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1. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and which country’s bank have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to promote trade in local currencies?
[A] Bank of Japan (BOJ
[B] Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA)
[C] Bank of Mauritius (BOM)
[D] Bank of Mexico (Banxico)
Correct Answer: C [Bank of Mauritius (BOM)]
Notes:
To boost economic cooperation, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the Bank of Mauritius (BOM) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that allows trade transactions in Indian Rupees (INR) and Mauritian Rupees (MUR). This important agreement aims to improve bilateral trade and financial collaboration by enabling the use of both currencies for cross-border transactions. As a result, exporters and importers can conduct transactions in their own currencies, which will lower costs and enhance efficiency. This initiative is anticipated to reinforce the economic and financial relationship between India and Mauritius.
2. Which bank has officially partnered with Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) as its exclusive banking partner?
[A] IDBI Bank
[B] City Union Bank
[C] HDFC Bank
[D] ICICI Bank
Correct Answer: B [City Union Bank]
Notes:
City Union Bank (CUB) has formed an exclusive partnership with Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) as their official banking partner. This collaboration is designed to offer tailored financial solutions, special offers, and improved digital banking services to SRH fans, players, and staff. Additionally, this partnership represents an important move in linking sports with financial innovation, enhancing CUB’s visibility among sports fans in India.
3. Which Indian state is facing a severe air pollution crisis, a recent report by IQAir?
[A] Uttar Pradesh
[B] West Bengal
[C] Maharashtra
[D] Rajasthan
Correct Answer: B [West Bengal]
Notes:
West Bengal is currently grappling with a serious air pollution problem. A recent IQAir report indicates that all cities, except Kolkata, saw a decline in air quality in 2024 compared to the previous year. Kolkata is now the second most polluted metropolitan area in India, following Delhi. This report is based on data from over 40,000 monitoring stations across 138 locations, concentrating on PM2.5 levels, a harmful pollutant associated with significant health risks. PM2.5 consists of tiny particles measuring 2.5 micrometres or less, which can infiltrate the lungs and enter the bloodstream. High exposure to PM2.5 is linked to respiratory diseases, heart problems, and early mortality. The World Health Organization suggests a maximum of 5 micrograms per cubic metre, yet many cities in West Bengal surpass this threshold. In 2024, Durgapur and Asansol were ranked 24th and 25th in the world for air pollution, with Durgapur recording PM2.5 levels of 72.3 micrograms and Asansol at 72.2 micrograms. Other cities, such as Barrackpore and Howrah, also reported concerning PM2.5 levels well above WHO recommendations. Despite efforts and investments to reduce pollution, the situation has deteriorated.
4. The 30th session of the International Seabed Authority (ISA) began recently in which country?
[A] Cuba
[B] Mexico
[C] Costa Rica
[D] Jamaica
Correct Answer: D [Jamaica]
Notes:
The 30th Session of the International Seabed Authority (ISA) began on March 17, 2025, in Jamaica, bringing together nearly 170 member states and the European Union to address regulations for deep-sea mining. This gathering occurs as mining companies push to access seabed resources. The ISA’s main roles involve creating a mining code and safeguarding the marine environment from potential harm caused by mining operations. Established in 1994, the ISA is an independent body that emerged following the implementation of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) in 1982. Ongoing discussions have left many issues unresolved. A study from November 2024 highlighted over 30 significant concerns related to the draft mining code, focusing on environmental baseline data, compliance measures, and monitoring protocols. Experts have pointed out the absence of agreement on what defines acceptable environmental damage and how to effectively enforce regulations. The meetings, which include the Legal and Technical Commission and the ISA Council, took place from March 17 to 28, 2025.
5. Kanger Valley National Park (KVNP) has been added to the tentative list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, is located in which state?
[A] Gujarat
[B] Odisha
[C] Chhattisgarh
[D] Assam
Correct Answer: C [Chhattisgarh]
Notes:
Kanger Valley National Park (KVNP) has been included in the tentative list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the ‘Natural’ category. Located in the Bastar district of Chhattisgarh, this park is famous for its breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and unique geological features. After experiencing Maoist violence in the past, the area has now become a tranquil spot for tourists. Covering an area of 200 square kilometers, the park boasts varied terrain with elevations ranging from 338 to 781 meters above sea level. It is known for its lush Peninsular Valley Sal forests, steep gorges, and meandering streams. The Kanger River flows through the park, adding to its natural beauty and ecological importance. The park also features a unique karst landscape and displays a complete lithological sequence of the Indravati Group of rock formations, along with attractions like Tirathgarh Falls and the Kanger River.
6. A rare caracal has been recently spotted in Mukundra hills tiger reserve of which state?
[A] Haryana
[B] Himachal Pradesh
[C] Madhya Pradesh
[D] Rajasthan
Correct Answer: D [Rajasthan]
Notes:
Rajasthan’s Forest Minister Sanjay Sharma recently revealed the first photographic evidence of a caracal in the Mukundra Hills Tiger Reserve. This finding highlights the ongoing conservation efforts in the area. The caracal, a medium-sized wild cat, is now considered endangered, with fewer than 50 individuals remaining in India. This sighting occurred during the Winter Phase IV survey in the reserve. Native to Africa, the Middle East, Central Asia, and South Asia, the caracal is a nocturnal species. Its name comes from the Turkish word ‘karakulak’, which means ‘black ears’, a notable characteristic of the cat. Caracals are recognized for their agility, speed, and impressive leaping abilities. They are adept hunters, mainly targeting small ungulates and rodents. These cats have been part of Indian wildlife for centuries, with historical texts like Khamsa-e-Nizami and Shahnameh mentioning them, showcasing their significance in hunting. They once flourished in 13 Indian states across different biotic regions.
7. India’s first Public-Private Partnership (PPP) based green waste processing plant has been set up in which city?
[A] Indore
[B] GIFT City
[C] Mysore
[D] Pondicherry
Correct Answer: A [Indore]
Notes:
Indore has introduced India’s first green waste processing plant through a public-private partnership (PPP) model. This project is part of the Swachh Bharat Mission-Urban and aims to improve urban waste management by turning green waste into useful resources. It marks a significant move towards environmental sustainability and innovation in waste management. The facility, located in Bicholi Hapsi, covers an area of 55,000 square feet and will handle green waste like wood, branches, leaves, and flowers. The Indore Municipal Corporation (IMC) is expected to earn about Rs 3,000 per tonne from the wood and branches supplied. The plant will convert this green waste into wooden pellets, which can be used as a coal alternative. Indore produces around 30 tons of green waste each day, with this amount potentially rising to 60 to 70 tons in autumn. Major institutions will have their green waste collected directly, with a fixed fee structure to simplify the process. The collected green waste will be dried over three to four months, reducing moisture content by 90% to prepare it for further processing.
8. Recently, which country has made breakthrough in clean energy with the discovery of a vast reserve of natural hydrogen (white hydrogen)?
[A] United States
[B] Germany
[C] France
[D] Portugal
Correct Answer: C [France]
Notes:
Recently, France achieved a significant milestone in clean energy by uncovering a large reserve of natural hydrogen in Folschviller, Moselle. This reserve is believed to hold 46 million tons of “white hydrogen,” a naturally occurring gas that serves as a sustainable alternative to conventional hydrogen production methods. White hydrogen is found in the Earth’s crust and does not require industrial processes for its extraction, resulting in zero carbon dioxide emissions when used as fuel. It is also referred to as natural, gold, or geologic hydrogen. This discovery challenges the notion that hydrogen must be produced in labs. White hydrogen has several benefits over grey, blue, and green hydrogen. It is eco-friendly since it generates no CO₂ emissions, works well with current hydrogen infrastructure, and is cost-effective, priced at about $1 per kilogram, in contrast to green hydrogen, which is approximately $6 per kilogram. Its plentiful nature makes it a viable renewable energy source.
9. VARUNA 2025, the 23rd edition of the bilateral naval exercise, has started between India and which country?
[A] United Kingdom
[B] France
[C] United State
[D] Australia
Correct Answer: B [France]
Notes:
VARUNA 2025 is the 23rd edition of the joint naval exercise between India and France, taking place from March 19 to 22, 2025. This event highlights the strong maritime collaboration between the two countries. Since it began in 2001, VARUNA has become an essential platform for improving naval cooperation. This year’s exercise will feature a range of complex maritime operations, showcasing assets from both navies. The Indian aircraft carrier Vikrant and the French Charles de Gaulle will spearhead the activities, supported by fighter jets, destroyers, frigates, and an Indian Scorpene-class submarine. This varied fleet emphasizes the teamwork of both navies. VARUNA 2025 will focus on several key areas, including advanced air defense drills to boost combat readiness, fighter exercises simulating air-to-air combat between the French Rafale-M and Indian MiG-29K, anti-submarine warfare drills to enhance underwater awareness, and surface warfare operations to showcase coordinated maneuvers.
10. The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has recently partnered with which company to upgrade Aadhaar services with advanced AI-driven solutions?
[A] Sarvam AI
[B] Infosys
[C] Tata Elxsi
[D] Avaamo AI
Correct Answer: A [Sarvam AI]
Notes:
The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has teamed up with Sarvam AI, a Generative AI company based in Bengaluru, to enhance Aadhaar services using advanced AI solutions. Starting March 18, 2025, this partnership will bring in AI-driven voice interactions, real-time fraud detection, and support for multiple languages, making Aadhaar services more user-friendly, secure, and efficient. The specially designed GenAI system will function within UIDAI’s secure framework, ensuring data privacy and sovereignty. This agreement, which lasts for one year and can be extended for another year, demonstrates UIDAI’s dedication to embracing technology and focusing on user-centered innovations.
11. Who has been officially named as the ‘Fit India Icon’ by Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya recently?
[A] Ranbir Kapoor
[B] Ayushmann Khurrana
[C] Hardik Pandya
[D] Virat Kohli
Correct Answer: B [Ayushmann Khurrana]
Notes:
Bollywood star Ayushmann Khurrana has been officially designated as the ‘Fit India Icon’ by Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya. This announcement took place at the launch event of the Fit India Movement in New Delhi. At 40 years old, Khurrana is now part of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s initiative, which encourages people to focus on their health and wellness. As the newly appointed Fit India Icon, Ayushmann Khurrana will play a key role in advocating for fitness, mental well-being, and the importance of an active lifestyle. His fame is expected to inspire millions, particularly the youth, to participate in the Fit India movement.
12. Who has been appointed as the Goodwill Ambassador of VISION 2020 India to eliminating avoidable blindness in the country?
[A] Krishnamachari Srikkanth
[B] Virat Kohli
[C] Sachin Tendulkar
[D] Rahul Dravid
Correct Answer: A [Krishnamachari Srikkanth]
Notes:
Krishnamachari Srikkanth, the former captain of the Indian cricket team and a celebrated batsman, has been named the Goodwill Ambassador for VISION 2020 India. This initiative focuses on eradicating preventable blindness in the country. The announcement took place at a special event held at Sankara Nethralaya in Chennai, which is a major partner in the Vision 2020: The Right to Sight-India program. The goal of this initiative is to increase awareness, offer medical support, and guarantee that eye care services are accessible to those affected by avoidable blindness and visual impairment.
13. Recently, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu has recently announced plans to install a 58-foot statue of Potti Sriramulu in which place?
[A] Vijayawada
[B] Visakhapatnam
[C] Kurnool
[D] Amaravati
Correct Answer: D [Amaravati]
Notes:
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu recently revealed plans to erect a 58-foot statue of Potti Sriramulu in Amaravati. This project honors Sriramulu’s significant contribution to the establishment of Andhra Pradesh as a separate linguistic state. His 58-day hunger strike in 1952 sparked political change. This act of sacrifice is remembered each year, solidifying his legacy as a key historical figure. Potti Sriramulu was born on March 16, 1901, in Madras and was a leading activist for the creation of a Telugu-speaking state. His hunger strike started on October 19, 1952, and concluded on December 15, 1952, resulting in widespread riots in the area. The unrest prompted Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru to declare the formation of Andhra Pradesh on October 1, 1953.
14. Who has presented the 19th Ramnath Goenka Excellence in Journalism Awards 2023?
[A] Smt Droupadi Murmu
[B] Sri Narendra Modi
[C] Sri Amit Shah
[D] Sri Rajnath Singh
Correct Answer: A [Smt Droupadi Murmu]
Notes:
The Ramnath Goenka Excellence in Journalism Awards 2023 honored exceptional journalism in India. This esteemed event highlighted remarkable stories across different sectors. Award recipients were acknowledged for their bravery and dedication to revealing the truth. The ceremony was held in New Delhi, with President Droupadi Murmu serving as the Chief Guest. These awards were created by the Ramnath Goenka Foundation to celebrate journalistic accomplishments. They encompass 13 categories, such as investigative journalism, sports, politics, and feature writing. This year, 20 impactful stories were chosen for their quality. The awards seek to motivate journalists to strive for excellence in their work. The jury for this 19th edition included notable individuals like Justice B N Srikrishna, Prof C Raj Kumar, and Dr S Y Quraishi. Their varied expertise allowed for a thorough assessment of the submissions, covering stories from different regions and languages to ensure a broad representation of Indian journalism.
15. Which US state was the first to use nitrogen gas for the execution of Jessie Hoffman Jr.?
[A] Georgia
[B] Louisiana
[C] Florida
[D] California
Correct Answer: B [Louisiana]
Notes:
Louisiana executed Jessie Hoffman Jr., 46, using nitrogen gas, marking the state’s first execution in 15 years. This method has only been used four times in the U.S., all in Alabama, which is the only other state with a protocol for it. This execution is Louisiana’s first since 2010 and the second in the country to use nitrogen hypoxia. The shift to this method is due to difficulties in obtaining lethal injection drugs. Nitrogen hypoxia occurs when a person inhales a large amount of nitrogen, displacing oxygen in the body and resulting in death. Some officials believe this process allows for a quick loss of consciousness, making it more humane than other methods. However, medical professionals caution that it is uncertain when or if a person will lose consciousness from inhaling nitrogen, and they also note that the lack of oxygen can lead to seizures, which have been observed in individuals with low oxygen levels.
16. What is India’s rank in the global free speech index?
[A] 24th
[B] 25th
[C] 26th
[D] 27th
Correct Answer: A [24th]
Notes:
A recent global survey by the U.S.-based think tank The Future of Free Speech ranked India 24th out of 33 countries in its Free Speech Index. The survey, conducted in October 2024, found that although free speech support in India has declined since 2021, a majority of Indians believe it has improved. The report, titled “Who in the World Supports Free Speech?”, highlights the gap between public perception and actual protections for free speech in India, alongside broader global trends showing democratic backsliding in various nations.
17. Which ministry has introduced WAVEX 2025, an initiative aimed at empowering startups in the media and entertainment (M&E) sector?
[A] Ministry of Finance
[B] Ministry of Industry and Commerce
[C] Ministry of Information & Broadcasting
[D] Ministry of Science and Technology
Correct Answer: C [Ministry of Information & Broadcasting]
Notes:
The Union Ministry of Information & Broadcasting (MIB) has launched WAVEX 2025, an innovative program aimed at assisting media and entertainment startups with funding, mentorship, and nationwide visibility. This initiative, developed in partnership with the Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI), will take place at the Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai from May 1-4, 2025, during the World Audio-Visual Entertainment Summit (WAVES). Startups will have the chance to present their ideas to venture capitalists and celebrity angel investors, gaining significant exposure through national television broadcasts. WAVEX 2025 will concentrate on areas such as gaming, animation, extended reality (XR), the metaverse, generative AI, and next-gen content platforms, providing mentorship, collaboration, and investment opportunities to enhance India’s media-tech landscape.
18. Which state government has sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation in New Delhi?
[A] Andhra Pradesh
[B] Telangana
[C] Tamil Nadu
[D] Karnataka
Correct Answer: A [Andhra Pradesh]
Notes:
The Andhra Pradesh Government is set to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation in New Delhi. This agreement represents a significant advancement in incorporating Artificial Intelligence (AI), digital technologies, and data-driven governance in essential areas such as healthcare, education, agriculture, and employment. Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu will meet with Bill Gates, the founder of the Gates Foundation, to explore potential collaboration. Their discussions will aim to utilize AI and digital technology to improve governance in Andhra Pradesh, create job opportunities, and enhance service delivery. This partnership is anticipated to foster innovation, increase efficiency, and promote transparency in public administration and vital development sectors.
19. The much-anticipated Kabaddi World Cup 2025 is set to commence in which country?
[A] India
[B] England
[C] Italy
[D] China
Correct Answer: B [England]
Notes:
The much-anticipated Kabaddi World Cup 2025 begins tonight in England, marking a historic moment as it is the first time the event takes place outside of Asia. The Indian men’s team will launch their journey against Italy in Wolverhampton, situated in the West Midlands. Throughout the next week, the tournament will feature over 60 matches across several venues, including Birmingham, Coventry, Walsall, and Wolverhampton.
20. Which Indian women long-distance runner has been handed a four-year ban by World Athletics’ Athlete Integrity Unit (AIU) recently?
[A] Natasha Mahar
[B] Smita Kulkarni
[C] Archana Jadhav
[D] Shivani Verma
Correct Answer: C [Archana Jadhav]
Notes:
Indian long-distance runner Archana Jadhav has received a four-year suspension from the World Athletics’ Athletes Integrity Unit (AIU) after testing positive for the prohibited substance Oxandrolone. This ruling, effective from January 7, 2025, was made after she did not challenge the doping allegations despite several notifications. Jadhav’s sample was taken during the Pune Half-Marathon in December 2024 and subsequently showed positive results for Oxandrolone, a synthetic anabolic steroid often used to boost muscle development and protein synthesis.
21. Who won the Formula 1 2025 Australia Grand Prix?
[A] Lando Norris
[B] M. Verstappen
[C] G. Russell
[D] A.K. Antonelli
Correct Answer: A [Lando Norris]
Notes:
The 2025 Formula 1 season kicked off with an exciting Australian Grand Prix, where Lando Norris achieved a stunning win for McLaren amidst fluctuating weather, numerous crashes, and a heavy rain shower towards the end. After briefly losing the lead to Max Verstappen, Norris fought back to secure his first win of the season. The race featured several retirements, clever pit strategies, and unexpected turns, making it a remarkable start to the season.
Top 5 Race Results:- Lando Norris/McLaren
- Max Verstappen/Red Bull Racing
- George Russell/Mercedes
- Andrea Kimi Antonelli/Mercedes
- Alexander Albon/Williams
22. World Sparrow Day is celebrated every year on which day?
[A] March 17
[B] March 18
[C] March 19
[D] March 20
Correct Answer: D [March 20]
Notes:
World Sparrow Day takes place annually on March 20th to highlight the decreasing numbers of house sparrows and promote conservation actions. This event was launched in 2010 by the Nature Forever Society, a bird conservation group based in India. Since then, it has gained international attention, with over 50 countries engaging in different conservation activities.
23. When is Ordnance Factory Day observed every year?
[A] March 17
[B] March 18
[C] March 19
[D] March 20
Correct Answer: B [March 18]
Notes:
Ordnance Factory Day is celebrated annually on March 18 to mark the founding of the first Ordnance Factory in colonial India, established near Kolkata in 1801. This day emphasizes the research, development, and production strengths of the Indian Ordnance Factories, which are vital to strengthening India’s defense sector. The oldest Ordnance Factory, situated in Cossipore, Kolkata, started operations on March 18, 1802. In 2021, the Ordnance Factory Board (OFB) was reorganized into seven Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) to enhance efficiency and promote self-reliance in defense manufacturing.
