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1. The Entrepreneurship Development Conclave was recently held in which place?
[A] Hyderabad
[B] Pune
[C] Bengaluru
[D] Ahmedabad
Correct Answer: B [Pune]
Notes:
In January 2025, Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh, also known as Lalan Singh, representing the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying (MoFAHD) and the Ministry of Panchayati Raj (MoPR), officially opened the ‘Entrepreneurship Development Conclave’ at G.D. Madgulkar Natyagruha in Pune, Maharashtra. The event was coordinated by the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD) under the auspices of MoFAHD, with the objective of uniting prominent policymakers, industry leaders, and stakeholders from the livestock sector to foster innovation and stimulate growth. The central theme of the conclave was “Empowering Entrepreneurs: Transforming Livestock Economies.”
2. Recently, Sri Lanka has received its largest foreign direct investment from which country?
[A] China
[B] India
[C] Russia
[D] United
Correct Answer: A [China]
Notes:
Sri Lanka is poised to welcome its most substantial foreign direct investment to date from China, totaling $3.7 billion, designated for the construction of an oil refinery. This significant investment coincides with President Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s official visit to China and plays a crucial role in the framework of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). However, the project has sparked apprehensions about possible debt entrapment and heightened geopolitical tensions in the region, especially in relation to India. China’s Sinopec is set to construct a refinery with a daily capacity of 200,000 barrels. This initiative follows the signing of an agreement between the Ministry of Energy of Sri Lanka and Sinopec. The primary objectives of the project are to satisfy the local fuel requirements and to generate foreign currency through export activities.
3. Which country has recently successfully launched Pakistan’s first indigenous Electro-Optical Satellite (PRSC-EO1)?
[A] Japan
[B] China
[C] France
[D] Saudi Arabia
Correct Answer: B [China]
Notes:
On January 17, 2025, China achieved a significant milestone by launching Pakistan’s inaugural indigenous Electro-Optical (EO-1) satellite, designated PRSC-EO1, from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center. This satellite, engineered for the purpose of gathering Earth observation data through electro-optical sensors, was successfully placed into its designated orbit by a Long March-2D carrier rocket at 12:07 PM Beijing Time. The objective is to improve Pakistan’s proficiency in the areas of natural resource monitoring and management, disaster response, urban planning, and agricultural advancement. The technology utilized includes sophisticated electro-optical sensors that provide high-resolution imaging of the Earth. This development represents a notable progression in Pakistan’s space technology, demonstrating the nation’s dedication to utilizing space for its advancement and sustainable development.
4. Odisha and which country have signed an MoU to establish a FinTech hub in Bhubaneswar?
[A] Singapore
[B] Japan
[C] Malaysia
[D] France
Correct Answer: A [Singapore]
Notes:
In a noteworthy initiative to enhance the FinTech landscape, the Electronics and IT Department of the Government of Odisha has formed a partnership with Singapore’s Global Finance & Technology Network (GFTN) to create a Global Competency Centre in Bhubaneswar. This collaboration seeks to promote innovation in InsureTech and associated fields, in line with India’s aspiration of achieving “Insurance for All” by the year 2047.
5. Recently, the Government of India announced revival package for Rashtriya Ispat Nigam Ltd (RINL), is located in which state?
[A] Andhra Pradesh
[B] Telangana
[C] Tamil Nadu
[D] Odisha
Correct Answer: A [Andhra Pradesh]
Notes:
The Government of India has recently unveiled a revival package for Rashtriya Ispat Nigam Ltd (RINL), a public sector steel producer that is currently grappling with significant financial challenges. This package, amounting to ₹11,440 crore, is designed to rejuvenate the company’s operations and protect numerous jobs in the face of political and economic pressures. RINL, commonly referred to as Vizag Steel, is situated in Vishakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, and possesses a production capacity of 7.3 million tonnes annually. The facility operates three blast furnaces, of which two are presently functional. RINL has encountered severe financial difficulties, evidenced by a negative net worth and substantial debt.
6. Which ministry has recently advocated for a further extension of the Interest Equalisation Scheme (IES) in the upcoming Budget?
[A] Ministry of Commerce and Industry
[B] Ministry of Finance
[C] Ministry of Corporate Affairs
[D] Ministry of Home
Correct Answer: A [Ministry of Commerce and Industry]
Notes:
The Indian Commerce Ministry is pushing for an additional extension of the Interest Equalisation Scheme (IES) in the forthcoming Budget. This program is designed to enhance export activities in light of persistent global economic difficulties. As the scheme is nearing its expiration, stakeholders are advocating for its renewal to sustain competitiveness in international markets. The Interest Equalisation Scheme was introduced on April 1, 2015, with an initial duration of five years, aimed at assisting exporters by offering pre- and post-shipment rupee export credit at reduced interest rates. The scheme has been extended several times, including during the COVID-19 pandemic.
7. Benami transactions was recently seen in news at which protected area in Madhya Pradesh?
[A] Karera Wildlife Sanctuary
[B] Ratapani Wildlife Sanchuary
[C] Pench Tiger Reserve
[D] Satpura Tiger Reserve
Correct Answer: C [Pench Tiger Reserve]
Notes:
In recent years, Madhya Pradesh has experienced an increase in Benami transactions, particularly within its tiger reserves. The Benami Prohibition Unit (BPU) of the Income Tax Department has identified and seized properties associated with these illicit transactions in the Pench Tiger Reserve, an area renowned for its biodiversity and tourism appeal. Benami transactions refer to the practice of acquiring property in another person’s name to obscure the actual ownership. Such activities are deemed illegal under the Benami Transactions (Prohibition) Amendment Act of 2016. The individuals who ultimately benefit from the property are referred to as beneficial owners, while those who hold the property nominally are known as Benamidars. The Pench Tiger Reserve spans both Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra, encompassing approximately 1,179.63 km² within Madhya Pradesh. It is celebrated for its diverse wildlife and serves as a prominent tourist attraction, famously associated with “The Jungle Book.”
8. Which organization has recently revised India’s economic growth forecast for FY25, reducing it to 6.5%?
[A] World Bank
[B] International Monetary Fund (IMF)
[C] World Economic Forum (WEF)
[D] Asian Development Bank (ADB)
Correct Answer: B [International Monetary Fund (IMF)]
Notes:
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has updated its economic growth forecast for India for the fiscal year 2025, lowering it to 6.5% from previous estimates. Nevertheless, the IMF has maintained a consistent growth outlook for the fiscal year 2026. This adjustment is indicative of prevailing challenges, such as global economic uncertainties and domestic inflationary pressures, which could influence India’s growth path. This revision occurs amid the nation’s ongoing recovery from the pandemic, with the IMF highlighting inflation, a slowdown in investment, and geopolitical risks as significant elements that may hinder economic progress.
9. Which country has successfully phased out the manufacturing of hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) in new equipment by December 31, 2024?
[A] India
[B] China
[C] France
[D] Japan
Correct Answer: A [India]
Notes:
In 2024, India achieved a significant milestone by completely phasing out hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) in its manufacturing processes, thereby fulfilling its obligations under the Montreal Protocol. This initiative plays a vital role in safeguarding the ozone layer and combating climate change. The Montreal Protocol, which was established in 1987, has been instrumental in the global reduction of substances that deplete the ozone layer. India’s recent efforts represent a progressive step towards sustainable environmental practices. The country became a signatory to the Vienna Convention in 1991 and subsequently joined the Montreal Protocol in 1992. It formulated a phased approach to eliminate ozone-depleting substances, successfully achieving significant reductions by 2010. The recent elimination of HCFCs is an integral component of a broader strategy aimed at addressing climate change and preserving the ozone layer.
10. The Sanjiangyuan National Park, which was seen in the news about the snow leopard recently, is located in which country?
[A] Japan
[B] Russia
[C] China
[D] Canada
Correct Answer: C [China]
Notes:
Recent research indicates that the Sanjiangyuan region in Qinghai province, China, serves as an essential habitat for snow leopards, with an estimated population of around 1,000 individuals. This area plays a crucial role in the conservation of this endangered species, as it represents a significant segment of their worldwide population. The results underscore the necessity of comprehending the dynamics of snow leopards to develop effective conservation strategies.
11. Which research institute has recently announced green hydrogen projects face major implementation challenges?
[A] Grantham Institute – Climate Change and Environment
[B] Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research
[C] Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich
[D] University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences
Correct Answer: B [Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research]
Notes:
A recent study by researchers at the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research reveals that the surge in announcements related to green hydrogen initiatives has not translated into successful project implementations. Although ambitious goals have been established, only a small percentage of these proposed projects have progressed to operational status, underscoring considerable challenges within the industry. In 2023, researchers tracked 190 green hydrogen projects globally, but only 0.3 GW of the projected 4.3 GW capacity was realized, resulting in a mere 7% success rate. Delays were widespread, with 86% of projects announced in 2021 failing to adhere to their original timelines. The main obstacles identified include rising costs of electrolysers, insufficient offtake agreements, and a lack of supportive policies. These issues collectively hinder timely project execution and erode investor confidence.
12. Recently, which ministry has recently launched a new toolkit for the ninth edition of Swachh Survekshan, the largest urban cleanliness survey globally?
[A] Ministry of Home
[B] Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs
[C] Ministry of Current Affairs
[D] Ministry of Social Welfare and Empowerment
Correct Answer: B [Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs]
Notes:
The Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs, Manohar Lal Khattar, has recently announced a new toolkit for the ninth iteration of Swachh Survekshan, recognized as the largest urban cleanliness survey in the world. This edition features a more streamlined and organized methodology aimed at enhancing urban sanitation by fostering citizen participation and incorporating third-party validation. The event also highlighted the establishment of the Super Swachh League, which honors cities that demonstrate exceptional performance in cleanliness. Swachh Survekshan was launched in 2016 by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) with the objective of improving urban sanitation by fostering public engagement. This survey assesses cities according to various cleanliness and sanitation criteria.
13. Who has recently launched the National Broadband Mission (NBM) 2.0 and the Sanchar Saathi App?
[A] Union Minister Amit Shah
[B] Union Minister Piyush Goyal
[C] Union Minister Nirmala Sitharaman
[D] Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia
Correct Answer: D [Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia]
Notes:
Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia has recently introduced a series of telecommunications initiatives designed to improve connectivity and security throughout India. Among these initiatives are the Sanchar Saathi Mobile App, the National Broadband Mission (NBM) 2.0, and Intra Circle Roaming at 4G mobile sites funded by the Digital Bharat Network (DBN). The government’s objective is to enhance citizens’ access to telecommunications services, thereby fostering a more digitally inclusive society.
National Broadband Mission (NBM) 2.0:
The National Broadband Mission 2.0 is set to connect 170,000 villages by the year 2030. This initiative builds upon the achievements of NBM 1.0, which successfully established 800,000 towers. The mission’s goals include attaining a minimum broadband speed of 100 Mbps and ensuring connectivity for 90% of anchor institutions. It envisions a future where digital inclusivity is accessible to all citizens.
Sanchar Saathi Mobile Application:
The Sanchar Saathi Mobile Application is developed to enhance telecommunications security. Its primary functionalities encompass the reporting of suspected fraudulent activities, management of mobile connections, the ability to block lost devices, and the verification of handset authenticity. This application is accessible on both Android and iOS platforms, aiming to serve over 900 million smartphone users in India.
Intra-Circle Roaming (ICR) at DBN-Funded 4G Sites:
The ICR program facilitates the sharing of infrastructure among various telecom service providers at 4G sites funded by the Digital Bharat Network (DBN). This partnership, which includes BSNL, Airtel, and Reliance, significantly improves connectivity for more than 35,400 rural villages, ensuring uninterrupted 4G services while simultaneously lowering capital expenditures for the operators involved.
14. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has recently Distributed 65 lakh Property Cards under which scheme?
[A] SVAMITVA
[B] SUMITVA
[C] SUDHATVA
[D] SAMITVA
Correct Answer: A [SVAMITVA]
Notes:
On January 18, 2025, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi oversaw the electronic distribution of SVAMITVA Property Cards. This occasion represents a significant advancement in rural governance and empowerment in India, with approximately 6.5 million cards being issued across more than 50,000 villages in 10 states and 2 Union Territories. The initiative is designed to strengthen property rights and enhance land governance in rural regions. Initiated on April 24, 2020, the SVAMITVA Scheme seeks to furnish property owners in rural areas with a formal “Record of Rights.” It utilizes drone and Geographic Information System (GIS) technology to ensure precise land surveying.
15. Who has recently been appointed as the Ombudsman and Ethics Officer of the BCCI?
[A] Prabhtej Singh Bhatia
[B] Justice Arun Mishra
[C] Devajit Saikia
[D] Ajith Sharma
Correct Answer: B [Justice Arun Mishra]
Notes:
Justice Arun Mishra, a former judge of the Supreme Court, has been designated as the Ombudsman and Ethics Officer for the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). This appointment was officially announced, representing yet another notable achievement in his distinguished career. Justice Mishra’s profound legal knowledge and leadership capabilities render him particularly qualified to undertake the dual roles of promoting ethical standards and resolving conflicts within the BCCI.
16. Which state government has for allowing homeopathy with a certificate course in pharmacology to prescribe allopathic medicines?
[A] Karnataka
[B] Rajasthan
[C] Maharashtra
[D] Odisha
Correct Answer: C [Maharashtra]
Notes:
In late December 2024, the Maharashtra Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) released a directive permitting homeopathic practitioners who possess a certification in modern pharmacology to prescribe allopathic drugs. This decision has generated significant debate and has faced legal opposition, especially from the Indian Medical Association (IMA), which raises concerns regarding the safety and legality of this directive.
17. Which country has recently approved the Protection and Enforcement of Interests in Aircraft Objects Act, 2024?
[A] India
[B] United States
[C] France
[D] China
Correct Answer: A [India]
Notes:
The Protection and Enforcement of Interests in Aircraft Objects Bill, 2024, is poised to revolutionize India’s aviation industry by refining the leasing framework. This proposed legislation is anticipated to decrease expenses, enhance the accessibility of air travel, and draw in investments, particularly as India prepares for a significant increase in aircraft purchases. The Bill is focused on safeguarding the rights of aircraft lessors to recover leased assets. By aiming to lower leasing costs, it seeks to make air travel more economically viable for consumers. Furthermore, the legislation is structured to support the acquisition of more than 1,000 new aircraft by the decade’s conclusion.
18. Which state will become India’s first state to have a dedicated Artificial Intelligence (AI) policy?
[A] Maharashtra
[B] Karnataka
[C] Andhra Pradesh
[D] Uttar Pradesh
Correct Answer: A [Maharashtra]
Notes:
The government of Maharashtra has recently taken steps to form a 16-member committee responsible for developing the state’s first Artificial Intelligence (AI) policy. This initiative aims to establish Maharashtra as the first state in India to adopt a comprehensive AI policy. The recommendations put forth by the committee will be crafted to align with the central government’s India AI Mission, thereby enhancing the state’s digital economy and promoting industrial progress. Chaired by the director of the Directorate of Information Technology in Mumbai, the committee is anticipated to present its recommendations within a specified timeframe. The primary objective of the policy is to support the India AI Mission by leveraging Maharashtra’s entrepreneurial strengths, with the goal of accelerating industrial development and aiding the state’s aspiration to achieve a $1 trillion GDP.
19. The Bose Institute has recently discovered which Ayurvedic remedy to effective treatment for Alzheimer’s disease?
[A] Lasunadya Ghrita
[B] Kamadudha Rasa
[C] Punarnavadi Mandura
[D] Navayasa Lauha
Correct Answer: A [Lasunadya Ghrita]
Notes:
Recent advancements in the field of Alzheimer’s disease research present promising prospects for the development of effective therapies. A research team under the leadership of Professor Anirban Bhunia at the Bose Institute has investigated novel methodologies aimed at addressing neurodegenerative conditions, with a particular emphasis on amyloid proteins, which play a pivotal role in the pathology of Alzheimer’s disease. These amyloid proteins are known to aggregate and form plaques within the brain, resulting in neuronal death. This pathological process is responsible for the cognitive decline and memory impairment that characterize the disease. The research team led by Professor Bhunia implemented two primary strategies. The first involved the chemical synthesis of peptides designed to inhibit the aggregation of amyloid beta. The second strategy entailed the repurposing of Lasunadya Ghrita (LG), an Ayurvedic formulation, to effectively target the aggregation of amyloid beta.
20. Which Indian private company by google-backed has launched first three satellites of firefly constellation?
[A] Boat
[B] Pixxel
[C] Udaan
[D] Livspace
Correct Answer: B [Pixxel]
Notes:
Pixxel, a space technology firm located in Bengaluru and supported by Google, has achieved a significant milestone by successfully launching the initial three satellites of its Firefly constellation, which aims to establish the highest-resolution hyperspectral satellite network globally.
This launch is the first phase of Pixxel’s commercial satellite constellation, with three more Firefly statellites set to launch in the second quarter (Q2) of 2025.
21. Recently, 4G and 5G services were provided by an Indian telecom firm in Siachen Glacier, it is located in which mountain range?
[A] Purvanchal Range
[B] Karakoram Range
[C] Satpura Range
[D] Transhimalaya Range
Correct Answer: B [Karakoram Range]
Notes:
The Siachen Glacier is located in the Karakoram Range, part of the Himalayan mountain system, specifically within the Ladakh region of Jammu and Kashmir, India. Recently, Reliance Jio, a prominent telecommunications company in India, has launched 4G and 5G services in this isolated area, representing the first instance of a telecom operator providing connectivity at the glacier. This development has greatly improved the quality of life for military personnel and enhanced the operational capabilities of the Indian Army. Soldiers now have the ability to communicate with their families and access advanced communication technologies, including video conferencing and high-speed internet. Such advancements promote better coordination and expedite decision-making processes.
22. Recently, the Andhra Pradesh State Cabinet approved the construction of a flood protection wall along the Krishna River.
[A] Maharashta
[B] Karnataka
[C] Telangana
[D] Andhra Pradesh
Correct Answer: D [Andhra Pradesh]
Notes:
The Andhra Pradesh Cabinet has recently approved a proposal for the establishment of a flood protection wall along the Krishna River. This project aims to address the ongoing flooding issues that have affected the region, especially in Vijayawada and its surrounding areas. The decision comes in the wake of the previous construction of a retaining wall on the left bank of the river, which unintentionally led to soil erosion and worsened flooding conditions. The proposed flood protection wall is planned to span from 0.9 km to 2.61 km downstream of the Prakasam Barrage. The construction will take place in Tadepalli village, situated in Guntur district, with an estimated budget of ₹294.20 crore. This infrastructure is expected to protect neighborhoods such as Sundarayya Nagar and Mahanadu Colony from potential flooding during the monsoon seasons.
23. Who has set a new record by surpassing Roger Federer for the most Grand Slam matches played in tennis history?
[A] Novak Djokovic
[B] Alex De Minaur
[C] Andrey Rublev
[D] Rafael Nadal
Correct Answer: A [Novak Djokovic]
Notes:
Novak Djokovic, recognized as one of the preeminent figures in the sport of tennis, reached a significant career milestone on January 17, 2025, by surpassing Roger Federer in the record for the most Grand Slam matches contested in the history of the sport. The Serbian athlete marked his 430th Grand Slam appearance during the second round of the Australian Open, where he triumphed in a demanding encounter against Portuguese qualifier Jaime Faria. This win further enriched Djokovic’s extensive collection of records, underscoring his exceptional achievements in tennis.
24. David Lynch, the legendary film director and writer, who passed away at 78 recently, was from which country?
[A] America
[B] France
[C] Australia
[D] United Kingdom
Correct Answer: A [America]
Notes:
David Lynch, the renowned director and writer from Hollywood, has died at the age of 78. A genuine innovator in contemporary cinema, Lynch transformed the film landscape with his unique surrealistic approach and his probing into the more sinister aspects of human psychology and the subconscious mind. His films, characterized by their strange and disquieting storylines, have profoundly influenced the horror and psychological thriller genres. Over a career that spanned six decades, Lynch received multiple honors, including four nominations for the Academy Award and a prestigious Palme d’Or. He is particularly celebrated for his creation of the iconic television series Twin Peaks, solidifying his legacy in the global cinematic community.
25. On which day, the Lokpal of India celebrated its first Foundation Day?
[A] January 14
[B] January 15
[C] January 16
[D] January 17
Correct Answer: C [January 16]
Notes:
On January 16, 2025, the Lokpal of India commemorated its first Foundation Day at the Manekshaw Centre in New Delhi, signifying 11 years since its inception on January 16, 2014, pursuant to the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013. The occasion was honored by the presence of the Chief Justice of India, Justice Sanjiv Khanna, who attended as the Chief Guest.
26. The “Bharat Ranbhoomi Darshan app and website is developed by the Ministry of Defence in collaboration with which ministry?
[A] Ministry of Tourism
[B] Ministry of Home
[C] Ministry of Culture
[D] Ministry of Science & Technology
Correct Answer: A [Ministry of Tourism]
Notes:
In a notable effort to bridge the gap between civilians and the esteemed legacy of India’s military, the government introduced the “Bharat Ranbhoomi Darshan” application and website on January 15, 2025, aligning with the Army Day festivities in Pune, Maharashtra. This initiative, a collaborative endeavor of the Ministries of Defence, Tourism, and the Indian Army, enables civilians to explore pivotal battlefield sites, including those from the wars of 1962, 1971, and 1999, as well as critical conflict areas such as the Siachen base camp and Galwan Valley. The overarching goal of this initiative is to develop border regions into tourist destinations, thereby fostering a deeper appreciation among citizens for India’s military heritage and the sacrifices made by its soldiers.
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