Post Views: 18
1. Which country has recently expressed a willingness to renegotiate the Iran nuclear deal?
[A] Russia
[B] United States
[C] China
[D] India
Correct Answer: B [United States]
Notes:
In late 2024, US President Donald Trump showed interest in renegotiating the Iran nuclear deal. This came as Iran struggled with serious economic issues and a shifting global situation. Trump’s approach to Iran is a change from his earlier decision to pull out of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) in 2018. The JCPOA was created in 2015 between Iran and the P5+1 countries to limit Iran’s nuclear activities in return for easing sanctions. Iran agreed to keep uranium enrichment to 3.67%, which is suitable for peaceful uses. The deal also included monitoring by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). In 2018, Trump removed the US from the JCPOA, calling it “one of the worst deals.” He wanted to change the terms, pointing to worries about Iran’s missile program and actions in the region. This withdrawal resulted in a series of sanctions that hurt Iran’s economy.
2. Where was the 29th meeting of the Standing Advisory Committee (SAC) of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) held?
[A] Bombay
[B] Hyderabad
[C] Bengaluru
[D] Ahmedabad
Correct Answer: D [Ahmedabad]
Notes:
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) held its 29th Meeting of the Standing Advisory Committee (SAC) in Ahmedabad to assess and improve credit access for the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector. Led by Swaminathan J, Deputy Governor of RBI, the meeting aimed to boost institutional credit support, tackle financial issues, and encourage digital solutions. Key topics included new credit assessment methods, digital lending systems, and fair lending practices to promote transparency and accessibility for MSMEs.
3. Who is the new Strategic Investor and Brand Ambassador for Naarica?
[A] Virat Kohli
[B] PV Sindhu
[C] Saina Nehwal
[D] Sachin Tendulkar
Correct Answer: C [Saina Nehwal]
Notes:
Badminton star and former World No.1 Saina Nehwal has stepped into the business arena by teaming up with Naarica, a leading brand in menstrual hygiene. As both a strategic investor and brand ambassador, Nehwal aims to support sustainable and high-quality menstrual care products. With nearly half of menstruating women in India lacking access to adequate sanitary items, Naarica is dedicated to closing this gap with eco-friendly, reusable, and scientifically crafted solutions. This partnership is set to raise awareness, broaden market access, and empower women by providing better menstrual hygiene choices.
4. Which Indian bank becoming the first public sector bank to introduce an NRI account exclusively for women?
[A] Bank of Baroda
[B] State Bank of India
[C] Union Bank of India
[D] Canara Bank
Correct Answer: A [Bank of Baroda]
Notes:
On March 7, 2025, Bank of Baroda (BoB) launched the ‘bob Global Women NRE & NRO Savings Account’, making it the first public sector bank to offer an NRI account specifically for women. This account is designed to empower women NRIs by providing them with premium banking services, lower loan rates, and insurance options. BoB also updated its ‘bob Premium NRE & NRO Savings Account’ to improve customer experience with new features and benefits.
5. What is the name of the recently launched collateral-free digital SME loan by SBI designed for women entrepreneurs?
[A] SBI Srujani
[B] SBI Laxmi
[C] SBI Asmita
[D] SBI Shiromani
Correct Answer: C [SBI Asmita]
Notes:
On International Women’s Day 2025, the State Bank of India (SBI) introduced ‘SBI Asmita’, a digital SME loan that does not require collateral, aimed at women entrepreneurs. This initiative is designed to make it easier for women-led MSMEs to access funding through a simple digital process. SBI also launched the ‘Nari Shakti’ platinum debit card, tailored for women, offering various benefits. SBI Asmita provides a collateral-free loan to support women entrepreneurs, utilizing a strong API system for digital lending and automatic data checks. There is no need for physical documents, as it gathers information from GSTIN, bank statements, and credit information companies (CICs). Loans are approved based on the financial needs and business evaluation of the firm. Additionally, top-performing women entrepreneurs from SBI Asmita will receive training in entrepreneurship and management.
6. Razorpay, a leading fintech company, has officially launched its payment solutions in which country recently?
[A] Singapore
[B] Thailand
[C] Vietnam
[D] Indonesia
Correct Answer: A [Singapore]
Notes:
Razorpay, a prominent player in the fintech sector, has formally introduced its payment solutions in Singapore, representing a significant step in its expansion following successful operations in India and Malaysia. This initiative is in harmony with Singapore’s emphasis on a digital-first economy and its evolving real-time payments landscape. Razorpay’s objective is to streamline cross-border transactions, lower payment expenses, and implement AI-enhanced financial tools to support businesses in Singapore.
7. Who has recently inaugurated the Amrut Biodiversity Park in Delhi?
[A] President Draupadi Murmu
[B] Prime Minister Narendra Modi
[C] Lieutenant Governor V.K. Saxena
[D] CM Rekha Gupta
Correct Answer: C [Lieutenant Governor V.K. Saxena]
Notes:
The Amrut Biodiversity Park was opened by Lieutenant Governor V.K. Saxena in 2025. It is situated along NH-24 in the Yamuna floodplains and covers an area of 90 hectares. This park is part of the Delhi Development Authority’s (DDA) effort to restore the floodplain ecosystem. Its goal is to increase green areas in Delhi and raise environmental awareness. The site was once used for farming and housing. The transformation included the creation of six water bodies that can hold 225 million litres. These water bodies help manage stormwater and reduce flood risks. The park features jute-reinforced slopes and riverine grass areas, which help stabilize the flood-prone land and improve groundwater recharge. A key part of the park is the planting of various species. Around 14,500 trees, such as Neem, Peepal, and Mango, were planted, along with 18,000 shrubs and over 3.21 lakh riverine grasses. This biodiversity is intended to attract different bird species and foster a lively ecosystem.
8. Recently, the Madhav National Park, of which state, was officially declared India’s 58th tiger reserve?
[A] Uttar Pradesh
[B] Gujarat
[C] Madhya Pradesh
[D] Himachal Pradesh
Correct Answer: C [Madhya Pradesh]
Notes:
Madhav National Park in Madhya Pradesh has been officially named India’s 58th tiger reserve. This was announced by Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav. It is the ninth tiger reserve in Madhya Pradesh, showing the state’s dedication to wildlife conservation. Currently, the park is home to five tigers, including two new cubs. The government plans to add two more tigers to boost the population. Tiger reserves are crucial for wildlife conservation and ecological balance, providing safe habitats for tigers and other animals. These reserves are part of India’s larger effort to protect biodiversity and fight poaching. The creation of new reserves shows the government’s commitment to environmental protection. Madhav National Park is situated in the Shivpuri district of Madhya Pradesh.
9. A recent study shows that butterfly populations have dropped by 22% since 2000 in which country?
[A] United States
[B] France
[C] Canada
[D] China
Correct Answer: A [United States]
Notes:
Recent research shows that butterfly populations in the United States are declining. Since 2000, there has been a 22% drop in their numbers. This decline raises concerns about the overall health of the ecosystem. The first detailed study of butterfly populations in the contiguous U.S. found that they have been decreasing by about 1.3% each year since 2000. The study analyzed data from 76,957 surveys, which included 12.6 million butterflies. Notably, the monarch butterfly population has fallen dramatically from 1.2 million in 1997 to under 10,000 now.
10. The Sharavathi pumped storage hydroelectric project (PSHP), which was recently seen in the news, is located in which state?
[A] Andhra Pradesh
[B] Karnataka
[C] Maharashtra
[D] Odisha
Correct Answer: B [Karnataka]
Notes:
The Sharavathi pumped storage hydroelectric project in Karnataka is stirring controversy. It aims to generate 2,000 MW of power and supply drinking water to Bengaluru. However, environmentalists and local residents are strongly opposing it due to concerns about its effects on the Western Ghats. The project involves creating upper and lower reservoirs. Water will be moved up during times of low demand and released during peak demand. It is modeled after Telangana’s Kaleshwaram project and will require five tunnels and eight pumping stations. The total projected cost is Rs 8,000 crore. The Karnataka High Court has stepped in to pause the bidding process because of corruption claims. The Karnataka Power Corporation Limited (KPCL) gave the contract to Megha Engineering & Infrastructures Limited (MEIL) even though there are legal issues. The tender process has been criticized for favoritism and problems with the bidding timeline.
11. The Brahmastra Missile (Long Range Anti-Ship Missile) developed by which organization?
[A] Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)
[B] Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)
[C] Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL)
[D] Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)
Correct Answer: B [Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)]
Notes:
Indian scientists have created a modern version of the ‘Brahmastra’ that can reach speeds of 12,144 km per hour. This weapon, called the Long Range Anti-Ship Missile (LRAShM), is a hypersonic glide missile developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). It surpasses similar missiles, such as China’s DF-17, in both range and technology. With a range of 1,500 km, it can destroy an enemy ship or warship within 7 to 8 minutes after launch. The missile can be launched from land or sea, providing flexibility in combat. It travels at 10 times the speed of sound, covering 3.37 km in just one second. Special heat-resistant materials are used to ensure it can endure extreme temperatures during flight, marking a significant advancement in scramjet and glide technology.
12. The 12th edition of Khanjar-XII Joint Special Forces Exercise has recently begun between which countries?
[A] India and Kyrgyzstan
[B] China and Kyrgyzstan
[C] Kyrgyzstan and United States
[D] Kyrgyzstan and Pakistan
Correct Answer: A [India and Kyrgyzstan]
Notes:
The 12th edition of the India-Kyrgyzstan Joint Special Forces Exercise, Khanjar-XII, will take place from March 10 to 23, 2025, in Kyrgyzstan. This annual event has been held since 2011, rotating between the two countries. The Indian team consists of troops from the Parachute Regiment (Special Forces), while the Kyrgyz team includes the Kyrgyz Scorpion Brigade. The exercise focuses on improving cooperation in counter-terrorism and special operations, particularly in urban and mountainous areas. The main aim of Khanjar-XII is to share experiences and best practices in counter-terrorism efforts. Participants will enhance their skills in sniping, complex building operations, and mountain techniques, which are essential for tackling modern security issues.
13. Who was the first person to visit the Indian Air Force (IAF) Institute of Aerospace Medicine (IAM) in Bengaluru, Karnataka?
[A] President Draupadi Murmu
[B] Prime Minister Narendra Modi
[C] Defence Minister Rajnath Singh
[D] Home Minister Amit Shah
Correct Answer: C [Defence Minister Rajnath Singh]
Notes:
Rajnath Singh, the Defence Minister of India, made history on March 9, 2025, by being the first to visit the Institute of Aerospace Medicine (IAM) of the Indian Air Force (IAF) in Bengaluru, Karnataka. This visit highlighted the importance of aerospace medicine in India’s defence and aviation fields. During his time there, he learned about IAM’s vital contributions to pilot training, aeromedical research, and the health assessments of Air Force personnel. He also launched a key research project at the institute and stressed the increasing need for knowledge in space medicine as India progresses in air and space exploration.
14. Which bank has renewed its Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Indian Army and CSC Academy to further expand Project NAMAN?
[A] ICICI Bank
[B] Punjab National Bank
[C] Axis Bank
[D] HDFC Bank
Correct Answer: D [HDFC Bank]
Notes:
HDFC Bank has updated its agreement with the Indian Army and CSC Academy to grow Project NAMAN, which helps Army veterans, their families, and next of kin. This partnership will set up Common Service Centres (CSCs) in 26 locations for Indian Army Veterans (DIAV). These centres will offer important pension services, Government-to-Citizen (G2C) services, and Business-to-Consumer (B2C) services at military sites. This effort is part of HDFC Bank’s Parivartan programme, aimed at enhancing economic support for veterans and their families.
15. Who has been elected as the new Prime Minister of Canada after Justin Trudeau?
[A] Paul Martin
[B] Mark Carney
[C] Jean Chrétien
[D] Stephen Harper
Correct Answer: B [Mark Carney]
Notes:
Mark Carney has been chosen as the new Prime Minister of Canada after a leadership contest in the Liberal Party. His election follows Justin Trudeau’s resignation due to increasing discontent with his leadership. The party’s special voting method allowed members to select their new leader using ranked ballots, which reflects a wider agreement across the nation. Trudeau’s stepping down sparked the leadership race within the Liberal Party. In Canada, party leaders are elected by their members through these contests, unlike in many other countries. Around 400,000 Canadians, including citizens and permanent residents, registered to vote. The election process required voters to rank candidates, ensuring the winner had broad support.
16. Who has recently appointed as the Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) for a five-year term?
[A] Giri Prasad Rao
[B] Arun Kumar
[C] Vikas Kaushal
[D] Satish Vade
Correct Answer: C [Vikas Kaushal]
Notes:
The government has appointed Vikas Kaushal as the Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) for a five-year period. He takes over from Rajneesh Narang, who has been the interim CMD since September 1, 2024. Kaushal brings over thirty years of experience in the energy, oil and gas, and power industries, having led important changes and digital projects in major Indian energy firms.
17. Who has recently appointed as a Judge of the Supreme Court of India?
[A] Justice N. V. Anjaria
[B] Justice Joymalya Bagchi
[C] Justice V. Kameswar Rao
[D] Justice Nitin Jamdar
Correct Answer: B [Justice Joymalya Bagchi]
Notes:
In an important update, the Government of India has announced the appointment of Justice Joymalya Bagchi, currently a judge at the Calcutta High Court, as a Judge of the Supreme Court of India. Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal shared this news on X (formerly Twitter), stating that the President of India made the appointment after consulting with the Chief Justice of India (CJI). This appointment is particularly noteworthy as Justice Bagchi is expected to become the Chief Justice of India in 2031, following Justice KV Viswanathan. His promotion reflects his merit, integrity, and skills, which were crucial factors for the Supreme Court collegium in their recommendation.
18. Global Terrorism Index (GTI) 2025 report has been published by which institution?
[A] United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
[B] World Economic Forum (WEF)
[C] World Bank
[D] Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP)
Correct Answer: D [Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP)]
Notes:
The 2025 edition of the Global Terrorism Index (GTI), released by the Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP), indicates a dramatic 45% increase in fatalities due to terrorism in Pakistan during 2024. This escalation has positioned Pakistan as the second-most affected nation by terrorism, a rise from its previous rank of fourth. The number of terrorism-related deaths surged from 748 in 2023 to 1,081 in 2024, representing one of the most significant increases observed globally. Additionally, the frequency of terrorist incidents more than doubled, escalating from 517 in 2023 to 1,099 in 2024, surpassing the 1,000 mark for the first time. A notable incident occurred at the Bannu Cantonment in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, resulting in the deaths of five soldiers and 13 civilians. The Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) has intensified its activities, a trend that appears to be associated with the resurgence of the Afghan Taliban in Kabul.
19. Which India’s leading dairy cooperative, has ranked third in the prestigious YouGov India Value Rankings 2025?
[A] Kamdhenu
[B] Surabhi
[C] Amul
[D] Dudhsagar
Correct Answer: C [Amul]
Notes:
Amul, the top dairy cooperative in India, has achieved third place in the YouGov India Value Rankings 2025, being the only FMCG brand in the top three. This ranking places it alongside Amazon and Flipkart, showcasing Amul’s strong reputation and value for consumers. This success emphasizes the effectiveness of Amul’s cooperative model, which guarantees fair prices for farmers while providing high-quality, affordable dairy products to families across India.
20. GRIDCON 2025 – The International Conference cum Exhibition was held in which city of India recently?
[A] New Delhi
[B] Bengaluru
[C] Chennai
[D] Gandhinagar
Correct Answer: A [New Delhi]
Notes:
In a major move to enhance India’s power grid and promote new ideas in renewable energy, Union Minister of Power and Housing & Urban Affairs, Shri Manohar Lal, opened GRIDCON 2025 – The International Conference cum Exhibition on March 9, 2025. This important event took place at IICC, Yashobhoomi, Dwarka, New Delhi, with the presence of Union Minister of State for Power & New & Renewable Energy, Shri Shripad Yesso Naik. GRIDCON 2025 is hosted by the Power Grid Corporation of India Limited (POWERGRID) from March 9 to March 11, 2025, supported by the Ministry of Power and in collaboration with CIGRE India.
21. Which state government has recently announced a waiver of Rs 1 lakh bank loan for handloom weavers?
[A] Andhra Pradesh
[B] West Bengal
[C] Gujarat
[D] Telangana
Correct Answer: D [Telangana]
Notes:
The Telangana State Government has launched a program to help handloom weavers. They have cancelled loans of up to ₹1 lakh for each weaver. This action is part of a larger plan to boost the handloom industry, which has struggled in recent years. The government’s decision to waive these loans will provide financial support to many artisans. A budget of ₹33 crore has been set aside for this loan waiver, showing the government’s dedication to the handloom sector. Textile Minister Tummala Nageswara Rao highlighted the government’s efforts to support this important industry, pointing out that past governments overlooked it. The current administration has instructed different departments to buy textiles from the Telangana State Handloom Weavers Cooperative Society (TGSCO).
22. Which country won the Asian Women’s Kabaddi Championship 2025?
[A] Iran
[B] China
[C] Pakistan
[D] India
Correct Answer: D [India]
Notes:
The Indian women’s Kabaddi team secured their fifth title at the Asian Women’s Kabaddi Championship by overcoming Iran with a score of 32-25 in the final match, which took place in Tehran on March 8, 2025. The 6th edition of the Asian Women’s Kabaddi Championship was held in Tehran from March 6 to March 8, 2025. This marked the third occasion that Iran has hosted the tournament, having previously done so in 2007 and 2017.
23. Which Indian football icon player has unexpectedly returned to the national team at 40, overturning his retirement decision from the previous year?
[A] Gurpreet Singh Sandhu
[B] Lallianuala Chhangte
[C] Sunil Chhetri
[D] Sandesh Jhingan
Correct Answer: C [Sunil Chhetri]
Notes:
Indian football star Sunil Chhetri has made a surprising return to the national team at the age of 40, reversing his retirement from last year. The all-time top scorer and former captain had officially retired from international play in June 2024 after a World Cup qualifier. Now, head coach Manolo Marquez has welcomed him back, acknowledging his vital role in India’s efforts to qualify for the 2027 AFC Asian Cup.
24. In the 18th season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025, which country’s batsman Harry Brook has withdrawn from the tournament for the second consecutive year?
[A] South Africa
[B] England
[C] New Zealand
[D] Australia
Correct Answer: B [England]
Notes:
In a significant turn of events leading up to the 18th season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) in 2025, English cricketer Harry Brook has opted out of the tournament for the second year in a row. This choice follows his acquisition by the Delhi Capitals (DC) for ₹6.25 crores during last year’s auction. According to the recent regulations established by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), his decision to withdraw may lead to a two-year suspension from participating in future IPL seasons.
25. The International Day of Women Judges is observed every year on which day?
[A] March 8
[B] March 9
[C] March 10
[D] March 11
Correct Answer: C [March 10]
Notes:
The International Day of Women Judges is celebrated annually on March 10 to honor the significant contributions of women within the judicial system. The involvement of women in judicial roles is essential for promoting fairness, representation, and equality in legal decisions. The presence of female judges bolsters the credibility of judicial institutions, conveying a powerful message of inclusivity and justice. This day serves to recognize the critical function that women judges fulfill globally in maintaining the tenets of justice, democracy, and human rights. Additionally, it seeks to motivate future generations of women to consider careers in law and the judiciary. The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) officially proclaimed this initiative via Resolution 75/274 on April 28, 2021. This declaration was motivated by dialogues held during a UNODC conference in Doha from February 24 to 27, 2020, which focused on issues of workplace harassment and gender discrimination within the judiciary. The inaugural observance of this initiative took place on March 10, 2022.
26. Former Minister and Senior BJD Leader Ananta Das, who recently passed away at the age of 85, was from which state?
[A] Jharkhand
[B] Chhattisgarh
[C] Odisha
[D] Madhya Pradesh
Correct Answer: C [Odisha]
Notes:
Ananta Das, a former Minister of Higher Education and Industries and a prominent leader of the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) from Balasore district, has died at his home in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. He was 85 years old and had been dealing with health issues related to his age for some time. Ananta Das was born on August 28, 1940, in Kuruthia village, part of Balim Panchayat in the Bhogarai block. He had a solid education, finishing his post-graduation in Arts and obtaining a law degree. His desire to serve the public drove him to join the Odisha Administrative Service (OAS), where he worked in various important roles before moving into politics.
