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1. In which state of North India will India set up its first nuclear power plant?
[A] Haryana
[B] Himachal Pradesh
[C] Bihar
[D] Rajasthan
Correct Answer: A [Haryana]
Notes:
Union Minister Jitendra Singh has revealed that the first nuclear power project in North India is being established in Gorakhpur, Haryana. India is making notable progress in nuclear energy with the development of the Jaitapur Nuclear Power Plant in Maharashtra and the Gorakhpur Nuclear Power Project in Haryana, which is the first of its kind in the northern region. The Indian government is pushing forward its nuclear energy plans with these two significant projects: the Jaitapur Nuclear Power Plant in Maharashtra and the Gorakhpur Nuclear Power Project in Fatehabad District, Haryana. Once operational, the Jaitapur plant is expected to provide 10% of India’s goal of 100 GW of nuclear energy by 2047, while the Gorakhpur project represents a strategic move into new areas. Addressing issues related to environmental effects, safety, and nuclear liability, Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized the government’s dedication to clean and sustainable energy and highlighted the role of private sector involvement in speeding up the growth of nuclear energy.
2. Which country has surpassed the UAE as the leading source of remittances, accounting for 27.7% of India’s total inflows in 2023-24?
[A] United States
[B] Australia
[C] United Kingdom
[D] Canada
Correct Answer: A [United States]
Notes:
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has published the findings from the sixth round of India’s Remittances Survey (2023-24), indicating a change in migration patterns. There is a notable increase in the number of skilled professionals moving abroad, which has resulted in higher remittances from developed countries, now exceeding those from Gulf nations. The United States has become the largest source of remittances, contributing 27.7% of the total inflows to India for 2023-24. The United Arab Emirates, which was previously the leading contributor, is now in second place with a 19.2% share. Other significant contributors include the UK, Singapore, Canada, and Australia, which together make up over 50% of total remittances. The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman, and Bahrain, now account for 37.9% of remittances, a decrease from 46.7% in 2016-17.
3. Which Zoological Park has recently launched India’s first frozen zoo?
[A] Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, Darjeeling
[B] Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens (Mysuru Zoo)
[C] National Zoological Park, Delhi
[D] Nehru Zoological Park, Hyderabad
Correct Answer: A [Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, Darjeeling]
Notes:
Darjeeling’s Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park has introduced India’s first frozen zoo. This groundbreaking facility is designed to safeguard the genetic material of endangered species from the Himalayas. In partnership with the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology in Hyderabad, the zoo will preserve DNA samples in liquid nitrogen at a chilling minus 196 degrees Celsius. This project aims to prevent the extinction of species such as red pandas and snow leopards. A frozen zoo functions as a genetic cryobank, securely storing DNA, sperm, eggs, and embryos from endangered animals to maintain their genetic diversity. The primary goal is to protect these species that are at risk of vanishing. The materials are stored at extremely low temperatures to ensure their viability.
4. The Lok Sabha Secretariat and which ministry has signed an agreement to launch the ‘Sansad Bhashini’ initiative?
[A] Ministry of Home
[B] Ministry of Science and Technology
[C] Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY)
[D] Ministry of Current Affairs
Correct Answer: C [Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY)]
Notes:
The Lok Sabha Secretariat and the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MEITY) have entered into a partnership for the ‘Sansad Bhashini’ project, which leverages AI to enhance multilingual support and streamline parliamentary operations. This initiative aims to make parliamentary documents more accessible to both Members of Parliament (MPs) and the general public. It boasts several cutting-edge features, including the smooth translation of various parliamentary materials such as past debates, committee discussions, and agenda documents. Additionally, it includes an AI-driven chatbot designed to help MPs and officials quickly find procedural rules and relevant documents.
5. Which ministry has recently launched the Rashtriya Karmayogi Jan Seva Programme?
[A] Ministry of Ayush
[B] Ministry of Current Affairs
[C] Ministry of Finance
[D] Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
Correct Answer: A [Ministry of Ayush]
Notes:
On March 18, 2025, the Ministry of Ayush initiated the inaugural cohort of the Rashtriya Karmayogi Jan Seva Programme, aimed at fostering a more accountable and citizen-focused workforce. The program was officially launched by Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, the Secretary of the Ministry, as part of the Capacity Building Commission’s efforts. This initiative emphasizes the principle of “Seva Bhav” (service) and is designed to enhance the skills and broaden the outlook of public servants. Key areas of focus include service delivery, personal development, stress management, and the efficient provision of services.
6. Which institution has recently launched the “Samarth Incubation Programme”?
[A] NITI Aayog
[B] Department of Science and Technology
[C] Indian Institute of Science (IISc)
[D] Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT)
Correct Answer: D [Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT)]
Notes:
The Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DoT) has introduced the “Samarth” incubation program aimed at fostering innovation and local research in telecommunications and Information Technology (IT). Startups that are registered with the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) under the Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry can apply for this program. Selected startups will receive a grant of up to Rs 5 lakh and will have access to fully equipped office space for six months at the C-DOT Campus. They will also benefit from C-DOT Lab facilities and receive guidance from C-DOT’s technical leaders and industry experts. Additionally, if chosen, the startups will have the chance to collaborate in the future through the C-DOT Collaborative Research Program.
7. Recently, India and which country have reinforced their defence cooperation by enhancing interoperability across land, air, and maritime domains?
[A] Singapore
[B] Sri Lanka
[C] Japan
[D] Australia
Correct Answer: D [Australia]
Notes:
India and Australia have strengthened their defense collaboration by improving interoperability in land, air, and maritime areas. The 9th India-Australia Defence Policy Talks, which took place in New Delhi on March 17, 2025, aimed at enhancing maritime security and information sharing between the two countries. Both nations committed to bolstering their defense cooperation and interoperability across various domains. The discussions highlighted the importance of maritime domain awareness, mutual information exchange, and collaboration in science and technology. Additionally, the meeting reviewed previous defense dialogues and established priorities for future engagements, including the upcoming 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue in Australia.
8. Which company has signed a memorandum of understanding with Sagar Defence Engineering, an Indian start-up?
[A] Liquid Robotics
[B] Nvidia
[C] KUKA
[D] Boston Dynamics
Correct Answer: A [Liquid Robotics]
Notes:
Boeing’s Liquid Robotics has signed a memorandum of understanding with Sagar Defence Engineering, an Indian start-up. This partnership aims to design and produce autonomous surface vessels, representing a major step forward in US-India defense ties. The agreement aligns with the US-India Roadmap for Defence Industrial Cooperation and focuses on enhancing undersea domain awareness. The Wave Glider ASV platform will undergo testing in ocean environments, and a maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) facility will be established. This initiative aims to bolster production capabilities in the Indo-Pacific region.
9. Which financial regulator body has recently introduced a collaboration with DigiLocker to enhance investor protection?
[A] Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
[B] Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI)
[C] National Housing Bank (NHB)
[D] Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (IBBI)
Correct Answer: B [Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI)]
Notes:
The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has teamed up with DigiLocker to improve how investors access their securities holdings and to decrease the number of unclaimed assets in the Indian securities market. This collaboration allows investors to securely store and easily retrieve their demat holdings, mutual fund statements, and Consolidated Account Statements (CAS) via DigiLocker, providing convenient access to their financial data. Furthermore, SEBI has launched a nomination feature that permits investors to designate legal heirs for a smoother transfer of assets, with the help of KYC Registration Agencies (KRAs). This initiative is designed to boost investor protection and financial transparency while reducing unclaimed assets.
10. The Cabinet has recently approved the establishment of the NAMRUP-IV Fertilizer Unit in which state?
[A] Assam
[B] West Bengal
[C] Bihar
[D] Jharkhand
Correct Answer: A [Assam]
Notes:
The Union Cabinet, headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has given the green light for a new Brownfield Ammonia-Urea Complex (Namrup-IV) at Brahmaputra Valley Fertilizer Corporation Limited (BVFCL) in Namrup, Assam. This plant will have an annual capacity of 12.7 Lakh Metric Tonnes (LMT) and will be established as a Joint Venture (JV) under the New Investment Policy (NIP) 2012. The total estimated cost of the project is ₹10,601.40 crore, with a Debt-Equity ratio of 70:30. The facility is anticipated to be operational within 48 months, significantly enhancing domestic Urea production, increasing fertilizer availability in Eastern India, and generating new job opportunities.
11. Who has been appointed as the new Executive Director (ED) of the Reserve Bank of India?
[A] Nisha Varma
[B] Vkram Rathod
[C] Indranil Bhattacharyya
[D] Vedavathi M
Correct Answer: C [Indranil Bhattacharyya]
Notes:
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has named Indranil Bhattacharyya as its new Executive Director (ED), starting on March 19, 2025. In this position, he will lead the Department of Economic and Policy Research. Bhattacharyya, an experienced economist and policy specialist, will oversee this important division that plays a key role in developing monetary policies and conducting economic research.
12. Who has been re-appointed as an Independent Director of Fino Payments Bank (FPB) for a second term?
[A] Deena Mehta
[B] Surekha Rathod
[C] Varshini Rao
[D] Sindhu Gupta
Correct Answer: A [Deena Mehta]
Notes:
Fino Payments Bank (FPB) has re-elected Deena Mehta as an Independent Director for a second term, which will run from March 19, 2025, to March 18, 2028. Mehta, who has extensive experience in finance and securities law, has been instrumental in transforming India’s capital markets. She has significantly impacted the sector, notably through her involvement in the launch of the BOLT trading system at the Bombay Stock Exchange and the creation of Central Depository Services (CDSL). Her deep knowledge of finance, securities law, and capital market operations makes her an invaluable member of FPB’s board.
13. The ‘Watan Ko Jano’ program was recently organized by which state/UT government?
[A] Ladakh
[B] Jammu & Kashmir
[C] Himachal Pradesh
[D] Punjab
Correct Answer: B [Jammu & Kashmir]
Notes:
The ‘Watan Ko Jano’ initiative, organized by the Government of Jammu and Kashmir with funding from the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India, seeks to promote national integration by introducing children under 18 from government-run homes to the diverse cultural, historical, and technological progress found in other regions of the country. This program has effectively encouraged unity among young people in India, contributing to a more inclusive and harmonious society.
14. Which country has secured the top position in the Global Happiness Ranking for the eighth consecutive year?
[A] Sweden
[B] Iceland
[C] Finland
[D] Japan
Correct Answer: C [Finland]
Notes:
Finland has maintained its title as the happiest country in the world for the eighth year in a row, as shown in the latest global happiness rankings. This study, carried out by the Wellbeing Research Centre at the University of Oxford in partnership with Gallup and the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network, found that the United States has fallen to its lowest ranking ever, now at 24th place. The rankings reflect individuals’ evaluations of their quality of life, focusing on aspects like social trust, economic stability, and life expectancy. The 2024 World Happiness Report has confirmed that Finland remains the happiest country globally. Following Finland, the top five also includes other Nordic countries: Denmark, Iceland, Sweden, and the Netherlands.
15. Which state government has introduced India’s first industry-driven digital detox program named “Beyond Screens”?
[A] Andhra Pradesh
[B] Telangana
[C] Karnataka
[D] Gujarat
Correct Answer: C [Karnataka]
Notes:
Karnataka’s IT Minister, Priyank Kharge, inaugurated “Beyond Screens,” India’s inaugural industry-driven digital detox initiative, on Tuesday. This program, developed in partnership with the All India Gaming Federation (AIGF) and the Department of Electronics, IT, Biotechnology, and Science and Technology, advocates for responsible gaming and mindful digital consumption. Its primary objective is to address digital addiction by promoting a balanced approach to technology usage. The initiative was unveiled at GAFX 2025 (Games, Animation, and Visual Effects) and features a specialized digital detox center along with a dedicated website.
16. Which day is the International Day of Happiness celebrated every year?
[A] March 17
[B] March 18
[C] March 19
[D] March 20
Correct Answer: D [March 20]
Notes:
The International Day of Happiness is observed annually on March 20 to highlight happiness as a key human objective. The United Nations (UN) acknowledges the role of well-being and sustainable development in enhancing global happiness. This day serves as a reminder for governments, organizations, and individuals to make happiness a priority in their policies and everyday actions. Happiness is vital for human life and overall well-being. Understanding its importance, the United Nations General Assembly passed a resolution on July 12, 2012, designating March 20 as the International Day of Happiness. This initiative seeks to promote a more inclusive, fair, and balanced approach to economic growth while supporting sustainable development and the fight against poverty.
17. On which day does the United Nations (UN) celebrate French Language Day?
[A] March 18
[B] March 19
[C] March 20
[D] March 21
Correct Answer: C [March 20]
Notes:
On March 20, 2025, the United Nations (UN) is observe French Language Day, which emphasizes the value of multilingualism, cultural diversity, and education. The International Organization of La Francophonie (OIF) has selected the theme “I educate myself, therefore I act” for the 2025 event, highlighting education’s vital role in sustainable development and global peace. The UN Language Days were established in 2010 to encourage multilingualism and celebrate cultural diversity. The UN recognizes six official languages and assigns a special day to each: Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, and Spanish. These observances aim to increase awareness of the history, culture, and global importance of these languages.
18. What is the rank of India in the ‘World Happiness Index 2025?
[A] 116th
[B] 118th
[C] 128th
[D] 126th
Correct Answer: B [118th]
Notes:
According to the World Happiness Report 2025, India is ranked 118th out of 147 countries. This is an improvement from last year’s 126th position, but India still falls behind nations like Nepal, Pakistan, Ukraine, and Palestine.
