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Current Affairs Q & A PDF

Current Affairs February Questions & Answers PDF 2018

1. Indian Railways' first high speed electric locomotive will be launched in March 2018
during French President Emmanuel Macron’s Indian visit. What is the speed of this
locomotive?
1. Maximum speed of 120 kmph
2. Maximum speed of 125 kmph
3. Maximum speed of 130 kmph
4. Maximum speed of 135 kmph
5. Maximum speed of 140 kmph
Answer -1. Maximum speed of 120 kmph
Explanation :
Indian Railways' first high speed electric locomotive which can run at a maximum speed of
120 kmph will be launched in March 2018 during French President Emmanuel Macron’s Indian
visit. The high-speed electric locomotive has a capacity of 12,000 horsepower and can run at
a maximum speed of 120 kmph. This high-speed electric locomotive has been produced in
collaboration with Alstom. The first 12,000 horsepower locomotive has been assembled at
Madhepura plant in Bihar. Trials are being conducted now. This increase in speed will improve
line capacity in the rail network. 800 such electric locomotives will be produced in the
upcoming 11 years by Indian Railways in collaboration with Alstom.

2. According to the CSO's revised estimates of national income released on January 31,
2018, gross domestic product (GDP) growth rate for 2016-17 is ______%?
1. 7.0%
2. 7.1%
3. 7.2%
4. 7.5%
5. 7.7%
Answer -2. 7.1%
Explanation :
According to the CSO's revised estimates of national income released on January 31, 2018,
gross domestic product (GDP) growth rate for 2015-16 stood at 8.2% from the earlier
estimates of 8% while for 2016-17, revised GDP growth remained unchanged at 7.1%. For
2015-16, this is the second revised estimate, while for 2016-17, this is the first revised
estimate. Revised estimates are arrived at by taking into consideration a wider range of
numbers, including employment data. Second revised estimate for 2015-16 has been arrived
at by incorporating latest available data on agricultural production, industrial production and
Government expenditure. First revised estimates for 2016-17 have been arrived at by using
industry-wise/institution-wise detailed information.

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3. Name the India's first integrated mobility platform launched by a Health-tech startup
‘mCURA’, that reduces waiting time in counters and provides e-prescriptions?
1. Smart OP
2. Smart Service
3. Smart Card
4. Smart Cura
5. Smart OPD
Answer -5. Smart OPD
Explanation :
On 31st January 2018, mCURA, a Health-tech startup, launched 'Smart OPD', India's first
integrated mobility platform that reduces waiting time in counters and provides e-
prescriptions. 'Smart OPD' helps patients to escape long queues at admission and billing
counters, labs, pharmacies and hospitals. Labs, pharmacy, doctors and patients are integrated
through the mobile platform. By carrying the 'Smart OPD' card, patients can experience fast
and smooth movement in the hospitals. Patients can avail Near-field communication (NFC)
based "Tap and Pay" card (registration plus cash card) at the registration counter. They will
be instructed to download the patient app. This app contains medical records, medical bills,
payment transactions, etc. Using "Tap and Pay" card patients can pay for all hospital services
without waiting in queues.

4. In which country, the world's longest zip line, measuring 2.83 kilometres in length
was opened at?
1. United Arab Emirates
2. Iran
3. Iraq
4. China
5. Japan
Answer - 1. United Arab Emirates
Explanation :
World's longest zip line, measuring 2.83 kilometres in length opened in Ras Al Khaimah, the
smallest state of United Arab Emirates.This 2.83km zip line allows thrill seekers to jump from
the peak of Jebel Jais, UAE's highest mountain. It created a Guinness World Record for world's
longest zip line. Jebel Jais mountain in Ras Al Khaimah, is at an elevation of 1934 m. above
sea level and is considered the highest point of the United Arab Emirates.

5. Who took charge as the Director General (DG) of National Security Guard (NSG)?
1. Bipin Rawat
2. Dawaat Singer
3. Sudeep Lakhtakia
4. Suraender Singh
5. Suraj Kushwas
Answer - 3. Sudeep Lakhtakia
Explanation :
Sudeep Lakhtakia took charge as the Director General (DG) of National Security Guard (NSG).
Sudeep Lakhtakia has replaced S P Singh as the Director General (DG) of National Security
Guard (NSG). S P Singh retired on 31st January 2018. Sudeep Lakhtakia was working as a
Special DG in the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) headquarters.

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6. Who became the highest ranked Indian with rank number 14, in the Professional
Squash Association (PSA) rankings released on 2nd February 2018?
1. Harinder Pal Sandhu
2. Vikram Malhotra
3. Saurav Ghosal
4. Dipika Pallikal
5. Sunayna Kuruvilla
Answer - 3. Saurav Ghosal
Explanation :
India’s Saurav Ghosal with rank number 14 became the highest ranked Indian in the
Professional Squash Association (PSA) rankings released on 2nd February 2018. Saurav
Ghosal has moved 5 places up and obtained the 14th rank. He has surpassed Joshna
Chinappa who is currently at 17th position. Dipika Pallikal is at rank 20. Harinder Pal Sandhu
is at 49th position. Mahesh Mangaonkar ranks 64. Vikram Malhotra is ranked 68. Also,
Sunayna Kuruvilla ranks 89 and Sachika Ingale at 96.

7. Where is the India’s largest Floating Treatment Wetland (FTW) inaugurated?


1. Mumbai
2. Hyderabad
3. Bhubaneshwar
4. Kolkata
5. Patna
Answer - 2. Hyderabad
Explanation :
On 2nd February 2018, the Floating Treatment Wetland (FTW) on Neknampur Lake was
inaugurated in Hyderabad. The Floating Treatment Wetland (FTW) on Neknampur Lake was
inaugurated on World Wetlands Day (February 2). The size of the FTW is 3,000 sq. ft. It has
been formed by the joint efforts of Dhruvansh, the Hyderabad Metropolitan Development
Authority, the Ranga Reddy district administration and other organisations. It has been named
the largest FTW in India by the India Book of Records. It has been developed based on soil-
less hydroponics technique. The FTW is planted with cleaning agents like vetivers, canna,
cattalis, bulrush, citronella, hibiscus, fountain grass, flowering herbs, tulsi and ashvagandha.

8. In which State the first ever Butterfly Park was inaugurated?


1. Karnataka
2. Uttar Pradesh
3. Maharashtra
4. Punjab
5. Uttarakhand
Answer - 2. Uttar Pradesh
Explanation :
Uttar Pradesh State Government inaugurated state's first ever butterfly park in Kanpur.
Estimated cost for constructing this butterfly park is Rs. 1 crore. In order to attract butterflies,
100 species of flowers have been planted in the park. So far, more than 50 species of
butterflies have already been spotted in this park. The Butterfly Park in Kanpur will open for
public by March 2018. Butterfly parks are pollution-free spaces which do not have
chemicals/pesticides and play an important role in conserving endangered butterfly species.

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9. Name India’s first sentiment index for micro and small enterprises (MSEs), launched
by Finance Minister Arun Jaitley?
1. CriSidMSME
2. SidCriIndex
3. CriSidIndex
4. SidCriEx
5. CriSidEx
Answer - 5. CriSidEx
Explanation :
On February 3, 2018, Union Minister for Finance and Corporate Affairs, Arun Jaitley launched
CriSidEx , India’s first sentiment index for micro and small enterprises ( MSEs). This index has
been developed jointly by CRISIL & Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI). It is
based on 8 parameters and measures MSE business sentiment on a scale of 0 to 200, wherein
0 is ‘extremely negative’ while 200 is ‘extremely positive’. By closely following the index
readings, one can get a heads-up about potential challenges in future and changes in
production cycle of the entire sector.

10. India’s first defence industrial corridor will link which two cities of India?
1. Chennai and Mumbai
2. Chennai and Ahmadabad
3. Chennai and Thiruvanandapuram
4. Chennai and Bengaluru
5. Chennai and Pune
Answer - 4. Chennai and Bengaluru
Explanation :
Defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman has announced that, out of the two defence industrial
production corridors that was mentioned in the Union Budget 2018, the first defence industrial
corridor will link Chennai and Bengaluru. Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said that, two defence
industrial production corridors will be developed by the government, when he presented the
Union Budget 2018. The first defence industrial corridor will link Chennai and Bengaluru and it
will pass through Coimbatore and various other industrial regions. Nirmala Sitharaman said
that, announcement regarding the second defence industrial corridor will be made soon. Arun
Jaitley said that, an industry-friendly military production policy will be developed to promote
the domestic defence industry.

11. Which country successfully launched ‘Zhangheng 1’, its first seismo-
electromagnetic satellite to study seismic precursors?
1. China
2. Japan
3. Thailand
4. Vietnam
5. Russia
Answer - 1. China
Explanation :
China successfully launched ‘Zhangheng 1’, its first seismo-electromagnetic satellite to study
seismic precursors. A Long March-2D rocket was launched from Jiuquan Satellite Launch
Centre in Gobi Desert. It carried the China Seismo- Electromagnetic Satellite (CSES) of 730 kg
into a sun-synchronous orbit at a height of 500 km. Zhangheng 1 will let scientists monitor
the electromagnetic field, ionospheric plasma and high-energy particles for five years. It is
named Zhang Heng after a scholar of the East Han Dynasty, who initiated earthquake studies

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and invented the first seismoscope. Zhangheng 1 will record electromagnetic data of
earthquakes above 6 magnitude in China and earthquakes more than 7 magnitude throughout
the world.

12. By defeating Australia, which country won the U-19 Cricket World Cup at the Bay
Oval, Mount Maunganui, in New Zealand?
1. New Zealand
2. South Africa
3. Argentina
4. India
5. Srilanka
Answer - 4. India
Explanation :
On 3rd February 2018, India won the U-19 Cricket World Cup at the Bay Oval, Mount
Maunganui, in New Zealand. India defeated Australia in the final by eight wickets. The team
was led by Prithvi Shaw. Man of the Match was conferred on Manjot Kalra. This is the fourth
U-19 World Cup title for India. Earlier India had won the U19 World Cup in 2000, 2008 and
2012.

13. Which State Government has approved Ghodazari as a new wildlife sanctuary in the
state?
1. Madhya Pradesh
2. Odisha
3. Punjab
4. Bihar
5. Maharashtra
Answer - 5.Maharashtra
Explanation :
Maharashtra State Government has approved Ghodazari in Chandrapur district as a new
wildlife sanctuary in the state. This decision was taken at the 13th meeting of the Maharashtra
State Board for Wildlife, held on January 31, 2018. The meeting was chaired by Maharashtra
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.The new wildlife sanctuary will include 159 sq km of
Brahmapuri forest. This decision will not only help in conserving the forest but will also benefit
nearly 40 villages in the region on account of consequential increase of tourism related
activities.

14. What is the additional amount contributed by India to UN Development Partnership


Fund earmarked for South-South cooperation?
1. $1 billion
2. $2 billion
3. $1 million
4. $2 million
5. $1.5 million
Answer - 3. $1 million
Explanation :
On February 1, 2018, India contributed an additional $1 million to the India-UN Development
Partnership Fund earmarked for South-South cooperation. This latest contribution of India is
aimed at intensifying its partnerships with other developing countries. India-UN Development
Partnership Fund was launched in June 2017 for supporting sustainable development projects
in Least Developed Countries and Small Island Developing States. India has pledged a multi-
year contribution of $100 million to this fund, out of which, it has already provided $6 million
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so far.

15. When is the World Cancer Day observed all over the world?
1. 1st February
2. 2nd February
3. 3rd February
4. 4th February
5. 5th February
Answer - 4. 4th February
Explanation :
On 4th February 2018, World Cancer Day was observed all over the world. World Cancer Day
is observed every year on 4th February. The World Cancer Day was founded by the Union for
International Cancer Control (UICC) in the idea of supporting the goals of World Cancer
Declaration that was written in 2008. World Cancer Day aims to spread awareness about
cancer, its prevention, detection, and treatment. Its main aim is to reduce illness and death
due to cancer by 2020. The theme for World Cancer Day for 2016-2018 period is: ‘We Can. I
can.’ On the World Cancer Day people are expected to contribute towards reducing the impact
of cancer worldwide.

16. Who is the author of the book 'Exam Warriors'?


1. Sumitra Mahajan
2. Ram Nath Kovind
3. Arvind Kejriwal
4. Sushma Swaraj
5. Narendra Modi
Answer - 5. Narendra Modi
Explanation :
On 3rd February 2018, 'Exam Warriors', a book written by Prime Minister Narendra Modi was
launched. The book 'Exam Warriors' was released by External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi was present during the release. This book has been published
by Penguin India. It consists of 208 pages. This book has been written by Prime Minister
Narendra Modi, in order to inspire youth and help them face difficult situations like
examinations, with fresh and new energy.

17. Which State Government, in association with United Nations Children’s Fund
(UNICEF) launched ‘DASTAK’, a door to door campaign to eradicate deadly Acute
Encephalitis (AE) Syndrome and Japanese Encephalitis (JES) disease from the state?
1. Gujarat
2. Odisha
3. Maharashtra
4.Uttar Pradesh
5. Punjab
Answer - 4. Uttar Pradesh
Explanation :
Uttar Pradesh State Government, in association with United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF)
launched ‘DASTAK’, a door to door campaign to eradicate deadly Acute Encephalitis (AE)

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Syndrome and Japanese Encephalitis (JES) disease from the state. ’DASTAK’ campaign was
launched by UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath in Lucknow on February 5, 2018. Tagline for
the campaign is “Darwaja khatkhatao, AES aur JE kobhagao”. As a part of this campaign,
many departments of UP State Govt., especially health, rural development, primary
education, with the help of UNICEF, will go door to door in 38 JES and AE affected districts.
These districts contribute to about 60 percent of the total AES cases all over India. 600 school
students in the affected areas will also be part of this campaign.

18. Government has set up a mechanism in the Council of Scientific and Industrial
Research (CSIR) for regular interface with small-scale industry (SSI) for transfer of
technologies from CSIR laboratories to industries. These small-scale industries
contribute _____% of the gross industrial value?
1. 25%
2. 37%
3.40%
4. 45%
5. 50%
Answer - 3.40%
Explanation :
Union Science and Technology Minister, Harsh Vardhan has stated that Government has set
up a mechanism in the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) for regular
interface with small-scale industry (SSI)for transfer of technologies from CSIR laboratories to
industries. A nodal officer has been appointed in CSIR, tasked with the responsibility to
coordinate with the small-scale industry and the CSIR labs for appropriate technology required
by them. This decision has been taken in response to concerns raised by leaders of Laghu
Udyog Bharati that there was a "disconnect between CSIR and the small-scale industries and
it should be addressed". SSI sector holds lot of significance within Indian economy, as it is the
largest employment provider, next to agriculture and contributes almost 40% of the gross
industrial value.

19. Which company launched a public initiative "#SecurityCheckKiya" to create


awareness around Internet safety and to protect young and first-time web users
from account hijacking, safeguard Android devices from malicious mobile
applications and secure their personal data?
1. CISCO
2. Apple
3. Facebook
4. Google
5. Verizon
Answer - 4.Google
Explanation :
On February 5, 2018, Google launched a public initiative "#SecurityCheckKiya" to create
awareness around Internet safety and to protect young and first-time web users from account
hijacking, safeguard Android devices from malicious mobile applications and secure their
personal data. On account of easy access to internet, large number of first time Internet users
have now come online. These users typically lack technical alertness to safeguard them in
online environment and are thus vulnerable to bad actors and abuse on the web. Google has
made related information available on its homepage and is encouraging users to take the first
step of Security Check on Safer Internet Day (February 6). Users have been advised to use
"Google Security", “Google Play protect” and "Find My Device" app in order to ensure basic
level security for their accounts and mobile devices.
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20. Who became the 16th Chairman of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve
System, in the United States?
1. Sumner Hamlin
2. Roy A Young
3. Hebert Hoover
4. William M Martin
5. Jerome H Powell
Answer - 5. Jerome H Powell
Explanation :
On 5th February 2018, Jerome H. Powell became the 16th Chairman of the Board of
Governors of the Federal Reserve System, in the United States.Jerome H. Powell replaces
Janet Yellen. Janet Yellen is the first woman chairman of Federal Reserve in its 100-year
history. Jerome H. Powell has been a member of the Fed board since 2012. He was chosen for
this position by US President Donald Trump. The Senate has approved his nomination as
chairman of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System for a four-year term. His
term as a Fed board member ends by January 31, 2028.

21. Who is the highest ranked Indian golfer in the Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR)?
1. Anirban Lahiri
2. Jeev Milkha Singh
3. Shubhankar Sharma
4. Gaganjeet Milker
5. Arjun Atwal
Answer - 3. Shubhankar Sharma
Explanation :
21-year old Indian golfer Shubhankar Sharma was elevated from 193 to 72, in the Official
World Golf Ranking (OWGR). Standing at 72nd position in OWGR, Shubhankar is now the
highest-ranked Indian in the world surpassing Olympian Anirban Lahiri, who is currently
placed 76th. Shubhankar’s meteoric rise started in December 2017, with his first European
Tour win at the Joburg Open. Joburg Open win catapulted him from 462 to 226. His ranking
further improved on account of second European Tour triumph at the Maybank Championship
in Malaysia on February 4, 2018. His last victory placed him in exclusive club of Indians who
have achieved two wins in the same European Tour season. Jeev Milkha Singh accomplished
this feat in 2006 while Anirban Lahiri did it in 2015.

22. In which state, the foundation stone for Rhodendron Park was laid at?
1. Sikkim
2. Himachal Pradesh
3. Manipur
4. Arunachal Pradesh
5. Meghalaya
Answer - 4. Arunachal Pradesh
Explanation :
Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu laid foundation stone for Rhodendron Park in
Tawang district of Arunachal Pradesh. The Rhodendron Park will be built in an area of 1.15
hectares. It will be partly funded under Border Area Development Programme (BADP). Nearly
30 species of rhododendrons will be planted in the park and conserved. The park will also
contain modern nursery, information center on rhododendron, resting sheds, vehicle parking
facility, public toilet facility, signage and lightings and iron security gate. A plantation drive of
various varieties of Rhodos was also initiated by Pema Khandu.

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23. RBI released sixth bi- monthly Monetary Policy on February 7, 2018. What is the
projected Economic growth for 2017-18?
1.7%
2. 6.9%
3. 6.8%
4. 6.7%
5. 6.6%
Answer - 5. 6.6%
Explanation :
On February 7, 2018, Reserve Bank of India (RBI) announced Sixth Bi-Monthly Monetary
Policy Statement for financial year 2017-18. This time too, the Policy Repo Rate has been kept
unchanged. Repo Rate has been kept unchanged at 6.00 per cent. Consequently, the Reverse
Repo Rate at 5.75 per cent, marginal standing facility (MSF) rate and the Bank Rate at 6.25
per cent too remains unchanged. The six-member RBI Monetary Policy Committee (MPC)
voted 5:1 for the decision. Only Dr. Michael Debabrata Patra voted for a 0.25 percent increase
in repo rate. Estimated inflation for fourth quarter (Q4) of financial year 2017-18 i.e. January
– March 2018 period is 1 per cent. It is to be noted that, In December 2017, consumer
inflation rose to a 17-month high of 5.21 per cent, which is much above RBI's medium-term
target of 4 per cent. Economic growth for 2017-18 is projected at 6.6 per cent.

24. Name the first indigenous RTOS developed from scratch in India by Hindustan
Aeronautics Limited (HAL)?
1. Hunk-w
2. Hawk-i
3. Shell-1
4. Shark-7
5. Aryan-s
Answer - 2. Hawk-i
Explanation :
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has developed the first flight of Hawk-i with indigenous
Real Time Operating System (RTOS). Hawk-i is the first indigenous RTOS developed from
scratch in India. It has been certified by Center for Military Airworthiness and Certification
(CEMILAC). RTOS is the system software that provides a standard run-time environment for
safe and reliable real-time applications. This HAL-RTOS supports Integrated Modular Avionics
(IMA) architecture. Its important features are address, space and time partitioning, priority
pre-emptive process scheduling and health monitoring. The HAL-RTOS can be made as
standard Real Time Operating System for future avionics systems made in India.

25. Which is the first railway zone in India to achieve 100 % LED lighting at every
station under its jurisdiction?
1. East Coast Railway
2. East Central Railway
3. South Central Railway
4. North Eastern Railway
5. Metro Railway
Answer - 3. South Central Railway
Explanation :
On 7th February 2018, South Central Railway (SCR) announced that, it has become the first
railway zone in India to achieve 100 % LED lighting at every station under its jurisdiction.
South Central Railway (SCR) chief public relations officer M Umashankar Kumar said that, SCR
has become the first zone in Indian Railways to accomplish 100 % LED lighting in all 733
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stations under its jurisdiction. He also said that, this LED lighting facility would save 32 lakh
units of electrical energy amounting to Rs 2.7 crore per year.

26. Which is the first country in the world to legalise and then repeal same-sex
marriage, as Legislation replacing same-sex marriage with domestic partnerships?
1. Cuba
2. Bermuda
3. Haiti
4. Jamaica
5. Grenada
Answer - 2. Bermuda
Explanation :
On 7th February 2018, Bermuda has become the first country in the world to legalise and
then repeal same-sex marriage, as Legislation replacing same-sex marriage with domestic
partnerships was signed by Governor John Rankin. Now, couples in a registered domestic
partnership will have equivalent rights as those in heterosexual marriage. This also includes
the right to make medical decisions on behalf of their partner. The same-sex marriages that
were done in Bermuda in the in-between period, when they were legalized by a court order in
May 2017 and then repealed, are recognized by the new law.

27. What is India’s rank in the international Intellectual Property (IP) index released by
the US Chambers of Commerce?
1. 30
2. 35
3. 38
4. 40
5. 44
Answer - 5. 44
Explanation :
On 8th February 2018, India has ranked 44 out of 50 countries in the international Intellectual
Property (IP) index released by the US Chambers of Commerce. As per the annual report of
Global Innovation Policy Center (GIPC) of the US Chambers of Commerce, India’s overall
score has increased from (8.75 out of 35) last year to 30 per cent (12.03 out of 40) in the
latest edition. India ranked 43rd out of 45 countries last year and this year it ranks 44 out of
50 countries. The Index is topped by the US with 37.98 points. Second position is occupied by
United Kingdom with 37.97 points and third spot by Sweden with 37.03 points. This report
studies the intellectual property (IP) climate in 50 countries based on 40 indicators like
patent, trademark, copyright, and trade secrets protection.

28. Who was re-elected as the Bangladesh President for another five-year term?
1. Mohammad Shafiul Alam
2. M. Morshed Khan
3. Aminul Haqu
4. Saifur Rahman
5. Abdul Hamid
Answer - 5. Abdul Hamid
Explanation :
Bangladesh President Abdul Hamid was re-elected unopposed for another five-year term.
Abdul Hamid has been re-elected as Bangladesh President for a second 5 year term as no one
else contested for the President post. Chief Election Commissioner KM Nurul Huda made this
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announcement. The Awami League had nominated Abdul Hamid as Presidential candidate.
Abdul Hamid is 74 years old. He was first elected as President of Bangladesh in 2013. He has
60 years of experience in politics.

29. Who became the first Indian female cricketer to score 200 ODI (One Day
International) wickets?
1. Runa Basu
2. Smriti Mandhana
3. Jhulan Goswami
4. Diana Edulji
5. Anjali Sharma
Answer - 3. Jhulan Goswami
Explanation :
India's Jhulan Goswami became the first female cricketer to score 200 ODI (One Day
International) wickets. Jhulan Goswami made this record at the second ODI against South
Africa in the ICC Women's Championship at Kimberley, South Africa. She is 35 years old. She
hails from Nadia district of West Bengal. She started her cricketing career in 2002. It was her
166th ODI. She dismissed opener Laura Wolvaardt and gained her 200th ODI wicket. She also
became the highest wicket-taker in women's ODIs in May 2017. She has won ICC Women
Cricketer of the Year in 2007. The first male cricketer to get 200 ODI wickets was India’s Kapil
Dev.

30. Who was appointed the non-executive chairman of National Payments Corporation
of India (NPCI) for the term of 2 years?
1. Chalu Pandey
2. Biswamohan Mahapatra
3. Kewal Handa
4. G. Padmanabhan
5. Atanu Kumar Das
Answer - 2. Biswamohan Mahapatra
Explanation :
National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has appointed Biswamohan Mahapatra as non-
executive chairman for two years. Biswamohan Mahapatra replaces B Sambamurthy. B
Sambamurthy was the interim chairman of NPCI. Recently Dilip Asbe was appointed as
Managing Director of National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI).

31. Who was appointed the International Cricket Council (ICC) Board’s first
independent female director?
1. Mira Nair
2. Aparna Sen
3. Deepa Mehta
4. Indra Nooyi
5. Kiran Rao
Answer - 4. Indra Nooyi
Explanation :
PepsiCo Chairman and CEO Indra Nooyi has been appointed as the International Cricket
Council (ICC) Board’s first independent female director. Indra Nooyi Nooyi will join ICC Board
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as Independent Director in June 2018. Appointment of a female Independent Director was


approved by ICC Full Council in June 2017. Generally an Independent Director is appointed for
a two-year term. But she can be re-appointed for two more terms not exceeding a
consecutive period of 6 years. Indra Nooyi has made to the World's Most Powerful Women list
of Fortune Magazine several times.

32. Jarrod Bannister recently passed away. Who was he?


1. Athlete
2. Dietician
3. Doctor
4. Actor
5. Teacher
Answer - 1. Athlete
Explanation :
Athletics Australia announced that, Jarrod Bannister, champion javelin thrower of Australia
died in the Netherlands. Jarrod Bannister was 33 years old. He had a sudden death. He had
won gold medal at the 2010 Delhi Commonwealth Games. He had participated in the final of
the world championships in Daegu, South Korea, and the Beijing Olympics. The record of
89.02m he created in Brisbane in 2008, is the current Australian record in javelin throw.

33. India Post Payments Bank (IPPB) will enable Digital Payments in Post Offices by
________?
1. July 2018
2. June 2018
3. May 2018
4. April 2018
5. March 2018
Answer - 4. April 2018
Explanation :
On February 10, 2018, Department of Posts stated that India Post Payments Bank (IPPB) will
start pan-India roll out of its network from April 2018. Post completion of expansion plan,
IPPB will have India’s largest financial inclusion network, covering both urban as well as rural
areas. This will enable IPPB to provide digital payment services at the doorstep with the help
of Postmen and Gramin Dak Sewaks (GDS). 17 crore existing account of Post Office Savings
Bank will be made interoperable for conducting digital payments including National Electronic
Funds Transfer (NEFT), Real Time Gross Settlement (RTGS), Unified Payments Interface (UPI)
and bill payment services. Besides, IPPB will enable acceptance of digital payments across
1.55 lakh post offices across India in line with the digital payments initiative of Central
Government.

34. Name the eight year old Indian-origin school girl who has entered into the UK’s
Mathletics Hall of Fame?
1. Jessica Jude
2. Angeline Jerald
3. Simran Nia Roy
4. Suhaelina Suresh
5. Sohini Roy Chowdhury
Answer - 5. Sohini Roy Chowdhury
Explanation :
Sohini Roy Chowdhury, an eight year old Indian-origin school girl has made it to the UK’s
Mathletics Hall of Fame. UK’s Mathletics Hall of Fame is a mathematics-based competitive
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online platform. It engages primary school students. Sohini Roy Chowdhury solved
mathematic puzzles with high speed and accuracy on the platform. She has outsmarted
various kids from all over the world and has entered the top 100 World Hall of Fame. Her
father is Mainak Roy Chowdhury, an accountant. Mathletics is an online learning platform that
enables children to play live arithmetic games and compete with children from across the
world.

35. According to a report by New World Wealth, which city of India holds a place in the
top 15 wealthiest cities globally?
1. Pune
2. Agra
3. Kolkata
4. Bangalore
5. Mumbai
Answer - 5. Mumbai
Explanation :
According to a report by New World Wealth, Mumbai has ranked 12th out of 15 wealthiest
cities globally. New World Wealth is a global market research group, based in Johannesburg,
South Africa. It specializes in ratings, surveys, country reports and wealth statistics. In
context of this report, total wealth, refers to the private wealth held by all the individuals
living in each city. Government funds are not included in total wealth. Private Wealth includes
assets (property, equities, cash, and business stakes) less any liabilities.

36. Asma Jehangir, the Iron lady of which country passed away recently?
1. China
2. Pakistan
3. Afghanistan
4. England
5. Switzerland
Answer - 2. Pakistan
Explanation :
Asma Jehangir, Pakistan’s reputed lawyer and human rights activist, died following a cardiac
arrest in Lahore, Pakistan. Asma Jehangir was known as Pakistan's Iron Lady. She was the
head of Human Rights Commission of Pakistan. She was also the chairperson of the Supreme
Court Bar Association. She was a UN Rapporteur in the 1990s. In 1983, she was jailed for
supporting the democrats during the rule of General Zia-ul Haq. She raised her voice against
military dictators and law evaders.

37. As per India State of Forest Report (ISFR) 2017 released by Union Environment
Minister Harsh Vardhan on February 12, 2018, tree and forest cover in India
increased by ______% in two years since 2015.
1. 0.5%
2. 1%
3. 1.5%
4. 2%
5. 2.5%
Answer - 2. 1%
Explanation :
As per India State of Forest Report (ISFR) 2017 released by Union Environment Minister
Harsh Vardhan on February 12, 2018, tree and forest cover in India increased by 8021 sq km
(by 1%) in two years since 2015. Forest and tree cover combined is 802088 sq km (24.39 per
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cent of the total geographical area). Increase in the forest cover has been observed as 6,778
sq km and that of tree cover as 1,243 sq km, compared to the previous assessment in 2015.
Much of the increase in forest cover has been observed in very dense forest (VDF) category.
From an environmental standpoint, this is a positive sign as VDF category absorbs maximum
carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.

38. As per India State of Forest Report (ISFR) 2017 released by Union Environment
Minister Harsh Vardhan on February 12, 2018, What is the total % of forest cover in
India?
1. 18.4%
2. 19.5%
3. 20 %
4. 21.54%
5. 21.94%
Answer - 4. 21.54%
Explanation :
As per ISFR 2017, total forest cover in India is 708273 sq km, which is 21.54 per cent of the
total geographical area. In terms of area, Madhya Pradesh (77414 sq km) has the largest
forest cover among all Indian states and Union Territories. In terms of forest cover as
percentage of total geographical area, Lakshadweep has topped with 90.33 per cent
geographical areas under forest cover. Mizoram (531 sq km), Nagaland (450 sq km),
Arunachal Pradesh (190 sq km), Tripura (164 sq km) and Meghalaya (116 sq km) are the five
states where forest cover has decreased most. Shifting cultivation, diversion of forest lands
for developmental activities and agriculture expansion have been identified as main reasons
for decrease in forest cover in these states. It is to be noted that ISFR is released every two
years. ISFR 2017 has been prepared by physically surveying 18000 points with the help of
scientific tools.

39. When is the National Productivity Day observed all over India?
1. 10th February
2. 11th February
3. 12th February
4. 13th February
5. 14th February
Answer - 3. 12th February
Explanation :
On 12th February 2018, National Productivity Day was observed in India by National
Productivity Council. National Productivity Week is observed from 12th to 18th February 2018.
National Productivity Day 2018 marks the 60th Anniversary of the National Productivity
Council. This year is celebrated as Diamond Jubilee Year. The theme for the National
Productivity Week 2018 is: Industry 4.0 Leapfrog Opportunity for India. Industry 4.0 includes
improving digitization and interconnection of products, value chains and business models.
Industry 4.0 will combine the real and virtual worlds. This will lead to the formation of "Smart
Factory". Smart Factory will have increased versatility, resource efficiency, ergonomic design
and direct integration with business partners.

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40. The Ultimate goal of 'Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojna' is to provide all-weather
road connectivity to unconnected villages all over India. Earlier the target year was
2022 and now it has been advanced to _______?
1. 2018
2. 2019
3. 2020
4. 2021
5. None of the above
Answer - 2. 2019
Explanation :
Union Minister of State for Rural Development, Ram Kripal Yadav has stated that Central
Government is working towards connecting all villages through a road network by next year
as part of the 'Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojna'. Mr. Yadav added that earlier target of
linking all villages by roads by 2022 has been advanced to 2019. 'Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak
Yojna' is a centrally sponsored scheme launched in December 2000. Ultimate goal of this
scheme is to provide all-weather road connectivity to unconnected villages all over India.

41. Name the India’s first online radio station that was launched recently?
1. Radio Peace
2. Radio Station
3. Radio Web
4. Radio Happy
5. Radio Umang
Answer - 5. Radio Umang
Explanation :
Radio Umang, claimed to be India’s first online radio station, was launched recently. Users can
listen to Radio Umang through web streaming or by downloading the mobile app. Radio
Umang app is available in Google Play Store. It will be soon made available for Appstore also.
It provides programmes for 24 hours. It has gained a good reach in Hindi speaking states of
India and in more than 60 countries. Theme of Radio Umang is love, peace and happiness. It
features various talk shows apart from music. Vidhi Maheshwari has been made Creative
Director of Radio Umang.

42. Which is the first state to launch “Modicare”, a National Health Protection Scheme
(NHPS)?
1. Assam
2. Bihar
3. Jharkhand
4. West Bengal
5. Gujarat
Answer - 4. West Bengal
Explanation :
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee announced that, West Bengal has opted out of
National Health Protection Scheme (NHPS) also known as 'Modicare'. The National Health
Protection Scheme (NHPS) also known as 'Modicare' was announced in the Union Budget
2018-19. The NHPS would cover 10 crore poor families. It provides insurance coverage of Rs
5 lakh per annum. It is said to be the world’s largest government healthcare scheme. Mamata
Banerjee said that, the NHPS is similar to West Bengal’s existing ‘Swasthya Sathi’ scheme.
The ‘Swasthya Sathi’ scheme has already covered 45 lakh families amounting to 2.5 crore
people of West Bengal. She said that, now contributing to NHPS would be a wastage of West
Bengal’s resources and West Bengal opts out of NHPS. West Bengal has become the first state
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in India to opt out of NHPS.

43. Who won the Ibrahim Prize for Achievement 2018 in African Leadership?
1. R. Satynarayana
2. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf
3. R.N. Tharanathan
4. Sierra Leone
5. Chidima Taylor
Answer - 2. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf
Explanation :
On 12th February 2018, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, former Liberian president, won the Ibrahim
Prize for Achievement in African Leadership. The Ibrahim prize for African Leadership is
awarded to a democratically-elected African leader who had proved to be an outstanding
leader, served their stipulated term and finished their term within the last 3 years. The award
consists of $5 million, which will be paid over 10 years, and $200,000 every year for the rest
of the recipient’s life. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf is the first elected female head of state in Africa.
She served as Liberian President for 12 years. She is the first female leader to receive this
award. Her term ended in 22 January 2018.

44. Who is the first female Hindu lawmaker in Pakistan since 1947 from Pakistan’s
Hindu minority community?
1. Bhagya Lakshmi
2. Soundarya Rajan
3. Sharanya Mohan
4. Sathya Priya
5. Krishna Kumari
Answer -5. Krishna Kumari
Explanation :
Krishna Kumari is to become the first female Hindu lawmaker in Pakistan since 1947. Krishna
Kumari is a 38 year old woman from Pakistan’s Hindu minority community. She is a member
of the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP). She has been nominated by the opposition Pakistan
People’s Party for the upcoming Senate elections. The elections will be conducted on 3rdMarch
2018. She hails from a very poor family and was married at the age of sixteen. She is to
become the first Hindu woman lawmaker in Pakistan since 1947.

45. According to India State of Forest Report (ISFR) 2017, India holds which position in
terms of land area under forest and tree cover?
1. 6th
2. 7th
3. 8th
4. 9th
5. 10th
Answer - 5. 10th
Explanation :
At the time of releasing India State of Forest Report (ISFR) 2017 on February 12, 2018, Union
Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Dr. Harsh Vardhan stated that in terms
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of land area under forest and tree cover, India has ranked 10th in the world. As per ISFR
2017, Forest and tree cover in India is 802088 sq km i.e. 24.39 per cent of the total
geographical area. In terms of land area under forest and tree cover, India is a stand out case
as none of the other 9 countries in the Top 10 has a population density of more than 150
persons per sq km, compared to India. Mr. Harsh Vardhan added that as per the latest Food
and Agriculture Organization (FAO) report, India is placed 8th in the list of Top Ten nations
reporting the greatest annual net gain in forest area. As per ISFR 2017, Andhra Pradesh,
followed by Karnataka and Kerala have shown the maximum increase in forest cover since
2015.

46. Which country will host the 8th edition of ‘Theatre Olympics’ for the first time from
17th February 2018 – 8th April 2018?
1. China
2. Russia
3. India
4. Germany
5. Sweden
Answer - 3. India
Explanation :
The 8th edition of ‘Theatre Olympics’ will be held in India for the first time. The 8th edition of
Theatre Olympics will be inaugurated by Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu at the Red Fort,
Delhi, on 17th February 2018. It will end in Mumbai on 8th April 2018. Nearly 25,000 artistes
from 30 countries will take part in the Theatre Olympics. The event will feature 450 shows,
600 ambient performances and 250 youth forum shows. Out of that, 65 shows will be done by
international artistes. Culture minister Mahesh Sharma said that, the 65 foreign shows will be
condcuted in 17 cities of India. India will display its theatre forms like: Swang, Rasleela,
Nautanki, Bhand Pather, Jatra etc., under the theme of ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat’.
National School of Drama (NSD) director Waman Kendre said that, the theme of Theatre
Olympics is “Flag of Friendship”.

47. Hampi monuments, will be one among 10 tourist destinations across India to be
developed as ‘Iconic Tourism Site’ by Central Government. In which state, these
monuments are located?
1. Karnataka
2. Odisha
3. Goa
4. Uttar Pradesh
5. Telangana
Answer - 1. Karnataka
Explanation :
Hampi monuments, regarded as Karnataka’s pride, will be one among 10 tourist destinations
across India to be developed as ‘Iconic Tourism Site’ by Central Government. Announcement
to develop 10 prominent tourist sites across India into iconic tourism destinations, through a
holistic approach, was made by Finance Minister Arun Jaitley in the Union Budget 2018
speech. The holistic approach involves infrastructure development, deploying technology,
attracting private investment, branding and marketing. List of 10 tourist destinations to be
developed as ‘Iconic Tourism Site’ was announced on February 13, 2018 and Hampi Group of
Monuments is one of them.

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48. Which city of china will host the summit of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation
(SCO) 2018?
1. Shanghai
2. Qingdao
3. Beijing
4. Tianjin
5. Chongqing
Answer - 2. Qingdao
Explanation :
On February 14, 2018, China announced that this year's summit of the Shanghai Cooperation
Organisation (SCO) will be held in the city of Qingdao. China is the founding member of SCO
and is currently holding the rotating presidency of the SCO. India and Pakistan were admitted
as full members of SCO in June 2017. Exact date of the Summit has not been announced. It
will tentatively be held in June 2018.

49. Which Bank announced the listing of US $600 million bond issue under its maiden
US $1 billion medium-term note (MTN) programme on IndiaINX?
1. SBI
2. Yes Bank
3. Canara Bank
4. Allahabad Bank
5. Dena Bank
Answer - 2. Yes Bank
Explanation :
Yes Bank announced the listing of US $600 million bond issue under its maiden US $1 billion
medium-term note (MTN) programme on IndiaINX.Medium Term Note (MTN) is a debt note
that usually matures or has a payback period of 5 years.Yes Bank’s debut MTN bonds received
an overwhelming response from international investors as it was oversubscribed by more than
1.83 times from over 90 accounts.Yes Bank had established a Medium Term Note (MTN)
programme in December 2017 to raise USD 1 billion post approval from its board’s Capital
Raising Committee. BSE’s IndiaINX is India’s first international exchange located at the
International Financial Services Centre (IFSC) at GIFT City in Gandhinagar, Gujarat.

50. Who become the first player in history to score 100 Champions League goals for the
same club?
1. Paul Pogba
2. Eden Hazard
3. Neymar
4. Cristiano Ronaldo
5. Lionel Messi
Answer - 4. Cristiano Ronaldo
Explanation :
Cristiano Ronaldo become the first player in history to score 100 Champions League goals for
the same club. Cristiano Ronaldo scored his 100th and 101st Champions League goals for Real
Madrid against PSG (Paris Saint-Germain) at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium in Spain. It was
his 116th goal in total. He is followed by Lionel Messi who has scored 97 goals for Barcelona
club and Raul who has scored 66 goals for Real Madrid club.

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51. The longest-serving prime minister Ruud Lubbers was from which country?
1. Mongolia
2. Argentina
3. Netherlands
4. Sweden
5. Palestine
Answer - 3. Netherlands
Explanation :
On 14th February 2018, Ruud Lubbers, the longest-serving prime minister of Netherlands
passed away in Rotterdam, Netherlands. Ruud Lubbers was 78 years old. He had been ill for
some time. He was born on 7th May 1939 in Rotterdam. He served as economics minister
from 1973 to 1977. He served as Prime Minister of the Netherlands from 1982 to 1994. He
also served as United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees from 2001 to 2005.

52. In which city, Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, inaugurated the 2018 edition of the
World Sustainable Development Summit (WSDS 2018)?
1. Mumbai
2. Kolkata
3. New Delhi
4. Pune
5. Patna
Answer - 3. New Delhi
Explanation :
Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, inaugurated the 2018 edition of the World Sustainable
Development Summit (WSDS 2018) at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi. This Summit has been
organized by The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI). The three-day Summit will serve as
a common platform for global leaders and thinkers in the fields of sustainable development,
energy and environment sectors to come together and deliberate on contemporary issues.
Theme of World Sustainable Development Summit (WSDS 2018) is ‘Partnerships for a
Resilient Planet’. ‘Greenovation Exhibition’, showcasing the latest technological advancements
to meet Sustainable Development Goals is also a part of WSDS 2018. Over 2000 delegates
including policy makers, think tanks, researchers, diplomats and corporates from 41 countries
will be participating in this event.

53. Which State government will be setting up India’s first institute for artificial
intelligence (AI)?
1. Maharashtra
2. Mizoram
3. Assam
4. Bihar
5. Karnataka
Answer - 1. Maharashtra
Explanation :
Maharashtra State government will be setting up India’s first institute for artificial intelligence
(AI) in Mumbai. Plan for this institute of artificial intelligence (AI) will be unveiled by
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis during the Magnetic Maharashtra Summit,
beginning on February 18, 2018. Setting up the AI institute will not only play a crucial role in
ushering the ‘fourth industrial revolution’ but will also promote Mumbai as an investment
destination in innovations and data analysis. Maharashtra State Government has already been
experimenting with AI in the health sector. Besides, it has also set up a joint working group

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for AI cooperation with the government of Canada on February 13, 2018.

54. In which state the first butterfly park was opened for public on February 15, 2018?
1. Maharashtra
2. Kerala
3. Madhya Pradesh
4. Karnataka
5. Tamil Nadu
Answer - 3. Madhya Pradesh
Explanation :
Madhya Pradesh's first butterfly park, at Gopalpur in Raisen district opened for public on
February 15, 2018. The park is spread over three hectares of land. It houses 65 species of
butterflies and nearly 137 plant varieties. Madhya Pradesh Forest Minister Gaurishankar
Shejwar expressed hope that this park will give a new identity to the state in the field of eco
tourism. Butterfly parks are pollution-free spaces which do not have chemicals/pesticides and
play an important role in conserving and breeding of butterfly species

55. Which two countries have been suspended from voting in the United Nations (UN)
General Assembly because of millions of dollars in unpaid dues?
1. Venezuela and Somalia
2. Venezuela and Libya
3. Venezuela and North Korea
4. Venezuela and South Africa
5. Venezuela and Algeria
Answer - 2. Venezuela and Libya
Explanation :
On February 13, 2018, United Nations (UN) General Assembly spokesman Brenden Varma
stated that Venezuela and Libya have been suspended from voting in the United Nations (UN)
General Assembly because of millions of dollars in unpaid dues. This is for the third time in
three years that Venezuela and Libya have been suspended from voting in the UN General
Assembly. In order to restore their voting rights, Venezuela and Libya must pay at least
$25200296 and $6594842 respectively. Central African Republic, Dominican Republic,
Grenada, Surinam, Marshall Islands, Yemen and Equatorial Guinea are the other countries
that have lost voting rights for the same reason.

56. Union Minister of Statistics and Programme Implementation, Sadananda Gowda has
stated that during 2018-19, his ministry is proposing to initiate steps to revise the
base years of gross domestic product (GDP), Index of Industrial Production (IIP)
and Consumer Price Index (CPI). What is the revised base year of GDP, IIP and CPI?
1. GDP-2016-17, IIP-2016-17, CPI-2017
2. GDP-2016-17, IIP-2017-18, CPI-2018
3. GDP-2016-17, IIP-2017-18, CPI-2017
4. GDP-2017-18, IIP-2017-18, CPI-2018
5. GDP-2017-18, IIP-2017-18, CPI-2017
Answer - 4. GDP-2017-18, IIP-2017-18, CPI-2018
Explanation :
Union Minister of Statistics and Programme Implementation, Sadananda Gowda has stated
that during 2018-19, his ministry is proposing to initiate steps to revise the base years of
gross domestic product (GDP), Index of Industrial Production (IIP) and Consumer Price Index
(CPI). For the calculation of GDP and IIP numbers base year will be changed to 2017-18 while
for CPI (retail inflation) it will be 2018. Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation
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has proposed these changes to accommodate and factor the changes that take place in Indian
economy. Under Union Budget 2018 -19, Ministry of Statistics and Programme
Implementation (MOSPI) has been allocated Rs 4859 crore.

57. Which Payments platform has entered into a partnership with Indian Oil
Corporation Limited (IOCL) to deploy its Point of Sale (POS) device at IOCL retail
outlets?
1. Paytm
2. PhonePe
3. Freecharge
4. MobiKwik
5. Jio
Answer - 2. PhonePe
Explanation :
Payments platform PhonePe has entered into a partnership with Indian Oil Corporation Limited
(IOCL) to deploy its Point of Sale (POS) device at IOCL retail outlets. Under this partnership,
Phone Pe has installed POS devices at 30 IOCL outlets in Bengaluru on pilot basis. It will be
rolled out across India in a phased manner during 2018. Phone Pe had launched its Point of
Sale (POS) device in October 2017. Since then, over 10000 POS units have been installed in
Bengaluru. Phone Pe is following a twin strategy of deploying its own point-of-sales (PoS)
payment terminals at small merchant locations as well as partnering with major merchant
chains at the national level.

58. Who was awarded the ‘EY Entrepreneur of the Year 2017’ award at a function in
Mumbai?
1. Nithin Kamath
2. Puneet Dalmia
3. Ajay Singh
4. Sanjiv Bajaj
5. Rashesh Shah
Answer - 4. Sanjiv Bajaj
Explanation :
On 15th February 2018, Sanjiv Bajaj was awarded the ‘EY Entrepreneur of the Year 2017’
award at a function in Mumbai. Sanjiv Bajaj is the Managing Director of Bajaj Finserv. Nearly
400 business leaders and special guests were present at the event. EY presented awards in
nine other categories also for the ‘Entrepreneur of the Year Programme’. Bajaj will represent
India at the EY World Entrepreneur of the Year Award (WEOY) from 13th to 17th June 2018 in
Monte Carlo. The Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to E Sreedharan. He played a
key role in the Kolkata Metro, Delhi Metro, Kochi Metro and Lucknow Metro projects.

59. As per a report released by the NITI Aayog, sex ratio at birth (SRB) declined in
_____ out of 21 large states of India?
1. 11
2. 14
3. 16
4. 17
5. 19
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Answer - 4. 17
Explanation :
As per a report released by the NITI Aayog, sex ratio at birth (SRB) declined in 17 out of 21
large states of India. In context of this news, number of female live births vis-a-vis number of
male live births is referred to as Sex Ratio at Birth. Among 17 states where SRB has dropped;
highest decline has been recorded from Gujarat. For the reference year, i.e. 2013-15, SRB in
Gujarat fell to 854 females per 1000 males, marking a 53 points drop from 907 females per
1000 males in 2012-14 (base year). Gujarat is followed by Haryana (35 points drop) and
Rajasthan (32 points drop). Large Indian states which have witnessed improvement in SRB
are Punjab ( rise of 19 points) followed by Uttar Pradesh (rise of 10 points) and Bihar (rise of
9 points). NITI Aayog has recommended that states should effectively implement the Pre-
Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (PCPNDT) Act, 1994 in order to check sex-
selective abortion.

60. National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), the umbrella organisation for all
retail payments in India has given its consent to ___________ launch with limited
user base of 1 million and low per transaction limit?
1. Facebook’s payment service
2. Twitter’s payment service
3. WhatsApp’s payment service
4. Hike’s payment service
5. Line’s payment service
Answer - 3. WhatsApp’s payment service
Explanation :
National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), the umbrella organisation for all retail
payments in India has given its consent to WhatsApp BHIM UPI beta launch with limited user
base of 1 million and low per transaction limit. WhatsApp’s payment service with full-fledged
features will be launched in India after the beta test of the service is successful. Whatsapp
had received approval to use Unified Payments Interface (UPI), after a meeting between
WhatsApp co-founder Brian Acton and Union Minister of Electronics and Information
Technology Ravi Shankar Prasad in February 2017. UPI (launched by Indian Government) is a
single-window mobile payment system that powers multiple bank accounts into a single
mobile application. Whatsapp has been working with top Indian Banks such as State Bank of
India, HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank and Axis Bank to integrate UPI into its payments solution

61. Name the cricketer who has created a world record by becoming the first batsman
ever to score 500 runs in a bilateral ODI series.
1. M S Dhoni
2. Hardik Pandya
3. David Warner
4. Joe Root
5. Virat Kohli
Answer - 5. Virat Kohli
Explanation :
Virat Kohli has created a world record by becoming the first batsman ever to score 500 runs in
a bilateral ODI series. Virat Kohli made this achievement at the sixth and final ODI of the
series against South Africa at Centurion on 16th February 2018. He has scored 558 runs in
total in this series. He has beat Rohit Sharma's record of 491 runs against Australia in 2013-
14 in bilateral ODI series. He scored 129 runs in the sixth ODI of the series and India won the
series 5-1. He has also become the fastest batsman to score 17000 international runs.

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62. Hassan Rouhani, recently visited India, is the President of which country?
1. Iraq
2. Egypt
3. Australia
4. Iran
5. Indonesia
Answer - 4. Iran
Explanation :
President of Iran, Hassan Rouhani was on a three-day visit to India from 15th – 17th
February, 2018. On February 15, 2018, Mr. Rouhani arrived in Hyderabad. He chose to begin
his India tour from Hyderabad as the city has a long history of cultural and religious ties with
Iran. It is to be noted that, currently, around 40000 Iranians live in Hyderabad. On February
15, 2018, Mr. Rouhani addressed Muslim intellectuals, religious scholars and students at a
hotel in Hyderabad. On February 17, 2018, Mr. Rouhani held a bilateral meeting with Indian
Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi. Mr. Rouhani also gifted an animated version of
Kalila Wa Demna (Farsi translation of the Panchatantra) and a copy of the Mahabharat in Farsi
to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi

63. Which Indian IT Company has been recognized as one of world’s best employers by
the Top Employer Institute for the third consecutive year?
1. IBM
2. Verizon
3. HCL
4. CTS
5. TCS
Answer - 5. TCS
Explanation :
Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) has been recognized as one of world’s best employers by the
Top Employer Institute for the third consecutive year. TCS has been selected among 1,300
companies in 113 countries all over the world. It has been recognized by Top Employer
Institute for its excellent employee offerings. TCS has received the Top Employers Global
certification. It has received the latest Top Employer endorsement for 27 of its individual
country teams in Europe, Asia Pacific, North America, Latin America and the Middle East. The
Top Employer rankings are done based on nine factors: talent strategy, workforce planning,
on-boarding, learning & development, performance management, leadership development,
career & succession management, compensation & benefits and company culture.

64. In which city the 22nd edition of World Congress on Information Technology
(WCIT) and 26th edition of Nasscom India Leadership Forum (ILF) was inaugurated
concurrently?
1. Patna
2. Pune
3. Kolkata
4. Mumbai
5. Hyderabad
Answer - 5. Hyderabad
Explanation :
On 19th to 21st February 2018, 22nd edition of World Congress on Information Technology
(WCIT) and 26th edition of Nasscom India Leadership Forum (ILF) are held concurrently, at
the Hyderabad International Convention Centre, in Hyderabad. Prime Minister Narendra Modi
inaugurated the summit through a video conference. The WCIT is held for the first time in
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India. Telangana is the partner state for both WCIT and ILF. Nasscom is the host of WCIT. The
26th edition of India Leadership Forum (ILF) is a limited edition. The WCIT has participation
from nearly 2,500 visionaries, heads of industry, government leaders and academicians from
over 80 countries. NASSCOM Global Leadership Awards and Social Innovation Awards by
NASSCOM will be announced as part of these events.Theme of the conference is “Amplify
Digital – Disrupt The Core”. Sophia, the humanoid robot from Saudi Arabia, will also
participate in the conference.

65. Which country hosted the Global Digital Health Partnership Summit 2018, in which
Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare, J P Nadda addressed on the topic
“Making Digital Health Services a Priority in Healthcare Reform”?
1. Austria
2. China
3. Argentina
4. Australia
5. India
Answer - 2. Australia
Explanation :
On February 19, 2018, Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare, J P Nadda addressed
Global Digital Health Partnership Summit at Australia. The summit was attended by Mr. Greg
Hunt - Minister of Health, Australia and delegates from World Health Organisation (WHO) and
delegates from several countries including Canada, Italy, Singapore, South Korea, United
Kingdom and United States of America. At the Summit, Mr. Nadda spoke on the topic: Making
Digital Health Services a Priority in Healthcare Reform. During his address at the Summit, Mr.
Nadda informed that Indian Government has implemented Digital Technology in healthcare in
four major areas viz. improving health service delivery, improving compliance of people
towards healthcare, improving governance and engaging citizens in partnering with
government for planning and management of health services delivery.

66. Which is the first foreign ecommerce company to start its own food retailing
business in India with a pilot in Pune?
1. Asos
2. Ebay
3. Walmart
4. Tesco
5. Amazon
Answer - 5. Amazon
Explanation :
Amazon has started its own food retailing business in India with a pilot in Pune and has thus
become the first foreign ecommerce company to stock and sell food items directly to
consumers. Amazon’s food retail business in India will be carried out under the name Amazon
Retail India Pvt. Ltd. From June 2016, Indian Government allowed 100% Foreign Direct
Investment (FDI) in food retailing, permitting foreign firms to sell locally sourced and
packaged food items directly to consumers. Post this decision, Amazon secured government’s
permission to invest $500 million in this business. However, Amazon has been asked to
maintain separate management and offices for food retailing business and keep them distinct
from its marketplace business.

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67. Who is the first Indian bowler to take a five-wicket haul in all three formats in
international cricket?
1. Shikhar Dhawan
2. Jasprit Bumrah
3. Bhuvneshwar Kumar
4. Zaheer Khan
5. Kuldeep Yadav
Answer - 3. Bhuvneshwar Kumar
Explanation:
Bhuvneshwar Kumar, a fast bowler, has become the first Indian bowler to take a five-wicket
haul in all three formats in international cricket. Bhuvneshwar Kumar made this record by
taking his first T20I five-wicket haul at the first T20I against South Africa at the Wanderers
Stadium, Johannesburg, on 18th February 2018. India won the match by 28 runs.
Bhuvneshwar Kumar was awarded the man-of-the-match award. He has also become the
second Indian to take a five-wicket haul in T20Is after Yuzvendra Chahal.

68. Didier Lockwood recently passed away. Who was he?


1. Dancer
2. Singer
3. Doctor
4. Violinist
5. Journalist
Answer - 4. Violinist
Explanation :
On 18th February 2018, Didier Lockwood, a jazz violinist from France, died due to heart
attack, in Paris, France. Didier Lockwood was 62 years old. He was a disciple of the late
Stephane Grappelli. He joined a famous French rock band called Magma when he was 17
years old. Later he did a lot of collaborations and experimentations with jazz style. He was
very interested in music education. He founded the Didier Lockwood Music Centre in Paris in
2001, to teach improvisation as per a jazz violin method he had developed.

69. The Central Government has formed a committee, to study the Brahmaputra and
flood control measures in Assam and nearby states. Who will lead this committee?
1. P. C. Meena
2. Amalorpavanathan
3. N. M. Kulkarni
4. Rajiv Kumar
5. C. Parthasarathi
Answer - 4. Rajiv Kumar
Explanation :
The Central Government has formed a committee lead by Rajiv Kumar, Vice Chairman of NITI
Aayog, to study the Brahmaputra and flood control measures in Assam and nearby states.
Announcement regarding this was made by Assam Water Resource Minister Keshab Mahanta.
He said that, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had announced 100 crore rupees to figure out
permanent solution for flood, during his visit to Guwahati in 2017. He said that the Assam
government has submitted report on flood control measures to the committee. He added that,
work to repair the damaged river embankment due to flood is done by the Water Resource
department.

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70. According to a report by United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), India has ranked
_____ among 52 lower middle-income countries in terms of neonatal mortality rate.
1. 12th
2. 14th
3. 16th
4. 18th
5. 20th
Answer - 1. 12th
Explanation :
According to a report by United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), India has ranked 12th
among 52 lower middle-income countries in terms of neonatal mortality rate. Deaths per 1000
live births (during first 28 days) is referred to as Neonatal Mortality Rate. First 28 days of life
(the neonatal period) are the most critical for a child's survival. It is during this period that
the newborns are vulnerable and face the highest risk of dying. As per UNICEF, the Global
Neonatal Mortality Rate is 19 deaths per 1000 live births.

71. In which country, Cobra Gold 2018, an international military exercise was held at?
1. Egypt
2. Iraq
3. South Africa
4. Thailand
5. Afghanistan
Answer - 4. Thailand
Explanation :
On 13th to 23rd February 2018, Cobra Gold 2018 an international military exercise, is held in
Thailand. The opening ceremony of the “Cobra Gold 2018” was presided over by Royal Thai
Armed Forces, Gen. Thanchaiyan Srisuwan, Mr. Glyn T. Davies, U.S. Ambassador to Thailand,
and Lt. Gen. Lawrence Nicholson, commander, III Marine Expeditionary Force, at the Royal
Thai Naval Aviation Division, U-Tapao International Airport, in Chonburi province. This is the
37th edition of the Cobra Gold exercise. It is co-sponsored by the Royal Thai Armed Forces
and the U.S. Armed Forces. Its objective is to improve regional security, maritime security
and interoperability between participating countries.

72. Which country successfully tested Arrow-3 advanced missile defence system?
1. USA
2. India
3. China
4. Japan
5. Israel
Answer - 5. Israel
Explanation :
Israel announced that is has successfully tested Arrow-3 advanced missile defence system.
Arrow-3 is an advanced missile defence system having the ability to defend against ballistic
missile threats outside the atmosphere. Arrow-3 is a part of Israel’s multi-layered system that
is being developed to defend against short and mid-range rockets fired from Gaza Strip,
Lebanon and long-range missiles from Iran. Iron Dome, David's Sling, and the Arrow-2

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systems are a part of it. It has been developed by Israel Aerospace Industries and Boeing. It
started operations in January 2017.

73. When is World Day of Social Justice observed all over the world?
1. 17th February
2. 18th February
3. 19th February
4. 20th February
5. 16th February
Answer - 4. 20th February
Explanation :
On 20th February 2018, World Day of Social Justice was observed all over the world. On 26th
November 2007, the UN General Assembly declared 20 February as the World Day of Social
Justice. The World Day of Social Justice is an annual observance. This day is celebrated to
improve efforts to manage issues like poverty, exclusion and unemployment. The theme for
World Day of Social Justice 2018 is: Workers on the Move: the Quest for Social Justice.

74. On 19th February 2018, Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off the Palace Queen
Humsafar Express train at the Mysuru railway station, Karnataka. This train will run
from Mysuru in Karnataka to _________ in Rajasthan?
1. Ajmer
2. Jodhpur
3. Jaipur
4. Udaipur
5. Dholpur
Answer - 4. Udaipur
Explanation :
On 19th February 2018, Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off the Palace Queen Humsafar
Express train at the Mysuru railway station, Karnataka. Palace Queen Hamsafar Express train
will run from Mysuru in Karnataka to Udaipur in Rajasthan. This train will link the following
western states: Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Maharashtra and Karnataka. It covers
30 parliamentary constituencies on its way. It covers a total distance of 2000 km. Narendra
Modi also dedicated a fully electrified railway line of length 140 km from Mysuru to KSR
Bengaluru to improve energy efficiency of Indian Railways. The electrification of Mysuru to
KSR Bengaluru railway line will cover 4 Karnataka districts: Bengaluru, Ramanagaram,
Mandya and Mysuru. This project costs Rs 220 crore. It will benefit nearly 25,000 passengers
daily.

75. The National Housing Bank (NHB) has approved the merger of Capital First with
which Bank?
1. IDBI bank
2. Postal Payments Bank
3. Yes bank
4. IDFC bank
5. Axis bank
Answer - 4. IDFC bank
Explanation :
On February 20, 2018, Capital First announced that regulator National Housing Bank (NHB)
has approved its merger with IDFC Bank. IDFC Bank – Capital First Merger was announced in
January 2018. As per the terms of the merger deal, IDFC Bank will issue 139 shares for every
10 shares of Capital First. Capital Home Finance and Capital First Securities Limited, the
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subsidiaries of Capital First are also a part of the merger deal. Post merger, IDFC Bank-Capital
First combined entity will have Asset Under Management (AUM) of Rs 88000 crore.

76. What is SARAS?


1. Aircraft
2. Submarine
3. Testing Machine
4. Cyclone
5. Vaccine
Answer - 1. Aircraft
Explanation :
On 21st February 2018, SARAS, indigenous light transport aircraft of India, successfully
finished its second test flight. Wing Commander U.P. Singh, Group Captain R.V. Panicker and
Group Captain K.P. Bhat of Indian Air Force- Aircraft and System Testing Establishment,
commanded the test flight. This was the second out of the 20 test flights that was planned for
SARAS PT1N before freezing the production version. SARAS was designed and developed by
CSIR-National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL). NAL has said that, the production model design
would be ready by June-July 2018. CSIR-NAL is planning to get military and civil certification
for SARAS-Mk 2. The improved version of CSIR-NAL would be a 19-seater aircraft. Hindustan
Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is decided as the production agency for military version of SARAS.
Production of civil version of SARAS will be handed to private industries.

77. Which is the first state in India where business and investment projects can now be
cleared digitally, without any human interface?
1. Gujarat
2. Maharashtra
3. Kerala
4. Uttar Pradesh
5. Karnataka
Answer - 4. Uttar Pradesh
Explanation :
Uttar Pradesh (UP) has become the first state in India where business and investment
projects can now be cleared digitally, without any human interface. This has become possible
with launch of ‘Nivesh Mitra’, a digital platform which will serve as a single-window clearance
system. ’Nivesh Mitra’ was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the inauguration
session of the UP Investors' Summit in Lucknow. UP State Government has brought 20
departments under the ambit of ‘Nivesh Mitra’ and application for 70 clearances can be made
through this platform. Any interested investor, sitting anywhere in the world, would only
require to submit details of the project, along with required documentation, on the Nivesh
Mitra website. Post satisfactory assessment of documents, the respective departments would
clear the project file digitally.

78. Which is the India’s first major railway station to be completely managed by women
personnel?
1. Egmore railway station, Chennai
2. Thiruvananthapuram Central railway station, Thiruvananthapuram
3. KSR Bengaluru City railway station, Bengaluru
4. Gandhi Nagar railway station, Jaipur
5. Victoria Terminus railway station, Mumbai
Answer - 4. Gandhi Nagar railway station, Jaipur

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Explanation :
Jaipur’s Gandhi Nagar railway station became India’s first major railway station to be
completely managed by women personnel. The all-women railway station was inaugurated by
North Western Railway Zone general manager TP Singh. Gandhi Nagar station is located on
the Jaipur-Delhi rail route. It has over 50 trains passing through and 25 trains halting there. It
handles 7,000 passengers on a daily basis. Women staff have been appointed in various posts
like point women (who change the tracks), station manager, chief reservation supervisor,
assistant reservation supervisor, inquiry counter and reservation clerk, ticket checker etc.
Sanitary napkin vending machine has been installed at the station. Women employees have
been trained to function independently. CCTV cameras have been installed for security
purposes and real time monitoring.

79. India has ranked ______ out of 180 countries in the global Corruption Perceptions
Index 2017, released by Transparency International?
1. 75th
2. 78th
3. 80th
4. 81st
5. 83rd
Answer - 4. 81st
Explanation :
India has ranked 81st out of 180 countries in the global Corruption Perceptions Index 2017,
released by Transparency International. This index ranks countries by their perceived levels of
public sector corruption. Index uses a scale of 0 to 100, where 0 is highly corrupt and 100
indicates no corruption. Data from Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) has also been
incorporated in the analysis. The index is compiled annually by Transparency International; an
international non-governmental organization based in Berlin, Germany. Transparency
International was founded in 1993 with a purpose to combat global corruption and prevent
criminal activities arising from corruption.

80. Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has constituted an expert committee under the
chairmanship of _________________ to look into a range of issues relating to
classification of bad loans, rising incidents of frauds and effectiveness of audits?
1. Gary Oldman
2. YH Malegam
3. James Ivory
4. Alex Gibson
5. Richard King
Answer - 2. YH Malegam
Explanation :
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has constituted an expert committee under the chairmanship of
YH Malegam to look into a range of issues relating to classification of bad loans, rising
incidents of frauds and effectiveness of audits. Y H Malegam is a former member of the
Central Board of Directors of RBI.Other member of the Committee: Bharat Doshi – Member of
Central Board of RBI, S Raman - Former Chairman and MD of Canara Bank and Nandkumar
Saravade - Chief Executive Officer of Reserve Bank Information Technology Pvt Ltd (ReBIT). A
K Misra - Executive Director of RBI will be the Member-Secretary of the committee

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81. Who is the first Indian woman to fly a fighter aircraft solo?
1. Avani Chaturvedi
2. Bhawana Kanth
3. Mohana Singh
4. Chitra Devi
5. Radhikha Kishore
Answer - 1. Avani Chaturvedi
Explanation :
Flying Officer Avani Chaturvedi became the first Indian woman to fly a fighter aircraft solo.
Avani Chaturvedi achieved this feat by flying a MiG-21 "Bison". She took off the MiG-21
"Bison" from the Jamnagar base of Indian Air Force (IAF). She already has the credit of being
one of the first three women to undergo fighter pilot training in the Indian Air Force. The other
two women are Bhawana Kanth and Mohana Singh. Avani Chaturvedi, Bhawana Kanth and
Mohana Singh were commissioned as flying officers into the fighter stream after finishing
basic training in June 2016, on experimental basis for 5 years initially.

82. Which Indian state is considered as the vaccine hub of India and the world?
1. Assam
2. Maharashtra
3. Telangana
4. Gujarat
5. Andhra Pradesh
Answer - 3. Telangana
Explanation :
Telangana Industry Minister K. T. Rama Rao said that, the Telangana government aims to
double the valuation of its life sciences ecosystem to $100 billion in 10 years. K. T. Rama Rao
made this announcement after he inaugurated the 15th BioAsia Summit. He said that 4 lakh
jobs will be created in the life sciences industry in the next 10 years. Current value of life
sciences ecosystem in Telangana is $50 billion. It has more than 800 companies. K. T. Rama
Rao also said that, Telangana contributes more than 35% to the national pharmaceutical
production of India. Telangana is also considered the vaccine hub of India and the world. It
produces nearly 33 % of global vaccines dosages. He said that, the Genome Valley cluster is
to be expanded. He said that, Genome Valley 2.0 will be initiated soon.

83. In which bank, the first sale of electoral bonds will be started from March 1, 2018?
1. SBI
2. Allahabad Bank
3. Central Bank
4. RBI
5. Postal Payments Bank
Answer - 1. SBI
Explanation :
On February 22, 2018, Union Finance Ministry announced that the first sale of electoral bonds
will start from March 1, 2018 for a period of 10 days at select branches of State Bank of India
(SBI). The electoral bonds scheme was announced during the 2017-18 Union Budget speech
of Finance Minister, Arun Jaitley. Broad contours of this scheme were notified in January 2018.

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This scheme will serve as an alternative to cash donations and is thereby an attempt to make
political funding more transparent. The bonds will be available in multiples of Rs.1000, Rs.
10000, Rs. 10 lakh, Rs. 1 crore. These bonds would be valid for 15 days from the date of
issue. Any citizen of India or an entity incorporated or established in India can purchase these
bonds. The bonds will not carry his/her/entity’s name. Thus it will be a bearer instrument.
Besides, it will be an interest-free banking instrument

84. Kunwar Bai recently passed away after suffering from a long time illness. He was
the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan mascot of which state?
1. Punjab
2. Assam
3. Karnataka
4. Maharashtra
5. Chattisgarh
Answer - 5. Chattisgarh
Explanation :
On 23rd February 2018, Kunwar Bai, Chattisgarh's Swachh Bharat Abhiyan mascot, passed
away after suffering from a long time illness, at Ambedkar Hospital, Raipur. Kunwar Bai was
106 years old. She was felicitated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi for her work to make her
village open defecation free in 2016. Kunwarbai had sold her goats for Rs 22,000 and built a
toilet at her home with that money, after she was inspired by Swachch Bharat mission.
Kunwarbai was made Swachhta Doot by Chattisgarh state government. She had been
spreading awareness on the importance of toilet among the village people.

85. On February 23, 2018, Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered the keynote address
at the 4th Global Business Summit in New Delhi. What was the Theme of this Global
Business Summit?
1. New Laws, New Initiatives
2. New Rules, New Regulations
3. New Economy, New Rules
4. New Economy, New India
5. New India, New Initiatives
Answer - 3. New Economy, New Rules
Explanation :
On February 23, 2018, Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered the keynote address at the 4th
Global Business Summit in New Delhi. During the address, PM Modi outlined that Indian
government is taking stringent action against financial irregularities and will not accept
unlawful acquisition of public money. Global Business Summit, is a flagship initiative of the
Times Group. The first edition was held in January 2015. It brings together, visionaries, heads
of state, thought leaders, policy makers, academicians and corporate heads for discussing
current macroeconomic issues and share their views on the same. Theme for Global Business
Summit 2018 was ‘New Economy, New Rules’. This year’s Summit was presented by Yes Bank
and Economic Times.

86. Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched development schemes worth __________
for Daman and Diu?
1. Rs 500 crore
2. Rs 900 crore
3. Rs 1000 crore
4. Rs 1200 crore
5. Rs 100 crore
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Answer - 3. Rs 1000 crore


Explanation :
Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched development schemes worth Rs 1000 crore for Daman
and Diu. On February 24, 2018, PM Modi launched the Pawan Hans helicopter service between
Diu and Daman. Diu and Daman are separated by Gulf of Khambhat and it takes 16 hours to
commute between these two places by road. The chopper service will reduce the commute
time to an hour. PM Modi also launched Ahmedabad-Diu flight service under UDAN (Ude Desh
ka Aam Naagrik–let the common citizen of the country fly), Regional Air Connectivity scheme.
In Daman, PM Modi laid foundation stones for several projects, including a water treatment
plant, an electric sub-station, a gas pipeline, a municipal market and a foot-bridge. He also
inaugurated anganwadis (child care centres) and schools constructed under corporate social
responsibility (CSR) initiatives.

87. What is the status given to National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) for the
fourth consecutive term of five years?
1. ‘A’
2. ‘B’
3. ‘C’
4. ‘D’
5. None of these
Answer - 1. ‘A’
Explanation :
National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), India has retained its 'A' status of accreditation
with Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI) for the fourth consecutive
term of five years. GANHRI, is a global network of national human rights institutions (NHRIs),
the administrative bodies set up to promote, protect and monitor human rights in a particular
country. GANHRI was formerly known as the International Coordinating Committee of National
Human Rights Institutions. GANHRI accreditation confers international recognition and
protection to the NHRI of a particular country. 'A' status accreditation is given to those NHRIs,
which are found fully compliant with the UN mandated Paris Principles. Any NHRI getting 'A'
status accreditation can participate in the work and decision-making of the GANHRI. As per
Paris Principles, one of the key responsibilities of NHRIs is to protect human rights by
receiving, investigating and resolving complaints and mediating conflicts.

88. Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has instructed all banks to integrate SWIFT (Society
for World Interbank Financial Telecommunication System platform) with its core
banking solutions (CBS) by ____________.
1. March 1, 2018
2. March 30, 2018
3. April 1, 2018
4. April 30, 2018
5. May 30, 2018
Answer - 4. April 30, 2018
Explanation :
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has instructed all banks to integrate SWIFT (Society for World
Interbank Financial Telecommunication System platform) with itscore banking solutions (CBS)
by April 30, 2018. This instruction by RBI is aimed at tightening internal controls in banks in
wake of Rs 11400 crore fraud that has been unearthed at Punjab National Bank (PNB). The
modus operandi of PNB fraud revolved around the misuse of SWIFT system by two officials of
PNB in a Mumbai Branch. SWIFT system is used by banks across the world to transmit
messages relating to cross border financial transactions.Through SWIFT, the two accused
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officials of PNB, issued unauthorised letters of undertaking (a kind of Bank guarantees) to


diamond and jewellery importer Nirav Modi-linked companies. The officials did not make these
entries in the CBS. This fraudulent activity was going on since 2011. As SWIFT was not
integrated with CBS in PNB, these transactions went undetected for over seven years.

89. Which company has commissioned a first-of-its-kind Medium-Voltage (MV) training


lab at INS Valsura, Gujarat, for the Indian Navy?
1. Tata Power
2. Siemens India
3. Adani
4. HAL
5. Kotak
Answer - 2. Siemens India
Explanation :
Siemens India has commissioned a first-of-its-kind Medium-Voltage (MV) training lab at INS
Valsura, Gujarat, for the Indian Navy. The MV training lab was inaugurated by Admiral Sunil
Lanba, the Chief of the Naval Staff, on 24th January 2018. This MV lab facilitates Indian Navy
officials to train, manage and operate modern equipment of Indian Navy without going to the
field. This lab will be utilized for first stage training of naval personnel on Medium Voltage
Power Generation, Protection & Distribution and MV Drives & Motors. Siemens supplied Motors
& Converters, Medium Voltage and Low Voltage Switchboards and automation systems for the
facility. This lab consists of equipment manufactured in India and is in line with the Make in
India initiative.

90. Who is the first Indian gymnast to win an individual medal at the Gymnastics World
Cup by bagging a bronze medal in the women's vault event, in Melbourne, Australia?
1. Aruna Budda Reddy
2. Trilok Singh
3. Bandu Bhosle
4. Khushi Ram
5. Darshan Mondal
Answer - 1. Aruna Budda Reddy
Explanation :
On 24th February 2018, Aruna Budda Reddy became the first Indian gymnast to win an
individual medal at the Gymnastics World Cup by bagging a bronze medal in the women's
vault event, in Melbourne, Australia. Aruna Budda Reddy scored 13.649 in the women's vault
event and finished in the third position. She won the bronze medal in the women's vault
event. Slovania’s Tjasa Kysslef won gold medal and Australia’s Emily Whitehead won silver
medal. Another Indian woman Pranati Nayak scored 13.416 and finished in the sixth position.
Aruna Budda Reddy will also participate in the final round of the floor event on 25th February
2018. India’s Rakesh Patra finished in the fourth position in the men's rings event.

91. Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), introduced a ‘Baal Aadhaar’ card
for children below the age of _________ years?
1. 5
2. 7
3. 9
4. 10
5. 12
Answer - 1. 5

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Explanation :
On February 26, 2018, Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), introduced a ‘Baal
Aadhaar’ card for children below the age of five years.’Baal Aadhaar’ Card will be of Blue
Colour. No biometric details will be needed for ‘Baal Aadhaar’. However, when the child turns
five, a mandatory biometric update will be required, which is to be done by taking the child to
any nearby Aadhaar centre. In context of this news, it is important to note that Aadhhar Card
is not mandatory for children in this age group. However, it is required if the child is attending
educational programmes overseas and if he/she wants to avail government scholarships.

92. Which Indian city hosted the the 21st National Conference on e-Governance 2018?
1. Dehradun
2. Allahabad
3. Itanagar
4. Hyderabad
5. Amaravati
Answer - 4. Hyderabad
Explanation :
On 26th and 27th February 2018, the 21st National Conference on e-Governance is held in
Hyderabad, Telangana. The 21st National Conference on e-Governance is organized by the
Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG), jointly with the
Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology along with Telangana Government. Y.S.
Chowdary, Union Minister of State for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences, presided over
the inaugural session. The theme for this year’s Conference is: ‘Technology for accelerating
Development’.

93. Which country hosted the 20th Conference of the Commonwealth Education
Ministers (20CCEM) from 19th – 23rd February 2018?
1. Fiji
2. Chile
3. Netherlands
4. Portugal
5. Italy
Answer - 1. Fiji
Explanation :
20th Conference of the Commonwealth Education Ministers (20CCEM) was held in Nadi, Fiji
from 19th – 23rd February 2018. The Conference was held for Education Ministers of
Commonwealth nations to meet and discuss solutions to contemporary issues and challenges
in education sector viz. low enrolment rates in preschool, primary and secondary schools,
gender disparities in education and low adult literacy. Theme of 20CCEM was “Sustainability
and Resilience: Can Education Deliver?”. Indian delegation to this conference was led by Dr.
Satya Pal Singh, Minister of State, Ministry of Human Resource Development. First
Commonwealth education conference was held in Oxford, UK in 1959. It has been taking place
every three years since then

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94. Which country hosted the XXIII Olympic Winter Games 2018?
1. South Africa
2. Greece
3. China
4. Japan
5. South Korea
Answer - 5. South Korea
Explanation :
PyeongChang Winter Olympics 2018, officially known as the XXIII Olympic Winter Games was
held in Pyeongchang, South Korea from 9th – 23rd February, 2018. In this edition of Winter
Olympics, competitions were held for 102 events across fifteen sports. More than 2900
athletes from 92 countries took part in PyeongChang Winter Olympics 2018. Motto of
PyeongChang Winter Olympics 2018 was “Passion.Connected”. Soohorang, a white tiger, and
Bandabi, an Asiatic black bear were the official mascots for this event.

95. Reserve Bank of India (RBI) raised the exposure limit under exchange traded
currency derivatives (ETCD) for residents and foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) to
________, across all currency pairs?
1. USD 50 million
2. USD 75 million
3. USD 100 million
4. USD 150 million
5. USD 200 million
Answer - 3. USD 100 million
Explanation :
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) raised the exposure limit under exchange traded currency
derivatives (ETCD) for residents and foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) to USD 100 million
across all currency pairs. As of now, four currency pairs, viz. USD/INR, EUR/INR (Euro),
GBP/INR (Great British Pound) and JPY/INR (Japanese Yen) are traded on Indian exchanges.
This instrument is primarily used by Indian exporters and importers and foreign portfolio
investors (FPIs) to hedge their risk against currency price fluctuations. Earlier exposure limit
set by RBI was USD 15 million for USD-INR contracts and USD 5 million for other currency
pairs. Increasing exposure limit will help the participants to better manage their risk and will
also improve the liquidity in the instrument.

96. Name the lake that has become the single largest habitat of Irrawaddy dolphins in
the world?
1. Pulicat
2. Loktak Lake
3. Wular Lake
4. Chilika Lake
5. Dal Lake
Answer - 4. Chilika Lake
Explanation :
Chilika Lake in Odisha has become the single largest habitat of Irrawaddy dolphins in the
world. A Chilika Development Authority (CDA) official said that, 155 Irrawaddy dolphins have
been identified in the Chilika Lake. This information has been provided based on the
preliminary report of the first 'Annual Monitoring' of the Chilika Lake conducted recently. The
'Annual Monitoring' was performed to count the number of marine mammals and to analyse
the hydrological impacts of removal of pen culture

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97. Prabodh Panda died recently due to heart attack at his residence. He was the former
MP and State Secretary of which state?
1. Rajasthan
2. Bihar
3. Haryana
4. West Bengal
5. Gujarat
Answer - 4. West Bengal
Explanation :
Prabodh Panda, former MP and State Secretary of West Bengal for Communist Party of India
(CPI), died due to heart attack, at his residence in Kolkata. Prabodh Panda was 72 years old.
He served as national President of the All India Kisan Sabha. He was a three-time MP from
Midnapore. He was first elected to the Lok Sabha in 2001. Then he was re-elected in 2004 and
2009

98. What is the position of India on Inclusive Internet Index 2018?


1. 45th
2. 47th
3. 50th
4. 55th
5. 70th
Answer - 2. 47th
Explanation :
India has ranked 47th out of 86 countries on Inclusive Internet Index 2018. This year’s
ranking marks a drop of 11 spots as compared 36th rank in 2017. Inclusive Internet Index is
commissioned by Facebook and is conducted by The Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU).
Inclusive Internet Index 2018 assesses the performance of countries in four categories of
inclusion viz. Accessibility, Affordability, Relevance and Readiness. It covers 91% of world
population residing in 86 countries.

99. In a bid to become a paperless organisation, Employees Provident Fund


Organisation (EPFO) has made it mandatory to file online claims for provident fund
(PF) withdrawals above Rs ______.
1. 25 lakh
2. 20 lakh
3. 15 lakh
4. 10 lakh
5. 5 lakh
Answer - 4. 10 lakh
Explanation :
In a bid to become a paperless organisation, Employees Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO)
has made it mandatory to file online claims for provident fund (PF) withdrawals above Rs 10
lakh. Online claims for withdrawals of above Rs 5 lakh under the Employees Pension Scheme
1995 has also been made mandatory. Claims of only those subscribers will be processed, who
have an active universal account number (UAN). Besides, bank account of the subscriber has
to be linked and verified in the system before claim settlement. EPFO currently has more than
5 crore subscribers and manages a corpus of over Rs 10 lakh crore.

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100. Who won the Laureus World Sportsman of the Year and Comeback of the Year
awards at the 2018 Laureus World Sports Awards, in Monaco?
1. Francesco Totti
2. J. J. Watt
3. Armel Le Cleac'h
4. Marcel Hug
5. Roger Federer
Answer - 5. Roger Federer
Explanation :
Swiss tennis star Roger Federer won the Laureus World Sportsman of the Year and Comeback
of the Year awards at the 2018 Laureus World Sports Awards, in Monaco. Roger Federer had
won the Australian Open and Wimbledon titles in 2017. Serena Williams bagged the World
Sportswoman of the Year award. She had won her 23rd grand slam in 2017.

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