Post Views: 21
1. Birthright citizenship has recently been at the forefront of legal debates in which country?
[A] India
[B] United Kingdom
[C] United States
[D] Russia
Correct Answer: C [United States]
Notes:
Birthright citizenship has become a key topic in legal discussions in the United States. A U.S. District judge recently blocked an executive order from President Trump that aimed to change this principle. This decision highlights the ongoing debate over citizenship rights in America. Birthright citizenship means that anyone born in a country automatically becomes a citizen. In the U.S., this is established by the 14th Amendment. Ratified in 1868, it states that all people born or naturalized in the United States are citizens. This amendment was created during the Reconstruction era to promote equality and reverse earlier laws that denied citizenship based on race. The 14th Amendment was part of a long struggle against slavery and aimed to break down the legal system that supported racial inequality. It works in conjunction with the 13th Amendment, which ended slavery, and the 15th Amendment, which ensured voting rights regardless of race. The 14th Amendment directly opposed the Dred Scott decision of 1857, which had denied citizenship to African Americans.
2. Which regulatory body has introduced guidelines for the evaluation of market infrastructure institutions’ (MIIs) recently?
[A] Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI)
[B] Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI)
[C] Forward Markets Commission (FMC)
[D] Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
Correct Answer: B [Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI)]
Notes:
The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has recently released new guidelines to improve how statutory committees are assessed within Market Infrastructure Institutions (MIIs). This move addresses the need for better transparency and accountability in these important organizations, which include stock exchanges, clearing corporations, and depositories. The guidelines require an independent external evaluation every three years, starting from the 2024-2025 financial year. The main aim is to ensure that MIIs maintain high governance standards. By implementing these external evaluations, SEBI plans to review the roles and responsibilities of the committees and evaluate the effectiveness of their meetings and governance practices.
Focus on Statutory Committees:
The guidelines specifically target the evaluation of statutory committees within MIIs.
Independent External Evaluation:
MIIs are required to appoint an independent external agency to conduct the evaluation.
Frequency of Evaluation:
The evaluation must be done every three years.
Areas of Assessment:
Evaluation will cover aspects like committee roles, meeting effectiveness, and governance practices.
3. Which company has recently developed India’s first hydrogen-compliant pipes for transporting hydrogen?
[A] Tata Steel Limited
[B] JSW Steel Limited
[C] Jindal Steel & Power Limited
[D] Steel Authority of India Limited
Correct Answer: A [Tata Steel Limited]
Notes:
Tata Steel, a top steel producer in India, has made a significant breakthrough in the clean energy field. The company claims to be the first in India to create pipes that are suitable for transporting hydrogen, which is vital for India’s shift to clean energy. This development supports the global movement towards sustainable energy and aligns with India’s National Hydrogen Mission. The new API X65 pipes, made at Tata Steel’s Khopoli plant from steel produced at its Kalinganagar facility, fulfill all necessary standards for hydrogen transport. This achievement highlights Tata Steel’s dedication to innovation and its contribution to building important energy infrastructure.
4. Which bank has secured top honours in six categories at the 2024 IBA Banking Technology Awards?
[A] Karnataka Bank
[B] Canara Bank
[C] State Bank of India
[D] Punjab National Bank
Correct Answer: A [Karnataka Bank]
Notes:
Karnataka Bank has reached an impressive achievement by winning top awards in six categories at the 20th Annual Banking Technology Conference, Expo & Citations, 2024, hosted by the Indian Banks’ Association (IBA). This success highlights the bank’s strong dedication to innovation and excellence in technology within the banking industry. Srikrishnan H, Managing Director & CEO of Karnataka Bank.
Award Categories
(i). Best Tech Talent and Organisation – Runner Up
(ii). Best IT Risk Management – Runner Up
(iii). Best Technology Bank – Runner Up
(iv). Best Fintech and Digital Payment Integration (DPI) Adoption – Runner Up
(v). Best Digital Sales, Payments, and Engagement – Special Mention
(vi). Best AI and ML Adoption – Special Mention
5. Which state has officially declared the ‘Inland Mangrove Guneri’ site as the state’s first Biodiversity Heritage Site?
[A] Karnataka
[B] Gujarat
[C] Kerala
[D] Odisha
Correct Answer: B [Gujarat]
Notes:
The Gujarat Biodiversity Board has recently named the ‘Inland Mangrove Guneri’ in Kutch as the first Biodiversity Heritage Site (BHS) in the state. This effort is focused on safeguarding a special mangrove ecosystem that lives in a non-tidal area. The site covers 32.78 hectares and is recognized for its ecological variety. This announcement marks an important step in Gujarat’s dedication to protecting biodiversity. The Inland Mangrove Guneri is unique because it does not receive tidal water. It is located 45 km away from the Arabian Sea, unlike typical mangrove areas. The mangroves grow on flat land, creating a thick forest. This special environment supports many plants and animals, enhancing the region’s biodiversity.
6. Which organization has declared 2025 as the International Year of Glaciers’ Preservation?
[A] United Nations
[B] UNESCO
[C] UNICEF
[D] IMO
Correct Answer: A [United Nations]
Notes:
The United Nations has announced that 2025 will be the International Year of Glaciers’ Preservation. This effort seeks to highlight the important role glaciers have in our environment and the pressing need for climate action. Glaciers hold around 70% of the planet’s freshwater and are key indicators of climate change. Their rapid melting endangers water supplies, raises sea levels, and threatens coastal communities. Glaciers are large ice formations created from layers of snow over time. They move due to gravity and are affected by temperature changes. According to the Randolph Glacier Inventory, there are about 275,000 glaciers around the globe. These glaciers are crucial for the global water cycle and support many ecosystems and human populations.
7. The Ghaggar River, recently was seen in the news, primarily flowing through which countries?
[A] Afghanistan and India
[B] India and Nepal
[C] India and Pakistan
[D] Pakistan and Afghanistan
Correct Answer: C [India and Pakistan]
Notes:
The Ghaggar River, which mainly flows through India and Pakistan, is facing serious pollution problems. A recent report from a committee set up by the National Green Tribunal highlighted dangerously high levels of biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) in the river, making it unsafe for bathing. This has raised worries about the river’s environmental condition and that of its tributaries, especially the Sukhna Choe. The committee surveyed and took samples from different spots along the Sukhna Choe and Ghaggar River. The results showed that BOD levels were two to three times higher than the allowed limits. The main pollution sources were found to be untreated sewage from nearby slums and urban areas. Important sample collection sites included Raipur Khurd and the Baltana bridge, which showed elevated levels of total suspended solids (TSS) and BOD.
8. Which state has recently received the final clearance for scientific coal mining from central?
[A] Assam
[B] Jharkhand
[C] Meghalaya
[D] Bihar
Correct Answer: C [Meghalaya]
Notes:
The national government has entered into contracts with three regional mining companies to initiate scientifically regulated coal mining operations in two districts, namely West Khasi Hills and East Jaintia Hills. This development follows a ten-year prohibition on unregulated “rat-hole mining,” which was enforced by the National Green Tribunal (NGT).
9. Which union minister has launched the State-Specific Microsites initiative & Occupational Shortage Index recently?
[A] Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia
[B] Union Minister Nirmala Sitharaman
[C] Union Minister Amit Shah
[D] Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya
Correct Answer: D [Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya]
Notes:
Recently, the Government of India introduced two important programs to support unorganised workers. These programs are part of a larger plan to improve job opportunities and make it easier for workers to access government aid. Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya announced these initiatives during a meeting with Labour Ministers from various states and Union Territories.
State-Specific Microsites:
The State-Specific Microsites are digital platforms tailored for each state, designed to work with the national e-Shram database. They help unorganised workers find both central and state government welfare programs. These microsites make it easier for workers to register and offer a single access point for different job opportunities and training programs. They are available in multiple languages, ensuring that workers from various backgrounds can use the platform in their preferred language.
Occupational Shortage Index (OSI):
The Occupational Shortage Index is another key initiative. Its goal is to connect the demand for workers with the available supply. The OSI is created using methods from the International Labour Organization and data from the Periodic Labour Force Survey. It provides important insights into occupations that are experiencing shortages. This information helps job seekers match their skills with what industries need. The OSI also assists policymakers and training organizations in addressing skill shortages in sectors with high demand.
10. The World Health Organization (WHO) recently announced that which country has successfully eliminated the gambiense?
[A] Guinea
[B] Kenya
[C] Cameroon
[D] Sudan
Correct Answer: A [Guinea]
Notes:
Guinea has officially eliminated the gambiense type of human African trypanosomiasis (HAT), also known as sleeping sickness, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). This announcement was made on January 29, 2025, just before Neglected Tropical Diseases Day on January 30. With this achievement, Guinea becomes the first country to eradicate this neglected tropical disease, showcasing global advancements in the fight against HAT. The disease is caused by the Trypanosoma parasite, which is spread by tsetse flies. Early signs include fever, headaches, and joint pain. Without treatment, it can lead to serious neurological issues and even death. The gambiense form is more common in rural regions of Africa.
11. Which organization has launched the “ChatGPT Gov” for US government agencies?
[A] IBM
[B] Google
[C] OpenAI
[D] Microsoft
Correct Answer: C [OpenAI]
Notes:
OpenAI has launched ChatGPT Gov, a special version of its AI model made for U.S. government agencies. This project aims to improve public services while meeting strict security requirements. By offering advanced AI tools, OpenAI wants to help policymakers enhance government functions. ChatGPT Gov is designed to benefit the nation and the public. OpenAI plans to ensure its technology supports democratic values. The platform is meant to help government agencies use AI in a responsible way. The main goal is to improve service for American citizens. Agencies can use ChatGPT Gov within their Microsoft Azure systems, allowing them to keep control over their data and security. Features include secure sharing of conversations, file uploads, and the option to create custom GPTs. These features are similar to those in ChatGPT Enterprise but come with added security.
12. Which mission of NASA’s has revealed the ingredients for life in the early solar system by studying samples from the asteroid Bennu?
[A] OSIRIS-REx
[B] Artemis
[C] Space Shuttle
[D] Hera Mission
Correct Answer: A [OSIRIS-REx]
Notes:
The asteroid Bennu has recently given astronomers important insights into how life began on Earth. The samples brought back by NASA’s OSIRIS-REx mission have shown a range of organic molecules and minerals. These discoveries are essential for understanding the basic elements of life and the early conditions in the solar system. NASA’s OSIRIS-REx mission was designed to gather samples from Bennu. Launched in 2016, the spacecraft successfully returned these samples in 2023. The main aim of the mission was to study the makeup of Bennu, which is a leftover from the solar system’s formation over 4.5 billion years ago.
13. Which institute has recently launched BIMCOIN, India’s first blockchain-based campus currency?
[A] Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham
[B] Thapar Institute of Engineering and Technology
[C] Birla Institute of Management Technology
[D] Kalasalingam Academy of Research and Education
Correct Answer: C [Birla Institute of Management Technology]
Notes:
The Birla Institute of Management Technology (BIMTECH) has introduced BIMCOIN, a digital currency powered by blockchain, aimed at creating a secure and clear system for transactions on campus. With this initiative, BIMTECH becomes the first business school in India to adopt this technology, following IIT Madras. This move shows a modern approach to using blockchain in education, encouraging other schools to consider similar steps. BIMCOIN operates on a permissioned blockchain, providing both decentralization and security for transactions within the campus.
14. Who will become the first Indian astronaut to pilot a space mission to the International Space Station (ISS)?
[A] Shubhanshu Shukla
[B] Rajesh Chandra
[C] Varun Singh
[D] Rohit Kataria
Correct Answer: A [Shubhanshu Shukla]
Notes:
Shubhanshu Shukla, an Indian Air Force pilot, is set to be the first Indian astronaut to command a space mission to the ISS as part of Axiom Mission 4, planned for 2025. This private mission, in partnership with NASA, will focus on scientific research, cultural outreach, and microgravity experiments. With Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla’s selection, India marks a new chapter in its space exploration journey, following the legacy of Rakesh Sharma’s historic flight 40 years ago. This is a significant achievement for India, and it’s worth exploring what Shubhanshu Shukla’s role will mean for the country.
15. Which country’s nuclear-powered icebreaker has recently collision in Kara Sea?
[A] Russia
[B] United Kingdom
[C] United States
[D] France
Correct Answer: A [Russia]
Notes:
The collision between the Russian nuclear icebreaker, 50 Let Pobedy, and a cargo ship in the Kara Sea on January 26, 2025, has raised concerns about safety and navigation in the Arctic. The icebreaker was damaged but remained safe to operate. This incident underscores the increasing significance of the Northern Sea Route (NSR) for Russia, particularly as global temperatures rise and shipping activity grows. The NSR is becoming an essential shipping lane, offering a faster alternative to the Suez Canal. It reduces travel distances and cuts shipping costs between Northern Europe and East Asia. By 2030, the route is expected to handle up to 150 million tonnes of goods annually, aiding Russia’s economic goals despite international sanctions.
16. Who has appointed as Director General of Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS)?
[A] Basavaraj Joshi
[B] Rajesh Nirwan
[C] Sudhira Varma
[D] Nagesh Korla
Correct Answer: B [Rajesh Nirwan]
Notes:
The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has given the green light for Rajesh Nirwan, a senior Indian Police Service (IPS) officer, to become the Director General (DG) of the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) under the Ministry of Civil Aviation. An order from the Department of Personnel & Training (DoPT) states that Nirwan’s appointment will start when he takes charge and will remain in effect until further notice. Rajesh Nirwan, a 1992-batch IPS officer from the Rajasthan cadre, has significant experience in law enforcement and security. He began his career as Superintendent of Police (SP) in the CID (CB) in Jaipur and has held the position of police chief in various districts, including Jhalawar, Sawai Madhopur, Tonk, and Kota, where he dealt with many challenging law and order issues.
17. The Supreme Court of India has recently issued ruling regarding the environmental impact of tanneries in which city of Tamil Nadu?
[A] Coonoor
[B] Vellore
[C] Madurai
[D] Tiruchirappalli
Correct Answer: B [Vellore]
Notes:
The Supreme Court of India has recently made a decision about the environmental effects of tanneries in Vellore, Tamil Nadu. It highlighted the pollution in the Palar River, which serves as a water source for 30 towns and 50 villages, calling it an “ecocide” due to the severe environmental harm caused by untreated tannery waste. The court determined that these industries have inflicted serious and lasting damage on local water bodies, groundwater, and farmland. This case started from complaints about tanneries releasing untreated waste into the Palar River. The bench, led by Justices J B Pardiwala and R Mahadevan, addressed the environmental harm caused by these practices. Local farmers and residents have been affected by the pollution of their water and land. The court found that the tanneries did not meet the environmental standards set by authorities. Even though there were promises to create a central effluent treatment plant, the tanneries did not reach the necessary zero discharge levels. The ruling stressed the need to follow legal guidelines and the importance of safeguarding public health.
18. Polavaram Project, was seen in the news recently, is located in which state?
[A] Telangana
[B] Andhra Pradesh
[C] Odisha
[D] Tamil Nadu
Correct Answer: B [Andhra Pradesh]
Notes:
The Polavaram Project is a multi-purpose irrigation project in Andhra Pradesh. The state government has recently approved ₹990 crore for building a new diaphragm wall for the Earth-cum-Rock Fill dam. This move expands the project’s goals to enhance irrigation and hydroelectric power production. The project is situated on the Godavari River, covering the Eluru and East Godavari districts. Its objectives include providing irrigation, hydroelectric power, and drinking water. The Central Government of India has recognized it as a National Project. The recent funding will be used for the diaphragm wall, increasing the total work area to 63,656 square meters. The construction will be carried out in two phases: Part A costing ₹675.98 crore and Part B costing ₹314.02 crore.
19. Which state government has recently launched the “Mana Mitra” initiative to enhance governance through WhatsApp?
[A] Telangana
[B] Tamil Nadu
[C] Karnataka
[D] Andhra Pradesh
Correct Answer: D [Andhra Pradesh]
Notes:
The government of Andhra Pradesh has recently started the “Mana Mitra” program. This initiative aims to improve governance using WhatsApp. Nara Lokesh, the Minister for IT, Electronics, and Communication, launched the service in Guntur district. With this program, citizens can access 161 civil services through WhatsApp. This effort is part of a larger plan to make government services easier and more efficient. Mana Mitra will offer various civil services through a specific WhatsApp number. In the first phase, 161 services will be available, including government certificates and different administrative services. Each certificate will have a special QR code that links directly to the Andhra Pradesh government website, ensuring the documents are authentic and helping to prevent fraud. The project will move into a second phase. An extra 360 civil services will be added. The government intends to use artificial intelligence and voice recognition in the service. This will improve user experience and make it more accessible. The goal is to build a complete digital platform for all government services.
20. Which city is the host of first Raisina Middle East Conference?
[A] Damascus
[B] Istanbul
[C] Riyadh
[D] Abu Dhabi
Correct Answer: D [Abu Dhabi]
Notes:
The inaugural Raisina Middle East Conference took place in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, on January 28-29, 2025. Dr. S. Jaishankar, the External Affairs Minister, served as the Chief Guest for the event. His visit to the UAE spanned from January 27 to 29, 2025, marking his third trip to the country since his reappointment in June 2024. The Raisina Dialogue is recognized as India’s premier conference focusing on geopolitics and geoeconomics. This event was collaboratively organized by the Observer Research Foundation, the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and India’s Ministry of External Affairs. It convened a diverse group of policymakers, scholars, media representatives, and business leaders to engage in discussions regarding regional and global integration.
21. Which ministry has recently published the Household Consumption Expenditure Survey (HCES)?
[A] Ministry of Current Affairs
[B] Ministry of Finance
[C] Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation
[D] Ministry of Consumer Affairs
Correct Answer: C [Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation]
Notes:
The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) has published the results of the second Household Consumption Expenditure Survey (HCES). This survey gathers information regarding household expenditures on various goods and services, serving as a critical tool for evaluating economic well-being, updating the Consumer Price Index, and analyzing poverty and inequality levels. The primary metric utilized for analysis is the Monthly Per Capita Consumption Expenditure (MPCE). Notably, the disparity in consumption between urban and rural areas diminished in 2023-24 across several major states. Furthermore, the MPCE experienced an increase for all types of households in both rural and urban settings. Among the states, Kerala exhibited the smallest urban-rural MPCE gap, followed by Punjab, Andhra Pradesh, and Bihar. Additionally, consumption inequality showed a decline in nearly all major states, with the Gini coefficient decreasing to 0.237 in rural areas and 0.284 in urban areas for the year 2023-24.
22. Economic Survey in India is published officially, every year by which of the following authorities?
[A] NITI Aayog
[B] Reserve Bank of India
[C] Ministry of Home Affairs
[D] Ministry of Finance, Government of India
Correct Answer: D [Ministry of Finance, Government of India]
Notes:
The Economic Survey of India is an annual publication produced by the Ministry of Finance of the Government of India. Each year, the Department of Economic Affairs within the Ministry of Finance submits this Survey to Parliament, typically preceding the presentation of the Union Budget.
23. World Neglected Tropical Diseases Day is observed on which day every year?
[A] 27 January
[B] 28 January
[C] 29 January
[D] 30 January
Correct Answer: D [30 January]
Notes:
India Gate was bathed in purple and orange light on January 30, 2025, in recognition of World Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) Day. This observance has taken place annually on January 30 since 2022, with the objective of increasing awareness regarding NTDs and advocating for global initiatives. Prominent landmarks across the globe are illuminated to draw attention to this important cause. NTDs are infectious diseases that predominantly impact impoverished populations in tropical areas, often receiving less focus than other significant health concerns.
