Post Views: 14
1. Which ministry has recently celebrated the 75th anniversary of the National Sample Survey (NSS)?
[A] Ministry of Finance
[B] Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation
[C] Ministry of Corporate Affairs
[D] Ministry of Current Affairs
Correct Answer: B [Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation]
Notes:
The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) of the Government of India held a celebration for the 75th anniversary of the National Sample Survey (NSS) at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi on February 7, 2025. This event kicked off a series of nationwide activities that focused on the important role of NSS in creating policies based on evidence, promoting data-driven governance, and involving various stakeholders. The celebration included keynote speeches, expert panels, the launch of Diamond Jubilee publications, and special performances that highlighted the contributions of NSS in fieldwork.
2. Which organization has launched a national roadmap to enhance child road safety?
[A] UNDP
[B] UNICEF
[C] UNESCO
[D] WEF
Correct Answer: B [UNICEF]
Notes:
UNICEF has launched a national strategy to enhance road safety for children due to the alarming increase in traffic fatalities among youth. This program focuses on raising awareness, preventing accidents, enforcing speed limits, improving infrastructure, and offering road safety education. The detailed plan seeks to address the critical problem of child road safety, as traffic accidents are a leading cause of injury-related deaths in this demographic. It features targeted actions such as speed regulations and educational programs, stressing the urgent need for improvements to create safer roads for children.
3. Which organization has recently announced the launch of the historic Lord Buddha Tri-Nation Tri-Services Expedition?
[A] National Cooperative Union of India, (NCUI)
[B] Ministry of Defence
[C] NITI Aayog
[D] International Buddhist Confederation (IBC)
Correct Answer: D [International Buddhist Confederation (IBC)]
Notes:
The International Buddhist Confederation (IBC) is preparing to start the Lord Buddha Trination Triservices Expedition, a groundbreaking project that brings together the military forces of India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. This special motorcycle journey will begin in Lumbini, Nepal, where Lord Buddha was born, and will end in Galle, Sri Lanka, visiting important Buddhist heritage sites along the way. The goal of the expedition is to honor the common cultural and spiritual heritage of these three nations while fostering peace, harmony, tourism, and environmental awareness. This event, organized with IBC, will highlight the historical spread of Buddhism and the strong connections between these countries.
4. Which organization has launched the NDS-OM platform to help stock brokers increase retail participation?
[A] RBI
[B] SEBI
[C] NABARD
[D] SBI
Correct Answer: A [RBI]
Notes:
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has also expanded access to the NDS-OM platform to enhance retail investor engagement. Non-bank brokers who are registered with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) can now use the Negotiated Dealing System-Order Matching (NDS-OM) platform. This move is designed to encourage more retail investors to trade in government securities. The RBI aims to improve liquidity and make it easier for individual investors to participate in the financial market. The NDS-OM is an electronic trading system run by the RBI that supports secondary market transactions for government securities. Launched in August 2005, it replaced older, less efficient phone-based trading methods. The platform allows users to submit bids and offers anonymously, which increases market transparency. Previously, only banks, primary dealers, insurance companies, and mutual funds could use NDS-OM, and they needed to have Subsidiary General Ledger (SGL) accounts with the RBI. With this new policy, eligible stock brokers can now apply for membership, enabling them to help individual clients trade in government securities. This change is expected to increase participation from retail investors.
5. Which country has recently achieved a major milestone by installing 100 GW of solar power capacity?
[A] Pakistan
[B] Sri Lanka
[C] Iran
[D] India
Correct Answer: D [India]
Notes:
India has achieved a major milestone in its renewable energy journey by installing 100 gigawatts (GW) of solar power capacity. This marks a key move towards cleaner energy and reducing dependence on fossil fuels. Union Minister Pralhad Joshi highlighted this success, reflecting India’s progress in meeting its renewable energy goals. Although the country aimed for 100 GW of solar capacity by 2022, it encountered challenges such as land acquisition, financing, and supply chain issues that led to delays. By June 2023, India had set up 70.10 GW of solar power, with an additional 55.90 GW in various development stages. In the first half of 2024, India added 15 GW of new solar capacity, representing a 282% increase from previous periods. This rapid growth was driven by large projects, supportive policies, and increased investments in the sector. The government’s dedication to renewable energy and private sector participation were vital in achieving this goal.
6. Dibru Saikhowa National Park, which was recently seen in the news, is located in which state?
[A] Assam
[B] West Bengal
[C] Meghalaya
[D] Manipur
Correct Answer: A [Assam]
Notes:
The discussion about oil exploration in Assam’s Dibru Saikhowa National Park has grown more intense after permission for extraction was denied. Oil India Limited (OIL) wanted to carry out research and development (R&D) using Extended Reach Drilling (ERD) technology, even though previous requests were turned down due to environmental issues. The Environment Ministry’s Forest Advisory Committee (FAC) has now suggested the R&D plan, but with strict guidelines. ERD allows drilling deep underground without affecting the surface. This method can reach depths of 3,500 to 4,000 meters by drilling horizontally, which helps avoid surface disruption. OIL aims to use ERD to assess the environmental impact without actually extracting oil.
7. Which of the following schemes is now combined under the Scheme of “Skill India Programme”?
[A] Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana 4.0 (PMKVY 4.0)
[B] Pradhan Mantri National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (PM-NAPS)
[C] Jan Shikshan Sansthan (JSS) Scheme
[D] All of the above
Correct Answer: D [All of the above]
Notes:
The Government of India has revamped its skill development programs under the Skill India Programme. The main elements — Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana 4.0 (PMKVY 4.0), Pradhan Mantri National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (PM-NAPS), and Jan Shikshan Sansthan (JSS) Scheme — are now unified within the Skill India Programme. This initiative aims to deliver quality education and skill training to people in both urban and rural areas. The government has set aside ₹8,800 crore for this program, which will continue until 2026.
Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana 4.0 (PMKVY 4.0):
PMKVY 4.0 emphasizes short-term training and skill enhancement. It is designed for individuals aged 15 to 59 and has launched over 400 new courses in fields like artificial intelligence, 5G technology, and cybersecurity. A national network of assessors and trainers is being established to maintain quality and consistency.
Pradhan Mantri National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (PM-NAPS):
PM-NAPS aids apprentices and industries across India. It offers financial support to companies that employ apprentices, covering 25% of the stipend, up to ₹1,500 per month, through Direct Benefit Transfer. This scheme targets individuals aged 14 to 35 and helps bridge the gap between education and employment.
Jan Shikshan Sansthan (JSS) Scheme:
The JSS focuses on skill training within communities. It aims to provide vocational education to women, rural youth, and economically weaker sections. The program offers affordable and flexible training sessions, promoting self-employment and local entrepreneurship, particularly among marginalized groups.
8. Which ministry, in collaboration with NITI Aayog has recently launched Swavalamban Women Entrepreneurship Programme?
[A] Ministry of Women and Child Development
[B] Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship
[C] Ministry of Finance
[D] Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
Correct Answer: B [Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship]
Notes:
The Swavalambini Women Entrepreneurship Programme was initiated in the states of Assam, Meghalaya, and Mizoram by the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) in collaboration with NITI Aayog. This initiative is designed to empower female students enrolled in Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) by providing them with essential entrepreneurial skills, mentorship, and financial support. The Indian Institute of Entrepreneurship (IIE) is at the forefront of this program, implementing a systematic stage-wise approach that ranges from raising awareness to developing business ventures. Notably, successful entrepreneurial endeavors will receive recognition and awards to motivate others. The program was launched virtually across nine colleges and universities and is in alignment with significant government initiatives such as Start-Up India, Stand-Up India, and PM Mudra Yojana.
9. Which scheme has recently been launched to boost financial inclusion for women entrepreneurs in Self-Help Groups (SHGs)?
[A] Grameen Credit Score Scheme
[B] Urban Credit Score Scheme
[C] Gra-Urban Credit Score Scheme
[D] PM-Uraban Credit Score Scheme
Correct Answer: A [Grameen Credit Score Scheme]
Notes:
India introduced the Grameen Credit Score Scheme in the Union Budget 2025, aimed at formalizing transactions of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) within the credit system. This initiative seeks to enhance financial inclusion for women entrepreneurs associated with SHGs. By improving the creditworthiness of SHG members, the scheme is designed to support the establishment and growth of their businesses. It also features tailored credit cards for micro-enterprises, offering limits of up to ₹5 lakh. The digital credit framework is intended to address existing gaps in credit assessment for rural women. By increasing access to credit, the scheme is expected to bolster economic stability, allowing women to make more significant contributions to their families and communities.
10. Which state government has recently launched multiple initiatives like, “Nirbhaya Kadhi”, “Mo Gelha Jiya”, “Kalpana Avijan”, “Swarna Kalika” and “Veerangana Yojana” to empower girls ‘Beti Bachao Beti Padhao’?
[A] Rajasthan
[B] West Bengal
[C] Odisha
[D] Gujarat
Correct Answer: C [Odisha]
Notes:
The Odisha government has launched several programs under the ‘Beti Bachao Beti Padhao’ scheme to tackle the serious issue of gender imbalance and the falling child sex ratio in India. Important initiatives include “Nirbhaya Kadhi” (Fearless Bud), “Mo Gelha Jiya” (My Dear Daughter) in Ganjam, “Kalpana Avijan” in Dhenkanal, “Swarna Kalika” in Keonjhar, and “Veerangana Yojana” in Deogarh district, all aimed at empowering young girls. These programs work to stop child marriage, fight against sex selection and female foeticide, encourage higher education, and boost self-esteem and confidence through martial arts and self-defense, as stated in a press release from the Ministry of Women and Child Development on February 7, 2025.
11. Which state government has launched the initiative “Mahri Laado” Radio Programme?
[A] Himachal Pradesh
[B] Haryana
[C] Madhya Pradesh
[D] Uttar Pradesh
Correct Answer: B [Haryana]
Notes:
The government of Haryana initiated the “Mahri Laado” Radio Programme as part of the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) initiative. This initiative was introduced by the Government of India on January 22, 2015, in Panipat, Haryana. The primary objective of the scheme is to tackle the issue of the declining Child Sex Ratio (CSR) and to promote equal opportunities, care, and respect for girls and women.
12. Which state government has recently launched ‘Bikashita Gaon’ Scheme for Village Development?
[A] Himachal Pradesh
[B] Assam
[C] Gujarat
[D] Odisha
Correct Answer: D [Odisha]
Notes:
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi introduced the ‘Bikashita Gaon Bikashita Odisha’ (BGBO) scheme in Jankia, Khordha district. This program aims to improve rural infrastructure throughout Odisha. With a budget of ₹5,000 crore over five years, the focus will be on enhancing road connectivity, public services, educational facilities, and promoting micro tourism. The BJP-led government promises to achieve comprehensive village development in five years while keeping development efforts separate from politics. This scheme builds on previous initiatives like ‘Ama Gaon Ama Bikash’ (2018) and ‘Ama Odisha Naveen Odisha’ (2023), but with better execution and financial backing.
13. What is the largest structure in the universe that recent astronomical research has found?
[A] Comet
[B] Asteroid
[C] quasars
[D] Quipu
Correct Answer: D [Quipu]
Notes:
Recent studies in astronomy have discovered Quipu, the largest known structure in the universe. Named after an Incan system for recording information, Quipu has an incredible mass of 200 quadrillion solar masses. It spans over 400 megaparsecs, which is more than 1.3 billion light-years. Understanding Quipu is crucial for grasping cosmic evolution and improving cosmological models. Superstructures are massive formations that include groups of galaxy clusters and superclusters, playing a key role in shaping the universe’s structure and development. Quipu, along with four other recognized superstructures, contains 45% of galaxy clusters, 30% of galaxies, and 25% of the universe’s matter, taking up a volume fraction of 13%. Its mass poses challenges to current cosmological theories.
14. Which country has recently joined China’s Chang’e-8 moon mission?
[A] Pakistan
[B] Sri Lanka
[C] Russia
[D] Nepal
Correct Answer: A [Pakistan]
Notes:
Pakistan’s space agency, SUPARCO, is working with China on the Chang’e-8 lunar mission set for 2028. A 35-kg Pakistani rover will investigate the Moon’s south pole during this mission. Chang’e-8 is part of China’s International Lunar Research Station (ILRS) initiative, which aims to test technologies for a lunar science base. The mission will include surveys, lunar sample analysis, and experiments on resource use. China has made 200 kg of payload capacity available for international partners. This collaboration follows Pakistan’s launch of the iCube Qamar CubeSat on China’s Chang’e-6 mission in May 2024. This partnership with the China National Space Administration (CNSA) marks a significant milestone for Pakistan’s space program, as it represents the country’s first major role in lunar exploration and a key advancement in its space goals.
15. Which ships of the Indian Navy First Training Squadron reached Changi Naval Base in Singapore on February 6, 2025?
[A] INS Sujata, INS Shardul and ICGS Veera
[B] INS Kamorta, INS Arihant and INS Talwar
[C] INS Vikrant, INS Saryu and INS Delhi
[D] INS Vikramaditya, INS Satpura and INS Kalvari
Correct Answer: A [INS Sujata, INS Shardul and ICGS Veera]
Notes:
The Indian Navy’s First Training Squadron, which includes INS Sujata, INS Shardul, and ICGS Veera, reached Changi Naval Base in Singapore on February 6, 2025. This visit is part of their Long-Range Training Deployment to Southeast Asia, aimed at boosting maritime cooperation and understanding. The squadron had last visited Singapore in October 2023. During this stop, Dr. Shilpak Ambule, the High Commissioner of India to Singapore, toured the ships and met with the Sea Trainees, highlighting India’s commitment to maritime security in the Indo-Pacific region. The visit features professional exchanges, cross-training activities, and friendly sports events, strengthening the partnership between the Indian Navy and the Republic of Singapore Navy.
16. Which organization has recently reshaped its research focus to strengthen defense R&D?
[A] DRDO
[B] HAL
[C] L&T
[D] ISRO
Correct Answer: A [DRDO]
Notes:
On February 7, 2025, DRDO revealed a significant reorganization of its Research Verticals and Thrust Areas within the DIA-CoEs, increasing the number from 65 to 82 to improve defense research and development. This change is designed to simplify research processes, eliminate overlap, and encourage innovation in new areas. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is focusing on enhancing its research by redefining and broadening its Research Verticals and Thrust Areas across its Industry Academia – Centres of Excellence (DIA-CoEs). This announcement was made by the Directorate of Futuristic Technology Management (DFTM) at DRDO’s headquarters in New Delhi. The goal is to streamline research activities, adopt advanced technologies, and strengthen India’s defense capabilities. The main aim of this expansion is to reduce redundancy and make better use of resources. This restructuring will also improve collaboration between academia, industry, and DRDO to speed up the development of advanced defense technologies.
17. The recent executive order by which country recently has raised concerns regarding the future of the International Criminal Court (ICC)?
[A] Russia
[B] Israel
[C] United States
[D] Ukraine
Correct Answer: C [United States]
Notes:
The recent executive order from US President Donald Trump has sparked worries about the future of the International Criminal Court (ICC). This order places sanctions on the ICC, the only permanent global court for war crimes and genocide. The ICC plays a vital role in investigating and prosecuting serious international crimes. Trump’s decision follows the ICC’s investigation into alleged war crimes by Israeli leaders during the Gaza conflict. Ukraine joined the ICC as its newest member in January 2025. Since it was established, the court has convicted 11 individuals. Notable cases include Congolese warlord Thomas Lubanga, who was sentenced in 2012 for recruiting child soldiers, and Bosco Ntaganda, who received a 30-year sentence for his involvement in ethnic violence in Congo. In 2021, Dominic Ongwen was convicted for war crimes in Uganda. Trump’s sanctions use emergency powers and target the ICC’s operations, potentially impacting the court’s chief prosecutor, Karim Khan, and others involved in the investigations against Israeli officials. These actions could completely disrupt the ICC’s functions. Previous sanctions from Trump on former prosecutor Fatou Bensouda restricted her access to financial resources in the US.
18. Which organization has recently hosted the conclave “Towards Viksit Bharat @ 2047: Strengthening Economy, National Security, Global Partnerships, and Law”?
[A] Ministry of Home
[B] NITI Aayog
[C] Ministry of Defence
[D] Indian Army
Correct Answer: B [NITI Aayog]
Notes:
On February 6, 2025, NITI Aayog held an important meeting called “Towards Viksit Bharat @ 2047: Strengthening Economy, National Security, Global Partnerships, and Law” at Sushma Swaraj Bhawan in New Delhi. This event gathered leading policymakers, including the Vice Chairman, Members, and CEO of NITI Aayog, along with significant government figures like the Chief Economic Advisor and the Secretary of the Ministry of Defence. The meeting included panel discussions, keynote speeches, and expert talks, all aimed at shaping India’s long-term growth plan. Topics discussed included economic reforms, global partnerships, national security, legal systems, and digital infrastructure, which are all vital for India’s development into a developed nation by 2047.
19. The BIMSTEC Youth Summit 2025 is held in which city from 7th to 11th February 2025?
[A] Hyderabad
[B] Bengaluru
[C] Gandhinagar
[D] Kolkata
Correct Answer: C [Gandhinagar]
Notes:
The BIMSTEC Youth Summit 2025 will be held in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, from February 7 to 11, 2025. This event will gather young leaders from BIMSTEC countries to promote teamwork, creativity, and growth in the region. The summit will officially start on February 8, 2025, with Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya leading the opening ceremony. The goal is to enhance connections among the youth of Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand. Organized by the Department of Youth Affairs under the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, Government of India, the summit will emphasize youth-driven projects, leadership talks, and sustainable development goals (SDGs).
20. Which state has begun work on North India’s first Green Hydrogen Plant?
[A] Uttar Pradesh
[B] Rajasthan
[C] Haryana
[D] Himachal Pradesh
Correct Answer: D [Himachal Pradesh]
Notes:
Himachal Pradesh has started building North India’s first Green Hydrogen Plant in Dabhota, Nalagarh, to enhance green energy. Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu laid the foundation for the 1 MW facility, which is being developed by HPPCL and Oil India Limited at a cost of ₹9.04 crore. This project marks a key move towards a green energy transition, located in the industrial area of Baddi-Brotiwala and Nalagarh, near Chandigarh. The state aims to become India’s first green state by March 31, 2026. The plant, expected to be operational within a year, will help lower carbon emissions by using renewable energy for hydrogen production.
21. ICC has officially released the theme song for the upcoming ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025, called ‘Jeeto Baazi Khel Ke’. Who is the singer?
[A] Sachet Tandon
[B] Atif Aslam
[C] Arijit Singh
[D] A. R. Rahman
Correct Answer: B [Atif Aslam]
Notes:
The International Cricket Council (ICC) has released the theme song for the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025. The song, called ‘Jeeto Baazi Khel Ke’, is performed by famous Pakistani singer Atif Aslam. It is meant to create excitement as the tournament approaches, with only 12 days left until the event starts.
22. Which men’s hockey team won the Hockey India League (HIL) 2024-25?
[A] Hyderabad Toofans
[B] Odisha Warriors
[C] Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers
[D] Soorma Hockey Club
Correct Answer: C [Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers]
Notes:
The exciting Men’s Hockey India League (HIL) 2024-25 season ended with a dramatic final, where Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers defeated Hyderabad Toofans 4-3. The match took place at the Birsa Munda International Hockey Stadium in Rourkela. Jugraj Singh scored three goals, and Sam Lane added a key late goal to secure the championship for the Tigers.
23. Marcus Stoinis has recently announced his retirement from One Day International cricket. From which country does he hail?
[A] Australia
[B] England
[C] New Zealand
[D] South Africa
Correct Answer: A [Australia]
Notes:
Australian all-rounder Marcus Stoinis has declared his retirement from ODI cricket, meaning he will not participate in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy. At 35 years old, he will now concentrate on T20 cricket and is still open for selection. Stoinis was instrumental in Australia’s success at the 2023 ODI World Cup but has chosen to leave the 50-over format. This decision arrives during a tough period for Australia, as they are facing injuries to important players such as Mitchell Marsh, Pat Cummins, and Josh Hazlewood.
24. World Pulses Day is celebrated every year on which day?
[A] February 8
[B] February 9
[C] February 10
[D] February 11
Correct Answer: C [February 10]
Notes:
World Pulses Day is observed annually on February 10th. This day serves to acknowledge the significance of pulses in human nutrition, environmental sustainability, and agricultural practices. The United Nations General Assembly officially designated this day in 2016, which was also recognized as the International Year of Pulses. The success of this initiative highlighted the importance of these crops, leading to their inclusion as a target within the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
25. International Epilepsy Day is celebrated every year on which day?
[A] 2nd Saturday of February
[B] 2nd Sunday of February
[C] 2nd Monday of February
[D] 2nd Tuesday of February
Correct Answer: C [2nd Monday of February]
Notes:
International Epilepsy Day is commemorated annually on the second Monday of February, with this year’s observance taking place on February 10. The purpose of this day is to raise awareness and provide education regarding the realities of epilepsy, highlighting the critical necessity for enhanced treatment options, improved care standards, and increased funding for research initiatives.
