Post Views: 14
1. Recent reforms of which country’s Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP) policy have expanded opportunities for spouses of international students?
[A] United States
[B] Canada
[C] Germany
[D] United Kingdom
Correct Answer: B [Canada]
Notes:
Recent changes to Canada’s Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP) policy have created more chances for the spouses of international students. Starting January 21, these updates let eligible spouses apply for work permits while their partners are studying in Canada. The goal is to help families and improve the integration of international students into Canadian life. To be eligible for the SOWP, the international student must be enrolled in certain academic programs. These include PhD and Master’s degrees that last at least 16 months, as well as professional programs like Medicine, Veterinary Medicine, Pharmacy, and Engineering. This focus ensures that dedicated students can support their families while they continue their education.
2. Which organization has recently resumed its civilian mission to monitor the Rafah border crossing, a major transit point between Gaza and Egypt?
[A] European Union
[B] United Nations
[C] African Union
[D] World Trade Organization
Correct Answer: A [European Union]
Notes:
The Rafah border crossing between Gaza and Egypt has reopened for medical evacuations after being closed since May 2024. This reopening is important for humanitarian efforts amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The European Union (EU) has resumed its civilian mission to oversee this vital transit point. The mission’s goal is to assist in transferring individuals who need medical care and to help injured civilians and Hamas fighters move. The Rafah crossing is the southernmost exit from the Gaza Strip, bordering Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula, and is the only crossing that does not lead into Israeli territory. It is essential for the movement of people and goods, especially during crises. The other two crossings, Erez and Kerem Shalom, are controlled by Israel and are currently closed, making Rafah the only option for humanitarian needs. On the day of reopening, the crossing will allow 50 injured fighters and 50 wounded civilians to enter Egypt, along with their escorts. An additional 100 individuals, likely students, will also be allowed to cross for humanitarian reasons. The movement will be one-way, from Gaza to Egypt. The EU’s involvement highlights a joint effort to tackle the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
3. Recently, the World Health Organization (WHO) has announced which African country was the first to eliminated onchocerciasis?
[A] Mozambique
[B] Angloa
[C] Kenya
[D] Niger
Correct Answer: D [Niger]
Notes:
On January 30, 2025, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared that Niger is the first country in Africa to officially eliminate onchocerciasis, commonly known as river blindness, as a public health issue. This impressive milestone puts Niger in the company of only four other countries worldwide—Colombia, Ecuador, Guatemala, and Mexico—that have successfully stopped the spread of this parasitic disease. This is a significant achievement for public health, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, where onchocerciasis has been a serious problem for many years. The WHO states that Niger’s success shows the advancements made in managing and eradicating neglected tropical diseases.
4. What is the total expenditure outlined in the Union Budget 2025-26?
[A] ₹50,65,345 crore
[B] ₹40,05,345 crore
[C] ₹30,00,345 crore
[D] ₹19,44,255 crore
Correct Answer: A [₹50,65,345 crore]
Notes:
Union Budget 2025-26, envisaging an expenditure of Rs 50,65,345 crore, an increase of 7.4 per cent over the current fiscal.
5. Which regulatory body has recently executed a dollar-rupee buy/sell swap transaction worth $5 billion?
[A] Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI)
[B] Forward Markets Commission (FMC)
[C] Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
[D] Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI)
Correct Answer: C [Reserve Bank of India (RBI)]
Notes:
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has recently carried out a dollar-rupee buy/sell swap worth $5 billion. This move is intended to boost liquidity in the Indian financial system. It comes at a time when there are ongoing liquidity shortages and worries about global market conditions. The auction received bids totaling $25.6 billion, showing strong interest. The transaction will be reversed on August 4, allowing the RBI to sell the dollars back at a forward rate. In a dollar-rupee swap, the RBI purchases dollars from financial institutions in exchange for Indian rupees, which helps increase liquidity in the banking system. The RBI’s approach aims to keep the foreign exchange market stable. The forward rate is based on the current spot rate plus a premium. Since mid-December, liquidity in the Indian banking system has been in deficit. By January 30, the deficit reached Rs 2.22 lakh crore, with an average daily gap of Rs 2.04 lakh crore in January. The RBI’s recent actions, including open market operations (OMO), are aimed at addressing this issue.
6. 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.
7. Which ministry has recently withdrawn the track and trace system for pharmaceutical exports?
[A] Ministry of Commerce
[B] Ministry of Finance
[C] Ministry of Health
[D] Ministry of Home
Correct Answer: A [Ministry of Commerce]
Notes:
The Commerce Ministry has recently decided to remove the track and trace system for pharmaceutical exports. This choice is in line with the rules set by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. Starting in August 2023, the Health Ministry has required drug brands to use barcodes. This change is meant to make it easier for exporters to do business while still following international serialization standards without adding extra domestic rules. The track and trace system was first introduced on January 10, 2011, requiring barcoding at different packaging levels. Tertiary and secondary packaging was implemented in 2011 and 2013, but primary-level barcoding faced issues and was delayed multiple times, with the last extension valid until February 1, 2025. The track and trace system provides several advantages, such as preventing counterfeit drugs from entering the supply chain and improving efficiency in drug production and sales. It also helps tackle issues related to product recalls and counterfeit items.
8. The saffron reedtail damselfly, scientifically known as Indosticta deccanensis, has recently been discovered in which state?
[A] Kerala
[B] Karnataka
[C] Gujarat
[D] Assam
Correct Answer: B [Karnataka]
Notes:
The saffron reedtail damselfly, or Indosticta deccanensis, has been found in Madhugundi village, located in the Chikkamagaluru district of Karnataka. This is the first time this species has been recorded in the northern part of the Western Ghats. It was previously known to live in Tamil Nadu and Kerala. The saffron reedtail is a small damselfly, less than two inches long, with a unique cinnamon-colored thorax and clear wings. It belongs to the Platystictidae family, known as shadow damselflies. Their slender and delicate look makes them hard to see without careful observation.
9. The Sundarbans mangrove forest was recently seen in the news, is spanned in which countries?
[A] India & China
[B] Nepal & India
[C] India & Bangladesh
[D] India & Myanmar
Correct Answer: C [India & Bangladesh]
Notes:
The Sundarbans, located in India and Bangladesh, is the largest mangrove forest in the world. This special ecosystem is essential for biodiversity, climate control, and protecting coastlines. Recent research shows that, despite many challenges, the Sundarbans are surprisingly resilient. Understanding how this resilience works is important for future conservation efforts. Mangroves are unique trees that grow well in salty coastal areas, thriving in places where freshwater from rivers meets saltwater from the ocean. The Sundarbans sit in the delta created by the Brahmaputra, Ganga, and Meghna rivers. This unique landscape helps mangroves grow and supports a variety of wildlife, including endangered animals like the Bengal tiger and Irrawaddy dolphin. A recent study called ‘Resilience of Sundarban mangroves in South Asia to Weather Extremes and Anthropogenic Water Pollution’ found that mangroves can quickly bounce back from stress caused by extreme weather. They can keep producing well even when nutrient levels drop due to pollution. This resilience comes from the strong connections within the mangrove ecosystem, which allows for effective sharing of nutrients and responses to stress.
10. The Ocean Coordination Mechanism (OCM) was launched by which of the following?
[A] Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission of UNESCO
[B] United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
[C] International Maritime Organization (IMO)
[D] World Economic Forum (WEF)
Correct Answer: A [Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission of UNESCO]
Notes:
The Ocean Coordination Mechanism (OCM) was started by the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission of UNESCO. This program aims to tackle important issues affecting marine environments in the Caribbean and the North Brazil Shelf. These areas are crucial for biodiversity, local economies, and climate resilience. The OCM focuses on improving the management of shared ocean resources through teamwork and clear goals. It builds on experiences from past efforts like the Pacific Islands Regional Ocean Policy and sets specific targets for sustainable marine resource management. The initiative encourages cooperation among different stakeholders to ensure a comprehensive approach to ocean conservation. The OCM has received an initial investment of $15 million from the Global Environment Facility, along with an additional $126.02 million in co-financing. However, this funding is lower than that of other global conservation projects, which raises concerns about the OCM’s ability to achieve its ambitious objectives.
11. Which district of Maharashtra has become a hotspot for Zika virus?
[A] Pune
[B] Satara
[C] Nashik
[D] Solapur
Correct Answer: A [Pune]
Notes:
The Zika virus has become a significant health issue in Pune district, Maharashtra. In 2024, Pune had 125 out of 151 confirmed Zika cases reported in India. This increase has drawn the attention of health officials and the World Health Organization (WHO). The WHO stated that there have been no serious complications, like microcephaly or Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS), associated with these cases in India. The virus mainly spreads through bites from infected Aedes mosquitoes. In 2024, Maharashtra had the highest number of Zika cases in the country, totaling 140, with Pune as the main area affected. Other states, such as Karnataka and Gujarat, reported fewer cases. The rise in cases is concerning compared to previous years, where Maharashtra had just one case in 2021, three in 2022, and 18 in 2023.
12. Recently, Udhwa Lake has been added to the Ramsar Site list. Udhwa Lake is located in which state?
[A] Tamil Nadu
[B] Sikkim
[C] Jharkhand
[D] Gujarat
Correct Answer: C [Jharkhand]
Notes:
India has taken a big step in protecting wetlands by adding four new sites to the Ramsar List of Wetlands of International Importance. Now, there are 89 Ramsar sites in total across the country. The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change shared this news just before World Wetlands Day on February 2. The new Ramsar sites are Sakkarakottai Bird Sanctuary and Therthangal Bird Sanctuary in Tamil Nadu, Khecheopalri Wetland in Sikkim, and Udhwa Lake in Jharkhand. Udhwa Lake in Jharkhand is the first wetland in the state to be recognized as a Ramsar site, highlighting the area’s rich biodiversity. Sikkim has also joined the Ramsar list with its first site, celebrated for its distinct Himalayan ecosystems.
13. The Aadhaar Authentication for Good Governance (Social Welfare, Innovation, Knowledge) Amendment Rules, 2025 were recently published by which ministry?
[A] Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology
[B] Ministry of Finance
[C] Ministry of Home
[D] Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
Correct Answer: A [Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology]
Notes:
The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has recently released the Aadhaar Authentication for Good Governance (Social Welfare, Innovation, Knowledge) Amendment Rules, 2025. This amendment is designed to boost transparency and inclusivity in governance. It extends the use of Aadhaar authentication to both government and private organizations. The main objective is to improve service delivery and enhance the quality of life for citizens. The amendment widens the scope of Aadhaar authentication, allowing its use in various sectors such as e-commerce, travel, tourism, hospitality, and healthcare. The key focus is to enable reliable transactions between service providers and users.
14. Which country has recently made strides in combating leprosy?
[A] Bangladesh
[B] Pakistan
[C] India
[D] Sri Lanka
Correct Answer: C [India]
Notes:
India has made progress in fighting leprosy. The country received the World Health Organization’s elimination status in 2005, meaning there are fewer than one case per 10,000 people. Still, leprosy is a health issue in some areas. The Union Health Ministry has started a focused plan to lower leprosy cases by 2027. The Central government has introduced a new three-drug treatment for Pauci-Bacillary (PB) cases, replacing the old two-drug method. This change aims to improve treatment effectiveness and reduce the spread of the disease. Key strategies include early detection, prevention through post-exposure prophylaxis, and efforts to reduce stigma and discrimination. The Nikusth 2.0 portal allows for online reporting. Launched on January 30, 2023, the National Strategic Plan (NSP) provides a clear path for eradicating leprosy, targeting zero transmission by 2027, which is three years earlier than the Sustainable Development Goals. The NSP includes specific yearly goals and public health strategies, focusing on raising awareness, early detection, and reducing stigma.
15. Point Nemo, which was seen in news, is located in which ocean?
[A] Indian Ocean
[B] Arctic Ocean
[C] Pacific Ocean
[D] Atlantic Ocean
Correct Answer: C [Pacific Ocean]
Notes:
Recently, two women officers from the Indian Navy, Lt. Cdr. Dilna K. and Lt. Cdr. Roopa A., made a remarkable journey through Point Nemo, the most isolated spot on Earth, while sailing on the vessel INSV Tarini. This significant expedition is part of the Navika Sagar Parikrama-II program, which encourages women’s involvement in maritime fields. Point Nemo, also called the Oceanic Pole of Inaccessibility, is situated in the South Pacific Ocean and is about 2,688 kilometers away from the nearest land. Its extreme isolation makes it a notable geographical site. The name “Nemo” comes from Captain Nemo, a character in Jules Verne’s book, “Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea.” The first ship to reach this point was the Spanish research vessel Hespérides in 1999, and since then, only a few vessels have passed through this area.
16. Who has set a new record for the most cumulative spacewalk time by a woman, surpassing Peggy Whitson?
[A] Sunita Williams
[B] Sarah Gillis
[C] Anna Menon
[D] Kathryn Sullivan
Correct Answer: A [Sunita Williams]
Notes:
Indian-origin astronaut Sunita Williams has broken the record for the longest spacewalking time by a woman, exceeding the previous record held by Peggy Whitson. Williams has now spent a total of 62 hours and 6 minutes on spacewalks over nine missions. This milestone was achieved during her recent extravehicular activity (EVA) with fellow astronaut Butch Wilmore on the International Space Station (ISS). The two astronauts have been on the ISS since June 2024 because of technical problems with Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft, and they performed maintenance work outside the station.
17. Which ministry of India has recently conducted a pilot study on Lethal Autonomous Weapons Systems (LAWS)?
[A] Ministry of Home
[B] Ministry of External Affairs
[C] Ministry of Defence
[D] Ministry of Current Affairs
Correct Answer: C [Ministry of Defence]
Notes:
India’s Defence Ministry has recently carried out a pilot study on Lethal Autonomous Weapons Systems (LAWS). This study highlights the significant impact these technologies could have. It brings up important issues about control, responsibility, and ethical use. The research was done in partnership with the Manohar Parrikar Institute of Defence Studies and Analyses. Artificial Intelligence (AI) plays a key role in today’s military strategies, enabling the creation of systems that can function independently of human operators. The Defence Ministry sees AI as vital for ensuring strategic independence, which is important in a world where having advanced technology is crucial for military strength.
18. Who is the author of the book Indian Renaissance: The Modi Decade?
[A] Jaswant Jag
[B] Aishwarya Pandit
[C] Ajay Joshi
[D] Radhakrishna M
Correct Answer: B [Aishwarya Pandit]
Notes:
The Indian Renaissance: The Modi Decade, an anthology edited by Dr. Aishwarya Pandit, was launched at the NDMC Convention Center in New Delhi. Released by Westland Non-Fiction, this book looks at India’s changes under Prime Minister Narendra Modi from 2014 to 2024. Featuring insights from 27 notable authors, the anthology discusses the political, economic, social, and cultural developments that contributed to India’s emergence as a global leader.
19. Which High Court has recently quashed a case under the Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989?
[A] Bombay High Court
[B] Madras High Court
[C] Karnataka High Court
[D] Delhi High Court
Correct Answer: A [Bombay High Court]
Notes:
The Bombay High Court has dismissed a case under the Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989. The court stated that certain crimes under this law must happen in “public view” to be eligible for prosecution. This ruling came from the case of Afshamaskar Laikhkan Pathan vs State of Maharashtra, where the complainant reported caste-related abuse. The SC/ST Act was created to fight against caste discrimination and violence, offering legal protection to people from Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes. It specifies certain crimes and sets penalties for those who insult or threaten individuals from these groups. Section 3(1)(r) punishes deliberate insults or threats meant to humiliate a member of a Scheduled Caste or Tribe, while Section 3(1)(s) deals with abuses using caste names. Both sections require that the crime takes place in public, needing the presence of witnesses who are not involved.
20. The Mount Taranaki, which was recently seen in the news, is located in which country?
[A] Australia
[B] Japan
[C] India
[D] New Zealand
Correct Answer: D [New Zealand]
Notes:
Recently, Mount Taranaki in New Zealand, also called Taranaki Maunga, was officially recognized as a legal person. This important decision highlights the mountain’s value to the Indigenous Māori people, giving it the same rights and responsibilities as a human. This law is part of a larger effort to correct past wrongs faced by Māori after colonization. For centuries, Mount Taranaki has been seen as a respected ancestor by the Māori. The mountain is a dormant volcano, rising 2,518 meters high, and its name, Taranaki, carries significant cultural meaning. The British colonization in the 18th and 19th centuries resulted in the loss of Māori land and resources. The Treaty of Waitangi, signed in 1840, aimed to safeguard Māori rights but was frequently violated. The new law designates Taranaki Maunga as Te Kāhui Tupua, recognizing it as a living being. This legal framework affirms the mountain’s rights and responsibilities. A governing body, made up of local Māori iwi members and appointees from the Conservation Minister, will oversee Taranaki. This setup is designed to ensure that Māori perspectives are central to the mountain’s management.
21. Which country will host the BRICS Youth Council Entrepreneurship Working Group Meeting from March 3 to 7, 2025?
[A] India
[B] South Africa
[C] China
[D] Brazil
Correct Answer: A [India]
Notes:
India is set to host the BRICS Youth Council Entrepreneurship Working Group Meeting from March 3 to 7, 2025, under the auspices of the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports. The meeting, themed “Youth Entrepreneurship for Sustainable Growth,” is expected to bring together around 45 youth representatives from the BRICS nations—Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. The main goal of this assembly is to promote collaboration in entrepreneurship and innovation. Central to the discussions will be the formulation of a robust framework aimed at supporting young entrepreneurs in BRICS countries and enhancing their participation in global markets.
22. Who has recently inaugurated the Sci-Fi Science Film Festival of India in Panaji?
[A] PM Narendra Modi
[B] President Draupadi Murmu
[C] Goa CM Pramod Sawant
[D] Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat
Correct Answer: C [Goa CM Pramod Sawant]
Notes:
The Chief Minister of Goa, Pramod Sawant, officially opened the Sci-Fi Science Film Festival of India in Panaji on January 30, 2025. This festival, organized by Vidnyan Parishad Goa, is dedicated to celebrating the realms of science, innovation, and the inherent spirit of inquiry, while also paying tribute to the esteemed scientist Dr. M. Swaminathan. This year’s theme, “Green Revolution,” seeks to motivate young individuals and advocate for a sustainable future. Spanning four days, the event underscores the critical role of science and innovation in advancing India’s development and encourages active participation from the youth in scientific pursuits.
23. Who was bestowed with Lifetime Achievement Award at BCCI Naman Awards 2025?
[A] Rahul Dravid
[B] Sachin Tendulkar
[C] Virendra Sehwag
[D] VVS Laxman
Correct Answer: B [Sachin Tendulkar]
Notes:
The BCCI Annual Awards 2025 honored the best in Indian cricket. Sachin Tendulkar was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award for his unmatched contributions. Jasprit Bumrah was recognized as the Best Male International Cricketer for his significant influence worldwide. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) hosted this ceremony to acknowledge exceptional achievements in Indian cricket. The event showcased the lasting legacy of cricket legends and the impressive performances of today’s players.
BCCI Awards 2025 Winners List:
Col. C. K. Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award for Men: Sachin Tendulkar
Polly Umrigar Award for Best International Cricketer – Men: Jasprit Bumrah
Best International Cricketer – Women: Smriti Mandhana
Best International Debut – Men: Sarfaraz Khan
Best International Debut – Women: Asha Sobhana
BCCI Special Award: Ravichandran Ashwin
Highest Run-Getter in ODIs – Women: Smriti Mandhana
Highest Wicket-Taker in ODIs – Women: Deepti Sharma
Best Umpire in Domestic Cricket: Akshay Totre
24. World Wetlands Day is celebrated every year on which day?
[A] 1 February
[B] 2 February
[C] 3 February
[D] 31 January
Correct Answer: B [2 February]
Notes:
World Wetlands Day is observed annually on February 2. This day aims to highlight the significance of wetlands and promote their protection. It commemorates the signing of the Convention on Wetlands in Ramsar, Iran, on February 2, 1971. Wetlands include various water bodies like lakes, rivers, swamps, and mangroves, which can occur naturally or be man-made. They are vital for both the environment and human well-being. The day serves to remind us of the critical functions wetlands provide, such as supporting biodiversity, filtering water, and regulating the climate. It encourages awareness and action to safeguard these essential ecosystems for the future.
25. What is the theme of World Wetlands Day 2025?
[A] Wetlands and Human Wellbeing
[B] It’s Time for Wetland Restoration
[C] Protecting Wetlands for Our Common Future
[D] Wetlands Action for People and Nature
Correct Answer: C [Protecting Wetlands for Our Common Future]
Notes:
World Wetlands Day is observed annually on February 2. Theme of the World Wetlands Day 2025 is ‘Protecting Wetlands for Our Common Future’, reminds us of the benefits wetlands provide for biodiversity and human wellbeing. Wetlands are among the world’s most productive ecosystems and critical for wildlife preservation.
