Post Views: 34
1. Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya inaugurated the Athlete Passport Management Unit (APMU) in which city?
[A] Hyderabad
[B] Kolkata
[C] New Delhi
[D] Mumbai
Correct Answer: C [New Delhi]
Notes:
Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya launched the Athlete Passport Management Unit (APMU) at the National Dope Testing Laboratory (NDTL) in New Delhi. This unit highlights India’s commitment to maintaining doping-free sports by utilizing Athlete Biological Passports (ABP) to monitor athletes’ biological data over time. The establishment of the APMU represents a major step forward in India’s anti-doping initiatives, bringing the country in line with global standards and emphasizing its dedication to fair and ethical sports. The APMU will facilitate the ongoing monitoring of athletes’ biological markers through the ABP system, allowing for the identification of doping trends without the need to directly test for prohibited substances. Additionally, this initiative positions India as a supportive leader for the Global South, providing expertise and resources to neighboring nations.
2. The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) has predicted what percentage growth rate India will reach by 2025?
[A] 5.5%
[B] 6.0%
[C] 6.5%
[D] 7.0%
Correct Answer: C [6.5%]
Notes:
The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) predicts that India will achieve a 6.5% growth rate in 2025, solidifying its status as the fastest-growing major economy worldwide. The recent report, “Trade and Development Foresights 2025,” highlights India’s impressive GDP growth, even as global economic activity appears to be slowing. India’s resilience is attributed to higher public spending and active monetary policies.
3. Which State Forest Department has successfully bred and prepared six GPS-tagged vultures for release into the wild?
[A] Andhra Pradesh
[B] Kerala
[C] Madhya Pradesh
[D] Karnataka
Correct Answer: C [Madhya Pradesh]
Notes:
The Forest Department of Madhya Pradesh has successfully bred and prepared six vultures for their return to the wild. This project aims to increase the population of endangered vultures and improve ecological balance. The vultures, which come from the Vulture Conservation Breeding Centre in Kerwa, have been fitted with GPS trackers to monitor their adaptation and behavior in their natural environment. Vultures play a crucial role in maintaining ecosystem health by managing waste through the consumption of dead animals. Sadly, their numbers have significantly decreased due to habitat destruction, poisoning, and lack of food. Therefore, conservation efforts are essential to prevent their extinction. Madhya Pradesh is at the forefront of these initiatives, having set up breeding centers and awareness programs. The six vultures released, including four long-billed and two white-backed species, are the first to be freed from captivity in the state. The release occurred at Halali Dam, a carefully chosen site with a suitable habitat. These vultures, aged six to eight years, have passed health checks to ensure they can thrive in the wild.
4. The International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) has officially signed an agreement with which country to establish its headquarters and main office?
[A] India
[B] China
[C] France
[D] United States
Correct Answer: A [India]
Notes:
The International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) has officially signed an agreement with India to establish its headquarters and main office in the country. This agreement comes over two months after the IBCA became a recognized international organization through a treaty among nations. It allows India to host the IBCA’s main office and provides the necessary support for its effective operation. The agreement also outlines provisions regarding visas, special rights and protections for IBCA personnel and facilities, the commencement of the agreement, and other related issues. The IBCA was proposed by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2019 and was officially launched in April 2023 during the 50th anniversary of Project Tiger. The alliance gained legal status after five countries ratified its framework agreement in September 2023, including India, Liberia, Eswatini, Somalia, and Nicaragua. The IBCA’s main goals are to fight illegal wildlife trade, protect natural habitats, and gather resources for conservation initiatives. It also seeks to tackle the effects of climate change on big cats and promotes policies that integrate biodiversity conservation with the needs of local communities. The alliance focuses on seven big cat species: tiger, lion, leopard, snow leopard, puma, jaguar, and cheetah. Of these, five species (tiger, lion, leopard, snow leopard, and cheetah) are found in India, while the puma and jaguar are not native to the region. Currently, the IBCA has four member countries: India, Nicaragua, Eswatini, and Somalia. Its governance structure consists of an Assembly of Members, a Standing Committee, and a Secretariat located in India. This framework is similar to that of the International Solar Alliance (ISA), with a Director-General appointed by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) to manage operations.
5. Which ministry is reconsidering its 2015 mandate for Flue Gas Desulphurisation (FGD) in all coal-fired plants?
[A] Ministry of Corporate Affairs
[B] Ministry of Industry and Commerce
[C] Ministry of Environment
[D] Ministry of Science and Technology
Correct Answer: C [Ministry of Environment]
Notes:
The Union Environment Ministry is re-evaluating its 2015 requirement for Flue Gas Desulphurisation (FGD) in all coal-fired power plants. A recent report from the National Institute of Advanced Studies recommends that FGD should only be mandatory for plants that use imported or high-sulfur coal. This recommendation is based on the type of coal used in India and its effects on air quality. FGD technology is designed to eliminate sulfur dioxide (SO2) from emissions. SO2 is mainly produced from burning fossil fuels such as coal and oil. When these fuels are burned, some of their sulfur content turns into SO2, which is a harmful pollutant. FGD systems can remove as much as 95% of SO2 by using absorbents like ammonia, sodium sulfite, or limestone slurry. Sulfur dioxide significantly contributes to air pollution and can cause acid rain, which negatively impacts forests, freshwater ecosystems, and soil health. The repercussions include harm to ecosystems, damage to infrastructure, and deterioration of cultural heritage sites. Thus, cutting down SO2 emissions is vital for protecting the environment. Although there was a deadline for FGD installation in 2018, only 8% of India’s coal-fired power plants have met this requirement. The compliance deadlines have now been pushed to 2027-2029. Around 230 plants are currently working on FGD installation, while 260 have not yet placed orders. The estimated cost for installing FGD is ₹1.2 crore per megawatt.
6. Which Indian state has officially approved DPS Flamingo Lake as a conservation reserve?
[A] Arunachal Pradesh
[B] Assam
[C] Maharashtra
[D] Kerala
Correct Answer: C [Maharashtra]
Notes:
The Maharashtra State Wildlife Board has approved the designation of DPS Flamingo Lake as a conservation reserve, making it the first wetland linked to the Thane Creek Flamingo Sanctuary (TCFS) to obtain such protective recognition. Covering an area of 30 acres, this lake is essential for flamingos, providing a crucial feeding and resting habitat during high tide. In response to the tragic incident in 2023, where 17 flamingos died due to blocked tidal inlets, a committee was formed to tackle the problem. Approximately 60 percent of the lake, which had been heavily infested with algae, has now been cleared, allowing flamingos to return. Experts from the Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS) have warned that the degradation of wetlands may push birds closer to the Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA), thereby heightening the risk of bird strikes.
7. Which state government has recently approved the Adarsh Sanskrit Village Programme?
[A] Uttar Pradesh
[B] Uttarakhand
[C] Rajasthan
[D] Madhya Pradesh
Correct Answer: B [Uttarakhand]
Notes:
The Uttarakhand government has launched the Adarsh Sanskrit Village Programme to promote the ancient language of Sanskrit. This decision was made by the state cabinet on April 15, 2025. The initiative focuses on teaching Sanskrit in one chosen village from each of the thirteen districts in the state. It supports efforts to elevate the status of Sanskrit, which is recognized as the second official language of Uttarakhand. The main objective is to preserve and promote Sanskrit, connecting the youth with Indian philosophy and cultural heritage. The programme aims to establish model villages where Sanskrit is actively taught and utilized, challenging the notion that the language belongs to specific communities. A committee led by district officials has selected thirteen villages for the initial phase, including Bhogpur in Dehradun and Mukhem in Tehri, based on surveys that gauged community interest in learning Sanskrit. If the pilot proves successful, the programme may extend to the block level. The government intends to hire thirteen instructors, each receiving a monthly salary of Rs 20,000. Candidates will go through a written exam and an interview process. Chosen instructors will be trained at the Sanskrit Academy in Haridwar, where they will learn the course structure and materials for teaching. A detailed syllabus has been created, and learners will be provided with textbooks featuring shlokas and stories from epics such as the Mahabharata and Ramayana, along with significant texts like the Vedas and Durga Saptashati. The curriculum is designed to offer a thorough understanding of Sanskrit literature.
8. Which Indian state Cabinet has recently approved the Space Industrial Policy 2025?
[A] Gujarat
[B] Tamil Nadu
[C] Karnataka
[D] Maharashtra
Correct Answer: B [Tamil Nadu]
Notes:
The Tamil Nadu Cabinet has recently given the green light to the Tamil Nadu Space Industrial Policy 2025. This initiative aims to position the state as a prominent center for space innovation and high-value manufacturing, with a focus on creating technology-driven job opportunities for young people. It represents a significant move to strengthen the state’s role in the expanding space sector. The policy is based on three key pillars. Firstly, it seeks to draw in investments of ₹10,000 crore into Tamil Nadu’s space industry. Secondly, it aims to generate at least 10,000 high-value jobs for skilled individuals. Lastly, it emphasizes the development of a workforce equipped to tackle future challenges in space technologies and services. The policy is designed to attract investments from a variety of sectors, benefiting not just large companies but also start-ups and Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). New businesses entering the space industry will have access to special incentive packages, promoting innovation and growth. A notable aspect of the policy is the creation of dedicated industrial zones known as Space Bays, specifically designed for the space sector. These zones will foster an environment suitable for research, development, and manufacturing. Additionally, the policy includes plans for a Foundation and Prototype development lab for satellite testing.
9. Which state has recently launched the SpaceTech Policy 2025-2030?
[A] Assam
[B] Karnataka
[C] Gujarat
[D] Telangana
Correct Answer: C [Gujarat]
Notes:
Gujarat has introduced its SpaceTech Policy for the years 2025-2030, becoming the first Indian state to create a specific policy for the space industry. This initiative aims to promote various space technology activities through both financial and non-financial support. The policy covers the production of satellite payloads, communication systems, and space applications, offering extensive assistance across all areas of space operations. It is intended to foster the development of businesses in these fields. The Gujarat government plans to work closely with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe) to ensure the policy’s successful execution. This collaboration is vital for enhancing local industry capabilities and encouraging innovation. A key feature of the policy is the creation of a Centre for Excellence in Space Technologies, which will concentrate on skill development and research, equipping the workforce with training in advanced space technologies. Additionally, the policy outlines plans for a space manufacturing park that will provide shared technical facilities, creating a robust infrastructure to support the growth of the space sector in Gujarat.
10. Which is the world’s first emissions trading scheme?
[A] The Surat Emission Trading Scheme (ETS)
[B] The Bengaluru Emission Trading Scheme (ETS)
[C] The Delhi Emission Trading Scheme (ETS)
[D] The Chennai Emission Trading Scheme (ETS)
Correct Answer: A [The Surat Emission Trading Scheme (ETS)]
Notes:
A recent significant study published in the Quarterly Journal of Economics has demonstrated that India’s inaugural emissions trading scheme for particulate matter in Surat effectively merged economic efficiency with environmental conservation. This innovative program, which is the first of its kind globally for particulate matter and India’s first pollution trading system, was implemented in the industrial city of Surat, Gujarat. The research, based on a randomized controlled trial, indicates a notable decrease in pollution levels, enhanced regulatory compliance, and lower abatement costs, underscoring the potential of market-based solutions in regions with limited state capacity, such as India.
11. Which country has recently achieved a milestone in quantum communication by successfully demonstrating its first Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) transmission?
[A] India
[B] Pakistan
[C] Thailand
[D] Philippines
Correct Answer: A [India]
Notes:
India has recently achieved a major milestone in quantum communication by successfully performing its first Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) transmission using a 4-core Multi-Core Fibre (MCF). This accomplishment is a vital step towards the country’s aim of establishing secure digital communication networks. The successful test underscores India’s commitment to advancing robust quantum encryption technologies essential for safeguarding important data. In a significant technological breakthrough, the Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT) and Sterlite Technologies Ltd. (STL) have completed the country’s first successful QKD test over a 4-core Multi-Core Fibre (MCF). This innovative progress marks a significant advancement in India’s efforts to create a secure and cost-effective national quantum communication network.
12. Which university scientists, using NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), have found the possible presence of life on the Exoplanet K2-18b?
[A] Harvard University
[B] Oxford University
[C] Stanford University
[D] Cambridge University
Correct Answer: D [Cambridge University]
Notes:
In a significant scientific breakthrough, researchers at Cambridge University have discovered intriguing, though not yet verified, signs that life might exist on a far-off exoplanet called K2-18b. By using NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope, the team identified atmospheric molecules associated with life. This research marks a major advancement, as scientists have found the most promising evidence to date for life beyond Earth. They detected molecules like dimethyl sulphide (DMS) and dimethyl disulphide (DMDS) in the atmosphere of K2-18b. While these results have not yet reached the highest level of scientific confirmation, they represent an important milestone in the quest for extraterrestrial life and pave the way for new discoveries in astrobiology.
13. Philippines to host Balikatan joint military exercise, which countries will participate?
[A] India, United States and Indonesia
[B] United States, Australia and Japan
[C] Japan, South Korea and India
[D] India, Australia and Japan
Correct Answer: B [United States, Australia and Japan]
Notes:
The Philippines will host the Balikatan joint military exercise with the United States, Australia, and Japan from April 21 to May 9, 2025. This marks Japan’s first formal participation in the exercise. The focus will be on defending the islands of Palawan and Luzon, which are near sensitive areas in the South China Sea and the Luzon Strait. In the previous Balikatan 2023 exercise, American and Philippine forces practiced coordination through a ship-sinking drill. Balikatan, which means “shoulder-to-shoulder” in Tagalog, started in 2002 and emphasizes humanitarian aid, disaster relief, and military readiness. The drills involve various military branches from the US and the Philippines, and over time, other nations have joined to strengthen multilateral cooperation. For Balikatan 2025, the United States has sent its Navy-Marine Expeditionary Ship Interdiction System (NMESIS) to enhance regional deterrence. US officials have confirmed its role in supporting Philippine sovereignty. Additionally, Japan will contribute personnel and equipment for the first time, with around 150 members of the Japan Self-Defense Forces and a Mogami-class frigate participating. This move highlights Japan’s dedication to improving its operational capabilities and fostering closer relations with the US and the Philippines.
14. India has set an ambitious defence production goal of ₹3 lakh crore by which year?
[A] 2027
[B] 2028
[C] 2029
[D] 2030
Correct Answer: C [2029]
Notes:
India has set an ambitious target for defence production, aiming for ₹3 lakh crore by 2029, with current production expected to exceed ₹1.60 lakh crore. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh highlighted this goal at the Defence Conclave 2025, stressing the importance of self-reliance and reducing reliance on imports. Under Singh’s leadership, India is significantly improving its defence production capabilities. At the Defence Conclave 2025 – Force of the Future, he announced the goal of reaching ₹3 lakh crore in defence production by 2029, with a projected output of ₹1.60 lakh crore in 2025. This vision is rooted in the Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) initiative, which focuses on decreasing import dependency, fostering local innovation, and increasing defence exports. The changing landscape of warfare, emerging security challenges, and the need for resilient global supply chains are influencing India’s defence strategy for the future.
15. Recently, European Union Naval Force operating under Operation ATALANTA has proposed a joint naval exercise with which country’s Navy?
[A] United Kingdom
[B] United States
[C] India
[D] Japan
Correct Answer: C [India]
Notes:
The European Union Naval Force (EUNAVFOR), as part of Operation ATALANTA, has suggested a collaborative naval exercise with the Indian Navy. This exercise is scheduled for late May 2025 in the Western Indian Ocean and the Red Sea. Its primary goal is to enhance maritime collaboration and coordination between European forces and the Indian Navy. The initiative arises from increasing piracy and instability in the Red Sea area, particularly around the Horn of Africa. Unlike standard Passage Exercises (PASSEX), this drill will feature tactical maneuvers, counter-piracy operations, and communication training. Operation ATALANTA, which began in 2008, is the European Union’s effort to combat piracy off the coast of Somalia.
16. Which IIT will the Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) partner with to launch a pilot project for Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) technology?
[A] IIT Madras
[B] IIT Bombay
[C] IIT Hyderabad
[D] IIT Kanpur
Correct Answer: B [IIT Bombay]
Notes:
The Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) is partnering with IIT Bombay to launch a pilot project that will incorporate Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) technology into the state’s energy framework. This project aims to improve grid stability by utilizing electric vehicle batteries. As Kerala increasingly integrates renewable energy sources, especially solar power, KSEB is taking a significant step forward. The collaboration with IIT Bombay will explore how electric vehicles (EVs) can serve as decentralized energy storage, helping to meet the growing electricity demand during peak periods while also encouraging the use of clean energy.
17. Santosh Kumar has recently been appointed as the Deputy CFO of which bank?
[A] IndusInd Bank
[B] Bank of Baroda
[C] Bank of India
[D] Canara Bank
Correct Answer: A [IndusInd Bank]
Notes:
IndusInd Bank has appointed Santosh Kumar as the Deputy Chief Financial Officer (CFO), effective April 18, 2025, amid increasing financial challenges and regulatory scrutiny. This appointment addresses the leadership void created by Arun Khurana’s exit, as the bank seeks a permanent CFO. The decision comes during a period of heightened financial examination, with the bank grappling with rising bad loans in the microfinance sector and issues related to its derivative transactions, resulting in significant financial repercussions and regulatory attention.
18. Which Indian classical texts have been added to UNESCO’s Memory of the World Register?
[A] Bhagavad Gita and Natyashastra
[B] Ramayana and Mahabharata
[C] Ramayana and Bhagavad Gita
[D] Mahabharata and Natyashastra
Correct Answer: A [Bhagavad Gita and Natyashastra]
Notes:
India’s intellectual heritage has received a significant honor from UNESCO, which has included the Bhagavad Gita manuscripts and Natyashastra in its prestigious Memory of the World Register. This acknowledgment highlights India’s enduring cultural and philosophical influence on the world. The addition of these texts further showcases India’s civilizational accomplishments. This decision marks a global recognition of India’s vibrant intellectual and cultural legacy. Both the Prime Minister and the Union Culture Minister have celebrated this occasion as a significant achievement. With these latest additions, India now has 14 documentary heritages on this notable list.
19. When is World Heritage Day celebrated annually?
[A] April 19
[B] April 18
[C] April 17
[D] April 16
Correct Answer: B [April 18]
Notes:
World Heritage Day is celebrated every year on April 18, highlighting the worldwide dedication to safeguarding cultural and natural sites that shape human history. Also referred to as the International Day for Monuments and Sites, this day aims to increase awareness about the significance of preserving our cultural and natural heritage globally. It plays a crucial role in encouraging sustainable tourism, community involvement, and the protection of history for future generations. In 2025, the focus will be on disaster preparedness and resilience against conflicts, addressing the urgent need to protect heritage sites that are at risk.
20.The MacGregor Memorial Medal is a prestigious award recognising exceptional contributions in which field?
[A] Science
[B] Medicine
[C] Literature
[D] Military
Correct Answer: D [Military]
Notes:
The MacGregor Memorial Medal is a distinguished award that acknowledges outstanding achievements in military reconnaissance and adventure. Recently, five service members were honored with this award for their accomplishments in 2023 and 2024. The ceremony was held at the United Service Institution of India, led by Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan. Established on July 3, 1888, the medal is named after Major General Sir Charles Metcalfe MacGregor, the founder of the United Service Institution of India. Originally, the medal was intended to celebrate military reconnaissance and exploratory missions. In 1986, its focus broadened to encompass military expeditions and adventurous activities. The medal is granted for significant military intelligence obtained through reconnaissance, exploration, or related activities of national significance. Members from all ranks of the Armed Forces, Territorial Army, Reserve Forces, Rashtriya Rifles, and Assam Rifles are eligible for this honor. In 2023, Wing Commander D. Panda from the Air Force and Electrical Artificer (Radio) Rahul Kumar Pandey from the Navy were recipients of the medal. In 2024, Chief Electrical Aircraft Artificer (Radio) Ram Ratan Jat and Sergeant Jhumar Ram Poonia from the Air Force were recognized. Colonel Ranvir Singh Jamwal, Director of the National Institute of Mountaineering and Adventure Sports, also received the award but was unable to attend due to a mountaineering expedition.
