Current Affairs - Current Affairs

Exercise : Daily Current Affairs
  • January 19, 2025 Current Affairs
1.
What is India’s ranking in terms of the largest start-up ecosystem?
1st
2nd
4th
3rd
Answer: Option
Explanation:
India ranks as the 3rd largest start-up ecosystem in the world, with more than 100 unicorns, which highlights the country’s strong entrepreneurial culture. This achievement is further reinforced by the inauguration of the CSIR Innovation Complex (CSIR-IC) in Mumbai by Union Minister Jitendra Singh. The complex serves as a hub for start-up incubation and includes advanced infrastructure to support the growth of start-ups. Additionally, the event featured 50 technology transfers to start-ups, MSMEs, and institutions, encouraging further innovation and development in the sector.

2.
Which Indian naval ship is participating in the 4th edition of Exercise La Perouse?
INS Vikramaditya
INS Kolkata
INS Mumbai
INS Chennai
Answer: Option
Explanation:
INS Mumbai, an indigenously built destroyer, is participating in the 4th edition of Exercise La Perouse alongside navies from eight countries. This multinational exercise focuses on maritime surveillance, air defence, and tactical interoperability. The exercise is designed to enhance coordination and collaboration among participating nations, aligning with India’s vision of a secure Indo-Pacific region as part of its SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) initiative. The participation of INS Mumbai underscores India's commitment to maritime security and regional cooperation.

3.
Which state in India has signed an MoU with Singapore to establish a FinTech hub?
Kerala
Odisha
Gujarat
Maharashtra
Answer: Option
Explanation:
Odisha, in partnership with Singapore’s Global Finance & Technology Network (GFTN), has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a FinTech hub in Bhubaneswar. The focus of this collaboration is on InsureTech innovation, aiming to support India’s goal of “Insurance for All” by 2047. The initiative will drive financial inclusion and foster a sustainable ecosystem for InsureTech in Odisha, leveraging global expertise. This strategic partnership aligns with the state’s broader vision to enhance its role in the FinTech sector.

4.
Which aerospace company successfully launched the New Glenn rocket on its maiden test flight?
Blue Origin
SpaceX
NASA
Boeing
Answer: Option
Explanation:
Blue Origin, founded by Jeff Bezos, successfully launched its New Glenn rocket on its maiden test flight. The launch took place at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station and marked a significant milestone for the company. Named after John Glenn, the rocket was designed to compete in the growing space exploration industry, joining players like SpaceX and NASA. The mission carried a prototype satellite into orbit, marking a key achievement for Blue Origin’s future space ventures.

5.
Which country signed an MoU with India to enhance cooperation on cybersecurity?
United States
Russia
United Kingdom
Japan
Answer: Option
Explanation:
India and the United States signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen cooperation and information sharing on cyber threat intelligence and digital forensics, specifically in criminal investigations. The MoU was signed in Washington DC by the Ambassador of India to the US, Vinay Mohan Kwatra, and Acting U.S. Deputy Secretary of Homeland Security, Kristie Canegallo. This agreement aims to improve both countries’ ability to combat cyber threats and enhance their cybersecurity frameworks. The cooperation will foster a closer partnership between India and the United States in the digital space.

6.
What is the reserve price for rice under the Revised Open Market Sale Scheme Policy 2024-25?
Rs. 2,000
Rs. 2,250
Rs. 2,500
Rs. 2,750
Answer: Option
Explanation:
Under the Revised Open Market Sale Scheme (Domestic) Policy 2024-25, Union Minister Pralhad Joshi announced a reserve price of ₹2,250 per quintal for rice. This price is applicable to State Governments, Corporations, and Community Kitchens, bypassing e-auctions to streamline food security and distribution. The same price is also extended to ethanol distilleries to boost ethanol production, aligning with India’s energy goals. This policy reflects the government's efforts to enhance both food security and the production of alternative energy sources.

7.
In which city is a single platform for transport being developed to facilitate seamless travel?
Mumbai
Delhi
Bengaluru
Kolkata
Answer: Option
Explanation:
A single platform for transport is being developed in Mumbai to enable seamless travel across various modes of public transportation, including the metro, monorail, BEST buses, MSRTC buses, and suburban railways. The platform will integrate advanced AI features to assist commuters in planning their journeys, providing real-time information on the nearest stations and available transport options. This initiative is expected to enhance the travel experience for millions of Mumbai’s commuters, making the city’s extensive transport network more accessible and efficient.

8.
What does Mission SCOT primarily focus on enhancing?
Satellite Communication
Space Domain Awareness
Space Exploration
Astrobiology Research
Answer: Option
Explanation:
Mission SCOT, launched by Digantara, focuses on enhancing Space Domain Awareness by enabling precise object tracking and imaging in Low Earth Orbit (LEO). The mission has successfully established ground station communication, with its solar panels deployed and operations stabilized. This initiative is part of India’s growing space economy, supported by IN-SPACe’s Rs 1000 crore Venture Capital Fund. The space sector, valued at $8.4 billion, is projected to reach $44 billion by 2033, with significant contributions from missions like SCOT aimed at improving space infrastructure and sustainability.

9.
Which Indian state’s postal department is introducing Artificial Intelligence in its services?
Maharashtra
Karnataka
Bihar
Tamil Nadu
Answer: Option
Explanation:
The Bihar Postal Department is adopting Artificial Intelligence to enhance its services, including parcel delivery, booking, logistics, and customer-centric operations. The initiative also includes the development of a Digital Address and Digital Pin Code system, aiming to modernize the traditional postal delivery process. Currently, pilot tests are underway, and the official launch is planned for the next financial year. This integration of AI reflects Bihar's commitment to leveraging advanced technology to improve public services.

10.
Under which scheme did PM Modi distribute 65 lakh property cards to rural residents?
PM-KISAN Scheme
Digital India Land Records Modernization Programme
Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana
SVAMITVA Scheme
Answer: Option
Explanation:
The SVAMITVA Scheme, launched by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj, aims to establish clear ownership rights in rural areas by mapping land parcels using advanced drone technology. Recently, PM Modi distributed 65 lakh property cards under this scheme across 50,000 villages in 10 states and 2 Union Territories. The initiative particularly focuses on unsurveyed villages, empowering residents with formal land rights and promoting socio-economic development in rural regions.