Today’s Current Affairs MCQs/ GK Quiz 2nd November 2023

These current affairs today are a part of our daily current affairs. We cover a wide range of topics from state, national, and international news that are relevant and important for competitive exams. Our team prepares today’s current affairs after going through many newspapers, such as The Hindu, Indian Express, PIB, PRS, etc.

Scroll down for current affairs for 2nd November 2023.

UPSC Enforces Stringent Regulations for the Appointment of State Police Chiefs (national)

• The highest judicial authority, the Supreme Court, has issued a directive to all states and Union territories, urging them to abstain from designating any police officer as the acting Director General of Police (DGP). 
• Instead, states are now mandated to submit the names of their most experienced and distinguished police officers to the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) for thorough evaluation as prospective candidates for the prestigious positions of DGPs or Police Commissioners. 
• The UPSC, with meticulous scrutiny, will assess the submitted names and compile a carefully curated list of the top three exceptionally qualified officers. Subsequently, states retain the freedom to designate one of these eminent individuals as their police chief. This directive underscores the principles of meritocracy and transparency in the selection process for these crucial roles.

October Witnesses Remarkable Gross GST Collections of ₹1.72 Lakh Crore

• In the month of October, India experienced a substantial resurgence in its Gross Goods and Services Tax (GST) collections, reaching an impressive ₹1.72 lakh crore, marking a 13.4% year-on-year increase. 
• This surge represents the most significant upswing since December 2022, reversing a three-month trend of deceleration. Furthermore, this growth surpasses the previous month’s collection by 5.7%, which had witnessed a deceleration in indirect tax revenue. 
• The average monthly GST collection for the fiscal year 2023-24 stands at ₹1.66 lakh crore, reflecting an 11% increase compared to the preceding fiscal year. The GST revenues for October include Central GST (CGST) of ₹30,062 crore, State GST of ₹38,171 crore, and Integrated GST (IGST) of ₹91,315 crore. Following regular settlements, the government disbursed ₹42,873 crore to CGST and ₹36,614 crore to SGST, resulting in a total revenue of ₹72,934 crore for CGST and ₹74,785 crore for SGST in October 2023.

David Willey’s Retirement from International Cricket at Age 33

• David Willey, the renowned all-rounder of the England cricket team, has declared his retirement from international cricket at the age of 33. His final international match for England will be at the World Cup.
• Willey made his debut for the England cricket team in a no-result match against Ireland in May 2015, shortly after their group-stage exit from the World Cup. He played a pivotal role in England’s white-ball squads during the team’s rebuilding phase under the leadership of Eoin Morgan, Trevor Bayliss, and Andrew Strauss.
• Throughout his international career, he amassed an impressive record, claiming 94 wickets in 70 One Day Internationals (ODIs) and an additional 51 wickets in 43 Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is), with his last appearance in October 2022.

Chinese Communist Party Delegation Strengthens Bonds with Solomon Islands (international)

• A delegation representing the Chinese Communist Party recently engaged in a series of high-level meetings with key officials of the Solomon Islands, including Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare, the foreign minister, and the energy minister. 
• The delegation, under the leadership of Guo Yezhou, participated in substantive discussions with the leadership of the Solomon Islands during their official visit. 
• China and the Solomon Islands had previously entered into a policing agreement in July, marking a significant elevation of their relationship to a “comprehensive strategic partnership.” 
• Located in the South Pacific Ocean, the Solomon Islands consist of a diverse array of islands, the largest being Guadalcanal. This region is home to various ethnic groups, including the indigenous Melanesian population, with its capital situated in Honiara.

Observance of the Global Day to Eliminate Impunity for Crimes against Journalists 2023

• The International Day to Eradicate Impunity for Offenses against Journalists is a globally recognized event that spotlights the hazards and violence faced by journalists and media professionals while carrying out their responsibilities. 
• Annually, on November 2nd, this day serves as a poignant reminder of the critical role a free press plays in upholding democracy and the necessity to protect those who unveil the truth.
• In 2023, we commemorate the tenth anniversary of the United Nations Plan of Action on the Safety of Journalists, an initiative with the noble aim of establishing a secure and unencumbered environment for media practitioners worldwide.

NPCI: UPI Achieves 1,140 Crore Transactions in October, Total Value Surpasses Rs 17.6 Lakh Crore

• In the month of October, the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) registered an astonishing 1,140 crore transactions, with a cumulative transaction value exceeding Rs 17.6 lakh crore. 
• This data has been released by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), the organization responsible for operating the UPI system. 
• Notably, NPCI recorded an impressive 55% year-on-year increase in transaction volume and a significant 42% growth in transaction value. UPI had previously crossed the milestone of 10 billion transactions in August and has maintained its upward trajectory. In September, it recorded 10.56 billion transactions, serving as a clear indication of the consistent growth of this platform. 
• Dilip Asbe, the Chief of NPCI, has set an ambitious target of achieving 2 billion daily transactions by 2030. Furthermore, he envisions the integration of UPI for cross-border transactions in at least 50% of the world’s top 30 markets or countries.

Launch of ‘Mera Yuva Bharat (MY Bharat)’ Platform on National Unity Day by Prime Minister

• On October 31st, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi unveiled the ‘Mera Yuva Bharat (MY Bharat)’ platform, a groundbreaking initiative crafted to empower the youth of India. 
• This autonomous entity, established by the Union Cabinet on October 11, 2023, seeks to function as a technology-driven facilitator for youth development and youth-led progress. Its mission is to foster equitable opportunities and cultivate a sense of social responsibility among young individuals.
•  ‘Mera Yuva Bharat (MY Bharat)’ envisions a harmonious blend of physical and digital engagement, allowing young people aged 10-19 years to seamlessly connect with programs, mentors, and local communities. 
• The objective is to deepen their comprehension of local issues, nurture leadership capabilities, and stimulate active engagement in discovering constructive solutions.

Alarming Surge in Road Accidents and Fatalities: India’s Road Safety Crisis

• According to data released by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, India witnessed an astounding 53 accidents and 19 fatalities every hour, equating to a staggering 1,264 accidents and 42 deaths daily. 
• The severity of road accidents, measured by the number of fatalities per 100 accidents, surged significantly from 28.2% in 2012 to 36.5% in 2022, with a further increase above 37% during the pandemic. 
• Uttar Pradesh reported the highest proportion of fatalities at 13.4%, followed by Tamil Nadu at 10.6% and Maharashtra at 9%. Overspeeding emerged as the leading cause, contributing to a substantial 72.3% of accidents and 71.2% of fatalities.

Mumbai Achieves Fourth Position in Global Housing Price Escalation

• The latest report from Knight Frank’s Prime Global Cities Index reveals that for the quarter concluding in September 2023, Mumbai secured the fourth-highest year-on-year growth in prime residential prices among cities worldwide. 
• The real estate market in Mumbai witnessed a substantial 6.5% increase in prime residential prices. 
• New Delhi’s National Capital Region (NCR) exhibited significant progress, advancing from the 36th position a year ago to claim the 10th spot in the September 2023 rankings, backed by a noteworthy 4.1% year-on-year increase in prime residential prices. 
• Bengaluru, often referred to as the “Silicon Valley of India,” witnessed a commendable rise in its global ranking, moving from the 27th position in 2022 to the 17th spot in 2023, supported by a 2.2% growth in prime residential prices. 
• Manila holds the top position in the Prime Global Cities Index, experiencing a remarkable 21.2% increase in residential property prices, credited to strong domestic and foreign investments in the city’s real estate sector.

Saima Wazed’s Election as WHO Regional Director for South-East Asia

• Saima Wazed, hailing from Bangladesh and the daughter of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, emerged victorious in the election for the next World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Director for South-East Asia. 
• Saima Wazed presently serves as the chairperson of Bangladesh’s National Advisory Committee on Autism and Neurodevelopmental Disorders. 
• Her experience in promoting autism awareness and engagement in healthcare initiatives makes her well-suited for this pivotal regional role. 
• The South-East Asia Regional Office (SEARO) is one of the six regional offices within the World Health Organization, with its headquarters situated in New Delhi. This regional body plays a pivotal role in addressing public health challenges and advancing healthcare initiatives in South-East Asian countries.

Appointment of Deepesh Nanda as CEO & MD of Tata Power Renewable Energy

• Tata Power, a prominent integrated power company in India, has announced a significant leadership change by appointing Deepesh Nanda as the President-Renewables and as the CEO & MD of its subsidiary, Tata Power Renewable Energy Limited (TPREL). 
• With 28 years of extensive experience in the industry, Deepesh Nanda brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his new role. 
• His professional journey has seen him excel in various positions across reputable companies like GE, Flowserve, and Tyco. 
• Before joining Tata Power, he served as the Chief Executive Officer for South Asia at GE Gas Power, overseeing operations in India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Mauritius, and Nepal. 
• Nanda also held the position of President & CEO of GE’s Aero-derivative Gas Turbine business segment for Asia.

India-Origin Writer Nandini Das Secures 2023 British Academy Book Prize

• Renowned author Nandini Das, of Indian descent, has emerged victorious in the 2023 British Academy Book Prize for Global Cultural Comprehension. 
• She clinched this prestigious international non-fiction award for her debut work titled, ‘Courting India: England, Mughal India, and the Origins of Empire.’
• This illuminating book delves into the historical narrative surrounding the arrival of the inaugural English ambassador in India, Sir Thomas Roe, during the early 17th century. In the process, Das offers a distinctive perspective through which to scrutinize the intricate interplay between England and Mughal India, laying the foundation for the empire that would eventually materialize.
• Established in 2013, the British Academy Book Prize for Global Cultural Understanding, formerly known as the Nayef Al-Rodhan Prize, seeks to acknowledge and celebrate exceptional pieces of non-fiction that embody academic rigor and innovation.

Aishwary Pratap Singh Tomar Claims Gold Medal in 50m Rifle 3P Event

• At the 2023 Asian Shooting Championship, Aishwary Pratap Singh Tomar achieved a remarkable feat by securing the gold medal in the men’s 50m rifle 3 positions event. 
• Tomar’s impressive final score of 463.5 propelled him to the top spot, establishing him as the most accomplished Indian shooter at the event.
• Tian Jiaming, representing the People’s Republic of China, earned the silver medal with a score of 462.7, while his compatriot Du Linshu clinched the bronze medal with 450.3 points. 
• India’s exceptional performance contributed to a total medal count of 55, including 21 gold, 21 silver, and 13 bronze medals. In comparison, China emerged as the leading nation with 76 medals, including 33 gold.

Unveiling of Cricketer Sachin Tendulkar’s Statue at Wankhede Stadium

• The iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai is poised to witness a historic moment as it unveils a statue commemorating cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar, coinciding with the World Cup match between India and Sri Lanka.
• The statue, capturing the legendary batsman mid-cricket stroke, takes its place adjacent to the Sachin Tendulkar stand, paying homage to the ‘Little Master.’ This remarkable sculpture is the creation of artist Pramod Kamble, a painter, and sculptor hailing from Ahmednagar.
• The decision to place a statue at Wankhede Stadium was announced earlier this year on Sachin Tendulkar’s 50th birthday in April, making this unveiling a remarkable tribute to the cricketing icon. Sachin Tendulkar himself will grace the unveiling ceremony.

RBI Reports More than 97% Return of ₹2,000 Banknotes

• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has officially declared that more than 97% of the ₹2,000 banknotes in circulation as of May 19, 2023, have been returned as of October 31, 2023. 
• The remaining ₹2,000 banknotes still in circulation are considered valid legal tender. 
• The total value of ₹2,000 banknotes in circulation, which was ₹3.56 lakh crore as of May 19, 2023, has significantly diminished to ₹10,000 crore as of October 31, 2023. 
• Notably, the facility for depositing and exchanging ₹2,000 banknotes at bank branches ceased on October 7, 2023. 
• The initial objective of introducing these banknotes by the central bank was to fulfill the currency requirements of the economy following the withdrawal of ₹500 and ₹1,000 banknotes in November-December 2016.

1. What was the key focus of the Supreme Court’s directive regarding the appointment of State Police Chiefs?

1. Encouraging states to appoint acting DGP without UPSC evaluation.
2. Mandating states to consult Union territories for police appointments.
3. Emphasizing meritocracy and transparency in the selection process.
4. Restricting senior police officers from applying for top positions.

2. Which organization achieved a significant growth in transaction volume and value in the month of October?

1. Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
2. National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI)
3. Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)
4. Supreme Court of India

3. What event marked the elevation of the relationship between China and the Solomon Islands?

1. Signing a military alliance.
2. Ratifying a trade agreement.
3. Signing a policing pact in July.
4. Establishing a maritime boundary treaty.

4. What was the primary goal of introducing ₹2000 banknotes by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI)?

1. Reducing the overall number of banknotes in circulation.
2. Enhancing the aesthetic design of currency.
3. Meeting the currency needs of the economy.
4. Facilitating international trade.

5. What is the average monthly GST collection for the fiscal year 2023-24, as mentioned in the news?

1. ₹1.72 lakh crore
2. ₹1.66 lakh crore
3. ₹1.56 lakh crore
4. ₹1.82 lakh crore

6. What is the significance of the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists?

1. Celebrating journalism achievements
2. Raising awareness about road safety
3. Highlighting dangers faced by journalists
4. Promoting global housing price trends

7. Which Indian city experienced the fourth-highest year-on-year growth in prime residential prices, according to Knight Frank’s Prime Global Cities Index?

1. New Delhi
2. Bengaluru
3. Mumbai
4. Manila

8. What is the primary objective of the ‘Mera Yuva Bharat (MY Bharat)’ platform launched by the Indian Prime Minister on National Unity Day?

1. Promoting global youth engagement
2. Fostering equitable opportunities for the elderly
3. Empowering and developing the youth of India
4. Encouraging political engagement among youth

9. What has been the main cause of the alarming rise in road accidents and fatalities in India, as per the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways?

1. Drunk driving
2. Overspeeding
3. Poor road infrastructure
4. Severe weather conditions

10. Who was elected as the WHO Regional Director for South-East Asia?

1. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina
2. Saima Wazed
3. A prominent health official from India
4. The Secretary-General of the United Nations