4 NOV CURRENT AFFAIRS (MCQ)

Q1. Consider the following statements with reference to Rice Fortification

1. The centrally-sponsored pilot fortification scheme was approved in February 2019.
2. All the states in India have started the distribution of fortified rice Which of the above statement(s) is/are correct?
3. 1 only
4. 2 only
5. Both 1 and 2
6. Neither 1 nor 2

Solution : a)

Explanation :-

• The centrally-sponsored pilot fortification scheme was approved in February 2019, and allocated a total budget outlay of ₹174.6 crore for a three-year period from 2019-20 onwards. 
• Implementation: 
  • Currently, only five States — Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu and Chhattisgarh have started the distribution of fortified rice in their identified pilot districts. 
  • The remaining 10 States have only now identified their respective districts, and will soon start distribution, but less than one and a half years remain in the pilot scheme period.

Q2. Consider the following statements about the pardoning power enjoyed by the President of India

1. The pardoning power of the President is independent of the Judiciary as it is an executive power. 
2. The President while exercising this powersits as a court of appeal. 
3. The object of conferring this power on the President is to keep the door open for correcting any judicial errors in the operation of law and to afford relief from a sentence, which the President regards as unduly harsh.

Which of the following statement(s) is/are correct?

1. 1 and 3 only
2. 2 only
3. All of the above
4. None of the above

Solution : a)

Explanation :-

Pardoning power of the president

Article 72 of the Constitution empowers the President to grant pardons to persons who have been tried and convicted of any offence in all cases where the:

1. Punishment or sentence is for an offence against a Union Law; 2. Punishment or sentence is by a court martial (military court); and

3. Sentence is a sentence of death.

The pardoning power of the President is independent of the Judiciary, it is an executive power. But, the President while exercising this power, does not sit as a court of appeal. The object of conferring this power on the President is two-fold: 

1. to keep the door open for correcting any judicial errors in the operation of law; and, 
2. to afford relief from a sentence, which the President regards as unduly harsh.

Q3. Consider the following statements

1. To its west is Afghanistan, to its south is Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, and to the east J&K.
2. It provides Pakistan its only territorial frontier, and thus a land route, with China, where it meets the Xinjiang Autonomous Region. 

The above statements is regarding

1. 1 only
2. 2 only
3. Both 1 and 2
4. Neither 1 nor 2

Solution : c)

Explanation :-

About the Gilgit-Baltistan region:

• Northernmost territory: Administered by Pakistan.
  • To G-B’s west is Afghanistan, to its south is Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, and to the east J&K.
• Administrative arrangements:      Are different from those in PoK. While PoK has its own Constitution that   sets      out       its powers        and      their limits      vis-à-vis Pakistan,        G-B       has been ruled mostly by executive fiat.
• Strategic importance: It provides Pakistan its only territorial frontier, and thus a land route, with China, where it meets the Xinjiang Autonomous Region.  
  • The China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) has made the region vital for both countries. 

Q4. Consider the following statements with respect to the PM SVANidhi scheme

1. It is a Special Micro-Credit Facility for Street Vendors launched by the Ministry of Micro Small and Medium Enterprises, Government of India.
2. The scheme will be implemented by the Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI).

Which of the above statement/s is/are correct?

1. 1 only
2. 2 only
3. Both 1 and 2
4. Neither 1 nor 2

Solution : b)

Explanation :-

About PM SVANidhi: 

• It is a Special Micro-Credit Facility for Street Vendors launched by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs.
• It will provide affordable Working Capital loans to street vendors to resume their livelihoods that have been adversely affected due to Covid-19 lockdown.
• This scheme targets to benefit over 50 lakh Street Vendors. 
• Under the Scheme, the vendors can avail a working capital loan of up to Rs. 10,000, which is repayable in monthly instalments in the tenure of one year. 
• On timely/early repayment of the loan, an interest subsidy @ 7% per annum will be credited to the bank accounts of beneficiaries through Direct Benefit Transfer on quarterly basis. 
• Implemented by: SIDBI will implement the PM SVANidhi Scheme under the guidance of MoHUA.

Q5. Consider the following statements about National Monsoon Mission:

1. It was launched by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
2. It is a dynamic monsoon prediction system for short range only.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

1. 1 only
2. 2 only
3. Both 1 and 2
4. Neither 1 nor 2

Solution : d)

Explanation :–

The National Monsoon Mission 

• It was launched by the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) in 2012 with an aim to develop a state-of-the-art, dynamic monsoon prediction system for short, medium, and long-range forecasts. Both statements are incorrect.
• The Mission with High-performance Computing facilities has helped the country in achieving a paradigm shift in weather and climate modeling for operational weather forecasts.  
• The successful development of a Global Ensemble Forecast System for short and medium-range prediction at 12 kilometers was made possible due to the National Monsoon Mission.

Q6. Consider the following statements:

Assertion (A): In today’s urban economy, there is an expected shift from vehicle ownership to vehicle sharing and public transport. 

Reason (R): A rapidly increasing mobility, needs and availability of technology is driving big changes in the people’s behaviour.

Select the correct option:

1. A is true and R is the correct explanation for A
   1. A is true but R is not the correct explanation for A
   1. A is true but R is false
   1. A is false but R is true.

Solution : a)

Explanation :-

Urbanization in India has catapulted India as one of the fastest growing major economies in the world. 

• The transport sector is an important component of the urban economy.  
• Shift towards vehicle sharing: With rapidly increasing mobility, needs and availability of technology, there is an expected shift from vehicle ownership to vehicle sharing and public transport. There is higher emphasis on multimodal seamless connectivity and clean mobility.  
• These emerging trends are bringing a paradigm shift in the expectations of the commuters and our cities need to adapt to the rapidly changing mobility needs. 

Q7. With reference to COVID-19 Shri Shakti Challenge, consider the following statements:

1. MyGov in collaboration with UN Women, launched the COVID-19 Shri Shakti Challenge in April 2020.
2. Its objective was to encourage and involve women led startups to come up with innovative solutions that can help in the fight against COVID19 or solve problems that impact a large number of women.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

1. 1 only
   1. 2 only
   1. Both 1 and 2
   1. Neither 1 nor 2

Solution : c)

Explanation :-

Six women led startups have won COVID-19 Shri Shakti Challenge organized by MyGov in collaboration with UN Women.

• MyGov in collaboration with UN Women, launched the COVID-19 Shri Shakti Challenge in April 2020.
• Its objective was to encourage and involve women led startups to come up with innovative solutions that can help in the fight against COVID19 or solve problems that impact a large number of women.
• This challenge was hosted on the Innovate platform of MyGov that called for applications from women led startups as well as startups who have solutions that address issues faced by a larger number of women.
• Hence both statements are correct.

Q8. With reference to the India-UAE High Level Joint Task Force on Investments, consider the following statements:

1. The Joint Task Force was created in 2012 as a crucial forum for further deepening the already strong economic ties between the UAE and India.
   1. The mechanism has assumed greater importance as the two countries entrench the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Agreement signed in January 2017. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
      1. 1 only
      1. 2 only
      1. Both 1 and 2
      1. Neither 1 nor 2

Solution : c)

Explanation :-

The eighth meeting of the India-UAE High Level Joint Task Force on Investments (“the Joint Task Force”) was hosted by India in virtual format.

• The meeting was co-chaired by Shri Piyush Goyal, Minister of Commerce & Industry, Government of India and Sheikh Hamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Member of the Executive Council of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi.
• The Joint Task Force was created in 2012 as a crucial forum for further deepening the already strong economic ties between the UAE and India.
• The mechanism has assumed greater importance as the two countries entrench the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Agreement signed in January 2017.
• Both sides reviewed the existing UAE special desk (‘UAE Plus’) and the Fast Track Mechanism created in 2018 to facilitate investments and to resolve any challenges experienced by UAE investors in India.
• Hence both statements are correct.

Q9. With reference to the Pilot Scheme on Fortification of Rice & its distribution through Public Distribution System, consider the following statements:

1. The Pilot Scheme has been approved for a period of three years beginning 2019-2020 with a total budget outlay of Rs.174.6 Crore.
   1. It is a central sector scheme.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

1. 1 only
   1. 2 only
   1. Both 1 and 2
   1. Neither 1 nor 2

Solution : a)

Explanation :-

To initiate the process of taking the country towards nutritional security, Department of Food & Public Distribution (DFPD) has been running a “Centrally Sponsored Pilot Scheme on Fortification of Rice & its distribution through Public Distribution System”.

• The Pilot Scheme has been approved for a period of three years beginning 2019-2020 with a total budget outlay of Rs.174.6 Crore.
• Fifteen State Governments have identified their respective districts (1 district per state) for implementing the Pilot Scheme.
• Already 5 states of Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu and Chhattisgarh have started the distribution of fortified rice in their respective identified districts.
• In this connection, the Union Minister for Food & Consumer Affairs in his review meeting held on 31.10.2020, laid the emphasis on scaling up of the distribution of fortified rice in the country.
• The FCI has been asked to come up with a comprehensive plan for procurement and distribution of fortified rice in all the Districts of the country under Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) & Mid-Day Meal (MDM) Scheme from 2021-2022.
• Special focus would be placed on supplying fortified rice to the 112 specially identified Aspirational Districts of the country.

Hence only statement 1 is correct.

Q10. With reference to National Council of Applied Economic Research (NCAER) Report on National Monsoon Mission (NMM), consider the following statements:

1. A total of Rs. 1000 crores has been invested in setting up National Monsoon Mission (NMM) and High performance Computing (HPC) facilities by Government of India.
   1. 76% of the livestock owners are using weather information for taking decisions on modification of shelter; vaccination against seasonal disease; and fodder management. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
      1. 1 only
      1. 2 only
      1. Both 1 and 2
      1. Neither 1 nor 2

Solution : c)

Explanation :-

Union Minister of Science and Technology released the National Council of Applied Economic Research (NCAER) Report on “Estimating the economic benefits of Investment in Monsoon Mission and High Performance Computing (HPC) Facilities”.

• A total of Rs. 1000 crores has been invested in setting up National Monsoon Mission(NMM) and High performance Computing (HPC) facilities by Government of India.
• 76% of the livestock owners are using weather information for taking decisions on modification of shelter; vaccination against seasonal disease; and fodder management. 82% of fishermen reported using Ocean State Forecast (OSF) advisories every time before venturing into sea.
• The total annual economic benefits to the 1.07 Crore Below Poverty Line (BPL) agricultural households works out to be Rs. 13,331 Crores and incremental benefit over the next five years is estimated to be about Rs. 48,056 Crores for the farming community.
• Annual income gained by 53 Lakh BPL fisher households is estimated to be Rs. 663 Crores and the present value of benefits accruing to fisher-folk works out to be Rs. 2,391 Crores over a period of 5 years.
• With an initial investment of Rs. 1,000 Crores, NMM and HPC facilities result in a 50-fold increase in its economic benefits. Derived estimated benefits realized by the women works out to be Rs. 13,447 Crores, which is 26.6 percent of the total benefit.
• Hence both statements are correct.

Q11. With reference to Urban Mobility India (UMI) Conference, consider the following statements:

1. It is being organized by the Ministry of Finance.
   1. The main theme of this year’s event is “Emerging Trends in Urban Mobility”. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
      1. 1 only
      1. 2 only
      1. Both 1 and 2
      1. Neither 1 nor 2

Solution : b)

Explanation :-

The 13th Urban Mobility India (UMI) Conference is being organized by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs on 9th November 2020. The day-long Conference will be held on-line through Video Conference/Webinar.

• The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, Government of India issued the National Urban Transport Policy, 2006 (NUTP).
• As part of the NUTP enunciations, the Ministry has taken the initiative to organize an annual international Conference-cum-Exhibition on Urban Mobility India popularly known as UMI.
• The primary objective of the conference is to disseminate information to the cities, whose officials attend the conference to help them keep up-to-date with latest and best urban transport practices globally.
• The main theme of this year’s event is “Emerging Trends in Urban Mobility” with focus on innovative measures taken at national and international level to address the challenges posed by Covid-19 pandemic to provide accessible and convenient transport to the people. Hence only statement 2 is correct.

Q12. With reference to Tele-Law programme, consider the following statements:

1. It was launched by Department of Justice in 2017 to address cases at pre–litigation stage.
   1. Under this programme, smart technology of video conferencing, telephone /instant calling facilities available at the vast network of Common Service Centres at the Panchayat level. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
      1. 1 only
      1. 2 only
      1. Both 1 and 2
      1. Neither 1 nor 2

Solution : c)

Explanation :-

Tele-Law has touched a new milestone on 30th October 2020 with 4 Lakh beneficiaries having received legal advice under this through CSCs (Common Service Centres).

• Tele-Law programme was launched by Department of Justice in 2017 to address cases at pre– litigation stage.
• Under this programme, smart technology of video conferencing, telephone /instant calling facilities available at the vast network of Common Service Centres at the Panchayat level are used to connect the indigent, down-trodden, vulnerable, unreached groups and communities with the Panel Lawyers for seeking timely and valuable legal advice.
• The Tele-Law service is proactively outreached to groups and communities through a cadre of frontline volunteers provided by NALSA and CSC- e Gov.
• Hence both statements are correct.

Q13. With reference to the Narcotics Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, consider the following statements:

1. The majority judgment of the Supreme Court ruled that statements recorded by officers under the NDPS Act cannot be treated as confessions.
   1. The court also held that when a reference is made to “police officers”, it does not only mean a police officer belonging to a state police force but includes officers who may belong to other departments.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

1. 1 only
   1. 2 only
   1. Both 1 and 2
   1. Neither 1 nor 2

Solution : c)

Explanation :-

The Supreme Court has ruled on a long-pending question of law on whether statements recorded under Section 67 of the Narcotics Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act can be admissible as confessional statements during criminal trials.

• The majority judgment ruled that statements recorded by officers under the NDPS Act cannot be treated as confessions.
• The majority view by Justices Nariman and Justices Sinha held that confessional statements made before an officer under section 53 of the NDPS Act if held as the basis to convict a person would be “a direct infringement” of constitutional guarantees”.
• While it was submitted to the court that confessional statements before police officers were considered admissible in other special acts including the now repealed Terrorism and Disruptive Activities (Prevention) Act and Prevention of Terrorism Act (POTA), the court said that they were used with several safeguards contained in the Acts themselves.
• The court also held that when a reference is made to “police officers”, it does not only mean a police officer belonging to a state police force but includes officers who may belong to other departments.
• The ruling will impact evidence in several cases, including the alleged drugs case being investigated by the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) where actor Rhea Chakraborty and 24 others have been named as accused.
• Hence both statements are correct.

Q14. With reference to Mallakhamb, consider the following statements:

1. Mallakhamb is one of the few games that is played against gravity.
   1. The origin of this ancient Indian sport can be traced to earlier part of the 12th century. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
      1. 1 only
      1. 2 only
      1. Both 1 and 2
      1. Neither 1 nor 2

Solution : c)

Explanation :-

In the 70th episode of Mann ki Baat last week, Prime Minister Narendra Modi mentioned the USA where an ancient Indian form of sports — Mallakhamb — is drawing in a steady stream of players, thanks to the efforts of a couple named Chinmay Patankar and Pradnya Patankar.

• Mallakhamb is one of the few games that is played against gravity. It functions on a synergy of mind and body, employing every muscle in a way that enables a person to develop speed, stamina and better health.
• The name derives from the pole used by wrestlers for practising their skills though, today, Mallakhamb has developed an identity that is separate from wrestling or kushti.
• The word malla means a wrestler or an athlete in Sanskrit and can also indicate a verb, such as strong or good. Khamb or kham, in spoken Marathi, means a pole. Therefore, Mallakhamb has come to be known as wrestling against a pole.
• Nevertheless, there are two other Mallakhamb styles such as ‘rope mallakhamb’ and ‘hanging mallakhamb’.
• The origin of this ancient Indian sport can be traced to earlier part of the 12th century. A mention of wrestlers exercising on wooden poles is found in the Manasholas, written by Chalukya, in 1153 AD.
• It was revived late in the 19th century by Balambhatta Dada Deodhar, physical instructor to Bajirao Peshwa II.
• Hence both statements are correct.

Q15. With reference to Gilgit-Baltistan, consider the following statements:

1. It is the northernmost territory administered by Afghanistan, providing the country’s only territorial frontier, and thus a land route, with China, where it meets the Xinjiang Autonomous Region.
   1. The China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) passes through the Gilgit-Baltistan region. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
      1. 1 only
      1. 2 only
      1. Both 1 and 2
      1. Neither 1 nor 2

Solution : c)

Explanation :-

On November 1, observed every year in Gilgit-Baltistan as “Independence Day”, Pakistan

Prime Minister Imran Khan announced that his government would give the region

“provisional provincial status”.

• When that happens, G-B will become the fifth province of Pakistan, although the region is claimed by India as part of the erstwhile princely state of Jammu & Kashmir as it existed in 1947 at its accession to India.
• Gilgit-Baltistan is the northernmost territory administered by Pakistan, providing the country’s only territorial frontier, and thus a land route, with China, where it meets the Xinjiang Autonomous Region. The China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) has made the region vital for both countries.
• To G-B’s west is Afghanistan, to its south is Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, and to the east J&K.
• The plan to grant G-B provincial status gathered speed over the last one year due to CPEC and Chinese interest, as well as India’s reassertion of its claims after the August 5, 2019 reorganisation of Jammu & Kashmir.
• Though Pakistan, like India, links G-B’s fate to that of Kashmir, its administrative arrangements are different from those in PoK.
• While PoK has its own Constitution that sets out its powers and their limits vis-à-vis Pakistan, G-B has been ruled mostly by executive fiat. Until 2009, the region was simply called Northern Areas.
• It got its present name only with the Gilgit-Baltistan (Empowerment and Self-Governance) Order, 2009, which replaced the Northern Areas Legislative Council with the Legislative Assembly.

Hence both statements are correct.

Q1. Consider the following statements with reference to Rice Fortification

1. The centrally-sponsored pilot fortification scheme was approved in February 2019.
2. All the states in India have started the distribution of fortified rice Which of the above statement(s) is/are correct?
3. 1 only
4. 2 only
5. Both 1 and 2
6. Neither 1 nor 2

Solution : a)

Explanation :-

• The centrally-sponsored pilot fortification scheme was approved in February 2019, and allocated a total budget outlay of ₹174.6 crore for a three-year period from 2019-20 onwards. 
• Implementation: 
  • Currently, only five States — Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu and Chhattisgarh have started the distribution of fortified rice in their identified pilot districts. 
  • The remaining 10 States have only now identified their respective districts, and will soon start distribution, but less than one and a half years remain in the pilot scheme period.

Q2. Consider the following statements about the pardoning power enjoyed by the President of India

1. The pardoning power of the President is independent of the Judiciary as it is an executive power. 
2. The President while exercising this powersits as a court of appeal. 
3. The object of conferring this power on the President is to keep the door open for correcting any judicial errors in the operation of law and to afford relief from a sentence, which the President regards as unduly harsh.

Which of the following statement(s) is/are correct?

1. 1 and 3 only
2. 2 only
3. All of the above
4. None of the above

Solution : a)

Explanation :-

Pardoning power of the president

Article 72 of the Constitution empowers the President to grant pardons to persons who have been tried and convicted of any offence in all cases where the:

1. Punishment or sentence is for an offence against a Union Law; 2. Punishment or sentence is by a court martial (military court); and

3. Sentence is a sentence of death.

The pardoning power of the President is independent of the Judiciary, it is an executive power. But, the President while exercising this power, does not sit as a court of appeal. The object of conferring this power on the President is two-fold: 

1. to keep the door open for correcting any judicial errors in the operation of law; and, 
2. to afford relief from a sentence, which the President regards as unduly harsh.

Q3. Consider the following statements

1. To its west is Afghanistan, to its south is Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, and to the east J&K.
2. It provides Pakistan its only territorial frontier, and thus a land route, with China, where it meets the Xinjiang Autonomous Region. 

The above statements is regarding

1. 1 only
2. 2 only
3. Both 1 and 2
4. Neither 1 nor 2

Solution : c)

Explanation :-

About the Gilgit-Baltistan region:

• Northernmost territory: Administered by Pakistan.
  • To G-B’s west is Afghanistan, to its south is Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, and to the east J&K.
• Administrative arrangements:      Are different from those in PoK. While PoK has its own Constitution that   sets      out       its powers        and      their limits      vis-à-vis Pakistan,        G-B       has been ruled mostly by executive fiat.
• Strategic importance: It provides Pakistan its only territorial frontier, and thus a land route, with China, where it meets the Xinjiang Autonomous Region.  
  • The China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) has made the region vital for both countries. 

Q4. Consider the following statements with respect to the PM SVANidhi scheme

1. It is a Special Micro-Credit Facility for Street Vendors launched by the Ministry of Micro Small and Medium Enterprises, Government of India.
2. The scheme will be implemented by the Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI).

Which of the above statement/s is/are correct?

1. 1 only
2. 2 only
3. Both 1 and 2
4. Neither 1 nor 2

Solution : b)

Explanation :-

About PM SVANidhi: 

• It is a Special Micro-Credit Facility for Street Vendors launched by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs.
• It will provide affordable Working Capital loans to street vendors to resume their livelihoods that have been adversely affected due to Covid-19 lockdown.
• This scheme targets to benefit over 50 lakh Street Vendors. 
• Under the Scheme, the vendors can avail a working capital loan of up to Rs. 10,000, which is repayable in monthly instalments in the tenure of one year. 
• On timely/early repayment of the loan, an interest subsidy @ 7% per annum will be credited to the bank accounts of beneficiaries through Direct Benefit Transfer on quarterly basis. 
• Implemented by: SIDBI will implement the PM SVANidhi Scheme under the guidance of MoHUA.

Q5. Consider the following statements about National Monsoon Mission:

1. It was launched by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
2. It is a dynamic monsoon prediction system for short range only.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

1. 1 only
2. 2 only
3. Both 1 and 2
4. Neither 1 nor 2

Solution : d)

Explanation :–

The National Monsoon Mission 

• It was launched by the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) in 2012 with an aim to develop a state-of-the-art, dynamic monsoon prediction system for short, medium, and long-range forecasts. Both statements are incorrect.
• The Mission with High-performance Computing facilities has helped the country in achieving a paradigm shift in weather and climate modeling for operational weather forecasts.  
• The successful development of a Global Ensemble Forecast System for short and medium-range prediction at 12 kilometers was made possible due to the National Monsoon Mission.

Q6. Consider the following statements:

Assertion (A): In today’s urban economy, there is an expected shift from vehicle ownership to vehicle sharing and public transport. 

Reason (R): A rapidly increasing mobility, needs and availability of technology is driving big changes in the people’s behaviour.

Select the correct option:

1. A is true and R is the correct explanation for A
   1. A is true but R is not the correct explanation for A
   1. A is true but R is false
   1. A is false but R is true.

Solution : a)

Explanation :-

Urbanization in India has catapulted India as one of the fastest growing major economies in the world. 

• The transport sector is an important component of the urban economy.  
• Shift towards vehicle sharing: With rapidly increasing mobility, needs and availability of technology, there is an expected shift from vehicle ownership to vehicle sharing and public transport. There is higher emphasis on multimodal seamless connectivity and clean mobility.  
• These emerging trends are bringing a paradigm shift in the expectations of the commuters and our cities need to adapt to the rapidly changing mobility needs. 

Q7. With reference to COVID-19 Shri Shakti Challenge, consider the following statements:

1. MyGov in collaboration with UN Women, launched the COVID-19 Shri Shakti Challenge in April 2020.
2. Its objective was to encourage and involve women led startups to come up with innovative solutions that can help in the fight against COVID19 or solve problems that impact a large number of women.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

1. 1 only
   1. 2 only
   1. Both 1 and 2
   1. Neither 1 nor 2

Solution : c)

Explanation :-

Six women led startups have won COVID-19 Shri Shakti Challenge organized by MyGov in collaboration with UN Women.

• MyGov in collaboration with UN Women, launched the COVID-19 Shri Shakti Challenge in April 2020.
• Its objective was to encourage and involve women led startups to come up with innovative solutions that can help in the fight against COVID19 or solve problems that impact a large number of women.
• This challenge was hosted on the Innovate platform of MyGov that called for applications from women led startups as well as startups who have solutions that address issues faced by a larger number of women.
• Hence both statements are correct.

Q8. With reference to the India-UAE High Level Joint Task Force on Investments, consider the following statements:

1. The Joint Task Force was created in 2012 as a crucial forum for further deepening the already strong economic ties between the UAE and India.
   1. The mechanism has assumed greater importance as the two countries entrench the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Agreement signed in January 2017. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
      1. 1 only
      1. 2 only
      1. Both 1 and 2
      1. Neither 1 nor 2

Solution : c)

Explanation :-

The eighth meeting of the India-UAE High Level Joint Task Force on Investments (“the Joint Task Force”) was hosted by India in virtual format.

• The meeting was co-chaired by Shri Piyush Goyal, Minister of Commerce & Industry, Government of India and Sheikh Hamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Member of the Executive Council of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi.
• The Joint Task Force was created in 2012 as a crucial forum for further deepening the already strong economic ties between the UAE and India.
• The mechanism has assumed greater importance as the two countries entrench the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Agreement signed in January 2017.
• Both sides reviewed the existing UAE special desk (‘UAE Plus’) and the Fast Track Mechanism created in 2018 to facilitate investments and to resolve any challenges experienced by UAE investors in India.
• Hence both statements are correct.

Q9. With reference to the Pilot Scheme on Fortification of Rice & its distribution through Public Distribution System, consider the following statements:

1. The Pilot Scheme has been approved for a period of three years beginning 2019-2020 with a total budget outlay of Rs.174.6 Crore.
   1. It is a central sector scheme.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

1. 1 only
   1. 2 only
   1. Both 1 and 2
   1. Neither 1 nor 2

Solution : a)

Explanation :-

To initiate the process of taking the country towards nutritional security, Department of Food & Public Distribution (DFPD) has been running a “Centrally Sponsored Pilot Scheme on Fortification of Rice & its distribution through Public Distribution System”.

• The Pilot Scheme has been approved for a period of three years beginning 2019-2020 with a total budget outlay of Rs.174.6 Crore.
• Fifteen State Governments have identified their respective districts (1 district per state) for implementing the Pilot Scheme.
• Already 5 states of Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu and Chhattisgarh have started the distribution of fortified rice in their respective identified districts.
• In this connection, the Union Minister for Food & Consumer Affairs in his review meeting held on 31.10.2020, laid the emphasis on scaling up of the distribution of fortified rice in the country.
• The FCI has been asked to come up with a comprehensive plan for procurement and distribution of fortified rice in all the Districts of the country under Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) & Mid-Day Meal (MDM) Scheme from 2021-2022.
• Special focus would be placed on supplying fortified rice to the 112 specially identified Aspirational Districts of the country.

Hence only statement 1 is correct.

Q10. With reference to National Council of Applied Economic Research (NCAER) Report on National Monsoon Mission (NMM), consider the following statements:

1. A total of Rs. 1000 crores has been invested in setting up National Monsoon Mission (NMM) and High performance Computing (HPC) facilities by Government of India.
   1. 76% of the livestock owners are using weather information for taking decisions on modification of shelter; vaccination against seasonal disease; and fodder management. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
      1. 1 only
      1. 2 only
      1. Both 1 and 2
      1. Neither 1 nor 2

Solution : c)

Explanation :-

Union Minister of Science and Technology released the National Council of Applied Economic Research (NCAER) Report on “Estimating the economic benefits of Investment in Monsoon Mission and High Performance Computing (HPC) Facilities”.

• A total of Rs. 1000 crores has been invested in setting up National Monsoon Mission(NMM) and High performance Computing (HPC) facilities by Government of India.
• 76% of the livestock owners are using weather information for taking decisions on modification of shelter; vaccination against seasonal disease; and fodder management. 82% of fishermen reported using Ocean State Forecast (OSF) advisories every time before venturing into sea.
• The total annual economic benefits to the 1.07 Crore Below Poverty Line (BPL) agricultural households works out to be Rs. 13,331 Crores and incremental benefit over the next five years is estimated to be about Rs. 48,056 Crores for the farming community.
• Annual income gained by 53 Lakh BPL fisher households is estimated to be Rs. 663 Crores and the present value of benefits accruing to fisher-folk works out to be Rs. 2,391 Crores over a period of 5 years.
• With an initial investment of Rs. 1,000 Crores, NMM and HPC facilities result in a 50-fold increase in its economic benefits. Derived estimated benefits realized by the women works out to be Rs. 13,447 Crores, which is 26.6 percent of the total benefit.
• Hence both statements are correct.

Q11. With reference to Urban Mobility India (UMI) Conference, consider the following statements:

1. It is being organized by the Ministry of Finance.
   1. The main theme of this year’s event is “Emerging Trends in Urban Mobility”. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
      1. 1 only
      1. 2 only
      1. Both 1 and 2
      1. Neither 1 nor 2

Solution : b)

Explanation :-

The 13th Urban Mobility India (UMI) Conference is being organized by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs on 9th November 2020. The day-long Conference will be held on-line through Video Conference/Webinar.

• The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, Government of India issued the National Urban Transport Policy, 2006 (NUTP).
• As part of the NUTP enunciations, the Ministry has taken the initiative to organize an annual international Conference-cum-Exhibition on Urban Mobility India popularly known as UMI.
• The primary objective of the conference is to disseminate information to the cities, whose officials attend the conference to help them keep up-to-date with latest and best urban transport practices globally.
• The main theme of this year’s event is “Emerging Trends in Urban Mobility” with focus on innovative measures taken at national and international level to address the challenges posed by Covid-19 pandemic to provide accessible and convenient transport to the people. Hence only statement 2 is correct.

Q12. With reference to Tele-Law programme, consider the following statements:

1. It was launched by Department of Justice in 2017 to address cases at pre–litigation stage.
   1. Under this programme, smart technology of video conferencing, telephone /instant calling facilities available at the vast network of Common Service Centres at the Panchayat level. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
      1. 1 only
      1. 2 only
      1. Both 1 and 2
      1. Neither 1 nor 2

Solution : c)

Explanation :-

Tele-Law has touched a new milestone on 30th October 2020 with 4 Lakh beneficiaries having received legal advice under this through CSCs (Common Service Centres).

• Tele-Law programme was launched by Department of Justice in 2017 to address cases at pre– litigation stage.
• Under this programme, smart technology of video conferencing, telephone /instant calling facilities available at the vast network of Common Service Centres at the Panchayat level are used to connect the indigent, down-trodden, vulnerable, unreached groups and communities with the Panel Lawyers for seeking timely and valuable legal advice.
• The Tele-Law service is proactively outreached to groups and communities through a cadre of frontline volunteers provided by NALSA and CSC- e Gov.
• Hence both statements are correct.

Q13. With reference to the Narcotics Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, consider the following statements:

1. The majority judgment of the Supreme Court ruled that statements recorded by officers under the NDPS Act cannot be treated as confessions.
   1. The court also held that when a reference is made to “police officers”, it does not only mean a police officer belonging to a state police force but includes officers who may belong to other departments.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

1. 1 only
   1. 2 only
   1. Both 1 and 2
   1. Neither 1 nor 2

Solution : c)

Explanation :-

The Supreme Court has ruled on a long-pending question of law on whether statements recorded under Section 67 of the Narcotics Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act can be admissible as confessional statements during criminal trials.

• The majority judgment ruled that statements recorded by officers under the NDPS Act cannot be treated as confessions.
• The majority view by Justices Nariman and Justices Sinha held that confessional statements made before an officer under section 53 of the NDPS Act if held as the basis to convict a person would be “a direct infringement” of constitutional guarantees”.
• While it was submitted to the court that confessional statements before police officers were considered admissible in other special acts including the now repealed Terrorism and Disruptive Activities (Prevention) Act and Prevention of Terrorism Act (POTA), the court said that they were used with several safeguards contained in the Acts themselves.
• The court also held that when a reference is made to “police officers”, it does not only mean a police officer belonging to a state police force but includes officers who may belong to other departments.
• The ruling will impact evidence in several cases, including the alleged drugs case being investigated by the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) where actor Rhea Chakraborty and 24 others have been named as accused.
• Hence both statements are correct.

Q14. With reference to Mallakhamb, consider the following statements:

1. Mallakhamb is one of the few games that is played against gravity.
   1. The origin of this ancient Indian sport can be traced to earlier part of the 12th century. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
      1. 1 only
      1. 2 only
      1. Both 1 and 2
      1. Neither 1 nor 2

Solution : c)

Explanation :-

In the 70th episode of Mann ki Baat last week, Prime Minister Narendra Modi mentioned the USA where an ancient Indian form of sports — Mallakhamb — is drawing in a steady stream of players, thanks to the efforts of a couple named Chinmay Patankar and Pradnya Patankar.

• Mallakhamb is one of the few games that is played against gravity. It functions on a synergy of mind and body, employing every muscle in a way that enables a person to develop speed, stamina and better health.
• The name derives from the pole used by wrestlers for practising their skills though, today, Mallakhamb has developed an identity that is separate from wrestling or kushti.
• The word malla means a wrestler or an athlete in Sanskrit and can also indicate a verb, such as strong or good. Khamb or kham, in spoken Marathi, means a pole. Therefore, Mallakhamb has come to be known as wrestling against a pole.
• Nevertheless, there are two other Mallakhamb styles such as ‘rope mallakhamb’ and ‘hanging mallakhamb’.
• The origin of this ancient Indian sport can be traced to earlier part of the 12th century. A mention of wrestlers exercising on wooden poles is found in the Manasholas, written by Chalukya, in 1153 AD.
• It was revived late in the 19th century by Balambhatta Dada Deodhar, physical instructor to Bajirao Peshwa II.
• Hence both statements are correct.

Q15. With reference to Gilgit-Baltistan, consider the following statements:

1. It is the northernmost territory administered by Afghanistan, providing the country’s only territorial frontier, and thus a land route, with China, where it meets the Xinjiang Autonomous Region.
   1. The China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) passes through the Gilgit-Baltistan region. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
      1. 1 only
      1. 2 only
      1. Both 1 and 2
      1. Neither 1 nor 2

Solution : c)

Explanation :-

On November 1, observed every year in Gilgit-Baltistan as “Independence Day”, Pakistan

Prime Minister Imran Khan announced that his government would give the region

“provisional provincial status”.

• When that happens, G-B will become the fifth province of Pakistan, although the region is claimed by India as part of the erstwhile princely state of Jammu & Kashmir as it existed in 1947 at its accession to India.
• Gilgit-Baltistan is the northernmost territory administered by Pakistan, providing the country’s only territorial frontier, and thus a land route, with China, where it meets the Xinjiang Autonomous Region. The China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) has made the region vital for both countries.
• To G-B’s west is Afghanistan, to its south is Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, and to the east J&K.
• The plan to grant G-B provincial status gathered speed over the last one year due to CPEC and Chinese interest, as well as India’s reassertion of its claims after the August 5, 2019 reorganisation of Jammu & Kashmir.
• Though Pakistan, like India, links G-B’s fate to that of Kashmir, its administrative arrangements are different from those in PoK.
• While PoK has its own Constitution that sets out its powers and their limits vis-à-vis Pakistan, G-B has been ruled mostly by executive fiat. Until 2009, the region was simply called Northern Areas.
• It got its present name only with the Gilgit-Baltistan (Empowerment and Self-Governance) Order, 2009, which replaced the Northern Areas Legislative Council with the Legislative Assembly.

Hence both statements are correct.

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