1. Which day is celebrated as ‘World Art Day’ every year?
A. 13 April
B. 14 April
C. 15 April
D. 16 April
- Every April 15th marks World Art Day, celebrating art’s global impact and Leonardo da Vinci’s legacy. In 2024, the theme is “A Garden of Expression: Cultivating Community Through Art,” highlighting art’s role in fostering communal bonds and understanding. This annual tribute recognizes art’s significance in communication, cultural identity, and personal freedom, emphasizing the enduring contributions of artists worldwide.
2. MSC ARIES ship is associated with which country?
A. Maldives
B. India
C. Israel
D. Iraq
- Iran’s Navy captured the Israeli ship MSC Aries near the Strait of Hormuz with 17 Indian crew members aboard. Iranian officials now control the crew. Efforts are underway for their safe return. Iranian Foreign Minister Amirabdullahian stated Tehran will allow Indian officials to meet them soon. Indian Foreign Minister Jaishankar discussed their return with Iran’s Foreign Minister.
3. Man-Portable Anti-Tank Guided Missile (MPATGM) weapon system is developed by which organization?
A. ISRO
B. DRDO
C. CSIR
D. IEA
- The Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO) and Indian Army jointly conducted successful field tests of the indigenously developed Man-Portable Anti-Tank Guided Missile (MPATGM) system. Designed by DRDO, it includes the MPATGM, launcher, target acquisition device, and fire control unit. Tests at the Pokhran Field Firing Range on April 13, 2024, showcased remarkable missile and warhead performance.
4. Jiadhal River is the tributary of which river?
A. Ganges
B. Brahmaputra
C. Kaveri
D. Godavari
- The Jiadhal River, a northern tributary of the Brahmaputra, originates in the Arunachal Pradesh Himalayas. Its course through Dhemaji district in Assam features braided channels. It flows into the Brahmaputra near Selamukh but now joins the Subansiri due to an embankment. The basin area is 1053.20 sq.km., with heavy rainfall causing significant sediment deposition there.
5. Recently, which country developed the world’s first satellite series (Tiantong-1)?
A. Japan
B. Russia
C. China
D. Israel
- Chinese scientists launched the Tiantong-1 satellite series; pioneering satellite-enabled smartphone calls without ground infrastructure like cellular towers. The Tiantong-1 comprises three satellites in geosynchronous orbit at ~36000 km altitude, covering the Asia-Pacific from the Middle East to the Pacific Ocean. Huawei released the first smartphone supporting satellite calls in Sep 2023, connecting directly to the Tiantong satellites. Geosynchronous orbit ensures satellites match Earth’s rotation.
6. Special Olympics Bharat (SOB) is a National Sports Federation recognized by which ministry?
A. Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports
B. Ministry of Home Affairs
C. Ministry of Power
D. Ministry of Defence
- Special Olympics Bharat (SOB), a National Sports Federation of India, is establishing district units in Tamil Nadu through elections on April 22. Registered under the Indian Trust Act 1882 in 2001, it’s accredited by Special Olympics International. Recognized by the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, it’s a Priority Category National Sports Federation, focusing on sports for persons with intellectual disabilities.
7. Longte Festival is celebrated by the Nyishi tribe of which state?
A. Arunachal Pradesh
B. Rajasthan
C. Maharashtra
D. Odisha
- The Longte Festival, celebrated by the Nyishi tribe in Arunachal Pradesh. It’s unique among tribal festivals as it prohibits animal sacrifice. Instead, the Altar is adorned with feathers and bamboo flowers. Longte Yullo, one of the oldest Nyishi festivals, is celebrated across various Nyishi clans.
8. Jonatan Christie, who recently won his first Asian Badminton Championship, belongs to which country?
A. Vietnam
B. Indonesia
C. Thailand
D. Singapore
- Indonesian badminton player Jonatan Christie clinched his maiden Asian Badminton Championship title by defeating Chinese player Li Shi Feng in the final of the 2024 Badminton Asia Championships on April 14. The event, held in Ningbo, China, from April 9-14, is a BWF Super 1000 tournament, awarding 1000 points to the winners. This championship served as the final Olympic qualifier before the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris.
9. Kuchipudi dance is a classical dance form of which state?
A. Tamil Nadu
B. Andhra Pradesh
C. Telangana
D. Maharashtra
- Kuchipudi, an Indian classical dance originating from Andhra Pradesh, faces a survival crisis due to dwindling patronage. Historically, it evolved from itinerant actors into a refined form under Siddhendra Yogi in the 15th century. It’s known for intricate footwork, and storytelling. Kuchipudi is deeply rooted in Vaishnavism, often depicting stories of Krishna.
10. What was the primary objective of ‘Operation Meghdoot’?
A. To establish a military base in Ladakh
B. To capture strategic heights in the Himalayas
C. To engage in a peacekeeping mission
D. To secure the Siachen Glacier
- The Indian Army marked 40 years since ‘Operation Meghdoot,’ securing the Siachen Glacier, vital for its strategic location in Northern Ladakh. Launched in 1984, it responded to Pakistan’s territorial claims, establishing India’s presence at the world’s highest battlefield.
- Led by Lieutenant Generals Chibber and Hoon, along with Major General Sharma, the operation showcased remarkable coordination between the Army and Air Force, resulting in India gaining control of Siachen Glacier.
11. ‘Qudsia Bagh’ is located in which state/UT?
A. Rajasthan
B. Uttar Pradesh
C. Delhi
D. Jammu and Kashmir
- Qudsia Bagh, built in 1748 by Qudsia Begum, wife of Mughal Emperor Md Shah Rangeela, underwent recent restoration by Delhi Development Authority. It is located in North Delhi and it follows Persian char-bagh style. The Bagh’s remains include its grand western gateway, Qudsia Mosque, and pavilions in red sandstone. The mosque, a simple structure with three-storied walls, is ASI protected.
12. Recently, who won the National Women’s Carrom title for the twelfth time?
A. Rashmi Kumari
B. N Nirmala
C. Kajal Kumari
D. Sharmila Singh
- Three-time World Champion Rashmi Kumari secured her 12th national women’s singles title at the 51st National Carrom Championship, defeating K Nagajothi 25-8, 14-20, 25-20. Rashmi, employed at ONGC, triumphed in the women’s final. In the men’s category, K Srinivas clinched his fourth national singles title by defeating S Aditya 25-0, 19-6.
