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1. The Ministry of Culture has inaugurated the ‘Bhagwat’ exhibition in which city of Uttar Pradesh?
[A] Prayagraj
[B] Varnasi
[C] Lucknow
[D] Agra
Correct Answer: A [Prayagraj]
Notes:
The Union Minister for Culture and Tourism officially opened the ‘Bhagwat’ exhibition at the Prayagraj Museum, which features a collection of miniature paintings. This exhibition integrates elements of art and culture, focusing on the themes of Lord Ram and Krishna, as well as the traditions associated with the Kumbh festival. It underscores the concept of unity in India, acting as a testament to overcoming historical divisions. The Minister highlighted the Kumbh as an emblem of national unity, fostering connections among individuals from diverse faiths and cultural backgrounds.
2. Which regulatory body will launch a “when-listed” trading platform?
[A] PFRDA
[B] SEBI
[C] IRDAI
[D] FSSAI
Correct Answer: B [SEBI]
Notes:
The Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) plans to introduce a “when-listed” trading platform. This new system will manage the trading of shares during the period between the allotment of an initial public offering (IPO) and their official listing on stock exchanges. The goal is to address the common grey market activities linked to unlisted shares. With the “when-listed” platform, investors can trade shares right after they are allotted, before they are officially listed. This change aims to create a regulated trading environment and lessen the dependence on the unregulated grey market. Currently, there is a three-day waiting period after allotment, which often leads to informal trading that Sebi wants to stop.
3. According to which organization has announced the Global foreign direct investment (FDI) experienced a notable decline of eight per cent in 2024?
[A] United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
[B] International Labour Organization (ILO)
[C] United Nations
[D] United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD)
Correct Answer: D [United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD)]
Notes:
Global foreign direct investment (FDI) saw a significant drop of eight percent in 2024, as reported by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD). This decline threatens the progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which rely heavily on funding from international projects. The difficulties in obtaining international project finance are especially important for the infrastructure and energy sectors. FDI is when a foreign entity invests in a business or assets in another country. Unlike foreign portfolio investment, which involves buying shares without control, FDI allows the investor to have some influence over the business’s operations. It includes not just capital but also the sharing of technology, skills, and expertise, making it essential for economic growth.
4. Which company has launched CyberEdge, a comprehensive cyber insurance solution designed to protect Indian businesses?
[A] Tata AIG
[B] Bajaj Allianz
[C] HDFC ERGO
[D] IFFCO-TOKIO
Correct Answer: A [Tata AIG]
Notes:
Tata AIG General Insurance Company has introduced CyberEdge, a complete cyber insurance solution aimed at safeguarding Indian businesses from rising cyber threats. This move supports the company’s plan to secure 25% of the cyber insurance market in the next five years. CyberEdge is specifically designed to help Indian businesses, particularly small and medium enterprises (SMEs), by providing extensive coverage that includes data recovery, legal expenses, and losses from business interruptions.
5. Which company has launched the Shubh Muhurat plan?
[A] Reliance Nippon Life Insurance
[B] Max Life Insurance
[C] Tata AIA Life Insurance
[D] Shriram Life Insurance
Correct Answer: C [Tata AIA Life Insurance]
Notes:
Tata AIA Life Insurance has launched ‘Shubh Muhurat,’ a life insurance plan aimed at helping families save for their children’s weddings. This initiative responds to the rising costs of weddings in India, which is projected to exceed ₹10.7 lakh crore in 2024. The ‘Shubh Muhurat’ plan is a complete financial solution that includes savings, investment growth, and life insurance coverage. It is designed to assist parents in handling the financial pressures of their children’s weddings, providing a systematic way to gather funds for different wedding expenses.
6. Which of the following has revised India’s GDP growth projection for the fiscal year 2024-25 to a range of 6.5% to 6.8%?
[A] IMF
[B] World Bank
[C] Moody’s
[D] Deloitte
Correct Answer: D [Deloitte]
Notes:
Deloitte expects India’s GDP growth for the fiscal year 2024-25 to be between 6.5% and 6.8%. This forecast considers global trade issues and local challenges. However, strong spending in rural areas, a booming services sector, and an increase in high-value exports contribute to a positive outlook. Deloitte India has updated its GDP growth estimate for 2024-25 to this range, highlighting the importance of being cautiously optimistic as the economy faces these difficulties.
7. Which bank, in collaboration with RuPay, has launched the FIRST EA₹N RuPay Credit Card?
[A] Axis Bank
[B] HDFC Bank
[C] IDFC FIRST Bank
[D] ICICI Bank
Correct Answer: C [IDFC FIRST Bank]
Notes:
IDFC FIRST Bank has teamed up with RuPay to introduce the FIRST EA₹N RuPay Credit Card. This secured credit card offers the advantages of a fixed deposit along with the ease of UPI transactions. The card is designed to give users better financial flexibility and rewards. To benefit from this card, users need a minimum fixed deposit of ₹5,000 and can earn cashback of up to ₹500 each month on UPI payments.
8. Which country has experienced unprecedented wildfires 2024?
[A] Brazil
[B] United States
[C] South Africa
[D] India
Correct Answer: A [Brazil]
Notes:
In 2024, Brazil faced severe wildfires, leading to a major ecological disaster. More than 30.87 million hectares of land were burned, which is a shocking 79% increase from the year before. This rise in wildfires is linked to climate change, drought, and human actions, especially in the Amazon. It was Brazil’s worst wildfire season in recent times, with the burned area larger than some countries, like Italy. September was particularly devastating, with 10.63 million hectares affected. The Amazon region suffered the most, losing 17.9 million hectares.
9. Which organization has ban on PFAS, commonly known as “forever chemicals,” in consumer products?
[A] European Commission
[B] NATO
[C] CEATO
[D] None of the above
Correct Answer: A [European Commission]
Notes:
The European Commission is taking steps to ban PFAS, often called “forever chemicals,” in consumer goods. This move is driven by increasing worries about the environmental and health impacts of these chemicals. PFAS are known for their long-lasting presence in both the environment and the human body, leading to a need for quick regulatory measures. PFAS stands for Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances. These man-made chemicals are used in many industries because they resist heat, water, and oil. They are commonly found in items like non-stick pans, waterproof clothing, and various industrial products. While their durability is an advantage, it also poses a problem since they do not break down in nature.
10. Vishwamitri river flood mitigation project was seen in news, it belongs to which state?
[A] Rajasthan
[B] Gujarat
[C] West Bengal
[D] Andhra Pradesh
Correct Answer: B [Gujarat]
Notes:
The Vishwamitri River in Vadodara is getting a flood control project because of serious flooding in past years. The Vadodara Municipal Corporation (VMC) has started a three-phase plan to clean, deepen, and change the river’s path. This plan also includes important steps to move about 300 crocodiles living in the area.
River Changes: The project will straighten some bends and adjust the river channel to hold more water, aiming for a capacity of 1,100 cumecs. New Structures: An extra spillway will be built at Ajwa Dam, and its crest level will be lowered. New Buffer Pond: Storage areas will be created near Kotambi and Bhaniyara, and ponds in Dhanora, Vadadala, and Haripura will be deepened. Storm Water System: The stormwater drains, like Bhukhi kaans and Ruparel kaans, will be improved and redirected to lessen water flow into the city.
11. Recently, in which state has reported increase in Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) cases?
[A] Maharashtra
[B] Karnataka
[C] Bihar
[D] Manipur
Correct Answer: A [Maharashtra]
Notes:
Pune has seen a rise in Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) cases recently, with 59 people diagnosed, including 12 who need ventilators. The health department of Maharashtra is looking into this sudden increase. Health officials say that GBS can happen after infections, but it doesn’t cause large outbreaks. GBS is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system wrongly targets peripheral nerves, leading to symptoms such as weakness, numbness, and in serious cases, paralysis. The exact cause is still unknown, but infections usually occur before GBS symptoms appear.
12. Which organization launched the Global Plastic Action Partnership (GPAP) initiative?
[A] United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)
[B] United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
[C] International Monetary Fund (IMF)
[D] World Economic Forum (WEF)
Correct Answer: D [World Economic Forum (WEF)]
Notes:
The Global Plastic Action Partnership (GPAP) has recently achieved a milestone by growing its network to 25 countries. This initiative, started by the World Economic Forum, focuses on tackling plastic pollution worldwide. With over 1.5 billion people in these countries, the expansion includes seven new members: Angola, Bangladesh, Gabon, Guatemala, Kenya, Senegal, and Tanzania. This teamwork highlights the urgent need for effective plastic waste management. GPAP aims to fight plastic pollution by encouraging a circular economy, which emphasizes reusing, recycling, and managing plastic sustainably. The goal is to lessen the harmful effects of plastic waste on ecosystems, biodiversity, and human health.
13. Which state has approved Community Forest Resource (CFR) plans for 100 villages?
[A] Rajasthan
[B] Gujarat
[C] Assam
[D] Odisha
Correct Answer: D [Odisha]
Notes:
The Odisha government is starting a project to help local communities manage forests. Under a new phase of the Forest Rights Act, 100 villages will get direct funding in their bank accounts. This effort aims to improve forest protection and management by allowing local governance through village councils, known as gram sabhas. The Project Appraisal Committee (PAC) has approved Community Forest Resource (CFR) plans for these 100 villages. This is just the first phase, with plans to expand the project to 400 villages. The PAC has set aside ₹16 crore for developing and implementing these plans.
14. Who has recently appointed as the first woman to serve as NASA’s Acting Administrator?
[A] Ana Maria Guerrero
[B] Janet E. Petro
[C] Heidi Herman
[D] Jackie Lyra
Correct Answer: B [Janet E. Petro]
Notes:
The United Nations has designated 2025 as the International Year for the Preservation of Glaciers. Beginning in that year, March 21 will be recognized annually as World Day for Glaciers. This initiative will be jointly facilitated by UNESCO and the World Meteorological Organization (WMO). The primary objective is to enhance public understanding of the critical functions glaciers serve within the climate system, the water cycle, and their significant economic, social, and environmental ramifications. Globally, glaciers span more than 700,000 square kilometers, consisting of approximately 275,000 individual glaciers, and they are responsible for storing around 70% of the planet’s freshwater resources.
15. Who has been honored with the Crystal Award 2025?
[A] David Beckham
[B] Diane von Furstenberg
[C] Riken Yamamoto
[D] All of the above
Correct Answer: D [All of the above]
Notes:
The 55th World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Meeting started in Davos, Switzerland, where the Crystal Awards were given to three notable individuals: David Beckham (British), Diane von Furstenberg (America), and Riken Yamamoto (Japan). These awards celebrate their important work in social, environmental, and creative fields around the world. David Beckham, a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, was recognized for his dedication to helping vulnerable children everywhere. Fashion designer and philanthropist Diane von Furstenberg received the award for her outstanding efforts in empowering women. Architect Riken Yamamoto was honored for his creative sustainable design and his focus on social and environmental responsibility.
16. Recently, which country has announced the launch of its first human underwater submersible by the end of 2025?
[A] India
[B] United States
[C] France
[D] Germany
Correct Answer: A [India]
Notes:
India has recently announced that it will launch its first human underwater submersible by the end of 2025. This project is designed to boost the blue economy and supports the country’s larger goals in space exploration, especially the Gaganyaan mission. The submersible will start by operating at depths of up to 500 meters, with plans to reach 6,000 meters the following year. The Deep Ocean Mission is a key program started under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership. It focuses on exploring and using ocean resources while ensuring environmental sustainability. This mission places India among a small group of six nations with advanced underwater exploration technology.
17. What type of disease is “Stargardt” that has been in the news lately?
[A] Rare genetic Rett syndrome
[B] Rare genetic Eye Disease
[C] Rare genetic Turner syndrome
[D] Rare genetic Apert syndrome
Correct Answer: B [Rare genetic Eye Disease]
Notes:
Stargardt disease is an uncommon genetic ocular disorder characterized by progressive vision deterioration, predominantly impacting children and young adults. Recent advancements in gene therapy present promising avenues for effective interventions. Researchers affiliated with the Institute of Molecular and Clinical Ophthalmology in Basel, Switzerland, in partnership with Beam Therapeutics, have made significant progress in this field. Also known as Stargardt macular degeneration, this condition typically manifests bilaterally, affecting both eyes. It is caused by the excessive buildup of lipofuscin in the macula, which ultimately leads to visual impairment. The disease is frequently associated with mutations in the ABCA4 gene, which is crucial for Vitamin A metabolism. At present, no definitive cure exists. It is observed more frequently in males and has an incidence rate of approximately 1 in 8,000 to 10,000 individuals. At present, there is no available cure for this condition.
18. The Brindavan Hydropower Private Limited, recently was seen in news, it is located in which state?
[A] Karnataka
[B] Gujarat
[C] Andhra Pradesh
[D] Telangana
Correct Answer: A [Karnataka]
Notes:
In the recent case involving Brindavan Hydropower Private Limited in 2024, the Karnataka High Court annulled the Electricity (Promoting Renewable Energy Through Green Energy Open Access) Rules, 2022, commonly referred to as the GEOA Rules, along with the associated regulations established by the Karnataka Regulatory Commission in 2022. Hydropower entities contended that the GEOA Rules infringed upon the jurisdiction of the Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission (KERC) as delineated in Sections 42(2) and 181 of the Electricity Act, 2003.
19. Which organization has recently released the Navigating Global Financial System Fragmentation report?
[A] World Economic Forum (WEF)
[B] United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
[C] International Monetary Fund (IMF)
[D] World Bank
Correct Answer: A [World Economic Forum (WEF)]
Notes:
The World Economic Forum has published a report called Navigating Global Financial System Fragmentation. It shows that geo-economic fragmentation could significantly lower global GDP. This effect may be worse than the economic damage from the 2008 financial crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic. Emerging markets, especially countries like India, are likely to face greater economic challenges as geopolitical tensions rise. Geo-economic fragmentation means the global economy is splitting into separate, often conflicting, groups. This trend is caused by countries using financial tools to meet their geopolitical aims, such as sanctions, trade barriers, and industrial policies. These actions disrupt existing trade relationships and decrease cross-border capital movement.
20. What is India’s rank in the Global Firepower Index 2025?
[A] 1st
[B] 2nd
[C] 3rd
[D] 4th
Correct Answer: D [4th]
Notes:
India is ranked as the fourth strongest military in the world in the Global Firepower Index 2025. This shows India’s strong military abilities, following the United States, Russia, and China. With a score of 0.1184, India holds its 4th place, reflecting its military strength on a global scale. The ranking considers more than 60 factors, such as personnel, resources, and geography.
21. The 7th India-France maritime cooperation dialogue was held in which place recently?
[A] Paris
[B] New Delhi
[C] Chennai
[D] Marseille
Correct Answer: B [New Delhi]
Notes:
India and France reiterated their dedication to strengthening maritime security and collaboration in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) at the 7th India-France Maritime Cooperation Dialogue, which took place in New Delhi on January 14, 2025.
22. Which state was the first North Eastern state to issue asset cards under the SVAMITVA scheme?
[A] Manipur
[B] Arunachal Pradesh
[C] Meghalaya
[D] Mizoram
Correct Answer: D [Mizoram]
Notes:
Mizoram has distinguished itself as the inaugural state in Northeast India to issue property cards as part of the Survey of Villages Abadi and Mapping with Improvised Technology in Village Areas (SVAMITVA) initiative. On January 18, 2025, Governor Gen (Dr) VK Singh participated in the distribution ceremony via a virtual platform from Raj Bhavan in Aizawl. Prime Minister Narendra Modi was also present at the event, where he distributed more than 6.5 million property cards to beneficiaries across ten states and two Union Territories. Notably, 1,754 individuals from 18 villages in Mizoram received their property cards during this occasion.
23. Which ministry has recently approved the Tripura state emblem?
[A] Ministry of Home
[B] Ministry of Culture
[C] Ministry of Defence
[D] Ministry of Current Affairs
Correct Answer: A [Ministry of Home]
Notes:
Tripura chief minister Manik Saha on January 9 said the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has given its approval for the state emblem.
24. Where was the Khelo India Winter Games (KIWG) 2025 organized?
[A] Himachal Pradesh
[B] Ladakh and Jammu & Kashmir
[C] Jharkhand
[D] Gujarat
Correct Answer: B [Ladakh and Jammu & Kashmir]
Notes:
Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya officially launched the Khelo India Winter Games 2025 in Ladakh on January 23. This event comprises 19 teams and showcases competitions in ice hockey and skating. The subsequent phase, which will emphasize snow sports, is scheduled to take place in Jammu and Kashmir from February 22 to 25. This marks the second occasion that Ladakh is hosting the games, with a total of 594 participants, among whom are 428 athletes. The events will be streamed live on Doordarshan Sports.
25. Who won the men’s and women’s elite race in Mumbai Marathon 2025?
[A] Abebe Bikila and Tiki Gelana
[B] Frank Shorter and Naoko Takahashi
[C] Eritrean Berhane Tesfay and Kenyan Joyce Chepkemoi Tele
[D] Stefano Baldini and Grete Waitz
Correct Answer: C [Eritrean Berhane Tesfay and Kenyan Joyce Chepkemoi Tele]
Notes:
In the twentieth edition of the Tata Mumbai Marathon, recognized as a World Athletics Gold Label Road Race, new champions were crowned, with Eritrean athlete Berhane Tesfay securing victory in the men’s division and Kenyan runner Joyce Chepkemoi Tele triumphing in the women’s category.
26. Which country has recently joined the Eurodrone program as an observer nation?
[A] India
[B] China
[C] Japan
[D] Thailand
Correct Answer: A [India]
Notes:
India has recently become an observer nation in the Eurodrone program, positioning itself as the second country from the Asia-Pacific region to achieve this status, after Japan. The Eurodrone initiative is a collaborative effort among four nations: France, Germany, Spain, and Italy. This program is overseen by the Organisation for Joint Armament Cooperation (OCCAR), headquartered in Bonn. The project is primarily led by Airbus Defence and Space from Germany, with significant contributions from key partners such as Leonardo from Italy, Dassault Aviation from France, and Airbus from Spain, who serve as major subcontractors.
27. When will commenced the New Delhi World Book Fair 2025?
[A] January 28 to January 31, 2025
[B] January 26 to January 30, 2025
[C] February 1 to February 9, 2025
[D] February 5 to February 15, 2025
Correct Answer: C [February 1 to February 9, 2025]
Notes:
The national capital will host the eagerly anticipated New Delhi World Book Fair 2025, a major event for readers, writers, and publishers. This fair is set to occur from February 1 to February 9, 2025, at the Bharat Mandapam in Pragati Maidan. With a history spanning over fifty years, the book fair is expected to be a lively mix of literature, culture, and knowledge. It is organized by the National Book Trust (NBT), India, under the Ministry of Education, and is co-hosted by the Indian Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO), making it a key event in the global publishing scene.
28. Which country will become the theme country of Kolkata Book Fair this year?
[A] France
[B] Thailand
[C] Germany
[D] Italy
Correct Answer: C [Germany]
Notes:
Germany will be the focus country for the 48th International Kolkata Book Fair, scheduled from January 28 to February 9, 2025. A special pavilion will showcase German literature and culture. Choosing Germany as the theme country emphasizes the strong cultural and literary connections between India and Germany. This initiative seeks to enhance Indian readers’ understanding of German literary traditions and encourages cross-cultural exchange. The Goethe-Institut / Max Mueller Bhavan is leading this effort, with support from the German Embassy in New Delhi, the German Consulate in Kolkata, the Indo-German Chamber of Commerce, DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service), and Deutsche Welle.
29. What is the theme of the International Day of Education 2024?
[A] Learning for Lasting Peace
[B] Investing in People, Prioritizing Education
[C] End racism. Build peace
[D] AI and Education: Preserving Human Agency in a World of Automation
Correct Answer: D [‘AI and Education: Preserving Human Agency in a World of Automation]
Notes:
Each year, people around the globe unite to observe the International Day of Education on January 24. This day highlights the essential role of education in promoting peace and sustainable growth. This year marks the seventh celebration, with the theme: ‘AI and Education: Preserving Human Agency in a World of Automation.’ The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) started this day to demonstrate the worldwide commitment to providing inclusive, fair, and quality education for everyone. As we enter a fast-changing technological age, this year’s theme emphasizes the powerful impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education while stressing the need to keep human control.
30. National Voters Day is celebrated every year on which day?
[A] January 25
[B] January 24
[C] January 23
[D] January 22
Correct Answer: A [January 25]
Notes:
National Voters’ Day (NVD) is celebrated every year on January 25th in India. The 15th celebration in 2025 comes after the successful Lok Sabha Elections of 2024. This year is special as the total number of voters nears 100 crore. The event highlights the importance of voter participation and celebrates 75 years of the Election Commission of India. NVD was first held in 2011 to mark the establishment of the Election Commission on January 25, 1950. The day aims to increase awareness about voting and encourage people to take part in the democratic process. It also honors new voters and emphasizes the importance of casting votes.
31. Recently, the United Nations has declared which year as the International Year of Glaciers’ Preservation?
[A] 2040
[B] 2035
[C] 2030
[D] 2025
Correct Answer: D [2025]
Notes:
The United Nations has designated 2025 as the International Year for the Preservation of Glaciers. Beginning in that year, March 21 will be recognized annually as World Day for Glaciers. This initiative will be jointly facilitated by UNESCO and the World Meteorological Organization (WMO). The primary objective is to enhance public understanding of the critical functions glaciers serve within the climate system, the water cycle, and their significant economic, social, and environmental ramifications. Globally, glaciers span more than 700,000 square kilometers, consisting of approximately 275,000 individual glaciers, and they are responsible for storing around 70% of the planet’s freshwater resources.
