1. Exercise Desert Hunt 2025, recently seen in the news, is?
(a) A joint military exercise between India and the USA
(b) A joint military exercise between India and Saudi Arabia
(c) A Tri-Service Special Forces exercise conducted by India
(d) A counter-insurgency operation in Northeast India
Answer: (c)
Context:
The Indian Air Force conducted Exercise Desert Hunt 2025, an integrated Tri-Service Special Forces exercise, at Air Force Station Jodhpur, Rajasthan.
यह भारतीय वायु सेना द्वारा संचालित एक एकीकृत त्रि-सेवा विशेष बल अभ्यास है। इस अभ्यास में भारतीय सेना के विशिष्ट पैरा ( विशेष बल), भारतीय नौसेना के मरीन कमांडो तथा भारतीय वायु सेना के गरुड़ (विशेष बल) ने एक कृत्रिम युद्ध वातावरण में एक साथ भाग लिया।
Also, check: UPESSC Assistant Professor Test Series for General Studies in English and Hindi
2. The Bhore Committee, recently seen in the news, is related to:
(a) Health reforms
(b) Agricultural reforms
(c) Educational reforms
(d) Industrial labour reforms
Answer: (a)
Context:
The Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda, while addressing the Rajya Sabha, highlighted the government’s policy shift towards a comprehensive and inclusive healthcare model under the National Health Policy 2017.
About:
India’s healthcare system has evolved from a curative approach (post-disease treatment) to a preventive and holistic approach (early detection and wellness promotion).
Key Milestones in Healthcare Development:
1946 – Bhore Committee recommends universal healthcare.
1983 – First National Health Policy (NHP) prioritizes primary health.
2005 – National Rural Health Mission (NRHM) launched.
2017 – National Health Policy (NHP) shifts focus from curative to preventive healthcare.
2018 – Ayushman Bharat launched, marking a paradigm shift.
भोरे समिति की स्थापना भारत सरकार ने 1943 में की थी। इसे स्वास्थ्य सर्वेक्षण और विकास समिति के नाम से भी जाना जाता है। यह भारत की स्वास्थ्य स्थिति का आकलन करने के लिए एक विकास समिति द्वारा किया गया स्वास्थ्य सर्वेक्षण था। विकास समितिजोसेफ विलियम भोरे के अधीन काम करती थी, जो समिति के अध्यक्ष के रूप में कार्य करते थे।
UPESSC (UPHESC) Assistant Professor GK Paper Practice Test 1
3. Kanger Valley National Park, recently seen in the news, is situated in which of the following states?
(a) Chhattisgarh
(b) Madhya Pradesh
(c) Jharkhand
(d) Odisha
Answer: (a)
Context:
India has added 6 properties to its tentative list for UNESCO heritage status.
About:
India now has 62 sites on the tentative list and addition to the World Heritage Centre’s tentative list is mandatory if a property is to be nominated for inscription to the World Heritage List in future.
The six properties added to the tentative list include Kanger Valley National Park in Chhattisgarh; Mudumal Megalithic Menhirs in Telangana; Ashokan Edict Sites (spread across Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Delhi, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Gujrat); Chausath Yogini Temples (spread across Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Odisha); Gupta Temples (spread across Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Bihar), and the palace fortresses of the Bundelas in Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh.
At present, a total of 43 properties from India are inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, including 35 in the ‘Cultural’ category, seven in ‘Natural’ and one in ‘Mixed’ category.
4. Signal app, recently seen in the news, is related to:
(a) A platform used by agencies to send data requests and takedown notices.
(b) An app providing network signals in remote areas.
(c) An encrypted messaging platform used by government officials.
(d) A financial transaction app for Bitcoin payments.
Answer: (c)
Context: Senior Trump administration officials used Signal, an encrypted messaging app, for military discussions and accidentally included a journalist, exposing sensitive information.
About Signal:
- It is an app used for direct messaging, group chats, and phone and video calls.
- It employs end-to-end encryption for both messaging and calling services, preventing third parties from viewing conversations or listening in on calls.
- The app collects minimal user data and features automated message deletion after a set time, adding an extra layer of privacy.
- While Signal has gained popularity among government officials for its privacy features, the recent incident highlights the potential risks of user errors and raises questions about the appropriateness of using such apps for national security communication.
5. The Abel Prize, recently seen in the news, is awarded for outstanding contributions in:
(a) Literature
(b) Peace
(c) Physics
(d) Mathematics
Answer: (d)
In News:
- Japanese mathematician Masaki Kashiwara was awarded this year’s Abel Prize.
- He was honored with the Abel Prize for his groundbreaking work in algebraic analysis, representation theory, the development of D-modules, and the discovery of crystal bases.
About Abel Prize:
Named after legendary Norwegian mathematician Niels Henrik Abel (1802–1829), the prize was established by the Norwegian Parliament in 2002 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of Abel’s birth.
6. The Yaoshang festival, recently seen in the news, is primarily associated with which of the following states?
(a) Assam
(b) Nagaland
(c) Manipur
(d) Meghalaya
Answer: c
Context: The Yaoshang festival brought a sense of hope and celebration in Manipur after a yearlong pause due to the unrest in the state since May 2023.
About:
• Yaoshang is a five-day festival celebrated in Manipur during the full moon of Lamta (February March), coinciding with Holi.
• It begins with the burning of a straw hut and children collecting donations.
• A key highlight is Thabal Chongba, a moonlit folk dance.
• The festival also includes color play, similar to Holi, with a special Pichkari day on the second day.
7. Consider the following Indian humanitarian operations with the respective countries they assisted:
Operations Countries Assisted
1. Operation Maitri Nepal
2. Operation Dost Türkiye and Syria
3. Operation Sadbhav Afghanistan
Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) None of the above
Answer: (a)
Context: India has launched ‘Operation Brahma’ to provide humanitarian assistance to Myanmar, which has been devastated by a magnitude of 7.7 earthquakes, causing widespread death and destruction.
India’s Humanitarian Assistance:
- Operation Maitri (2015) – in the aftermath of 2015 Nepal’s earthquake
- Operation Dost (2023) – to help quake-hit Turkiye and Syria
- Operation Sadbhav (2024) – to assist typhoon Yagi-affected countries – Myanmar, Laos and Vietnam.
8. Recently, PM Modi received the ‘Grand Commander of the Order of the Star and Key of the Indian Ocean’ by which of the following Nations?
(a) Indonesia
(b) Tanzania
(c) Seychelles
(d) Mauritius
Answer: (d)
The Prime Minister paid a state visit to Mauritius, his second since 2015.
Award Conferred: PM Modi received the Grand Commander of the Order of the Star and Key of the Indian Ocean, marking him as the first Indian recipient.
9. “Diyaslai,” recently seen in the news, is the autobiography of which of the following?
(a) Amartya Sen
(b) Kailash Satyarthi
(c) Abhijit Banerjee
(d) Muhammad Yunus
Answer: (b)
Context: The Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA), in collaboration with the Satyarthi Movement for Global Compassion, held a discussion on Diyaslai.
Diyaslai:
- It is the autobiography of Nobel Peace Prize laureate Kailash Satyarthi.
- It chronicles Kailash Satyarthi’s journey from a humble family in Vidisha to his lifelong fight for child rights, culminating in the Nobel Peace Prize.
Kailash Satyarthi:
- Kailash Satyarthi, born (in 1954) in Vidisha, Madhya Pradesh
- He has been a global advocate for social transformation, leading efforts to combat child slavery and exploitation across 140 countries.
- Over the past 44 years, he and his organization have rescued more than 138,000 children from child labour, slavery, and trafficking, providing them with opportunities for education and a better future.
10. With reference to the University Grants Commission (UGC), consider the following statements:
1. It is a non-statutory body responsible for disbursing grants to universities and colleges.
2. It serves as a vital link between the Union and State Governments and institutions of higher learning.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: (b)
Context: The University Grants Commission (UGC) has recently approved a Standard Operating Protocol (SOP) for Higher education institutions (HEIs) to offer the Accelerated Degree Programme (ADP) and Extended Degree Programme (EDP).
About: University Grants Commission (UGC)
It came into existence on 28th December, 1953 and became a statutory Organization of the Government of India by an Act of Parliament in 1956.
The UGC’s mandate includes:
- Promoting and coordinating university education.
- Determining and maintaining standards of teaching, examination, and research in universities.
- Disbursing grants to the Universities and Colleges.
- Serving as a vital link between the Union and State Governments and institutions of higher learning.
- Advising the Central and State Governments on the measures necessary to improve university education.
11. Which one of the following organizations publishes the Global Gender Gap Report?
(a) World Bank
(b) World Economic Forum (WEF)
(c) UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC)
(d) Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD)
Answer: (b)
Global Gender Gap Report is published by the World Economic Forum (WEF) benchmarking the current state and evolution of gender parity across four key dimensions, i.e. Economic Participation and Opportunity; Educational Attainment; Health and Survival, and Political Empowerment.
It highlighted that countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada have made progress in promoting female judges, but gaps persist, particularly at the highest levels.
12. The Kaliyattam festival, recently seen in the news, is mainly associated with which of the following states?
(a) Tamil Nadu
(b) Telangana
(c) Andhra Pradesh
(d) Kerala
Answer: (d)
Context: The Kaliyattam festival takes place in the Malayalam month of Kumbham, which falls in February – March.
About:
• Also known as Theyyam, this festival features ritual dance performances and is recognized as an integral part of Kerala’s intangible heritage.
• Kavus (sacred groves) and tharavadus (ancestral households) of the region are the venues of Kaliyattam (Theyyam).
• Belief and Significance: Kaliyattam is based on the belief that immortal spirits enter mortal bodies to perform a divine dance of revelation. During the performance, the artists become living embodiments of deities, blessing devotees with prosperity, protection, and spiritual energy.
13. The Tarapore Committee is associated with which of the following?
(a) Implementation of GST reforms
(b) Environmental impact of infrastructure projects
(c) Capital Account Convertibility in India
(d) Electoral reforms in India
Answer: (c)
पूंजी खाता परिवर्तनीयता का अर्थ है स्थानीय वित्तीय परिसंपत्तियों को बिना किसी प्रतिबंध के स्वतंत्र रूप से विदेशी में परिवर्तित करना और इसके विपरीत। यह विदेशी निवेश, परिसंपत्ति खरीद और प्रेषण के लिए अप्रतिबंधित पूंजी प्रवाह की अनुमति देता है।
Context:
The Chairman of the 16th Finance Commission, Arvind Panagariya, said that India should not rush into full capital account convertibility at its current per capita income level.
Tarapore Committee Recommendations:
• The Tarapore committee was set up by the Reserve Bank of India in 1997.
• The committee in its report detailed certain preconditions for moving towards full CAC.
These include:
Fiscal consolidation: Maintain fiscal deficit around 3-3.5% of GDP for macroeconomic stability.
Monetary Policy Objectives: Align inflation rates to global levels and ensure interest rates reflect inflation differentials.
Institutional Strengthening: Enhance monetary policy framework for better decision making.
Banking System Reforms: Strengthen banks through restructuring, safeguards, and capacity building for liberalized capital flows
Adequacy of reserves: With implementation of full CAC, adequacy of reserves would be an important parameter in gauging an economy’s ability to absorb external shocks.
14. The Tendulkar Committee and Rangarajan Committee are primarily associated with which of the following issues in India?
(a) Tax reforms
(b) Poverty estimation
(c) Inflation control
(d) Banking sector reforms
Answer: (b)
Context: According to a study by economists Surjit S Bhalla and Karan Bhasin, India has witnessed a sharp reduction in poverty and inequality over the past decade.
Poverty Line Estimation in India:
Tendulkar committee (2009): Poverty line in the Suresh Tendulkar methodology was expenditure of ₹33 a day in urban areas and ₹27 a day in rural areas.
The national poverty line for 2011-12 was estimated at Rs. 816 per capita per month for rural areas and Rs. 1,000 per capita per month for urban areas.
Rangarajan committee (2014): In the Rangarajan methodology, it was ₹47 a day in urban areas and ₹30 a day in rural areas.
The government did not take a call on the report of the Rangarajan Committee; therefore, poverty is measured using the Tendulkar poverty line.
International Poverty Line: The World Bank defines a person as extremely poor if a person is living on less than $2.15 per day, which is adjusted for inflation as well as price differences between countries.
15. With reference to the Thorium Reserves in India consider the following statements:
1. India has one of the largest reserves of thorium in the world.
2. Together, Kerala and Tamil Nadu account for over 70% of India’s thorium.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: (a)
Statement 1 is correct: India has one of the largest reserves of thorium in the world.
Statement 2 is not correct: Major thorium deposits are found with large reserves in Kerala, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh.
Together, Kerala and Odisha account for over 70% of India’s thorium.
16. “Short-selling,” recently in the news, is related to which of the following?
(a) Selling stocks or assets without owning them, aiming to repurchase at a lower price
(b) Selling goods at a price lower than the cost of production
(c) Technique used by central banks to control inflation
(d) A method of reducing fiscal deficit by cutting government spending
Answer: (a)
Short-selling is a trading strategy where an investor borrows a stock or asset, sells it at the current market price, and later repurchases it at a lower price to make a profit. It is commonly used in stock markets and financial markets to speculate on price declines or hedge against market risks.
17. Which of the following micronutrients are commonly added to rice fortification?
1. Iron
2. Folic Acid
3. Vitamin B12
4. Zinc
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1, 2, 3 and 4
(b) 1, 2 and 4 only
(c) 1, 2 and 3 only
(d) 2, 3 and 4 only
Answer: (a)
Context: The Standing committee on Consumer Affairs, Food, and Public Distribution has recommended the meticulous implementation of the scheme of distribution of fortified rice across the country.
What is food fortification?
According to WHO, fortification is the practice of deliberately increasing the content of one or more micronutrients (i.e., vitamins and minerals) in a food or condiment.
Rice kernels can be fortified with several micronutrients, such as iron, folic acid and other B-complex vitamins, vitamin A and zinc.
चावल का फोर्टिफिकेशन
खाद्य सुदृढ़ीकरण: यह जानबूझकर भोजन में सूक्ष्म पोषक तत्व सामग्री, जैसे विटामिन और खनिजों को बढ़ाने की प्रथा है, ताकि खाद्य आपूर्ति की पोषण गुणवत्ता में सुधार हो सके और स्वास्थ्य के लिए न्यूनतम जोखिम के साथ सार्वजनिक स्वास्थ्य लाभ प्रदान किया जा सके।
ऐसे में चावल में अलग से पोषक तत्वों को मिलाया जाता है और इस तरह से तैयार चावल को फोर्टिफाइड राइस कहते हैं. फोर्टिफाइड चावल में आयरन, विटामिन-बी-12 और फोलिक एसिड जैसे पोषक तत्व मिलाए जाते हैं.
18. The Byadgi chilli, recently seen in the news, is a well-known variety from which Indian state?
(a) Andhra Pradesh
(b) Telangana
(c) Tamil Nadu
(d) Karnataka
Answer: (d)
In News:
Byadgi chilli prices have dropped significantly, causing distress among farmers due to excess stock, stringent export tests, and high production costs.
The Byadgi chilli:
• It is a well-known variety from Karnataka, named after Byadgi in the Haveri district.
• It is a bright red, 12-15 cm long chilli with wrinkled pods.
• The fragrance and deep red colour of Byadgi chillies are well-known.
• It is used in pickles, masalas, and chilli powder.
• It is also used in oleoresin extraction.
• Byadgi chillies have been designated as a Karnataka Geographical Indication.
19. ‘Mission 300’ recently seen in the news, is related to which of the following?
(a) Space Mission by European Space Agency (ESA)
(b) Defence initiative for border security.
(c) Training 300 startups in deep-tech innovation.
(d) Electrification Initiative in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Answer: (d)
In 2024, the World Bank Group and the African Development Bank together launched Mission 300.
Mission 300: Aims to connect 300 million people to electricity in Sub-Saharan Africa by 2030.
The ambitious initiative builds on years of groundwork, much of it led by the Energy Sector Management Assistance Program (ESMAP).
Goal: Accelerate electrification while ensuring cleaner, diversified energy sources, economic growth, and job creation.
Current Challenge: Nearly 600 million people in Sub-Saharan Africa lack electricity, making up 83% of the global unelectrified population.
Key Focus Areas:
- Investment in generation, transmission, distribution, and regional interconnection
- Sector reform to ensure reliable, affordable, and quality power
20. Dalle Chilly has received a Geographical Indication (GI) tag in which of the following Indian States?
(a) Karnataka
(b) Nagaland
(c) Andhra Pradesh
(d) Sikkim
Answer: (d)
The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) has successfully exported the first consignment of Dalle Chilly from Sikkim to the Solomon Islands.
सोलोमन द्वीप पापुआ न्यू गिनी के पूर्व में मेलानेसिया में करीब एक हजार द्वीपों वाला एक देश है। करीबन 28,400 वर्ग किलोमीटर (10,965 वर्ग मील) में फैले इस देश की राजधानी गुआडलकैनाल द्वीप पर स्थित होनिअरा है।
21. The Equalisation Levy, recently seen in the news, was introduced to tax:
(a) Cross-border financial transactions
(b) Online advertisement services
(c) Agricultural exports
(d) Tourism services
Answer: (b)
Context: The government proposed to abolish the 6% Equalisation Levy (digital tax) on online advertisements, effective April 1, 2025.
About:
Platforms: This move benefits advertisers on digital platforms like Google, X, and Meta.
Equalisation Levy: The Equalisation Levy on online ads was introduced in 2016, and the Finance Act 2020 extended it to e-commerce services.
- It was designed to tax online advertising services, digital ad space, and related facilities.
- The levy is charged at 6% in respect of the sum received or receivable by a non-resident for online advertisement services.
- In 2020, Equalisation Levy was also imposed on non-resident e-commerce operators. The rate was 2%, but it was removed in 2024.
Aim: The proposal aims to show a more accommodative stance toward the US, which has threatened reciprocal tariffs starting April 2.
इक्वलाइजेशन लेवी एक प्रत्यक्ष कर है जो भारत में किसी निवासी को निर्दिष्ट सेवाएँ प्रदान करने के लिए गैर-निवासियों को किए गए ऑनलाइन लेनदेन/भुगतान पर लगाया जाता है। सरकार ने भारतीय सेवा प्रदाताओं को विदेशी सेवा प्रदाताओं के साथ प्रतिस्पर्धा करने और निष्पक्ष प्रतिस्पर्धा प्रदान करने में मदद करने के लिए इस कर की शुरुआत की।
22. ‘Kurd Ethnic Group’ recently seen in the news, belongs to which of the following regions?
1. Iran
2. Turkey
3. Iraq
4. Syria
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1 and 4 only
(c) 1, 2 and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
Answer: (d)
Kurds: Ethnic group of about 40 million, mainly in Iran, Iraq, Syria, and Turkey.
- Speak various Kurdish dialects, not related to Turkish or Arabic; mostly Sunni Muslims.
- In Syria, Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) controls the northeast.
23. Bangus Valley, recently seen in the news, lies in which of the following mountain ranges?
(a) Zanskar Range
(b) Karakoram Range
(c) Dhauladhar Range
(d) Pir Panjal Range
Answer: (d)
In News
• J&K govt. to promote Bangus Valley near LoC as an ecotourism destination.
About:
• Situated in Kupwara district, Jammu and Kashmir, India.
• Lies in the Pir Panjal Range of the Himalayas.
• Encompasses Lashadthura and Boud-Bangus meadows, forming a twin valley system.
• Holds cultural importance for Gujjar and Bakarwal nomadic tribes.
24. Vanuatu, an island nation recently seen in the news, is located in which of the following regions?
(a) Caribbean Sea
(b) Indian Ocean
(c) South Pacific Ocean
(d) Mediterranean Sea
Answer: (c)
In News:
• Former IPL chief Lalit Modi has surrendered his Indian passport and acquired citizenship in Vanuatu which offers a golden passport program.
About:
• Vanuatu is an island nation in the South Pacific Ocean, located 800 km west of Fiji and 1,770 km east of Australia.
• It is situated along the seismic Ring of Fire, known for its high tectonic activity across the Pacific and Southeast Asia.
25. Okjökull, the first glacier to be officially declared dead, is located in which of the following countries?
(a) Denmark
(b) Iceland
(c) The United States of America
(d) Canada
Answer: (b)
- Satellite images taken more than three decades apart show the disappearance of Iceland’s Okjökull.
- It was the first glacier to be officially declared dead as a result of human-caused climate change in 2014.
- Okjökull was a dome-shaped glacier situated around the summit crater on Ok, a 1,200 meters shield volcano located 71 kilometers northwest of Reykjavík, Iceland.
- In 2023, Iceland also created the world’s first iceberg graveyard, where ice-like headstones were constructed for the 15 major glaciers listed on the Global Glacier Casualty List, all of which are either dead or critically endangered.
- This list includes the Anderson Glacier in Washington State, which, in 2015, became the first U.S. glacier to be declared dead.
अंतरिक्ष से ली गई उपग्रह छवियों में तीन दशकों के अंतराल में आइसलैंड के ओकजोकुल (Okjökull) ग्लेशियर के लुप्त होने को दर्शाया गया है।
26. The Ningaloo Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage site recently seen in the news, is located in:
(a) Maldives
(b) Indonesia
(c) Mexico
(d) Australia
Answer: (d)
In News:
A severe mass coral bleaching event described as unprecedented is unfolding off Australia’s western coast, impacting the Ningaloo Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
About:
• The event is part of a broader fourth global coral bleaching episode, ongoing since 2023.
• The NOAA reported that nearly 84% of the world’s reef areas have experienced bleaching level heat stress, impacting over 80 countries and territories.
• The crisis is worsened by rising global sea surface temperatures, overfishing, and pollution—challenges that have intensified due to climate change.
प्रवाल विरंजन क्या है? कोरल ब्लीचिंग तब होती है जब कोरल अपना चमकीला रंग खो देते हैं और सफ़ेद हो जाते हैं। लेकिन इसके अलावा भी बहुत कुछ है। कोरल ज़ूक्सैन्थेला नामक सूक्ष्म शैवाल के कारण चमकीले और रंगीन होते हैं।
27. India has launched ‘Operation Brahma’ to provide humanitarian assistance to which of the following country?
(a) Thailand
(b) Turkey
(c) Myanmar
(d) Nepal
Answer: (c)
Context: India has launched ‘Operation Brahma’ to provide humanitarian assistance to Myanmar, which has been devastated by a magnitude 7.7 earthquake, causing widespread death and destruction.
About:
The earthquake was so powerful that its tremors felt across parts of Southeast Asia, including Thailand.
Myanmar lies between two tectonic plates—the Indian Plate and the Eurasian Plate—making it particularly prone to earthquakes.
The Sagaing Fault, running north to south through central Myanmar, marks the boundary between these plates. Since 1900, at least six earthquakes with a magnitude greater than 7 have occurred near this fault.
28. What is the primary objective of the Swavalambini initiative?
(a) Providing employment opportunities for women in government sectors.
(b) Enhancing women’s participation in entrepreneurship through training and mentorship.
(c) Offering financial assistance to women for higher education abroad.
(d) Promoting gender equality in political representation.
Answer: (b)
Swavalambini is a structured entrepreneurship initiative designed for young women in Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) to enhance their participation in entrepreneurship.
The initiative provides skill development, mentorship, funding support, and incubation opportunities to promote self-employment and economic independence. It is implemented by the National Institute for Entrepreneurship and Small Business Development (NIESBUD) in collaboration with NITI Aayog under the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE).
29. Which of the following statements about the Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maandhan (PM-SYM) Scheme is correct?
(a) It provides a ₹3,000 monthly pension after the age of 60.
(b) It is applicable to all workers, including government employees.
(c) The scheme is administered by the Ministry of Finance.
(d) It was launched in the year 2020.
Answer: (a)
Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maandhan (PM-SYM):
- It is a pension scheme for unorganised workers with incomes up to ₹15,000, providing a ₹3,000 monthly pension after 60.
- Launched in 2019, it aims to offer social security to those contributing significantly to India’s GDP.
- Administered by the Ministry of Labour, LIC manages the pension fund.
30. Which of the following entities are eligible to receive funding under the Agricultural Infrastructure Fund (AIF)?
1. Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs)
2. Self-Help Groups (SHGs)
3. Startups and Agribusinesses
4. Individual Farmers
Select the correct answer using the code below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1, 2, and 3 only
(c) 2 and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3, and 4
Answer: (d)
Punjab has utilised 100% of the Rs 4,713 crore allocated to it by the Centre under the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF) scheme.
What is Agricultural Infrastructure Fund (AIF)?
AIF was launched with an aim to provide medium to long-term financing for agriculture infrastructure projects at the post-harvest stage.
31. Under which scheme has the Pashu Aushadhi Initiative been introduced?
(a) Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY)
(b) Livestock Health & Disease Control Programme (LHDCP)
(c) Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY)
(d) Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY)
Answer: (b)
Context: The Union Cabinet approved the Revision of Livestock Health and Disease Control Programme (LHDCP).
The Pashu Aushadhi is a new component added to the LHDCP scheme.
32. What is the main objective of the Pradhan Mantri Jan Vikas Karyakram (PMJVK)?
(a) Encouraging entrepreneurship in rural areas.
(b) Providing direct cash benefits to minority communities.
(c) Promoting organic farming among marginalized groups.
(d) Developing community infrastructure and basic amenities in identified areas.
Answer: (d)
In News:
The National Review Meeting was conducted by the Ministry of Minority Affairs to assess the progress of the Pradhan Mantri Jan Vikas Karyakram (PMJVK).
The Pradhan Mantri Jan Vikas Karyakram (PMJVK):
- It is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme aimed at developing community infrastructure and basic amenities in 1300 identified areas across India.
- The scheme, restructured in May 2018, focuses on reducing socio-economic gaps
- It is implemented through State Governments/Union Territory (UT) Administrations.
- It operates on a fund-sharing pattern between the Centre and States/UTs.
33. Pravaah and Sarthi initiatives, recently seen in the news, are initiatives of?
(a) NITI Aayog
(b) Reserve Bank of India
(c) Ministry of Finance
(d) Securities and Exchange Board of India
Answer: (b)
Context: Recently, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has been awarded the Digital Transformation Award 2025 for Digital Initiatives by Central Banking, London.
It highlights the RBI’s commitment to innovation and efficiency in governance through its groundbreaking digital initiatives, Pravaah and Sarthi.
Digital Initiatives by RBI:
Sarthi System: It is an internal workflow digitization system that has streamlined record management, automated processes, and enhanced data analysis.
Pravaah System: It serves as a digital regulatory application platform for external users.
34. The Online Assurances Monitoring System (OAMS), recently seen in the news, is:
(a) A platform for tracking government assurances made in Parliament
(b) An e-governance portal for monitoring public grievances
(c) A digital platform for managing online petitions
(d) A system for tracking RTI applications
Answer: (a)
In Context: The Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister recently highlighted the role of the Online Assurances Monitoring System (OAMS) in managing government assurances.
About:
It is a digital platform implemented by the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs (MoPA) to enhance transparency and efficiency in managing government assurances.
35. The APAAR ID, recently seen in the news, is related to which of the following?
(a) Aadhaar-linked health records for citizens
(b) Unique identification for the apparel industry
(c) A digital ID for managing students’ academic credits
(d) A portal for tracking government scholarships
Answer: (c)
Context: Activists and parents have raised concerns over the rapid push by schools to create APAAR IDs, despite it being voluntary.
What is the APAAR ID?
APAAR (Automated Permanent Academic Account Registry) ID is a unique 12-digit code that will help students to digitally store, manage, and access all their academic credits, including Score card, marksheets, gradesheet, degrees, diplomas, certificates & co-curricular accomplishments.
This initiative is part of the ‘One Nation, One Student ID’ program launched by the Ministry of Education, aligning with the new National Education Policy of 2020.
The ID is generated through the Unified District Information System for Education Plus (UDISE+) portal, which contains regional academic statistics and data on schools, teachers and students.
36. The Sahayog Portal, recently seen in the news, is associated with which of the following?
(a) A platform launched by the Ministry of Home Affairs for centralized content-blocking orders.
(b) An e-governance portal for direct benefit transfer (DBT) schemes.
(c) A digital platform for tracking missing persons by the Ministry of Women and Child Development.
(d) An online platform by the Ministry of External Affairs for diaspora engagement.
Answer: (a)
Context:
- X Corp, formerly known as Twitter Inc., is challenging the Indian government’s approach to content blocking on its platform, particularly in relation to the Sahyog portal
37. The “TB Champions” initiative, focusing on Tuberculosis (TB) survivors advocating for early detection and treatment adherence, is launched in which of the following states?
(a) Punjab
(b) Uttar Pradesh
(c) Bihar
(d) Meghalaya
Answer: (d)
The Meghalaya government is pushing for a TB-free State by re-skilling TB survivors and bringing them back into control programmes as ‘TB champions’.
- A TB Champion is a person who has been affected by TB and successfully completed the treatment.
- As survivors, they can provide valuable support to those with TB and their families.
38. The PM VIKAS Scheme, recently seen in the news, mainly focuses on which among the following?
(a) Promotion of renewable energy projects in rural areas.
(b) Financial inclusion through digital literacy programs.
(c) Agricultural reforms for small and marginal farmers.
(d) Upliftment of minority communities.
Answer: (d)
Context: The Union Minister of Minority Affairs & Parliamentary Affairs reaffirmed that the PM VIKAS Scheme focuses on upliftment of minority communities.
About:
The Pradhan Mantri Virasat Ka Samvardhan (PM VIKAS) is a Central Sector Scheme by the Ministry of Minority Affairs, focusing on the upliftment of six notified minority communities (Muslims, Sikhs, Christians, Buddhists, Jain and Zorastrians (Parsis).
Merges five schemes: Seekho Aur Kamao, Nai Manzil, ‘Nai Roshni’, USTTAD, and Hamari Dharohar
39. The recently launched BioSaarthi Initiative aims to:
(a) Promote organic farming through bio-fertilizers.
(b) Facilitate the commercialization of indigenously developed biological products and technologies.
(c) Regulate genetically modified crops in India.
(d) Train rural youth in biotechnology research.
Answer: (b)
The BioSaarthi Initiative is a global mentorship program launched by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) and the Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC).
Its aim is to support Indian biotech startups by connecting them with experienced mentors, including those from the Indian diaspora, to help them expand their reach and business, and ultimately facilitate the commercialization of their indigenously developed biological products and technologies.
40. ‘Exercise Ajeya Warrior’ is a joint military exercise between India and which of the following countries?
(a) Australia
(b) United Kingdom (UK)
(c) United States (US)
(d) United Arab Emirates (UAE)
Answer: (b)
It is a joint military exercise between India and the United Kingdom.
It is a biennial training event with the United Kingdom which is conducted alternatively in the United Kingdom and India.
41. Exercise Khanjar is a joint military exercise between India and which country?
(a) Kazakhstan
(b) Kyrgyzstan
(c) Uzbekistan
(d) Turkmenistan
Answer: (b)
In News: The 12th edition of Exercise Khanjar-XII is set to take place in Kyrgyzstan.
About:
• It is a joint Special Forces exercise.
• It is held annually and conducted alternatively in both the countries.
• Aim: to exchange experiences and best practices in Counter Terrorism and Special Forces Operations in urban and mountainous high altitude terrain scenarios.
42. According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) report 2020–24, which country became the world’s largest importer of major arms?
(a) India
(b) Saudi Arabia
(c) Ukraine
(d) China
Answer: (c)
Context:
According to the Sweden-based Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), Ukraine became the world’s largest importer of major arms in the period 2020–24.
About:
- Top five arms importers: Ukraine, India, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan.
- These five countries accounted for 35 percent of global arms imports.
- Top five arms exporters: the USA, France, Russia, China and Germany.
- These exporters contributed 72 percent of total global arms exports.
43. VARUNA is a bilateral naval exercise between India and which one of the following countries?
(a) United Kingdom
(b) Japan
(c) France
(d) Australia
Answer: (c)
Context: The 23rd edition of the annual naval ‘Exercise VARUNA’ between India and France has commenced in the Arabian Sea.
About Exercise VARUNA:
- It was started in 2001 to enhance interoperability and operational synergy between India & France.
- VARUNA 2025 features a series of drills and manoeuvres involving underwater, surface, and air operations.
44. The ‘Project 75 & Project 75I’, sometimes appeared in the news, are related to:
(a) Development of Fifth Generation Fighter Aircrafts
(b) Construction of Submarines
(c) Developing Guided-missile Destroyers
(d) Acquisition of Frigates
Answer: (b)
Project 75 and Project 75I are key initiatives under India’s defense modernization program, focusing on the indigenous construction of submarines for the Indian Navy.
Project 75:
- To build six Scorpene-class submarines in India; Partnership between India & France.
- These submarines are equipped with advanced stealth capabilities, modern weapon systems, and state-of-the-art technology.
45. The term ‘Triput’ and ‘Tavasya’, recently seen in the news, are
(a) Frigates
(b) Aircraft Carriers
(c) Submarines
(d) Corvettes
Answer: (a)
Context:
The Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL) launched Tavasya, the second frigate under Project 1135.6 Additional Follow-on Ships.
About:
In 2016, India and Russia signed an agreement for four additional Krivak-class frigates, with two imported and two built in India under technology transfer.
The first frigate, Triput, was launched in 2024, with both ships set to be delivered to the Indian Navy by 2026 and 2027.
- Tavasya is the second of the two follow-on Krivak-class stealth frigates.
- ‘Tavasya’ named after Bhima’s mace, symbolising naval strength
- Designed to perform surface, sub-surface, and air combat operations.
46. ‘Prachand Prahar,’ recently seen in the news, is:
(a) A tri-service multi-domain exercise by the Indian Armed Forces.
(b) A joint naval drill between India and France.
(c) A counter-terrorism operation in Jammu and Kashmir.
(d) A joint counter-terrorism operation by India and Nepal.
Answer: (a)
Context:
The Indian Armed Forces recently conducted a high-level tri-service integrated multi-domain exercise, Prachand Prahar, in the high-altitude terrain of Arunachal Pradesh.
47. What is ‘Ocelot’, recently unveiled by Amazon Web Services (AWS)?
(a) A new artificial intelligence chatbot
(b) A prototype quantum computing chip
(c) A cloud-based cybersecurity software
(d) A next-generation semiconductor chip for classical computing.
Answer: (b)
Context:
Amazon Web Services (AWS) has unveiled ‘Ocelot’, its first prototype quantum computing chip with claims of reducing error correction costs by up to 90 per cent.
48. Ultra-conserved elements (UCEs), sometimes appeared in news, and are primarily in context of:
(a) Quantum Entanglement
(b) Gene Regulation
(c) Processed Food
(d) Critical Mineral
Answer: (b)
Ultra-conserved elements (UCEs) are stretches of Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) that are at least 200 base pairs long and exhibit 100% sequence identity across different species.
- In humans, 481 such elements have been identified, with some extending up to 781 base pairs.
- These elements are found on all human chromosomes except for 21 and Y.
- Key functions of UCEs are Gene Regulation, Developmental Processes, and Evolutionary Stability.
49. Recently, the term ‘Birefringence’ was in the news. It is primarily related to:
(a) Quantum computing advancements
(b) Satellite communication technology
(c) Optical properties of materials
(d) Artificial intelligence algorithms
Answer: (c)
Context: A study reveals that Birefringent materials are used in LCD screens, medical microscopes, optical switches, waveplates, frequency converters, and high-power lasers.
50. With reference to the Madhav National Park, consider the following statements:
1. It is located in Madhya Pradesh and has become the 58th Tiger Reserve of India.
2. Madhav Sagar located within the park is a Ramsar Site.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: (a)
Statement 1 is correct: The Centre declared the Madhav National Park in Madhya Pradesh as the country’s 58th tiger reserve.
It has become the ninth tiger reserve in the state, the highest in any state.
Location: It is situated near Shivpuri town in Madhya Pradesh and is a part of the upper Vindhyan hills.
Statement 2 is not correct: Lakes: Sakhya Sagar (Ramsar site, in 2022) and Madhav Sagar.
• Madhav Sagar is not a Ramsar Site.
• Rivers: Manier and Sind river.
- Ramsar sites refer to sites listed on the List of Wetlands of International Importance, also known as the Ramsar List.
- These sites are designated because they meet the Criteria for identifying Wetlands of International Importance.
51. Satkosia Tiger Reserve (STR), one of the four notified reserves in India that does not have a single tiger, was recently seen in the news. It is located in which of the following states?
(a) Madhya Pradesh
(b) Chhattisgarh
(c) Odisha
(d) Jharkhand
Answer: (c)
Context:
Recently, villagers around Satkosia Tiger Reserve of Odisha face the threat of displacement as the Forest Department pushes to reintroduce tigers.
Earlier, in 2018, efforts to reintroduce tigers failed in the same tiger reserve.
About Satkosia Tiger Reserve (STR):
- It is one of 58 tiger reserves managed by the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) in India.
- It includes Satkosia Gorge (Mahanadi River) and Baisipali Sanctuaries.
- It has a unique biodiversity, with elements from the Deccan Peninsula and Eastern Ghats with some from the Western Ghats.
- In 2007, the State government census recorded 12 tigers in STR, but by 2018-19, only one remained.
- However, according to the 2022 census, STR is one of four notified reserves in India that does not have a single tiger.
52. Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary recently seen in the news, is located in which of the following states?
(a) Tamil Nadu
(b) Madhya Pradesh
(c) Karnataka
(d) Odisha
Answer: (c)
Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is a prominent wildlife reserve located in the Western Ghats of Karnataka.
• It is part of the larger Bhadra Tiger Reserve, which was declared in 1998.
• The sanctuary is named after the Bhadra River, which flows through it.
• It’s also known as Muthodi Wildlife Sanctuary, located in Shivamogga and Chikmagalur districts.
• Wildlife: Home to over 250 bird species (many endemic), mammals, reptiles, and the Jagara Giant, the largest teak tree in Karnataka
53. The ‘1985 Plaza Accord’ recently seen in the news is related to:
(a) Gender reform policy
(b) Nuclear disarmament treaty
(c) Currency devaluation agreement
(d) Climate change mitigation plan
Answer: (c)
Context:
There is growing talk of a Mar-a-Lago Accord, drawing parallels to the 1985 Plaza Accord.
Mar-a-Lago is a resort in Florida, owned by the U.S. President Donald Trump.
1985 Plaza Accord:
Named after the Plaza Hotel in New York, the Plaza Accord was signed by the USA and four other major economies of the time: Japan, Germany, France, and the UK—the G-5.
The agreement aimed to devalue the US dollar by raising the exchange rates of the other currencies—namely, the German Mark, Japanese Yen, British Pound, and French Franc.
54. The initiative AIKEYME, recently seen in the news, is related to:
(a) A space exploration program in collaboration with African countries.
(b) A defense cooperation agreement between India and ASEAN nations.
(c) A climate resilience initiative in the Indian Ocean Region.
(d) A multilateral maritime exercise between India and African nations.
Answer: (d)
Context:
The Indian Navy is set to launch two maiden initiatives—AIKEYME and IOS Sagar—aimed at strengthening India’s position as the ‘Preferred Security Partner’ and ‘First Responder’ in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
AIKEYME (Africa India Key Maritime Engagement):
- ‘AIKEYME’, which means ‘Unity’ in Sanskrit, is a large-scale multilateral maritime exercise with African nations.
- The first edition will be co-hosted by the Indian Navy and the Tanzania Peoples’ Defence Force (TPDF).
- It will take place off the coast of Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania, over six days in mid-April 2025.
- Participating nations include Comoros, Djibouti, Eritrea, Kenya, Madagascar, Mauritius, Mozambique, Seychelles, and South Africa, alongside the co-hosts.
55. Which one of the following international organizations publishes the ‘World Social Protection Report (2024-26)’?
(a) International Labour Organization (ILO)
(b) United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)
(c) World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO)
(d) Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)
Answer: (a)
The World Social Protection Report 2024-26, published by the International Labour Organization (ILO), provides a comprehensive overview of global progress in extending social protection since 2015.
- It emphasizes the critical role of universal social protection in addressing the climate crisis and facilitating a just transition to sustainable societies.
- According to the World Social Protection Report 2024-26, India’s social security coverage has doubled from 24.4% in 2021 to 48.8% in 2024.
- It underscores the success of the Ministry’s data-driven approach.
56. Recently, the ‘Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, 1995’ was in the news. It is primarily related to:
(a) Multi-Dimensional Poverty
(b) Gender Equality
(c) Food Security & Inflation
(d) Global Health
Answer: (b)
In News: Nearly three decades after the adoption of Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action (1995), the struggle for women’s rights in India remains complex and multifaceted.
- The Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action was adopted at the Fourth World Conference on Women in 1995, to provide a comprehensive framework for gender equality.
- It identified 12 critical areas of concern, including poverty, education, health, violence against women, and women’s participation in power and decision-making.
- It emphasized women’s rights as human rights, advocating for reforms in education, political participation, economic empowerment, health, and protection from violence.
57. The M N Venkatachaliah Commission, recently seen in the news, is related to:
(a) Electoral reforms
(b) Educational reforms
(c) Financial sector reforms
(d) Judicial reforms
Answer: (d)
- M N Venkatachaliah Commission in 2000.
In News:
Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar chaired a meeting with Rajya Sabha floor leaders to discuss the recovery of semi-burnt Indian currency notes from the residence of Delhi High Court Judge Justice Yashwant Verma.