26.The Gomira masked dance is primarily practiced in which state?
[A] Rajasthan
[B] Kerala
[C] Tamil Nadu
[D] West Bengal
Answer: D [West Bengal]
Notes:
Artists performed the ‘Gomira’ dance during the Chanchala Kali Mata Puja in West Bengal. In West Bengal, the Chanchala Kali Mata Puja, a 300-year-old tradition, is celebrated after Holi (Dol). The Gomira masked dance is a traditional folk performance of the Rajbongshi and Polia communities in North Bengal. It is influenced by Mahayana Buddhism, Tantric Buddhism, and Shaivite and Shakta traditions. The dance originated from a fusion of these spiritual influences. Masks used in the dance are made from papier-mâché, sholapith, bamboo, wood, sponge wood, clay, and paper. The dance is performed to the rhythmic beats of traditional percussion instruments like Dhak and Kansar.
27.Ramadevarabetta Vulture Sanctuary is located in which state?
[A] Gujarat
[B] Karnataka
[C] Kerala
[D] Maharashtra
Answer: B [Karnataka]
Notes:
An Indian long-billed vulture was spotted with its chick at Ramadevarabetta, Karnataka, India’s only vulture sanctuary. It was established in 2012. The Indian long-billed vulture (Gyps indicus) is a medium-sized bird with pale brown feathers and a semi-bald head. It has a long bill and broad wings, making it easily identifiable. It mainly lives on cliffs, hilly crags, and open landscapes in central and southern India.
28.What type of disease is Subacute Sclerosing Panencephalitis (SSPE) that was recently seen in news?
[A] Brain disorder
[B] Respiratory disease
[C] Cardiovascular disease
[D] Fungal infection
Answer: A [Brain disorder]
Notes:
Subacute Sclerosing Panencephalitis (SSPE) is a rare but serious brain disorder linked to measles (rubeola) infection. It remains a health concern in Lucknow and Uttar Pradesh due to low measles vaccination coverage. SSPE appears years after measles infection, even in those who seemed fully recovered. It is caused by an abnormal immune response or a variant form of the measles virus. This leads to long-term brain inflammation, often resulting in death. SSPE is rare worldwide but more common in unvaccinated regions. It mostly affects children and adolescents, with males at higher risk.
29.The Maharashtra government inaugurated the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s first temple in which district?
[A] Wardha
[B] Thane
[C] Satara
[D] Latur
Answer: B [Thane]
Notes:
Maharashtra Chief Minister inaugurated Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s first temple in Bhiwandi, Thane district on his birth anniversary as per the Hindu lunar calendar. The CM called it a “national temple”, highlighting its inspirational value and Shivaji Maharaj’s legacy. Shivaji Maharaj fought for God, country, and faith, ensuring the right to worship Ishta Devas. The grand temple spans four acres in Marade Pada, Thane district. Architect Vijaykumar Patil designed the temple, and sculptor Arun Yogiraj carved the 6.5-feet idol of Shivaji Maharaj.
30.Which city has become home to India’s first PPP-model based green waste processing plant?
[A] Varanasi
[B] New Delhi
[C] Indore
[D] Chennai
Answer: C [Indore]
Notes:
Indore is launching India’s first PPP-model green waste processing plant under the Swachh Bharat Mission-Urban. The plant aims to convert green waste into valuable resources like wooden pellets as an alternative to coal, promoting energy conservation. The plant is built on 55,000 square feet land in Bicholi Hapsi, transforming green waste into valuable products. The initiative helps control Air Quality Index (AQI), reduces pollution, and supports environmental sustainability. The project promotes waste management, cleanliness, and revenue generation for IMC, aligning with the Garbage-Free Cities vision.
31.Which research institute in India has developed the world’s first genetically modified (GM) cotton resistant to Pink Bollworm (PBW)?
[A] CSIR-National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI)
[B] CSIR-National Botanical Research Institute (NBRI)
[C] IIT Bombay
[D] Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI)
Answer: B [CSIR-National Botanical Research Institute (NBRI)]
Notes:
CSIR-National Botanical Research Institute (NBRI) in Lucknow developed the world’s first genetically modified (GM) cotton fully resistant to Pink Bollworm (PBW). GM cotton was introduced in India in 2002, with Bollgard 1 and Bollgard 2 developed with Monsanto, but they failed to fully protect against PBW. CSIR-NBRI is a leading research institute focused on botanical research and conservation. Pink Bollworm (PBW), also called gulabi sundhi, damages cotton by burrowing into bolls. PBW spreads through air and crop residue, affecting future harvests.
32.The headquarter of Life Insurance Corporation of India lies in which city?
[A] Mumbai
[B] Hyderabad
[C] Bengaluru
[D] Kolkata
Answer: A [Mumbai]
Notes:
Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) agents are protesting against new insurance rules affecting their work. LIC, the largest public sector life insurance company in India, is headquartered in Mumbai. It plays a key role in India’s financial market and is also the biggest institutional investor. It was established in 1956 through the Life Insurance of India Act. LIC nationalized the insurance sector by merging 245 private insurers. Its motto, “Yogakshemam Vahamyaham,” means “Your welfare is our responsibility.” LIC operates through 8 zonal offices in Delhi, Chennai, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Kanpur, Kolkata, Bhopal, and Patna.
33.According to the World Happiness Report 2025, what is the rank of India?
[A] 114th
[B] 115th
[C] 117th
[D] 118th
Answer: D [118th]
Notes:
Finland is the happiest country in the world for the eighth consecutive year, as per the World Happiness Report 2025. Denmark, Iceland, and Sweden rank second, third, and fourth, respectively. Rankings are based on people’s self-assessment of their lives, in a study by the Wellbeing Research Centre, University of Oxford, in partnership with Gallup and the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network. India ranks 118th overall but performs well in benevolence measures: 10th in volunteering, 57th in donations, and 74th in helping strangers. Afghanistan is the unhappiest country (147th), while Nepal (92nd) and Pakistan (109th) rank ahead of India.
34.Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) operates under which ministry?
[A] Ministry of Labour and Employment
[B] Ministry of Finance
[C] Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment
[D] Ministry of Commerce and Industry
Answer: B [Ministry of Finance]
Notes:
The Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) issued regulations for the Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) under the National Pension System (NPS), 2025. PFRDA is a statutory regulatory body established under the PFRDA Act, 2014. Its objective is to promote old-age income security by regulating pension funds and protecting subscriber interests. PFRDA operates under the Ministry of Finance. It is headquartered in New Delhi with regional offices across India.
35.The government has announced the establishment of North India’s first nuclear power project in which state?
[A] Haryana
[B] Gujarat
[C] Maharashtra
[D] Rajasthan
Answer: A [Haryana]
Notes:
Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh announced North India’s first nuclear power project in Gorakhpur, Haryana. The project is a key milestone in India’s nuclear energy expansion and clean energy goals. It includes two twin units with Pressurized Heavy Water Reactors (PHWR), totaling 2800 MW capacity. PHWR uses Heavy Water (D₂O) as both coolant and moderator, with natural uranium as fuel. Heavy Water contains deuterium instead of regular hydrogen. It slows down neutrons effectively and has a low probability of neutron absorption.
36.Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki, that was recently seen in news, is located in which country?
[A] Philippines
[B] Ethiopia
[C] Indonesia
[D] Malaysia
Answer: C [Indonesia]
Notes:
Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki volcano in Indonesia erupted frequently, sending an ash column 8,200 meters high. Authorities expanded the danger zone, but evacuation details are unavailable. It is located on Flores Island in East Nusa Tenggara province, Indonesia. It is part of a twin-volcano system, with Lewotobi Laki-Laki (male) and Lewotobi Perempuan (female). These are stratovolcanoes, formed by repeated lava layers. Indonesia frequently experiences volcanic eruptions as it lies on the Pacific ‘Ring of Fire,’ where tectonic activity causes earthquakes and tsunamis.
37.Tavasya, which was seen in news, belongs to which class of stealth frigates?
[A] Shivalik-class
[B] Talwar-class
[C] Krivak-class
[D] Kamorta-class
Answer: C [Krivak-class]
Notes:
Stealth frigate ‘Tavasya’ was launched at Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL) on March 22, 2025. It is the last of four Krivak-class stealth frigates and the second built at GSL under a technology transfer agreement with Russia. India and Russia signed an Inter-Governmental Agreement (IGA) in 2016 for four Krivak-class frigates. Two ships were imported from Russia, while two were built at GSL. Tavasya is likely the last warship built under foreign license as India moves towards indigenous warship production.
38.The highest-quality lapis lazuli is primarily mined in which region?
[A] Jharkhand, India
[B] Caucasus Mountains, Russia
[C] Badakhshan province, Afghanistan
[D] Xinjiang, China
Show Answer
39.Who has been elected as chairman of Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) in March 2025?
[A] Ashok Singh Thakur
[B] Vikrant Sinha
[C] Yash Patel
[D] Tanmoy Sen
Answer: A [Ashok Singh Thakur ]
Notes:
The Annual General Meeting (AGM) of Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) was held on 22nd March 2025 in New Delhi. Elections for the post of Chairman and Governing Council members were conducted successfully. Shri. Ashok Singh Thakur was elected as Chairman for a 3-year term. INTACH, India’s premier heritage conservation organisation, was established on 27th January 1984. It is a national registered Society under the Societies Registration Act (1860). INTACH works to conserve heritage, environment, and intangible culture while providing financial and technical expertise. The INTACH Charter, adopted in 2004, is being revised for interdisciplinary heritage conservation.
40.National Conference on National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) was recently held in which city of Uttar Pradesh?
[A] Gorakhpur
[B] Varanasi
[C] Meerut
[D] Ayodhya
Answer: A [Gorakhpur]
Notes:
National Conference on National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) was held in Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh. It was organized by Gorakhpur Municipal Corporation and World Resources Institute (WRI) India. The Chief Minister stressed environmental protection and carbon emission reduction. He highlighted that Net Zero (2070) requires technology and public awareness. Since 2017, 17 lakh halogen street lights have been replaced with LEDs, saving ₹1000 crore and reducing energy use. A banana fibre-based product plant was launched in Lakhimpur, with biodegradable products decomposing in three months. Strategies were discussed to eliminate open waste burning in Gorakhpur by 2027.
41.Which institute has developed AI-powered robots for border surveillance?
[A] IIT Madras
[B] IIT Guwahati
[C] IIT Bombay
[D] IIT Delhi
Answer: B [IIT Guwahati]
Notes:
IIT Guwahati researchers developed AI-powered robots for border surveillance. The robots, created by Da Spatio Rhobotique Laboratory Pvt. Ltd (DSRL), offer real-time monitoring in tough terrains. Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) acknowledged their potential for India’s defence. The Indian Army is conducting field trials for deployment. Unlike drones and stationary cameras, these robots overcome terrain, weather, and endurance challenges. Features include pole traversal, obstacle navigation, and AI-driven reconnaissance. The system enhances threat detection and security. This innovation supports India’s vision of self-reliance in defence technology.
42.The Strait of Hormuz connects which two water bodies?
[A] Red Sea and Mediterranean Sea
[B] Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman
[C] Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal
[D] Black Sea and Caspian Sea
Answer: B [Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman]
Notes:
Amid tensions with the United States, Iran installed missile systems on the disputed islands of Greater Tunb, Lesser Tunb, and Abu Musa near the Strait of Hormuz. The Strait of Hormuz is a narrow waterway between Iran and the Arabian Peninsula, specifically the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Musandam (Oman). It connects the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman. Iran is on the north coast, while the UAE is on the south coast. The strait is 167 kilometers long, with a width ranging from 39 to 95 kilometers. It allows the passage of large vessels despite narrowing towards the north. Key islands in the strait include Hengam, Hormuz, and Qishm. The Strait of Hormuz is a critical global trade route, with 30% of the world’s liquefied gas and 25% of oil passing through it.
43.Tavasya, which was seen in news, belongs to which class of stealth frigates?
[A] Shivalik-class
[B] Talwar-class
[C] Krivak-class
[D] Kamorta-class
Answer: C [Krivak-class]
Notes:
Stealth frigate ‘Tavasya’ was launched at Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL) on March 22, 2025. It is the last of four Krivak-class stealth frigates and the second built at GSL under a technology transfer agreement with Russia. India and Russia signed an Inter-Governmental Agreement (IGA) in 2016 for four Krivak-class frigates. Two ships were imported from Russia, while two were built at GSL. Tavasya is likely the last warship built under foreign license as India moves towards indigenous warship production.
44.Which state government has adopted Transplantation of Human Organs and Tissues Act in March 2025?
[A] Telangana
[B] Uttar Pradesh
[C] Odisha
[D] Haryana
Answer: A [Telangana]
Notes:
Telangana Assembly adopted a resolution to implement the Transplantation of Human Organs and Tissues Act, 1994 (Central Act No. 42 of 1994). The Act regulates organ transplantation and prevents commercial dealings in human organs and tissues. Telangana had its own Transplantation of Human Organs Act, 1995 (Act No. 24 of 1995) but opted for the Central Act due to its 2011 amendments. The 2011 amendments included tissue transplantation, establishment of state and national-level bodies, and stricter penalties for violations. The adoption allows Telangana to enforce the 2011 amendments effectively.
45.Which country is the host of Financial Action Task Force Private Sector Collaborative Forum 2025?
[A] Germany
[B] France
[C] India
[D] Saudi Arabia
Answer: C [India]
Notes:
India hosts the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) Private Sector Collaborative Forum 2025 in Mumbai. The forum will focus on payment transparency, financial inclusion, and digital financial system transformation. Financial Action Task Force (FATF) is an intergovernmental body combating money laundering and terrorist financing. FATF sets international standards and policies to prevent financial crimes. It was established in 1989 during the G7 Summit in Paris to address money laundering concerns. In 2001, its mandate expanded to include terrorism financing. FATF’s headquarters is in Paris, France.
46.The headquarters of Commission on Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (CGRFA) is located in which city?
[A] Paris, France
[B] Rome, Italy
[C] Geneva, Switzerland
[D] New York, USA
Answer: B [Rome, Italy]
The 20th meeting of the Commission on Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (CGRFA-20) has begun in Rome. Global leaders are discussing strategies to conserve plant and forest genetic resources and will release two major global reports. CGRFA is a permanent intergovernmental body under the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), established in 1983 and expanded in 1995. It aims to promote sustainable biodiversity use, enhance food security, and ensure fair benefit-sharing. The headquarters of CGRFA is in Rome, Italy.
47.When was the Equalisation Levy first introduced in India?
[A] 2014
[B] 2016
[C] 2018
[D] 2020
Answer: B [2016]
The government proposed abolishing the 6% Equalisation Levy (EL) on online ads from April 1, 2025. The move benefits advertisers on platforms like Google, X, and Meta. Equalisation Levy (EL) was introduced in 2016 for online ads and extended in 2020 to e-commerce services. It imposed a 6% tax on non-residents for online ads and a 2% tax on e-commerce, which was removed in 2024. The decision aims to ease US trade tensions, as the US threatened reciprocal tariffs from April 2.
48.Which organization has launched BHIM (BHarat Interface for Money) 3.0?
[A] Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
[B] National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI)
[C] NITI Aayog
[D] Ministry of Finance
Answer: B [National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI)]
National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) launched BHIM (BHarat Interface for Money) 3.0 with new features. It supports 15+ Indian languages. The app allows users to track, manage, and split expenses. It optimized for low internet areas, ensuring uninterrupted transactions. It includes a built-in task assistant for bill reminders, UPI Lite activation, and low balance alerts.
49.Matsya-6000 submersible is developed by which organization?
[A] Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)
[B] Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)
[C] National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT)
[D] None of the Above
Answer: C [National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT) ]
India completed wet testing of the Matsya-6000 submersible, capable of diving 6 km deep for underwater mineral exploration. The first deep-sea manned vehicle launch is planned for later in 2025, making India one of the few nations with this capability. China unveiled a deep-sea cable-cutting device, highlighting the strategic importance of deep-sea technology. Matsya-6000 is part of the Deep Ocean Mission (2018) under the Ministry of Earth Sciences. It is developed by the National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT) under the Samudrayaan Mission.
50. Parbati-II Hydroelectric Project, which was seen in news, is located in which state?
[A] Uttar Pradesh
[B] Madhya Pradesh
[C] Punjab
[D] Himachal Pradesh
Answer: D [Himachal Pradesh]
National Hydroelectric Power Corporation Private Limited successfully completed the trial run of Unit 2 (200 MW) of the Parbati-II Hydroelectric Project in Himachal Pradesh. The Parbati-II Hydroelectric Project is a run-of-the-river project in Sainj, Kullu, Himachal Pradesh, harnessing the lower Parbati River, a tributary of the Beas River. A concrete gravity dam at Pulga village diverts water through a 31.52 km head race tunnel to a powerhouse in Suind village, Sainj Valley. The project has a total capacity of 800 MW (four units of 200 MW each). Once fully operational, it will generate 3,074 million units of electricity annually. National Hydroelectric Power Corporation Private Limited owns 100% of the project.