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1. Recently, how many Latin American criminal organizations has the United States designated as Foreign Terrorist Organizations (FTOs)?
[A] 6
[B] 8
[C] 10
[D] 12
Correct Answer: B [8]
Notes:
Recently, the United States labeled eight criminal groups from Latin America as Foreign Terrorist Organizations (FTOs). This move has sparked discussions about its effects on US foreign policy and stability in the region. The groups identified include Tren de Aragua, Mara Salvatrucha (MS-13), and Cartel de Sinaloa. Some critics believe this designation may increase tensions between the US and Latin American nations, especially Mexico. Foreign Terrorist Organizations are identified by the US Secretary of State based on criteria in the Immigration and Nationality Act. To be classified as such, a group must either participate in terrorist activities or have the ability and intention to do so. Terrorism is defined to include actions like sabotage, kidnapping, and murder.
2. Which country’s interim government has declared February 25 as the “National Military Martyrdom Day”?
[A] Myanmar
[B] Bangladesh
[C] Sri Lanka
[D] Mauritius
Correct Answer: B [Bangladesh]
Notes:
Bangladesh’s interim government has announced February 25 as “National Military Martyrdom Day.” This decision comes after extensive talks led by Prof. Muhammed Yunus about the 2009 Pilkhana killings. During February 25-26, 2009, a failed mutiny by some members of the Bangladesh Rifles (BDR) led to the deaths of 74 military personnel, including 57 army officers. This incident was a significant moment in the military and political history of Bangladesh. The mutiny involved BDR members trying to take control, looting weapons, and attempting a coup. The military acted quickly to stop the uprising. The tragic event resulted in many lives lost, making it one of the darkest days in the country’s military history. Establishing February 25 as a day of remembrance honors the sacrifices of military personnel. It is similar to February 21, which remembers students who died in a police shooting in 1952. This month highlights the importance of linguistic and cultural identity in Bangladesh, rooted in its historical struggles.
3. Which company has analytics projects India’s GDP growth to slow to 6.4% in 2025, down from 6.6% in 2024?
[A] IHS Markit
[B] Bloomberg
[C] Moody’s
[D] Fitch
Correct Answer: C [Moody’s]
Notes:
Moody’s Analytics forecasts that India’s GDP growth will decrease to 6.4% in 2025, down from 6.6% in 2024. This slowdown is attributed to new tariffs from the U.S., declining global demand, and a slowdown in the regional economy. To maintain growth, the government is likely to prioritize boosting domestic demand, implementing fiscal reforms, and encouraging investment. The report indicates that India’s economic growth is set to slow slightly, influenced by global factors such as U.S. tariffs and reduced demand, which may affect exports. Additionally, the Asia-Pacific region is experiencing lower growth, with China’s GDP expected to drop from 5% in 2024 to 4.2% in 2025.
4. Which insurance company has introduced Bima-ASBA, becoming the first insurer in India to implement this IRDAI-backed facility?
[A] Bajaj Allianz Life
[B] Max Life Insurance
[C] HDFC Life Insurance
[D] ICICI Prudential Life Insurance
Correct Answer: A [Bajaj Allianz Life]
Notes:
Bajaj Allianz Life Insurance has launched Bima-ASBA, becoming the first insurance company in India to offer this IRDAI-supported feature. Introduced on February 22, 2025, Bima-ASBA enables policyholders to reserve up to ₹2 lakh in their bank accounts using UPI’s One-Time Mandate instead of paying premiums upfront. This new payment method, known as Bima-Application Supported by Blocked Amount (Bima-ASBA), aims to improve transparency and ease in premium payments. By allowing policyholders to block a certain amount in their accounts, it provides better financial security and control. This initiative supports IRDAI’s goal of making insurance more accessible and simplifying transactions for customers.
5. The Soliga tribe and the Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple (BRT) Tiger Reserve, which has been in the news recently, are located in which Indian state?
[A] Kerala
[B] Andhra Pradesh
[C] Karnataka
[D] Maharashtra
Correct Answer: C [Karnataka]
Notes:
The Prime Minister highlighted the Soliga community residing in the Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple Tiger Reserve (BRT) during the 119th episode of Mann Ki Baat, commending their contributions to tiger conservation efforts. The Soligas, who are indigenous inhabitants of the forests in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, derive their name from the phrase meaning “children of bamboo,” which signifies their profound relationship with the natural environment. In 2011, they became the first tribe to have their forest rights officially acknowledged within a tiger reserve. The Soligas communicate in Sholaga, Kannada, and Tamil, and their dwellings are typically constructed from bamboo and mud. Their livelihood is primarily based on shifting agriculture, the collection of forest products, and honey harvesting. Additionally, they adhere to Hindu traditions, as well as practices rooted in naturism and animism.
6. The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has recently successfully conducted the ‘Sagar Kavach’ security exercise in which state coastline?
[A] Odisha
[B] Karnataka
[C] West Bengal
[D] Andhra Pradesh
Correct Answer: C [West Bengal]
Notes:
The Indian Coast Guard carried out the ‘Sagar Kavach’ exercise along the 158 km coastline of West Bengal on February 21-22, 2025, to boost coastal security. This two-day drill aimed to improve responses to hijacking, smuggling, and IED threats while fostering better teamwork among the Navy, BSF, CISF, and local police. The exercise was designed to refine Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and enhance cooperation among various agencies to address potential dangers along India’s eastern maritime border.
7. Which country has developed a missile defense system similar to the Iron Dome?
[A] Israel
[B] China
[C] France
[D] Japan
Correct Answer: A [Israel]
Notes:
The President of the United States has enacted an Executive Order aimed at the creation of a missile defense system akin to the Iron Dome, designed to safeguard against ballistic, hypersonic, and cruise missile threats. The Iron Dome, which serves as Israel’s short-range air defense mechanism, is capable of intercepting incoming rockets mid-flight. This system is the product of collaboration between Rafael Advanced Defense Systems and Israel Aerospace Industries. Notably, it operates effectively under various weather conditions, both during the day and at night.
8. Which of the following has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to restore and conserve historic water bodies at heritage sites across India?
[A] Kinley
[B] Bisleri
[C] Himalayan
[D] Aquafina
Correct Answer: B [Bisleri]
Notes:
Bisleri International has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) as part of the ‘Adopt a Heritage 2.0 Programme’. This agreement focuses on restoring and protecting historic water bodies at heritage sites throughout India. This effort is part of Bisleri’s CSR initiative called ‘Nayi Umeed’, which aims to blend heritage conservation with sustainable water practices. The collaboration will start with the revival of four historic water bodies, promoting ecological restoration and boosting tourism.
9. Which company has recently entered into a strategic partnership with the Defence Institute of Advanced Technology (DIAT)?
[A] Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL)
[B] Mahindra Aerospace
[C] Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)
[D] Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA)
Correct Answer: C [Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)]
Notes:
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has formed a strategic alliance with the Defence Institute of Advanced Technology (DIAT) in Pune by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This partnership aims to enhance collaboration between industry and academia. By joining forces, they plan to promote innovative research, skill development, and technological progress in the aerospace field. HAL’s Management Academy (HMA) will be central to this effort, providing HAL employees with chances for advanced education, research, and training in new aerospace technologies.
10. Who has been appointed as the new Director of the Institute of Economic Growth (IEG)?
[A] Sabyasachi Kar
[B] Umesh Chandra
[C] Chetan Ghate
[D] Sathish Rao
Correct Answer: A [Sabyasachi Kar]
Notes:
Professor Sabyasachi Kar has been named the new Director of the Institute of Economic Growth (IEG) in New Delhi, starting February 6, 2025. He will replace Professor Chetan Ghate and has a strong background in macroeconomics, policy research, and academic leadership. The IEG, a leading research and training center in New Delhi, is recognized for its significant contributions to economic and social research. Under Professor Kar’s guidance, the institute aims to enhance its influence on India’s economic policies.
11. Who has recently been appointed as the Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister of India?
[A] Suresh Chandran
[B] Ajit Doval
[C] Shaktikanta Das
[D] Charan Singh
Correct Answer: C [Shaktikanta Das]
Notes:
Shaktikanta Das has been named the Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister of India. This significant appointment took place on February 22, 2025. Das is a retired Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer who was the Governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) from 2018 to December 2024. His deep knowledge of monetary and fiscal policies makes him well-suited for this important position. He joined the IAS in 1980, representing Tamil Nadu. He earned a history degree from St. Stephen’s College, University of Delhi. Throughout his career, he held important roles, including Fertilisers Secretary and Revenue Secretary, and served as the Economic Affairs Secretary until his retirement in May 2017. Das played a key role in preparing eight Union Budgets while working in the Ministry of Finance.
12. Jhumoir Binandini is a traditional dance from which state?
[A] Meghalaya
[B] Mizoram
[C] Nagaland
[D] Assam
Correct Answer: D [Assam]
Notes:
The Prime Minister of India participated in Jhumoir Binandini 2025, a significant cultural festival that showcased the talents of 8,000 performers. Jhumoir, often referred to as Jhumur, is a traditional folk dance originating from the Adivasi tea tribes of Assam, typically performed during the harvest season. This dance is accompanied by various musical instruments, including the Madal, Dhol, Taal, and Flute. The dancers engage in a circular formation, characterized by rhythmic footwork and graceful swaying movements. Women adorn themselves in vibrant sarees, while men don dhotis and kurtas. This dance serves as a representation of unity and inclusivity, reflecting Assam’s rich cultural heritage and promoting social cohesion and community celebration.
13. Which airport has becoming the first airport in India to receive the esteemed “Sarvashrestha Suraksha Puraskar (Golden Trophy)?
[A] Manohar (Mopa) International Airport
[B] Indira Gandhi International Airport
[C] Chennai International Airport
[D] Kempegowda International Airport
Correct Answer: A [Manohar (Mopa) International Airport]
Notes:
Manohar International Airport (GOX), run by GMR Goa International Airport Ltd. (GGIAL), has made history as the first Indian airport to win the “Sarvashrestha Suraksha Puraskar (Golden Trophy)” at the NSCI Safety Awards 2024 in the ‘Service Sector’ category. The award ceremony took place in Mumbai. This achievement showcases the airport’s outstanding performance in Occupational Safety and Health (OSH), its dedication to minimizing workplace injuries, and its implementation of top safety practices. The airport’s effective safety strategies and record of zero incidents were key factors in earning this prestigious award.
14. Who was the first Indian to receive an Honorary Knighthood (KBE) from the United Kingdom?
[A] Gautam Adani
[B] Sunil Bharti Mittal
[C] Anil Ambani
[D] Anand Mahindra
Correct Answer: B [Sunil Bharti Mittal]
Notes:
Sunil Bharti Mittal, the founder and chairman of Bharti Enterprises, has received an Honorary Knighthood (KBE) for his important work in boosting business relations between India and the UK. He was recognized as a Knight Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (KBE) during a special ceremony at the British High Commission in New Delhi. This honor was granted by King Charles III, making him the first Indian to receive it in the new king’s reign. Mittal has been instrumental in promoting trade and investment between the two countries, especially through Airtel Africa, Eutelsat OneWeb, and his role in the India-UK CEO Forum.
15. The recent controversy surrounding Vikatan, a newspaper in which language, indicates concern about freedom of expression in India?
[A] Kannada
[B] Telugu
[C] Malayalam
[D] Tamil
Correct Answer: D [Tamil]
Notes:
The recent issue with the Tamil magazine Vikatan raises concerns about freedom of expression in India. On February 15, 2025, the magazine’s website was taken down after a complaint from K. Annamalai, the BJP’s Tamil Nadu president. The complaint was about a cartoon featuring Prime Minister Narendra Modi and former U.S. President Donald Trump. This event has drawn criticism from many political figures, including Chief Minister M.K. Stalin. Vikatan is well-known in Tamil media for its political insights and entertainment news. The controversial cartoon was published in the February 10 edition of Vikatan Plus, the magazine’s digital service. It depicted Prime Minister Modi in chains, representing the struggles of migrants being sent back from the U.S. to India. This image caused a stir on social media and led to formal complaints. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) was reportedly involved in the decision to block Vikatan’s website, with the order sent through the Department of Telecommunications to internet providers. According to Section 69A of the Information Technology Act, 2000, the government can restrict websites to safeguard national interests. The lack of clarity is concerning, as the government did not officially announce the blocking order.
16. Which university has retained its top position for the 14th consecutive year in the Times Higher Education (THE) World Reputation Rankings 2025?
[A] Indian Institute of Science (IISc)
[B] Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
[C] University of Oxford
[D] Harvard University
Correct Answer: D [Harvard University]
Notes:
The Times Higher Education (THE) World Reputation Rankings 2025 evaluate the most respected universities globally, focusing on academic reputation and worldwide impact. Harvard University has maintained its number one spot for the 14th year in a row, with the University of Oxford and MIT tied for second place. This year, four universities from India are included in the rankings, but all have dropped in position. Notably, Shiksha ‘O’ Anusandhan from Odisha has made its debut in the 201-300 range.
17. Which ministry has recently released the Compendium of Datasets and Registries in India 2024?
[A] Ministry of Finance
[B] Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation
[C] Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology
[D] Ministry of Current Affairs
Correct Answer: B [Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation]
Notes:
The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation has published the Compendium of Datasets and Registries in India 2024. This effort improves access to data for better decision-making. It is part of the ongoing work to update the National Statistical System. The compendium is useful for various groups, including policymakers, researchers, and the public. Its goal is to bring together government data into one place. It offers a single source for about 270 datasets from 40 different Ministries. This resource spans various areas like agriculture, health, education, and social justice. It is made to help users easily find and understand available data. The compendium includes standardised metadata, which provides information on how data is collected, how often it is updated, and the policies for sharing data. This standardisation improves data reliability, ensuring users can trust the information they find.
18. Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Global Investors Summit 2025 in which city of India?
[A] Bhopal
[B] Hyderabad
[C] Greater Noida
[D] New Delhi
Correct Answer: A [Bhopal]
Notes:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi opened the Global Investors Summit 2025 in Bhopal, presenting 18 new industrial policies to make Madhya Pradesh a major investment center. The summit drew prominent industrialists and international investors. PM Modi emphasized India’s fast economic growth and its importance in global supply chains, especially in aerospace. He referenced positive forecasts from organizations like the World Bank, OECD, and the UN. The goal of the summit is to bring in investments from different sectors, strengthening India’s status as a top global economic power.
19. The 27th Western Zonal Council meeting recently held in which city of India?
[A] Ahmadabad
[B] Pune
[C] Bombay
[D] Gandhinagar
Correct Answer: B [Pune]
Notes:
Union Home Minister Amit Shah chaired the 27th Western Zonal Council meeting in Pune, Maharashtra, on Saturday. The meeting featured the Chief Ministers of Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Goa, along with the Administrator of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu, and senior officials from both state and central governments. Zonal Councils play an important role in promoting cooperative federalism in India. They help states communicate, tackle shared issues, and improve collaboration among regions. The idea of Zonal Councils was introduced by Jawaharlal Nehru in 1956 to address linguistic disputes after states were reorganized. By forming councils, Nehru aimed to foster cooperative governance. The States Reorganisation Act of 1956 officially created five Zonal Councils. The Union Home Minister leads all Zonal Councils, with a rotating Vice-Chairman, usually a Chief Minister from a member state, changing each year. Each council also includes ministers from member states, representatives from union territories, and officials from the Planning Commission. The Western Zonal Council includes Goa, Gujarat, Maharashtra, and the Union Territories of Daman & Diu, and Dadra & Nagar Haveli.
20. Who has become the fastest batsman to score 14,000 runs in One Day Internationals (ODIs)?
[A] Rohith Sharma
[B] Virat Kohli
[C] Joe Root
[D] David Warner
Correct Answer: B [Virat Kohli]
Notes:
Virat Kohli has made history in cricket by becoming the fastest player to score 14,000 runs in One Day Internationals (ODIs). He reached this achievement in only 287 innings, beating the previous records held by Sachin Tendulkar (350 innings) and Kumar Sangakkara (378 innings). Kohli hit this milestone during a Champions Trophy 2025 match against Pakistan in Dubai, where he scored an unbeaten century, marking his 51st ODI century. His consistent performance and skill in chasing targets have established him as a record-breaking player in ODIs. Since reaching 8,000 runs in 2017, Kohli has been the quickest to every 1,000-run milestone, showcasing his strength in this format.
21. Who was made a remarkable comeback from retirement by securing the Octane Sydney Classic title?
[A] Saurav Ghosal
[B] Paul Coll
[C] Ali Faraq
[D] Abhay Singh
Correct Answer: A [Saurav Ghosal]
Notes:
Indian squash star Saurav Ghosal has made an impressive comeback from retirement by winning the Octane Sydney Classic title. The ex-World No. 10 had left the Professional Squash Association (PSA) Tour in April 2023 but still wanted to represent India. He rejoined the PSA Tour on January 1, 2025, to pursue his goals. In the final, the 38-year-old second seed dominated Egypt’s Abdelrahman Nasser, winning in straight sets.
22. International Asperger’s Day is celebrated every year on which day?
[A] February 18
[B] February 19
[C] February 20
[D] February 21
Correct Answer: A [February 18]
Notes:
International Asperger’s Day is observed annually on February 18, a date recognized by the United Nations General Assembly since 2007. On this occasion, the National Institute for Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (NIEPID) organizes various initiatives aimed at enhancing awareness and fostering inclusivity. Asperger’s Syndrome, classified as a neurodevelopmental disorder within the autism spectrum, is characterized by difficulties in social communication while typically not exhibiting significant delays in language development. Those diagnosed with Asperger’s often possess average to above-average intelligence.
23. Central Excise Day is observed annually on which day?
[A] February 22
[B] February 23
[C] February 24
[D] February 25
Correct Answer: C [February 24]
Notes:
Central Excise Day is celebrated every year on February 24 to remember the creation of the Central Excise and Salt Act in 1944. This day honors the work of the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) and its officers, who play a key role in India’s economic growth through effective tax management. While the specific theme for Central Excise Day 2025 has not yet been announced, the celebrations typically focus on improving tax compliance, raising awareness about the importance of excise duties, and recognizing the efforts of excise officers in maintaining economic stability. The theme usually supports goals of making tax administration simpler to boost economic growth and development.
24. Mayadhar Raut, who recently passed away at the age of 92, he was renowned maestro of which dance?
[A] Kuchipudi
[B] Odissi
[C] Bharatanatyam
[D] Yakshagana
Correct Answer: B [Odissi]
Notes:
Mayadhar Raut, a renowned Odissi teacher often called the “Father of Odissi dance,” passed away on February 22, 2025, at the age of 92 in his home in Delhi. His family reported that he died peacefully due to old age. Raut, who received the Padma Shri award, was instrumental in reviving and structuring Odissi dance during the 1950s. His contributions, including the creation of Sanchari Bhava, Mudra Viniyoga, and Rasa Theory, were essential in establishing Odissi as a recognized classical dance form.
