Get.Set.

Law Monthly Magazine

February 2024
The Contents
CURRENT AFFAIRS NEWS 03
CURRENT LEGAL AFFAIRS NEWS 14
CURRENT AFFAIRS QUESTIONS 18

2
CURRENT
AFFAIRS NEWS

1. India’s 75th Republic Day

At India’s 75th Republic Day, the French military
contingent, from the Corps of French Foreign Legion,
participated in India's Republic Day parade for
the second time.The parade emphasized women's
empowerment with the participation of an all-women
tri-services contingent.The Maharashtra contingent of
the National Cadet Corps secured the Prime Minister's
Banner for the third consecutive year. Project Veer Gatha
aimed to inspire children about the sacrifices of the
Armed Forces. The Ministry of Culture’s winning tableau
depicted the evolution of democracy in India.
Republic Day commemorates the adoption of the
Constitution of India on January 26, 1950, marking
the country's transition to a republic. It was initially
celebrated as "Independence Day" or "Poorna Swaraj
Day" from 1930 to 1947. It symbolizes India's
sovereignty and democratic values, with the President
unfurling the tricolor as a renewal of commitment to the
Constitution.

3
 2. Scheduled Caste High-Level Committee

The Indian government has established a high-level committee, led by

the Cabinet Secretary, to tackle the issue of certain Scheduled Caste (SC)
communities receiving more benefits than the most backward ones. This
move follows demands from the Madiga community in Telangana, highlighting
broader concerns within SC communities across the country.The committee
aims to address grievances faced by various SC communities nationwide.
While initiated in response to the Madiga community's concerns, it seeks to
ensure equitable distribution of benefits, schemes, and initiatives to the most
backward SC communities among the over 1,200 Scheduled Castes in India.

The Madiga community in Telangana, constituting a significant portion of

SCs, has faced challenges accessing government benefits due to dominance
by other SC communities.SC communities in various states have reported
similar challenges, leading to the formation of commissions by both state and
union governments.While Articles 341 and 342 grant powers to the President
and Parliament to create SC lists, there is no explicit prohibition against
subcategorisation.

The Punjab government's attempt to subcategorize SC reservations ran into

legal hurdles, with the Supreme Court emphasizing the SC list as a single,
homogeneous group. However, a 2020 Constitution bench acknowledged the
existence of inequalities within the SC list, recommending reconsideration of
previous decisions.Subcategorisation will impact various communities across
states, including Balmikis and Mazhabi Sikhs in Punjab, Madiga in Andhra
Pradesh, Paswans in Bihar, Jatavs in Uttar Pradesh, and Arundhatiyars in
Tamil Nadu.

4
3. The Delhi High Court reverses permission
granted to terminate late pregnancy

The Delhi High Court recently reversed its decision allowing a 26-year-old woman to
terminate her 29-week pregnancy, emphasizing the unborn child's right to life. The court
directed the woman to deliver at AIIMS or any central or state hospital, prioritizing the
welfare of the fetus.

In response to high rates of induced abortions, the Shantilal Shah Committee was formed
in the 1960s, leading to the enactment of the MTP Act, 1971, permitting safe and legal
abortions to protect women's health.The MTP Act allows licensed medical professionals
to perform abortions under specific circumstances. The MTP Amendment Act, 2021,
extended provisions such as allowing unmarried women to terminate pregnancies due to
contraceptive failure and establishing medical boards to assess fetal abnormalities beyond
24 weeks.

The MTP Act allows termination due to contraceptive failure, extending to unmarried
women up to 20 weeks. Medical boards assess pregnancies beyond 24 weeks for fetal
abnormalities to allow for termination. It has privacy measures which restrict disclosing
terminated pregnancy details.While the Constitution doesn't explicitly mention abortion
rights, Article 21's right to life is interpreted broadly, balancing fetal rights with women's
reproductive autonomy.Many countries have liberalized abortion laws since the early
1990s, but some, like the US, have tightened regulations.

5
4. Khelo India Youth Games
The Khelo India Youth Games (KIYG) is a national-level, and Coimbatore, featuring 26 sports and a total of 933
multi-disciplinary sports competition aimed at school medals up for grabs.This year's edition sees the debut of
and college students in India, forming a crucial part of Squash in KIYG, while Silambam, an indigenous martial
the government's Khelo India initiative. Held annually in art, is featured as a demonstration sport.The mascot,
January or February, the games serve to foster a sports Veera Mangai, pays tribute to Rani Velu Nachiyar, an
culture and unearth talent at the grassroots level. Indian queen known for her resistance against British
colonial rule. The logo incorporates the figure of poet
Divided into under-17 and under-21 categories for
Thiruvalluvar, adding cultural significance.
school and college students respectively, KIYG operates
on a team championship format. Individual and team Additionally, the Khelo India Winter Games 2024 are set
performances contribute to the overall medal tally of to take place in Ladakh and Jammu & Kashmir, with a
their respective state or Union Territory.Past editions focus on winter sports. The recently unveiled mascot,
of KIYG have been hosted in various cities across 'Sheen-e She' or Shan, a Snow Leopard, adds a unique
India, including Delhi, Pune, Guwahati, Panchkula, and touch to the event, highlighting the region's biodiversity
Bhopal. The ongoing 6th edition is spread across four and cultural heritage.
cities in Tamil Nadu, namely Chennai, Trichy, Madurai,

6
5. UNESCO World Heritage Recognition 2024 – 2025

India's decision to nominate the "Maratha Military Konkan Coast, Deccan Plateau, and Eastern Ghats. The
Landscapes" for UNESCO World Heritage recognition Maratha Military ideology, which originated under the
in 2024-25 has garnered attention. This nomination rule of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, extended through
comprises 12 forts and fortifications strategically located subsequent rulers until the conclusion of Peshwa rule in
across Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu, showcasing the 1818 CE.
military prowess of the Maratha rulers from the 17th to
19th centuries. India's nomination of the Maratha Military Landscapes
follows meticulous criteria set by UNESCO. The
These forts, including Salher Fort, Shivneri Fort, Lohgad, nomination process involves inclusion in the Tentative
and others, highlight the integration of landscape features List for at least one year before formal nomination,
and terrain characteristics unique to the Western Ghats, followed by review by the World Heritage Committee.

7
 6. Corruption Perception Index 2023

The release of the 2023 Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) by Transparency

International has brought to light the persistent challenge of public sector
corruption globally. With over two-thirds of countries scoring below 50 out of
100, indicating serious corruption issues, the global average score remains
stagnant at 43, reflecting minimal progress over the past decade.

Denmark, Finland, and New Zealand lead the index with high scores, while
Somalia, Venezuela, Syria, South Sudan, and Yemen rank lowest due to
protracted crises affecting governance. India, ranked 93rd with a score of 39,
has witnessed a slight decrease from the previous year.

The connection between access to justice and corruption is evident, with

countries scoring low on the Rule of Law Index also performing poorly on the
CPI. Both authoritarian and democratic leaders contribute to undermining
justice systems, fostering impunity for corrupt practices.Factors contributing
to corruption include patronage, wage disparities, and the influence of political
ideology. Collusive and coercive corruption prevail, affecting public services,
justice systems, and economic development.

India has undertaken several initiatives to combat corruption, including

legislative measures like the Prevention of Corruption Act and the Lokpal and
Lokayuktas Act, and the establishment of institutions like the Central Vigilance
Commission.

8
7. UGC on De-reservation

The University Grants Commission (UGC) recently Critics argued that this provision violated the
introduced draft guidelines on implementing constitutional mandate of reservation and posed a threat
reservations in higher education, leading to significant to the representation and empowerment of marginalized
debate, primarily due to the proposal of 'de-reservation' communities in higher education. They contended that
in certain exceptional cases. The guidelines aimed to historically unfilled quota positions are traditionally re-
clarify existing rules and incorporate updates based on advertised or filled through special recruitment drives
court orders and Department of Personnel and Training until suitable candidates are identified, without resorting
(DoPT) circulars since the 2006 guidelines. to de-reservation.

The draft included chapters covering various aspects In response to the outcry, the Ministry of Education and
such as quotas in faculty posts, preparation of reservation UGC clarified that there was no new instruction permitting
rosters, de-reservation, verification of caste claims, de-reservation. They reaffirmed that the Central
and reservation in student admissions. The chapter Educational Institutions (CEI) Act, 2019, prohibits de-
on de-reservation sparked controversy as it suggested reservation of reserved posts, and all vacancies must be
the possibility of converting reserved faculty positions filled as per the 2019 Act. The UGC Chairman assured
to unreserved in "exceptional cases" with adequate that any provision related to de-reservation would not
justification from the university concerned. be part of the final document.

9
8. Uttarakhand Uniform Civil Code

The Uttarakhand Cabinet recently approved the draft However, concerns have been raised regarding the
report on the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), which is expected draft's potential infringement upon fundamental rights
to be tabled in the state assembly for enactment. Led by of religious freedom and personal liberty, and its impact
retired Supreme Court judge Ranjana Prakash Desai, the on the rights and interests of Scheduled Tribes (STs) in
drafting committee aimed to establish a set of common Uttarakhand. Critics argue that the draft does not respect
laws for all residents of Uttarakhand, irrespective of India's diversity and pluralism, imposing a uniform code
religion, caste, or gender. that may not align with the customs and practices of
different communities.
The UCC draft proposes to replace distinct personal
laws of various religions, focusing on marriage, divorce, The UCC, mentioned in Article 44 of the Constitution as
adoption, and inheritance. Key highlights include the a Directive Principle of State Policy, aims to establish
prohibition of practices such as polygamy, nikah halala, a uniform civil code for all citizens across India. While
triple talaq, and child marriage, along with a uniform Goa is the only state with a UCC, the Supreme Court
age for girls' marriage across all religions. It also aims has called for its pan-India implementation, citing the
to ensure gender equality in matters such as inheritance need to uphold secularism and address discriminatory
and marriage, proposing an equal property share for practices within existing personal laws.
Muslim women.

10
9. Interim Budget 2024 – 2025

The Interim Budget 2024-25, tabled in the parliament, indirect taxes, including import duties. Corporate taxes
outlines the vision of 'Viksit Bharat' by 2047, aiming for at 22% for existing domestic companies and 15% for
comprehensive development across all sectors. Real certain new manufacturing companies.
GDP growth for FY 2023-24 projected at 7.3%, aligning
The Budget place emphasis on the Poor, Women, Youth,
with RBI's revised growth projection. India's growth
and Farmers.Assistance to 78 lakh street vendors,
projection was upgraded by the International Monetary
30 crore Mudra Yojana loans disbursed to women
Fund to 6.3% for FY 2023-24.
entrepreneurs, and 1.4 crore youth trained under the
Fiscal deficit estimated at 5.1% of GDP in 2024-25. Gross Skill India Mission.Direct financial assistance provided
and net market borrowings through dated securities in to 11.8 crore farmers under PM-KISAN, crop insurance
2024-25 estimated at Rs 14.13 and 11.75 lakh crore, extended to 4 crore farmers through Fasal Bima Yojana.
respectively.Maintenance of existing rates for direct and

11
10. India’s Ramsar Sites

The Ramsar Convention, an intergovernmental treaty bird species, including the Bar-headed goose. The
adopted in 1971, aims to designate and protect wetlands Karaivetti Bird Sanctuary (Tamil Nadu) supports
of international importance. India, a signatory to this agricultural activities, this sanctuary is home to about
convention, designates Ramsar sites within its territory 198 bird species, including migratory birds like the Bar-
to recognize and conserve such vital ecosystems. The headed Goose and Pin-tailed duck. The Longwood Shola
recent addition of five more wetlands as Ramsar sites in Reserve Forest (Tamil Nadu) is named after the Tamil
India underscores the country's commitment to wetland word "Solai," meaning tropical rainforest, this forested
conservation. wetland hosts globally endangered and vulnerable bird
species, contributing to their conservation.
The Ankasamudra Bird Conservation Reserve
(Karnataka) is spread over 244.04 acres, this human- In addition to designating Ramsar sites, various initiatives
made village irrigation tank supports diverse bird have been undertaken at both global and national levels
species. The Aghanashini Estuary (Karnataka) covers an for wetland conservation. These include the Montreux
area of 4801 hectares, it is formed at the confluence of Record, World Wetlands Day, Wetlands (Conservation
the Aghanashini River with the Arabian Sea, providing and Management) Rules 2017, the National Plan for
various ecosystem services and supporting livelihoods. Conservation of Aquatic Ecosystems (NPCA), the Amrit
The Magadi Kere Conservation Reserve (Karnataka) has Dharohar Capacity Building Scheme, and the National
an area of nearly 50 hectares, this human-made wetland Wetland Conservation Programme (NWCP), launched in
serves as a habitat for vulnerable and near-threatened 1985 to protect vulnerable wetland ecosystems.

11. The Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Bill, 2024

The Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) hefty fines, for offenders. Additionally, it mandates the
Bill, 2024, recently introduced in the Lok Sabha, aims formation of a High-Level National Technical Committee
to address the pressing issue of unfair means in public to develop protocols for securing digital platforms and
examinations across the country. Over the past few ensuring the reliability of examination procedures.
years, there have been numerous cases of question
While the bill addresses critical issues, some concerns
paper leaks in recruitment exams nationwide, causing
have been raised regarding its implementation.
disruptions and affecting millions of applicants. The
Discretion given to state governments may lead to
bill seeks to tackle this issue by introducing stringent
variations in enforcement across states, potentially
measures to prevent such malpractices.
weakening its effectiveness. Moreover, loopholes in
The bill defines public examinations and outlines various sanctions and lack of clarity on the National Technical
acts that constitute unfair means, such as question paper Committee's composition and mandate could pose
leaks and tampering with documents. It prescribes challenges to its successful implementation.
severe punishments, including imprisonment and

12
12. 66th Grammy Awards

The Grammy Awards are one of the most prestigious won the award for Best Global Music Album for their
honors in the music industry, recognizing outstanding album "This Moment." The album, released in 2023,
achievements in various categories. The Grammy marked Shakti's return after 46 years under the same
Awards, originally known as the Gramophone Awards, name. Additionally, Zakir Hussain secured two more
were established in 1959 by the National Academy of Grammys at the ceremony—one for the best global
Recording Arts & Sciences (NARAS) in the United States. music performance with 'Pashto' and another for the
Recipients of Grammy Awards receive a golden statuette best contemporary instrumental album 'As We Speak.'
resembling a gramophone.
It's also worth mentioning that the album "This Moment"
At the 66th Grammy Awards held in 2024, the fusion features Indian flute player Rakesh Chaurasia, the
music group Shakti, comprising tabla maestro Zakir nephew of renowned flautist Hariprasad Chaurasia.
Hussain, singer Shankar Mahadevan, and others,

13
13. Constitution (Jammu and Kashmir)
Scheduled Tribes Order (Amendment) Bill 2024

The passage of the Constitution (Jammu and Kashmir) ative aims to promote social justice and inclusivity in lo-
Scheduled Tribes Order (Amendment) Bill, 2024, and cal governance structures, ensuring representation and
the Jammu and Kashmir Local Bodies Laws (Amend- participation of OBC communities in decision-making
ment) Bill, 2024, aim to address historical injustices and processes.
promote socio-economic and political empowerment
among specific ethnic groups and tribes in the region. Additionally, the bills align with constitutional provi-
sions related to tribal welfare and empowerment, in-
The Constitution (Jammu and Kashmir) Scheduled Tribes cluding Article 342 of the Constitution, which empowers
Order (Amendment) Bill, 2024, focuses on including four the President to specify tribes or tribal communities as
ethnic groups - Gadda Brahmin, Koli, Paddari Tribe, and Scheduled Tribes for the purposes of the Constitution.
Pahari Ethnic Group - in the list of Scheduled Tribes in Moreover, various legal provisions and initiatives, such
Jammu and Kashmir. The Jammu and Kashmir Local as the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Pre-
Bodies Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2024, provides reser- vention of Atrocities) Act, 1989, and the Pradhan Mantri
vation to Other Backward Classes (OBCs) in panchayats Van Dhan Yojana, aim to safeguard the rights and pro-
and Municipal Bodies of Jammu and Kashmir. This initi- mote the welfare of tribal communities across India.

14
CURRENT LEGAL
AFFAIRS NEWS

1. Supreme Court Declares Electoral Bonds Scheme Unconstitutional

 The Supreme Court has declared the Central government’s Electoral Bonds scheme unconstitutional, directing an
immediate halt to the issuance of these bonds by the State Bank of India (SBI).
 The unanimous decision by a five-judge Constitution bench, including Chief Justice DY Chandrachud, mandates
SBI to disclose details of bonds received by political parties since April 12, 2019, to the Election Commission of
India (ECI), which must then publish this information online. Additionally, political parties are required to return
any uncashed bonds within their validity period for a refund to the purchaser.
 This landmark ruling targets the anonymous contributions facilitated by the scheme, introduced in 2017 through
amendments to various acts, including the Income Tax and the Representation of People Act, aiming to enhance
transparency in political funding.

15
2. Supreme Court Reaches Full Strength with Justice PB Varale’s
Appointment
 The Bombay High Court has directed Netflix to conduct a private screening of “The Indrani Mukerjea Story: Buried
Truth” for the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) amid concerns over its impact on the ongoing Sheena Bora
murder trial.
 The documentary, originally scheduled for a February 23 premiere, features interviews with key figures in the
case, including Indrani Mukerjea’s children, Mikhael and Vidhie Mukerjea.
 The High Court’s intervention highlights the judicial system’s careful navigation between freedom of expression
and the integrity of ongoing legal proceedings.

3. Supreme Court to Review Maintenance Rights of Divorced Muslim

Women Under CrPC
 The Supreme Court will examine the entitlement of divorced Muslim women to seek maintenance under Section
125 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPc), a matter arising from a Telangana High Court order mandating a
Muslim man to pay ₹10,000 as interim maintenance to his ex-wife.
 Despite the landmark Shah Bano case affirming Section 125 CrPC’s applicability to Muslim women, the subsequent
Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Divorce) Act, 1986, has led to differing interpretations.

4. Supreme Court Reserves Verdict on Legality of Sub-Categorisation

in SC/ST Reservations
 The Supreme Court, led by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud and a seven-judge Constitution Bench, has reserved
judgment on a significant case questioning the legality of sub-categorising Scheduled Castes (Sc) and Scheduled
Tribes (ST) for reservation purposes.
 The case, which challenges the Punjab Scheduled Caste and Backward Classes (Reservation in Services) Act,
2006, addresses whether states have the authority to sub-categorise SCs and STs to ensure equitable distribution
of reservation benefits.
 The Court distinguished between “sub-classification” and “sub-categorisation,” suggesting that states might
need to implement the latter to aid more backward groups within these categories.
 The discussion highlighted the complexities of applying reservation policies and the need to ensure that benefits
reach all intended recipients.

16
5. New Bill in Lok Sabha Aims to Combat Unfair Practices in Public
Exams with Severe Penalties

 The Central government introduced the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Bill, 2024, in the Lok
Sabha, aimed at combating unfair practices in public examinations with strict penalties.
 Offenses such as leaking question papers, tampering with answer sheets, and conducting fake exams could result
in imprisonment between 3 to 5 years and fines up to ₹10 lakh for individuals, and up to ₹1 crore for exam service
providers.
 The legislation, tabled by Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh, specifies that offences will be cognizable, non-
bailable, and non-compoundable, with harsher penalties for organized crimes related to exam fraud, including up
to 10 years of imprisonment.
 This bill seeks to ensure transparency, fairness, and credibility in public examination systems, safeguarding the
genuine efforts of millions of students.

6. Union of India and Others vs Ex. Lt. Selina John case

 “Terminating employment because the woman has got married is a coarse case of gender discrimination and
inequality.
 Acceptance of such [a] patriarchal rule undermines human dignity, right to non-discrimination and fair treatment.”
 The observations were part of an order which upheld the rights of Selina John, a former lieutenant and Permanent
Commissioner Officer in the Military Nursing Service, who was discharged from service in 1988 for getting married.
 A Bench headed by Justice Sanjiv Khanna directed the Union Government to pay Ms. John ₹60 lakh in compensation
within eight weeks.

17
7. Flagrant fraud: On the Chandigarh mayoral election

 It was an indirect election in which a mere 35 councillors could vote. Yet, the election of Chandigarh’s Mayor has
emerged as a microcosm of the sort of serious electoral malpractice that can undermine democracy.
 The Supreme Court of India, while declaring the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) candidate Kuldeep Kumar as the duly
elected Mayor, has exposed a malaise that is not often recognised in the great Indian election scene: the role of
officials in helping parties steal elections through fraudulent means during counting.
 The act of the Returning Officer, Anil Masih, in marking or defacing ballot papers, was not only captured on camera
but was also proven to be a ruse to declare invalid votes that were validly cast in Mr. Kumar’s favour.
 The Court warned against the democratic process being set at naught by “subterfuge”.

8. Farming consensus: On the government and the farmers on protest

 The protesters are demanding legally guaranteed MSP for crops, debt waiver, cancellation of international
agreements impacting the agriculture sector, and a minimum pension of ₹5,000 for farmers and agriculture
labour. This is in connection with all the farm laws passed by Parliament in 2020 and then notified The Farm Laws
Repeal Law, 2021, which negates the older laws.
 The MSP-based procurement by the FCI has been the bedrock of food security, but the case for its reform is
strong. Surplus producers of grain have benefited from the MSP scheme, but the scheme bypasses subsistence
farmers in poorer regions.

18
CURRENT AFFAIRS QUESTIONS

1. What is the theme of World Wetlands Day 2024?

a) Wetlands Conservation
b) Wetlands and Human Wellbeing
c) Biodiversity in Wetlands
d) Sustainable Wetland Management
Answer: B
Explanation: World Wetlands Day, observed annually on 2 February, aims to raise global awareness about the crucial
role of wetlands for both people and the planet. The day commemorates the adoption of the Convention on
Wetlands on 2 February 1971, in Ramsar, Iran. The theme for World Wetlands Day 2024, "Wetlands and Human
Wellbeing," highlights the significance of wetlands in sustaining both nature and human societies. It underscores
the intrinsic value of wetland ecosystems and their contributions to sustainable development and human
wellbeing.

2. How many recipients were awarded the Bharat Ratna in 2024?

a) 3
b) 4
c) 5
d) 6
Answer: C
Explanation: Five distinguished personalities, namely Karpoori Thakur, Mankombu Sambasivan (MS) Swaminathan,
Pamulaparthi Venkata (P. V.) Narasimha Rao, Lal Krishna Advani, and Chaudhary Charan Singh, are set to receive
the prestigious Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian honour. These individuals have made significant contributions
to politics, governance, and agriculture.

19
3. Which countries are part of the Quad grouping?
a) United States, China, Russia, Japan
b) India, Australia, United Kingdom, Canada
c) United States, Japan, India, Australia
d) Brazil, South Africa, Russia, China
Answer: C
Explanation: The Quad, a coalition of India, Australia, the US, and Japan, unites around their common identity as
democratic nations and shared interests in promoting unhindered maritime trade and security. Established in
2017, the Quad aims to ensure a "free, open, and prosperous" Indo-Pacific region. Initially proposed by Japanese
Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in 2007, the Quad gained traction after its revival in 2017, overcoming previous
challenges, including Australia's initial withdrawal due to perceived Chinese pressure.

4. The railway line connecting Nilambur in Kerala to Nanjangudi in Karnataka is known as:
a) Nilambur Express Corridor
b) Southern Tech Corridor Line
c) Golden IT Corridor
d) Karnataka Connect Rail
Answer: C
Explanation: The proposal for a 236-kilometre broad-gauge railway line, set to traverse Bandipur National Park, has
sparked concerns among conservationists striving to safeguard the protected area. This railway line is intended
to connect Nilambur in Kerala to Nanjangudi in Karnataka, recognized as the Golden IT Corridor. Wildlife experts
are voicing apprehensions regarding the potential ecological repercussions that the railway line may have on
Bandipur and Nagarahole national parks.

5. When is the India-funded greenfield oil refinery project in South Gobi expected to be operational?
a) 2022
b) 2024
c) 2026
d) 2028
Answer: C
Explanation: Mongolia's Ambassador to India, Dambajav Ganbold, has confirmed that the India-funded greenfield oil
refinery project in South Gobi remains on schedule for operational readiness by 2026. Ganbold acknowledged
certain delays from the Indian side in supplying products for the refinery plant. The primary objective of the
refinery is to decrease Mongolia's dependency on Russian oil imports. Upon its completion, the facility will boast
a capacity of 30,000 barrels per day or 1.5 million tonnes annually, contributing to meeting the country's demand
for gasoline, diesel, aviation fuel, and liquefied petroleum gas.

6. Who has the authority to initiate "adjourned sine die" in a legislative body?
a) Prime Minister
b) President
c) The presiding officer of the House.
d) Chief Justice
Answer: C

20
Explanation: In parliamentary proceedings, concluding a meeting is achieved through adjournment. The authority to
adjourn the daily sittings of the Lok Sabha lies with the Speaker and in case of Rajya sabha it lies with Chairman.
Unlike adjournment, which concludes a sitting, prorogation brings an entire session of the House to an end. The
President holds the authority to summon and prorogue either House of Parliament or to dissolve the Lok Sabha.

7. In which country is the Maputo Port located?

a) Mozambique
b) Tanzania
c) Angola
d) Kenya
Answer: A
Explanation: The Indian Coast Guard Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV) ICGS Varaha conducted a noteworthy port call at
Maputo Port, Mozambique, on February 14, 2024, as part of its strategic overseas deployment to East Africa.
This visit holds significant importance in the continuous diplomatic maritime engagements in the region. The
deployment of ICGS Varaha, an indigenously built Offshore Patrol Vessel, to East African countries serves the
dual purpose of showcasing India's shipbuilding industry prowess and capabilities while promoting the concept
of "Atmanirbhar Bharat" (self-reliant India).

8. Which regulatory body in India oversees and regulates Business Payment Solution Providers (BPSPs)?
a) Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI)
b) Ministry of Finance
c) Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
d) Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI)
Answer: C
Explanation: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has directed card networks like Visa and Mastercard to halt commercial
card transactions related to the Business Payment Solution Providers (BPSP) business. This action stems from
concerns about the authenticity and insufficiency of merchant Know Your Customer (KYc) practices and the
potential misuse of funds. BPSPs operate under the regulatory framework of the RBI, falling under the Payment
Aggregators and Payment Gateways (PA-PG) guidelines. The BPSP facility allows corporate credit card providers
to facilitate substantial payments directly to vendors or merchants' bank accounts, along with extending a credit
window of 15-45 days to the debtor.

9. In which year was the Jnanpith Award instituted?

a) 1950
b) 1961
c) 1975
d) 1982
Answer: B
Explanation: Renowned Urdu poet Gulzar and Sanskrit scholar Jagadguru Rambhadracharya have been honored
with the 58th Jnanpith Award. Established in 1961 by the cultural organization Bharatiya Jnanpith, the award is
presented annually to Indian citizens for outstanding contributions to literature in any of the 22 Constitutionally
recognized languages and English language.The prize includes a cash award of Rs 21 lakh, a citation, and a bronze
replica of Vagdevi (Saraswati), the goddess of learning.

21
10. Which institution released the paper titled "Senior Care Reforms in India: Reimagining the Senior Care Paradigm"?
a) Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
b) NITI Aayog
c) Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
d) Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment
Answer: B
Explanation: NITI Aayog has unveiled a position paper titled 'Senior Care Reforms in India: Reimagining the Senior
Care Paradigm.' The report was launched by NITI Aayog Vice Chairman Suman Bery in the presence of Dr. Vinod
K. Paul, Member (Health), CEO B. V. R. Subrahmanyam, and Secretary of the Department of Social Justice and
Empowerment (DoSJE) Saurabh Garg. Vice Chairman Suman Bery emphasized that the report's release marks a
significant step in India's commitment to achieving the goal of Viksit Bharat @2047.

11. The Munich Security Conference (MSC) is often referred to as:

a) Davos of Defense
b) Security Summit of Switzerland
c) Global Defense Forum
d) International Relations Assembly
Answer: A
Explanation: It is renowned as the foremost platform for discussing global security policy. The primary goal is to foster
trust and facilitate the peaceful resolution of conflicts through ongoing, carefully curated, and informal dialogues
within the international security community. Since its inception in 1963, the conference has taken place in Munich,
Bavaria, Germany. Held annually in February, the venue for this significant event is the Hotel Bayerischer Hof in
Munich, Bavaria.

12. Who is the current Chairperson of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (IBBI)?
a) Dr. M. S. Sahoo
b) Ravi Mital
c) Rajesh Verma
d) Nirmala Sitharaman
Answer: B
Explanation: Established on October 1, 2016, the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (IBBI) serves as the
regulatory authority responsible for supervising insolvency proceedings and entities within India. These entities
include Insolvency Professional Agencies (IPa), Insolvency Professionals (IP), and Information Utilities (IU).
The IBBI was endowed with statutory powers through the enactment of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code,
providing a comprehensive framework for addressing insolvency and bankruptcy matters in the country.

13. The sixth session of discussions for a Free Trade Agreement between India and Peru took place in:
a) New Delhi, India
b) Lima, Peru
c) Geneva, Switzerland
d) Washington D.C., United States
Answer: B

22
Explanation: The negotiations for a Trade Agreement between India and Peru entered the 6th round, conducted from
February 12 to 14, 2024, in Lima, Peru. This round builds upon the groundwork initiated in 2017 when the formal
announcement of the negotiation process was made.

14. Where did the G-77 Third South Summit take place?
a) Uganda
b) India
c) Brazil
d) South Africa
Answer: A
Explanation: Minister of State for External Affairs, V Muraleedharan, is scheduled for a three-day visit to Kampala,
Uganda, starting on Saturday, to engage in the Third South Summit of the Group of 77 and China (G-77). The
External Affairs Ministry has stated that the Summit's theme, "Leaving No One Behind," aligns with India's vision
of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, emphasizing the world as one family.

15. Which event, organized by the Ministry of Tourism, is scheduled to be digitally launched by the Prime Minister on
occasion of parakram divas?
a) Incredible India Festival
b) Bharat Parv
c) Cultural Heritage Extravaganza
d) Tourism Gala Showcase
Answer: B
Explanation: As part of the Parakram Diwas 2024 program, the Prime Minister is set to digitally inaugurate 'Bharat
Parv,' an event arranged by the Ministry of Tourism. The objective is to highlight the diverse cultural heritage of the
nation through Republic Day Tableaux and cultural exhibits.

16. Statement: The 22nd Law Commission has recommended that criminal defamation should be retained within the
scheme of criminal laws in India.
Question: Who is the current Chairman of the 22nd Law Commission of India?
a) Justice Ritu Raj Awasthi
b) Justice A.P. Shah
c) Justice B.S. Chauhan
d) Justice D.K. Jain
Answer: A
Explanation: Justice Rituraj Awasthi, former Chief Justice of Karnataka High Court, has been appointed as the
chairperson of the 22nd Law Commission of India. Additionally, four other members have been appointed to the
commission.

23
17. Statement: India's woman robot astronaut will fly into space ahead of the Indian Space Research Organisation
(ISRO) ambitious Gaganyaan mission.
Question: What is the name of the humanoid robot created by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) for
the Gaganyaan mission?
a) Arya
b) Vyomnaut
c) Vyommitra
d) Chandrama
Answer: C
Explanation: India's woman robot astronaut, Vyommitra, is set to precede the Gaganyaan mission, marking the
country's inaugural manned space flight. Union Minister Jitendra Singh announced that the uncrewed Vyommitra
Mission is scheduled for the third quarter of the current year, with the manned Gaganyaan mission planned for
launch in 2025. The name Vyommitra is derived from Sanskrit, combining "vyoma" meaning space and "mitra ''
meaning friend.

18. Statement: The Gir forest is the only natural habitat of the Asiatic lion. According to government data, the number
of these big cats in Gir rose from 523 in 2015 to 674 in 2020.
Question: In which Indian state is the Gir Forest located?
a) Rajasthan
b) Gujarat
c) Madhya Pradesh
D) Maharashtra
Answer: B
Explanation: In the last five years, a total of 555 Asiatic lions have died, according to information provided to the Lok
Sabha. However, the mortality rate has not seen an increase. The Gir forest in Gujarat serves as the exclusive
natural habitat for these lions. Government data indicates an increase in the number of these big cats in Gir, rising
from 523 in 2015 to 674 in 2020. Responding to a question, Union Minister of State for Environment Ashwini
Kumar Choubey stated that the lion deaths in the specified years were 113 in 2019, 124 in 2020, 105 in 2021,
110 in 2022, and 103 in 2023.

19. Statement: PM-SVANidhi boosted annual income of street vendors by Rs 23,000.

Question: Under which ministry was the PM-SVANidhi (Pradhan Mantri Street Vendor's AtmaNirbhar Nidhi)
scheme launched?
a) Ministry of Finance
b) Ministry of Agriculture
c) Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs
d) Ministry of Commerce and Industry
Answer: C
Explanation: The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUa) initiated the PM SVANidhi micro-credit scheme to
offer supportive guidance to street vendors. This program facilitates a collateral-free working capital loan starting
at ₹10,000, with subsequent loan amounts increasing to ₹20,000 and ₹50,000. Additionally, the scheme includes
a 7% interest subsidy to further aid street vendors.

24
20. Statement: External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar will address the inaugural session of the 7th Indian Ocean
Conference.
Question: Where is the 7th Indian Ocean Conference 2024 being held?
a) Australia
b) India
c) South Africa
d) Indonesia
Answer: A
Explanation: Dr. S Jaishankar, the External Affairs Minister, is set to deliver the opening address at the inaugural session
of the 7th Indian Ocean Conference in Perth, Australia. Beginning today, the two-day conference focuses on the
theme "Towards a Stable and Sustainable Indian Ocean." This annual conference, organized by the Ministry of
External Affairs in collaboration with the India Foundation since 2016, serves as a key consultative forum for
nations in the Indian Ocean Region.

21. Statement: In a significant diplomatic event, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to address the World
Government Summit (WGS) in Dubai.
Question: Which countries are designated as guests of honour at the 2024 World Government Summit?
a) Turkey (Türkiye)
b) India
c) Qatar
d) All of the above
Answer: D
Explanation:Türkiye, India, and Qatar have been designated as guests of honor at the 2024 World Governments Summit,
held in Dubai from February 12 to 14. The summit is organized by the World Government Summit organization,
a global, non-profit entity committed to influencing the future of governments. Held under the patronage of
Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and ruler of Dubai, the WGS
serves as a platform bringing together leaders, experts, and organizations worldwide. Since its establishment
in 2013, the Summit has been at the forefront of the mission to shape future governments and enhance the
prospects for humanity. The overarching theme for the 2024 summit is “Shaping Future Governments.”

22. Statement :The 14th Conference of Parties of CMS ended in Samarkand, Uzbekistan with the proposed
recommendation of listing 14 migratory species.
Question: What is the alternate name for the Convention on Migratory Species (CMS)?
a) Geneva Convention
b) Bonn Convention
c) Vienna Convention
d) Rio de Janeiro Convention
Answer: B
Explanation: The Convention on Migratory Species (CMS), commonly referred to as the Bonn Convention, is an
international environmental treaty administered by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). It
officially commenced on November 1, 1983, when it came into force.

25
23. Statement: The Home minister paid tribute to freedom fighter Vasudev Balwant Phadke on his death anniversary.
Question:By what name is Vasudev Balwant Phadke also recognized?
a) Hero of the Sepoy Mutiny
b) Father of the Indian armed struggle
c) Pioneer of Indian education
d) Leader of the Salt March
Answer: B
Explanation: Vasudev Balwant Phadke pioneered a grassroots approach in spreading the ideals of swaraj, being
the first Indian leader to traverse villages and advocate resistance against foreign rule. In 1879, he, alongside
associates such as Gopal Hari Karve, Vishnu Gadre, Ganesh Dedhar, formed one of India's earliest revolutionary
armies.Moreover, Phadke, along with Waman Prabhakar Bhave and Laxman Narhar Indapurkar, played a key role
in establishing the Poona Native Institution in 1874, now recognized as the Maharashtra Education Society.

24. Statement: Formal proceedings against ByteDance's TikTok under the Digital Services Act (DSA) have been
started.
Question: Which organization introduced the Digital Services Act (DSa)?
a) United Nations (UN)
b) European Commission (EC)
c) Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
d) World Trade Organization (WTO)
Answer: B
Explanation: The Digital Services Act (DSA) is a legislative proposal introduced by the European Commission. The
European Commission is the executive branch of the European Union responsible for proposing legislation,
implementing decisions, and managing the day-to-day business of the EU. The DSA is part of the EU's broader
Digital Single Market strategy and aims to regulate online platforms and services to ensure a safer and more
transparent digital environment.

25. Statement: People are protesting for the inclusion of Ladakh in the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution to protect
the region’s land, culture, language, and environment.
Question: How many states are covered under the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution?
a) One
b) Two
c) Three
d) Four
Answer: D
Explanation: The Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution pertains to the administration of tribal areas in the states
of Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Mizoram.

26
26. Statement: Biodiversity heritage site is a unique conservation approach recognized under section 37 of the
Biological Diversity Act, 2002.
Question: Which forest has been declared a Biodiversity Heritage Site?
a) Mandasari
b) Gupteswar Forest
c) Mahendragiri
d) Gandhamardan
Answer: B
Explanation: The Gupteswar Forest, situated near the Gupteswar Shiva temple in Odisha's Koraput district, has
officially been designated as the 4th Biodiversity Heritage Site (BHS) in the state. The initial Biodiversity Heritage
Site in India, declared in 2007, is the Nallur Tamarind Grove in Bengaluru, Karnataka. According to the National
Biodiversity Authority, the count of Biodiversity Heritage Sites in India has reached a total of 45 as of February
2024.

27. Statement: The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has announced 'Pradhan Mantri Suryodaya Yojana'.
Question: What is the target number of households under the Pradhan Mantri Suryodaya Yojana for receiving
rooftop solar installations?
a) 5 lakh
b) 50 lakh
c) 1 crore
d) 10 crore
Answer: C
Explanation: The objective of the scheme is to offer rooftop solar (RTS) power systems to one crore households, aiding
low and middle-income families in reducing their electricity expenses.

28. Statement: Chinese research vessel Xiang Yang Hong is entering the Indian Ocean and headed to Maldives,
according to Open Source Intelligence (OSINT) observers and maritime tracking portals.
Question: Which type of vessel is "Xiang Yang Hong"?
a) Cargo Ship
b) Research Vessel
c) Cruise Liner
d) Fishing Boat
Answer: B
Explanation: The vessel with the International Maritime Organization (IMO) number 9779692, named XIANG YANG
HONG , is categorized as a Research/Survey Vessel and operates under the flag of China.

27
29. Statement: NATO signed on tuesday a USD 1.2-billion contract to make tens of thousands of artillery rounds to
replenish the dwindling stocks of its member countries as they supply ammunition to Ukraine to help it defeat
Russia's invasion.
Question: Where is the headquarters of NATO located?
a) London, United Kingdom
b) Paris, France
c) Brussels, Belgium
d) Berlin, Germany
Answer: C
Explanation: The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), also known as the North Atlantic Alliance, is an
intergovernmental military alliance consisting of 31 member states, comprising 29 European nations and two
North American nations. Formed in the aftermath of World War II, the organization brought to fruition the North
Atlantic Treaty, signed in Washington, D.C., on April 4, 1949.

30. Statement: Election Commission of India is celebrating 14th National Voters’ Day (NVD) on 25th January 2024.
Question: Who is the current Chief Election Commissioner of India?
a) Manoj Soni
b) Rajiv Kumar
c) Arun Goel
d) None of the above
Answer: B
Explanation: Manoj Soni serves as the Chairman of UPSC (Union Public Service Commission). Rajiv Kumar currently
holds the position of Chief Election Commissioner, and Arun Goyal is an Election Commissioner.

28
29
30