Post Views: 9
1. Which country has launched the Green Transition Alliance India (GTAI) to enhance its partnership with India?
[A] Denmark
[B] Switzerland
[C] France
[D] Italy
Correct Answer: A [Denmark]
Notes:
Denmark has launched the Green Transition Alliance India (GTAI) to boost its partnership with India in promoting sustainable energy solutions. This initiative aims to speed up the efforts of both countries towards achieving global carbon neutrality by encouraging collaboration among businesses and researchers. The GTAI is part of the larger Green Strategic Partnership (GSP) formed in 2020, which helps both nations reach their climate goals.
2. Which bank has signed an MoU with the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) to provide specialized banking services and high-value insurance coverage?
[A] Bank of Baroda
[B] Union Bank of India
[C] Punjab National Bank
[D] State Bank of India
Correct Answer: C [Punjab National Bank]
Notes:
Punjab National Bank (PNB) has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) to offer specialized banking services and premium insurance coverage for ITBP personnel, retirees, and their families. This agreement, signed on February 11, 2025, aims to improve financial security for ITBP members by providing enhanced banking services and substantial insurance options. The MoU was signed at the ITBP Headquarters in New Delhi by PNB’s General Manager, S.P. Singh, and ITBP’s Inspector General (Administration), S.C. Mamgain. The event was attended by several senior officials, including PNB’s Chief General Manager, Binay Kumar Gupta, and ITBP’s Deputy Inspector General (Administration), Vikash Burman.
3. Which company has introduced three initiatives Chhoti SIP, Tarun Yojana, and MITRA to enhance financial inclusion and investor awareness?
[A] Association of Mutual Funds in India (AMFI)
[B] UTI Asset Management
[C] Nippon Life India Asset
[D] SBI Mutual Fund
Correct Answer: A [Association of Mutual Funds in India (AMFI)]
Notes:
The Association of Mutual Funds in India (AMFI) has launched three new programs: Chhoti SIP, Tarun Yojana, and MITRA. These initiatives aim to improve financial inclusion and raise awareness among investors. Chhoti SIP allows people to start a Systematic Investment Plan with just ₹250, making mutual funds easier for new and underserved investors to access. These efforts support the Securities and Exchange Board of India’s (SEBI) goal to make mutual fund investments available to a wider range of people.
4. Which of the following has launched the Solar Soundbox, an innovative payment device designed for small merchants?
[A] Jio
[B] Paytm
[C] Airtel
[D] PhonePe
Correct Answer: B [Paytm]
Notes:
Paytm has introduced the Solar Soundbox, a new payment device for small merchants that uses solar energy to provide constant transaction alerts. It features two batteries—one powered by solar energy and the other by electricity—ensuring it works smoothly, especially in rural regions. Launched on February 20, 2025, this device aims to transform digital payments for small businesses in India, particularly benefiting hawkers, street vendors, and small shopkeepers by reducing reliance on electricity.
5. According to S&P Global Market Intelligence, India’s economy is estimated to grow at __ percent in FY25 and FY26.
[A] 6.4%
[B] 6.5%
[C] 7.2%
[D] 7.4%
Correct Answer: A [6.4%]
Notes:
India’s economy is expected to grow by 6.4% in both FY25 and FY26, according to S&P Global Market Intelligence. The recent 25 basis points rate cut by the RBI to 6.25% and tax relief measures are designed to encourage spending. Important factors for growth include lower inflation, a good monsoon season, and increased government spending. This growth forecast shows resilience despite global economic issues and changes in domestic policies. While it is close to the RBI’s prediction of 6.6% for FY25, it is slightly below S&P Global Ratings’ previous estimate of 6.8%. The report emphasizes the impact of monetary and fiscal policies, inflation trends, and government spending on this growth.
6. Which of the following has signed MoUs with NIFT and HPMC to boost tribal entrepreneurship?
[A] Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India Ltd (TRIFED)
[B] Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises
[C] Ministry of Finance
[D] Ministry of Culture
Correct Answer: A [Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India Ltd (TRIFED)]
Notes:
The Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India Ltd (TRIFED), part of the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, has made important agreements with the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) and the Himachal Pradesh Horticulture Produce Marketing and Processing Corporation Ltd (HPMC). These deals were signed at the Aadi Mahotsav event in New Delhi on February 24, 2025. The goal is to shift tribal marketing from a Business-to-Consumer (B2C) approach to a wider Business-to-Business (B2B) model, which will greatly improve market access and opportunities for tribal artisans and producers.
7. The Caspian Sea, which was recently seen in the news, shares a border with which countries?
[A] Azerbaijan, Iran, Kazakhstan, Russia, and Turkmenistan
[B] Azerbaijan, Iraq, Kazakhstan, Russia, and Turkmenistan
[C] Azerbaijan, Iran, Russia, Iraq, and Kazakhstan
[D] Azerbaijan, Iran, Kazakhstan, and Iraq
Correct Answer: A [Azerbaijan, Iran, Kazakhstan, Russia, and Turkmenistan]
Notes:
The Caspian Sea, the largest enclosed water body in the world, is encountering serious environmental issues. Recent findings show a decline in water levels, threatening both local wildlife and human activities. Environmentalists and government officials urge the five neighboring countries—Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, Russia, Turkmenistan, and Iran—to take immediate joint action. This situation requires urgent focus to stop further damage. Covering about 370,000 square kilometers, the Caspian Sea is bordered by five nations. Its northern section has lower salinity and shallower waters, while the southern part is saltier and reaches depths of 1,025 meters. This unique geography sets it apart from other bodies of water. The sea is home to over 130 fish species and is the largest spawning area for sturgeon, vital for caviar. It also supports more than 100 species of wetland birds. However, many of these species are at risk due to pollution, overfishing, and habitat loss. The Caspian Sea is facing critical environmental challenges, with pollution from oil and gas industries being widespread. Climate change and habitat destruction worsen these issues. The loss of biodiversity impacts local communities that depend on fishing and tourism for their income.
8. SWAYATT initiative, which was recently seen in the news, was launched in 2019 by which ministry?
[A] Ministry of Home
[B] Ministry of Commerce and Industry
[C] Ministry of Corporate Affairs
[D] Ministry of Finance
Correct Answer: B [Ministry of Commerce and Industry]
Notes:
The Government e-Marketplace (GeM) marked the sixth anniversary of its SWAYATT initiative in February 2025. This program, which stands for Startups, Women & Youth Advantage through e-Transactions, was launched by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry in 2019. SWAYATT aims to boost the involvement of women and youth in public procurement. It focuses on social inclusion and simplifies business processes for startups and Micro & Small Enterprises (MSEs). The initiative encourages participation from women-led businesses and young entrepreneurs in government contracts, creating direct market connections for these groups. It also promotes training for small sellers and motivates them to take part in public procurement. On its anniversary, GeM signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry Ladies Organisation (FICCI-FLO) to link women entrepreneurs directly with government buyers, aiming to cut out middlemen and improve product pricing.
9. Which space agency will launch SPHEREx telescope on February 28?
[A] ISRO
[B] NASA
[C] JAXA
[D] CNES
Correct Answer: B [NASA]
Notes:
On February 27, 2025, a mission will launch to create the most detailed and colorful map of the universe. It will investigate cosmic history and the chances of life beyond Earth. The telescope will work for two years, collecting data on galaxies, stars, and molecules that can form life. SPHEREx, which stands for Spectro-Photometer for the History of the Universe, Epoch of Reionization and Ices Explorer, will split light into 96 bands, unlike regular telescopes. This method allows for a thorough study of cosmic objects. It will scan the entire sky, unlike the more focused views of the James Webb and Hubble telescopes. A key aim of SPHEREx is to examine cosmic inflation, the rapid expansion of the universe after the Big Bang. Understanding this inflation is important as it gives essential insights into how the universe has changed. SPHEREx will map a billion galaxies to help test different inflation theories.
10. Which country Zhurong rover has recently found evidence of an ancient ocean on Mars?
[A] Russia
[B] United States
[C] China
[D] Japan
Correct Answer: C [China]
Notes:
Recent discoveries from China’s Zhurong rover indicate that Mars may have once had an ancient ocean. Data from ground-penetrating radar shows sandy beach-like formations beneath the Martian surface. This finding supports the idea of a significant ocean, called Deuteronilus, that existed around 3.5 to 4 billion years ago. At that time, Mars had a thicker atmosphere and warmer temperatures, which could have allowed for life. The Zhurong rover operated from May 2021 to May 2022, covering 1.2 miles (1.9 km) in Utopia Planitia, a large plain in the northern part of Mars. It used radar to explore up to 80 meters (260 feet) deep and found layers that looked like sand at depths of 33 to 115 feet (10 to 35 meters). These layers sloped like beaches on Earth, suggesting they are ancient coastal deposits. The existence of these structures implies that Mars had a significant and lasting body of water. Researchers think that waves and tides may have formed these deposits, similar to what happens on Earth. This ancient ocean might have played a role in shaping Mars’ climate and landscape, creating conditions that could have supported life.
11. Which of the following has recently launched Intuitive Machines’ IM-2 mission, transporting the Athena lunar lander to explore moon’s south pole?
[A] SpaceX
[B] ISRO
[C] JAXA
[D] CNES
Correct Answer: A [SpaceX]
Notes:
SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket successfully launched Intuitive Machines’ IM-2 mission on February 26, 2025, sending the Athena lunar lander to the moon. This mission is part of NASA’s Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS) program. Athena, a robotic lander, is set to embark on its journey, representing Intuitive Machines’ second lunar mission after their historic first private moon landing in February 2024. The lander will carry tools to examine the chemical makeup of lunar soil and look for water beneath the surface in the Moon’s south pole area.
12. A recent study has revealed that which countries have the highest breast cancer incidence rates globally?
[A] UK and Russia
[B] Australia and Canada
[C] United States and Canada
[D] Australia and New Zealand
Correct Answer: D [Australia and New Zealand]
Notes:
A new study by researchers from Australia and Canada shows that Australia and New Zealand have the highest rates of breast cancer in the world. This research looked at breast cancer cases and deaths in 185 countries, revealing major differences in risk levels. The study found that one in 20 women worldwide will be diagnosed with breast cancer during their lives, and one in 70 will die from it. It highlights the global differences in breast cancer risk, with higher rates in developed countries and more deaths in countries with lower Human Development Index (HDI) scores.
13. Who will be the next chancellor of Germany?
[A] Georg Bachmann
[B] Friedrich Merz
[C] Willi Ankermuller
[D] Erwin Ammann
Correct Answer: B [Friedrich Merz]
Notes:
Friedrich Merz serves as a prominent German politician and currently leads the Christian Democratic Union (CDU). Following his victory in the 2025 federal elections, he is poised to assume the role of Chancellor of Germany. Merz is recognized for his pro-business stance, stringent immigration policies, and initiatives aimed at enhancing Germany’s influence within the European Union. His tenure occurs during a period marked by economic difficulties, global challenges, and the increasing prominence of far-right political movements.
14. The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) has recently renamed its Recruits Training Centre in Arakkonam after Rajaditya Chola, he was the son of which Chola king?
[A] Parantaka I
[B] Gandaraditya
[C] Rajaraja Chola I
[D] Rajendra Chola I
Correct Answer: A [Parantaka I]
Notes:
The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) has changed the name of its Recruits Training Centre in Arakkonam to honor Rajaditya Cholan, an important figure in Tamil history. This name change, effective from February 24, 2025, pays tribute to the Chola prince who died in the Battle of Thakkolam in 949 CE. This battle was a significant event in the struggle between the Cholas and the Rashtrakutas. Rajaditya’s legacy remains a source of pride for Tamil culture. He was the son of Parantaka I and a notable warrior in the Chola dynasty, earning the title ‘Yanaimel Thunjiya Devar’, which means ‘The king who died on the back of an elephant’. His death in battle against the Rashtrakutas is celebrated in Tamil literature and inscriptions. The Battle of Thakkolam is remembered for its fierce fighting and the bravery shown by Rajaditya. During this battle, he led the Chola forces to defend their land but was ultimately struck down by an arrow from Butuga, a Rashtrakuta ally. This battle is significant in Tamil history for showcasing the courage and dedication of the Chola warriors.
15. Herath, the Mahashivratri festival celebrated in which state/UT?
[A] Uttarakhand
[B] Jammu and Kashmir
[C] Himachal Pradesh
[D] Uttar Pradesh
Correct Answer: B [Jammu and Kashmir]
Notes:
Herath is a festival celebrated by the Kashmiri Pandit community, highlighting their special observance of Mahashivratri. It usually starts on the 13th day of Phalgun, which occurs in February or March, and continues until the new moon. The name “Herath” comes from “Har-Ratri,” meaning “night of Hara,” referring to Lord Shiva. This festival represents the unity of divine powers and honors the sacred bond between Shiva and Parvati. Herath has significant historical ties to the Kashmir Valley and showcases the region’s cultural heritage, reflecting the blend of traditions among different communities. It emphasizes the importance of faith and cultural identity for Kashmiri Pandits. The celebration begins with cleaning the home, symbolizing renewal and readiness. A day before Shivratri, families conduct the “Vatuk Pooja,” placing a kalash filled with water and walnuts in a sacred area. This ritual invites blessings and hopes for the family. A priest plays a key role in leading the rituals, fostering a sense of community and devotion.
16. The SARAS Aajeevika Mela 2025, one of India’s most celebrated exhibition of rural art, craft, and tradition is held in which place?
[A] Dehradun, Uttarakhand
[B] Amritsar, Punjab
[C] Jaipur, Rajasthan
[D] Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh
Correct Answer: D [Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh]
Notes:
The Saras Aajeevika Mela 2025, a major exhibition of rural art, craft, and culture in India, will be held at Noida Haat, Sector 33 A, Noida, Uttar Pradesh. This significant event is organized by the Ministry of Rural Development in partnership with the National Institute of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj (NIRDPR) and will take place from February 21 to March 10, 2025. The Mela focuses on promoting the skills and creativity of Self Help Groups (SHGs) from all over the country. It will be opened by Union Minister for Rural Development, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, along with Ministers of State for Rural Development, Dr. Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani and Shri Kamlesh Paswan. This year’s theme, “Developing Export Potential of Lakhpati SHG Didis,” supports the government’s goal of a self-sufficient rural India and aligns with the ‘Vocal for Local’ and ‘Viksit Bharat by 2047’ initiatives led by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi.
17. Heart Lamp has been included in the longlist for the esteemed International Booker Prize 2025. Who is the author of this work?
[A] Solvej Balle
[B] Banu Mushtaq
[C] Vincent Delecroix
[D] Ibtisam Azem
Correct Answer: B [Banu Mushtaq]
Notes:
Banu Mushtaq, a Kannada author, has had her short story collection Heart Lamp, translated into English by Deepa Bhasthi, longlisted for the International Booker Prize 2025. This is a historic moment as it is the first Kannada work to be recognized on the longlist, which celebrates exceptional translated fiction. The longlist includes 13 books from 15 different nationalities and features 10 original languages, marking the debut of both Kannada and Romanian in this prestigious selection.
18. Who has been received the National Dhanwantari Ayurveda Award 2025?
[A] Vaidya Tara Chand Sharma
[B] Vaidya Maya Ram Uniyal
[C] Vaidya Sameer Govind Jamadagni
[D] All of the above
Correct Answer: D [All of the above]
Notes:
The Ministry of Ayush has awarded three notable practitioners with the National Dhanwantari Ayurveda Awards for their outstanding work in traditional Indian medicine. Each recipient received a certificate, a statue of Lord Dhanwantari, and a cash prize of ₹5 lakh. Vaidya Tara Chand Sharma: Known as a Nadi Vaidya and author, Sharma has greatly improved Ayurvedic diagnostics and literature. Vaidya Maya Ram Uniyal: With over sixty years of experience in Dravyaguna Vigyana, Uniyal’s extensive writings and leadership have motivated many in the field. Vaidya Sameer Govind Jamadagni: As the founder of the Vishwa Vyakhyanmala national conference and Vishwa Ayurveda Prabodhini, Jamadagni has changed Ayurveda education over the past forty years.
19. The first International Conference on Carbon Markets-Prakriti 2025 recently held in which city?
[A] Hyderabad
[B] New Delhi
[C] Bengaluru
[D] Chennai
Correct Answer: B [New Delhi]
Notes:
The inaugural International Conference on Carbon Markets-Prakriti took place in New Delhi on February 24-25, 2025. This event convened a diverse group of stakeholders, including experts, policymakers, industry leaders, researchers, and practitioners involved in carbon credit trading. The primary objective of the conference was to enhance understanding of the Indian carbon market and to explore global trends in carbon credit systems. The Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), operating under the Union Ministry of Power, was responsible for organizing the conference. The opening ceremony was presided over by Manohar Lal Khattar, the Union Minister for Power and Housing & Urban Affairs.
20. Who has been inaugurated the Advantage Assam 2.0 Investment & Infrastructure Summit 2025 in Guwahati?
[A] PM Narendra Modi
[B] President Draupadi Murmu
[C] Union Minister Amit Shah
[D] Union Minister Nirmala Sitharaman
Correct Answer: A [PM Narendra Modi]
Notes:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi opened the Advantage Assam 2.0 Investment and Infrastructure Summit 2025 in Guwahati, showcasing the Northeast’s potential as a key economic center. Big investments from companies like Adani and Ambani are set to boost areas such as energy, logistics, and tourism. This summit marks an important step in Assam’s economic growth, with major industry leaders committing to invest. The event also emphasized Assam’s shift towards being a peaceful and business-friendly region. Reliance Industries and the Adani Group both revealed plans to invest ₹50,000 crore each in Assam over the next five years.
21. Which of the following has established a five-member ad-hoc committee to oversee the Boxing Federation of India (BFI)?
[A] Ministry of Youth Affairs Sports
[B] Indian Olympic Association (IOA)
[C] World Olympians Association (WOA)
[D] None of the above
Correct Answer: B [Indian Olympic Association (IOA)]
Notes:
The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has established a five-member ad-hoc committee to oversee the operations of the Boxing Federation of India (BFI) due to its inability to hold elections within the designated timeframe. This decision, communicated by IOA President PT Usha, seeks to reestablish administrative order within the federation. The committee, chaired by Madhukant Pathak, is responsible for organizing elections and managing daily activities. In contrast, BFI President Ajay Singh has criticized this action, deeming it unlawful and a breach of the IOA’s constitutional guidelines.
22. World NGO Day is celebrated every year on which day?
[A] February 24
[B] February 25
[C] February 26
[D] February 27
Correct Answer: D [February 27]
Notes:
World NGO Day is celebrated every year on February 27th. This day is dedicated to recognizing and appreciating the vital roles that independent organizations play in society. More than 89 countries from over six continents take part in the celebrations. Marcis Liors Skadmanis, a social entrepreneur, established this day in 2009, but it was first celebrated on February 27, 2014. It highlights the significance of all nonprofit and non-governmental organizations worldwide.
