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1. Who has recently launched the NITI NCAER States Economic Forum portal?
[A] President Draupadi Murmu
[B] Prime Minister Narendra Modi
[C] Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman
[D] Home Minister Amit Shah
Correct Answer: C [Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman]
Notes:
The NITI NCAER States Economic Forum portal was recently introduced by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. Its purpose is to create a detailed data repository on various social, economic, and fiscal aspects of Indian states. The portal includes data from the past thirty years, up to the financial year 2022-23. Created by NITI Aayog and the National Council of Applied Economic Research (NCAER), it aims to improve the understanding of state-level dynamics. This platform acts as a central resource for data concerning 28 Indian states, organizing information into five key categories: Demography, Economic Structure, Fiscal, Health, and Education. This organized format makes it easy for users to find and access relevant information. The portal provides straightforward access to macroeconomic and fiscal data, allowing users to examine demographic trends, economic frameworks, and socio-economic indicators. This ease of access is vital for making informed decisions and developing effective policies.
2. Which company has decided to acquire Nissan’s remaining 51% stake in the company
[A] Reliance
[B] Tata
[C] Renault
[D] Tech Mahindra
Correct Answer: C [Renault]
Notes:
Renault Group has announced that it will acquire the remaining 51% stake in Renault Nissan Automotive India Private Ltd (RNAIPL) from Nissan Motor Corp, making it the sole owner of the manufacturing facility in Chennai, India. This move comes after a 2023 agreement in which Renault and Nissan jointly invested $600 million to develop six new models for the Indian market.
3. Which country has initiated project known as the “water highway” to address its pressing water crisis?
[A] United States
[B] Morocco
[C] South Africa
[D] Egypt
Correct Answer: B [Morocco]
Notes:
Morocco has launched a project called the “water highway” to tackle its urgent water crisis. This initiative channels excess water from the Sebou River to provide drinking water for Rabat and Casablanca. It is a response to significant water shortages worsened by climate change and extended drought periods. The “water highway” aims to ensure a reliable water supply for the country’s most populated regions and has an estimated cost of around $728 million. The project involves diverting water from the Sebou River, which is then treated and transported through a 67-kilometre underground canal. By early March 2025, it had supplied over 700 million cubic metres of water to Rabat and Casablanca. Morocco is grappling with a water crisis, largely due to a six-year drought, causing annual water availability to drop from 18 billion cubic metres in the 1980s to only 5 billion now. Rainfall is highly irregular, with 53% of it falling in just 7% of the country, putting the livelihoods of millions at risk.
4. Which ministry launched the Green Credit Programme (GCP)?
[A] Ministry of Mines
[B] Ministry of Environment
[C] Ministry of Industry and Commerce
[D] Ministry of Finance
Correct Answer: B [Ministry of Environment]
Notes:
The Green Credit Programme (GCP) was introduced by India’s Environment Ministry to increase forest cover and support sustainable practices. Although the Law Ministry raised concerns about its legal structure, the programme was officially launched in October 2023. This initiative supports India’s commitments to global climate agreements and seeks to motivate environmentally friendly actions in different sectors. The GCP operates as a market-based system that encourages voluntary environmental efforts. It focuses on individuals, communities, and industries, promoting projects that enhance sustainability. This programme is part of the broader ‘LiFE’ initiative, which aims to foster a sustainable way of living.
5. Which state has recently launched the “Triple Elimination” initiative aimed at combating infectious diseases such as HIV, syphilis, and Hepatitis?
[A] Gujarat
[B] Uttarakhand
[C] Tamil Nadu
[D] West Bengal
Correct Answer: D [West Bengal]
Notes:
West Bengal has recently introduced an innovative program to eliminate mother-to-child transmission of HIV, syphilis, and Hepatitis B by 2026. This initiative, called the ‘Triple Elimination’ project, is a partnership between the West Bengal government, the William J Clinton Foundation, and the World Health Organization. It marks a significant move towards enhancing maternal and child health by tackling these infectious diseases collectively instead of separately. The Triple Elimination initiative focuses on three diseases that have similar ways of spreading, which can greatly affect the health of both mothers and their babies, resulting in higher rates of illness and death. The program aims to create a comprehensive healthcare strategy by combining current efforts to control HIV, sexually transmitted infections, and viral hepatitis.
6. What is the name of the digital platform launched by the Indian government to manage the distribution of anti-rabies vaccines (ARV) and anti-snake venom (ASV) across the country?
[A] ZooWIN
[B] RamWIN
[C] SadWIN
[D] ProWIN
Correct Answer: A [ZooWIN]
Notes:
The Government of India has introduced ZooWIN, a digital platform designed to oversee the distribution of anti-rabies vaccines (ARV) and anti-snake venom (ASV) across the nation. ZooWIN aims to improve cooperation among healthcare providers, local authorities, and veterinary services. This initiative supports the Union Health Ministry’s efforts to tackle rabies and snakebite incidents, which are significant public health concerns. India represents a large share of global rabies deaths, with about 36% of the 60,000 annual fatalities occurring in the country. Additionally, snakebites result in approximately 50,000 deaths each year. To combat these issues, the National Action Plan for Prevention and Control of Snakebite Envenoming (NAPSE) was established, with a goal to reduce snakebite-related disabilities and deaths by 50% by 2030. ZooWIN operates similarly to the Co-WIN and U-WIN platforms, centralizing data for real-time tracking of vaccine supplies. It utilizes the Electronic Vaccine Intelligence Network (eVIN) and U-WIN framework already implemented in the Universal Immunisation Programme (UIP), helping to prevent vaccine shortages and ensure sufficient availability.
7. SpaceX aims to launch its Mars Mission by the end of which year?
[A] 2025
[B] 2026
[C] 2027
[D] 2028
Correct Answer: B [2026]
Notes:
Elon Musk has revealed a plan for a Mars landing mission by SpaceX that will not have a crew on board. This mission will use the Starship spacecraft and include Tesla’s Optimus robot as a passenger. Musk mentioned that if the mission is successful, humans could land on Mars as soon as 2029. However, there are significant technical and logistical challenges to overcome. SpaceX aims to launch the Mars mission by late 2026, which is crucial since Earth and Mars align for the best travel conditions every 26 months. Any delays could push the mission back by more than two years. So far, the Starship has only achieved Low Earth Orbit, raising questions about its capability for interplanetary travel. A major issue is the need for additional tanker spacecraft to refuel the Starship in orbit, as its current fuel capacity of 4,200 tonnes is not enough for the trip to Mars. The plan to use these tankers for mid-flight refueling has not yet been tested, and experts are skeptical about whether they can be developed in time.
8. The fourth edition of Exercise Tiger Triumph 2025 is a joint Tri-Service exercise between India and which country?
[A] United Kingdom
[B] Australia
[C] South Africa
[D] United States
Correct Answer: D [United States]
Notes:
The fourth edition of Exercise Tiger Triumph is scheduled for April 1 to 13, 2025, along the Eastern Seaboard of India. This joint tri-service exercise emphasizes humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) operations. Its goal is to improve cooperation between Indian and US forces and to create standard operating procedures for better coordination during emergencies. A key aim is to set up a Combined Coordination Center (CCC) to enable swift and effective collaboration between Indian and US Joint Task Forces (JTF). The exercise will focus on enhancing HADR capabilities and speeding up response times in crises. The Indian contingent will feature naval vessels like INS Jalashwa, INS Gharial, INS Mumbai, and INS Shakti, which will be equipped with helicopters and landing crafts. The Indian Army will send troops from the 91 Infantry Brigade and the 12 Mechanised Infantry Battalion. The Indian Air Force will provide C-130 aircraft and MI-17 helicopters, along with a Rapid Action Medical Team (RAMT). The US will participate with Navy Ships Comstock and Ralph Johnson, along with personnel from the US Marine Division.
9. Which institute has recently developed an orange-fleshed sweet potato (SP-95/4) to improve tribal food security?
[A] ICAR-Central Tuber Crops Research Institute
[B] ICAR-Central Soil Salinity Research Institute
[C] ICAR-Central Research Institute of Dryland Agriculture
[D] ICAR-Central Potato Research Institute
Correct Answer: A [ICAR-Central Tuber Crops Research Institute]
Notes:
The ICAR-Central Tuber Crops Research Institute (ICAR-CTCRI) has created an orange-fleshed sweet potato variety (SP-95/4) to boost food security among tribal communities in Kerala and other regions. This variety has successfully completed final trials in Odisha, West Bengal, Karnataka, and Kerala. It contains 8 mg of Beta-carotene per 100g, which is beneficial in addressing Vitamin A deficiency, a prevalent concern in tribal areas. Each tuber typically weighs around 300 grams and has a fusiform shape, making it suitable for processing. Currently, the project covers 10-15 acres, with plans to expand to 100 acres by the end of 2025. There are also plans to set up a processing unit supported by Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funding. This growth will further improve food security and create economic opportunities for local farmers. The SP-95/4 variety has been rigorously tested in several states, including Odisha, West Bengal, and Karnataka, confirming its adaptability to different climates and its potential for high yields. The final trials conducted in Attappadi indicated strong potential for this variety.
10. Who has been appointed as the Private Secretary to Prime Minister Narendra Modi?
[A] Ajay Kumar
[B] Sarvari Rao
[C] Surya Sen Gupta
[D] Nidhi Tiwari
Correct Answer: D [Nidhi Tiwari]
Notes:
The government has named Nidhi Tiwari, an officer of the Indian Foreign Service (IFS), as the Private Secretary to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) released a memorandum on March 29, 2025, announcing her immediate appointment. Nidhi Tiwari is a highly regarded IFS officer with a wealth of experience in diplomatic and governmental roles, having worked in various positions across multiple ministries and departments.
11. Union Home Minister Amit Shah recently unveiled a statue of Maharaja Agrasen in which state?
[A] Uttarakhand
[B] Haryana
[C] Punjab
[D] Rajasthan
Correct Answer: B [Haryana]
Notes:
Union Home Minister Amit Shah unveiled a statue of Maharaja Agrasen, opened a new ICU, and laid the foundation for a PG hostel in Hisar, Haryana. The event, which included Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini and other notable guests, celebrated the state’s rich history and economic development. On March 31, 2025, Amit Shah revealed a large statue of Maharaja Agrasen, inaugurated an ICU facility, and initiated the construction of a PG hostel in Hisar, Haryana. During his speech, he highlighted Haryana’s significant historical contributions to India, focusing on its cultural, economic, and military heritage. Shah emphasized the values of Maharaja Agrasen, whose approach to governance prioritized economic collaboration and social welfare, connecting it to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s development initiatives. He also pointed out the Modi administration’s work in reducing poverty, improving healthcare, and enhancing infrastructure, mentioning the substantial investments in medical education and public health. Additionally, he commended Haryana’s double-engine government for its transparent governance, job creation, and advancements in agriculture, reaffirming the central government’s dedication to the state’s progress.
12. Which state government has announced that renowned historian and archaeologist MyNaa Swamy will be honored with the prestigious Ugadi Award?
[A] Telangana
[B] Andhra Pradesh
[C] Karnataka
[D] Tamil Nadu
Correct Answer: B [Andhra Pradesh]
Notes:
The government of Andhra Pradesh has declared that the esteemed historian and archaeologist MyNaa Swamy will receive the esteemed Ugadi Award for his remarkable contributions to historical research and social service. Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu will present the award during a special event in Vijayawada. The Ugadi Award is one of the highest honors given by the Andhra Pradesh government to individuals who have made notable impacts in various areas. This year, MyNaa Swamy has been recognized for his outstanding achievements in historical research and epigraphy. The award includes several honors: the ‘Kalaratna’ title, the prestigious ‘Hamsa’ medal, a certificate of appreciation, and a cash prize. The ceremony will be held at Tummalapalli Kalakshetram in Vijayawada on Sunday, where Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu will personally award MyNaa Swamy.
13. The Mahabodhi Temple, which was recently seen in the news, is located in which state?
[A] West Bengal
[B] Assam
[C] Bihar
[D] Sikkim
Correct Answer: C [Bihar]
Notes:
In early 2024, almost 100 Buddhist monks from the All India Buddhist Forum (AIBF) staged protests at the Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya, Bihar. They called for the repeal of the Bodh Gaya Temple Act (BTA) of 1949. This Act set up a management committee for the temple, but its composition has sparked controversy. The BTA established an eight-member committee intended to ensure equal representation for both Buddhists and Hindus. However, the District Magistrate (DM) was appointed as the ex-officio chairperson, which has led to concerns about Hindu influence in the temple’s management.
14. Which city’s famous Saudagiri Block Print has recently received a GI Tag?
[A] Ahmedabad, Gujarat
[B] Kolkata, West Bengal
[C] Bengaluru, Karnataka
[D] Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Correct Answer: A [Ahmedabad, Gujarat]
Notes:
The Saudagari block print, a traditional art form created by artisans in Jamalpur, Ahmedabad, has received official recognition with a Geographical Indication (GI) tag. This distinctive handcrafted textile art has been handed down through generations and remains an important aspect of Gujarat’s cultural legacy. Saudagari block printing is an age-old technique that has been utilized in Ahmedabad for almost 300 years. It features detailed designs that are hand-printed on fabric using natural dyes and traditional techniques. This craft thrived in the Jamalpur region, where the Khida community was heavily involved in extensive block printing. However, over the years, the rise of industrialization and modern technology has led to a decline in this craft.
15. Which state government launched the Seva, Sushasan, Vikash program?
[A] Jharkhand
[B] Uttarakhand
[C] Haryana
[D] Rajasthan
Correct Answer: B [Uttarakhand]
Notes:
The Uttarakhand government launched the Seva, Sushasan, Vikash programme to mark three years in office. This initiative aimed to link citizens with government services through multipurpose camps. It was implemented at different governance levels, from district to block, promoting community participation and trust in government efforts. The programme ran from March 22 to March 30, featuring camps at district headquarters, assembly, and block levels. Its goal was to improve citizen engagement with government schemes and ensure that benefits reached the grassroots effectively. The camps saw significant public attendance, with participation from all 13 districts of Uttarakhand, including Almora, Dehradun, and Haridwar. This widespread involvement reflected strong public confidence in the government’s development initiatives. The camps offered various services, including free health check-ups, vaccinations, and medicines. The Ayushman Bharat scheme also provided coverage to many individuals. Educational support was available through scholarships and digital resources for students.
16. How many places has the Uttarakhand Government renamed to showcase Indian culture and heritage?
[A] 25
[B] 20
[C] 15
[D] 10
Correct Answer: C [15]
Notes:
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has revealed plans to rename 15 locations in the districts of Haridwar, Dehradun, Nainital, and Udham Singh Nagar. This initiative aims to reflect public sentiment and celebrate Indian cultural heritage. The renaming honors significant historical figures and seeks to motivate the state’s residents. The renamed locations are spread across the four key districts: Haridwar, Dehradun, Nainital, and Udham Singh Nagar.
Renamed Places in Haridwar District:- Aurangzebpur → Shivaji Nagar
- Gajiwali → Arya Nagar
- Chandpur → Jyotiba Phule Nagar
- Mohammadpur Jat → Mohanpur Jat
- Khanpur Kursli → Ambedkar Nagar
- Indrishpur → Nandpur
- Khanpur → Shri Krishna Pur
- Akbarpur Fazalpur → Vijayanagar
Renamed Places in Dehradun District:
- Miyanwala → Ramji Wala
- Pirwala → Kesari Nagar
- Chandpur Khurd → Prithviraj Nagar
- Abdullah Nagar → Daksh Nagar
Renamed Places in Nainital District:
- Nawabi Road → Atal Marg
- Panchakki to ITI Road → Guru Golwalkar Marg
Renamed Place in Udham Singh Nagar District:
- Sultanpur Patti Municipal Council → Kaushalya Puri
17. Who clinched the men’s singles title at the Miami Open 2025?
[A] Novak Djokovic
[B] Jannik Sinner
[C] Jakub Mensik
[D] Carlos Alcaraz
Correct Answer: C [Jakub Mensik]
Notes:
Jakub Menšík triumphed over Novak Djokovic in the final, winning 7–6, 7–6 to claim the men’s singles tennis title at the 2025 Miami Open. This victory marked his first ATP Tour title, achieved at Hard Rock Stadium on March 30, 2025.
18. Who clinched the women’s singles title at the Miami Open 2025?
[A] Aryna Sabalenka
[B] Jessica Pegula
[C] Coco Gauff
[D] Iga Swiatek
Correct Answer: A [Aryna Sabalenka]
Notes:
World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka showcased her strength in women’s tennis by winning her first Miami Open title, overcoming Jessica Pegula with a score of 7-5, 6-2 in the final match. This win marked her 19th WTA title, which includes eight WTA 1000 titles and three Grand Slam victories. Sabalenka’s remarkable run in the tournament, where she did not lose a single set, further established her position as the leading player globally.
19. Utkal Divas is celebrated every year on April 1 to commemorate the statehood of which state?
[A] Bihar
[B] Assam
[C] Odisha
[D] Gao
Correct Answer: C [Odisha]
Notes:
Utkal Divas, also referred to as Odisha Day or Vishuva Milan, is celebrated every year on April 1 to recognize the establishment of Odisha as a state in 1936. This day pays tribute to the enduring efforts of the Odia-speaking community in their quest for a unique political and cultural identity, distinct from the Bengal Presidency. Before its formation, Odisha was part of the Bihar and Orissa Province during British rule, making it the first Indian state created based on language. The celebration showcases the state’s rich culture, historical significance, and the contributions of key leaders who were instrumental in its creation.
20. When is World Autism Awareness Day (WAAD) observed every year?
[A] April 1
[B] April 2
[C] April 3
[D] April 4
Correct Answer: B [April 2]
Notes:
The United Nations (UN) observes World Autism Awareness Day (WAAD) on 2 April 2025 under the theme “Advancing Neurodiversity and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)”. This year’s observance focuses on the intersection between neurodiversity and global sustainability efforts, highlighting how inclusive policies and practices can support autistic individuals and contribute to achieving the SDGs. The event is organized by the Institute of Neurodiversity (ION), in collaboration with the United Nations Department of Global Communications.
