Post Views: 6
1. The Solar Mobile Van Training Units has been launched in which city recently?
[A] Hyderabad
[B] Bengaluru
[C] Chennai
[D] New Delhi
Correct Answer: D [New Delhi]
Notes:
Union Minister Jayant Singh Chaudhary inaugurated Solar Mobile Van Training Units in New Delhi, aimed at improving financial and digital literacy in rural regions. Two newly launched solar-powered vans, equipped with advanced technologies, will operate in rural areas across Sikkim, Andhra Pradesh, Jharkhand, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, and Maharashtra. These vans will offer training in financial literacy, digital competencies, cyber security, technical skills, and generative AI. By the fiscal year 2025, the initiative is set to extend its reach to seven additional districts, potentially benefiting 5.8 million individuals, including students, women, youth, and former servicemen. The overarching goal of the project is to foster self-reliance and empowerment in rural India through the utilization of technology and collaborative efforts.
2. Which Corridor is an important strip of land along the Gaza-Egypt, that is secured through special arrangements between Egypt and Israel?
[A] Hexi Corridor
[B] Philadelphi Corridor
[C] Wakhan Corridor
[D] None of the above
Correct Answer: B [Philadelphi Corridor]
Notes:
The Philadelphi Corridor represents a significant expanse of territory situated along the border between Gaza and Egypt. This corridor functions as a crucial conduit for Gaza, especially for Hamas, in the context of persistent conflicts and ongoing ceasefire discussions. Recent events have led to a ceasefire facilitated by international stakeholders, which has influenced the governance and security dynamics within the corridor. Spanning roughly 14 kilometers from the Mediterranean Sea to the Kerem Shalom crossing into Israel, the corridor measures approximately 100 meters in width and is predominantly characterized by scrubland and sand dunes. This region plays a critical role in smuggling operations, effectively linking Gaza to Egypt.
3. Which country has recently unveiled the world’s longest expressway tunnel, 22.13 kilometers?
[A] Russia
[B] United States
[C] China
[D] Japan
Correct Answer: C [China]
Notes:
China has completed the Tianshan Shengli Tunnel, the longest expressway tunnel in the world at 22.13 kilometers. This project enhances the link between the northern and southern parts of Xinjiang. As part of the Urumqi-Yuli Expressway, it significantly shortens the travel time across the Tianshan Mountain range. The tunnel connects Urumqi in the north to Yuli County in the south, cutting the journey through the mountains from around three hours to just 20 minutes.
4. Russia and which country has recently signed a 20-year strategic partnership treaty aimed at enhancing economic, military, and cultural cooperation?
[A] Iran
[B] India
[C] China
[D] Japan
Correct Answer: A [Iran]
Notes:
On January 17, 2025, in Moscow, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian formalized a 20-year “Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Treaty.” This agreement seeks to bolster cooperation across economic, military, and cultural domains. Key components of the treaty encompass collaborative defense initiatives, heightened trade relations, energy partnerships, and scientific exchanges.
5. According to IMF, what is India’s projected economic growth rate in fiscal year 2025 and 2026?
[A] 5.5%
[B] 6.5%
[C] 6.7%
[D] 5.8%
Correct Answer: B [6.5%]
Notes:
The International Monetary Fund’s World Economic Outlook concurs with the World Bank’s forecasts, predicting a growth rate of 6.5% for India in 2025 and 2026. This consensus highlights the robustness of India’s economic fundamentals amid global uncertainties.
6. Europe and which continent banks have been reconsidering their membership in the Net Zero Banking Alliance (NZBA) recently?
[A] North America
[B] Asia
[C] Africa
[D] Australia
Correct Answer: A [North America]
Notes:
European and North American banks are reevaluating their participation in the Net Zero Banking Alliance (NZBA). Certain banks in Europe have indicated their intention to exit the NZBA, citing divergent strategies regarding climate action and possible legal obstacles. Additionally, several prominent banks in the United States have already opted out of the NZBA. This alliance comprises banks collaborating to synchronize their lending, investment, and capital market operations with the goal of attaining net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by the year 2050. The NZBA was established in 2021 under the auspices of the UN Environment Programme Finance Initiative.
7. Which of the following has recently established a Standing External Advisory Committee (SEAC) for to evaluate applications for Universal Banks and Small Finance Banks (SFBs)?
[A] Ministry of Finance
[B] Finance Commission
[C] Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
[D] Central Cabinet
Correct Answer: C [Reserve Bank of India (RBI)]
Notes:
On January 20, 2025, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) inaugurated a new Standing External Advisory Committee (SEAC) tasked with the assessment of applications for Universal Banks and Small Finance Banks (SFBs). The committee is led by M. K. Jain, a former Deputy Governor of the RBI, and includes a total of five members.
The SEAC is composed of the following members:
M. K. Jain, who serves as the Chairperson and has previously held the position of Deputy Governor at the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). Revathy Iyer, a Director on the Central Board of the RBI. Parvathy V. Sundaram, a former Executive Director at the RBI. Hemant G. Contractor, who has served as the Managing Director of the State Bank of India and as the Chairman of the Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority. N. S. Kannan, the former Managing Director and CEO of ICICI Prudential Life Insurance. The committee is established for a duration of three years, with the RBI’s Department of Regulation providing secretarial assistance.
8. Which scheme has recorded an all-time high disbursal of ₹3.39 lakh crore In the third quarter of the fiscal year 2024-25?
[A] Jan Dhan Yojna
[B] Pradhan Mantri SVANidhi Scheme
[C] Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme
[D] Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY)
Correct Answer: D [Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY)]
Notes:
In the third quarter of the fiscal year 2024-25, the Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY) reached a remarkable achievement by distributing loans amounting to ₹3.39 lakh crore, representing the largest quarterly disbursement since the program’s launch in 2015. This notable increase highlights the government’s persistent dedication to supporting micro and small enterprises throughout India.
9. According to CRISIL, what is India’s projected economic growth rate in fiscal year 2025 and 2026?
[A] 5.5%
[B] 6.5%
[C] 6.7%
[D] 5.8%
Correct Answer: C [6.7%]
Notes:
India’s economic growth rate for the fiscal year 2025 is expected to be 6.7%, according to CRISIL. This is an increase from the 6.4% growth seen in the current fiscal year. For fiscal year 2026, CRISIL forecasts a slight moderation in GDP growth to 6.8%. The 2025 projection comes from a Crisil Intelligence report, highlighting that strong private consumption and investment will drive this growth. Additionally, CRISIL anticipates inflation will decrease to 4.5% in fiscal year 2025, down from 5.4% in fiscal year 2024.
10. Which Indian state forest department has recently initiated a comprehensive study to revive the Bison population?
[A] Odisha
[B] Uttar Pradesh
[C] Jharkhand
[D] Madhya Pradesh
Correct Answer: C [Jharkhand]
Notes:
In recent years, the Bison population, also known as Gaur, in Jharkhand has experienced a significant decline. The Palamu Tiger Reserve (PTR) stands as the final refuge for this species within the state. With the population reduced to an estimated 50-70 individuals, the Jharkhand Forest Department has launched an extensive study aimed at revitalizing the Bison population. This initiative seeks to tackle critical challenges, including poaching, habitat degradation, and the transmission of diseases from domestic cattle.
11. Recently, the annual Chilika Lake bird census 2025 has been released, Chilika Lake is located in which state?
[A] Rajasthan
[B] Odisha
[C] West Bengal
[D] Jammu & Kashmir
Correct Answer: B [Odisha]
Notes:
The recent annual bird census conducted at Chilika Lake has indicated a reduction in the overall number of visiting birds in comparison to previous years. Nevertheless, there has been a notable increase in the diversity of species observed. The census, which took place on January 18, highlighted the ecological transformations impacting this vital habitat for migratory birds. As the largest brackish water lagoon in Asia, Chilika Lake covers an area of 1,165 square kilometers and serves as a crucial wintering site for migratory avifauna. The census documented a total of 1,127,228 birds across 196 species, comprising 1,087,226 migratory birds from 109 species and 40,002 resident birds from 87 species.
12. The Bankapur Wolf Sanctuary, recently seen in the news, is situated in which state?
[A] Andhra Pradesh
[B] Maharashtra
[C] West Bengal
[D] Karnataka
Correct Answer: D [Karnataka]
Notes:
The Bankapur Wolf Sanctuary in Karnataka has recently celebrated the birth of a litter comprising eight Indian grey wolf pups. This sanctuary holds significance as the first dedicated facility for wolf conservation in Karnataka and the second of its kind in India. The pioneering establishment in this domain is the Mahuadanr Wolf Sanctuary, which was founded in 1976 in Jharkhand, formerly part of Bihar. The terrain of Bankapur is characterized by a diverse ecosystem that includes scrub forests, hills, and natural caves, which collectively support a wide range of wildlife, such as wolves, leopards, peacocks, blackbucks, foxes, hares, and porcupines.
13. 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.
14. Entity Locker is a secure, cloud-based platform developed by the National eGovernance Division (NeGD) under which ministry?
[A] Ministry of Corporate Affairs
[B] Ministry of Science and Technology
[C] Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY)
[D] Ministry of Current Affairs
Correct Answer: C [Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY)]
Notes:
Recently, the Government of India revealed Entity Locker, a digital platform designed to streamline the management and verification of business documents. Developed by the National eGovernance Division (NeGD) under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), this initiative aims to enhance digital governance and facilitate ease of doing business in India. Entity Locker is a secure, cloud-based solution designed to serve a diverse range of entities, such as corporations, micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), trusts, and startups. This platform streamlines the processes of document storage, sharing, and verification.
15. Which organization has developed the Vikas (Vikram Ambalal Sarabhai) Engine?
[A] DRDO
[B] ISRO
[C] HAL
[D] L&T
Correct Answer: B [ISRO]
Notes:
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has recently reached significant milestones with its Vikas liquid engine. The successful demonstration of the engine’s restart capabilities represents a pivotal advancement in the reusability of launch vehicles. This achievement is in line with ISRO’s dedication to the progression of space technology and commercial endeavors. The Vikas engine is part of a series of hypergolic liquid-fuel rocket engines developed by ISRO, which powers the liquid stages of various launch vehicles such as PSLV, GSLV, and LVM3. Originally developed in the 1970s, the engine has seen numerous enhancements over the years. On January 17, 2025, ISRO successfully executed a test that involved firing the Vikas engine for 60 seconds, followed by a 120-second shutdown, and then a restart for an additional seven seconds. Earlier tests conducted in December 2024 featured shorter shut-off periods.
16. The Zoological Survey of India have recently discovered 23 species of blood-sucking flies in which state/UT?
[A] Tamil Nadu
[B] Uttarakhand
[C] Andaman and Nicobar Islands
[D] Jammu & Kashmir
Correct Answer: C [Andaman and Nicobar Islands]
Notes:
Recent studies undertaken by the Zoological Survey of India have revealed the presence of 23 species of blood-feeding flies, known as Culicoides, in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. This research marks the first comprehensive survey of these insects in the region, with 13 species being recorded for the first time in India. The findings of this study highlight significant concerns regarding the potential spread of bluetongue disease, which poses a threat to livestock populations. The researchers documented a total of 23 species of Culicoides, of which 13 are new to the Indian subcontinent. The survey included 3,529 adult specimens. Culicoides are small, blood-feeding flies that, while resembling common flies, are more closely related to mosquitoes. In the local language, they are commonly referred to as “bhusi flies.”
17. Which organization has developed the Pinaka Multi-Barrel Rocket Launcher (MBRL)?
[A] ISRO
[B] DRDO
[C] HAL
[D] IISc
Correct Answer: B [DRDO]
Notes:
The Pinaka Multi-Barrel Rocket Launcher (MBRL) represents a significant enhancement in India’s artillery capabilities. Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), this system was created to supplant outdated Soviet-era artillery. As of January 2025, the Pinaka has garnered international attention, with nations such as Armenia and France showing interest in procuring the system. The Indian Army intends to increase its orders, highlighting the strategic significance of this artillery system. Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi announced that two contracts for the Pinaka missile system are expected to be finalized before March 31, marking the conclusion of the current financial year. One contract, valued at ₹5,700 crore, pertains to high-explosive pre-fragmented ammunition, while the other, amounting to ₹4,500 crore, focuses on area denial munitions.
18. Which state government has recently launched a new disaster risk warning system called KaWaCHaM?
[A] Kerala
[B] Karnataka
[C] Maharashtra
[D] Assam
Correct Answer: A [Kerala]
Notes:
The Kerala Warnings, Crisis and Hazard Management System (KaWaCHaM) is poised for inauguration by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. This initiative is designed to bolster disaster preparedness and response mechanisms within Kerala, leveraging cutting-edge technology to provide timely notifications concerning severe weather phenomena. The system employs a variety of communication channels to guarantee the effective distribution of warnings to the populace. Developed by the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) with assistance from the National Disaster Management Authority and the World Bank, KaWaCHaM features 126 sirens equipped with strobe lights and 93 emergency operation centres interconnected through a VPN. These sirens are specifically engineered to issue alerts for heavy rainfall, high winds, and coastal surges. Each siren is outfitted with three colored lights (red, yellow, orange) and eight loudspeakers, capable of transmitting alerts over a distance of 1.2 kilometers.
19. Which organization has developed the Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH)?
[A] Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)
[B] Pawan Hans Helicopters Limited (PHHL)
[C] Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)
[D] Global Vectra Helicorp Limited
Correct Answer: C [Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)]
Notes:
The Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH), known as Dhruv, is a helicopter developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) in India. In early January 2025, the ALH fleet was temporarily grounded after a tragic accident that resulted in the deaths of three Indian Coast Guard personnel. Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh stated that the ALH would not take part in the upcoming Republic Day flypast, which will feature 39 other aircraft. The grounding followed a serious incident on January 5, 2025, during a training mission that killed two pilots and one crew member. An inquiry has been launched to look into the crash, focusing on the Flight Data Recorder and the helicopter’s transmission system. The Republic Day parade on January 26 will display 39 aircraft in 12 formations, maintaining a military theme while also emphasizing social and cultural aspects.
20. ISKCON and which company has recently collaborated to serve meals at Maha Kumbh Mela?
[A] Adani Group
[B] Reliance Industries
[C] Tata Group
[D] Wipro
Correct Answer: A [Adani Group]
Notes:
The current Maha Kumbh Mela has seen an impressive partnership between the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) and the Adani Group, which has greatly improved the food distribution services at the festival. This collaboration guarantees that approximately one hundred thousand individuals receive nutritious meals each day throughout the 45-day spiritual event. A central component of this initiative is the establishment of a substantial kitchen by ISKCON at Harshvardhan Marg, which is dedicated to preparing food in significant volumes to meet the demands of pilgrims and visitors attending the Mela. The kitchen operates in three meal sessions daily, each capable of serving approximately 30,000 to 35,000 individuals. This results in a daily total exceeding one hundred thousand meals, an achievement facilitated by the extensive logistical assistance provided by the Adani Group.
21. Recently, Donald Trump was sworn in as the _ th President of the United States.
[A] 47th
[B] 48th
[C] 49th
[D] 50th
Correct Answer: A [47th]
Notes:
Donald Trump took the oath of office as the 47th President of the United States on January 20, 2025, signifying his return to the White House following a challenging four-year period. The inauguration ceremony, conducted indoors at the Capitol Rotunda due to severe cold weather, represents a remarkable political resurgence in American history. Trump becomes only the second individual, following Grover Cleveland in 1893, to reclaim the presidency after having previously lost it. At the age of 78, he also surpasses Joe Biden as the oldest individual to assume the presidency.
22. Which company has recently announced the appointment of Ambarish Kenghe as its Group Chief Executive Officer?
[A] L&T Finance
[B] Bajaj Finance
[C] Morgan Stanley
[D] Angel One
Correct Answer: D [Angel One]
Notes:
Angel One, a prominent financial services platform in India, has declared the appointment of Ambarish Kenghe as its Group Chief Executive Officer, starting in March 2025. Kenghe brings extensive expertise in fintech, technology, and e-commerce, positioning him to lead Angel One amid increasing competition and swift changes within the financial services sector. His professional career encompasses more than twenty years, during which he has occupied significant positions in fintech, strategic consulting, and technology-oriented fields.
23. Who has been appointed as the CEO and Managing Director of Zurich Kotak General Insurance?
[A] Alok Kumar Agarwal
[B] Sanjiv Ranjan
[C] Narendra Joshi
[D] Abhinandan Kumar
Correct Answer: A [Alok Kumar Agarwal]
Notes:
Alok Kumar Agarwal will take on the role of CEO and Managing Director at Zurich Kotak General Insurance starting January 1, 2025. He has 22 years of experience at ICICI Lombard, where he held important leadership roles, giving him strong knowledge in corporate and government insurance. He replaces Suresh Agarwal in this position.
24. The Pangsau Pass International Festival is celebrated every year in which state?
[A] Manipur
[B] Arunachal Pradesh
[C] Assam
[D] Nagaland
Correct Answer: B [Arunachal Pradesh]
Notes:
Arunachal Pradesh CM Pema Khandu inaugurated the three-day Pangsau Pass International Festival (PPIF). The Pangsau Pass International Festival (PPIF) 2025, taking place in Arunachal Pradesh, serves as a celebration of the area’s rich cultural heritage and its historical importance during World War II. Chief Minister Pema Khandu has revealed initiatives aimed at boosting tourism through the restoration of World War II artifacts in Nampong, highlighting the festival’s contribution to economic development and cultural interaction. This year’s event marks the 80th anniversary of the end of the war. The festival is held annually in Nampong, Changlang district, Arunachal Pradesh.
25. Recently, which organization has published its fourth edition of ‘Global Estimates on International Migrant Workers’ report?
[A] World Economic Forum (WEF)
[B] International Monetary Fund (IMF)
[C] International Labour Organization (ILO)
[D] United Nations (UN)
Correct Answer: C [International Labour Organization (ILO)]
Notes:
The International Labour Organization (ILO) has recently published the fourth edition of its report titled ‘Global Estimates on International Migrant Workers’. This document highlights the significant contributions of international migrants (IMs) to the global labor market and overall economic development. Notwithstanding the obstacles posed by the pandemic, the population of IMs has risen, providing essential support to both their host countries and their countries of origin through remittances. In 2022, informal workers represented 4.7% of the worldwide labor force, amounting to 167.7 million individuals. This figure comprised 155.6 million who were employed and 12.1 million who were unemployed. The annual growth rate from 2019 to 2022 was below 1%, affected by a range of factors, notably the COVID-19 pandemic.
26. Which nation has recently emerged as the seventh-largest producer of coffee in the world?
[A] India
[B] China
[C] Mexico
[D] Indonesia
Correct Answer: A [India]
Notes:
India is now the 7th largest coffee producer in the world, with exports hitting $1.29 billion in 2023-24, a significant increase from $719.42 million in 2020-21. The country mainly grows Arabica and Robusta beans and exports them to countries like Italy and Russia. At the same time, coffee consumption at home is rising due to the growing café culture. Coffee was first introduced to India in the 1600s when Sufi saint Baba Budan brought seven Mocha seeds to Karnataka, starting the coffee industry in the area.
27. Which country has topped in the Qs World Future Skills Index 2025?
[A] UK
[B] USA
[C] Russia
[D] Iceland
Correct Answer: B [USA]
Notes:
In January 2025, Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) from the UK published its first ‘World Future Skills Index 2025’. India ranked 25th globally with a score of 76.6, marking it as a “future skills contender.” In the ‘Future of Work’ category, India placed 2nd worldwide, just after the USA, showing its strong potential for technology-related jobs, especially in digital skills, artificial intelligence (AI), and green technologies. The USA topped the list with a score of 97.6, followed by the UK (97.1), Germany (94.6), Australia (93.3), and Canada (91.0), all recognized as “future skills pioneers.”
28. Which organization has recently released its flagship report titled ‘World Employment and Social Outlook : Trends 2025 (WESO Trends 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 Organization (ILO) published the World Employment and Social Outlook: Trends 2025 (WESO Trends 2025) report in January 2025. This report looks at global job market trends and the issues affecting work worldwide. In 2024, the global unemployment rate was 5%, which is quite low historically. However, youth unemployment was still high at 12.6%. Informal jobs and working poverty returned to levels seen before the pandemic. Low-income countries struggled the most to create good jobs. The global economy is slowing down, making it difficult for job markets to fully recover. There are challenges from geopolitical tensions, climate change, and social uncertainties, along with issues of informality, exclusion, and the vulnerable situation of young people. There are also opportunities in green and digital sectors.
29. The 3rd National Mines Ministers’ Conference held at which place in January 2025?
[A] Konark
[B] New Delhi
[C] Ranchi
[D] Nagpur
Correct Answer: A [Konark]
Notes:
The 3rd National Mines Ministers’ Conference is scheduled to take place in Konark, Odisha, on January 20-21, 2025, in alignment with the “Vikasit Bharat 2047” initiative. The event will be chaired by Union Coal and Mines Minister Shri G. Kishan Reddy, with Odisha Chief Minister Shri Mohan Charan Majhi serving as the Chief Guest. A report detailing exemplary mining practices from various states will be unveiled, aimed at enhancing transparency and operational efficiency. Additionally, the Mining Tenement System (MTS) Module will be introduced to facilitate digital governance within the mining sector. Letters of sanction will be distributed to startups that are advancing sustainable mining innovations. Furthermore, geological data and reports on critical mineral blocks will be disseminated to promote exploration and foster self-reliance.
30. Which state government has launched TWARIT initiative to streamline the transmission of warrants and summons?
[A] Andhra Pradesh
[B] Uttar Pradesh
[C] Madhya Pradesh
[D] Arunachal Pradesh
Correct Answer: C [Madhya Pradesh]
Notes:
The Madhya Pradesh High Court has introduced the TWARIT (Transmission of Warrants, Summons, and Reports by Information Technology) platform, which facilitates the digital transmission of warrants, summons, and reports. This initiative replaces traditional paper-based methods, thereby accelerating legal processes and improving efficiency and transparency. By streamlining the justice delivery system, TWARIT minimizes delays and conserves time for judicial authorities, law enforcement agencies, and the general public. The platform allows for the electronic distribution of legal documents, including court summons and arrest warrants.
31. Kalaripayattu is a traditional Indian martial art, that has been in the news recently, from popularly practiced in which state?
[A] Andhra Pradesh
[B] Tamil Nadu
[C] Kerala
[D] Karnataka
Correct Answer: C [Kerala]
Notes:
Kalaripayattu, the traditional martial art originating from Kerala, is currently embroiled in controversy as the 38th National Games draw near. The Indian Kalaripayattu Federation has expressed apprehension regarding its classification as a demonstration event by the Indian Olympics Association (IOA). This ruling has not only disheartened practitioners but has also ignited conversations about the sport’s prospects in competitive settings. Kalaripayattu is a historic martial art form from India, specifically originating in the state of Kerala, with roots tracing back to the 11th and 12th centuries CE. This discipline integrates various combat techniques, distinctive weaponry, and methods of healing. The name itself is derived from the words “kalari,” meaning training ground, and “payattu,” which refers to the practice of martial arts. Recent changes have occurred in the context of the 38th National Games, where Kalaripayattu has been transitioned from a competitive event to a demonstration category. This alteration impacts around 200 athletes representing 18 different states. The announcement was made in December 2024, resulting in significant dissatisfaction among stakeholders. Subsequently, on January 15, 2025, the Delhi High Court intervened, ordering a reassessment of Kalaripayattu’s classification within the National Games. The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) is anticipated to reach a decision in accordance with this judicial directive.
32. Which of the following states has celebrated their Statehood Day every year on January 21?
[A] Manipur
[B] Meghalaya
[C] Tripura
[D] All of the above
Correct Answer: D [All of the above]
Notes:
Each year on January 21, the northeastern states of Manipur, Meghalaya, and Tripura observe Statehood Day, commemorating the pivotal moment when they achieved full statehood under the North Eastern Region (Reorganization) Act of 1971. This occasion is of great significance to the region, serving not only as a remembrance of their statehood but also as a celebration of their diverse cultural heritage, rich historical narratives, and substantial contributions to the broader identity of India. Commonly referred to as the “Seven Sisters,” these northeastern states are celebrated for their distinct cultures, histories, and natural landscapes, and this day symbolizes their evolution into vital and empowered constituents of the Union of India.
33. National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) Raising Day is observed annually across India on which day?
[A] January 18
[B] January 19
[C] January 20
[D] January 21
Correct Answer: B [January 19]
Notes:
The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) was established on January 19, 2006, to serve as the country’s primary disaster response team. Every year, January 19 is celebrated as NDRF Raising Day. January 19, 2025 marks the observance of the 20th NDRF Raising Day. The 20th Raising Day ceremony of the NDRF was held at the 10th Battalion of NDRF located in Kondapavuluru, Krishna District, Andhra Pradesh with Union Minister Amit Shah, Ministry of Home Affairs as the Chief Guest.
34. Which country has recently withdrawn from the Paris Climate Treaty?
[A] Russia
[B] United States
[C] China
[D] Japan
Correct Answer: B [United States]
Notes:
Trump took action just hours after starting his second term, similar to what he did in 2017 when he decided the U.S. would leave the Paris Climate Agreement. On his first day back in office, he signed an executive order to withdraw the United States from the Paris Climate Treaty. This agreement aims to limit global warming to 2.7 degrees Fahrenheit above pre-industrial levels, or at least keep it below 3.6 degrees Fahrenheit. The 2015 deal allows countries to set their own goals for reducing greenhouse gas emissions from coal, oil, and natural gas. These goals are meant to become stricter over time, with a deadline for new plans set for February 2025.
