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1. What type of system does India plan to implement across its entire railway network in six years with the aim of increasing safety and efficiency?
[A] Kavach
[B] Suraksh
[C] Vishwas
[D] Sugam
Correct Answer: A [Kavach]
Notes:
India’s railway safety is set for a big change with the launch of the Kavach Automatic Train Protection (ATP) system across the country. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced that this extensive project will be implemented throughout the entire railway network in the next six years. The goal is straightforward – to make train operations safer and more efficient, while also increasing passenger trust in one of the largest railway systems in the world.
2. The Economic Survey for 2024-25 has highlighted a significant rise in the Female Labour Force Participation Rate (FLFPR) in which country?
[A] Pakistan
[B] Bangladesh
[C] Sri Lanka
[D] India
Correct Answer: D [India]
Notes:
The Economic Survey for 2024-25 showed a notable increase in the Female Labour Force Participation Rate (FLFPR) in India, mainly due to more women in rural areas entering the job market. This rise is seen as an important factor in the overall improvement of the country’s labor market. Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented these findings on January 31, 2025, when she introduced the survey in Parliament. The growth in FLFPR is linked to government programs, initiatives for women entrepreneurs, and better integration of women into economic activities. Here are the main points from the survey.
3. US President Donald Trump has recently issued an executive order enforcing high tariffs on which countries imports?
[A] Mexico, Canada, and China
[B] Russia, Mexico, Canada, and China
[C] Iraq, Iran, Mexico, Canada, and China
[D] Pakistan, Mexico, Canada, and China
Correct Answer: A [Mexico, Canada, and China]
Notes:
On February 1, 2025, President Donald Trump of the United States enacted an executive order that established significant tariffs on goods imported from Mexico, Canada, and China. This action was intended to tackle concerns related to illegal immigration and the trafficking of fentanyl. In response, the countries impacted by these tariffs implemented robust retaliatory actions. This decision has ignited a worldwide economic discourse, with experts cautioning about the potential for inflation, a deceleration in economic growth, and the possibility of escalating trade conflicts. U.S. imposed 10% tariffs on China, 25% on Mexico & Canada. Canada imposed 25% tariffs on $155B U.S. goods; Mexico responded with trade measures. Higher inflation, price hikes on essential goods, estimated $1,170 income loss per U.S. household.
4. The use of invasive fish species for mosquito control has sparked controversy in which country recently?
[A] United States
[B] Pakistan
[C] India
[D] China
Correct Answer: C [India]
Notes:
The use of non-native fish species for controlling mosquitoes has caused debate in India. The National Green Tribunal has asked the government to explain the release of two foreign fish species – Gambusia affinis (Mosquitofish) and Poecilia reticulata (Guppy). These fish are used in several states to reduce mosquito numbers. However, there are worries about their effects on local ecosystems. Invasive species are organisms that are not originally from an area and can harm local wildlife. They often take resources away from native species, leading to ecological problems. Gambusia affinis, known as Mosquitofish, is popular for its ability to eat mosquito larvae. Yet, it has been banned in places like Australia and New Zealand because it can be harmful. Poecilia reticulata, or Guppy, is also used for mosquito control. Both species have been introduced in many Indian states, raising concerns about their ecological impact. The National Biodiversity Authority has labeled Gambusia affinis and Poecilia reticulata as invasive due to their negative effects. Mosquitofish have been released in states such as Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Gujarat, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, Odisha, Punjab, and Andhra Pradesh. Guppies have mainly been released in Maharashtra, Karnataka, Punjab, and Odisha. The spread of these species threatens local biodiversity.
5. The rusty-spotted cat, the world’s smallest cat species, was recently spotted in the forests of which district, West Bengal?
[A] Alipurduar
[B] Purulia
[C] Darjeeling
[D] Howrah
Correct Answer: B [Purulia]
Notes:
The rusty-spotted cat, the smallest cat species in the world, was recently seen in the forests of Purulia district, West Bengal. Researchers from the Human and Environment Alliance League (HEAL) made this discovery while looking into pangolin poaching. The sighting, recorded on camera on January 12, 2025, is the first time this rare animal has been documented in this area. The rusty-spotted cat (Prionailurus rubiginosus) weighs around 900 grams and is about one and a half feet long, with its tail adding another foot. This species is even smaller than a domestic cat. Its distinct look and behavior make it hard to find in the wild. According to the IUCN Red List, it is classified as Near Threatened. This cat mainly lives in dry, deciduous forests in India and Sri Lanka, and recent reports suggest it may also be found in Nepal. About 80 percent of its global population is in India, where its habitats are at risk due to land development. Known habitats include the forests of Chhattisgarh, Odisha, and Jharkhand, but the recent sighting in Purulia raises questions about its movement patterns.
6. Which country’s Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a new painkiller called suzetrigine?
[A] China
[B] United States
[C] India
[D] Russia
Correct Answer: B [United States]
Notes:
The FDA has given the green light to a new painkiller named suzetrigine. This medication is non-opioid and aims to relieve pain without the risk of addiction that comes with traditional opioids. Marketed as Journavx, it is produced by Vertex Pharmaceuticals. However, it is priced at $15.50 per pill, which is quite high. Unlike opioids, suzetrigine works by blocking pain signals before they reach the brain. It focuses on specific nerve endings called nociceptors that sense tissue damage and transmit pain signals through the spinal cord. By stopping these signals, the brain does not register the injury, providing pain relief without causing feelings of euphoria. This helps lower the chance of addiction. Suzetrigine is prescribed in 50-milligram doses to be taken every 12 hours, starting with a higher dose of 100 milligrams. This approach aims to effectively manage pain while reducing the risk of dependency linked to traditional pain medications.
7. Two New Cardamomum Species Elettaria nucifera and Elettaria tulipifera were recently discovered in which state?
[A] Kerala
[B] Karnataka
[C] Goa
[D] Maharashtra
Correct Answer: A [Kerala]
Notes:
Recent studies have uncovered new information about cardamom, often called the “Queen of Spices.” An international group of researchers has found six close relatives of Green cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum), broadening our knowledge of this important spice. This finding could improve spice production and conservation efforts. The research team included scientists from Denmark, India, Colombia, the Czech Republic, Singapore, Sri Lanka, and the U.K. Previously, Green cardamom was thought to be the only species in its genus. Now, researchers have identified six other related species. Four of these were once classified under a different genus, Alpinia. Two new species—Elettaria facifera and Elettaria tulipifera—were discovered in the Western Ghats of Kerala. Elettaria facifera was located in the Periyar Tiger Reserve in Idukki district, while Elettaria tulipifera was found in the Agasthyamalai Hills (Thiruvananthapuram) and Munnar (Idukki). Elettaria facifera is known for its fruit that resembles an open mouth, and it is called ‘Vai noki elam’ by the Mannan tribe. Elettaria tulipifera features a flower structure shaped like a tulip with large red bracts.
8. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) recently encountered a setback with which satellite?
[A] GSAT-29
[B] RISAT-1A
[C] AstroSat
[D] NVS-02
Correct Answer: D [NVS-02]
Notes:
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) faced a challenge with the NVS-02 satellite. Launched on January 29, 2025, this was ISRO’s 100th launch. The goal was to place the satellite in a specific orbital position. Unfortunately, a valve issue stopped the necessary orbit adjustments. The NVS-02 satellite was launched from Sriharikota and is the second in the Navigation with Indian Constellation (NVS) series. The launch went smoothly, with all vehicle stages working perfectly. The satellite was placed into a Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit. Right now, the NVS-02 satellite is in an elliptical orbit, but its systems are functioning well. Communication with ground stations is active, and the solar panels are deployed and producing power as expected.
9. DRDO and Which IIT institution has developed Large Area Additive Manufacturing (LAAM) system?
[A] IIT Bombay
[B] IIT Madras
[C] IIT Hyderabad
[D] IIT Kharagpur
Correct Answer: C [IIT Hyderabad]
Notes:
Recent progress in Large Area Additive Manufacturing (LAAM) has come from a partnership between IIT Hyderabad, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), and several industry collaborators. This teamwork has led to the creation of an advanced LAAM system that aims to transform the manufacturing of metal parts, especially in the aerospace industry. LAAM is a method that enables quick production of large metal components. The system uses Powder-based Directed Energy Deposition technology, which combines lasers and blown-powder techniques to produce detailed parts, including complex rocket components, thereby enhancing India’s defense and aerospace strength. This technology is essential for sectors that need high accuracy and efficiency in their manufacturing processes. The LAAM system, developed at the DRDO-Industry-Academia Centre of Excellence (DIA-CoE) at IIT Hyderabad, represents a significant milestone in India’s additive manufacturing progress. It was created through collaboration with IIT Hyderabad, DRDO’s Defence Research & Development Laboratory (DRDL), and industry partners. The LAAM system at IIT Hyderabad has a large build volume of 1m x 1m x 3m, making it one of the biggest metal additive manufacturing machines in India. It includes dual heads that help with thermal balancing and increase production speed, allowing for the creation of larger components crucial for aerospace and defense applications.
10. Which country’s Shenzhou-19 has recently successfully conducted the first in-orbit demonstration of “artificial photosynthesis” technology?
[A] South Korea
[B] North Korea
[C] Japan
[D] China
Correct Answer: D [China]
Notes:
Recently, the Shenzhou-19 crew in China made a significant step in space exploration by successfully demonstrating “artificial photosynthesis” technology in orbit for the first time. This advancement enables the creation of oxygen and components for rocket fuel in space, which is crucial for future missions, including a planned crewed moon landing by 2030. Artificial photosynthesis imitates how plants use sunlight, carbon dioxide, and water to produce oxygen and glucose. The technology used by the Shenzhou-19 crew employs semiconductor catalysts to transform carbon dioxide and water into oxygen and hydrocarbon fuels. This method is energy-efficient, working well at room temperature and normal atmospheric pressure. The crew carried out 12 experiments with a specially designed drawer-like device, focusing on key technologies such as converting carbon dioxide at room temperature, gas transport and separation in microgravity, and real-time monitoring of reaction products. This successful process led to the production of ethylene, which could be used as rocket fuel.
11. Which country recently launched the Michibiki 6 navigation satellite?
[A] South Korea
[B] North Korea
[C] Japan
[D] China
Correct Answer: C [Japan]
Notes:
Japan has reached a notable achievement with the successful launch of the Michibiki 6 satellite, which was carried into orbit by the newly developed H3 rocket. This significant event took place at the Tanegashima Space Center, where the satellite detached from the rocket 29 minutes post-launch. Michibiki 6 marks the fifth addition to Japan’s quasi-zenith satellite system (QZSS), aimed at enhancing navigation capabilities and improving positioning accuracy in collaboration with the US GPS system. Japan has set a goal to expand this satellite network to seven by 2026, with an ultimate objective of achieving a total of 11 satellites by the late 2030s. Furthermore, this launch signifies the fourth successful mission of the H3 rocket system.
12. The Indian Navy recently decided to enhance its carrier-based air power by selecting the which fighter jet?
[A] Rafale-M
[B] MiG-29K
[C] MiG-21
[D] Sukhoi Su-30MKI
Correct Answer: A [Rafale-M]
Notes:
The Indian Navy has recently opted to boost its carrier-based air power by choosing the Dassault Rafale M fighter jet. This decision follows a thorough evaluation where the Rafale-M was compared to Boeing’s F/A-18E/F Super Hornet. It shows India’s move towards modernizing its naval aviation. The Rafale-M is built for aircraft carrier operations, aligning well with the Navy’s requirements. The MiG-29K has been a key part of the Indian Navy since 2010, serving on the INS Vikramaditya and INS Vikrant. This Russian jet is known for its agility and can perform both air-to-air and air-to-surface missions. However, it has encountered issues like maintenance problems and crashes, which have raised reliability concerns. The Rafale-M was selected for its advanced technology and ability to function in tough conditions. Its design, including a fixed delta wing and reinforced landing gear, improves its performance on Indian carriers. The Navy’s choice also takes into account the operational compatibility with the Indian Air Force, which already uses Rafale jets.
13. DRDO has recently successfully conducted flight-trials of Very Short-Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS) in which place?
[A] Manapad
[B] Visakhapatnam
[C] Chandipur
[D] Digha
Correct Answer: C [Chandipur]
Notes:
The Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully completed three consecutive flight tests of the Very Short-Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS) from Chandipur, located off the Odisha coast. These trials targeted high-speed objects flying at low altitudes. VSHORADS is an advanced portable missile system created in India to tackle low-flying aerial threats like drones and helicopters. The system has shown successful performance, proving its ability to engage targets with lower thermal signatures, which makes them harder to detect. The latest tests validated the missile’s effectiveness in different flight scenarios, indicating it is ready for use. VSHORADS was developed by the Research Centre Imarat (RCI) along with other DRDO labs and Indian industry partners. It is a fourth-generation surface-to-air missile system meant for anti-aircraft operations. Weighing 20.5 kg, it is designed to be lightweight and portable, enabling soldiers to carry and use it easily in the field.
14. Which ministry, in collaboration with the Manohar Parrikar Institute of Defence Studies and Analyses, conducted a pilot study on LAWS?
[A] Ministry of Home
[B] Ministry of External Affairs
[C] Ministry of Defence
[D] Ministry of Science and Technology
Correct Answer: C [Ministry of Defence]
Notes:
In February 2025, India’s Defence Ministry made an important move to boost its military strength by starting a pilot study on Lethal Autonomous Weapons Systems (LAWS). This study, done with the Manohar Parrikar Institute of Defence Studies and Analyses, looks at the increasing importance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in today’s warfare. As countries globally improve their defence technologies, India is examining how to incorporate AI into its defence plans while also addressing the ethical, legal, and accountability issues that come with using these advanced systems in military actions.
15. The recent discovery of artefacts at Ratnagiri in which state has revived interest in ancient Buddhist sites?
[A] Karnataka
[B] Tamil Nadu
[C] Odisha
[D] Maharashtra
Correct Answer: C [Odisha]
Notes:
The recent finding of artefacts at Ratnagiri in Odisha has sparked new interest in this old Buddhist site. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has started new digs over 60 years after the first ones. Ratnagiri, part of the Diamond Triangle, holds important clues about the history of Buddhism in Odisha. The discovery of three large Buddha heads, a huge palm, an ancient wall, and some inscriptions highlights Ratnagiri’s importance in Jajpur district as a key Buddhist historical location. The new excavations aim to reveal more structures and artefacts. Recent discoveries include the three large Buddha heads, and the ASI plans to investigate the ceramic collection further, which could shed light on ancient human activities and cultural practices.
16. Who has won the 67th Grammy Award for Best New Age Album?
[A] Chandrika Tandon
[B] Billie Eilish
[C] Kendrick Lamar
[D] Beyoncé
Correct Answer: A [Chandrika Tandon]
Notes:
Indian-American artist and entrepreneur Chandrika Tandon has received the Grammy Award for Best New Age, Ambient, or Chant Album for her work ‘Triveni’, created with Wouter Kellerman and Eru Matsumoto. This esteemed award was given at the 67th Grammy Awards on February 2, 2025, at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles. Tandon, recognized for her fusion of traditional mantras and contemporary music, shared her appreciation for the honor and emphasized the album’s themes of peace and healing.
17. Who won the most awards at the 67th Grammy Awards?
[A] Post Malone
[B] Taylor Shift
[C] Kendrick Lamar
[D] Beyoncé
Correct Answer: C [Kendrick Lamar]
18. What was the Album of the Year at the 67th Grammy Awards?
[A] Hackney Diamonds – The Rolling Stones
[B] Short n’ Sweet – Sabrina Carpenter
[C] Cowboy Carter – Beyoncé
[D] None of the above
Correct Answer: C [Cowboy Carter – Beyoncé]
19. Who won the Best Pop Solo Performance at the 2025 Grammy Awards?
[A] Taylor Swift
[B] Post Malone
[C] Chappell Roan
[D] Sabrina Carpenter
Correct Answer: D [Sabrina Carpenter]
20. Which song won both Song of the Year and Record of the Year?
[A] “Not Like Us” – Kendrick Lamar
[B] “Die With A Smile” – Lady Gaga & Bruno Mars
[C] “Espresso” – Sabrina Carpenter
[D] None of the above
Correct Answer: A [“Not Like Us” – Kendrick Lamar]
21. Which country become the first country to introduce laws against AI tools used to generate sexual abuse images?
[A] United States
[B] India
[C] United Kingdom
[D] Russia
Correct Answer: C [United Kingdom]
Notes:
The UK government has introduced important new laws to tackle the creation and sharing of AI-generated sexual abuse images of children. This move positions the UK as a frontrunner in fighting the issues related to artificial intelligence and child exploitation. Interior Minister Yvette Cooper highlighted the concerning increase in online child sexual abuse, worsened by AI tools that help groom and exploit vulnerable individuals. The new legislation will make it illegal to possess, create, or distribute AI tools made for generating sexualized images of children, with offenders facing up to five years in prison. Additionally, having AI manuals for pedophiles will also be against the law, with penalties of up to three years. This law aims to discourage potential criminals and safeguard children from exploitation. AI technologies are creating new ways for child exploitation to occur. Offenders can alter real images of children to produce sexualized content for grooming or blackmail. The government noted that these tools are increasing existing dangers. The manipulation of images threatens the safety and well-being of children online. The UK is experiencing a serious child abuse crisis, with around 500,000 children impacted each year. The online aspect of this abuse is growing, highlighting the urgent need for new laws. Recent statistics show a troubling rise in the creation of AI-generated abuse images, especially in the most severe categories.
22. The Uttar Pradesh government has recently launched ‘Operation Eleven’ in which city?
[A] Prayagraj
[B] Lucknow
[C] Mathura
[D] Varanasi
Correct Answer: A [Prayagraj]
Notes:
The Uttar Pradesh government launched ‘Operation Eleven’ to manage crowds during the Amrit Snan on Basant Panchami at the Maha Kumbh. This decision followed a tragic stampede during the Mauni Amavasya that resulted in many fatalities. The aim is to keep devotees safe and allow for easy movement during this important religious event. The Maha Kumbh is one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, happening every 12 years at four different locations, attracting millions of pilgrims who come to bathe in sacred rivers. There are several key bathing days, with Basant Panchami being particularly important. Operation Eleven focuses on crowd control, safety improvements, and better traffic management. The primary goal is to prevent overcrowding and ensure the safety of the devotees. Special measures have been implemented to facilitate smooth movement and enhance security.
23. In which of the following states is it proposed to set up a Makhan Board in the Union Budget 2025?
[A] Tamil Nadu
[B] Maharashtra
[C] Rajasthan
[D] Bihar
Correct Answer: D [Bihar]
Notes:
Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman declared on Saturday, February 1, 2025, the establishment of a dedicated Makhana Board in Bihar. She stated, “This initiative aims to enhance the production, marketing, and value addition of Makhana within the state.”
24. To achieve 100% coverage of Jal Jeevan Mission scheme, the mission has been extended till which year?
[A] 2027
[B] 2028
[C] 2029
[D] 2030
Correct Answer: B [2028]
Notes:
Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) has been extended to 2028 with a larger budget in the Union Budget for 2025-26. Union Minister for Finance and Corporate Affairs, Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman, announced that the total budget for the Jal Jeevan Mission has increased to Rs 67,000 Crore. She confirmed that the Mission will continue until 2028.
25. In which of the following states has it been proposed to set up a National Institute of Food Technology in the Union Budget 2025?
[A] Assam
[B] Himachal Pradesh
[C] Bihar
[D] West Bengal
Correct Answer: C [Bihar]
Notes:
The finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman declared that the Central Government will establish a National Institute of Food Technology, Entrepreneurship, and Management (NIFTEM) in the state of Bihar.
26. What is the main objective of the “Gyan Bharatam Mission” scheme proposed in the Union Budget 2025-26?
[A] Preserve and protect manuscripts found across the country
[B] Protecting India’s World Heritage Sites
[C] Identifying and preserving new historical sites in India
[D] None of the above
Correct Answer: A [Preserve and protect manuscripts found across the country]
Notes:
A new initiative called the ‘Gyan Bharatam Mission’ for manuscripts has been introduced in the Union Budget for 2025-26. This mission focuses on the preservation and protection of manuscripts found throughout the country. Its goal is to conduct a survey, document, and conserve over one crore manuscript heritage held by academic institutions, museums, libraries, and more. The mission is important for maintaining historical value, sharing ancient Indian knowledge with the world, and ensuring that manuscripts are accessible at all times. To support this new mission, the budget for the National Manuscripts Mission (NMM) has increased from Rs. 3.5 crore to Rs. 60 crore.
27. Which country has clinched their second consecutive ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup title?
[A] Pakistan
[B] India
[C] South Africa
[D] Australia
Correct Answer: B [India]
Notes:
The Indian U19 women’s cricket team made history by achieving a commanding nine-wicket victory against South Africa in the final of the ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup 2025, held at the Bayuemas Oval in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. This victory represents India’s second consecutive championship in the tournament, reinforcing their reputation as a dominant force in youth women’s cricket. Gongadi Trisha emerged as the standout player of the match, showcasing an exceptional all-round performance that led India to a decisive win.
28. Who was the former Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) of India, recently passed away at the age of 79?
[A] T.S Krishnamurthy
[B] B.B. Tandon
[C] N. Gopalaswami
[D] Navin Chawla
Correct Answer: D [Navin Chawla]
Notes:
Navin Chawla, who was the former Chief Election Commissioner of India, has died at the age of 79. He played a crucial role in the 2009 Lok Sabha elections and made important contributions to electoral reforms, which have greatly influenced India’s election system. Chawla was an experienced civil servant, holding important positions such as Election Commissioner and later Chief Election Commissioner. His time in office included significant reforms and was characterized by both successes and controversies.
