Dear Readers, Daily Current Affairs Questions Quiz for SBI, IBPS, RBI, RRB, SSC Exam 2026 of 04th & 05th October 2026. Daily GK quiz online for bank & competitive exam. Here we have given the Daily Current Affairs Quiz based on the previous days Daily Current Affairs updates. Candidates preparing for IBPS, SBI, RBI, RRB, SSC Exam 2026 & other competitive exams can make use of these Current Affairs Quiz.

 

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1) Which organisation listed India’s first Social Bond exclusively dedicated to the Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) sector on the National Stock Exchange (NSE)?

(a) NABARD

(b) NABKISAN Finance Limited

(c) Water.org

(d) Trust Group

(e) National Stock Exchange

2) Consider the following statements regarding the Small Savings Scheme (SSS) interest rates for Q3FY27:

1. The Small Savings Scheme interest rates for Q3FY27 have been kept unchanged from Q2FY27.
2. The Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana and Senior Citizens Savings Scheme both offer an interest rate of 8.2%.
3. The Public Provident Fund (PPF) offers an interest rate of 7.5% with a 15-year maturity period.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(c) 1 and 2 only

(d) All the above

(e) None of the above

3) Which insurance company has launched the non-linked, non-participating individual savings life insurance plan “Poorna Rakshak”?

(a) HDFC Life Insurance

(b) Pramerica Life Insurance

(c) SBI Life Insurance

(d) ICICI Prudential Life Insurance

(e) Max Life Insurance

 

4) What is the revised export duty on diesel effective from 1 October 2026?

(a) ₹10 per litre

(b) ₹12 per litre

(c) ₹15 per litre

(d) ₹16 per litre

(e) ₹20 per litre

 

5) Which campaign marked ONGC’s first drilling activity in the Mahanadi Basin, where it discovered natural gas in the deepwater exploratory well MN-DW18-1-H-D?

(a) Samudra Manthan

(b) Sagar Samriddhi

(c) Deep Ocean Mission

(d) Hydrocarbon Vision 2030

(e) National Offshore Exploration Mission

 

6) Which state became the second state in India, after Uttarakhand, to receive the President’s assent for its Uniform Civil Code (UCC)?

(a) Gujarat

(b) Goa

(c) Assam

(d) Himachal Pradesh

(e) Rajasthan

7) Which facility of the Mumbai Port Authority was declared plastic-free during Swachhata Abhiyan 2026?

(a) Indira Dock

(b) Ballard Pier

(c) Jawahar Dweep Marine Oil Terminal

(d) BPX North Area

(e) Victoria Dock

 

8) What was the cash reward announced by Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi for each player of the Indian women’s hockey team for winning the gold medal at the 2026 Asian Games?

(a) ₹5 lakh

(b) ₹7.5 lakh

(c) ₹10 lakh

(d) ₹11 lakh

(e) ₹15 lakh

9) Which episode of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s monthly radio programme ‘Mann Ki Baat’ marked the completion of 12 years of broadcasting?

(a) 128th episode

(b) 132nd episode

(c) 135th episode

(d) 138th episode

(e) 140th episode

 

10) What was the quantity of the frozen food consignment exported from Sonipat, Haryana to Canada with the facilitation of APEDA?

(a) 24 MT

(b) 18 MT

(c) 20 MT

(d) 21 MT

(e) 30 MT

 

11) Which country received the 1 metric tonne (MT) consignment of popped (Phool) Makhana exported from Purnea, Bihar with the facilitation of APEDA (Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority)?

(a) Greece

(b) Italy

(c) France

(d) Spain

(e) Germany

 

12) According to the HSBC Global Entrepreneurial Wealth Report 2026, what percentage of Indian entrepreneurs plan to relocate or obtain an additional overseas residency?

(a) 60%

(b) 65%

(c) 70%

(d) 74%

(e) 80%

13) Who was appointed as Executive Director (ED) of the Reserve Bank of India with effect from 1 October 2026?

(a) Sudhakar Malli

(b) Suman Ray

(c) M. Rajeshwar Rao

(d) Swaminathan J.

(e) Deepak Kumar

 

14) Who has been appointed as the Additional Director, Managing Director (MD) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of ICICI Prudential Life Insurance Company Limited for a five-year term?

(a) Anup Bagchi

(b) Sidharatha Mishra

(c) Sandeep Batra

(d) Sanjeev Mantri

(e) N. S. Kannan

 

15) Who became Morocco’s first woman Head of Government/Prime Minister following the 2026 parliamentary elections?

(a) Najla Bouden

(b) Asma Lamrabet

(c) Nabila Mounib

(d) Amina Benkhadra

(e) Fatima Ezzahra El Mansouri

16) Which entity will acquire a 26% stake in IndiaFirst Life Insurance Company Limited from Warburg Pincus following the Competition Commission of India (CCI) approval?

(a) BNP Paribas Cardif

(b) Union Bank of India

(c) Bank of Baroda

(d) BNP Paribas SA

(e) Warburg Pincus

17) Which company operates Dhamra Port, which became India’s first large-scale private multi-cargo port to operate completely on renewable electricity from August 2026?

(a) JSW Infrastructure

(b) DP World

(c) Shapoorji Pallonji Ports

(d) Larsen & Toubro

(e) Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone (APSEZ)

18) Which company has partnered with Tata Projects through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to jointly develop and deliver advanced aero-engine testing infrastructure in India?

(a) Hindustan Aeronautics Limited

(b) Rolls-Royce

(c) MDS Aero Support Corporation

(d) Safran Aircraft Engines

(e) GE Aerospace

19) Which institution will implement the two-year Phase-I project on alternative fumigation technologies for safe and sustainable management of storage pests in wheat and rice?

(a) ICAR–Indian Agricultural Research Institute

(b) ICAR–Central Institute of Post-Harvest Engineering and Technology

(c) Food Corporation of India

(d) Central Warehousing Corporation

(e) National Food Technology Institute

20) Which two companies signed a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to explore the development of a coal gasification-based urea production facility at Sindri, Jharkhand?

(a) Coal India Limited and Rashtriya Chemicals and Fertilizers

(b) Hindustan Urvarak & Rasayan Limited and Indian Oil Corporation

(c) Coal India Limited and Hindustan Urvarak & Rasayan Limited

(d) Coal India Limited and National Fertilizers Limited

(e) Hindustan Urvarak & Rasayan Limited and GAIL India Limited

 

21) On which date is the International Day of Non-Violence observed annually to commemorate the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi?

(a) 15 August

(b) 21 September

(c) 1 October

(d) 2 October

(e) 10 December

22) In which year did the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) adopt the resolution declaring 2 October as the International Day of Non-Violence?

(a) 2007

(b) 2006

(c) 2009

(d) 2008

(e) 2010

23) On which date is the International Day for the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons observed annually by the United Nations?

(a) 21 September

(b) 24 September

(c) 25 September

(d) 26 September

(e) 30 September

24) What is the coupon rate of the WASH-focused Social Bond issued by NABKISAN Finance Limited?

(a) 8.10%

(b) 7.75%

(c) 8.15%

(d) 8.25%

(e) 8.50%

25) Consider the following statements regarding Small Savings Schemes:

1. The 3-year Post Office Time Deposit offers an interest rate of 7.1%.
2. The 5-year Recurring Deposit offers an interest rate of 6.7%.
3. The Post Office Savings Account offers an interest rate of 4%.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1 and 2 only

(d) All the above

(e) None of the above

Answers:

1) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

NABKISAN Finance Limited, a subsidiary of National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD), listed India’s first Social Bond exclusively dedicated to the Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) sector on the National Stock Exchange (NSE), Mumbai on 1 October 2026.

The WASH-focused Social Bond raised ₹180 crore and was oversubscribed 1.8 times, reflecting strong investor participation.

The bond has a 5-year tenure, carries a coupon rate of 8.10%, and will mature in September 2031.

The bond received the highest domestic credit ratings of CRISIL AAA (Stable) and CARE AAA (Stable).

Detailed Explanation:

NABKISAN Finance Limited, a subsidiary of National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD), listed India’s first Social Bond exclusively dedicated to the Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) sector on the National Stock Exchange (NSE), Mumbai on 1 October 2026.

The WASH-focused Social Bond raised ₹180 crore and was oversubscribed 1.8 times, reflecting strong investor participation.

The bond has a 5-year tenure, carries a coupon rate of 8.10%, and will mature in September 2031.

The bond received the highest domestic credit ratings of CRISIL AAA (Stable) and CARE AAA (Stable).

The proceeds from the bond will be used to expand access to safe water, sanitation and hygiene solutions in rural and underserved communities.

The financing aims to improve health outcomes, livelihoods and quality of life in rural and underserved areas.

Water.org served as the Technical Advisor and Knowledge Partner for the transaction.

The bond listing involved stakeholders from NABARD, NABKISAN, Water.org, Trust Group and NSE, followed by the ceremonial bell ringing at NSE.

The successful listing strengthens the commitment of NABARD and NABKISAN towards innovative financing, inclusive rural development, and the growth of India’s sustainable finance market.

2) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

The Department of Economic Affairs (DEA) under the Ministry of Finance (MoF) kept the Small Savings Scheme (SSS) interest rates unchanged for Q3FY27, covering 1 October 2026 to 31 December 2026.

The Q3FY27 interest rates remain the same as those applicable during Q2FY27 (1 July–30 September 2026).

This marks the 14th consecutive quarter in which Small Savings Scheme interest rates have remained unchanged, with the last revision made in Q4FY24.

Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY) continues to offer the highest listed interest rate of 8.2%, with a 21-year maturity period.

Senior Citizens Savings Scheme (SCSS) continues to offer an interest rate of 8.2%.

National Savings Certificate (NSC) continues to offer 7.7% interest.

Kisan Vikas Patra (KVP) and the 5-year Post Office Time Deposit continue to offer 7.5% interest.

The Monthly Income Scheme (MIS) continues to offer 7.4% interest.

Public Provident Fund (PPF) continues to offer 7.1% interest with a 15-year maturity period.

The 3-year Post Office Time Deposit offers 7.1%, while the 2-year Post Office Time Deposit offers 7.0%.

Detailed Explanation:

The Department of Economic Affairs (DEA) under the Ministry of Finance (MoF) kept the Small Savings Scheme (SSS) interest rates unchanged for Q3FY27, covering 1 October 2026 to 31 December 2026.

The Q3FY27 interest rates remain the same as those applicable during Q2FY27 (1 July–30 September 2026).

This marks the 14th consecutive quarter in which Small Savings Scheme interest rates have remained unchanged, with the last revision made in Q4FY24.

Small Savings Schemes (SSS) are government-backed financial instruments designed to promote household savings and provide secure investment options.

Small Savings Schemes are primarily managed by the Department of Economic Affairs (DEA), Ministry of Finance, and are administered through Post Offices and designated banks.

Since 2016, the Government has been reviewing Small Savings Scheme interest rates on a quarterly basis, considering factors such as government bond yields, prevailing interest rates, and market and geopolitical conditions.

Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY) continues to offer the highest listed interest rate of 8.2%, with a 21-year maturity period.

Senior Citizens Savings Scheme (SCSS) continues to offer an interest rate of 8.2%.

National Savings Certificate (NSC) continues to offer 7.7% interest.

Kisan Vikas Patra (KVP) and the 5-year Post Office Time Deposit continue to offer 7.5% interest.

The Monthly Income Scheme (MIS) continues to offer 7.4% interest.

Public Provident Fund (PPF) continues to offer 7.1% interest with a 15-year maturity period.

The 3-year Post Office Time Deposit offers 7.1%, while the 2-year Post Office Time Deposit offers 7.0%.

3) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

Pramerica Life Insurance Limited launched Poorna Rakshak, a non-linked, non-participating individual savings life insurance plan.

Pramerica Life Insurance Limited is a Joint Venture (JV) between DIL and Prudential International Insurance Holdings Ltd. (PIIH).

Poorna Rakshak combines life protection, guaranteed benefits, and a choice of income structures to meet customers’ financial goals and future milestones.

Detailed Explanation:

Pramerica Life Insurance Limited launched Poorna Rakshak, a non-linked, non-participating individual savings life insurance plan.

Pramerica Life Insurance Limited is a Joint Venture (JV) between DIL and Prudential International Insurance Holdings Ltd. (PIIH).

Poorna Rakshak combines life protection, guaranteed benefits, and a choice of income structures to meet customers’ financial goals and future milestones.

The plan offers 5 variants, allowing customers to select benefits according to their financial targets, income requirements, and future milestones.

Smart Scholars is designed for a child’s future milestones, with income beginning between 16 and 18 years of age and continuing until 20 to 25 years, along with a guaranteed lump-sum benefit at the end.

Early Income is designed for customers seeking regular income from the early policy years, with income beginning from the 2nd, 3rd, or 4th policy year.

Income Booster combines an upfront liquidity benefit with regular future income and offers cashback of 25% or 35% of the annualised premium within 10 days of realisation of the first premium after policy issuance.

4) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

The Ministry of Finance (MoF) revised the windfall tax/export levy on diesel and Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF), with the revised rates effective from 1 October 2026.

The diesel export duty was reduced from ₹20 per litre to ₹16 per litre.

The ATF export duty was reduced from ₹15 per litre to ₹10.5 per litre.

The petrol export duty was kept unchanged at ₹0.5 per litre for the fortnight beginning 1 October 2026.

Detailed Explanation:

The Ministry of Finance (MoF) revised the windfall tax/export levy on diesel and Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF), with the revised rates effective from 1 October 2026.

The diesel export duty was reduced from ₹20 per litre to ₹16 per litre.

The ATF export duty was reduced from ₹15 per litre to ₹10.5 per litre.

The petrol export duty was kept unchanged at ₹0.5 per litre for the fortnight beginning 1 October 2026.

The revised levy comprises the Special Additional Excise Duty (SAED) along with the Road and Infrastructure Cess applicable to exports.

There is no change in the existing duty rates on petrol and diesel cleared for domestic consumption.

The Government had initially imposed the export levy on diesel and ATF on 27 March 2026 amid the West Asia geopolitical crisis.

5) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

The Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) has discovered natural gas in a deepwater exploratory well in the Mahanadi Offshore Basin, located around 43 km off the Konark coast of Odisha.

The discovery was made on 18 September 2026 from the MN-DW18-1-H-D well, also identified as MDW-28.

ONGC reported encouraging gas flow and sustained reservoir pressure from the well.

The well is situated in the Mahanadi Offshore Basin, a significant hydrocarbon-bearing region along India’s eastern coast.

Its location close to the Odisha coastline may support early monetisation, subject to further appraisal and commercial assessment.

Detailed Explanation:

The Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) has discovered natural gas in a deepwater exploratory well in the Mahanadi Offshore Basin, located around 43 km off the Konark coast of Odisha.

The discovery was made on 18 September 2026 from the MN-DW18-1-H-D well, also identified as MDW-28.

ONGC reported encouraging gas flow and sustained reservoir pressure from the well.

The well is situated in the Mahanadi Offshore Basin, a significant hydrocarbon-bearing region along India’s eastern coast.

Its location close to the Odisha coastline may support early monetisation, subject to further appraisal and commercial assessment.

The well represents ONGC’s first drilling activity in the Mahanadi Basin under the Samudra Manthan campaign. Drilling began on 25 July 2026 using the drillship Platinum Explorer.

Samudra Manthan is focused on expanding exploration activities across India’s offshore, deepwater and ultra-deepwater regions.

The programme has an estimated outlay of around ₹84,084 crore up to 2030–31 and is intended to support offshore surveys, deepwater drilling and shared production infrastructure.

 

6) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

Gujarat has become the second state in India, after Uttarakhand, to receive the President’s assent for its Uniform Civil Code (UCC).

The Gujarat Uniform Civil Code Bill, 2026 was passed by the Gujarat Legislative Assembly in March 2026.

The legislation was subsequently published in the Gujarat Government Gazette.

The Uniform Civil Code establishes a common legal framework for civil matters such as marriage, divorce, succession, inheritance and live-in relationships for citizens residing in Gujarat.

The law also extends its jurisdiction to Gujarat residents living outside the state.

Detailed Explanation:

Gujarat has become the second state in India, after Uttarakhand, to receive the President’s assent for its Uniform Civil Code (UCC).

The Gujarat Uniform Civil Code Bill, 2026 was passed by the Gujarat Legislative Assembly in March 2026.

The legislation was subsequently published in the Gujarat Government Gazette.

The Uniform Civil Code establishes a common legal framework for civil matters such as marriage, divorce, succession, inheritance and live-in relationships for citizens residing in Gujarat.

The law also extends its jurisdiction to Gujarat residents living outside the state.

The provisions of the Gujarat Uniform Civil Code do not apply to Scheduled Tribes, thereby preserving constitutional protections relating to their customary rights.

Mandatory registration of marriages is an important provision under the law. Marriages solemnised in Gujarat, or involving a Gujarat resident, must be registered within 60 days, with monetary penalties applicable for non-compliance.

The legislation also establishes formal legal procedures and registration requirements for live-in relationships.

Children born from a registered live-in relationship are recognised as legitimate under the law.

The Act provides uniform legal provisions for succession, inheritance and the preparation of wills.

Polygamy and bigamy are prohibited under the Gujarat Uniform Civil Code. Monogamy is made a condition for marriage, requiring that neither party have a living spouse at the time of marriage.

The minimum marriageable age remains 21 years for men and 18 years for women.

7) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

Mumbai Port Authority (MbPA) declared its Jawahar Dweep Marine Oil Terminal plastic-free, marking an important step towards more sustainable port operations.

The declaration was made during Swachhata Abhiyan 2026, a cleanliness programme organised at Grey Gate, Indira Dock, Mumbai, to mark the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.

Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal led the event. Dr. M. Angamuthu, Chairperson of Mumbai Port Authority, Ravish Kumar Singh, Deputy Chairman, and other officials also participated.

Jawahar Dweep, one of Mumbai Port Authority’s key oil terminals, became plastic-free as part of the port’s broader efforts to reduce single-use plastic across its operations.

Mumbai Port Authority stated that it would continue similar plastic-reduction initiatives at its docks, residential colonies and coastal areas throughout the year.

Detailed Explanation:

Mumbai Port Authority (MbPA) declared its Jawahar Dweep Marine Oil Terminal plastic-free, marking an important step towards more sustainable port operations.

The declaration was made during Swachhata Abhiyan 2026, a cleanliness programme organised at Grey Gate, Indira Dock, Mumbai, to mark the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.

Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal led the event. Dr. M. Angamuthu, Chairperson of Mumbai Port Authority, Ravish Kumar Singh, Deputy Chairman, and other officials also participated.

Jawahar Dweep, one of Mumbai Port Authority’s key oil terminals, became plastic-free as part of the port’s broader efforts to reduce single-use plastic across its operations.

Mumbai Port Authority stated that it would continue similar plastic-reduction initiatives at its docks, residential colonies and coastal areas throughout the year.

During the programme, Sonowal also dedicated the port’s Oil Spill Response (OSR) facilities to the nation.

The event concluded with a cleanliness drive led by Sarbananda Sonowal at several port locations, including:

The area south of 18ID

Oil Spill Response facilities

A sea-cleaning activity

The wharf at the BPX North Area

A mooring staff toilet facility

These cleanliness activities served as a practical demonstration of the Swachhata Pledge taken during the programme.

Mumbai Port Authority reiterated its commitment to advancing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Swachh Bharat vision, while integrating sustainability and employee welfare into its day-to-day functioning.

8) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced a cash reward of ₹11 lakh each for the players of the Indian women’s hockey team for winning the gold medal at the 2026 Asian Games.

Each support staff member of the Indian women’s hockey team will receive a cash reward of ₹5.5 lakh.

India ended a 44-year wait for the Asian Games women’s hockey gold medal by defeating defending champions and Olympic silver-medallists China 1–0 in the final.

Detailed Explanation:

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced a cash reward of ₹11 lakh each for the players of the Indian women’s hockey team for winning the gold medal at the 2026 Asian Games.

Each support staff member of the Indian women’s hockey team will receive a cash reward of ₹5.5 lakh.

India ended a 44-year wait for the Asian Games women’s hockey gold medal by defeating defending champions and Olympic silver-medallists China 1–0 in the final.

With the Asian Games gold medal victory, the Indian women’s hockey team also qualified for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games.

The Chief Minister’s Office, Odisha, announced the rewards in recognition of the team’s historic gold medal victory at the 2026 Asian Games.

Odisha Sports Department Secretary Bhupendra Singh Poonia clarified that the ₹11 lakh cash reward announced by the Odisha Chief Minister for each player is over and above the reward announced by Hockey India.

The Indian women’s hockey team had previously won the Asian Games gold medal in 1982.

9) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s monthly radio programme, ‘Mann Ki Baat’, completed 12 years, marking more than a decade of connecting with citizens across India.

The first episode of ‘Mann Ki Baat’ was broadcast in 2014 on the occasion of Vijayadashami.

The programme has completed 12 years of broadcasting, with the 138th episode being broadcast recently.

Over the past 12 years, ‘Mann Ki Baat’ has provided a platform to highlight positive transformations taking place across the country and encouraged citizens to actively participate in India’s development journey.

Through the monthly programme, the Prime Minister shares inspiring stories of people from different parts of India who are contributing to society and bringing positive change.

Detailed Explanation:

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s monthly radio programme, ‘Mann Ki Baat’, completed 12 years, marking more than a decade of connecting with citizens across India.

The first episode of ‘Mann Ki Baat’ was broadcast in 2014 on the occasion of Vijayadashami.

The programme has completed 12 years of broadcasting, with the 138th episode being broadcast recently.

Over the past 12 years, ‘Mann Ki Baat’ has provided a platform to highlight positive transformations taking place across the country and encouraged citizens to actively participate in India’s development journey.

Through the monthly programme, the Prime Minister shares inspiring stories of people from different parts of India who are contributing to society and bringing positive change.

The programme highlights contributions in areas such as education, healthcare, environmental conservation, innovation and social service.

‘Mann Ki Baat’ is broadcast through the Akashvani and Doordarshan networks, making it accessible to people across the country.

The programme is also available through the AIR News website and the Newsonair mobile application.

‘Mann Ki Baat’ is live-streamed on the YouTube channels of AIR News, DD News, the Prime Minister’s Office and the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.

10) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

APEDA (Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority) facilitated the flag-off of a 24 MT consignment of frozen food products from Sonipat, Haryana to Canada on 1 October 2026.

The consignment was exported by Aterna Foods Producer Company Limited, a Farmer Producer Organisation (FPO).

The shipment consisted of 2,295 boxes of frozen food products and was valued at CAD 35,140.

The exported products included green peas, mixed vegetables, peas and carrots, sweet corn, and samosa, among other frozen food items.

Detailed Explanation:

APEDA (Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority) facilitated the flag-off of a 24 MT consignment of frozen food products from Sonipat, Haryana to Canada on 1 October 2026.

The consignment was exported by Aterna Foods Producer Company Limited, a Farmer Producer Organisation (FPO).

The shipment consisted of 2,295 boxes of frozen food products and was valued at CAD 35,140.

The exported products included green peas, mixed vegetables, peas and carrots, sweet corn, and samosa, among other frozen food items.

The exporting unit received support from APEDA under its Financial Assistance Scheme, aimed at promoting and facilitating agricultural and processed food exports.

APEDA is a statutory body under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India, established under the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority Act, 1985.

APEDA is responsible for the development and promotion of exports of scheduled agricultural and processed food products and supports exporters through market development, quality improvement, infrastructure support, and financial assistance

 

11) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

APEDA (Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority) facilitated the export of 1 metric tonne (MT) of popped (Phool) Makhana from Purnea, Bihar to Greece on 2 October 2026.

The shipment was transported from Mundra Port, India to Piraeus Port, Greece, marking an important step in expanding international market access for Bihar’s traditional Makhana.

The consignment was sourced by Indo Global Export, Belouri, Purnea, and exported through S. S. Foods Exports Pvt. Ltd., New Delhi.

India is the world’s largest producer of Makhana, while Bihar contributes around 80–85% of India’s total Makhana production.

Detailed Explanation:

APEDA (Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority) facilitated the export of 1 metric tonne (MT) of popped (Phool) Makhana from Purnea, Bihar to Greece on 2 October 2026.

The shipment was transported from Mundra Port, India to Piraeus Port, Greece, marking an important step in expanding international market access for Bihar’s traditional Makhana.

The consignment was sourced by Indo Global Export, Belouri, Purnea, and exported through S. S. Foods Exports Pvt. Ltd., New Delhi.

India is the world’s largest producer of Makhana, while Bihar contributes around 80–85% of India’s total Makhana production.

Makhana cultivation in Bihar covers more than 35,000 hectares across 10 districts.

Popped Makhana is a processed food product made from the seeds of the aquatic plant Euryale ferox, commonly known as fox nuts.

The export of value-added Makhana products can provide higher price realisation for producers compared with prevailing domestic market prices.

India exported over 7,000 MT of Makhana and value-added Makhana products worth US$22 million in FY 2025–26 to more than 20 international destinations.

Greece has emerged as an overseas market for Indian agricultural products through the Mundra Port–Piraeus Port sea route.

 

12) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

HSBC Global Entrepreneurial Wealth Report 2026 surveyed more than 3,000 High Net Worth (HNW) and Ultra-High Net Worth (UHNW) entrepreneurs globally and highlighted the changing global outlook and Artificial Intelligence (AI) adoption among Indian entrepreneurs.

74% of Indian entrepreneurs plan to relocate or obtain an additional overseas residency, compared with the global average of 70%.

Singapore is the most preferred overseas destination among Indian entrepreneurs at 14%, followed by France, the UK, and the US at 11% each.

99% of Indian entrepreneurs have already made or plan to make changes to their business operations because of Artificial Intelligence (AI), compared with 95% globally.

Detailed Explanation:

HSBC Global Entrepreneurial Wealth Report 2026 surveyed more than 3,000 High Net Worth (HNW) and Ultra-High Net Worth (UHNW) entrepreneurs globally and highlighted the changing global outlook and Artificial Intelligence (AI) adoption among Indian entrepreneurs.

74% of Indian entrepreneurs plan to relocate or obtain an additional overseas residency, compared with the global average of 70%.

Singapore is the most preferred overseas destination among Indian entrepreneurs at 14%, followed by France, the UK, and the US at 11% each.

99% of Indian entrepreneurs have already made or plan to make changes to their business operations because of Artificial Intelligence (AI), compared with 95% globally.

65% of Indian entrepreneurs have already adjusted their businesses in preparation for AI, compared with the global average of 60%.

54% of Indian entrepreneurs plan to invest 11–30% of their turnover in AI over the next 12 months, compared with 61% globally.

46% of Indian entrepreneurs view AI as a source of competitive advantage, while 42% believe it can help identify new markets or business opportunities.

39% of Indian entrepreneurs expect AI to help increase employee productivity and improve profit margins.

45% of Indian entrepreneurs expect AI to increase employee headcount over the next two years, while 25% expect it to decrease.

13) Answer: A

Reserve Bank of India (RBI) appointed Shri Sudhakar Malli as Executive Director (ED) with effect from 1 October 2026.

Before his appointment as ED, Sudhakar Malli was serving as Chief General Manager-in-Charge (CGM-in-Charge) of the RBI’s Department of Supervision.

As Executive Director, Shri Sudhakar Malli will be responsible for the Department of Supervision (Supervisory Assessment) at the RBI.

14) Answer: B

ICICI Prudential Life Insurance Company Limited appointed Sidharatha Mishra as Additional Director, Managing Director (MD) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) for a five-year term, subject to the required regulatory approvals.

Sidharatha Mishra’s appointment as MD & CEO will be effective from 14 October 2026 or the date of IRDAI approval, whichever is later.

He was appointed as the company’s Chief Operating Officer (COO) with effect from 6 October 2026.

Sidharatha Mishra will succeed Anup Bagchi, who resigned as MD & CEO with effect from the close of business on 13 October 2026 to pursue a career opportunity outside the organisation.

15) Answer: E

Short Explanation:

Fatima Ezzahra El Mansouri, a senior leader of the Authenticity and Modernity Party (PAM), was appointed Prime Minister/Head of Government of Morocco by King Mohammed VI following the 23 September 2026 parliamentary elections.

Fatima Ezzahra El Mansouri became Morocco’s first woman Head of Government/Prime Minister and the second woman to serve as head of government in the Arab world, after Najla Bouden of Tunisia (2021–2023).

King Mohammed VI appointed El Mansouri under Article 47 of the Moroccan Constitution, which requires the King to appoint the Head of Government from the party that wins the largest number of seats in the House of Representatives.

Detailed Explanation:

Fatima Ezzahra El Mansouri, a senior leader of the Authenticity and Modernity Party (PAM), was appointed Prime Minister/Head of Government of Morocco by King Mohammed VI following the 23 September 2026 parliamentary elections.

Fatima Ezzahra El Mansouri became Morocco’s first woman Head of Government/Prime Minister and the second woman to serve as head of government in the Arab world, after Najla Bouden of Tunisia (2021–2023).

King Mohammed VI appointed El Mansouri under Article 47 of the Moroccan Constitution, which requires the King to appoint the Head of Government from the party that wins the largest number of seats in the House of Representatives.

In the 2026 parliamentary election, PAM won 97 out of 395 seats, emerging as the largest party, but it fell short of the 198-seat majority threshold and therefore needs to form a coalition government.

16) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

The Competition Commission of India (CCI) approved BNP Paribas Cardif’s acquisition of a 26% stake in IndiaFirst Life Insurance Company Limited.

BNP Paribas Cardif will acquire the 26% stake from private equity firm Warburg Pincus, as per the definitive agreement signed in July 2026.

After completion of the transaction, the shareholding of IndiaFirst Life Insurance Company Limited will be Bank of Baroda (BoB) – 65%, BNP Paribas Cardif – 26%, and Union Bank of India (UBI) – 9%.

Detailed Explanation:

The Competition Commission of India (CCI) approved BNP Paribas Cardif’s acquisition of a 26% stake in IndiaFirst Life Insurance Company Limited.

BNP Paribas Cardif will acquire the 26% stake from private equity firm Warburg Pincus, as per the definitive agreement signed in July 2026.

After completion of the transaction, the shareholding of IndiaFirst Life Insurance Company Limited will be Bank of Baroda (BoB) – 65%, BNP Paribas Cardif – 26%, and Union Bank of India (UBI) – 9%.

Bank of Baroda (BoB) will remain the majority shareholder, holding a 65% stake in IndiaFirst Life.

IndiaFirst Life Insurance Company Limited is a private life insurer promoted by Bank of Baroda (BoB) and licensed by the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI).

BNP Paribas Cardif, the insurance arm of BNP Paribas Group, is incorporated in France and is a wholly owned subsidiary of BNP Paribas SA.

BNP Paribas SA is a publicly listed company that provides corporate and institutional banking, commercial and personal banking, investment, and protection services.

17) Answer: E

Dhamra Port in Odisha, operated by Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone (APSEZ), has shifted its entire electricity consumption to renewable power with effect from August 2026.

Dhamra Port has become India’s first large-scale private multi-cargo port to operate completely on renewable electricity.

The port now meets more than 90 lakh units of monthly electricity demand from renewable energy sources.

Its renewable electricity consumption exceeds 108 GWh annually on an annualised basis at the current operating level.

18) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

Tata Projects, an India-based technology-driven Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) company, and MDS Aero Support Corporation (MDS), a global specialist in gas turbine engine testing solutions, have entered into a strategic partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).

The partnership will focus on the joint development and delivery of advanced aero-engine testing infrastructure in India, supporting the country’s expanding aerospace and propulsion ecosystem.

Tata Projects will contribute its experience in engineering and executing mission-critical and technology-intensive facilities, while MDS will provide specialised expertise in gas turbine engine testing.

Detailed Explanation:

Tata Projects, an India-based technology-driven Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) company, and MDS Aero Support Corporation (MDS), a global specialist in gas turbine engine testing solutions, have entered into a strategic partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).

The partnership will focus on the joint development and delivery of advanced aero-engine testing infrastructure in India, supporting the country’s expanding aerospace and propulsion ecosystem.

Tata Projects will contribute its experience in engineering and executing mission-critical and technology-intensive facilities, while MDS will provide specialised expertise in gas turbine engine testing.

Tata Projects has experience in developing specialised testing infrastructure for India’s strategic programmes, including:

Integrated cryogenic engine and stage testing infrastructure

Semi-cryogenic engine test facilities

Tri-sonic wind tunnels

Under the partnership, Tata Projects will undertake key infrastructure components such as civil and structural works, Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing (MEP) systems, high-air-pressure systems, Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC), high-temperature exhaust systems, cooling-water systems and related site infrastructure.

19) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and the Food Corporation of India (FCI) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to conduct research on alternative fumigation technologies for the safe and sustainable management of storage pests in wheat and rice.

The research initiative is supported by the Department of Food and Public Distribution (DFPD), Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution.

The two-year Phase-I project will be implemented by the ICAR–Central Institute of Post-Harvest Engineering and Technology (ICAR-CIPHET), Ludhiana.

Detailed Explanation:

The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and the Food Corporation of India (FCI) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to conduct research on alternative fumigation technologies for the safe and sustainable management of storage pests in wheat and rice.

The research initiative is supported by the Department of Food and Public Distribution (DFPD), Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution.

The two-year Phase-I project will be implemented by the ICAR–Central Institute of Post-Harvest Engineering and Technology (ICAR-CIPHET), Ludhiana.

India’s critical foodgrain reserves have traditionally depended heavily on aluminium phosphide (ALP) and malathion for post-harvest pest control. However, their repeated and widespread use has resulted in significant challenges.

Pest resistance to these fumigation methods has reached 72%–100% in several key Indian states, increasing the frequency of fumigation and consequently raising operational costs.

Three major trials will be undertaken during Phase-I:

Nitrogen gas (>99%) fumigation will be tested for managing storage pests in wheat stored in metal silos.

A combined carbon dioxide and phosphine gas fumigation method will be evaluated for controlling storage pests in bagged wheat and rice stored at Food Corporation of India and Central Warehousing Corporation warehouses.

Carbon dioxide fumigation will be tested for managing storage pests in bagged wheat and rice enclosed in hermetic covers.

20) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

Coal India Limited (CIL) and Hindustan Urvarak & Rasayan Limited (HURL) signed a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to explore the development of a coal gasification-based urea production facility at Sindri, Jharkhand.

Coal India disclosed the MoU through a regulatory filing.

Under the MoU, both companies will jointly examine the feasibility of the proposed project. The agreement does not involve any firm commitment regarding investment, production capacity or project timelines at this stage.

The proposed project will use coal gasification technology, which converts coal into synthesis gas (syngas), consisting mainly of carbon monoxide and hydrogen.

Detailed Explanation:

Coal India Limited (CIL) and Hindustan Urvarak & Rasayan Limited (HURL) signed a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to explore the development of a coal gasification-based urea production facility at Sindri, Jharkhand.

Coal India disclosed the MoU through a regulatory filing.

Under the MoU, both companies will jointly examine the feasibility of the proposed project. The agreement does not involve any firm commitment regarding investment, production capacity or project timelines at this stage.

The proposed project will use coal gasification technology, which converts coal into synthesis gas (syngas), consisting mainly of carbon monoxide and hydrogen.

The syngas can be used to produce chemicals such as ammonia, which can subsequently be used for urea production.

Sindri, Jharkhand, has a long association with India’s fertiliser industry and has hosted fertiliser production facilities for several decades.

HURL was established as a joint venture to revive and modernise dormant fertiliser plants, including the Sindri fertiliser plant, as part of efforts to strengthen domestic urea production and reduce import dependence.

21) Answer: D

The International Day of Non-Violence is observed every year on 2 October to commemorate the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi  (Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi), a prominent advocate of non-violent resistance during India’s freedom struggle.

Non-violence refers to rejecting the use of physical violence and promoting peaceful methods for resolving conflicts.

Non-violent methods can support social and political change through approaches such as civil disobedience, Satyagraha, and economic or political non-cooperation.

22) Answer: A

Gandhi Jayanti is observed every year on 2 October to commemorate the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi (Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi), who was born on 2 October 1869.

Gandhi Jayanti is a national holiday in India. Mahatma Gandhi played a significant role in India’s freedom struggle and promoted non-violence and Satyagraha as important means of resistance.

The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) adopted a resolution on 15 June 2007 declaring 2 October as the International Day of Non-Violence in recognition of Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy of non-violence.

23) Answer: D

The United Nations (UN) observes the International Day for the Total Elimination of nuclear weapons every year on 26 September to spread awareness about the dangers posed by nuclear weapons and encourage their complete elimination.

The designation followed the first high-level meeting of the United Nations General Assembly on nuclear disarmament, which focused on advancing international efforts towards nuclear disarmament.

The observance reinforces the global commitment to nuclear disarmament and the complete elimination of nuclear weapons.

The first observance of the International Day for the Total Elimination of nuclear weapons was held on 26 September 2014.

24) Answer: A

The WASH-focused Social Bond raised ₹180 crore and was oversubscribed 1.8 times, reflecting strong investor participation.

The bond has a 5-year tenure, carries a coupon rate of 8.10%, and will mature in September 2031.

The bond received the highest domestic credit ratings of CRISIL AAA (Stable) and CARE AAA (Stable).

The proceeds from the bond will be used to expand access to safe water, sanitation and hygiene solutions in rural and underserved communities.

The financing aims to improve health outcomes, livelihoods and quality of life in rural and underserved areas.

Water.org served as the Technical Advisor and Knowledge Partner for the transaction.

25) Answer: D

The 3-year Post Office Time Deposit offers 7.1%, while the 2-year Post Office Time Deposit offers 7.0%.

The 1-year Post Office Time Deposit offers 6.9% interest.

The 5-year Recurring Deposit (RD) offers 6.7% interest.

The Post Office Savings Account continues to offer 4% interest.

PPF and Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY) are among the schemes offering EEE tax treatment, under which contributions, accumulated interest, and withdrawals are exempt from tax, subject to applicable rules.