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July 2014 CAC Question Bank

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1. The 47
th
Annual meeting of the Board of Governors of Asian Development Bank (ADB)
was held in Astana from 2 to 5 May 2014. The meeting saw much discussion on
connectivity, innovation, and the need to keep up with the demands of a changing Asia and
Pacific. Around 3000 delegates from ADBs 67 member countries and beyond, from
Government ministers and central banks, business and finance, media, civil society,
academia and youth participated in the meeting. The meeting took place in Astana,
Kazakhstan with the theme The Silk Road Connecting Asia with the Changing world
Formed on 22 August 1966 with motto Fighting Poverty in Asia and the Pacific the ADB
has a membership of 67 countries. The headquarters of ADB is located in Manila, the
Philippines. The present President of ADB is Takehiko Nakao
ADB offers different types of financial products, which includes loans grants, guarantees,
debt management products and technical assistance. The ADB offer hard loans from
Ordinary Capital Resources (OCR) on commercial terms and soft loans with concessional
terms from Asian Development Fund (ADF). ADF helps poorest countries by way of grants.
33 members of ADB have provided direct contributions to ADF amounting to $37.5 billion.
The largest contributors are Japan, the US, Australia, Canada, Germany, The UK and France.
Baku, Azerbaijan will host the 2015 (48
th
) Annual Meeting of the Board of Governors of
ADB from 2 to 5 May 2015. Astana is the capital of Kazakhstan.

5. The WHO (World Health Organisation) declared the international spread of wild polio virus
in 2014 a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC). WHO has made it
mandatory for all residents and long term visitors (cover 4 weeks) from Pakistan, Cameroon
and Syria to receive a dose of Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV) or Inactivated Poliovirus Vaccine
(IPV) between 4 weeks and 12 months prior to international travel. This has been primarily
done to stop the spread to the deadly virus. WHO opined that Pakistan, Cameroon and Syria
pose the greatest risk of further wild poliovirus explorations in 2014 and hence the
restrictions. As per WHO the countries affected by polio are Afghanistan, Cameroon,
Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, Israel, Nigeria, Pakistan, Somalia and Syria.
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7. After four years of ban, Shantha Biotechnics, a Hyderabad based arm of French vaccine
maker Sanofi SA would resume its supply of pediatric pentavalent vaccine, Shan 5, to
WHO programmes across the world. Shan 5 which received WHO prequalification status,
protects children against five diseases namely Diphtheria, Tetanus Pertusis, HIV and
Hepatitis B.
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8. According to 24/7, Wall Street, online retailer Amazon.com has bagged the top spot in the
latest Harris Poll Reputation Quotient Survey, beating other popular brands to take the
coveted title of the best reputed company for the second consecutive year in the US.
According to the survey, the following brands occupied the Top 5 positions.
(1) Amazon.com
(2) Coca Cola
(3) Apple
(4) Walt Disney
(5) Honda
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9. Indias first indigenously developed Beyond Visual, Range (BVR) Air to Air missile Astra
was successfully test fired by the India Airforce on May 4, 2014. Designed and developed
by Defence R&D Organization, Astra possesses high Single Shot Kill Probability (SSKP)
making it highly reliable, the all weather BVR missile was test fired from a Sukoi 3D MKI
fighter jet. While the current version of Astra has a 44 km range, the second version will be
developed to have 100 km range. Only few countries like the US, Russia, France and Israel
have developed BVR missiles
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10. The Henley & Partners Visa Restriction Index is a global ranking of countries according to
the travel freedom and visafree access their citizens enjoy. Almost all countries now
require visas from certain nonnationals who wish to enter their territory. A visa allows
persons to travel to the destination country. Visa requirements are also an expression of the
relationship between individual nations and generally reflect the relations and status of a
country within the international community of nations. The Index is produced in
cooperation with the International Air Transport Association (IATA) which maintain the
worlds largest database of travel information.
The Henley & Partners Visa Restriction Index 2014
Last three rankers: Pakistan (91)
Iraq (92) and Afghanistan (93)
1
st
rankers: Finland, Sweden, The UK with 173 score. The citizens of these countries can
travel without a visa to 173 other counties: These three countries have 173 visa free travel
arrangements in place
2
nd
rankers: Denmark, Germany, Luxembourg, USAscore 172
3
rd
rankers: Belgium, Italy, The Netherlandsscore 171
74
th
rankers: India, Dominican Republic, Uzbekistanscore 52
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11. The Supreme Court of India on 6/5/2014 struck down section 6A of the Delhi Police Special
Establishment Act which mandated the CBI to seek prior sanction from the Government to
probe and procecute any officer above the Joint Secretary level. Under article 14 of the
constitution, this section was challenged by Dr. Subramanium Swamy and NGO Cpil.
A five judge bench led by Chief Justice R.M Lodha struck down the provision. The
Supreme Court said that corruption is the enemy of the nation. You cant discriminate
between a senior and a junior level officer. A corrupt servant is a corrupt servant. You
cannot protect one set.
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12. The Paris based think tank, the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development
(OECD) has launched a latest Economic Outlook during its annual Ministerial, Council
Meeting and Forum held on 6/5/2014 in Paris. The outlook has projected that the global
economy will grow at a 3.4% in 2014 and 3.9% in 2015.
The BRIICS (Brazil, China, India, Indonesia, Russia and South Africa) are projected to see
a GDP growth of 5.3%, this year on average and 5.7% in 2015. China will see a growth of
7.5% in 2014 and 2015.
Projection in respect of major advanced economies USA2.6% in 2014 and 3.5% in 2015.
The Euroarea 1.2% in 2014 and 1.7% in 2015.
Japan1.2% in 2014 and 2015.
The OECD stressed for the policies that spur growth but at the same time create
opportunities for all, ensuring that the benefits of economic activity are broadly shared. The
organization urges the nations to frame policies to cut unemployment in the light of
strengthening of economies over the next two years. Even though chances of further major
economic disruption have receded, OECD cautioned there are still risks to global economic
recovery. OECD Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development.
Membership24 countries
Formed on30/9/1961
Secretary GeneralJoseAngel Gurria
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13. With a view to promote the objective of financial inclusion and also to bring uniformity
among banks in opening and operating minors accounts, RBI has advised banks on
6/5/2014, that they can allow minors above the age of 10 years to open and operate savings
bank accounts independently, if they so desire. On attaining majority, the erstwhile minor
should confirm the balance in his/her savings bank account.
RBI also advised that a savings/fixed/recurring bank deposit can be opened by a minor of
any age through his/her natural or legally appointed guardian.
Banks are free to offer additional banking facilities like internet banking, ATM/debit card,
cheque book facility etc. subject to certain safeguards. Banks should ensure that these
accounts are not allowed to be overdrawn.
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14. A high level committee headed by Saumitra Chaudhuri, member, Planning Commission and
Prime Ministers Economic Advisory Council (PMEAC) submitted its report on IIP and
WPI. The Index of Industrial Production (IIP) gives details of the growth of various
Industrial sectors such as mining electricity and manufacturing. The Wholesale Price Index
(WPI) is the price of a representative basket of wholesale goods and its changes are used
as a key measure of inflation.
Important recommendations
(1) Factoring in the price of manufactured goods without the excise duty component
(2) Change in the base year of both WPI and IIP initially to 200910 and
subsequently to 201112
(3) Updating product mix annually to record changes in production trends
(4) Doing away with the excise duty component in the price of manufactured
products
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17. For the first time in recorded history, the average level of CO
2
has topped 400 PPM (Parts
Per Million) for an entire month of April 2014. According to National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administrations (NOAA) Earth System Research Lab, the high levels of
carbon dioxide is largly considered by scientists a key factor in global warming.
The Scripps Institution of Oceanography, a part of University of California, San Diego,
reported that Aprils average amount of CO
2
was 401.33 PPM, with each day reading above
400 PPM and the CO
2
levels have not surpassed 300 PPM in 800,000 years. It is warned
that CO
2
levels would hit 450 PPM within a few decades.
Scientists have been measuring the levels of carbon dioxide over the past 50 years. Since
1958, the Keeling curve named after developer Charles Keeling has been used to monitor
the levels of greenhouse gases atop Hawaiis Mauna Loa. Throughout the year, there are
changes in CO
2
levels that occur naturally from the growth of plants and trees. Carbon
dioxide levels often peak in the spring due to plant growth, and decrease in the fall when
plants die, according to NOAA.
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19. In a landmark judgment, the Supreme court of India on 7/5/2014, banned Jallikattu (bull
fighting) and bullock cart racing in Tamil Nadu. The Court also banned bullock cart racing
in Maharasra. The Court observed even bulls have rights against and said cruelty meted out
to the bulls in Jallikattu unimaginable. Being dumb and helpless, they suffer in silence. The
Court noted that the penalties for animals under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act,
1960 are weak and that the act requires an update. The Court also noted that large number
of animals getting injured and even dying during the Jallikattu event. The Court order came
on a petition filed by Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) and People for the Ethical
Treatment of Animals (PETA) against the judgement of Madras High Court which allowed
the sport to continue.
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20. The Supreme Court of India on 7/5/2014 held that the Kerala Irrigation and Water
Conservation (Amendment) Act, 2006 is unconstitutional and ultra vires in its application to
and effect on Mullaperiyar dam. The Court allowed Tamil Nadu to raise water level to 142
ft. and ultimately to 152 ft after completion of further strengthening measures on the dam.
The Court constituted a three-member committee to examine the safety of the dam and
recommend measures that are necessary for the safety of the dam. Mullaperriyar dam a
masonry dam was constructed pursuant to the Periyar Lake Lease Agreement dated
29/10/1886 across Periyar River. It is situated in Idukki district of Kerala but owned and
operated by the Government of Tamil Nadu.
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23. WHO says the concentration of particulate matter in air of Delhi is much more than
permissible limits making Delhi as the worlds most polluted city. The 2014 report of the
Ambient Air pollution (AAP) database contains results of outdoor air pollution monitoring
from almost 1600 cities in 91 countries. WHO report says that the situation in Delhi is so
bad that its air has PM 2.5 concentrations of 153 micrograms and PM10 concentrations of
286 microgramsmuch more than the permissible limits.
Air quality is represented by annual mean concentration of fine particulate matter (PM10
and PM2.5particles smaller than 10 to 2.5 microns). The database covers the period from
2008 to 2013.
Air pollution is the fifth largest killer in India. Tiny particles (PM10 and PM2.5) go deep
inside the lungs and trigger respiratory and cardiac problems including lung cancer.
Many factors contribute to this increase including reliance on fossil fuels such as coal fired
power plants, motor vehicles, inefficient use of energy in buildings and the use of biomass
for cooking and heating. 13 Indian cities are among the 20 most polluted cities in the world.
Cities with the lowest pollution levels are located in Canada, the US, Finland, Iceland and
Sweden. WHO considers safe limit at 25 micrograms. The cities of Patna, Gwalior and
Raipur followed Delhi for the worst air pollution readings.
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24. India and Bangladesh share 54 rivers between them. Bangladesh demands review of the
sharing of Teesta river waters by bilateral talks. Bangladesh has recently announced that it
would approach international forums on the issue of Teesta river waters sharing, if the
bilateral talks with India fail. In 1983, an adhoc water sharing agreement was reached
between India and Bangladesh, whereby both countries were allocated 39% and 36% of the
water flow respectively. The Teesta river originates in Himalayas, flows through Sikkim
and West Bengal, enters into Bangladesh and Joins Brahmaputra river (jamuna). Flowing
through the length of Sikkim the Teesta river is considered to be the lifeline of the state. The
total length of the river is 315 km and about 115 km of its stretch is situated in Bangladesh.
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26. The University of Chicago found some handwritten scribblings on the margins of multiple
pages of Book 11 of Odyssey but no where else in the volume. The ancient Greek epic
poem Odyssey about the wandering of the hero Odysseus after the Trojan war, was
composed by Homer in the 8
th
century B.C. it is a sequel to The Illiad, his other famous
ancient Greek epic poem. Daniele Metilli, an Italian computer engineer could translate the
annotations found in the 1504 venetian edition and break the mystery.
Works of Homer: The Illiad, Odyssey
The Aeneid is a Latin epic poem written by Virgil between 29 and 19 B.C.
Don Juan is a satiric poem based on the legend of Don Juan written by Byron (Lord Byron
17881824).
Paradise Lost is an epic poem in blank verse written by the 17
th
century English poet John
Milton (16081674)
Divine comedy is an epic poem in Italian written by Dante Alighieri (1265 1321)
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29. Indigenous card payment network called Rupay was dedicated to the nation on 8/5/2014
by President Pranab Mukherjee. Rupay now takes on the global players like Visa and
Mastercard.
The new payment network developed by the National Payment Corporation of India
(NPCI), a non-profit company envisioned by RBI and created by the banking industry,
covers all automated teller machines (ATMs) and most of the retail and ecommerce
platforms. Rupay is the coinage of two terms Rupee and payment
Rupay scheme provides flexibility to card issuing banks to issue special purpose cards like
kisan cards, milk procurement cards, grain procurement cards and financial inclusion cards.
The total number of cards issued as on date is 17 million and is growing at a rate of about
three million per month.
National Payment Corporation of India (NPCI) was incorporated in 2008 under section 25
of Companies Act and commenced business from April 2009. Presently there are ten core
promoter banks.
NPCI Headquaters: Mumbai
Chairman: M Balchandran
Products & Services: National Financial Switch, Immediate Payment Service, Cheque
Truncation System, National Automated Clearing, Aadhar Payment Bridge System (APBS),
Rupay.
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32. On 7/5/2014, Reserve Bank of India advised all banks not to charge foreclosure charges/pre
payment penalties on all floating rate term loans sanctioned to individual borrowers.
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36. 47 countries including India and Switzerland endorsed the declaration on automatic
exchange of information in Tax matters on 6/5/2014 under the aegis of OECD during the
ministerial council meeting of OECD in Paris. The Organization for Economic Cooperation
and Development (OECD) is a global body that frames economic policies and conventions
against tax brands. The standard agreed upon by the 47 nations will clamp down on bank
secrecy practices and ensure that they work towards full disclosure of information on tax
evaders and financial criminals pertaining to any national Jurisdiction. OECD Secretary
General said that Tax fraud and tax evasion are not victim less crimes. They deprive
governments of revenues needed to restore growth and jeopardise citizens trust in the
fairness and integrity of tax system.
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38. Former Foreign Minster Peter Mutharika was sworn in on 31/5/2014, as the new President
of Malawi.
The Republic of Malawi is a landblocked country in Southeast Africa, bordered by Zambia,
Tanzania and Mozambique.
Capital of Malawi: Lilongwe
President : Peter Mutharika
Currency: Kwacha
Joyce Banda: former President of Malawi from April 2012 to May 2014
Dalia Grybauskaite: She has recently been elected as President of Lithuania for the second
term
Abdul Fattah al Sisi has been sworn in as Egypts new President after winning election in
May 2014. He is the former Chief of Egypts army.
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44. Former Intelligence Bureau chief Rajiv Mathur was appointed the new Chief Information
Commissioner by President Pranab Mukherjee on 22/5/2014. He succeeded Sushma Singh
who demitted office on 21/5/2014.
Mukul Rohatgi, a senior advocate at the Supreme Court of India has assumed office as the
Attorney General of India, succeeding G.E Vahanvati. He is the 14
th
Attorney General of
India.
Former Director of Intelligence Bureau Ajit Kumar Doval has ben appointed as the new
National Security Adviser of India on 30/5/2014, he succeeded Shivshankar Menon.
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45. The 2014 Edition of the SIMBEX 14 series of annual bilateral naval exercise between the
Indian Navy and the Republic of Singapore Navy was conducted in the Andaman Sea from
22 May to 28 May 2014. SIMBEX 14 is the 21
st
in the series designed to enhance inter
operability and mutual understanding between the two navies.
SIMBEX is an acronym for Singapore Indian Maritime Bilateral Exercise. Since its
inception in 1993, SIMBEX has grown in tactical and operational complexity.
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47. The Agence Francaise de Developpment (AFD) has agreed to a Line of Credit (LOC) of
Euro 100 million to M/S Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency Ltd (IREDA) to
be utilized for financing renewable energy and energy efficient projects in India, developing
renewable energy sources helps address environmental concerns and also improves energy
security and spurs regional economic development. IREDA is a dedicated financing
institution for financing RE projects under the aegis of Ministry of New and Renewable
Energy (MNRE). It has till date disbursed more than `14,550 crore for RE projects.
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48. Lok Sabha (House of the People) is composed of representatives of people chosen by direct
election on the basis of adult suffrage. The maximum strength of the house envisaged by
constitution is 552; upto 530 members to represent the states; upto 20 members to represent
the union territories, and not more than two members of the Anglo Indian community to be
nominated by President, if in his opinion that the community is not adequately represented
in the house. The Lok Sabha at present consists of 545 members and general elections are
held to elect 543 members leaving two members for nomination by President.
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52. Jitan Ram Manjhi was sworn in as the Chief Minister of Bihar. The Oath was administered
by D.Y. Patil, Governor of Bihar on 20/5/2014. He is the successor of Nitish Kumar. Ajay
Shriram is the President of Confederation of Indian Industries (CII).
Nabam Tuki is the 8
th
Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh (since 1/11/2011).
Pawan Chamling is the fifth and incumbent Chief Minister of Sikkim.
He has been in the office since 12/12/1994.
Naveen Patnaik is 14
th
and current Chief Minister of Odisha. He became Chief Miister for
the fourth consecutive term. He has been in the office since 2000.
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53. International Museum Day is organised worldwide around May 18. The 2014 International
Museum Day is celebrated on 18
th
May with the theme Museum collections make
connections This theme is a reminder that Museums are living institutions that help in
creating bonds between visitors, generations and cultures around the world. The
International Council of Museums (ICOM) established the International Museum Day in
1977 to increase public awareness of the role of museums in the development of society.
Almost 35,000 museums host events in more than 143 countries.
31 May: World No Tobacco Day
3 May: World Press Freedom Day
15 May: International Day of Families
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54. On 21/5/2014, South Africas Parliament reelected incumbent Jacob Zuma for a second
five year term.
Dalia Grybauskaite is the President of Lithuania.
Petro Poroshenko is the President of Ukraine.
Peter Mutharika is the President of Malawi.
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58. On 16
th
May 2014, the Minister of Agriculture has released the 3
rd
Advance Estimates of
foodgrains production for the year 201314 in the country.
1. Total foodgrains production 264.38 million tonnes
2. Rice 106.29
3. Wheat 95.85
4. Maize 24.19
5. Gram 9.93
The countrys foodgrains production was recorded at 257.13 million tonnes in 201213.
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60. Ashwin B. Pandya: Chairman of Central Water Commission
K. Radha Krishnan: Chairman, Space Commission; Secretary, Department of Space, Govt of
India; Chairman, ISRO.
Ratan Kumar Sinha: Chairman, Atomic Energy Commission; Secretary Department of
Atomic Energy.
Ashok Vishandass: Chairman, Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices
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63. BSCBI is an independent and autonomous institution to monitor and ensure that the
Banking Codes and Standards adopted by the banks are adhered to in true spirit while
delivering their services.
The Banking Codes and Standards Board of India came into existence in February 2006
under the Societies Registration Act, 1860.
The membership include scheduled commercial banks, Regional Rural Banks and select
Urban Cooperative banks. BCSBI evolved a code of conduct for fair treatment of
customers. A.C. Mahajan is the Chairman of BCSBI.
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66. The company Space X was founded in 2002 to revolutionize space technology with the
ultimate goal of enabling people to live on other planets. The companys headquarters is
located in Hawthorne, California, USA. The Dragon spacecraft of Space X delivers cargo to
and from the International space station multiple times providing regular cargo resupply
missions for NASA.
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67. Partywise membership in 16
th
Lok Sabha (20 seats and above).
1 Bharatiya Janata Party 282 seats
2. Indian National Congress 44
3. AIADMK 37
4. All Indian Trinamool Congress 34
5. Biju Janata Dal 20
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68. Plastic banknotes with polymer technology were first introduced in Australia in 1988.
Today, 23 countries use polymer banknotes, but only six have converted all denominations
into plastic. The plastic notes enjoy certain advantages such as longevity, cleanliness, no
counterfeiting and anti moisture. Some of the other countries that use plastic notes are
Israel, Canada, Bermuda, Brunei etc.
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71. The United Nations has proclaimed May 22 the International Day for Biological Diversity
(IDB) to increase understanding and awarness of biodiversity issues. In December 2000, the
UN General Assembly adopted 22 May as IDB to commemorate the adoption of the Text of
the Convention on 22 May 1992 by the Nairobi Final Act of the conference for the
Adoption of the Agreed Text of the Convention on Biological Diversity. On 22 May 2014,
the International Day for Biological Diversity was celebrated under the theme of Island
Biodiversity. Islands are taking action to effectively conserve biodiversity and promote
sustainable livelihoods. These actions or Bright spots point the way towards sustainable
development for island ecosystems and beyond.
31 May World No tobacco Day
15 May International Day of Families
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72. The Desert National Park is located near Jaisalmer in Rajasthan. The park is a protected
sanctuary. The substantial part of the park is on a landscape which comprises of a lakebed of
extinct salt lakes and thorn scrubs. A considerable part of the park consists of sand dunes. The
great Indian bustard, a magnificent bird is seen in considerably good numbers. The catchment
area of the desert park is around 3100 sq km.
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73. The Thomas Cup or mens World Badminton team Championships, the BWF first major
international tournament was first staged in 194849. The cup is named after Sir George
Thomas, first President of BWF. The Uber Cup womens World Badminton team
championships was first staged in 1956 57. The cup was initiated by Betty Uber, a famous
player. Both tournaments are held biennially. The 2014 edition of the championships finals
were held in New Delhi from 1825 may 2014.
2014 Thomas Cup champion: Japan
2014 Uber Cup champion: China
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79. The RBI released operational guidelines for the Depositor Education and Awareness Fund
Scheme 2014 on 27/5/14.
RBI has established Depositor Education and Awareness Fund. Under the scheme and as
referred in Section 26A of Banking Regulation Act 1949, the amounts to be credited by
banks to the fund shall be the credit balance in any deposit account maintained with banks
which have not been operated upon for ten years or more or any amount remaining
unclaimed for ten years or more which include
a. savings bank deposit accounts
b. fixed or term deposit accounts
c. cumulative/recurring deposit accounts
d. current deposit accounts
e. other deposit accounts in any form or with any name
f. cash credit accounts
g. loan accounts after due appropriation by the banks
h. margin money against issue of letter of credit/guarantees etc or any security deposit.
The balance should be transferred along with interest accrued.
The fund will be utilized for promotion of depositors interests.
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82. Bharatiya Mahila Bank, the countrys first all women lender, has been included in the
second schedule to the Reserve Bank of India Act 1934, as per RBI notification dt.
21/5/2014. The bank now becomes eligible for loans from RBI at bank rate and also
acquires membership of clearing house. Also it provides that any activity of the bank, would
not adversely affect the interests of the depositors. The Mahila Bank which started
operations in November 2013 has a seed capital of `1000 crores. One of the key objectives
of the bank is to focus on all banking needs of women and promote economic
empowerment.
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83. The Reserve Bank of India clarified that banks are now allowed to deposit amounts
representing shortfall in their priority sector lending target of 40% into Rural Infrastructure
Development Fund (RIDF) being maintained by NABARD (National Bank for Agriculture
and Rural Development)
Banks are required to lend 40% of their loans to agriculture, small industries and
economically weaker sectors. Of this 18% should be for agriculture, with a break up of 13
15% as direct lending to farmers and the remaining 4.5% as indirect lending. The amounts
so deposited in RIDF by banks will also earn 6.5% interest for banks. These deposits are
reckoned as part of banks indirect agriculture landing.
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84. The whistleblowers Protection Bill 2011 which was passed by Lok Sabha in 2011 and was
passed by Rajya Sabha in May 2011. The Bill became, The Whistle Blowers Protection Act
2011 No. 17 of 2014 and received the assent of President of India on 9
th
May 2014.
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85. The PRS Legislative Research Institute for Policy Research Studies, New Delhi has released
vital statistics on performance of Parliament during the 15
th
Lok Sabha. The 15
th
Lok Sabha
passed 179 Bills of the 328 to be considered and passed during its five year tenure. This is
the least number of bills passed by a full five year term Lok Sabha. In comparison, the 13
th

and 14
th
Lok Sabha had passed 297 and 248 Bills respectively. The constitution provides
that if a Bill has been introduced in the Rajya Sabha and not passed by it, the Bill shall not
lapse on the dissolution of the Lok Sabha. With the conclusion of the 15
th
lok Sabha, 60
such bills will continue to be pending before the 16
th
Lok Sabha. The 15
th
Lok Sabha
inherited 37 bills that were pending when the 14
th
Lok Sabha ended.
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87. The 11
th
May in India witnessed several technological achievements such as carrying out
nuclear tests Pokhran, of first indigenous aircraft Hansa 3 and successful test firing of the
Trishul missile. Considering all these important technological achievements on 11
th
May,
this day is chosen to be commemorated as National technology Day every year.
22 May: International Day for Biological Diversity
31 May: World No Tobacco Day
18 May: International Museum Day
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88. Lieutenant General Dalbir Singh Suhag has been appointed as Chief of Army Staff and is
scheduled to take over the office at the end of August 2014. He will succeed General
Bikram Singh.
Chief of Army Staff: General Bikram Singh (31/5/2012)
Chief of Naval Staff: Admiral Robin K. Dhowan (17/4/2014)
Chief of Air Staff: Air Chief Marshal Arup Raha (31/12/2013)
National Security Advisor: Ajit Kumar Doval
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89. A study titled Unlocking the growth potential of Indian dairy industry conducted by the
Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM)
The study report was released in April, 2014
Study period : 200610
Milk production in India 121 mt in 201011
India is the largest milk producing country in the world.
Per capita milk availability in India: 252 grams global per capita availability: 279 grams per
person per day
Top three countries (per capital availability):
1. New Zealand (9773 grams)
2. Ireland: (3260 grams)
3. Denmark: (2411 grams)
Top five milk producing states in India:
1. Uttar Pradesh (17% share in total milk production)
2. Rajasthan (11%)
3. Andhra Pradesh (9%)
4. Punjab (8%)
5. Gujarat (8%)
Per capita milk availability top 5 states:
1. Punjab (937 grams)
2. Haryana (679 grams)
3. Rajasthan (538 grams)
4. Himachal Pradesh (446 grams)
5. Gujarat (435 grams)
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93. Christopher C. Doyle is an Indian author who transports the reader into fascinating a world
where ancient secrets buried in legends blend with science and history to create a gripping
story. He is the author of the Mahabharata Secret. Westland publishers have recently
signed for a Thriller trilogy.
Tiziana Stupia a German yoga teacher and ayurvedic consultant, is the author of her first
book Meeting Shiva. Aravind Adiga is an Indian writer and journalist. He won Man
Booker prize in 2008 for his debut novel The White Tiger. His other novels include
Between The Assassinations and Last Man in Tower.
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98. Nursultan Nazarbayev, President of Kazakhstan, Vladimir Putin, President of Russia and
Alexander Lukashenko, President of Belarus signed a treaty on 29/5/2014 in Astana, capital
of Kazakhstan to form the Eurasian Economic Union (EEU), a common market of 170
million people and a combined gross domestic product valued at 2.7 trillion dollars. The
EEU will come into force on January 1, 2015. The EEU is based on the principles of
economic pragmatism, equality and respect for the sovereignty of member states. The
organization will conform to international laws and act on the basis of principles of World
Trade Organization. The provisions of the treaty ensures economic stability, opportunities
for growth and stable markets.
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100. In exercise of the powers conferred by clause (1) of article 123 of the Constitution of India,
the President of India promulgated an ordinance called the Andhra Pradesh reorganization
(Amendment) Ordinance, 2014 on 29/5/2014. The ordinance would pave the way for
transfer of 136 villages, 211 hamlets and seven mandals of Khammam district of Telangana
to the successor state of Andhra Pradesh to execute Polavaram project. The ordinance aims
at facilitating smooth resettlement and rehabilitation of people who might be affected by the
construction of Polavaram Irrigation and Power Generation Project. The amendment will
enable land for land in the same revenue division where people will be displaced. The states
of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh will come into existence from 2/6/2014 and the project is
coming up in the residuary state of Andhra Pradesh.
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101. Reserve Bank of India constituted a committee under the chairmanship of P. J. Naik to
review governance of Boards of Banks in India. The committee has submitted its report
recently with some important recommendations which include
1. Government holding in public sector should be brought below 51 per cent.
2. Nationalization Act should be repealed
3. Banks will have to arrange requirement of additional capital either from internal
generation or tapping the capital market and will not look to the government for budgetary
support
4. Banks survival and functioning will depend on its performance and quality of assets and
profitability
Anand Sinha headed working group on Resolution Regime for Financial Institutions,
submitted its report to RBI in May 2014.
GIRO (General Interbank Recurring Order) Advisory Group headed by Umesh Bellur,
submitted its report in May 2014 to RBI. A committee on Enabling PKI in Payment
System Applications formed by RBI under the Chairmanship of Anil Kumar Sharma has
submitted its report to RBI.
RBI constituted a committee to recommend data format for furmishing of credit
information to credit information companies submitted its report to RBI in April 2014. The
committee was headed by Aditya Puri.
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102. T.R. Zeliang, leader of Naga Peoples Front (NPF) was sworn in as the Chief Minister of
Nagaland on 24/5/14. He is the successor of Neiphio Rio who served as Chief Minister of
Nagaland for over 11 years. He has been elected to the 16
th
Lok Sabha. Pawan Chamling is
the current and 5
th
Chief Minister of Sikkim. He is the President of Sikkim Democratic
Front (SDF).
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103. The Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP) has released data relating to
Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) inflows In 201314 Indias FDI Inflow grew by 8% y0y
to $24.3 billion. By 2017 the country needs about $1 trillion foreign investment.
Indias top source of FDI in 201314
1. Singapore FDI $5.98 billion
2. Mauritius FDI $4.85 billion
3. UK FDI $3.2 billion
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105. Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) opened up yet another chapter in the history of
exploration when the first well in Palar basin was spudded on May 25, 2014. The
exploration site is located some 55 km from Chennai City, Sandwiched between two major
prolific basins of South KG in the north and Cauvery in the south. ONGC won the block
PRONN2005/1 spread over around 1800 km jointly with Tata Petrodyne Ltd.
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106. The United Nations Security Council has primary responsibility for the maintenance of
international peace and security. It has five permanent members with veto power and ten
non permanent members, elected by the General Assembly for a two year term. Each of the
five permanent members, the US, the UK, Russia, China and Francehas power to veto
enabling them to prevent the adoption of any substantive draft council resolution, regardless
of the level of international support for the draft. Russia and China vetoed a draft US
Resolution calling for the crisis in Syria to be referred to the International Criminal Court
ignoring the support for the measures by 65 other countries and all other members of
Security Council.
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108. Top 3 parliamentary constituencies in terms of voter turn out in 2014 general elections:
1. Bhubri, Assam 88.22%
2. Nagaland, Nagaland87.82%
3. Tamluk, West Bengal87.59%
Bottom 3 parliamentary constituencies in terms of voter turnout:
1. Srinagar, J & K25.90%
2. Anantnag, J & K28.84%
3. Baramulla, J & K39.13%
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110. Every year on 31 May, WHO and partners mark World No Tobacco Day highlighting the
health risks associated with tobacco use and advocating for effective policies. Nearly six
million people die each year of which more than 600,000 are non smokers dying from
breathing second hand smoke. For World No Tobacco day 2014, WHO calls on countries to
raise taxes on tobacco.
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112. The World Trade Organization deals with the global rules of trade between nations. Its main
function is to ensure that trade flows as smoothly, predictably and freely as possible. It is
the only global international organization dealing with trade between nations. At its heart
are the WTO agreements, negotiated and signed by the bulk of the worlds trading nations
and ratified in their parliaments. The goal is to help producers of goods and services
exporters and importers conduct their business. As a result of Uruguay round Negotiations
(198694), the WTO was established on 1
st
January 1995 replacing the GATT (The General
Agreement on Tariffs and Trade). The headquarters of WTO is located in Geneva,
Switzerland.
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114. The Supreme Court of India appointed Justice (retd) M.B Shah as the Chairman of the
Special Investigation Team (SIT) set up to investigate the stashing away of black money in
foreign banks and suggest ways to bring it back to India.
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115. Top 5 states/UTs in terms of voter turnout in 2014 general elections.
1. Nagaland87.82%
2. Lakshadweep86.61%
3. Tripura84.72%
4. Dadra & Nagar 84.06% Haveli
5. Sikkim 83.37%
Bottom 5 states/UTs in terms of voter turnout in 2014 general elections.
1. Jammu & Kashmir49.52%
2. Bihar 56.28%
3. Uttar Pradesh 58.35%
4. Maharashtra 60.36%
5. Madhya Pradesh 61.60%
The all India voter turnout66.40%
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117. As per the Government data, the Government agencies have procured more than 263 lakh
tonnes of wheat across the states during the ongoing Rabi marketing season.
Top 5 states for procurement of wheat
1. Punjab 113 Lakh tonnes
2. Madhya Pradesh 86 lakh tonnes
3. Haryana 64 lakh tonnes
4. Rajasthan 19 lakh tonnes
5. Gujarat 18 lakh tonnes
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118. Gariphema village in Nagaland has been declared the countries first tobacco free village.
This is made possible by several initiatives taken by the Gariphema Village Council, village
vision cell, and village students union. Over 2200 Indians die every day due to tobacco use
and 40 per cent of all cancers in the country are caused due to tobacco use.
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119. The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) is a regional group of fifteen
West African countries. Founded in 1975. It is founded to promote economic integration in
all fields of economic activity. The commission has three institutionsthe Community
Parliament, The Community Court of Justice and ECOWAS Bank for Investment and
Development (EBID)
Headquarters: AbuJa, Nigeria
Chairman: John Mahama
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121. NASA has successfully launched the Colorado High Resolution Echeu Steller Spectograph
(CHESS) payload aboard a Black Brant IX suborbital where new stars are born. CHESS
was launched on May 24, 2014 from the White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico.
Principal Investigator Kevin France at the University of Colorado reported that good data
was received and the mission was a success. In deep space, floating between the stars, lies
an abundance of atomscarbon, oxygen, hydrogenthat over the millions of years will grow
into new stars and new planets. These atoms are the raw materials, the very building blocks
for the next generation of stars and planets. The researchers can make detailed
measurements of how many atoms have transitioned into molecules, which is the very first
step towards star formation. The CHESS spectrograph provides detailed and comprehensive
observations that can measure not only what atoms and molecules are present, but how fast
they age moving and how turbulent the gas is.
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122. Ministry of Commerce and industry has released data on performance of marine products
exports for 201314.
Exports: 9,83,756MT, value `30,213.26 crores
Major items of Export:
1. Frozen Shrimp 228620 MT; $1803.26 million
2. Frozen Fish 343876 MT $617.59 million
3. Frozen squid 75387 MT $ 256.90 million
4. Frozen Cuttle Fish 63296 MT $251.54 million
5. Dried items 72953 MT $152.81 million
Top export destinations:
1. Southeast Asia - $1320.95 million
2. USA - $1286.04 million
3. EU - $1013.28 million
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127. Growth rates of economic activity groups in GD (at 200405 prices) for 201314.
1. Manufacturing () 0.7%
2. Mixing and Quarrying () 1.4%
3. Construction 1.6%
4. Trade hotels, transport and communication3.0%
5. agriculture, forestry and fishing4.7%
6. community social & personal services5.6%
7. electricity, gas & water supply5.9%
8. financing, insurance, real estate & business services12.9%
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128. The Ken-Betwa river link project envisages diversion of surplus waters of Ken basin to
water deficit Betwa river basin. This link canal will provide irrigation to water short areas of
upper Betwa basin of Madhya Pradesh by way of substitution and also to enroute areas of
Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh.
The Ken river is one of the Major rivers of the Bundelkhand region of central India, and
flows through two states of Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh. The source of the river is in
Kaimur Range, Madhya Pradesh. It is a tributary of River Yamuna. The source of Betwa
river is Vindhya Range, Madhya Pradesh. It is also a tributary of River Yamuna. The river
flows through Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh.
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129. Sportspro in association with Eurosport has released its annual list of the Worlds 50 most
marketable athletes 2014.
Top 5 sportspersons in the list:
1. Lewis Hamilton UK, Motorsport
2. Virat Kohli India, Cricket
3. Robert Griffin III USA, Football
4. Cristiano Ronaldo Portugal, Football
5. Grigor Dimitrov Bulgaria, Tennis
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133. One of Gujarats monuments, Ran Ki Vav (The Queens stepwell) is among five
international heritage sites to be replicated digitally using latest technology in Scotland. The
project called Scottish Ten which is undertaken in Scotland, involves creation of Scotlands
five UNESCO heritage sites and five international UNESCO heritage sites. This will help
digitally preserve important historical sites for the benefit of future generations and provide
3D digital models and data.
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134. Arsia Mons is the third highest volcano on Mars and one of the largest mountains in the
solar system. The volcano is nearly twice as tall as mount everest. The new analysis of the
land forms surrounding the volcano, shows that eruptions along the volcanos northwest
flank happened at the same time that a glacier covered the region around 210 million years
ago. The heat from those eruptions would have melted massive amounts of ice to form
englacial lakes, and where there is water there is the possibility of a habitable environment.
The Aria Mons site is much younger than the habitable environments turned up by Curiosity
and other Mars Rovers, which are probably older than 2.5 billion years.
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135. Article 370 of the Constitution of India grants special autonomous status to the state of
Jammu & Kashmir. The article is a part of XXI of the Constitution, that relates to
temporary, transitional and special provisions.
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136. Ending six months of political crisis and uncertainty Thailands Royal Thai Army under the
command of Prayuth Chan Ocha dethroned the caretaker government on 22/5/2014 in coup
dtat and established National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO) to govern the nation.
All the executive and legislative powers are vested with the militarys NCPO. Military
imposed martial law under an Act promulgated by king Vijiravudh.
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137. According to Reserve Bank of Indias report, Indias foreign exchange reserves rose by
$15.5 billion during 201314 and stood at $303.69 billion.
Components of reserves:
1. Foreign currency assets - $276.41 billion
2. Gold reserves - $20.98 billion
3. Special Drawing Rights - $4.46 billion
4. Reserve Trench position - $1.83 billion in IMF
The RBI will need to recoup about $80 billion of forex reserves to stabilize the rupee.
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138. Spains El Hierro is the first island on earth to be fully powered by renewable energy. The
Island now solely use wind power and hydropower abandoning oil, coil or any other non
renewable energy source.
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139. According to Election Commission data over 60 lakh (nearly 1.1% of all votes polled) None
of the Above (NOTA) votes were cast in the 16
th
Lok Sabha elections. This option was
introduced for the first time in 2014 general elections.
Top 5 constituencies in terms of NOTA votes polled:
1. Nilgiris, Tamil Nadu 46,559
2. Nabrangpur, Odisha 44,405
3. Bastar, Chhattisgarh 38,772
4. Bansawara, Rajasthan 32,384
5. Dahod, Gujarat 32,305
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140. On 6/5/2014, the United States, the United Kingdom, France, China, and Russia, signed the
protocol to the Central Asian Nuclear Weapon Free Zone (CANWFZ) Treaty in New York,
USA,
The CANWFZ treaty was signed on September 8, 2006 by five Central Asian countries,
Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan. Under the CANWFZ
Treaty, the five central Asian countries may not allow the stationing of nuclear weapons
within their territories. These states are also required to adopt the International Atomic
Energy Agency (IAEA) Additional Protocol, which provides IAEA with expanded access
and authorities to ensure that all nuclear activities are used only for peaceful purposes. The
protocol provides legally binding assurances not to sue or threaten to use nuclear weapons
against CANWFZ Treaty parties.
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142. Consequent to the bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh state on 2/6/2014, RBI has appointed State
Bank of Hyderabad as Convenor of State Level Bankers Committee (SLBC) for new
Telangana state. However, Andhra Bank would continue to be the convenor of SLBC for
the residuary state of Andhra Pradesh.
The SLBC is an inter institutional forum for coordination and joint implementation of
development programmes and policies by all the financial institutions operating in the state.
Although SLBC is envisaged as a bankers forum, government officials are also included
for participation. The SLBC meets once in a quarter.
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143. According to RBI report, export recovery and moderation in imports led to a sharp drop in
the trade deficit to $147.60 billion in 201314 from $195.70 billion in 201213 contraction
in the trade deficit coupled with a rise in net invisibles receipts, resulted in a reduction of
CAD(Current Account Deficit) to $32.40 billion (1.7% of GDP) in 201314 from $87.80
billion (4.7% of GDP) in 201213.
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146. European Parliament is one of the institutions of European Union (EU). The Parliament is
composed of 751 members (MEP) directly elected by the citizens of EU member countries
and represent the second largest democratic electorate in the world (375 million eligible
voters). The direct elections have been held every five years by universal suffrage 79. The
last elections were held from 2225 May 2014. The next elections will be held in 2019.
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147. Created by Asia Index Pvt Ltd, the S & P BSE India Infrastructure Index has been launched
on 29/5/2014. The Index comprises the top 30 companies based on market capitalization
from five sectorsenergy, transportation, non banking financial institutions,
telecommunications and utilities. The 30 companies will be picked from the BSE 500 Index.
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148. Anandiben Patel became the first woman Chief Minister of Gujarat, succeeding Narendra
Modi, who became the 15
th
Prime Minister of India.
Chief Minister of Odisha Naveen Patnaik
Chief Minister of Bihar Jitan Ram Manjhi
Chief Minister of Sikkim Pawan Chamling
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150. Share of Economic activities in GDP at factor cost (at 2004 05 prices):
1. trade, hotels, transport and communication 15,17,826 crore
2. Financing, insurance, real estate and business services 11,83,714 crore
3. Manufacturing 8,57,705 crore
4. Agriculture, forestry and fishing 8,00,548 crore
5. Community, social & Personal services 7,39,477 crore Choice (1

JULY 2014 CAC MODEL PAPER
TEST - IV: GENERAL AWARENESS Solutions
121. Rafael Nadal of Spain won the mens singles title in the 2014 French open. He defeated
Novak Djokovic of Serbia. He also became the first man to win five Roland Garros crowns
consecutively. He had this victory over Novak Djokovic.

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122. In the recently released statement of the RBIs bi-monthly monetary policy review, statutory
liquidity ratio has been adjusted. It is cut by 50 basis points and stands at 22.5% currently.
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123. Mixed economy is an economic system in which both the private sector and public sector
direct the economy. Closed economy is that in which there are no exports and imports.
Open economy is that which allows both imports and exports.

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124. Lithuania is recommended by European commission as the 19
th
country to adopt euro on
January 1
st
2015. Latvia became the 18
th
member that adopted the Euro on January 1
st
2014.
Estonia adopted Euro in 2011.
Germany is also a member that adopted euro. Switzerland did not adopt euro
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125. June 5
th
World Environment Day
April 7
th
World Health Day
September 8
th
International Literacy Day
May 22
nd
International Biodiversity Day
May 3
rd
World Press Freedom Day
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126. Choices 1, 2 are awarded the Best Actor at the 61
st
National Film Awards.
Hansal Mehta was awarded as the Best Director.
Hence choice (5) is answer
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127. Awakening Indias Social Conscience Dr. Narendra Jadhav, India at Risk Jaswant Singh
My Journey: Transforming Dreams into Action, Dr. A.PJ. Abdul Kalam.
2 states, Revolution 2020 Chetan Bhagat.
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128. Syrian president Bashar-al-Assad announced the term gift from president granting a
general amnesty for all crimes except acts of terrorism.
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129. SEBISecurities and Exchange Board of India is the regulator for the securities market in
India.
PFRDA Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) is a regulator for
pension in India.
IRDA Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority is regulator for insurance sector.
RBI The Reserve Bank of India supervises the financial sector comprising of commercial
banks, financial and non-banking finance companies.
NABARD National Bank for Agriculture and Development is an apex development bank
for facilitating credit flow for promotion and development of agriculture and small scale
industries.
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130. Choices (1), (2), (3), (4) are regulated by the RBI through Monetary policy. Hence choice
(5) is answer
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131. Karnataka has won the 2014 Ranji trophy by defeating Maharashtra Ranji trophy is related
to cricket
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132. R.M Lodha Chief Justice of India
Mukul Rohatgi Attorney General of India succeeding G.E Vahanavati. Rajiv Mathur
chief Information commissioner.
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133. Abdul Fattah el-sisi President of Egypt
Ahmed Maiteeq President of Libya
Dalia Grybauskite President of Lithuania
Bashar al-Assad President of Syria
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134.
Chairman of
Committee
Purpose of Committee
M.B. Shah Inquiry into Illegal Mining activities, Special Investigation team on
black money
Mukul Mudgal IPL Match fixing
N.R. Madhava Menon Misuse of funds on government advertisements.

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135. Vijay Seshadri won the 2014 Pulitzer Prize in the poetry category for his collection of
poems 3 sections.
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136. Rupay is the Indias first online payment gateway, launched by National Payments
Corporation of India. Indicash is a white label ATM maintained by Tata communication
payment solution Limited (TCPSL).
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137. SBI and Sir Dorabji Tata Trust signed pact to work for poverty alleviation and rural
development. Tata trust will provide training and capacity building. SBI will provide credit
support.
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138. The WHO has recently declared the spread of polio as an international public health
emergency.
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139. The Central Asian Nuclear Weapon Free zone treaty is a legally binding commitment by
Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan. The treaty is to not
manufacture, acquire, test or possess nuclear weapons.
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140. Japan won its maiden womens Asian Foot ball cup (AFC) by defeating Australia. The final
match was held in Vietnam.
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141. Mobile Seva project by Department of Electronics and Information Technology of India has
won the 2014 UN Public service Award. The project mainly develops and provides mobile
apps for government and citizen use.
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142. Ramesh Agarwal won the 2014 Goldman Environment prize. He has helped villagers fight
coal mining in Chattisgarh.
The other winners are Helen Slottje, U.S.A; Desmond Ds a of South Africa; Suren
Gazaryan of Russia, Rudi putra of Indonesia and Ruth Buendia of Peru.
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143. Brazil has recently released commemorative stamps to mark the 100 years of Indian cinema.
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144. Uber Cup is related to badminton. It is a major international badminton competition
contested by womens national badminton teams. China has won the 2014 Uber Cup
defeating Japan
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145. Winter sleep directed by Nuri Bilge Ceylan won the Palme dor award for the best film at
the 67
th
cannes film festival. It is a Turkish film. 12 years A Slave won the best film at 86
th

Academy Awards
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146. Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act 2005 (MGNREGA) aims to
guarantee the right to work and ensure livelihood security in rural areas by providing at
least 100 days of guarantee wage employment. The union government raised the number of
workdays from 100 to 150 for tribals. To distinguish their category from the regular
MGNREGA workers, they will be given a job card of a different colour.
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147. Pledge is used when the lender takes actual possession of assets, e.g. gold loans.
Hypothecation is used for creating charge against the security of movable assets, but the
possession of security remains with the borrower. E. g. car/ vehicle loans Mortgage is used
for creating charge against immovable property which include land, buildings.
E.g. Housing loans
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148. Payment made to investors of bonds on or before maturity date is called redemption.
Repayment of amount borrowed by a company is called redemption of debentures.
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149. Treasury bills offer short term investment opportunities generally up to one year. They are
thus useful in managing short term liquidity. The Government of India issues 3 types of T -
Bills through auctions for 91-days, 182 days, 364 days.
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150. Under Marginal Standing Facility banks can borrow up to 2% of their respective Net
Demand and time liabilities outstanding at the end of the second preceeding fortnight.
Currently, MSF stands at 9%.
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151. Subordinated debt is any outstanding loan that will be repaid only after all other debts and
loans have been settled. [If the borrowing company fails or declared bankrupt]. The risk
associated with subordinated debt increases as the priority of the debt becomes lower.
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152. Demand deposits are deposits received by the bank which are withdrawable on demand.
Current and savings accounts are called deposits.
Term deposits are deposits received by the bank for a fixed period and are usually
withdrawable after the expiry of the fixed period. It includes Recurring deposits and Fixed
deposits.
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153. Loan to value ratio is a financial term that is expressed as the percentage of value of that
asset.
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154. The Great Himalayan National park is located in Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh. It is
home to several rare and threatened species including western Tragopan, Chir pheasant,
Snow Leopard, Himalayan Musk dear.
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155. The RBI has recently raised the bank loan tenure up to 10 years for export industry. These
loans will help exporters in ensuring capital flows to fulfill long-term contracts. The
existing norms allow banks to give loans for up to one year only.
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156. Exim Bank has extended $46 million line of credit to Mauritius for financing goods and
defence related vehicle purposes. The credit agreement is effective from May 15, 2014. A
line of credit allows borrowers to draw on the loan as and when required, instead of taking it
at one go.
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157. Sourav Ganguly joined the Mudgal Committee to probe IPL betting as an expert on cricket
affairs. The Supreme Court appointed the Mudgal committee to probe IPL match fixing
scandal and betting.
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158. The World Bank and the Government of India signed a loan assistance agreement of US $
1006.20 million for Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan - III (SSA)
SSA is the largest ongoing Education for All (EFA) program in the world. It is a flagship
program for Universalizing elementary education.
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159. Sachin Tendulkar is appointed as the goodwill ambassador for the 35
th
National games. The
games are scheduled to be held in Kerala.
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160. Rajnath Singh Home Minister
Nitin Gadkari Minister for Road Transport and Highways, shipping.
Minister for Rural development, Panchayati Raj
M. Venkaiah Naidu Minister for urban development, Urban poverty alleviation. Minster
for parliamentary affairs
Najma Heptullah Minister for Minority Affairs.
Sushma Swaraj Minister for External Affairs. Choice (3)

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