January '25 - Till Jan 21 Flashcards

Question 1

Q

World’s youngest female to scale 7 highest peaks in all 7 continents

Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Shakti Puraskar - India’s Highest National Honour for young achievers

Answer

A

Kaamya Karthikeyan (17-year old)

After Climbing:
- Mount Vinson Massif Antartica
- Mt Kilimanjaro Australia
- Mt Elbrus Europe
- Mt Aconcagua South America
- Mt Denali North America
- Mt Everest Asia

Question 2

Q

India’s 1st bowstring arch glass bridge inaugurated in

Answer

A

Kanniyakumari, Tamilnadu

inaugurated by MK Stalin
b/w 133-foot Thiruvalluvar Statue (declared as Statue of Wisdom during its silver jubilee celebration) & Vivekananda Rock Memorial
cost: Rs. 37 crores; length: 77 m; width: 10 m
About Tamil Nadu(TN) :
Chief Minister (CM) – Muthuvel Karunanidhi Stalin
Governor – Ravindra Narayana Ravi
Folk Dance – Bharatanatyam, Karagattam, Bommalattam, Kavadi Attam, Oyilattam

Question 3

Q

National e-Governance Division (NeGD) and Indian Ports Association to increase ________

Answer

A

Digital adoption in India’s Maritime sector

NeGD comes under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MEITY)

i. The collaboration aims to modernize India’s ports by merging NeGD’s tech expertise with IPA’s maritime insights, using real-time data, advanced analytics, and system integration to address outdated systems and enhance efficiency and competitiveness.

ii. NeGDwas established in 2009 under the Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY) and operates as an independent business unit of the Digital India Corporation (DIC).

iii. IPA was founded in 1966 under the Societies Registration Act 1860, operates under the supervision of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways (MoPSW).

Question 4

Q

18th _____ to increase Defence Cooperation held in Saljhandi, Nepal

About Nepal:
Prime Minister(PM)– KP Sharma Oli
President- Ram Chandra Poudel
Capital- Kathmandu
Currency- Nepalese Rupee(NPR)

Answer

A

Surya Kiran

India - Nepal Military Exercise

Participant: 11th Gorakha Rifles (A contingent of 334 personnel from the 11th Gorkha Rifles Regiment of the IA will
represent India.)
annual bilateral military exercise, alternatively hosted by the Indian Army and Nepali Army
the exercise focuses on joint operations, particularly in jungle warfare and counter-terrorism operations on mountains and also emphasises Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR), in alignment with the United Nations Charter
The exercise follows successful visits by General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) of IA to Nepal, and the visit by General Ashok Raj Sigdel, COAS of NA to India.
The 11th Gorkha Rifles holds historical significance as the 1st regiment raised post-independence in 1947.

Question 5

Q

FICCI ; FLO

_____, India’s 6th largest private sector bank in partnership with Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry(FICCI) Ladies Organisation (FLO), largest women’s chamber of commerce in South Asia region, announced the launch of ‘YES PowherUp’, a specialized Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises(MSME) programme designed to empower women entrepreneur in promoting their businesses.

Answer

A

Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry ; FICCI Ladies Organisation

YES Bank Limited

It offers comprehensive financial solutions customized to cater the unique requirements of women-led enterprises.
The programme features specialized Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) loans, premium business accounts, international trade and forex services, investment opportunities, credit card options, and insurance plans.

About Yes Bank Limited:
Managing Director (MD) & Chief Executive Officer (CEO) – Prashant Kumar
Headquarters- Mumbai, Maharashtra
Tagline-Experience our expertise
Established- 2004

About FICCI Ladies Organisation (FICCI FLO):
President- Joyshree Das Verma
Headquarters- New Delhi, Delhi
Established- 1983

Question 6

Q

Director of Indian Agricultural Research Institute

Answer

A

Cherukumalli Srinivas Rao

succeeds Dr. A.K. Singh

About Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI):
The Agricultural Research Institute (ARI) also called Pusa Institute, was founded in 1905 in Pusa, Bihar. In 1911, its name was changed to the Imperial Institute of Agricultural Research. It was then renamed as the Imperial Agricultural Research Institute in 1919. After the Independence of India, it was renamed as the IARI.

It was relocated to New Delhi, Delhi in 1936. It is administered by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR).
Chairman – Ashok Kumar Singh
Headquarters – New Delhi, Delhi

Question 7

Q

ISRO launched _______ into 475 km Low Earth Circular Orbit (LEO) via PSLV-C60 (Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle) rocket [SpaDex mission] from Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh.

About Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV):
PSLV is a 3rd-generation launch vehicle, termed as the ‘Workhorse of Indian Space ISRO‘.The 1st successful launch of PSLV took place in October 1994.

Four stages of PSLV:
i. First Stage (PS1):Uses a solid rocket motor (S139). Augmented with 6 solid strap-on boosters. Provides the initial thrust to lift the rocket (1,750 kg).

ii. Second Stage (PS2):Uses an Earth-storable liquid engine (Vikas engine). Liquid engines are efficient and use less fuel compared to solids.

iii. Third Stage (PS3):A solid rocket motor. Provides additional thrust after the rocket has passed through the atmosphere.

iv. Fourth Stage (PS4):Uses two Earth-storable liquid engines. Responsible for placing the payloads into their final orbit. Can be turned on multiple times to release multiple payloads (e.g., PSLV-C43 mission had 31 satellites released in stages).

Variants of PSLV:
* PSLV-G: Has strap-on boosters for extra thrust.
* PSLV-CA: No strap-on boosters.
* PSLV-XL: Similar to PSLV-G but with larger strap-on boosters. Payload Capacity:
* 1750 kg to Sun-synchronous Polar Orbits (SSO) at an altitude of 600 km.
* 1425 kg to Geosynchronous or Geostationary Orbits (GTO).

Answer

A

SDX01 & SDX02 (spacecrafts of 220 kg each)

Aim of the SpaDex mission: to demonstrate docking, undocking & transfer of electric power b/w docked spacecraft
India is the 4th country in world to develop space docking technology, after Russia, USA, & China
The mission, named Space Docking Experiment (SpaDex), aims to demonstrate the ability to dock 2 small spacecrafts SDX01 and SDX02, in space.

Question 8

Q

China unveiled _____, world’s fastest high speed train prototype developed by China Railway Group (CREC)

Answer

A

CR450 (450 km/hr)

Question 9

Q

Pro-Kabbadi League Season 11 Winner

Answer

A

Haryana Steelers (got 3 crore)

Runner-up: Patna Pirates (got 1.8 crore)

Question 10

Q

1st King Cup International Badminton Open 2024. Final held in Shenzhen, China.

Answer

A

1st: Anders Antosen (World no. 2) [Denmark] ; 1.1 million Renminbi

2nd: Hu Zhe’an [China] ; 5,00,000 Renminbi

3rd: Lakshya Sen (World no. 12) [India] ; Rs 36 lakhs

King Cup International Badminton Open 2024:
i.It is a unique badminton tournament started by two-time Olympic champion Lin Dan (China).
ii.It featured only men’s singles event and witnessed the participation of 8 players.
iii.The tournament is officially registered on the Badminton World Federation (BWF) but is categorised as non-world ranking event, means it does not offer ranking points.

Question 11

Q

World Boxing added _____ as Newest member

Answer

A

Asia

World Boxing formerly known as AIBA: Association Internationale de Boxe Amateur

Question 12

Q

India to host _____ and ______ in New Delhi

Answer

A

World Boxing Cup Final 2025
World Boxing Congress 2025

-These events are scheduled for November 2025, positioning India as a central hub for global boxing development and growing prominence in the sport.

About World Boxing:
President – Boris van der Vorst
Headquarters – Renens, Switzerland
Founded – 2023

Question 13

Q

Ministry of Earth Sciences launched _______ to increase India’s capacity in weather & climate services

Answer

A

Mission Mausam

Budget: Rs. 2000 crores
Term: 2 years
Implemented by:
✓ India Meteorological Department, New Delhi
✓ National Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasting, Noida
✓ Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, Pune
Supported by:
✓ Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services, Hyderabad
✓ National Institute of Ocean Technology, Chennai

Question 14

Q

Great Place to Work Institute, India awarded ‘Great Place to Work’ certification to ______ for Jan 2025 to Jan 2026

Answer

A

SAIL: Steel Authority of India Limited

earned 2nd consecutive year

Question 15

Q

‘Nature Aging Journal’ Report, Readiness for a Rapidly Aging Society, topped by ______. India is at rank ____ out of 143 countries.

India’s Ranking on various parameters:
* On universal healthcare access: 106 ; Canada, Australia, and New Zealand were the best.
* On well-being: 141; Singapore, Iceland, and Switzerland were the top three in terms of well-being.
* On cohesion: 127; Bahrain emerged as the most cohesive nation.
* On life satisfaction: 137, while Bahrain (7th) was the best in Asia.
* On physical safety: 67; Singapore ranked 1st.
* On pension: 102; Argentina and Armenia were among the best,
* On mental health: 93; Kuwait was ranked the best
* On food security: 97; Denmark emerged as the best.
* On technology:132, while Iceland, Denmark, and Norway were the top three.

Answer

A

Switzerland ; 123

1. Switzerland 2. Norway 3. Denmark 4. Sweden 5. Iceland
1. Rwanda (lowest)
Top country in Asia: Singapore (Rank 10)
India: Youngest country with 50% population below 25 years, 65% below 35 years.
No. of people above 65 years across world by 2050 - 1.5 billion: to double from 703 million in 2019

✓ Study was conducted by researchers from the National University of Singapore (NUS) and Columbia University, New York, who developed a new measure “Global Aging Index”
✓ Study assessed 5 key domains: well-being (25%), productivity and engagement (20%), equity (18%), cohesion (17%), and security (20%)

Key Highlights:
i. The study noted that the likelihood of a newborn living to age 90 in high-income countries has increased from 4.8%(in 1950) to 26.7%(in 2024) and is projected to be 50% by 2060.

ii. As per the study, top rankings are mainly dominated by the high-income countries with an average score of 24.9 higher than LMICs.

iii. The study showed that only 5 countries, accounting 3.5% of 143 countries covered, had higher scores for women than men.

iv. Singapore ranked at 10th position in the index and has topped among Asian countries. While, ranks of other major countries: the United Kingdom (UK) (14th); followed by Japan (15th); the United States of America (USA) (24th) and China (46th)

iv. Rwanda (143rd) ranked lowest in the index with an overall score of 36.6, followed by Togo (142nd),
Afghanistan (141st), Benin (140th) and Malawi (139th).

Domain Rankings:
i. Countries scored lowest in the ‘productivity and engagement’ domain with average score of 46.8,
followed by ‘equity’ (average score of 57.5), ‘well-being’ (average score of 14.2), and ‘security’ (average score of 59.3) domain.
* While, countries scored highest for ‘cohesion’ domain with average score of 60.6.

ii. Country with highest and lowest score across 5 main domains of index:
* Well-being: Singapore (88.8) and Afghanistan (14.9)
* Productivity and Engagement: Switzerland (81.7) and Jordan (18.8)
* Equity: Norway (87.8) and Eswatini (27.4)
* Cohesion: Bahrain (81.3) and Benin (26.0)
* Security: Norway (90.2) and Liberia (24)

Question 16

Q

UNESCO ICH (Intangible Cultural Heritage) recognized _______, which is a melancholic and ancient love song from Bosnia & Herzegovina

i. ICH means the practices, representations, expressions, knowledge and skills that communities, groups and
individuals recognize as a part of their cultural heritage.
* It also includes instruments, objects, artifacts and cultural spaces associated with such heritage.

ii. According to UNESCO’s 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage, ICH is
manifested into 5 broad domains:
* Oral traditions and expressions, including language as a vehicle of the intangible cultural heritage, Performing arts, Social practices, rituals and festive events, Knowledge and practices concerning nature and the universe and Traditional craftsmanship.

Answer

A

Sevdalinka [Balkan Blues]

reflects emotional depth and soulful melodies; 16th century song of Ottoman Empire, performed using saz or lute instruments
As of December 2024, India has 15 ICH elements on UNESCO’s List. Nawrouz festival was added lastly.
UNESCO: United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization

Question 17

Q

NASA honoured 12 students and 2 teachers from Dyal Singh Public School, Karnal Haryana for _______

Answer

A

Discovery of Main-Belt Asteroid TD40, using Pan-STARRS telescope

NASA: National Aeronautics and Space Administration

Question 18

Q

Ministry of Defence declared ______ as “Year of Reforms”

Answer

A

2025

Objective: Transforming tri-services into technologically-advanced combat-ready force capable of multi-domain integrated operations.
Defence Ministry Target: Defence Exports worth Rs. 50,000 crore by 2029 - 137% larger than the record Rs. 21,083 crore achieved in FY24.

Question 19

Q

Bhupendra Patel (Gujarat CM) launched _______ to increase communication between citizens and government on Good Governance Day (December 25, 2024)

Answer

A

SWAR Platform (Speech and Written Analysis Resource), developed by Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology & Bhashini (National Language Translation Mission)

i. The SWAR platform integrates Speech-to-Text functionality, enabling citizens to dictate their messages rather than typing them manually, making the process more accessible.

ii. The platform will support the CM’s Office (CMO) by incorporating AI, Machine Learning (ML), Natural Language Processing (NLP), Open Source Generative AI (GenAI) and Computer Vision to enhance communication and resource management

Question 20

Q

Union Cabinet chaired by Narendra Modi has Approved 4 decisions

Answer

A

To continue Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana & Restructured Weather Based Crop Insurance Scheme toll 2025-26 (Budget: Rs. 69,515.71 crores [2021-22 to 2025-26])
To create Fund for Innovation and Technology
✓ Integrate advanced technology in insurance scheme Yield Estimation System using Technology (YES-TECH), Weather Information and Network Data Systems (WINDS), etc.
✓ Budget: Rs. 824.77 crores.
Extended One-time special Package on Di-Ammonium Phosphate from January 1, 2025
✓ Subsidy: Rs. 3,500 per metric ton
National Cooperative Exports Limited to implement trade of Non-Basmati between India & Indonesia.
✓ Duration: 4 years

Question 21

Q

Ministry of Education launched ________ to increase access to Scholarly Resources for Government Institutions

Answer

A

One Nation, One Subscription scheme

Budget: Rs. 6,000 crores
Term: 3 years
Phase 1
Co-ordinated by Information and Library Network (INFLIBNET) and University Grants Commission (UGC)

Question 22

Q

GoI formed _____ member panel headed by ______ (NITI Aayog member) to Revise WPI Base Year from 2011-2012 to 2022-23) & develop Producer Price Index PPI.

Final Report by _______ to Office of the Economic Adviser

Answer

A

18 ; Ramesh Chand ; June 30, 2026

Panel notified by Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade, Ministry of Commerce and Industry
Wholesale Price Index (WPI): WPI measures the average change in the selling prices of goods sold in bulk by wholesalers to businesses.
It focuses on the prices of goods at the wholesale or producer level and is used to gauge inflation
in the early stages of production.
The prices of a total of 697 items are tracked under the 2011-12 series of the WPI, which includes
117 primary items, 16 items of fuel and power and 564 manufactured products.
Producer Price Index (PPI): PPI is a measure of the average change over time in the selling prices
received by domestic producers for their output including prices at various stages of production, from raw materials to finished goods.
It was increasingly adopted by most G20 countries.

Question 23

Q

Defence Research and Development Organisation celebrated _____ Foundation Day in New Delhi. And declared ______ as ‘Year of Reforms’

Answer

A

67th ; 2025

Question 24

Q

Noble Hospitals & Research Centre, Pune installed 1st made-in-India robotic system ______ - developed by ______

Answer

A

SSI Mantra (Surgical Robot) ; SS Innovations

Question 25

Q

____ & ______ became full members (total increased to 29) of Schengen Border-Free Zone led by European Union

Answer

A

Romania ; Bulgaria

This will now expand the borderless area to 29 European countries whose residents can travel
without passport checks, ending a 13-year long wait for the two eastern European countries.

About Schengen Area:
i. It is the world’s largest free travel area that now includes 25 of the 27 EU member states, except Ireland and Cyprus, and includes 4 members states of the European Free Trade Association (EFTA):
Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland.

ii. It was formed under Schengen Agreement, international treaty which was initially approved by 5
countries: Belgium, France, Germany, Luxembourg and the Netherlands in Schengen, Luxembourg on June 14, 1985.

iii. In 2023, Croatia became the full member of Europe’s border-free Schengen zone.

Question 26

Q

State Bank of India + Union Bank of India + ______ for Insurance benefits (zero-premium insurance coverage to state government employees)

Question 27

Q

Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports announced National Sports Awards 2024 to ____ sportspersons, coaches and entities under ___ categories.

Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award - 4 Awardees, Cash Prize - Rs. 25 lakh
Arjuna Awards - 32 Awardees, Cash Prize - Rs. Rs. 15 lakh
Arjun Awards (Lifetime) - 2 Awardees, Cash Prize - Rs. 15 lakh

Answer

A

47 ; 6
✓ Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award
1. Gukesh D : Chess
2. Harmanpreet Singh : Hockey
3. Praveen Kumar : Para- Athletics
4. Manu Bhaker : Shooting

✓ Arjun Awards (Lifetime) Awards
1. Sucha Singh : Athletics
2. Murlikant Rajaram Petkar : Para-Swimming

Dronacharya Award for outstanding coaches in Sports and Games 2024
Number of Awardees – 5 (3 in Regular Category & 2 in Lifetime Category)
Regular Category:
1. Subhash Rana Para-Shooting
2. Deepali Deshpande -Shooting
3. Sandeep Sangwan -Hockey

Lifetime Category: For coaches who have helped sportspersons to achieve excellence over a period of 20 years or more.
1. S Muralidharan -Badminton
2. Armando Agnelo Colaco - Football

Rashtriya Khel Protsahan Puraskar
Number of Awardee – 1
1. Physical Education Foundation of India

Maulana Abul Kalam Azad (MAKA) Trophy 2024
Number of Awardees – 3
1. Chandigarh University, Punjab Overall
2. Lovely Professional University, Punjab
3. Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, Punjab

Question 28

Q

Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology appointed CEO of Unique Identification Authority of India ______ who succeeded Amit Agarwal. Effect from ______

Answer

A

Bhuvnesh Kumar ; Jan 2, 2025

Question 29

Q

Worls Rapid and Blitz Chess Championships 2024, organized by International Chess Federation, held in _____

Answer

A

New York, USA
- Rapid Chess title: Women’s section - 1st: Koneru Humpy (India)
- Blitz Chess title: Women’s section - 3rd: Vaishali Rameshbabu (India)

Question 30

Q

______ launched Atlas of Indian Wolf Habitats to Protect biodiversity and conserve the Indian Wolf, which focuses on identifying suitable habitatsfor wolves across 13 districts of the state

Answer

A

Gujarat
- led by: Bhupendra Patel (CM of Gujarat)
- prepared by: Forest Department of Gujarat & Gujarat Ecological Education and Research Foundation
- In 2023 Wolf Census - Total 222 wolves recorded in an area of 2,217 square kilometres

Question 31

Q

Nagaraju Maddirala (Department of Financial Services Secretary, Ministry of Finance) launched ________ for e-auction of properties from all Public Sector Banks

Answer

A

BAANKNET (Bank Asset Auction Network) - Revamped e-auction Portal

Question 32

Q

IIT Madras + Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare launched ______ to modernize agricultural extension through digitalization for farmers

Answer

A

Project VISTAAR (Virtually Integrated System to Access Agricultural Resources)

- This project enables farmers and stakeholders in agriculture to access high-quality advisory services related to crop production, marketing, value addition, supply chain management and
  government schemes.
The VISTAAR platform will bridge the gap between these innovations and farmers, ensuring wide adoption and impact.

Question 33

Q

______ + All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Delhi to increase medical training & capabilities of Coast Guard medical officers

Answer

A

Indian Coast Guard

Question 34

Q

India submits 4th Biennial Update Report about ______ to United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC)

Answer

A

Green House Gases inventory & plans to mitigate emissions

GHG emissions decreased by 7.93% in 2020 from 2019
Sector wise emission: Energy (75.66%), Agriculture (13.72%), Industrial Processes and Product Use (8.06%), & Waste (2.56%)
Forest & Trees cover, other land use: 522 million tonnes of CO2 (2020)
Additional carbon sink created: 2.29 billion of CO2 (2005 to 2021)
emission intensity of GDP decreased by 36% (2005 to 2020)
share of non-fossil sources: 46.52% of installed electricity generation capacity (October 2024)
total installed capacity of renewable power with large hydropower: 203.22 GW

India’s Progress in respect of the NDC Targets:
i. The report highlighted that India’s emissionintensity of Gross Domestic Product (GDP), decreased by 36% between 2005 and 2020.

Note: GDP emission intensity means to the reduction in the GHG emissions per unit of economic output.

ii. According to the Central Electricity Authority (CEA), the share of non-fossil sources in the installed electricity
generation capacity was 46.52%, by October 2024.

Also, the combined installed capacity of renewable power, including large hydropower, is 203.22 GigaWatt (GW) and total renewable power installed capacity (excluding large hydro power
projects) has increased 4.5 times from 35 GW (in March 2014) to 156.25 GW.

iii. The installed capacity of various Renewable Energy (RE) sources:

Solar energy has increased 35 times from 2.63 GW (in March 2014) to 92.12 GW (as of 31st October, 2024).
Wind energy has increased more than double from 21.04 GW (in March 2014) to 47.72 GW (as of
31st October, 2024).

About UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC):
Executive Secretary- Simon Stiell (Grenada)
Headquarters- Bonn, Germany
Established- 1992

Question 35

Q

January 4 2025

Answer

A

7th World Braille Day

observed by United Nations
Aim: to raise awareness about Braille’s significance
1st observed on January 4, 2019
to commemorate 216th Birth Anniversary of Louis Braille

Question 36

Q

Gujarat’s total district increased to ____

Answer

A

34
- new: Vav-Tharad district. Headquarters: Tharad town
- from: Banaskantha District. Headquarters: Palanpur

Question 37

Q

January 8

Answer

A

Earth’s Rotation Day 2025
- anniversary of French physicist Léon Foucault’s scientific demonstration in 1851: 174th anniversary

Question 38

Q

SBI released it’s latest Ecowrap Research Report.

It has lowered India’s GDP forecast to _____ for Financial Year 2024-25 (FY25), which is marginally lower than the National Statistics Office (NSO)’s estimate of 6.4%

Answer

A

6.3%

the report noted a “downward bias” in its projection and has cited several challenges affecting economic growth of the country, including a slowdown in lending and manufacturing, coupled with the effects of a large base effect from the preceding year.
Slowdown in total demand during the fiscal year is reflected in the First Advance Estimates (FAE) for GDP released by NSO in January, 2025

Question 39

Q

First Green Hydrogen Hub under National Green Hydrogen Mission launched in ______

Answer

A

Pudimadaka, Anakapalli district, Andhra Pradesh
- on 8th January 2025

PM Modi laid the foundation stone of the NTPC Green Energy Limited (NGEL) Green Hydrogen Hub project
estimated cost of the project: Rs. 1.85 lakh crore
jointly developed by NGEL and the New & Renewable Energy Development Corporation of Andhra Pradesh (NREDCAP)
It will include the development of 20 Gigawatt of Renewable Energy projects, production of 1,500 tonnes per day (TPD) of green hydrogen and 7,500 TPD of green hydrogen derivatives such as green methanol, green urea, and sustainable aviation fuel primarily for export markets
the project will contribute substantially in achieving India’s non-fossil energy capacity target of 500 GW by 2030

✓ The Union Cabinet launched the NGHM in 2023 with an outlay of Rs. 19,744 crore from FY 2023-24 to Fy 2029-30 to make India a global hub for production, usage and export of Green Hydrogen and its derivatives.

Question 40

Q

World Bank approves ______ to enhance education in _____

Answer

A

USD 35 million ; Meghalaya

Meghalaya Multisectoral Project for Adolescent Wellbeing, Empowering and Resilience (MPOWER)
aimed to improve education quality in Meghalaya: enhancing resources and infrastructure
the loan from the International Bank of Reconstruction and Development (IBRD), part of the WB group, has a final maturity of 15 years, including a grace period of 5 years
aimed to better empower 5,00,000 adolescents to make the transition from school to work by lowering dropouts, improving learning outcomes and providing assistance for accessing jobs and starting businesses.

✓ Project MPOWER will strengthen academic results for adolescents in grade 6-12 and close gaps in students’ reading and math skills.
✓ The total cost of the project is USD 45 Million of which USD 35 million will be given by WB and rest by the Government of India (GoI)
✓ the project will also teach business skills to aspiring entrepreneurs and out of school adolescents in collaboration with the Meghalaya State Skills Development Society (MSSDS)

Question 41

Q

January 9

Answer

A

Pravasi Bharatiya Divas / Non-Resident Indian Day

celebrated once in two years on 9th Jan
significant event honours the contribution of the Overseas Indian Community (Indian diaspora) in the development of India
since 2003 to commemorate the day in 1915 when Gandhi returned to India from South Africa to lead the country’s freedom struggle.
since 2015, under a revised format, PBD Convention has been organised once every 2 years with the theme-based PBD Conferences.
the PBD Convention: the flagship event of the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA)
18th PBD Convention was held for the first time in Bhubaneswar, Odisha from 8th to 10th January, 2025.
Theme: Diaspora’s Contribution to a Viksit Bharat (Developed India)

Question 42

Q

January 10

Answer

A

World Hindi Day / Vishwa Hindi Diwas

to highlight the significance of the Hindi language and its role in connecting people globally
Theme: A Global Voice of Unity and Cultural Pride
first ever World Hindi Day was celebrated on 10th January 2006

Question 43

Q

All-India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) has announced 2025 as the ______

Answer

A

Year of Artificial Intelligence
- to shape India as a global leader in AI

Question 44

Q

MP CM Mohan Yadav launched ______ and ______

Answer

A

PARTH: Police Army Recruitment Training & Hunar - Train Youth of MP for recruitment in Indian Army, Police, Paramilitary forces services

MPYP Portal: Madhya Pradesh Youth Platform - To connect all young people in state on single digital platform for skill development

Question 45

Q

January 12

Answer

A

National Youth Day / Rashtriya Yuva Divas / Vivekananda Jayanti

observed by Government of India
28th National Youth Festival 2025, organized by MYAS (Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports)

Question 46

Q

DRDO completed user trials of _____ (multi-layer clothing system) to increase soldier performance in extreme cold weather (20°C to -60°C)

Answer

A

HIMKAVACH
- multi-layer clothing system has successfully completed user trials in extreme cold weather conditions

aims to improve soldier performance by enhancing mobility, comfort and durability in harsh, cold environments.

Question 47

Q

Uttar Pradesh + Google Cloud to launch _____ powered by Gemini & Beacon Technology

Answer

A

UP Open Network for Agriculture

aim: easy access to advice, credit, machinery, & market links to sell products
about: India’s 1st state initiative using AI to revolutionize agriculture

Question 48

Q

India joined as a member of _____ to shape global standards in Big Data & Data Science

Answer

A

UN-CEBD, USA

United Nations Committee of Experts on Big Data and Data Science
31 member states & 16 international organizations
India’s inclusion in this expert committee contributes to shaping global standards in Big Data and Data Science for official statistics and also will highlight its pioneering initiatives, including the establishment of:
1. Data Innovation Lab - a platform to experiment with new data technologies,
2. Exploring Alternate Data Sources - including satellite imagery and machine learning for policy-making.

✓ India assumed membership of the United Nations Statistical Council (UNSC) in 2024.

the UN-CEBD headquartered in New York, USA was established in 2014 with Australia as its chair. It explores the opportunities and challenges posed by Big Data in the production and dissemination of official statistics.

Question 49

Q

Union Minister Piyush Goyal, Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MOC&I), unveiled the ________, an initiative at the inaugural Bharat Climate Forum 2025 in New Delhi

Answer

A

Bharat Cleantech Manufacturing Platform

it aimed to enhance India’s cleantech value chains in the solar, wind, hydrogen, and battery storage sectors
the platform will enable Indian firms to innovate, collaborate, and attract global investments, positioning India as a global leader in the cleantech sector

Question 50

Q

15 January

Answer

A

77th Indian Army Day / Bhartiya Sena Diwas

observed by Indian Army
PM Modi commissioned ✓ INS Surat ✓ INS Nilgiri ✓ INS Vaghsheer
commemorates appointment of Field Marshal KM Cariappa as 1st Indian Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army in 1949

Question 51

Q

TRAI released Draft Telecommunication Tariff (71st Amendment) Order, 2025 to boost ______. It proposes the rationalization of broadband tariffs for _____ under the said scheme.

Answer

A

PM-WANI Scheme (Prime Minister’s Wireless Fidelity [WiFi] Access Network Interface) ; Public Data Offices

to address the challenges obstructing the growth of public WiFi hotspots and ensure affordable connectivity for users across the country.
TRAI: Telecom Regulatory Authority of India

Question 52

Q

January 15 - 150th Foundation Day

Answer

A

IMD: India Meteorological Department
- under the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES)

Question 53

Q

UM Piyush Goyal launched _____ in New Delhi with an aim to boost the turmeric industry in India (Golden Spice)

Answer

A

National Turmeric Board

Palle Ganga Reddy has been appointed as its first Chairperson.
Headquarters: Nizambad, Telangana

Question 54

Q

14th January

Answer

A

9th Armed Forces Veterans’ Day

observed by Ministry of Defence
1st celebrated in 2017
honours and recognises the service of Field Marshal Kodandera Madappa Cariappa (1st Indian Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Armed Forces)

Question 55

Q

The Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying declared ____ to _____ as ‘Animal Husbandry and Animal Welfare Month’

Answer

A

14th January ; 13th February

Question 56

Q

India test fired its first indigenous micro-missile system named ______. It is India’s first guided micro-missile: counter-drone system.

Answer

A

Bhargavastra

developed by Economic Explosives Limited, a subsidiary of Nagpur-based Solar Industries India Limited successfully hits virtual targets over 2.5 kilometers away

Question 57

Q

C-DOT has partnered with IIT Mandi and IIT Jammu to _____

Answer

A

create a new chip designed to improve spectrum efficiency

C-DOT is a New Delhi-based telecom Research and Development center under the Department of Telecommunications, Ministry of Communication

Question 58

Q

Indichip Semiconductor Limited in collaboration with its Joint Venture partner Yitoa Micro Technology Limited from Japan, has signed a MoU with the government of _______ to establish India’s first private semiconductor manufacturing facility at the Orvakal Mega Industrial Hub in _____

Answer

A

Andhra Pradesh ; Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh

the project entails an investment of Rs. 14,000 crores
the initiative aligns with AP’s Semiconductor Policy, launched in November 2024, which aims to make the state a hub for electronics and semiconductor manufacturing

Question 59

Q

the 28th Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of Parliaments of Commonwealth Countries (CSPOC) is set to be hosted in ______ in _____

Answer

A

New Delhi ; 2026

CSPOC aims to focus on the application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and social media in parliamentary operations for enhancing cooperation among member countries
these cutting-edge technologies are used to provide regional language translations for Members Of Parliament and make available parliamentary papers in different languages

Question 60

Q

according to Bengaluru-based Tracxn Technologies Limited, a leading global market intelligence platform, ‘Annual India Fintech Report 2024’, India ranked at _____ position globally in terms of funding received in the fintech segment, despite witnessing a decline of 33% on a Year-over-Year to USD 1.9 billion, don from USD 2.8 billion funding garnered in 2023.

Answer

A

3rd

top 3 investing cities which emerged as hub for fintech funding in 2024: Bengaluru, Mumbai and Delhi

Question 61

Q

PUMA India has officially partnered with two-time Olympic medalist ____ in a multi-year collaboration as brand ambassador

Answer

A

P V Sindhu

Question 62

Q

Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren launched the enhanced _____ by transferring assistance for two months totaling Rs. 5,000 each to the accounts of 56.61 lakh women beneficiaries.

Answer

A

Maiyan Samman Yojana

- from December 2024, the government of Jharkhand enhanced the financial assistance to Rs. 2,500 per month offering stronger support to women beneficiaries.

Question 63

Q

Mumbai-based ______, a space technology startup by Google, has successfully launched the first three satellites of its Firefly constellation, marking India’s first private satellite constellation

Answer

A

Pixxel

the Firefly Constellation consists of some of the highest-resolution commercial-grade hyperspectral satellites, launched a board SpaceX Transporter-12 mission from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, United States of America
it is now the world’s highest resolution commercial-grade hyperspectral satellites.

Question 64

Q

L&T has launched the Indian Navy’s second multi-purpose Vessel named ______, from its shipyard in Kattupalli, near Chennai, Tamil Nadu

Answer

A

‘Indian Naval Ship Utkarsh’

Answer 64

A

6.4%
- CPI has been projected at 4.8% for 2024-25, aligning with the RBI’s forecast in the December 2024 monetary policy whereas the food inflation is expected to decline

Answer 65

A

4th ; 2026; Japan

Answer 66

A

Odisha ; 34th

Answer 67

A

eBKray platform (now known as Bank Asset Auction Network, BAANKNET)

2019

Answer 68

A

THEJAS6 ; DIR V VEGA

Answer 69

A

Garudakshi

Answer 70

A

National Road Safety Week

organized by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, is annually observed across India from January 11-17 every year to raise awareness about road safety.
It highlights the need for responsible driving, pedestrian safety, and better road infrastructure to prevent and reduce accidents to save lives.
2025 marks the observance of the 36th National Road Safety Week.

Answer 71

A

Amitabh Kant
- the book explores India’s pivotal role in hosting and shaping the Group of Twenty during its presidency.
- Rupa Publications

Answer 72

A

Joseph Khalil Aoun

Answer 73

A

Nicolas Maduro Moros
- he will be serving for 6 years until 2031

Answer 74

A

‘Blue Certification’

the historical significance of Kappad was the site where Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama 1st landed in 1498
the blue flag certification is an eco-label awarded to beaches, marinas, and sustainable boating tourism operators that meet stringent environmental and safety standards globally as a mark of excellence
India is now the 4th country in Asia after South Korea, Japan and UAE with ‘blue flag beaches’
India has 12 blue flag beaches

Answer 75

A

Swami Vivekananda Yuva Shakti Mission

Answer 76

A

Devajit Saikia

Answer 77

A

Zoran Milanovic

Answer 78

A

10

UJALA: Unnat Jyoti by Affordable Light Emitting Diodes
SNLP: Street Lighting National Programme
both schemes were launched by PM Modi on 5th January, 2015

Answer 79

A

5G Use Case Test Lab

to promote digital transformation in the coal sector in India through 5G technology and also address the industry’s key challenges

Answer 80

A

Indian Genomic Data Set

He also launched the Framework for Exchange of Data (FeED) Protocols and the Indian Biological
Data Centre (IBDC) Portals, providing researchers in India and globally access to 10,000 whole
genome samples.
During the conclave, he announced a future target of sequencing 10 million genomes to accelerate
India’s advancements in genomics and personalized medicine.
These initiative will create an ecosystem as a knowledge and innovation hub, contributing to the
goal of Viksit Bharat by 2047.

Answer 81

A

Alexander Schallenberg

Answer 82

A

‘Indian Navy Ship (INS) Vaghsheer (S26)’

Other 5 Submarines: INS Kalvari (2015), INS Khanderi (2017), INS Karanj (2018), INS Vela (2021), and
INS Vagir (2020).

Answer 83

A

Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL)

Sonobuoys are small, disposable devices used in underwater sonar systems to detect submarines and
other threats, helping in identifying and targeting adversarial ships and submarines for about 24 hours.

Answer 84

A

‘Cashless Treatment scheme’

He also launched a nationwide scheme for establishing Driver Training Institutes (DTIs), offering incentives for setting up DTIs and additional rewards for integrating the infrastructure of Automated Testing Stations (ATSs) and DTIs.

Answer 85

A

of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY)

The MeitY informed that Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi-led government had already approved 5 semiconductor units under the India Semiconductor Mission (ISM) to locally develop semiconductors and display manufacturing ecosystem in India with total budget outlay of Rs 76,000 crore

Answer 86

A

IndiaAI Mission

This strategic partnership with MeitY aims to position India as a world leader in AI. It also aims to boost AI development and adoption in India and to foster inclusive, innovative and ethical AI ecosystem in India.
This MoU was part of a series of collaborations announced by Satya Nadella, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Microsoft Corporation, Inc., during his visit to India on January 08, 2025.

Note: These announcements came after Microsoft pledged to invest USD 3 billion to promote AI and cloud infrastructure in India over the next 2 years.

Answer 87

A

Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP)

The WEP is an initiative of NITI Aayog, launched in 2018 as an online platform.
It became a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) in 2022 and now collaborates with over 30 partners from both the public and private sectors to develop programs that support and empower women entrepreneurs.

Answer 88

A

Singapore ; 85th

The index was originally created by Dr. Christian H. Kaelin, compares 199 passports and 227 travel destinations annually for the last 19 years. Countries are ranked based on visa-free entry to citizens holding that country’s passport.
The ranking is based on exclusive Timatic data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), which maintains the world’s largest and most accurate database of travel information.
7 countries from EU i.e. Austria, Denmark, Ireland, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, and Sweden shared 4th position on the list. All these 7 countries have visa-free access to 191 destinations.
The 5th spot on the list is shared by 5 countries: Belgium, Portugal, Switzerland, the United Kingdom (UK) and New Zealand, all these countries offer visa-free travel to 190 destinations.
The remaining top 10 countries on the index is largely dominated by European countries, except to Australia (6th spot with 189 destinations), Canada (7th spot with 188 destinations), the United States of America (USA) (9th spot with 186 destinations) and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) (10th spot with 185 destinations).
Afghanistan secured 106th spot on the list and has the world’s weakest passport with visa-free access to only 26 destinations globally.
It is followed by Syria (105th spot with 27 destinations), Iraq (104th with 31 destinations), Pakistan and Yemen (jointly ranked at 103th spot with 33 destinations).
The index showed that only 22 of the world’s 199 passports have witnessed a drop in their ranking in the last 10 years.
Top 5 countries with biggest fall in their ranking between 2015 and 2025: Venezuela (from 30th spot to 45th spot), the USA (from 2nd spot to 9th spot) Vanuatu (from 48th spot to 54th spot), the UK (from 1st spot to 5th spot) and Canada (from 4th spot to 7th spot).
As per the index, the UAE emerged as one of the biggest climbers on the index over the last 10 years, and secured access to an additional 72 destinations since 2015. Thus, the ranking of UAE jumped by 32 places to 10th spot.
While, China also witnessed significant jump in its ranking from 94th (2015) to 60th (2025).

Answer 89

A

Third Launch Pad (TLP)

Answer 90

A

December 31 2025 ; Rs 40,000 ; 25% and 30% ; 2.6% and 2.85%

Answer 91

A

ITC Limited

Answer 92

A

the Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay (IIT B)

Answer 93

A

West Bengal (WB)

Answer 94

A

“Bharat Ranbhoomi Darshan”

The app was launched on 15 January 2025, coinciding with the 77th Indian Army Day.
This app was developed by the MoD, Ministry of Tourism (MoT), and the Indian Army (IA).
The app offers a comprehensive guide to tourists, which includes historical insights, battle accounts, stories of bravery, travel information, and applications for permission to enter restricted places.
It includes detailed information of 77 battlefield sites and provides visitors an in-depth overview of some of the major military events.

Answer 95

A

CEAT Limited ; Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL)

Other 15 new members include companies from the United Arab Emirates (UAE), China, Germany, Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, the United Kingdom (UK), the United States of America (USA), and Morocco (Home to the first Lighthouse site in Africa).
As of January 2025, a total of 16 Indian companies joined WEF’s GLN, with Bharuch (Gujarat)-based Jubilant Ingrevia which became a member in October 2024.

Answer 96

A

World Economic Forum (WEF)

2018

Answer 97

A

La Perouse 25 Multinational Naval Exercise ; French Carrier Strike Group (CSG)

Malacca, Sunda, and Lombok
The exercise aims to prepare navies for real-world challenges, enhancing their collective response
capabilities
The exercise involves naval forces from nine nations: India, Australia, Canada, the United States of America (USA), France, Indonesia, Malaysia, the United Kingdom (UK), and Singapore

Answer 98

A

Nawaf Abdallah Salim Salam

Answer 99

A

Ultra Maritime

Sonobuoys are small, disposable devices used in underwater sonar systems to detect submarines and
other threats, helping in identifying and targeting adversarial ships and submarines for about 24 hours.
A naval helicopter or fixed-wing aircraft usually releases sonobuoys in a specific pattern

Answer 100

A

semiconductor manufacturing

The MeitY informed that Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi-led government had already approved 5 semiconductor units under the India Semiconductor Mission (ISM) to locally develop semiconductors and
display manufacturing ecosystem in India with total budget outlay of Rs 76,000 crore.
As per Industry estimates, the semiconductor market in India is expected to reach USD 109 billion by
2030.

Answer 101

A

MeitY: Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology

This strategic partnership with MeitY aims to position India as a world leader in AI. It also aims to boost AI development and adoption in India and to foster inclusive, innovative and ethical AI ecosystem in India.
This MoU was part of a series of collaborations announced by Satya Nadella, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Microsoft Corporation, Inc. , during his visit to India on January 08, 2025.

Note: These announcements came after Microsoft pledged to invest USD 3 billion to promote AI and cloud infrastructure in India over the next 2 years

Under this MoU, Microsoft in partnership with MeitY will set up an AI Center of Excellence (CoE) named ‘AI Catalysts’, to promote rural AI innovation and support 1 lakh AI innovators and developers through hackathons, community-building solutions and an AI marketplace.

Microsoft will also establish ‘AI Productivity Labs’ in 20 National Skill Training Institutes (NSTIs) centers across 10 states in India, to provide foundational courses for 20,000 educators.

Answer 102

A

Fifty ;

10,000

Answer 103

A

‘Kisan Samriddhi Market
Portal’ and the Kisan Samriddhi

The launch took place during the 109th Foundation Day celebrations of ICAR-CPCRI, as part of the inaugural session of the National Seminar on ‘Harnessing the Plantation Sector for Sustainable Development Goals’ and an exhibition.

i. The portal was developed by ICAR’s Agricultural Technology Application Research Institute (ATARI), based in Bengaluru, Karnataka and is managed by ICAR’s Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), based in Pathanamthitta, Kerala.

The portal, operating in Karnataka, Kerala and Lakshadweep, connects farmers, agri-entrepreneurs, and
consumers for direct online sales of agricultural products, promoting transparency.

ii.The portal aims to create a Digital Vyapar Network (DIVYAN) to promote efficient agricultural marketing, and it is scalable to connect all KVKs across the 11 ICAR-ATARI centers in India.

Note: ICAR-ATARI has registered the Kisan Samriddhi trademark for over 150 products across five categories. A mobile application (app) for easy access is also under pilot testing and will be launched soon

Answer 104

A

22%

The report forecasts the creation of 170 million new jobs and the displacement of 92 million, leading to a net increase of 78 million jobs.
This analysis is based on the perspectives of over 1,000 global employers, representing more than 14 million workers from 55 economies.
The report highlights key macrotrends shaping jobs and skills and discusses the workforce transformation strategies that companies will adopt from 2025 to 2030.
By 2030, around 40% of existing skills are expected to become outdated. Employers recognize that skill gaps are a major barrier to business transformation, with 63% of employers identifying this issue.
According to the report, if the global workforce were composed of 100 people, 59 would need training by 2030.
However, 11 of these workers are unlikely to receive the necessary training, putting them at risk of redundancy.
To meet the demand for emerging roles, 85% of employers plan to prioritize workforce upskilling, with 70% seeking talent with new skills.
Broadening Digital Access: By 2030, 60% of employers expect expanding digital access to transform their businesses.
86% of employers foresee AI and information processing to have a profound impact, followed by 58% anticipating the influence of robotics and automation.
Additionally, 41% of employers expect advancements in energy generation, storage, and distribution to drive transformations.

Answer 105

A

Mumbai (Maharashtra) -based Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International
Airport (CSMIA)

Answer 106

A

V Narayanan ; 11th

Answer 107

A

Bahadur Singh Sagoo

Answer 108

A

‘BHARATPOL’

He also awarded 35 Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) officers and officials with the President’s Police Medal for Distinguished Service and the Union Home Minister’s Medal for
Excellence in Investigation.

About ‘BHARATPOL’ portal :
i. The portal is developed by the CBI, which aims to streamline the process for Law Enforcement Agencies (LEAs) in India to seek international assistance through International Criminal Police Organisation (INTERPOL) in criminal matters.

ii. The portal will be managed by the CBI, which also acts as India’s National Central Bureau (NCB) for INTERPOL. This portal will enable the CBI to coordinate international police requests, including those related to Red notices and other INTERPOL alerts.

The portal will provide quicker and more efficient real-time sharing of information among Indian LEAs and other international law agencies.

iii. The five key modules of Bharatpol are connect, Interpol notices, references, broadcast, and resources, providing a technological platform to support all our law enforcement agencies.

iv. It will enhance collaboration between central, state, Union Territory (UT) LEAs, providing seamless communication between various police organisations in India.

The portal will replace previously used communication methods like: letters, emails, and faxes, with faster, digital solutions .This will ensure more efficient exchanges among CBI, INTERPOL liaison officers (ILOs), and unit officers (UOs).

vi. It will also address the increasing threat of translational crimes such as: cybercrime, financial fraud, human trafficking, and organised crime by providing rapid international assistance.

Answer 109

A

Export-Import Bank of India (EXIM Bank), also known as India Exim Bank

i. The bank will utilise the funds to finance its ongoing and future projects worldwide.

ii. The amount was raised in the 144A/Reg-S format under Rule 144A which allows Qualified Institutional Buyers (QIBs) to trade debt securities without needing registration or review by the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

iii. Bank of America Securities (BofA Securities), Citigroup, Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation (HSBC), J.P. Morgan Chase, and Standard Chartered Bank (SCB) served as the main managers and book runners for the bond offering.

Note: India Exim Bank, established in 1982, has been rated as Baa3 (Stable) by Moody’s Investors Service, BBB- (Positive) by Standard & Poor’s (S&P), and BBB- (Stable) by Fitch Ratings.

Answer 110

A

Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL)

Answer 111

A

International Solar Alliance (ISA) ; 500 gigawatts (GW) ; 2030

Three Key Initiatives and Partnerships
i. Multi-Donor Trust Fund (MDTF): GEAPP strengthened its partnership with ISA by signing ISA’s MDTF with the goal of raising USD 100 million to support solar energy projects in India. GEAPP, through its Project Management Unit (PMU), will support ISA by providing governance oversight, facilitating fund raising efforts, and leveraging its expertise in energy transition planning, financing, and project implementation.

ii. DUET (Digitalization of Utilities for Energy Transition): The DUET program focuses on modernizing India’s grid systems to create a digital database of grid assets, including their locations and specifications. Additionally, smart sensors will be installed to monitor voltage, current and phase in real time. DUET aims to reduce energy losses, optimize Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) deployment and integrate Decentralized Renewable Energy (DRE) sources into the grid.

Note: The government estimates 47 GW of battery energy storage systems by 2032.

iii. ENTICE 2.0: This platform is set to launch in January 2025 and was designed to support startups by offering funding, market access and mentorship to scale innovative solutions for India’s clean energy transition

Answer 112

A

New York, United States of America (USA)

Answer 113

A

Narendra Modi

Answer 114

A

10 years

The Border Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 was scheduled from 22nd November 2024 to 7th January 2025 in Australia.
This marks the first time Australia had won the series over India in the last 10 years since they won at home in 2014-15.
India has won four consecutive series (2016-17, 2018-19, 2020-21 and 2022-23) including two in Australia

Answer 115

A

‘Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) Arogya’

The scheme will benefit around 1.5 lakh people, including 34,000 employees and their dependents in over 275 hospitals.

Answer 116

A

26 crore

West Bengal (WB)

Answer 117

A

Unified District Information System for Education

Answer 118

A

March 2020

Answer 119

A

‘e-student visa’ and the ‘e-student-x visa’

The e-student visa is available to eligible foreign students registered on the SII portal, while the e-student-x visa is designated for the dependents of e- student visa holders.
All interested students are required to register on the Study in India (SII) portal, an initiative launched by the Ministry of Education (MoE), to streamline the admission process for international students seeking long-term or short- term courses in India.

About e-student visa:

i. Eligibility: The e-student visa is for foreign nationals enrolled in full-time Undergraduate (UG), Postgraduate (PG), Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), or other formal programs at institutions recognized by India’s regulatory bodies. Students can apply for the visa once they receive an admission offer from an SII partner institute.

ii. Duration: Valid for up to five years based on course duration, with extensions available in India. Visa holders may enter India via any authorized immigration checkpoint.

iii. Registration Process: Students must apply for a visa separately through the https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/. The authenticity of their application will be verified using their SII Identification (ID).

About the Study in India (SII) portal:

i. The Study in India (SII) portal was launched in 2018 to streamline the admission process for international students pursuing higher education in India.

ii. The platform connects students to over 600 partner institutes in India offering more than 8,000 courses across disciplines like engineering, management, agriculture, sciences, arts, humanities, commerce, law, paramedical sciences (pharmacy, nursing), and niche fields like Buddhist Studies and Yoga.

iii. Foreign students applying for the SII program can receive financial assistance through the Study in India Scholarship or a Fee Waiver.

The SII Scholarship, valued at USD 3,200, is awarded to students who excel in the PRAGATII Exam.

Note: According to Henley Passport Index 2024, India’s passport ranked 83rd, providing its citizens with visa-free access to 58 countries.

Answer 120

A

Sikkim

Key points:
* National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) will be a key stakeholder in developing fisheries and aquaculture organic clusters in Sikkim.

Apart from providing financial and technical assistance for the requisite fisheries infrastructure and capacity building, NABARD will also facilitate in the growth of the organic cluster by engaging
fisher’s cooperatives and formation of FFPOs in the state.

Note: So far, DoF had notified 4 fisheries related clusters in India: Pearl Cluster in Hazaribagh district (Jharkhand), Ornamental Fisheries Cluster in Madurai district (Tamil Nadu, TN), Seaweed Cluster in Union Territory (UT) of Lakshadweep and Tuna Cluster in Andaman & Nicobar.

Answer 121

A

Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI)

This MoU is part of a broader strategy to implement the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002 (PMLA) and related rules effectively.

Note: IRDAI, is a statutory body formed under an Act of Parliament, IRDA Act, 1999 for overall supervision and development of the Insurance sector in India.

Key Areas of Focus:

i. Sharing of Intelligence: The MoU focuses on exchanging pertinent intelligence and information to ensure timely action on suspicious activities.

ii. Reporting Procedures: It will define clear guidelines for how regulated entities in the insurance sector report suspicious financial transactions under the PMLA rules.

iii. Training and Skill Development: Both organizations will organize training sessions to upskill personnel within the regulated insurance entities, focusing on the identification of risks and suspicious activities.

iv. Risk Assessments: Regular assessments will be conducted to understand the vulnerabilities in the insurance sector and enhance the compliance efforts related to AML/CFT obligations.

v. Appointments: The agreement also includes the appointment of a nodal officer and an alternate nodal officer by each party to the MoU.

About Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU IND):
FIU-IND is an organisation under the Department of Revenue (DoR), Ministry of Finance (MoF) which collects financial intelligence about offences under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act 2002 (PMLA).

Answer 122

A

Indonesia

Background:

In 2024, BRICS countries agreed to admit Indonesia as a member. This decision followed the guidelines set during the 2023 BRICS meeting in Johannesburg, South Africa (SA).

The expansion shows the group’s focus on strengthening ties with emerging economies.

About BRICS:
BRICS was established as a formal group in 2006 with its original members: Brazil, Russia, India, and China, headquartered in Shanghai, China.

i. In 2009, the first BRICS Summit was held in Yekaterinburg, Russia.

ii. In 2010, the group evolved from BRIC to BRICS with the inclusion of South Africa.

iii. In 2024, BRICS expanded by adding four new members: Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). With Indonesia’s inclusion in 2025, the group now has 10 members.

Points to Note:
i. The 16th BRICS Summit was held in Kazan, Russia, under Russia’s chairmanship in 2024.
ii. The 17th BRICS Summit will be held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil in July 2025.

Answer 123

A

Shahid Madho Singh Scheme

A special edition of the journal ‘Banja-2025’, published by the Tribal Language and Culture Academy of Odisha, was also released during the event.

About Adivasi Mela:
i. This annual fair, a celebration of Odisha’s tribal heritage and culture, will be held from January 5 to January
15, 2025.

ii. This year’s fair features 147 stalls showcasing tribal art, handicrafts, and food, 15 live demonstrations of
traditional practices, and a dedicated Bhagwan Birsa Munda Pavilion.

About Shahid Madho Singh Haath Kharcha Scheme:
- The scheme is named after Shaheed Madho Singh, a freedom fighter and tribal landowner from the Ghansa area of Bargarh district, Odisha, who played a significant role in India’s independence movement.

This initiative aims to reduce dropout rates and increase students’ interest in education.

Key Points:
i. Tribal students who pass Class 8 and join Class 9 or 10 will receive a one-time incentive of Rs.5,000 per year.
* Students enrolling in Class 11 will also be eligible for this benefit.

ii. The scheme has been implemented for the current academic year 2024 2025 and is exclusively available to Scheduled Tribe (ST) students whose annual family income does not exceed Rs 2,50,000

Answer 124

A

‘Women Teacher’s Day’

i. She opened India’s first school for girls in 1848 in Pune and became India’s first woman teacher and first Indian headmistress.

ii. She published her first collection of poems, named Kavya Phule (‘Poetry’s Blossoms’) in 1854 and also published Bavan Kashi Subodh Ratnakar (‘The Ocean of Pure Gems’), in 1892.

Answer 125

A

MDL & Naval Group

About Naval Group: Chief Executive Officer(CEO) – Pierre-Eric Pommellet
Headquarters – Paris, France
Founded – 1631

About Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL):
Chairman & Managing Director (CMD)– Sanjeev Singhal
Headquarters- Mumbai, Maharashtra
Established- 1934

Answer 126

A

boAt

i. Key features of the collaboration include: curate dedicated programs, initiatives for mentoring startups, innovators and entrepreneurs, provide resources, guidance and support for different milestones such as prototype development and offer connections and insights for international expansion, wherever applicable and feasible.

ii. This initiative underscores the commitment to the ‘Make in India’ initiative and strengthens the startup ecosystem.

Answer 127

A

105th

As per the report, India is among 42 countries that have been placed under the “serious” category, alongside Pakistan (109th) and Afghanistan (116th).
It was published by Irish humanitarian organisation Concern Worldwide and German aid agency Welthungerhlife, with aim to trigger action to reduce hunger around the world.

Answer 128

A

Sanjiv Ranjan ; Indonesia

His term will last for three years with effect from January 1 2025, until his superannuation on January 31, 2026, or until further orders, whichever occurs earlier.

About Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA):
i. Founded in 1997, IORA is an inter-governmental organization dedicated to promoting regional economic cooperation across the Indian Ocean.

ii. IORA comprises 23 member states: India, Australia, Bangladesh, Comoros, France, Indonesia, Iran, Kenya, Madagascar, Malaysia, the Maldives, Mauritius, Mozambique, Oman, Seychelles, Singapore, Somalia, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Thailand, the United Arab Emirates, and Yemen.

iii. It includes 12 dialogue partners: China, Egypt, the European Union, Germany, Italy, Japan, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, South Korea, the UK, and the USA.

iv. In 2015, IORA was granted observer status at both the United Nation General Assembly(UNGA) and the African Union.

Secretary-General – Sanjiv Ranjan
Headquarters – Ebene, Mauritius
Chair – Sri Lanka
Vice-Chair – India

Note: India will take over the chairmanship from Sri Lanka for the 2025-2027 term.

Answer 129

A

Vitul Kumar

About Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF):

The CRPF, initially established as the ‘Crown Representatives Police’ on July 27, 1939, assumed its current name when the CRPF Act was passed on December 28, 1949.
The force has since evolved into a substantial and diverse organization with a Directorate, four Zonal Headquarters, 21 Administrative Sectors, 2 Operational Sectors, 39 Administrative Ranges, 17 Operational Ranges, 43 Group Centres & 22 Training Institutions.

Director-General (DG) - Vitul Kumar
Headquarters- New Delhi (Delhi)
Established– 1939

Answer 130

A

Pierre-Sylvain Filliozat

Answer 131

A

Syed Mujtaba Hussein Kirmani

The book was launched on his 75th birthday at Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru (Karnataka) and was published by Penguin Play.
The book was authored over a span of 5 years by Syed Mujtaba Hussein Kirmani and was coauthored by Debashish Sengupta and Dakshesh Pathak. The book explores the personal glimpses of his life, his cricket journey of both on and off the field and an intense anecdotes from his career bringing the audiences a look into the world of 80s cricket

Answer 132

A

Sikkim ; Gangtok, city of Sikkim

The festival is celebrated by Buddhists in monasteries, especially at the Old Rumtek Monastery, Phodong Monastery, and Tshuklakhang Palace

Answer 133

A

Anup Kumar Sinha

Answer 134

A

West Bengal (WB)

Answer 135

A

botanist

He was born on September 17, 1938 in the Kingdom of Cochin(now Kerala).
In 2020, he was awarded the Padma Shri, India’s fourth-highest civilian honor, for his
contributions in the field of science.

Answer 136

A

24

Both experiments were part of ISRO’s PSLV Orbital Experimental Module (POEM-4) initiative, which repurposes the 4th stage of the PSLV rocket into a stable orbital platform.

Answer 137

A

Dr. Rajagopala Chidambaram

Answer 138

A

Agnes Keleti

Answer 139

A

USD 32 trillion

Gujarat, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Odisha and Tamil Nadu (TN) were awarded the top rank of ‘achievers’ amongst coastal States in the LEADS 2024 report.
The event also marked the felicitation of the LEAPS 2024 awards. Recognitions were given across various categories, including core logistics services, Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), startups, and institutions.

i. Union Minister Piyush Goyal proposed the adoption of LEAD framework – Longevity, Efficiency and Effectiveness, Accessibility and Accountability and Digitalisation of processes to efficiently develop the logistics sector.

ii. He also launched the Prime Minister (PM) Gati Shakti Course of Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya (GSV), a 15–hour course on PM GatiShakti Concept for Efficient Infrastructure Planning and National Development was launched during the event. The course will be conducted by Integrated Government Online training (iGOT) Karmayogi platform and University Grants Commission (UGC) Study Webs of Active Learning for Young Aspiring Minds (SWAYAM) portal and will be included into the curriculum of Central Training Institutes (CTIs) and State Administrative Training Institutes (ATIs) across the country.

iii. Furthermore, a ‘Report on Logistics Cost Framework prepared’ by National Council of Applied Economic Research (NCAER) was launched with an aim to assess logistics cost in India through inclusion of Export-Import (EXIM) and domestic cargo data.

Answer 140

A

Centralized Pension Payments System (CPPS)

About the Centralised Pension Payments System (CPPS):
i. The CPPS enables over 78 lakh EPS pensioners to receive their pensions from any bank branch nationwide, streamlining payments, removing the need for physical verifications, and ensuring seamless disbursement. It is implemented by the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO), New Delhi(Delhi).

ii. It ensures nationwide pension disbursement without requiring Pension Payment Orders (PPO) transfers, even if pensioners relocate or change their bank or branch. This provides significant relief to those retiring to their hometowns.

iii. Pensioners will no longer need to visit a branch for verification when their pension begins, as it will be credited immediately upon release.

iv. CPPS will enable a smooth transition to Aadhaar-based payment system (ABPS) in the next phase.

Note: EPFO has invested Rs. 34,207.9 crore in Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) in the Financial Year 2024-25 (FY25).

Answer 141

A

Faiz Ahmed Kidwai

Answer 142

A

‘Tejas’ and ‘Tara’

Tejas, symbolising brilliance and energy, and Tara, representing guidance and aspiration, were depicted in vibrant blue and orange sporting attire adorned with traditional Indian motifs.

Answer 143

A

World Day of War Orphans is observed annually on January 6 across the globe to raise awareness about the challenges faced by children who have been left orphaned by wars and about the trauma experienced by war orphans globally. The Day addresses social, psychological and physical obstacles confronted by war orphans, protects their rights and well-being and highlights the need for global attention and support

Answer 144

A

Futbol Club (FC) Barcelona

The tournament was held from 8th January to 12th January 2025.
Barcelona has won the Spanish Cup for the 15th time after this win which is two more than Real Madrid (13).

Answer 145

A

Ashok Chandra ;
Binod Kumar

Answer 146

A

Nag Mark 2

The trials took place at the Pokhran Field Range in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan.
With the successful trials, the Nag Mark 2 and its carrier system are now ready for induction into the Indian Army (IA), reflecting India’s progress under the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ (self-reliant India) initiative.

Answer 147

A

Manoj Govil

August 1948 ; 3rd August, 1954

Answer 148

A

Nengchu-1

i. Nengchu-1 is the world’s first large-scale CAES solution with independent intellectual property rights and a full industrial supply chain which will store physical energy for a long time.

ii. The project has made three world records in terms of single-unit power, storage capacity, and energy conversion efficiency.

Answer 149

A

Ministry of Labour and Employment (MoL&E)

1952

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