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1. The Department of Posts, Government of India, recently released a commemorative postage stamp to mark which birth anniversary of Mata Karma?
[A] 1007th
[B] 1008th
[C] 1009th
[D] 1010th
Correct Answer: C [1009th]
Notes:
The Government of India’s Department of Posts has released a commemorative postage stamp honoring Mata Karma, a respected saint, social reformer, and devoted disciple of Lord Krishna. The stamp was launched during a special ceremony in Raipur, celebrating her 1009th birth anniversary. The event saw the presence of notable figures, including Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai and Union Minister of State for Housing & Urban Affairs Tokhan Sahu. This stamp release emphasizes Mata Karma’s lasting impact on Indian culture and spirituality.
2. Which of the following has entered into a partnership with the Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) to offer digital insurance repository services?
[A] Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
[B] State Bank of India (SBI)
[C] Central Depository Services Limited (CDSL)
[D] Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI)
Correct Answer: C [Central Depository Services Limited (CDSL)]
Notes:
Centrico Insurance Repository, part of Central Depository Services Limited (CDSL), has teamed up with the Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) to deliver digital insurance repository services. This partnership is designed to simplify policy management. By signing this agreement, they aim to improve paperless policy management, allowing policyholders to store and update their policies online. This initiative is anticipated to enhance digital access and efficiency within the insurance industry.
3. In which year was the ‘Control of Pollution’ scheme launched?
[A] 2017
[B] 2018
[C] 2019
[D] 2020
Correct Answer: B [2018]
Notes:
Launched in 2018, the ‘Control of Pollution’ scheme aims to monitor air, water, and noise pollution across India.A recent report from Parliament raises alarms about the funding for pollution control in India. The Union Environment Ministry has allocated Rs 858 crore for the ‘Control of Pollution’ initiative for the financial year 2024-25. However, less than 1% of this budget has been utilized due to delays in getting approvals for the scheme’s extension. This situation has raised concerns about the effectiveness of efforts to combat air pollution, which is a major problem in several cities, especially Delhi. It is part of the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP), which targets a 40% reduction in particulate pollution in 131 cities by 2026 compared to 2019-20 levels. The scheme is fully funded by the central government. The parliamentary committee expressed disappointment over the minimal use of funds. The delay in approving the scheme’s extension has hindered the release of the allocated budget, with only Rs 7.22 crore spent to date, casting doubt on the ministry’s ability to effectively address air quality issues.
4. Which zoo in India has launched the cryogenic preservation of wildlife DNA samples for the first time?
[A] Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens, Mysore
[B] Sri Venkateswara Zoological Park, Tirupati
[C] Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, Darjeeling
[D] Bhagwan Birsa Biological Park, Ranchi
Correct Answer: C [Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, Darjeeling]
Notes:
The Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park in Darjeeling has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first zoo in India to preserve DNA samples from wildlife that lives in snowy areas. This groundbreaking project, carried out in collaboration with the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB) in Hyderabad, is designed to support conservation efforts for endangered species. Chief Wildlife Warden Debal Roy announced that 60 DNA samples from native animals, such as red pandas and snow leopards, have already been gathered. This cryogenic conservation initiative will facilitate future research and genetic studies, ensuring that the genetic material of species at risk of extinction is safeguarded.
5. Which ministry has introduced the “Balpan ki Kavita” initiative?
[A] Ministry of Education
[B] Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment
[C] Ministry of Science and Technology
[D] Ministry of Current Affairs
Correct Answer: A [Ministry of Education]
Notes:
The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 emphasizes the importance of providing universal access to high-quality Early Childhood Education and promoting multilingualism in primary schooling. In response to this, the Department of School Education & Literacy (DoSE&L) within the Ministry of Education has introduced the “Balpan ki Kavita” initiative. This program seeks to compile a diverse collection of nursery rhymes and poems in all Indian languages as well as English. The initiative prioritizes cultural relevance to Indian society, thereby enhancing the learning experience during the foundational years. It aims to facilitate children’s comprehension of their environment through engaging and easily accessible poems in their native languages.
6. Which country has recently launched the ‘Digital Excellence for Growth and Enterprise’ (Dx-EDGE) initiative?
[A] France
[B] India
[C] China
[D] Japan
Correct Answer: B [India]
Notes:
India has recently introduced the ‘Digital Excellence for Growth and Enterprise’ (Dx-EDGE) initiative. This program is designed to equip micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) with vital digital tools and knowledge. It is a joint effort by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), NITI Aayog, and the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE). The initiative focuses on improving MSME performance through digital transformation, enhancing their competitiveness and resilience. The main objective of Dx-EDGE is to prepare MSMEs for the future by providing access to advanced technology and digital skills. It aims to promote innovation and skill development throughout the country. This platform plays a crucial role in India’s aspiration to become a developed nation, known as Viksit Bharat.
7. India’s First National Cooperative University will be established in which state?
[A] Rajasthan
[B] Telangana
[C] Gujarat
[D] Assam
Correct Answer: C [Gujarat]
Notes:
The Lok Sabha has recently approved the Tribhuvan Sahkari University Bill, 2025, which represents a significant advancement in cooperative education in India. This initiative aims to create the nation’s first national cooperative university at the Institute of Rural Management Anand (IRMA) in Gujarat. The university will focus on improving education, research, and training within the cooperative sector across the country. The Tribhuvan Sahkari University will act as a center for cooperative training and will recognize cooperative training institutes in all states as affiliated colleges. It will provide degree, diploma, and PhD programs, with an expectation of certifying around 800,000 individuals each year. The university is named in honor of Tribhuvandas Kishibhai Patel, a key figure in India’s cooperative movement and the founder of Amul. Patel’s cooperative model revolutionized the dairy industry and strengthened rural economies. Amul’s evolution from a small cooperative to a prominent dairy brand showcases the potential of cooperative societies.
8. Which organization has developed the Vertically-Launched Short-Range Surface-to-Air Missile (VL-SRSAM)?
[A] Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)
[B] Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)
[C] Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL)
[D] Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)
Correct Answer: D [Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)]
Notes:
On March 26, 2025, the Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Indian Navy carried out a successful flight test of the Vertically-Launched Short-Range Surface-to-Air Missile (VLSRSAM) at the Integrated Test Range (ITR) in Chandipur, Odisha. This event signifies a significant enhancement in India’s defense capabilities. The VLSRSAM is a domestically developed missile intended for short-range air defense, created by the DRDO. It can effectively target various aerial threats at low altitudes and utilizes advanced technologies, including a homegrown Radio Frequency seeker, which improves its ability to identify and engage targets. The test was conducted using a land-based vertical launcher, with the missile targeting a high-speed aerial object at close range. It successfully showcased its Near-Boundary-Low Altitude capability, demonstrating impressive agility and accuracy as it executed a high turn rate to hit the target.
9. Recently, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi inaugurated the new North Jetty at the Naval Base in which place?
[A] Mumbai
[B] Kochi
[C] Port Blair
[D] Kolkata
Correct Answer: B [Kochi]
Notes:
Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi, the Chief of Naval Staff, inaugurated the new North Jetty at the Naval Base in Kochi on March 27, 2025. This jetty is designed to enhance the berthing capacity and support services for naval and auxiliary vessels, thereby strengthening India’s maritime capabilities and operational efficiency. The North Jetty is a key enhancement to the Southern Naval Command’s facilities, measuring 300 meters in length and 18 meters in width, which allows it to accommodate various types of naval ships. This improvement boosts berthing and logistical operations at the Kochi Naval Base. An official announcement highlighted that the jetty will offer the Indian Navy increased operational flexibility, enabling faster turnaround times for major naval vessels and enhancing maritime security efforts in the southern region.
10. The Ministry of Rural Development has signed an agreement with which organization to empower rural women and youth in India?
[A] New Development Bank
[B] World Bank
[C] International Monetary Fund (IMF)
[D] UNICEF YuWaah
Correct Answer: D [UNICEF YuWaah]
Notes:
The Ministry of Rural Development (MoRD) and UNICEF YuWaah have entered into a Statement of Intent (SOI) aimed at empowering rural women and youth throughout India. This three-year partnership will focus on creating job opportunities, fostering entrepreneurship, and improving digital infrastructure in rural areas.
The collaboration between MoRD and UNICEF YuWaah aims to:
- Strengthen job opportunities for women in Self-Help Groups (SHGs) through employment, self-employment, and entrepreneurship.
- Increase the participation of women in the rural workforce.
- Develop digital infrastructure with initiatives such as Computer Didi Centers and Didi ki Dukan.
- Enhance youth skills and job access through innovative platforms like Youth Hub.
- Support the government’s Lakhpati Didi initiative to help women become successful entrepreneurs.
11. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has recently officially sworn in as the first female president of which country?
[A] Namibia
[B] Uganda
[C] Eritrea
[D] Nigeria
Correct Answer: A [Namibia]
Notes:
On March 21, 2025, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah was inaugurated as Namibia’s first female president, a significant milestone for the nation. This event took place on the same day as Namibia celebrated its 35th Independence Day. Nandi-Ndaitwah, a long-time member of the South West Africa People’s Organisation (SWAPO), secured her position by winning the November 2024 elections with 58% of the votes. The former president, Nangolo Mbumba, officially transferred power during a ceremony that was attended by various African leaders. Nandi-Ndaitwah recognized that while Namibia has made strides since gaining independence in 1990, there are still many challenges to address. Her administration aims to reduce youth unemployment by creating 500,000 jobs over the next five years, focusing on investments in agriculture, fishing, and the creative industries.
12. Which organization has recently appointed Rahul Bhave as its Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer?
[A] Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
[B] Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI)
[C] IDBI Bank
[D] Industrial Finance Corporation of India (IFCI)
Correct Answer: D [Industrial Finance Corporation of India (IFCI)]
Notes:
The government has approved the appointment of Rahul Bhave as the Managing Director (MD) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Industrial Finance Corporation of India (IFCI). Bhave, who previously held the position of Deputy Managing Director, will begin a three-year term upon assuming his new role. This decision was endorsed by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC), chaired by the Prime Minister.
13. Which bank has named S. K. Majumdar as its Executive Director?
[A] State Bank of India
[B] Reserve Bank of India
[C] Canara Bank
[D] Punjab National Bank
Correct Answer: C [Canara Bank]
Notes:
Canara Bank has appointed S. K. Majumdar as its Executive Director, starting March 24, 2025. With more than 25 years of banking experience, Majumdar was previously the bank’s Chief Financial Officer. This appointment demonstrates the bank’s dedication to enhancing its leadership team. Majumdar has been instrumental in various administrative and operational roles within the organization, and his strong background in finance and leadership is anticipated to greatly benefit the bank’s ongoing growth and governance.
14. What rank has GIFT City secured in the latest Global Financial Centres Index (GFCI 37)?
[A] 26th
[B] 36th
[C] 46th
[D] 56th
Correct Answer: C [46th]
Notes:
Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City) has achieved notable advancements in the recent Global Financial Centers Index (GFCI 37), solidifying its status as a rising global financial center. Its overall ranking has climbed from 52nd to 46th, outpacing other prominent Indian financial hubs such as Mumbai, which is ranked 52nd, and Delhi, which is at 60th.
15. Which state government has plans to conduct its first-ever census to gather data on drug addiction?
[A] Karnataka
[B] Assam
[C] Maharashtra
[D] Punjab
Correct Answer: D [Punjab]
Notes:
Punjab’s Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema has introduced the state’s first drug census. This initiative is designed to evaluate the level of drug use and the success of de-addiction services. It is part of a larger plan to tackle the drug problem in Punjab, which is seen as an obstacle to the state’s development. The announcement came alongside the presentation of a ₹2.36 trillion budget for the fiscal year 2025-26, which prioritizes health and anti-drug programs. The Punjab government intends to carry out a thorough drug census that will collect information from every household in the state. This census will examine drug usage, the utilization of de-addiction centers, and socio-economic factors. The aim is to create a focused approach to effectively address drug abuse. This initiative demonstrates the government’s dedication to tackling a significant social issue through a scientific lens. The proposed budget for FY 2025-26 amounts to ₹2,36,080 crore, with a strong focus on health and anti-drug efforts. Importantly, no new taxes have been introduced. Additionally, the budget allocates ₹5,598 crore specifically for the health sector, reflecting a 10% increase from the previous year to enhance health services throughout Punjab.
16. Which state government has recently launched AI Chatbot ‘Sarathi,’ for its citizen services?
[A] Rajasthan
[B] Haryana
[C] Gujarat
[D] Kerala
Correct Answer: B [Haryana]
Notes:
The Haryana government has introduced ‘Sarathi,’ an AI-based chatbot aimed at making it easier for the public to access government documents and policies. This initiative, initiated by Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, is part of a larger effort to modernize governance through the use of artificial intelligence (AI). The chatbot offers quick access to over 17,820 government documents, helping to simplify the process of retrieving notifications, orders, acts, and policies, and decreasing reliance on conventional bureaucratic methods.
17. Which state police department has recently launched a Mobile App for transparent transfers?
[A] Gujarat
[B] Andhra Pradesh
[C] West Bengal
[D] Punjab
Correct Answer: C [West Bengal]
Notes:
To improve transparency and efficiency in police transfers, the West Bengal Police has launched a new mobile application. This app works with the e-HRMS software, allowing police staff, from constables to sub-inspectors, to submit their transfer requests online. The initiative seeks to reduce issues like bribery and favoritism in the transfer process, making it more straightforward and fair for all personnel.
18. Who won the bronze medal for India in the Greco-Roman 97 kg category at the Senior Asian Wrestling Championship 2025?
[A] Bajrang Punia
[B] David Dennis
[C] Marc Raimondi
[D] Nitesh Siwach
Correct Answer: D [Nitesh Siwach]
Notes:
India achieved its second bronze medal at the Senior Asian Wrestling Championship 2025 held in Amman, Jordan, with Nitesh Siwach competing in the Greco-Roman 97 kg category. Previously, Sunil Kumar secured the first bronze for India in the men’s Greco-Roman 87 kg category by defeating Jiaxin Huang from China with a score of 5-1. This brings India’s total medal count at the Asian Wrestling Championships to five. Both Nitesh (97 kg) and Sunil Kumar (87 kg) earned bronze medals on the initial two days of the event.
19. Who has recently announced his retirement from professional badminton?
[A] Pranaav Jerry Chopra
[B] Chirag Shetty
[C] B Sumeeth Reddy
[D] Satwiksairaj Rankireddy
Correct Answer: C [B Sumeeth Reddy]
Notes:
India’s doubles badminton expert B Sumeeth Reddy has declared his retirement from professional play to focus entirely on coaching. A significant figure in India’s badminton scene, Sumeeth contributed to the team that won a silver medal at the 2022 Commonwealth Games and enjoyed a successful career lasting more than ten years. He announced this decision on social media, sharing his appreciation and enthusiasm for the new phase of his life.
20. On which day is World Theatre Day observed each year?
[A] March 25
[B] March 26
[C] March 27
[D] March 28
Correct Answer: C [March 27]
Notes:
World Theatre Day is observed every year on March 27 to recognize the art of theatre and its creators. The International Theatre Institute (ITI) was established on this day in 1961, choosing March 27 to mark the opening of the “Theatre of Nations” season in Paris in 1962. Since then, it has been celebrated annually.