Post Views: 17
1. The Chagos Archipelago, which was recently seen in the news, is located in which ocean?
[A] Pacific Ocean
[B] Atlantic Ocean
[C] Arctic Ocean
[D] Indian Ocean
Correct Answer: D [Indian Ocean]
Notes:
The Chagos Archipelago, situated in the Indian Ocean, has been at the center of territorial conflicts between Mauritius and the United Kingdom. After Mauritius became independent in 1968, the islands remained under British control for many years. Recently, the UK has officially recognized Mauritius’ claims to the archipelago, but tensions persist, especially concerning Diego Garcia, which is home to a military base. The Chagos Archipelago consists of more than 60 islands, with Diego Garcia being the largest. Initially, the islands were uninhabited until the 18th century when permanent settlements began. The French claimed the islands in the 1700s, and British control was established following the Napoleonic Wars. The islands were utilized for plantations that depended on slave and indentured labor. In 1965, the UK established the British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT), which included Chagos, as part of a strategy to maintain a military presence in the Indian Ocean during the Cold War. The UK compensated Mauritius with £3 million for the separation of Chagos.
2. Ukraine recently expressed support for a 30-day ceasefire proposal put forth by which country?
[A] United Kingdom
[B] China
[C] United States
[D] India
Correct Answer: C [United States]
Notes:
Ukraine has recently shown support for a 30-day ceasefire plan proposed by the United States. This decision came after extensive talks in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, indicating a change in the ongoing conflict with Russia. The ceasefire aims to stop all missile, drone, and bomb attacks along the entire front line. In the negotiations, the U.S. also agreed to resume military aid to Ukraine. Additionally, intelligence sharing has restarted, which is essential for Ukraine’s defense strategy. This support is expected to strengthen Ukraine’s capabilities in the conflict. Both countries have agreed to speed up discussions on developing Ukraine’s critical mineral resources, which are important for the country’s economic recovery and energy independence. These negotiations had previously been delayed due to political issues in Washington.
3. Which finance company has launched the ‘Shakti’ All-Women Branches on Women’s Day?
[A] IIFL Finance
[B] Bajaj Finance
[C] Aditya Birla Finance
[D] Shriram Finance
Correct Answer: A [IIFL Finance]
Notes:
IIFL Finance, a leading non-banking financial company in India, has converted seven of its branches into all-women ‘Shakti’ branches to honor Women’s Day. These branches are located in the Delhi National Capital Region and the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. The initiative is designed to empower women in the financial services industry by fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion. It reflects IIFL Finance’s dedication to supporting women entrepreneurs and enhancing financial literacy in underserved communities. The rebranded ‘Shakti’ branches are fully staffed by women and aim to promote gender diversity while creating job opportunities for women in finance.
4. Which ministry has unveiled the Consumer Price Index (CPI) data for February 2025?
[A] Ministry of Industry and Commerce
[B] Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation
[C] Ministry of Corporate Affairs
[D] Ministry of Finance
Correct Answer: B [Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation]
Notes:
The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) has published the Consumer Price Index (CPI) data for February 2025. The findings indicate a decrease in overall inflation, which is now at its lowest year-on-year rate since July 2024. There is also a notable reduction in food inflation, especially in rural regions. Here are the main points from the report: The year-on-year CPI-based inflation for February 2025 is 3.61% (provisional), a drop of 65 basis points from January 2025, marking the lowest rate since July 2024.
5. Recent research has shown serious health risks linked to heavy metal pollution in which state?
[A] Karnataka
[B] Punjab
[C] Rajasthan
[D] West Bengal
Correct Answer: B [Punjab]
Notes:
Recent research has uncovered serious health risks linked to heavy metal pollution in Punjab. Studies by Punjabi University and Thapar University found a connection between living near contaminated river drains and increased cancer rates. These results emphasize the urgent need for action to protect public health. Researchers from the Indian Council for Medical Research (ICMR) examined the wastewater drains of the Ghaggar river in Punjab, discovering high levels of heavy metals such as lead, cadmium, and nickel, which surpassed the limits set by the Central Pollution Control Board. The research took place from October 2017 to July 2018, analyzing samples throughout different seasons. It revealed concerning contamination levels in three main drains: Sirhind Choe, Badi Nadi, and Dhakanshu Drain. Notably, the concentrations of iron and aluminum were especially high during the monsoon season, which the researchers linked to agricultural runoff and the discharge of untreated wastewater into these drains.
6. The National Board for Wildlife (NBWL) convened in which national park of Gujarat recently?
[A] Blackbuck National Park
[B] Marine National Park
[C] Vansda National Park
[D] Gir National Park
Correct Answer: D [Gir National Park]
Notes:
The National Board for Wildlife (NBWL) is crucial for wildlife conservation in India. Recently, the board met at Gir National Park in Gujarat to review key wildlife conservation programs. They announced new initiatives for gharials and the Great Indian Bustard, and discussed expansions for Project Cheetah and Project Lion. The last full meeting like this was in 2012, highlighting a lack of high-level discussions. The NBWL was formed in 2003 by amending The Wild Life (Protection) Act of 1972, evolving from the Indian Board for Wildlife established in 1952 to strengthen its regulatory role. Now, the NBWL is a statutory body that oversees wildlife policy, conservation, and makes recommendations for national parks and sanctuaries. It has 47 members, including the Prime Minister as chairperson and the Union environment minister as vice-chairperson, along with military leaders, government secretaries, MPs, and conservation experts.
7. Which ministry ha recently launched the PM-YUVA 3.0, an initiative aimed at mentoring young authors in India?
[A] Ministry of Education
[B] Ministry of Science and Technology
[C] Ministry of Culture
[D] Ministry of Current Affairs
Correct Answer: A [Ministry of Education]
Notes:
The Ministry of Education, through the Department of Higher Education, launched PM-YUVA 3.0 (Prime Minister’s Scheme for Mentoring Young Authors) on March 11, 2025. This initiative aims to train authors under 30, promoting reading, writing, and book culture in India while highlighting Indian literature on a global scale. This third edition builds on the achievements of the first two, which involved participation in 22 Indian languages and English. PM-YUVA 3.0 (Young, Upcoming, and Versatile Authors) aligns with the Prime Minister’s vision to motivate youth to value India’s rich culture, heritage, and the contributions of its leaders. The program emphasizes nurturing young literary talent and encourages them to write about significant themes that showcase India’s development and historical importance.
8. Which Ministry has recently launched India’s first auction of Exploration Licences (ELs) in Goa?
[A] Ministry of Finance
[B] Ministry of Mines
[C] Ministry of Home
[D] Ministry of Corporate Affairs
Correct Answer: B [Ministry of Mines]
Notes:
The Ministry of Mines is preparing to conduct India’s first auction for Exploration Licences (ELs) in Goa. This initiative aims to explore important mineral resources. The auction will begin on March 13, 2025, and will include a roadshow alongside the AI Hackathon 2025, which focuses on using artificial intelligence in mineral exploration. This effort supports the government’s goal of enhancing mineral security and self-sufficiency. The MMDR Amendment Act, 2023, introduced Exploration Licences, allowing private companies to carry out reconnaissance and prospecting activities. The Act highlights 29 critical minerals, including lithium, copper, and gold, which are essential for various industries and technologies. The primary aim is to accelerate mineral exploration in India and promote more private sector participation, thus supporting the development of the country’s mineral resources. Improved exploration is expected to boost self-reliance in key minerals. The first phase will auction 13 Exploration Blocks, featuring minerals such as zinc, diamond, and copper. The auction will have a straightforward online bidding process, with tender documents available from March 20, 2025.
9. India is set to enhance its maritime security cooperation with which country through a white shipping agreement, marking a significant step in bilateral relations?
[A] Vietnam
[B] Mauritius
[C] Sri Lanka
[D] Indonesia
Correct Answer: B [Mauritius]
Notes:
India is ready to boost its maritime security partnership with Mauritius by establishing a white shipping agreement, which represents an important development in their bilateral relationship. This agreement is anticipated to be finalized during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming visit to Mauritius. It will allow the Indian and Mauritian navies and coast guards to share information about commercial shipping. Enhancing cooperation in the Western Indian Ocean is vital due to the growing influence of China and changing geopolitical conditions. Indian warship INS Imphal arrived in Mauritius for the first time on March 10, 2025. It will take part in the National Day celebrations on March 12, where PM Modi will be the chief guest. INS Imphal will also conduct joint surveillance and exercises alongside the Mauritius Coast Guard (MCGS) vessels.
10. The Standing Committee of Parliament recently proposed changing the name of which department to ‘Department of Agriculture, Farmers and Farm Labourers Welfare’?
[A] Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare
[B] Department of Agriculture Welfare
[C] Department of Agriculture, Farmers and Social Welfare
[D] Department of Agriculture and Labour Welfare
Correct Answer: A [Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare]
Notes:
The Standing Committee of Parliament on Agriculture has suggested reforms to improve the conditions of farm workers in India. Led by Charanjit Singh Channi, the committee’s proposals aim to better represent farm labourers in agricultural policies. One key recommendation is to rename the ‘Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare’ to ‘Department of Agriculture, Farmers and Farm Labourers Welfare’. This change recognizes the important role of farm labourers, many of whom come from marginalized communities. The committee believes this will encourage more inclusive policy discussions. To tackle wage inequalities, they propose establishing a ‘National Commission for Minimum Living Wages for Farm Labourers’. This commission would work on enhancing living conditions and ensuring fair pay for farm workers. Additionally, the committee stresses the importance of regularly monitoring the funds designated for agricultural welfare.
11. The Soil & Land Use Survey of India (SLUSI) has recently mapped soil fertility in 351 villages across in which state?
[A] Karnataka
[B] Gujarat
[C] Maharashtra
[D] Punjab
Correct Answer: D [Punjab]
Notes:
The Soil & Land Use Survey of India (SLUSI) has created soil fertility maps for 351 villages in Maharashtra. This innovative project focuses on improving soil health through digital mapping techniques. By using geo-spatial methods and data from Soil Health Cards (SHC), it offers farmers vital information to enhance their farming methods. The successful mapping of soil fertility in these villages is a significant step towards sustainable agriculture. These maps give farmers specific details about nutrient levels in their area, allowing them to apply fertilizers more accurately and avoid overuse or underuse. As a result, farmers can increase their profits while lowering costs. This initiative encourages the responsible use of fertilizers, promoting sustainable farming practices. Soil Health Cards are crucial tools developed under the Soil Health and Fertility Scheme by the Government of India.
12. Who has been appointed as the Head of its Security Operations Center of ICICI Bank?
[A] Surendranath Debe
[B] Kamal Wali
[C] Navin Chandra
[D] Rajesh Krishnan
Correct Answer: B [Kamal Wali]
Notes:
ICICI Bank has named Kamal Wali as the Head of its Security Operations Center, emphasizing its focus on cybersecurity and risk management. With over 18 years of experience in cybersecurity and IT operations, Wali will lead efforts to enhance the bank’s digital security. His appointment reflects ICICI Bank’s proactive stance in protecting customer information and ensuring safe banking practices in the face of changing cyber threats.
13. Which Indian International airport wins prestigious ASQ Award for Best Airport in Asia-Pacific?
[A] Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru
[B] Chennai International Airport
[C] Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport
[D] Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL)
Correct Answer: D [Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL)]
Notes:
GMR Airports Infrastructure Limited has announced that its subsidiary, Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL), has received the esteemed Airport Service Quality (ASQ) Airport Experience Award for 2024. This award recognizes DIAL as the Best Airport for handling over 40 million passengers in the Asia-Pacific region. This achievement marks the seventh year in a row that Delhi Airport has been acknowledged for its outstanding customer service. The airport has consistently won this award in the 40+ Million Passengers Per Annum (MPPA) category from 2018 to 2023, highlighting its ongoing commitment to high service standards.
14. Which finance company won two prestigious Gold Awards at the SKOCH Award 2025?
[A] Muthoot Microfin
[B] LIC Housing Finance
[C] Indiabulls Housing Finance
[D] Mahindra & Mahindra Finance
Correct Answer: A [Muthoot Microfin]
Notes:
Muthoot Microfin, a prominent microfinance organization focused on supporting women entrepreneurs, has reached an important achievement by winning two Gold Awards at the SKOCH Awards 2025. These awards highlight the company’s exceptional efforts in promoting digital financial inclusion and providing innovative insurance solutions, solidifying its position in India’s microfinance industry. The awards were given to Sadaf Sayeed, the CEO of Muthoot Microfin, by Sameer Kochhar, Chairman of SKOCH Group, and Gursharan Dhanjal, Vice-Chairman of SKOCH Group, during a special ceremony in New Delhi.
15. Who have been honored with the 2024 ACM A.M. Turing Award for their groundbreaking work in reinforcement learning (RL)?
[A] Andrew G. Barto and Richard S. Sutton
[B] Thomas S Andre and Michelle Martin
[C] Only A
[D] Both A and B
Correct Answer: C [Only A]
Notes:
The 2024 ACM A.M. Turing Award has been awarded to Andrew G. Barto and Richard S. Sutton for their pioneering work in reinforcement learning (RL). Their contributions laid the conceptual and algorithmic foundations for RL, significantly influencing artificial intelligence (AI) and other fields. The award, often referred to as the “Nobel Prize in Computing,” carries a $1 million prize, sponsored by Google.
16. According to recent reports, symptoms of viral meningitis have been reported in which state?
[A] Assam
[B] Kerala
[C] Gujarat
[D] Uttar Pradesh
Correct Answer: B [Kerala]
Notes:
Recent reports indicate that five students from a private school in Kalamassery, Kerala, are showing signs of viral meningitis. Samples have been sent to the National Institute of Virology for analysis. This situation underscores the importance of understanding viral meningitis, including its symptoms, causes, and prevention methods. Meningitis is the inflammation of the meninges, the protective layers around the brain and spinal cord. It can be caused by bacterial, viral, or fungal infections, with viral meningitis being the most common and usually less severe than bacterial meningitis. Typical symptoms include fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, and light sensitivity. In young children, symptoms may be less obvious, such as irritability and trouble feeding. It is crucial to recognize these symptoms quickly for prompt treatment.
17. Which organization has recently published its Report on Trends and Progress of Housing in India, 2024?
[A] National Housing Bank (NHB)
[B] NITI Aayog
[C] Reserve Bank of India
[D] All India Financial Institutions
Correct Answer: A [National Housing Bank (NHB)]
Notes:
The National Housing Bank (NHB) has released its Report on Trends and Progress of Housing in India for 2024. This report offers a detailed look at the housing market, trends in house prices, and how government programs are influencing housing finance. It highlights the growth in individual housing loans and points out significant challenges in the sector. As of September 30, 2024, the total outstanding individual housing loans reached ₹33.53 lakh crore, showing a strong 14% increase from the previous year. The loan distribution reveals that Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) and Low-Income Groups (LIG) make up 39%, the Middle-Income Group (MIG) accounts for 44%, and High-Income Groups (HIG) represent 17%. In the six months leading up to September 2024, housing loan disbursements amounted to ₹4.10 lakh crore, while for the entire fiscal year ending March 2024, disbursements totaled ₹9.07 lakh crore. This growth indicates a rising demand for housing finance in India. The Housing Price Index (NHB-RESIDEX) showed a year-on-year increase of 6.8% for the quarter ending September 2024, up from 4.9% the previous year, reflecting increasing property values nationwide.
18. The report titled “Affirmative Action for Muslims in Contemporary India” was released by which organization?
[A] National Commission for Minorities
[B] NITI Aayog
[C] The Centre for Development Policy and Practice (CDPP)
[D] The Centre for Policy Research (CPR)
Correct Answer: C [The Centre for Development Policy and Practice (CDPP)]
Notes:The report titled Affirmative Action for Muslims in Contemporary India was released by The Centre for Development Policy and Practice (CDPP). This is the first thorough evaluation of government policies on affirmative action for Muslims in ten years. It highlights the historical context of Muslim backwardness as a policy issue and looks at how state approaches have changed over time. The topic gained attention in 2006 when the UPA government launched the Prime Minister’s 15-point Programme for Minorities, aimed at addressing the socio-economic issues faced by minority groups. Before this, the Ranganath Misra Commission and the Sachar Committee recognized Muslims as a marginalized community needing specific policies. After the BJP-led NDA government took office in 2014, it adopted a broader vision with the slogan “Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas,” shifting the focus from solely empowering Muslims to promoting welfare for all communities, which altered existing policies and frameworks.
The report covers four key themes:
- It examines how the state’s approach to social welfare has evolved, introducing the concept of a “charitable state.”
- It critiques the current policy framework based on official documents, especially those from NITI Aayog.
- It evaluates the educational and economic conditions of Muslims using official statistics.
- It explores the views and aspirations of Muslims regarding their socio-economic status.
19. The Water Sustainability Conference 2025 was held recently in which city of India?
[A] Kolkata
[B] New Delhi
[C] Goa
[D] Hyderabad
Correct Answer: B [New Delhi]
Notes:
The Water Sustainability Conference 2025, hosted by the Bureau of Water Use Efficiency (BWUE) as part of the National Water Mission (NWM) under the Ministry of Jal Shakti, in collaboration with The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI), took place on March 12, 2025, at the NDMC Convention Centre in New Delhi. The event was inaugurated by the Union Minister of Jal Shakti, Shri C. R. Patil, and centered on improving Industrial Water Use Efficiency. A diverse group of government officials, industry leaders, and specialists engaged in discussions regarding innovative strategies and policies aimed at optimizing water utilization within industrial sectors. Shri C. R. Patil highlighted the 4R framework (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, and Recharge) and introduced Respect as a fifth principle, encouraging industries to adopt sustainable water management practices.
20. The 4th ‘No Money for Terror’ (NMFT) Conference was held recently in which place?
[A] New Delhi
[B] Paris
[C] Munich
[D] Geneva
Correct Answer: C [Munich]
Notes:
The 4th ‘No Money for Terror’ (NMFT) Conference took place in Munich and centered on worldwide efforts to address terror financing. India, which has been actively participating since 2018, expressed its commitment to improving international cooperation in the fight against terrorism. The conference underscored the growing challenges from digital financial systems and international transactions, urging a collective response to combat terror financing.
21. Which state government has recently introduced a new rehabilitation policy aimed at addressing the Maoist issue in the state?
[A] Chhattisgarh
[B] Jharkhand
[C] Assam
[D] Andhra Pradesh
Correct Answer: A [Chhattisgarh]
Notes:
The Chhattisgarh Government has launched a new rehabilitation policy to tackle the Maoist problem in the state. This initiative, approved in a Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, aims to support surrendered Maoists comprehensively. It replaces the earlier Chhattisgarh Naxalism Eradication Policy-2023 and focuses on helping former insurgents reintegrate into society. The Chhattisgarh Naxal Surrender/Victim Relief and Rehabilitation Policy-2025 addresses several key areas. It offers financial aid, educational opportunities, and job prospects for those who renounce violence. The policy also emphasizes security measures to ensure a safe transition for these individuals. Additionally, it provides support to victims of Maoist violence, including rehabilitation assistance to help them recover. The government seeks to foster hope and stability for everyone affected by the conflict. The new policy also includes training for self-employment and skill development, equipping former Maoists with the skills needed to support themselves and prevent a return to violence. The government is dedicated to helping these individuals lead dignified lives.
22. Which state has launched initiative to encourage urban growth by establishing the Future City Development Authority (FCDA)?
[A] Maharashtra
[B] Karnataka
[C] Telangana
[D] Andhra Pradesh
Correct Answer: C [Telangana]
Notes:
The Telangana government has introduced a new initiative to boost urban development by creating the Future City Development Authority (FCDA). This initiative aims to improve the Hyderabad Metropolitan Region through effective planning and management. The FCDA covers a large area and focuses on promoting sustainable urban growth. It was established to manage urban development around the Regional Ring Road. The Chief Minister is the Chairman, and the Minister for Municipal Administration and Urban Development serves as the Vice Chairman. The authority will consist of important officials from various departments to ensure thorough governance. Additionally, the jurisdiction of the Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority (HMDA) has been expanded to cover 10,472.723 square kilometers, which now includes 1,355 revenue villages across 11 districts. This expansion will enable the HMDA to oversee a larger area, improving urban planning and infrastructure development.
23. Which state government has recently replaced rupee symbol with its language letter?
[A] Karnataka
[B] Tamil Nadu
[C] Kerala
[D] Punjab
Correct Answer: B [Tamil Nadu]
Notes:
The Tamil Nadu government’s decision to replace the Indian Rupee symbol (₹) with the Tamil letter ‘ரூ’ in the state budget logo has reignited discussions about language. This initiative, led by Chief Minister M K Stalin, reflects Tamil Nadu’s opposition to the dominance of Hindi and its resistance to the National Education Policy (NEP), which the state considers to be influenced by a particular ideology. The budget logo for FY 2025-26 now displays ‘ரூ’ instead of the traditional Rupee symbol ‘₹’. This change is intended to promote the Tamil language and push back against Hindi imposition. Udaya Kumar Dharmalingam, currently serving as a professor at IIT Guwahati, designed the Indian rupee symbol ‘₹’ 15 years ago, in 2010. He hails from a political background, as his father, N Dharmalingam, was a former DMK MLA who represented the Rishivandiyam constituency in Tamil Nadu.
24. Who won the ICC Men’s Player of the Month award for February?
[A] Travis Head
[B] Rachin Ravindra
[C] Shubman Gill
[D] Virat Kohli
Correct Answer: C [Shubman Gill]
Notes:
The International Cricket Council (ICC) has revealed the recipients of the ICC Men’s and Women’s Player of the Month Awards for February 2025. Shubman Gill from India was named the ICC Men’s Player of the Month, while Alana King from Australia received the ICC Women’s Player of the Month award. Their exceptional performances throughout February led to this esteemed honor. Shubman Gill showcased impressive batting skills, contributing to India’s series win over England and guiding the team to triumph in the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025.
25. 15-year-old Nayana Sri Talluri from which state, has created history by winning a hat-trick of gold medals in speed skating in Khelo India Winter Games 2025?
[A] Karnataka
[B] Telangana
[C] Andhra Pradesh
[D] Tamil Nadu
Correct Answer: B [Telangana]
Notes:
The Khelo India Winter Games 2025 (KIWG 2025), the fifth edition of India’s top winter sports event under the Khelo India program, was held successfully in two phases. The event took place from January 23, 2025, in Leh, Ladakh, to March 12, 2025, in Jammu & Kashmir, featuring over 400 athletes from 19 teams. The Indian Army was the overall champion, winning the highest number of gold medals. Nayana Sri Talluri, a 15-year-old from Telangana, made history by earning three gold medals in speed skating, including the first gold of KIWG 2025 in the women’s 500m short track event. Aanchal Thakur, an alpine skier, also won gold in both the slalom and giant slalom events in Gulmarg. The Indian Army led the medal count with 7 gold, 5 silver, and 6 bronze medals.
