Post Views: 10
1. Who has become the first Hindu to lead the US intelligence community as Director of National Intelligence (DNI)?
[A] Ananya Williams
[B] Saanvi David
[C] Tulsi Gabbard
[D] Kimaya Rao
Correct Answer: C [Tulsi Gabbard]
Notes:
Tulsi Gabbard has made history as the first Hindu to serve as the Director of National Intelligence (DNI), managing 18 agencies. She is a former Congresswoman, an Iraq War veteran, and ran for president in 2020. Her independent views and foreign policy opinions have led to some controversy. Gabbard’s role as DNI involves coordinating national security efforts across various intelligence agencies. Throughout her political career, she has been known for her independent stance, connections to India, and criticism of US foreign policy.
2. Which of the following has received final authorization from the RBI to operate as an online payment aggregator?
[A] PayU
[B] Easebuzz
[C] Cashfree
[D] Safexpay
Correct Answer: B [Easebuzz]
Notes:
Easebuzz has been granted final approval by the RBI to function as an online payment aggregator, joining the ranks of companies like Razorpay and Google Pay. This license enables the company to support secure digital transactions and work with NBFCs and banks for credit services. As a prominent payment solutions provider, Easebuzz’s authorization from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) allows it to simplify digital transactions, ensuring safe and smooth payment processing for businesses throughout India. This approval highlights Easebuzz’s dedication to compliance and strengthens its position in the expanding fintech industry.
3. Which corporate entity has recently declared its intention to withdraw from a planned wind power initiative in Sri Lanka?
[A] Adani Group
[B] Mahindra Group
[C] Jindal Group
[D] Reliance Group
Correct Answer: A [Adani Group]
Notes:
The Adani Group has decided to pull out of a planned wind power project in Sri Lanka. This choice came after various controversies and criticisms about the project. The group had intended to invest more than $440 million in a 20-year deal to create wind power in Mannar town and Pooneryn village in northern Sri Lanka. However, strong opposition from local residents and political groups resulted in the project’s cancellation. The wind power initiative was expected to produce a total capacity of 484 megawatts and was part of Sri Lanka’s efforts to increase renewable energy. The Adani Group had already established contracts in the country, including a 51% ownership in the Western Container Terminal at Colombo Port. The project was initially announced in 2022 during the presidency of Gotabaya Rajapaksa.
4. Which of the following has recently introduced new guidelines for Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Rating Providers (ERPs)?
[A] NABARD
[B] RBI
[C] SEBI
[D] None of these
Correct Answer: C [SEBI]
Notes:
The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has recently rolled out new rules for Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Rating Providers (ERPs). These rules are designed to improve transparency and accountability in how ESG ratings are given. They specify when ERPs can take back ratings and how they should explain their decisions. This move highlights the increasing significance of ESG factors in investment choices. SEBI divides ERPs into two revenue models: subscriber-pays and issuer-pays. Each model has different guidelines for withdrawing ratings. In the subscriber-pays model, ERPs can only withdraw ratings if there are no active subscribers. On the other hand, the issuer-pays model has stricter rules, requiring a minimum rating period of three years or halfway through the security’s duration, plus approval from 75% of bondholders. For the subscriber-pays model, ratings can be withdrawn when there are no subscribers. If a rated entity is included in a package like the Nifty 50 index, the rating stays. The issuer-pays model requires a longer commitment before a rating can be withdrawn. This framework aims to promote stability and trust in ESG ratings.
5. Which state government has recently approved new Wildlife (Protection) Rules, allowing the shooting of male Nilgais (blue bulls)?
[A] Uttar Pradesh
[B] Assam
[C] Haryana
[D] Uttarakhand
Correct Answer: C [Haryana]
Notes:
The Haryana government has recently approved new Wildlife (Protection) Rules that allow the shooting of male Nilgais, also known as blue bulls. This decision has sparked protests from environmentalists and local communities, especially the Bishnoi community. Critics say this method is neither ethical nor sustainable for dealing with human-wildlife conflicts. Nilgais play a vital role in Haryana’s wildlife and support the region’s biodiversity. Their growing numbers are seen as a threat to agriculture, prompting calls for management strategies. The government’s choice has raised worries about ecological balance and the consequences of allowing the killing of these animals. The Nilgai, or Blue Cow (Boselaphus tragocamelus), is native to the Indian subcontinent (India, Nepal, Pakistan) and is the largest antelope in Asia. It has been regarded as sacred in Hinduism since the Vedic period (1500–500 BC). Due to its religious significance, some states have suggested renaming it ‘Rojad’ (forest antelope) to facilitate culling.
6. Which ministry has recently initiated a nationwide campaign to boost registrations on the National Fisheries Digital Platform (NFDP)?
[A] Ministry of Finance
[B] Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying
[C] Ministry of Culture
[D] Ministry of Science and Technolog
Correct Answer: B [Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying]
Notes:
The Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying has launched a nationwide effort to increase registrations on the National Fisheries Digital Platform (NFDP). This campaign will take place from February 14 to 22, 2025. Its goal is to speed up registration approvals and encourage applications from those who can benefit from the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Kisan Samridhi Yojana (PMMKSSY). The initiative works together with State and Union Territory Fisheries Departments, the National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB), and Common Service Centers (CSCs). The campaign has several main goals. It plans to set up registration camps in key fishing areas to improve approval rates. It also aims to motivate eligible stakeholders to utilize the benefits offered under PMMKSSY, which include credit support, aquaculture insurance, and performance grants.
7. Which state government has introduced the “Nodi Bandhan” scheme as part of its 2025-26 budget?
[A] Uttar Pradesh
[B] West Bengal
[C] Bihar
[D] Assam
Correct Answer: B [West Bengal]
Notes:
The West Bengal government has launched the “Nodi Bandhan” scheme in its 2025-26 budget. This initiative aims to address natural disasters and generate job opportunities. A significant portion of the budget is dedicated to the Ghatal Masterplan, which focuses on preventing floods in West Midnapore. “Nodi Bandhan,” meaning “River Bond,” seeks to connect rivers and wetlands, providing various livelihood options for local communities. The program promotes sustainable development through nature-based solutions. This initiative shows the state’s dedication to tackling environmental issues while fostering economic growth. Key goals of Nodi Bandhan include disaster management, river erosion prevention, and job creation. The scheme specifically targets districts like Murshidabad and Malda, which are affected by river erosion, aiming to build resilient infrastructure that supports local economies and shields communities from climate change impacts.
8. Which country has recently discovered the Jurassic-era birds fossils?
[A] China
[B] France
[C] Russia
[D] India
Correct Answer: A [China]
Notes:
A team of researchers led by Professor Wang Min from the Institute of Vertebrate Paleontology and Paleoanthropology (IVPP) at the Chinese Academy of Sciences has found two bird fossils from the Jurassic period in Fujian Province, China. These fossils are about 149 million years old and offer new information about the early evolution of birds. The study, published in Nature, challenges earlier beliefs about bird evolution, indicating that birds were more varied by the end of the Jurassic than previously thought. The discovery of Baminornis zhenghensis, the oldest known short-tailed bird, pushes back the timeline for this trait by nearly 20 million years, enhancing our understanding of how birds evolved.
9. KM3NeT (Cubic Kilometre Neutrino Telescope), which was recently seen in the news, is located under which sea?
[A] Caribbean Sea
[B] Arabian Sea
[C] Mediterranean Sea
[D] South China Sea
Correct Answer: C [Mediterranean Sea]
Notes:
Recent progress in neutrino research has come from the KM3NeT (Cubic Kilometre Neutrino Telescope) Collaboration. This global team is building observatories deep under the Mediterranean Sea to detect and study neutrinos, which are tiny particles that can reveal important details about the universe’s most explosive events. A notable finding was a neutrino with an extraordinary energy level, possibly coming from outside the Milky Way galaxy. The KM3NeT project includes two main detector sites. ARCA, situated 3.4 km deep near Sicily, is focused on high-energy neutrinos, while ORCA, at 2.4 km deep near Provence, France, aims at low-energy neutrinos. These detectors are crafted to capture the rare nature of neutrinos and trace their sources. In February 2023, ARCA identified an “ultra-high energy” neutrino with an energy of about 120 quadrillion electronvolts, which is 30 times greater than any previously recorded neutrino. This discovery was made possible by the strategic placement of the detectors, enabling them to observe neutrinos that have traveled vast distances.
10. The International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER), which was recently seen in the news, is located in which country?
[A] France
[B] Germany
[C] United States
[D] China
Correct Answer: A [France]
Notes:
The International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) is focused on using fusion energy. Recently, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the ITER site in France with French President Emmanuel Macron. This visit highlighted the advancements in ITER, particularly the construction of the largest tokamak in the world. This project is essential for proving that fusion can be a large-scale, carbon-free energy source. ITER is a global collaboration aimed at creating the biggest magnetic fusion device on the planet. It seeks to demonstrate that fusion can be a practical energy solution, based on the same processes that fuel the sun. Since it started in 1985, many scientists and engineers have contributed to its design. A tokamak is a machine that uses magnetic fields to contain plasma. The walls of the tokamak capture energy from atom fusion, which can produce heat to generate electricity, much like traditional power plants. The tokamak at ITER is expected to start deuterium-tritium fusion reactions by 2039.
11. Saab has recently signed an MoU with which company to manufacture the Electronic Warfare Laser Warning System-310 (VS-310) in India?
[A] HAL
[B] DRDO
[C] L&T
[D] BEL
Correct Answer: A [HAL]
Notes:
Saab, a Swedish defense company, has partnered with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on February 13, 2025. This collaboration aims to produce the Electronic Warfare Laser Warning System-310 (LWS-310) in India, boosting the country’s defense capabilities. The agreement supports the ‘Make in India’ initiative, promoting self-sufficiency in essential defense technologies. Additionally, it includes a Maintenance Transfer of Technology (ToT), which will help HAL build local skills and facilities for ongoing support.
12. TCS has partnered with Which country based UPM to modernize its IT infrastructure?
[A] Finland
[B] France
[C] Iceland
[D] Germany
Correct Answer: A [Finland]
Notes:
TCS has teamed up with UPM, a company from Finland, to upgrade its IT systems, taking over from HCL Technologies. This agreement covers cloud migration, AI-based workplace changes, and IT management for UPM’s 19,000 staff. Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) has landed a major IT transformation project with UPM, which focuses on sustainable materials. The goal of this partnership is to enhance UPM’s IT infrastructure, emphasizing cloud migration, digital upgrades, and better operational efficiency. TCS will oversee important IT tasks, such as data center management, network services, and user support, creating a smooth and advanced tech environment for UPM’s workforce.
13. Who has been appointed as the new Prime Minister of Vanuatu?
[A] Akikonu Aldrix
[B] Hawaiki Pita
[C] Petero Viliami
[D] Jotham Napat
Correct Answer: D [Jotham Napat]
Notes:
Jotham Napat has been appointed as the new Prime Minister of Vanuatu with no opposition. His nomination came from Charlot Salwai, the leader of the Reunification Movement for Change and a former prime minister. Ishmael Kalsakau, another ex-prime minister and MP for Port Vila, confirmed that there were no other candidates and congratulated Napat on his appointment. Additionally, Stephen Felix, a former judge and MP for Efate Rural Constituency, was elected as Speaker of Parliament without any opposition. Felix urged MPs to prioritize Vanuatu’s national interests in their governance. The Parliament also chose four Deputy Speakers, all unopposed. The new coalition government includes five political parties: Leaders Party, Vanua’aku Party, Graon Mo Jastis Party, Reunification Movement for Change, and the Iauko Group.
14. Who has been sworn in as Romania’s interim President following the resignation of Klaus Iohannis?
[A] Dorin Daniel
[B] Ilie Bolojan
[C] Anghel Stefan
[D] Avram Danut
Correct Answer: B [Ilie Bolojan]
Notes:
Ilie Bolojan has taken the oath as Romania’s interim President after Klaus Iohannis resigned on February 12, 2025. Iohannis left his position due to political pressure following the cancellation of the December 2024 elections, which were marred by claims of Russian interference. Bolojan, who is the President of the Senate, assumes this role during a time of uncertainty as the nation gears up for new presidential elections in May 2025. Known for his strong administrative skills, Bolojan aims to provide stability during this transition.
15. Who has been recently appointed as the new president of Greece?
[A] Alexande Elias
[B] Theodore Nicholas
[C] Sebastian Lucas
[D] Constantine Tassoulas
Correct Answer: B [Constantine Tassoulas]
Notes:
On February 12, 2025, Greece’s Parliament chose Constantine Tassoulas as the new president, receiving 160 votes. He replaces Katerina Sakellaropoulou, the first female president of Greece. Tassoulas is a senior member of the New Democracy party and has been an MP since 2000, holding important ministerial roles in the past. Although the president’s role is mainly ceremonial, this election shows the political path of Greece’s leadership.
16. The Kashi Tamil Sangamam 3.0 is organised by which ministry?
[A] Ministry of Culture
[B] Ministry of Education
[C] Ministry of Science and Technology
[D] Ministry of Tourism
Correct Answer: B [Ministry of Education]
Notes:
Kashi Tamil Sangamam 3.0 is a cultural event designed to enhance the connection between Tamil Nadu and Kashi. It started on February 15, 2025, with a special train departing from Chennai. This event honors Sage Agasthyar and aligns with the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj. It is part of India’s larger efforts for cultural integration. Kashi Tamil Sangamam 3.0 will take place from February 15 to 24, 2025, and will host about 1080 delegates from Tamil Nadu, including students, teachers, farmers, professionals, and artists. The Ministry of Education, along with other ministries, is organizing the event to highlight the cultural and historical ties between the two areas. The theme for this edition is Maharishi Agasthyar, an important figure in Tamil culture. The event will feature exhibitions showcasing his contributions to health, science, philosophy, and literature, along with seminars, workshops, and book launches.
17. Who is the author of the work called “The New Icon: Savarkar and the Facts”?
[A] Rajendran V
[B] Prasad Varma
[C] Ajay Joshi
[D] Arun Shourie
Correct Answer: D [Arun Shourie]
Notes:
Arun Shourie, a respected thinker in India, has authored what many believe to be the most significant book of his career, called ‘The New Icon: Savarkar and the Facts’. It is set to be published on January 31, 2024. This book delves into the controversial legacy of Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, providing a critical analysis of his influence on modern Indian politics. Like Shourie’s 1997 work ‘Worshipping False Gods: Ambedkar, and the Facts Which Have Been Erased’, this book seeks to challenge accepted historical narratives. However, while B R Ambedkar is a politically sensitive figure, Savarkar does not have the same level of protection, making this book especially important for shaping national conversations.
18. Which institute researchers has developed Pre-CURB digital resources to educate youth on cannabis prevention?
[A] IIT Madras
[B] ICMR
[C] IIT Delhi
[D] NIMHANS
Correct Answer: D [NIMHANS]
Notes:
The increasing use of cannabis among young people is raising concerns worldwide. In India, cannabis is illegal, but its cultural importance makes the situation more complex. Recent research shows that college students have a low perception of the risks associated with cannabis. To address this, a team from NIMHANS in Bengaluru has created Pre-CURB, a digital tool designed to educate young people about cannabis prevention and responsible use. Pre-CURB, developed by Kannan K. with guidance from NIMHANS experts, was introduced at a workshop aimed at college students, focusing on preventing cannabis use. The resource is divided into three main sections.
19. Which family tops Bloomberg’s list of Asia’s richest families 2025?
[A] Jindal family
[B] Mistry family
[C] Ambani family
[D] Birla family
Correct Answer: C [Ambani family]
Notes:
Asia’s wealthiest families play a significant role in the global economy, leading sectors such as technology, finance, real estate, and energy. Bloomberg’s 2025 rankings highlight Mukesh Ambani and his family as the wealthiest, showcasing their ongoing influence and leadership in business. These rankings reflect the impressive legacy of Asia’s top business families, illustrating their ability to maintain and grow their wealth over time. India is notably represented, with six families in the top 20. The Shapoorji Pallonji Group (Mistry family), O.P. Jindal Group (Jindal family), Aditya Birla Group (Birla family), Bajaj Group (Bajaj family), and Hinduja Group (Hinduja family) are among the richest, highlighting India’s significant industrial and economic impact.
20. Which organization recently released the report titled “India Gas Market Report: Outlook to 2030”?
[A] International Energy Agency (IEA)
[B] World Economic Forum (WEF)
[C] World Bank
[D] World Trade Organization (WTO)
Correct Answer: A [International Energy Agency (IEA)]
Notes:
The International Energy Agency (IEA) has published a report called “India Gas Market Report: Outlook to 2030.” It shows that India’s demand for natural gas is projected to increase by 60% by 2030, reaching 103 billion cubic meters (bcm) each year, positioning it among the top consumers globally. After a decade of slow growth, gas demand surged by over 10% in 2023 and 2024, indicating a significant change. This growth is supported by expanding infrastructure, including more gas pipelines and CNG stations, rising domestic gas production, and better global gas market conditions. Heavy industries, especially iron and steel production, are also significant contributors, adding around 15 bcm annually.
21. India hosted the annual Conference of the International Institute of Administrative Science (IIAS) for the first time in which city?
[A] Kolkata
[B] Hyderabad
[C] Bengaluru
[D] New Delhi
Correct Answer: D [New Delhi]
Notes:
India is hosting the International Institute of Administrative Science (IIAS) Conference for the first time. The IIAS-DARPG India Conference 2025 will take place in New Delhi from February 10 to 14, 2025. This international event allows experts from more than 55 countries to share ideas on advancements in public administration, governance, and policymaking. The conference will also feature the annual General Assembly meeting of the IIAS.
22. The president’s rule has recently been imposed in which of the following states?
[A] Meghalaya
[B] Manipur
[C] Mizoram
[D] Nagaland
Correct Answer: B [Manipur]
Notes:
The Ministry of Home Affairs has implemented President’s Rule in Manipur after Chief Minister N. Biren Singh resigned on February 9. This decision, made under Article 356 of the Indian Constitution, allows the President to directly manage the state’s governance. This article discusses the constitutional rules, reasons for this action, the need for parliamentary approval, its effects, judicial review, important suggestions, and criticisms.
23. When is National Women’s Day of India celebrated every year?
[A] 11 February
[B] 12 February
[C] 13 February
[D] 14 February
Correct Answer: C [13 February]
Notes:
National Women’s Day is observed in India on February 13 each year. This day celebrates the birth of Sarojini Naidu, a notable poet, freedom fighter, and the first female governor of India. It is a time to recognize the contributions of women across various sectors. On this day, India pays tribute to Sarojini Naidu, a prominent figure in the fight for independence, a poet, and a champion for women’s rights. Referred to as the “Nightingale of India,” she dedicated her life to promoting women’s empowerment and equality. This occasion serves as a reminder of the importance of supporting women in leadership roles in education, business, and politics for a brighter future.
24. Who has a renowned Hindustani classical vocalist who passed away recently at the age of 80?
[A] Sandeep Narayan
[B] Pandit Prabhakar Karekar
[C] Suman Mukherjee
[D] Ananda Mohan
Correct Answer: B [Pandit Prabhakar Karekar]
Notes:
Pandit Prabhakar Karekar, a famous Hindustani classical singer, died at 80 in Mumbai on Wednesday night after a short illness. He was originally from Goa and was well-respected for his impact on Hindustani classical music. He was especially known for his heartfelt devotional songs, such as Bolava Vithal Pahava Vithal and Vakratund Mahakay. Karekar learned from great masters and earned many awards, including the Tansen Samman, Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, and Gomant Vibhushan Award. Goa’s Chief Minister Pramod Sawant expressed condolences, highlighting Karekar’s contributions to preserving and promoting classical music in Goa. His influence lives on through his students and fans.
25. Which city is the host of first-ever Regional Dialogue on Social Justice?
[A] Gandhinagar
[B] New Delhi
[C] Bhopal
[D] Bombay
Correct Answer: B [New Delhi]
Notes:
The inaugural Regional Dialogue on Social Justice is scheduled to take place on February 24-25 at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. This event is being organized by the Ministry of Labour & Employment in partnership with the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and the Employers’ Federation of India (EFI). It aligns with the Global Coalition for Social Justice, which was initiated by the International Labour Organization (ILO) in 2023. India is at the forefront of the Asia Pacific Group, advocating for responsible business practices that foster inclusive societies.
26. The BrahMos NG missile is a collaborative development between India and which nation?
[A] France
[B] Japan
[C] Russia
[D] Italy
Correct Answer: C [Russia]
Notes:
BrahMos NG, the upcoming supersonic cruise missile, is set to undergo its first flight test in 2026, with production expected to begin in 2027-28. This missile is the result of a joint venture between India and Russia. It is engineered to be lighter, smaller, and more compact compared to its predecessor. With a weight of 1.6 tonnes and a length of 6 metres, it marks a notable decrease from the previous model, which weighed 3 tonnes and measured 9 metres. The BrahMos NG features a range of 290 km and can reach speeds of up to 3.5 Mach. It is designed for integration with the Sukhoi-30MKI and LCA Tejas aircraft.
