Post Views: 11
1. South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL) has launched a Post-Retirement Benefit (PRB) Cell in which state to provide single-window solutions for its retired employees?
[A] Bihar
[B] Chhattisgarh
[C] Jharkhand
[D] Madhya Pradesh
Correct Answer: C [Chhattisgarh]
Notes:
In a significant move to improve the welfare of its retired workforce, South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL), a subsidiary of Coal India Limited (CIL) located in Chhattisgarh, has established a Post-Retirement Benefit (PRB) Cell. This cell serves as a comprehensive resource for retired employees, underscoring SECL’s dedication to enhancing the post-retirement experience for its former staff. By centralizing various post-retirement services, the PRB Cell eliminates the need for retirees to interact with multiple departments. This initiative is also aligned with ‘Mission Sambandh’, an existing SECL program focused on strengthening communication and engagement with stakeholders.
2. Which of the following has recently confirmed that 2024 is the warmest year on record, based on six international datasets?
[A] United Nations (UN)
[B] United Nations Climate Change Conference (UNCCC)
[C] World Climate Research Programme (WCRP)
[D] World Meteorological Organization (WMO)
Correct Answer: D [World Meteorological Organization (WMO)]
Notes:
The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has announced that 2024 is the hottest year ever recorded, according to six global datasets. The last decade has seen all years rank in the Top Ten for high temperatures, creating a remarkable pattern of record heat. In 2024, the planet faced extreme warming, officially surpassing the 1.5 degrees Celsius limit above pre-industrial levels. This is the first time a full year has gone beyond this important threshold, with an average temperature of 1.6 degrees Celsius above the pre-industrial average. The 1.5 degrees Celsius limit is significant in climate science, set during the 2015 Paris Agreement to control global warming. Exceeding this limit does not create new climate issues but worsens the effects of existing ones. The WMO has warned that as temperatures rise, the intensity and frequency of climate-related events will increase.
3. La Niña is a climate pattern that represents the cool phase of El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO), it has re-emerged in which tropical parts of the Pacific Ocean recently?
[A] Northern and Southern Tropical Pacific
[B] Central and Eastern Tropical Pacific
[C] Eastern and Western Tropical Pacific
[D] Central and Western Tropical Pacific
Correct Answer: B [Central and Eastern Tropical Pacific]
Notes:
La Niña conditions have returned to the Pacific Ocean, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) on January 9, 2025. This event is part of the El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO), which affects weather around the world. La Niña is marked by lower sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern Pacific, unlike the warmer temperatures seen during El Niño. It represents the cool phase of ENSO, occurring when cooler ocean temperatures prevail in the central and eastern tropical Pacific. This pattern usually causes more rainfall in some areas and droughts in others. La Niña is often associated with stronger trade winds that move warm water toward the western Pacific.
4. Pink fire retardant is a chemical mixture used to extinguish or slow down wildfires, it was seen on the news in which country recently?
[A] Japan
[B] China
[C] Canada
[D] United States
Correct Answer: D [United States]
Notes:
Recent wildfires in Southern California have highlighted the use of pink fire retardant as officials deploy aerial resources to fight the flames. The United States Forest Service has sent out nine large planes and 20 helicopters to spread this chemical mixture, aiming to safeguard lives and property. Although it has been used for a long time, the environmental effects and effectiveness of pink fire retardant are being questioned. Pink fire retardant is a chemical blend used to put out or slow down wildfires. The most common brand in the U.S. is Phos-Chek, which mainly contains ammonium phosphate-based slurry. This mixture includes salts like ammonium polyphosphate, which works better than water for a longer time. The bright pink color is added for visibility, helping firefighters see treated areas against the landscape.
5. Hollongapar Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary, was seen in the news recently, it is located in which state?
[A] Assam
[B] Uttar Pradesh
[C] Meghalaya
[D] Himachal Pradesh
Correct Answer: A [Assam]
Notes:
The Hollongapar Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Jorhat district of Assam, India. The recent endorsement by the Standing Committee of the National Board for Wildlife (NBWL) for exploratory drilling within the eco-sensitive zone (ESZ) of the Hollongapar Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary has ignited considerable discussion. This resolution, reached during the committee’s 81st meeting, prompts significant apprehension regarding the equilibrium between energy requirements and the preservation of wildlife. The designated drilling area, encompassing approximately 4.5 hectares, is situated a mere 13 kilometers from the sanctuary, which is inhabited by the endangered Hoolock gibbon and various other primate species.
6. A critical endangered species, the Great Indian Bustard birds has recently spotted in which national park of Rajasthan?
[A] Mukundara Hills National Park
[B] Keoladeo Ghana National Park
[C] Ranthambore National Park
[D] Desert National Park (DNP)
Correct Answer: D [Desert National Park (DNP)]
Notes:
Recent observations of the Great Indian Bustard (GIB) in Rajasthan have significantly enhanced conservation initiatives aimed at this critically endangered species. A notable sighting of twelve GIBs congregating in the Desert National Park (DNP) highlights the effectiveness of the protective strategies employed within their natural environment. Commonly referred to as “Godawan” and “Maldhok,” these birds play an essential role in the ecosystem and hold cultural significance in northern and western India.
7. Who has recently discovered a new species of pangolin, named Manis indo-burmanica?
[A] Zoological Survey of India (ZSI)
[B] IIT Roorkee
[C] IIT Guwahati
[D] IIT Kharagpur
Correct Answer: A [Zoological Survey of India (ZSI)]
Notes:
The Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) has recently recognized a novel species of pangolin, designated as Manis indoburmanica. This species is believed to have separated from the Chinese pangolin around 3.4 million years ago. This discovery highlights the influence of geoclimatic shifts in the Indo-Burma region, which is acknowledged as a significant biodiversity hotspot. The results of this research were published in the journal Mammalian Biology, underscoring the critical necessity for conservation initiatives.
8. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu has proposed a P-4 system to achieve zero poverty, P-4 means?
[A] Public-Private-Partnership Principles
[B] Public-Private-Process Partnership
[C] Public-Private-People Partnership
[D] Public-Private-Priority Partnership
Correct Answer: C [Public-Private-People Partnership]
Notes:
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu recently extended his Sankranti wishes to the worldwide Telugu community. He underscored the significance of celebrating festivals devoid of economic inequalities. Naidu highlighted the government’s dedication to enhancing the quality of life for citizens through welfare initiatives, developmental projects, and efficient governance. He also referenced the “Swarnandhra Vision-2047,” an extensive strategy designed to elevate Andhra Pradesh into a thriving and inclusive state by the 100th anniversary of Indian independence. The Swarnandhra Vision-2047 delineates ten foundational principles aimed at advancing the state of Andhra Pradesh. This vision aspires to create a state characterized by prosperity, health, and happiness. Among the guiding principles are the eradication of poverty, the creation of employment opportunities, and the development of human resources. The government is committed to securing water resources, improving agricultural technologies, and optimizing energy expenditures. Furthermore, the vision advocates for cleanliness, fosters innovation, and encourages the incorporation of cutting-edge technologies across multiple sectors.
Public-Private-People Partnership (P-4):
The P-4 framework seeks to engage the public sector, private enterprises, and citizens in the pursuit of the vision’s objectives. This approach is intended to eradicate poverty and promote the empowerment of communities. The synergy among these sectors is expected to facilitate significant transformations in the lives of marginalized populations. The earlier P-3 model has already made considerable contributions to job creation and wealth generation.
9. Which union minister has recently launched the Bharat Cleantech Manufacturing Platform?
[A] Union Minister Piyush Goyal
[B] Union Minister Nirmala Sitharaman
[C] Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy
[D] Union Minister Nitin Gadkari
Correct Answer: A [Union Minister Piyush Goyal]
Notes:
The Bharat Cleantech Manufacturing Platform was inaugurated by Union Minister Piyush Goyal during the Bharat Climate Forum 2025 held in New Delhi. This initiative seeks to strengthen India’s cleantech value chains, particularly in the areas of solar energy, wind power, hydrogen production, and battery storage. Goyal emphasized the necessity of achieving self-sufficiency in the clean energy domain, warning against excessive reliance on subsidies and Product Linked Incentives (PLIs). He advocated for innovative strategies to expand manufacturing capabilities and presented the platform as a facilitator for collaboration and co-innovation among Indian enterprises. The initiative seeks to enhance India’s standing within the international cleantech sector. It promotes partnerships among enterprises to facilitate access to funding and the exchange of resources. This effort is anticipated to position India as a compelling hub for cleantech investments and innovations.
10. Which of the following has recently launched its first Silver Notice to trace and recover assets?
[A] International Association of Geodesy
[B] International Coral Reef Initiative
[C] INTERPOL
[D] International Whaling Commission
Correct Answer: C [INTERPOL]
Notes:
Interpol has recently introduced its inaugural Silver Notice, which is intended to aid in the identification of laundered assets across international borders. This initiative, unveiled on January 10, 2025, is part of a pilot program that includes participation from 52 member nations, among them India. The Silver Notice represents a new category within Interpol’s established framework of color-coded notices, which enhance collaborative efforts in global law enforcement. Specifically, the Silver Notice is crafted to support countries in the pursuit of assets connected to criminal enterprises. It enables member states to solicit information regarding properties, vehicles, financial accounts, and businesses linked to individuals implicated in serious offenses such as fraud, corruption, and drug trafficking.
11. Which country has recently reported its first outbreak of foot and mouth disease (FMD) in nearly 40 years?
[A] Germany
[B] France
[C] Italy
[D] Australia
Correct Answer: A [Germany]
Notes:
Germany has confirmed its first outbreak of foot and mouth disease (FMD) in almost four decades. This outbreak was identified in a herd of water buffalo located near Berlin, posing significant challenges for the local agricultural sector. In reaction to this situation, authorities have implemented euthanasia for the infected animals and have created a 3-kilometre exclusion zone, along with a 10-kilometre monitoring area. These actions are intended to mitigate the risk of further disease transmission. Nevertheless, at this time, there are no plans for national or international interventions, as both Germany and the European Union continue to be recognized as free from the disease.
12. Zoran Milanovic has been elected as president of which country recently?
[A] Algeria
[B] Yemen
[C] Croatia
[D] Angola
Correct Answer: C [Croatia]
Notes:
Zoran Milanovic has been re-elected as the President of Croatia for another five-year term, having garnered 74% of the votes in the run-off election. In the initial round of the presidential election held on December 29, 2024, Milanovic received 49.1% of the votes, which led to a subsequent round on January 12, 2025. Supported by the opposition Social Democratic Party, Milanovic is known for his critical stance towards the European Union and NATO, although he has denounced Russia’s invasion of Ukraine while also expressing skepticism regarding Western military assistance to Ukraine. The ruling Croatian Democratic Union, which has been in power since 1991, saw its candidate, Dragan Primorac, obtain 19.2% of the votes. In Croatia, the President serves as the Head of State with limited executive powers, while the Prime Minister exercises actual executive authority. Croatia is situated on the Balkan Peninsula, bordered by the Adriatic Sea.
13. Who has been appointed as the captain of Punjab Kings for IPL 2025?
[A] Shreyas Iyer
[B] Jonny Bairstow
[C] Aiden Markram
[D] Arshdeep Singh
Correct Answer: A [Shreyas Iyer]
Notes:
Shreyas Iyer has been appointed as the captain of Punjab Kings for the forthcoming 2025 season of the Indian Premier League (IPL). This decision was revealed during a dedicated segment on the reality television program ‘Bigg Boss’, where Iyer was present with his teammates Yuzvendra Chahal and Shashank Singh.
14. Nicolás Maduro was recently sworn in as president of which country for a third six-year term after disputed elections?
[A] Uganda
[B] Philippines
[C] Venezuela
[D] Ethiopia
Correct Answer: C [Venezuela]
Notes:
Nicolas Maduro, serving as the 46th President of Venezuela, was inaugurated for a third consecutive six-year term after a highly disputed electoral process. His rival, Edmundo Gonzalez, alleged instances of voter fraud and proclaimed himself the legitimate victor of the elections held in July. In spite of significant international condemnation and sanctions, especially from the United States, Maduro’s swearing-in occurred in a climate marked by considerable controversy and public demonstrations.
15. Who has been appointed as the Chairperson of the Athletics Federation of India (AFI) Athletes Commission?
[A] Neeraj Chopra
[B] Sudha Singh
[C] Krishna Poonia
[D] Anju Bobby George
Correct Answer: D [Anju Bobby George]
Notes:
Anju Bobby George, a renowned long-jumper and bronze medalist at the 2003 World Championships, has been appointed as the Chairperson of the Athletes Commission of the Athletics Federation of India (AFI). This newly formed commission includes a diverse group of distinguished retired athletes, prominently featuring Neeraj Chopra, a two-time Olympic medalist, as its most recognized male representative. The establishment of this commission represents a meaningful advancement towards achieving gender equality within the AFI framework, as it consists of six women among its nine members.
16. Which state’s Kappad and Chal Beaches has received the prestigious global Blue Flag certificate?
[A] Goa
[B] Kerala
[C] Odisha
[D] Andhra Pradesh
Correct Answer: B [Kerala]
Notes:
Kappad beach in Kozhikode and Chal beach in Kannur, both located in Kerala, have received the esteemed Blue Flag certification from the Denmark-based Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE). This certification is granted to beaches that adhere to rigorous criteria concerning environmental conservation, safety, and sustainability. The attainment of Blue Flag status significantly boosts Kerala’s attractiveness as a sustainable tourism destination and establishes a global standard for environmentally responsible tourism practices. This accomplishment represents a crucial step in the state’s commitment to safeguarding its natural landscapes while fostering responsible tourism initiatives.
17. Which country has made advancements in nuclear energy with the introduction of Floating Nuclear Power Plants (FNPPs)?
[A] United States
[B] France
[C] Russia
[D] China
Correct Answer: C [Russia]
Notes:
Russia has progressed in nuclear energy by launching floating nuclear power plants (FNPPs). The Akademik Lomonosov, which has been in operation since 2019 in Pevek, marks a new direction in energy generation. This development is designed to fulfill energy needs in isolated regions, with potential markets such as India. FNPPs are mobile, allowing them to be used in various settings. An FNPP is essentially a nuclear power station on a ship that can connect to coastal power grids and be moved to different sites. The Akademik Lomonosov is equipped with two light-water reactors that together produce 70 MW of power. This technology enables effective energy generation without relying on traditional land-based plants.
18. Which country has recently joined the prestigious UN Committee of Experts on Big Data and Data Science for Official Statistics (UN-CEBD)?
[A] India
[B] France
[C] Russia
[D] Japan
Correct Answer: A [India]
Notes:
India joining the UN Committee of Experts on Big Data and Data Science for Official Statistics (UN-CEBD) is a significant step for the country’s statistical field. This move shows India’s dedication to using data and technology for better decision-making. The UN-CEBD focuses on understanding the advantages and challenges of Big Data, especially in tracking sustainable development goals. By being a member of this committee, India will help shape global standards and practices in official statistics.
19. The Bharat Climate Forum 2025 was held in which place recently?
[A] Hyderabad
[B] Bengaluru
[C] New Delhi
[D] Kolkata
Correct Answer: C [New Delhi]
Notes:
The Bharat Climate Forum 2025 took place in New Delhi on January 10, 2025. This initiative was established to assist India in reaching its climate objectives while fostering economic self-sufficiency. The forum serves as a national platform designed to promote the advancement of clean technology manufacturing within the country. It was organized by the Centre for Indigenous Economic Understanding (CIEU) in collaboration with Dalberg Advisors. Support for the forum was provided by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), NITI Aayog, and the International Solar Alliance (ISA). The overarching goal of the forum is to stimulate sustainable economic development and innovation.
20. Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh announced the establishment of a Regional Meteorological Centre in which place?
[A] Jammu
[B] Ladakh
[C] Pulwama
[D] Anantnag
Correct Answer: A [Jammu]
Notes:
Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh proclaimed the creation of a Regional Meteorological Centre in Jammu during a significant ceremony marking the 150th anniversary of the India Meteorological Department (IMD). This initiative represents a pivotal advancement in enhancing weather forecasting capabilities, disaster readiness, and climate resilience within the Jammu & Kashmir region.
The ceremony also underscored the IMD’s impressive evolution since its inception in 1875, establishing itself as a global frontrunner in meteorological services and supplying essential weather information for various sectors, including agriculture, aviation, defense, and disaster management. Dr. Singh highlighted India’s increasing prominence in climate action, which is propelled by improvements in meteorological infrastructure under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
21. The Boda Tyohar festival, celebrated by the Hatti tribe of which state/UT?
[A] Uttarakhand
[B] Haryana
[C] Himachal Pradesh
[D] Jammu & Kashmir
Correct Answer: C [Himachal Pradesh]
Notes:
The Boda Tyohar festival, observed by the Hatti tribes in the Trans-Giri area of Himachal Pradesh, began with great fervor. This event represents the most significant annual celebration for the Hatti community, which comprises around three hundred thousand individuals. The festivities commenced on the evening of Posh Dwadashi, which occurred on a Friday this year. Locally referred to as Magho ko Tyohar, the festival extends throughout the month of Magha and is characterized by three separate mini-festivals, each featuring its own distinct traditions and rituals.
22. Which state/UT became the 34th state to implement the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY)?
[A] Punjab
[B] Pondicherry
[C] Odisha
[D] Jammu & Kashmir
Correct Answer: C [Odisha]
Notes:
On January 13, 2025, Odisha achieved the milestone of becoming the 34th state to adopt the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY), representing a notable enhancement in the healthcare framework of the state. This initiative was officially established via a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the National Health Authority (NHA) under the Union Ministry of Health and the Department of Health and Family Welfare of Odisha. The AB PM-JAY will function alongside Odisha’s current Gopabandhu Jan Arogya Yojana (GJAY). This integrated program provides health insurance coverage of ₹5 lakh per family each year, with an extra ₹5 lakh allocated specifically for female members. It is anticipated that around 1.03 crore families will benefit from this initiative, with 67.8 lakh families receiving assistance from the Union Government.
23. Which city is the host of Kho Kho World Cup 2025?
[A] Kolkata
[B] Hyderabad
[C] Bengaluru
[D] New Delhi
Correct Answer: D [New Delhi]
Notes:
The inaugural Kho Kho World Cup commenced on January 13, 2025, at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium in New Delhi. The event was officially opened by Sudhanshu Mittal, the President of the Kho Kho Federation of India. Organized by the Kho Kho Federation of India with the assistance of the Indian Olympic Association, the tournament is scheduled to take place from January 13 to January 19, 2025. Each participating team consists of 12 players, with 9 players competing on the field during matches. The tournament includes men’s teams from 20 nations and women’s teams from 19 nations, which are categorized into four groups. The men’s team of India is captained by Pratik Waikar, while the women’s team is led by Priyanka Ingle.
