Post Views: 11
1. Recently, Indian Railway has organized a “Paint My City” campaign in which city of Uttar Pradesh?
[A] Prayagraj
[B] Kasi
[C] Varanasi
[D] Lucknow
Correct Answer: A [Prayagraj]
Notes:
The Indian Railways initiated a “Paint My City” campaign in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, with the objective of enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the city’s railway stations in preparation for the 2025 Maha Kumbh Mela. This initiative sought to highlight the city’s profound cultural and spiritual legacy for the benefit of pilgrims and visitors. As a result, the Prayagraj railway station was transformed into a hub of art and culture. The campaign included murals that illustrated themes from Hindu mythology, Indian traditions, and the empowerment of women.
2. With India, which country shares the longest border?
[A] Pakistan
[B] Bangladesh
[C] Nepal
[D] Afghanistan
Correct Answer: B [Bangladesh]
Notes:
The border between India and Bangladesh extends for approximately 4,096.7 kilometers, establishing it as India’s longest terrestrial boundary with any neighboring country. Recently, the dispute regarding border fencing between the two nations has intensified. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs reiterated its dedication to the existing agreements related to the border. This declaration came in response to Bangladesh’s summoning of India’s High Commissioner in Dhaka, where significant concerns were raised regarding the activities of the Border Security Force (BSF). Tensions escalated when the Border Guards Bangladesh (BGB) sought to prevent the installation of barbed wire fencing in the Malda district of West Bengal. This matter is deeply rooted in the historical complexities surrounding the India-Bangladesh border.
3. Which organisation has recently accepted Gaza ceasefire draft agreement?
[A] Jarus
[B] Hamas
[C] Gajwas
[D] Ismas
Correct Answer: B [Hamas]
Notes:
Recent developments have emerged regarding the ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip. On January 14, 2025, Hamas signalled its agreement to a draft ceasefire. While progress was made, final details were still under negotiation. The Israeli Cabinet must approve the plan, which could present challenges. The conflict, which erupted in October 2023, has resulted in casualties, with over 64,000 fatalities reported in Gaza. As the situation escalated, international calls for a ceasefire intensified, especially with the impending transition of US leadership from President Joe Biden to President-elect Donald Trump. The hostilities commenced in October 2023 when Hamas initiated assaults on Israel, which elicited a significant military reaction from Israel in the Gaza region. As the number of casualties increased, the humanitarian situation deteriorated, leading to widespread international condemnation. Efforts to establish a ceasefire have previously failed, primarily due to disagreements regarding military operations and the status of hostages.
4. The United States has recently imposed aggressive sanctions on which country’s oil trade?
[A] China
[B] Israel
[C] Russia
[D] Iraq
Correct Answer: C [Russia]
Notes:
The recent declaration by the United States concerning sanctions on Russia’s oil trade signifies an intensification of efforts to limit Russian petroleum exports. Just prior to President Joe Biden’s exit from office, these sanctions are directed at approximately 160 oil tankers, two prominent oil producers, and a variety of trading and insurance firms. The objective of these measures is to disrupt the oil supply chain of Russia, with a particular emphasis on impacting significant purchasers such as India and China. The US sanctions cover a broad spectrum of entities engaged in the Russian oil sector, including the targeting of around 160 oil tankers, two leading oil companies, and multiple traders associated with oil shipments. This all-encompassing strategy aims to exert maximum pressure on Russia’s oil export capabilities.
5. Who has been assigned to head of the RBI’s Monetary Policy and Economic Research Departments recently?
[A] Challa Sreenivasulu Setty
[B] T. Rabi Sankar
[C] Michael Patra
[D] M. Rajeshwar Rao
Correct Answer: D [M. Rajeshwar Rao]
Notes:
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has named Deputy Governor M. Rajeshwar Rao to lead the Monetary Policy and Economic Research Departments. This change comes after Deputy Governor Michael Patra finishes his term on January 15, 2025. Patra has been in the role since 2020 and completed his service after two one-year extensions.
6. Which country has recently banned plastic waste imports in 2025?
[A] India
[B] Russia
[C] China
[D] Thailand
Correct Answer: D [Thailand]
Notes:
Thailand has recently initiated a significant measure to address the global plastic waste crisis by prohibiting the importation of plastic waste. This policy, set to take effect on January 1, 2025, seeks to mitigate the toxic pollution that has affected the nation for an extended period. Historically, Thailand has served as a primary destination for plastic waste from developed countries, notably the United States and Japan. The following points elucidate the context and ramifications of this ban. Since 2018, Thailand has been a prominent importer of plastic waste, receiving over 1.1 million tonnes of plastic materials during this timeframe. In 2023 alone, Japan was responsible for exporting around 50,000 tonnes of plastic waste to Thailand. The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment implemented this ban to avert the improper handling of waste, which frequently led to incineration instead of recycling.
7. The falcated duck was recently spotted at Sultanpur National Park in which state?
[A] Rajasthan
[B] Haryana
[C] Uttar Pradesh
[D] West Bengal
Correct Answer: B [Haryana]
Notes:
Recently, birdwatchers at Sultanpur National Park in Gurugram, Haryana, were thrilled to observe a Marbled Duck, a Baikal Teal, and a Falcated Duck, also referred to as the falcated teal. This species, comparable in size to a gadwall, is distributed from eastern Siberia to northern Japan, migrating to Southeast Asia and eastern India during the winter months. Falcated Ducks typically inhabit freshwater environments such as lakes, ponds, and marshes, often bordered by forested areas. Their diet is primarily herbivorous, consisting of various plants and seeds, with occasional consumption of small invertebrates. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) classifies them as Near Threatened.
8. Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal has recently inaugurated the National Turmeric Board (NTB) headquarters in Nizamabad, it is located in which state?
[A] Uttar Pradesh
[B] Maharashtra
[C] Telangana
[D] Karnataka
Correct Answer: C [Telangana]
Notes:
The National Turmeric Board was officially launched on January 14, 2025, in New Delhi by the Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal. This inauguration was celebrated nationwide. The primary objectives of the board include improving the livelihoods of turmeric farmers, fostering the development of high-quality turmeric varieties, and increasing export opportunities. The board’s headquarters is situated in Nizamabad, Telangana a prominent area for turmeric cultivation. The main aim of the board is to assist turmeric cultivators in 20 states. It will prioritize enhancing productivity, maintaining quality standards, and fostering research and development initiatives. Additionally, the board will promote awareness of the health advantages of turmeric and its various uses.
9. Which state has recently launched initiatives to expand milk procurement capacity?
[A] Gujarat
[B] Karnataka
[C] Andhra Pradesh
[D] Odisha
Correct Answer: D [Odisha]
Notes:
The dairy industry in Odisha is poised for significant change. Recent programs launched by the Hon’ble President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, are designed to boost milk production and enhance nutritional benefits. These efforts are directed towards doubling the milk procurement capacity from 500,000 to 1,000,000 litres per day. The initiatives are led by the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD) within the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying.
The recently introduced Market Support Program aims to enhance the procurement, processing, and marketing of milk. This initiative is set to double the state’s capacity for milk procurement. It emphasizes the development of branding and distribution networks, which will provide improved financial returns for farmers. The anticipated increase in market support is expected to elevate rural incomes and stimulate growth within the dairy sector.
10. Which ministry has recently launched the Bhashini platform to enhance communication for millions of attendees in Maha Kumbh mela?
[A] Ministry of Home
[B] Ministry of Current Affairs
[C] Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY)
[D] Ministry of Corporate Affairs
Correct Answer: C [Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY)]
Notes:
The Mahakumbh festival, scheduled to occur in Prayagraj from January 13 to February 26, 2025, serves as a major spiritual gathering. Anticipating a large number of participants, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has introduced the Bhashini platform. This groundbreaking initiative is designed to enhance communication among the vast array of attendees by offering real-time translation and voice-enabled assistance in 11 languages, thus ensuring that every visitor can engage in a significant and inclusive manner.
11. Which ministry has recently released new operational guidelines to facilitate implementation for PM-Surya Ghar – Muft Bijli Yojana?
[A] Ministry of Finance
[B] Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE)
[C] Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY)
[D] Ministry of Corporate Affairs
Correct Answer: B [Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE)]
Notes:
The PM-Surya Ghar – Muft Bijli Yojana was inaugurated on February 15, 2024, by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This program is designed to encourage the installation of rooftop solar systems within the residential sector throughout India. The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has issued operational guidelines to support the effective execution of the initiative. These guidelines present two novel models for rooftop solar installations, thereby improving both accessibility and affordability for households. The primary objective of the PM-Surya Ghar scheme is to deliver free electricity to Indian households. The initiative is expected to benefit around 1 crore households, leading to a reduction in electricity expenditures for the government. It is anticipated that the scheme will result in annual savings of ₹75,000 crore in electricity costs for the government.
12. Ilza Amado Vaz has recently announced her resignation as prime minister of which country?
[A] Sao Tome and Principe
[B] Cote d’Ivoire
[C] Burkina Faso
[D] Benin
Correct Answer: A [Sao Tome and Principe]
Notes:
Ilza Maria dos Santos Amado Vaz is a politician and lawyer from São Tomé and Príncipe. She was the prime minister from January 9 to January 12, 2025. Amado Vaz resigned after her cabinet list was leaked to the public before she could inform President Carlos Vila Nova. She had previously served as the justice minister and became prime minister after Patrice Trovoada’s government was dissolved. São Tomé and Príncipe is a small island nation in the Gulf of Guinea, with an area of just over 1,000 square kilometers.
13. The Lohri is a harvest festival, celebrated every year in which state?
[A] Odisha
[B] Assam
[C] Punjab
[D] Nagaland
Correct Answer: C [Punjab]
Notes:
The Lohri festival is observed annually on January 13, marked by great enthusiasm and fervor. It serves as the primary harvest festival for the Punjabi community. The yearly observance of Lohri in Punjab serves as a unifying event for communities, centered around communal bonfires. This festival commemorates the legacy of Dulla Bhatti, a 16th-century folk hero renowned for his defiance against Mughal tyranny. The narrative of Dulla Bhatti embodies ideals of courage, justice, and cultural solidarity, effectively bridging religious divides among the people of Punjab. This occasion signifies the culmination of the Rabi crop harvest, prompting farmers to congregate in gratitude to the divine for their bountiful yields. Lohri embodies themes of new beginnings, familial cohesion, and agricultural success. Celebrations typically include bonfires, traditional culinary delights, and vibrant cultural dances.
14. The Gaan-Ngai festival is the largest cultural and religious post-harvest celebration festival of which state?
[A] Sikkim
[B] Arunachal Pradesh
[C] Meghalaya
[D] Manipur
Correct Answer: D [Manipur]
Notes:
The Gaan-Ngai festival, the biggest cultural and religious celebration after harvest for the Zeliangrong community, started with lively events on January 12, 2025, across different areas of Manipur. Famous for its colorful cultural displays and traditional practices, Gaan-Ngai unites people in a joyful spirit. This five-day festival symbolizes the shift from the old year to the new, emphasizing peace, prosperity, and healing within the community.
15. Who has recently received the Satyajit Ray Lifetime Achievement Award?
[A] Priyanka Sarkar
[B] Aparna Sen
[C] Rabiranjan Maitra
[D] Kunal Mitra
Correct Answer: B [Aparna Sen]
Notes:
The West Bengal Film Journalists Association (WBFJA) hosted its annual awards event on January 13, 2025, at Priya Cinema in Kolkata. Famous director Aparna Sen was honored with the ‘Satyajit Ray Lifetime Achievement Award’ for her important work in Indian cinema. The ceremony recognized the best in Bengali cinema, presenting awards for categories like Best Film, Best Actor, and Best Director. Additionally, it celebrated the 100th birthday of legendary filmmaker Raj Kapoor with a special tribute to the circus industry.
Winners list:
Best Film: Manik Babur Megh
Best Actor (Male): Chandan Sen for Manik Babur Megh
Best Actor (Female): Rituparna Sengupta for Ajogya
Most Popular Film: Khadaan
Most Popular Actor: Dev for Khadaan
16. Who has been declared the ICC Men’s Player of the Month for December 2024?
[A] Travis Head
[B] Annabel Sutherland
[C] Joe Root
[D] Jasprit Bumrah
Correct Answer: D [Jasprit Bumrah]
Notes:
The International Cricket Council (ICC) honors outstanding individual achievements in international cricket by giving out the ICC Men’s and Women’s Players of the Month awards. For December 2024, these awards have been given to Jasprit Bumrah from India and Annabel Sutherland from Australia, recognizing their impressive performances in global cricket.
17. The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) is comes under which ministry?
[A] Ministry of Defence
[B] Ministry of Home
[C] Ministry of Commerce and Industry
[D] Ministry of External Affairs
Correct Answer: B [Ministry of Home]
Notes:
The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) is set to grow, as the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has given its approval. This will lead to the formation of two new battalions, each with 1,025 members. The number of CISF battalions will rise from 13 to 15, creating 2,050 new jobs. This expansion is aimed at improving national security, especially in internal security and managing high-security prisons. The MHA’s decision to add two battalions shows the increasing responsibilities of the CISF. Each battalion will be commanded by senior officers. This growth is part of a larger initiative to strengthen national security, particularly after the creation of the Mahila Battalion. The total strength of CISF will be close to 200,000, boosting its effectiveness.
18. Which organization has successfully launched INS Utkarsh, the second multi-purpose vessel (MPV) for the Indian Navy, recently?
[A] Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)
[B] Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)
[C] Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL)
[D] Larsen & Toubro (L&T)
Correct Answer: D [Larsen & Toubro (L&T)]
Notes:
Larsen & Toubro (L&T) has launched the second multi-purpose vessel (MPV) for the Indian Navy, called INS Utkarsh. The launch happened at the Kattupalli Shipyard near Chennai. This event highlights India’s progress in local shipbuilding as part of the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative. The launch took place just three months after the first MPV, INS Samarthak, showing L&T’s quick production abilities. INS Utkarsh is 107 meters long and 18.6 meters wide, with a displacement of over 3,750 tonnes. It can reach a top speed of 15 knots and will improve the Navy’s capabilities in maritime surveillance, patrolling, and disaster relief.
19. Who has recently launched an initiative called Mission Mausam to enhance weather forecasting and disaster management capabilities?
[A] President Droupadi Murmu
[B] Prime Minister Narendra Modi
[C] Union Minister Amit Shah
[D] Union Minister Piyush Goyal
Correct Answer: B [Prime Minister Narendra Modi]
Notes:
The India Meteorological Department (IMD), founded in 1875, will celebrate its 150th anniversary in 2025. In recognition of this significant occasion, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated Mission Mausam on January 14. This initiative is designed to improve India’s weather forecasting and disaster management systems. The mission plays a vital role in reducing the effects of natural disasters by enhancing meteorological services. Mission Mausam aims to advance the IMD’s forecasting, modeling, and information dissemination capabilities. The government has earmarked a budget of Rs 2,000 crore for the initial two years of the project. The mission prioritizes the enhancement of weather monitoring and forecasting, which will benefit various sectors, including agriculture, aviation, defense, disaster management, tourism, and health. Its objective is to deliver comprehensive weather services throughout the nation.
20. Prime Minister Narendra Modi released ‘Vision 2047’ document on which foundation day of the India Meteorological Department?
[A] 100th
[B] 125th
[C] 150th
[D] 175th
Correct Answer: C [150th]
Notes:
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) recently marked the 150th anniversary of its establishment. During this occasion, Prime Minister Narendra Modi introduced the Vision-2047 document, which delineates ambitious objectives for weather prediction and disaster management. The IMD aspires to achieve complete accuracy in weather forecasts for a three-day period and 90% accuracy for forecasts extending to five days. This initiative is designed to improve the detection of severe weather conditions at the village level, with the ultimate goal of eliminating fatalities from such incidents by the year 2047.
21. The Maha Kumbh Mela commenced with its first royal bath on January 14, 2025. What is the royal bath called?
[A] Pavitra Snan
[B] Moksha Snan
[C] Shahi Snan
[D] Amrit Snan
Correct Answer: D [Amrit Snan]
Notes:
The Mahakumbh Mela in Prayagraj commenced with its inaugural amrit snan on January 14, 2025. This ceremonial bath, referred to as shahi snan, is a significant event within Hindu traditions and attracts thousands of devotees. The Kumbh Mela is held every 12 years at four sacred sites, with Prayagraj being one of the prominent locations. The initial dip is traditionally reserved for sadhus from various akhadaas, who are regarded as the esteemed figures of this religious assembly. Amrit snan, or the royal bath, involves a ritualistic immersion in holy rivers during the Kumbh Mela, and it is believed that participating in this practice purifies individuals of their sins. The term ‘amrit’ denotes the nectar of immortality, a concept that is integral to Hindu beliefs surrounding the Kumbh. The importance of this ritual is further amplified by its occurrence in conjunction with favorable planetary alignments.
22. On which date is Indian Army Day celebrated annually?
[A] January 12
[B] January 13
[C] January 14
[D] January 15
Correct Answer: D [January 15]
Notes:
Every year, January 15 is commemorated in India as Indian Army Day, a momentous occasion that honors the establishment of the Indian Army and the critical transition of power to Indian leadership in history. This day symbolizes both the military autonomy of India and the country’s advancement towards self-sufficiency in defense capabilities.
Indian Army Day serves to recognize the bravery and sacrifices of soldiers who have devoted their lives to the nation’s service. This observance is not merely a celebration of the accomplishments of the Indian Army; it also aims to foster a profound sense of patriotism and solidarity among the populace. The day stands as a testament to the steadfast dedication of our armed forces in safeguarding the security of the nation.
23. What is the theme of the 77th Indian Army Day 2025?
[A] Great India, Capable Army
[B] Proud India, Proud Army
[C] Empowered India, Capable Army
[D] Empowered India with Proud Army
Correct Answer: C [Empowered India, Capable Army]
Notes:
The 77th Indian Army Day will be commemorated with the theme “Samarth Bharat, Saksham Sena” (Empowered India, Capable Army). The Indian Army is set to display its advanced equipment and a variety of combat strategies at the Cariappa Parade Ground in Delhi.
24. Which city has recently hosted the Army Day Parade 2025 for the first time?
[A] Hyderabad
[B] Pune
[C] Jaisalmer
[D] Belagavi
Correct Answer: B [Pune]
Notes:
The Army Day Parade, a significant event in India’s military calendar, is set to be held in Pune for the first time on 15 January 2025. This parade honors the historic appointment of Field Marshal K M Cariappa as the inaugural Indian Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army. Traditionally hosted in Delhi, the event has been relocated to various cities since 2023, thereby fostering greater local involvement with the Armed Forces. Pune’s selection underscores its deep-rooted military heritage, as it houses both the Southern Command Headquarters and the National Defence Academy. Indian Army Day is observed annually on 15 January, a date that signifies the establishment of the Indian Army and the transition of military leadership to Indian authorities following independence. Initially celebrated on 1 April 1895, the date was revised to acknowledge the sacrifices and contributions of soldiers. The day serves to promote patriotism and respect for the armed forces among the populace.
25. Who has been named the best javelin thrower of 2024 by the respected US-based sports magazine Track and Field News??
[A] Arshad Nadeem
[B] Jakub Vadlejch
[C] Neeraj Chopra
[D] Julian Weber
Correct Answer: C [ Neeraj Chopra]
Notes:
Neeraj Chopra was named the best javelin thrower of 2024 by the US-based Track and Field News. He won the silver medal at the Paris 2024 Olympics with a throw of 89.45m. He narrowly beat Anderson Peters of Grenada for the top spot in the rankings; Peters won three Diamond League events in 2024. Pakistan’s Arshad Nadeem, who threw 92.97m to win Olympic gold, ranked fifth due to limited appearances. Track and Field News, founded in 1948, is highly respected in athletics.
26. Which country hosted the 5th ASEAN Digital Ministers’ Meeting (ADGMIN) in January 2025?
[A] Japan
[B] Singapore
[C] Australia
[D] Thailand
Correct Answer: D [Thailand]
Notes:
Thailand was the venue for the 5th ASEAN Digital Ministers’ Meeting (ADGMIN), which took place from January 13 to 17 in Bangkok. The delegation from the ASEAN Secretariat was led by the ASEAN Secretary-General, Kao Kim Hourn. As the chair of ADGMIN for 2025, Thailand organized this meeting, which aims to promote the development of ASEAN as a digital community and economic bloc, in accordance with the ASEAN Digital Masterplan 2025.
