CURRENT AFFAIRS 2023 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS IN ENGLISH (Current Affairs English– Oct) PRACTICE SET 10

Correct Answer : (A)

Explanation : Pakistan’s inflation rate surged to 31.4% year-on-year in September 2023, driven by soaring fuel and energy prices.

Correct Answer : (C)

Explanation : World Post Day is celebrated on October 9th every year to commemorate the creation of the Universal Postal Union (UPU) in 1874.

Correct Answer : (C)

Explanation : International Day of the Girl Child is celebrated every year on October 11. It is a global initiative dedicated to raising awareness about gender inequality and advocating for the rights and empowerment of girls.

Correct Answer : (C)

Explanation : The International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction, observed annually on the 13th of October, brings global attention to the critical issues of disasters and inequality.

Correct Answer : (C)

Explanation : The World Bank has estimated India’s economic growth rate in FY22/23 to be 7.2%. This is a significant achievement, given the global challenges faced by the country during the year. The growth was primarily driven by strong domestic demand and a revival in the services sector. The World Bank has also projected India’s economic growth rate to moderate to 6.3% in FY23/24. This is due to several factors, including the ongoing global economic uncertainty, the impact of the monsoon on agricultural output, and the rising cost of living.

Correct Answer : (C)

Explanation : Google and Qualcomm have joined forces to create wearable devices using RISC-V technology, contributing to the development of open-source hardware in consumer electronics.

Correct Answer : (C)

Explanation : The 37th National Games were inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on October 26, 2023, at Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Panaji, Goa. This marked the first time that the National Games were being held in Goa. The event is scheduled to run until November 9, 2023. The 37th National Games featured over 43 sports disciplines and saw the participation of more than 10,000 athletes from across the country. The event was a resounding success, showcasing India’s sporting talent and the rich culture and heritage of Goa.

Correct Answer : (A)

Explanation : Avinash Sable, the Indian steeplechase sensation, won the gold medal in the men’s 3000m steeplechase event at the Asian Games 2023, making him the first Indian man to do so. He also broke the previous Asian Games record in the event.

Correct Answer : (C)

Explanation : Narges Mohammadi, an Iranian human rights activist, was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2023 for her fight against the oppression of women in Iran and her fight to promote human rights and freedom for all. Mohammadi is a co-founder of the Centre for Human Rights Defenders in Iran and has been a vocal critic of the Iranian government’s human rights abuses. She has been imprisoned several times for her work, most recently since 2021.

Correct Answer : (B)

Explanation : Kotak Mahindra Bank has received the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) approval to acquire a 100% stake in micro-lender Sonata Finance valued at approximately Rs 537 crore. This acquisition is expected to help Kotak Mahindra Bank expand its reach in the microfinance sector and offer a wider range of products and services to its customers.

Correct Answer : (A)

Explanation : India’s Annu Rani won the gold medal in the women’s javelin throw with a 69.92m throw at the Asian Games 2023 in Hangzhou. She became the first Indian woman to win a javelin gold in Asian Games history.

Correct Answer : (B)

Explanation : Shubman Gill, representing India, was named the ICC Men’s ‘Player of the Month’ for September 2023 in recognition of his exceptional cricketing performance.

Correct Answer : (B)

Explanation : The International Day of Care and Support 2023 is celebrated on 29 October. It is a day to recognize and appreciate the contributions of caregivers, as well as to advocate for policies and initiatives that support and enhance care in all its forms. The United Nations General Assembly declared it as International Day of Care and Support through resolution A/RES/77/317.

Correct Answer : (D)

Explanation : The Union Government has increased the Dearness Allowance (DA) and Dearness Relief (DR) by 4% for Central government employees and pensioners, with effect from July 1, 2023.

Correct Answer : (C)

Explanation : The Indian Navy is all set to host the Mid-Planning Conference for MILAN 24 (Multilateral Naval Exercise- 2024) at Visakhapatnam from 19th February to 27th February 2024. This event follows a long-standing tradition of hosting the MILAN exercise, showcasing India’s commitment to fostering international maritime cooperation.

Correct Answer : (A)

Explanation : Sanjay Kumar Jain, an officer of the Indian Railway Traffic Service (IRTS) of the 1990 batch, has been appointed as the Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC). His appointment comes after a vacancy in the position since the retirement of Mahendra Pratap Maal in January 2021. The recommendation for his appointment was made by the Search-Cum-Selection Committee (SCSC) and subsequently approved.

Correct Answer : (A)

Explanation : Kerala is known as the Spice Capital of India due to its favourable climate and geography, which makes it ideal for the cultivation of a wide variety of spices. The state is particularly well-known for its production of black pepper, cardamom, and ginger. Kerala’s spice trade has a long and rich history, dating back to ancient times. The state was one of the main trading hubs for spices on the Silk Route. Today, Kerala continues to be a major exporter of spices all over the world.

Correct Answer : (D)

Explanation : Swan Energy, a Mumbai-based conglomerate, purchased Reliance Naval and Engineering for ₹231 crore through its special purpose vehicle, Hazel Infra, strengthening its presence in India’s shipbuilding industry and aligning with the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative for self-reliance.

Correct Answer : (A)

Explanation : India’s rank on the Global Pension Index 2023 has declined to 45th position out of 47 countries. The index is published by Mercer and the CFA Institute and assesses the adequacy, sustainability, and integrity of retirement income systems around the world. India’s score on the index has improved slightly from 44.4 in 2022 to 45.9 in 2023. However, its rank has fallen due to the inclusion of two new countries in the index, Thailand and Vietnam.

Correct Answer : (A)

Explanation : The Tata Group is set to become India’s first iPhone manufacturer after acquiring Wistron’s Indian operations. This move is expected to boost India’s electronics manufacturing sector and make the country a more attractive destination for global tech companies. The Tata Group is one of India’s largest conglomerates and has a strong track record in manufacturing. The group’s acquisition of Wistron’s Indian operations is a significant development that will help India become a global leader in electronics manufacturing

Correct Answer : (A)

Explanation : The European Union (EU) and India conducted their first joint naval exercise in the Gulf of Guinea on October 24, 2023. The exercise, which involved ships from the Indian Navy and three EU member states, was aimed at strengthening maritime security cooperation in the region. The EU-India Maritime Security Dialogue, which was held in Brussels on October 5, 2023, paved the way for the exercise. The dialogue focused on a range of issues, including maritime security cooperation, piracy, and human trafficking.

Correct Answer : (D)

Explanation : The RBI has not announced any interest rate cuts in its recent monetary policy announcement. On the contrary, RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das emphasized the central bank’s commitment to achieving a durable 4% inflation target while keeping benchmark interest rates unchanged for the fourth consecutive meeting.

Correct Answer : (A)

Explanation : Claudia Dale Goldin is an American economic historian and labor economist who is currently the Henry Lee Professor of Economics at Harvard University. Claudia Goldin won the 2023 Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences “for having advanced our understanding of women’s labor market outcomes”. Goldin is only the third woman to win the Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences, after Elinor Ostrom in 2009 and Esther Duflo in 2019. Her award is a recognition of her important contributions to the field of economics and her work to promote gender equality.

Correct Answer : (A)

Explanation : RITES Ltd has been granted the ‘Navratna’ status, making it the 16th Central Public Sector Enterprise in India to receive this distinction.

Correct Answer : (B)

Explanation : Dilip Nongmaithem, a writer in the Manipuri language, was awarded the Sahitya Akademi’s Bal Sahitya Puraskar for the year 2023 for his book ‘Ibemma Amasung Ngabemma.’ The Sahitya Akademi is India’s premier literary institution. The Bal Sahitya Puraskar is awarded annually to children’s authors for outstanding contributions to children’s literature in any of the 22 Indian languages recognized by the Akademi.

Correct Answer : (B)

Explanation : Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Ltd (MRPL) has won the ‘Best Innovation in Refinery’ award for the year 2022-23. This is a significant achievement, as it marks the second consecutive year that MRPL has received this accolade. The award is a testament to MRPL’s commitment to innovation and its efforts to improve the efficiency and sustainability of its operations.

Correct Answer : (A)

Explanation : Michael Douglas will be conferred with the Satyajit Ray Excellence in Film Lifetime Award at the 54th International Film Festival in Goa, recognizing his significant contributions to the world of cinema. He has won numerous awards, including two Academy Awards and four Golden Globe Awards. He is also known for his iconic roles in films such as “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest,” “Fatal Attraction,” and “Wall Street.”

Correct Answer : (B)

Explanation : Arindam Bagchi has been appointed as India’s next Ambassador/Permanent Representative to the United Nations and other International Organisations in Geneva. He is currently serving as an Additional Secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs.

Correct Answer : (A)

Explanation : The Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) is a multi-scalar drought index that compares precipitation at a given time and location to the long-term precipitation record at the same location. The SPI can be used to track the onset, duration, and intensity of drought.

Correct Answer : (A)

Explanation : Robert Fico has become Slovakia’s new prime minister for the fourth time. He is a nationalist politician who has promised to prioritize Slovakian interests, reduce military aid to Ukraine, and curb immigration. His election has raised concerns among EU leaders regarding potential obstructionist policies. Fico’s victory is a sign of the growing popularity of nationalist sentiment in Slovakia. It is also a reminder of the challenges facing the European Union as it tries to maintain a united front in the face of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Correct Answer : (B)

Explanation : A group of 120 personnel from the Indian Army and Indian Air Force has left for Kazakhstan to participate in the 7th edition of the Joint Military ‘Exercise KAZIND-2023’ held in Otar, Kazakhstan from October 30 to November 11, 2023, enhancing bilateral ties.

Correct Answer : (A)

Explanation : Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has declared the Gangetic Dolphin as the state’s aquatic animal. The Uttar Pradesh government is committed to wildlife conservation, environmental preservation, and public awareness, as evidenced by its declaration of the Gangetic Dolphin as the state aquatic animal and the launch of the Meri Ganga Meri Dolphin 2023 campaign.

Correct Answer : (B)

Explanation : The Indian Army’s 3/5 Gorkha Rifles secured the gold medal at the 2023 Cambrian Patrol Competition, held in Wales, UK. The Cambrian Patrol Competition is a gruelling 54-hour military exercise that tests the physical and mental endurance of soldiers.

Correct Answer : (B)

Explanation : The Indian government has approved the Jamrani Dam Multipurpose Project in Uttarakhand, with an allocation of Rs 1,557 crore for its completion under the PMKSY-AIBP program.

Correct Answer : (B)

Explanation : Sri Lanka is set to take over as Chair of the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) on October 11, 2023, during the 23rd Council of Ministers Meeting. Sri Lanka will hold the chairmanship for two years.

Correct Answer : (A)

Explanation : At the FIDE World Junior Rapid Chess Championship held in Sardinia, Italy, Grandmaster Raunak Sadhwani emerged victorious by securing a total of 8.5 points over 11 rounds, clinching the championship ahead of Russia’s Arseniy Nesterov, who accumulated 8 points. Govhar Beydullayeva of Azerbaijan won the gold medals in the open and girls sections of the FIDE World Junior Rapid Chess Championship 2023.

Correct Answer : (D)

Explanation : North Korea has officially incorporated its nuclear weapons status into its constitution, making it the only country in the world to do so. This demonstrates the country’s commitment to maintaining its nuclear arsenal for national security.

Correct Answer : (A)

Explanation : Norway is providing ₹44.7 million of support over three years, until September 2026, to strengthen food security and environmental protection in Uttarakhand through India’s ‘Hunger Project.’ This initiative aims to empower women leaders, improve food security, and safeguard the environment, with a focus on the ecologically sensitive Uttarakhand region, benefiting marginalized households.

Correct Answer : (B)

Explanation : The Indian government has exempted the payment of Integrated Goods and Services Tax (IGST) on ocean freight services from October 1, 2023. This means that importers will no longer need to pay IGST on the cost of shipping goods from overseas. The exemption is expected to reduce the cost of imports for businesses, making Indian products more competitive in the global market. It is also expected to boost trade and investment in the country.

Correct Answer : (B)

Explanation : Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin announced cash awards and a scholarship program to honour and encourage the state’s space scientists and postgraduate engineering students.

Correct Answer : (C)

Explanation : The Madhya Pradesh government has announced a policy to reserve 35% of all state government job positions for women, excluding the Forest Department. This progressive amendment to the Madhya Pradesh Civil Services (Special Provision for Appointment of Women) Rules, 1997, comes just ahead of the upcoming state assembly elections.

Correct Answer : (D)

Explanation : Israel was declared a “State of War” after being hit by 5,000 rockets from Gaza on October 7, 2023. The attack was launched by Palestinian militants in response to the death of a senior commander and the killing of several civilians in Israeli airstrikes. Israel’s declaration of a “State of War” is a serious escalation of the conflict and could lead to further violence and bloodshed.

Correct Answer : (D)

Explanation : The Padma Bridge Rail Link in Bangladesh was funded by China, as part of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). India, Japan, and South Korea are all major development partners of Bangladesh, but they did not fund the Padma Bridge Rail Link. Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina marked a historic moment in the country’s infrastructure development by inaugurating the 82-km Padma Bridge Rail Link.

Correct Answer : (C)

Explanation : Israel tested its new laser-based ‘Iron Beam’ missile defence system, which is designed to destroy short-range rockets, artillery, and mortar bombs.

Correct Answer : (B)

Explanation : The RBI imposed a penalty of ₹12 crore on ICICI Bank for breaching rules related to the code of conduct for the bank’s directors and for failing to report fraud incidents.

Correct Answer : (B)

Explanation : Global Media and Information Literacy Week is observed from October 24 to 31 every year. It is an event of great importance in the realm of information and media literacy, as it serves as an occasion for reflection, celebration, and international collaboration on this critical topic.

Correct Answer : (C)

Explanation : Paytm is now the official sponsor of the 37th National Games in Goa, held from October 26 to November 9, 2023, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Correct Answer : (C)

Explanation : The Indian Army, along with BSNL, installed the first mobile tower at the Siachen Glacier, known as the world’s highest battlefield, to improve mobile communication for soldiers at extreme elevations.

Correct Answer : (D)

Explanation : The World Bank has revised its retail inflation forecast for India for FY24 to 5.9%, up from the earlier estimate of 5.2%. This upward revision is attributed to certain factors which caused a sharp increase in food prices in July 2023. It is important to note that this is just a forecast and the actual inflation rate may vary.

Correct Answer : (A)

Explanation : The government has decided to keep the interest rate on General Provident Fund (GPF) savings unchanged at 7.1% for the October-December 2023 quarter. This marks the 15th successive quarter where the government has maintained the status quo, ensuring stability for government employees’ retirement savings. The GPF is a government-sponsored provident fund scheme for central government employees. It is a voluntary scheme, and employees can contribute up to 12% of their basic salary to the GPF. The government contributes an equal amount to the GPF account of the employees.

Correct Answer : (A)

Explanation : Microsoft acquired Activision Blizzard in October 2023 for $69 billion. This is the largest acquisition in Microsoft’s history and the largest gaming acquisition in history. The deal gives Microsoft control over some of the most popular video game franchises in the world, including Call of Duty, World of Warcraft, and Candy Crush.

Correct Answer : (D)

Explanation : The Bihar caste census report revealed that Other Backward Classes (OBCs) constitute over 60% of the state’s population. This is a significant finding, as it shows that OBCs are the majority community in Bihar. The report is expected to have a major impact on social policy and planning in the state.

Correct Answer : (D)

Explanation : Argentina’s Congress has approved a bill that would abolish income tax. The bill is now expected to be approved by the Senate, which is also controlled by the Peronists. The bill would eliminate income tax for all Argentines, regardless of their income level. It would also eliminate taxes on capital gains and dividends. The government argues that the bill will help to boost economic growth and create jobs.

Correct Answer : (D)

Explanation : The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) released its quarterly bulletin of the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS), shedding light on the urban unemployment situation in India during the first quarter of the fiscal year. The PLFS bulletin revealed that the urban unemployment rate in India in the first quarter of the fiscal year 2023-24 was 6.6%.

Correct Answer : (A)

Explanation : World Statistics Day is celebrated on October 20th every year. The day was established by the United Nations Statistical Commission in 2010 to raise awareness about the importance of statistics in decision-making.

Correct Answer : (C)

Explanation : India has partially resumed visa services for Canadians after a suspension caused by strained relations, particularly due to a dispute related to a Sikh separatist’s killing in British Columbia.

Correct Answer : (A)

Explanation : The FICCI Economic Outlook Survey predicts a 6.3% expansion in India’s economy for the fiscal year FY24. This is a slight moderation from the 7.2% growth recorded in FY23, but it is still a healthy rate of growth. The survey attributes the expected slowdown to several factors, including the ongoing global economic uncertainty, the impact of the monsoon on agricultural output, and the rising cost of living.

Correct Answer : (B)

Explanation : Muneesh Kapur was appointed as Executive Director of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on October 3, 2023. He has over three decades of experience in the RBI, working in the areas of macroeconomic policy, research, and monetary policy.

Correct Answer : (D)

Explanation : RBL Bank introduced the GO Savings Account, a revolutionary subscription-based digital banking model offering high interest rates of up to 7.5% per annum. The subscription-based model offers customers several benefits, including high-interest rates, no minimum balance requirement, and a variety of value-added services.

Correct Answer : (A)

Explanation : Chetan Bhagat, the bestselling author of books like “Five Point Someone” and “2 States,” has been appointed as the Brand Ambassador of Edtech startup, Henry Harvin Education. This partnership is aimed at inspiring and empowering the youth of India.