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1. Which country has recently launched the iSNR initiative to set global standards for sustainable rubber production?
[A] China
[B] Indonesia
[C] Italy
[D] India
Correct Answer: D [India]
Notes:
On January 21, 2025, India introduced the Indian Sustainable Natural Rubber (iSNR) initiative in Kottayam, Kerala. This program aims to create new global standards for sustainable rubber production. The event featured George Kurian, the Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, Dairying, and Minority Affairs, and was led by Thiruvanchur Radhakrishnan, a Member of the Legislative Assembly. Key figures present included G. Anil Kumar, Vice Chairman of the Rubber Board, and N. Hari, a member of the Rubber Board. The iSNR initiative emphasizes zero-deforestation, empowering farmers with free certification, meeting EU regulations, and ensuring traceability in the supply chain.
2. The Trump administration has officially changed the name of the Gulf of Mexico. What is the new name?
[A] Gulf of America
[B] Gulf of Roosevelt
[C] Gulf of Donald
[D] Gulf of Washington
Correct Answer: A [Gulf of America]
Notes:
The Trump administration has officially renamed the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America. This change is part of several executive actions to keep campaign promises. The Interior Department announced this on a Friday, just hours after President Donald Trump was inaugurated, signaling a new direction for U.S. place names and symbols. Another major change was renaming Denali, the highest peak in Alaska, back to its original name, Mount McKinley. These moves show the administration’s commitment to celebrating the country’s historical heritage and recognizing important figures and locations.
3. The executive order of which country has recently laid out the Creation of Cryptocurrency Working Group?
[A] China
[B] United States
[C] Italy
[D] Singapore
Correct Answer: B [United States]
Notes:
U.S. President Donald Trump made important changes to the country’s cryptocurrency rules, keeping his promise to update U.S. crypto policy swiftly. He issued an executive order to form a cryptocurrency working group aimed at suggesting new regulations for digital assets and looking into the idea of a national cryptocurrency reserve. This decision is a strong effort to position the U.S. as a leader in the cryptocurrency field, in stark contrast to the more restrictive approach of former President Joe Biden’s administration.
4. Which country has became the first Southeast Asian nation to legalize same-sex marriage?
[A] Singapore
[B] Indonesia
[C] Thailand
[D] Malaysia
Correct Answer: C [Thailand]
Notes:
On January 23, 2025, Thailand achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first nation in Southeast Asia to legalize same-sex marriage, representing a crucial advancement for LGBTQ+ rights within the region. The Marriage Equality Act, which received substantial support in Parliament in June 2024 and was subsequently ratified by King Maha Vajiralongkorn in September 2024, ensures that same-sex couples are afforded the same legal, financial, and medical rights as their heterosexual counterparts.
5. Which company is set to build the world’s largest data centre in Jamnagar, Gujarat?
[A] Infosys
[B] Wipro
[C] Reliance Industries
[D] Tech Mahindra
Correct Answer: C [Reliance Industries]
Notes:
Reliance Industries, under the leadership of Chairman Mukesh Ambani, is preparing to establish the largest data centre globally in Jamnagar, Gujarat. This significant initiative is expected to transform India’s digital infrastructure, particularly in relation to the burgeoning field of artificial intelligence (AI). Through this substantial investment, Reliance seeks to enhance India’s competitiveness in the international AI arena while making a notable contribution to the country’s digital and technological advancement.
6. Recent research has focused on the genetic survey of cyanobacteria in the Winam Gulf of which lake?
[A] Lake Huron
[B] Lake Victoria
[C] Lake Michigan
[D] Baikal
Correct Answer: B [Lake Victoria]
Notes:
Recent studies have examined the genetics of cyanobacteria in the Winam Gulf of Lake Victoria, Kenya. This research, published in January 2025, is important for understanding harmful algal blooms (cyanoHAB) in freshwater environments. The results are expected to help local authorities monitor these blooms and offer insights that could be useful in other areas, such as Lake Erie in the United States. Cyanobacteria, often called blue-green algae, are not true algae but share some characteristics, like photosynthesis using chlorophyll, similar to green plants. They can be found as single cells, in thread-like filaments, or in colonies of different sizes and shapes. Cyanobacteria inhabit all types of water bodies, living in sediments or floating in the water. Some species can produce harmful toxins known as cyanotoxins.
7. Which state government has recently enforced a liquor ban in religious towns?
[A] Karnataka
[B] Madhya Pradesh
[C] Uttar Pradesh
[D] Tamil Nadu
Correct Answer: B [Madhya Pradesh]
Notes:
Madhya Pradesh has recently initiated a prohibition effort by prohibiting the sale of alcoholic beverages in 17 towns of religious significance. This announcement, made by Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, aligns with the celebration of the 300th birth anniversary of the esteemed Maratha ruler Devi Ahilyabai Holkar. The towns impacted by this decision include Ujjain, Orchha, and Maheshwar, among others. This action seeks to tackle enduring issues related to alcohol consumption in sacred locations while considering the intricate socio-economic dynamics of the state.
8. Who has been appointed as the brand ambassador for this year’s edition of FICCI Frames?
[A] Ayushmann Khurrana
[B] Rohith Sharma
[C] Deepika Padukone
[D] Jr NTR
Correct Answer: A [Ayushmann Khurrana]
Notes:
FICCI Frames, the foremost global convention for media and entertainment in India, is preparing to commemorate its 25th anniversary this year. This notable milestone represents a pivotal moment in the event’s history, highlighting its importance within the media and entertainment sector. In honor of this achievement, the esteemed Bollywood actor Ayushmann Khurrana has been designated as the brand ambassador for this year’s edition of FICCI Frames.
9. Who has recently been re-elected as Prime Minister of Ireland?
[A] Leo Varakar
[B] Simon Harris
[C] Enda Kenny
[D] Micheál Martin
Correct Answer: D [Micheál Martin]
Notes:
Micheál Martin has secured re-election as Taoiseach of Ireland after a parliamentary vote held on January 23, 2025. This election signifies the commencement of his second term, as he previously held the position from 2020 to 2022. The voting results revealed 95 votes in support and 76 in opposition, resulting in the establishment of a coalition government that includes Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael, and independent representatives.
10. Which Indian Navy ship has recently conducted the hydrographic survey of Mauritius?
[A] INS Talwar
[B] INS Vikramaditya
[C] INS Pralaya
[D] INS Sarvekshak
Correct Answer: D [INS Sarvekshak]
Notes:
The INS Sarvekshak of the Indian Navy has successfully concluded the final stage of a hydrographic survey in Mauritius, encompassing an area of 25,000 square nautical miles. Situated in the Indian Ocean to the east of Madagascar, Mauritius is an island nation with a total land area of 2,040 square kilometers, and its capital city is Port Louis. The nation comprises the principal island along with several smaller islands, including Ambre, Est, and Cerfs. The island was formed through volcanic activity approximately 8 million years ago, with Mount Piton being its highest elevation at 828 meters. Lake Vacoas serves as the primary water source for the country, which experiences a maritime subtropical climate.
11. Who has recently launched the SANJAY Battlefield Surveillance System?
[A] Shri Narendra Modi
[B] Shri Rajnath Singh
[C] Shri Amit Shah
[D] Shri Piyush Goyal
Correct Answer: B [Shri Rajnath Singh]
Notes:
The SANJAY system was launched by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on January 24, 2025. This Battlefield Surveillance System (BSS) aims to improve the Indian Army’s operational abilities. It combines ground and aerial sensors to provide a complete view of the battlefield. This development represents a step forward in military technology. SANJAY is an automated system that gathers data from various sensors, ensuring data accuracy, avoiding duplication, and merging information to create a unified surveillance image. It functions over a secure Army Data Network and Satellite Communication Network. The system features advanced sensors and analytics, allowing it to monitor large land borders and evaluate situations with great precision. This capability enhances Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) operations. The induction of SANJAY into the Indian Army will occur in three phases from March to October 2025.
12. Which organization has recently released the report of “Learning Interrupted – Global Snapshot of Climate-Related School Disruptions in 2024?
[A] UNICEF
[B] UNESCO
[C] UNDP
[D] ILO
Correct Answer: A [UNICEF]
Notes:
Recently, the United Nations Children’s Agency, UNICEF, released a report titled “Learning Interrupted – Global Snapshot of Climate-Related School Disruptions in 2024.” The findings reveal that at least 242 million students globally faced interruptions in their education due to climate-related incidents throughout 2024. This figure is considered conservative, reflecting the limitations of the data at hand. The report covers 85 countries and identifies 119 distinct climate hazards that have led to these educational interruptions.
13. The BSF has initiated a special operation named ‘Operation Sard Hawa’ on the border of which countries?
[A] India-China
[B] India-Afghanistan
[C] India-Pakistan
[D] India-Bangladesh
Correct Answer: C [India-Pakistan]
Notes:
In anticipation of Republic Day, the Border Security Force (BSF) has intensified its surveillance operations along the India-Pakistan border in Jaisalmer to thwart any possible infiltration attempts. A targeted initiative, referred to as ‘Operation Sard Hawa,’ commenced on January 22, specifically designed to address infiltration risks that may exploit the diminished visibility associated with the thick winter fog. This operation is set to persist until January 29, focusing on bolstering security measures along the border during this pivotal timeframe.
14. Which country has recently made strides in nuclear fusion research with EAST Reactor?
[A] Russia
[B] United States
[C] India
[D] China
Correct Answer: D [China]
Notes:
China has recently made progress in nuclear fusion research. The Experimental Advanced Superconducting Tokamak (EAST) managed to maintain plasma for 1,000 seconds, breaking the previous record of 403 seconds set in 2023. This milestone is crucial for the future of fusion energy, as it opens the door to possible continuous power generation. Nuclear fusion is the process that fuels the sun, involving the combination of atomic nuclei to release energy. Unlike nuclear fission, which breaks apart atoms, fusion generates very little radioactive waste and does not produce greenhouse gases. This makes it a promising energy source for fighting climate change and meeting global energy demands.
15. A recent archaeological discovery in which state has reshaped our understanding of the Iron Age in India?
[A] Karnataka
[B] Tamil Nadu
[C] Bihar
[D] Uttar Pradesh
Correct Answer: B [Tamil Nadu]
Notes:
Recent archaeological discoveries have changed how we view the Iron Age in India. A new study shows that iron technology in Tamil Nadu goes back to the early 4th millennium BCE. This finding contradicts earlier beliefs that the Iron Age in India started between 1500 and 2000 BCE. More than 85 iron items, including knives, arrowheads, and swords, were found, showing advanced metalworking skills. Important sites like Adichanallur (2517 BCE) and Mayiladumparai (2172 BCE) also provided key evidence. Radiometric dating of burial urns from Sivagalai (in Thoothukudi district) confirmed this timeline. The methods used included AMS14C dating for charcoal and OLS dating for ceramics. The study strongly suggests that iron smelting in Tamil Nadu began around 3345 BCE, determined through advanced techniques like Accelerator Mass Spectrometry and Optically Stimulated Luminescence. Sites such as Sivagalai, Adichanallur, Mayiladumparai, and Kilnamandi provided samples. This discovery pushes back the timeline of iron technology by almost two thousand years.
16. The Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) is all set to achieve its 100th launch milestone with the launch of which satellite?
[A] NVS-01
[B] NVS-02
[C] NVS-03
[D] NVS-04
Correct Answer: B [NVS-02]
Notes:
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is poised to achieve a significant milestone with its upcoming 100th launch. Scheduled for January 29, 2025, the GSLV-F15 mission will facilitate the deployment of the NVS-02 satellite from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre. This mission is a vital enhancement to India’s Navigation with Indian Constellation (NavIC), which serves as an independent regional navigation satellite system.
Overview of NavIC:
NavIC represents India’s regional navigation framework, offering Position, Velocity, and Timing (PVT) services. Its primary coverage area extends 1,500 kilometers beyond the Indian borders. The system comprises two types of services: Standard Positioning Service (SPS) and Restricted Service (RS). NavIC is engineered to deliver positional accuracy exceeding 20 meters and timing accuracy better than 50 nanoseconds. The SPS signals are compatible with other global navigation satellite systems, including GPS, Glonass, Galileo, and BeiDou.
Importance of GSLV-F15:
The GSLV-F15 mission plays a pivotal role in the deployment of the NVS-02 satellite, which is part of the second generation of NavIC satellites. This satellite is intended to succeed older satellites within the Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS). The duration of the GSLV-F15 mission is expected to be approximately 19 minutes.
Characteristics of the NVS-02 Satellite:
The NVS-02 satellite has a lift-off mass of 2,250 kilograms and is equipped with sophisticated atomic clocks to ensure precise timing. It operates on the standard I-2K bus platform and will be positioned at 111.75ºE, taking the place of IRNSS-1E. The NVS-02 satellite features navigation payloads that operate across multiple frequency bands.
17. Which of the following has recently released the Fiscal Health Index (FHI) 2025?
[A] NITI Aayog
[B] Indian Statistical Institute
[C] Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
[D] Finance Commission
Correct Answer: A [NITI Aayog]
Notes:
The Fiscal Health Index (FHI) 2025 is an annual report that assesses the fiscal condition of Indian states. Its primary objective is to deliver data-informed insights that facilitate improved policy interventions. The FHI emphasizes the enhancement of fiscal governance and the strengthening of economic resilience throughout the states. It evaluates 18 significant states in India through the lens of five sub-indices: Quality of Expenditure, Revenue Mobilisation, Fiscal Prudence, Debt Index, and Debt Sustainability. Each state receives a ranking based on a composite fiscal index that integrates these sub-indices. This thorough evaluation serves to highlight the fiscal strengths and weaknesses present among the states.
18. Which state has secured top position in the Fiscal Health Index (FHI) 2025?
[A] Chhattisgarh
[B] Jharkhand
[C] Goa
[D] Odisha
Correct Answer: D [Odisha]
Notes:
Odisha has been recognized as the leading state in India regarding fiscal health for the Financial Year 2022-23 with a score of 67.8, as indicated by the recently published Fiscal Health Index (FHI) from NITI Aayog. Chhattisgarh and Goa follow with scores of 55.2 and 53.6, respectively.
19. An international conference titled ‘Sun, Space Weather, and Solar-Stellar Connections’ was held in which city of India?
[A] Bengaluru
[B] New Delhi
[C] Chennai
[D] Gandhinagar
Correct Answer: A [Bengaluru]
Notes:
An international conference named ‘Sun, Space Weather, and Solar-Stellar Connections’ took place in Bengaluru from January 20 to 24, 2025, marking the 125th anniversary of the Kodaikanal Solar Observatory (KSO). The Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) organized this event, which attracted more than 200 solar physicists from both India and other countries to engage in discussions regarding developments in solar magnetism, the connections between solar and stellar phenomena, and the implications of space weather.
20. Retired wing commander and founding director of The Center for Airborne Systems (CABS) passed away at the age of 82. What was his name?
[A] Ramesh Suvidha
[B] Dr. Surya Band
[C] Dr. K. Ramchand
[D] Ajaya Shinde
Correct Answer: C [Dr. K. Ramchand]
Notes:
Wing Commander (Retd) Dr. K. Ramchand, a prominent aerospace engineer and former director of the Centre for Airborne Systems (CABS) within the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), died on January 17, 2025, at the age of 82. His groundbreaking work in India’s aerospace industry has made a lasting impact.
21. Uttar Pradesh has celebrated its statehood day annually on which day?
[A] 24 January
[B] 25 January
[C] 26 January
[D] 27 January
Correct Answer: A [24 January]
Notes:
Uttar Pradesh, the most populated state in India, celebrates its Foundation Day annually on January 24. This day highlights the state’s vibrant culture, significant role in India’s growth, and its historical path. In 2025, Uttar Pradesh will mark its 76th Foundation Day with large celebrations taking place from January 24 to January 26 at Awadh Shilp Gram in Lucknow. Let’s explore the historical importance, successes, and contributions of Uttar Pradesh during this special event.
22. Which state observes its statehood day annually on January 25th?
[A] Gujarat
[B] Karnataka
[C] Andhra Pradesh
[D] Himachal Pradesh
Correct Answer: D [Himachal Pradesh]
Notes:
Himachal Pradesh (H.P.) observes its Statehood Day annually on January 25th, commemorating the date in 1971 when it was officially recognized as the 18th state of the Indian Union. On this significant occasion, the Prime Minister of India conveyed his best wishes to the residents of H.P., recognizing the state’s distinctive cultural and historical legacy.
23. Who has recently been inducted into a newly instituted World Cricket Connects Advisory Board?
[A] Yuvraj Singh
[B] Jay Shah
[C] Sourav Ganguly
[D] MS Dhoni
Correct Answer: B [Jay Shah]
Notes:
The Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) has established a new advisory board called World Cricket Connects, which will take the place of the former World Cricket Committee. In a noteworthy advancement for international cricket, Jay Shah, who currently serves as the Chair of the ICC and has previously held the position of Secretary of the BCCI, has been appointed as one of the 13 inaugural members of this newly created advisory board. This initiative represents a pivotal shift in the governance and future trajectory of global cricket, as prominent individuals from diverse sectors of the sport unite to offer their expertise and direction.
24. Who has recently been inducted into the prestigious Australian Cricket Hall of Fame?
[A] Michael Clarke
[B] Andrew Symonds
[C] Michael Hussey
[D] David Hussey
Correct Answer: A [Michael Clarke]
Notes:
Michael Clarke, the former captain of the Australian cricket team, has been honored with induction into the esteemed Australian Cricket Hall of Fame, marking him as the 64th cricketer to achieve this distinguished recognition. This announcement, which has garnered widespread acclaim, was made at the renowned Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), a location of great personal significance in Clarke’s distinguished career. The induction serves to recognize Clarke’s outstanding contributions to Australian cricket, encompassing his roles as both a player and a leader.
25. Who has made history by clinching her first-ever Grand Slam title at the 2025 Australian Open?
[A] jasmine paolini
[B] Aryna Sabalenka
[C] Madison Keys
[D] jessica pegula
Correct Answer: C [Madison Keys]
Notes:
Madison Keys, a 29-year-old tennis prodigy from the United States, has etched her name in the annals of sports history by securing her inaugural Grand Slam title at the 2025 Australian Open. In a thrilling championship match, she triumphed over the two-time reigning champion Aryna Sabalenka, concluding the contest with a score of 6-3, 2-6, 7-5 in Melbourne. This landmark achievement solidifies her status as one of the most distinguished athletes of her era. An exploration of Madison Keys’ journey, her accomplishments, and her ascent to fame follows.
26. Who was named the ICC Men’s T20I Cricketer of the Year 2024?
[A] Wanindu Hasaranga
[B] Usman Najeeb
[C] Ehsan Khan
[D] Arshdeep Singh
Correct Answer: D [Arshdeep Singh]
Notes:
Arshdeep Singh’s rapid ascent in the realm of international cricket has achieved a significant milestone with his selection as the ICC Men’s T20I Cricketer of the Year for 2024. This honor follows an exceptional year during which he was instrumental in India’s victory at the T20 World Cup, solidifying his status as one of the leading T20 bowlers globally. In addition to this prestigious award, Arshdeep’s inclusion in the ICC T20I Team of the Year for 2024 further underscores his remarkable and consistent performance throughout the year.
27. National Tourism Day is celebrated annually on which day?
[A] January 24
[B] January 25
[C] January 26
[D] January 27
Correct Answer: B [January 25]
Notes:
National Tourism Day is observed every year on January 25 to encourage responsible, sustainable, and accessible tourism in India. This day highlights the country’s wide range of tourist spots, its rich cultural history, and beautiful natural scenery, showcasing the vast opportunities within India’s tourism sector. Tourism plays a vital role in boosting the economy, promoting cultural exchange, preserving heritage, and improving global understanding. It is a time to celebrate India’s 43 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, its enchanting locations, and the fascinating stories they share.
