Post Views: 6
1. Which state is poised to become the first state in India to implement the Uniform Civil Code (UCC)?
[A] Jharkhand
[B] Uttar Pradesh
[C] Gujarat
[D] Uttarakhand
Correct Answer: D [Uttarakhand]
Notes:
Uttarakhand is poised to be the inaugural state in India to adopt the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), following the approval of the UCC rules manual by the state government. The Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, has ratified the manual and established essential provisions concerning registration services, the support of live-in relationships, and the launch of Tatkal services. Additionally, the government is deploying sophisticated digital platforms to guarantee effective and extensive access to these services. Training sessions for officials are currently in progress, and a statewide mock drill is scheduled to ensure that all stakeholders are adequately prepared for the seamless implementation of the UCC.
2. Recently, India’s sixth and Eastern India’s first Astronomical Observatory has recently been established in which state of India?
[A] West Bengal
[B] Assam
[C] Arunachal Pradesh
[D] Meghalaya
Correct Answer: A [West Bengal]
Notes:
The first astronomical observatory in Eastern India, and the sixth in the country, has been established on Panchet Hill in the Garpanchkot area of Purulia district, West Bengal. This facility is managed by the Department of Science and Technology, which operates under the Union Ministry of Science and Technology. It adds to the existing network of five observatories situated in Ladakh, Nainital (Uttarakhand), Mount Abu (Rajasthan), Girbani Hills in Pune, and Kavalur in Tamil Nadu.
3. Recently, which country was officially admitted as a partner country of the BRICS group?
[A] Germany
[B] France
[C] Nigeria
[D] Sri Lanka
Correct Answer: C [Nigeria]
Notes:
Recently, Nigeria was officially recognized as a partner country within the BRICS coalition, which consists of Brazil, Russia, China, and South Africa. This development underscores Nigeria’s increasing prominence as the largest economy in Africa and its dedication to fostering international collaboration. The BRICS group seeks to establish a counterweight to Western-dominated economic platforms and to encourage South-South cooperation. Established in 2009, BRICS initially included Brazil, Russia, and China, with South Africa joining in 2010. The organization prioritizes economic collaboration, political discourse, and the reform of global governance structures. In 2023, BRICS expanded its membership to include Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, and the UAE. With Nigeria’s inclusion, the group now counts nine partners, alongside Belarus, Bolivia, Cuba, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Thailand, Uganda, and Uzbekistan.
4. TikTok App, which was seen in the news recently in which country?
[A] China
[B] India
[C] United States
[D] Russia
Correct Answer: C [United States]
Notes:
In January 2025, TikTok experienced a temporary suspension in the United States as a result of a newly enacted law aimed at addressing national security issues. This legislation, which garnered bipartisan support, mandated that ByteDance, the parent company of TikTok, divest the application to a U.S.-based organization. Nevertheless, within a matter of hours following the shutdown, TikTok was reinstated due to an intervention by President-elect Donald Trump, who pledged to postpone the implementation of the ban via an executive order. This article examines the key developments surrounding the app’s shutdown and its rapid restoration, as well as the ongoing challenges TikTok must navigate to ensure its viability in the U.S. market.
5. Which organization has recently announced that CEAT Limited and Hindustan Unilever Limited have joined its Global Lighthouse Network (GLN)?
[A] United Nations
[B] World Bank
[C] World Economic Forum
[D] International Monetary Fund
Correct Answer: C [World Economic Forum]
Notes:
The World Economic Forum (WEF) has announced the inclusion of CEAT Limited and Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL) in its Global Lighthouse Network (GLN) as of January 2025. The GLN serves as a consortium of industry leaders who leverage digital technologies to enhance productivity, bolster supply chain resilience, and achieve other operational improvements. This network acknowledges manufacturing facilities that implement digital innovations to boost efficiency, promote sustainability, and enhance workforce capabilities. Members of the GLN employ cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, and advanced analytics. These organizations have reported significant gains in operational efficiency, a decrease in environmental impact, and improved adaptability to market fluctuations. CEAT’s manufacturing facility located in Sriperumbudur, Tamil Nadu, has been welcomed into the GLN, alongside HUL’s Doom Dooma plant, which is situated in Tinsukia, Assam, and is recognized as India’s largest manufacturing unit for beauty and well-being products.
6. Which bank has recently received RBI approval to open 20 new branches across major cities?
[A] HSBC India
[B] Deutsche Bank
[C] Citibank
[D] BNP Paribas
Correct Answer: A [HSBC India]
Notes:
HSBC India has obtained authorization from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to open 20 new branches in significant urban centers, representing the most substantial expansion permitted to a foreign bank by the RBI in over ten years. The branches will be established in the following cities: Amritsar, Bhopal, Bhubaneswar, Dehradun, Faridabad, Indore, Jalandhar, Kanpur, Ludhiana, Lucknow, Mysuru, Nagpur, Nashik, Navi Mumbai, Patna, Rajkot, Surat, Thiruvananthapuram, Vadodara, and Vishakhapatnam. These locations have been selected due to their increasing concentrations of wealth, providing additional access points for affluent, high-net-worth, and ultra-high-net-worth clients with both domestic and international banking and wealth management requirements.
7. According to Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), what is India’s projected economic growth rate in FY 2025-26?
[A] 8%
[B] 7%
[C] 6%
[D] 5%
Correct Answer: B [7%]
Notes:
The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) projects a 7% growth in India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) for the fiscal year 2025-26, primarily fueled by an increase in private investments and job creation. A recent nationwide survey conducted by CII indicates that 75% of participants perceive the existing economic environment as conducive to private investment. Furthermore, 70% of the companies surveyed intend to make investments in FY’26, suggesting a likely rise in private sector engagement in the upcoming quarters.
8. According to Moody’s, what is India’s projected economic growth rate in fiscal year ending March 2025?
[A] 5%
[B] 6%
[C] 7%
[D] 8%
Correct Answer: C [7%]
Notes:
Moody’s Ratings Agency announced on January 20, 2025, a reduction in India’s economic growth projection to 7% for the fiscal year concluding in March 2025, a decrease from the 8.2% growth observed in the preceding fiscal year. This adjustment is reflective of a wider deceleration in both global and domestic economic conditions.
9. Which Indian corporation Limited has recently signed an agreement with Japan’s JBIC for Renewable Energy projects in India?
[A] Power Finance Corporation Limited (PFC)
[B] Aditya Birla Finance Ltd
[C] L & T Finance Ltd
[D] Industrial Finance Corporation of India (IFCI)
Correct Answer: A [Power Finance Corporation Limited (PFC)]
Notes:
Power Finance Corporation Limited (PFC) has entered into a loan agreement totaling JPY 120 billion with the Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC). Under this agreement, JBIC will provide JPY 72 billion, with the balance being financed by commercial banks. The initiative supports India’s commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emission and transitioning to cleaner energy sources.
10. The National Green Tribunal has recently issued a notice over Olive Ridley turtle deaths for which state?
[A] Odisha
[B] Andhra Pradesh
[C] Tamil Nadu
[D] Maharashtra
Correct Answer: C [Tamil Nadu]
Notes:
In the past few weeks, Tamil Nadu has experienced a troubling increase in the number of deceased olive ridley turtles appearing along its shores, especially in Chennai. Experts estimate that approximately 300 to 350 turtles have been discovered dead, which has raised significant concerns among conservationists and the general public. This unexpected surge in mortality during the onset of the nesting season has led to inquiries aimed at uncovering the underlying reasons for these fatalities. A significant number of deceased olive ridley turtles have been documented along the coastline of Chennai and within the Kancheepuram district. Notable sites include Neelankarai, Besant Nagar, and Kovalam. The Forest Department of the state is currently in the process of collecting information regarding this matter. Additionally, there have been reports of turtle remains found in Pulicat, located in the Thiruvalluvar district.
11. Which of the following has indicated that Carbon Dioxide concentration will peak at 429.6 ppm in early 2025, the highest in over two million years?
[A] Mauna Loa Observatory
[B] The Kitt Peak National Observatory
[C] Royal Observatory Greenwich
[D]La Silla Observatory
Correct Answer: A [Mauna Loa Observatory]
Notes:
In early 2025, it is anticipated that atmospheric carbon dioxide concentrations will attain unprecedented levels, prompting significant concerns regarding climate change. Data from the Mauna Loa Observatory in Hawaii suggests that CO2 levels will reach a peak of 429.6 ppm, marking the highest concentration in over two million years. This surge is particularly troubling as it undermines the objectives set forth in the Paris Agreement, which seeks to limit global temperature rise. Between 2023 and 2024, CO2 levels experienced an increase of 3.58 ppm, representing the most rapid annual rise on record, exceeding the Met Office’s forecast of 2.84 ppm. Satellite observations corroborate these global increases, which are primarily attributed to fossil fuel emissions and a decline in carbon sequestration.
12. Which organization study has recently revealed that the 2022 Nord Stream pipeline explosion caused the largest human-induced methane release ever recorded?
[A] French National Centre for Scientific Research
[B] World Meteorological Organization (WMO)
[C] United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)
[D] World Climate Research Programme (WCRP)
Correct Answer: C [United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)]
Notes:
A study conducted by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) indicated that the explosions of the Nord Stream pipeline in 2022 resulted in the most significant human-induced methane emission ever documented. The Nord Stream pipeline, which runs beneath the Baltic Sea, links Vyborg in Russia to Lubmin, located near Greifswald in Germany. This twin pipeline system was established to enhance energy security for Europe, particularly for Germany, by providing a direct and dependable supply of natural gas from Russia while circumventing transit nations.
13. Goby fish has recently discovered at which wildlife sanctuary of Andhra Pradesh?
[A] Sri Venkateswara Wildlife Sanctuary
[B] Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary
[C] Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary
[D] Krishna Wildlife Sanctuary
Correct Answer: B [Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary]
Notes:
Recently, a significant discovery was made by researchers from the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) at the Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary in Andhra Pradesh. They identified two new species of goby fish, namely Hemigobius hoevenii and Mugilogobius tigrinus, which had not been previously recorded. This finding is particularly noteworthy as it represents the first documentation of M. tigrinus along the eastern coastline of India, highlighting the critical role of mangrove ecosystems. Goby fish play an essential role in estuarine environments, acting as indicators of ecological health and occupying various trophic levels, thereby contributing to the overall ecological equilibrium. Coringa, recognized as the third largest mangrove forest in India, is situated near Kakinada and is home to 24 species of mangrove trees and over 120 bird species, including critically endangered vultures. The ZSI researchers noted that 95 out of the 135 goby species recorded in India are found in mangrove habitats, with 53 of these species residing within the sanctuary, underscoring its rich biodiversity.
14. Which ministry has recently reported that 1,646 food processing projects have been sanctioned under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana (PMKSY)?
[A] Ministry of Home
[B] Ministry of Finance
[C] Ministry of Food and Public Distribution
[D] Ministry of Food Processing Industries
Correct Answer: B [Ministry of Finance]
Notes:
As of January 18, 2025, the Ministry of Finance has announced the approval of 1,646 food processing initiatives under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana (PMKSY). These projects are anticipated to create significant employment and investment prospects. The total valuation of these initiatives stands at ₹31,830.23 crore, with the potential to draw in private investments amounting to ₹22,722.55 crore. The PMKSY was established with the objective of modernizing the food processing sector, aiming to minimize agricultural waste and enhance the efficiency of supply chains. The program encompasses various elements, including Mega Food Parks and Integrated Cold Chains.
15. Recently, nine Indo-Pacific nations participated in the La Perouse naval exercise, hosted by which country?
[A] Russia
[B] Germany
[C] France
[D] United Kingdom
Correct Answer: C [France]
Notes:
Recently, nine nations from the Indo-Pacific region engaged in the La Perouse naval exercise, which was organized by France. This event occurred in the strategically significant straits of Malacca, Sunda, and Lombok, which are vital for maritime commerce between the Indian and Pacific Oceans. The Indian Navy was represented by its guided-missile destroyer, INS Mumbai. The primary objective of the exercise was to improve maritime safety and enhance interoperability among the participating navies, particularly in light of increasing Chinese naval activities in the area. The exercise included nine countries: Australia, Canada, France, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, the United Kingdom, and the United States, each contributing unique naval capabilities to bolster collective maritime security.
16. Which Indian Naval Ship (INS) is participated in the fourth edition of the Multinational Exercise LA PEROUSE?
[A] INS Mumbai
[B] INS Ganga
[C] INS Jamuna
[D] INS Mysore
Correct Answer: A [INS Mumbai]
Notes:
INS Mumbai, a domestically constructed guided missile destroyer, is actively engaged in the fourth iteration of Exercise LA PEROUSE. This exercise includes naval forces from Australia, France, the United Kingdom, the United States, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Canada. Its primary objectives are to improve maritime situational awareness, enhance surveillance capabilities, facilitate interdiction operations, conduct air operations, and promote information sharing among participating nations. The exercise underscores India’s naval collaboration, interoperability, and dedication to upholding a rules-based maritime framework. Furthermore, it is in line with India’s SAGAR vision, which aims to foster security and development in the Indo-Pacific region.
17. Trajan 155 mm towed artillery gun system is developed by India and which country?
[A] France
[B] Israel
[C] Italy
[D] Japan
Correct Answer: A [France]
Notes:
The Trajan 155 mm towed artillery gun system, a collaborative development between India and France, has successfully obtained an export contract from Armenia. This artillery system, characterized by its 155 mm caliber and 52-calibre length, is the result of a partnership between Larsen & Toubro (L&T) and KNDS France, with production taking place in India. The gun boasts a range that surpasses 40 km, contingent upon the type of ammunition used, and is engineered for contemporary warfare. It incorporates sophisticated targeting and fire-control technologies, a modular design that facilitates transport, high firing rates, and adaptability to various terrains.
18. Which state government signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that has recently partnered with Iceland for Geothermal Energy?
[A] Karnataka
[B] Uttarakhand
[C] Gujarat
[D] Assam
Correct Answer: B [Uttarakhand]
Notes:
In a pivotal move towards realizing carbon neutrality by 2070, the government of Uttarakhand has embarked on a partnership with Iceland, recognized as a global frontrunner in geothermal energy. This collaboration seeks to tap into the extensive geothermal resources available in Uttarakhand, thereby facilitating the advancement of sustainable energy alternatives. By entering into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Verkis Consulting Engineers from Iceland, the state aims to utilize geothermal energy for electricity production, representing a significant advancement in the evolution of renewable energy resources within India.
19. The Central Tobacco Research Institute (CTRI) was recently renamed the National Institute for Research on Commercial Agriculture (ICAR-NIRCA, is located in which city of Andhra Pradesh?
[A] Rajahmundry
[B] Vishakhapatnam
[C] Vijayawada
[D] Kurnool
Correct Answer: A [Rajahmundry]
Notes:
The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) has recently announced the renaming of the Central Tobacco Research Institute (CTRI) located in Rajahmundry, Andhra Pradesh, to the National Institute for Research on Commercial Agriculture (NIRCA). This rebranding signifies an expanded research focus that encompasses not only tobacco but also other crops such as turmeric, chilli, castor, and ashwagandha. Tobacco research in India commenced in the mid-1930s with the establishment of the Cigarette Tobacco Research Station in Guntur. In 1947, the Central Tobacco Research Institute was created to promote advancements in tobacco science. The institute came under the management of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) in 1965. Recently, the National Institute of Research on Commercial Crops (NIRCA) has redirected its focus towards research and development, sustainability, capacity building, and market linkages for four key commercial crops. This strategic shift is intended to improve agricultural productivity and enhance economic sustainability.
20. Who has been appointed as the Director General of the CRPF?
[A] Gyanedra Pratap Singh
[B] Ajay Joshi
[C] Raja Vardhan Singh
[D] Shekhar Chandra
Correct Answer: A [Gyanedra Pratap Singh]
Notes:
On January 18, 2025, the Government of India designated Gyanendra Pratap Singh, an officer of the Indian Police Service (IPS) from the 1991 batch and affiliated with the Assam-Meghalaya cadre, as the Director General (DG) of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF). Previously, Singh held the position of Director General of Police (DGP) in Assam. He will take on his new responsibilities without delay, with his term set to last until his retirement on November 30, 2027, or until any subsequent directives are issued.
21. Who has recently appointed as the 53rd Prime Minister of Lebanon?
[A] Amine Gemayel
[B] Bachir Gemayel
[C] Nawaf Abdallah Salim Salam
[D] Suleiman Frangieh
Correct Answer: C [Nawaf Abdallah Salim Salam]
Notes:
In January 2025, Nawaf Abdallah Salim Salam assumed the role of the 53rd Prime Minister of Lebanon. His appointment followed a parliamentary vote in which he garnered 78 out of 128 votes from Members of Parliament. He succeeds the current Prime Minister, Najib Azmi Mikati. At present, Salam holds the position of President at the International Court of Justice located in The Hague, Netherlands.
22. Recently, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) resumed excavations at the Ratnagiri Buddhist complex in which state, after a 60-year hiatus?
[A] Tamil Nadu
[B] Andhra Pradesh
[C] Maharashtra
[D] Odisha
Correct Answer: D [Odisha]
Notes:
The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has recently recommenced excavations at the Ratnagiri Buddhist complex in Odisha, marking the end of a 60-year period of inactivity. This site is significant due to its historical and cultural ties to Buddhism, with the objective of uncovering additional relics and evidence that illustrate Odisha’s connections to Southeast Asian cultures. Among the recent discoveries are a large Buddha head and various ancient artifacts, which provide insights into the region’s extensive Buddhist heritage. Ratnagiri, which flourished from the 5th to the 13th centuries, experienced its peak construction activity between the 7th and 10th centuries. It served as a crucial center for Buddhist education, comparable to Nalanda. The site is associated with Mauryan Emperor Ashoka, who adopted Buddhism following his conquest of Kalinga. Excavations have unearthed a substantial Buddha head, a five-foot palm, and inscribed relics dating back to the 8th and 9th centuries. These discoveries underscore the site’s historical significance and its contribution to Buddhist culture.
23. Who has been honored with the Gates-Cambridge Impact Prize 2025?
[A] Andal Narayanan
[B] Arun Roy
[C] Biswajit Paul
[D] Urbasi Sinha
Correct Answer: D [Urbasi Sinha]
Notes:
Professor Urbasi Sinha, a prominent member of the Light and Matter Physics group at the Raman Research Institute (RRI), has received the esteemed Gates-Cambridge Impact Prize 2025 from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation in Cambridge, UK. As the director of the Quantum Information and Computing (QuIC) laboratory at RRI, Professor Sinha has guided her team to notable progress in the fields of quantum communication, computing, and optics. Her laboratory was one of the pioneers in India to create and employ heralded and entangled photon sources for a range of applications, representing a significant advancement in the country’s quantum research landscape.
24. Which Indian space startup has recently achieved milestone with the successful launch of its Space Camera for Object Tracking (SCOT) mission?
[A] Digantara
[B] Satellize
[C] GalazEye Space
[D] Agnikul
Correct Answer: A [Digantara]
Notes:
On January 14, 2025, the Indian space startup Digantara reached a significant milestone with the successful deployment of its Space Camera for Object Tracking (SCOT) mission. This achievement represents a crucial advancement in improving space situational awareness and tracking capabilities within Low Earth Orbit (LEO). The mission was executed using SpaceX’s Transporter-12 rocket, highlighting India’s expanding role in the international space sector. SCOT is designed for space surveillance and is one of the world’s first commercial Space Situational Awareness (SSA) satellites. The satellite aims to track Resident Space Objects (RSOs) effectively. The SCOT satellite was launched on SpaceX’s Transporter-12 mission from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. The mission successfully established contact with its ground station shortly after launch.
25. Which space agency has recently launched Blue Ghost and Resilience lunar lander from Kennedy Space Center?
[A] SpaceX
[B] ISRO
[C] Agenzia Spaziale Italiana (ASI)
[D] Centre National E’Etudes Spatiales (CNES)
Correct Answer: A [SpaceX]
Notes:
On January 15, 2025, SpaceX successfully launched a Falcon 9 rocket from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida, USA. This mission was notable for transporting two lunar landers: the primary payload, Blue Ghost, and the secondary payload, Resilience. Blue Ghost, officially referred to as Ghost Riders in the Sky, is a product of Firefly Aerospace, a Texas-based company. In contrast, the Resilience lunar lander is spearheaded by ispace Inc., a Tokyo-based organization. The two landers are planned to reach the Moon at staggered intervals, with Blue Ghost scheduled for the initial deployment.
26. World Economic Forum (WEF) is holding its annual meeting from January 20 to 24, 2025 at which venue?
[A] Paris, France
[B] New York, United States
[C] New Delhi, India
[D] Davos, Switzerland
Correct Answer: D [Davos, Switzerland]
Notes:
The World Economic Forum (WEF) is set to convene its Annual Meeting in Davos, Switzerland, from January 20 to 24, 2025. This international event unites prominent figures from the realms of business, politics, and civil society to tackle urgent global challenges. Notable attendees anticipated at the meeting include Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, and Ding Xuexiang, Vice Premier of China. The Annual Meeting is expected to draw approximately 3,000 participants, comprising business executives, political leaders, and members of the press. The agenda includes more than 500 sessions aimed at exploring a wide range of global issues, fostering dialogue and collaboration among a diverse array of stakeholders.
27. Virgin Coconut Oil of which state/UT has recently received GI Tag?
[A] Lakshadweep
[B] Andaman and Nicobar
[C] Tamil Nadu
[D] Kerala
Correct Answer: B [Andaman and Nicobar]
Notes:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during the 118th installment of “Mann Ki Baat” on January 19, 2025, emphasized the significance of empowering women engaged in the production of Virgin Coconut Oil (VCO) in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. This initiative is designed to enhance the economic status of tribal communities through the establishment of self-help groups (SHGs) and targeted training in marketing and branding strategies. The recent awarding of a Geographical Indication (GI) tag for Virgin Coconut Oil from the Nicobar district represents a pivotal achievement in elevating local products to an international audience. The Prime Minister articulated his conviction that this development would position the Andaman and Nicobar Islands as a prominent player in the global market.
28. Which state government will launch WhatsApp Governance?
[A] Andhra Pradesh
[B] Karnataka
[C] Kerala
[D] Gujarat
Correct Answer: A [Andhra Pradesh]
Notes:
The government of Andhra Pradesh is set to introduce WhatsApp Governance Services, enabling the issuance of birth and death certificates to the residents of the state.
29. Which country has made history by winning both the men’s and women’s title at the inaugural Kho Kho World Cup 2025?
[A] Nepal
[B] India
[C] Iran
[D] Bangladesh
Correct Answer: B [India]
Notes:
India has achieved a historic milestone by securing the championships in both the men’s and women’s categories at the first-ever Kho Kho World Cup 2025, which took place from January 13 to 19 at the Indira Gandhi Arena in New Delhi. This significant event showcased participation from 23 nations spanning six continents, with 20 men’s teams and 19 women’s teams competing in the dynamic seven-a-side format.
Men’s Final: India defeated Nepal 54-36. Key player: Captain Pratik Waikar.
Women’s Final: India defeated Nepal 78-40. Key player: Captain Priyanka Ingle.
30. Who won the men’s single title at the India Open 2025?
[A] Nur Izzuddin
[B] Goh Sze Fei
[C] Lee Cheuk Yiu
[D] Viktor Axelsen
Correct Answer: D [Viktor Axelsen]
Notes:
Viktor Axelsen, a two-time world champion and former champion of the India Open in 2017 and 2019, exhibited remarkable skill and athletic prowess. Following a sluggish beginning, Axelsen regained his composure, dominated the match, and achieved a decisive victory against Lee Cheuk Yiu. This triumph represented his third title at the India Open and underscored his resurgence to optimal performance after navigating recent injury setbacks.
31. Who won the women’s single title at the India Open 2025?
[A] An Se-young
[B] Wei Ya Xin
[C] Pornpawee Chochuwong
[D] Kim Hye Jang
Correct Answer: A [An Se-young]
Notes:
An Se-young of South Korea maintained her remarkable performance by triumphing over Thailand’s Pornpawee Chochuwong in straight sets. This win at the India Open contributes to her expanding repertoire of accomplishments and highlights her emergence as a prominent figure in the realm of international badminton.
32. Who won the men’s doubles title at the India Open 2025?
[A] Viktor Axelsen & Kim Won Ho
[B] Kim Won Ho & Seo Seung Jae
[C] Lee Cheuk Yiu & Viktor Axelsen
[D] Goh Sze Fei & Nur Izzuddin
Correct Answer: D [Goh Sze Fei & Nur Izzuddin]
Notes:
In the final of the men’s doubles event, the Malaysian pair of Goh Sze Fei and Nur Izzuddin secured the championship by overcoming the South Korean team of Kim Won Ho and Seo Seung Jae.
33. Who won the women’s doubles title at the India Open 2025?
[A] An Se-young & Pornpawee Chochuwong
[B] Wei Ya Xin & Kim Hye Jang
[C] Arisa Igarashi & Ayako Sakuramoto
[D] Jiang Zhen Bang & Wei Ya Xin
Correct Answer: C [Arisa Igarashi and Ayako Sakuramoto]
Notes:
The women’s doubles competition concluded with Japan’s Arisa Igarashi and Ayako Sakuramoto triumphing against South Korea’s Kim Hye Jang and Kong Hee Young.
34. Who won the mixed doubles title at the India Open 2025?
[A] Viktor Axelsen & An Se-young
[B] Jiang Zhen Bang & Wei Ya Xin
[C] Seo Seung Jae & Ayako Sakuramoto
[D] Thom Gicquel & Delphine Delrue
Correct Answer: B [Jiang Zhen Bang & Wei Ya Xin]
Notes:
In the mixed doubles category, the Chinese duo of Jiang Zhen Bang and Wei Ya Xin triumphed over the French team consisting of Thom Gicquel and Delphine Delrue to claim the championship title.
35. Which state has recently won the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2024-25?
[A] Karnataka
[B] Andhra Pradesh
[C] Vidarbha
[D] West Bengal
Correct Answer: A [Karnataka]
Notes:
In the final of the Vijay Hazare Trophy (VHT) 2024-25, held on January 19, 2025, at the Kotambi Stadium in Vadodara, Karnataka triumphed over Vidarbha by a margin of 36 runs. This victory signifies Karnataka’s fifth title in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. The match was an exhilarating contest, with Karnataka setting a formidable total and successfully defending it, despite a determined effort from the Vidarbha batsmen. Karnataka has secured its fifth Vijay Hazare Trophy title, adding to its previous victories in the 2013-14, 2014-15, 2017-18, and 2019-20 seasons. This achievement underscores the team’s robust legacy in domestic cricket, positioning it as one of the most successful franchises in the annals of the competition.
36. Denis Law, the renowned footballer, who passed away at the 84 recently, was from which country?
[A] Portugal
[B] Italy
[C] Brazil
[D] Scotland
Correct Answer: D [Scotland]
Notes:
Denis Law, the legendary Scottish footballer celebrated for his remarkable goal-scoring ability and engaging personality, died on January 17, 2025, at the age of 84. Endearingly referred to as “The King” and “The Lawman,” Law’s distinguished career made a lasting impact on Manchester United as well as the Scotland national team.
37. Who is the author of the book The World After Gaza’: A Guide to Challenging Times?
[A] Pankaj Mishra
[B] Arun Kumar
[C] Sanjay Yadav
[D] Gopal Krishna
Correct Answer: A [Pankaj Mishra]
Notes:
Pankaj Mishra’s recent publication, The World After Gaza, offers a profound examination of the persistent conflict in the Palestinian Gaza Strip, which he characterizes as a severe affront to the principles of human rights and ethical standards. Released by Juggernaut Books, this work investigates the brutalities and entrenched injustices associated with the war, serving as a sobering commentary on the deterioration of global moral values. In a unique interview, Mishra discusses the origins of the book, its contextual background, and the alarming implications it presents regarding the perilous direction of international politics.
