1. International Current Affairs ..............................1 1.

International Current Affairs

2. National Current Affairs ......................................7
3. Sports ....................................................................16 1. Who has recently launched the digital currency
BIMCOIN?
4. Science & Technology ........................................22
(a) BIMSTEC (b) UNESCO
5. Obituaries.............................................................24
(c) World Bank (d) BIMTECH
6. Appointments and resignations .......................25
Answer: D. BIMTECH
7. Important Days ...................................................27
- Birla Institute of Management Technology
8. Important Days . Error! Bookmark not defined. (BIMTECH) has introduced a blockchain-powered
9. Awards and Recognitions .................................33 digital currency called BIMCOIN.
10. Ranks and Reports .........................................36 - BIMCOIN is designed to establish secure, transparent,
11. Books and Authors .........................................38 and effective transaction systems within the campus.
12. Banking and Economy ...................................39 - With this initiative, BIMTECH has become the first
13. Government Schemes & Committees ..........42 business school in India to adopt this technology.
14. Defence.............................................................47 - This move is an innovative effort towards integrating
15. Agreements and MoU....................................50 blockchain technology into the academic environment.
- BIMCOIN is a permissioned blockchain currency that
16. Miscellaneous Current Affairs......................51
guarantees decentralization and transparency.

1
2. The ____ has recommended switching from 5. Bart de Vèvre has been appointed as the Prime
regular table salt to potassium-rich salt Minister of which country?
substitutes as part of efforts to combat high (a) Australia (b) Belgium
blood pressure and related cardiovascular
(c) Kenya (d) Algeria
diseases.
Answer: B. Belgium
(a) UNICEF (b) World Health Organization - Bart de Vèvre was sworn in as the Prime Minister of
(c) UNESCO (d) World Bank Belgium on 3 February 2025.
Answer: B. World Health Organization - The ceremony was held at the Royal Palace in Brussels
- The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued and officiated by King Philippe.
new guidelines. - He succeeded Alexandre de Cruz, who led a seven-
- It recommends using potassium-rich salt substitutes to party coalition government.
combat high blood pressure and related cardiovascular - The coalition took 493 days to form a government in
diseases. 2019-20.
- Substitutes like potassium chloride, magnesium - Belgium's political system is complex, divided into
sulfate, and calcium chloride are available under brands Dutch-speaking Flanders and French-speaking Walloon
such as Losalt, Nu-Salt, Morton Lite Salt, and PanSalt. communities.
- WHO's mission to reduce sodium intake is based on
research showing health risks from excessive sodium 6. Mount Taranaki is recognized as a legal person
consumption.
in ____.
(a) Japan (b) Italy
3. In which country is Guantanamo Bay located? (c) France (d) New Zealand
(a) Kenya (b) Brazil Answer: D. New Zealand
(c) Canada (d) Cuba - Mount Taranaki is recognized as a legal person in New
Answer: D. Cuba Zealand.
- Guantanamo Bay is located in Cuba. - Known as Taranaki Maunga, it has the rights and
- The United States has a Naval base there, leased under responsibilities of a human being.
a 1903 treaty. - Considered sacred and an ancestor of the local Māori
- Donald Trump, former U.S. President, signed an order people.
for a 30,000-bed migrant detention facility at the base. - The agreement compensates the Māori for colonial
- Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel criticized the injustices.
move as an act of brutality. - Not the first of New Zealand's natural spaces to receive
- The U.S. can maintain its military base in the region legal personality.
indefinitely under the treaty.
7. Which will be the first country to criminalize
4. Canada imposed ____ tariffs against United AI child abuse tools?
States goods. (a) United Kingdom (b) France
(a) 35% (b) 20% (c) Germany (d) China
(c) 15% (d) 25% Answer: A. United Kingdom
Answer: D. 25% - The United Kingdom will be the first country to
- Canada imposed a 25% tariff on U.S. goods. introduce laws against AI tools used to generate sexual
- Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced tariffs on abuse images of children.
C$155 billion worth of U.S. goods. - The UK government plans to make it illegal to possess,
- Tariffs on C$30 billion took effect from February 4, create, or distribute AI tools designed for this purpose.
with the remaining C$125 billion in 21 days. - Punishment for possessing AI tools for child abuse will
- This was in response to Trump's executive order be up to five years in prison.
imposing 25% tariffs on Canadian and Mexican goods. - It will also be illegal to possess AI "paedophile
- Energy imports from Canada, including oil, natural manuals," with a punishment of three years in prison.
gas, and electricity, were taxed at 10%. - The law targets predators running websites for sharing
child sexual abuse content, with penalties of up to ten
years in prison.

2
8. Which of the following countries has imposed 11. Which country has recently announced the
tariffs on American products? permanent stopping of funds to the United
(a) United Kingdom (b) China Nations Relief and Works Agency for
Palestinian Refugees in the Near East
(c) France (d) India
(UNRWA)?
Answer: B. China
- China imposed tariffs on US products following the US (a) China (b) France
decision to raise tariffs on Chinese goods. (c) Russia (d) United States of
- A 15% tax was levied on coal and liquefied natural gas America
imports from the US. Answer: D. United States of America
- A 10% tariff was applied to crude oil, agricultural - Donald Trump, the 47th President of the United States,
machinery, pickup trucks, and large-engine cars. signed an executive order to withdraw from the United
- China announced an investigation into the US Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) and stop
technology company Google. funding the UNRWA.
- The order includes a review of the American
9. Which countries have formally left the
contribution to UNESCO and the United Nations.
regional bloc ECOWAS?
- The United States contributes around 22% of the
(a) Niger (b) Mali United Nations budget.
(c) Burkina Faso (d) All of the above - The USA was the largest donor to UNRWA, providing
Answer: D. All of the above $343 million in 2022 and $422 million in 2023.
- Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso have formally separated
from ECOWAS. 12. Which is the first Latin American country to
- The departure of these countries is a significant setback
pull out of China's Belt and Road Initiative?
for ECOWAS. (a) Italy (b) Panama
- They decided to leave following demands to restore (c) Poland (d) Azerbaijan
diplomatic rule. Answer: B. Panama
- Relations worsened after military coups in Niger (2023), - Panama is the first Latin American country to
Burkina Faso (2022), and Mali (2020). withdraw from China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
- ECOWAS stated it would keep its "doors open" for - The decision was made under pressure from the USA.
these countries. - The Panamanian embassy in Beijing issued a 90-day
- The 15-nation ECOWAS was established in 1975 to notice for withdrawal.
promote economic integration in West Africa. - President Jose Raul Mulino criticized the U.S. claims
about the Panama Canal as "intolerable."
10. Who has been appointed as the new Aga Khan,
- The U.S. expressed concerns over Chinese investment
the spiritual leader of Ismaili Muslims,
in the canal.
following the death of his father, Prince
Karim al-Husseini, on February 5? 13. Which of the following countries has decided
(a) Prince Hassan al-Husseini to leave the World Health Organization?
(b) Prince Ali al-Husseini (a) Argentina (b) Iran
(c) Prince Surma al-Husayni (c) Canada (d) Cuba
(d) Prince Rahim al-Husayni Answer: A. Argentina
Answer: D. Prince Rahim al-Husayni - Argentina announced its decision to withdraw from the
- Prince Rahim al-Husayni was appointed as the new World Health Organization (WHO).
Aga Khan V after the death of his father. - The decision was made by Argentina's libertarian
- His father, Aga Khan IV, Prince Karim al-Husseini, President Milei.
passed away on February 4 in Portugal at the age of 88. - Gerardo Werthein, the foreign minister, was instructed
- Prince Rahim, aged 53, becomes the 50th hereditary to execute the withdrawal.
imam of the Ismailis. - The decision was influenced by WHO's management of
- The Aga Khan is considered a direct descendant of the health issues, especially the COVID-19 pandemic.
Prophet Muhammad and is regarded as the head of state - President Milei criticized WHO for its perceived lack of
by his followers. independence from political influences.

3
14. Which country has created kangaroo embryos - Security forces arrested over 1,300 individuals under
for the first time using in vitro fertilization the operation.
(IVF)? - The interim government vowed to uproot "all devils"
(a) United States (b) Australia attempting to create instability.
(c) Canada (d) United Kingdom - Sheikh Hasina was ousted as Prime Minister in August
Answer: B. Australia 2024 following violent protests.
- Australian researchers have successfully created 17. ‘Ugbaad' climate-resilient agriculture project
kangaroo embryos using in vitro fertilization (IVF) for has been launched by which organization?
the first time.
(a) International Monetary Fund
- The process involved intracytoplasmic sperm injection
(b) United Nations Food and Agriculture
(ICSI), a technique also used in human fertility
Organization (FAO)
treatments.
- Scientists at the University of Queensland developed (c) World Bank
eastern grey kangaroo embryos by inserting a single (d) United Nations Development Programme
sperm into a mature egg. (UNDP)
- Over 20 embryos have been successfully generated Answer: B. United Nations Food and Agriculture
from sperm and eggs collected from deceased kangaroos Organization (FAO)
in wildlife hospitals. - FAO launched the “Ugbaad” climate-resilient
- This achievement aims to aid in the conservation of agriculture project in Somalia.
endangered marsupials like koalas, Tasmanian devils, - This is a seven-year project aimed at enhancing climate
and wombats, addressing Australia's high mammal adaptation and resilience for vulnerable communities.
extinction rate. - The project, worth $95 million, is called “Ugbaad,”
meaning a symbol of hope.
15. Which country’s Prime Minister Nawaf Salam - It addresses climate change challenges and strengthens
formed the first full-fledged government since
agrifood systems through large-scale investment.
2022?
- The project was approved in October 2024. The FAO is
(a) Australia (b) Lebanon headquartered in Rome, Italy.
(c) Egypt (d) Syria
Answer: B. Lebanon 18. In which country was the new consulate of
- Lebanon's new Prime Minister, Nawaf Salam, formed India inaugurated recently?
the first full government since 2022. (a) Argentina (b) Germany
- President Joseph Aoun accepted the resignation of the (c) Brazil (d) France
former caretaker government. Answer: D. France
- The new government aims to implement reforms to - Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President
address the country's economic crisis. Emmanuel Macron inaugurated the new Consulate
- Salam’s cabinet consists of 24 ministers, evenly split General of India in Marseille, France on 12 February
between Christian and Muslim sects. 2025.
- Nawaf Salam is a former diplomat and ex-president of - This inauguration is a significant step in Indo-French
the International Court of Justice. ties, aimed at strengthening cultural, economic, and
people-to-people connections.
16. Which neighboring country of India has
- The consulate will provide services to the Indian
launched Operation 'Devil Hunt' to deal with
expatriate community in southern France.
violence?
- The move is expected to enhance bilateral relations
(a) Pakistan (b) Sri Lanka
between India and France.
(c) Bangladesh (d) Myanmar
Answer: C. Bangladesh 19. Constantine Tassoulas has recently been
- Bangladesh's interim government launched Operation elected as the new President of which
'Devil Hunt' to curb violence targeting Awami League country?
leaders and properties. (a) Finland (b) Argentina
(c) Greece (d) Uruguay

4
Answer: C. Greece - It will accommodate six scientists for missions lasting
- Constantine Tassoulas was elected as the new up to a month.
President of Greece.
22. On February 11, who was elected as the new
- He is the former Speaker of the Greek Parliament.
Prime Minister of Vanuatu?
- Tassoulas received 160 votes in the 300-member
(a) Jotham Napat (b) Charlotte Salwai
parliament, surpassing the required 151 votes.
- He will succeed Katerina Sakellaropoulou, whose term (c) Ishmael Kalsakou (d) Bob Laughman
ends in March. Answer: A. Jotham Napat
- Jotham Napat was elected as the new Prime Minister
20. Who was sworn in as the interim President of of Vanuatu on February 11, 2023.
Romania following the resignation of - He is the president of the Vanuatu Leaders Party.
President Iohannis? - Napat was elected through a secret ballot in the
(a) Jotham Napat (b) Ili Bolojan Parliament located in Port Vila, the capital.
(c) Katerina Sakellaropoulou - As the sole candidate, he received 50 votes in the 52-
(d) Constantine Tasoulas seat parliament; the remaining two votes were void.
Answer: B. Ilie Bolojan
23. Which of the following statements is correct
- President Iohannis of Romania resigned due to the
about the Indian Ocean Strategic Venture?
threat of impeachment by far-right parliamentary 1. PM Modi and President Xi Jinping
parties. launched a new bilateral forum, the Indian
- The resignation followed the annulment of the Ocean Strategic Venture.
presidential election by a top court amid allegations of 2. It will be a forum for advance coordinated
Russian meddling. investments in economic connectivity and
- Ilie Bolojan was sworn in as the interim President of commerce.
Romania after Iohannis' resignation. (a) Only 2 (b) Only 1
- Ilie Bolojan will serve as interim president until new (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) None of these
elections in May. Answer: A. Only 2
- The information provided in the question and options - PM Modi and President Trump launched the Indian
does not match the explanation. Ocean Strategic Venture, not President Xi Jinping.
21. Consider the following statements and choose - The forum aims for coordinated investments in
the correct option. economic connectivity and commerce.
1. China has approved the construction of the - The Quad grouping includes India, Japan, Australia,
first deep-water 'space station' in the South and the United States.
China Sea. - The India-Middle East-Europe Corridor and I2U2
2. This cold seep ecosystem research facility Group are separate initiatives.
will be 5000 meters below the surface in the
South China Sea. 24. The International Union for Maritime
3. It will become fully operational by around Navigation Aids (IALA) has elected ____ as its
2030. Vice President.
(a) Only 2 (b) Only 3 (a) India (b) Thailand
(c) 1 and 2 only (d) 1 and 3 only (c) Sri Lanka (d) Japan
Answer: D. 1 and 3 only Answer: A. India
- China has approved the construction of the first deep- - The International Association of Aids to Marine
water 'space station' in the South China Sea. Navigation (IALA) elected India as its Vice President.
- The cold seep ecosystem research facility will be located - The election took place during IALA's inaugural
2000 meters below the surface, not 5000 meters. General Assembly in Singapore.
- It is expected to become fully operational by around - T.K. Ramachandran, Secretary of the Ministry of Ports,
2030. Shipping, and Waterways, led the Indian delegation.
- The facility will be one of the deepest and most - This election underscores India's commitment to
technologically complex underwater installations. enhancing navigational aids and promoting maritime
safety.

5
- The IALA Council meeting will be held in India in - This day also commemorates Mauritius' transition to a
December 2025, and the IALA Conference and General republic within the Commonwealth in 1992.
Assembly will occur in Mumbai in September 2027. - India and Mauritius share close and long-standing
ties.
25. Which is the second country in the world to
- Mauritius is an island nation in the Western Indian
introduce an Electronic Personnel License
(EPL) for pilots in the civil aviation sector? Ocean.

(a) USA (b) India 28. Consider the following statements: Which of
(c) Russia (d) China the statements given below is/are correct?
Answer: B. India 1. Bahrain has officially approved entry into
- India is the second country after China to launch an OPEC+, forming an alliance with major oil-
exporting countries.
Electronic Personnel License (EPL) for pilots.
2. OPEC+ was formed in response to the fall
- The EPL was launched by Union Civil Aviation
in oil prices due to a significant increase in US
Minister K Rammohan Naidu on 20 February 2025 at
shale oil production in 2016.
Udaan Bhawan, New Delhi. 3. Brazil is the seventh largest oil-producing
- Udaan Bhawan is located at Safdarjung Airport and country in the world.
houses various civil aviation regulatory bodies.
(a) Only 2 (b) Only 1 and 2
- The introduction of EPL is part of the Digital India
(c) Only 3 (d) Only 2 and 3
initiative to promote Ease of Doing Business.
Answer: D. Only 2 and 3
26. Which country has been elected as the - Brazil has officially approved entry into OPEC+, not
chairman of the Bay of Bengal Programme Bahrain.
Inter-Governmental Organisation in 2025? - The decision was approved by Brazil's National Energy
(a) Maldives (b) Bangladesh Policy Council.
(c) India (d) Sri Lanka - Brazil is the seventh-largest oil producer globally.
Answer: C. India - OPEC+ was founded in 2016 due to falling oil prices
- India has been elected as the Chairman of the Bay of from increased U.S. shale oil production.
Bengal Programme Inter-Governmental Organisation in - OPEC+ includes 23 members as of February 2025.
2025.
29. Which country in February 2025 announced a
- India assumed the Chairmanship from Bangladesh at new Gold Card Investor Visa program for
the 13th Governing Council Meeting held in Male, wealthy immigrants?
Maldives.
(a) Saudi Arabia (b) Russia
- Dr. Abhilaksh Likhi, Secretary, Department of
(c) America (d) China
Fisheries, Government of India, formally took over the
Answer: C. America
Chairmanship.
- America announced a new Gold Card Investor Visa
- The meeting was conducted in Maldives from 20-22
program in February 2025 for wealthy immigrants.
February 2025.
- This program will replace the existing EB-5 visa.
- The Organisation was established in 2003 and its
- Companies can purchase Immigration Gold Cards for
Governing Council is the apex decision-making body.
$5 million for highly talented employees.
27. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be the - US President Donald Trump described it as an
chief guest at which country's National Day upgrade from the green card system.
celebrations on March 12? - The EB-5 visa offers immigration privileges for
(a) Malaysia (b) Mexico investments between $800,000 and $1.05 million.
(c) South Sudan (d) Mauritius 30. The Government is working to set up a
Answer: D. Mauritius National Green Financing Institution. It will
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be the Guest of support India in achieving a net-zero target by
Honour at the National Day celebrations of Mauritius. ____.
- The event will be held on March 12, marking Mauritius' (a) 2050 (b) 2070
independence from British rule in 1968.
(c) 2060 (d) 2040

6
Answer: B. 2070 on Ukraine since taking office last month and his more
- The National Green Financing Institution aims to conciliatory stance toward Russia.
support India's net-zero target by 2070. - Earlier on February 24, 2025 the US had failed to
- This institution will help bridge the gap between targets persuade the General Assembly to pass the three-
and achievements in green financing. paragraph resolution adopted by the Security Council.
- NITI Aayog is examining mechanisms for - The General Assembly has consistently supported
operationalizing this potential institution. Ukraine's sovereignty.
- India aims to reduce its GDP emission intensity by - The Security Council often faces deadlock due to veto
45% by 2030 compared to 2005 levels. powers of permanent members like Russia.
- The initiative is part of India's broader strategy to
combat climate change. 2. National Current Affairs
31. Which country announced the Green 33. How many new sites have been added to
Transition Alliance India (GTAI) initiative? Ramsar sites in India?
(a) France (b) Italy (a) Six (b) Four
(c) Denmark (d) Norway (c) Seven (d) Five
Answer: C. Denmark Answer: B. Four
- Denmark announced the Green Transition Alliance - Ahead of World Wetlands Day on 2 February 2025, the
India (GTAI) initiative. government announced the addition of four new Ramsar
- The initiative aims to strengthen collaboration with sites in India.
India on sustainable energy solutions. - The new sites are Sakkarakottai Bird Sanctuary and
- It supports the commitment to achieve global carbon Therthangal Bird Sanctuary in Tamil Nadu,
neutrality. Khecheopalri Wetland in Sikkim, and Udhwa Lake in
- The alliance fosters sustainable energy growth in India Jharkhand.
by promoting collaboration between businesses, - This brings the total number of Ramsar sites in India to
government bodies, research institutions, and financial 89.
stakeholders of both countries. - India has the highest number of Ramsar sites in Asia
- Denmark, ranked fourth in the global Climate Change and ranks third globally.
Performance Index 2025, aims for net zero by 2045. - Tamil Nadu now has the most Ramsar sites in India,
with a total of 20.
32. Which of the following statements is correct?
1. A neutral US stance on the war in Ukraine 34. On January 31, which ministry notified the
adopted by the UN Security Council as Trump Aadhaar Authentication for Good Governance
pursued peace on 24 February. (Social Welfare, Innovation, Knowledge)
2. Earlier on February 24, the US had failed to Amendment Rules, 2025?
persuade the General Assembly to pass the (a) Ministry of Finance
three-paragraph resolution adopted by the (b) Ministry of Electronics and Information
Security Council.
Technology
(a) Only 1 (b) Only 2
(c) Ministry of Cooperation
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2
(d) Ministry of Education
Answer: C. Both 1 and 2
Answer: B. Ministry of Electronics and Information
- The UN Security Council adopt a neutral stance on the
Technology
war in Ukraine.
- On January 31, 2025, the Ministry of Electronics and
on February 24, 2025.
Information Technology (MeitY) notified the
- On 24 February 2025, the United Nations Security
amendment.
Council adopted a U.S.-drafted resolution on the third
- The rules are under the Aadhaar (Targeted Delivery of
anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine that takes a
Financial and Other Subsidies, Benefits and Services)
neutral position on the conflict. Act, 2016.
- U.S. President Donald Trump seeks to broker peace. - The amendment aims to enhance transparency and
The brief proposal reflects Trump’s shift in U.S. policy inclusiveness in decision-making.

7
- It seeks to expand the scope and utility of Aadhaar 38. Haryana Wildlife (Protection) Rules, 2024 has
authentication for good governance, social welfare, been approved by the Haryana Cabinet.
innovation, and knowledge dissemination. Consider the following statements about the
new rules.
35. What is the name of the SuperApp introduced 1. Under new rules, formats for granting
by the Ministry of Railways? permits regarding wildlife education,
(a) 'Umang Rail' (b) 'RailTel' scientific research, or scientific management
(c) 'RangRel' (d) 'SwaRel' are provided.
Answer: D. 'SwaRel' 2. Rules also provide detailed procedures and
- The Ministry of Railways introduced the SuperApp formats for people to carry out surveys or
named 'SwaRel'. investigations on land within sanctuaries.
- 'SwaRel' serves as a one-stop solution offering (a) Only 1 (b) Only 2
comprehensive railway services. (c) 1 and 2 (d) None of these
- The app is currently in beta testing and available on Answer: C. 1 and 2
Google Play Store and Apple App Store. - The Haryana Wildlife (Protection) Rules, 2024 have
- It aims to enhance user experience with a seamless and been approved by the Haryana Cabinet.
clean user interface (UI). - Statement 1: The rules provide formats for granting
permits related to wildlife education, scientific research,
36. Recently, India's first White Tiger Breeding
or scientific management.
Center has been approved in which state?
- Statement 2: They also outline detailed procedures and
(a) Karnataka (b) Odisha formats for conducting surveys or investigations on land
(c) Rajasthan (d) Madhya Pradesh within sanctuaries.
Answer: D. Madhya Pradesh - Both statements are correct, hence the answer is C. 1
- India's first White Tiger Breeding Center has been and 2.
approved by the Central Zoo Authority (CZA). - The rules aim to enhance wildlife protection and
- It will be established in the Govindgarh area of Rewa management in Haryana.
district, Madhya Pradesh.
- The initiative aims to conserve and breed white tigers, 39. The only educational institution to receive a
a rare species of Bengal tiger. Green School rating from the entire North
Eastern States is located in ____.
- The government is working to make Madhya Pradesh a
model state for wildlife conservation. (a) Meghalaya (b) Sikkim
- Approval from the CZA for this center is a significant (c) Mizoram (d) Manipur
achievement in this direction. Answer: B. Sikkim
- The PM Shri Government Senior Secondary School
37. A five-member committee has been formed by Namchi in Sikkim is the only institution in the North
which government to draft the Uniform Civil
Eastern States to receive a Green School rating.
Code?
- The Centre for Science and Environment organized the
(a) Gujarat (b) Uttar Pradesh Green Carnival and Green School Award Ceremony
(c) Maharashtra (d) Karnataka 2025.
Answer: A. Gujarat - This event is held annually to engage young
- The Gujarat government has established a five- environmentalists from schools across India.
member committee to draft a Uniform Civil Code for - Green School Audit reports from July-December are
the state. evaluated, and awards are given to schools rated as
- The committee is led by retired Supreme Court judge green.
Ranjana Desai.
- It is expected to submit its report within 45 days. 40. Where is the Tribal Cultural Meet 2025 being
- The Uniform Civil Code aims to standardize the
organized on February 6?
personal laws of all religions. (a) Bhopal (b) Varanasi
- A final decision will be made by the government based (c) Prayagraj (d) Jaipur
on the committee's recommendations. Answer: C. Prayagraj

8
- The Janjati Sanskritik Samagam 2025 is scheduled for - Karnataka's last Maoist, Lakshmi, surrendered, leading
February 6 at Mahakumbh, Prayagraj. to the state being declared 'Naxal-free.'
- Over 15,000 tribals from across India will attend this - Lakshmi is eligible for a 'surrender package' of Rs 7
event. lakh as she falls under the 'A' category for surrender.
- The meet aims to celebrate the rich heritage, traditions, - She has three cases registered against her in Udupi
and contributions of India's tribal communities. district.
- A six-day program will include an oath to protect tribal - After surrendering, she appealed to the authorities to
culture and traditions. absolve her of the charges.
- The year 2025 is declared as Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh to - The 'A' category is designated for Naxalites from the
commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of Birsa state of Karnataka.
Munda.
44. How many additional commodities and their
41. Where will India’s first AI university be tradable parameters have been added to the e-
established? NAM platform to increase agricultural trade?
(a) Tamil Nadu (b) Uttar Pradesh (a) 5 (b) 10
(c) Karnataka (d) Maharashtra (c) 15 (d) 20
Answer: D. Maharashtra Answer: B. 10
- India's first AI university will be established in - Ten additional commodities have been added to the e-
Maharashtra. NAM platform to boost agricultural trade.
- A task force has been formed to plan and implement - New commodities include wheat flour, dragon fruit,
the project. besan, and dried tulsi leaves.
- The task force is chaired by the Principal Secretary of - The initiative aims to expand the coverage of
the Department of Information Technology. agricultural commodities.
- The university will promote research and development - It offers more opportunities for farmers and traders to
in AI and related areas. benefit from the digital trading platform.
- It aims to be a centre of excellence, fostering
45. NSDC International Academy has been
collaboration between industry, academia, and inaugurated at ____?
government.
(a) Kanpur (b) Greater Noida
42. The natural inland mangrove site of Guneri (c) Ahmedabad (d) Lucknow
village has been declared as the first Answer: B. Greater Noida
Biodiversity Heritage Site of which state? - NSDC International Academy was inaugurated in
(a) Gujarat (b) Uttar Pradesh Greater Noida.
(c) Maharashtra (d) Karnataka - Jayant Chaudhary, Minister of State (Independent
Answer: A. Gujarat Charge), inaugurated the academy.
- The natural inland mangrove site of Guneri village in - Located in Uttar Pradesh, it aims to provide world-class
Kutch district has been declared the first Biodiversity skill development and training programs.
Heritage Site of Gujarat. - This initiative seeks to bridge the gap between Indian
- It covers an area of 32.78 hectares in Lakhtar tehsil. youth and global employment opportunities.
- The declaration was made by the state government
46. What is the new name of Fort William?
following a recommendation from the Gujarat
Biodiversity Board.
(a) Netaji Fort (b) Shivaji Fort
- This site is significant for its unique ecosystem and (c) Subhash Durg (d) Vijay Durg
biodiversity. Answer: D. Vijay Durg
- Fort William, the headquarters of the Indian Army's
43. Last Naxalite of which of the following states Eastern Command, has been renamed Vijay Durg.
surrendered recently? - St George's Gate of Fort William has been renamed
(a) Odisha (b) Maharashtra Shivaji Gate.
(c) Chhattisgarh (d) Karnataka - Built by the British in 1773, it was originally named
Answer: D. Karnataka after King William III of England.

9
- Located on the eastern bank of the Hooghly River in - Developed by Himachal Pradesh Power Corporation
Kolkata, West Bengal. Limited (HPPCL) with Oil India Limited.
- Currently, it serves as the property of the Indian Army - The project cost is Rs 9.04 crore.
and the headquarters of the Eastern Command. - Himachal aims to be India's first green energy state by
March 2026.
47. Which of the following has been the partner of
the 38th edition of the Surajkund 50. Union Cabinet decided to extend the National
International Craft Mela? Commission for Safai Karamcharis’ tenure till
(a) BRICS (b) SAARC ____.
(c) NAM (d) BIMSTEC (a) 2029 (b) 2027
Answer: D. BIMSTEC (c) 2026 (d) 2028
- The 38th edition of the Surajkund International Crafts Answer: D. 2028
Mela began on 7th February in Faridabad and will - The Union Cabinet extended the tenure of the National
continue until 23rd February. Commission for Safai Karamcharis till March 31, 2028.
- This event showcases regional and international crafts, - The extension is for three years, as the term was initially
handlooms, traditions, and multi-cuisine food. set to end on March 31, 2025.
- The fair is celebrated as ‘Shilp Mahakumbh’, inspired - The financial implication of this extension is
by the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025. approximately ₹50.91 crore.
- For the first time, Odisha and Madhya Pradesh are - The Commission monitors the implementation of the
designated as theme states. Prohibition of Employment as Manual Scavengers and
- BIMSTEC countries are included as partner countries their Rehabilitation Act, 2013 (MS Act 2013).
in this edition.
51. Where did the 32nd session of the Indian Art
48. The government will develop how many History Congress begin on February 8?
centres to train 'good drivers' and reduce (a) Indore (b) Noida
accidents? (c) Lucknow (d) Hyderabad
(a) 1,800 (b) 1,200 Answer: B. Noida
(c) 1,600 (d) 1,400 - The 32nd session of the Indian Art History Congress
Answer: C. 1,600 was held in Noida from February 8 to 10, 2025.
- 1,600 centres will be developed by the government to - Organized by the Indian Heritage Institute, Noida, a
train 'good drivers' and reduce accidents. Deemed University under the Ministry of Culture.
- A new policy has been issued by the Ministry of Road - The event was inaugurated by Union Minister of
Transport and Highways (MoRTH) to set up driving Culture and Tourism, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat.
training institutes across the country. - The conference aimed to discuss the artistic and
- It is noted that a large number of road accidents occur performative presentations of Indian epics.
due to driver errors. - The theme was “Rendering of Indian Epics in Art and
- Under the scheme, Rs 4,500 crore in assistance will be Culture.”
provided by the ministry in a phased manner.
52. The creation of a new ____ under Railways has
- The initiative will cover all 36 states and Union
been approved by the Cabinet.
Territories (UTs).
(a) South Coast Railway Zone
49. Which state's Chief Minister laid the (b) North-East Coast Railway Zone
foundation stone of North India's first 1 MW (c) North Coast Railway Zone
green hydrogen plant?
(d) Southeast Coast Railway Zone
(a) Uttar Pradesh (b) Himachal Pradesh
Answer: A. South Coast Railway Zone
(c) Jharkhand (d) Uttarakhand - On 7 February, the Union Cabinet approved the
Answer: B. Himachal Pradesh creation of the South Coast Railway Zone under Indian
- Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu laid the Railways.
foundation stone in Himachal Pradesh. - It will include a part of the Waltair division, which will
- The plant is located at Dabhota in Solan district. be renamed as the Visakhapatnam division.

10
- The new zone is established in accordance with the - The 12th All India Pension Adalat was chaired by
Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act. Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh in New Delhi.
- The Cabinet modified its earlier decision from February - The event facilitated interaction between the Minister
2019 to retain the Waltair division in a truncated form. and pensioners from various states.
- The name change from 'Voltaire' was due to its colonial - On-the-spot redressal of pension-related grievances
legacy. was provided.
- Pension cases pending for over 120 days in 16
53. Recently, the name of Foy Sagar Lake has been
departments and ministries were addressed during the
changed. In which state is this lake located?
Adalat.
(a) Tamil Nadu (b) Assam
(c) Himachal Pradesh (d) Rajasthan 56. Which edition of Kashi Tamil Sangamam
Answer: D. Rajasthan started on 15 February in Varanasi, Uttar
- The Rajasthan government renamed the 132-year-old Pradesh?
Foy Sagar Lake in Ajmer to Varun Sagar. (a) First (b) Third
- Originally named after English engineer Foy, who (c) Second (d) Fourth
constructed the lake. Answer: B. Third
- Rajasthan Assembly Speaker Vasudev Devnani stated - Kashi Tamil Sangamam 3.0 began on 15 February 2025
the name change aims to remove symbols of colonialism in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh.
and promote national pride. - This marks the third edition of the event.
- The lake was managed by the King Edward VII - The event will continue for ten days until 24 February
Memorial (Rest House) Society, registered since 1975. 2025.
- The building was declared a monument by a gazette - It was inaugurated by Union Education Minister
notification in September 2014 and spans about 9 Dharmendra Pradhan, Union Minister of State for
bighas. Information and Broadcasting Dr. L. Murugan, and
Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath.
54. In February 2025, the central government
- The Ministry of Education, in partnership with various
imposed President's rule in which state?
ministries and the Government of Uttar Pradesh, is
(a) Odisha (b) Manipur organizing the event.
(c) Nagaland (d) West Bengal
Answer: B. Manipur 57. As per a study, stubble burning in Punjab and
- The central government imposed President's Rule in Haryana contributes only ____ of PM2.5 in
Delhi-NCR.
Manipur after CM Biren Singh resigned.
- On 13 February 2025, the Home Ministry announced (a) 24% (b) 10%
the imposition under Article 356 of the Constitution. (c) 30% (d) 14%
- President's Rule involves suspending the state Answer: D. 14%
government and placing it under central government - Stubble burning in Punjab and Haryana contributes
control. only 14% of PM2.5 in Delhi-NCR.
- The President declared that the state's legislative - The study indicates no linear correlation between
powers would be exercised by or under the authority of stubble-burning events in these states and PM2.5 levels in
the Parliament. Delhi-NCR.
- Article 356 allows the central government to take direct - Despite a 50% decline in stubble-burning events from
control of a state in case of failure of constitutional 2015 to 2023, PM2.5 levels in Delhi-NCR remained stable.
machinery. - PM2.5 refers to fine particulate matter that can affect air
quality and health.
55. Which edition of the All India Pension Adalat
was chaired by Union Minister Dr. Jitendra 58. What was the main objective of the workshop
Singh in New Delhi? recently organized by the office of the Chief
(a) 13th (b) 10th Controller of Accounts (CCA) of the Ministry
of Mines?
(c) 12th (d) 11th
Answer: C. 12th (a) Discussing new tax reforms

11
(b) Explaining the functionality and benefits of e- 61. Which of the following statements is correct
bills about the National Geospatial Knowledge-
(c) Discussing budget allocation based Land Survey of Urban Habitations
(NAKSHA) pilot program?
(d) Reviewing the policies of the Ministry of Mines
1. It has been launched in 152 Urban Local
Answer: B. Explaining the functionality and benefits of Bodies (ULBs) in 26 states and 3 Union
e-bills Territories (UTs) at Raisen, Madhya Pradesh.
- The workshop was organized by the Chief Controller 2. It will be implemented by the Department
of Accounts (CCA) of the Ministry of Mines. of Land Resources under the Ministry of
- It aimed to explain the functionality and benefits of the Rural Development.
e-bill system. (a) Only 1 (b) Only 2
- The e-bill system is a digital platform that enhances the (c) 1 and 2 (d) None of these
billing process by making it easy, transparent, and Answer: C. 1 and 2
efficient. - The NAKSHA pilot program was launched in 152
- The objective was to inform stakeholders about the Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) across 26 states and 3 Union
practical benefits of e-billing. Territories (UTs) at Raisen, Madhya Pradesh.
59. India has developed the world’s largest 10- - It is implemented by the Department of Land
tonne propellant mixer for solid rocket Resources under the Ministry of Rural Development.
motors. Which organization collaborated with - The program aims to modernize land survey processes
ISRO’s Satish Dhawan Space Centre to design in urban areas.
it? - It focuses on creating and updating land records,
(a) DRDO (b) CMTI ensuring accurate documentation of land ownership.
(c) IISc (d) BHEL - The program leverages IT-based systems to enhance
Answer: B. CMTI transparency, efficiency, and support sustainable
- The world’s largest 10-tonne propellant mixer for solid development.
rocket motors was developed by India.
62. Which of the following will be the first in
- ISRO’s Satish Dhawan Space Centre collaborated with India to be equipped with the facility of a
the Central Manufacturing Technology Institute translator?
(CMTI) in Bengaluru to design it.
(a) Punjab Legislative Assembly
- The mixer weighs 150 tonnes and measures 8.7 meters
(b) Uttar Pradesh Assembly
in height, 5.4 meters in length, and 3.3 meters in width.
(c) Uttarakhand Legislative Assembly
- It ensures the precise and safe mixing of solid
propellant ingredients necessary for a rocket launch. (d) Madhya Pradesh Assembly
Answer: B. Uttar Pradesh Assembly
60. India's first dedicated GCC policy has been - Uttar Pradesh Assembly will be the first in India to
released by ____? have a translator facility.
(a) Kerala (b) Karnataka - Awadhi, Braj, Bhojpuri, Bundelkhand, and English
(c) Madhya Pradesh (d) Rajasthan translations have been reviewed by UP CM Yogi
Answer: C. Madhya Pradesh Adityanath.
- Madhya Pradesh released India's first dedicated Global - The proposed arrangement will be presented to the
Capability Centre (GCC) policy. Ruling Committee.
- The Madhya Pradesh GCC Policy 2025 includes - Implementation will occur after House approval.
incentives for capital expenditure, payroll, upskilling, - Discussions on the Prayagraj stampede and Sambhal
and research. violence are expected during the session starting on 18
- A designated nodal agency will oversee the policy's February.
implementation.
63. Recently, Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal
- The policy targets sectors like IT, finance, engineering,
inaugurated the Inland Waterways Terminal
human resources, and emerging technologies. on which river?
(a) Ganga (b) Yamuna

12
 (c)

Brahmaputra (d) Kaveri - The project aims to collect unused medicines from
Answer: C. Brahmaputra households and provide disposal facilities at designated
- Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal inaugurated the locations.
Inland Waterways Terminal on the Brahmaputra River
66. Which edition of the Asia Economic Dialogue
at Jogighopa, Assam. was held in Pune, Maharashtra?
- This terminal aims to enhance connectivity and boost
(a) Ninth (b) Sixth
trilateral trade with Bhutan and Bangladesh.
(c) Eighth (d) Seventh
- The foundation stone was laid in February 2021.
Answer: A. Ninth
- The terminal was established at a cost of Rs 82 crore.
- The 9th Asia Economic Dialogue was organized in
64. Who inaugurated India's first vertical Pune, Maharashtra.
bidirectional solar plant on the metro viaduct - Union Minister Piyush Goyal addressed the event.
at Okhla Vihar metro station? - The three-day Dialogue was co-hosted with the Pune
(a) Chirag Paswan (b) Manohar Lal Khattar International Centre.
(c) Bhupender Yadav (d) Amit Shah - The theme was "Economic Resilience and Resurgence
Answer: B. Manohar Lal Khattar in an Era of Fragmentation."
- The Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs and
67. Which state government has approved a new
Power Manohar Lal Khattar inaugurated India’s first
land law 'to protect cultural identity and
vertical bifacial solar plant on a metro viaduct at Okhla natural resources'?
Vihar Metro station.
(a) Himachal Pradesh (b) Manipur
- He also inaugurated a one-megawatt rooftop solar
(c) Uttarakhand (d) Assam
power plant installed at Khyber Pass depot.
Answer: C. Uttarakhand
- The vertical bifacial solar plant captures sunlight from
- The Uttarakhand government approved a new land
both sides.
law to protect cultural identity and natural resources.
- It utilizes the metro's elevated structure for solar energy
- The law aims to preserve the state's resources and
without extra land.
maintain its original identity.
- The plant was inaugurated during the International
- Individuals from outside the state cannot purchase
Conference on Green Metro Systems – The Future of
horticultural and agricultural land in 11 districts of
Urban Mobility in Delhi.
Uttarakhand, except Haridwar and Udham Singh Nagar.
- Nayab Singh Saini is the Chief Minister of Haryana.
- This decision ensures proper land use in hilly regions
65. The first project on the collection and disposal and prevents encroachments.
of expired medicines is being launched by
which government? 68. Which of the following statements about the
Rajasthan state budget for 2025-26 is correct?
(a) Government of Kerala
1. The Rajasthan’s GDP is likely to exceed Rs
(b) Government of Tamil Nadu 19.89 lakh crore in 2025-26.
(c) Government of Gujarat 2. The state government will construct nine
(d) Government of Maharashtra greenfield expressways at a cost of Rs 60,000
Answer: A. Government of Kerala crore.
- The Government of Kerala is launching the first (a) Only 1 (b) Only 2
project in India for the collection and disposal of expired (c) 1 and 2 (d) None of the above
medicines. Answer: C. 1 and 2
- The State Drug Control Department is spearheading - Rajasthan Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari
this initiative. presented the state budget for 2025-26.
- The project is named 'nPROUD' (New Programme for - The state's GDP is projected to exceed Rs 19.89 lakh
Removal of Unused Drugs). crore in 2025-26.
- Health Minister Veena George will inaugurate the - The government plans to construct nine greenfield
project on February 22 in Kozhikode. expressways at a cost of Rs 60,000 crore.
- The budget aims to make Rajasthan a $350 billion
economy by 2030.

13
- Additional initiatives include 5 lakh new domestic - The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet
electricity connections and 5,000 agricultural power approved this extension.
connections. - Subrahmanyam was initially appointed as CEO in
February 2023 for a two-year term.
69. Who inaugurated the first edition of the SOUL
- NITI Aayog serves as the apex public policy think
Leadership Conclave 2025?
tank for the Government of India.
(a) Draupadi Murmu (b) Narendra Modi
(c) Rajnath Singh (d) Amit Shah 72. Which state has implemented the Supreme
Answer: B. Narendra Modi Court verdict on passive euthanasia,
- PM Narendra Modi inaugurated the first edition of the becoming the second state after Kerala to do
so?
SOUL Leadership Conclave at Bharat Mandapam in
New Delhi on 21 February 2025. (a) Karnataka (b) Haryana
- The two-day conclave was held on 21 and 22 February (c) Tamil Nadu (d) None of these
2025. Answer: A. Karnataka
- PM of Bhutan, Dasho Tshering Tobgay, was on a - Karnataka implemented the Supreme Court's ruling on
three-day visit to India and delivered the keynote passive euthanasia, becoming the second state after
address. Kerala to do so.
- The conclave aims to provide a platform for leaders - Passive euthanasia involves withholding or
from sports, arts, politics, media, spirituality, public withdrawing life-sustaining treatment to allow a
policy, business, and social sectors to share their terminally ill patient to die naturally.
experiences. - International practices: Countries like Netherlands,
- Organized by the School of Ultimate Leadership Belgium, and Canada allow euthanasia under strict
(SOUL). conditions.
- It is legal in India as per Supreme Court rulings in
70. The Madhya Pradesh forest department 2018 and 2023, under strict medical and legal conditions.
recently conducted a state-level census of
- The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare issued
vultures, and the number has increased to
draft guidelines titled “Guidelines for Withdrawal of
____.
Life Support in Terminally Ill Patients.”
(a) 14,981 (b) 12,981
(c) 22,981 (d) 13,981 73. Which of the statements given below is/are
Answer: B. 12,981 correct regarding India's first 'Bio Bank'?
- Madhya Pradesh now has the highest number of
1. India's first 'Bio Bank' has been set up at
Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park in
vultures in India.
West Bengal.
- The state-level census recorded an increase to 12,981
2. The biobank is also known as "Frozen Zoo".
vultures.
3. Samples are preserved at -200°C in liquid
- The census was conducted across 16 circles, 64 nitrogen to maintain genetic diversity.
divisions, and 9 protected areas.
(a) Only 2 (b) Only 1 and 2
- Vulture numbers have been increasing steadily since
(c) Only 3 (d) Only 2 and 3
2016.
Answer: B. Only 1 and 2
- In 2019, the count was 8,397, rising to 10,845 in 2024.
- India's first 'Bio Bank' is located at Padmaja Naidu
71. The Union Government has decided to extend Himalayan Zoological Park in West Bengal.
the tenure of NITI Aayog Chief Executive - The biobank is referred to as a "Frozen Zoo".
Officer (CEO) BVR Subrahmanyam for how - It collects DNA, cell, and tissue samples from
long? endangered species and reproductive cells from
(a) 2 years (b) 1 year deceased animals.
(c) 6 months (d) 3 years - Cryogenic storage is used, preserving samples at -196°C
Answer: B. 1 year in liquid nitrogen to maintain genetic diversity.
- The central government extended the tenure of NITI - The facility is established in partnership with the Centre
Aayog CEO BVR Subrahmanyam by one year. for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB) under the
Ministry of Science and Technology.

14
74. Which ministry launched a hackathon named - Datia Airport is now Madhya Pradesh’s 8th public
'Innovate with GoIStates' in February 2025? airport following this permission.
(a) Ministry of Cooperation - Constructed on approximately 184 acres, the runway
(b) Ministry of Statistics and Programme measures 30 meters in width and 1810 meters in length.
Implementation - The airport's terminal building occupies 768 square
meters. It facilitates travel to Bhopal and Khajuraho.
(c) Ministry of Education
(d) Ministry of Skill Development and 77. Where was the first breeding site of the Blue-
Entrepreneurship Cheeked Bee-eater recently discovered in
Answer: B. Ministry of Statistics and Programme peninsular India?
Implementation (a) Maharashtra (b) Tamil Nadu
- The Ministry of Statistics and Programme (c) West Bengal (d) Kerala
Implementation launched the hackathon 'Innovate with Answer: B. Tamil Nadu
GoIStates'. - The first breeding site of the Blue-Cheeked Bee-eater in
- The theme is Data-Driven Insights for Viksit Bharat. peninsular India was found in the saltpans of Aandivilai
- It aims to inspire students and researchers to use data near the Manakudy Mangroves, Kanniyakumari, Tamil
from the National Statistics Office (NSO) for innovative Nadu.
insights. - This bird is part of the bee-eater family (Meropidae)
- The hackathon will be held on the MyGov platform and was previously known as a migrant and winter
from 25th February to 31st March. visitor in India.
- Undergraduate, postgraduate, and research students - It prefers sub-tropical semi-desert regions with sparse
are eligible to participate. trees like acacias for breeding.
- The bird nests alone or in small colonies and sometimes
75. In which state was the Jhumair event held on
shares colonies with European bee-eaters.
24 February 2025?
- Its breeding range includes the Nile Delta, Pakistan,
(a) Assam (b) Sikkim
and Iran, while it winters in Africa.
(c) Nagaland (d) Manipur
Answer: A. Assam 78. Which state/UT Police registered the first e-FIR
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the largest via email?
ever Jhumur event on 24 February 2025. (a) Jammu and Kashmir (b) Kerala
- Jhumoir Binandini 2025 marked the 200th anniversary (c) Gujarat (d) Delhi
of Assam's tea industry. Answer: A. Jammu and Kashmir
- The event featured around 8,600 dancers at the - Jammu and Kashmir Police registered the first e-FIR
Sarusajai Stadium in Guwahati. via email.
- 60 heads of missions and ambassadors witnessed the - The Police Station Khrew in Awantipora handled the
event, marking the start of the Advantage Assam 2.0 case.
summit. - Mushtaq Ahmad Bhat filed a complaint against Adil
- Jhumar is a folk dance of the Sadan ethno-linguistic Ahmad Bhat and Bilal Ahmad Bhat.
group, originating from the Chota Nagpur region. - The complaint involved an attack on the complainant's
family.
76. Directorate General of Civil Aviation has
- Evidence included an OPD ticket and Aadhaar card.
granted the license to Datia Airport in ____?
(a) Punjab (b) Uttar Pradesh 79. Indian Army signed a contract for the
(c) Madhya Pradesh (d) Himachal Pradesh procurement of ACADA systems with ____?
Answer: C. Madhya Pradesh (a) Larsen & Toubro (b) Cochin Shipyard
- Datia Airport has been granted a public aerodrome (c) Great Eastern (d) Ocean Network
license under the 3C, VFR category by the Directorate Express
General of Civil Aviation. Answer: A. Larsen & Toubro
- Regional aircraft can operate in visual flying - The Indian Army signed a contract with Larsen &
conditions under the 3C, VFR category. Toubro (L&T) for ACADA systems.

15
- 223 Automatic Chemical Agent Detection and Alarm - The Karnataka cabinet approved the Greater
(ACADA) systems will be procured. Bengaluru Integrated Satellite Township (GBIST) on
- The contract is valued at Rs 80.43 crore under the Buy 8,032 acres.
Indian (IDDM) category. - The project is located between Bidadi and Harohalli.
- Over 80% of the components will be sourced locally, - Five additional satellite townships with multi-modal
boosting self-reliance. connectivity are planned: Devanahalli, Nelamangala,
- ACADA was designed and developed by DRDO’s Hoskote, Bidadi, and Doddaballapur.
Defence Research and Development Establishment, - The cabinet also approved the Rs 5,000-crore Karnataka
Gwalior. Water Security and Disaster Resilience Programme.
- The project will be implemented in 10 villages of the
80. International Saraswati Mahotsav 2025 is
Ramanagara district by the Greater Bengaluru
organized in which state?
Development Authority.
(a) Maharashtra (b) Haryana
(c) Madhya Pradesh (d) Punjab 83. Who was the chief moderator of the Beating
Answer: B. Haryana Retreat ceremony at Vijay Chowk?
- Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini (a) Draupadi Murmu (b) Vimal Joshi
inaugurated the International Saraswati Mahotsav. (c) Bishan Bahadur (d) Manoj Sebastian
- The event was held at Adi Badri in Yamunanagar Answer: D. Manoj Sebastian
district, the origin place of the Saraswati River. - The Beating Retreat Ceremony is held on January 29 as
- The Mahotsav is scheduled from January 29 to the conclusion of the Republic Day celebrations.
February 2, 2025. - It takes place in front of Rashtrapati Bhavan, featuring
- A three-day international conference on “The Sacred bands from the Army, Air Force, and Navy.
Saraswati River” was conducted at Kurukshetra - The ceremony includes a spectacular parade with
University. patriotic tunes.
- The festival aims to highlight the great civilization of - Commander Manoj Sebastian was the chief moderator
India to the world. of the ceremony.
- The tradition of Beating Retreat in India began in the
81. Which state's Chief Minister inaugurated the
1950s.
₹150 crore Experium Park?
(a) Telangana (b) Haryana 84. India Gate was illuminated in orange and
(c) Punjab (d) Maharashtra purple to mark which of the following days?
Answer: A. Telangana (a) World Ozone Day
- CM Revanth Reddy of Telangana inaugurated the (b) World Neglected Tropical Disease Day
Experium Park. (c) World Martyrs' Day (d) World Health Day
- The park emphasizes eco-tourism, temple tourism, and Answer: B. World Neglected Tropical Disease Day
medical tourism in Telangana. - World Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTD) Day is
- It spans 150 acres and features over 25,000 rare plant celebrated annually on 30 January.
species. - India Gate was illuminated in orange and purple to
- Developed at a cost of ₹150 crore, it aims to boost mark this day.
tourism. - This was part of a global initiative to raise awareness
- Highlights include Telangana's rich heritage, such as the about NTDs by lighting up famous landmarks.
Ramappa Temple and Thousand Pillar Temple. - The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare hosted the
82. Which state cabinet approved the Greater event to highlight India's progress in combating NTDs.
Bengaluru Integrated Satellite Township - The event focused on diseases like visceral
(GBIST) on 8,032 acres? leishmaniasis (VL) and lymphatic filariasis (LF).
(a) Tamil Nadu (b) Telangana 3. Sports
(c) Karnataka (d) Andhra Pradesh
Answer: C. Karnataka 85. The government has approved the
participation of a ____-member Indian

16
 contingent in the 9th Asian Winter Games - Gongadi Trisha was awarded the Player of the
2025 to be held in Harbin, China. Tournament, scoring 309 runs in 7 innings and taking 9
(a) 98 (b) 78 wickets.
(c) 108 (d) 88 88. Who set a new national record in the 60m
Answer: D. 88 hurdles race?
- The government approved an 88-member Indian (a) Abhinav Sinha (b) Tejas Shirse
contingent for the 9th Asian Winter Games 2025.
(c) Navdeep Saini (d) Ajay Kumar
- The event will be held from February 7 to 14 in Harbin,
Answer: B. Tejas Shirse
China.
- Tejas Shirse set a new national record in the 60m
- The contingent includes 59 athletes and 29 team
hurdles at the Miramas Meet in France.
officials.
- He won the silver medal with a time of 7.64 seconds on
- Athletes in alpine skiing, cross-country skiing, figure
February 1, 2025.
skating, short track speed skating, and speed skating
- This performance broke his own previous record.
(long track) will receive full financial assistance.
- It was his second record-breaking performance of the
- This initiative is part of the Scheme of Assistance to
year.
National Sports Federations (ANSF) to promote winter
- The mention of Yarrazi is unrelated to Tejas Shirse's
sports in India.
achievement.
86. Who was honoured with the BCCI's Lifetime
89. Where was the 6th edition of the Men's
Achievement Award in Mumbai on February
Hockey India League 2024-25 held?
1?
(a) Indore, Madhya Pradesh (b) Patna, Bihar
(a) Sachin Tendulkar (b) Rahul Dravid
(c) Ahmedabad, Gujarat (d) Rourkela, Odisha
(c) Yuvraj Singh (d) Virat Kohli
Answer: D. Rourkela, Odisha
Answer: A. Sachin Tendulkar
- The 6th Men's Hockey India League 2024-25 was held
- Sachin Tendulkar was conferred with the BCCI's
at the Birsa Munda International Hockey Stadium in
Lifetime Achievement Award on February 1 in
Rourkela, Odisha.
Mumbai.
- The event took place from 28 December 2024 to 1
- The award was presented at the Board’s annual gala in
February 2025.
Mumbai.
- Bengal Tigers won the title by defeating Hyderabad
- Tendulkar is the 31st recipient of this prestigious
Hurricanes with a score of 4-3.
award.
- The winning team, Shrachi Rarah Bengal Tigers,
- The Lifetime Achievement Award was initiated in 1994
received a prize of Rs 3 crore.
in honor of India’s first captain, Col. C K Nayudu.
- This was the first Hockey India League title for the
- Jasprit Bumrah was selected for the Polly Umrigar
Bengal Tigers.
Award for the best International Cricketer for 2023-24 in
the men's category. 90. Who won the title of Tata Steel Masters Chess
Tournament 2025?
87. Who won the ICC Women's Under-19 T20
World Cup title? (a) Arjun Erigaisi (b) R. Praggnanandhaa
(c) Vidit Gujrathi (d) Gukesh D
(a) Pakistan (b) Australia
Answer: B. R. Praggnanandhaa
(c) New Zealand (d) India
- R. Praggnanandhaa won the 2025 Tata Steel Masters
Answer: D. India
Chess Tournament by defeating Gukesh D.
- The Indian women's U-19 cricket team won the ICC
- The match concluded with a 2-1 victory for
Women's U-19 T20 World Cup for the second
Praggnanandhaa in the tiebreak.
consecutive time.
- In Game 1, Gukesh capitalized on a mistake by
- The final was held in Kuala Lumpur on 2 February
Praggnanandhaa to win.
2025, where India defeated South Africa by 9 wickets.
- Game 2 saw Praggnanandhaa equalizing the score with
- Nikki Prasad led the team, with Gongadi Trisha
technical precision.
scoring 44 runs and taking three wickets.
- Sanika Chalke remained unbeaten on 26 runs.

17
- In the Sudden Death Game, Praggnanandhaa secured - In the women's Kabaddi final, Himachal Pradesh
victory as Gukesh lost a pawn and his final knight. defeated Haryana 27-22 to win the gold medal for the
- Praggnanandhaa is the second Indian after third consecutive time.
Viswanathan Anand to win this prestigious tournament. - The men's Kabaddi match consists of 20-minute halves,
while the women's event has 15-minute halves (total 30
91. Who won his first Allan Border medal at the
minutes).
2025 Australian Cricket Awards?
(a) Jessica Davis (b) Steve Smith 94. Simona Halep, who recently announced her
(c) Travis Head (d) Mitchell Marsh retirement, belongs to which country?
Answer: C. Travis Head (a) Austria (b) Australia
- Travis Head won his first Allan Border medal at the (c) Romania (d) Spain
2025 Australian Cricket Awards. Answer: C. Romania
- He received a total of 208 votes, surpassing Josh - Simona Halep is a Romanian tennis player.
Hazlewood and Pat Cummins. - She is a two-time Grand Slam champion and a former
- Head scored 1427 runs across all formats, including world No. 1.
four centuries. - Halep announced her retirement at the age of 33.
- Josh Hazlewood won the Shane Warne Test Player of - Her comeback was hindered by injuries following a
the Year award. doping ban.
- Adam Zampa was named the Men's T20I Player of the - She won Wimbledon in 2019 and the French Open in
Year. 2018, with a total of 24 WTA singles titles and over $40
million in prize money.
92. Who won the first season of the World
Pickleball League? 95. Who has won the gold medal in the Women’s
(a) Brooke Revuelta (b) Pune United 75kg category at the 38th National Games?
(c) Katrina Stewart (d) Bengaluru Jawan (a) Kavita Chahal (b) Jamuna Boro
Answer: D. Bengaluru Jawan (c) Mary Kom (d) Lovlina Borgohain
- Bengaluru Jawan emerged as the first champion in the Answer: D. Lovlina Borgohain
World Pickleball League. - Lovlina Borgohain won the gold medal in the women's
- They won 3-1 against Pune United in the final match. 75kg category at the 38th National Games.
- Jack Foster secured an early lead for Bengaluru by - She defeated Chandigarh's Pranshu Rathore with a
winning the men's singles. score of 5-0.
- Trang Hyun-McClain and Alejandra Borobia won the - Shiva Thapa secured a silver medal in the men's 63.5kg
women's doubles with a score of 13-9. category.
- Katarina Stewart from Bengaluru won the final singles - Thapa faced a narrow defeat against Vanshaj from the
match against Brooke Revuelta. Services Sports Central Board.
- Katarina Stewart was awarded the Player of the - Ankushita Boro made history by defeating
League title. Uttarakhand's Kajal 5-0 in the 66kg welterweight event.

93. Which men's Kabaddi team won the title in the 96. India topped the 2025 Para Archery Asia Cup
38th National Games? in Thailand with ____ gold medals.
(a) Chandigarh (b) Uttar Pradesh (a) Eight (b) Four
(c) Assam (d) Madhya Pradesh (c) Ten (d) Six
Answer: B. Uttar Pradesh Answer: D. Six
- Uttar Pradesh men's Kabaddi team won the gold medal - India secured six gold medals at the 2025 Para Archery
in the 38th National Games held in Uttarakhand. Asia Cup in Thailand.
- They defeated Chandigarh with a score of 57-43. - The event took place from February 2 to 11, 2025.
- Uttar Pradesh also secured gold in artistic yoga in the - India won a total of 12 medals: six gold, three silver,
men's singles category, with Praveen Kumar Pathak as and three bronze.
the winner.

18
- Sarita won gold in the women's compound open, and - The 9th ICC Men’s Champions Trophy will be co-
Shyam Sundar Swami won gold in the men's compound hosted by Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE)
open. from 19 February to 9 March 2025.
- India ended the final day with six medals, including - The four ambassadors are Shikhar Dhawan (India),
two gold. Sarfraz Ahmed (Pakistan), Shane Watson (Australia),
and Tim Southee (New Zealand).
97. Where will the Olympic Esports Games 2027
- The event aims to promote cricket and engage fans
be held?
globally through its ambassadors.
(a) Riyadh (b) Tokyo
(c) Berlin (d) Ottawa 100. Which team topped the medals tally at the
Answer: A. Riyadh 38th National Games 2025?
- The Olympic Esports Games 2027 will be held in (a) Haryana (b) Services Sports Control Board
Riyadh. (c) Karnataka (d) Maharashtra
- A 12-year agreement with Saudi Arabia was signed last Answer: B. Services Sports Control Board
year. - Uttarakhand hosted the 38th Summer National Games
- The event was initially scheduled for 2025 but from 28 January to 14 February 2025 across 12 cities.
postponed to 2027. - The Services Sports Control Board topped the medal
- The International Olympic Committee (IOC) is tally with 121 medals: 68 gold, 26 silver, and 27 bronze.
partnering with the Saudi Olympic and Paralympic - They won the Raja Bhalindra Singh Trophy for the
Committee. fifth time.
- The eSports World Cup Foundation (EWCF) is a - The team comprises sportspersons from the Indian
founding partner of the Games. Army, Navy, and Air Force.
- The closing ceremony was held at the International
98. Who won the National Snooker Championship
Sports Complex, Haldwani, on 14 February 2025.
title in February 2025?
(a) Brijesh Damani (b) Rahul Banerjee 101. With $260 million in 2024, who was the
(c) Pankaj Advani (d) None of these highest-paid athlete on the top 100 list?
Answer: C. Pankaj Advani (a) Lionel Messi (b) Stephen Curry
- Pankaj Advani won the National Snooker (c) Cristiano Ronaldo (d) Tyson Fury
Championship in February 2025. Answer: C. Cristiano Ronaldo
- This victory marked his 36th national title and 10th - Cristiano Ronaldo earned $260 million in 2024, making
men's snooker title. him the highest-paid athlete on the top 100 list.
- He defeated Brijesh Damani in the final with a brilliant - The list was compiled by Sportico.
performance. - There were no female athletes in the top 100 highest-
- Based on this championship, Pankaj Advani and paid athletes in 2024.
Brijesh Damani were selected to represent India in the - Stephen Curry was the second-highest earner with
Asian Snooker Championship. $153.8 million.
- The Asian Snooker Championship is scheduled to - Tyson Fury ranked third with $147 million.
begin on February 15, 2025.
102. The 'Donate Organ Save Lives' initiative is
99. Which Indian has recently been appointed as being organized by?
the event ambassador for the ICC Champions (a) NITI Aayog (b) ICC
Trophy 2025? (c) IIT Delhi (d) BCCI
(a) Yuvraj Singh (b) Sachin Tendulkar Answer: B. ICC
(c) Shikhar Dhawan (d) Kapil Dev - On February 12, 2025, the ICC organized the 'Donate
Answer: C. Shikhar Dhawan Organs, Save Lives' initiative during the third ODI
- The International Cricket Council (ICC) appointed between India and England in Ahmedabad.
Shikhar Dhawan as one of the four ambassadors for the - ICC Chairman Jay Shah announced the initiative to
ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025. inspire and mobilize people for organ donation.

19
- Indian team players appealed to fans to donate organs - The BBC Indian Sportwomen of the Year was
as part of the campaign. instituted in 2019.
- The BCCI posted a video featuring players like Virat - It honors Indian sportswomen for their performance in
Kohli, Shubman Gill, KL Rahul, Shreyas Iyer, Ravindra a calendar year.
Jadeja, and Hardik Pandya promoting organ donation. - The BBC is a publicly funded broadcasting company in
- Indian players wore green armbands during the match the United Kingdom, founded in 1927.
to support the campaign.
106. Who has become the second fastest bowler to
103. World No. 1 tennis player Janick Sinner has reach 200 ODI wickets?
been suspended by WADA for how many (a) Mohammed Shami (b) Mitchell Starc
months? (c) R. Ashwin (d) None of these
(a) 4 months (b) 2 months Answer: A. Mohammed Shami
(c) 6 months (d) 3 months - Mohammed Shami became the second-fastest bowler
Answer: D. 3 months to reach 200 ODI wickets.
- Janick Sinner, the 2025 Australian Open winner, has - Mitchell Starc achieved this milestone in 102 matches,
been suspended for 3 months due to doping charges. faster than Shami.
- He tested positive for the anabolic agent clostebol in - Shami took 202 wickets in 104 ODIs with an average of
2024. 23.63; his best performance is 7/57.
- The suspension is effective from 9 February 2025 to 4 - He achieved this in 5,126 balls, surpassing Starc's record
May 2025. of 5,240 balls.
- Sinner will miss the Miami, Monte Carlo, and Madrid - The milestone was reached during the ICC Champions
Masters 1000 tournaments. Trophy match between India and Bangladesh in Dubai
- He is expected to return before the French Open. on 20 February.
104. Which country will host the first Olympic 107. Who has won the men’s title of the 2025 Asian
Esports Games in 2027? Snooker Championship?
(a) Saudi Arabia (b) Japan (a) Pankaj Advani (b) Amir Sarkosh
(c) France (d) United States of America (c) Anupama Ramachandran
Answer: A. Saudi Arabia (d) Narantuya Byrassaikhan
- The inaugural Olympic Esports Games will be held in Answer: A. Pankaj Advani
2027 in Saudi Arabia. - Pankaj Advani of India won the 2025 Asian Snooker
- The International Olympic Committee (IOC) Championship men's title.
announced the event will take place in Riyadh. - He defeated Amir Sarkosh of Iran in the final.
- This is part of a 12-year deal signed with Saudi Arabia - This victory marked Advani's 14th title in Asian
in the previous year. Snooker and Billiards events.
- The IOC aims to engage the younger generation - The championship was held in Doha, Qatar from 15-21
through esports as its traditional audience ages. February 2025.
- A dedicated commission was set up to explore - The event was organized by the Asian Confederation
opportunities in the esports sector. of Billiards Sports.
105. Who has won the 2024 BBC's Indian 108. In how many innings did Virat Kohli score
Sportwomen of the Year Award? his 14,000th run in One Day Internationals?
(a) Avani Lekhara (b) Sheetal Devi (a) 378 (b) 287
(c) Mithali Raj (d) Manu Bhaker (c) 22,981 (d) 350
Answer: D. Manu Bhaker Answer: B. 287
- Manu Bhaker, a double Olympic medal winner, has - Virat Kohli became the fastest batsman to score 14,000
been named the 2024 Indian Sportwomen of the Year by runs in ODIs.
the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC). - He achieved this milestone during the Champions
- In 2020, she won the BBC's Emerging Athlete of the Trophy match against Pakistan on 23 February 2025.
Year award.

20
- Kohli needed just 15 runs before the match to reach this - The final was held on 23 February 2025 at the
landmark. Mahalunge Balewadi Stadium in Pune, Maharashtra.
- He reached the milestone by hitting a four against Haris - The tournament was an ATP 100 Challenger event with
Rauf. a prize money of $160,000.
- Kohli surpassed Sachin Tendulkar's previous record of - Svrcina earned 100 ATP points and $22,730; Holt
350 innings by achieving it in just 287 innings. received 50 ATP points and $13,350.

109. Who won the Memory League World 112. Who won the men’s singles title of the
Championship 2025 by memorizing 80 Uganda International Challenge 2025
random numbers in 13.50 seconds and 30 Badminton Championship?
images in 8.40 seconds? (a) Aman Mohammad (b) Manraj Singh
(a) Jonas von Essen (b) Vishwa Rajkumar (c) Akshan Shetty (d) Shankar Prasad Udayakumar
(c) Dominic O'Brien (d) Sansi Sun Answer: B. Manraj Singh
Answer: B. Vishwa Rajkumar - Manraj Singh won the men’s singles title at the
- Vishwa Rajkumar won the Memory League World Uganda International Challenge 2025.
Championship 2025. - Indian players secured three titles: men's singles, mixed
- He memorized 80 random numbers in 13.50 seconds doubles, and men's doubles.
and 30 images in 8.40 seconds. - The championship took place at the Lugogo Indoor
- The championship is an intense online competition. Arena in Kampala, Uganda from 19-23 February 2025.
- Rajkumar is ranked No. 1 with 5,000 points on the - Manraj Singh defeated Diaki Dvi Pangestu of
Memory League website. Azerbaijan in the final.
- He is a student at Manakulavinayagar Institute of - The event had a prize pool of $17,500.
Technology, Puducherry.
113. Saurav Ghosal defeated which player to win
- The event took place from 5 January to 2 February,
the PSA Octane Sydney Classic 2025 Squash
2025.
Tournament?
110. The winner of the ISL Winners' Shield (a) Mahesh Mangaonkar (b) Abdelrahman Nasser
qualifies for which tournament? (c) Anahat Singh (d) Ritwik Bhattacharya
(a) FIFA World Cup (b) AFC Champions League Answer: B. Abdelrahman Nasser
(c) Olympic Games (d) AFC Champions League-2 - Saurav Ghosal won the PSA Octane Sydney Classic
Answer: D. AFC Champions League-2 2025 after coming out of retirement.
- Mohun Bagan Super Giant Football Club won their - He announced his retirement from professional squash
second Indian Super League (ISL) Winners' Shield. in April 2024.
- They defeated Odisha FC Club 1-0 in the final. - The tournament offered a $6000 prize and was part of
- The match was held at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati the Professional Squash Association (PSA) Squash
Krirangan Stadium in Kolkata. Tour.
- This is their second consecutive title, having also won - This victory marked his 11th PSA title.
in 2023-24. - In the final, he defeated World No. 1142 Abdelrahman
- They have qualified for the next AFC Champions Nasser of Egypt.
League-2 competition.
114. Which football team is also known as the Blue
111. Who won the singles title of the 2025 Tigresses?
Maharashtra Open or Maha Open Challenger (a) Under-17 Indian Women's Football Team
Tennis Tournament? (b) Senior Indian Women's Football Team
(a) Vijay Sundar Prashanth (b) Delibor Svrcina (c) Under-15 Indian Women's Football Team
(c) Blake Beyldon (d) Jeevan Nedunchezhiyan (d) Junior Indian Women's Football Team
Answer: B. Delibor Svrcina Answer: B. Senior Indian Women's Football Team
- Dalibor Svrcina of Czechia won the 2025 Maharashtra - The Senior Indian Women's Football Team is
Open men's singles title. popularly known as the Blue Tigresses.
- He defeated Brandon Holt of the USA in the final.

21
- They participated in the 2nd Pink Ladies Cup and - Williams is now fourth on NASA's all-time list for total
ended their campaign with a 3-0 defeat to the South spacewalk time.
Korean team.
117. India's first Cancer Genome Atlas has been
- The Indian team finished fourth in the tournament.
launched by ____ for early breast cancer
- The 2nd edition of the Pink Ladies Cup was held from detection.
22-26 February 2025 at the Al Hamriya Sports Club
(a) IIT Bombay (b) IIT Kanpur
Stadium in Sharjah, UAE.
(c) IIT Madras (d) IIT Delhi
- The Pink Ladies Cup is a friendly international
Answer: C. IIT Madras
football tournament; results do not affect FIFA rankings.
- IIT Madras launched India's first Cancer Genome Atlas
115. Which Indian player was awarded the for early detection of breast cancer.
prestigious Sir Garfield Sobers Award for the - The Atlas contains data from 960 complete exome
ICC Men's Cricketer of the Year 2024? sequences from 480 breast cancer patients.
(a) Virat Kohli (b) Shubman Gill - It serves as a resource to identify cancer-specific
(c) Jasprit Bumrah (d) Rohit Sharma biomarkers in India.
Answer: C. Jasprit Bumrah - The Cancer Genome program was initiated by IIT
- Jasprit Bumrah, an Indian fast bowler, received the Sir Madras in 2020.
Garfield Sobers Trophy for the ICC Men's Cricketer of
118. India has set a target to eliminate lymphatic
the Year 2024.
filariasis by when?
- He is the first Indian fast bowler to win this prestigious
(a) 2030 (b) 2026
award.
- Bumrah is the fifth Indian to receive this honor, joining (c) 2032 (d) 2027
Rahul Dravid (2004), Sachin Tendulkar (2010), Answer: D. 2027
Ravichandran Ashwin (2016), and Virat Kohli (2017, - The Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare,
2018). Jagat Prakash Nadda, launched the Mass Drug
- He currently tops the ICC bowling rankings with 908 Administration (MDA) campaign on 10 February 2025.
points and is ranked 7th in ODI and 36th in T20 - The campaign targets the elimination of Lymphatic
rankings. Filariasis in 13 endemic states.
- The central government aims to eliminate the disease
4. Science & Technology by 2027.
- The National Vector Borne Disease Control Centre
116. NASA astronaut Sunita Williams has set a
administers the MDA campaign.
new record for the most spacewalk time
- Lymphatic Filariasis, also known as elephantiasis, is a
among women. How long was Williams for a
disfiguring and disabling disease.
walk in space?
(a) 60 hours and 21 minutes 119. Indian scientists discovered genomic factors
(b) 62 hours and 6 minutes responsible for ____ therapy resistance.
(c) 70 hours and 2 minutes (a) Skin Cancer (b) Lung Cancer
(d) 65 hours and 5 minutes (c) Blood Cancer (d) Breast Cancer
Answer: B. 62 hours and 6 minutes Answer: D. Breast Cancer
- Sunita Williams set a new record for the most - Indian scientists discovered genomic factors responsible
spacewalk time among women with 62 hours and 6 for breast cancer therapy resistance.
minutes. - The research was conducted by Tata Memorial Centre
- She surpassed Peggy Whitson's previous record of 60 (TMC), Mumbai, and the National Institute of
hours and 21 minutes. Biomedical Genomics (NIBMG), Kalyani.
- The record was achieved on January 30, 2025. - The study focused on oestrogen receptor-positive
- During the mission aboard the ISS, Williams and Barry (ER+) breast cancer and its resistance to hormone
Wilmore removed radio frequency hardware and (endocrine) therapy.
collected microbial samples. - These findings provide insights into why some patients
do not respond or stop responding to hormone therapy.

22
- The research aims to help develop new targeted 122. What is the name of Bharat Biotech’s lumpy
treatment strategies. skin disease vaccine approved by India’s drug
regulator?
120. IIT Madras and ISRO have achieved success
in indigenous technology with the successful (a) ZyCoV-D (b) Corbevax
development and booting of which (c) Biolympivacin (d) Covaxin
semiconductor chip? Answer: C. Biolympivacin
(a) Vega (b) Earth - India's drug regulator approved Bharat Biotech’s lumpy
(c) Agni (d) IRIS skin disease vaccine, Biolympivacin.
- The vaccine is designed for dairy cattle and buffaloes.
Answer: D. IRIS
- Biolympivacin is claimed to be the world’s first DIVA
- IIT Madras and ISRO developed the IRIS chip,
marker vaccine for lumpy skin disease.
marking a significant achievement in indigenous
- It received approval from the Central Drugs Standard
semiconductor technology.
- The IRIS chip stands for Indigenous RISCV Controller Control Organization (CDSCO).
for Space Applications. - The vaccine's quality, safety, and efficacy were tested
- It was developed from the SHAKTI processor baseline, at ICAR-NRCE and Indian Veterinary Research
enabling its use in IoT and compute systems. Institute (IVRI).
- This development aligns with the 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' 123. A solar dehydration technique to preserve
initiative, promoting self-reliance in space technologies. agricultural produce using sustainable energy
- ISRO is focusing on indigenizing semiconductors for has been introduced by Ranjit Singh Rozi
applications, command, and control systems. Shiksha Kendra of ____.
(a) IIT Mumbai (b) IIT Kanpur
121. Which of the following statements is correct
regarding the amendment to the Telecom (c) IIT Delhi (d) IIT Madras
Commercial Communications Customer Answer: B. IIT Kanpur
Preference Regulations 2018 by TRAI? - IIT Kanpur's Ranjit Singh Rozi Shiksha Kendra
1. Under the new amendment, telecoms have introduced a solar dehydration technique.
to accept complaints against spam after up to a - This technique uses sustainable energy to preserve
week of receiving calls. agricultural produce.
2. Customers will be able to identify the type - It helps farmers dry fruits and vegetables, providing a
of commercial message by just looking at its cost-effective solution to market price fluctuations.
SMS sender header. - Farmers can store produce longer and sell at favorable
(a) Only 1 (b) Only 2 prices during peak demand, increasing profitability.
(c) 1 and 2 (d) None of these - The initiative was led by Prof. Sandeep Sangal and
Answer: C. 1 and 2 Prof. Kallol Mondal.
- The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI)
124. Which company has launched a new quantum
has amended the Telecom Commercial
chip ‘Majorana 1’?
Communications Customer Preference Regulations
2018. (a) Google (b) Microsoft
- The amendment aims to strengthen consumer (c) IBM (d) Tesla
protection against Unsolicited Commercial Answer: B. Microsoft
Communication. - Microsoft unveiled a new quantum chip named
- Telecoms must accept complaints against spam up to ‘Majorana 1’.
one week after receiving such calls. - The chip is an eight-qubit device, engineered for
- Customers can identify the type of commercial message reliability and scalability.
by looking at its SMS sender header. - Qubits are the fundamental units of quantum
- Headers like "P", "-S", "-T", and "-G" will identify computers.
promotional, service, transactional, and government - ‘Majorana 1’ is expected to advance the future of
messages, respectively. quantum computing.
- Microsoft plans to build a quantum computer between
2027-2029.

23
 125.

Which IIT hosted Asia’s first global - Venkataraman, a veteran Akashvani news reader,
hyperloop competition from Feb 21-25? passed away at the age of 102.
(a) IIT Chennai (b) IIT Delhi - He died on 4 February in Chennai.
(c) IIT Kanpur (d) IIT Madras - He was the first person to convey the important news
Answer: D. IIT Madras of India's independence in Tamil from Delhi on the
- IIT Madras hosted Asia’s first global hyperloop morning of 15 August 1947.
competition from February 21-25, 2025. - The news was first broadcast in the Tamil language on
- 150 industry delegates from around the world Radio Ceylon at 5.45 am.
participated. 129. ____'s first democratically elected president
- The event took place at the "Discovery" Satellite Sam Nujoma passed away at the age of 95.
Campus of IIT Madras in Thaiyur. (a) South Africa (b) Namibia
- Organized by IIT Madras, IITM Pravartak
(c) Indonesia (d) Vietnam
Technologies Foundation, and SAE India.
Answer: B. Namibia
- Supported by the Ministry of Railways and the
- Sam Nujoma was the first democratically elected
Government of India.
president of Namibia.
5. Obituaries - He passed away at the age of 95.
- Nujoma served as president from 1990 to 2005.
126. Navin Chawla passed away recently at the age - He played a key role in Namibia's liberation struggle
of 79. He was a former ____. against South African colonialism.
(a) Central Vigilance Commissioner - In 2005, he was formally declared the "Founding Father
(b) Union Home Minister of the Namibian Nation" by an act of parliament.
(c) Union Finance Minister 130. Renowned Kannada folk singer Padmashree
(d) Chief Election Commissioner Sukari Bommagouda passed away. She
Answer: D. Chief Election Commissioner belongs to which community?
- Navin Chawla passed away at the age of 79. (a) Hakki-Pikki (b) Goudalu
- He was a former Chief Election Commissioner of
(c) Bhil (d) Halkki Vokkaliga
India.
Answer: D. Halkki Vokkaliga
- He oversaw the 2009 Lok Sabha elections.
- Sukri Bommagouda, a renowned folk singer and
- He served as the Chief Election Commissioner from
Padma Shri awardee, passed away on 13 February 2025
2009 to 2010.
at the age of 91.
- He was a retired IAS officer of the 1969 batch from the
- She belonged to the Halakki Vokkaliga tribe from the
AGMUT cadre.
Ankola region of Karnataka.
127. Horst Köhler died at the age of 81. He was the - She began singing folk songs at the age of 12.
former President of ____. - Known for her collection of over 5,000 folk songs, she
(a) Austria (b) Italy played a key role in preserving tribal musical traditions.
(c) Belgium (d) Germany - She received several honors, including the Padma Shri
Answer: D. Germany in 2017, Hampi University's Nadoja Award in 2006, and
- Horst Köhler was the former President of Germany. Janapada Shri.
- He served as President from 2004 to 2010. 131. Mayadhar Raut was the great master of which
- Köhler was also the head of the IMF from 2000 to 2004. classical dance?
- He passed away at the age of 81. (a) Kathak (b) Manipuri
- Köhler held several roles in civil service and banking.
(c) Bharatanatyam (d) Odissi
128. Venkataraman passed away at the age of 102 Answer: D. Odissi
on 4 February. He was a ____. - Mayadhar Raut was a renowned master of Odissi
(a) Politician (b) Actor dance.
(c) Comedian (d) News Reader - He passed away at the age of 92.
Answer: D. News Reader

24
- Known as the "Father of Odissi dance," he was a - The commission is tasked with examining the causes
founding member of Kala Vikas Kendra in Cuttack in and recommending preventive measures, with a report
1952. due in one month.
- He introduced Mudra Vinyoga and Sancharibhava in
134. Chief Minister of which northeastern state
Odissi in 1955.
resigned on 9 February, nearly two years after
- He was the first to stage Geetagovinda 'ashtapadis', the start of ethnic violence in the state?
highlighting Shringara Rasa.
(a) Nagaland (b) Manipur
- Major awards include Padma Shri (2010) and Sangeet
(c) Meghalaya (d) Assam
Natak Akademi Award (1985).
Answer: B. Manipur
6. Appointments and resignations - Manipur CM N. Biren Singh resigned on 9 February.
- He submitted his resignation to Governor Ajay Kumar
132. Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla has been Bhalla in Imphal.
selected as a pilot for which private space
- Sambit Patra, BJP’s northeast in-charge, accompanied
mission?
him.
(a) Axiom Mission 4 (b) Gaganyaan - The resignation occurred nearly two years after the
(c) Apollo Mission (d) Artemis Mission onset of ethnic violence in Manipur.
Answer: A. Axiom Mission 4 - The violence resulted in over 250 deaths and displaced
- Shubhanshu Shukla will be the first Indian astronaut thousands.
to travel to the International Space Station (ISS) on
NASA's Axiom Mission 4. 135. In which country was the new consulate of
- On January 30, 2025, NASA and its international
India inaugurated recently?
partners approved the crew for the mission. (a) Brazil (b) France
- He will be the first Indian to go to space in the last 40 (c) Argentina (d) Germany
years. Answer: B. France
- Shukla is also one of the four astronaut-designates for - Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President
India’s Gaganyaan mission. Emmanuel Macron inaugurated the new Consulate
- The mission will launch from Kennedy Space Center, General of India in Marseille, France on 12 February
Florida, and the crew will spend 14 days aboard the ISS 2025.
conducting experiments. - The consulate aims to strengthen cultural, economic,
and people-to-people ties between India and France.
133. Who is the head of the Judicial Commission
- Modi visited the Majorges War Cemetery in Marseille
set up by the Uttar Pradesh government to
to pay homage to Indian soldiers who fought in the
inquire into the stampede during the Maha
World Wars.
Kumbh in Prayagraj in January 2025?
- The Majorges War Cemetery is the second largest site
(a) V. K. Gupta (b) Dipak Mishra
for burying Indian soldiers in Europe, with 1,487
(c) D. K. Singh (d) Harsh Kumar Commonwealth War graves from World War I.
Answer: D. Harsh Kumar
- The Uttar Pradesh government formed a three-member 136. Who has been appointed as the new President
judicial committee to investigate the stampede at the of the world's largest accounting body, the
Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj on 29 January 2025. Institute of Chartered Accountants of India
- The committee is headed by Justice (retd.) Harsh
(ICAI) for the term 2025-26?
Kumar of the Allahabad High Court. (a) Charanjit Singh Nanda
- The stampede resulted in 30 deaths and 60 injuries (b) Raid Mohammed Benshams
during the Mauni Amavasya event. (c) D. Prasanna Kumar (d) V. Srinivas
- Other committee members include V. K. Gupta, former Answer: A. Charanjit Singh Nanda
Director General of Police, and D. K. Singh, a retired - Charanjit Singh Nanda has been appointed as the new
IAS officer. President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of
India (ICAI) for the term 2025-26.

25
- He is the 73rd President of ICAI and previously served - Parvesh Sahib Singh Verma was sworn in as the
as the Vice-President. Deputy Chief Minister, defeating former Chief Minister
- D. Prasanna Kumar was elected as the Vice-President. Arvind Kejriwal.
- Arjun Ram Meghwal, Minister of State for Law and - Rekha Gupta, a first-time MLA from Shalimar Bagh,
Justice and Parliamentary Affairs, administered the oath. and her six cabinet ministers took the oath at Ramlila
- Nanda became a Chartered Accountant in 1991 and was Maidan in Delhi.
Chairman of the Northern India Regional Council - The BJP won 48 seats in the 70-member Delhi
(NIRC) for 2002-03. Legislative Assembly election held on 5th February
2025.
137. Who has been appointed as the 26th Chief
Election Commissioner of India? 140. On February 20, 2025, the tenure of Chief
(a) Syed Akbaruddin (b) Rajiv Kumar Economic Advisor (CEA) V. Anantha
(c) Nripendra Mishra (d) Gyanesh Kumar Nageswaran was extended by the government
by which time?
Answer: D. Gyanesh Kumar
- President Droupadi Murmu appointed Gyanesh (a) 2 years (b) 1 year
Kumar as the 26th Chief Election Commissioner of (c) 6 months (d) 3 years
India. Answer: A. 2 years
- His tenure will last until 26 January 2029. - On February 20, 2025, the government extended the
- Rajiv Kumar's term ended on 18 February 2025. tenure of Chief Economic Advisor V. Anantha
- Gyanesh Kumar is a former IAS officer from the 1988 Nageswaran by 2 years until March 2027.
Kerala cadre. - The extension was approved by the Appointments
- He previously served as Secretary in the Ministry of Committee of the Cabinet (ACC), led by PM Narendra
Parliamentary Affairs. Modi.
- Mr. Nageswaran began his role as CEA on January 28,
138. Who will be the new CEO of Standard 2022, for an initial three-year term.
Chartered India?
- He succeeded Krishnamurthy Subramanian, who
(a) Rajiv Kumar (b) P. D. Singh served as CEA for three years.
(c) Rajiv Kumar (d) Hari Shankar Singh - The Office of the Chief Economic Adviser advises the
Answer: B. P. D. Singh government on economic policies and prepares the
- P. D. Singh has been appointed as the new CEO of Economic Survey presented before the Union Budget.
Standard Chartered India.
- He will succeed Zarin Daruwala, who is set to retire on 141. Who became the 9th director of the Federal
Bureau of Investigation?
March 31, 2023.
- Singh's appointment will be effective from April 1, 2023. (a) Nitin Patel (b) Kash Patel
- Previously, he was the CEO of JP Morgan Chase Bank (c) Christopher Ray (d) Ramesh Kumar
in India, significantly contributing to its corporate Answer: B. kash Patel
banking franchise. - The 9th Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation
(FBI) is Kash Patel.
139. Who was sworn in as the 4th woman and 9th - He is the FBI's first Indian-origin Director. He is a
Chief Minister of the National Capital
loyalist of Donald Trump.
Territory (NCT) of Delhi on 20th February
- Kash Patel is appointed as the FBI Director on February
2025?
20, 2025. Senate (upper chamber of the United States
(a) Atishi Marlena (b) Rekha Gupta
Congress) approved his appointment with a vote of 51 -
(c) Alka Lamba (d) Parvesh Sahib Singh Verma 49.
Answer: B. Rekha Gupta
- Rekha Gupta of the Bharatiya Janata Party was sworn 142. Who has been appointed as MD & CEO of SBI
in as the 4th woman and 9th Chief Minister of NCT Card with effect from April 1, 2025?
Delhi on 20th February 2025. (a) Rajnish Kumar (b) Dinesh Kumar Khara
- She is the 18th woman to become a Chief Minister in (c) Arundhati Bhattacharya (d) Salila Pandey
India. Answer: D. Salila Pandey

26
- Salila Pandey has been appointed as the MD & CEO of - The Ministry of External Affairs announced the
SBI Card starting April 1, 2025. appointment of Jitendra Pal Singh as the next
- The appointment was made by the board of SBI Cards Ambassador of India to Israel.
and Payment Services. - Singh is a 2002 batch Indian Foreign Service (IFS)
- Pandey's term will last for two years. officer.
- She was nominated by the State Bank of India. - He previously played a key role in India's policy
- The appointment follows the retirement of Abhijit approach towards the Taliban in Afghanistan.
Chakraborty on March 31, 2025. - His appointment comes as India-Israel bilateral ties are
strengthening, with India being Israel's second-largest
143. Who has been appointed as Principal
trading partner in Asia.
Secretary-II to Prime Minister Narendra Modi
by the government on February 22? 146. Who has been appointed as the director of the
(a) Shaktikanta Das (b) Rajiv Kumar Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC)?
(c) P. K. Mishra (d) None of these (a) S. Somanath (b) R. Raghavendra
Answer: A. Shaktikanta Das (c) M. Mohan (d) K. Radhakrishnan
- Central Government has appointed Shaktikanta Das as Answer: C. M. Mohan
Principal Secretary-2 to Prime Minister Modi on February - M. Mohan has been appointed as the director of the
22, 2025. Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC).
- His apppointment has been approved by the - He previously served as the Director (Projects) at the
Appointments Committee of the Cabinet. Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC).
- Das is a retired IAS officer of Tamil Nadu cadre. He - The position became vacant after the former LPSC
Served as 25th Governor of RBI. director, Dr. V. Narayanan, was appointed as the ISRO
- He has also served as India's G-20 Sherpa and member chairman.
of the 15th Finance Commission. - M. Mohan was the director of the Human Space Flight
- P. K. Mishra is the current Principal Secretary to the Centre from June 2023 to June 2024.
Prime Minister. He is a retired IAS officer of Gujarat
147. Who has been re-appointed as the Managing
cadre.
Director and Chief Executive Officer of
144. NITI Aayog formed a committee to transform Maruti Suzuki India Ltd for a period of three
AIIMS, New Delhi. Who will be the chairman years?
of this committee? (a) Iris Fontbona (b) Hisashi Takeuchi
(a) Arvind Virmani (b) Suman Berry (c) François Bettoncott Mayes (d) Alice Walton
(c) V. K. Paul (d) Ramesh Chand Answer: B. Hisashi Takeuchi
Answer: C. V. K. Paul - Hisashi Takeuchi was reappointed as MD and CEO of
- NITI Aayog has formed a committee to transform Maruti Suzuki India Ltd.
AIIMS, New Delhi. - The re-appointment was announced on January 29.
- The committee aims to make AIIMS a premier - His new term will be effective from April 1, 2025, to
institution for medical research and practice. March 31, 2028.
- V. K. Paul, a member of NITI Aayog, will chair the - Takeuchi was first appointed as MD and CEO on April
committee. 1, 2022, succeeding Kenichi Ayukawa.
- The committee will review current systems at AIIMS
and suggest significant reforms. 7. Important Days
145. Jitendra Pal Singh has recently been 148. When is the Indian Coast Guard Day, also
appointed as the Ambassador of India to known as ICG Day, observed every year?
which country? (a) 3 February (b) 1 February
(a) Israel (b) Georgia (c) 4 February (d) 2 February
(c) America (d) Myanmar Answer: B. 1 February
Answer: A. Israel - Indian Coast Guard Day is observed on 1 February
every year.

27
- In 2023, India celebrated the 49th Indian Coast Guard - The International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female
Day. Genital Mutilation (FGM) is observed annually on 6
- The day honors the officers and staff of the Indian February.
Coast Guard, part of the Ministry of Defence. - The day aims to raise awareness and highlight progress
- Since its formation, the ICG has saved over 10,000 lives towards ending FGM.
and detained around 14,000 criminals. - The 2023 theme is 'Step Up the Pace', focusing on
- The Indian Coast Guard was established by the Indian strengthening alliances to end FGM.
Parliament on 18 August 1978. - First celebrated in 2003, the day has seen significant
- According to the Comptroller and Auditor General of progress, with nearly 7 million girls and women
India, the ICG is the fourth largest Coast Guard in the accessing prevention and protection services since 2008.
world.
152. Which of the following statements is/are
149. When is World Wetlands Day observed every correct regarding World Pulses Day?
year? 1. World Pulses Day is observed across the
(a) 3 February (b) 1 February world on 10th February every year.
2. World Pulses Day is observed annually by
(c) 4 February (d) 2 February
the World Health Organization.
Answer: D. 2 February
- World Wetlands Day is celebrated on 2 February each
(a) Only 1 (b) Only 2
year. (c) 1 and 2 (d) None of these
- It marks the adoption of the Convention on Wetlands Answer: A. Only 1
on 2 February 1971. - World Pulses Day is observed on 10th February
- The 2025 theme is 'Protecting Wetlands for our annually to raise awareness about the importance of
Common Future'. pulses.
- The day raises awareness about the importance of - It highlights the nutritional value, food safety, and
wetlands for humans and the earth. environmental benefits of pulses.
- Wetlands include areas like mangroves, deltas, - The day is observed by the United Nations Food and
floodplains, rice-fields, and coral reefs. Agricultural Organization (FAO), not the World Health
Organization.
150. When is World Cancer Day observed every - The theme for World Pulses Day 2025 is Pulses:
year? Bringing Diversity to Agrifood Systems.
(a) 3 February (b) 1 February - International Epilepsy Day is observed on the second
(c) 4 February (d) 2 February Monday of February to raise awareness about epilepsy.
Answer: C. 4 February
153. Consider the following statements and choose
- World Cancer Day is observed on 4 February each year.
the correct option.
- It aims to raise awareness of cancer as a public health
1. India Energy Week 2025 commenced on
issue. February 11, 2025, at Yashobhoomi in New
- The theme for 2025-2027 is 'United by Unique', Delhi.
emphasizing personalized care. 2. India Energy Week 2025 is the third largest
- The day is led by the Union for ncer Control (UICC). energy event globally.
(a) Only 1 (b) Only 2
- Established on 4 February 2000 at the World Cancer (c) 1 and 2 (d) None of these
Summit Against Cancer for the New Millennium.
Answer: A. Only 1
151. On which date is the International Day of - India Energy Week 2025 started on February 11, 2025,
Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation at Yashobhoomi in New Delhi.
(FGM) observed every year? - It is a four-day event with over 700 exhibitors and
(a) 9 February (b) 6 February 70,000 global energy professionals attending.
(c) 8 February (d) 7 February - The event aims to unveil innovation, form
Answer: B. 6 February partnerships, and shape the future of energy.
- It was virtually inaugurated by Prime Minister
Narendra Modi.

28
- India Energy Week 2025 is the second-largest energy - It promotes access to information through the radio.
event globally, not the third. - The theme for World Radio Day 2025 is Radio and
Climate Change.
154. When is the International Day of Women and
- 2025 marks the 14th edition of World Radio Day.
Girls in Science observed every year?
- UNESCO designated 13th February as World Radio
(a) 12 February (b) 11 February
Day in 2011.
(c) 13 February (d) 10 February - The United Nations General Assembly declared it an
Answer: B. 11 February international event in 2013.
- The International Day of Women and Girls in Science
is observed on February 11 each year. 157. When is National Women's Day celebrated
- The day aims to achieve full and equal access and every year?
participation in science for women and girls. (a) 11 February (b) 13 February
- The 10th anniversary in 2025 coincides with the 30th (c) 14 February (d) 12 February
anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Action Answer: B. 13 February
Forum. - National Women's Day is celebrated on 13 February in
- UNESCO and the United Nations established this India.
observance in 2015. - It commemorates the birth anniversary of Sarojini
- The theme for 2025 is "Exploring the Careers of Women Naidu, a prominent political leader and poet.
and Girls in Science: Their Voices in Science." - The day honors her contributions to the freedom
movement and women's empowerment.
155. Consider the following statements and choose
- Sarojini Naidu was born on 13 February 1879 in
the correct option.
1. Guru Ravidas Jayanti is celebrated on Magh Hyderabad.
Purnima all over the country. - The celebration promotes gender equality and
2. On 12 February 2025, the 648th birth recognizes the achievements of women.
anniversary of Sant Guru Ravidas was
158. In which year did the United Nations General
celebrated.
Assembly establish the UN Global Tourism
(a) Only 1 (b) Only 2 Resilience Day?
(c) 1 and 2 (d) None of these (a) 2024 (b) 2021
Answer: C. 1 and 2 (c) 2023 (d) 2022
- Guru Ravidas Jayanti is observed on Magh Purnima Answer: C. 2023
across India. - Global Tourism Resilience Day is celebrated every
- The 648th birth anniversary of Sant Guru Ravidas was year on 17 February.
celebrated on 12 February 2025. - The United Nations General Assembly established this
- He is renowned for his efforts against the caste system. day on 17 February 2023.
- Known as a famous Sufi saint, he is also referred to as - It serves as an opportunity to reflect on the resilience of
Raidas, Rohidas, and Ruhidas. the global tourism industry.
- Sant Ravidas was honored with the title Sant - The tourism industry has faced challenges like natural
Shiromani and founded the Ravidas Panth. disasters, pandemics, political instability, and economic
- Guru Ravidas was born in 1377 CE in Seer recession in recent years.
Goverdhanpur, Uttar Pradesh.
- His 40 devotional poems are included in the Guru 159. When is the World Day of Social Justice
Granth Sahib, the sacred book of Sikhism. observed every year to promote fairness and
equality for all citizens?
156. When is World Radio Day observed every (a) 22 February (b) 20 February
year?
(c) 19 February (d) 21 February
(a) 11 February (b) 13 February Answer: B. 20 February
(c) 14 February (d) 12 February - World Day of Social Justice is observed on 20 February
Answer: B. 13 February each year.
- World Radio Day is celebrated annually on 13th - The day promotes fairness and equality for all citizens.
February.

29
- It raises awareness about social injustice and aims to - The campaign was launched by Abhishek Mazumdar,
break down barriers based on gender, caste, inequality, General Manager, RBI Regional Office, Itanagar.
and religious discrimination.
163. World Protein Day is observed every year on
- The 2025 theme is "Strengthening a Just Transition for
____.
a Sustainable Future."
(a) 26 February (b) 24 February
- The UN General Assembly declared this day in
November 2007, and it was first celebrated in 2009. (c) 27 February (d) 25 February
Answer: C. 27 February
160. International Mother Language Day is - World Protein Day is celebrated annually on 27
celebrated on ____ every year. February to raise awareness about the importance of
(a) 22 February (b) 20 February protein in nutrition.
(c) 19 February (d) 21 February - The day was initiated by the US Soybean Export
Answer: D. 21 February Council.
- International Mother Language Day is celebrated on 21 - India observes National Protein Day on the same date,
February annually. first commemorated in 2020 with the initiative "Right to
- The 25th anniversary in 2023 marks a quarter century Protein."
of efforts to preserve linguistic diversity. - Gerardus Johannes Mulder discovered protein in 1838,
- Activities include poetry readings, storytelling in not 1938.
various languages, and cultural music events. - The atomic structure of proteins was discovered in 1958,
- Celebrations are held at UNESCO's headquarters in not 1956.
Paris, France.
- The day was proclaimed by UNESCO in November 8. Summits & Conferences
1999. 164. Who inaugurated the Handloom Conference-
161. When is 'Central Excise Day' observed every Manthan recently?
year in India? (a) Giriraj Singh (b) Anurag Thakur
(a) 23 February (b) 24 February (c) Chirag Paswan (d) Jyotiraditya Scindia
(c) 25 February (d) 22 February Answer: A. Giriraj Singh
Answer: B. 24 February - Giriraj Singh, the Union Textiles Minister,
- 'Central Excise Day' is observed annually on 24 inaugurated the Handloom Conclave-Manthan at Dr.
February in India. Ambedkar International Centre, New Delhi.
- It commemorates the establishment of the Central - He launched the Handloom Weavers e-Pehchan Portal
Excise and Salt Act, 1944. and an Online Module for Handloom Awards.
- The day was first celebrated in 1944. - Emphasized the need for awareness about the
- The Act consolidated eleven Acts related to excise, sustainable and eco-friendly nature of handloom
forming the basis for modern excise laws in India. products.
- Highlighted the potential of the e-commerce market,
162. What is the theme of the Financial Literacy expected to reach $325 billion by 2030.
Week 2025?
(a) Financial Inclusion-Women 165. Where was the 15th International Meeting of
World Pharmacopoeias held?
(b) Financial Literacy-Women Empowerment
(a) Mumbai (b) New Delhi
(c) Financial-Women's Education
(c) Ahmedabad (d) Hyderabad
(d) Financial Literacy-Women's Prosperity
Answer: B. New Delhi
Answer: D. Financial Literacy-Women's Prosperity
- The 15th International Meeting of World
- The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) launched the
Pharmacopoeias was held in New Delhi from 5-7
Financial Literacy Week 2025.
February 2025.
- The campaign runs from February 24 to 28, 2025.
- This meeting served as a platform for global
- The theme is "Financial Literacy – Women’s
pharmacopoeias leaders, regulatory authorities, and
Prosperity".
industry stakeholders.
- It aims to empower women financially and socially.

30
- The aim was to strengthen collaboration in - The 4th India-UK Energy Dialogue took place in New
pharmacopoeias and improve public health outcomes. Delhi on 10 February 2025.
- The meeting was organized by the WHO and hosted by - Energy Minister Manohar Lal and UK Secretary of
the Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission under the Energy Security and Net Zero Ed Miliband co-chaired
Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, the dialogue.
Government of India. - The dialogue focused on reviewing progress in the
- The first international meeting was held in Geneva, energy sectors of both countries.
Switzerland from 29 February to 2 March 2012. - The launch of the second phase of the Aspire
programme was announced, promoting smart power
166. Which of the following has released FEAST
and renewable energy in India.
software at the 8th National Finite Element
Developers’ meeting at IIT-Hyderabad? 169. Which country hosted the third international
(a) ISRO (b) DRDO conference on artificial intelligence "AI Action
(c) RDSO (d) Bhabha Atomic Research Centre Summit" in February 2025?
Answer: A. ISRO (a) China (b) France
- ISRO released the latest version of the Finite Element (c) United Kingdom (d) India
Analysis of Structures (FEAST) software. Answer: B. France
- The event was held at the 8th National Finite Element - The AI Action Summit was held in Paris, France on
Developers’ meeting at IIT-Hyderabad. 11th February 2025.
- The meeting aimed to promote indigenously - Prime Minister Narendra Modi co-chaired the summit
developed finite element-based structural analysis with French President Emmanuel Macron.
software. - France announced that India will host the next
- FEAST software was developed by ISRO’s Vikram International Summit on Artificial Intelligence.
Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC). - Attendees included leaders like American Vice-
- Participants included industry leaders, academicians, President JD Vance, Chinese Vice-Premier Zhang
and researchers. Guoqing, and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.
- The first international summit on AI, titled "Global AI
167. BIMSTEC Youth Summit 2025 begins in ____
Safety Summit," was organized by the United Kingdom
in Gujarat.
in November 2023.
(a) Rajkot (b) Ahmedabad
(c) Gandhinagar (d) Surat 170. Which edition of the Asian Fisheries and
Answer: C. Gandhinagar Aquaculture Forum (AFAF) is hosted in New
- The BIMSTEC Youth Summit 2025 is held in Delhi?
Gandhinagar, Gujarat. (a) 14th (b) 12th
- Scheduled from 7th to 11th February 2025. (c) 13th (d) 16th
- Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya inaugurated Answer: A. 14th
the event on 8th February. - The 14th Asian Fisheries and Aquaculture Forum (14
- Aims to unite youths from BIMSTEC countries for AFAF) is hosted in New Delhi.
experience and insight exchange. - Scheduled from February 12-14, it is a triennial event.
- The theme is “Youth as a Bridge for Intra-BIMSTEC - Organized by the Asian Fisheries Society (AFS),
Exchange.” headquartered in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
- Announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during - Jointly organized with the Indian Council of
the 4th BIMSTEC Summit in 2018. Agricultural Research (ICAR), New Delhi.

168. ____ India-UK Energy Dialogue was held in 171. The World Government Summit (WGS) 2025
New Delhi on 10 February 2025. started on February 11, 2025, in ____.
(a) Third (b) Fourth (a) Paris (b) Kyoto
(c) Second (d) First (c) Dubai (d) Washington
Answer: B. Fourth Answer: C. Dubai

31
- The World Government Summit (WGS) 2025 began on - Nityanand Rai, Union Minister of State for Home
February 11, 2025, in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Affairs, led the Indian delegation at the conference.
- This is the 12th edition of the summit, continuing until - The 4th No Money for Terror Conference was hosted
February 14, 2025. by the German government in Munich, Germany on
- The theme is "Shaping Future Governments". 13th February 2025.
- Participants include heads of state, government - Over 200 high-level officials and experts from the
officials, global institutions, and experts. Egmont Group and key international organizations
- The summit focuses on emerging trends in governance participated.
and critical sectors. - The main objective was to enhance international
cooperation in stopping the financing of terrorism and
172. Which Indian Ocean Conference took place in
organized crime.
Muscat, Oman, from February 16–17?
- The Egmont Group was established in 1995 to facilitate
(a) 7th (b) 5th
secure information sharing to combat money laundering
(c) 8th (d) 6th and terrorist financing.
Answer: C. 8th
- The 8th Indian Ocean Conference was held in Muscat, 175. Which country's president will host an
Oman from February 16–17, 2023. emergency European summit on Ukraine?
- It was organized by the India Foundation in (a) Italy (b) Germany
collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of (c) France (d) Belgium
Oman. Answer: C. France
- The theme of the conference was "Voyages to New - France's President Emmanuel Macron will host the
Horizons of Maritime Partnership." emergency European summit on Ukraine.
- External Affairs Minister Jaishankar spoke at the - Leaders from several European countries, including
opening on the theme. Britain's Prime Minister, will attend.
- The 6th BIMSTEC Summit will be hosted in Bangkok, - Attendees include German Chancellor Olaf Scholz,
Thailand from April 2–4, 2023, with Bangladesh as the Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, and NATO
next chair. Secretary General Mark Rutte.
- Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and
173. Which country will host the BRICS Summit
representatives from the European Union will also be
2025, July 6-7?
present.
(a) India (b) Brazil
- Some countries are unhappy as the meeting is limited to
(c) China (d) Russia selected leaders, not a full EU summit.
Answer: B. Brazil
- The BRICS Summit 2025 will be hosted by Brazil in Rio 176. Which Union Minister inaugurated the
de Janeiro on July 6-7. conference 'Waste Recycling and Climate
- The summit will include leaders from 20 member and Change 2025'?
partner countries. (a) Chirag Paswan (b) Jyotiraditya Scindia
- BRICS was founded in 2009 by Brazil, Russia, India, (c) Bhupender Yadav (d) Amit Shah
and China, with South Africa joining in 2010. Answer: C. Bhupender Yadav
- In 2024, the group expanded to include Iran, Egypt, - The conference 'Waste Recycling and Climate Change
Ethiopia, and the UAE. 2025' was inaugurated by Union Minister Bhupender
- Indonesia was recently welcomed as a member, and Yadav.
Nigeria as a partner country. - It was organized on 18 February by the Recycling and
Environment Industry Association of India (REIAI).
174. Which country hosted the 4th Ministerial
- India generates approximately 62 million tonnes of
Conference on No Money for Terror?
waste annually, with a rapid increase in plastic,
(a) Paris, France (b) Melbourne, Australia electronic, and hazardous waste.
(c) New Delhi, India (d) Munich, Germany - The Minister emphasized the need for urgent action due
Answer: D. Munich, Germany to landfill pressure, resource depletion, and

32
environmental damage from uncontrolled waste - The conference was inaugurated by External Affairs
disposal. Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar.
- India's circular economy is projected to reach a market - India is the second largest contributor to the UN
value of $2 trillion by 2050, creating 10 million jobs. Peacekeeping operations.
- The theme was “Women in Peacekeeping: A Global
177. Which city hosted the first All India
South Perspective.”
Conference of Transgenders?
(a) Hyderabad (b) Jaipur 180. Where was the first International Conference
(c) Lucknow (d) Ajmer on Carbon Markets-Prakriti held?
Answer: D. Ajmer (a) Bhopal (b) New Delhi
- Ajmer hosted the first All India Conference of (c) Bhubaneswar (d) Lucknow
Transgenders. Answer: B. New Delhi
- The 10-day conference was organized in memory of - The first International Conference on Carbon Markets-
Anita Bai. Prakriti was held in New Delhi on 24th and 25th
- Anita Bai was a mentor to Gaddipati Saloni Nayak of February 2025.
Ajmer's transgender community. - It gathered experts, policymakers, industry leaders,
- Approximately 2,000 community members attended researchers, and practitioners in carbon credit certificate
the Panch ritual during the Khichdi Tulai festival. trading.
- The aim was to understand and develop the Indian
178. On February 21, who inaugurated the 98th
carbon market.
Akhil Bharatiya Marathi Sahitya Sammelan in
- Discussions included the latest trends in the global
New Delhi?
carbon credit market.
(a) Draupadi Murmu (b) Amit Shah
- Carbon credits were introduced by the 1997 Kyoto
(c) Narendra Modi (d) Rajnath Singh Protocol to limit or reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Answer: C. Narendra Modi
- On February 21, 2023, PM Narendra Modi inaugurated 181. After how many years is the Madhya Pradesh
the 98th Akhil Bharatiya Marathi Sahitya Sammelan in Global Investors Summit held?
New Delhi. (a) Two years (b) Four years
- The government recently granted Marathi the status of (c) Five years (d) Three years
a classical language. Answer: A. Two years
- The conference ran from February 21 to 23, featuring - The 8th Madhya Pradesh Global Investors Summit
panel discussions, book exhibitions, cultural programs, concluded on 25 February 2025 in Bhopal, Madhya
and interactive sessions with eminent literary figures. Pradesh.
- It celebrated the timeless relevance of Marathi - It is a biennial event organized by the Government of
literature and explored its role in contemporary Madhya Pradesh.
discourse. - The summit aims to inform domestic and foreign
- Topics included language preservation, translation, investors about the state's investment potential.
and the impact of digitization on literary works. - Representatives from about 60 countries, policymakers,
and leading Indian industrial houses attended the event.
179. Where was the first conference for UN women
- The concluding session was addressed by Union Home
peacekeepers held on 24 and 25 February
2025? Minister Amit Shah.

(a) Bengaluru (b) New Delhi 9. Awards and Recognitions

(c) Indore (d) Hyderabad
Answer: B. New Delhi 182. Indian-American singer and entrepreneur
- The first Conference for Women Peacekeepers of the
Chandrika Tandon has won the Grammy
Award for which album?
United Nations was held in New Delhi on 24 & 25
February 2025. (a) Fearless (b) Midnights
- 35 nations participated, with women troops active in (c) Not Like Us (d) Triveni
UN Peacekeeping operations globally. Answer: D. Triveni

33
- Chandrika Tandon won the Grammy Award in the (d) National Hydroelectric Power Corporation
Best New Age, Ambient or Chant Album category. Limited
- The album 'Triveni' is a collaboration with artists Answer: A. Coal India Limited
Kellerman and Matsumoto. - Coal India Limited (CIL) received the Golden Peacock
- Released on August 30, 2024, it features seven songs CSR Award 2024.
with a theme of healing resonance. - The award was presented at the 19th International
- The 67th Grammy Awards were held at the crypto.com Conference on Corporate Social Responsibility.
Arena in Los Angeles. - P.M. Prasad, Chairman of CIL, accepted the award at a
183. Which bank has won six awards for excellence ceremony by the Institute of Directors.
in banking technology by the Indian Banks' - This award highlights CIL's commitment to meaningful
Association? social impact.
(a) Punjab National Bank (b) Axis Bank - CIL's CSR initiatives have positively impacted over 35
million lives.
(c) Yes Bank (d) Karnataka Bank
Answer: D. Karnataka Bank 186. Who was awarded the "Most Outstanding
- Karnataka Bank won six awards for excellence in Order (Civil Division) of the British Empire"
banking technology by the Indian Banks' Association. of the United Kingdom?
- Awards were presented at the 20th Annual Banking (a) N. Chandrasekaran (b) Gyanendra Pratap Singh
Technology Conference, Expo, and Citation, 2024. (c) Arun Mishra (d) Sanjeev Ranjan
- The bank was a runner-up in categories like 'Best Answer: A. N. Chandrasekaran
Technology Talent and Organizations', 'Best IT Risk - N. Chandrasekaran, Chairman of the Tata Group,
Management', and 'Best Technology Bank'. received the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire
- Special mentions included 'Best Digital Sales, (Civil Division).
Payments & Engagement' and 'Best AI & ML Capture'. - This is a prestigious honorary civilian award given to
- Recognized for its innovation and excellence in the foreign nationals by the United Kingdom.
banking technology sector. - He was recognized for his contributions to UK-India
184. Who was recently awarded the Sahitya business relations.
Akademi Award 2024 in Dogri? - Other notable foreign recipients include Dagmar Dolby,
Eric Schmidt, Jason Furman, and Rajinder Dhatt.
(a) Abhinav Mukund (b) Chaman Arora
(c) Rajan Anand (d) Rajendra Yadav 187. Which of the following won the Best Picture
Answer: B. Chaman Arora award at the 78th British Academy Film
- Chaman Arora was posthumously awarded the Sahitya Awards?
Akademi Award 2024 in Dogri for his book "Ik Hor (a) 'The Brutalist' (b) 'Anora'
Ashwatthama." (c) 'Conclave' (d) None of these
- The award announcement was made on February 4, Answer: C. 'Conclave'
2025. - 'Conclave' won the Best Picture award at the 78th
- The Sahitya Akademi Awards honor significant British Academy Film Awards.
contributions to Indian literature in various languages. - The Papal thriller 'Conclave' secured four prizes,
- The award includes an engraved copper plaque and a including Best Picture.
cash prize of Rs one lakh. - 'The Brutalist' also won four awards, including Best
- The award will be presented to a family member or Director for Brady Corbet and Best Actor for Adrien
nominee during a special event in New Delhi on March Brody.
8. - Mikey Madison won the Best Actress prize for 'Anora'.
- The awards ceremony took place at London’s
185. Golden Peacock CSR Award 2024 has been
conferred to which company? Southbank Centre.

(a) Coal India Limited 188. The Pradhan Mantri Yoga Awards 2025 is
(b) Air India Assets Holding Limited being organized by which ministry?
(c) Energy Efficiency Services Limited (a) Ministry of AYUSH (b) Ministry of Home Affairs

34
(c) Ministry of Panchayati Raj - August 3 is observed as Organ Donation Day in India.
(d) Ministry of External Affairs 191. Who received the honorary knighthood medal
Answer: A. Ministry of AYUSH in February 2025 for furthering business
- The Ministry of AYUSH is organizing the Pradhan relations between the United Kingdom and
Mantri Yoga Awards 2025. India?
- Nominations are open for the 2025 International Day of (a) Tarun Das (b) Sai Paranjpe
Yoga. (c) Jagdish Singh Khehar (d) Sunil Bharti Mittal
- Awards recognize contributions to Yoga promotion and
Answer: D. Sunil Bharti Mittal
development at both national and international levels. - Sunil Bharti Mittal, founder and chairman of Bharti
- There are four categories: National Individual, National Enterprises, received the Honorary Knighthood medal.
Organisation, International Individual, and International - The award was for advancing business relations
Organisation. between the United Kingdom and India.
- Winners receive a trophy, certificate, and Rs 25 lakh; - He was honored with the Knight Commander of the
announced on June 21, 2025. Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (KBE).
189. Who among the following has received a - The ceremony took place at the British High
Governor’s Citation in Massachusetts for Commissioner's residence.
philanthropic contributions? - Mittal's leadership has significantly impacted the U.K.-
(a) K. Krittivasan (b) Mukesh Ambani India partnership.
(c) Nita Ambani (d) K. Krishnamurthy 192. Who received the prestigious National
Answer: C. Nita Ambani Dhanvantari Ayurveda Award by the Ministry
- Nita Ambani, founder and chairperson of Reliance of AYUSH for exceptional contribution in the
Foundation, received the Distinguished Governor's field of traditional Indian medicine?
Certificate of Commendation from Massachusetts (a) Vaidya Tara Chand Sharma
Governor Maura Healy. (b) Vaidya Maya Ram Uniyal
- The honor recognizes her visionary leadership and
(c) Vaidya Sameer Govind Jamadagni
extraordinary contributions to society.
(d) All of the above
- The citation highlights her lifelong dedication to
Answer: D. All of the above
transformative impacts in education, healthcare, sports,
- The Ministry of AYUSH conferred the National
arts, culture, and women's empowerment.
Dhanvantari Ayurveda Awards for exceptional
- As the founder of Dhirubhai Ambani International
contributions to traditional Indian medicine.
School, she has promoted quality education and
- The awards were presented by Prataprao Jadhav, Union
academic excellence in India.
Minister of State (IC), at an event in Mumbai.
190. Which state government/UT has announced a - Vaidya Tara Chand Sharma, Vaidya Maya Ram
policy to honor deceased organ donors and Uniyal, and Vaidya Sameer Govind Jamadagni received
their families? the award.
(a) Delhi (b) Odisha - Each recipient received a citation, a trophy featuring the
(c) Jharkhand (d) Puducherry Statue of Lord Dhanvantari, and a cash prize of ₹5
Answer: D. Puducherry Lakh.
- The Puducherry government has announced a policy to - The awards highlight India's commitment to holistic
honor deceased organ donors and their families. healthcare and the preservation of traditional medical
- This initiative aims to increase awareness about organ knowledge.
donation and support donor families.
193. How many gallantry and meritorious service
- India ranks third globally in organ transplantation, medals were awarded to ICG personnel by
with most donors being family members. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh in New Delhi
- Under the scheme, deceased donors who have donated on February 25, 2025?
organs to others will be honored. (a) 40 (b) 35
- A human can donate six organs: kidney, heart, lung,
(c) 52 (d) 32
liver, pancreas, and intestine.

35
Answer: D. 32 196. What is India's rank in the recently released
- Defence Minister Rajnath Singh awarded the medals 2024 Corruption Perception Index?
during the 18th ICG Investiture Ceremony in New (a) 82nd (b) 85th
Delhi. (c) 86th (d) 96th
- A total of 32 medals were awarded for the years 2022, Answer: D. 96th
2023, and 2024. - India is ranked 96th among 180 countries/territories in
- The awards included 6 President's Coast Guard the 2024 Corruption Perception Index.
Medals (Distinguished Service), 11 Coast Guard Medals - The index was released on 11th February 2025.
(Gallantry), and 15 Coast Guard Medals (Meritorious - Last year, India was ranked 93rd.
Service). - Denmark topped the index for the seventh consecutive
- These medals recognized exemplary service, acts of time, followed by Finland and Singapore.
valour, and selfless devotion to duty in challenging - The index is published annually by Transparency
situations. International, based in Berlin, Germany.

10.Ranks and Reports 197. According to the Logistics Performance Index

Report (2023), India ranks 38th out of 139
194. India has become the world’s ____ mobile countries. Who releases the Logistics
manufacturer. Performance Index?
(a) Fifth largest (b) Third-largest (a) International Monetary Fund
(c) Second Largest (d) Fourth Largest (b) United Nations Food and Agriculture
Answer: C. Second Largest
Organization (FAO)
- India is now the second-largest mobile manufacturer
(c) World Bank
globally.
- The country increased from 2 units in 2014 to over 300
(d) United Nations Development Programme
operational units nationwide. (UNDP)
- 99.2% of mobile phones sold in India are now locally Answer: C. World Bank
made. - The World Bank releases the Logistics Performance
- The manufacturing value of mobiles reached Rs 4.22 Index (LPI).
lakh crore, with exports crossing Rs 1.29 lakh crore in - In 2023, India ranked 38th out of 139 countries.
2024. - India's ranking improved by six places from 44th in
- Annually, more than 325 to 330 million mobile phones 2018 and by sixteen places from 54th in 2014.
are manufactured in India. - The LPI is a benchmarking tool to identify challenges
and opportunities in trade logistics.
195. What is India's rank in the recently released - India aims to be in the top 25 by 2030.
2025 Henley Passport Index?
(a) 82nd (b) 85th 198. Which of the following s is/are correct
regarding the report on 'Status of Devolution
(c) 86th (d) 80th
to Panchayats across States'?
Answer: B. 85th 1. Union Minister S.P. Singh Baghel released
- According to the 2025 Henley Passport Index, India the report on 'Status of Devolution to
ranks 85th, down from 80th last year. Panchayats in States'.
- Singapore holds the title of the world's most powerful 2. Six important dimensions have been
passport. evaluated in the report.
- Indian passport holders can travel to 57 countries 3. Karnataka tops the index.
without a visa. (a) Only 2 (b) Only 3
- The United States passport rank fell from 7th in 2024 to (c) 1 and 2 only (d) 1 and 3 only
9th in 2025. Answer: C. 1 and 2 only
- Afghanistan is at the bottom, ranked 106th. - Union Minister S.P. Singh Baghel released the
- The index is released by UK-based Henley & Partners devolution index report titled ‘Status of Devolution to
and includes 199 countries and 227 destinations. Panchayats in States – An Indicative Evidence-Based
Ranking, 2024’ in New Delhi.

36
- The report evaluates six critical dimensions: 2. India is among the 5 countries most affected
Framework, Functions, Finances, Functionaries, Capacity by extreme weather events between 1993 and
Building, and Accountability. 2022.
- It highlights the autonomy of panchayats in making and 3. Since 1993, there have been more than 800
implementing independent decisions. extreme incidents in India.
- Karnataka is at the top of the Index, followed by Kerala (a) Only 1 (b) Only 3
and Tamil Nadu in second and third places, respectively. (c) 1 and 2 only (d) 1 and 3 only
- The Index ranks States/UTs based on their overall Answer: A. Only 1
scores across the six identified dimensions. - The Climate Risk Index 2025 was released by
Germanwatch, an environmental think tank.
199. Which family topped Bloomberg's list of
- This index ranks countries based on the economic
Asia's 20 richest families?
impact and risks of extreme weather events.
(a) Kwok Family (b) Ambani Family
- The most affected country is ranked highest in the
(c) Jindal Family (d) Hartono Family index.
Answer: B. Ambani Family - According to the report, India ranks sixth among the
- The Ambani family topped Bloomberg's list with a net
top 10 countries most affected by extreme weather events
worth of $90.5 billion.
from 1993-2022.
- The list includes 6 Indian families among Asia's top 20
- Over 400 extreme events have hit India since 1993,
richest.
causing $180 billion in losses.
- Thailand's Chearavanont family is second with $42.6
billion. 202. How many Indian universities have found a
- Indonesia’s Hartono family ranks third with $42.2 place in the World Reputation Rankings 2025?
billion, starting with a tobacco business. (a) Six (b) Three
- India’s Mistry family is fourth, with a wealth of $37.5 (c) Five (d) Four
billion, operating the Shapoorji Pallonji Group. Answer: D. Four
- Four Indian universities are listed in the World
200. Who released the Comprehensive Devolution
Reputation Rankings 2025.
Index Report on February 13, 2025?
- The Indian Institute of Science (IISc) in Bengaluru is
(a) Amit Shah (b) Narendra Singh Tomar
recognized as the best university in India.
(c) Prof. S. P. Singh Baghel (d) Nitin Gadkari - Other universities include IIT Delhi, IIT Madras, and
Answer: C. Prof. S. P. Singh Baghel Shiksha 'O' Anusandhan.
- On February 13, 2025, Prof. S. P. Singh Baghel,
- IISc moved from a ranking of 101-125 in 2023 to 201-300
Minister of State for the Ministry of Panchayati Raj and
in 2025.
Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying,
- The rankings are published by Times Higher Education
released the report in New Delhi.
(THE).
- The Devolution Index aims to strengthen cooperative
federalism and local self-government. 203. Which state recorded the highest number of
- It focuses on empowering Panchayati Raj Institutions species in the Great Backyard Bird Count
(PRIs) in the states. (GBBC)?
- The report, titled "Status of Devolution to Panchayats (a) West Bengal (b) Haryana
across States – An Indicative Evidence-Based Ranking (c) Andhra Pradesh (d) Uttar Pradesh
2024," marks a milestone in empowering PRIs and Answer: A. West Bengal
realizing the vision of "Local Self Government" from the - West Bengal recorded the highest number of species
73rd Constitutional Amendment. during the Great Backyard Bird Count (GBBC).
- Bengal topped the list with 543 species.
201. According to the Climate Risk Index 2025,
- The GBBC was conducted between February 14 and 17.
which of the following s is/are correct?
- The overall number of bird species in India increased to
1. 'Climate Risk Index', 2025 has been released
by environmental think tank 'Germanwatch'. 1,068 from 1,036.
- Darjeeling had the highest number of species in Bengal,
while South 24 Parganas led in checklists with 513.

37
204. Which Indian woman has been included in - The Union Minister of Housing and Urban Affairs,
Time Magazine's "Women of the Year" 2025? Manohar Lal Khattar, introduced a new format for the
(a) Nita Ambani (b) Dr. Purnima Devi Burman 9th edition of Swachh Survekshan.
(c) Anna Sawai (d) Dia Mirza - The 'Super Clean League' aims to highlight cities that
Answer: B. Dr. Purnima Devi Burman are pioneers in cleanliness.
- Dr. Purnima Devi Burman, a wildlife biologist from - Indore has been ranked as the cleanest city for 7
Assam, is featured in Time Magazine's "Women of the consecutive years.
Year" 2025 list. - A total of 12 cities were ranked in the 'Super Clean
- She is one of the 13 women globally recognized for League' this year.
their contributions to solving women's issues. 207. What is India's rank in the list of the richest
- Dr. Burman is a two-time Whitley Gold Awardee (2017 countries released by the World Bank based
& 2024). on GDP per capita?
- She is honored for her efforts in conserving the (a) 125th (b) 120th
endangered Hargila or Greater Adjutant Stork and its (c) 122nd (d) 121st
habitat.
Answer: C. 122nd
- Dr. Burman mobilized local communities, especially
- The World Bank released a list of the richest countries
women and children, to protect the Hargila bird in
based on GDP per capita.
Assam. - Singapore ranks first with a GDP of $141,553.
205. Which of the following statements regarding - Luxembourg is second with a GDP of $139,106.
internet shutdowns in India in 2024 is/are - Qatar is third with a GDP of $128,919.
correct? - India ranks 122nd with a GDP per capita of $10,166.
1. According to a report by Access Now, India - Despite being the fifth largest economy, India lags in
recorded 84 internet shutdowns in 2024. individual wealth compared to smaller countries.
2. Manipur saw the highest number of
internet shutdowns at 21. 11.Books and Authors
(a) Only 1 (b) Both 1 and 2 208. Who is the author of the latest book, 'The New
(c) Only 2 (d) None of these Icon: Savarkar and the Facts'?
Answer: B. Both 1 and 2 (a) Deepa Malik (b) Amitav Ghosh
- According to Access Now, India recorded 84 internet
(c) Amitabh Kant (d) Arun Shourie
shutdowns in 2024.
Answer: D. Arun Shourie
- Manipur experienced the highest number of shutdowns
- Arun Shourie, a former Union Minister, economist,
at 21.
journalist, and author, wrote the book.
- India ranked second globally, just below Myanmar,
- The book provides a critical examination of Vinayak
which had 85 shutdowns.
Damodar Savarkar's life, ideology, and legacy.
- This marked the first time in six years that India did not
- Savarkar is known as the ideological architect of
lead in global internet shutdowns.
Hindutva and is a controversial figure in Indian politics.
- 41 shutdowns were related to protests, and 23 were due
- Shourie served as a minister in Atal Bihari Vajpayee's
to communal violence.
government from 1998 to 2004.
206. In February 2025, which city bagged the title - The book links Savarkar's claims with historical
of India's cleanest city in the 'Super Clean evidence to assess his legacy.
League'?
209. Who released the book "I Am?" compiled by
(a) Noida, Uttar Pradesh Gopichand P. Hinduja?
(b) Indore, Madhya Pradesh
(a) Om Birla (b) Amit Shah
(c) Surat, Gujarat (d) Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra
(c) Jagdeep Dhankhar (d) Rajnath Singh
Answer: B. Indore, Madhya Pradesh
Answer: C. Jagdeep Dhankhar
- Indore, Madhya Pradesh was named India's cleanest
- Vice President of India, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar,
city in the 'Super Clean League' in February 2025.
launched the book “I Am?”.
- The book explores the universal values of Bharatiyata.

38
- It aims to promote inclusivity, spiritual reflection, and Answer: B. 10%
multicultural understanding. - IRDAI has restricted insurance companies from
- Compiled by Gopichand P. Hinduja, a business leader increasing premiums by more than 10% annually for
and Chairman of the Hinduja Group. policyholders aged 60 years or above without prior
- The book promotes the harmonious coexistence of approval.
different cultures and faiths. - This measure aims to prevent sharp increases in health
insurance premiums.
210. Who released the book "Indian Renaissance:
- It ensures that senior citizens have continued access to
The Modi Decade" in New Delhi on 30
affordable health insurance.
January?
- The decision addresses concerns about premiums
(a) Draupadi Murmu (b) Amit Shah
doubling within a year due to medical inflation.
(c) Rajnath Singh (d) Narendra Modi
Answer: B. Amit Shah 213. As per the Union Budget 2025-2026 announced
- The book "Indian Renaissance: The Modi Decade" was on February 1, what is the income limit up to
released by Union Home Minister Amit Shah in New which no income tax will be payable?
Delhi on 30 January 2023. (a) ₹12 lakh (b) ₹10 lakh
- It is an anthology edited by Dr. Aishwarya Pandit. (c) ₹11 lakh (d) ₹15 lakh
- Published by Westland Non-Fiction. Answer: A. ₹12 lakh
- Contains essays by 27 eminent authors. - The Union Budget 2025-2026 was presented by Finance
- Highlights the transformation of India during Prime Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on February 1.
Minister Narendra Modi's tenure from 2014 to 2024. - The income tax exemption limit was increased to ₹12
lakh, up from the previous ₹7 lakh.
12.Banking and Economy - This change provides significant relief to taxpayers.
211. Which sector has been termed ‘Old War - This was the eighth consecutive Union Budget
Horse’ in the Economic Survey 2024-25? presented by Nirmala Sitharaman.
(a) Manufacturing Sector (b) Agriculture Sector 214. Which of the following statements is correct
(c) Service Sector (d) None of these about the Union Budget 2025-26?
Answer: C. Service Sector 1. Finance Minister presented the Union
- The Economic Survey 2024-25 was presented in Budget 2025-26 with the theme “Sabka Vikas”.
Parliament on 31 January 2025 by Smt. Nirmala 2. The government announced the increase in
Sitharaman, Union Minister of Finance and Corporate
loan limit from Rs 3 lakhs to Rs 5 lakhs for
loans taken through Kisan Credit Cards.
Affairs.
- The Service Sector is referred to as the ‘Old War Horse’ (a) Only 1 (b) Only 2
in the survey. (c) 1 and 2 (d) None of these
- The sector's contribution to total GVA at current prices Answer: C. 1 and 2
increased from 50.6% in FY14 to nearly 55% in FY25. - The Finance Minister presented the Union Budget
- The service sector has consistently grown above 6% 2025-26 with the theme "Sabka Vikas."
annually over the last decade, except in FY21 due to the - The budget aims to reform taxation, power sector,
Covid-19 pandemic. urban development, mining, financial sector, and
- The IMF projected global growth at 3.2% over the next regulatory reforms.
five years, aligning with previous standards. - It highlights agriculture, MSMEs, investment, and
exports as key growth engines.
212. The Insurance Regulatory and Development - A 6-year mission for self-sufficiency in pulses will be
Authority of India (IRDAI) has prohibited
launched.
insurance companies from raising premiums
- The loan limit for Kisan Credit Cards will increase
beyond ____ per annum for policyholders
from Rs 3 lakh to Rs 5 lakh.
aged 60 years or above without prior
permission? 215. What was the total exports from India in 2023-
(a) 20% (b) 10% 24?
(c) 15% (d) 25% (a) USD 978.21 billion (b) USD 878.21 billion

39
 (c) USD 578.21

billion (d) USD 778.21 billion - It addresses interpretation-related issues due to

Answer: D. USD 778.21 billion language ambiguity.
- According to the Union Ministry of Commerce, Indian
218. RBI to introduce ____ and ____ domains for
exports (goods and services) reached a historic high of increasing payment security.
USD 778.21 billion in 2023-24.
(a) bank.in, fin.in (b) insurance.in, bank.in
- Total exports from India in 2022-23 were USD 776.3
(c) digi.in, insurance.in (d) fin.in, sebi.in
billion.
Answer: A. bank.in, fin.in
- Exports increased by 67% from USD 466.22 billion in
- The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) launched exclusive
2013-14 to USD 778.21 billion in 2023-24.
internet domains: 'bank.in' and 'fin.in'.
- Total merchandise exports in 2023-24 were USD 437.10
- This initiative aims to address the rising instances of
billion, up from USD 314 billion in 2013-14.
fraud and cybersecurity threats.
- The services sector's exports in 2023-24 stood at USD
- It will help prevent phishing and other malicious
341.11 billion, driven by strong performance in
activities threatening online transaction safety.
information technology, financial, and business
- The 'bank.in' domain is exclusively for Indian banks.
services.
- The 'fin.in' domain is for other non-bank entities in the
216. RBI introduced an additional authentication financial sector.
layer for online ____ digital payments.
219. Which new digital platform has recently been
(a) International (b) India-Nepal
launched by SEBI?
(c) FIR (d) Business to Business
(a) 'Samarth' (b) 'Mitra'
Answer: A. International
(c) 'Interesting' (d) 'Saware'
- The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) introduced an
Answer: B. 'Mitra'
additional authentication layer for online international
- The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI)
digital payments.
launched the Mutual Fund Investment Tracing and
- This involves an additional authentication factor (AFA)
Retrieval Assistant (MITRA) platform.
for cross-border "Card Not Present" (CNP) transactions.
- Mitra helps investors locate and retrieve dormant or
- The measure aligns international digital transactions
unclaimed mutual fund folios.
with the security standards of domestic transactions.
- Managed by Computer Age Management Services
- AFA requires a one-time password (OTP) or biometric
Limited (CAMS) and KFIN Technologies Limited.
authentication.
- Created to address the issue of dormant folios, which
- This initiative has effectively reduced fraud in domestic
are inactive for 10 years but still contain units.
online payments.
- Aims to assist investors in reclaiming their investments
217. The Union Cabinet approved the new income efficiently.
tax bill. Which of the following statements is
correct? 220. In which year did RBI introduce credit lines
1. This bill makes income tax laws simpler for on UPI for banks and third-party apps?
taxpayers and will be 50 percent less in text. (a) 2024 (b) 2021
2. The Bill also aimed to resolve (c) 2023 (d) 2022
interpretation-related issues arising out of the Answer: C. 2023
ambiguity in language. - The RBI introduced credit lines on UPI in September
(a) Only 1 (b) Only 2 2023.
(c) 1 and 2 (d) None of these - This initiative allows small finance banks (SFBs) to
Answer: C. 1 and 2 offer pre-sanctioned credit lines.
- The Union Cabinet approved a new income tax bill to - UPI transactions currently include linked savings
simplify tax laws. accounts, overdraft accounts, prepaid wallets, and credit
- The bill aims to replace the six-decade-old I-T Act. cards.
- It will reduce the number of sections by almost a third. - Credit lines will serve as an additional funding source.
- The bill is part of efforts to reform the tax system and - Users must provide explicit consent before using these
overhaul the existing structure. pre-sanctioned credit lines.

40
221. On 13 February, which bank faced - Provides collateral-free loans up to Rs 100 crore for
restrictions, including limits on fund purchasing plant, machinery, or equipment.
withdrawals, imposed by the RBI amid - Offers 60% guarantee coverage by the National Credit
supervisory concerns? Guarantee Trustee Company Limited (NCGTC) to
(a) New India Co-operative Bank Member Lending Institutions (MLIs).
(b) Punjab and Maharashtra Co-operative Bank 224. The government is planning to increase the
(c) Saraswat Co-operative Bank deposit insurance limit from ____.
(d) Abhyudaya Co-operative Bank (a) 3 lakh (b) 10 lakh
Answer: A. New India Co-operative Bank (c) 15 lakh (d) 5 lakh
- The RBI imposed restrictions on the New India Co-
Answer: D. 5 lakh
operative Bank on 13 February 2023.
- The government plans to raise the deposit insurance
- Restrictions include limits on fund withdrawals due to
limit from the current ₹5 lakh.
supervisory concerns.
- The Finance Ministry is considering this increase to
- The directions took effect from the close of business on
provide better security to depositors.
13 February and will last for six months, subject to
- Deposits are insured under the Deposit Insurance and
review.
Credit Guarantee Corporation Act, 1961.
- The bank is directed not to allow withdrawal from any
- The limit was last increased to ₹5 lakh in 2020 from ₹1
savings, current, or other accounts.
lakh, which was set in 1993.
- The action was taken due to the bank's current liquidity
position. 225. Uttar Pradesh Finance Minister Suresh Kumar
Khanna presented the budget of ____ for FY
222. Which among the following proposed new 2025-26.
measures to strengthen the regulatory
(a) ₹6.09 lakh crore (b) ₹8.09 lakh crore
framework for ESG Rating Providers (ERPs)?
(c) ₹7.09 lakh crore (d) ₹9.09 lakh crore
(a) SEBI (b) SBI
Answer: B. ₹8.09 lakh crore
(c) Reserve Bank of India (d) SIDBI - Uttar Pradesh Finance Minister Suresh Kumar Khanna
Answer: A. SEBI presented a budget of ₹8.09 lakh crore for FY 2025-26.
- SEBI proposed new measures to enhance the regulatory
- This is the biggest budget of the Uttar Pradesh
framework for ESG Rating Providers (ERPs).
government to date.
- The aim is to improve transparency and accountability
- The budget focuses on research & development and
in ESG ratings.
Information Technology.
- The proposal includes provisions for the withdrawal of
- It is the ninth consecutive budget under Chief Minister
ESG ratings and the disclosure of rating rationale.
Yogi Adityanath.
- These measures are intended to ensure a more robust
- 22% of the budget is allocated for development, 13% for
and reliable ESG rating system.
education, 11% for agriculture, and 6% for health.
223. On 17 February, the Centre launched which - The total budget outlay for FY 2025-26 is 9.8% higher
scheme, as announced in the Union Budget than the previous year.
2025-26, to support MSMEs?
226. As per a report by Bain & Company and
(a) Mutual Credit Guarantee Scheme NASSCOM, which of the statements given
(b) Credit-Linked Capital Subsidy Scheme below is/are correct?
(c) Stand-Up India Scheme 1. India will become a high-income country
(d) Prime Minister's Employment Generation with a GDP of $23-35 trillion by 2035.
2. According to the report, around 200 million
Programme
persons are expected to enter the workforce in
Answer: A. Mutual Credit Guarantee Scheme
the coming decades.
- The Mutual Credit Guarantee Scheme was launched
(a) Only 1 (b) Only 2
on 17 February to support MSMEs.
- Announced in the Union Budget 2025-26, it aims to (c) 1 and 2 (d) None of the above
boost micro, small, and medium enterprises. Answer: B. Only 2

41
- According to the report by Bain & Company and (a) America (b) India
NASSCOM, India is projected to become a high-income (c) Russia (d) China
country with a GDP of $23–$35 trillion by 2047, not 2035. Answer: B. India
- The report highlights that nearly 200 million - The Indus Valley Report 2025 highlights that India led
individuals are expected to enter the workforce in the globally in IPOs in 2024.
coming decades. - Indian companies raised $19.5 billion through IPOs,
- Growth will be driven by India's demographic representing 23% of global IPOs.
dividend, technological innovation, and regional - The report was published by Mumbai-based Blume
transformation. Ventures Advisors Private Limited.
- Key sectors driving growth include electronics, energy, - An Initial Public Offering (IPO) occurs when an
chemicals, automotive, and services. unlisted company sells its securities to the public.
- The auto-components export sector is likely to reach - In 2024, there were 268 IPOs in India, with 90 on the
$200–$250 billion by 2047, driven by a shift to EVs. Main board and 178 in the SME segment.
227. Which organization has launched the mobile 230. Reserve Bank of India will conduct a ____
application 'RBIDATA'? three-year dollar/rupee swap auction.
(a) SBI (b) RBI (a) $40 billion (b) $20 billion
(c) BOB (d) PNB (c) $10 billion (d) $30 billion
Answer: B. RBI Answer: C. $10 billion
- The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) launched the mobile - The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) will conduct a $10
application 'RBIDATA'. billion three-year dollar/rupee swap auction.
- It provides access to over 11,000 series of economic data - This auction aims to infuse durable rupee liquidity
related to the Indian economy. into the banking system.
- The app presents macroeconomic and financial data in - The first leg of the transaction will be settled on March
a user-friendly format. 4, injecting approximately 870 billion rupees ($10 billion)
- Users can view data in graphs/charts and download it into the system.
for analysis. - The RBI plans to inject at least 1 trillion rupees into the
- The app includes details like data source, unit of banking system by the end of March.
measurement, frequency, and recent updates.
231. According to the Indus Valley Annual Report
228. Recently, the 'One Man Office' initiative has 2025, how much did India raise through IPOs
been launched by whom? in 2024?
(a) DRDO (b) NITI AAYOG (a) $22.8 billion (b) $15.2 billion
(c) ONGC (d) LIC (c) $17.3 billion (d) $19.5 billion
Answer: D. LIC Answer: D. $19.5 billion
- The Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) - India led global IPO activity in 2024, raising over $19
launched the "One Man Office" (OMO) service. billion.
- OMO was launched on 17th February 2025 to digitally - The Indus Valley Annual Report 2025 states India
empower LIC's sales team. raised $19.5 billion through IPOs.
- It aims to enhance the efficiency and productivity of - India accounted for 23% of all public issues worldwide
agents and other stakeholders. in 2024.
- The initiative aligns with the vision of 'Insurance for - The US Nasdaq followed with $16.5 billion, and the
All by 2047'. NYSE with $15.9 billion.
- OMO is integrated with the ANANDA platform, - This marked India as the global leader in IPO activity
offering features like digital sales, business tracking, and for the year.
after-sales servicing.
13.Government Schemes & Committees
229. According to the Indus Valley Report 2025,
which country's companies raised the most 232. Indian Railways will run 100 Amrit Bharat,
funds through Initial Public Offerings (IPOs) ____ Namo Bharat, and ____ Vande Bharat
in 2024?

42
 trains (sleeper and chair car variants) in the - The Yatra aims to raise awareness about watershed
next two to three years. development activities under the Pradhan Mantri Krishi
(a) 50, 500 (b) 50, 200 Sinchai Yojana (WDC-PMKSY 2.0).
(c) 50, 800 (d) 20, 300 - Watershed refers to land areas that drain water into
Answer: B. 50, 200 specific bodies like lakes, streams, and rivers.
- In the next 2-3 years, Indian Railways plans to 235. Uttar Pradesh government approved the new
manufacture 100 Amrit Bharat, 50 Namo Bharat, and 200 Excise Policy for 2025-26. Which of the
Vande Bharat trains. following statements is correct about it?
- 17,500 non-AC general and sleeper coaches will also be 1. The management of all liquor shops in the
produced. state will be handled through an e-lottery
- A 2:3 ratio for non-AC coaches and 1:3 ratio for AC system.
coaches will be maintained. 2. "Composite shops" is one of the main
- The 2025-26 budget allocates Rs 2.52 lakh crore for the features of this policy, where beer, liquor, and
Railways. wine will be sold from a single counter.
- New projects worth Rs 4.6 lakh crore are expected to be (a) Only 1 (b) Only 2
completed in the next 4 to 5 years. (c) 1 and 2 (d) None of these
Answer: C. 1 and 2
233. The government has expanded quality
- The Uttar Pradesh government has approved the new
compliance requirements by mandating
Excise Policy for 2025-26.
Quality Control Orders (QCO) for how many
products? - Management of liquor shops will be handled through
an e-lottery system.
(a) 200 Products (b) 100 Products
- Composite shops will sell beer, liquor, and wine from
(c) 150 Products (d) 250 Products
a single counter.
Answer: C. 150 Products
- This policy aims to streamline the liquor distribution
- The government has mandated Quality Control Orders
process in the state.
(QCO) for over 150 products.
- This expansion covers a range from home appliances to 236. Which state government has launched
industrial materials. multiple initiatives under the ‘Beti Bachao
- The aim is to ensure strict safety and performance Beti Padhao’ scheme to empower girls?
standards. (a) Maharashtra (b) West Bengal
- The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has listed these (c) Rajasthan (d) Odisha
products to enhance awareness. Answer: D. Odisha
- Different sectors have been given specific enforcement - The Odisha government has implemented several
dates for these standards. initiatives under the ‘Beti Bachao Beti Padhao’ scheme.
- These initiatives aim to address gender imbalance and
234. Which ministry of the Government of India
the declining child sex ratio in India.
has launched the Watershed Yatra to
encourage people's participation in watershed - Programs like “Nirbhaya Kadhi” and “Mo Gelha Jiya”
development programmes? in Ganjam, “Kalpana Avijan” in Dhenkanal, and
“Swarna Kalika” in Keonjhar focus on empowering girls.
(a) Ministry of Finance
- The initiatives target preventing child marriage,
(b) Ministry of Rural Development
combating sex selection and female foeticide, and
(c) Ministry of Education promoting higher education.
(d) Ministry of Cooperation - They also build self-esteem and confidence through
Answer: B. Ministry of Rural Development martial arts and self-defense training.
- Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan launched the
Watershed Yatra on 5 February 2005. 237. What is the total outlay approved for the 'Skill
- The campaign was initiated in a hybrid mode, virtually India Programme (SIP)' for the period 2022-23
to 2025-26?
from Delhi and physically in 800 Gram Panchayats.
- Over one lakh people participated in the launch. (a) Rs. 10,000 crore (b) Rs. 7,500 crore
(c) Rs. 9,200 crore (d) Rs. 8,800 crore

43
Answer: D. Rs. 8,800 crore - Includes career guidance, technology training, and
- The Union Cabinet approved an outlay of Rs. 8,800 entrepreneurship skills.
crore for the Skill India Programme (SIP). - Focuses on innovative fields like drone technology for
- The programme is set for the period 2022-23 to 2025-26. diverse career opportunities.
- It includes components like Pradhan Mantri Kaushal - Other initiatives include a state MIS portal and a career
Vikas Yojana 4.0, Pradhan Mantri National guidance programme for 70,000 girl students.
Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme, and Jan Shikshan
240. Who launched India's first indigenous
Sansthan Scheme.
automated biomedical waste treatment plant
- These initiatives aim to provide structured skill
"Srijanam"?
development and community-based education.
(a) Mansukh Mandaviya (b) Narendra Modi
- The goal is to ensure access to high-quality vocational
education for both urban and rural populations,
(c) Amit Shah (d) Dr. Jitendra Singh
Answer: D. Dr. Jitendra Singh
including marginalized communities.
- On 10 February 2023, Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union
238. Madhya Pradesh government approved the Minister, launched the first indigenous Automated
Drone Promotion and Utilisation Policy 2025. Biomedical Waste Treatment Plant at AIIMS New
Which of the following statements is correct Delhi.
about it? - The plant is named “Srijanam” and was dedicated to
1. Units investing more than Rs 50 crore will
the nation during a ceremony at the AIIMS auditorium.
be given customised incentives.
- Developed by CSIR-NIIST (National Institute of
2. Capital subsidy of up to 40 per cent
Interdisciplinary Science and Technology), it features
(maximum Rs 30 crore) will be provided to
entrepreneurs setting up drone-manufacturing innovative, environment-friendly technology.
units in the state. - This plant marks a significant advancement in the
sustainable management of biomedical waste.
(a) Only 1 (b) Only 2
(c) 1 and 2 (d) None of these 241. Which of the following schemes has not been
Answer: C. 1 and 2 integrated into PM Vikas Yojana?
- The Madhya Pradesh government approved the Drone (a) Seekho Aur Kamao (b) Nai Roshni
Promotion and Utilisation Policy 2025 to enhance drone (c) USTTAD (d) Group Marriage
manufacturing, assembly, and maintenance. Scheme
- The policy offers a capital subsidy of up to 40% Answer: D. Group Marriage Scheme
(maximum Rs 30 crore) for entrepreneurs setting up - PM Vikas Yojana is a flagship initiative by the Ministry
drone-manufacturing units. of Minority Affairs (MoMA).
- Units investing more than Rs 50 crore will receive - It aims to enhance skill development,
customised incentives. entrepreneurship, and education among minority and
- The policy includes up to Rs 2 crore for research and artisan communities.
development and stamp duty exemption. - The scheme aligns with the Skill India Mission and
- It is expected to attract an investment of over Rs 400 integrates with the Skill India Portal (SIP).
crore in the coming years. - It targets six notified minority communities: Muslims,
239. Which state's Chief Minister has recently Christians, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, and Parsis.
launched the 'Skill Uday Tongai' training - Integrated schemes include Seekho Aur Kamao,
programme? USTTAD, Hamari Dharohar, Nai Roshni, and Nai
(a) Sikkim (b) Tripura Manzil.
(c) Arunachal Pradesh (d) Manipur 242. The government has approved a market
Answer: B. Tripura intervention scheme to stabilize ____ prices.
- Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha launched the 'Skill (a) Garlic (b) Potato
Uday Tongai' programme.
(c) Tomato (d) Ginger
- Targets 80,000 students from schools and colleges for
Answer: C. Tomato
skill development.

44
- The government approved a market intervention - PM Modi launched the Ayushman Vaya Vandana
scheme to stabilize tomato prices. Card on October 29, 2024, under the Ayushman Bharat
- This decision was due to declining tomato prices in Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY).
Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and other tomato-
245. How many lakh youth are targeted to be
producing states.
trained under the AI for Entrepreneurship
- The scheme includes a transportation component with initiative launched by the Government of
government approval. India?
- Central Nodal Agencies will be reimbursed for
(a) 3 lakh (b) 1 lakh
operational costs related to storage and transportation.
(c) 4 lakh (d) 2 lakh
- Agencies involved include the National Cooperative
Answer: B. 1 lakh
Consumers Federation and the National Agricultural
- The Government of India, in collaboration with Intel
Cooperative Marketing Federation of India.
India, launched the AI for Entrepreneurship initiative.
243. The ____ government has launched the 'Har - The initiative aims to train 1 lakh youth in Artificial
Khet-Swasth Khet' campaign to improve soil Intelligence (AI) and entrepreneurial skills by 2025.
health and ensure sustainable farming - It simplifies AI concepts and inspires entrepreneurial
practices. thinking among youth across India.
(a) Rajasthan (b) Haryana - The program is accessible to both urban and rural
(c) Uttar Pradesh (d) Punjab learners to ensure equal digital opportunities.
Answer: B. Haryana - Participants receive joint certification from MSDE,
- The Haryana government initiated the 'Har Khet- NSDC, Skill India, and Intel upon completion.
Swasth Khet' campaign to enhance soil health and
246. Government approved continuation of the
promote sustainable farming.
PM-AASHA scheme till ____.
- Soil samples will be collected from every acre over the
(a) 2025-26 (b) 2026-27
next three to four years, and soil health cards will be
distributed to all farmers. (c) 2027-28 (d) 2029-30
- 17 new soil and water testing laboratories have been Answer: A. 2025-26
established in Haryana. - The government approved the continuation of the PM-
- 54 small-scale soil testing laboratories have been set up AASHA scheme until 2025-26.
in various markets. - This decision aligns with the 15th Finance Commission
- 240 Mini Soil Testing Laboratories are established in cycle.
Government Senior Secondary Schools and Colleges. - The PM-AASHA scheme aims for effective
implementation of procurement operations.
244. Where was the Ayushman Bharat Vay - The government allows procurement of Tur, Urad, and
Vandana Scheme officially launched on Masur under the Price Support Scheme (PSS).
February 14, 2025?
(a) Mumbai (b) Delhi 247. Union Minister Jitendra Singh inaugurated
India’s First “Open-Air Art Wall Museum” at
(c) Chennai (d) Puducherry
____.
Answer: D. Puducherry
(a) Hyderabad House (b) Akbar Bhawan
- The Ayushman Bharat Vay Vandana Scheme was
launched in Puducherry on February 14, 2025.
(c) Mausam Bhawan (d) Bikaner House
- It was inaugurated by Puducherry Lieutenant Answer: C. Mausam Bhawan
Governor K. Kailashnathan with Chief Minister N. - Union Minister Jitendra Singh inaugurated India’s first
Rangasamy present. “Open-Air Art Wall Museum” at Mausam Bhawan.
- The scheme provides medical benefits to senior - The museum showcases the 150-year milestone journey
citizens. of the India Meteorological Department (IMD).
- Offers free health insurance coverage of up to Rs 5 - It features 38 unique murals depicting India's
lakh per year for citizens aged 70 years and above. meteorological history and the evolution of weather
forecasting.

45
- The art highlights the impact on agriculture, disaster - The Haryana government introduced the Haryana
management, and everyday life. Witness Protection Scheme, 2025.
- It also showcases advances in technology like satellites - The scheme applies to witnesses of offences punishable
and radar and the role of IMD in providing early by death, life imprisonment, or imprisonment of seven
warnings for extreme weather. years and above.
- It categorizes witnesses into three categories based on
248. Which state government launched the world's
threat perception.
first AI-powered chronic eye disease
screening programme 'Nayanamritam 2.0'? - Category A: Threat to the life of the witness and their
family.
(a) Tamil Nadu (b) Karnataka
- Category B: Threat to the safety, reputation, or property
(c) Gujarat (d) Kerala
of the witness and their family.
Answer: D. Kerala
- Category C: Moderate threat involving harassment or
- Kerala launched the world's first AI-driven chronic eye
intimidation.
disease screening program ‘Nayanamritam 2.0’.
- This initiative uses artificial intelligence to enhance 251. Consider the statements related to PM Kisan
early detection and streamline eye disease screening. Samman Nidhi Yojana: Which of the
- It aims to make quality eye care more accessible and statements given below is/are correct?
efficient across the state. 1. PM Modi released the 19th installment of
PM Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana from
- Launched after the success of Nayanamritam 1.0.
Bhagalpur city of Bihar on 24 February.
- Nayanamritam 2.0 has expanded its scope to include
2. It aims to provide income support to
screening for glaucoma and age-related macular
eligible farmers across the country.
degeneration (AMD). 3. Rs 2,000 per year is directly transferred to
249. BTR of Assam will include ____ as an official the bank accounts of farmers.
option in the religion column of various (a) Only 2 (b) Only 1 and 2
application forms. (c) Only 3 (d) Only 2 and 3
(a) 'Bathoism' (b) 'Sikhism' Answer: B. Only 1 and 2
(c) 'Judaism' (d) 'Zoroastrianism' - PM Modi released the 19th installment of the scheme
Answer: A. 'Bathoism' from Bhagalpur, Bihar on 24th February 2025.
- The Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR) in Assam will - The scheme aims to provide income support to eligible
include 'Bathoism' as an official option in the religion farmers across India.
column of various application forms. - Rs 6,000 per year is transferred directly to farmers' bank
- Bathoism is the traditional faith of the Bodo people. accounts in three installments of Rs 2,000 each.
- It has been the ancestral faith of the Bodos for - An amount of around Rs 21,500 crore was credited to
generations. over 9.7 crore beneficiary farmers.
- In the Batho religion, God is referred to as - The scheme was launched on 24th February 2019 at
Bathoubwrai. Gorakhpur, UP.

250. Haryana government launched a witness 252. Which state government has launched an
protection scheme. Which of the following accidental insurance scheme for school
statements is correct? children named Shiksha Sanjeevani Bima
1. The scheme will be applicable to the Yojana?
witnesses of those offences which are (a) Telangana (b) Madhya Pradesh
punishable with death or life imprisonment (c) Rajasthan (d) Maharashtra
or imprisonment up to seven years and above. Answer: C. Rajasthan
2. Under this scheme, there will be three
- The government of Rajasthan launched the Shiksha
categories of witnesses based on the threat
Sanjeevani Bima Yojana to provide accidental insurance
perception.
to schoolchildren.
(a) Only 1 (b) Both 1 and 2 - This is a first-of-its-kind scheme offering personal
(c) Only 2 (d) None of these accident insurance coverage of Rs 1 lakh to 1.3 lakh.
Answer: B. Both 1 and 2

46
- Initially, the scheme covers schools in the Udaipur - The Defence Research and Development Organisation
Division. (DRDO) conducted successful tests of the Very Short-
- Wonder Cement, Zurich Kotak General Insurance, and Range Air Defence (VSHORAD) system on February 1,
State Bank of India are partners in this scheme. 2025.
- The scheme aims to ensure continuity in education, - Tests were conducted off the coast of Chandipur,
prevent child labor, promote financial inclusion, and Odisha.
encourage saving habits. - The system can intercept and destroy high-speed, low-
altitude targets, including drones.
253. Which state government has recently
- The VSHORAD system has a range capability of 250 m
approved a pilot project for cannabis
cultivation? to 6,000 m and an altitude capability of up to 12,000 feet.

(a) Uttar Pradesh (b) Himachal Pradesh 256. India organizes the military exercise,
(c) Gujarat (d) Uttarakhand Ekuverin with which country?
Answer: B. Himachal Pradesh (a) Japan (b) Sri Lanka
- Himachal Pradesh approved a pilot project for (c) Maldives (d) China
cannabis cultivation on January 24, 2025. Answer: C. Maldives
- The project focuses on agricultural, medicinal, and - The 13th edition of the joint India-Maldives military
industrial research. exercise 'Ekuverin' is hosted by the Maldives from 2-15
- The agriculture department will oversee the initiative, February 2025.
collaborating with states like Uttarakhand and Uttar - The opening ceremony was held on 2 February 2025 at
Pradesh. the Samagra Training Centre of MNDF in Mafilafushi,
- Cannabis is globally recognized for its economic Maldives.
potential in textiles, bioplastics, and over 25,000 - Ekuverin means 'friend' in the Dhivehi language of the
products. Maldives.
- Launched in 2009, it aims to strengthen bilateral
254. The High Level Committee (HLC) headed by
Union Home Minister Amit Shah has military ties between India and the Maldives.
approved how much amount for disaster - Conducted alternately in India and Maldives, it
mitigation projects in various states? involves platoon-level contingents from both countries.
(a) Rs. 5125.41 crore (b) Rs. 1023.55 crore 257. DRDO successfully conducted three
(c) Rs. 2000.00 crore (d) Rs. 3027.86 crore successive flight trials of the ____.
Answer: D. Rs. 3027.86 crore (a) SAMAR (b) AAD
- The High Level Committee (HLC) approved Rs. (c) VSHORAD (d) Akash
3027.86 crore for disaster mitigation in various states. Answer: C. VSHORAD
- The committee was chaired by Union Home Minister - DRDO conducted three successful flight trials of the
Amit Shah. Very Short-Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS).
- Members include the Union Finance Minister, - Tests were conducted against high-speed targets flying
Agriculture Minister, and Vice-Chairman of NITI at very low altitudes from Chandipur, off the coast of
Aayog. Odisha.
- The committee focused on the Mitigation Project on - During the tests, the missiles intercepted and
Lightning Safety to reduce lightning risks in 50 districts destroyed the targets completely.
across 10 states. - VSHORADS is a fourth-generation, technically
- These districts are most affected by lightning incidents. advanced, miniaturized Man Portable Air Defence
System (MANPAD).
14.Defence
258. The government signed contracts worth over
255. What is the maximum altitude range of the ____ for the Pinaka rocket system.
Very Short-Range Air Defense System?
(a) 5,000 crore (b) 30,000 crore
(a) 10,000 feet (b) 6,000 feet
(c) 10,000 crore (d) 20,000 crore
(c) 12,000 feet (d) 8,000 feet
Answer: C. 10,000 crore
Answer: C. 12,000 feet

47
- The government signed contracts worth over Rs 10,000 - Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated the 15th
crore for the Pinaka multiple launch rocket system. edition of Aero India in Bengaluru.
- Contracts include procurement of Aria Danel Munition - The event is held at the Yelahanka Air Force Station in
Type-1 and high-explosive rockets. Bengaluru, Karnataka.
- This initiative aims to enhance the firepower of the - The theme is “Runway to a Billion Opportunities”,
Indian Army. showcasing India's defense capabilities and innovations.
- Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) is involved for Shakti - Over 900 exhibitors, including 150 international firms,
software upgradation. are participating.
- Contracts were also signed with Economic Explosives - Aero India runs from February 10 to 14, with the first
Limited (EEL) and Munitions India Limited (MIL). three days focused on business activities.

259. The exercise "Cyclone 2025" began on 262. Which of the following statements is/are
February 10 at the Mahajan Field Firing Range correct regarding Hindustan Jet Trainer (HJT-
in Rajasthan. It is held between India and 36), a training aircraft of the state-owned
which country? defense company HAL?
(a) Australia (b) France 1. The trainer aircraft, Hindustan Jet Trainer,
HJT-36 has been renamed as 'Tejas'.
(c) Egypt (d) Kazakhstan
2. It is capable of carrying out anti-insurgency
Answer: C. Egypt
and anti-surface force operations and
- Exercise "Cyclone 2025" started on February 10 at the
armament training and aerobatics.
Mahajan Field Firing Range in Rajasthan.
(a) Only 1 (b) Only 2
- It is a joint military exercise between India and Egypt.
- The exercise will continue for 14 days.
(c) 1 and 2 (d) None of these
- It aims to enhance defense cooperation and improve Answer: B. Only 2
- The Hindustan Jet Trainer (HJT-36) has been renamed
interoperability of Special Forces in desert
as 'YASHAS', not 'Tejas'.
environments.
- YASHAS is designed for stage II pilot training.
- This is the third edition of the Cyclone exercise.
- It is capable of anti-insurgency and anti-surface force
260. The Indian Navy’s biennial capstone Theatre operations, as well as armament training and aerobatics.
Level Operational Exercise (TROPEX) is being - Powered by a FADEC-controlled AL-55I jet engine, it
conducted in which region from January to offers a best-in-class thrust-to-weight ratio.
March? - Unveiled at Aero India 2025 in Bengaluru.
(a) Indian Ocean Region (b) Pacific Ocean
263. Where will the 6th edition of the Dharma
(c) Bay of Bengal (d) Arabian Sea
Guardian exercise be held from February 25 to
Answer: A. Indian Ocean Region
March 9?
- The Indian Navy is conducting its biennial Theatre
(a) Mount Fuji, Japan (b) Belgaum, Karnataka
Level Operational Exercise (TROPEX) in the Indian
Ocean Region from January to March. (c) Camp Imazu, Japan
- The exercise involves approximately 65 Indian Navy (d) Mahajan Field Firing Range, Rajasthan
ships, nine submarines, and over 80 aircraft. Answer: A. Mount Fuji, Japan
- These assets engage in complex maritime scenarios to - The 6th edition of the Dharma Guardian exercise will
validate and refine the Navy’s Concept of Operations. be held at Mount Fuji, Japan from February 25 to March
- TROPEX-25 aims to enhance the Indian Navy’s core 9, 2025.
warfighting skills and operational readiness. - The exercise will focus on urban warfare and counter-
terrorism operations.
261. The 15th edition of Aero India, Asia’s largest - It is inspired by the Army Chief's visit to Japan in
aerospace and defense exhibition, started in
October 2024.
____.
- The exercise aims to strengthen bilateral defense
(a) Indore (b) Bengaluru cooperation between India and Japan.
(c) Lucknow (d) Hyderabad
Answer: B. Bengaluru

48
- Earlier, on February 11, India and Egypt began the - The marathon aimed to support the objectives of Nasha
'Cyclone III' exercise at the Mahajan Field Firing Range Mukt Bharat and Fit India.
in Rajasthan. - BSF Director General Daljit Singh Chaudhary flagged
off the event from three locations in and around
264. Where is the 5th multilateral naval exercise
Amritsar.
'Komodo' being conducted?
- The theme was ‘Hand in Hand with Border
(a) Philippines (b) Indonesia
Population’, with categories: Full Marathon (42.19 km),
(c) Maldives (d) Malaysia Half Marathon (21.09 km), and 10 km Run.
Answer: B. Indonesia
- The 5th Multilateral Naval Exercise Komodo is hosted 267. Exercise 'Sagar Kavach' was held on February
by the Indonesian Navy. 21-22, 2025, in which coastal state of India?
- It started on February 16 and is scheduled to take place (a) West Bengal (b) Gujarat
until February 22, 2025. (c) Maharashtra (d) Tamil Nadu
- Over 30 ships from more than 15 countries are Answer: A. West Bengal
participating. - Exercise 'Sagar Kavach' was a two-day coastal security
- Countries like Russia, China, India, and the US are exercise conducted by the Indian Coast Guard.
involved. - It took place on the 158 km long coastline of West
- The theme is “Maritime Partnership for Peace and Bengal from February 21-22, 2025.
Stability”, focusing on multilateral maritime - The exercise aimed to enhance coastal security by
cooperation and disaster response protocols. testing responses to various threats.
- The International Fleet Review marks the 80th - Multiple agencies, including the Navy, BSF, CISF, and
anniversary of the Indonesian Navy. local police, participated.
- It tested security procedures to tackle hijacking,
265. Which of India's fourth-generation deep-sea
smuggling, and IED threats.
submarines recently completed its wet trials at
the port? 268. The Indian Army conducted a military
(a) Jalraj-8000 (b) Samudra-5000 exercise named ‘Jal-Thal-Raksha 2025’ in
(c) Varun-7000 (d) Matsya-6000 which state?
Answer: D. Matsya-6000 (a) Gujarat (b) Odisha
- The Matsya-6000 is a fourth-generation deep-sea (c) Kerala (d) Maharashtra
submarine developed under the Samudrayaan Project. Answer: A. Gujarat
- It successfully completed its wet trials at the port. - ‘Jal-Thal-Raksha 2025’ was conducted at Bet Dwarka,
- Developed by the National Institute of Ocean Gujarat by the Indian Army.
Technology under the Deep Ocean Mission. - It involved the 11 Infantry Division (Ahmedabad), 31
- The submarine is designed for three-person operation Infantry Brigade (Jamnagar), Coast Guard, and Marine
and measures 2.1 meters in diameter. Police.
- It aims to conduct shallow water trials up to a depth of - The District Administration, Forest Department,
500 meters by the end of 2025. Maritime Board, and NSG monitored the drill.
- The exercise aimed to enhance coordination between
266. Where did the Border Security Force organize
defense forces, paramilitary units, and district
the 4th edition of the Borderman Marathon
2025? authorities.
- It focused on combat readiness for terrorist attacks or
(a) Ladakh (b) Srinagar
war scenarios.
(c) Amritsar (d) Jammu
Answer: C. Amritsar 269. What is the name of the indigenously
- The Border Security Force (BSF) organized the 4th developed air-launched anti-ship missile
edition of the Borderman Marathon 2025 in Amritsar. system with a sea-skimming ability?
- Over 5,000 participants joined the race, which included (a) Naval Anti-Ship Missile-Short Range
three categories. (b) Supersonic Anti-Ship/Land Attack Cruise
Missile

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(c) Anti-Radiation Missile - The focus is on using epoxy bamboo-based composites
(d) Anti-Tank Guided Missile to replace traditional materials.
Answer: A. Naval Anti-Ship Missile-Short Range - These composites are designed for freezing conditions
- The Indian Navy and DRDO successfully tested the at high altitudes.
Naval Anti-Ship Missile-Short Range (NASM-SR) on - The initiative aims to enhance the sustainability and
25 February 2025. efficiency of bunker construction.
- The missile was launched from a Sea King Mk 42B 272. The Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs
helicopter at the Integrated Test Range (ITR), (IICA) and which association have signed an
Chandipur, Odisha. MoU to strengthen India's carbon markets?
- NASM-SR is India's first indigenously developed air- (a) Indian Green Building Council
launched anti-ship missile with sea-skimming ability.
(b) Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency
- The first test of this missile was conducted in May 2022.
(c) National Clean Energy Fund
- The Man-in-Loop feature of the missile was
successfully validated during the test.
(d) Carbon Market Association of India
Answer: D. Carbon Market Association of India
15.Agreements and MoU - An MoU was signed between the Indian Institute of
Corporate Affairs (IICA) and the Carbon Market
270. Which of the following statements about the Association of India (CMAI).
International Big Cat Alliance is/are correct?
- The agreement aims to strengthen India's carbon
1. The framework agreement on the
markets and advance decarbonization efforts.
International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) has
- Announced on February 4, during the IICA-CMAI
officially come into force.
2. So far, 27 countries including India have Masterclass on Global and Indian Carbon Markets.
agreed to join IBCA. - Shri Nitin Gadkari, Minister for Road Transport and
Highways, participated and highlighted the role of
(a) Only 1 (b) Only 2
biofuels and green hydrogen.
(c) 1 and 2 (d) None of these
- The partnership seeks to equip industry professionals,
Answer: C. 1 and 2
policymakers, and academia with necessary knowledge
- The framework agreement on the International Big Cat
and expertise.
Alliance (IBCA) has officially come into force.
- As of 23 January, IBCA and its Secretariat are a treaty- 273. On 10 February, the Department for
based, inter-governmental international organization Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade
and legal entity. (DPIIT) of India signed an MoU on
- Five countries have submitted their instruments of cooperation in logistics and infrastructure
ratification: Nicaragua, Eswatini, India, Somalia, and development with which organization from
Liberia. the Republic of Korea (ROK)?
- 27 countries, including India, have agreed to join the (a) Korea Development Bank
IBCA. (b) Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency
- The alliance aims to protect and conserve big cats (c) Korean Transportation Institute
globally. (d) Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport
271. Which IIT has signed a deal with the Indian Answer: C. Korean Transportation Institute
Army to develop bamboo-based bunkers at - On 10 February 2023, DPIIT of India signed an MoU
high altitudes? with the Korean Transportation Institute (KOTI).
(a) IIT Kanpur (b) IIT Delhi - The MoU focuses on cooperation in logistics and
infrastructure development.
(c) IIT Guwahati (d) IIT Bombay
- It was signed by Mr. Youngchan Kim, President of
Answer: C. IIT Guwahati
KOTI, and Amit Kumar, Ambassador of India to ROK.
- IIT Guwahati signed a deal with the Indian Army to
- The signing took place at the Sejong National Research
develop bamboo-based bunkers for high altitudes.
Complex in South Korea.
- The agreement involves the Army's 4 Corps based in
- The MoU aims to leverage KOTI's expertise to support
Tezpur, Assam.
India's infrastructure initiatives.

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274. Ministry of Ayush and ____ signed an MoU to - The agreement was signed by Raul Alejandro Jalil,
boost senior citizen care & combat substance Governor of Catamarca, Argentina, and G. Kishan
abuse. Reddy, India's Minister of Coal and Mines.
(a) Department of Pensions - The meeting took place in New Delhi.
(b) Department of Food and Public Distribution - The aim was to boost cooperation in the mining
(c) Social Justice Department industry, focusing on investment opportunities and
lithium exploration.
(d) Consumer Affairs Department
Answer: C. Social Justice Department 277. India and which country have agreed to open
- The Ministry of Ayush and the Social Justice a new hotline on border security?
Department signed an MoU to enhance senior citizen (a) Bangladesh (b) Myanmar
care and address substance abuse. (c) Nepal (d) Sri Lanka
- The MoU aims to improve the well-being of senior Answer: A. Bangladesh
citizens and tackle the growing concern of substance - India and Bangladesh have agreed to establish a new
abuse. hotline between the deputy commanders of their border
- This partnership will implement Ayush-based guarding forces.
interventions to promote geriatric healthcare. - Existing hotlines are in place between the Army Chiefs
- The collaboration is a significant step towards resolving and other senior officers of both countries.
challenges related to senior citizen care. - This agreement followed the first high-level meeting
- The government has initiated several measures to after the fall of the Sheikh Hasina government.
ensure the welfare of senior citizens. - 99 new locations (approximately 70-72 km) have been
275. MoU was signed between which institutions identified for border fencing.
to strengthen science and technology - Of the 4,096-km India-Bangladesh border, 864.48 km
cooperation between India and Nepal? remains unfenced, with 174.51 km deemed "non-
(a) NASA and ISRO (b) CSIR and ISRO feasible."
(c) DRDO and NAST (d) CSIR and NAST 16.Miscellaneous Current Affairs
Answer: D. CSIR and NAST
- The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research 278. What is the main objective of the 'Gyan
(CSIR) and the Nepal Science and Technology Prajna Bharatam Mission'?
Pratishthan (NAST) signed an MoU on 18 February (a) New University Establishment
2025. (b) Promotion of Digital Education in India
- The signing took place at CSIR-National Physical (c) Restoration of Ancient Temples
Laboratory (NPL), New Delhi. (d) Conservation and Documentation of One Crore
- The MoU aims to strengthen science and technology
Manuscripts
cooperation between India and Nepal.
Answer: D. Conservation and Documentation of One
- CSIR-National Institute of Science Communication
Crore Manuscripts
and Policy Research (NISCPR) is a key laboratory under
- The Union Budget 2025-26 announced the Gyan
CSIR, focusing on science communication and policy
Bharatam Mission.
research.
- The mission aims to conserve and document one crore
276. With which of the following countries has manuscripts.
India signed an MoU to further collaboration - It focuses on the manuscript heritage in educational
in lithium mining and exploration? institutions, museums, libraries, and private
(a) Argentina (b) UK collections.
(c) Japan (d) France - An Indian Language Book Scheme will be launched to
Answer: A. Argentina help students understand books in their own language
- An MoU was signed between India and Argentina to through digital means.
enhance collaboration in lithium mining and - A national digital repository of Indian knowledge
exploration. systems will be established for knowledge exchange.

51
279. A drug delivery system with the potential to Answer: C. 1 and 2
alter the treatment of which of the following - Guillain-Barré Syndrome is a rare neurological
has been developed by researchers at the disorder where the body's immune system attacks the
Institute of Nano Science and Technology, peripheral nervous system.
Mohali? - Main symptoms include sudden weakness in the
(a) Diabetes (b) Rheumatoid arthritis hands or legs, paralysis, and difficulty walking.
(c) Melanoma (d) Kidney failure - Cases of GBS have increased significantly in
Answer: B. Rheumatoid arthritis Maharashtra.
- A drug delivery system has been developed to - It often begins with tingling or numbness in the feet
potentially transform the treatment of rheumatoid and hands, followed by muscle weakness.
arthritis. - Most people recover fully from GBS with treatment.
- Developed by researchers at the Institute of Nano
282. What was the total voting percentage of the
Science and Technology (INST), Mohali.
Delhi Assembly Elections 2025?
- The system responds directly to biochemical signals in
(a) 60.39% (b) 43.57%
the inflamed synovial environment.
(c) 62.39% (d) 45.56%
- Microspheres in the system are filled with
Answer: A. 60.39%
methotrexate, a common drug for rheumatoid arthritis.
- The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) won a significant
280. Where did the United States military transport victory in the Delhi Assembly elections.
plane carrying 104 illegal Indian migrants - The total voter turnout for the elections was 60.39%.
land in India in February 2025? - BJP secured 48 out of 70 seats, surpassing the majority
(a) Indira Gandhi International Airport threshold of 35 seats.
(b) Sri Guru Ramdas Ji International Airport - BJP's vote percentage was 45.56%, while AAP received
(c) Kempegowda International Airport 43.57% and Congress got 6.34%.
(d) Rajiv Gandhi International Airport - The elections concluded on February 5, 2025.
Answer: B. Sri Guru Ramdas Ji International Airport 283. A new HS code introduced by India to allow
- A US military transport plane, C-17, landed at Sri exports of GI-recognised ____ varieties.
Guru Ramdas Ji International Airport, Amritsar, Punjab,
(a) Pulses (b) Rice
on 5th February 2025.
(c) Wheat (d) Cotton
- The plane carried 104 illegal Indian immigrants
Answer: B. Rice
deported from the USA.
- A new HS code was introduced by India for exporting
- These individuals were caught entering the USA
GI-recognised rice varieties.
illegally via the Donkey route or overstaying their visas.
- Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced the
- Of the 104 deported, 30 were from Punjab, 33 each from
amendment to the Customs Tariff Act.
Gujarat and Haryana, and three each from Maharashtra
- This is the first time an HS code has been introduced
and Uttar Pradesh, with two from Chandigarh.
for GI-recognised rice.
- The Donkey route refers to the long trek illegal
- The Indian Patent Office has given a GI tag to 20 rice
migrants undertake, similar to a donkey's journey.
varieties.
281. Guillain Barre Syndrome cases rise in
284. India's first commercial trial consignment of
Maharashtra. Which statement is correct about
premium Sangola and Bhagwa Pomegranates
Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS)?
was sent by sea to which country?
1. It is a rare neurological disorder in which
the body's immune system attacks the (a) United Kingdom (b) Canada
peripheral nervous system. (c) United States of America (d) Australia
2. The main symptoms of GBS include sudden Answer: D. Australia
weakness in the hands or legs, paralysis, and - The first-ever sea shipments of Indian pomegranates to
difficulty walking. Australia were facilitated by APEDA.
(a) Only 1 (b) Only 2 - APEDA, in collaboration with Agrostar and K B
(c) 1 and 2 (d) None of these Exports, completed the consignment.

52
- Market access for Indian pomegranate exports to - The unemployment rate in the previous quarter was
Australia was obtained, with an SOP signed in February 6.5%.
2024.
288. Which pharmaceutical company’s export of
- The first air consignment was dispatched in July 2024
unapproved combination drugs containing
after successful facilitation by APEDA and NPPO. Tapentadol and Carisoprodol has been
285. Who has launched the Digital Brand Identity restricted by the Indian government?
Manual to standardize online platforms? (a) Sun Pharmaceuticals (b) Avio Pharmaceuticals
(a) Jitendra Singh (b) Amit Shah (c) Cipla (d) Dr. Reddy's Laboratories
(c) Jitin Prasada (d) Ashwini Vaishnaw Answer: B. Avio Pharmaceuticals
Answer: C. Jitin Prasada - The Indian government restricted the export of
- The Digital Brand Identity Manual was launched to unapproved combination drugs containing Tapentadol
standardize online platforms. and Carisoprodol.
- It aims to bring uniformity across government - Avio Pharmaceuticals, based in Mumbai, was involved
websites and digital platforms. in exporting these drugs to certain countries in West
- Jitin Prasada, Minister of State for Electronics and Africa.
Information Technology, launched the manual. - A joint team from CDSCO and state regulatory
- The manual is designed to create a harmonious visual authorities conducted an audit on February 21-22, 2025.
identity for government digital platforms. - The audit led to a Stop Activity Order, halting all
operations at Avio Pharmaceuticals.
286. A permissible limit of ____ of faecal coliform - 1.3 crore tablets/capsules and 26 API batches were
per 100 ml of water has been set by CPCB
seized to prevent further distribution.
standards.
(a) 3,500 units (b) 2,000 units
(c) 2,500 units (d) 1,500 units
Answer: C. 2,500 units
- The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has set a
permissible limit of 2,500 units of faecal coliform per 100
ml of water.
- A report to the National Green Tribunal (NGT)
highlighted high levels of faecal coliform in river water
during the Maha Kumbh.
- The river water quality did not meet the bathing
quality standards due to increased faecal coliform.
- Faecal coliform indicates sewage contamination in
water, often from human and animal excreta.

287. In the Oct-Dec 2024 quarter, the

unemployment rate in urban areas declined to
____?
(a) 6.3% (b) 6.2%
(c) 6.4% (d) 6.1%
Answer: C. 6.4%
- In the Oct-Dec 2024 quarter, the unemployment rate in
urban areas declined to 6.4%.
- This rate applies to individuals aged 15 years and
above.
- The Labour Force Participation Rate in urban areas for
the same age group rose to 50.4%.

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