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1. Which ministry of India and UNESCO has recently hosted the stakeholder consultation on AI RAM in India?
[A] Ministry of Current Affairs
[B] Ministry of Science and Technology
[C] Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY)
[D] Ministry of Corporate Affairs
Correct Answer: C [Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY)]
Notes:
In a noteworthy initiative to harmonize India’s artificial intelligence (AI) ecosystem with international ethical benchmarks, UNESCO’s South Asia Regional Office, in partnership with the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) and Ikigai Law, convened a two-day stakeholder consultation focused on the AI Readiness Assessment Methodology (RAM). This event took place on January 16 and 17, 2025, at IIIT Bangalore and the NASSCOM AI office, respectively, with the objective of developing a tailored AI policy report for India that highlights the nation’s strengths and potential growth areas within the AI sector.
2. Which country has recently withdrawal from the World Health Organization (WHO)?
[A] United States
[B] Russia
[C] China
[D] Iran
Correct Answer: A [United States]
Notes:
On January 20, 2025, President Donald Trump signed an executive order to start the United States’ exit from the World Health Organization (WHO) and paused all foreign aid for 90 days. This move has raised major global worries and discussions. The U.S. is withdrawing from the WHO due to claims of poor management during the COVID-19 pandemic, financial imbalances, and concerns about political influence.
Reasons for Leaving the WHO:-
Poor Management of COVID-19: The U.S. government criticized the WHO for its response to the pandemic, especially its perceived leniency towards China’s early actions regarding the outbreak.
Political Influence: There were worries about the WHO being affected by political pressures from member countries, which could weaken its ability to tackle global health challenges.
Financial Imbalances: The U.S. pointed out that it contributes much more to the WHO’s budget compared to China, despite having a smaller population.
3. Which country’s Yala Glacier has retreated by 680 meters (36%) between 1974 and 2021, and is projected to vanish by the 2040s?
[A] Canada
[B] Australia
[C] Nepal
[D] China
Correct Answer: C [Nepal]
Notes:
Yala Glacier, located within Langtang National Park in Nepal, has garnered considerable attention in glaciological research owing to its notable retreat in recent decades. Current assessments indicate that this glacier could disappear by the 2040s, highlighting the severe consequences of climate change on the cryospheric systems of the Himalayas.
4. On April 1, 2025, Which country will implement the Diamond Imprest Authorization (DIA) Scheme?
[A] India
[B] Russia
[C] South Africa
[D] United States
Correct Answer: A [India]
Notes:
On April 1, 2025, India will launch the Diamond Imprest Authorization (DIA) Scheme. This initiative responds to global demands for diamond manufacturers to establish local processing facilities. The scheme will allow duty-free imports of natural cut and polished diamonds to enhance value addition and promote exports. It specifically permits the duty-free import of diamonds weighing under ¼ Carat. Exporters are required to increase the value by 10% before exporting. Eligible exporters include those with Two Star Export House status and annual exports of $15 million or more.
5. The Tropical Cyclone Sean has affected on which country in January 2025?
[A] Australia
[B] New Zealand
[C] Japan
[D] United States
Correct Answer: A [Australia]
Notes:
The Tropical Cyclone Sean has emerged as a significant meteorological phenomenon impacting Western Australia as of January 2025. The cyclone originated on January 20 and underwent rapid intensification, achieving Category 4 status before being subsequently downgraded to Category 3. Forecasts indicate that it will continue to weaken as it traverses cooler oceanic waters, with expectations that it may cease to be classified as a tropical cyclone by January 22, 2025. Noteworthy precipitation levels have been observed, especially in Karratha, where an unprecedented 274 mm of rain was recorded within a 24-hour period, resulting in localized flooding.
6. Which state has recently been protested against Offshore Sand Mining Initiatives?
[A] Tamil Nadu
[B] West Bengal
[C] Karnataka
[D] Kerala
Correct Answer: D [Kerala]
Notes:
The coastal regions of Kerala are facing significant disruption due to the Union government’s decision to commence offshore sand mining. This initiative is being implemented under the amended Offshore Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act of 2002. Local fishermen and environmental activists have raised serious concerns about the possible repercussions of this project on their livelihoods and the local ecosystem. Furthermore, the Kerala government has strongly opposed these actions, arguing that they overlook the state’s interests.
7. In which district of Rajasthan the Demoiselle (Kurjan) crane was seen in the news recently?
[A] Pratapgarh
[B] Ajmer
[C] Jaisalmer
[D] Sawai Madhopur
Correct Answer: C [Jaisalmer]
Notes:
In early 2025, the Jaisalmer district in Rajasthan saw a troubling increase in the deaths of migratory Demoiselle cranes, linked to the H591 strain of avian flu. Environmentalists believe that other environmental issues might also contribute to these deaths. Since January 11, 2025, 33 Kurjan cranes have died in Jaisalmer, with the first death reported on January 11 and the last on January 20. These fatalities are happening during a bird flu outbreak in the area. The Demoiselle crane (Kurjan) migrates 4,000 km from Central Asia (including China, Mongolia, and Kazakhstan) to Jaisalmer every winter, usually staying for six months in places like Lathi and Degaray Oran. This year, the birds are struggling due to bird flu (H5N1) and accidents involving electric wires.
8. Which state government has recently launched Deendayal Upadhyay Bhoomiheen Krishi Majdoor Kalyana Yojana?
[A] West Bengal
[B] Jharkhand
[C] Gujarat
[D] Chhattisgarh
Correct Answer: D [Chhattisgarh]
Notes:
Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai on Monday launched ‘Deendayal Upadhyay Bhoomiheen Krishi Majdoor Kalyana Yojana’ in Raipur. Under this scheme, more than 5.62 lakh landless agricultural labourers, Baigas and Gunias of the state will be given financial assistance of Rs 10,000 annually. The scheme aims to benefit approximately 7.5 lakh landless agricultural labourers in Chhattisgarh, reflecting the government’s focus on improving their financial stability. The CM’s announcement builds on past promises made during elections and further strengthens the state’s social welfare framework.
9. Which ministry has recently celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) scheme?
[A] Ministry of Home
[B] Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment
[C] Ministry of Women and Child Development
[D] Ministry of Current Affairs
Correct Answer: C [Ministry of Women and Child Development]
Notes:
The Ministry of Women and Child Development is celebrating the tenth anniversary of the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) initiative, a significant program that was inaugurated on January 22, 2015, by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Panipat, Haryana. This national campaign seeks to tackle gender disparity and enhance the well-being of the girl child throughout India.
10. Recently, India launched the country’s first internationally licensed CAR-T cell therapy for adult B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma (B-NHL) under which name?
[A] Martemi
[B] Qartemi
[C] Swasthya
[D] Surakshit
Correct Answer: B [Qartemi]
Notes:
India has recently introduced Qartemi, the first CAR-T cell therapy with international licensing for adult B-cell Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (B-NHL). This innovative treatment brings new hope to those battling aggressive blood cancers. CAR-T therapy is a form of immunotherapy that enhances a patient’s T-cells to more effectively attack and destroy cancer cells. The procedure involves gathering T-cells, altering their genetics, and then reinfusing them back into the patient. This method is referred to as a living drug.
11. The National Tribal Health Conclave 2025 recently held in which city?
[A] New Delhi
[B] Bengaluru
[C] Hyderabad
[D] Kolkata
Correct Answer: A [New Delhi]
Notes:
The National Tribal Health Conclave 2025 took place on January 20, 2025, at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. This event was organized by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs (MoTA) in partnership with the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoH&FW) as part of the Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan initiative. The conclave’s primary aim was to address the unique healthcare challenges faced by tribal communities in India, which often experience considerable inequities in access to healthcare services. The discussions were centered on exploring innovative healthcare delivery models specifically designed for tribal regions. Furthermore, the conclave sought to identify critical areas for policy intervention and research, with a focus on creating culturally appropriate health strategies to encourage health-seeking behaviors. A significant aspect of the dialogue was dedicated to enhancing the healthcare system through capacity building, monitoring, and fostering community engagement.
12. Which state government has recently launched a comprehensive education plan aimed at enhancing public school quality?
[A] Karnataka
[B] Andhra Pradesh
[C] Kerala
[D] Maharashtra
Correct Answer: C [Kerala]
Notes:
Kerala’s government has recently introduced a detailed education plan to improve the quality of public schools. This initiative came after a meeting led by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, which emphasized the need for accountability and prompt action in educational reforms. The plan outlines eight important areas that require immediate focus for both this academic year and the next. One of the main goals is to enhance academic performance in schools. A key step is the completion of the PARAKH Rashtriya Sarvekshan, which assesses students in Classes III, VI, and IX. This national survey measures skills in government, aided, and private schools, involving around 23 lakh students across the country.
13. Which state/UT government will launch the Thamirabarani – Karumeniyar – Nambiyar River linking scheme on February 7, 2025?
[A] Kerala
[B] Lakshadweep
[C] Pondicherry
[D] Tamil Nadu
Correct Answer: D [Tamil Nadu]
Notes:
The Chief Minister M.K. Stalin will launch the Tamirabharani – Karumeniyar – Nambiyar River linking project on February 7, 2025. This important initiative aims to support over 15,000 acres in the dry regions of Tamil Nadu, particularly in Nanguneri, Thisaiyanvilai, and Sattankulam. It is part of a larger plan to tackle water shortages in these areas. The project will link the Tamirabharani, Karumeniyar, and Nambiyar rivers by building a 73-km flood carrier channel. This will help move excess water from the Tamirabharani to the drier parts of Tirunelveli and Thoothukudi districts. The total cost of the project is ₹900 crore, with the Tamil Nadu government borrowing money to fund it and planning to repay through the revenue it generates. This initiative is expected to boost farming in the targeted regions.
14. Who was recently sworn in as the Chief Justice of the Delhi High Court?
[A] Justice Surya Kant
[B] Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya
[C] Justice Bhushan Ramakrishna Gavai
[D] Justice Hrishikesh Roy
Correct Answer: B [Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya]
Notes:
Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya was sworn in as the Chief Justice of the Delhi High Court in a formal ceremony. The oath was administered by Delhi Lieutenant Governor V K Saxena at the Raj Niwas, with notable attendees including Delhi Chief Minister Atishi and other judges from the Delhi High Court. This occasion marks a significant achievement in Justice Upadhyaya’s esteemed legal career, showcasing his contributions to the judiciary and his leadership position.
15. Who has recently appointed as the Chief Justice of the Bombay High Court?
[A] Justice Alok Aradhe
[B] Justice Abhay.S. Oka
[C] Justice Bhushan Ramakrishna Gavai
[D] Justice Hrishikesh Roy
Correct Answer: A [Justice Alok Aradhe]
Notes:
The central government has issued a notification confirming the appointments of Justice Alok Aradhe as the Chief Justice of the Bombay High Court and Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya as the Chief Justice of the Delhi High Court. These transfers aim to strengthen judicial leadership in two of India’s busiest high courts. Justice Alok Aradhe, who is 60 years old, started his legal career in 1988. With more than thirty years of experience, he has earned a solid reputation in the Indian judiciary, especially for dealing with complicated legal issues.
16. Who has been elected the President of the Institute of Company Secretaries of India for 2025?
[A] Pawan G Chandak
[B] Sanjay Kumar
[C] Ramakrishnan
[D] Dhananjay Shukla
Correct Answer: D [Dhananjay Shukla]
Notes:
Dhananjay Shukla has been chosen as the President of the Institute of Company Secretaries of India for 2025, with Pawan G Chandak taking the role of Vice President. Shukla brings over 20 years of experience in corporate law and taxation and has previously held the position of Vice President at ICSI, along with other important roles. The election results were announced on January 19, 2025.
17. Who has recently been appointed as the Additional Director General (ADG) of the Border Security Force (BSF)?
[A] Mahesh Kumar Aggarwal
[B] Venkatesh Prasad
[C] Sanjay Gupta
[D] Ajay Joshi
Correct Answer: A [Mahesh Kumar Aggarwal]
Notes:
Mahesh Kumar Aggarwal, an Indian Police Service (IPS) officer from the 1994 batch and part of the Tamil Nadu cadre, has been named the Additional Director General (ADG) of the Border Security Force (BSF). The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) announced this appointment on January 19, 2025. Aggarwal will hold this position for four years from when he takes charge or until further notice, whichever comes first.
18. Ayodhya has celebrated first anniversary of Ram Lalla’s Pran Pratishtha on which day?
[A] January 19
[B] January 20
[C] January 21
[D] January 22
Correct Answer: D [January 22]
Notes:
The revered city of Ayodhya in Uttar Pradesh is alive with devotion and celebration as it commemorates the first anniversary of the ‘Pran Pratishtha’ of Ram Lalla at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir. This significant occasion, observed on Wednesday, January 22, 2025, embodies the city’s rich spiritual heritage and represents the culmination of centuries of faith and perseverance.
19. DRDO has recently successfully conducted the scramjet engine test for hypersonic missiles, which was developed by?
[A] Defence Research & Development Laboratory (DRDL)
[B] Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)
[C] Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)
[D] Indian Institute of Science (IISc)
Correct Answer: A [Defence Research & Development Laboratory (DRDL)]
Notes:
The Defence Research & Development Laboratory (DRDL) has recently made progress in advanced technologies, achieving a significant milestone by conducting a 120-second ground test of an Active Cooled Scramjet Combustor. This is the first time such a test has been done in India. Located in Hyderabad and part of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), DRDL is focused on developing next-generation hypersonic technology. The Scramjet system is a groundbreaking propulsion method for hypersonic missiles. This successful test brings India closer to deploying hypersonic missiles with unmatched speed and maneuverability.
20. Which missile of India’s first tactical quasi-ballistic missile is set to be showcased at the Republic Day parade on 26 January 2025?
[A] Trishul
[B] K-4
[C] Dhanush
[D] Pralay
Correct Answer: D [Pralay]
Notes:
India’s inaugural tactical quasi-ballistic missile, Pralay, is scheduled to be displayed during the Republic Day parade on January 26, 2025. Although the missile successfully completed its trials in 2022, its official integration into the armed forces remains ambiguous. Pralay is integral to the Indian Army’s efforts to bolster its operational capabilities on the battlefield. This short-range quasi-ballistic missile has a range of 150-500 kilometers and is specifically engineered for surface-to-surface engagements. It is capable of delivering warheads weighing between 350 and 700 kilograms. The missile has been developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) to meet India’s specific defense requirements.
21. Which ministry has recently ink contract with Heavy Vehicles Factory for 47 T-72 Bridge Laying Tank (BLT) for Army?
[A] Ministry of Home
[B] Ministry of Defence
[C] Ministry of Finance
[D] Ministry of Science and Technology
Correct Answer: B [Ministry of Defence]
Notes:
The T-72 Bridge Laying Tank (BLT) is an important tool for the Indian Army, improving its operational strength. Recently, the Ministry of Defence finalized a deal to buy 47 units, highlighting India’s commitment to self-sufficiency in defense production. This purchase is part of the Make-in-India program, which aims to boost the economy and create jobs. The T-72 BLT weighs around 49 tons and has a crew of three. It is built to help armored vehicles cross obstacles quickly during military missions. The tank can rapidly lay down prefabricated steel bridges, enhancing movement on the battlefield. A contract worth Rs 1,560.52 crore was signed between the Ministry of Defence and Heavy Vehicles Factory in Delhi, showing a dedication to locally developed defense solutions.
22. Which body of India has recently introduced draft guidelines aimed at enhancing self-governance in India’s rapidly growing e-commerce sector?
[A] Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT)
[B] Directorate General of Supplies and Disposals (DGS&D)
[C] Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS)
[D] Directorate General of Trade Remedies (DGTR)
Correct Answer: C [Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS)]
Notes:
The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has recently released draft guidelines to improve self-governance in India’s fast-growing e-commerce industry. These guidelines respond to rising worries about consumer protection and trust issues, showing a dedication to ethical behavior and transparency. Stakeholders are encouraged to share their thoughts on these proposals, which aim to create a fairer environment for both businesses and consumers. The draft, called ‘E-commerce – Principles and Guidelines for Self-Governance,’ presents a detailed framework that addresses the entire e-commerce process, including pre-transaction, transaction, and post-transaction stages. The BIS aims to set clear standards to prevent unethical practices.
23. What is the India’s rank in the Edelman Trust Barometer 2025?
[A] 2nd
[B] 3rd
[C] 4rd
[D] 5th
Correct Answer: B [3rd]
Notes:
The Edelman Trust Barometer 2025, an annual survey from the global communications company Edelman, provided important findings about public trust in government, businesses, media, and NGOs. This year, India dropped one position to third place worldwide for overall trust, even though its score did not change. The report, published before the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting, pointed out notable differences in trust levels among various income groups and countries. The top three countries are: 1. China 2. Indonesia 3. India
India dropped from second place to third as Indonesia’s score improved while India’s score stayed the same. In terms of trust in Indian companies, India is ranked 13th, with Canada, Japan, and Germany leading this category.
24. Which Indian IT giant secured first position in the 2025 Brand Finance IT Services Rankings?
[A] HCLTech
[B] TCS
[C] Accenture
[D] Infosys
Correct Answer: C [Accenture]
Notes:
Accenture continues to hold the title of the most valuable IT services brand in the world, with TCS, Infosys, and HCLTech following closely behind, all demonstrating notable growth in the 2025 Brand Finance rankings. Accenture’s brand value stands at $41.5 billion, while TCS has experienced an 11% increase, bringing its value to $21.3 billion. The 2025 Brand Finance IT Services rankings highlight the strong global presence of Indian technology firms, emphasizing India’s crucial contribution to the IT industry.
25. Which Indian state is to host the 1st Olympic Research Conference?
[A] Haryana
[B] Karnataka
[C] Gujarat
[D] West Bengal
Correct Answer: C [Gujarat]
Notes:
India’s aspiration to host the 2036 Olympics has progressed notably, with representatives from the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) and specialists from various sectors convening in Gujarat for a crucial four-day conference. This gathering, held in partnership with the Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, aims to formulate strategies and innovative economic frameworks necessary for establishing sustainable sports infrastructure, which is vital for enhancing India’s candidacy as a formidable host for this esteemed international event.
26. Who won the men’s single Champion at ITF World Champion Award 2024?
[A] Jannik Sinner
[B] Mate Pavic
[C] Marcelo Arevalo Gonzalez
[D] Viktor Axelsen
Correct Answer: A [Jannik Sinner]
Notes:
Jannik Sinner of Italy as men’s singles ITF World Champions. Sinner became the year-end World No. 1 for the first time in 2024, after winning two Grand Slam titles at the Australian Open and US Open, the ATP Finals, and boasting a 73-6 win-loss record for the year.
27. Who won the women’s single Champion at ITF World Champion Award 2024?
[A] Jasmine Paolini
[B] Sara Errani
[C] Iga Natalia Swiatek
[D] Kim Hye Jang
Correct Answer: C [Iga Natalia Swiatek]
Notes:
Jannik Sinner and Iga Swiatek have been honored with the 2024 world champion titles by the International Tennis Federation. Swiatek secured the women’s singles award in a closely contested race against Aryna Sabalenka, as announced by the ITF. This marks the second occasion on which Iga Natalia Swiatek has achieved this distinction, having previously won the award in 2022.
28. Who won the men’s doubles Champions at ITF World Champion Award 2024?
[A] Viktor Axelsen & Jannik Sinner
[B] Marcelo Arevalo Gonzalez & Mate Pavic
[C] Lee Cheuk Yiu & Viktor Axelsen
[D] Goh Sze Fei & Nur Izzuddin
Correct Answer: B [Marcelo Arevalo Gonzalez & Mate Pavic]
29. Who won the women’s doubles Champions at ITF World Champion Award 2024?
[A] Jasmine Paolini & Pornpawee Chochuwong
[B] Wei Ya Xin & Sara Errani
[C] Arisa Igarashi & Ayako Sakuramoto
[D] Sara Errani & Jasmine Paolini
Correct Answer: D [Sara Errani & Jasmine Paolini]
