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1. The Government of India has announced the suspension of which treaty with Pakistan in response to a recent terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir?
[A] Tashkent Declaration
[B] Non-Nuclear Aggression Agreement
[C] Indus Waters Treaty (IWT)
[D] Karachi Agreement
Correct Answer: C [Indus Waters Treaty (IWT)]
Notes:
India has suspended the Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan due to a recent terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir, indicating a change in their relationship. The treaty, established in 1960, regulates water sharing from the Indus River system, giving India rights to the eastern rivers and Pakistan to the western ones. India’s decision follows ongoing concerns about Pakistan’s support for terrorism, especially after a deadly attack in Pahalgam. The government believes the treaty is no longer viable under these conditions.
2. How many new Global Geoparks has UNESCO designated recently?
[A] 17
[B] 16
[C] 15
[D] 14
Correct Answer: B [16]
Notes:
UNESCO has added 16 new Global Geoparks, increasing the total to 229 across 50 countries. These parks cover nearly 855,000 km², similar to the size of Namibia. Sixteen newly designated UNESCO Global Geoparks include: Kanbula and Yunyang in China; Kebumen and Meratus in Indonesia; Danyang and Gyeongbuk Donghaean in the Republic of Korea; MurGEopark in Italy; The Fjord Coast in Norway; Costa Quebrada in Spain; Arran in the United Kingdom; North Riyadh and Salma in Saudi Arabia; Lang Son in Vietnam; and Napo Sumaco and Tungurahua Volcano in Ecuador.
3. Non-Tariff Barriers (NTBs) have emerged as an issue of contention between the US and which country’s trade ties?
[A] India
[B] Pakistan
[C] Japan
[D] China
Correct Answer: A [India]
Notes:
Non-Tariff Barriers (NTBs) are a significant issue in US-India trade relations. Recently, US Vice President JD Vance highlighted the importance of India eliminating these barriers to improve market access. NTBs are trade restrictions that do not involve taxes on imports or exports. They can stem from government rules, policies, or private practices designed to protect local industries, affecting the movement of goods across borders. Examples include bans on certain products, quotas that limit quantities, and complicated Rules of Origin that make product classification difficult. NTBs raise costs for traders, as exporters often incur higher expenses to comply with regulations in the destination country, such as mandatory testing or certification. These challenges can cause delays and uncertainties in international trade. Indian exporters face various NTBs in global markets, including issues with pesticide levels and contamination that can lead to shipment rejections. Additionally, strict registration requirements for products can obstruct trade, as seen when exporting industrial goods to countries like China, which demands extensive documentation and fees.
4. Which bank has marked its 131st foundation day by launching 34 innovative products and services designed to boost financial inclusion, digital banking, and customer satisfaction?
[A] State Bank of India
[B] Reserve Bank of India
[C] Punjab National Bank
[D] Bank of Baroda
Correct Answer: C [Punjab National Bank]
Notes:
Punjab National Bank celebrated its 131st anniversary by launching 34 new banking products to enhance customer engagement, digital services, and financial inclusion. The event featured Financial Services Secretary M. Nagaraju, who praised PNB’s innovative approach. Highlights included new deposit schemes, improved digital tools, and cybersecurity measures, showcasing PNB’s commitment to evolving in India’s banking sector.Event Date: April 12, 2025. Occasion: 131st Foundation Day of Punjab National Bank (PNB). Founded on April 12, 1895, in Lahore (now in Pakistan) during the Swadeshi Movement. The first account was opened by Lala Lajpat Rai, located across from Arya Samaj Mandir in Anarkali, Lahore. The first dividend of 4% was announced within seven months of starting operations.
5. What is the name of the digital wallet developed by India to track climate losses and improve community resilience?
[A] Rakshvi
[B] Bembalvi
[C] Shodhvi
[D] Akshvi
Correct Answer: D [Akshvi]
Notes:
India, the most populated country, is dealing with problems caused by severe weather. From 2019 to 2023, it suffered over $56 billion in damages from climate-related disasters. To tackle this, the non-profit SEEDS India created Akshvi, a digital wallet designed to track climate losses and strengthen community resilience. Akshvi, which means Aapda Kshati Vivaran, is a new e-disaster wallet that helps affected communities record their economic and non-economic losses during extreme weather. The platform empowers people to report their losses themselves, ensuring their needs are prioritized in recovery efforts. Each household has an E-Disaster Wallet to document their losses, which can be done through an Interactive Voice Response System, a WhatsApp chatbot, or with help from others. These easy methods make it accessible for everyone, even those with low literacy. In pilot projects, 98% of self-reported data was confirmed as accurate, challenging the idea that communities exaggerate their losses. This verification process builds trust in the collected data and boosts the platform’s credibility.
6. Which state launched the Yeshasvini Health Scheme?
[A] Andhra Pradesh
[B] Karnataka
[C] Maharashtra
[D] Telangana
Correct Answer: B [Karnataka]
Notes:
The Yeshasvini health scheme is undergoing changes. Experts have suggested raising rates for medical procedures significantly to improve healthcare access for rural residents in Karnataka. The report, given to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, recommends increasing rates by up to 50% for complex procedures. Started in 2003, the Yeshasvini scheme is a health insurance program by the Karnataka government for low and middle-income individuals. In 2018, it merged with other health schemes under Arogya Karnataka for better management but was relaunched in 2022-2023 due to stakeholder requests. An expert committee spent six months analyzing the market and reviewed rates for 2,128 procedures, suggesting a standard increase of 15% to 25%. For complex procedures like pediatric heart surgeries and cancer treatments, a 50% increase was recommended. They also removed six outdated procedures and added 69 new ones. These changes may affect healthcare funding. The scheme offers rural beneficiaries cashless treatment up to ₹5 lakh per year for a small fee, while urban beneficiaries have similar coverage at higher costs. The committee predicts that over 75,000 beneficiaries will use the scheme this financial year, costing around ₹127.5 crore.
7. Which country has recently launched its Shenzhou-20 mission, carrying three astronauts to the Tiangong space station?
[A] Japan
[B] China
[C] South Korea
[D] North Korea
Correct Answer: B [China]
Notes:
On April 24, 2025, China launched the Shenzhou-20 mission with three astronauts to the Tiangong space station, coinciding with the 10th Space Day. The crew will perform scientific experiments and replace the Shenzhou-19 crew, who will return to Earth soon. The mission focuses on crew rotation, space science experiments, installing a debris protection device, and conducting extravehicular activities. They will also carry life science research objects like zebrafish and planarians to study biological processes in space. Space Day in China celebrates the launch of its first satellite, Dongfanghong-1, in 1970, highlighting China’s commitment to space exploration. Shenzhou-20 is the 35th mission in China’s manned space program, and the Tiangong space station is set to be the only operational station in orbit after the ISS retires. China is expanding its space capabilities, having been excluded from the ISS due to military issues, and is collaborating with Pakistan, with future missions involving astronauts from Hong Kong and Macau to boost scientific research and international cooperation.
8. Recent research suggests that its agricultural beginnings in Mehrgarh could have begun around what time?
[A] 7343 and 6418 BCE
[B] 6223 and 5914 BCE
[C] 5553 and 5334 BCE
[D] 5223 and 4914 BCE
Correct Answer: D [5223 and 4914 BCE]
Notes:
Recent archaeological discoveries have changed our view of Mehrgarh, one of the earliest farming sites in South Asia. Initially thought to be from around 8000 BCE, new studies indicate that its farming origins might actually be between 5223 and 4914 BCE. This finding challenges previous beliefs about the start of agriculture in the Indus Valley. Mehrgarh is a Neolithic site located in Balochistan, Pakistan, on the Kacchi Plain, near the Bolan Pass and west of the Indus River, between Quetta, Kalat, and Sibi. It was found in 1974 by a French Archaeological Mission led by Jean-François Jarrige and Catherine Jarrige, with excavations occurring from 1974 to 1986 and again from 1997 to 2000. Recent research used advanced radiocarbon dating on tooth enamel instead of charcoal, which gives more accurate dates by avoiding contamination. The new timeline shows that Mehrgarh’s Neolithic layers developed quickly, indicating an active lifestyle among its people.
9. Who is the oldest serving U.S. astronaut to safely return to Earth on April 21, 2025, marking his 70th birthday?
[A] Nichole Ayers
[B] Don Pettit
[C] Michael R. Barratt
[D] Kayla Barron
Correct Answer: B [Don Pettit]
Notes:
Don Pettit, the oldest active U.S. astronaut, returned to Earth on April 21, 2025, coinciding with his 70th birthday. He landed safely in Kazakhstan aboard the Soyuz MS-26 after a 220-day mission on the ISS, bringing his total time in space to 590 days over four missions. While he is not the oldest person to travel to space, his long career and commitment to space exploration are impressive.
10. Which country’s human rights activist, Ian Martin, has the UN appointed to review UNRWA’s operations for Palestinian refugees?
[A] France
[B] United Kingdom
[C] United States
[D] Israel
Correct Answer: B [United Kingdom]
Notes:
The humanitarian crisis in Gaza has worsened due to recent Israeli actions against UNRWA. The UN has appointed Ian Martin to review UNRWA’s operations and effectiveness amid political and financial challenges. Despite Israel’s ban on UNRWA activities, the agency still provides essential services to millions of Palestinian refugees. Established in 1949, UNRWA helps Palestinians displaced during the 1948 Arab-Israeli war and their descendants, serving about 2.5 million in Gaza, the West Bank, and East Jerusalem, along with 3 million in Syria, Jordan, and Lebanon, offering healthcare and education. However, Israeli restrictions pose operational challenges, including the recent closure of six UNRWA schools in East Jerusalem. Humanitarian aid to Gaza has been stopped since March 2, worsening conditions for many refugees. UNRWA’s Commissioner-General, Philippe Lazzarini, highlighted the severe effects of these restrictions on vulnerable groups, especially women and children. Israel has accused UNRWA of employing staff linked to militant activities, leading to the dismissal of nine employees after an internal investigation, although the evidence is unverified. Israel also claims that 19 staff members were involved in the October 7 attack, raising doubts about the credibility of these accusations.
11. Who has resigned as chairman of the World Economic Forum after five decades?
[A] David Malpass
[B] Klaus Schwab
[C] Stephen Schwarzman
[D] Thomas Roe
Correct Answer: B [Klaus Schwab]
Notes:
Klaus Schwab, the founder of the World Economic Forum (WEF), has resigned from his positions as Chair and Trustee after over fifty years of leadership. At 87 years old, his exit marks a significant change for the WEF, known for the elite Davos summit. Schwab, a German economist and engineer who started the WEF in 1971, was the prominent figure at the annual Davos meeting, where global leaders in politics and business came together to discuss major economic, political, and social issues. His resignation signals the end of a significant chapter as the WEF faces various challenges, including criticism of elitism, internal cultural issues, and a growing backlash against globalization.
12. Who has been unanimously elected President of the International Centre of Films for Children and Young People for the 2025–2027 term?
[A] Shah Rukh Khan
[B] Rajkumar Hirani
[C] Jitendra Mishra
[D] Anurag Kashyap
Correct Answer: C [Jitendra Mishra]
Notes:
Jitendra Mishra, a well-known Indian filmmaker and Festival Director of the Smile International Film Festival for Children and Youth (SIFFCY), has been elected as the President of the International Centre of Films for Children and Young People (CIFEJ) for the 2025–2027 term. This election shows his dedication to using cinema to influence young minds. CIFEJ, supported by UNESCO, is based in Athens, Greece, and focuses on promoting diverse and educational films for children and young audiences around the world. With Jitendra at the helm, the organization aims to keep providing inspiring and socially meaningful content for children and youth.
13. Which organization has fined tech giants Apple and Meta under the Digital Markets Act (DMA)?
[A] European Union
[B] African Union
[C] International Court of Justice
[D] SAARC
Correct Answer: A [European Union]
Notes:
The European Union has fined Apple and Meta for the first time under the Digital Markets Act (DMA), which aims to control the power of large tech companies. Apple is fined 500 million euros, and Meta is fined 200 million euros for practices that restrict user choices and fair competition. The DMA, effective in 2024, sets rules for major tech firms, known as ‘gatekeepers,’ to prevent them from misusing their market power and to improve consumer options. Apple was penalized for not allowing app developers to inform users about other purchasing methods outside its App Store, violating consumer rights. Meta was fined for its ‘pay or consent’ model, which limits user freedom by forcing them to either pay for an ad-free experience or accept targeted ads. These fines reflect the EU’s strong position against monopolistic behavior in the tech industry and are part of a larger effort to keep digital markets competitive. Although the fines are significant, they are less than previous penalties under EU antitrust laws, showing a shift towards regulation rather than punishment.
14. How many medals did India win at the 2025 ISSF World Cup in Lima?
[A] 7
[B] 8
[C] 9
[D] 10
Correct Answer: A [7]
Notes:
India had a great showing at the 2025 ISSF World Cup in Lima, winning seven medals—two gold, four silver, and one bronze—and finishing third overall. The event took place in Peru from April 13 to 22, with Indian shooters competing against 43 countries. India’s team, one of the largest with 42 members, included standout athletes like Suruchi Singh and Saurabh Chaudhary, who helped secure a spot in the ISSF World Cup Final 2025 in Doha, Qatar, this December. India has won 2 gold, 4 silver, and 1 bronze medals, totaling 7. They are ranked 3rd in the medal standings. The gold medal winners will qualify for the 2025 ISSF World Cup Final in Doha from December 4 to 9.
15. What is the theme of World Book and Copyright Day 2025?
[A] Read Your Way
[B] Read, so you never feel low
[C] The role of literature in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
[D] Bookface Challenge
Correct Answer: C [The role of literature in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)]
Notes:
World Book and Copyright Day is celebrated every April 23 to honor reading and writing, as well as the importance of copyright. This day encourages people, especially young individuals, to appreciate books and understand the value of literature. It features global events that promote reading and writing while raising awareness about education, literacy, and intellectual property rights. The 2025 theme emphasizes “The Role of Literature in Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)”, showing its potential to inspire action on critical global challenges like poverty, hunger, and inequality.
