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1. Which country has uncovered its largest-ever reserve of rare earth metals at the Kuirektykol site in the Karaganda region?
[A] Kazakhstan
[B] Pakistan
[C] Afghanistan
[D] Kyrgyzstan
Correct Answer: A [Kazakhstan]
Notes:
Kazakhstan has discovered its largest reserve of rare earth metals at the Kuirektykol site in the Karaganda region, representing a significant shift for the nation’s mining sector and its role in the global resource landscape. With almost one million tons of rare earth elements (REEs) and potential reserves surpassing 20 million tons in the larger Zhana Kazakhstan area, this finding could elevate Kazakhstan to a key position in the critical minerals market. As the world moves towards green technology and seeks to lessen reliance on major suppliers such as China, this discovery comes at a crucial time.
2. Which ministry is set to implement the “One State, One RRB” policy to enhance the operational efficiency of regional rural banks (RRBs)?
[A] Ministry of Home Affairs
[B] Ministry of Culture
[C] Ministry of Finance
[D] Ministry of Corporate
Correct Answer: C [Ministry of Finance]
Notes:
The Ministry of Finance plans to introduce the “One State, One RRB” policy to boost the efficiency of regional rural banks (RRBs). This initiative will merge the current 43 RRBs into 28, aiming to lessen competition and improve cost management. The Indian government seeks to enhance the operations of these banks by combining smaller, less effective ones, thereby improving their service and cost efficiency. This move is part of a broader consolidation strategy, following earlier efforts that reduced the number of RRBs from 196 to 43. The policy is anticipated to enhance credit availability, especially in rural regions, by fortifying the financial stability and operational structures of RRBs.
3. Recent findings indicate that the Small Hive Beetle poses a risk to the Indian beekeeping sector. In which state has it been discovered?
[A] West Bengal
[B] Odisha
[C] Uttar Pradesh
[D] Gujarat
Correct Answer: A [West Bengal]
Notes:
Recent findings have raised alarms for India’s beekeeping sector. The Small Hive Beetle (SHB), known scientifically as Aethina tumida, has been detected in West Bengal, marking the first time this invasive species has been reported in India. This beetle poses a significant risk to honeybee populations and the overall ecological balance. The Small Hive Beetle is a small, oval insect, measuring about 5 to 7 mm in length and usually reddish-brown in color. Female beetles gain access to beehives through small openings, where they lay eggs that develop into larvae. These larvae consume honey, pollen, and bee brood, leading to honey contamination and potential colony collapse. Native to sub-Saharan Africa, the SHB was first discovered in 1867 and has since spread to numerous countries, including the United States in 1999, Australia in 2002, and several Asian countries in recent years. The swift global trade has contributed to the beetle’s spread, highlighting the dangers posed by invasive species. The presence of SHB jeopardizes not only honey production but also the livelihoods of beekeepers. The larvae’s feeding habits result in honey that is unfit for consumption. Additionally, SHB can invade colonies of various bee species, such as Asian honeybees and bumblebees, disrupting vital ecological relationships.
4. Which space agency recently achieved a major milestone by successfully managing the re-entry of the POEM-4 into Earth’s atmosphere?
[A] National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)
[B] China National Space Administration (CNSA)
[C] Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA)
[D] Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)
Correct Answer: D [Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)]
Notes:
Recently, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) marked a significant achievement with the controlled re-entry of the PSLV Orbital Experimental Module (POEM-4) into Earth’s atmosphere. This successful operation highlights ISRO’s dedication to managing space debris and fostering sustainable practices in space. POEM-4 was launched on December 30, 2024, as part of the Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX) mission, functioning as the upper stage of the PSLV-C60 rocket. After deploying satellites at an altitude of 475 km, POEM-4 continued to orbit while carrying 24 payloads, including 14 from ISRO and 10 from private organizations. To facilitate a safe re-entry, ISRO engineers executed engine restarts to bring POEM-4 into a nearly circular orbit at 350 km with a 55.2° inclination. The module was passivated by releasing any remaining fuel, minimizing the risk of accidental disintegration during its descent. Throughout its mission, POEM-4 accommodated various innovative payloads, including India’s first astrobiology experiments created by students from RV College of Engineering and Amity University. These payloads successfully gathered important scientific data, aiding research in space technology and astrobiology.
5. Which company has introduced the Llama-4 AI Suite, featuring Scout, Maverick, and Behemoth, to compete with ChatGPT and Gemini?
[A] Meta
[B] Amazon
[C] Bing
[D] DeepSeek
Correct Answer: A [Meta]
Notes:
To enhance its position in the expanding AI market, Meta has introduced three innovative models as part of its Llama-4 AI suite: Scout, Maverick, and Behemoth. Launched on April 6, 2025, these models aim to provide personalized multimodal experiences. Under the leadership of CEO Mark Zuckerberg, Meta is ramping up its initiatives in the competitive AI arena with the release of its next-generation Llama-4 (Large Language Model) suite. This suite features three robust AI models—Scout, Maverick, and Behemoth—each designed for specific multimodal and reasoning tasks. This strategic launch enables Meta to compete directly with top AI platforms such as OpenAI’s ChatGPT and Google’s Gemini, while also addressing the rise of new global competitors like China’s DeepSeek.
6. Recently, which state police department has announced the launch of the GP-DRASTI initiative?
[A] Goa
[B] Gujarat
[C] Assam
[D] Haryana
Correct Answer: B [Gujarat]
Notes:
The Gujarat Police recently introduced the GP-DRASTI (Gujarat Police – Drone Response and Aerial Surveillance Tactical Interventions) initiative, which focuses on improving policing through the use of drone technology. This project aims to shorten response times to incidents and enhance public safety. Given the recent rise in gang violence, there is an urgent need for quicker and more effective policing strategies. The main objective of the GP-DRASTI initiative is to accelerate police responses. Drones will be sent to crime scenes in addition to traditional PCR vans, creating a dual-response system that allows officers to quickly evaluate situations and mobilize the necessary resources. The initiative will be implemented in phases, starting with 33 police stations in four key cities: Ahmedabad, Surat, Vadodara, and Rajkot. The first phase will involve deploying eight drones in Ahmedabad, with plans for further expansion as additional drones are acquired.
7. What is the name of the Offshore Patrol Vessel that the Indian Navy has recently launched under the Indian Ocean Ship (IOS) SAGAR initiative?
[A] INS Hanuman
[B] INS Ram
[C] INS Sunayna
[D] INS Revathi
Correct Answer: C [INS Sunayna]
Notes:
On April 5, 2025, Indian Defence Minister Shri Rajnath Singh launched the Indian Navy Offshore Patrol Vessel, INS Sunayna, in Karwar, Karnataka, as part of the Indian Ocean Ship (IOS) SAGAR initiative. This occasion highlights India’s dedication to enhancing regional maritime security and fostering international partnerships. The launch marks the 10th anniversary of the SAGAR initiative and coincides with National Maritime Day. The IOS SAGAR initiative, which stands for Security and Growth for All in the Region, seeks to boost maritime cooperation among countries in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). It underscores India’s commitment to peace and collective security, advocating for equal rights and responsibilities among all nations in the area. INS Sunayna is operated by 44 naval personnel from nine partner countries, including Comoros, Kenya, Madagascar, Maldives, Mauritius, Mozambique, Seychelles, Sri Lanka, and Tanzania. This collaboration aims to strengthen relationships and enhance maritime security efforts in the IOR.
8. India’s Ministry of External Affairs recently defended its strategic trade practices amid claims of improper arms supply to which country?
[A] Russia
[B] Israel
[C] France
[D] Italy
Correct Answer: A [Russia]
Notes:
India’s Ministry of External Affairs has recently defended its trade practices in response to allegations of improper arms supplies to Russia. This defense occurs amid ongoing geopolitical tensions and reflects India’s commitment to international trade laws. The Ministry emphasized that Indian firms strictly follow export controls and end-user agreements. Strategic trade controls are essential for preventing the proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) and conventional arms. India has created a thorough framework to manage the export of dual-use and military goods, including software and technologies applicable in both civilian and military settings. These controls ensure that exports are only allowed with specific authorizations, in line with international obligations. India aims to boost its defense exports to ₹50,000 crore by 2029. In the fiscal year 2024-25, defense exports reached ₹23,622 crore, reflecting a 12.04% increase from the previous year. The government has introduced measures to streamline licensing processes, which has helped enhance defense exports, supporting both Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) and the growing private sector.
9. The Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH), also called Dhruv, has encountered operational difficulties recently. Which company developed it?
[A] Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL)
[B] Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL}
[C] Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)
[D] Tata Advanced Systems Limited
Correct Answer: C [Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)]
Notes:
The Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH), also called Dhruv, has recently encountered operational difficulties. Created by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), the ALH has been temporarily grounded due to safety issues stemming from deadly crashes. This has raised concerns about the helicopter’s dependability and its impact on military operations. The ALH program started in 1984, with initial design assistance from Germany. The helicopter made its first flight in 1992 and received military certification in 2002. It was intended for various missions and comes in several versions, including Mk-I, Mk-II, Mk-III, and Mk-IV. Despite its capabilities, the ALH has faced multiple operational challenges. The grounding of the ALH fleet began in January 2025 after a training mission crash resulted in the deaths of three personnel. Another crash in September 2024 during a medical evacuation further increased worries. Following initial investigations that revealed significant mechanical problems, HAL advised grounding the fleet.
10. The Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, which was recently seen in the news, is located in which country?
[A] Tibet
[B] Bhutan
[C] Myanmar
[D] Sri Lanka
Correct Answer: D [Sri Lanka]
Notes:
The Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi is a highly respected Bo tree situated in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, and is of great importance to Buddhists around the globe. Estimated to be over 2,300 years old, it is recognized as the oldest living tree planted by humans, with a documented planting date. This sacred tree is a descendant of the original Bodhi tree in Bodhgaya, where Siddhartha Gautama achieved enlightenment. Recently, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the site, highlighting its significance. The Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi was planted in 288 BC by King Devanampiya Tissa, with a sapling brought to Sri Lanka by Sanghamitta Maha Theri, the daughter of Emperor Ashoka. The Mahavamsa details its establishment and the growth of Anuradhapura as a Buddhist pilgrimage destination. Throughout its history, the tree has encountered various threats, including vandalism and terrorist attacks.
11. Which state has recently declared the Harappan sites in Mitathal and Tigrana as protected archaeological monuments?
[A] Gujarat
[B] Haryana
[C] Rajasthan
[D] Punjab
Correct Answer: B [Haryana]
Notes:
The Haryana government has officially declared two Harappan civilization sites located in Bhiwani district — Mitathal and Tighrana — as protected archaeological sites and monuments. These sites, dating back over 4,400 years, hold immense historical and cultural value, shedding light on the evolution of early agricultural societies, town planning, craft industries, and trade during the Harappan and post-Harappan periods. The sites have now been brought under legal protection through a notification issued by the Haryana Heritage and Tourism Department under the Haryana Ancient and Historical Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1964. The move aims to safeguard these ancient settlements from encroachment and damage, with fencing and security arrangements to be implemented.
12. Who has made history by winning the inaugural Fred Darrington Award for Excellence in Art and Culture?
[A] Manisha Swarnkar
[B] Sunder Patnaik
[C] Sudarsan Pattnaik
[D] Sudheer Raghavan
Correct Answer: C [Sudarsan Pattnaik]
Notes:
Sudarsan Pattnaik, a celebrated Indian sand sculptor, has made a significant achievement by winning the first-ever Fred Darrington Award for Excellence in Art and Culture. He received this honor for his impressive 10-foot sand sculpture of Lord Ganesha, which promotes the theme of “World Peace.” This extraordinary piece will be displayed at SandWorld in Dorset, South-West England, until November. The award was established to commemorate the legacy of Fred Darrington, a famous sand sculptor, coinciding with the 100th anniversary of Darrington’s initial sand sculpture created on Weymouth Beach in 1925. Pattnaik, who has been awarded the Padma Shri, is the first Indian artist to showcase his work at SandWorld, an international sand art festival. His Lord Ganesha sculpture not only highlights his artistic talent but also conveys a strong message of peace. He received a gold medal featuring a caricature of Darrington and a glass wave filled with sand from his sculpture. Pattnaik dedicated this award to his supporters and expressed his hope that many visitors would come to admire the Lord Ganesha sculpture.
13. Which ministry has been urged by a parliamentary committee to set up an independent committee to delist monuments in India?
[A] Ministry of Culture
[B] Ministry of Tourism
[C] Ministry of Home Affairs
[D] Ministry of Education
Correct Answer: A [Ministry of Culture]
Notes:
The debate over the removal of monuments from India’s protected list has recently gained momentum. A Parliamentary Committee has suggested that the Union Culture Ministry establish an independent group to revise the criteria for removing monuments from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) list. Once a monument is removed from this list, it loses ASI protection, meaning it will not receive any conservation or maintenance support. This process is governed by the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains (AMASR) Act of 1958. Under this Act, the Central Government has the authority to determine if a monument is no longer of national importance. The AMASR Act aims to safeguard ancient monuments and archaeological sites, regulating excavations and protecting historical artifacts. Section 4 of the Act empowers the government to designate monuments as nationally significant. Additionally, the National Monuments Authority (NMA) was established under the AMASR Amendment Act of 2010 to manage protected areas and supervise construction activities in their vicinity.
14. Which bill received Presidential approval in 2025 to reform and modernize the management of Waqf properties in India?
[A] Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025
[B] Muslim Endowment (Reform) Bill, 2025
[C] Waqf Management and Regulation Bill, 2025
[D] None of the above
Correct Answer: A [Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025]
Notes:
President Droupadi Murmu has approved the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, officially enacting it into law to improve the management of waqf properties throughout India. The Indian Parliament has recently taken important steps to reform how Waqf properties are managed and enhance their oversight. Both the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, and the Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill, 2024, were discussed and passed in both houses of Parliament. The Rajya Sabha approved the bill early Friday morning after a lengthy 12-hour debate, with 128 votes in favor and 95 against. This followed the Lok Sabha’s approval on Thursday, which passed the bill with a vote of 288-232.
15. Which state has secured GI Tags for Nolen Gurer Sandesh and Six other products?
[A] Assam
[B] West Bengal
[C] Bihar
[D] Nagaland
Correct Answer: B [West Bengal]
Notes:
West Bengal has achieved a significant milestone in preserving and promoting its cultural heritage by securing Geographical Indication (GI) tags for seven new products, including the iconic Nolen Gurer Sandesh and Baruipur guavas. This recognition will provide global recognition to these traditional items, boosting the state’s local economy and enhancing its cultural identity. These GI tags highlight West Bengal’s rich heritage, spanning from sweets and agriculture to textiles and handicrafts. The newly tagged products include some well-known regional delicacies like Nolen Gurer Sandesh, a sweet made with date palm jaggery, and Kamarpukur’s white ‘bonde’. This step is part of West Bengal’s continuous effort to safeguard its unique traditional products and promote them globally. With the approval of these seven products, the state now has a total of 33 GI-tagged items, which include a wide array of food items, textiles, and art forms. Other items include Baruipur guava, Kamarpukur’s bonde, Chhanabora, Motichur Laddoo, Radhunipagal rice, Nistari silk yarn.
16. According to a United Nations report, what is India’s rank in global AI investment?
[A] 5th
[B] 10th
[C] 15th
[D] 20th
Correct Answer: B [10th]
Notes:
India’s significant strides in artificial intelligence (AI) have been highlighted by a recent United Nations (UN) report, which places the country 10th globally in terms of private AI investment. In 2023, India secured a substantial Rs. 11,943 crore (US$ 1.4 billion) in private investment, reinforcing its position as one of the leading nations in AI development. Alongside China, India stands out as one of the only developing countries with significant AI funding, marking a key development in the global AI landscape. India’s improvement is also evident in its ranking in the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) ‘Readiness for Frontier Technologies’ Index, where it moved up from 48th in 2022 to 36th in 2024 out of 170 countries. This improvement reflects India’s growing investment in technologies that have the potential to reshape global industries.
17. Who made history by becoming the first Indian boxer to win a gold medal at the World Boxing Cup?
[A] Amit Panghal
[B] Dingko Singh
[C] Vijender Singh
[D] Hitesh Gulia
Correct Answer: D [Hitesh Gulia]
Notes:
In a groundbreaking moment at the 2025 World Boxing Cup in Brazil, Hitesh Gulia made history as the first Indian boxer to win a gold medal. His victory was secured when his opponent, Odel Kamara from England, had to withdraw due to an injury. The Indian boxing team made an impressive debut at the World Boxing Cup in Foz Do Iguacu, Brazil. Hitesh Gulia’s achievement stands out as he became the first Indian to take home gold at this prestigious competition. This win was particularly significant as he was the only Indian boxer to achieve gold at the event. In addition to Hitesh’s remarkable success, Abhinash Jamwal earned a silver medal in the 65kg category, while four other Indian boxers secured bronze medals across different weight classes. Overall, India concluded the tournament with six medals, showcasing a strong performance in their inaugural participation at this elite international event organized by the newly established World Boxing.
18. The International Day of Sport for Development and Peace, observed annually on which day?
[A] April 8
[B] April 7
[C] April 6
[D] April 5
Correct Answer: C [April 6]
Notes:
The International Day of Sport for Development and Peace (IDSDP) is celebrated annually on April 6th. This day is dedicated to recognizing the potential of sports in fostering positive social change, bridging societal barriers, and transcending boundaries. The United Nations General Assembly declared this observance to highlight the role of sport in promoting peace, equality, and inclusive development. Sport is increasingly seen as a tool for empowering marginalized groups and promoting social inclusion, peace, and justice. The theme for 2025, “Leveling the Playing Field: Sport for Social Inclusion,” focuses on how sport can serve as a powerful vehicle for addressing social challenges, including gender equality, racial equality, and inclusion of marginalized groups. The day will serve as a platform for discussions on these topics, featuring global stakeholders and experts.
