June 12, 2024 Current Affairs

1. In which year was the first practical accurate atomic clock with caesium atoms invented?

A.    1948

B.    1950

C.   1953

D.   1955

Answer: Option D

Explanation:

Louise Essen invented atomic clocks in 1955. These clocks, known for their precision, use the resonance frequencies of atoms for timekeeping. They are incredibly accurate, losing about one second every 100 million years. Atomic clocks are essential in modern scientific and technological applications, such as global navigation systems and telecommunications. This invention represented a major step forward in timekeeping technology, leading to improved precision in fields that depend on accurate time measurement.

2. Where will the MotoGP Bharat event be hosted from 2025 until 2029?

A.    Delhi

B.    Mumbai

C.   Noida

D.   Chennai

Answer: Option C

Explanation:

Starting from 2025 up to 2029, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, will serve as the host city for the MotoGP Bharat event. Noida was selected as the location for this esteemed global motorsport competition after it was delayed from 2024 because of weather-related issues. The primary goal of this event is to enhance the reputation of motorcycle racing in India and draw fans from all over the nation and beyond.

3. Which country recently passed a motion supporting Tibetan Self-Determination?

A.    India

B.    Canada

C.   Australia

D.   United Kingdom

Answer: Option B

Explanation:

A motion endorsing Tibetan Self-Determination was recently approved by the Canadian House of Commons, highlighting the rights of Tibetans to determine their own policies and spiritual leaders in response to apprehensions about China's cultural assimilation strategies. Put forward by Bloc Québécois MP Alexis Brunelle-Duceppe, this motion reinforces Canada's position on human rights and global diplomacy, with a specific focus on Tibet's autonomy within China.

4. Against which country will the Indian Deaf Cricket Team play its first-ever bilateral T20 series?

A.    England

B.    Australia

C.   South Africa

D.   Pakistan

Answer: Option A

Explanation:

The Indian Deaf Cricket Team is on the verge of creating history as they prepare to compete in their first-ever bilateral T20 series against England. Taking place at various locations in England from June 18 to June 27, this series represents a major achievement for deaf cricket, promoting global sports connections and offering a stage for gifted athletes to display their abilities worldwide.

5. What is India's growth forecast for FY25 according to the World Bank?

A.    5.5%

B.    6.0%

C.   6.6%

D.   7.0%

Answer: Option C

Explanation:

In its latest biannual Global Economic Prospects report, the World Bank has kept India's growth forecast unchanged at 6.6% for FY25. This reaffirms India's status as the fastest-growing major economy worldwide. The projection indicates a consistent rate of economic growth, buoyed by factors like increased agricultural output, decreasing inflation, strong investment confidence, and expected enhancements in international demand. Although the growth rate is lower than in the past, India's economic prospects continue to be favorable, driven by robust consumption and investment trends amid changing global economic conditions.

6. Where is the Japan-India Maritime Exercise JIMEX-24 currently being held?

A.    Yokosuka

B.    Mumbai

C.   Chennai

D.   Osaka

Answer: Option A

Explanation:

The 8th edition of the Japan-India Maritime Exercise JIMEX-24 is taking place in Yokosuka, Japan. This bilateral naval exercise is designed to enhance naval cooperation and interoperability between the Indian Navy and the Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force (JMSDF). The exercise features harbor and sea phases, with a focus on improving operational interactions and bolstering maritime security in the Indo-Pacific region.

7. Who has been appointed as the next Chief of the Army Staff (COAS)?

A.    Lt General Rajesh Kumar

B.    Lt General Upendra Dwivedi

C.   Major General Ashok Sharma

D.   Colonel Sanjay Patel

Answer: Option B

Explanation:

Lt General Upendra Dwivedi has been named the upcoming Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) after General Rajesh Kumar. With more than 39 years of exceptional service, Lt General Dwivedi has served in various important roles such as Northern Army Commander and Director General (DG) of infantry. Given his extensive military background and academic accomplishments, he is a prominent selection for this leadership position within the Indian Army.

8. When is the World Day Against Child Labour observed globally?

A.    June 12

B.    May 1

C.   July 4

D.   June 15

Answer: Option A

Explanation:

Every year on June 12, the World Day Against Child Labour is commemorated worldwide with the goal of increasing awareness and rallying support to eradicate child labour across the globe. The International Labour Organization (ILO) introduced this event to underscore the significance of safeguarding children from exploitation and guaranteeing their entitlement to a childhood devoid of work.

9. Which country has been selected to host the 2025 FIH Hockey Men’s Junior World Cup?

A.    Netherlands

B.    India

C.   Australia

D.   Germany

Answer: Option B

Explanation:

India has been selected to host the 2025 FIH Hockey Men’s Junior World Cup, a major achievement as the competition grows to accommodate 24 teams for the first time. This choice underscores India's leadership in world hockey and its dedication to advancing the sport on a global scale. Dr. Dilip Tirkey, President of Hockey India, emphasized India's storied hockey heritage and its preparedness to demonstrate the country's talent and organizational skills in managing this esteemed tournament.

10. Who was sworn in as the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh for the fourth term?

A.    YS Jagan Mohan Reddy

B.    K. Rosaiah

C.   N. Kiran Kumar Reddy

D.   N. Chandrababu Naidu

Answer: Option D

Explanation:

After being elected, N. Chandrababu Naidu has commenced his fourth term as the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh. Previously, he held the same position during two terms of the undivided Andhra Pradesh and was also the inaugural Chief Minister of the newly separated Andhra Pradesh from 2014 to 2019. His latest inauguration signifies his comeback to authority after a substantial electoral triumph in 2024.

11. Recently, who became the first woman helicopter pilot of the Indian Navy?

A. Mohana Singh

B. Anamika

B Rajeev

C. Priya Paul

D. Archana Kapoor

Answer: Option B

Explanation:

During the passing out parade of the 102nd Helicopter Conversion Course at INS Rajali, Arakkonam, Sub Lieutenant Anamika B. Rajeev created history as the first woman in the Indian Navy to pilot a helicopter. Vice Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar presented “Golden Wings” to 21 officers, symbolizing the completion of Stage I training for the 4th Basic Helicopter Conversion Course on June 7.

12. Recently, Prem Singh Tamang became the Chief Minister of which Himalayan state?

A. Uttarakhand

B. Sikkim

C. Arunachal Pradesh

D. Meghalaya

Answer: Option B

Explanation:

For his second term as Chief Minister of Sikkim, Prem Singh Tamang from Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM) was inaugurated on June 10. The 56-year-old leader took the oath in Nepali, officiated by Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya at Paljor Stadium in Gangtok, in the presence of a large crowd of supporters. Festivities broke out despite the ban on firecrackers. Additionally, eleven other ministers, such as Sonam Lama and Arun Kumar Upreti, were also sworn in.

13. Recently, a rare four-horned antelope has been sighted for the first time in which tiger reserve of Madhya Pradesh?

A. Veerangana Durgavati Tiger Reserve

B. Kanha Tiger Reserve

C. Pench Tiger Reserve

D. Panna Tiger Reserve

Answer: Option A

Explanation:

The first sighting of a rare four-horned antelope, also called Chousingha, occurred in the Veerangana Durgavati Tiger Reserve, formerly known as the Nauradehi Sanctuary. Tetracerus quadricornis, the smallest Asian antelope, is native to India and Nepal. These antelopes are found in dry, deciduous forests and hilly areas with ample grass or undergrowth. Only males of the species have four horns. The antelope is categorized as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List.

14. Which country has recently unveiled its new “Deep Stand-off” long-range air launched ballistic missile named “AIR LORA”?

A. Russia

B. China

C. Israel

D. India

Answer: Option C

Explanation:

Israel Aerospace Industries has introduced the Air LORA, an air-launched version of the LORA ballistic missile. Specifically created for targeting high-value objectives, it comes with sophisticated navigation, anti-jamming functions, and the ability to function in harsh environments. The Air LORA is equipped with a powerful warhead, boasts a high success rate in missions, and can be incorporated into different airborne systems. Its supersonic velocity and 90° attack angle increase its efficiency when dealing with heavily fortified targets.

15. ‘AIM – ICDK Water Challenge 4.0’, recently seen in news, is an initiative of which organization?

A. Indian Council of Agricultural Research

B. NITI Aayog

C. Ministry of Agriculture

D. Central Pollution Control Board

Answer: Option B

Explanation:

The Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) under NITI Aayog has introduced two new projects: the ‘AIM – ICDK Water Challenge 4.0’ and the fifth edition of the ‘Innovations for You’ handbook. In partnership with Innovation Centre Denmark, the Water Challenge is designed to tackle water-related challenges by leveraging creative solutions. Contestants will be part of the international Next Generation Digital Action program and present their projects at the Digital Tech Summit in Copenhagen, emphasizing sustainability and digital innovations.