What is the theme of World Wetlands Day 2016?
The World Wetlands Day is observed annually on February 2 to mark the adoption of the Convention on Wetlands in the city of Ramsar in Iran in 1971. The 2016 theme is ” Wetlands for our Future &ndash Sustainable Livelihoods”.
Who was crowned Miss Asia at the World Miss University 2016 pageant in China?
Rewati Chetri from India has been crowned Miss Asia (Best in Asia Continent) at the 2016 World Miss University pageant, held in Beijing, China.
Who has been appointed as the head of the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF)?
Major General Jai Shanker Menon of India has been appointed as the Head of Mission and Force Commander of the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) by UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon.
Who is the chairman of the recently created Tax Policy Council (TPC) in India?
To bring consistency in taxation policy, Finance Ministry has set up two committees &ndash one under Finance Minister and other under Revenue Secretary. While the Tax Policy Council (TPC) under the Finance Minister will take important policy decisions, the Tax Policy Research Unit (TPRU) under Revenue Secretary will be a multi disciplinary body. The two committees would start functioning from April 1, 2016.
Sanjeev Rajput is associated with which sports?
Two-time Olympian Sanjeev Rajput has recently secured India’s 12th Olympic quota berth from shooting for the upcoming Rio Games by finishing fourth in men’s 50m rifle 3 positions at the Asian Olympic Qualifying Competition in New Delhi.
Who has been chosen for Bhimsen Joshi Classical Music Award for 2015-2016?
Sarangi maestro Pandit Ram Narayan has been chosen for the prestigious Bharat Ratna Pandit Bhimsen Joshi Classical Music Award for 2015-2016.
The World Cancer day is observed on which date?
The World Cancer day is observed on February 4, 2016 with the theme “We can. I can.” as a step to fight the deadly disease that is prominent these days.
Who has been appointed as Vice-President of Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB)?
D J Pandian, a retired Gujarat cadre IAS officer, has been appointed as the vice-president and chief investment officer of the newly-created Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB).
Intizar Husain, who passed away recently, was related to which field?
Legendary Urdu fiction writer, novelist, columnist and poet Intizar Husain (93) passed away in Lahore, Pakistan. He was the first Pakistani and the first Urdu writer ever to be nominated for the prestigious literally award Man Booker International Prize for fiction.
Who is the author of the book titled “Nathuram Godse &ndash The Story of an Assassin”?
The book titled “Nathuram Godse &ndash The Story of an Assassin” authored by Anup Ashok Sardesai has been released on the death anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi on January 30, 2016.
The Brahmaputra Cracker and Polymer Limited (BCPL) is located in which state?
Lepetkata, near Dibrugarh, Assam. The BCPL is the first ever petro-chemical plant located in the entire North-Eastern region of India. It has been built at cost of Rs.10000-crore and shall be producing raw material for manufacturing plastic.
The National Organic Farming Research Institute will come up in which state?
The Union Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare has decided to establish the National Organic Farming Research Institute in Sikkim by upgrading the Regional Centre of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research in Gangtok.
Who has won the IIFL Wealth Mumbai International Open Chess Tournament 2016?
Grandmaster Swapnil Dhopade from Maharashtra has won the IIFL Wealth Mumbai International Open Chess Tournament 2016.
Which countries cricket boards have lost their permanent member status in International Cricket Council (ICC)?
The International Cricket Council (ICC) has removed the national cricket boards of India (BCCI), England (ECB) and Australia (CA) as the permanent members of its decision-making executive committee. The decision in this regard has been taken due to the widespread criticism received by ICC suggesting that these countries would take over cricket at the expense of other member nations.
Which institute has become the India’s first fully solar-powered educational institute?
The Sri Aurobindo International Centre for Education (SAICE), Puducherry has become India’s first fully solar-powered educational institute.
The International Day of Zero Tolerance to Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is observed on which date?
The International Day of Zero Tolerance to Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is a UN-sponsored awareness day that takes place February 6 each year. Under the 2016 theme “Mobilizing to Achieve the Global Goals through the Elimination of FGM by 2030”, the day was observed to raise awareness of the practice and work towards its elimination.
Astronaut Edgar Mitchell, who passed away recently, hails from which country?
United States. NASA Astronaut Edgar Mitchell (85), one of just 12 human beings who walked on the moon, passed away in West Palm Beach, Florida.
The Indo-Nepal military exercise ‘Surya Kiran 2016’ will be held in which of the following location?
The 9th Indo-Nepal Combined Battalion level Military Training Exercise ‘Surya Kiran’ will be conducted from February 8 to 21, 2016 at Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand.
Which places is associated with the traditional Nada Kusti (wrestling)?
Mysuru is known for conducting the traditional Nada Kusti (wrestling). It is organised as part of Dasara festivities. Recently, it has made it to the cover page of an international publication, ‘Beyond the Body’.
Balram Jakhar, who passed away recently, was related to which field?
The former Lok Sabha Speaker and veteran Congress leader, Dr. Balram Jakhar (92) passed away recently.
Which project has been launched for prevention of AIDS in the eight North-Eastern states?
The Union government has launched a new initiative “Project Sunrise” to tackle the increasing HIV prevalence in the North-Eastern states.
Sudhir Tailang, who passed away recently, was related to which field?
The well-known Indian political cartoonist Sudhir Tailang (55) passed away recently.
Who has been invited from India to serve as a panelist on a UN panel on women’s economic empowerment?
Renana Jhabvala, an Ahmedabad-based social worker has been invited to serve as a panelist on a UN panel on women’s economic empowerment.
The inaugural Kerala Literature Festival 2016 has been hosted by which city?
The inaugural Kerala Literature Festival 2016 has been hosted by the Department of Culture and Kozhikode Corporation in alliance with D.C. Books at Kozhikode, Kerala from February 4, 2016.
The first joint tactical exercise of India and China has been conducted in which of the following location?
India and China conducted their first joint tactical exercise in eastern Ladakh as part of the ongoing policy to ensure greater interaction between troops stationed along the Line of Actual Control and boost bilateral military CBMs. The exercise was held on February 6, 2016.
The first-ever Global Maritime Summit will be held in which country in April 2016?
India will host the first-ever Global Maritime Summit in April 2016.
The National Institute of Science Education and Research (NISER) is located in which state?
The Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has recently inaugurated the National Institute of Science Education and Research (NISER) located at Jatani in Bhubaneswar, Odisha.
Currently, how many countries are members of the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) agreement?
The Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) is a multinational trade agreement among twelve Pacific Rim countries viz. Australia, Brunei Darussalam, Canada, Chile, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Peru, Singapore, Vietnam, and the United States.
Who has been named in ICC’s newly appointed Anti-Corruption Oversight Group?
Indian batting great Rahul Dravid has been named in ICC’s newly appointed Anti-Corruption Oversight Group as part of the recommendation from its Integrity Working Party of the parent body.
Which of the following countries has launched a long-range rocket defying international warnings?
Recently, North Korea has fired a long-range rocket defying international sanctions.
What is the name of the genetically-modified (GM) mustard developed in India?
A research team led by Deepak Pental at Centre for Genetic Manipulation of Crop Plants of Delhi University have developed a GM Mustard known as DMH-11.
Which airport is the first one in India to develop a color-coded map?
The Indian government is easing rules for granting construction permits around airports and monuments by developing colour-coded maps in a bid to give fillip to urban growth. Jaipur International Airport is the first one to develop a colour-coded map. All the other civilian airports across India, including 28 defence airports that are being used for civilian purposes, will have their maps ready by December 2016.
The famous Araku coffee is produced in which state?
Araku valley is a famous hill station located in Vishakhapatnam district of Andhra Pradesh. The valley is also famous for its rich coffee plantations.
Sushil Koirala, who died recently, belongs to which country?
The former Prime Minister of Nepal, Sushil Koirala (79) passed away in Kathmandu, Nepal. He spent his life in politics fighting for democracy in Nepal and led protests in 2006 that ended a centuries old monarchy system and turned Nepal into a republic country.
Who has been appointed as the President of the South Asian Wrestling Federation (SAWF)?
Brij Bhushan Singh, who is the President of Wrestling Federation of India (WFI), has been appointed as the President of South Asian Wrestling Federation (SAWF).
India observes the National Deworming Day on which date?
The National Deworming Day is observed every year on February 10 to combat parasitic worm infections among preschool (anganwadi) and school-age children across India.
Which state government has launched an initiative “School on wheels” for tribal children?
The Rajasthan state government has launched an initiative “School on Wheels” in Jaipur. Under the initiative, a van, which houses a library, has been set up by an NGO ‘Taabar Society’. The initiative has been introduced for spreading awareness about education among the tribal and nomadic children. The mobile school will use audio/video mediums to teach children in Jaipur district.
“Udyam Aakansha” scheme has been launched by which state for promotion of SMEs?
The Chhattisgarh government has launched Udyam Aakansha Scheme for promoting micro, small and medium enterprises in the state.
India’s first-ever Aviation Park will come up in which state?
The Gujarat government has planned to set up the country’s first-ever Aviation Park near Ahmedabad having a slew of facilities including an airstrip, training school, helipad and space for setting up small manufacturing units among others.
Who is the President of International Grown Diamond Association (IGDA)?
Indian-origin Singaporean, Vishal Mehta has been appointed as the President of the newly-formed International Grown Diamond Association (IGDA).
What is India’s position in milk production in the world?
According to the recent data, India is the major producer of milk in the world, recorded a milk production figure of 146.31 million tonnes in 2014-15 as compared to 137.7 million tonnes a year ago. India is followed by USA, China, Pakistan and Brazil.
Which state has topped the 2016 Index of Internet Readiness of Indian States?
According to the report titled “Index of Internet Readiness of Indian States”, Maharashtra has topped the “2016 Internet Readiness Index” followed by Karnataka, Gujarat, Telangana and Tamil Nadu.
What is the India’s position in the USCC’s 2016 Intellectual Property Index?
India has been ranked 37th out of 38 countries for its intellectual property rights environment in the annual IP index released by the United States Chamber of Commerce (USCC).
The Sonadia Island is located in which country?
Bangladesh has recently declined China’s proposal to build a sea port in the Sonadia island, which is situated in the Bay of Bengal.
The Noor Ouarzazate Solar complex is located in which country?
The world’s largest concentrated solar power plant “Noor Ouarzazate Solar Complex” has been opened in the Souss-Massa-Drâa area in Morocco, 10 km from Ouarzazate town.
Who has been conferred with the first world Sanskrit Award?
Thai Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn has been conferred with the first world Sanskrit Award.
Brendon Barrie McCullum, who recently retired from all forms of cricket, hails from which country?
New Zealand captain Brendon Barrie McCullum has retired from all forms of international cricket in February 2016. He played 260 One-Day Internationals (ODIs) and 71 T20 Internationals. He is the first and so far only player to have scored two Twenty20 International centuries.
India’s first international arbitration centre will come up in which city?
The Maharashtra government will set up India’s first international arbitration centre in Mumbai.
Who has been appointed as the part time member of the Prasar Bharti Board?
The bollywood actress Kajol has been appointed as the part-time member of the Prasar Bharati board. Beside her, the committee headed by Vice President Hamid Ansari has also chosen Shashi Shekhar Vempati, who has previously worked with Infosys and now heads an online media company, for the post of part-time member on the public broadcaster’s board.
The Delhi police has tied up with which Indian organisation to track crime in the city?
The Crime Mapping, Analytics and Predictive System (CMAPS) has been operationalised by Delhi Police in partnership with ISRO for effective use of space technology-based tools for ensuring internal security using a “predictive policing” and “live crime mapping” mechanism.
India’s first disabled-friendly beach will come up in which state?
India’s first disable friendly beach will come up at the Tithal beach in Valsad district, Gujarat.
Who is the author of the book titled “A Kingdom For His Love”?
A fiction book titled “A Kingdom For His Love” has been co-authored by Vani Mahesh and Shinie Antony, which is recently launched by Amar Chitra Katha (ACK). The book retell the Sanskrit play ‘Swapnavasavadattam’, by one of the earliest and most celebrated playwrights Bhasa. It is an immersive novel about two people coming together against all odds for the sake of true love.
Elephanta Island is located in which state?
The UNESCO world heritage site Elephanta Island, also known as the ‘City of Caves’, will soon get completely electrified by Independence Day 2016. The island is famous for its Hindu cave sculptures depicting the cult of Shiva. It is located in Mumbai Harbour, east of Mumbai, Maharashtra.
Who has been named vice-chairman of International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) Commission on Corporate Responsibility and Anti-corruption?
Davinder Singh, a top Indian-origin lawyer in Singapore, has been named as Vice-Chairman of International Chamber of Commerce Commission (ICC) on Corporate Responsibility and Anti- corruption.
Who has been appointed as new Australian High Commissioner to India?
Indian-origin Harinder Sidhu has been appointed as Australian High Commissioner to India. She replaces outgoing High Commissioner Patrick Suckling. She is the second envoy from Australia with Indian roots after Peter Varghese who had ancestral roots to southern Indian state of Kerala.
Name the umpire who has been banned by the Board of Control of Cricket in India (BCCI) for five years on corruption charges?
The BCCI has banned Pakistani umpire Asad Rauf for five years on charges of corruption and misconduct. Asad Rauf was sought after by the Crime branch in connection with the spot- fixing scandal that rocked the Indian Premier League in 2013.
By which of the following year, India has set the target of eliminating malaria in the country?
The Indian government has launched the National Framework for Malaria Elimination (NFME) 2016-2030, which outlines the country’s strategy for elimination of the disease by 2030. The incidence of malaria in the country is at 0.08% in a population of nearly 1.25 billion.
Which of the following agreement is signed between Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and UAE Central Bank?
The RBI has signed a pact with the Central Bank of the UAE to enter into a Currency Swap Agreement, which is aimed at strengthening economic ties with the Gulf nation. The MoU was signed between RBI chief Raghuram Rajan and UAE’s Central Bank Governor Mubarak Rashed Al Mansoori.
The Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO) detectors are located in which country?
Scientists for the first time have observed ripples in the space-time called gravitational waves. This confirms a major prediction of Albert Einstein’s 1915 general theory of relativity and opens an unprecedented new window onto the cosmos. The gravitational waves were detected by both of the twin Laser Interferometer Gravitational-wave Observatory (LIGO) detectors, located in Livingston, Louisiana, and Hanford, Washington, USA.
India’s first LCD panel plant will come up in which state?
Vedanta Group’s owner Anil Agarwal has announced that his firm Twinstar Display Technologies will set up India’s first LCD manufacturing facility, known as Panel FAB, in Maharashtra with an investment of $10 billion.
The World Radio Day is observed on which date?
The World Radio Day is observed every year on February 13 to educate people, to provide information and to promote freedom of expression across cultures. This year’s theme of the day is “Radio in Times of Emergency and Disaster”.
Approximately what per cent of total Indian workforce are unorganised workers?
As per government estimates, there are around 40 crore unorganised workers in the country, which accounts for around 89 per cent of the total workforce.
Who has been honoured with the ‘Pride of Kerala’ award?
The National award winning actress Vidya Balan, who hails from Kerala, has been honoured with the ‘Pride of Kerala’ award by the World Malayalee Council and Kairali TV.
Which country has won the ICC U-19 Cricket World Cup 2016?
The West Indies has won the 2016 ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup title by defeating three time champion India in Mirpur, Bangladesh. This is the first time West Indies won the title. The Man of the match award was presented to Keacy Carty (West Indies). Bangladesh’s captain Mehedi Hasan has been named player of the tournament. England’s Jack Burnham and Namibia’s Fritz Coetzee led the tournament in runs and wickets, respectively.
Who has been appointed as the director of Indian Institute of Millets Research (IIMR)?
Dr. Vilas A. Tonapi has been appointed as the director of Indian Institute of Millets Research (IIMR), Rajendranagar, Hyderabad. Previously, he was the Principal Scientist at Seed Science and Technology of the IIMR.
ONV Kurup, who died recently, was a famous poet of which language?
The renowned Malayalam poet-lyricist and Jnanpith winner Prof. O.N.V. Kurup (84) passed away in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala.
Which pair has won the 2016 St Petersburg Ladies Trophy (WTA)?
The top seeded Indo-Swiss pair Sania Mirza and Martina Hingis has won the 2016 St. Petersburg Ladies’ Trophy.
Which Indian state has become the first ever state to e- auction limestone blocks?
Jharkhand has become the first ever state to auction two limestone blocks through an electronic platform after the passage of the MMDR Act by Parliament.
Who has won the best actor award at the 2016 BAFTA awards?
At the 69th British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) 2016 awards,’ The Revenant’ has won the Best Film award along with Best Actor (Leonardo DiCaprio), Best Director (Alejandro Gonzalez) and Best Cinematography (Emmanuel Lubezki).
Which of the following team has won the inaugural Masters Champions League title (cricket)?
Virender Sehwag’s Gemini Arabians has defeated Brian Lara’s Leo Lions in the final to clinch the inaugural Masters Champions League title. The tournament was contested by six teams of fifteen players, all former international cricketers.
Which city has been declared cleanest city in Swachh Sarvekshan survey 2016?
Mysuru city from Karnataka has topped the list followed by Chandigarh, Tiruchirapalli, New Delhi Municipal Council, Visakhapatnam, Surat, Rajkot, Gangtok, Pimpri-Chindwad and Greater Mumbai, etc.
LAMITYE 2016, is the joint military exercise of India with which country?
The 14-day joint military training exercise “LAMITYE 2016” has started between the Indian Army and the Seychelles People’s Defence Forces (SPDF) at Seychelles Defence Academy (SDA), Victoria from February 15 that will be continue till February 28, 2016.
Which subsidiary of Tata Teleservices has tied up with IRCTC for easy payment?
The subsidiary of Tata Teleservices mRUPEE has tied up with Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) to provide an additional payment gateway which will enable users to successfully complete ticket bookings through one-tap payments.
The 2016 Outreach International Radio Fair has been held in which city of India?
The two day annual International Radio Fair ‘Outreach International Radio Fair-2016’ has been held in Bhubaneswar, Odisha on February 13, 2016.
The Mahamaggam festival is celebrated in which state of India?
The Mahamaham festival is celebrated once in twelve years is going to happen again on February 22, 2016 at Kumbakonam in Thanjavur District, Tamil Nadu.
Which bank has launched ‘Japan Desk’ to facilitate Japanese corporates investing in India?
The State Bank of India (SBI) has launched ‘Japan Desk’, a first-of-its-kind initiative to facilitate Japanese corporates looking to invest in India with banking and advisory services.
India’s largest coal washery will be set up in which state?
The South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL), a subsidiary of the Coal India Limited (CIL), will set up India’s largest coal washery with a capacity of 25 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) in Korba district of Chhattisgarh.
Who has won the ATP Argentina Open 2016?
Dominic Thiem of Australia has won the Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) Argentina Open 2016 by defeating Nicolas Almagro in the final.
Who has won the Grammy award in the Best Music Film section?
Indo-British filmmaker Asif Kapadia has won Grammy Award for Best Music Film for his documentary ‘Amy’.
Who has been conferred with the Knight of the Legion of Honour, France’s highest civilian honour?
Fashion designer Manish Arora has been conferred with the Chevalier de la Legion d’Honneur (Knight of the Legion of Honour) for recognition of his inspired creations and significant contribution to the fashion world as well as his longstanding ties with France.
Which of the following country has decided to sell nuclear-capable F-16 fighter jets to Pakistan?
The United States has decided to sell eight nuclear-capable F-16 fighter jets to Pakistan. India expressed its disappointment with the US decision.
U K Sinha has been reappointed as the Chairman of which organisation?
UK Sinha will remain SEBI Chairman till March 1, 2017 with the government extending his term for the second time.
Which countries finished with second and third positions respectively in medals tally at South Asian Games 2016?
In the recently concluded 12th South Asian games, India finished on top with 308 medals (188 gold, 90 silver and 30 bronze). Sri Lanka stood at second position with a haul of 186 medals (25 silver, 63 silver and 98 bronze). Pakistan held on to the third spot with a final count of 106 medals (12 gold, 37 silver and 57 bronze).
Which e-commerce company has launched ‘Tatkal’ initiative for small and medium businesses?
E-commerce giant Amazon has launched ‘Amazon Tatkal’, an initiative that enables small and medium businesses (SMBs) to go online and sell products on Amazon.
The 13th South Asian games will be held in which country?
Nepal will host the 13th South Asian Games (SAG) in 2018. Nepal, which had hosted the inaugural edition in 1984, also organized the eighth edition in 1999 and the 2018 SAG will be the third for Nepal.
Former U.N. Secretary-General Boutros Boutros-Ghali, who passed away recently, hails from which country?
Boutros Boutros-Ghali (93), former secretary-general of the United Nations, passed away in Egypt. Boutros-Ghali was the first Arab and first African to serve in the position of secretary- general of the UN.
What is the name of the recently launched India’s Cheapest Smartphone?
The Noida based handset maker Ringing Bells has launched India’s cheapest smartphone “Freedom 251” for under Rs.500. The 3G enabled Android Lollipop-based handset has a 4-inch display, Qualcomm 1.3-GHz quad-core processor and 1 GB RAM. It will have an on-board storage of 8 GB with support for expandable memory of up to 32 GB. It features a 3.2-MP rear and a 0.3-MP front facing camera and a 1,450-mAh battery. It has been launched by Union Defence Minister Manohar Parikkar.
The U.S.-based BAE Systems is partnering with which Indian company for assembling & testing M777 howitzers?
BAE Systems Plc has selected Mahindra Defence Systems Ltd, the defence production firm of the Mahindra Group, as its business partner for the proposed in-country assembly, integration and test (AIT) facility for the M777 Ultra Lightweight Howitzer.
The Woody Island is located in which sea?
China has deployed surface-to-air missiles on Woody Island, part of the Paracel chain in the hotly disputed South China Sea.
Which state government has signed an agreement with taxi aggregator Uber to create 75,000 jobs across the state?
Taxi app Uber has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the government of Maharashtra through the Skill Development & Entrepreneurship Department (SDED) to help create 75,000 entrepreneurship opportunities across the state.
The Medaram tribal festival is celebrated in which state of India?
The Medaram Jatara is a sacred tribal festival is celebrated in honouring the goddesses in Medaram village in Tadvai Mandal in Warangal district, Telangana.
Ustad Abdul Rashid Khan, who died recently, was trained in which gharana of Hindustani classical music?
The well-known Hindustani classical vocalist Ustad Abdul Rashid Khan (107), a descendant of Tansen, passed away in Kolkata, West Bengal. He belonged to the family of musicians of the “Gwalior Gharana” and as a poet, he has written around 2,000 compositions under the pseudonym ‘Rasan Piya’.
Name the Indologist who awarded with prestigious Israel Prize for religious studies?
The well-known Indologist Professor David Shulman has been honoured with the prestigious Israel Prize for his breakthrough studies on the religion, literature and culture of southern India and his command over Indian languages like Sanskrit, Tamil, Telugu and Malayalam.
Which country has successfully launched the ASTRO-H space observation satellite?
Japan has successfully launched the ASTRO-H X-ray astronomy satellite via its H-IIA rocket to study black holes.
Akbar Kakkattil, who passed away recently, was a writer of which language?
The noted Malayalam novelist and short story writer Akbar Kakkattil (62) passed away in Kozhikode, Kerala.
Which state is also known as ‘The land of dwan lit mountains’?
Arunachal Pradesh is also known as the “land of the dawn-lit mountains”. Arunachal Pradesh was granted statehood on 20th February, 1987.
Utkarsha Bangla scheme has been launched by the West Bengal government, for what purpose?
The West Bengal government has recently launched Utkarsh Bangla Scheme, a welfare scheme for school-dropouts. The scheme is aimed at giving vocational training to school dropouts who will be trained free of charge in tailoring, driving, repairing television and others. Each youth will get training ranging from 400 to 1200 hours.
Who was named as new chairman of the Empowered Committee of State Finance Ministers on Goods and Services Tax ( GST)?
West Bengal Finance Minister Amit Mitra has been named as the new chairman of the empowered committee of state Finance ministers that is working out the details of the proposed goods and services tax (GST).
First ‘New Silk Road’ train from China has completed its trip in which city?
The first train connecting China to Iran through the ancient Silk Road has arrived in the Iranian capital after traveling over 10,000 kilometers.
The Indian Institute of Petroleum and Energy (IIPE) has been established at which of the following city?
The Indian Institute of Petroleum and Energy (IIPE) has been established at Visakhapatnam by the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas (MoPNG), Government of India.
Who has won the 2016 Australia Open women’s single title?
The German tennis player Angelique Kerber has won 2016 Australia Open women’s single title by defeating Serena Williams in the final at Melbourne Park. She became the first German to win this Grand Slam title since Staffi Graff in 1994.
Who has been chosen for the K Veeramani Social Justice Award?
Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has been chosen for the prestigious K Veeramani Social Justice Award for his immense contribution for the cause of social justice especially for upliftment of weaker and marginalised sections of the society.
Who has won the 2016 William E. Colby Award for best military book?
Indian author and foreign affairs expert Nisid Hajari has won the 2016 William E. Colby Award for his book “Midnight’s Furies: The Deadly Legacy of India’s Partition”.
Nayani Krishnakumari, who passed away recently, was a writer in which language?
The former Vice Chancellor of Potti Sreeramulu Telugu University and renowned Telugu litterateur Nayani Krishnakumari (86) passed away in Hyderabad.
Who has won the 2015-16 MRF Challenge Formula 2000?
The Brazilian-American racing driver Pietro Fittipaldi has won the 2015-16 MRF Challenge Formula 2000 at Madras Motor Racing Track in Sriperumbudur, Tamil Nadu.
T N GopaKumar, who passed away recently, was associated with which field?
The senior journalist and Editor-in-chief of Asianet News T N GopaKumar (58) passed away in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala.
What is the base year for calculating the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in India?
2011-12 is used as the base year for calculating gross domestic product in India.
Who is appointed as the Chairman and Managing Director of NTPC Limited?
Government has appointed Gurdeep Singh, currently head of Gujarat State Electricity Corp, as the chairman and managing director of NTPC Ltd. Gurdeep Singh will be the first person to be appointed to the top job at a Maharatna company through a search committee route.
Who Indian has been conferred with “Order of Friendship” award by Russia, recently?
Russia has awarded ‘Order of Friendship’ to Director of the Kudankulam nuclear power plant (NPP) construction site Ramayah Shanmuga Sundar.
The 34th National rowing championship was held in which city?
The 34th National Rowing Championship &ndash 2016 was held in Hyderabad at Hussain Sagar Lake from 25 &ndash 31 January 2016. Sandeep Kumar of All India Police has emerged as the winner in senior men category.
The Medaram tribal festival is celebrated in which state of India?
The Medaram Jatara is a sacred tribal festival is celebrated in honouring the goddesses in Medaram village in Tadvai Mandal in Warangal district, Telangana.
Ustad Abdul Rashid Khan, who died recently, was trained in which gharana of Hindustani classical music?
The well-known Hindustani classical vocalist Ustad Abdul Rashid Khan (107), a descendant of Tansen, passed away in Kolkata, West Bengal. He belonged to the family of musicians of the “Gwalior Gharana” and as a poet, he has written around 2,000 compositions under the pseudonym ‘Rasan Piya’.
Name the Indologist who awarded with prestigious Israel Prize for religious studies?
The well-known Indologist Professor David Shulman has been honoured with the prestigious Israel Prize for his breakthrough studies on the religion, literature and culture of southern India and his command over Indian languages like Sanskrit, Tamil, Telugu and Malayalam.
Which country has successfully launched the ASTRO-H space observation satellite?
Japan has successfully launched the ASTRO-H X-ray astronomy satellite via its H-IIA rocket to study black holes.
Akbar Kakkattil, who passed away recently, was a writer of which language?
The noted Malayalam novelist and short story writer Akbar Kakkattil (62) passed away in Kozhikode, Kerala.
Which state is also known as ‘The land of dwan lit mountains’?
Arunachal Pradesh is also known as the “land of the dawn-lit mountains”. Arunachal Pradesh was granted statehood on 20th February, 1987.
Utkarsha Bangla scheme has been launched by the West Bengal government, for what purpose?
The West Bengal government has recently launched Utkarsh Bangla Scheme, a welfare scheme for school-dropouts. The scheme is aimed at giving vocational training to school dropouts who will be trained free of charge in tailoring, driving, repairing television and others. Each youth will get training ranging from 400 to 1200 hours.
Who was named as new chairman of the Empowered Committee of State Finance Ministers on Goods and Services Tax ( GST)?
West Bengal Finance Minister Amit Mitra has been named as the new chairman of the empowered committee of state Finance ministers that is working out the details of the proposed goods and services tax (GST).
First ‘New Silk Road’ train from China has completed its trip in which city?
The first train connecting China to Iran through the ancient Silk Road has arrived in the Iranian capital after traveling over 10,000 kilometers.
The Indian Institute of Petroleum and Energy (IIPE) has been established at which of the following city?
The Indian Institute of Petroleum and Energy (IIPE) has been established at Visakhapatnam by the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas (MoPNG), Government of India.
Which committee has been set up to examine the quota demand for the Jat community in central government jobs?
The Union Government has set up a committee headed by Union Minister M. Venkaiah Naidu to look into demand of Jats for reservation in central government jobs.
Which Indian film has won the Best Children’s Film award at the 2016 Berlin International Film Festival?
Malayalam film Ottal (The Trap) has won the Best Children’s Film award at the 2016 Berlin International Film Festival. This is the third year in a row that Indian films have triumphed. Earlier winners were “Killa” 2014 and “Dhanak” 2015.
Who was the author of the book “The Name of the Rose”?
The Italian novelist and intellectual Umberto Eco (84) has recently passed away at Milan, Italy. He was best known for his 1980 novel titled “The Name of the Rose”.
The National Rurban Mission (NRM) has been launched in which state of India?
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has launched the National Rurban Mission (NRM) from Kurubhat in Rajnandgaon district, Chattisgarh.
The International Mother Language Day is observed on which date?
The United Nations’ (UN) International Mother Language Day (Bhasha Divas) is observed every year on February 21 to promote awareness of linguistic and cultural diversity and multilingualism. The 2016 theme is “Quality education, language(s) of instruction and learning outcomes”.
Which cricketer has broken the fastest Test century record?
Brendon McCullum has scored the fastest century in Test cricket in 54 balls. He broke the previous record jointly held by Viv Richards and Misbah-ul-Haq.
Which team has won the Coal India Hockey India League (HIL) title 2016?
The Jaypee Punjab Warriors has won the 4th edition of 2016 Coal India Hockey India League (HIL) title at the Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium in Ranchi, Jharkhand. It is their first title.
Which city is the host for the “Jal Manthan 2016”?
The “Jal Manthan 2016” has been inaugurated by the Union Minister of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation Uma Bharti on February 22, 2016 in New Delhi.
Which countries have won the Badminton Asia Team Championships 2016 in the men and women’s categories respectively?
China and Indonesia have won the Badminton Asia Team Championships in the women and men’s categories respectively at the Gachibowli Indoor Stadium in Hyderabad.
Which football club has clinched the 2016 Sait Nagjee International Club Football tournament?
The 2016 Sait Nagjee International Club Football tournament has been won by the Ukraine’s FC Dnipro Dnipropetrovsk at Kozhikode, Kerala. The Ukrainian professional football club has defeated Brazilians Atletico Paranaense by 3-0 in the final.
Which film has bagged the 2016 Berlin film festival’s Golden Bear award?
Italian documentary film Fuocoammare ( Fire at Sea) has won the Golden Bear, the top award at the 66th Berlin International Film Festival 2016 held in Berlin, Germany.
India’s first ever Gender Park has been inaugurated in which state?
India’s first ever Gender Park has been inaugurated by President Pranab Mukherjee at Kozhikode, Kerala. The park is set up to promote research and other initiatives to enable total gender equality.
The World Day of Social Justice is observed on which date?
The World Day of Social Justice is observed on February 20 to recognize the need to promote efforts to tackle issues such as poverty, exclusion and unemployment.
According to the report titled “Trends in International Arms Transfers-2015,” which country is the world’s biggest arms importer?
India has again emerged as the world’s largest buyer of weapons and military equipment, accounting for around 14% of all such international imports.
Tropical Cyclone Winston has recently hit which country?
India has extended $1 million immediate assistance to cyclone-hit Fiji. The island nation was hit by the severe tropical cyclone Winston which brought with it wind gusts of 325 km/hr and waves up to 12 metres high, flattened crops and decimated villages completely.
Which film has won the Remi Award at the 2016 World Fest Houston International Film Festival?
The Chennai-based techie Arun Chidambaram directorial Tamil film “Kanavu Variyam” has won the prestigious Remi Award which will be given at the 49th WorldFest Houston International Film Festival scheduled from April 8-17, 2016.
Who is appointed as MD and CEO of Metropolitan Stock Exchange of India (MSEI)?
Udai Kumar has been appointed as full-time Managing Director (MD) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Metropolitan Stock Exchange of India (MSEI) Ltd, formerly known as MCX Stock Exchange (MCX-SX). He succeeded Saurabh Sarkar.
Who has been appointed as the Chairperson of National Human Rights Commission (NHRC)?
Former Chief Justice of India (CJI) H L Dattu has been appointed as the next Chairperson of National Human Rights Commission (NHRC).
Which country’s Parliament has become the first in world to run entirely on solar power?
The Parliament of Pakistan “Majlis-e-Shoora” has become the first in the world to completely run on solar power.
Which city has topped the list in the Mercer’s Quality of Living Ranking 2016?
According to Mercer’s18th annual Quality of Living survey, Vienna has topped the list followed by Zurich, Auckland and Munich. Singapore (26) is the highest ranking Asian city. In India, Hyderabad (139) is the best Indian city in terms of quality of living, followed by Pune (144), Mumbai (152) and New Delhi (161) . Baghdad (230) and Damascus (229) are the world’s least safe cities.
The Bhadla Solar Park is located in which state?
The NTPC’s Bhadla Solar Park is located near Jodhpur in Rajasthan.
Which country will host 2016 Asia Ministerial Conference on Tiger Conservation?
India will host the third edition of Asia Ministerial Conference 2016 on Tiger Conservation from April 12, 2016 to save tigers. The purpose of this conference is to promote awareness about tiger conservation across Asia and the world.
The Khajuraho Dance Festival is celebrated in which state of India?
The 42nd edition of world fame Khajuraho Dance Festival has started at Khajuraho in Chhatrapur District, Madhya Pradesh.
Which countries are participating in the naval Exercise IBSAMAR 2016?
The fifth edition of IBSAMAR 2016 trilateral naval exercise between Brazil, India and South Africa has started at Indian west coast with the harbour phase being conducted in Goa. IBSAMAR is abbreviated as India-Brazil-South Africa Maritime.
Lalita Babar is associated with which sports?
The Long distance runner Lalita Babar has been conferred as the Sports Person of the Year in the India Sports Awards 2015.
Which district has been declared as “Zero Landless District” by Kerala government?
The Kasaragod district has been declared by Kerala government as “Zero Landless District”. It is 2nd zero landless district, after Kannur. In Kasargod, all the targeted one lakh families in Kerala will own at least three cents (one acre is 100 cents) of land. In 2013, the zero landless scheme was launched to provide land for poor households.
Who will be honoured with Lifetime Achievement Award at the International Film Festival of Prayag (IFFP)?
The well-known scriptwriter Sagar Sarhadi will be honoured with Lifetime Achievement Award at the second edition of International Film Festival of Prayag (IFFP). He is well known for his work in Bollywood films like “Kabhi Kabhie”, “Silsila”, “Chandni” and “Kaho Naa⦠Pyaar Hai”, etc.
Which of the following committee is related to rejuvenation of Godavari river?
The Maharashtra State Economic Development Council and Naik Environmental Research Institute Ltd in Nashik have formed Deepak Naik committee to work towards reviving the river Godavari.
According to the latest Hurun Global Rich List, which city has become the new “Billionaire Capital of the World”?
According to the latest China-based Hurun Global Rich List, China’s capital Beijing has become the new Billionaire Capital of the World.
Who has been appointed as the Director General (DG) of Indian Coast Guard (ICG)?
Rajendra Singh has been appointed as the Director General (DG) of Indian Coast Guard (ICG), country’s coastal protection force.
Who has been elected as the new President of FIFA?
The Swiss-Italian football administrator Gianni Infantino has become the new President of FIFA, the world football’s governing body. He succeeded Sepp Blatter.
Who has been chosen for the Dinanath Mangeshkar award?
The well-known filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali and actor Ranveer Singh will be bestowed with the 2016 Dinanath Mangeshkar Award in April 2016.
Which cricket team has won the 2015-16 season’s Ranji Trophy title?
Mumbai team has won the Ranji Trophy for a record 41st time by winning over Saurashtra in the finals of the 2015&ndash16 season at Gahunje Stadium of Maharashtra Cricket Association in Pune, Maharashtra.
Who has been honoured with the Aryabhata Award 2013?
Former DRDO Director General Avinash Chander has been honoured with the prestigious Astronomical Society of India (ASI) Aryabhata award 2013 in Bangalore for his lifetime contribution to aeronautics and astronautics.
According to Railway Budget 2016-17, which research organisation will be set up under Railways?
The Ministry of Railways has announced to set up a R&D organization SRESTHA (Special Railway Establishment for Strategic Technology & Holistic Advancement). The SRESTHA would be headed by an eminent scientist reporting directly to Chairman of Railway Board and would be staffed with scientists and a limited number of Railway experts.
India’s first rail-auto transportation and logistics hub will come up in which state?
India’s first rail-auto transportation and logistics hub will come up in Walajabad, near Chennai, Tamil Nadu.
Which city is the host for the 13th World Spice Congress (WSC)?
Ahmedabad is the host for the 13th World Spice Congress (WSC). The theme of the biennial event is “Target 2020: Clean, Safe and Sustainable Supply Chain”.
Which state has launched ‘Niramaya’ scheme for distribution of free medicines?
Under Niramaya Yojana, the Odisha government has recently introduced 50 vehicles equipped with Global Positioning System (GPS) to transport medicines to State- run hospitals in remote areas.
The NDDB foundation for Nutrition (NFN) has launched the ‘Gift Milk’ initiative in which state?
The NDDB foundation for Nutrition (NFN) has launched its novel ‘Gift Milk’ initiative to provide nutritional support for school children.
Which of the following new train services will be introduced by the Indian Railways?
The Rail Budget 2016 has announced four new categories of trains. The Antyodaya Express, a long-distance, fully unreserved, superfast train service, for the common man, will be operated on dense routes. The other three train services include Humsafar, Tejas, and UDAY (Utkrisht DoubleDecker Air-conditioned Yatri).
Current Affairs 3rd March, 2016 Highlights of Union Budget 2016-17 Bullet Express Current Affairs, February, 2016
Join The Discussion