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1. India has launched a nationwide campaign to eliminate measles and rubella by which year?
[A] 2026
[B] 2027
[C] 2028
[D] 2030
Correct Answer: A [2026]
Notes:
India has started a national effort to eradicate measles and rubella by 2026, announced during World Immunisation Week. From January to March 2025, 332 districts had no measles cases and 487 had no rubella cases. The goal is to achieve 100% vaccination coverage for children, aiming for over 95% in each district to ensure community immunity and protect at-risk groups. Measles and rubella are very contagious viral infections that can cause serious health issues and death. Vaccination is essential for prevention, and the campaign provides two free doses of the measles-rubella vaccine for children aged 9-12 months and 16-24 months.
2. The Simla Agreement was signed on July 2, 1972, by Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and which president of Pakistan?
[A] Fazal Elahi Chaudhry
[B] Zulfikar Ali Bhutto
[C] Yahya Khan
[D] Ghulam Ishaq Khan
Correct Answer: B [Zulfikar Ali Bhutto]
Notes:
Pakistan’s suspension of the 1972 Simla Agreement is a significant event in India-Pakistan relations. This action follows India’s recent steps after a terrorist attack in Pahalgam. The Simla Agreement was crucial for normalizing relations after the 1971 Indo-Pakistani War, which resulted in the formation of Bangladesh. Signed on July 2, 1972, by Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and Pakistani President Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, it aimed to restore peace and set a framework for future interactions. The agreement focused on ending hostilities and fostering friendly relations between the two countries. It included key principles such as resolving disputes through direct negotiations, respecting each other’s sovereignty, maintaining the Line of Control established in 1971, restoring diplomatic and cultural ties, and India releasing over 93,000 Pakistani prisoners of war.
3. What is the limit of penalty imposed by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) for violation of the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) recently?
[A] ₹1 lakh
[B] ₹2 lakh
[C] ₹3 lakh
[D] ₹5 lakh
Correct Answer: B [₹2 lakh]
Notes:
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has recently updated the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) rules. They have set a maximum penalty of ₹2 lakh for violations, replacing the old system where fines were a percentage of the violation amount. This change is intended to make it easier for individuals and businesses to comply. FEMA, established in 1999, took over from the Foreign Exchange Regulation Act (FERA) of 1973 and governs foreign exchange transactions in India to support external trade and maintain a stable foreign exchange market. Previously, fines ranged from 0.30% to 0.75% of the violation amount. The new ₹2 lakh cap applies to various violations, including issues with the Liberalised Remittance Scheme (LRS), export deadlines, and gifting high-value shares without RBI approval. This adjustment reduces the financial strain on those who violate the rules and simplifies the compliance process. Experts think this will lead to better compliance and create a more favorable environment for foreign investment.
4. Chlorpyrifos, a pesticide deemed ‘moderately hazardous’ by the World Health Organization, remains widely used in which country?
[A] Russia
[B] India
[C] China
[D] Japan
Correct Answer: B [India]
Notes:
Chlorpyrifos is a pesticide labeled as ‘moderately hazardous’ by the World Health Organization and is still commonly used in India. Even though over 40 countries have banned it, it poses dangers to farmers, consumers, and the environment. As global representatives get ready for the 2025 Conferences of the Parties in Geneva, there are increasing demands for an immediate ban on chlorpyrifos. Experts emphasize the need to tackle its health risks and environmental damage. Chlorpyrifos is linked to serious health problems, including neurotoxicity and permanent brain damage in unborn children, as well as reproductive issues. The chemical can spread over long distances, affecting distant ecosystems, which raises concerns about its ongoing use. Pesticide Action Network (PAN) India is pushing for chlorpyrifos to be added to Annex III of the Rotterdam Convention, which would require prior consent for its international trade. They also want the Stockholm Convention to classify it under Annex A for a global ban, arguing that safer alternatives exist, making a strong case for its removal. In India, chlorpyrifos is allowed on 18 crops, but there are reports of its unapproved use along with other pesticides like paraquat, showing the need for better regulatory enforcement and stricter controls on dangerous chemicals.
5. Which state is home to the Similipal protected area, now recognised as the 107th National Park in India?
[A] Assam
[B] Sikkim
[C] Odisha
[D] Gujarat
Correct Answer: C [Odisha]
Notes:
The Odisha government has officially designated Similipal as a national park, marking it as the 107th national park in India and the second in Odisha, following Bhitarkanika. Similipal stands as the largest national park in Odisha and is included within the Similipal Tiger Reserve (STR), which encompasses an area of 2,750 square kilometers. This park boasts a rich biodiversity, hosting 55 species of mammals, 361 species of birds, 62 species of reptiles, and 21 species of amphibians.
6. Which state has launched the Resham Sakhi Yojana to help rural women financially?
[A] Assam
[B] West Bengal
[C] Uttar Pradesh
[D] Rajasthan
Correct Answer: C [Uttar Pradesh]
Notes:
The Uttar Pradesh government launched the Resham Sakhi Yojana to empower rural women financially. This initiative enables women to earn money by cultivating silkworms at home. It is a joint effort between the State Rural Livelihood Mission and the Silk Department. Women will be trained in producing mulberry and tussar silk. Training for mulberry silk will occur in Mysore, Karnataka, while tussar silk training will be held in Ranchi, Jharkhand. The aim is to assist 50,000 women over five years, with 7,500 women from 15 districts receiving training by 2025-26.
7. Which country and China collaborate on an ambitious project to establish a nuclear power plant on the Moon?
[A] Russia
[B] Pakistan
[C] South Africa
[D] Iraq
Correct Answer: A [Russia]
Notes:
China and Russia are working together on a major project to build a nuclear power plant on the Moon. This project will support the International Lunar Research Station (ILRS), a shared lunar research facility. The ILRS aims to improve lunar exploration and enable a long-term human presence on the Moon. Announced in June 2021, the ILRS has progressed since then. China intends to send astronauts to the Moon by 2030, with the Chang’e-8 mission in 2028 setting the stage for a permanent lunar base. The first phase of the ILRS, near the lunar south pole, is expected to be finished by 2035, while the second phase, which will expand the base, is planned for 2050. A reliable power supply is essential for the ILRS, and China and Russia are considering different energy sources, including solar energy, radioisotope generators, and nuclear power. Russia’s knowledge in nuclear technology gives it an advantage, with plans to construct a nuclear reactor on the Moon’s surface by 2035 to provide a steady energy source for the research station.
8. Which Indian Navy warship destroyer recently tested a medium-range surface-to-air missile in the Arabian Sea?
[A] INS Surat
[B] INS Kandla
[C] INS Indra
[D] INS Shiva
Correct Answer: A [INS Surat]
Notes:
The Indian Navy’s destroyer INS Surat has improved India’s defense capabilities. On April 24, 2025, it successfully targeted a sea-skimming object in the Arabian Sea using the Medium Range Surface-to-Air Missile (MRSAM). This missile is designed to counter various aerial threats and has a range of about 70 km. It uses dual guidance systems, including command and active radar seeker technologies, allowing it to intercept missiles, aircraft, guided bombs, and helicopters. The missile features a dual pulse solid motor and a proximity fuse for effective target engagement. The successful MRSAM test by INS Surat is a significant step in enhancing India’s naval strength and showcases the country’s advancements in military technology.
9. What is the name of the military drill held by the Indian Air Force after the Pahalgam terror attack?
[A] Aakraman
[B] Anthya
[C] Thrishul
[D] Ahuti
Correct Answer: A [Aakraman]
Notes:
In response to the tragic Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir, the Indian Air Force (IAF) executed ‘Exercise Aakraman’ (Attack). This operation spanned a vast region in the central sector and featured the IAF’s primary fighter aircraft, spearheaded by Rafale combat jets. The IAF maintains two Rafale squadrons located in Ambala and Hashimara, West Bengal. Demonstrating military capability, both fighter jets and transport aircraft were operational throughout the night, conducting flights in proximity to border regions. Aircraft equipped with Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) performed extensive surveillance of enemy activities.
10. Who becomes the first Indian brand ambassador for Dreame Technology?
[A] Mrunal Thakur
[B] Kriti Sanon
[C] Rashmika Mandanna
[D] Janhvi Kapoor
Correct Answer: B [Kriti Sanon]
Notes:
Dreame Technology, a top Chinese brand for home and personal appliances, has named Bollywood actress Kriti Sanon as its first Indian brand ambassador. This partnership is a key step in enhancing its presence in India, allowing the company to connect more with Indian consumers and use celebrity appeal to increase brand recognition.
11. Who has been to receive the Lata Deenanath Mangeshkar Award 2025?
[A] Kumar Mangalam Birla
[B] A.R. Rahman
[C] Amitabh Bachchan
[D] Goutam Adani
Correct Answer: A [Kumar Mangalam Birla]
Notes:
Kumar Mangalam Birla, the 57-year-old Chairman of the Aditya Birla Group, will receive the Lata Deenanath Mangeshkar Award on April 24, 2024, at a ceremony in the Deenanath Mangeshkar Auditorium in Vile Parle East, Mumbai. The award will be presented by RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat. Birla, a Padma Bhushan awardee, is honored for his leadership and contributions to India’s economic growth, impacting various sectors like cement, telecom, financial services, and textiles.
12. The Supreme Court of India agreed to hear concerns regarding which section of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act?
[A] Section 3
[B] Section 7
[C] Section 11
[D] Section 19
Correct Answer: D [Section 19]
Notes:
On April 24, 2025, the Supreme Court of India agreed to review concerns about Section 19 of the POCSO Act. Senior lawyer Indira Jaising highlighted issues with the mandatory reporting of sexual activities among minors, which could harm the health and wellbeing of young girls. The POCSO Act, effective from November 14, 2012, was created to protect children from sexual abuse. India ratified the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child in 1992 to clearly define and penalize sexual crimes against minors, who are defined as individuals under 18 years old. Punishments vary based on the severity of the crime, and a 2019 amendment made penalties stricter, including the death penalty for certain offenses.
13. Which High Court recently asked a 38-year-old divorced woman to move to the Supreme Court to decide whether a single woman can have a child through surrogacy?
[A] Madras High Court
[B] Kolkata High Court
[C] Bombay High Court
[D] Delhi High Court
Correct Answer: C [Bombay High Court]
Notes:
The Bombay High Court recently advised a 38-year-old divorced woman to approach the Supreme Court to determine if a single woman can use surrogacy to have a child. The court found her request invalid under Section 4 of the Act, which bans surrogacy for those who already have children. It expressed concerns that granting temporary permission could have larger implications and might commercialize surrogacy. Surrogacy is when a woman, called a surrogate, carries a child for someone else. The surrogate may or may not be genetically related to the child, depending on the type of surrogacy. The main goal is to help those who cannot conceive. There are two main types of surrogacy: altruistic and commercial. Altruistic surrogacy does not involve payment beyond medical costs, covering only medical expenses and insurance for the surrogate. Commercial surrogacy includes payments beyond these costs and is banned under the 2021 Act, which aims to prevent exploitation and promote ethical practices. The Surrogacy (Regulation) Act, 2021 differentiates between altruistic and commercial surrogacy.
14. Recently, which organization has released a report titled ‘Revolutionizing health and safety: The role of AI and digitalization at work’?
[A] World Health Organization (WHO)
[B] International Labour Organisation (ILO)
[C] International Monetary Fund (IMF)
[D] United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
Correct Answer: B [International Labour Organisation (ILO)]
Notes:
The ILO recently published a report called ‘Revolutionizing health and safety: The role of AI and digitalization at work’ before the World Day for Safety and Health at Work on April 28. The report discusses how algorithmic management (AM) affects job quality in India, noting a decline due to more surveillance. This is different from countries like France and Italy, where AM has had a neutral or positive impact. The ILO emphasizes the need for regulations to influence the effects of AM technologies. AM uses digital tools to manage workers, relying on data collection for automated decisions. While common in the gig economy, it is now moving into traditional industries. AM includes features like consumer ratings and automated prompts, allowing companies to manage workers remotely and improve performance. However, this can limit worker autonomy and decision-making. In India, AM has led to worse job quality, with workers facing pressure for speed and efficiency due to surveillance, which restricts their ability to make personal choices and engage in decision-making.
15. Which state hosted the Bharat Summit 2025?
[A] Karnataka
[B] West Bengal
[C] Telangana
[D] Rajasthan
Correct Answer: C [Telangana]
Notes:
Telangana is hosting the Global Bharat Summit with more than 450 delegates from 100 countries on April 25-26 at the Hyderabad International Convention Centre. The summit’s theme is ‘Delivering Global Justice,’ celebrating 70 years since the Bandung Conference that initiated the Non-Aligned Movement. It aims to promote democracy, pluralism, and justice, demonstrating how countries can work together internationally. The Telangana State government is organizing this event to present the state as a progressive model to the world, with strong security measures in place.
16. What is the theme of World Malaria Day 2025?
[A] Time to deliver zero malaria
[B] Malaria Ends With Us
[C] Reaching the zero malaria target
[D] Harness innovation to reduce the malaria disease burden and save lives
Correct Answer: B [Malaria Ends With Us]
Notes:
Annually, on April 25th, World Malaria Day is observed to raise awareness about malaria. This worldwide campaign, led by the World Health Organization (WHO), seeks to address malaria and work towards its elimination. The theme for this year is ‘Malaria ends with us: Reinvest, Reimagine, Reignite,’ which emphasizes the need for renewed commitment across various sectors. Malaria is caused by parasites transmitted through the bites of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes, affecting millions, especially in tropical and subtropical regions, and remains a considerable public health challenge.
17. Dr. K. Kasturirangan, who recently passed away at the age of 84, was the former chairman of which organization?
[A] Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)
[B] Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)
[C] Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL)
[D] Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)
Correct Answer: D [Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)]
Notes:
Dr. K. Kasturirangan, the former ISRO Chairman and a prominent scientist, died at 84 on April 25, 2025, in Bengaluru. He was highly regarded in India’s science and education fields. According to ISRO, he passed away at 10:43 am at his home. Dr. Kasturirangan was ISRO’s fifth Chairman from 1994 to 2003 and also served as Secretary of the Department of Space for over nine years. His 40-year career at ISRO included leading major missions and developments. He directed India’s first two experimental earth observation satellites, BHASKARA-I and BHASKARA-II, and oversaw the launch of IRS-1A, India’s first operational remote sensing satellite, which was crucial for the country’s Earth observation efforts.
