Post Views: 12
1. Which organization has recently launched the “One Plate, One Bag” campaign at the Maha Kumbh 2025?
[A] Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS)
[B] ISKCON
[C] Isha Foundation
[D] Tata Trusts
Correct Answer: A [Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS)]
Notes:
In a significant step towards promoting environmentally sustainable practices, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) has launched the “One Plate, One Bag” initiative at the Maha Kumbh 2025. This campaign aims to eradicate plastic usage at the world’s largest religious gathering by advocating for the adoption of cloth bags and steel plates and glasses as alternatives to plastic products. The initiative was formally inaugurated on the Old GT Road in Sector 18 of the Kumbh Mela by RSS Sah-Sarkaryavah Krishna Gopal. As part of this initiative, pilgrims are being supplied with cloth bags and steel utensils, thereby replacing single-use plastic items. During the inauguration, Gopal emphasized the importance of collective responsibility in tackling the plastic crisis and urged individuals to incorporate eco-friendly choices into their daily routines.
2. The world’s first Mahamrityunjaya Yantra has recently installed in which place?
[A] Ujjain
[B] Prayagraj
[C] Kashi
[D] Varanasi
Correct Answer: B [Prayagraj]
Notes:
The inaugural Mahamrityunjaya Yantra, with dimensions of 52 feet in length, width, and height, has been established at Tapovan Ashram in Jhunsi Havelis, Prayagraj, a site revered as the sacred ground of the Maha Kumbh. This extraordinary Yantra is regarded as a spiritual wonder, intended to facilitate a connection between devotees and the elevated consciousness of Lord Shiva. Commonly known as the “Victory over Death” Yantra, it serves as a spiritual instrument that:
- Assists individuals in conquering the anxieties associated with death, illness, and peril.
- Fosters bravery and optimism among its followers.
- Functions as a divine link to the higher energies of Lord Shiva.
Swami Sahajanand Maharaj, the architect of this project, highlighted its scientifically informed design and its capacity to effectuate positive change in lives by mitigating pollution, stress, and depression.
3. Recently, the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025 has commenced in which place?
[A] New Delhi
[B] Hyderabad
[C] Bengaluru
[D] Kolkota
Correct Answer: A [New Delhi]
Notes:
On January 17, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially opened the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025 at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. This event is recognized as the largest mobility expo in India, with the objective of integrating the entire mobility value chain into a cohesive framework. The expo will take place from January 17 to 22, 2025, across three locations: Bharat Mandapam and Yashobhoomi in New Delhi, as well as the India Expo Centre & Mart in Greater Noida. It will host over nine simultaneous exhibitions, more than 20 conferences, and specialized pavilions. Furthermore, state sessions will focus on regional policies and initiatives within the mobility sector, promoting collaboration between the industry and local governments. The expo has attracted over 1,500 exhibitors and is expected to welcome approximately 500,000 visitors.
4. Which Union Minister has recently inaugurated the India Pavilion at Heimtextil 2025 in Frankfurt, Germany?
[A] Shri Piyush Goyal
[B] Shri Amit Shah
[C] Shri S. Jaishankar
[D] Shri Giriraj Singh
Correct Answer: D [Shri Giriraj Singh]
Notes:
India’s Minister of Textiles, Giriraj Singh, officially opened the India Pavilion at Heimtextil 2025 in Frankfurt, highlighting the country’s dedication to innovation and international collaboration. The textile industry in India has historically been a fundamental aspect of its economy, celebrated for its extensive heritage and variety of offerings. In recent times, this sector has witnessed considerable expansion, establishing India as a significant contender in the global textile arena.
5. Which ministry has established Kalagram, is a cultural hub celebrating India’s rich heritage in Prayagraj?
[A] Ministry of Home
[B] Ministry of Current Affairs
[C] Ministry of Culture
[D] Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment
Correct Answer: C [Ministry of Culture]
Notes:
Kalagram, found in the holy city of Prayagraj during the Mahakumbh 2025, serves as a cultural haven celebrating India’s rich heritage. Set up by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, Kalagram offers a chance to explore the traditions of Bharat through the senses. It brings together various crafts, delicious foods, and cultural shows, providing an immersive experience that connects visitors to India’s deep-rooted cultural history. With its vibrant crafts, engaging performances, and the area’s spiritual significance, Kalagram shines as a cultural treasure that embodies the essence of India.
6. Which of the following has revised Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) guidelines to boost cross-border transactions in rupee and local currencies?
[A] Finance Commission
[B] Ministry of Finance
[C] Confederation of Indian Industry (CII)
[D] Reserve Bank of India
Correct Answer: D [Reserve Bank of India]
Notes:
Recent modifications to the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) have been enacted to promote cross-border transactions utilizing Indian rupees (INR) and various foreign currencies. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI), in partnership with the government, has initiated these changes in response to mounting pressures on the rupee, influenced by global economic conditions. The objective of these reforms is to improve international trade and investment prospects for both Indian exporters and foreign investors. FEMA was established in 1999 as a successor to the Foreign Exchange Regulation Act (FERA).
7. The Reserve Bank of India has introduced daily VRR auctions recently, VRR means?
[A] Velocity Rate Repo
[B] Variable Rate Repo
[C] Value Rate Repo
[D] Vertical Rate Repo
Correct Answer: B [Variable Rate Repo]
Notes:
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has introduced daily variable rate repo (VRR) auctions as a strategy to manage liquidity. This initiative is in response to a liquidity shortfall that has surpassed ₹2 trillion within the banking sector. The primary objective of these auctions is to ease the prevailing liquidity constraints, especially in light of the impending outflows related to the goods and services tax (GST). The RBI plans to hold VRR auctions on each working day in Mumbai, with an initial auction amount set at around ₹50,000 crore. Reversals of these transactions will take place on the subsequent working day, with the exception of Fridays, when they will occur on the following Monday.
8. According to the World Bank, what is India’s projected economic growth in FY26 and FY27?
[A] 6.7%
[B] 7.8%
[C] 8.9%
[D] 9%
Correct Answer: A [6.7%]
Notes:
India is expected to sustain its status as the fastest-growing major economy, with a projected growth rate of 6.7% for the fiscal years 2025-26 and 2026-27, as indicated in the most recent Global Economic Prospects report published by the World Bank.
9. According to FICCI, what is India’s projected economic growth in FY 2024-25?
[A] 6.7%
[B] 6.6%
[C] 6.5%
[D] 6.4%
Correct Answer: D [6.4%]
Notes:
The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) has revised its economic projections for India, estimating a GDP growth rate of 6.4% and a Consumer Price Index (CPI)-based inflation rate of 4.8% for the fiscal year 2024-25. This adjustment signifies a prudent perspective in light of global uncertainties and domestic hurdles. According to FICCI’s most recent Economic Outlook Survey, conducted in December 2024, the GDP growth forecast for India has been lowered to 6.4% for FY 2024-25, down from the previously anticipated 7.0% in September 2024. This revision also represents a deceleration from the 8.2% growth achieved in 2023-24. The slowdown is primarily attributed to the prevailing global uncertainties and domestic challenges that are affecting economic momentum.
10. Which insurance company has recently partnered with Saraswat Co-Operative bank to offer a wide range of life insurance solution?
[A] SBI Life
[B] HDFC Life Insurance
[C] PNB MetLife
[D] ICICI Lombard
Correct Answer: C [PNB MetLife]
Notes:
On January 15, 2025, PNB MetLife India Insurance Company Limited revealed a strategic bancassurance alliance with Saraswat Co-Operative Bank Ltd., recognized as the largest urban co-operative bank in India. This partnership is designed to offer a wide array of life insurance products, encompassing savings, protection, retirement, and group plans, to Saraswat Bank’s vast clientele, which consists of around 3 million customers distributed across 302 branches throughout the country.
11. Which housing finance company has recently rebranded itself as Truhome Finance?
[A] Aavas Financiers
[B] Gic Housing Finance
[C] Star Housing Fin
[D] Shriram Housing Finance
Correct Answer: D [Shriram Housing Finance]
Notes:
In a noteworthy advancement, Shriram Housing Finance has undergone a rebranding initiative, now operating under the name Truhome Finance. This change signifies a crucial evolution in its corporate identity and strategic focus. The rebranding is a direct result of the acquisition led by Warburg Pincus, alongside co-investors such as Qatar’s sovereign wealth fund, QIA. This new identity is in harmony with the company’s objective to improve access to affordable home loans for a wide range of socio-economic groups. Warburg Pincus, in collaboration with the Qatar Investment Authority (QIA), has secured a significant equity position in the company by investing ₹1,225 crore. This capital injection has enhanced the company’s valuation to exceed ₹3,300 crore, thereby establishing a robust platform for prospective expansion.
12. Haploclastus bratocolonus (“tree dweller”) is a new tarantula species, which has recently been discovered in which place?
[A] Eastern Ghats
[B] Western Ghats
[C] Sundarbans
[D] North-East Forests
Correct Answer: B [Western Ghats]
Notes:
The Western Ghats of India have recently yielded a remarkable discovery, with researchers identifying four new tarantula species, including a previously unknown genus. One of these newly described species, Haploclastus bratocolonus, has been dubbed the “tree dweller” due to its arboreal lifestyle, inhabiting hollow trees along riverbanks. Another species, Haploclastus montanus, is found in mountain forests at elevations exceeding 2,000 meters. Additionally, a new genus, Cilantica, named after the Tamil word for spider, has been established, characterized by its unique pattern of curved bristles on the body.
This biodiversity-rich region is home to over 60 tarantula species, yet public awareness of their existence remains limited. These recent findings underscore the ecological significance of these spiders and the urgent need for conservation efforts to protect this remarkable arachnid diversity.
13. Recently, which country has discovered a new method of remediating DDT-contaminated soil with biochar?
[A] Sweden
[B] China
[C] United States
[D] France
Correct Answer: A [Sweden]
Notes:
Recent investigations conducted by Chalmers University of Technology in Sweden have uncovered a promising approach for the remediation of soils contaminated with DDT. This study highlights the enduring environmental consequences of DDT, a pesticide that has been prohibited for more than half a century, and introduces biochar as a feasible solution for restoring soil health and agricultural productivity. DDT (dichloro-diphenyl-trichloroethane) was first utilized as an insecticide in 1939, demonstrating effectiveness in pest control; however, it has led to a decline in soil quality over time. Even though it has been banned in numerous countries, DDT contamination continues to be a significant issue at various locations around the globe.
14. Who has recently been launched the PRABHAAV Factbook and Bharat Startup Grand Challenge initiatives?
Manufacturing Platform?
[A] Shri Piyush Goyal
[B] Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman
[C] Shri Amit Shah
[D] Shri Rajnath Singh
Correct Answer: A [Shri Piyush Goyal]
Notes:
The 9th Foundation Day of Startup India, held in New Delhi, represented a pivotal moment in India’s aspiration to emerge as a global frontrunner in innovation and entrepreneurship. During the event, Union Minister of Commerce & Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal, introduced several important initiatives, such as the PRABHAAV Factbook and the Bharat Startup Challenge, underscoring the crucial impact of startups on India’s economic and social development.
Startup Ecosystem Growth:
India has become home to the third-largest startup ecosystem in the world, with 159,157 startups recorded in January 2025. This marks a significant increase from around 500 startups in 2016, creating 1.72 million direct jobs.
PRABHAAV Factbook:
The PRABHAAV Factbook, recently released, tracks the growth of the startup ecosystem from 2016 to 2024. It acts as a detailed guide, highlighting successes and regional progress in India’s dynamic startup scene.
Bharat Startup Grand Challenge:
The Bharat Startup Grand Challenge has been launched. It seeks creative solutions in 75 different sectors. Participants can win cash prizes, receive funding, gain mentorship, and access networking opportunities, promoting teamwork between industry leaders and startups.
15. C-DOT and which IIT has been collaborating to develop an “Optical Transceiver Chipset for High-Bandwidth 6G Wireless Links”?
[A] IIT Madras
[B] IIT Kharagpur
[C] IIT Kanpur
[D] IIT Bombay
Correct Answer: D [IIT Bombay]
Notes:
India is advancing rapidly in the realm of next-generation telecommunications technology, exemplified by the recent collaboration between the Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT) and the Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay (IIT Bombay). This partnership is dedicated to the creation of an “Optical Transceiver Chipset for High-Bandwidth 6G Wireless Links.” Funded by the Telecom Technology Development Fund (TTDF) as part of the 6G Call for Proposals initiated by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), this project seeks to enhance India’s position as a leader in 6G innovation and implementation by the year 2030, emphasizing key aspects such as affordability, sustainability, and widespread accessibility.
16. The Government of India has approved the establishment of a Third Launch Pad (TLP) at which place?
[A] Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh
[B] Paradeep, Odisha
[C] Thumba, Kerala
[D] Karavatti, Lakshadweep
Correct Answer: A [Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh]
Notes:
The Indian Government has approved the construction of a Third Launch Pad (TLP) at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre located in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. This initiative is intended to enhance India’s capabilities in space exploration, particularly in relation to forthcoming human spaceflight endeavors. The TLP will facilitate the operations of Next Generation Launch Vehicles (NGLV) and will also function as a contingency for the existing Second Launch Pad. It is designed to accommodate both NGLV and LVM3 vehicles, offering versatility for various configurations. This project is crucial for addressing the increasing demand for launch services. The projected expenditure for the TLP is Rs. 3984.86 Crore, with an anticipated completion timeline of 48 months, or four years. The establishment of the TLP is expected to boost India’s launch frequency and capacity, thereby significantly contributing to human spaceflight initiatives and future exploration missions.
17. What is the name of India’s first indigenous micro-missile system designed to counter swarm drones?
[A] Sudarshan Chakra
[B] Bhargavastra
[C] Surya-Chandra
[D] Suwarnavastra
Correct Answer: B [Bhargavastra]
Notes:
In January 2025, Economic Explosives Limited (EEL), a subsidiary of Solar Industries India Limited based in Nagpur, Maharashtra, achieved a significant milestone by successfully test-firing India’s inaugural guided micro-missiles as part of its ‘Bhargavastra’ counter-drone system. This advanced system is capable of detecting small aerial vehicles at distances exceeding 6 kilometers and can engage targets at ranges beyond 2.5 kilometers. Utilizing guided micro-munitions, Bhargavastra can launch over 64 micro missiles simultaneously. It is designed to function effectively across various terrains, including high-altitude regions. This development addresses the Army’s Air Defence needs and represents India’s first counter-drone system employing micro missiles.
18. Which Indian state farmers to a call for India to withdraw from the WTO?
[A] West Bengal
[B] Jharkhand
[C] Kerala
[D] Punjab
Correct Answer: D [Punjab]
Notes:
Farmers in India continue to protest against the World Trade Organization (WTO) policies, claiming these rules threaten their livelihoods. The demonstrations, especially strong in Punjab, have shifted from seeking legal recognition of Minimum Support Prices (MSP) to a wider call for India to withdraw from the WTO. Farmers believe that WTO regulations benefit wealthy countries, endangering food security and the earnings of small farmers in India.
19. Who has been appointed as MD and CEO of Punjab National Bank?
[A] Chandrashekhar Rao
[B] Ashok Chandra
[C] Ramesh Kumar
[D] Sudarshan Rai
Correct Answer: B [Ashok Chandra]
Notes:
Ashok Chandra has been designated as the Managing Director (MD) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Punjab National Bank (PNB). Before assuming this position, Chandra held the role of Executive Director at Canara Bank, starting in November 2022, where he was responsible for multiple sectors such as digital banking, information technology, strategic planning, marketing and public relations, financial inclusion, micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSME), retail assets, agriculture, and priority sectors. His banking career commenced at the former Corporation Bank in September 1991, where he began as a probationary officer.
20. Who has been appointed as MD and CEO of Indian Bank?
[A] Brijesh Kumar
[B] Jaya Vardhan
[C] Binod Kumar
[D] Umesh Chandra
Correct Answer: C [Binod Kumar]
Notes:
Binod Kumar has assumed the role of Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Indian Bank. With over thirty years of experience in the banking sector, Kumar began his career at Punjab National Bank as a management trainee in 1994 and was promoted to Executive Director in November 2022. Throughout his tenure at PNB, he has occupied several significant roles, including Chief General Manager of Corporate Credit, Zonal Manager, and Chief Executive Officer of PNB Operations at the Dubai International Financial Centre. Kumar holds a degree in science and has obtained a Post Graduate Diploma in Banking and Finance from the National Institute of Bank Management (NIBM). Furthermore, he is a certified Financial Risk Manager (FRM) through the Global Association of Risk Professionals (GARP) in the United States, as well as a Certified Associate of the Indian Institute of Bankers (CAIIB). He also possesses a diploma in Treasury Investment and Risk Management and has participated in a leadership skill development program at the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Bangalore.
21. Who has recently been sworn in as the new judge of the Supreme Court of India?
[A] Anand Mat
[B] Madhusudan Rao
[C] Keshava Murthy A
[D] Krishnan Vinod Chandran
Correct Answer: D [Krishnan Vinod Chandran]
Notes:
Justice Krishnan Vinod Chandran took the oath of office as the latest judge of the Supreme Court of India on January 16, 2025. The oath was administered by Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna. This appointment brings the total number of judges in the Supreme Court to 33, which is just one less than its authorized full capacity.
22. Who has taken over as Secretary of the Department of Higher Education in the Ministry of Education?
[A] Vineet Joshi
[B] Ravindra Joshi
[C] Ajay Kumar
[D] Murugesh Pai
Correct Answer: A [Vineet Joshi]
Notes:
Shri Vineet Joshi has taken on the position of Secretary of the Department of Higher Education within the Ministry of Education as of January 2025, located at Shastri Bhawan in New Delhi. Before this role, Shri Joshi enjoyed a notable career, holding several important positions in the Indian educational sector. His extensive background in overseeing education-related programs is anticipated to contribute substantially to the enhancement of higher education in India.
23. Who has recently been launched the registration portal for the 3rd edition of Kashi Tamil Sangamam (KTS)?
[A] Dharmenndra Pradhan
[B] Narendra Modi
[C] Amit Shah
[D] Droupadi Murmu
Correct Answer: A [Dharmenndra Pradhan]
Notes:
The registration portal for Kashi Tamil Sangamam (KTS) 3.0 has been inaugurated by Union Minister for Education, Dharmendra Pradhan. Scheduled to occur from February 15 to February 24, 2025, in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, this initiative seeks to enhance the cultural connections between Tamil Nadu and Kashi, highlighting their common heritage. Registrations for KTS 3.0 will remain open until February 1, 2025, and can be completed through the portal kashitamil.iitm.ac.in.
24. Which of the following has introduced two new categories to recognize non-scientists as Fellows this year?
[A] DRDO
[B] Indian Government
[C] ISRO
[D] Indian National Science Academy (INSA)
Correct Answer: D [Indian National Science Academy (INSA)]
Notes:
The Indian National Science Academy (INSA) has launched two new categories aimed at honoring individuals outside the scientific community as Fellows. The first category, Science in Translation, recognizes exemplary leadership in science-driven innovation or the management of scientific organizations. The second category, Science in Society, celebrates those who utilize scientific principles to tackle pressing challenges such as energy, water, and health, or who work to popularize science for the benefit of society. INSA operates as an autonomous body located in New Delhi, dedicated to the advancement of scientific knowledge and its practical applications. Originally founded in 1935 as the National Institute of Sciences of India (NISI), the institution was rebranded as INSA in 1970. Furthermore, INSA is a signatory to the Berlin Declaration on Open Access to Knowledge in the Sciences and Humanities, which was adopted in 2004.
25. T.V. Gopalakrishnan has been honored with the RK Srikantan Trust Award, famous player of which musical instrument?
[A] Mridangam
[B] Ghatam
[C] Kanjra
[D] Pakhawaj
Correct Answer: A [Mridangam]
Notes:
T.V. Gopalakrishnan, a famous mridangist, will receive the RK Srikantan Trust Award at the Sankranti Music Fest. This award honors his outstanding contributions to Indian classical music. He was born on June 11, 1932, in Tripunithura, Kerala, into a well-known musical family. Gopalakrishnan started playing the mridangam at just four years old and performed his arangetram at the Cochin palace when he was six. He learned under Chembai Vaidyanatha Bhagavathar. His skills include Carnatic and Hindustani singing, mridangam, and violin. Over his successful career, he has worked with international musicians and earned many awards, such as the Padma Bhushan in 2012 and the Sangeetha Kalanidhi award in 2014.
26. Which ministry has signed contract worth Rs 2,960 crore with Bharat Dynamics Limited for the supply of Medium-Range Surface-to-Air Missiles (MRSAM) to the Navy?
[A] Ministry of Defence
[B] Ministry of Home
[C] Ministry of Commerce and Industry
[D] Ministry of External Affairs
Correct Answer: A [Ministry of Defence]
Notes:
Recently, the Indian Ministry of Defence entered into a contract valued at Rs 2,960 crore with Bharat Dynamics Limited for the provision of Medium-Range Surface-to-Air Missiles (MRSAM) to the Navy. This agreement underscores India’s dedication to achieving self-reliance in defense through the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative, which seeks to enhance domestic manufacturing capabilities and generate significant employment opportunities. The MRSAM is characterized as a medium-range missile with an operational range spanning from 1,000 km to 3,000 km. The development of this missile system is a collaborative effort between the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), while Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) is responsible for its production. The MRSAM is specifically engineered to address airborne threats, including helicopters, combat aircraft, cruise missiles, and other aerial vehicles. The land-based variant of the MRSAM is known as BARAK-8.
27. The Indian Navy has recently celebrated the ‘Year of Naval Civilians’ on which day?
[A] January 14
[B] January 15
[C] January 16
[D] January 17
Correct Answer: D [January 17]
Notes:
The Indian Navy commemorated the ‘Year of Naval Civilians’ on January 17, 2025, at the Dr. DS Kothari Auditorium, DRDO Bhawan, New Delhi. This significant event, attended by the Hon’ble Defence Minister, emphasized the crucial role that Naval Civilians play in bolstering and enhancing the operational capabilities of the Indian Navy. The celebration seeks to highlight their commitment, creativity, and outstanding service through a variety of activities, such as exhibitions, performances, and award presentations.
28. Which organization has released the World Employment and Social Outlook Report for 2025?
[A] World Trade Organization (WTO)
[B] United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
[C] International Labour Organisation (ILO)
[D] World Economic Forum (WEF)
Correct Answer: C [International Labour Organisation (ILO)]
Notes:
The International Labour Organisation (ILO) has published its World Employment and Social Outlook Report for 2025, highlighting the persistent difficulties faced by global labour markets. The findings indicate that geopolitical conflicts, the financial implications of climate change, and ongoing debt challenges are significant barriers to economic recovery. Although there has been a modest reduction in the global jobs gap, substantial obstacles persist, especially for low-income nations and at-risk populations. In 2024, the global jobs gap was recorded at 402 million, comprising 186 million unemployed individuals, 137 million who are temporarily unavailable for work, and 79 million who have become discouraged. While the gap has decreased since the pandemic, it is anticipated to stabilise in the forthcoming years.
29. Which organization has recently released a report titled “Prospects for Children in 2025: Building Resilient Systems for Children’s Futures” report?
[A] UN
[B] UNICEF
[C] IMF
[D] World Bank
Correct Answer: B [UNICEF]
Notes:
A recent report by UNICEF, titled “Prospects for Children in 2025 – Building Resilient Systems for Children’s Futures,” evaluates the increasing crises confronting children worldwide in 2025. The document highlights the detrimental effects of climate change, economic instability, and armed conflict on the lives and futures of children. It emphasizes the critical necessity for resilient systems that can safeguard children and provide them with essential support. Currently, over 473 million children reside in areas affected by conflict, accounting for 19% of the global child population, a figure that has nearly doubled since the 1990s. Armed conflicts expose children to significant dangers, resulting in displacement, malnutrition, and psychological distress.
30. Which organization has recently released the Global Risks Report 2025?
[A] World Economic Forum (WEF)
[B] International Monetary Fund (IMF)
[C] United Nations (UN)
[D] World Trade Organization (WTO)
Correct Answer: A [World Economic Forum (WEF)]
Notes:
The World Economic Forum (WEF) has recently published its Global Risks Report 2025, which serves as a precursor to the annual meeting in Davos. This report emphasizes the critical importance of international collaboration in addressing environmental issues. It highlights an increase in both the frequency and financial impact of extreme weather events, which are impacting various nations across the globe. The report classifies risks into five categories: economic, environmental, geopolitical, societal, and technological. It evaluates these risks over both short-term (1-2 years) and long-term (10 years) perspectives. For the period of 2025-2027, extreme weather events are identified as the second most significant global risk. They now rank among the top five risks in 28 countries, an increase from 24. In the United States, challenges are particularly pronounced due to wildfires in Los Angeles, which are expected to result in losses exceeding $200 billion.
31. What is India’s rank globally in future job market readiness in QS Skill Index 2025?
[A] 2nd
[B] 3rd
[C] 4th
[D] 5th
Correct Answer: A [2nd]
Notes:
India has recently been acknowledged as the second most prepared job market in the world, trailing only the United States, as reported by the QS World Future Skills Index. This inaugural index assesses nations based on their preparedness for future employment requirements, with a particular focus on critical sectors such as Artificial Intelligence, digital technologies, and green industries. India’s commendable performance highlights both its potential and the obstacles it encounters in aligning educational outcomes with industry demands. The index evaluates countries across four primary indicators: Skills Fit, Academic Readiness, Future of Work, and Economic Transformation. While India holds the 25th position overall, it demonstrates exceptional strength in the Future of Work category, achieving a score of 99.1, just behind the United States.
32. Which organization has released the Global Economic Prospects report?
[A] WEF
[B] WTO
[C] IMF
[D] World Bank
Correct Answer: D [World Bank]
Notes:
India is expected to retain its status as the fastest-growing major economy, with a projected growth rate of 6.7% for the fiscal years 2025-26 and 2026-27, as indicated in the World Bank’s most recent Global Economic Prospects report. The World Bank has reaffirmed its growth forecast for India at 6.7% for the upcoming two fiscal years, underscoring the nation’s strong economic performance. Meanwhile, the global economy is anticipated to grow by 2.7% in both 2025 and 2026, sustaining the same growth rate as in 2024, as inflation and interest rates gradually decrease.
33. Kokborok language, recently seen on the news, it is the official language of which Indian state?
[A] Meghalaya
[B] Arunachal Pradesh
[C] Manipur
[D] Tripura
Correct Answer: D [Tripura]
Notes:
The Twipra Student Federation (TSF) recently staged a protest in Agartala, Tripura, advocating for the adoption of the Roman script for the Kokborok language. Kokborok is a Sino-Tibetan language spoken by the Borok people of Tripura. Officially recognized in 1979, the language has historical roots dating back to the 1st century AD. The name Kokborok combines the words “Kok” (verbal) and “Borok” (people). According to the 2011 Census, approximately 880,537 individuals, accounting for nearly 24% of Tripura’s population, speak Kokborok.
34. Which Indian state government has recently launched SHE COHORT 3.0 initiative to empower women-led startups?
[A] Karnataka
[B] Punjab
[C] Maharashtra
[D] Gujarat
Correct Answer: B [Punjab]
Notes:
The government of Punjab has launched the SHE COHORT 3.0 initiative (Startups Handholding & Empowerment – Cohort 3.0) in Mohali, with the objective of supporting female entrepreneurs and students in the creation of technology-oriented businesses. This initiative is supported by a range of business incubators and ecosystem facilitators. Around 300 startups, innovators, and students were educated about the growth strategies associated with StartUp Punjab. The program serves as a platform for showcasing talent and innovative concepts that have the potential to drive economic progress. It aims to contribute significantly to India’s development by the year 2047.
35. The Union Ministry of Culture and Gujarat State Government has recently inaugurated a cutting-edge Archaeological Experiential Museum in which place?
[A] Gandhinagar
[B] Ahmedabad
[C] Vadnagar
[D] Surat
Correct Answer: C [Vadnagar]
Notes:
On a momentous occasion, the Union Ministry of Culture, in collaboration with the Gujarat State Government, inaugurated a cutting-edge Archaeological Experiential Museum in Vadnagar. The ceremony was led by Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah and featured the presence of Gujarat Chief Minister Shri Bhupendrabhai Patel, Union Minister of Education Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, as well as various high-ranking officials. This significant initiative highlights the extensive cultural and historical legacy of Vadnagar, a town with a history that extends beyond 2,500 years.
36. Which state has recently launched Swami Vivekanand Yuva Shakti Mission?
[A] Rajasthan
[B] Gujarat
[C] Odisha
[D] Madhya Pradesh
Correct Answer: D [Madhya Pradesh]
Notes:
Mohan Yadav, the Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, inaugurated the Swami Vivekanand Yuva Shakti Mission in Bhopal on January 12, 2025, coinciding with the observance of National Youth Day. This day has been celebrated annually since 1985 to honor the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekanand.
The mission aims to achieve a 100% pass rate for students in the 10th and 12th-grade board examinations by the year 2030. It is structured around three primary objectives designed to empower the youth. The first objective is to ensure that the income of every young individual meets or exceeds the minimum wage for skilled workers. The second objective focuses on guaranteeing that all youth complete their education up to the 12th grade. Lastly, the third objective seeks to motivate young people to engage in various social initiatives aimed at enhancing community welfare.
37. Which two sites from India have been included in the 2025 World Monuments Watch list?
[A] Adalaj Stepwell and Gateway of India
[B] Buxar Fort and Falaknuma Palace
[C] Musi River Historic Buildings and Bhuj Historic Water Systems
[D] Chunar Fort and Bidar Fort
Correct Answer: C [Musi River Historic Buildings and Bhuj Historic Water Systems]
Notes:
The Musi River Historic Buildings in Hyderabad and the Bhuj Historic Water Systems in Gujarat have been included in the 2025 World Monuments Watch by the World Monuments Fund (WMF), based in New York. These locations are threatened by climate change and water scarcity, underscoring the importance of advocacy and conservation efforts. WMF advocates for heritage as a means to foster rejuvenation, sustainability, and resilience in the face of Hyderabad’s environmental challenges and swift transformations.