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1. Who has been proposed that Egypt and Jordan should accept Palestinian refugees?
[A] Egypt & Jordan
[B] Libya & Egypt
[C] Jordan and Nigeria
[D] Tanzania & Namibia
Correct Answer: A [Egypt & Jordan]
Notes:
In late 2023, US President Donald Trump suggested that Egypt and Jordan should take in Palestinian refugees from the heavily damaged Gaza Strip. This proposal came in response to the destruction from Israel’s military actions against Hamas, which created a humanitarian crisis. Trump’s comments highlighted the urgent need for a solution to the ongoing issue of Palestinian displacement. However, both Egypt and Jordan have strongly opposed this idea. They have peace agreements with Israel and support the creation of a Palestinian state that includes the West Bank, Gaza, and East Jerusalem. They worry that permanently relocating Palestinians could jeopardize this objective. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi has raised concerns about the security risks of resettling refugees, warning that it might lead to future conflicts in Egypt.
2. Which country has suspended all USAID funding to Bangladesh amid a global review of foreign aid initiated?
[A] India
[B] Russia
[C] China
[D] United States
Correct Answer: D [United States]
Notes:
The United States has stopped all USAID funding to Bangladesh due to a 90-day global review of foreign aid ordered by President Trump. This decision puts a stop to important development projects, affecting areas such as governance, health, and education in Bangladesh. Following President Trump’s directive, the US has made a major policy change by suspending all USAID funding to Bangladesh. This means that all USAID activities in the country must stop right away, impacting many development projects throughout Bangladesh.
3. In which city of Nepal has hosted the inaugural International Pashmina Festival cum Exhibition?
[A] Biratnagar
[B] Hetauda
[C] Kathmandu
[D] Pokhara
Correct Answer: C [Kathmandu]
Notes:
The inaugural International Pashmina Festival and Exhibition, hosted by the Nepal Pashmina Industries Association and the Confederation of Nepalese Industries, drew considerable interest from buyers. The event showcased the fine, light, and warm natural fiber sourced from the Chyangra or Pashmina goat. As a leading producer of genuine Pashmina, Nepal displayed its skills in traditional weaving techniques, honoring the culture and artistry involved in creating this renowned product. The festival highlighted the worldwide appreciation for Nepali Pashmina, particularly the high-quality “Chyangra Pashmina” brand.
4. Which of the following has recently introduced a Temporary Identification Number (TIN) for businesses that do not require mandatory registration?
[A] Reserve Bank of India
[B] Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs
[C] Ministry of Finance
[D] Ministry of Corporate Affairs
Correct Answer: B [Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs]
Notes:
The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has made recent updates to the Goods and Services Tax (GST) system in India. One key change is the introduction of a Temporary Identification Number (TIN) for businesses that do not need to register officially. This change is designed to make tax compliance easier and help with payments under the GST system. Furthermore, the CBIC has decided to waive extra late fees for annual returns from the financial years 2017-18 to 2022-23. The GST Council has also suggested a new rule that allows tax officers to issue Temporary Identification Numbers to businesses that are not required to register. This means that these businesses can still make necessary payments without having a permanent GST registration. The notification specifies that these TINs will be issued under certain conditions mentioned in Part B of FORM GST REG-12.
5. Which bank becomes the first Indian bank to implement Clari5’s NCRP Integration Solution?
[A] State Bank of India
[B] Canara Bank
[C] Union Bank
[D] Punjab National Bank
Correct Answer: D [Punjab National Bank]
Notes:
Punjab National Bank (PNB) has distinguished itself as the inaugural Indian financial institution to adopt Clari5’s National Cybercrime Reporting Portal (NCRP) solution. This innovative solution was created in collaboration with the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) to streamline the processing of cybercrime complaints. It is designed to function seamlessly across various retail banking platforms, including Internet and Mobile Banking, ATMs, UPI, and NEFT/RTGS. Key features of the solution encompass automated lien marking, intelligent account freezes, and customizable whitelisting, all aimed at enhancing customer protection. Rivi Varghese, the CEO of Clari5, commended PNB’s pioneering efforts, asserting that this integration sets a new standard for innovation within the Indian banking sector.
6. Which country’s foreign exchange (forex) reserves have experienced fluctuations in recent weeks?
[A] India
[B] Pakistan
[C] Bangladesh
[D] Sri Lanka
Correct Answer: A [India]
Notes:
India’s foreign exchange reserves have shown variability in recent weeks. As of January 17, 2025, the reserves were reported at $623.983 billion, reflecting a decrease of $1.88 billion compared to the previous week. This reduction follows a more significant decline of $8.714 billion noted in the week ending January 10. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has indicated that these fluctuations are a result of market interventions designed to stabilize the Indian rupee, as well as adjustments in asset valuations. Foreign exchange reserves consist of assets maintained by a nation’s central bank in foreign currencies. These reserves play a vital role in ensuring currency stability, supporting international trade, and managing foreign debt obligations. They generally encompass foreign currency assets, gold reserves, and Special Drawing Rights (SDRs).
7. Which bank has won seven awards at the 20th Annual Technology Conference, Expo, & Citations 2024?
[A] City Union Bank
[B] ICICI Bank
[C] HDFC Bank
[D] Axis Bank
Correct Answer: A [City Union Bank]
Notes:
City Union Bank (CUB) has won seven awards at the 20th Annual Technology Conference, Expo, & Citations 2024, held in Mumbai on January 24.
Winner Categories:
Best AI & ML Bank: Acknowledging CUB for its innovative use of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning to improve banking services.
Best Fintech & Digital Payment Index (DPI) Adoption: Recognizing the bank’s successful use of fintech solutions and support for digital payment systems.
Best Financial Inclusion: Praising efforts to provide banking services to those who are underserved or unbanked.
Runner-Up Categories:
Best Digital Engagement: Recognizing efforts to improve customer interaction through online platforms.
Best IT Risk Management: Acknowledging strong strategies to identify and reduce information technology risks.
Best Technology Talent: Celebrating the development and retention of skilled tech professionals at the bank.
Special Category:
Best Technology Bank: A recognition of CUB’s overall excellence in using technology to foster banking innovation.
8. The Government of India has approved a ₹500 crore capital infusion into the Industrial Finance Corporation of India (IFCI) for which fiscal year?
[A] 2024-25
[B] 2025-26
[C] 2026-27
[D] 2024-26
Correct Answer: A [2024-25]
Notes:
The Indian Government has approved a capital injection of ₹500 crore into the Industrial Finance Corporation of India (IFCI) for the 2024-25 financial year. This decision is intended to strengthen IFCI’s financial position before its upcoming restructuring and consolidation. The funding was authorized through the first Supplementary Demand for Grants for 2024-25 in the Lok Sabha. Of this amount, ₹499.99 crore is designated for ‘Subscription to the Share Capital of IFCI’. Furthermore, savings of ₹50.07 crore from the same category and ₹449.92 crore from the capital section of Demand No.30-DEA will be used, ensuring there is no extra cash outflow.
9. Which fintech startup has unveiled Wisor, India’s first AI-powered credit card expert?
[A] Stripe
[B] CheQ
[C] UPstox
[D] Revolut
Correct Answer: B [CheQ]
Notes:
CheQ, a top fintech company in India started by ex-Flipkart executive Aditya Soni, has launched Wisor, the first AI-based credit card expert in the country. This new tool is set to change how people manage their credit cards by offering tailored insights, easy management, and enhanced rewards. Wisor provides users with personalized help, instant answers to questions, thorough spending analysis, and improved rewards management.
10. Recently, which country was officially certified malaria-free by the World Health Organization (WHO)?
[A] Cameroon
[B] Georgia
[C] Ivory Coast
[D] Burkina Faso
Correct Answer: B [Georgia]
Notes:
Recently, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared Georgia malaria-free. This is a significant achievement for both the country and the WHO European region. Georgia now joins 45 other countries and one territory that have achieved this status. The certification is the result of many years of hard work and investment in controlling and eliminating malaria. The disease has been a problem in Georgia for centuries. Before organized control efforts started in the early 1900s, three types of malaria parasites were common: Plasmodium falciparum, Plasmodium malariae, and Plasmodium vivax. After World War II, Georgia launched a comprehensive program to eliminate malaria, which included new medications, insecticide spraying, and better monitoring of mosquito populations.
11. Which two Indian cities has recently joined the list of accredited wetland cities under the Ramsar Convention?
[A] Indore and Udaipur
[B] Bengaluru and Hyderabad
[C] Kolkata and Gandhinagar
[D] Lucknow and Amaravati
Correct Answer: A[Indore and Udaipur]
Notes:
India has recently celebrated a significant milestone with Indore and Udaipur being recognized as the first Wetland Cities in the country under the Ramsar Convention. This acknowledgment highlights the value of wetlands in cities and the importance of protecting them. The news was announced just ahead of World Wetlands Day, reflecting India’s dedication to sustainable urban growth. The Ramsar Convention, an international agreement formed in 1971, focuses on the conservation and responsible use of wetlands. It now has 172 member nations and aims to ensure that wetlands offer ecological, economic, and social advantages to local communities.
12. The Teesta-3 dam, which was seen in the news recently, is located in which state?
[A] Arunachal Pradesh
[B] Sikkim
[C] Assam
[D] Meghalaya
Correct Answer: B [Sikkim]
Notes:
The Teesta-3 dam in Sikkim, which was severely damaged by a glacier lake outburst flood, is going to be rebuilt. This flood caused many deaths and significant damage to infrastructure. An expert committee from the Environment Ministry has suggested a new design to improve safety and efficiency. The new dam will be made entirely of concrete and will include a spillway designed to handle larger water flows. In October 2024, a GLOF caused the Teesta-3 dam to fail, leading to widespread flooding and at least 100 fatalities. The situation worsened because the dam’s floodgates could not be opened quickly enough. The old dam, which was made of both rock and concrete, could not withstand the flood’s force. The new dam will be made entirely of concrete. This change is meant to strengthen its structure. The updated spillway will manage a maximum flow of 19,946 cubic meters per second, which is three times more than the old dam could handle. This design change is to avoid any future overtopping problems.
13. The Rushikulya River, was seen in the news recently, is one of the major rivers in which state?
[A] Uttarakhand
[B] Himachal Pradesh
[C] Assam
[D] Odisha
Correct Answer: D [Odisha]
Notes:
Olive Ridley turtles are an endangered species famous for their special mass nesting behavior called “arribada.” In 2024, these turtles did not nest at the Rushikulya river mouth in Odisha, which is a key nesting area. However, experts expect more turtles to nest this year. The Rushikulya river mouth is one of the main nesting sites in India, along with Gahirmatha and the Deve river mouth. Typically, Olive Ridley turtles nest every three years. This pattern was seen in past years when there was no mass nesting. In 2023, a record 637,000 turtles nested over a three-kilometer area, suggesting that nesting numbers may increase after a skipped year.
14. Which ministry has developed an advisory aimed at the safe disposal and reuse of sewage sludge?
[A] MInistry of Health and Family Welfare
[B] Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA)
[C] Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology
[D] Ministry of Culture
Correct Answer: B [Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA)]
Notes:
The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) in India has created guidelines for the safe disposal and reuse of sewage sludge. This effort addresses the large amounts of sewage sludge produced every day. The guidelines suggest ways to treat and manage sewage sludge, with a special emphasis on using solar greenhouse dryers to improve the quality of bio-solids. In rural areas, India produces about 39,604 Million Litres per Day (MLD) of wastewater, while urban areas generate an even higher amount of 72,368 MLD. Unfortunately, only 28 percent of this wastewater is treated. Moreover, around 1.20 lakh tonnes of faecal sludge is generated daily. This situation calls for effective management solutions.
15. Namdapha National Park is located in which state?
[A] Arunachal Pradesh
[B] Sikkim
[C] Manipur
[D] Nagaland
Correct Answer: A [Arunachal Pradesh]
Notes:
An event took place in Namdapha National Park and Tiger Reserve in Arunachal Pradesh. After 12 years, a camera captured an adult male elephant in the Kathan area of the reserve. This sighting has brought new hope for conservation efforts in the region. Officials highlighted the significance of this event for understanding elephant movements and the need to protect their habitat. Namdapha National Park covers 1,985 square kilometers and is the easternmost tiger reserve in India. It is famous for its rich biodiversity, which includes many plant and animal species. The park is a crucial habitat for elephants, tigers, and other wildlife.
16. Which state Government has recently launched Sishu Vatika initiative under NEP 2020?
[A] Odisha
[B] Gujarat
[C] Bihar
[D] Uttar Pradesh
Correct Answer: A [Odisha]
Notes:
The government of Odisha is set to implement pre-school admissions in Sishu Vatikas in alignment with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. This initiative seeks to improve early childhood education within the state. Commencing in April, children who are five years old will be admitted to existing schools that offer Class 1. This represents a significant transition from the former educational framework. Currently, Anganwadi centres oversee pre-school education; however, they do not provide a systematic approach. These centres primarily concentrate on health monitoring and foundational education. The establishment of Sishu Vatikas may influence the responsibilities of Anganwadi workers, who currently lack training in formal pre-school education.
17. Which organization has launched the enhanced Certificate of Origin (eCoO) 2.0 system?
[A] Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG)
[B] National Informatics Centre
[C] Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT)
[D] National Archives of India
Correct Answer: C [Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT)]
Notes:
The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has introduced the upgraded Certificate of Origin (eCoO) 2.0 system. This enhancement is designed to streamline the certification process for exporters and to boost overall trade efficiency. The new platform features user-friendly elements and requires mandatory electronic filing, representing a significant step forward in India’s trade facilitation initiatives. The eCoO 2.0 system allows for multi-user access, enabling exporters to designate several users under a single Importer Exporter Code (IEC), thereby fostering improved collaboration among team members. Additionally, the system now supports Aadhaar-based e-signing, offering an alternative method for identity verification in conjunction with digital signature tokens.
18. Recently, researchers at which IIT have successfully extracted silicon carbide from simulated moon soil?
[A] IIT Kanpur
[B] IIT Bombay
[C] IIT Hyderabad
[D] IIT Madras
Correct Answer: D [IIT Madras]
Notes:
Researchers at IIT Madras have recently managed to extract silicon carbide from simulated lunar soil. This breakthrough could help in building habitats on the moon. Lunar regolith is the loose material that covers the moon’s surface, and getting real lunar soil is difficult since only a small amount has been returned to Earth. Simulated lunar soil is created for research. The moon has two main types of terrain: the maria and the highlands. The highlands contain a lot of silicon, aluminum, and calcium oxides. To make silicon carbide, which requires both silicon and carbon, researchers had to find a source of carbon on the moon. One possible source is the carbon dioxide that astronauts breathe out. At the International Space Station (ISS), the Sabatier process turns carbon dioxide into methane and water using hydrogen. Although methane is usually released into space at the ISS, it is important for this study. By mixing highland regolith simulant with methane at high temperatures, researchers were able to produce silicon carbide.
19. Which organization has is developed Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS)?
[A] Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)
[B] Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)
[C] Larsen & Toubro (L&)
[D] Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)
Correct Answer: B [Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)]
Notes:
DRDO showcased the Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS) during the 76th Republic Day parade. The Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS) represents a significant advancement in artillery technology, having been developed by India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). Initiated in 2013, this project aims to modernize the Indian Army’s artillery capabilities by introducing a 155 mm x 52 caliber howitzer. The ATAGS is designed to supersede older artillery systems, enhancing operational effectiveness with its ability to fire Long Range Guided Munitions (LRGM). The development of the ATAGS involved collaboration with private sector partners, including Bharat Forge and Tata Advanced Systems, while the Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE) in Pune served as the primary agency overseeing the project.
20. Which country has recently joined as an observer state in the Eurodrone programme?
[A] India
[B] Sri Lanka
[C] China
[D] Australia
Correct Answer: A [India]
Notes:
On January 21, 2025, India was recognized as an Observer State in the Eurodrone programme, which is overseen by the Organisation for Joint Armament Cooperation (OCCAR) and led by Airbus Defence and Space. This marks a significant step in India’s efforts to strengthen defence partnerships with European countries. It has a payload capacity of 2.3 tonnes, endurance of up to 40 hours, and operates in diverse environments, including severe weather. Conceived in 2022, it passed its preliminary design review in 2024 and aims to enter service by 2030. The drone supports ISTAR, maritime surveillance, anti-submarine warfare, and airborne early warning missions. The Eurodrone programme, which includes Germany, France, Italy, and Spain, aims to create a long-endurance unmanned aircraft system for multiple defence and surveillance applications.
21. Who was appointed as India’s Ambassador to Israel?
[A] Jitender Pal Singh
[B] Manohar Singh
[C] Murali Mohan
[D] Vishwanath A
Correct Answer: A [Jitender Pal Singh]
Notes:
On January 24, 2025, Jitender Pal Singh was named as India’s new Ambassador to Israel. He is a Senior Diplomat with a strong background in sensitive diplomatic positions, having worked in Pakistan and Afghanistan. His appointment comes during a time when Israel is recovering from recent conflicts. Singh, an officer in the Indian Foreign Service from the 2002 batch, is currently in the External Affairs Minister’s office and has been in charge of the Pakistan-Afghanistan-Iran division since 2020.
22. Who has taken over as the additional responsibility of Director General (DG) of the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS)?
[A] Murali Mohan
[B] Amrit Mohan
[C] Radhakrishnan
[D] Sarvesh Chandra
Correct Answer: B [Amrit Mohan]
Notes:
The Central Government has designated Amrit Mohan Prasad, currently serving as the Director General (DG) of Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), to assume the additional responsibilities of Director General (DG) of the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS). This appointment, sanctioned by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet, underscores the government’s confidence in Prasad’s leadership capabilities. The tenure for this role is established for six months, commencing on November 1, 2024, or until a permanent successor is appointed, whichever occurs first. This decision is particularly noteworthy given the critical role of civil aviation security in India.
23. Who has taken over as the Executive Director of Dhanlaxmi Bank?
[A] P. Suriaraj
[B] Brijesh Kumar
[C] Sudhir Kumar
[D] Rajendra Varma
Correct Answer: A [P. Suriaraj]
Notes:
P. Suriaraj has taken on the position of Executive Director at Dhanlaxmi Bank, bringing valuable experience from his time at Tamilnad Mercantile Bank Ltd. His new role is expected to strengthen the bank’s strategic goals and improve its operations. Suriaraj has had a long career in banking, making important contributions at Tamilnad Mercantile Bank Ltd in different roles. His knowledge is likely to benefit the leadership team at Dhanlaxmi Bank.
24. Who has recently appointed as the Director of ISRO’s Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC) in Thiruvananthapuram?
[A] Dr. Aravinda Josi
[B] Dr. Madan Gupta
[C] Dr. Sanjeevan
[D] M. Mohan
Correct Answer: D [M. Mohan]
Notes:
On January 25, 2025, M. Mohan took on the role of Director at the Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC) located in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. He follows Dr. V. Narayanan, who has recently transitioned to the position of Chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) as of January 14, 2025.
25. Alexander Lukashenko has recently been re-elected as president of which country for a seventh term?
[A] Liechtenstein
[B] Belarus
[C] San Marino
[D] Finland
Correct Answer: B [Belarus]
Notes:
Alexander Lukashenko has successfully obtained a seventh term as President of Belarus, thereby prolonging his three-decade-long authoritarian governance. The election, conducted on January 26, 2025, indicated that Lukashenko garnered approximately 87% of the votes, a result that has been broadly criticized as fraudulent by both local opposition groups and international monitors.
