 1948 ceasefire line negotiated by the United Nations
(UN) after the Kashmir War.
It was designated as the LoC in 1972, following the Shimla Agreement
between the two countries. It is delineated on a map signed by the Director
General of Military Operations (DGMO) of both armies and has the international
sanctity of a legal agreement.
The LAC, in contrast, is only a concept – it is not agreed upon by the two
countries, neither delineated on a map or demarcated on the ground. Hence,
statement 1 is not correct.
India considers the LAC to be 3,488 km long, while the Chinese consider it
to be only around 2,000 km. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
Along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) between India and China, Indian Army
has been given certain locations that its troops have access to patrol the area
under its control.
These points are known as patrolling points, or PPs, and are decided
by the China Study Group (CSG). Hence, statement 3 is not correct.
CSG was set-up in 1976, when Indira Gandhi was the prime minister, and is
the apex decision-making body on China.
37. In July 2022, Mario
Draghi
resigned from his Prime Minister position in which country? Italy
Explanation:
The Prime Minister (PM) of Italy, Mario Draghi submitted his resignation to
President Sergio Mattarella after the withdrawal of support of key coalition
parties.
i. He will remain as the caretaker Prime Minister until a new leader is
appointed. The legislature’s current 5-year term is due to expire in 2023.
ii. The new election will be held at the end of September and beginning of
October 2022. However the official dissolution of parliament was not announced
by the President.
iii. He was sworn in as the Prime Minister of Italy in February 2021. ii.Prior
to his appointment as PM, he served as President of the European Central Bank
(ECB) between 2011 and 2019.
38. In July 2022, the Directorate General of Foreign
Trade (DGFT) introduced the Paper Import Monitoring System
(PIMS) to
change the import policy for major paper products.
The implementation of PIMS will be effective from which date?. 1st October 2022
Explanation:
The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) of the Ministry of Commerce and
Industry (MoCI) has introduced the Paper Import Monitoring System (PIMS) by
amending the import policy of major paper products from ‘Free’ to ‘Free subject
to compulsory registration under PIMS’.
i. The implementation of PIMS will be effective from October 1, 2022.
Meanwhile, the online registration facility will be available from July 15,
2022.
ii. This could also help the “Make in India” and “Atmanirbhar” initiative in
this category.
39. Consider the following statements with
reference to Red Panda:
1. It is the state animal of Sikkim.
2. It is listed as critically endangered in the IUCN Red list.
3. It is protected under Appendix I of CITES.
Which of the statements above is/are correct?
A 1 and 2 only
B 2 and 3 only
C 1 and 3 only
D 1, 2 and 3
Explanation
There are only two different panda
species in the world, the Giant Pandas and the Red Pandas.
Red Pandas are also the state animal of Sikkim. Hence, statement 1 is
correct.
Red Pandas are shy, solitary and arboreal animals and considered an
indicator species for ecological change.
India is home to both the (sub) species:
Himalayan red panda (Ailurus fulgens)
Chinese red panda (Ailurus styani)
Siang river in Arunachal Pradesh splits the two phylogenetic species.
It is found in the forests of India, Nepal, Bhutan and the northern mountains
of Myanmar and southern China.
Protection Status:
Red Pandas: IUCN Red List: Endangered. Hence, statement 2 is not correct.
CITES: Appendix I. Hence, statement 3 is correct.
Wildlife Protection Act 1972: Schedule I.
40. Consider the following statements:
1. The term unicorn refers to a
privately held start-up company with a value of over $1 billion.
2. A decacorn is a company that has
attained a valuation of more than $ 10 billion.
3. No company in India has still
achieved a decacorn status.
Which of the
statements given above is/are correct?
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 2 and 3 only
c) 1 and 3 only
d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (A)
Explanation:
The term unicorn refers to a privately
held start-up company with a value of over $1 billion. It is commonly used in
the venture capital industry. The term was first popularised by venture
capitalist Aileen Lee.
A decacorn is a company that has attained a valuation of more than $ 10 Bn.
As of May 2022, 47 companies the world over have achieved the decacorn status.
India has four start-ups namely, Flipkart, BYJU’s, Nykaa and Swiggy, added in
the decacorn cohort.
41. Consider the following statements:
1. In FY 2022 China is the largest
trading partner of India.
2. Among India’s top 10 trading partners, the US is the only country with which India has a positive trade
balance.
Which of the
above statements is/are correct?
a) 1 only
b) 2 only
c) Both 1 and 2
d) Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: (B)
Explanation:
US Emerges as India's Largest Trade
Partner in FY 2022, Surpasses China. The US surpassed China to become India's
top trading partner in FY 2021-22. Statement 1 Not correct
India maintained a positive trade balance with the US, recording a surplus
trade of US$32.79 billion. In fact, as per the statistics, among India’s top 10
trading partners, the US is the only country with which India has a positive
trade balance. Statement 2 correct.
42. Consider the following statements with
respect to ‘UN Department of Economic and Social
Affairs’
1. It is one of the specialized organs
of the United Nations responsible for coordinating the economic and social
fields of the organization
2. It is part of the United Nations Secretariat and a member of the United Nations
Development Group
Select the correct statement(s)
a) 1 only
b) 2 only
c) Both 1 and 2
d) Neither 1 nor 2
Solution(b)
Statement Analysis:
Statement 1 Incorrect
The United Nations Economic and Social
Council. ECOSOC serves as the central forum for discussing international
economic and social issues, and formulating policy recommendations addressed to
member states and the United Nations System
Statement 2 Correct
The United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA) is
part of the United Nations Secretariat and is responsible for the follow-up to
major United Nations Summits and Conferences. It is also a member of the United
Nations Development Group
Context – UN
DESA recently released a report titled ‘World Population Prospects’
43. Consider the following statements:
1. As per the UN Principles for People with Disabilities (PwDs), a person with disability has the
right to free legal assistance.
2. An underlying issue with India’s Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act,
2016 is that it is not in line with the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons
with Disabilities.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A 1 only
B 2 only
C Both 1 and 2
D Neither 1 nor 2
Explanation
The UN Convention on the Rights of
PwD, which was adopted in 2006, defines persons with disabilities as those
“who have long-term physical, mental, intellectual or sensory impairments which
in interaction with various barriers may hinder their full and effective
participation in society on an equal basis with others”.
India ratified the Convention in October 2007.
The Parliament enacted the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016
with a view to fulfilling the obligations under the UNCRPD. Hence, statement 2
is not correct.
In 2020, the United Nations (UN) released its first-ever guidelines on
access to social justice for People with Disabilities (PwD) to make it easier
for them to access justice systems around the world.
The guidelines outline a set of 10 principles and detail the steps for
implementation. These are:
Principle 1: PwD shall not be denied access to justice on the basis of
disability.
Principle 2: Facilities and services must be universally accessible without discrimination
of PwD.
Principle 3: PwD, including children with disabilities, have the right to
appropriate procedural accommodations.
Principle 4: PwD have the right to access legal notices and information in a
timely and accessible manner on an equal basis with others.
Principle 5: PwD are entitled to all substantive and procedural safeguards
recognized in international law on an equal basis with others, and States must
provide the necessary accommodations to guarantee due process.
Principle 6: PwD have the right to free or affordable legal assistance.
Hence, statement 1 is correct.
Principle 7: PwD have the right to participate in the administration of
justice on an equal basis with others.
Principle 8: PwD have the right to report complaints and initiate legal
proceedings concerning human rights violations and crimes.
Principle 9: Effective and robust monitoring mechanisms play a critical role in
supporting access to justice for PwD.
Principle 10: All those working in the justice system must be provided with
awareness-raising and training programmes addressing the rights of PwD.
44. Consider the following statements
regarding United Nations Framework Convention
on Climate Change (UNFCCC)
1. The Paris Agreement under UNFCCC is
a legally binding international treaty on climate change.
2. The Conference of the Parties (COP) meets bi-annually to assess progress in
dealing with climate change.
3. Reduction of the carbon intensity of the economy by 45 per cent by 2030 over
2005 levels is one of the commitments under India’s NDC
Select the correct statement(s)
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 2 and 3 only
c) 1 and 3 only
d) 1, 2 and 3
Solution (c)
Statement Analysis:
Statement 1 Correct
The Paris Agreement is a legally binding
international treaty on climate change. It was adopted by 196 Parties at COP 21
in Paris, on 12 December 2015 and entered into force on 4 November 2016.
Its goal is to limit global warming to well below 2, preferably to 1.5 degrees
Celsius, compared to pre-industrial levels.
Statement 2 Incorrect
Its supreme decision-making body, the Conference of the Parties (COP),
meets annually to assess progress in dealing with climate change.
Statement 3 Correct
Reduction of the carbon intensity of the economy by 45 per cent by 2030,
over 2005 levels is one of the commitments made by India at COP 26. India presented the following five nectar
elements (Panchamrit) of India’s climate action: Reach 500 GW Non-fossil energy
capacity by 2030. 50 per cent of its energy requirements from renewable energy
by 2030. Reduction of total projected carbon emissions by one billion tonnes
from now to 2030. Reduction of the carbon intensity of the economy by 45 per
cent by 2030, over 2005 levels. Achieving the target of net zero emissions by
2070.
Context: India
is on the verge of achieving her clean energy targets under INDC
45. Consider the following statements with
respect to ‘Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act’
It is applicable even if the offence
is committed outside India but applies to Indian citizens only
The accused is eligible for default bail if the investigation is not completed
within 180 days
Select the correct statement(s)
a) 1 only
b) 2 only
c) Both 1 and 2
d) Neither 1 nor 2
Solution(d)
Statement Analysis:
Statement 1 Incorrect
Both Indian and foreign nationals can be charged. It is applicable even if the
offence is committed outside India. A charge sheet can be filed in maximum 180
days after the arrests.
Statement 2 Incorrect
The investigation has to be completed within 90 days and if not, the
accused is eligible for default bail. A Special Court under the UAPA conducts
trials.
Context – A 19 year old student was arrested
under the provisions of this act based on a facebook post recently.
46. Consider the following statements:
1. A point of similarity in the Wholesale Price Index (WPI) and the Consumer Price Index (CPI) is that
they both are released by the National Statistical Office (NSO).
2. 2011-12 is taken as the base year to calculate all-India WPI.
Which of the statements given above is/are not correct?
A 1 only
B 2 only
C Both 1 and 2
D Neither 1 nor 2
Explanation
Wholesale
Price Index (WPI):
It measures the changes in the prices
of goods sold and traded in bulk by wholesale businesses to other businesses.
It is published by the Office of Economic Adviser, Ministry of Commerce and
Industry. Hence, statement 1 is not correct.
However, the CPI, which measures price changes from the perspective of a retail
buyer, is released by the National Statistical Office (NSO).
Major criticism for this index is that the general public does not buy
products at wholesale price.
The base year of All-India WPI has been revised from 2004-05 to 2011-12 in
2017. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
47. Every year, World
Paper Bag Day is
observed on which date to raise
awareness of the importance of using paper bags instead of plastic bags. July 12
Every year, World Paper Bag Day is observed on July 12 to raise awareness of
the importance of using paper bags instead of plastic bags.
48.
How old was the world's oldest known male giant panda, who died
recently? 35 years
The
world's oldest male giant panda, An An, passed away at the age of 35 years on
July 20, 2022. The panda's age was equivalent to human age of 105 years. The
giant panda's health was showing steady deterioration over the past few weeks,
with his food intake declining. He finally stopped eating and had to be
euthanised. He had lived in Ocean Park, an marine and animal facility and Hong
Kong theme park since 1999. The world's oldest female giant panda was Jia Jia,
who died in 2016 at the age of 38 years.
49. Consider the following statements with
respect to ‘Zonal Councils(ZC)’
1. It is a constitutional body which
has been established under Article 263
2. Rajasthan is a part of the western zonal council
3. The Union territories of Andaman and Nicobar Islands and Lakshadweep are not
members of zonal councils
Select the correct statement/s:
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 3 only
c) 1 and 3 only
d) All the above
Solution (b)
Statement Analysis:
Statement 1 Incorrect
Zonal Councils are advisory councils and are
made up of the states of India that have been grouped into five zones to foster
cooperation among them. These were set up under the Part-III of the States
Reorganisation Act, 1956.
Hence they are not constitutional bodies, but statutory bodies.
The Northeastern states are not covered by any of the Zonal Councils and their
special problems are addressed by another statutory body, the North Eastern
Council at Shillong, created by the North Eastern Council Act, 1971.
Statement 2 Incorrect
All States and UTs are grouped into 6 zones.
ZCs are headed by Home Minister.
Rajasthan belongs to Northern Zonal Council.
Other states in Northern ZC are Chandigarh, Delhi, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh,
Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh and Punjab
Statement 3 Correct
The Union territories of Andaman and Nicobar Islands and Lakshadweep are
not members of zonal councils.However, they are presently special invitees to
the Southern Zonal Council.
Context:
Honorable Home Minister presided over 30th meeting of Northern Zonal
Council.
50. In July 2022, the Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) launched a Knowledge Portal developed by the
Center of Excellence (CoE) for Khadi to provide design directions to the Khadi institutions.
The KVIC is a statutory body of the Indian Constitution which comes under which
ministry? Ministry of MSME
Explanation:
The Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) launched a Knowledge Portal
to provide design directions to the Khadi institutions.It was developed by the
Center of Excellence (CoE) for Khadi.
i. The portal was inaugurated by Preeta Verma, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of
KVIC.
ii. The Center of Excellence for Khadi has been set up by KVIC, Ministry of
MSME (Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises) at National Institute
of Fashion Technology (NIFT) Delhi to support Khadi Institutions.
iii. KVIC is a statutory body of the Indian Constitution. It comes under the
Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises. It was established by Khadi
and Village Industries Act, 1956.
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