Post Views: 13
1. Which country has recently been elected to the Vice Presidency of the International Organization of Aids to Marine Navigation (IALA)?
[A] Japan
[B] France
[C] Australia
[D] India
Correct Answer: D [India]
Notes:
India has been elected to the Vice Presidency of the International Organization of Aids to Marine Navigation (IALA) during its first General Assembly in Singapore. This election shows India’s increasing role in maritime matters. IALA, established in 1957 as a non-governmental organization, aims to connect marine navigation authorities worldwide. It promotes knowledge sharing among various stakeholders, including manufacturers and research institutions. In August 2024, IALA became an inter-governmental organization after 34 states ratified the change, which enhances its ability to improve maritime safety and protect the environment. This transition allows IALA to set international standards for safe and effective marine navigation. India’s new leadership position highlights its dedication to maritime safety and gives it a chance to shape global maritime policies. Additionally, India will host IALA meetings in the upcoming years, strengthening its role in international maritime governance. IALA seeks to unify global maritime navigation systems, promote safety initiatives, and work with member states and industry partners. The organization is focused on creating common standards and best practices to meet the changing needs of mariners and adapt to technological progress.
2. In recent years, which country has witnessed decline in marriage registration?
[A] China
[B] Russia
[C] Japan
[D] India
Correct Answer: A [China]
Notes:
China has seen a drop in marriage registrations in recent years. In 2024, only 6.1 million couples registered to marry, which is a 20.3% decrease from the year before. This is the lowest number of registrations since 1986. The decline is linked to higher living costs and urban unemployment. Almost 44% of urban women are now hesitant to marry. This situation is worsened by a steady decline in the population, which has been falling for three years in a row. The population is also getting older quickly, with 22% of people over 60 years old now, expected to reach 50% by 2050. This change puts a lot of pressure on pensions, with estimates that the pension fund could run out by 2035. The government has tried to address this by increasing the retirement age, but this is only a short-term solution.
3. Which country has recently approved an $8 billion railway project to improve connectivity with China?
[A] Indonesia
[B] Vietnam
[C] Singapore
[D] Thailand
Correct Answer: B [Vietnam]
Notes:
Vietnam’s National Assembly has recently given the green light for an infrastructure project. On February 19, 2025, lawmakers voted in favor of building an $8 billion rail link. This railway will connect Haiphong, the largest port city in northern Vietnam, to the border with China. The goal of the project is to boost trade and strengthen economic relations between the two communist countries. The railway will stretch 390 kilometers (240 miles) from Haiphong to Lao Cai, a city near China’s Yunnan province, and will also go through the capital, Hanoi. The construction received strong support, with 95% of parliament members approving it. China is expected to provide funding through loans as part of its Belt and Road Initiative. This rail link is vital for Vietnam’s manufacturing industry, as major global companies like Samsung and Foxconn rely on a consistent supply of parts from China. The new railway will allow for quicker and more efficient transportation of goods, helping to reduce current border delays faced by truck transport.
4. India and which country has signed a new MoU on February 18, 2025, to strengthen scientific and technological collaboration?
[A] Japan
[B] Singapore
[C] Nepal
[D] Sri Lanka
Correct Answer: C [Nepal]
Notes:
India and Nepal have enhanced their scientific partnership through a newly signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) of India and the Nepal Academy of Science and Technology (NAST) on February 18, 2025. This agreement is designed to promote collaborative research, facilitate technology transfer, and strengthen capacity-building initiatives in areas such as biotechnology and material sciences. The signing took place at the CSIR-National Physical Laboratory in New Delhi, marking a significant advancement in the scientific collaboration between the two countries. This MoU is a continuation of their enduring partnership and emphasizes cooperation across various fields, including biotechnology, environmental sciences, alternative energy, and material sciences.
5. Which insurance company has introduced a new digital initiative called the ‘One Man Office’ (OMO) to enhance the efficiency of its agents?
[A] Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC)
[B] SBI Life
[C] Bharati AXA Life Insurance
[D] Future Generali India Life Insurance
Correct Answer: A [Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC)]
Notes:
The Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) has launched a new digital program called the ‘One Man Office’ (OMO) to improve agent efficiency with 24/7 digital services. This initiative, introduced on February 17, 2025, supports LIC’s goal of ‘Insurance for All by 2047’ by providing easy online tools for selling policies, customer support, and managing business. As the largest insurer in India, LIC is heavily investing in digital changes, and the ‘One Man Office’ is a significant move to make agents more self-sufficient and effective. By using technology in insurance services, LIC allows agents to work efficiently without needing a traditional office, benefiting both policyholders and the company.
6. Which company announced that it will acquire a 15% stake in Bharti AXA Life Insurance?
[A] 360 ONE Asset
[B] SBI Mutual Fund
[C] HDFC Mutual Fund
[D] Nippon India Mutual Fund
Correct Answer: A [360 ONE Asset]
Notes:
360 ONE Asset plans to acquire a 15% stake in Bharti AXA Life Insurance. This investment aims to support Bharti AXA’s growth, expand its product offerings, and enhance its distribution network. Since March 2024, Bharti AXA has been entirely owned by Bharti Life Ventures (BLVPL) and reported a solvency ratio of 1.64x as of June 2024. This acquisition is significant for India’s insurance industry, as 360 ONE Asset seeks to provide new capital to Bharti AXA, facilitating operational growth, fostering innovation, and strengthening its position in the competitive life insurance market. Additionally, SBI Cards and Payment Services Ltd has announced a significant leadership transition along with a financial update. Salila Pande will take over as the new Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (MD & CEO) starting April 1, 2025, succeeding Abhijit Chakravorty, who will retire on March 31, 2025. SBI Cards has also declared an interim dividend of ₹2.50 per share for the financial year 2024-25.
7. The Polavaram irrigation project is multi-purpose initiative, which was recently seen in the news, is located in which state?
[A] Andhra Pradesh
[B] Karnataka
[C] Telangana
[D] Odisha
Correct Answer: A [Andhra Pradesh]
Notes:
The Polavaram irrigation project is a multi-purpose initiative in India located on the Godavari River. It affects the West and East Godavari districts in Andhra Pradesh. The goal of the project is to reduce water shortages, improve farming output, and produce hydropower. Recent talks among important ministers have highlighted the project’s urgency and significance. The Polavaram project includes a dam that is about 1.2 km long and 54 m high. It has 48 radial gates, each measuring 16m by 20m. The design can handle severe flood situations, with a spillway that can manage flows of up to 50 lakh cubic feet per second, exceeding the capacity of China’s 3 Gorges Dam.
8. Which state government has recently launched the Dulari Kanya Scheme?
[A] Uttar Pradesh
[B] Madhya Pradesh
[C] Arunachal Pradesh
[D] Himachal Pradesh
Correct Answer: C [Arunachal Pradesh]
Notes:
The government of Arunachal Pradesh has recently improved the Dulari Kanya Scheme. This program is designed to assist with the institutional births of girl children. Initially, the scheme offered financial aid for these births, but now the fixed deposit amount has been raised from Rs 20,000 to Rs 30,000. Furthermore, an additional Rs 20,000 will be given for admissions to Class XI through direct benefit transfer. This brings the total support to Rs 50,000, showing the government’s dedication to empowering girls in the state. The funds will be available when the child turns 18 years old. This initiative encourages families to choose institutional births, leading to better health for mothers and their children.
9. Which state government has recently approved a draft law that restricts land purchases by non-residents?
[A] Haryana
[B] Uttarakhand
[C] Gujarat
[D] Rajasthan
Correct Answer: B [Uttarakhand]
Notes:
The Uttarakhand government has recently approved a new draft law that limits land purchases by non-residents in most areas. This decision comes in response to ongoing public calls to safeguard local resources and cultural heritage. The updated legislation will be presented during the assembly budget session, which concludes on February 24, 2025. The new law prevents individuals from outside Uttarakhand from acquiring agricultural and horticultural land in 11 of the 13 districts, with Haridwar and Udham Singh Nagar being the only exceptions. Additionally, the law restores earlier land purchase restrictions and sets up a tracking portal for all transactions.
10. Which space agency’s James Webb Space Telescope has detected both bright flares and fainter flicker coming from ‘Sagittarius A’?
[A] United Kingdom Space Agency
[B] European Space Agency (ESA)
[C] National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)
[D] Agenzia Spaziale Italiana (ASI)
Correct Answer: C [National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)]
Notes:
The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) has changed how we view the supermassive black hole at the center of the Milky Way, known as Sagittarius A* (Sgr A). Launched in 2021, JWST started its observations in 2022. It has given us important new insights into the chaotic environment around Sgr A, showing patterns of light flickering and bright flares as material falls into the black hole. Sagittarius A* is about 26,000 light-years away from Earth and has a mass roughly four million times that of the Sun. It is surrounded by an accretion disk, which is a swirling mass of gas and dust being drawn in by the black hole’s strong gravity. This disk shows turbulence and chaotic activity as gas gets compressed near the event horizon. JWST has observed this area for about 48 hours over a year, in several sessions. Its advanced Near-Infrared Camera (NIRCam) enables astronomers to take continuous brightness measurements around Sgr A*. Researchers have noticed a consistent flickering of light, showing ongoing activity, along with large flares happening one to three times a day, and smaller bursts as well.
11. Which shipyard Ltd is showcasing its indigenously built Fast Patrol Vessels (FPVs) and Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs) at NAVDEX 2025 in Abu Dhabi?
[A] Cochin Shipyard Ltd
[B] Hindustan Shipyard Ltd
[C] Goa Shipyard Ltd (GSL)
[D] Sulkha Shipyard
Correct Answer: C [Goa Shipyard Ltd (GSL)]
Notes:
Goa Shipyard Ltd (GSL) is a key player in India’s defense shipbuilding industry. At NAVDEX 2025 in Abu Dhabi, GSL showcases its newest developments, focusing on Fast Patrol Vessels (FPVs) and Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs). These vessels highlight India’s dedication to self-sufficiency in defense manufacturing through the “Make in India” initiative.
Fast Patrol Vessels (FPVs): The FPV is 50 meters long and can reach speeds of 35 knots. GSL has designed and built this vessel entirely in-house. Its main roles include patrolling, anti-smuggling, and counter-terrorism efforts. It can also act as a coastal convoy escort during conflicts. Equipped with three powerful diesel engines and independent waterjets, it offers excellent maneuverability and efficiency. The FPV can hold 35 crew members in fully air-conditioned spaces and is built to handle tough sea conditions, allowing for long missions without outside support. GSL has delivered seven FPVs to the Indian Coast Guard, which have been crucial during national emergencies, including tsunami responses. Additionally, two FPVs have been sold to Mauritius, enhancing GSL’s international reach.
Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs): The OPV featured at the event is recognized for its stability and versatility. It can undertake various missions, including combat, law enforcement, anti-piracy, and search-and-rescue operations. The strong steel hull of the OPV enables it to withstand severe sea conditions. This vessel is designed for peak performance in multiple roles, making it an essential asset for maritime security.
12. India and which country have strengthened their defense relationship, concentrating on the upkeep and operational skills of their Russian-made Sukhoi-30 (Su-30) fighter jets?
[A] Malaysia
[B] Singapore
[C] Sri Lanka
[D] Indonesia
Correct Answer: A [Malaysia]
Notes:
India and Malaysia have enhanced their defence relationship, concentrating on the upkeep and operational skills of their Russian-made Sukhoi-30 (Su-30) fighter jets. During Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh’s trip to Kuala Lumpur, both countries signed important agreements. This collaboration boosts the partnership between the Indian Air Force (IAF) and the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF). This progress was part of the 13th Malaysia-India Defence Cooperation Committee (MIDCOM) meeting, which also covered topics like cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, maritime security, and partnerships in the defence industry.
13. Which of the following has formed strategic alliances with Meesho, the Indian Federation of Culinary Associations (IFCA), and the MGRI to boost tribal livelihoods?
[A] Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India Ltd
[B] Ministry of Finance
[C] Ministry of Tribal Affairs
[D] National Commission for Scheduled Tribes
Correct Answer: A [Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India Ltd]
Notes:
In a notable advancement aimed at improving the economic conditions of tribal communities, the Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India Ltd (TRIFED) has formed strategic alliances with Meesho, the Indian Federation of Culinary Associations (IFCA), and the Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Rural Industrialization (MGIRI). These partnerships are intended to support tribal enterprises by incorporating them into the business-to-business (B2B) market and promoting the development of tribal products. The Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) were formalized on February 18, 2025, during the ongoing “Aadi Mahotsav” at Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium in New Delhi, representing a significant milestone in fostering tribal entrepreneurship and enhancing market accessibility.
14. India and which country has recently signed a new MoU for cooperation in lithium exploration and mining?
[A] Indonesia
[B] South Africa
[C] Japan
[D] Argentina
Correct Answer: D [Argentina]
Notes:
India and Argentina have agreed to a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to enhance cooperation in exploring and developing lithium mines in Argentina. Union Minister for Coal and Mines, Shri G. Kishan Reddy, met with H.E. Raúl Alejandro Jalil, the Governor of Catamarca, Argentina, in New Delhi. The meeting focused on increasing collaboration in the mining sector, especially regarding lithium exploration and investment. A key outcome was the signing of an MoU between Mineral Exploration and Consultancy Limited (MECL) and the Provincial Government of Catamarca. This agreement aims to strengthen partnerships in exploring and developing essential minerals, particularly lithium, which is vital for electric vehicle (EV) batteries and renewable energy storage.
15. Who has recently been appointed as the new MD & CEO of SBI Cards?
[A] Abhijit Chakravorty
[B] Salila Pande
[C] Shashi Kumar
[D] Ananta Varma
Correct Answer: B [Salila Pande]
Notes:
SBI Cards and Payment Services Ltd has revealed a significant leadership change along with a financial update. Salila Pande will take over as the new Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (MD & CEO) starting April 1, 2025. She will succeed Abhijit Chakravorty, who will retire on March 31, 2025. Additionally, SBI Cards has announced an interim dividend of ₹2.50 per share for the financial year 2024-25. Salila Pande, who is currently the Chief General Manager at SBI, has a wealth of experience in banking.
16. Who has been honored with the Governor of Massachusetts’ Citation?
[A] Sudha Murthy
[B] Nita Ambani
[C] Kailash Satyarthi
[D] Vandana Shiva
Correct Answer: B [Nita Ambani]
Notes:
Nita Ambani, who founded and leads the Reliance Foundation, has received the Governor of Massachusetts’ Citation for her significant work in education, healthcare, sports, arts, culture, and women’s empowerment. This award acknowledges her dedication to creating positive change in society, both in India and elsewhere. It reflects her strong leadership in philanthropy and her influence across various fields.
17. The Second United Nations Food Systems Summit Stocktake is set to occur in which country, from July 28 to 30, 2025?
[A] South Africa
[B] Ethiopia
[C] Burundi
[D] Tanzania
Correct Answer: B [Ethiopia]
Notes:
The Second United Nations Food Systems Summit Stocktake will take place in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, from July 28 to 30, 2025. This event aims to boost investment in sustainable food system projects. UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed highlighted the need to change global food systems to meet the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). With just five years left to achieve the 2030 Agenda, funding is crucial for making necessary changes. The Stocktake will review progress made since the last meeting in 2023, focusing on tracking commitments and results in national food system pathways, which are vital for reaching SDG targets. Italy is co-hosting the event, which will produce a detailed report on the progress made.
18. The first edition of the SOUL Leadership Conclave will held on 21st February, in which city of India?
[A] Hyderabad
[B] Bengaluru
[C] New Delhi
[D] Grater Noida
Correct Answer: C [New Delhi]
Notes:
The SOUL Leadership Conclave is an event designed to change the way leadership is viewed in India. It will take place on February 21-22, 2025, in New Delhi, and will be opened by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Bhutan’s Prime Minister Dasho Tshering Tobgay will deliver the keynote speech. This conclave offers a special space for leaders from different fields to share their stories and insights. The goal is to foster collaboration among leaders and encourage the sharing of impactful experiences, both good and bad. It aims to motivate young people to take on leadership roles. The event is set to expand the understanding of political leadership in India. Participants will include leaders from politics, sports, arts, media, public policy, business, and social sectors. They will discuss their personal journeys and the significant events that influenced their leadership styles, providing a diverse view on what leadership means.
19. Which sate government has recently implemented a one-year prohibition on the sale, production, storage, and distribution of gutkha and pan masala throughout the state?
[A] Bihar
[B] Uttar Pradesh
[C] Jharkhand
[D] West Bengal
Correct Answer: C [Jharkhand]
Notes:
The Jharkhand government has announced a one-year ban on the sale, production, storage, and distribution of gutkha and pan masala in the state. This decision was made official through a notification from the Health and Family Welfare Department. The ban is enforced under Section 30 (2) (a) of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, and the Food Safety and Standards (Prohibition and Restriction on Sales) Regulations, 2011. Health Minister Irfan Ansari highlighted the health dangers of gutkha, especially its link to oral cancer. This action aims to safeguard public health, particularly for young people, from the negative effects of tobacco use.
20. Which state has become the first in India to have a translation system in the legislative assembly?
[A] Rajasthan
[B] Karnataka
[C] Gujarat
[D] Uttar Pradesh
Correct Answer: D [Uttar Pradesh]
Notes:
The Uttar Pradesh assembly has distinguished itself as the first legislative body in India to incorporate a translation facility. This initiative is set to undergo evaluation by the Ruling Committee, with implementation contingent upon their approval. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has actively participated in translation rehearsals conducted in Awadhi, Braj, Bhojpuri, Bundelkhand, and English.
21. Who won the BBC Indian Sportswoman of the Year 2024?
[A] Sift Kaur Samra
[B] PV Sindhu
[C] Manu Bhaker
[D] Antim Panghal
Correct Answer: C [Manu Bhaker]
Notes:
Olympic medalist shooter Manu Bhaker has received the BBC Indian Sportswoman of the Year (ISWOTY) 2024 award. This esteemed recognition, presented by the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC), celebrates the accomplishments of Indian women athletes and their impact on sports over the last year. The winner is chosen through a mix of expert panel selections and public votes. Manu Bhaker stood out among a competitive group of nominees, which included golfer Aditi Ashok, para-shooter Avani Lekhara, cricketer Smriti Mandhana, and wrestler Vinesh Phogat. This is the fifth year of the ISWOTY award, highlighting its importance in promoting and honoring women’s sports in India.
22. The World Day of Social Justice is observed annually on which day?
[A] February 18
[B] February 19
[C] February 20
[D] February 21
Correct Answer: C [February 20]
Notes:
World Day of Social Justice is celebrated every year on February 20. This day emphasizes the importance of fairness, equality, and inclusivity in societies worldwide. Created by the United Nations (UN), it focuses on fighting poverty, social exclusion, gender inequality, unemployment, human rights abuses, and weak social protection systems. As the world faces issues like climate change, economic shifts, and social inequalities, the observance in 2025 becomes crucial for uniting global efforts for a fairer and more sustainable future. The theme for 2025 is “Strengthening a Just Transition for a Sustainable Future”.
