Clearias Current Affairs Capsule Oct 2018

ly
h
ont
ClearIAS
M
Current Affairs
Capsule
MCQs
Oct 2018
Prelims Cum Mains
Integrated Approach by
ClearIAS.com
Before Interview
(October-May)
Clear IAS
Before UPSC interview, take -

ClearIAS UPSC Mock Interviews
+ DAF Analysis by ClearIAS Team
(June-September)
Before Mains
Take ClearIAS Mains Mock Exams

+ Mains Current Affairs
+ Revision
ClearIAS.com ClearIAS.com
Join Also, finish

Before Prelims
ClearIAS Optional Subject

(July-May)
+ Ethics Paper
Prelims + Essay Paper
Online + Additional GS
Mock Test Topics for Mains
Series
How to Clear IAS by Self-Study and Online Preparation?

Details - https://www.clearias.com/prelims-cum-mains/
Q1) With reference to the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC),
which of the following statements is/are correct?
1. National Human Rights Commission is a statutory body.

2. Chairperson of NHRC can be removed by the President only after the
motion for removal is passed by the parliament with special majority.
3. Justice M.N. Venkatachalliah was the first chairperson of NHRC.
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
A. 1 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Ans: (A)
Learning Zone: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) of India was
established on 12 October, 1993. The statute under which it is established is
the Protection of Human Rights Act (PHRA), 1993.
According to the NHRC Act, The NHRC chairman or a member can be removed
from his office by the President on the ground of proved misbehaviour or
incapacity. But the President has to refer the matter to the Supreme Court
which has to hold an inquiry into the allegations against the NHRC member
in question. It is only when such an inquiry has indicted the NHRC/SHRC
member for misbehaviour or incapacity, that the removal can take place. The
NHRC Act specifically mentions five grounds on which the President may
remove NHRC/SHRC chairman or member.
Justice Ranganath Misra was the first chairperson of NHRC.
Why is this question important?
This year marks the 25th anniversary of the National Human Rights
Commission (NHRC).
Source: http://nhrc.nic.in ;
http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=183863 ;
https://www.hindustantimes.com/india/cumbersome-procedure-to-remove-
1
justice-ganguly/story-gh6OBlOh2sHnUQNWoXOU5L.html
Page
Q2) Consider the following statements about Global Alliance of National
Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI).
1. GANHRI is an association of Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)

working in the field of human rights at the national level.
2. It was established in 1993, to promote and strengthen the National
Human Rights Institutions (NHRIs) to be in accordance with the Paris
Principles.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Ans: (B)
Learning Zone: Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions

(GANHRI) is the international association of national human rights institutions
(NHRIs) from all parts of the globe.
Established in 1993, the GANHRI promotes and strengthens NHRIs to be in

accordance with the Paris Principles, and provides leadership in the
promotion and protection of human rights.
The GANHRI through its Sub Committee on Accreditation (SCA) reviews and
accredits national human rights institutions in compliance with Paris
Principles.
NHRC, India is a member of the Global Alliance of National Human Rights

Institutions (GANHRI).
In February 2018, the National Human Rights Commission retained its ‘A’
status of accreditation with the GANHRI for the fourth consecutive term of five
years.
Source: https://nhri.ohchr.org/EN/Pages/default.aspx and

2
Page
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/nhrc-retains-its-a-status-of-
accreditation-with-ganhri-in-geneva/articleshowprint/63047908.cms
Q3) What is “SA-21 Growler”, sometimes seen in the news?
A. Solar Powered aircraft built by NASA

B. An indigenous missile defense system developed by DRDO
C. A deep-submergence rescue vehicle (DSRV) commissioned by the Indian
Navy
D. An advanced long-range defence systems built by Russia
Ans: (D)
Learning Zone: SA-21 Growler (Also Known as S-400 Triumf) is considered

one of the most advanced long-range defence systems in the world.
It is built by Russia.
India and Russia recently signed 39,000-crore deal for Triumf air defence
systems (NATO name: SA-21 Growler).
Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/s-400-kamov-on-the-
agenda-of-modi-putin/article25090371.ece
Q4) Consider the following pairs.
Lakes Corresponding States
1. Mansar Lake: Himachal Pradesh

2. Lonar Lake: Maharashtra
3. Pushkar Lake: Rajasthan
Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?
A. 1 only
B. 1 and 3 only
3
C. 2 and 3 only
Page
D. 1, 2 and 3
Ans: (C)
Learning Zone: In an estimated 12,000 years of existence, Mansar Lake, one of

the largest freshwater lakes in the Shivalik range of the Jammu region, is
facing an existential threat due to human intervention and climate change.
Lonar Lake in Maharashtra is Geological Survey of India’s (GSI) one of the

choice for UNESCO Global Geopark Network status. Other choices are St.
Mary’s Island and Malpe beach in coastal Karnataka.
Pushkar Lake or Pushkar Sarovar is located in Rajasthan. It is one of the

important pilgrimage sites.
The above mentioned lakes are in news recently for different reasons.
Source: https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/jammu-kashmir/12-000-yr-old-
mansar-lake-struggling-to-survive/574408.html and
https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/88-million-year-old-isle-and-
crater-to-be-geoparks/article25105544.ece
Q5) As per the 10th agriculture census (2015-16), consider the following
statements.
1. As per the census data the number of female land holders has nearly
doubled between 2005 and 2015.
2. The small and marginal holdings together constitute over 86% of the
total agricultural land holdings.
3. The average size of operational holding is highest in Kerala and lowest in
Nagaland.
A. 2 only
B. 1 and 2 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 2 and 3 only
4
Ans: (A)
Page
Learning Zone: According to agricultural census data, the percentage share of
female land holders increased from 12.79% (17.65 million) in 2010-11 to
13.87% (20.25 million) in 2015-16. Their numbers were nearly 11% (15.11
million) in 2005-06.
The small and marginal holdings taken together (up to 2 hectares) constitute
over 86% (125 million) of the total holdings in 2015-16 as against nearly 85%
(117 million) in 2010-11.
The average size of operational holding is highest in Nagaland (5.06 hectare)

and lowest in Kerala (0.18 hectare). The operational land is used wholly or
partly for agricultural production.
The agriculture census is carried out at five-year intervals as part of the

world agriculture census programme.
The first census in India was conducted in 1970-71. Data provides valuable
inputs to policy makers as they plan various interventions. The current
agriculture census is the 10th in the series.
Source: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/slide-in-farm-size-but-
women-land-owners-rise-agri-census/articleshowprint/66035943.cms
Region/City Corresponding Country
1. Sulawesi : Indonesia
2. Kunduz : Iraq
3. Zhuhai : China
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 1 and 3 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. None of the pairs given above are correctly matched
5
Page
Ans: (B)
Learning Zone: Sulawesi is an island in Indonesia which was recently affected
by the earthquake and Tsunami.
Kunduz is a province in Afghanistan. During the Afghan parliamentary

elections, more than 30 violent incidents were recorded in Kunduz.
Recently China built world’s longest sea bridge connecting the Zhuhai city on
the Chinese mainland with the two Special Administrative Regions of Hong
Kong and Macau.
These regions/cities were in news recently.
Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/quake-hit-
indonesia-seeks-foreign-aid/article25099666.ece ;
https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/the-making-of-worlds-longest-
sea-bridge-china-mainland-to-hong-kong-5411760/
Q7) In the context of recently concluded U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement

(USMCA), which of the following statements is/are correct?
1. USMCA replaced the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA).

2. USMCA introduced new dispute settlement provisions, which were not
present in the NAFTA.
A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Ans: (A)
Learning Zone: The U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) updates and

replaces the nearly 25-year-old North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA).
NAFTA had the dispute settlement provisions which were left unchanged under
6
the USMCA.
Page
The agreement covers a region of 500 million residents and conducts about $1
trillion in trade a year.
The deal is intended to last for 16 years and will be reviewed after every six
years.
Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/us-canada-agree-
on-free-trade-pact/article25099650.ece
Q8) Consider the following statements.
1. Overall yearly index of eight core industries has steadily increased in the
last five years.
2. Electricity generation has the highest weight among the eight core
industries.
A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Ans: (A)
Learning Zone: Index of eight core industries has steadily increased in the last
five years.
Year 2012-13 2013-14 2014-15 2015-16 2016-17 2017-18

Overall Yearly
Index of Core 103.8 106.5 111.7 115.1 120.5 125.7
Industries
Among the core industries, Petroleum Refinery production has the weight of
28.04 per cent. Electricity generation (Including generation from renewable
sources) has a weight of 19.85 per cent.

7
Page
The Index of Eight Core Industries is a monthly production index, which is
considered as a lead indicator of the monthly industrial performance.
Index of Eight Core Industries contains index, production and growth of Eight
Core Industries. Eight Core Industries are Electricity, steel, refinery products,
crude oil, coal, cement, natural gas and fertilizers.
Source: http://www.pib.nic.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1548092
Q9) Debrigarh wildlife sanctuary is located in which of the following

state?
A. Assam
B. West Bengal Odisha
C. Odisha
D. Arunachal Pradesh
Ans: (C)
Learning Zone: Debrigarh wildlife sanctuary is located in Odisha.
Recently, movement of the Royal Bengal tigers has been captured by closed-
circuit television cameras installed at Debrigarh wildlife sanctuary in
Sambalpur district of Odisha.
The Odisha government has confirmed the presence of tigers in two more
forests in the State. They are the Hemgiri forest in Sundargarh and Muniguda
forest in Rayagada district.
The Similipal Tiger Reserve in Mayurbhanj and the Satokosia Tiger Reserve
in Angul district are two known habitats of Tiger in Odisha State.
Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/tiger-
presence-in-3-more-odisha-forests/article25091584.ece
Q10) With reference to the Commercial Paper (CP), consider the following
8
statements.
Page
1. Commercial Paper (CP) is an unsecured money market instrument
issued in the form of a promissory note.
2. It was introduced in 1990 to enable corporate borrowers to diversify their
sources of long-term borrowings.
A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Ans: (A)
Learning Zone: Commercial Paper (CP) is an unsecured money market

instrument issued in the form of a promissory note.
CP, as a privately placed instrument, was introduced in India in 1990 with a

view to enable highly rated corporate borrowers to diversify their sources of
short-term borrowings and to provide an additional instrument to investors.
Subsequently, primary dealers (PDs) and all-India financial institutions (FIs)

were also permitted to issue CP to enable them to meet their short-term
funding requirements.
Commercial paper has been in the news in recent time due to the IL&FS crisis.
IL&FS Finance defaulted in late August on a commercial paper repayment.
Source: https://www.thehindu.com/business/Industry/a-beleaguered-
behemoth-and-its-169-units/article25099283.ece and
https://rbi.org.in/scripts/BS_ViewMasCirculardetails.aspx?id=9034
Q11) Consider the following statements about the Carbon Offsetting &
Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA).
1. CORSIA aims to address the annual increase in CO 2 emissions from

international civil aviation above the 2020 levels, taking into account
9
special circumstances and respective capabilities.

Page
2. The CORSIA is implemented in three phases, starting from 2021.
3. India is a signatory to the CORSIA.
A. 1 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 2 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Ans: (C)
Learning Zone: Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International

Aviation (CORSIA) aims to address any annual increase in total CO2 emissions
from international civil aviation (i.e. civil aviation flights that depart in one
country and arrive in a different country) above the 2020 levels, taking into
account special circumstances and respective capabilities.
The CORSIA is implemented in phases, starting with participation of States on

a voluntary basis, followed by participation of all States except the States
exempted from offsetting requirements.
 Pilot phase (from 2021 through 2023)

 First phase (from 2024 through 2026)
 Second phase (from 2027 through 2035)
India is not a signatory to the CORSIA.
Recently, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has issued draft
guidelines for aero plane operators flying on international routes to capture
their fuel consumptions and carbon emissions data annually, starting from
January 1, 2019.
The global air transport industry contributes 2 per cent of global carbon
emissions. In order to reduce carbon emission, International Civil Aviation
Organization (ICAO) adopted the Carbon Offsetting & Reduction Scheme for
International Aviation (CORSIA) in 2016.
10
Page
Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/business/aviation/for-
international-flights-dgca-wants-carriers-to-check-carbon-emissions-from-
january-1-5383498/ ; https://www.icao.int
Q12) With reference to the recently launched ‘Udyam Abhilasha’

initiative, which of the following statements is/are correct?
1. It is a national level entrepreneurship awareness campaign launched in

115 Aspirational Districts.
2. It is an initiative of Ministry of Skill Development and entrepreneurship.
A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Ans: (A)
Learning Zone: Udyam Abhilasha is a National Level Entrepreneurship

Awareness Campaign launched in 115 Aspirational Districts identified by NITI
Aayog in 28 States and reaching to around 15,000 youth.
The campaign was launched by SIDBI.
SIDBI has partnered with CSC e-Governance Services India Limited, a Special
Purpose Vehicle, (CSC SPV) set up by the Ministry of Electronics & IT, Govt. of
India for implementing the campaign through their CSCs.
The Udyam Abhilasha campaign would create and strengthen cadre of more
than 800 trainers to provide entrepreneurship training to the aspiring youths
across these districts thus encouraging them to enter the admired segment of
entrepreneurs.
11
Page
Q13) Which of the following statement correctly describes the term
‘Liquidity Coverage Ratio’ (LCR), often seen in the news?
A. It is a measure of the reserves that commercial banks are required to

hold in the form of government bonds, gold, and similar liquid assets.
B. It is a measure of the reserves that banks need to hold in the form of
cash.
C. It is a measure of highly liquid assets which can easily be converted into
cash that banks are required to hold.
D. None of the statements (A), (B) and (C) given above are correct in this
context.
Ans: (C)
Learning Zone: Liquidity Coverage Ratio is the measure of highly liquid assets
which can easily be converted into cash that banks are required to hold.
SLR, or statutory liquidity ratio, is a measure of the reserves that commercial

banks are required to hold in the form of government bonds, gold, and similar
liquid assets. CRR, or cash reserve ratio, is a measure of the reserves that
banks need to hold in the form of cash.
All three – SLR, CRR and LCR – are policy tools used by the Reserve Bank of
India (RBI) to influence the total amount of reserves held by banks at any point
in time. These reserve requirements, in turn, influence the amount of loans
that banks can extend to borrowers.
Source: https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/more-liquidity-for-
lending/article25114457.ece
1. RE-Invest is a global platform to explore strategies for development and

deployment of renewables.
2. RE-Invest is an initiative of United Nations Environment Programme
12
(UNEP).
3. The first session of the RE-Invest was held in New Delhi in 2015.
Page
A. 1 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 2 only
D. 1 and 3 only
Ans: (D)
Learning Zone: RE-Invest is a global platform to explore strategies for

development and deployment of renewables.
It is an initiative of Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE),

Government of India.
It showcases India’s clean energy market and the Government’s efforts to scale
up capacity to meet the national energy demand in socially, economically and
ecologically sustainable ways.
The inaugural session of the RE-Invest was held in New Delhi on 15 February
2015.
Recently, government of India organized the 2nd Global RE-Invest to provide

an international forum for established players as well as new segments of
investors and entrepreneurs to engage, ideate and innovate.
Q15) Consider the following.
1. Alphonso mangoes from Konkan region

2. Mahabaleshwar Strawberry
3. Agra Petha
4. Banarasi Sarees
5. Tirupati Laddus
Which of the above has/have received Geographical Indications (GI) tag?

13
Page
A. 1, 2, 4 and 5 only
B. 4 only
C. 2, 3 and 5 only
D. 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5
Ans: (A)
Learning Zone: Alphonso mangoes from Konkan region, Mahabaleshwar

Strawberry, Banarasi Sarees and Tirupati Laddus have received Geographical
Indications (GI) tag.
Recently, Alphonso from Ratnagiri, Sindhudurg, Palghar, Thane and Raigad

districts of Maharashtra, is registered as Geographical Indication (GI).
Full list of GI indicators can be accessed here:
http://www.ipindia.nic.in/writereaddata/Portal/News/367_1_Registered_GI.p
df
Q16) ‘Closing the Skills Gap’ project is an initiative of
A. World Bank
B. World Economic Forum
C. NITI Aayog
D. G-20
Ans: (B)
Learning Zone: The Closing the Skills Gap project is an initiative of World
Economic Forum (WEF).

14
Page
Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan recently launched a Task Force for
Closing the Skills Gap in India, in collaboration with the World Economic
Forum.
The Task Force is the second country-led public-private collaboration of the

World Economic Forum’s Closing the Skills Gap Project after South Africa.
Source: http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=183990
Q17) Consider the following statements about the Intergovernmental

Panel on Climate Change (IPCC).
1. It is an international body for assessing the science related to climate

change, setup under the United Nations Framework Convention on
Climate Change (UNFCCC).
2. Participation in the IPCC is open only to those countries that have signed
and ratified UNFCCC.
A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Ans: (D)
Learning Zone: The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) is the

international body for assessing the science related to climate change.
The IPCC was set up in 1988 by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO)
and United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) to provide policymakers
with regular assessments of the scientific basis of climate change, its impacts
and future risks, and options for adaptation and mitigation.
Participation in the IPCC is open to all member countries of the WMO and
United Nations. It currently has 195 members.
15

Page
A new report by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has
said that it is possible to keep the increase in global average temperatures to
within 1.5 degrees Celsius of pre-industrial times. But for that, the world would
need to bring down its greenhouse gas to about half of its 2010 levels by 2030,
and to net zero by about 2050.
Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/india/from-energy-to-
infrastructure-ipcc-lists-four-pathways-to-curb-global-warming-5391104/ and
http://www.ipcc.ch/news_and_events/docs/factsheets/FS_what_ipcc.pdf
Q18) In the context of Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace

(Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013, consider the following
statements.
1. The Act superseded the Vishaka guidelines, promulgated by the Supreme

Court in 1997.
2. As per the Act all workplaces with 20 or more employees are required to
constitute an internal committee to probe an allegation of sexual
harassment.
3. Under the Act any place visited by an employee during the course of
employment, including transportation provided by employer, is
considered as workplace.
A. 1 only
B. 1 and 3 only
C. 2 only
D. 2 and 3 only
Ans: (B)
Learning Zone: Vishaka guidelines, promulgated by the Supreme Court, were

in place since 1997. This was superseded in December 2013, by the Sexual
Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal)
Act, 2013.
16
All workplaces with 10 employees or more are required to constitute an

internal committee to probe an allegation. The committee should have a
Page
minimum of four members and half of them have to be women. The presiding
officer will have to be a senior level woman worker.
Workplaces with less than 10 employees need not form an internal committee
and all complaints will go to the local complaints committee set up as per the
Act by district officers in each district.
Apart from office, any place visited by an employee during the course of
employment, including transportation provided by employer for the visit, is
covered under the Act. If harassment takes place during a lunch meeting at a
restaurant, it will also be covered.
Various reports about the sexual harassment of women at workplace are often
seen in the news in the recent times, especially in the context of #MeToo
movement.
Source: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/touching-a-woman-
inappropriately-at-the-workplace-could-land-you-in-jail-for-5-
yrs/articleshowprint/66143332.cms
Q19) World Economic Outlook (WEO) report is published by which of the

following?
A. World Bank
B. World Economic Forum
C. International Monetary Fund
D. Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development
Ans: (C)
Learning Zone: World Economic Outlook (WEO) report is published by

International Monetary Fund.
In its latest World Economic Outlook (WEO) report the IMF projected India’s
growth at 7.3% in 2018 and 7.4% next year. It also predicted that the country
17
will regain the tag of the world’s fastest growing major economy this year,
Page
surpassing China with more than 0.7 percentage points.

Source: https://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-business/imf-projects-
india-growth-at-73-in-2018/article25173666.ece
Q20) Consider the following in respect of ‘Goa Maritime Symposium’.
1. The symposium is aimed at establishing academic excellence and

sharing of ideas amongst India’s maritime neighbours.
2. The first edition of Goa Maritime Symposium was held in the year 2014.
A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Ans: (A)
Learning Zone: The Indian Navy, through the Naval War College, Goa hosts
the ‘Goa Maritime Symposium. The maiden Goa Maritime Conclave held in
2017.
Aimed at establishing academic excellence and sharing of ideas amongst

India’s maritime neighbours, the symposium will facilitate interaction between
senior representatives of navies and maritime agencies in the Indian Ocean
Region on common issues of maritime interest.
The symposium is attended by the senior naval officers and representatives

from 16 Indian Ocean littoral countries, which include Indonesia, Malaysia,
Singapore, and Thailand from South East Asia; Bangladesh, Myanmar, and Sri
Lanka from India’s immediate neighborhood: the island nations of Seychelles,
Mauritius and Maldives; Oman in West Asia; and South Africa, Madagascar,
Kenya, Tanzania and Mozambique from Africa.
Indian Navy hosted the 2nd edition of the Goa Maritime Symposium – 2018 on
16th October 2018.
18
Page
1. Human Capital Index (HCI) seeks to measure the amount of human

capital that a child born today can expect to attain by age 18.
2. Human Capital Index (HCI) is released by the United Nations
Development Programme (UNDP).
Which of the statements given above is/are not correct?
A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Ans: (B)
Learning Zone: Human Capital Index (HCI) is released by the World Bank as
part of the World Development Report 2019.
As part of World Development Report (WDR), the World Bank has launched a
Human Capital Project (HCP). The HCP programme is claimed to be a
program of advocacy, measurement, and analytical work to raise awareness
and increase demand for interventions to build human capital.
Human Capital Index (HCI) – seeks to measure the amount of human capital
that a child born today can expect to attain by age 18 – is one of the
components of HCP programme.
The Human Capital Index (HCI) has three components:
 Survival, as measured by under-5 mortality rates;

 Expected years of Quality-Adjusted School which combines information
on the quantity and quality of education; and
 Health environment using two proxies of (a) adult survival rates and (b)
the rate of stunting for children under age 5.
19
Page
Q22) Which of the following indicator(s) is/are used in computing the
Global Hunger Index 2018?
1. Children under the age of five suffering from wasting

2. Children under the age of five suffering from stunting
3. Under five mortality rate
4. Undernourished population as a percentage of the total population
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 4 only
C. 1, 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2, 3 and 4
Ans: (D)
Learning Zone: Global Hunger Index 2018 is a peer-reviewed publication

released annually by Welthungerhilfe and Concern Worldwide. (The
International Food Policy Research Institute was also involved with the
publication until this year).
Four main indicators are used to calculate Global Hunger Index. The first
indicator is undernourishment, which is the share of the population which is
undernourished and reflects insufficient caloric intake. The next three
indicators use data for children under five: child wasting (low weight for
height), reflecting acute under-nutrition; child stunting (low height for age),
reflecting chronic under-nutrition; and child mortality.
India has been ranked at 103 out of 119 countries in the latest Index, with
hunger levels in the country categorised as “serious”.
Source: https://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/21-indian-
children-are-under-weight/article25197052.ece
Q23) The term ‘Qingdao Declaration’, often seen in the news, is associated
20
with which of the following?

Page
A. BRICS association
B. G-20
C. Shanghai Cooperation Organisation
D. Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank
Ans: (C)
Learning Zone: The term ‘Qingdao Declaration’ is associated with Shanghai

Cooperation Organisation.
Qingdao declaration was adopted at the 18 th Shanghai Cooperation

Organization (SCO) summit.
India attended the 18th SCO summit, but it refused to endorse China’s Belt and
Road Initiative in the Qingdao declaration.
Source: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/amid-us-friction-china-
wants-india-to-deepen-trade-ties/articleshowprint/66156047.cms
Q24) In reference to the National Commission for Protection of Child

Rights (NCPCR), Consider the following statements.
1. NCPCR is a non-statutory, non-constitutional body under the

administrative control of the Ministry of Women and Child Development.
2. NCPCR has the responsibility to safeguard and effectively implement the
rights provided under the Right to Education Act, 2009 .
A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Ans: (B)
Learning Zone: The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights

21
(NCPCR) was set up in March 2007 under the Commissions for Protection of
Page
Child Rights Act, 2005. NCPCR is statutory body under the under the
administrative control of the Ministry of Women & Child Development.
The Commission's Mandate is to ensure that all Laws, Policies, Programmes,

and Administrative Mechanisms are in consonance with the Child Rights
perspective as enshrined in the Constitution of India and also the UN
Convention on the Rights of the Child. The Child is defined as a person in the
0 to 18 years age group.
Apart from the responsibilities given under the under the Commissions for
Protection of Child Rights (CPCR) Act, NCPCR has responsibilities other Acts.
They are:
 Right To Education Act, 2009

 Examine and review the safeguards for rights provided by or under
this act and recommend measure for their effective implementation;
 Inquire into complaints relating to child's right to free and compulsory
education.
 Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012
Recently, Government appointed Priyank Kanoongo as chief of NCPCR.
Source: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/govt-appoints-chief-of-
child-rights-body/articleshowprint/66200329.cms and
http://ncpcr.gov.in/index.php
Q25) With reference to the ‘HarvestPlus programme’, which of the

following statements is/are correct?
1. The programme aims to improve nutrition and public health by

developing and promoting biofortified food crops that are rich in vitamins
and minerals.
2. HarvestPlus programme is an initiative of Food and Agriculture
Organization (FAO).
22

Page
A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Ans: (A)
Learning Zone: HarvestPlus improves nutrition and public health by

developing and promoting biofortified food crops that are rich in vitamins and
minerals, and providing global leadership on Biofortification evidence and
technology.
The HarvestPlus programme is an initiative of the Consultative Group on

International Agricultural Research (CGIAR).
Notwithstanding its food grain surpluses, India faces a complex challenge of

nutritional security. Latest innovations in biotechnology that fortify major
staples with micro nutrients like vitamin A, zinc and iron can be game
changers.
In India, the CGIAR group has released the iron-rich pearl millet.
Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/from-food-
security-to-nutrition-security-5401826/
Q26) Consider the following statements about Zika disease.
1. It is a viral infection, spread by Aedes aegypti mosquitoes.

2. Zika infection can transmit sexually.
3. The disease is categorised as a Public Health Emergency of International
Concern by WHO.
A. 1 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 2 only
23
D. 1, 2 and 3
Page
Ans: (C)
Learning Zone: Zika is a viral infection, spread by mosquitoes. The vector is
the Aedes aegypti mosquito, which also spreads dengue and chikungunya.
Additionally, infected people can transmit Zika sexually.
First identified in Uganda in 1947 in monkeys, Zika was detected in humans

five years later.
The disease is no longer a Public Health Emergency of International

Concern vide WHO notification since 18 th November, 2016.
Recently many parts of the Rajasthan reported outbreak of Zika infection.

Around 80 cases of Zika have been concentrated in parts of Jaipur.
Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/zika-outbreak-
hralth-ministry-prevention-treatment-5405278/ and
http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=184031
Q27) With reference to the Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) which of the

following statement is not correct?
A. It is an intergovernmental process established to foster dialogue and

cooperation between Asia and Europe.
B. India is a founding member of ASEM.
C. ASEM addresses political, economic, financial, social, cultural, and
educational issues of common interest.
D. 12th ASEM Summit (ASEM12) was held in Brussels, Belgium with the
theme of ‘Global Partners for Global Challenges’.
Ans: (B)
Learning Zone: The Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) is an intergovernmental

process established in 1996 to foster dialogue and cooperation between Asia
and Europe. Presently it comprises 53 partners: 30 European and 21 Asian
countries, the European Union and the ASEAN Secretariat.
The initial ASEM partnership in 1996 consisted of 15 EU member states and 7

24
ASEAN member states plus China, Japan, Korea and the European
Page
Commission. India joined in 2008.

ASEM addresses political, economic, financial, social, cultural, and educational
issues of common interest, in a spirit of mutual respect and equal partnership.
The 12th ASEM Summit (ASEM12) was held on 18-19 October 2018 in
Brussels, Belgium. The theme of the ASEM Summit was ‘Global Partners for
Global Challenges’.
and https://www.aseminfoboard.org/
Q28) With reference to the hybrid maize developed in India, consider the
following statements.
1. It is the world’s first ever variety rich in essential amino acids as well as
pro-vitamin A.
2. It is a genetically modified crop developed by the Indian Agricultural
Research Institute (IARI).
A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Ans: (A)
Learning Zone: The Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) has bred a
hybrid maize — Pusa Vivek QPM 9 Improved — that is claimed to be the
world’s first ever rich in essential amino acids such as lysine and tryptophan
as well as pro-vitamin A.
The new maize hybrid incorporates an Opaque-2 gene that enhances lysine
and tryptophan content, and another gene crtRB1, which results in higher
levels of carotenoids (beta-carotene, alpha-carotene and beta-cryptoxanthin)
that convert into vitamin A in the body.
25
Page
The bio-fortified hybrid is not genetically modified, as both the Opaque-2 and
crtRB1 genes are isolated from maize lines and not any alien/unrelated plants
or microorganisms.
The hybrid maize — Pusa Vivek QPM 9 Improved —is the world’s first ever rich
in essential amino acids as well as pro-vitamin A.
Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/india/iari-breeds-nutrient-rich-
hybrid-maize-5406575/
The Mahila Kisan Sashaktikaran Yojana is,
1. Aimed at empowering women in agriculture by making systematic

investments to enhance their participation and productivity.
2. A sub component of the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM).
3. An initiative of Ministry of Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare.
A. 1 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1 and 2 only
Ans: (D)
Learning Zone: To improve the present status of women in Agriculture, and to

enhance the opportunities for her empowerment, Government of India has
announced “Mahila Kisan Sashaktikaran Pariyojana” (MKSP), as a sub
component of the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM).
The primary objective of the MKSP is to empower women in agriculture by

making systematic investments to enhance their participation and productivity,
as also create and sustain agriculture based livelihoods of rural women.
26
It is an initiative of Ministry of Rural Development.

Page
India celebrated its first Women Farmer’s Day on October 15.
Source: http://mksp.gov.in/images/MKSP_Agriculture_Guidelines.pdf and

http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=148196
Q30) With reference to the ‘BepiColombo’ space mission, which of the

following statements is/are correct?
1. The mission aims to investigate the surface and magnetic field of

Mercury.
2. It is a joint mission between European Space Agency (ESA) and the
Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA).
A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Ans: (C)
Learning Zone: BepiColombo spacecraft has two probes, Bepi and Mio. They
will independently investigate the surface and magnetic field of Mercury.
BepiColombo is a joint mission between ESA and the Japan Aerospace

Exploration Agency (JAXA), executed under ESA leadership. BepiColombo is
Europe's first mission to Mercury.
Recently, ESA and JAXA successfully launched unmanned BepiColombo

spacecraft on a journey to the smallest and least explored terrestrial planet in
our Solar System. When it arrives at Mercury in late 2025, it will endure
temperatures in excess of 350 °C and gather data during its 1 year nominal
mission, with a possible 1-year extension.
27
Page
Source: https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/international/world-
news/europe-japan-send-spacecraft-on-7-year-journey-to-
mercury/printarticle/66291606.cms
Q31) With reference to the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF)

Treaty, consider the following statements.
1. The INF treaty banned the development, testing and possession of

ground-launched nuclear missiles with a range between 300 and 3,400
miles.
2. It is a bilateral treaty between United States and USSR, signed in 1987.
Which of the statements given above is/are not correct?
A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Ans: (D)
Learning Zone: Intermediate-range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty was signed on

December 8, 1987, by former US President Ronald Reagan and USSR General
Secretary Mikhail Gorbachev.
The treaty required both countries to eliminate ground-launched ballistic and

cruise missiles with range between approximately 300 and 3,400 miles.
The treaty was central to ending the arms race between the two superpowers,
and protected America’s NATO allies in Europe from Soviet missile attacks.
Recently, U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed that the U.S. would pull out
of the Intermediate-range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty with Russia.
Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/world/donald-trump-nuclear-
arms-treaty-russia-5411214/
28
Page
Q32) Consider the following statements about the Petroleum and
Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO).
1. PESO is responsible for ensuring the safety standards with reference to

explosives, petroleum products as well as compressed gases.
2. PESO comes under the administrative control of Ministry of Commerce
and Industry.
A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Ans: (C)
Learning Zone: PESO administers the responsibilities delegated under the

Explosives Act 1884 and Petroleum Act 1934 and the rules made there under
related to manufacture, import, export, transport, possession, sale and use of
Explosives, Petroleum products and compressed gases.
PESO, (Head Office at Nagpur) comes under Ministry of Commerce and

Industry, Department of Industrial Policy & Promotion, Government of India.
Recently Supreme Court asked PESO to ensure that firecrackers with only
permitted chemicals are purchased/possessed/sold/used during Diwali.
Source: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/sc-says-only-green-
crackers-this-diwali-bans-online-sale/articleshow/66339855.cms
1. National Air Quality Index tracks the concentration of eight air pollutants
including Carbon Dioxide and Ozone.
2. National Air Quality Index was developed by Central Pollution Control
29
Board (CPCB).
Page

A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Ans: (B)
Learning Zone: National Air Quality Index is a tool for effective communication
of air quality status to people in terms, which are easy to understand. It
transforms complex air quality data of various pollutants into a single number
(index value), nomenclature and colour.
There are six AQI categories, namely Good, Satisfactory, Moderately polluted,
Poor, Very Poor, and Severe. Each of these categories is decided based on
ambient concentration values of air pollutants and their likely health impacts.
Air Quality Index is evolved for eight pollutants namely PM10, PM2.5, NO2,
SO2, CO, O3, NH3, and Pb.
National Air Quality Index was developed by Central Pollution Control Board
(CPCB).
National Air Quality Index is often seen in the news in the context of air
pollution crisis in National Capital Region.
Source: https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/opinion/editorial/clear-the-
air/article25302503.ece and http://cpcb.nic.in/
Q34) Central Board of Direct Taxes recently released some data related to
tax collection in India. In this context consider the following statements.
1. The share of direct taxes has steadily increased in the last five years.
2. The direct tax to GDP ratio in 2017-18 was the highest in the last ten
years.
3. Maharashtra and Delhi account for more than half of the total direct tax
collection.
30
Which of the statements give above is/are correct?

Page
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Ans: (B)
Learning Zone: According to data released by the Central Board of Direct

Taxes –
 The total number of tax returns filed in the country increased by over
80% over the last four financial years.
 The direct tax to GDP ratio rose to 5.98% in 2017-18, the highest it
has been in the last 10 years.
 With tax growth rate surpassing the growth in GDP, the tax buoyancy
factor rose to 1.81.
 The share of direct taxes has fallen every single year since 2013-14,
except this year. . In other words, most of the rise in the total tax
collection in the last few years has come from indirect tax collections.
 Maharashtra accounts for 38% of India’s direct tax collection. Delhi
accounts for 13.66 per cent of the collection.
Central Board of Direct Taxes recently released some data related to tax
collection in India.
Source: https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/editorial/in-the-
net/article25302743.ece and
https://indianexpress.com/article/business/maharashtra-accounts-for-38-of-
indias-direct-tax-collection-5420724/
Q35) In the context of ‘Seoul Peace Prize’, consider the following

statements.
1. The Seoul Peace Prize was established to commemorate the success of

the 24th Olympic Games held in Seoul, Republic of Korea.
31
2. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is the only Indian, so far, to receive this
Page
award.
A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Ans: (C)
Learning Zone: The Seoul Peace Prize was established in 1990 to

commemorate the success of the 24 th Olympic Games held in Seoul, Republic
of Korea – an event in which 160 nations from across the world took part,
creating harmony and friendship and a worldwide atmosphere of peace and
reconciliation.
The Seoul Peace Prize was established to crystallize the Korean people's
yearning for peace on the Korean Peninsula and in the rest of the world.
The Seoul Peace Prize has been awarded biennially to those individuals who
have made their mark through contributions to the harmony of mankind,
reconciliation between nations and to world peace.
Recently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi – the only Indian recipient, so far –
awarded the Seoul Peace Prize 2018.
Q36) The Alma Ata Declaration (1978) is related to
A. Nuclear disarmament
B. Elimination of Child labour
C. Gender equality in workplaces
D. Primary health care
Ans: (D)
Learning Zone: The Alma Ata Declaration (1978) is related to Primary health
32
care.
Page
The Alma Alta Declaration put “health for all” centre stage as a fundamental
right in 1978, with 134 countries committed to making primary health care the
mainstay to achieve universal health coverage.
2018 marks the 40th anniversary of the declaration.
In an event that marked 40 years of the historic Alma Ata Declaration, which
declared health a human right for all, all the 192 member countries of the
United Nations, including India, signed the Astana Declaration.
It was also in the news in the context of Ayushman Bharat Scheme of

Government of India.
Source: https://www.hindustantimes.com/analysis/the-community-s-
health-can-drive-great-economic-and-social-progress/story-
2ag82kBKbtOVbZgXtz2u2M.html ;
https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/health/astana-declaration-not-just-
health-but-affordable-health-for-all-61942
Q37) The Teen Age Girls (TAG) Report is published by which of the
following?
A. UN Women
B. UNICEF
C. NITI Aayog
D. Naandi Foundation
Ans: (D)
Learning Zone: The Teen Age Girls (TAG) Report is compiled and published by
the Naandi Foundation, with grant support from Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd.
Kerala topped the TAG index which compares the performance of each State
based on the status of their teenage girls, as a part of the survey findings of
The Teen Age Girls (TAG) Report, conducted by Project Nanhi Kali.
33

Page
This report is touted as the nation’s first report on what it means to be a
teenage girl in India.
Government of India said some findings of the reports are completely

misleading, especially in respect to their findings in relation to the Swachh
Bharat Mission/open defecation.
Source: https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/todays-paper/tp-
others/tp-states/article25328433.ece
Performing Arts States
1. Thang-ta : Manipur
2. Nata-Sankirtana : Assam
3. Lai-haraoba : Nagaland
A. 2 and 3 only
B. 1 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 2 only
Ans: (B)
Learning Zone: Thang-ta, Nata-Sankirtana, Lai-haraoba, Rasleela etc are

different forms of performing arts of Manipur.
Recently, Shri Rajkumar Singhajit Singh, a doyen of Manipuri dance, has been
selected for the Tagore Award for Cultural Harmony for the year 2014. His
choreography has been enriched by elements incorporated from various forms
of performing arts of Manipur.
Source: http://pib.nic.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1550843
34
Page

The GST Council is,
1. Chaired by the Union Finance Minister.

2. A constitutional body.
A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Ans: (C)
Learning Zone: The GST Council was constituted on 15th September 2016
under Article 279A of the Constitution.
It consists of the Union Finance Minister (Chairperson), Union Minister of State

in charge of the Revenue or Finance and the Minister in charge of Finance or
Taxation or any other Minister nominated by each State Government. Union
Revenue Secretary is the ex-officio Secretary to the GST Council.
The working of GST Council has ushered in a New Phase of Cooperative

Federalism where the Central and the State Governments work together to take
collective decisions on all issues relating to Indirect Tax regime of the country.
Till date, the Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council has taken 918 decisions
related to GST laws, rules, rates, compensation and taxation threshold etc.
More than 96% of the decisions have already been implemented through 294
Notifications issued by the Central Government.
Q40) The ‘Rashtriya Garima Abhiyaan’ is related to,
A. Rehabilitation of manual scavengers

B. Distribution of Aids and Assistive Living Devices to Divyangjans
C. Protection of rights of street vendors in public areas
35
D. Promoting the health and welfare of senior citizens in India

Page
Ans: (A)
Learning Zone: The ‘Rashtriya Garima Abhiyaan’ is related to eradication of
manual scavenging and Rehabilitation of manual scavengers.
Rashtriya Garima Abhiyaan is often seen in the news in recent times, in the
context of unfortunate deaths of manual scavengers and Swachh Bharat
Mission.
Source: https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/opinion/columns/from-the-
viewsroom/stop-manual-scavenging/article25125230.ece
Q41) Who among the following are part of the collegium for appointment
of the director of Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI)?
1. Prime Minister
2. Chief Justice of India
3. Union Home Minister
4. Leader of opposition in Loksabha
5. Chief Vigilance Commissioner
A. 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5
B. 1, 2 and 4 only
C. 3, 4 and 5 only
D. 1, 2 and 3 only
Ans: (B)
Learning Zone: The Lokpal Act, 2013, modified the procedure for the
selection of director CBI; it prescribed a collegium for the appointment of CBI
director.
The CBI chief is selected by a collegium chaired by the Prime Minister, with the
Leader of Opposition or the largest party in opposition in the Lok Sabha and
the Chief Justice of India being the other members.
36

Page
Government recently sent CBI director and special director on compulsory
leave, and appointed a new interim director following the row of allegation-
counter allegations between its top officials.
Source: https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/alok-verma-is-still-
director-says-cbi-ahead-of-supreme-court-hearing/story-
pkW521tx2AksYdlSobb44K.html
Q42) With reference to the ‘Thanjavur painting’ which of the following

statements is/are correct?
1. They are essentially religious paintings depicting the scenes from the
epics and the puranas, and images of deities.
2. In Thanjavur paintings, the images are painted on wooden planks.
3. Gold foils, precious and semi-precious stones are generously used in
Thanjavur paintings.
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Ans: (D)
Learning Zone: ‘Thanjavur paintings’ is essentially religious broadly comprises

two essential themes: the first being scenes from the epics and the puranas as
depicted on the walls and pillars of temples, and secondly, images of deities
consecrated inside temples, particularly of popular ones such as Srirangam
and Tirumala.
Portraits of kings, who were the patrons of these artists, as well as priests and
ordinary individuals, also find a place in these paintings.
These paintings are locally called Palagai (wooden plank) Padam (image), this
refers to the practice of painting the image on wooden planks, a stylistic
37
peculiarity of the region.

Page
Tanjore painting have a brilliant and jewel-like tone that its artists create by
judiciously using real gold and silver foil, precious and semiprecious stones,
beads, mirrors, and powdered metals – gold in particular.
Source: https://www.thehindu.com/books/books-reviews/thanjavurs-
gilded-gods-south-indian-paintings-in-the-kuldip-singh-collection-review-a-
rich-inheritance/article25335976.ece and
http://pib.nic.in/newsite/feacontent.aspx?relid=95533
Q43) The people belonging to ‘Maldhari community’, found in the western

India, are traditionally
A. Salt makers
B. Nomadic cattle herders
C. Weavers
D. Folk singers
Ans: (B)
Learning Zone: Maldharis are Nomadic cattle herders of Banni grassland (the
largest grassland of Asia) adjacent to the Great Rann of Kutch.
Agariyas are a community of salt workers.
Maldharis are leaving the grasslands as water gets scarce in the region. While
the area is known for its scarce rainfall and semi-drought conditions, it is for
the first time in 13 years that the Maldharis are leaving their villages in droves.
The maldharis are also known for their co-existence with the Gir's lions.
Source: https://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/bannis-
bane/article25350440.ece
Q44) ‘Expanded Partnership for Quality Infrastructure Initiative’ is

sometimes mentioned in the news in the context of the affairs of
38
Page
A. G-20
B. China
C. European Union
D. Japan
Ans: (D)
Learning Zone: ‘Expanded Partnership for Quality Infrastructure’ is an

Initiative of Government of Japan.
Under the initiative Japan will fully mobilize public and private resources, in
collaboration with other countries and international organizations, to address
the immense demand for infrastructure development in Asia.
India aims to synergize its "Act East Policy” with the Expanded Partnership for
Quality Infrastructure initiative.
Q45) In the context of ‘BreatheLife campaign’, consider the following

statements.
1. The campaign aims to mobilize cities and people to bring air pollution to
safe levels by 2030 to protect our health and climate.
2. It is a partnership of WHO, UN Environment and the Climate and Clean
Air Coalition.
A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Ans: (C)
Learning Zone: BreatheLife is a partnership of WHO, UN Environment and the

Climate and Clean Air Coalition to Reduce Short-lived Climate
39
Pollutants that aims to increase awareness and action on air pollution by

Page
governments and individuals.

The campaign aims to mobilize cities, regional & national governments, as well
as citizens to protect our health and planet from the effects of air pollution.
Recently, World health Organization held first ever Global Conference on Air
Pollution and Health.
Source: http://www.who.int/news-room/detail/29-10-2018-more-than-90-of-
the-world%E2%80%99s-children-breathe-toxic-air-every-day
Indices Organizations
1. Global Impunity Index : Committee to Protect Journalists

2. Global Competitiveness Index : World Economic Forum
3. Multi Dimensional Poverty Index : UN Development Programme
A. 3 only
B. 1 and 2 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Ans: (D)
Learning Zone: India has once again featured on the list of countries with the
worst record of punishing the killers of journalists, according to a report
released by the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ). This is the eleventh
year India has been placed on the annual Global Impunity Index list of CPJ.
India has been ranked as the 58th most competitive economy on the World
Economic Forum‘s global competitiveness index for 2018, which was topped
by the US.

40
These indices were in news recently.

Page
Source: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/india-among-nations-
with-worst-record-of-punishing-journalists-killers-
cpj/articleshowprint/66432534.cms;
https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/economy/indicators/india-
ranked-58th-most-competitive-economy-in-world-economic-forums-index-
jumps-5-places-from-2017/articleshow/66254753.cms
Q47) In the context of ‘Sabki Yojana, Sabka Vikas’ campaign, consider the
following statements.
1. The ‘Sabki Yojana, Sabka Vikas campaign’ aims to implement Gram

Panchayat Development Plan effectively.
2. The campaign was launched on 2nd October 2018, by the Ministry of
Rural Development.
A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Ans: (A)
Learning Zone: To implement Gram Panchayat Development Plan effectively,

the central government launched ‘Sabki Yojana, Sabka Vikas campaign’ on 2 nd
October, 2018.
Under this more than 2.5 lakhs Gram Panchayats of the country will be
included. Participation of grass root people will be ensured in preparing Gram
Panchayat Development Plans under this ambitious campaign.
The campaign will conclude in December 2018.
It is an initiative of Ministry of Panchayat Raj, GoI.

41
‘Sabki Yojana, Sabka Vikas campaign’ was launched on 2 nd October, 2018.

Page
Source: Kurukshetra, October 2018

Q48) In the context of ‘Oneer’ technology for disinfecting water, which of
the following statements is/are correct?
1. The technology is based on the principle of anodic oxidation.

2. Unlike the reverse osmosis (RO)-based purifiers, the new technology will
help in retaining all essential minerals in the water.
3. The technology was developed by Council of Scientific and Industrial
Research (CSIR).
Select the correct answer using the code give below.
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Ans: (D)
Learning Zone: The technology is based on the principle of anodic oxidation.

Raw water is passed through a chamber and disinfection occurs with the help
of singlet oxygen species generated at the anode.
The technology has been named Oneer – ‘O’ for singlet oxygen species and
‘neer’ for water.
A key feature of the technology is that purified water will retain all essential
minerals and there will be no wastage as it happens in reverse osmosis (RO)-
based purifiers. In addition, there will be no need to add any chemical and
the water can be stored for around 30 hours without the risk of any
recontamination.
The water purifier can eliminate disease-causing pathogens such as virus,

bacteria, fungi, protozoa and cyst to provide safe drinking water as per national
and international standards.
Scientists at the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research’s Lucknow-based

42
Indian Institute of Toxicology Research (CSIR-IITR) have developed a technology

Page
for disinfecting water that promises to provide safe and clean drinking water at
a cost of just two paise per liter.
Source: https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/water/csir-develops-
technology-for-disinfecting-water-at-rs-2-litre-61908
43
Page
ClearIAS Prelims
Online MockTest
Series
The Test Series You

Should NOT Miss!
Join now!
www.clearias.com
CLEARIAS - SELF-STUDY PACKAGE
FOR IAS EXAM
PROGRAMS
FREE GUIDANCE
Right guidance for beginners and veterans.
Save time, effort, and money.
Install ClearIAS app (free) from Google Play store.
Get strategies and tips from Toppers.
FREE STUDY MATERIALS

Quality notes which help you learn faster.
Prelims-cum-Mains Integrated approach.
Difficult topics made simple.
Current and Conventional Topics coverd.
PRELIMS TEST SERIES

Integrate learning with test-taking.
Online Mock Tests that help you learn faster.
More than 1,00,000 registered aspirants.
Recommended by toppers.
MAINS TEST SERIES

Answer Writing Practice.
Model Question Papers.
Right guidance, evaluation, and personal feedback.
Most Probable Questions and Topics covered.
INTERVIEW PROGRAM
Most probable questions/individual DAF analysis.
One to one sessions: Telephonic Mock Interviews.
Interview specific study materials.
Do’s and Dont’s in the interview.
HOW TO JOIN?
It's easy.
Check www.clearias.com and install ClearIAS app.
Follow ClearIAS on Facebook.
Subscribe ClearIAS emails. All the best!

Clearias Current Affairs Capsule Oct 2018

Enviado por

Dados do documento

Direitos autorais

Formatos disponíveis

Compartilhar este documento

Compartilhar ou incorporar documento

Opções de compartilhamento

Você considera este documento útil?

Este conteúdo é inapropriado?

Direitos autorais:

Formatos disponíveis

Clearias Current Affairs Capsule Oct 2018

Enviado por

Direitos autorais:

Formatos disponíveis

ly

Before UPSC interview, take -

Take ClearIAS Mains Mock Exams

Join Also, finish

ClearIAS Optional Subject

How to Clear IAS by Self-Study and Online Preparation?

1. National Human Rights Commission is a statutory body.

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

Justice Ranganath Misra was the first chairperson of NHRC.

Why is this question important?

1. GANHRI is an association of Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Learning Zone: Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions

Established in 1993, the GANHRI promotes and strengthens NHRIs to be in

Why is this question important?

NHRC, India is a member of the Global Alliance of National Human Rights

Source: https://nhri.ohchr.org/EN/Pages/default.aspx and

Q3) What is “SA-21 Growler”, sometimes seen in the news?

A. Solar Powered aircraft built by NASA

Learning Zone: SA-21 Growler (Also Known as S-400 Triumf) is considered

Why is this question important?

Q4) Consider the following pairs.

Lakes Corresponding States

1. Mansar Lake: Himachal Pradesh

Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?

Learning Zone: In an estimated 12,000 years of existence, Mansar Lake, one of

Lonar Lake in Maharashtra is Geological Survey of India’s (GSI) one of the

Pushkar Lake or Pushkar Sarovar is located in Rajasthan. It is one of the

Why is this question important?

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

The average size of operational holding is highest in Nagaland (5.06 hectare)

Why is this question important?

The agriculture census is carried out at five-year intervals as part of the

Q6) Consider the following pairs.

Region/City Corresponding Country

Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?

Kunduz is a province in Afghanistan. During the Afghan parliamentary

Why is this question important?

These regions/cities were in news recently.

Q7) In the context of recently concluded U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement

1. USMCA replaced the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA).

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

Learning Zone: The U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) updates and

Q8) Consider the following statements.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Year 2012-13 2013-14 2014-15 2015-16 2016-17 2017-18

Why is this question important?

Q9) Debrigarh wildlife sanctuary is located in which of the following

Learning Zone: Debrigarh wildlife sanctuary is located in Odisha.

Why is this question important?

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Learning Zone: Commercial Paper (CP) is an unsecured money market

CP, as a privately placed instrument, was introduced in India in 1990 with a

Subsequently, primary dealers (PDs) and all-India financial institutions (FIs)

Why is this question important?

1. CORSIA aims to address the annual increase in CO 2 emissions from

special circumstances and respective capabilities.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Learning Zone: Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International

The CORSIA is implemented in phases, starting with participation of States on

 Pilot phase (from 2021 through 2023)

India is not a signatory to the CORSIA.

Why is this question important?

Q12) With reference to the recently launched ‘Udyam Abhilasha’