Current Affairs Aug 2015

Preface
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Current Affairs
Preface .................................................................................................................................. 1
National................................................................................................................................. 9
Prime Minister's visit to United Arab Emirates......................................................................................... 9
List issued for 98 selected smart cities ................................................................................................... 11
The visit of President of Seychelles to India ........................................................................................... 12
Religious Communities of Census 2011 .................................................................................................. 13
Foreign Minister visit to Egypt ................................................................................................................ 14
Forum for India Pacific Island Countries (FIPIC) Summit ........................................................................ 16
Agreement between India and Seychelles.............................................................................................. 17
State visit of President of Mozambique to India .................................................................................... 19
Iranian Foreign Minister visit to India ..................................................................................................... 20
Swachh Bharat ranking-2015 .................................................................................................................. 21
Energy Sources of Indian Households for Cooking and Lighting, 2011-12 ............................................. 22
Tamil Nadu Tops in Organ Donation ....................................................................................................... 23
International ....................................................................................................................... 24
CERN- First non-European associates ..................................................................................................... 24
BRICS' New Development Bank (NDP) launched in Shanghai................................................................. 25
High Level Meeting- Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) ............................................................ 26
Worlds highest paid actors-2015 ........................................................................................................... 28
World Population Prospects: The 2015 Revision .................................................................................... 29
162th member of WTO ........................................................................................................................... 30
South Sudan in International Olympic Committee (IOC) ........................................................................ 31
Economy ............................................................................................................................. 32
Bandhan Bank ......................................................................................................................................... 32
Forbes- World's Most Innovative Companies 2015 ................................................................................ 33
RBI in-principle nod for payments bank license ..................................................................................... 34
The Richest People in Tech- Forbes list 2015.......................................................................................... 36
Third Bi-monthly Monetary Policy, 2015-16 ........................................................................................... 37
Science ................................................................................................................................ 38
Global satellite to be named after Abdul Kalam ..................................................................................... 38
ISRO launched GSAT-6 ............................................................................................................................ 39
Sports ................................................................................................................................. 40
Tennis ................................................................................................................................. 40
Rogers Cup-2015 ..................................................................................................................................... 40
Citi Open 2015 ........................................................................................................................................ 41
Western & Southern Open 2015- Cincinnati .......................................................................................... 42
Cricket................................................................................................................................. 43
Ashes Test Series-2015 ........................................................................................................................... 43
Football ............................................................................................................................... 44
U16- South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) Cup 2015 ......................................................................... 44
Spanish Super Cup- 2015 ........................................................................................................................ 45
UFEA Super cup-2015 ............................................................................................................................. 46
Chess................................................................................................................................... 47
Politiken Cup-2015 .................................................................................................................................. 47
Badminton .......................................................................................................................... 48
World Badminton Championship-2015 .................................................................................................. 48
Billiards/Snooker/Squash .................................................................................................... 50
Victorian Open Squash-2015 .................................................................................................................. 50
IBSF World Team and 6-Red Snooker Championship ............................................................................. 51
Golf ..................................................................................................................................... 52
US PGA Championship 2015 ................................................................................................................... 52
Ladies British open amateur stroke-play championship ........................................................................ 53
Sports Misc ......................................................................................................................... 54

Olympic Winter Games 2022 .................................................................................................................. 54
2015 World Archery Championship ........................................................................................................ 55
Working Group Constituted by Central Sports Ministry ......................................................................... 56
Sports Personalities ............................................................................................................. 57

Novak Djokovic........................................................................................................................................ 57
Gurbaj Singh ............................................................................................................................................ 58
Ajinkya Rahane sets World Record ......................................................................................................... 59
Sebastian Coe .......................................................................................................................................... 60
Clive Rice ................................................................................................................................................. 61
Snippets .............................................................................................................................. 62
PM inaugurates birth centenary celebrations of Rani Gaidinliu ............................................................. 62
Digitalization initiative of the Government- SEHAT ................................................................................ 63
Final meeting of the Sub-Group of Chief Ministers- NITI Aayog............................................................. 64
National Sports Awards- 2015 ................................................................................................................ 65
Smart street lighting project RISHTA ................................................................................................... 67
Personalities........................................................................................................................ 68
Rajiv Mehrishi ......................................................................................................................................... 68
Madanlal Laxmandas Tahaliyani ............................................................................................................. 69
Zaina Erhaim ........................................................................................................................................... 70
Neerja Mathur......................................................................................................................................... 71
Ranil Wickremesinghe- Sri Lankas new PM ........................................................................................... 72
Suvra Mukherjee- Indias First Lady ........................................................................................................ 73
Appointment of Chairman and Managing Director, Air India Limited.................................................... 74
Ajit Kumar Seth ....................................................................................................................................... 75
Jethabhai P Patel ..................................................................................................................................... 76
Amitabh Bachchan .................................................................................................................................. 77
Indian socio-biologist Prof. Raghavendra Gadagkar ............................................................................... 78
Om Prakash Rawat- new Election Commissioner ................................................................................... 79
Sundar Pichai- Googles new CEO ........................................................................................................... 80
Vasundhara Komkali ............................................................................................................................... 82
Places .................................................................................................................................. 83
Mumbai gets a flamingo sanctuary......................................................................................................... 83
Awards ................................................................................................................................ 84
National Sports Awards- 2015 ................................................................................................................ 84
Saraswati Sammaan-2014....................................................................................................................... 86
Uttar Pradesh Institute of Hindi-Annual Prize distribution-2014 ........................................................... 87
Scheme/Project ................................................................................................................... 88
E-Payment Module ................................................................................................................................. 88
Axis Bank launches multi-currency contactless card with Visa .............................................................. 89
Telecom Ministry-New app launched to promote digital literacy .......................................................... 90

Bio Fuel Blended High Speed Diesel (HSD) launched.............................................................................. 91
New central sector scheme Nai Manzil launched ............................................................................... 92
School Nursery Scheme .......................................................................................................................... 93
Operation............................................................................................................................ 94
Exercize-Yudh Abhyas 2015 .................................................................................................................... 94
Treaty ................................................................................................................................. 95
Historical peace accord between Government of India and Nationalist Socialist Council of Nagaland
(NSCN) ..................................................................................................................................................... 95
Memorandum on cooperation to establish the Pace Setter Fund ......................................................... 96
MoU between India and Nepal approved .............................................................................................. 97
Government of India and World Bank Sign Agreement ......................................................................... 98
Posco Steel teams up with Uttam Galva Steel ........................................................................................ 99
CBDT Signs Advance Pricing Agreements (APAs) to Usher in Certainty in Taxation............................. 100
Acquisitions....................................................................................................................... 101
Berkshire Hathaway buys Precision Castparts ...................................................................................... 101
Thomas Cook India announces the acquisition of Kuoni Groups Travel Operations in India and Hong
Kong ...................................................................................................................................................... 102
Law & Justice..................................................................................................................... 103

Resolution against death penalty ......................................................................................................... 103
Year & Day ........................................................................................................................ 104

National Sports Day .............................................................................................................................. 104
World Humanitarian Day ...................................................................................................................... 105
National Sports Day .............................................................................................................................. 106
Earth Overshoot Day ............................................................................................................................. 107
Miscellaneous ................................................................................................................... 108

Appointment of Governor in the state of Bihar and Himachal Pradesh............................................... 108
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Current Affairs
Rajiv Mehrishi
National Sports Day
The visit of President of Seychelles to India
List issued for 98 selected smart cities
ISRO launched GSAT-6
Novak Djokovic
E-Payment Module
Neerja Mathur
Religious Communities of Census 2011
Foreign Minister visit to Egypt
National Sports Awards- 2015
Digitalization initiative of the Government- SEHAT
Final meeting of the Sub-Group of Chief Ministers- NITI Aayog
Ashes Test Series-2015
Madanlal Laxmandas Tahaliyani
PM inaugurates birth centenary celebrations of Rani Gaidinliu
Bandhan Bank
Western & Southern Open 2015- Cincinnati
Zaina Erhaim
Forum for India Pacific Island Countries (FIPIC) Summit
Ladies British open amateur stroke-play championship
Ranil Wickremesinghe- Sri Lankas new PM
Appointment of Chairman and Managing Director, Air India
Limited
Smart street lighting project RISHTA
Agreement between India and Seychelles
Forbes- World's Most Innovative Companies 2015
RBI in-principle nod for payments bank license
Sebastian Coe
World Humanitarian Day
U16- South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) Cup 2015
Suvra Mukherjee- Indias First Lady
Fully automated digital locker
Prime Minister's visit to United Arab Emirates
Spanish Super Cup- 2015
Ajit Kumar Seth
Tamil Nadu Tops in Organ Donation
Rogers Cup-2015
World Badminton Championship-2015
US PGA Championship 2015
IBSF World Team and 6-Red Snooker Championship
Exercize-Yudh Abhyas 2015
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Iranian Foreign Minister visit to India

Ajinkya Rahane sets World Record
Om Prakash Rawat- new Election Commissioner
Earth Overshoot Day
Jethabhai P Patel
Axis Bank launches multi-currency contactless card with Visa
Memorandum on cooperation to establish the Pace Setter Fund
MoU between India and Nepal approved
UFEA Super cup-2015
Government of India and World Bank Sign Agreement
Posco Steel teams up with Uttam Galva Steel
Gurbaj Singh
Amitabh Bachchan
Sundar Pichai- Googles new CEO
Saraswati Sammaan-2014
Bio Fuel Blended High Speed Diesel (HSD) launched
School Nursery Scheme
Berkshire Hathaway buys Precision Castparts
Citi Open 2015
State visit of President of Mozambique to India
Swachh Bharat ranking-2015
Telecom Ministry-New app launched to promote digital literacy
New central sector scheme Nai Manzil launched
Appointment of Governor in the state of Bihar and Himachal
Pradesh
Global satellite to be named after Abdul Kalam
Indian socio-biologist Prof. Raghavendra Gadagkar
Thomas Cook India announces the acquisition of Kuoni Groups
Travel Operations in India and Hong Kong
Resolution against death penalty
Mumbai gets a flamingo sanctuary
The Richest People in Tech- Forbes list 2015
Worlds highest paid actors-2015
Third Bi-monthly Monetary Policy, 2015-16
Uttar Pradesh Institute of Hindi-Annual Prize distribution-2014
Historical peace accord between Government of India and
Nationalist Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN)
CBDT Signs Advance Pricing Agreements (APAs) to Usher in
Certainty in Taxation
Politiken Cup-2015
Victorian Open Squash-2015
2015 World Archery Championship
South Sudan in International Olympic Committee (IOC)
CERN- First non-European associates
Olympic Winter Games 2022
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Energy Sources of Indian Households for Cooking and Lighting,

2011-12
World Population Prospects: The 2015 Revision
Vasundhara Komkali
Working Group Constituted by Central Sports Ministry
Clive Rice
162th member of WTO
BRICS' New Development Bank (NDP) launched in Shanghai
High Level Meeting- Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO)
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National
Ques: On 16-17 August, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi visited the United Arab Emirates.
Who is the former Indian PM, visited UAE before
this visit?
a. Dr. Manmohan Singh
b. Shri Rajiv Gandhi
c. Smt. Indira Gandhi
d. Shri P. V. Narasimha Rao
Ans: c
Related facts:
At the invitation of His Highness General
Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme
Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi visited to
UAE on 16-17 August, 2015.
The visit of an Indian Prime Minister to UAE after 34 years. Last visited PM was Smt.
Indira Gandhi.
In recent decades, UAE's economic progress has been one of the global success stories,
transforming the nation into a regional leader and a thriving international centre that
attracts people and business from across the world.
India is UAE's second largest trading partner; and UAE not only India's third largest
trading partner, but also India's gateway to the region and beyond.
India and UAE share centuries-old ties of commerce, culture and kinship. Today, the
Indian community of over 2.5 million is a major part of UAE's vibrant society and its
economic success.
UAE is at the heart of the Gulf and West Asia region and its major economic hub. India,
with seven million citizens in the Gulf, also has major energy, trade and investment
interests in the region.
Both countries leaders agreed on the following important points:
I. Elevate the India-UAE relationship to a comprehensive strategic partnership.
II.
Coordinate efforts to counter radicalization and misuse of religion by groups
and countries for inciting hatred.
III.
Denounce and oppose terrorism in all forms and manifestations.
IV. Enhance cooperation in counter-terrorism operations, intelligence sharing
and capacity building.
V. Work together for the adoption of Indias proposed Comprehensive
convention on International Terrorism in the United Nations.
VI.
Work together to control, regulate and share information on flow of funds

that could have a bearing on radicalization activities and cooperate in
interdicting illegal flows and take action against concerned individuals and
organizations.
VII. Strengthen cooperation in law enforcement, anti-money laundering, drug
trafficking, other trans-national crimes, extradition arrangements, as well as
police training.
VIII.
Promote cooperation in cyber security, including prevention on use of cyber
for terrorism, radicalization and disturbing social harmony.
IX. Establish a dialogue between their National Security Advisors and National
Security Councils.
X. Cooperate to strengthen maritime security in the Gulf and the Indian Ocean
region, which is vital for the security and prosperity of both countries.
XI. Promote collaboration and inter-operability for humanitarian assistance and
evacuation in natural disasters and conflict situations.
XII.
Strengthen defence relations, including through regular exercises and
training of naval, air, land and Special Forces, and in coastal defense.
XIII.
Cooperate in manufacture of defence equipment in India.
XIV.
Work together to promote peace, reconciliation, stability, inclusiveness and
cooperation in the wider South Asia, Gulf and West Asia region.
XV. Support efforts for peaceful resolution of conflicts and promote adherence
to the principles of sovereignty and non-interference in the conduct of
relations between nations and settlement of disputes.
XVI. Facilitate participation of Indian companies in infrastructure development in
UAE.
XVII. Tap India's expertise in Small and Medium Enterprises to create a vibrant
industrial base in UAE, which could also be of benefit to Indian enterprises.
XVIII. trengthen cooperation between UAE's increasingly sophisticated educational
institutions and India's universities and higher research institutions.
XIX. Promote cooperation in Space, including in joint development and launch of
satellites, ground-based infrastructure and space application.
XX. Cooperate in peaceful uses of nuclear energy including in areas like safety,
health, agriculture and science and technology.
Prime Minister thanked His Highness the Crown Prince for his decision to allot land for
construction of a temple in Abu Dhabi.
Reference:
http://www.mea.gov.in/outoging-visitdetail.htm?25733/Joint+Statement+between+the+United+Arab+Emirates+and+the+Republic+of+India
http://www.mea.gov.in/outoging-visitdetail.htm?25735/Transcript+of+Media+Briefing+by+Foreign+Secretary+in+Dubai+on+Prime+Ministers+
ongoing+visit+to+United+Arab+Emirates+August+17+2015
10 | h t t p : / / w w w . e d r i s t i . i n /
List issued for 98 selected smart cities

Ques: Recently, Ministry of Urban Development announced a list of 98 cities and towns
selected for development as smart cities. Which of the
following states got maximum number of cities?
a. West Bengal
b. Odisha
c. New Delhi
d. Uttar Pradesh
Ans: d
Related facts:
Minister of Urban Development Shri M.Venkaiah
Naidu announced a list of 98 cities and towns selected
for development as smart cities on 27 August, 2015, under Smart City Mission.
In the list, 24 cities are capital cities, 24 are business and industrial centers, 18 are of
cultural and tourism importance, 5 are port cities and three are educational and
healthcare hubs got the place for the mission.
In terms of population, 8 have population up to one lakh, 35 have population between
one and five lakhs, 21 cities are in the population range of five to ten lakhs, 25 have
population of above 10 lakhs and below 25 lakhs, 5 in the range of 25 to 50 lakhs and
Four have population above 50 lakh.
65 small and medium towns and cities making to the list of smart city aspirants.
The 98 cities selected under Smart City Mission have a population of about 13 crore
accounting for over 35% of the countrys urban population.
Under Smart City Mission and Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation
(AMRUT), 80% of total urban population would benefit from enhanced quality of living.
Maximum 12 cities were selected from the Uttar Pradesh under Smart City Mission.
The cities are: Moradabad, Aligarh, Saharanpur, Bareilly, Jhansi, Kanpur, Allahabad,
Lucknow, Varanasi, Ghaziabad, Agra, and Rampur.
For 13th place, the name is to be decided between Raebareli and Meerut.
Other than this one city has to be shortlisted from Jammu & Kashmir.
Nine cities, Bengaluru, Kolkata, Shimla, Puducherry, Daman, Patna, Itanagar,
Thiruvananthapuram and Gangtok did not qualify for being a smart city.
It is known that the mission launched on 25 June, 2015 from the Prime Minister.
Reference:
http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=126382
http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/centre-releases-list-of-98-cities-for-smart-cityproject/article7586751.ece
The visit of President of Seychelles to India

Ques: The President of Seychelles was on Indias visit during 25-27 August, 2015. His name isa. Joel Morgan
b. Jean Paul Adams
c. James Alix Michel
d. None
Ans: c
Related facts:
The President of Seychelles was on Indias visit during
25-27 August, 2015.
Mr Michel's trip comes five months after Prime
Minister Narendra Modi visited that country during
which a number of agreements were signed to boost cooperation in a range of areas.
It was first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the country in 34 years.
Mr Michel had earlier paid state visits to India in 2005 and 2010, apart from
participating in the Delhi Sustainable Development Summits in 2011 and 2012.
India and Seychelles have close and friendly relations.
As maritime neighbors, the partnership is anchored in the need for peace and prosperity
in the Indian Ocean region.
Development partnership, especially in the areas of capacity building and human
resource development forms an important part of the engagement.
The presence of a strong Indian community in Seychelles, comprising about 11 per cent
of the total population, is another significant link between the two countries.
He delivered an address on 'Maritime Security for Blue Economy' at the Indian Council
for World Affairs.
List of Agreements/MOUs signed during the visit of President of Republic of Seychelles
to IndiaI. Air Services Agreement between India and Seychelles
II.
MoU between India and Seychelles for providing one Dornier Maritime Aircraft
III.
Agreement between India and Seychelles for exchange of information with
respect to Taxes
IV. MoU between ICAR and Seychelles Agricultural Agency for Cooperation in
agricultural research and education
V. Protocol on framework of cooperation in the field of Blue Economy between
India and Seychelles
VI. Presentation of Navigational chart (related to Aldabra Island)
Reference:
http://www.mea.gov.in/incoming-visitdetail.htm?25763/Media+Statement+by+Prime+Minister+and+President+of+Seychelles+during+the+visi
t+of+President+of+Seychelles+to+India+August+26+2015\
http://www.mea.gov.in/incoming-visitdetail.htm?25764/List+of+AgreementsMOUs+signed+during+the+visit+of+President+of+Republic+of+Se
ychelles+to+India
Religious Communities of Census 2011

Ques: The Registrar General and Census Commissioner, India
released the data on Population by Religious Communities of Census
2011. What is the percentage of Hindu population according to the
survey?
a. 78.9 pc b. 79.8 pc
c. 75.9 pc d. 76.8 pc
Ans: b
Related facts:
The Registrar General and Census Commissioner, India released the data on Population
by Religious Communities of Census 2011 on 25 August, 2015.
The distribution is total population by six major religious communities namely, Hindu,
Muslim, Christian, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain besides Other Religions and Persuasions and
Religion not stated.
The data are released by sex and residence up to sub-districts and towns.
Total Population in 2011 is 121.09 crores.
According to the survey, total Hindu population is 96.63 crores (79.8%).
Total Muslim population is 17.22 crores which is 14.2%.
Rest of the data are; Christian 2.78 crores (2.3%); Sikh 2.08 crores (1.7%); Buddhist 0.84
crores (0.7%); Jain 0.45 crores (0.4%), Other Religions & Persuasions (ORP) 0.79 crores
(0.7%) and Religion Not Stated 0.29 crores (0.2%).
The proportion of Hindu population to total population in 2011 has declined by 0.7
percentage point (PP); the proportion of Sikh population has declined by 0.2 PP and the
Buddhist population has declined by 0.1 PP during the decade 2001-2011.
The proportion of Muslim population to total population has increased by 0.8 PP.
There has been no significant change in the proportion of Christians & Jains.
The growth rate of population in the decade 2001-2011 was 17.7 %.
The growth rate of population of the different religious communities in the same period
was as Hindus: 16.8%; Muslim: 24.6%; Christian: 15.5%; Sikh: 8.4%; Buddhist: 6.1% and
Jain: 5.4%.
Population growth rate of Hindus in 1991 was 25.1 pc and 20.3 pc in 2001.
Population growth rate of Muslims in 1991 was 34.5 pc and 29.5 pc in 2001.
4 most Hindu populous states are: Himachal Pradesh (95.17 pc), Dadar & Nagar Haveli
(93.93 pc), Odisha (93.63 pc) and Chhattisgarh (93.25 pc).
4 most Muslims populous states are: lakshadweep (96.58 pc), Jammu & Kashmir (68.31
pc), Assam (34.22 pc), West Bengal (27.01 pc)
Reference:
http://www.censusindia.gov.in/2011census/C-01.html
http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/religious-communities-census-2011-what-the-numberssay/article7582284.ece
Foreign Minister visit to Egypt

Ques: Recently Indian Foreign Minister was on visit to Egypt. Who is the current President of
Egypt?
a. Mohamed Morsi
b. Omar Suleiman
c. Abdel Fattah el-Sisi
d. None
Ans: c
Related facts:
External Affairs Minister Smt. Sushma

Swaraj was on visit to Egypt on 23-26
August on the invitation of Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Hassan Shoukry.
Indias relationship with Egypt is known for millennia.
Artifacts from the region were found in Lothal in the Indus-Saraswati valley civilization
and there are records of our exchanges with Egypt in the Ashokan rock edicts.
Modern EgyptIndia relations go back to the contacts between Saad

Zaghloul and Mahatma Gandhi on the common goals of their respective movements of
independence.
In 1955, Egypt under Gamal Abdel Nasser and India under Jawaharlal Nehru became the
founders of the Non-Aligned Movement.
In 1967, following the Arab-Israeli war, India supported Egypt and the Arabs.
In 1977, New Delhi described the visit of President Anwar al-Sadat to Jerusalem as a
"brave" move and considered the peace treaty between Egypt and Israel a primary step
on the path of a just settlement of the Middle East problem.
India is the fourth largest trade partner of Egypt, after the US, Italy and Saudi Arabia.
Major Egyptian exports to India include raw cotton, raw and manufactured fertilizers, oil
and oil products, organic and non-organic chemicals, leather and iron products.
Major imports into Egypt from India are cotton yarn, sesame, coffee, herbs, tobacco and
lentils.
In 2004 the Gas Authority of India Limited, bought 15% of Egypt Natural Gas distribution
and marketing company.
Since the 1980s, there have been four Prime Ministerial visits from India to Egypt:
Shri Rajiv Gandhi (1985)
Shri P. V. Narasimha Rao (1995)
Shri I. K. Gujral (1997)

Dr Manmohan Singh (2009).
From the Egyptian side, the President visited India in 1982, in 1983 (NAM Summit) and
again in November 2008.
Trade between India and Egypt during the last financial year (April 2012- March 2013)
was US $ 5.48 billion.
Since FY 2006-07, India has been among the top five importers of Egyptian products.
The top five Egyptian exports to India are Crude oil and LNG, Rock phosphates, Cotton,
oilseeds and fruits.
Indian exports to Egypt during the last financial year were US$ 2.9.
The top five Indian exports during 2012-13 were mineral fuel, cuts of boneless bovine
frozen meat, Electrical machinery and parts, cotton and two wheelers motorcycles.
Out of the 50 Indian companies operating in Egypt with a combined investment of

roughly US $ 2.5 billion, approximately 25 companies are joint ventures and wholly
owned Indian subsidiaries.
Under Technical and Scientific Cooperation program, since the year 2000, over 350
Egyptian candidates have visited India under ITEC Programs.
The strong ties between India and Egypt are evident from the affection towards India
amongst the population. Three streets in Cairo are named after Indian leaders namely,
Mahatma Gandhi, Pandit Nehru and Dr. Zakir Hussein.
Approximately 85,000 Indian tourists visited Egypt in 2012.
Reference:
http://mea.gov.in/Portal/ForeignRelation/India-Egypt_Relations.pdf
http://www.mea.gov.in/outoging-visitdetail.htm?25761/Speech+by+External+Affairs+Minister+at+Egyptian+Council+for+Foreign+Affairs+Cair
o+August+25+2015
http://www.mea.gov.in/outoging-visitdetail.htm?25754/Remarks+by+External+Affairs+Minister+at+the+Indian+Community+Reception+in+Cai
ro+Egypt+August+23+2015
Forum for India Pacific Island Countries (FIPIC) Summit

Ques: Recently the second Forum for India
Island Countries (FIPIC) summit held ata. New Delhi b. Ahmadabad
c. Jaipur
d. Mumbai
Ans: c
Related facts:
The Heads of State/Government

participated in 2nd Summit of
Forum for India-Pacific Island
Countries (FIPIC) on August 21,
2015 in Jaipur.
All Head of state/head of government of the above countries met in Suva, Fiji in
November 2014 for the first time where the annual summit was conceptualized. Prime
Minister Shri Narendra Modi was also present in that summit.
One of the key outcomes of the first summit in Suva, Fiji was that top leadership of both
India and Pacific Islands should meet at regular intervals and that an annual summit
must be instituted in this regard.
Forum for India-Pacific Islands cooperation(FIPIC) is a multinational grouping developed

in 2014 for cooperation between India and 14 Pacific Islands nations which include Cook
Islands, Fiji, Kiribati, Marshall
Islands, Micronesia, Nauru, Niue,
Samoa, Solomon
Islands, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Tonga, Tuvalu and Vanuatu.
FIPIK summit focused mostly on blue economy (ocean-based economy), oil and natural
gas, mining, IT, health care, fishing and marine research etc.
It is known that the trade between India and second Pacific countries is around $ 300m.
Reference:
http://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-prime-minister-modi-to-inaugurate-fipic-summit-in-jaipurtoday-2116692
http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2015-08-20/news/65667118_1_india-pacific-islandscooperation-solomon-islands-tuvalu
Agreement between India and Seychelles

Ques: The Union Cabinet, chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has approved
the signing and ratification of the
agreement
between
India
and
Seychelles for exchange of information
with respect to taxes ona. 18 August, 2015
b. 19 August, 2015
c. 20 August, 2015
d. 21 August, 2015
Ans: c
Related facts:
The Union Cabinet, chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has approved the
signing and ratification of the agreement between India and Seychelles for exchange of
information with respect to taxes on 20 August, 2015
Negotiations for entering into an agreement for the exchange of information with
respect to taxes were conducted at Seychelles from 8th to 9th June, 2015.
The Agreement will stimulate the flow of exchange of information between India and
Seychelles for tax purposes, which will help curb tax evasion and tax avoidance.
The salient features of the agreement are as follows:

i.
It will enable the Competent Authorities of India and Seychelles to provide

assistance through exchange of information that is foreseeably relevant to the
administration and enforcement of the domestic laws of two countries
concerning taxes covered by this agreement.
ii.
Information received under the agreement shall be treated as confidential and

may be disclosed only to persons or authorities (including courts or
administrative bodies) concerned with assessment, collection, enforcement,
prosecution or determination of appeals, in relation to taxes covered under the
agreement. Information may be disclosed to any other person or entity or
authority or jurisdiction with the prior written consent of the country sending
the information.
iii.
The agreement also provides for a Mutual Agreement Procedure for resolving
any difference or for agreeing on procedures under the agreement.
iv.
The agreement will enter into force on the date of notification of completion of
procedures required by the respective laws of the two countries, for entry into
force of the agreement.
As such, the agreement does not have any financial implications. Only in the event of
extraordinary costs exceeding US Dollar 500, the Government of India will bear the
same, as per Article 9 of the agreement. India has similar provisions in other such tax
information exchange agreements.
Background:
The Central Government is authorized under section 90 of the Income Tax Act, 1961 to
enter into an agreement with a foreign country or specified territory for exchange of
information for the prevention of evasion or avoidance of income-tax chargeable under
the Income-tax Act, 1961. Negotiations for entering into an agreement for the exchange
of information with respect to taxes were conducted at Seychelles from 8th to 9th June,
2015. Pursuant to this, India Seychelles have agreed on the text of the agreement.
India has signed similar bilateral agreements for Exchange of Tax Information with
Argentina, Bahamas, Bahrain, Belize, Bermuda, British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands,
Gibraltar, Guernsey, Isle of Man, Jersey, Liberia, Liechtenstein, Macao, Monaco and San
Marino.
Reference:
http://pib.nic.in/newsite/mbErel.aspx?relid=126198
http://www.business-standard.com/article/government-press-release/signing-and-ratification-ofagreement-between-india-and-seychelles-for-the-115082000382_1.html
State visit of President of Mozambique to India

Ques: 4-8 August 2015, the President of which country
visited India?
a. South Africa b. Mozambique
c. Bhutan
d. Russia
Ans: b
Related facts:
State visit of His Excellency Mr. Filipe Jacinto Nyusi,
President of the Republic of Mozambique to India
from August 4 - 8, 2015.
This was the second visit as he had earlier visited India in 2011 as the Defense Minister.
The visit was special because this is the 40th anniversary year of independence of
Mozambique and the 40th anniversary year of the establishment of India- Mozambique
diplomatic relations.
India and Mozambique share a history of profitable trade relations. Both the nations'
bilateral trade in 2014-15 values at almost USD 2.4 billion.
Indian investments in Mozambique are presently valued at over USD 7 billion primarily
in the hydrocarbon and coal sectors.
Mozambique has one of the longest coastlines in Africa about 2500 kilometers.
Mozambique is the prior most priorities for Indian foreign policy (Africa and Indian
Ocean).
India is a development partner for Mozambique in several areas, including agriculture,
healthcare, energy, infrastructure and human resource development.
Both countries agreed to reactivate the Joint Working Group on Defense.
Shri Piyush Goyal, Minister of State (I/C) Coal, Power and New & Renewable Energy
signed the Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of the Republic of
India and the Government of Republic of Mozambique on Cooperation in the field of
New and Renewable Energy.
Almost 25k Indians live in Mozambique.
Reference:
http://mea.gov.in/incoming-visitdetail.htm?25653/Transcript+of+Media+Briefing+by+Secretary+West+on+the+State+visit+of+President+
of+Mozambique+to+India+August+05+2015
http://mea.gov.in/incoming-visitdetail.htm?25573/Media+Statement+by+Prime+Minister+during+the+visit+of+President+of+Mozambiq
ue+to+India+August+5+2015
http://www.business-standard.com/article/news-ani/mozambique-president-to-hold-bilateral-talkswith-pm-modi-in-delhi-115080300787_1.html
http://mea.gov.in/incoming-visitdetail.htm?25572/List+of+AgreementsMoUs+signed+during+the+visit+of+President+of+Mozambique+t
o+India
http://pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/text-of-pms-statement-at-the-media-briefing-with-presidentfilipe-nyusi-of-mozambique/
Iranian Foreign Minister visit to India

Ques: Which countrys Foreign minister
visited India on 13 - 14 August, 2015?
a. Myanmar
b. Iran
c. Bangladesh d. China
Ans: b
Related facts:
Foreign minister of Iran was on India
visit on 13-14 August, 2015.
Prime Minister of India congratulated Iran for reaching an agreement with P5+1
countries and expressed confidence that it would contribute to greater peace and
stability in the region.
Iran looked forward to working closely in all areas, including connectivity, oil and gas,
investments, fertilizers, infrastructure development, among others.
Zarif also met with External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and Minister of Road
Transport, Highways & Shipping Shri Nitin Gadkari.
A bilateral meeting was held between Minister of Road Transport, Highways & Shipping
Shri Nitin Gadkari and Foreign Minister of Iran Mr. Javad Zarif.
The meeting was held in the backdrop of increased engagement between India and Iran
in the infrastructure sectors, with a beginning having been made in the development
and operation of Chabahar Port.
A MoU was signed between India and Iran for development and operation of two
terminals at Chabahar Port, in May, 2015.
For India, Chabahar is of particular importance as it will allow Indian goods to have land
access to Afghanistan, bypassing Pakistan entirely.
New Delhi also sees a port in Chabahar as a strategic counterweight to Chinas pursuit of
a civilian port facility in the Pakistani coastal city of Gwadar.
Reference:
http://mea.gov.in/incoming-visit
info.htm?1/797/Visit+of+Minister+of+Foreign+Affairs+of+the+Islamic+Republic+Iran+to+India+August+
1314+2015
http://mea.gov.in/incoming-visitdetail.htm?25727/Official+Spokespersons+response+to+a+question+on+the+visit+of+the+Iranian+Forei
gn+Minister
http://pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/foreign-minister-of-iran-calls-on-the-pm/
http://pib.nic.in/newsite/hindirelease.aspx?relid=39423
http://thediplomat.com/2015/08/iranian-foreign-minister-visits-india/
Swachh Bharat ranking-2015

Ques: In the following tableS.No
Capital city
Swachh Bharat Rank
1.
Bengaluru
7
2.
Trivandrum
8
3.
Jaipur
371
4.
Imphal
86
Which of the data are correct?
a. Only 1 and 2
b. Only 1
c. 1, 2, 3 and 4
d. None of the above
Ans: a
Related facts:
The Ministry of Urban Development released Swachh Bharat Rankings on 8 August,
2015.
Mysore city in Karnataka topped the Swachh Bharat Rankings of 476 cities in the
country.
The city of Mysore leads the cities with minimal open defecation and extensive adoption
of solid waste management practices.
The survey conducted during 2014-15 was commissioned by the Ministry of Urban
Development as required under the National Sanitation Policy of 2008.
39 cities from the Southern states are among the top 100 followed by 27 from the East,
15 from the West, 12 from the North and 7 from the North-Eastern States.
Bengaluru leads the list of capitals at 7th overall ranking while Patna came at the
bottom at 429.
The top 10 ranked cities being: Mysore, Thiruchirapalli (Tamil Nadu), Navi Mumbai,
Kochi (Kerala), Hassan, Mandya and Bengaluru from Karnataka, Thiruvananthapuram
(Kerala), Halisahar (West Bengal) and Gangtok (Sikkim) in that order.
All the 476 Class-1 cities in 31 States and Union Territories, each with a population of
above one lac were surveyed for assessing total sanitation practices covering a set of
parameters including the extent of open defecation, solid waste management, sewage
management, waste water treatment, drinking water quality, surface water quality of
water bodies and mortality due to water born diseases etc.
Number of cities surveyed in major States include : UP (61), West Bengal (60),
Maharashtra (43), MP(32), Gujarat (30), AP(30), Tamil Nadu(29), Rajasthan(28), Bihar
(27), Karnataka (26), Haryana(20), Punjab(16), Telangana (11), Odisha (10),
Jharkhand(10), Chhattisgarh(9) and 6 each from Kerala, Uttarakhand and North-Eastern
states.
Reference:
http://pib.nic.in/newsite/erelease.aspx?relid=124639
http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/mysuru-tops-swachh-bharat-rankings-steep-fall-fordelhi/article7516881.ece
Energy Sources of Indian Households for Cooking and Lighting,

2011-12
Ques: Which of the Indian state has maximum cooking gas consumption in villages by the
data for 68th round of National Sample Survey Office (NSSO)?
a. Tamilnadu
b. Kerala
c. Punjab
d. Andhra Pradesh
Ans: a
Related facts:
NSSO issued data for Energy Source of Indian
Households for Cooking and Lighting on 29th July 2015.
The report is based on information collected through
Sch. 1.0, Consumer Expenditure, Type 2 during 201112 from 101651 households (59683 rural and 41968
urban) in 7469 villages and 5268 urban blocks spread
over the entire country.
At all India level, firewood and chips were used by more than two-third (67.3%) of rural
households, followed by LPG, which was used by 15.0% households. Only 9.6% and 1.1%
of the rural households used dung cake and coke & coal, respectively, as primary source.
1.3% rural households did not have any arrangement for cooking.
In the urban areas, most of the households used LPG as primary source of energy for
cooking. LPG was used by 68.4% of the urban households at all-India level, followed by
firewood and chips, used by 14.0 % households and 5.7% of the households used
kerosene. 6.9% households did not have any arrangement for cooking.
In rural areas, the percentage of households depending on firewood and chips for
cooking exceeded 56.0% in all major states except Punjab and Haryana.
Dung cake was one of the major fuels for cooking for 33.4% of rural households in Uttar
Pradesh, 30.3% in Punjab, 24.4% in Haryana, 20.8% in Bihar and 10.6% in Madhya
Pradesh.
In rural India, compared to other states, incidence of use of LPG for cooking in
households was much higher for Tamil Nadu (37.2%), Kerala (30.8%) and Punjab
(30.5%). Use of LPG was least in Chhattisgarh (1.5% households) followed by Jharkhand
(2.9%) and Odisha (3.9%).
Nearly 40% or more of the urban households used LPG as principal fuel for cooking in all
the major States. It was highest in Haryana (86.5% households), followed by Andhra
Pradesh (77.3%), Punjab (75.4%) and Maharashtra (74.5%). It is lowest in Chhattisgarh
(39.8%).
In urban India, dependence on firewood and chips for cooking was highest in Odisha
(36.5% households) closely followed by Kerala (36.3%) and Chhattisgarh (34.7%).
Followed by Kerala (36.3 pc) and Chhattisgarh (34.7 pc).
Reference:
http://mospi.nic.in/Mospi_New/upload/nss_report_567.pdf\
Tamil Nadu Tops in Organ Donation

Ques: Which of the following are correct regarding Organ Donation?
a. First steps towards the information regarding
organ donation is to sign Donor card.
b. Donor card is not a legal document but a wish
report.
c. Important organs like Heart, Liver, Heart Valves,
Veins, and Mussels etc can be donated to a
person.
d. All of the above
Ans: d
Related facts:
State Health Minister C Vijaya Bhaskar on 17th August, 2015 said Tamil Nadu leads in
organ donation in the country.
Organs of 683 persons being harvested and donated to over 3,000 beneficiaries since
the setting up of the Transplant Authority of Tamil Nadu in 2008.
The organ transplantations include 144 heart transplants, 69 lung transplants, 636 liver,
1233 kidney, four pancreas, two small bowels, 618 heart valves, 1,032 cornea, 22 skin
and two blood vessels.
Kidney transplants in India first started in the 1970s and since that time, India has been
a leading country in this field on the Asian sub-continent.
In India every year nearly:
I. 500,000 people die because of non-availability of organs
II.
200,000people die of liver disease
III.
50,000 people die from heart disease
IV. 150,000 people await a kidney transplant but only 5,000 get one
V. 1,000,000 lac people suffer from corneal blindness and await transplant
Nationally, with a population of 1.2 Billion people, the statistic stands at 0.08 Persons as
organ donors per million populations (PMP).
One organ and tissue donor can transform the lives of 10 or more people.
Vital Organs like heart, liver, kidneys, intestines, lungs, and pancreas can be donated
only in case of 'brain death'. However other tissues like corneas, heart valves, skin,
bones etc can be donated only in case of natural death.
Reference:
http://tamilnadu.indiaeveryday.in/fullnews-tamil-nadu-tops-in-organ-donation-health-minister-c-vijaya1128-916716.htm
http://www.dmrhs.org/tnos/donors-and-transplanted-organs-tamil-nadu-october-2008-july-2015/1842
http://www.aphithendranmemorialtrust.org/home.html
http://health.bih.nic.in/Rules/THOA-1994.pdf
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2779960/
http://organdonationday.in/index.php/about/why
http://www.dmrhs.org/tnos/faq-information-for-hospitals/how-much-does-india-lag
International
CERN- First non-European associates
Ques: Recently which of the non- European country formally conferred as associate member
of the European Organization for
Nuclear Research (CERN)?
a.
b.
c.
d.
China
Pakistan
India
Sri Lanka
Ans: b
Related facts:
The European Organization for Nuclear Research, known as CERN, has formally
conferred its associate membership on Pakistan on July 31, 2015.
Pakistan has thus become the first member of CERN among Asian countries.
The membership will allow the countrys scientists to become members of the CERN
staff and participate in its training and career-development programs.
The cooperation between Pakistan and CERN rooted back to signing of a cooperation
agreement in 1994.
Israel is the first (and the only) non-European country granted full membership.
CERN was established on 29 September 1954 by 12 countries in Western Europe.
CERN discovered the Higgs boson popularly known as the "God particle".
CERN is also the birthplace of the World Wide Web (WWW).
The main site at Meyrin has a large computer facility containing powerful data
processing facilities, primarily for experimental-data analysis; because of the need to
make these facilities available to researchers elsewhere, it has historically been a
major wide area networking hub.
Reference:
http://home.web.cern.ch/about/updates/2015/07/pakistan-becomes-associate-member-state-cern
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/home/science/Pakistan-beats-India-in-race-to-become-Cernassociate-member/articleshow/45577152.cms
http://www.dawn.com/news/1197791
BRICS' New Development Bank (NDP) launched in Shanghai

Ques: The statements- (A): The BRICS countries comprise the world's major emerging
economies: Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa. (R): Russia is the only developed
nation among its countries.
Which statement is/are correct?
a. A and R both is correct. R, explain A in better way.
b. A and R both is correct. R, doesnt explain A.
c. A is correct and R is incorrect
d. R is correct and A is incorrect
Ans: b
Related facts:
New Development Bank (NDB) of BRICS commenced business here on 21st July, 2015.
BRICS countries comprise the world's major emerging economies: Brazil, Russia, India,
China and South Africa.
Chinese Finance Minister Lou Jiwei, Shanghai Mayor Yang Xiong, and NDB President K.V.
Kamath from India attended the opening ceremony held.
Bank is set up to foster greater financial and development cooperation among the five
emerging markets.
Together, the four original BRIC countries comprise in 2014 more than 3 billion people
or 41.4 percent of the worlds population, cover more than a quarter of the worlds land
area over three continents, and account for more than 25 percent of global GDP.
It will be headquartered in Shanghai, China. Unlike the World Bank, which assigns votes
based on capital share, in the New Development Bank each participant country will be
assigned one vote and none of the countries will have veto power.
The 7th BRICS summit in July 2015 marked the entry into force of the Agreement. On 11
May 2015, K. V. Kamath was appointed as President of the Bank.
The NDB has an initial capital of $50 billion, which will be raised to $100 billion in a few
years. Brazil, India and Russia will each contribute $18 billion, while South Africa will
contribute $5 billion.
The NDB will lend money to developing countries to help finance infrastructure projects.
The bank is seen as an alternative to the World Bank and the International Monetary
Fund, although the group says it is not a rival.
The bank is expected to issue its first loans early next year.
Reference:
http://ndbbrics.org/
http://newdevelopmentbank.int/index.html
http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2015-07/21/c_134431389.htm
http://www.bbc.com/news/33605230
http://www.business-standard.com/article/news-ians/brics-new-development-bank-launched-inshanghai-roundup-115072100807_1.html
High Level Meeting- Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO)

Ques: When was the 15th High level meeting
of Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO)
organized at Russian city of Ufa?
a. 9-10 June, 2015
b. 8-9 July, 2015
c. 9-10 July, 2015
d. 9-10 August, 2015
Ans: c
Related facts:
On 9-10 July, 2015 The Council of the
SCO Interbank Consortium has held its
15th regular meeting in Ufa, attended by representatives of the consortium's member
banks.
Its prototype is Shanghai Five mechanism.
It was proclaimed on 15 June 2001 in Shanghai (China) by the Republic of Kazakhstan,
the Peoples Republic of China, the Kyrgyz Republic, the Russian Federation, the
Republic of Tajikistan and the Republic of Uzbekistan.
The Heads of State Council (HSC) is the highest decision-making body in the SCO. It
meets once every year to take decisions and give instructions on all important issues of
SCO activity.
The main goals of the SCO are strengthening mutual confidence and good-neighborly
relations among the member countries; promoting effective cooperation in politics,
trade and economy, science and technology, culture as well as education, energy,
transportation, tourism, environmental protection and other fields; making joint efforts
to maintain and ensure peace, security and stability in the region, moving towards the
establishment of a new, democratic, just and rational political and economic
international order.
Mongolia became the first country to receive observer status at the 2004 Tashkent
Summit. Pakistan, India and Iran received observer status at the 2005 SCO summit
in Astana, Kazakhstan on 5 July 2005.
Belarus was granted dialogue partner status in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization
(SCO) in 2009.
Afghanistan received observer status at the 2012 SCO summit in Beijing, China on June
6, 2012.
Sri Lanka was granted dialogue partner status in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization
(SCO) at the group's 2009 summit in Yekaterinburg.
Turkey, a member of NATO, was granted dialogue partner status in the Shanghai
Cooperation Organization (SCO) at the group's 2012 summit in Beijing.
Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) on July 2015 decided to include India as a full
member, prompting Prime Minister Narendra Modi to offer to work with the six26 | h t t p : / / w w w . e d r i s t i . i n /
member grouping to enhance connectivity, combat terror and create an environment

for boosting trade by easing barriers.
India, which has an Observer status for the past 10 years, will technically become the
member by next year after completion of certain procedures.
Few important highlights of the 2015 meeting are following:
I. Draft and adopt a SCO Development Strategy towards 2025.
II.
Achieve political consolidation of the SCO, develop common approaches to
international challenges, deepen practical interaction with the leading
multilateral Organizations and associations, primarily the UN and its agencies, as
well as the CIS, the CSTO, ASEAN and CICA, and enhance the effectiveness of
permanent SCO agencies.
III.
Step up cooperation with the SCO observer states, including in assisting
Afghanistan and involving it in the SCO activities, the development of relations
with the SCO Dialogue Partners, and the creation of conditions for the SCOs
growth.
IV. Strengthen the SCOs role as an efficient multilateral venue for dialogue and
cooperation on regional security, the fight against terrorism, separatism,
extremism and drug trafficking, and to implement in practice the international
information security cooperation agreements signed between the SCO member
states governments.
V. Implement the Russian Presidents initiative on creating a centre to deal with the
security threats and challenges of the member states at the SCOs Regional AntiTerrorist Structure (RATS), with assigning anti-narcotic functions to the RATS as
the first step in this direction.
VI. Launch multilateral economic projects, first of all in transport, power generation,
science and technology, and peaceful space exploration, and to put in place an
effective financial support mechanism for them.
VII. Expand cultural and humanitarian relations, youth exchanges and tourism; to
further develop the SCO University as a network of existing universities in the
SCO member states and establish the SCOU administration in Russia.
VIII.
Implement the SCO plan for marking the 70th anniversary of victory over Nazism
in World War II.
Reference:
http://www.xinhuanet.com/english/cnleaders/xjp201507/sco.htm
http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2015-07/11/c_134402081.htm
http://www.narendramodi.in/hi/statement-read-out-by-foreign-secretaries-of-india-and-pakistan-inufa-russia
http://www.sectsco.org/EN123/brief.asp
http://www.mea.gov.in/outoging-visit-detailhi.htm?25454/Remarks+by+Prime+Minister+at+Plenary+of+the+Shanghai+Cooperation+Organ
Worlds highest paid actors-2015

Ques: How many Indian actors held top ten positions in the Forbes list of Worlds Highest
Paid Actors 2015?
a. 1
b. 3
c. 4
d. 5
Ans: b
Related facts:
On 4th August the famous magazine
Forbes, announced annual list The
Worlds Highest-Paid Actors: 2015of
34 highest paid actors across the world.
This is on the basis of earnings between June 2013 to June 2014.
Robert Downey Jr. topped in the list of the highest paid actors in Hollywood with
earnings of $ 80m.
Jackie Chan held second position with a $50 million pay packet.
3 Indian actors also entered in top ten lists.
Amitabh Bachchan and Salman Khan entered the list at seventh place (jointly), with
estimated earnings of $33.5 million in the past year.
Akshay Kumar follows behind in ninth place with $32.5 million.
Bollywood stars Shah Rukh Khan (18) and Ranbir Kapoor (30) with estimated earnings of
$26 Million and $15 Million respectively.
Reference:
http://www.forbes.com/sites/natalierobehmed/2015/08/04/the-worlds-highest-paid-actors-2015robert-downey-jr-leads-with-80-million-haul/
http://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/amitabh-salman-akshay-among-worlds-top-ten-highest-paidactors/article7502263.ece
World Population Prospects: The 2015 Revision

Ques: In which year India will surpass China
to become the most populous nation in the
world as per UN forecast?
a. 2022
b. 2023
c. 2024
d. 2025
Ans: a
Related facts:
On 29th July 2015, UN released World
Population Prospects: The 2015
Revision report.
Around and after 2022, Indias population is projected to continue growing for several
decades to 1.5 billion in 2030 and 1.7 billion in 2050.
While the population of China is expected to remain fairly constant until the 2030s, after
which it is expected to slightly decrease.
The current world population of 7.3 billion is expected to reach 8.5 billion by 2030, 9.7
billion in 2050 and 11.2 billion in 2100.
The report said during 2015-2050, half of the worlds population growth is expected to
be concentrated in nine countries India, Nigeria, Pakistan, Congo, Ethiopia, Tanzania,
US, Indonesia and Uganda.
Currently male/female percentage is 50.4/49.6.
India to surpass China by year 2022.
Ten years ago, the world population was growing by 1.24% annually; today, the
percentage has dropped to 1.18% or roughly another 83 million people a year. The
overall growth rate, which peaked in the late 1960s, has been falling steadily since the
1970s.
The report suggests that Africa alone will drive more than half of the worlds population
growth over the next 35 years, during which time the population of 28 of the
continents countries will more than double.
It is predicted that by 2050, Nigerias population will surpass that of the US, making the
West African nation the third most populous country in the world.
By 2050, six countries China, India, Indonesia, Nigeria, Pakistan and the US are
expected to have populations of more than 300 million.
Reference:
http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/india-to-surpass-chinas-population-by2022/article7480949.ece
http://esa.un.org/unpd/wpp/Publications/Files/Key_Findings_WPP_2015.pdf
162th member of WTO

Ques: WTO general council approves which country as 162th member?
a.
b.
c.
d.
Afghanistan
Kazakhstan
Belarus
Sudan
Ans: b
WTO members adopted Kazakhstans

WTO terms of entry at the General
Council meeting on 27 July 2015, in the
presence of Kazakhstans President Nursultan Nazarbayev.
Kazakhstan will have until 31 October 2015 to ratify the deal to formally become a WTO
member 30 days after it notifies the ratification to the WTO Director-General.
It is known that the negotiations for joining the WTO kicked off in 1996.
Kazakhstan is already a member of Eurasian economic union.
On 26 April 2015, Seychelles became the 161st WTO member.
Reference:
https://www.wto.org/english/news_e/news15_e/acc_kaz_27jul15_e.htm
http://www.globaltrademag.com/global-trade-daily/news/wto-approves-kazakhstans-membership
http://www.ictsd.org/bridges-news/bridges/news/wto-accessions-general-council-approveskazakhstan-entry-liberia-bid
http://trade.ec.europa.eu/doclib/press/index.cfm?id=1356
South Sudan in International Olympic Committee (IOC)

Ques: International Olympic Committee (IOC) organized its 128th Session in?
a. Malaysia
b. Singapore
c. Australia
d. Myanmar
Ans: a
Related facts:
The International Olympic Committee

(IOC) approved the full recognition of the National Olympic Committee (NOC) of South
Sudan during its 128th Session in Kuala Lumpur on 2nd August, 2015.
South Sudan became the 206th nation.
South Sudan was represented by its President Lt. Gen Wilson Deng Kuoirot and its
Secretary General Tong Chor Malek Deran.
South Sudan became an independent country on 9 July 2011 and shortly thereafter, a
UN Member State on 14 July 2011.
Reference:
http://www.olympic.org/news/south-sudan-noc-granted-full-recognition-at-128th-ioc-session/246907
Economy
Bandhan Bank
Ques: The first commercial bank from Eastern
India to get RBI clearance after independence
isa. Bandhan Bank
b. Dena Bank
c. Bank of India
d. None
Ans: a
Related facts:
On 23 August, 2015 The Union Finance

Minister Shri Arun Jaitley inaugurated the Bandhan Bank, the first commercial bank
from Eastern India to get RBI clearance since independence.
The Kolkata-headquartered bank has two divisions - micro banking and general banking
- and will offer complete retail financial solutions, including a variety of savings and loan
products.
It is starting operations with 1.43 crore accounts, around Rs.10, 500 crore loan book and
19,500 employees. To begin with, it has got 501 branches, 2022 service centers and 50
ATMs across 24 states.
The bank said over 71 per cent of the branches will be in rural India, including at least 35
per cent in unbanked rural pockets.
State-wise, West Bengal has the maximum number of branches 220, followed by Bihar
67, Assam 60, Maharashtra 21, Uttar Pradesh and Tripura 20 each, and Jharkhand 15.
Chandra Shekhar Ghosh is the Founder, Managing Director and CEO of Bandhan Bank.
Reference:
http://www.thehindu.com/business/Industry/bandhan-bank-joins-indian-banking-league-with-501branches/article7571972.ece
Forbes- World's Most Innovative Companies 2015

Ques: Which company topped in the Forbes
list of- Worlds Most Innovative Companies of
2015?
a. Salesforce.com
b. Tesla Motors
c. Amazon.com
d. Hindustan Unilever
Ans: b
Related facts:
On 19 August, 2015 the famous

magazine Forbes released the list of
World Most Innovative Companies-2015.
The list has been topped by Elon Musk's California-Based Tesla Motors which has a
market capitalization of USD 25.5 billion (roughly Rs. 1, 67,189 crores).
US based company Salesforce bagged second position with market cap of $44.2 B and
Alexion Pharmaceuticals hold third position with $34.5 B.
Hindustan Unilever, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) and Sun Pharma Industries are the
three Indian companies that have been named among the world's 100 most innovative
companies.
Fast moving consumer goods company Hindustan Unilever has been ranked 41 on the
list, followed by TCS at rank 64 and Sun Pharma at rank 71 in the Forbes list of 'The
World's Most Innovative Companies'.
Reference:
http://www.thehindu.com/business/Industry/5-indian-firms-among-forbes-most-innovativecompanies/article6337573.ece
http://www.forbes.com/innovative-companies/list/#tab:rank
http://www.forbes.com/sites/innovatorsdna/2015/08/19/how-we-rank-the-worlds-most-innovativecompanies-2015/
RBI in-principle nod for payments bank license

Ques: Recently RBI grants in-principle nod for
how many payments banks?
a. 11
c. 13
b. 12
d. 14
Ans: a
Related facts:
The Reserve Bank on Wednesday
granted in-principle approval to 11 entities to set up payments banks and proposed
such licenses on tap in future.
They are:
Aditya Birla Nuvo Limited
Airtel M Commerce Services Limited
Cholamandalam Distribution Services Limited
Department of Posts
Fino PayTech Limited
National Securities Depository Limited
Reliance Industries Limited
Shri Dilip Shantilal Shanghvi
Shri Vijay Shekhar Sharma
Tech Mahindra Limited
Vodafone m-pesa Limited
The in-principle approval granted will be valid for a period of 18 months, during which
time the applicants have to comply with the requirements under the guidelines and
fulfill the other conditions as may be stipulated by the Reserve Bank.
The move to allow such differentiated banks came after RBI had found just two entities
infra player IDFC and micro-lender Bandhan from among over two dozen applicants
eligible for setting up commercial banks.
Payment banks allow mobile firms, supermarket chains, and others to cater to
individuals and small businesses.
The Payments Bank will be set up as a differentiated bank and shall confine its activities
to acceptance of demand deposits, remittance services, Internet banking and other
specified services.
They will be allowed to issue ATM/debit cards as also other prepaid payment
instruments, but not the credit cards.
Payments banks can distribute third-party financial products but can't lend money.
Draft guidelines for licensing of payments banks were released for public comments and
the final guidelines were issued on November 27, 2014.
A total of 41 applicants had applied for payments banks.
On the selection process, a detailed scrutiny was undertaken by an External Advisory

Committee (EAC) under the chairmanship of Nachiket Mor, Director, Central Board of
the Reserve Bank of India.
Reference:
http://www.thehindu.com/business/Industry/rbi-grants-inprinciple-nod-for-11-paymentsbanks/article7557908.ece
https://rbi.org.in/scripts/bs_viewcontent.aspx?Id=2857
http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2015-08-20/news/65667188_1_india-post-paymentsbanks-rbi-governor-raghuram-rajan
https://www.rbi.org.in/Scripts/BS_PressReleaseDisplay.aspx?prid=34754
The Richest People in Tech- Forbes list 2015

Ques: How many Indians got the place in
Forbes list 2015 for top 100 Tech list?
a. 2
b. 3
c. 4
d. 1
Ans: a
Related facts:
On 5 August, 2015 world famous
Forbes magazine issued a list of 100
richest billionaire people in the world
of technology.
Microsoft founder Bill Gates topped the list worth $79.6 B USD followed by Larry Ellison
with $50 B.
Third spot goes to Amazon founder Jeff Bezos with $47.2 B.
The list includes Facebook co-founder Mark Zuckerberg at rank 4, followed by Google
co-founder Larry Page at 5, Alibaba chief Jack Ma (7), Google's Executive Chairman Eric
Schmidt (20), Uber CEO Travis Kalanick (35) and Square CEO Jack Dorsey (92).
Wipro Chairman Azim Premji (13th) and HCL founder Shiv Nadar (14th) are the only two
Indian tycoons in the list in the world of technology with net worth of $17.4 B and $14.4
B respectively.
Premji is among Asia's most generous tycoons, having given away more than USD four
billion of his fortune.
Reference:
http://www.forbes.com/sites/kerryadolan/2015/08/05/the-100-richest-tech-billionaires-from-aroundthe-globe/
http://www.forbes.com/richest-in-tech/list/#tab:overall
http://www.forbes.com/profile/bill-gates/?list=richest-in-tech
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/tech/tech-news/Azim-Premji-Shiv-Nadar-among-worlds-20-richesttech-czars-Forbes/articleshow/48451070.cms
http://www.outlookindia.com/news/article/azim-premji-shiv-nadar-among-worlds-20-richest-people-intechnology-forbes/909713
Third Bi-monthly Monetary Policy, 2015-16

Ques: How much is the growth forecast issued by RBI Governor Dr. Raghuram Rajan during
third bi-monthly monetary policy 2015-16 on
August 4th, 2015?
a. 7.5 pc
b. 7.6 pc
c. 7.8 pc
d. 8.0 pc
Ans: b
Related facts:
Dr. Raghuram G. Rajan, RBI Governor

issued a statement regarding third bimonthly monetary policy 2015-16 on August 4th, 2015.
The policy repo rate under the liquidity adjustment facility (LAF) unchanged at 7.25 per
cent.
The cash reserve ratio (CRR) of scheduled banks unchanged at 4.0 per cent of net
demand and time liability (NDTL).
It is known that repo rate was lowered to 7.25 pc from 7.50 pc during third bi-monthly
monetary policy 2015-16 on June 2nd, 2015.
Statutory Liquidity Ratio retained at 21.5 pc.
The reverse repo rate under the LAF will remain unchanged at 6.25 per cent and the
marginal standing facility (MSF) rate and the Bank Rate at 8.25 per cent.
The RBI retains growth target at 7.6 per cent for 2015-16.
Monetary policy is the macroeconomic policy laid down by the central bank of the
country, i.e. RBI in India. It involves management of money supply and interest rate and
it is used by the government of a country to achieve macroeconomic objectives like
inflation, consumption, growth and liquidity.
Reference:
Science
Global satellite to be named after Abdul Kalam
Ques: A global Satellite named in the memory of Dr. APJ Adbul
Kalam by UN is?
a. GlobalSat Abdul Kalam
b. GlobalSat Kalam DRR
c. UN Kalam GlobalSat
d. GlobalSat UN DRR Kalam
Ans: c
Related facts:
A proposal has been made to name a global satellite on 7th August, 2015 after the late
former President Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam who died on 27 July 2015.
The step is being taken to pay tribute to the Missile Man of India.
Global satellite called as GlobalSat for DRR (a satellite for observation of Earth and
Disaster Risk Reduction) will be renamed as UN Kalam GlobalSat in the memory of the
Kalam.
This has been stated by Milind Pimprikar, Chairman of CANEUS (CANada-Europe-USASia) Organization on Space Technologies for Societal Applications headquartered in
Montreal, Canada.
Launch of this satellite was mooted at the third UN World Conference on Disaster Risk
Reduction held at Sendai in Japan this March.
Disaster Risk Reduction DRR is a systematic process of identifying, analyzing and reducing
the associated with a disaster.UN agencies explain DRR as The conceptual framework of
elements considered with the possibilities to minimize vulnerabilities and disaster risks
throughout a society, to avoid (prevention) or to limit (mitigation and preparedness) the
adverse impacts of hazards, within the broad context of sustainable development.
Since, such a big project of monitoring Earth and developing sensors and equipment to predict
and mitigate disasters cannot be developed by one country so CANEUS initiated the project in
partnership with UN agencies that includes UN Office for Outer Space Affairs, the UN
International Strategy for Disaster Reduction, the United Nations Development Program
(UNDP) and the World Bank. Moreover, CANEUS was founded in 1999 for the development of
common platform such that several countries can share their technology and provide
solutions for natural and man-made disaster.
Reference:
https://www.caneus.org/main/
http://caneus.org/undrr/background.html
http://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/global-satellite-to-be-named-after-abdulkalam/article7512030.ece
http://www.tecake.com/un-kalam-globalsat-satellite-named-late-dr-apj-abdul-kalam/11994/
ISRO launched GSAT-6

Ques: Recently, ISRO launched Indias latest communication
Satellite GSAT-6 useda. GSLV-D5
b. GSLV-D3
c. GSLV-D6
d. GSLV-D4
Ans: c
Related facts:
Indias Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV)
has successfully deployed a communications satellite
on 27 August, 2015, with the rockets ninth flight
lofting the GSAT-6 spacecraft.
It is known that the first GSLV (GSLV-D1) launch on 18
April, 2011 was unsuccessful.
The launch was on schedule at 16:52 local time (11:22
UTC) with the launch taking place from the Satish
Dhawan Space Centre on Sriharikota Island.
It used GSLV-D6 launch vehicle which was intended to further test and qualifies the
indigenous Cryogenic Upper Stage (CUS) developed by ISRO.
This was the fifth developmental flight of GSLV and the third to carry the indigenous
CUS.
In its oval shaped GTO, the GSAT-6 satellite is now orbiting the Earth with a perigee
(nearest point to Earth) of 168 km and an apogee (farthest point to Earth) of 35,939
km with an orbital inclination of 20.01 deg with respect to the equator.
After a smooth 29 hour countdown, the 416 tonne, 49 m tall GSLV-D6 carrying the 2117
kg GSAT-6, lifted off at 16:52 Hrs IST. About seventeen minutes after lift-off, GSAT-6 was
successfully placed in GTO.
Soon after its injection into GTO, the two solar arrays of GSAT-6 were automatically
deployed and the Master Control Facility (MCF) at Hassan in Karnataka took control of
GSAT-6.
Among the GSAT communication series satellites, GSAT-6 is 12th satellite and is 25th
communication satellite overall.
GSAT-6 Satellite provides communication through five spot beams in S-band and a
national beam in C-band for strategic users.
Reference:
http://www.isro.gov.in/update/27-aug-2015/gslv-successfully-launches-india%E2%80%99s-latestcommunication-satellite-gsat-6
http://www.isro.gov.in/Spacecraft/gsat-6
http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2015/08/indian-gslv-launch-gsat-6/
Sports
Tennis
Rogers Cup-2015
Ques: From the statements below:
1. This tournament includes men and women
category.
2. Andy Murray won men singles.
3. The tournament organized by National Bank.
Which one of the following options is/are correct?
a. 1 and 2
b. 1 and 3
c. All
d. None
Ans: c
Related facts:
The tournament organized by National Bank held in Montreal (men) and Toronto
(women), cities of Canada between 10-16 August.
The results are:
Men Singles- Andy Murray -Winner
Novak Djokovich Runner up
Women Singles- Belinda Bencic- Winner
Simona Halep- Runner up
Men DoublesWinner- Bob Bryan (USA) ,Mike Bryan (USA)
Runner up- Daniel Nestor (CAN), Edouard Roger-Vasselin (FRA)
Women DoublesWinner- Caroline Garcia (FRA), Katarina Srebotnik (SLO)
Runner up- Bethanie Mattek-Sands (USA), Lucie Safarova (CZE)
Its Andy Murrays 35th world title.
Reference:
http://www.rogerscup.com/
http://www.couperogers.com/en/
http://www.rogerscup.com/bencic-wins-maiden-rogers-cup-title/
http://www.couperogers.com/en/andy-andy-andy/
Citi Open 2015

Ques: Who won the Women singles title in Citi Open
2015?
a. Sloane Stephens
b. Polona Hercog
c. Belinda Bencic
d. Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova
Ans: a
Related facts:
Citi Open 2015 took place at the William H.G.

FitzGerald Tennis Center in Washington, D.C.,
United States, from August 3 to August 9, 2015.
The Championship results are:

Men's singles
Kei Nishikori- Japan
John Isner- USA
Women's singles
Sloane Stephens USA
Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova - Russia
Men's doubles
Bob Bryan/Mike Bryan USA
Van Dodig (Croatia) /Marcelo Melo (Brazil)
Women's doubles
Belinda Bencic (Switzerland) /Kristina Mladenovic (France)
Lara Arruabarrena (Spain)/Andreja Klepa (Slovenia)
Reference:
http://www.citiopentennis.com/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2015_Citi_Open
Western & Southern Open 2015- Cincinnati

Ques: Who won the Western & Southern Open - 2015 mens title?
a. Roger Federer
b. Novak Djokovic
c. Stan Wawrinka
d. Andy Murray
Ans: a
Related facts:
The 2015
Western
&
Southern
Open was a men's and women's tennis tournament played on outdoor hard
courts August 1523, 2015.
It was part of the ATP World Tour Masters 1000 of the 2015 ATP World Tour and of
the WTA Premier 5 tournaments of the 2015 WTA Tour, as well as a 2015 US Open
Series event.
The 2015 tournament wae the men's 114th edition and the women's 87th edition of
the Cincinnati Masters.
Roger Federer and Serena Williams were the defending champions and both
successfully defended their titles.
Roger Federer Defeated world number one tennis player Novak Djokovic in straight set
of 7-6, 6-3.
Williams defeated third-seeded Simona Halep 6-3, 7-6(5).
Daniel Nestor and Edouard Roger-Vasselin won their first title together in mens double
category.
The womens final took the Grandstand court next, with sister duo Hao-Ching Chan and
Yung-Jan Chan of Chinese Taipei earning at 7-5, 6-4 win against fourth-seeded Casey
Dellacqua and Yaroslava Shvedova.
Reference:
http://www.wsopen.com/ResultsAndSchedule/resultsschedule__2011_results/?intloc=headernavsub
http://www.wsopen.com/news/serena_williams_completes_title_defense/
http://www.wsopen.com/news/nestor_and_rogervasselin_win_mens_doubles_chan_sisters_take_womens_crown/
Cricket
Ashes Test Series-2015
Ques: Who won Ashes Test Series-2015?
a. England
b. Australia
c. South Africa
d. India
Ans: a
Related facts:
The 2015 Ashes was a series of Test
cricket matches
played
between England and Australia during

8 July 24 August, 2015.
It was known as Investec Ashes series as well.
England won the series by 32.
Michael Clark was Australias and Alastair Cook was England team captains.
First, third and fourth test match won by England by 169 run/8 wicket, 78 runs and a
inning respectively.
Australia won second and fifth test match with 405 runs and 46 runs respectively.
Chris Rogers (AUS) and Joe Root (ENG) collectively got Man of the series award.
Joe Root (ENG) got the ComptonMiller Medal.
Steve Smith (AUS) scored highest runs (508) in the tournament.
Mitchell Starc (AUS) took 18 wickets and Stuart Brad (ENG) took 21 wickets.
The Ashes series started from 1882-83.
It is known that up to 69 Ashes series so far, both the countries won 32 series, however
5 series were drawn.
Reference:
http://www.icc-cricket.com/match/eng-aus-2015/5
http://www.cricbuzz.com/cricket-schedule/series/2285/the-ashes-2015
http://www.cricbuzz.com/cricket-scorecard/13755/scorecard
http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/match/743971.html
http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/cricket/34040823
Football
U16- South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) Cup 2015
Ques: Under 16 SAFF-2015 was organized ina.
b.
c.
d.
India
Bangladesh
Nepal
Bhutan
Ans: b
Under 16 SAFF-2015 was hosted

by Bangladesh from 918 of August,
2015 at Sylhet District Stadium.
The 2015 SAFF U-16 Championship was the 3rd edition of the SAFF U-16 Championship,
an international football competition for men's under-16 national teams organized
by SAFF.
Bangladesh won their first-ever title of the SAFF Under-16 football championship,
beating India by a 4-2 margin in the tiebreaker.
It is known that Pakistan won the first SAFF U16 title on 2011.
Reference:
http://www.shillonglajong.com/indian-u-16-finished-runners-up/
http://www.goal.com/en-india/news/136/india/2015/08/18/14546002/india-u16-falter-at-the-finalhurdle-against-bangladesh-in
http://en.prothom-alo.com/sports/news/76039/Bangladesh-clinch-SAFF-U-16-title
Spanish Super Cup- 2015

Ques: Who won the Spanish Super Cup-2015?
a. Barcelona
b. Athletic Bilbao
c. Real Madrid
d. Athletico Madrid
Ans: b
Related facts:
Athletic Bilbao claimed their first victory with 5-1 over 10-man Barcelona to win the
Spanish Super Cup on 17 August, 2015.
It is important to know that Athletic Bilbao won a first trophy in 31 years.
Bilbao, who only field players of Basque origin, last secured a major trophy when they
won Spain's traditional season opener in 1984.
Reference:
http://www.flashscore.com/soccer/spain/super-cup/
http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/33969001
http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/aug/17/athletic-bilbao-barcelona-spanish-super-cup
http://uk.reuters.com/article/2015/08/17/uk-soccer-spain-supercup-idUKKCN0QM24L20150817
UFEA Super cup-2015

Ques: Who won the UFEA Super cup-2015?
a. Real Madrid
b. Barcelona
c. Sevilla
d. None of above
Ans: b
Related facts:
Annual UFEA Super cup championship organized by Union of European Football

association (UFEA) played between the winners of Champions League and Europa
League on 11, August 2015.
FC Barcelona (Europa winner) takes on Sevilla FC (Championship League winner) in the

second straight all-Spanish UEFA Super Cup at the Boris Paichadze Dinamo Arena in
Tbilisi, Georgia.
It was the 40th UEFA Super Cup, an annual tournament contested by the winners of
the UEFA Champions League and UEFA Europa League.
Barcelona won the game 54 after extra time to claim their fifth Super Cup title,
tying Milan's record.
Lionel Messi (Barcelona) got the Man of the match award.
Reference:
http://www.uefa.com/uefasupercup/season=2015/matches/round=2000639/match=2015790/postmat
ch/report/index.html#pedro+barcelonas+uefa+super+cup+hero+again
http://www.uefa.com/uefasupercup/season=2015/final/index.html
Chess
Politiken Cup-2015
Ques: Who won Politiken Cup-2015?
a. Ragger Markus
b. Nisipeanu Liviu-Dieter
c. Fressinet Laurent
d. Marin Mihail
Ans: a
Related facts:
The Politiken Cup Chess Tournament was held from July 25 through August 2, 2015, at
the Konventum in Helsingr, Denmark.
The event was a 10-round Swiss FIDE open with 431 players from 23 different
federations, including 27 GMs and 17 IMs.
GM Markus Ragger (Austria) won the title this year.
GM Nisipeanu Liviu-Dieter GER was the runner up.
It is important to note that top 10 players had the same points- 10 point each
Reference:
https://www.fide.com/component/content/article/4-tournaments/8955-gm-markus-ragger-winspolitiken-cup-2015-on-tie-break.html
http://www.ksu.dk/politiken_cup/turnering/stilling.aspx?tur_id=1413&aar=2015
http://www.ksu.dk/politiken_cup/turnering/detaljer.aspx?tur_id=1764&lod=2
http://en.chessbase.com/post/markus-ragger-wins-politiken-cup
Badminton
World Badminton Championship-2015
Ques: In World Badminton Championship, which Indian player
won the Silver medal for the first time?
a. P. V. Sindhu
b. Saina Nehwal
c. Jwala Gutta
d. Prakash Padukon
Ans: b
Related facts:
The 2015 BWF World Championships was held from 10 to

16 August 2015 in Jakarta, Indonesia.
The results are following:
Men's Singles
Gold- Chen Long, China (CHN)
Silver- Lee Chong Wei, Malaysia (MAS)
Bronze- Kento Momota, Japan (JPN)
Jan O. Jorgensen, Denmark (DEN)
Womens Singles
Gold- Carolina Marn, Spain (ESP)
Silver- Saina Nehwal, India (IND)
Bronze- Sung Ji-hyun, South Korea (KOR)
Lindaweni Fanetri, Indonesia (INA)
Men's Doubles
Gold-Mohammad Ahsan and Hendra Setiawan, Indonesia (INA)
Silver- Liu Xiaolong, and Qiu Zihan, China (CHN)
Bronze- Lee Yong-dae and Yoo Yeon-seong, South Korea (KOR)
Hiroyuki Endo and Kenichi Hayakawa, Japan (JPN)
Women's Doubles
Gold- Tian Qing and Zhao Yunlei, China (CHN)
Silver- Christinna Pedersen and Kamilla Rytter Juhl, Denmark (DEN)
Bronze- Nitya Krishinda Maheswari and Greysia Polii, Indonesia (INA)
Naoko Fukuman and Kurumi Yonao, Japan (JPN)
Mixed Doubles
Gold- Zhang Nan and Zhao Yunlei, China (CHN)
Silver- Liu Cheng and Bao Yixin, China (CHN)
Bronze- Tontowi Ahmad and Liliyana Natsir, Indonesia (INA)
Xu Chen and Ma Jin, China (CHN)
In the medal table China was on the top with 3 Gold, 2 Silver and 1 bronze.
India and Malaysia hold 5th position combined with 1-1 Silver.
Saina Nehwal became the first Indian player to win Silver in the World Badminton
Championship.
Prakash Padukone was the first Indian to win a bronze at the 1983 edition.
London- 2011 Jwala Gutta and Ashwini Ponappa won Bronze in women doubles
P V Sindhu, who clinched the bronze medal twice in 2013 and 2014 in Guangzhou and
Copenhagen respectively
Saina
Nehwal
won
Silver
medal
in
singles
in
Jakarta in
2015.
Reference:
http://www.bwfbadminton.org/page.aspx?id=28534
http://bwf.tournamentsoftware.com/sport/winners.aspx?id=196570E9-BF0B-47C8-A3B91F766AAABC36
http://www.livemint.com/Consumer/nwzafpamdXXx760o6EfaKI/Saina-Nehwal-becomes-first-Indian-towin-silver-at-World-Bad.html
http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/sports/saina-nehwal-becomes-first-indian-to-enter-worldchampionship-finals/articleshow/48495804.cms
Billiards/Snooker/Squash
Victorian Open Squash-2015
Ques: Victorian Open Squash-2015 organized in?
a. Australia
b. Malaysia
c. New Zeeland
d. China
Ans: a
Related facts:
Victorian Open Squash-2015 was organized in Melbourne Australia on 27 July-2 August,

2015.
In mens single, Ryan Cuskelly defeated Greg Lobban with 12-10 13-11 11-9.
In womens single, Indian player Joshana Chinappa defeated Line Hansen [2] with 11-5
11-4 11-9.
The prize money for men/women category was USD 15,000.
Reference:
http://www.squash.org.au/announcements/victorian-open-2015
http://www.tournamentsoftware.com/sport/draw.aspx?id=9135C80E-1417-4DE9-86127A16A50A4591&draw=1
http://www.tournamentsoftware.com/sport/draw.aspx?id=9135C80E-1417-4DE9-86127A16A50A4591&draw=3
http://www.squashsite.co.uk/2009/victorian2015.htm
IBSF World Team and 6-Red Snooker Championship

Ques: IBSF World Team and 6-Red Snooker
Championship organized in?
a. Egypt
b. Pakistan
c. Israel
d. Afghanistan
Ans: b
Related facts:
IBSF-International Billiards and Snooker

Federation organized World team and
6-Red Snooker championship during 615 August, 2015 in Karachi, Pakistan.
India's Pankaj Advani won the championship defeating world snooker champion Yan
Bingtao of China 6-2.
Its 13th world title for Pankaj Advani.
The IBSF World Snooker Championship tournament was first held in 1963.
He is the first in the world who won Snooker and Billiards in Short/Long both the
category.
Hong Kongs Ng On Yee defeated Indias Vidya Pillai (5-1) to get womens title.
Malaysias Keen Hoo Moh/Kok Leong Lim won their maiden title after defeating
Pakistans Asjad Iqbal/Shahid Aftab with 5-4 in IBSF Team Championship.
Though Afghanistans Zemarai Hassas/Saleh Mohammadi defeated Pakistans

Mohammad Yousuf/Naveen Perwani with 5-2 to bag Master Championship title.
Reference:
http://www.ibsf.info/index.php?option=com_k2&view=item&id=384:advani-retains-world-6reds-titleon-yee-claims-her-2nd-world-6reds-title&Itemid=186
http://esnooker.pl/turnieje/2015/dms/en/dmsm_2015.php
http://esnooker.pl/turnieje/2015/ms6r/en/ms6rm_2015.php
http://esnooker.pl/turnieje/2015/ms6r/en/show_drabinka.php?id_t=73
http://esnooker.pl/turnieje/2015/dms/en/show_drabinka_team.php?id_t=76
http://esnooker.pl/turnieje/2015/dms/en/show_drabinka_team.php?id_t=74
http://esnooker.pl/turnieje/2015/ms6r/en/show_drabinka.php?id_t=72&size=48
Golf
US PGA Championship 2015
Ques: Who won US PGA Championship 2015?
a. Jordan Spieth
b. Jason Day
c. Bubba Watson
d. Jimmy Walker
Ans: b
Related facts:
The 2015 PGA Championship was the 97th PGA Championship, held August 1316 on
the Straits Course of Whistling Straits in Kohler, Wisconsin
It was the third PGA Championship at Whistling Straits, which previously hosted
in 2004 and 2010
Jason Day won his first major championship title with a total score of 268 (20), the
lowest score in relation to par ever recorded in a major.
Three strokes back, runner-up Jordan Spieth surpassed Rory McIlroy as number one in
the Official World Golf Ranking.
The winning prize was $ 1.8m.
Reference:
http://www.pga.com/pgachampionship/news/australia-celebrates-first-major-win-native-son-jason-day
http://www.europeantour.com/europeantour/season=2015/tournamentid=2015062/news/newsid=267
767.html#RThZVosbzbwm7DvG.97
http://www.pga.com/pgachampionship/scoring/leaderboard
http://www.golf.com/tour-and-news/jason-day-tops-jordan-spieth-win-2015-pga-championshipwhistling-straits
http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/golf/33955295
Ladies British open amateur stroke-play championship

Ques: Who won Ladies British open amateur stroke-play championship?
a. Olivia Mehaffey
b. Linn Andersson
c. Aditi Ashok
d. Jessica Ross
Ans: c
Related facts:
On 19-21 August, Ladies British open

amateur
stroke-play
championship-
2015 organized at Moortown Golf club

at Leeds, England.
India's Aditi Ashok became the first from the country to win the Ladies British Amateur
stroke play golf championship at the Moortown Golf Club.
The Indian Golf Union's ladies amateur order of merit, Aditi shot four days total of 11under 285 (71,73,70,71).
She had earlier won the St Rule Trophy at St Andrews in July this year and finished
second in the 2015 European Women's Amateur Championship.
Second and third position went to Olivia Mehaffey (6 under-290 points) and Linn
Andersson (2 under-294 points) respectively.
Reference:
http://www.aditiashok.com/?page_id=43
http://golfingindian.com/aditi-ashok-wins-ladies-british-open-amateur-championship/
http://www.lgu.org/EZ/lgu/lgu/Championship_Details.php?PHPSESSID=tc5s486daeh753jntna288ese5&
art=991&CShip=178&CPage=news
http://www.lgu.org/EZ/lgu/lgu/Championship_Details.php?PHPSESSID=tc5s486daeh753jntna288ese5&
art=991&CShip=178&CPage=news
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/golf/top-stories/Aditi-Ashok-becomes-first-Indian-to-winLadies-BritishAmateur/articleshow/48623632.cms
Sports Misc
Olympic Winter Games 2022
Ques: Which country named as the host city
for Winter Olympic Games 2022?
a. Beijing, China
b. Almaty, Kazakhstan
c. Munich, Switzerland
d. Stockholm, Sweden
Ans: a
Related facts:
IOC President Thomas Bach announced at the 128th IOC Session that Beijing won the
right to host the 24th Olympic Winter Games in 2022.
The Chinese capital was chosen over Almaty, Kazakhstan, in a vote at the 128th IOC
Session in Kuala Lumpur. Beijing received 44 votes to Almatys 40.
As a result, Beijing will become the first city to host both a summer and winter edition of
the Olympic Games, following the citys successful staging of the Summer Games in
2008.
PyeongChang, South Korea was announced to host 2018 Winter Olympic Games on 6th
July 2011.
Reference:
http://www.olympic.org/news/beijing-named-host-city-of-olympic-winter-games-2022/246674
2015 World Archery Championship

Ques: The 2015 World Archery Championships event was
held in?
a. Denmark
b. Australia
c. New Zeeland
d. USA
Ans: a
Related facts:
The 2015 World Archery Championships was the
48th edition of the World Archery Championships.
The event was held in Copenhagen, the capital city of Denmark from 26 July to 2 August
2015.
Following are the results:
Mens individual
Gold: Kim Woo-jin -South Korea (KOR)
Silver: Rick van der Ven Netherlands (NED)
Bronze: Takaharu Furukawa Japan (JPN)
Womens Individual:
Gold: Ki Bo-bae- South Korea (KOR)
Silver: Lin Shih-chia Chinese Taipei (TPE)
Bronze: Choi Mi-sun -South Korea (KOR)
Mens Team
Gold: Kim Woo-jin, Ku Bon-chan, Oh Jin-hyek- South Korea (KOR)
Silver : Michele Frangilli, Mauro Nespoli, David Pasqualucci- Italy (ITL)
Bronze: Kuo Cheng-wei, Wang Hou-chieh, Yu Guan-lin- Chinese Taipei (TPE)
Womens team
Gold: Tuyana Dashidorzhieva, Ksenia Perova, Inna Stepanova- Russia
Silver: Rimil Buriuly, Deepika Kumari, Laxmirani MajhiIndia (IND)
Bronze: Choi Mi-sun, Kang Chae-young, Ki Bo-bae- South Korea (KOR)
Mixed team
Gold: Ki Bo-bae, Ku Bon-chan - South Korea (KOR)
Silver: Lin Shih-chia, Kuo Cheng-wei - Chinese Taipei (TPE)
Bronze: Zhu Jueman, Gu Xuesong China (CHN)
South Korea topped the list with 6 gold, 3 bronze followed by Denmark with 1 gold and
1 bronze
India and Netherland together positioned seven with 2-2 silver each.
Reference:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2015_World_Archery_Championships
http://worldarchery.org/news/126063/woojin-wins-second-world-title-copenhagen
http://worldarchery.org/competition/14215/copenhagen-2015-world-archery-championships
Working Group Constituted by Central Sports Ministry

Ques: Working Group Constituted for Re-drafting of the National Sports Development Code
of India (NSDCI)-2011:
a. 28 August, 2015
b. 28 July, 2015
c. 28 June, 2015
Ans: b
Related facts:
On 28 July, 2015 Sports Ministry constituted a working group for re-drafting of NSDCI2011.
To facilitate holding of consultations and prepare a revised draft of the NSDCI, following
members appointedI.
Honble Justice C.K. Mahajan (Retd.), Former Judge of Delhi High CourtChairman
II.
Smt. Pallavi Shroff, Lawyer- Member
III.
Sh. Ajitpal Singh, Former Captain of Indian Hockey Team- Member
IV.
Ms. Indu Puri, Arjuna Awardee, Table Tennis- Member
V.
Ms. Neeru Bhatia, Sports Journalist- Member
VI.
Sh. Onkar Kedia, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports- Member
VII.
Lt. Gen. Rajiv Bhalla, Advisor in MYAS- Member
VIII.
President, IOA/Secretary General, IOA- Member
IX.
Secretary, SAI- Member Secretary
The terms of reference of the Working Group shall be as follows:

I.
To examine the existing NSDCI from both sports governance and legal angles and
fine tune/revise the same with the purpose of making it more precise and
succinct.
II.
To make specific recommendations on preparation of Electoral College and

streamlining of State/District bodies.
III.
To make any other recommendations, as deemed fit.
Reference:
http://pib.nic.in/newsite/erelease.aspx
Sports Personalities
Novak Djokovic
Ques: Who has been appointed as UNICEF Goodwill Brand Ambassador in recent days?
a. Sachin Tendulkar
b. Roger Federer
c. Serena Williams
d. Novak Djokovic
Ans: d
Related facts:
On 26 August, UNICEF announced

Novak Djokovics appointment as a
Goodwill Ambassador.
Novak first teamed up with UNICEF in

2011 when he was appointed a UNICEF Serbia Ambassador.
The Serbian tennis player founded the Novak Djokovic Foundation in November 2007.
Since then, he has been lending his support to improving the lives of children, especially
those who are amongst the most marginalized, with a particular focus on the
importance of early childhood education and development in providing children with
the best start to life.
Indian actor Mr. Amitabh Bacchan also appointed as Goodwill Brand Ambassador in
April, 2005.
Djokovic has won a total of 54 career titles, including 9 Grand Slams, and he was a
Medallist at the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing.
Reference:
http://www.unicef.org/media/media_82998.html
http://www.unicef.org/people/people_57365.html
http://novakdjokovicfoundation.org/about-us/history/
Gurbaj Singh
Ques: Hockey India League Athletes Disputes and Grievance Redressal Committee recently
suspended which player?
a. Harbeer Singh
b. Sardar Singh
c. Gurbaj Singh
d. Jasbeer Singh
Ans: c
Related facts:
On
10,
August
2015,
Hockey
India
suspends midfielder Gurbaj Singh for nine months for
indulging in groupism and creating disharmony within
the team.
He was indulging in groupism and creating disharmony within the team as per the
committee.
He will be unable to play for India till May 9, 2016.
Gurbaj, however, has the option to lodge an appeal with HI's appellate tribunal within a
month's time.
It is known that He was suspended for a brief period after the London Olympics
following similar accusations from the then chief coach Michael Nobbs and his support
staff.
Reference:
http://hockeyindia.org/news/hockey-india-hockey-india-league-athletes-disputes-and-grievanceredressal-committee-imposes-a-9-month-ban-on-gurbaj-singh.html
http://www.thehindu.com/sport/hockey/senior-india-hockey-player-gurbaj-singh-suspended-for-ninemonths/article7522386.ece
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/hockey/top-stories/Indisciplined-Gurbaj-suspended-for-9months-by-Hockey-India/articleshow/48423790.cms
http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/hockey-india-suspends-gurbaj-singh-for-9-months/1/457581.html
Ajinkya Rahane sets World Record

Ques: Which cricketer set world record of taking 8 catches from any fielder in test cricket?
a.
b.
c.
d.
Kumar Sangakkara
Michael Clark
Ajinkya Rahane
Rohit Sharma
Ans: c
Related facts:
Galle (Sri Lanka), Aug 14: India's Ajinkya Rahane set a
world record during the 3rd day's play of the 1st Test
against Sri Lanka here at the Galle International Stadium.
27-year-old Rahane, on Friday, took 3 catches in the first inning and 5 catches in the 2nd
innings to complete 8 in the match, which is a world record for a fieldsman in Test
history.
Yajurvindra Singh (India), Greg Chappell (Australia), Hashan Tilakaratne (Sri Lanka),
Stephen Flemimg (New Zealand) and Mathew Hayden (Australia) had held the joint
record with 7 catches.
It is known that Jack Russell (1995) from England and AB De Villiers (2013) from South
Africa took 11-11 catches as a wicket keeper.
Reference:
http://www.espncricinfo.com/sri-lanka-v-india-2015/content/story/909495.html
http://www.bcci.tv/sri-lanka-v-india-2015/news/2015/news/10742/dravid-helped-me-with-slip-fieldingrahane
http://stats.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/stats/index.html?class=1;filter=advanced;orderby=caught_field
er;template=results;type=fielding;
Sebastian Coe
Ques: Who elected as IAAF president
recently?
a. Sergey Bubka
b. Sebastian Coe
c. Lamine Diack
d. None
Ans: b
Related facts:
Sebastian Coe was elected as the sixth IAAF President at the 50th IAAF Congress in
Beijing, China, on 19 August, 2015
The voting was as follows (207 Member Federations cast their votes): Sebastian Coe
(GBR) 115 votes, Sergey Bubka (UKR) 92 votes.
He will take over the charge from Lamine Diack.
Sebastian Coe is a two time Olympic 1500m champion.
The Athletics Federation of India (AFI) president Adille J. Sumariwalla has been elected
to the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) council on the same day.
Sumariwalla has been elected as one of the nine individual members of the council at
the 50th Congress of the world athletics body, ahead of the IAAF World Athletics
Championships.
Reference:
http://www.iaaf.org/competitions/iaaf-world-championships/news/iaaf-congress-beijing-2015
http://www.iaaf.org/news/iaaf-news/sebastian-coe-elected-iaaf-president
http://indianathletics.in/?p=4740
http://www.business-standard.com/article/news-ians/afi-president-sumariwalla-elected-to-iaaf-council115081900747_1.html
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/othersports/athletics/11811181/Lord-Coe-wins-presidency-ofIAAF.html
Clive Rice
Ques: Recently, famous cricket player Clive
Rice died, was playing for which country?
a. England
b. Australia
c. New Zeeland
d. None
Ans: a
Related facts
Clive Rice (full name- Clive Edward Butler Rice), the former South Africa captain and
Nottinghamshire all-rounder, has died on July 28, 2015 in a Cape Town hospital aged 66.
Rice ended his First Class cricket career with a batting average of 40.95 and a bowling
average of 22.49.
His one day cricket career started on November 10, 1991 in Kolkata against India and
ended as well against India on November 14, 1991 in Delhi.
He scored 26 runs in his one day international career in three matches.
He played total 482 first class matches.
Referencehttp://www.theguardian.com/sport/2015/jul/28/clive-rice-south-africa-cricket-captain-dies
http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/cricket/33688075
http://www.independent.co.uk/news/people/former-south-africa-and-nottinghamshire-cricket-captainclive-rice-dies-aged-66-10421355.html
http://www.espncricinfo.com/southafrica/content/player/46976.html
Snippets
PM inaugurates birth centenary celebrations of Rani Gaidinliu
Ques: Rani Gaidinliu setup which of the following Religious & Political Community?
a. Haraka
b. Khatka
c. Nagraka
d. Gaonvaraka
Ans: a
Related facts:
Prime Minister inaugurated the birth
ceremony of Rani Gaidinliu on 24
August, 2015.
The Prime Minister recalled Rani
Gaidinlius contribution to Indias freedom struggle.
Speaking after the launch of a commemorative coin to mark the inauguration of the
birth centenary celebrations of Rani Gaidinliu, the Prime Minister said it is our
misfortune that people such as Rani Gaidinliu have either not been remembered
adequately, or have been deliberately forgotten.
The Prime Minister also credited Rani Gaidinliu with spreading the message of Mahatma
Gandhi in the North-East.
It was Jawaharlal Nehru who gave the name Rani (queen of the people of the
northeast) to her.
The Prime Minister also released Rs. 100 commemorative coins and Rs. 5 circulation
coins on Rani Gaidinliu on the occasion.
At the age of 13, she joined the Heraka religious movement of her cousin Haipou
Jadonang. The movement later turned into a political movement seeking to drive out
the British from Manipur and the surrounding Naga areas.
Within the Heraka cult, she came to be considered an incarnation of the goddess
Cherachamdinliu.
Gaidinliu was arrested in 1932 at the age of 16, and was sentenced to life imprisonment
by the British rulers.
She was released in 1947 after India's independence, and continued to work for the
upliftment of her people.
She was honored as a freedom fighter and was awarded a Padma Bhushan by the
Government of India.
She died on 17 February 1993 at the age of 78.
Rani Gaidinliu was also conferred the Birsa Munda Award posthumously.
Reference:
http://www.nagalandpost.com/ChannelNews/National/NationalNews.aspx?news=TkVXUzEwMDA4NTQ
1Mg%3D%3D
Digitalization initiative of the Government- SEHAT

Ques: To provide healthcare facilities in rural areas, the Communications and IT Minister Ravi
Shankar Prasad launched a telemedicine initiative through Common Service Centres (CSCs)
ona. 23 August, 2015 b. 24 August, 2015
c. 25 August, 2015 d. 26 August, 2015
Ans: c
Related facts:
The unique initiative for health care in
India-SEHAT launched on 25 August by
the Communication and Telecom
Minister of India.
As part of the service named 'SEHAT', people in rural areas can consult doctors online
and also order generic drugs through Common Service Centers (CSC).
CSCs have been delivering tele-consultation services with support from Apollo and
Medanta in some areas and now with this initiative the tele- consultation services are
being extended to 60,000 CSCs across the country.
Under the service, people can visit CSCs and fix an appointment for seeking expert
consultancy with a doctor. The doctors at Apollo Hospitals will be able to provide
consultancy to the patients using the video link facilities.
In furtherance to digital India objective at least one CSC in every Panchayat is being set
up. There will be around 2, 50,000 access points for delivery of various Government to
citizen (G2C) services.
The Post offices including the EDPOs are being made multi service delivery points and all
the CSCs services can be delivered to citizen through the post offices.
It is known that the Postal department has also got a payment bank license and with
collaboration between CSC SPV and postal department all the CSC across the country
shall be able to provide the banking services to the citizen.
Reference:
Final meeting of the Sub-Group of Chief Ministers- NITI Aayog

Ques: Who is the Convener of the Sub-Group of Chief Ministers for Skill Development setup
by NITI Aayog?
a. Prakash Singh Badal
b. Nitish Kumar
c. Vasundhara Raje
d. Naveen Patnayak
Ans: a
Related facts:
The final meeting of the Sub-Group of Chief Ministers on Skill Development was held at
NITI Aayog in New Delhi on 25 August, 2015.
The meeting was presided by the Convener of the Subgroup and the Chief Minister of
Punjab, Shri Parkash Singh Badal.
The CEO of NITI AAYOG Smt. Sindhushree Khullar, presented the recommendations of
the Draft Report before the Members for their views.
The deliberations focused on empowering and strengthening the State Skill

Development Missions to address the challenge of skill development at the State level in
a decentralized manner so as to improve the outreach of skill development.
The emphasis was also laid on increasing participation by women and other socio
economic groups.
The NITI Aayog Sub-Group on Skill Development was constituted as per the decision
taken in the first meeting of the Governing Council of the NITI Aayog chaired by the
Prime Minister on 8th February, 2015.
Reference:
http://www.uniindia.com/cms-lays-emphasis-on-decentralization-of-skill-developmentmission/business-economy/news/176988.html
http://www.orissadiary.com/CurrentNews.asp?id=61203

Ques: Who was not selected for Dronacharya Awards in National Spots Awards 2015
announced by Ministry of Youth Affairs and
Sports?
a. Naval Singh
b. Anup Singh
c. Shiv Prakash Mishra
d. Nihar Amin
Ans: c
Related facts:
Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports
announces Dronacharya Awards, Dhyan Chand Awards and Rashtriya Khel
Protsahan Puruskar on 25 August, 2015.
Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna 2015 and Arjuna Awards 2015 were announced on 14
August, 2015.
The eminent Coaches Shri Naval Singh (Athletics-Para-sports), Shri Anoop Singh
(Wrestling), Shri Harbans Singh (Athletics- Lifetime), Shri Swatantar Raj Singh (BoxingLifetime), Shri Nihar Ameen (Swimming-Lifetime) were honored with the prestigious
Dronacharya Award-2015.
Based on the recommendations of the Committee and after due scrutiny, Anoop and
Navals names were approved on the basis of current performance (2011-2014), while
Nihar Amin (swimming), S. R. Singh (boxing) and Harbans Singh (athletics) were selected
in the Lifetime Achievement Category in which achievements over a period of 20 years
is taken into account.
Three-time national champion and international wrestler, Anoop has guided top
grapplers such as Sushil Kumar, Yogeshwar Dutt, Satyawart Kadian, Bajrang, Amit
Dahiya, and around 58 wrestlers to achieve their dream.
The Dronacharya Award, instituted in 1985, is given to honor eminent Coaches who
have successfully trained sportspersons or teams and enabled them to achieve
outstanding results in international competitions.
Dhyan Chand Award for Lifetime Achievements in Sports and Games, instituted in
the year 2002, is given to honor those sportspersons who have contributed to sports by
their performance and continue to contribute to the promotion of sports even after
their retirement from active sporting career.
This years Dhyan Chand Award was given to Mr. Romeo James (Hockey), Mr. Shiv
Prakash Mishra (Tennis), and Mr. T.P.P. Nair (Volleyball) for their contribution to the
sports.
Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ranta 2015 is given to Sania Mirza to recognize and reward
excellence in Tennis.
This years Arjuna Awards- 2015 are given to following sports person:
Naib Subedar Sandeep Kumar -Archery

Ms. M.R. Poovamma- Athletics
Mr. Kidambi Srikanth Nammalwar- Badminton
Mr. Mandeep Jangra- Boxing
Mr. Rohit Sharma- Cricket
Ms. Dipa Karmakar- Gymnastic
Mr. Sreejesh P.R.- Hockey
Mr. Manjeet Chhillar- Kabaddi
Ms. Abhilasha Shashikant Mhatre- Kabaddi
Mr. Sawarn Singh- Rowing
Mr. Anup Kumar Yama- Roller Skating
Mr. Jitu Rai- Shooting
Shri S. Sathish Kumar- Weightlifting
Mr. Bajrang- Wrestling
Ms. Babita Kumari- Wrestling
Ms. Yumnam Sanathoi Devi- Wushu
Mr. Sharath M. Gayakwad- Para-Swimming
For Rashtriya Khel Protsahana Purushkar, Directorate General of Military Training

was selected in identification and nurturing of budding/young talent category, while
Coal India Limited has been nominated in encouragement to sports through
corporate social responsibility category. Sports Coaching Foundation, Hyderabad has
been in sports for development category.
Dronacharya awardees and Dhyan Chand awardees will receive statuettes, certificates
and award money of Rs. 5 lac each.
Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Awardee will receive medal, certificate and award money of Rs.
7.5 lac.
Arjuna Awardees will receive statuettes, certificates and award money of Rs.5 lac each.
The awards are to be given away by President Pranab Mukherjee on August 29, National
Sports Day.
Reference:
http://www.thehindu.com/sport/sports-ministry-approves-names-for-dronacharyaawards/article7578156.ece
Smart street lighting project RISHTA

Ques: Which state launched project RISHTA (Rajiv Gandhi Illuminating Scheme for Hill Town
Advancement) on 20th August, 2015?
a. Himachal Pradesh
b. Arunanchal Pradesh
c. Mizoram
d. Bihar
Ans: a
Related facts:
August 20, Himachal Pradesh Chief
Minister Virbhadra Singh launched an
efficient smart street lighting project,
Rajiv Gandhi Illuminating Scheme for
Hill Town Advancement (RISHTA) at Shimla.
Himachal Pradesh is the first state to launch RISHTA in northern India.
Known as LED based, Energy, Efficient and CCMS (Centralized Control and Monitoring
System) Smart Street Lighting Scheme for Urban Local bodies, it is named as Rajiv
Gandhi Illuminating Scheme for Hill Town Advancement (RISHTA) was a tribute to
Former Prime minister Rajiv Gandhi.
The Urban Development (UD) Department has taken up this innovative in collaboration
with EESL (Energy Efficient Services Limited) a joint venture company formed by four
power sectors, namely National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC), Power Grid
Corporation of India (PGCIL), Power Finance Corporation (PFC) and Rural Electrification
Corporation (REC).
The (light emitting diode) LED-based scheme to replace 63,484 lights in 56 urban
development bodies.
As per the government it would be 45-55 per cent energy savings besides savings of Rs
3.20 crore per annum in monetary terms.
The total savings within a year in terms of operation and maintenance would be Rs 6.5
crore.
Reference:
http://himachalpr.gov.in/OneNews.aspx?Language=1&ID=1959
http://www.igovernment.in/article/2015/08/25/himachal-cm-launches-urban-smart-street-lightingproject
http://www.uniindia.com/cm-launches-urban-smart-street-lighting-projectrishta/regional/news/171523.html
http://www.tribuneindia.com/news/himachal/smart-led-lights-to-illuminate-seven-cities/122211.html
http://www.india.com/news/india/himachal-chief-minister-launches-energy-saving-streetlight-project512463/
Personalities
Rajiv Mehrishi
Ques: Who appointed as Home Secretary recently?
a. Shaktikant Das b. Hasmukh Adhiya
c. Rajiv Mehrishi
d. Tapan Rey
Ans: c
Related facts:
On 31 August, 2015 the Prime Minister

has appointed Shri Rajiv Mehrishi Secretary of the Ministry of Home Affairs for a period
of two years with effect from 31.08.2015.
Shri Rajiv Mehrishi, an IAS of 1978 batch (Rajasthan) earlier was Secretary of
Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance as Home Secretary.
He succeeds Shri L.C. Goyal.
The Prime Minister has also approved the request of Shri L.C. Goyal, IAS (KL:1979)
seeking voluntary retirement from Government service due to personal reasons with
immediate effect.
Reference:
Madanlal Laxmandas Tahaliyani

Ques: Madanlal Laxmandas Tahaliyani recently appointed as Lokayukta of Maharashtra. He is
going to replacea. Justice C. K. Prasad
b. Justice S. J. Mukhopadhyay
c. C. Vidyasagar Rao
d. P. B. Gaikwad
Ans: d
Related facts:
Justice Madanlal Laxmandas Tahaliyani, retired Judge of the Bombay High Court sworn
in as the new Lokayukta of Maharashtra on 24 August, 2015.
Governor Ch Vidyasagar Rao administered the oath of office to Justice Tahaliyani at a

brief oath-taking ceremony at the Darbar Hall of Raj Bhavan in Mumbai.
Justice Tahaliyani succeeds Justice (retd) P B Gaikwad whose term as Lokayukta ended
on 1 July 2014.
It is known that Supreme Court of India lauded the role of Justice Tahaliyani in
conducting the trial proceedings and maintaining the record of the case in an exemplary
manner for the Mohammed Ajmal Amir Kasab case on August, 2012.
Reference:
https://rajbhavan.maharashtra.gov.in/Pages/frm_press_releases.aspx?id=6231
Zaina Erhaim
Ques: Zaina Erhaim Named 2015 Winner of Peter Mackler Award for Courageous and Ethical
Journalism. She belongs to which country?
a. Syria
b. Thailand
c. Arab
d. Lebnan
Ans: a
Related facts:
Zaina Erhaim of Syria Named 2015 Winner of

Peter Mackler Award for Courageous and
Ethical Journalism on 22 August, 2015.
Over the last two years, she has trained about

100 citizen reporters from inside Syria.
Erhaim is also the Syria project coordinator for

the Institute for War and Peace Reporting (IWPR), an international organization that
support journalists in countries undergoing conflict, crisis, or transition.
The Peter Mackler Award honors reporters and editors who have demonstrated a
commitment to fairness, accuracy and speaking truth to power, and a matching
commitment to asserting the right to publish or air that story in countries where
independent media is under threat.
Syria is currently ranked 177th out of 180 countries in the World Press Freedom Index
published by Reporters without Borders.
The Peter Mackler Award was instituted in 2008 to honor the memory of Mackler, who
had
died
of
heart
attack
Reference:
http://www.pmaward.org/press/
http://www.pmaward.org/
in
the
same
year
at
the
age
of
58.
Neerja Mathur
Ques: On 26 August, 2015, who was appointed as Member of Member of Joint Electricity
Regulatory Commission (JERC) For Goa &
UTs?
a. Ajeet Mathur
b. Neera Mathur
c. Neeraj Mathur
d. Neerja Mathur
Ans: d
Related facts:
Ms. Neerja Mathur has taken over as a
Member of Joint Electricity Regulatory
Commission (JERC) for Goa & UTs on 26 August, 2015.
She was administrated the Oath of Office and Secrecy by the Shri Piyush Goyal, Minister
of State (IC) for Power, Coal and New & Renewable Energy in the presence of senior
officers of the Ministry of Power and JERC.
Earlier, she was also Member (Grid Operation & Distribution) and held other senior
positions in CEA.
Background of JERC:
The Joint Electricity Regulatory Commission (JERC) for all Union Territories except Delhi
had been established by the Government of India under the provisions of the Electricity
Act, 2003. Subsequently, the State of Goa also joined above Joint Commission. The
Commission consists of a Chairperson and another Member.
Major functions of JERC for Goa & UTs under the Act are to determine tariff for
generation, supply, transmission and wheeling of electricity, regulate electricity
purchase and procurement process of distribution licensee, facilitate intra-State
transmission and wheeling of electricity, etc. Within the State of Goa and 6 Union
territories. Under the Act, the Joint Commission shall also advise the State
Government/UT Administration on formulation of National Electricity Policy and tariff
Policy; promotion of competition, efficiency and economy in activities of electricity
industry; promotion of investment electricity industry, etc
Reference:
Ranil Wickremesinghe- Sri Lankas new PM

Ques: Who sworn in as new Sri Lanka Prime Minister on 21
August, 2015?
a. Ranil Wickremesinghe
b. Mahinda rajapaksa
c. Sujeeva Senasinghe
d. Ranasinghe Premadasa
Ans: a
Related facts:
Hon. Ranil Wickremesinghe was sworn in as the Prime

Minister of Sri Lanka for the fourth time on 21st August 2015.
He is the Leader of the United National Party (UNP), Sri Lanka's largest political party.
Wickremesinghe was first appointed as the Prime Minister from 1993 - 1994 after the
assassination of President Ranasinghe Premadasa.
He was also elected as the Prime Minister from 2001 - 2004 when the United National
Front Government won the general elections in 2001.
A lawyer by profession, he was elected to Parliament in 1977 at the age of 28, having
worked in the Youth League of the UNP from his university days.
UNP leader Ranil Wickremesinghe passed the 500,000 preferential vote mark
establishing a new record in Sri Lankan General Elections.
Reference:
http://www.pmoffice.gov.lk/biography.php?p_type=PM
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ranil_Wickremesinghe
http://www.asianmirror.lk/news/item/11024-wickremesinghe-passes-500-000-preferences-fromcolombo
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sri_Lankan_parliamentary_election,_2015
Suvra Mukherjee- Indias First Lady

Ques: On 18 August, 2015 the first woman of India and wife of the President, Suvra
Mukherjee passed away. She was vocalist ofa. Drupad
b. Rabindra Sangeet
c. Kannad
d. Tappa
Ans: b
Related facts:
President Pranab Mukherjee's wife, Suvra Mukherjee, passed away on 18 August, 2015.
Ms Mukherjee was born on September 17, 1940 in Jessore (now in Bangladesh) and
married Mr. Mukherjee on July 13, 1957.
Ms Mukherjee was an ardent fan of Indias national poet, Gurudev Rabindranath

Tagore.
She was a vocalist of Rabindra Sangeet and performed in the poets dance-dramas for
long years not only in different parts of India, but also in Europe, Asia and Africa.
Ms Mukherjee founded the Geetanjali Troupe, whose mission is to propagate

Rabindranath Tagores philosophy as expressed through his songs and dance-dramas.
Ms Mukherjee has written two books: Chokher Aloey which is a personal account of
her close interaction with Smt. Indira Gandhi and Chena Achenai Chin - a travelogue
recounting her visit to China.
Reference:
http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/first-lady-suvra-mukherjee-passes-away/article7553413.ece
Appointment of Chairman and Managing Director, Air India

Limited
Ques: The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has appointed the Chairman and
Managing Director, Air India Limited toa. Rohit Nandan
b. Ashwini Lohani
c. Bharath Mahadevan
d. Deepak Gupta
Ans: b
Related facts:
The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has

approved the appointment of Shri Ashwani Lohani,
IRSME (1980) as Air India Limited, MD for tenure of three years or until further orders,
whichever is earlier.
Ashwani Lohani, a 1980-batch Indian Railway Service of Mechanical Engineers (IRSME)

official will take charge as Chairman-cum-Managing Director.
He will succeed Rohit Nandan, a 1982-batch UP-cadre IAS officer.
Air India reported a net loss of Rs.5, 547.47 crore in 2014-15 on the back of total
revenues of Rs.19, 781 crore.
Reference:
http://pib.nic.in/newsite/mbErel.aspx?relid=126220
http://www.railnews.co.in/ashwani-lohani-irsme-now-new-air-india-chief/
http://www.thehindu.com/business/Industry/ashwani-lohani-appointed-new-air-indiachief/article7561532.ece
Ajit Kumar Seth

Ques: On 17th August, who was appointed as Public
Enterprises Selection Board (PESB) chairman?
a. Ajit Kumar Seth
b. Rahul Rastogi
c. Atul Chaturvedi
d. Ashwini Kumar Dutt
Ans: a
Related facts:
Shri Ajit Kumar Seth, IAS (Retired) (UP: 1974),

Former Cabinet Secretary, Government of India appointed as Chairman, Public
Enterprises Selection Board (PESB) on 17 August 2015.
He has been appointed for a period of three years or till he attains 65 years of age.
Seth has been appointed in place of Atul Chaturvedi, who has completed his tenure.
PESB is entrusted with selection and placement of the posts of chairman, managing
director or chairman-cum-managing director and functional director in central public
sector enterprises, among others.
Reference:
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/business/india-business/Ex-Cabinet-secy-Ajit-Kumar-Sethappointed-PESB-chief/articleshow/48484765.cms
http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/ajit-kumar-seth-appointed-pesb-chairman/article7543075.ece
Jethabhai P Patel
Ques: Who is elected as Chairman of Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation, Anand
(AMUL)?
a. Vipul Chaudhari
b. Jethabhai Patel
c. Verghese Kurien
d. I. K. Jadeja
Ans: b
Related facts:
Shri Jethabhai P Patel has been unanimously elected

as the Chairman of Gujarat Cooperative Milk
Marketing Federation (GCMMF) on 12 August, 2015.
Shri Jethabhai P Patel is the Chairman of Sabarkantha District Cooperative Milk

Producers Union Ltd., Sabar Dairy since 2010.
GCMMF is Indias largest food products marketing organization with annual sales
turnover of Rs 21,000 crores.
The member unions of GCMMF procure an average of 160 lac liters of milk everyday
from 36 lac milk producers in 18,000 villages of the state.
The founder was Verghese Kurien who is known as Father of the Milk Revolution in
India.
Reference:
http://www.amul.com/files/pdf/Press-release-GCMMF-(AMUL)-Chairman-election-12th-August2015.pdf
http://www.univarta.com/news/regional/story/161818.html
http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/cons-products/food/jethabhai-patel-re-elected-as-amulchairman/articleshow/48456163.cms
http://indianexpress.com/article/business/business-others/jetha-patel-re-elected-chairman-ofgcmmf/
Amitabh Bachchan
Ques: Actor Amitabh Bachchan has agreed to become the state ambassador for the
Maharashtra Government for which campaign
a. Save the Girl
b. Tourism
c. Save the Tiger
d. Polio campaign
Ans: c
Related facts:
Accepting the proposal by the Maharashtra State

government to work for Tiger conservation, Indian
film superstar Amitabh Bachchan on 10 August, 2015, agreed to represent the State as
its Tiger Ambassador.
On July 29, Maharashtra Forest Minister Sudhir Mungantiwar had written letters to Mr.
Bachchan and cricketer Sachin Tendulkar inviting them to be the Tiger Ambassadors.
The state has recorded a steady rise in tiger population from 103 in 2006 to 169 in 2010
and 190 in 2014, as reported in the Tiger Estimation conducted every four years.
India is home to 2,226 tigers in its 46 Tiger reserves.
Reference:
http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/mumbai/amitabh-bachchan-signs-up-as-maharashtras-tigerambassador/article7522518.ece
http://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/bollywood/amitabh-bachchan-to-becomemaharashtras-tiger-ambassador/
http://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-amitabh-bachchan-to-be-maharashtra-s-tiger-ambassador2113111
Indian socio-biologist Prof. Raghavendra Gadagkar

Ques: Which of the following Indian honored with the highest civilian German award- The
Cross of Order of the Merit award in recent days?
a. Prof. Sanjay Dande
b. Prof. Raghavendra Gadagkar
c. Sanjeev Chaturvedi
d. Kailash Satyarthi
Ans: b
Related facts:
Indian socio-biologist Raghavendra Gadagkar was awarded Germany's highest civilian

honor The Cross of Order of the Merit, on 7 August, 2015.
He was bestowed with the honor for contribution in the field of behavioral ecology and
sociobiology.
He is resident of Bengaluru and professor at the Centre for Ecological Sciences, Indian
Institute of Science (IISc).
He is also the president of the Indian National Science Academy and has published more
than 270 research papers and two books.
His first book, Survival Strategies, has been translated into Chinese and Korean.
Reference:
http://www.india.diplo.de/Vertretung/indien/en/02__Bangalore/00__start/Ordensverleihung.html
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Germanys-highest-civilian-honour-conferred-on-Indianprofessor/articleshow/48389783.cms
http://www.deccanherald.com/content/492059/highest-german-civilian-award-iisc.html
Om Prakash Rawat- new Election Commissioner

Ques: Who is Indias new Election Commissioner?
a. Alka Panda
b. Om Prakash Rawat
c. Ashok Kumar Anguran
d. None
Ans: b
Related facts:
President Pranab Mukherjee on 13

August appointed Om Prakash Rawat as the Election Commissioner.
Rawat is an Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer of the 1977 batch from Madhya
Pradesh cadre.
It is known that other Election Commissionar is Achal Kumar Jyoti.
The President appoints Chief Election Commissioner and Election Commissioners. They
have tenure of six years, or up to the age of 65 years, whichever is earlier. They enjoy
the same status and receive salary and perks as available to Judges of the Supreme
Court of India. The Chief Election Commissioner can be removed from office only
through impeachment by Parliament.
Reference:
http://eci.nic.in/eci_main1/the_setup.aspx#appointment-tenure
Sundar Pichai- Googles new CEO

Ques: Who will be the new Chairman of newly created public holding company: Alphabet Inc?
a. Larry Page
b. Satya Nadela
c. Sundar Pichai
d. Sergey Brin
And: d
Related facts:
Google has unveiled a new parent company

called Alphabet Inc on 10th August, 2015.
Under the rebranding, Google will retain its best-known businesses, such as search,
apps, YouTube and Android.
Some of the newer entities, such as the investment and research divisions, the "smarthome" unit Nest, and the drone arm will be run under Alphabet.
Other entities under Alphabet will include Google Fiber, a provider of ultrafast Internet
service.
There will also be two financial businesses, Google Ventures, the venture capital arm,
and Capital, which does private-equity-like deals.
Mr Larry Page became chief executive of Alphabet, with senior vice president Sundar
Pichai became CEO of Google.
Google co-founder Sergey Brin will become president of Alphabet, and Eric Schmidt, the
current Google chairman, will be executive chairman of the holding company.
The name Alphabet was chosen for two reasons. It represents language, "the core of
how we index with Google search", and because Alpha-bet means "investment return
above benchmark, which we strive to do".
Google went public in 2004; room to make big new bets to add to Alphabets portfolio.
The Alphabet website would be abc.xyz .
Pichai Sundararajan, better known as Sundar Pichai, was a technology executive who
was Product Chief at Google Inc.
Pichai was born in Madras (now Chennai), Tamil Nadu, India in 1972 to Tamil parents
Lakshmi & Regunatha Pichai. His father Regunatha Pichai was a senior electrical
engineer for the British conglomerate General Electric Company (GEC).
He is married to Anjali who was his college mate at IIT Kharagpur and has two children.
Pichai completed his Class X at Jawahar Vidyalaya school located in Ashok

Nagar,Chennai, and completed the Class XII from Vana Vani school located in the IIT
campus,Chennai.
Pichai earned his degree from Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur (IIT KGP)
in Metallurgical Engineering.
He holds an MS from Stanford University in Material Sciences and Engineering and

an MBA from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, where he was
named a Siebel Scholar and a Palmer Scholar.
Pichai joined Google in 2004, where he led the product management and innovation
efforts for a suite of Google's client software products, including Google
Chrome and Chrome OS.
On 13 March 2013, Pichai added Android to the Google products he oversees.
Reference:
https://abc.xyz/
http://www.nytimes.com/2015/08/11/business/sundar-pichai-will-lead-google-with-users-inmind.html?_r=0
http://www.forbes.com/sites/samanthasharf/2015/08/10/goodbye-google-search-giant-changing-itsname/
http://www.bbc.com/news/business-33857412
Vasundhara Komkali
Ques: Vasundhara Komkali Passed away on July 29, 2015. She was aa.
b.
c.
d.
Classical vocalist
Actress
Writer
Politician
Ans: a
Related facts:
Renowned classical vocalist Vasundhara

Komkali passed away on July 29, 2015
after a brief illness at her residence Dewas (M.P.) at the age of 85.
She was married to eminent Hindustani classical singer late Pandit Kumar Gandharv.
Few popular bhajan sang by both Vasundhara Komkali with her husband Pt. Kumar
Gaurav are Nirbhai nirbhai gun re gaunga and Udd jayega panchi akela .
A veteran of the arts, Vasundhara Komkali was recognised with several awards,
including one conferred by the Sangeet Natak Academy and the prestigious Padma
Shri award.
Reference:
http://www.indianetzone.com/14/vasundhara_komkali.htm
https://www.swarganga.org/artist_details.php?id=168
http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/vasundhara-komkali-obituary-in-a-musical-space-calledfaith/article7477943.ece
http://www.jagran.com/entertainment/bollywood-classical-singer-vasundhara-komkli-died12668413.html
http://sangeetnatak.gov.in/sna_hindi/awardeeslist-hindi.htm
Places
Mumbai gets a flamingo sanctuary
Ques: On 06 August, Maharashtra government declared Thane Creek area asa. Flamingo Sanctuary
b. Tiger Sanctuary
c. Lion Safari
d. Leopard Sanctuary
Ans: a
Related facts:
The Maharashtra state government decided to

declare 17 sq km area along Thane Creek as
Flamingo Sanctuary on 06 August, 2015.
Thane Creek as a flamingo sanctuary under Section 18 of the Wildlife (Protection Act),
1972.
This sanctuary will be the states second marine sanctuary after the one at Malvan.
The 1,690 hectares sanctuary will include 896 hectares of mangroves and 794 hectares
of adjacent water body and is located on the western bank, between the Airoli and
Vashi bridges that connect Mumbai with Navi Mumbai.
The Mumbai Mangrove Conservation Unit under the Mangrove Cell will be responsible
for the management of the Sanctuary.
About 200 species of birds have been reported from this area, which include Globally
Threatened Species like the Greater Spotted Eagle.
Reference:
http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/mumbai/mumbai-gets-a-flamingo-sanctuary/article7513079.ece
http://www.indiaenvironmentportal.org.in/content/413394/maharashtra-to-declare-thane-creek-areaas-flamingo-sanctuary/
http://cityofthane.com/news/newsframe.php?id=22626
Awards
Ques: Who was not selected for Dronacharya Awards in National Spots Awards 2015
announced by Ministry of Youth Affairs and
Sports?
a. Naval Singh
b. Anup Singh
c. Shiv Prakash Mishra
d. Nihar Amin
Ans: c
Related facts:
Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports

announces Dronacharya Awards,
Dhyan Chand Awards and Rashtriya Khel Protsahan Puruskar on 25 August, 2015.
Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna 2015 and Arjuna Awards 2015 were announced on 14
August, 2015.
The eminent Coaches Shri Naval Singh (Athletics-Para-sports), Shri Anoop Singh
(Wrestling), Shri Harbans Singh (Athletics- Lifetime), Shri Swatantar Raj Singh (BoxingLifetime), Shri Nihar Ameen (Swimming-Lifetime) were honored with the prestigious
Dronacharya Award-2015.
Based on the recommendations of the Committee and after due scrutiny, Anoop and
Navals names were approved on the basis of current performance (2011-2014), while
Nihar Amin (swimming), S. R. Singh (boxing) and Harbans Singh (athletics) were selected
in the Lifetime Achievement Category in which achievements over a period of 20 years
is taken into account.
Three-time national champion and international wrestler, Anoop has guided top
grapplers such as Sushil Kumar, Yogeshwar Dutt, Satyawart Kadian, Bajrang, Amit
Dahiya, and around 58 wrestlers to achieve their dream.
The Dronacharya Award, instituted in 1985, is given to honor eminent Coaches who
have successfully trained sportspersons or teams and enabled them to achieve
outstanding results in international competitions.
Dhyan Chand Award for Lifetime Achievements in Sports and Games, instituted in
the year 2002, is given to honor those sportspersons who have contributed to sports by
their performance and continue to contribute to the promotion of sports even after
their retirement from active sporting career.
This years Dhyan Chand Award was given to Mr. Romeo James (Hockey), Mr. Shiv
Prakash Mishra (Tennis), and Mr. T.P.P. Nair (Volleyball) for their contribution to the
sports.
Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ranta 2015 is given to Sania Mirza to recognize and reward
excellence in Tennis.
This years Arjuna Awards- 2015 are given to following sports person:
Naib Subedar Sandeep Kumar -Archery
Ms. M.R. Poovamma- Athletics
Mr. Kidambi Srikanth Nammalwar- Badminton
Mr. Mandeep Jangra- Boxing
Mr. Rohit Sharma- Cricket
Ms. Dipa Karmakar- Gymnastic
Mr. Sreejesh P.R.- Hockey
Mr. Manjeet Chhillar- Kabaddi
Ms. Abhilasha Shashikant Mhatre- Kabaddi
Mr. Sawarn Singh- Rowing
Mr. Anup Kumar Yama- Roller Skating
Mr. Jitu Rai- Shooting
Shri S. Sathish Kumar- Weightlifting
Mr. Bajrang- Wrestling
Ms. Babita Kumari- Wrestling
Ms. Yumnam Sanathoi Devi- Wushu
Mr. Sharath M. Gayakwad- Para-Swimming
For Rashtriya Khel Protsahana Purushkar, Directorate General of Military Training

was selected in identification and nurturing of budding/young talent category, while
Coal India Limited has been nominated in encouragement to sports through
corporate social responsibility category. Sports Coaching Foundation, Hyderabad has
been in sports for development category.
Dronacharya awardees and Dhyan Chand awardees will receive statuettes, certificates
and award money of Rs. 5 lac each.
Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Awardee will receive medal, certificate and award money of Rs.
7.5 lac.
Arjuna Awardees will receive statuettes, certificates and award money of Rs.5 lac each.
The awards are to be given away by President Pranab Mukherjee on August 29, National
Sports Day.
Reference:
http://www.thehindu.com/sport/sports-ministry-approves-names-for-dronacharyaawards/article7578156.ece
Saraswati Sammaan-2014
Ques: Who received Saraswati Sammaan-2014 on 10 August, 2015 by President of India?
a. Dr. M Veerappa Moily
b. Arun Jeitely
c. Kashinath Singh
d. Namvar Singh
Ans: a
Related facts:
The President of India, Shri Pranab

Mukherjee presented the 24th Saraswati
Sammaan for the year 2014 to Dr. M
Veerappa Moily, Member of Parliament (Lok Sabha) today (August 10, 2015) in New
Delhi.
He received the award for his Epic Sri Ramayana Mahanveshanam written in Kannada.
The Saraswati Samman is an annual award for outstanding prose or poetry literary
works in any 22 Indian language listed in Schedule VIII of the Constitution of India.
It is named after an Indian goddess of learning and is considered to be among the

highest literary awards in India.
The Saraswati Samman was instituted in 1991 by the K. K. Birla Foundation.
It consists of Rs 10 lac, a citation and a plaque.
The inaugural award was given to Harivanshrai 'Bachchan' for his four volume
autobiography, Kya Bhooloon Kya Yaad Karoon, Needa Ka Nirman Phir, Basere Se
Door and Dashdwar se Sopan Tak.
It is known that Govinda Mishra was honored with 23rd Saraswati Sammaan for his
Novel Dhool Paudho Par in the year of 2013.
Reference:
http://presidentofindia.nic.in/speeches-detail.htm?421
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saraswati_Samman
Uttar Pradesh Institute of Hindi-Annual Prize distribution-2014

Ques: Who received the prestigious Bharat-Bharti Samman announced recently by UP
institute of Hindi?
a.
b.
c.
d.
Vinod Kumar Shukla

Kashinath Singh
Mridula Garg
Prof. Abhiraj Rajendra Singh
Ans: b
Related facts
Annual awards for the year 2014 were announced by UP institute of Hindi on August 3,
2014.
Renowned Hindi literate Kashinath Singh was given the most prestigious Bharat-Bharti
Samman 2014 award by the institute.
The winner is given 5 lac rupee of prize money under this category.
Rest of the prizes with corresponding amount are as follows:

Lohia Sahitya Samman- Mridula Garg (INR 4 lac)
Hindi Gaurav Samman- Vinod Kumar Shukla (INR 4 lac)
Mahatma Gandhi Sahitya Samman- Dr. Krishna Bihari Mishra (INR 4 lac)
Pt. Dindayal Upadhyay Sahitya Samman- Prof. Abhiraj Rajendra Mishra (INR 4
lac)
Avantibai Sahitya Samman- Dr. Ramkrishna Rajpoot (INR 4 lac)
Rajarshi Purushottam Das Tandon Samman- Karnataka Hindi Prachar Samiti (INR
4 lac)
Sahitya Bhushan Sammangiven to following personalities: (INR 2 lac)
1. Pratap Dixit
2. Dr. Pushpa Bharti
3. Rajkrishna Mishra
Reference:
http://uphindisansthan.in/Information%20Centre/Web/Page%201.htm
Scheme/Project
E-Payment Module
Ques: the purpose of E-Payment Module for Deposit of Compensatory Levies into CAMPA
Funds launched by Ministry of Environment and Forests,
isa. Speed up the payment method
b. To make transparent payment system
c. To simplify administrative procedures
d. All of the above
Ans: d
Related facts:
27 August, 2015 Environment and Forest Minister
Shri Prakash Javadekar Launches E-Payment
Module for Deposit of Compensatory Levies into
CAMPA Funds.
The objective to make the payment of compensatory levies receivable in lieu of
diversion of forest land quicker and more transparent.
The Minister said that technology must be used to the advantage of all and that the
Governments endeavour has been to simplify administrative procedures, without
compromising on environmental safeguards.
The payment through the e-payment module has to be made to the designated account,
depending on the State in which the forest land, proposed to be diverted, is located.
The deposit of compensatory levies through the e-portal will be optional till August 31,
2015.
However, the payment of compensatory levies by User Agencies will be accepted only
through the e-module from September 1, 2015.
With the activation of the e-payment portal, no payments will be accepted other than
through the portal, unless specifically ordered by Ad-hoc CAMPA.
Initially, payments will be permitted through two modes online challan mode through
RTGS and NEFT and offline challan mode.
The CAMPA had been created by the Supreme Court by Order dated 29th/30th October
2002.
Till now, the verification of receipt of compensatory levies in the Ad-hoc CAMPA has
been done manually, involving various steps and is a time-taking process. The launch of
e-payment module will end such delays.
Reference:
Axis Bank launches multi-currency contactless card with Visa

Ques: Which is the first bank, to issue multi-currency contactless card with visa?
a. Axis bank
b. ICICI bank
c. HDFC bank
d. SBI
Ans: a
Related facts:
August 12, 2015, Axis Bank, Indias third
largest private sector bank, announced the
launch of its Contactless Debit, Credit and
Multi-Currency Forex Card.
Axis Bank is the first bank in India to offer a contactless technology enabled MultiCurrency Forex Card, powered by VISA payWave.
With growing acceptance for contactless technology in countries such as Australia, UK

and Singapore, Indian travelers can now experience faster and more convenient
transactions while they travel abroad.
Axis Bank Contactless cards contain a chip and an antenna (based on radio frequency)
that is designed to make payments quicker, seamless and hassle free.
The bank is planning to upgrade close about one-fourth or 50,000 of its point of sale
(PoS) machines so that they can accept debit and credit card payments from contactless
card.
Reference:
http://www.axisbank.com/download/AB-introduces-contactless-debit-credit-and-multi-currency-forexcards.pdf
http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2015-08-13/news/65524003_1_axis-bank-debit-currency
http://money.livemint.com/news/company/news/axis-bank-unveils-contactless-cards-390976.aspx
Telecom Ministry-New app launched to promote digital

literacy
Ques: Recently Telecom Ministry launched which of following mobile app to promote Digital
Literacy?
a. Disha
b. Pragati
c. Unnati
d. None of above
Ans: a
Related fact:
Telecom minister Ravi Shankar Prasad launched a Disha mobile app on 8 August, 2015
to promote Digital Literacy.
The mobile app is prepared to spread digital literacy through self-learning modules.
The app is free and is available on Google Play Store.
The Disha handbook is prepared by the Common Service Centers (CSCs) for the
purpose of digital literacy.
Intel in collaboration with the CSC is working towards digital literacy in India.
At present Intel has trained over 200 Dalit women and aims to train over 500 women in
Bihar.
Digital Saksharta Abhiyan (DISHA): The Digital Saksharta Abhiyan (DISHA) mission was
launched to provide digital literacy to non IT literate citizens. The scheme imparts IT
training to 52.5 lac persons that include Anganwadi and ASHA workers and authorized
ration dealers in all the States/UTs across the country.
Reference:
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/tech/apps/Telecom-minister-is-set-to-launch-mobile-appDisha/articleshow/48403846.cms
http://indiatoday.intoday.in/education/story/telecom-minister-launches-new-app-disha/1/457553.html
Bio Fuel Blended High Speed Diesel (HSD) launched

Ques:
When Petroleum minister Dharmendra Pradhan launched High Speed Diesel (HSD)
blended with bio-diesel?

a. 10 August, 2015
b. 12 August, 2015
c. 8 August, 2015
d. 11 August, 2015
Ans: a
Related facts:
Petroleum minister Dharmendra Pradhan on 10 August, 2015 launched High Speed

Diesel (HSD) blended with bio-diesel in selected retail outlets of OMCs in New Delhi &
Vishakhapatnam (by HPCL), Haldia (by BPCL) and Vijayawada (by IOCL).
This was on the day of World Bio-Fuel Day, 10 August.
Ministry of Petroleum and Natural gas has permitted direct sale of Bio-Diesel (B100) to
bulk consumers like Railways, shipping and State Road Transport Corporations etc.
Also, Ethanol Blended Petrol program (EBP) is being promoted, where ethanol blending
in petrol is going from 5 to 10 % based on the availability of ethanol.
Promoting and encouraging Biofuels will not only reduce the import of fossil fuel but
also save foreign exchange and emphasis on Make in India mission.
Biofuels are renewable, biodegradable, sustainable and environmental friendly.
Reference:
New central sector scheme Nai Manzil launched

Ques: Which of the following Central Government Scheme recently launched for improving
the welfare of minorities specially Muslims in the field
of education and skill development?
a. Nayi Disha Yojna
c. Nayi Pragati Yojna
Ans: b
b. Nayi Manzil Yojna

d. Unnati Yojana
Related facts:
Dr. Najma Heptulla, the Union Minister for
Minority Affairs launched a new Central Sector Scheme Nai Manzil in Patna on
August 8, 2015.
The scheme Nai Manzil scheme will address educational and livelihood needs of
minority communities in general and Muslims in particular as it lags behind other
minority communities in terms of educational attainments.
The scheme was announced in the Budget 2015-16 by the Government of India.
The scheme aims at providing educational intervention by giving the bridge courses to
the trainees and getting them Certificates for Class XII and X from distance medium
educational system.
It will also provide trade basis skill training in 4 courses:

I.
Manufacturing
II.
Engineering
III.
Services
IV.
Soft skills
The scheme is intended to cover people in between 17 to 35 age group from all minority
communities as well as Madrasa students.
This scheme will provide avenues for continuing higher education and also open up
employment opportunities in the organized sector.
Reference:
http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2015-08-06/news/65281196_1_skill-developmentminority-community-scheme
School Nursery Scheme

Ques: Which one of the following government initiatives had launched recently to bring
students closer to nature?
a. Green School Scheme
b. School Nursery Scheme
c. Green Environment Scheme
d. Clean School Scheme
Ans: b
Related facts:
On 10th August, the Environment and Forest minister Shri Prakash Javadekar has
launched the School Nursery Scheme.
This is an initiative to bring students closer to nature, by involving them in rising of

saplings in nurseries created in schools.
The underlying theme of the Scheme is to plant a tree for sustainable future and to
make the nation clean and green.
The Scheme is being launched in 1,000 schools this year. It will be expanded to cover
around 5, 000 schools by 2016 and to about 10,000 schools in 2017.
Reference:
Operation
Exercize-Yudh Abhyas 2015
Ques: Consider following statements regarding Exercize-Yudh Abhyas 20151. The India-US Combined Military Training
Exercise Yudh Abhyas 2015 will commence
from 09 to 23 Sep 2015 at Joint Base Lewis
McChord, USA.
2. This was started in 2004 under US Army
Pacific partnership program.
3. This will be the eleventh exercise in the
Yudh Abhyas series.
Which statement is/are correct?
a. Only 1 and 3
b. Only 2
c. Only 2 and 3
d. All of above
Ans: d
Related facts:
The India-US Combined Military Training Exercise Yudh Abhyas 2015 will commence
from 09 to 23 Sep 2015 at Joint Base Lewis McChord, USA.
This will be the eleventh exercise in the Yudh Abhyas series, which started in 2004 under
US Army Pacific partnership program.
Exercise Yudh Abhyas 2015 will witness a Formation Headquarter based Command Post
Exercise, an Infantry sub unit carrying out Field Training Exercise, Expert Academic
Discussions on strategic issues of mutual concern by experts of both countries and
Combined Training between detachments of Infantry of both armies.
The exercise will provide an ideal platform for the personnel of the two countries to
share their experiences on Military Operations in Urban Terrain, under the UN mandate.
Reference:
http://www.noodls.com/view/C35944EF1C1A8F3900228D48EE70464D2B212994?8157xxx1439658659
http://www.business-standard.com/article/government-press-release/ex-yudh-abhyas-2015115081501783_1.html
Treaty
Historical peace accord between Government of India and
Nationalist Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN)
Ques: When the historical peace accord between Government of India and Nationalist
Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN) happened?
a. 6 August, 2015
b. 3 August, 2015
c. 9 August, 2015
d. 10 August, 2015
Ans: b
Related facts:
3 August, 2015 PM witnesses the signing of historic
peace accord between Government of India and
Nationalist Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN).
The Government of India and the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN)
successfully concluded the dialogue on Naga political issue and signed an agreement
today in the presence of the Honble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi.
The issue existed for six decades.
The entire top leadership of the NSCN (IM), including all members of the collective
leadership, has fully endorsed the agreement and was present during the ceremony.
It will restore peace and pave the way for prosperity in the North East. It will advance a
life of dignity, opportunity and equity for the Naga people, based on their genius and
consistent with the uniqueness of the Naga people and their culture and traditions.
A fresh attempt for a comprehensive resolution was initiated with the NSCN in 1997.
The ethnic Naga movement began its journey in 1918 with the formation of the Naga
Club.
On June 27-28, 1947, the Akbar Hydari Agreement was signed between the then
Governor of Assam, Sir Akbar Hydari and the NNC.
The NNC took to arms in 1955. Indian security forces responded with counterinsurgency operations, which resulted in the imposition of the Assam Disturbed Areas
Act on the Naga Hills on August 27, 1955.
This later became the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958.
During the dialogue with Union Government of India NSCN split in 1988 to form the two
divisions: NSCN (I-M) - held to the ceasefire since its signing in 1997 and the NSCN (K)- it
was out of this agreement before March 27, 2015.
Reference:
http://www.narendramodi.in/PM-witnesses-signing-of-historic-peace-accord-between-GoI-and-NSCN
http://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/nagaland-a-long-road-to-peace/article7504003.ece
http://www.patrika.com/news/political/govt-nscn-im-sign-historic-peace-accord-1078251/
Memorandum on cooperation to establish the Pace Setter

Fund
Ques: India established a co-operation on Pace Setter
Fund with?
a. Russia
b. USA
c. France
d. Germany
Ans: b
Related facts:
The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister,

Shri Narendra Modi, on 12 August, 2015 approved the Memorandum of Understanding
(MoU) on cooperation to establish the Pace Setter Fund with USA.
The fund is to support the Promoting Energy Access through Clean Energy track of the
U.S. India Partnership to Advance Clean Energy (PACE) between India and United
States of America.
The signing of MoU will help accelerate commercialization of innovative off-grid clean
energy solutions by providing early-stage grant funding, which would allow businesses
to develop and test innovative products, systems and business models.
The MoU will help cooperation through technical and commercial innovation and
advancement of clean energy in off-grid space. The India-U.S. corpus of about Rs.500
million ($8 million U.S. Dollars) has been drawn on a 50:50 sharing basis.
Background:
The Government of India and the United States of America have announced the launch
of a new initiative "Promoting Energy Access through Clean Energy (PEACE)". This
ambitious cooperation is a new tract under the U.S.-India Partnership to Advance Clean
Energy (PACE), a flagship initiative on Clean Energy that combines resources of several
U.S. agencies and Government of India ministries. This has also been listed in the Joint
Statement during the visit of the President of the USA to India in January, 2015.
Reference:
http://mnre.gov.in/mous/MoU-with-USA-on-PACESetter-Fund.pdf
MoU between India and Nepal approved

Ques: On 12 August, 2015 union cabinet approves MoU for the construction of a petroleum
products pipeline with?
a. Nepal
b. Bhutan
c. Sri Lanka
Ans: a
d. Bangladesh
Related facts:
On 12 August, the Union Cabinet chaired by
the Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, today gave its approval for the signing of a
Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Government of India and the
Government of Nepal for the construction of a petroleum products pipeline.
The construction will be from Raxaul (India) to Amlekhgunj (Nepal) and re-engineering
of Amlekhgunj Depot and allied facilities.
The MoU will promote bilateral cooperation in the oil and gas sector and secure long
term supply of petroleum products to Nepal.
It would help preserve the environment along the route and decongest the international
border at Raxaul.
Nepal depends on India for meeting all of its fuel requirements. Petrol, diesel, domestic
LPG and jet fuel (ATF) are currently trucked from Indian Oil Corp's (IOC) depot at Raxaul
to Nepal.
Background:
The Government of Nepal had requested the Government of India, during the visit of
the Prime Minister to Nepal on 3-4th August, 2014 for the construction of this
petroleum products pipeline. Bearing in mind the close and friendly relations between
the two countries and their people, this was agreed to by the Indian Government.
On behalf of Indian Government, the Indian Oil Corporation has been entrusted with the
job of construction of the pipeline and re-engineering of the Amlekhgunj Depot and
allied facilities. The project will be completed in two phases. In the first phase, a
petroleum products pipeline from Raxaul in India to Amlekhgunj in Nepal would be
constructed. The Indian Oil Corporation will bear a cost of Rs. 200 crore for the first
phase of the project. There will be a long term contract of 15 years (initial contract for
five years extendable for two terms of five years each) between the Indian Oil
Corporation and the Nepal Oil Corporation.
Reference:
http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2015-08-12/news/65490487_1_oil-pipeline-nepal-oilcorporation-raxaul
Government of India and World Bank Sign Agreement

Ques: Recently, Indian Govt. signs an agreement with World Bank, on which financial
proposal?
a. National Cyclone Risk Mitigation Project b. Flood Control Project
c. Malaria Control Project
Ans: a
Related facts:
The Financing Agreement for World Bank (IDA) assistance of US$ 104.00 million for
Additional Financing under National Cyclone Risk Mitigation Project-I (NCRMP-I) was
signed between Government of India and the World Bank on 11 August 2015
Though for second phase assistance of US$ 308.40 million for National Cyclone Risk
Mitigation Project-II (NCRMP-II) was signed.
The Financing Agreement was signed by Mr. Raj Kumar, Joint Secretary, Department of
Economic Affairs on behalf of the Government of India and Mr. John Blomquist,
Program Leader and Acting Country Director in India, on behalf of the World Bank.
The objective of Additional Financing under NCRMP-I is to reduce the vulnerability of
coastal communities to cyclone and other hydro meteorological hazards in Andhra
Pradesh and Odisha.
The objective of NCRMP-II is to reduce vulnerability to cyclone and other hydrometeorological hazards of coastal communities in the States of Goa, Gujarat, Karnataka,
Kerala, Maharashtra and West Bengal; and increase the capacity of the State entities to
effectively plan for and respond to disasters.
Studies indicate that natural disaster losses equate up to 2 percent of Indias GDP and
up to 12 percent of federal government revenues.
About 5,700 kilometers of Indias coastline is exposed to severe cyclones and
approximately 40 percent of Indias population lives within 100 km of the coastline.
Analyzed data for the period 1980-2000 indicates that on an average, annually, 370
million people are exposed to cyclones in India.
The project has four components: (i) Early Warning Dissemination System (EWDS) and
Capacity building for coastal communities; (ii) Cyclone Risk Mitigation Infrastructure; (iii)
Technical Assistance for National and State Level Capacity Building on Disaster Risk
Management; and (iv) Project Management and Implementation Support.
The project is implemented by the Ministry of Home Affairs through National Disaster
Management Authority (NDMA). At the State level, it is executed by the respective State
Disaster Management Authorities.
Reference:
http://www.worldbank.org/en/news/press-release/2015/08/11/project-signing-government-indiaworld-bank-sign-agreement-for-second-phase-national-cyclone-risk-mitigation-program
http://www.business-standard.com/article/news-cm/india-signs-financing-agreement-with-world-bankfor-us-308-40-million-for-national-cyclone-risk-mitigation-project-ii-115081200291_1.html
Posco Steel teams up with Uttam Galva Steel

Ques: Which of the following combination is correct?
1. Posco India- YWN
2. Uttam Galva- Rajindar Miglani
3. Tata Steel- Rajkamal
4. Arcelor Steel- Y. S. Pillai
a. Only 1
b. Only 1 and 2
c. 1, 2, and 4
d. None of above
Ans: b
Related facts:
Steel maker Posco Korea has signed an agreement on 11 August, 2015 with Uttam
Galva group to set up a 3 million tonne (mt) steel plant in Maharashtra.
The joint venture will initially be a 80:20 venture, with 80% equity from the Uttam Galva
The proposed project will produce hot rolled coils, largely used in the automobile
industry, and will sport a new technology that can convert low-grade iron ore into steel.
The plant will spread in 1,700 acres, which can accommodate steel plant of three-million
tonne capacity.
Reference:
http://www.business-standard.com/article/companies/posco-partners-uttam-galva-in-bold-move-formaharashtra-plant-113041500367_1.html
http://www.livemint.com/Companies/veq7pAvZVf6gzvxTPs7fwL/Uttam-Galva-Posco-to-set-up-steelplant-in-Maharashtra.html
http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/indl-goods/svs/steel/posco-teams-up-with-uttam-galvafor-1-5-billion-maharashta-steel-plant/articleshow/48446103.cms
CBDT Signs Advance Pricing Agreements (APAs) to Usher in

Certainty in Taxation
Ques: The Chairman of CBDT is?
a. Surabhi Sinha b. Arun Kumar Jain
c. Anita Kapoor d. None
Ans: c
Related facts:
The Central Board of Direct Taxes
(CBDT) entered into two unilateral
Advance Pricing Agreements (APAs) on 3 August, 2015 with two Multi-National
Companies (MNCs) which includes the first APA with a Rollback provision.
With this, the CBDT has so far signed 14 APAs of which 13 are unilateral APAs and one is
a bilateral APA.
The 14 APAs signed relate to various sectors like telecommunication, oil exploration,
pharmaceuticals, finance/banking, software development services and ITeS (BPOs).
Unilateral APAs are agreed between Indian taxpayers and the CBDT, without
involvement of the tax authorities of the country where the associated enterprise is
based.
Bilateral APAs include agreements between the tax authorities of the two countries.
An advance pricing agreement (APA) is an ahead of time agreement between a taxpayer
and a taxing authority on an appropriate transfer pricing methodology (TPM) for some
set of transactions at issue over a fixed period of time (called "Covered Transactions").
The Central Board of Direct Taxes is a statutory authority functioning under the Central
Board of Revenue Act, 1963.
Historical Background of C.B.D.T.
The Central Board of Revenue as the apex body of the Department, charged with the
administration of taxes, came into existence as a result of the Central Board of Revenue
Act, 1924. Initially the Board was in charge of both direct and indirect taxes. However,
when the administration of taxes became too unwieldy for one Board to handle, the
Board was split up into two, namely the Central Board of Direct Taxes and Central Board
of Excise and Customs with effect from 1.1.1964. This bifurcation was brought about by
constitution of two Boards u/s 3 of the Central Board of Revenue Act, 1963.
Reference:
http://www.incometaxindia.gov.in/Pages/about-us/central-board-of-direct-taxation.aspx
Acquisitions
Berkshire Hathaway buys Precision Castparts
Ques: Chief of the Berkshire Hathaway Inc.is?
a. Bill Gates
b. Warren Buffett
c. Ajay Banga
d. Satya Nadela
Ans: b
Related facts:
Warren Buffett's investment firm
Berkshire Hathaway announced to buy
aircraft components manufacturer
Precision Castparts Corp (PCC) in a deal
worth $37.2bn (24bn).
The price being paid represents $235 a share.
It would be the biggest buy-out Berkshire has made till date.
The company makes complex metal components for the aerospace, power and
industrial sectors.
Berkshire Hathaway:
Berkshire Hathaway and its subsidiaries engage in diverse business activities including
insurance and reinsurance, utilities and energy, freight rail transportation, finance,
manufacturing, retailing and services. Berkshire Hathaways common stock is listed on
the New York Stock Exchange, trading symbols BRK.A and BRK.B.
Precision Castparts Corp.:
Precision Castparts Corp. is a worldwide, diversified manufacturer of complex metal
components and products. It serves the aerospace, power, and general industrial
markets. PCC is a market leader in manufacturing complex structural investment
castings and forged components for aerospace markets, machined airframe
components, and highly engineered, critical fasteners for aerospace applications, and in
manufacturing airfoil castings for the aerospace and industrial gas turbine markets. PCC
also is a leading producer of titanium and nickel super alloy melted and mill products for
the aerospace, chemical processing, oil and gas, and pollution control industries, and
manufactures extruded seamless pipe, fittings, and forgings for power generation and
oil and gas applications.
Reference:
http://www.berkshirehathaway.com/news/AUG1015.pdf
http://www.bbc.com/news/business-33849164
Thomas Cook India announces the acquisition of Kuoni

Groups Travel Operations in India and Hong Kong
Ques: Where is the headquarters of Thomas
Cook India Ltd?
a. Mumbai
b. New Delhi
c. Chennai
d. Bangaluru
Ans: a
Related facts:
August 7, 2015: Thomas Cook (India) Ltd., Indias premier integrated travel and travel
related financial services company announced that it has signed a definitive agreement
with Kuoni Group to acquire Kuonis Travel businesses across India and Hong Kong in
entirety for a consideration of Rs 535 crore.
Mr Prem Watsa, Chairman and CEO of Fairfax Financial Holdings is the controlling share
holder of Thomas Cook (India) Ltd.
About Thomas Cook (India) Limited:

Thomas Cook (India) Ltd (TCIL) is the leading integrated travel and travel related
financial services company in the country offering a broad spectrum of services that
include Foreign Exchange, Corporate Travel, MICE, Leisure Travel, Insurance, Visa &
Passport services and E-Business. The company set up its first office in India in 1881.
TCILs footprint currently extends to over 232 locations (including 23 airport counters) in
95 cities across India, Mauritius & Sri Lanka and is supported by a strong partner
network of 115 Gold Circle Partners and 112 Preferred Sales Agents over 130 cities
across India.
Reference:
http://www.thomascook.in/tcportal/press-release/2015/08/10/thomas-cook-india-announcesthe-acquisition-of-kuoni-groups-travel-operations-in-india-and-hong-kong.html
Law & Justice

Resolution against death penalty
Ques: Which of the eastern state assembly passes resolution against the Death Penalty?
a. Manipur
b. Meghalaya
c. Tripura
d. Assam
Ans: c
Related facts:
Tripura Assembly has passed a resolution

to request the Union Government to
amend Section 302 of the IPC to abolish
capital punishment.
The adopted resolution would be sent to union government and the Law Commission
for consideration.
It requested for necessary amendment in IPC Section 302 for commuting death
sentence.
Reference:
http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tripura-assembly-passes-resolution-against-deathpenalty/article7512195.ece
http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/tripura-assembly-passes-resolution-to-end-dealthpenalty/1/457027.html
Year & Day

National Sports Day
Ques: National Sports Day celebrated ona. 26 August
b. 27 August
c. 28 August
d. 29 August
Related facts:
August 29 is celebrated as the National Sports Day in

dedication to the great hockey player Dhyan Chand.
August 29, 1905 was the day when Indias talented hockey player was born in Allahabad,
Uttar Pradesh.
He led India to win three consecutive Olympic Hockey Gold medal for the years 1928, 1932
and 1936.
The lifetime achievement awards in sports, which is regarded as the highest in the field in
India, the Dhyan Chand Award was initiated in 2002, to those who have contributed during
their career in sports as well as have been major contributors in the promotions of the
sports after retirement.
Major Dhyan Chand also has a stadium recognized by his name as the Dhyan Chand
National Stadium in New Delhi.
On this day, the President of the country gives away honorable sports awards such as the
Arjuna Award, Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna and Dhronacharya Award at the Presidents house.
Reference:
http://www.children.co.in/india/festivals/national-sports-day.htm
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dhyan_Chand
World Humanitarian Day

Ques: World Humanitarian Day celebrated on?
a. 16 August
b. 17 August
c. 19 August
d. 14 August
Ans: c
Related facts:
Whole world celebrated World Humanitarian Day on 19 August.
The theme of WHD 2015 was to Inspire the Worlds Humanity.
It marks the day on which the then Special Representative of the Secretary-General to
Iraq, Srgio Vieira de Mello and 21 of his colleagues were killed in the bombing of the
UN Headquarters in Baghdad (19 August, 2003).
Reference:
http://www.un.org/en/events/humanitarianday/
http://www.un-expo.org/en/un-days/world-humanitarian-day
http://www.worldhumanitarianday.org/en
National Sports Day

Ques: National Sports Day celebrated ona. 26 August
b. 27 August
c. 28 August
d. 29 August
Ans: d
Related facts:
August 29 is celebrated as the National Sports Day in dedication to the great hockey player
Dhyan Chand.
August 29, 1905 was the day when Indias talented hockey player was born in Allahabad,
Uttar Pradesh.
He led India to win three consecutive Olympic Hockey Gold medal for the years 1928, 1932
and 1936.
The lifetime achievement awards in sports, which is regarded as the highest in the field in
India, the Dhyan Chand Award was initiated in 2002, to those who have contributed during
their career in sports as well as have been major contributors in the promotions of the
sports after retirement.
Major Dhyan Chand also has a stadium recognized by his name as the Dhyan Chand
National Stadium in New Delhi.
On this day, the President of the country gives away honorable sports awards such as the
Arjuna Award, Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna and Dhronacharya Award at the Presidents house.
Reference:
http://www.children.co.in/india/festivals/national-sports-day.htm
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dhyan_Chand
Earth Overshoot Day

Ques: When the Earth Overshoot Day was celebrated in the year 2015?
a. 13 August
b. 14 August
c. 15 August
d. 16 August
Ans: a
Related facts:
Earth Overshoot Day celebrated on
13 August, 2015.
Earth Overshoot Day marks the date when humanitys demand for ecological resources
and services in a given year exceeds what Earth can regenerate in that year.
It is also known as Ecological Debt Day.
We maintain this deficit by liquidating stocks of ecological resources and accumulating
waste, primarily carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.
Earth Overshoot Day is computed by dividing the planets biocapacity (the amount of
ecological resources Earth is able to generate that year), by humanitys Ecological
Footprint (humanitys demand for that year), and multiplying by 365, the number of
days in 2015.
This year Earth Overshoot Day occurred six days earlier than last year. The Global
Footprint Network says that overall, humans would require 1.6 planet earths to support
our lifestyle.
Indians consistently have one of the lowest per capita Ecological Footprints in the world,
among the lowest 15% of all countries for 2011.
The concept of Earth Overshoot Day was first conceived by Andrew Simms of the UK
think tank New Economics Foundation, which partnered with Global Footprint Network
in 2006 to launch the first global Earth Overshoot Day campaign.
At that time, Earth Overshoot Day fell in October. WWF, the worlds largest
conservation organization, has participated in Earth Overshoot Day since 2007.
Reference:
http://www.overshootday.org/newsroom/press-release-hindi/
http://www.overshootday.org/about-earth-overshoot-day/
http://www.overshootday.org/june-30-india-ecological-deficit-day/
http://www.worldwildlife.org/pages/overshoot-day
http://time.com/3997388/earth-overshoot-day-2015/
Miscellaneous
Appointment of Governor in the state of Bihar and Himachal
Pradesh
Ques: Who is appointed as Governor of Bihar on August 8, 2015?
a. Ram Nath Kovind
b. Acharya Dev Vrat
c. Ram Narayan Pal
d. Sadhvi Trikal Bhavanta
Ans: a
Related facts:
Shri Ram Nath Kovind appointed as the Governor of Bihar by the President.
It is known that the Bengal Governor Shri Kesari Nath Tripathi was given additional
charge for Bihar.
Acharya Dev Vrat appointed as the Governor of Himachal Pradesh.
It is known that the Rajsthan Governor Shri Kalyan Singh was given additional charge for
Himachal Pradesh.
Reference:
Fully automated digital locker

Ques: Smart Vault is based on?
a. Enabled Engineering
b. Robotics
c. Locker Engineering
d. None
Ans: b
Related facts:
ICICI Bank, Indias largest private sector

bank, on 18 August, 2015 launched the
Smart Vault, a fully automated state-of-the-art locker available 24x7.
The Smart Vault uses robotic technology to access the lockers from the safe vault and
enables customers to conveniently access their lockers at any time.
Customers can access the lockers in total privacy without any intervention of the branch
staff.
The locker is equipped with multi-layer security system, including biometric and PIN
authentication and debit cards, among others.
It is known that Ms. Chanda Kochhar, is the MD & CEO of ICICI Bank
Reference:
http://www.icicibank.com/aboutus/article.page?identifier=news-cici-bank-launches-smart-vault-a-fullyautomated-locker-20151908112444180
http://www.thehindu.com/business/icici-bank-launches-digital-locker/article7553665.ece
http://www.businesstoday.in/sectors/banks/icici-bank-launches-digital-locker/story/222853.html

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Current Affairs Aug 2015

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Preface

ISRO launched GSAT-6 ............................................................................................................................ 39

Sports Misc ......................................................................................................................... 54

Sports Personalities ............................................................................................................. 57

Clive Rice ................................................................................................................................................. 61

Telecom Ministry-New app launched to promote digital literacy .......................................................... 90

Law & Justice..................................................................................................................... 103

Year & Day ........................................................................................................................ 104

Miscellaneous ................................................................................................................... 108

Iranian Foreign Minister visit to India

Energy Sources of Indian Households for Cooking and Lighting,

Work together to control, regulate and share information on flow of funds

List issued for 98 selected smart cities

The visit of President of Seychelles to India

Religious Communities of Census 2011

Foreign Minister visit to Egypt

External Affairs Minister Smt. Sushma

Indias relationship with Egypt is known for millennia.

Modern EgyptIndia relations go back to the contacts between Saad

Shri I. K. Gujral (1997)

Out of the 50 Indian companies operating in Egypt with a combined investment of

Approximately 85,000 Indian tourists visited Egypt in 2012.

Forum for India Pacific Island Countries (FIPIC) Summit

The Heads of State/Government

Forum for India-Pacific Islands cooperation(FIPIC) is a multinational grouping developed

Agreement between India and Seychelles

The salient features of the agreement are as follows:

It will enable the Competent Authorities of India and Seychelles to provide

Information received under the agreement shall be treated as confidential and

State visit of President of Mozambique to India

Iranian Foreign Minister visit to India

Swachh Bharat ranking-2015

Energy Sources of Indian Households for Cooking and Lighting,

Tamil Nadu Tops in Organ Donation

BRICS' New Development Bank (NDP) launched in Shanghai

High Level Meeting- Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO)

member grouping to enhance connectivity, combat terror and create an environment

Worlds highest paid actors-2015

This is on the basis of earnings between June 2013 to June 2014.

3 Indian actors also entered in top ten lists.

Akshay Kumar follows behind in ninth place with $32.5 million.

World Population Prospects: The 2015 Revision

162th member of WTO

WTO members adopted Kazakhstans

Kazakhstan is already a member of Eurasian economic union.

On 26 April 2015, Seychelles became the 161st WTO member.

South Sudan in International Olympic Committee (IOC)

The International Olympic Committee

South Sudan became the 206th nation.

On 23 August, 2015 The Union Finance

Forbes- World's Most Innovative Companies 2015

On 19 August, 2015 the famous

RBI in-principle nod for payments bank license

A total of 41 applicants had applied for payments banks.

On the selection process, a detailed scrutiny was undertaken by an External Advisory

The Richest People in Tech- Forbes list 2015

Third spot goes to Amazon founder Jeff Bezos with $47.2 B.

Third Bi-monthly Monetary Policy, 2015-16

Dr. Raghuram G. Rajan, RBI Governor

Statutory Liquidity Ratio retained at 21.5 pc.

ISRO launched GSAT-6

Citi Open 2015

Citi Open 2015 took place at the William H.G.

The Championship results are: