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1. Where was the first-ever ‘Himalayan High-Altitude Atmospheric & Climate Centre’ set up?
[A] Dehradun, Uttarakhand
[B] Darjeeling, West Bengal
[C] Udhampur, Jammu and Kashmir
[D] Leh, Ladakh
Correct Answer: C [Udhampur, Jammu and Kashmir]
Notes:
Union Minister Jitendra Singh inaugurated the inaugural Himalayan High-Altitude Atmospheric and Climate Centre in Nathatop, located in the Chenani area of Udhampur district, Jammu and Kashmir. This centre is designed to deliver precise climate and weather predictions specifically for the Himalayan region. Additionally, it will emphasize research into the distinctive high-altitude weather phenomena of the area. The initiative is backed by the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) of the Government of India and seeks to enhance climate monitoring and disaster readiness throughout the Himalayan region.
2. Union Minister J.P. Nadda has recently launched the Inter-AIIMS Referral Portal, designed by which AIIMS?
[A] AIIMS New Delhi
[B] AIIMS Bengaluru
[C] AIIMS Bombay
[D] AIIMS Chennai
Correct Answer: A [AIIMS New Delhi]
Notes:
Union Minister J.P. Nadda has recently launched the Inter-AIIMS Referral Portal, created by AIIMS New Delhi, to enhance healthcare management and patient referral processes in India. This initiative is part of the government’s efforts to modernize healthcare. The portal utilizes advanced technologies, including facial recognition and automated workflows, to boost efficiency, cut down waiting times, and reduce errors, ultimately offering a better experience for patients. The initial phase will connect AIIMS New Delhi with AIIMS Bilaspur, with plans for a broader rollout across all AIIMS hospitals in the country. This project represents a major advancement in digital healthcare in India.
3. IIM-Ahmedabad has announced the establishment of its first international campus in which city?
[A] London
[B] Dubai
[C] Paris
[D] Berlin
Correct Answer: B [Dubai]
Notes:
IIM-Ahmedabad has revealed plans to launch its first international campus in Dubai, representing a key step in its global growth. This decision follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the UAE government. The Dubai campus will provide a one-year full-time MBA program designed for international professionals. Set to open in September 2025, this initiative aims to strengthen India’s role in the global higher education landscape. The campus will be built in two phases, beginning in Dubai’s International Academic City (DIAC), with a permanent facility expected to be finished by 2029.
4. Which of the following has introduced comprehensive draft guidelines aimed at regulating gold loans and expanding co-lending arrangements?
[A] Reserve Bank of India
[B] Ministry of Finance
[C] State Bank of India
[D] Finance Commission of India
Correct Answer: A [Reserve Bank of India]
Notes:
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has released detailed draft guidelines to regulate gold loans and promote co-lending partnerships. These updates aim to standardize lending practices among financial institutions, improving transparency and risk management in the gold loan market. Additionally, the guidelines are intended to increase credit availability for smaller businesses, which can help stimulate economic growth. The RBI has set a maximum loan-to-value (LTV) ratio of 75% for gold loans, applicable to all lenders, including non-banking financial companies (NBFCs). Lenders are required to integrate gold collateral standards into their credit management strategies, which includes limiting borrower exposure and ensuring funds are used appropriately. Loans against primary gold or financial assets tied to gold are not allowed, and lenders must refrain from lending if there is uncertainty about collateral ownership. Furthermore, the RBI has broadened co-lending agreements beyond priority sector loans (PSL), enabling banks and NBFCs to work together in lending to non-PSL businesses. These co-lending arrangements aim to provide more effective financing for smaller enterprises, fostering local economic development. The new guidelines allow banks to form co-lending partnerships without restrictions related to PSL loans, making it easier for micro businesses to access credit that they might otherwise struggle to obtain.
5. Which organization has become a key player in improving access to solar energy throughout Africa?
[A] International Solar Alliance (ISA)
[B] International Monetary Fund (IMF)
[C] World Bank
[D] United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
Correct Answer: A [International Solar Alliance (ISA)]
Notes:
The International Solar Alliance (ISA) has become a crucial player in increasing solar energy access throughout Africa. Established in 2015, the ISA’s goal is to attract investments and promote solar energy solutions in countries abundant in solar resources. This initiative has gained momentum, especially in Africa, where more than 600 million people still do not have electricity. The ISA is dedicated to implementing solar technology to address this issue, and it encourages Indian companies to actively participate in this significant change. Founded by India and France, the ISA is a treaty-based organization that aims to tackle climate change through solar energy. With over 120 member countries, it seeks to raise USD 1000 billion in investments by 2030. Its main goals include providing energy access to one billion people and achieving 1000 GW of solar energy capacity. Currently, the ISA is managing 30 solar projects across Africa, focusing on sectors such as education, healthcare, and agriculture. These projects involve installing solar systems in schools, health facilities, and cold storage units. The ISA emphasizes decentralized solar solutions to enhance energy access in remote regions.
6. The Union Cabinet of India has recently approved the Modernization Command Area Development and Water Management (M-CADWM) project, which is a part of which scheme?
[A] Pradhan Mantri Kisan Maandhan Yojana
[B] Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY)
[C] Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana
[D] Deendayal Upadhyaya Grameen Kaushalya Yojana
Correct Answer: B [Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY)]
Notes:
The Indian Union Cabinet has recently approved the Modernisation of Command Area Development and Water Management (M-CADWM) scheme. This initiative is part of the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY) and is set to be launched in the 2025-2026 period. With an initial budget of ₹1,600 crore, the program aims to enhance irrigation infrastructure across the country. The primary objective of M-CADWM is to improve irrigation systems by upgrading the water supply network for more effective distribution to agricultural areas. The scheme specifically targets small land-holding farmers, focusing on increasing water-use efficiency through advanced technologies.
7. Recently, the Investor Education and Protection Fund Authority (IEPFA) and which bank launched P hase 2 of the “Niveshak Didi” initiative?
[A] Reserve Bank of India
[B] State Bank of India
[C] Punjab National Bank
[D] India Post Payments Bank
Correct Answer: D [ India Post Payments Bank ]
Notes:
The Investor Education and Protection Fund Authority (IEPFA) and India Post Payments Bank (IPPB) have recently launched Phase 2 of the “Niveshak Didi” program. This initiative aims to boost financial literacy among women in rural and underserved regions. By focusing on education and community engagement, the program seeks to empower women. In this second phase, the initiative plans to organize over 4,000 financial literacy camps throughout India, led by nearly 40,000 trained women postal workers. The camps will cover topics such as responsible investing, fraud prevention, savings practices, and digital banking tools. IPPB plays a crucial role in this initiative, striving to make banking accessible to all citizens by utilizing its extensive postal network to reach those in need. This collaboration fosters trust and encourages financial responsibility within local communities.
8. Which company recently announced its Ironwood processor, representing a step forward in artificial intelligence (AI) technology?
[A] Google
[B] Amazon
[C] Facebook
[D] SpaceX
Correct Answer: A [Google]
Notes:
Recently, Google introduced its Ironwood processor, showcasing progress in artificial intelligence (AI) technology. This chip is tailored for inference computing, which requires quick calculations for applications such as chatbots. The Ironwood chip is intended to rival Nvidia’s AI processors and reflects a decade of Google’s investment in creating its own AI hardware. It can operate in clusters of up to 9,216 units, enabling it to manage large amounts of data and enhance performance. The chip combines features from earlier designs while boosting memory capacity, making it more efficient for AI tasks. Reports indicate that it offers double the performance per energy unit compared to Google’s earlier Trillium chip.
9. Recently, which country has revealed the world’s first 3D-printed train station?
[A] Russia
[B] Japan
[C] Germany
[D] United States
Correct Answer: B [Japan]
Notes:
Recently, West Japan Railway Company unveiled the world’s first 3D-printed train station in Arida town. This groundbreaking project replaced an old wooden station that had been in use since 1948. The new station, named Hatsushima, was built in less than six hours, demonstrating the capabilities of 3D printing technology to tackle Japan’s aging infrastructure and workforce issues. The construction of Hatsushima involved a unique approach. A company called Serendix was contracted to produce the station’s parts, which were printed in just seven days at a factory in Kumamoto Prefecture using a special durable mortar. After printing, the components were transported 500 miles to the construction site. On the night of assembly, workers put together the pre-printed parts after the last train had left. Cranes were used to position each piece accurately, and astonishingly, the assembly was finished before the first train arrived the next day. The station, which covers just over 100 square feet, still needs interior work and the installation of ticket machines.
10. Which state is the host of National Tribal Youth Festival 2025?
[A] Mizoram
[B] Meghalaya
[C] Nagaland
[D] Manipur
Correct Answer: A [Mizoram]
Notes:
In Mizoram, the National Tribal Youth Festival is being celebrated with great enthusiasm at the State Tribal Resource Centre in Kelsih, close to Aizawl. This four-day event started on April 8 and commemorates the 150th birth anniversary of tribal freedom fighter Birsa Munda. The festival aims to honor tribal freedom fighters and foster a sense of patriotism among the youth and the community. It includes performances by prominent Mizo artists and members of the Mizo Zaimi Insuikhawm (MZI). Cultural displays from the Mizo Cultural Organisation and other groups have created a lively “Mosaic of Cultures” throughout the celebrations. Renowned musicians, such as guitarist Imnainla Jamir from Nagaland and Vawnchawi Vaiphei from Manipur, are also participating in this four-day event, which will run until April 11.
11. Who has recently been honored with the National Maritime Varuna Award?
[A] Aravind Rana
[B] Kumaran Dave
[C] Rajesh Unni
[D] Suresh Matapati
Correct Answer: C [Rajesh Unni]
Notes:
The National Maritime Varuna Award is the highest individual honor in India’s maritime industry, celebrating outstanding contributions to the nation’s maritime progress. Rajesh Unni, the founder of Synergy Marine Group, received this esteemed award on April 5, 2025, during the 62nd National Maritime Day festivities in Mumbai. Presented by the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS), this award recognizes individuals whose remarkable efforts have significantly influenced and transformed India’s maritime sector.
12. Recently, which country has prohibited non-EU citizens from participating in local elections?
[A] Belgium
[B] Estonia
[C] Bulgaria
[D] Albania
Correct Answer: B [Estonia]
Notes:
Recently, Estonia’s President Alar Karis signed a constitutional amendment that prohibits non-EU citizens from participating in local elections. This legislative change targets the substantial Russian minority in Estonia, comprising approximately 80,000 individuals. The amendment was largely motivated by security concerns stemming from Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022. The Estonian government aims to protect the cohesion of its society amidst rising tensions with Russia. Estonia regained independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. At that time, many Russian-speaking individuals settled in Estonia but did not acquire citizenship due to insufficient family ties. This change in the law reflects ongoing fears regarding Russia’s intentions towards its neighbours and the potential for internal discord. The amendment received overwhelming support in the Estonian parliament, with 93 out of 101 lawmakers voting in favour. Prime Minister Kristen Michal hailed this decision as a victory for Estonian sovereignty. The government argues that local governance should not be influenced by citizens of a nation perceived as an aggressor.
13. Chittorgarh Fort, which was recently seen in the news, is located on which plateau?
[A] Bhorat Plateau
[B] Abu Plateau
[C] Uparmal Plateau
[D] Mesa Plateau
Correct Answer: D [Mesa Plateau]
Notes:
The Rajasthan government is considering a total ban on mining activities within a 10-kilometre area surrounding Chittorgarh Fort. This UNESCO World Heritage site is currently involved in a legal conflict with Birla Corporation Limited. The Supreme Court has been engaged since the Rajasthan High Court’s 2012 decision, which banned mining near the fort. Chittorgarh Fort is the largest fort complex in India, covering 700 acres and containing 65 historical structures, including about 20 significant temples. It also features around six palaces, memorials, and towers commemorating victories, such as Rani Padmini’s Palace, Fateh Prakash Palace Museum, and the tall Vijay Stambh. The legal dispute started with the Rajasthan High Court’s 2012 ruling that prohibited mining and blasting within a 10-kilometre radius of the fort due to concerns about structural safety and environmental effects. Birla Corporation Limited contested this ruling, resulting in the ongoing Supreme Court case. The Supreme Court has instructed the Indian Institute of Technology – Indian School of Mines, Dhanbad, to perform a scientific assessment of the effects of mining. Their report, submitted in January 2024, indicated that controlled blasting beyond a 5-kilometre radius could be allowed without endangering the fort.
14. Which Indian film will honoured internationally with a bronze statue of its lead actors in Leicester Square, London?
[A] Bahubali-1
[B] KGF-1
[C] Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge
[D] RRR
Correct Answer: C [Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge]
Notes:
Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (DDLJ), a landmark film in Indian cinema, is set to receive international recognition with a bronze statue of its stars, Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol, in Leicester Square, London. This tribute marks the 30th anniversary of the film’s release and is part of the Scenes in the Square project. DDLJ, the iconic romantic movie directed by Aditya Chopra and released in 1995, will be the first Indian film honored along the esteemed movie trail in London. The statue of the beloved characters, Raj and Simran, will be unveiled in Spring 2025 at Leicester Square, a site featured in the film. This initiative celebrates the film’s three-decade legacy and highlights the significant cultural influence of Bollywood, especially within the over 5 million British South Asian community.
15. Where was the 2025 Global Technology Summit (GTS) held?
[A] Bengaluru
[B] Greater Noida
[C] New Delhi
[D] Hyderabad
Correct Answer: C [New Delhi]
Notes:
The 9th edition of the Global Technology Summit (GTS), organized by the Ministry of External Affairs of India and Carnegie India, is set to occur in New Delhi from April 10 to 12, 2025. This event gathers leaders from government, industry, academia, and civil society to influence global technology policy. Under the theme “Sambhavna,” which means possibilities, GTS 2025 will examine how new technologies can promote inclusive growth, improve digital governance, and encourage international collaboration. The Summit aims to tackle significant global tech issues, featuring over 150 speakers from more than 40 countries and offering a platform for young professionals to engage in the conversation.
16. Which state government has recently launched the Bhagiratha app as part of the Jal Sanrakshan Abhiyan 2025?
[A] West Bengal
[B] Rajasthan
[C] Uttarakhand
[D] Madhya Pradesh
Correct Answer: C [Uttarakhand]
Notes:
Uttarakhand’s Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami introduced the Bhagirath mobile app as part of the state’s Water Conservation Campaign 2025. This initiative supports the campaign’s theme, “Dhara Mera, Naula Mera, Gaon Mera, Prayas Mera,” and encourages citizens to report threatened water sources in their communities. The app will help the government respond quickly to conserve and restore vital water bodies such as Naulas, Dharaas, and rain-fed rivers. CM Dhami highlighted the importance of public involvement and sustainable water management practices for the long-term health of the state’s water resources.
17. World Homeopathy Day is observed every year on which day?
[A] April 11
[B] April 10
[C] April 9
[D] April 8
Correct Answer: B [April 10]
Notes:
World Homeopathy Day, celebrated on April 10, commemorates the birth of Dr. Christian Friedrich Samuel Hahnemann, the pioneer of homeopathy. This day recognizes the significant role of homeopathy in the field of medicine and aims to enhance public understanding of this alternative therapeutic approach. Homeopathy operates on the principle of “like cures like,” employing highly diluted natural substances to activate the body’s inherent healing processes. In India, the Ministry of AYUSH observes this day to foster awareness and encourage research in homeopathy. World Homeopathy Day highlights the natural healing techniques of homeopathy, its minimal side effects, and its potential integration into conventional healthcare practices.
