Dear Readers, Daily Current Affairs Questions Quiz for SBI, IBPS, RBI, RRB, SSC Exam 2026 of 04th March 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) What was the amount of monetary penalty imposed by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on Mahindra & Mahindra Financial Services Limited (MMFSL) for regulatory non-compliances?

(a) ₹5.00 lakh

(b) ₹7.25 lakh

(c) ₹10.00 lakh

(d) ₹11.50 lakh

(e) ₹15.00 lakh

 

2) Which of the following statements regarding the new GDP series released by the National Statistics Office (NSO) is incorrect?

(a) The new base year for GDP calculation is 2022–23.

(b) India’s Real GDP for FY26 is estimated to contract by 7.2%.

(c) The Second Advanced Estimates (SAE) were released for FY26.

(d) The previous base year was 2011–12.

(e) Quarterly estimates from Q1 FY23 to Q3 FY26 were released.

3) Which of the following applications was launched by the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) during International Customs Day 2026 celebrations?

(a) Atithi 2.0

(b) ICEGATE 3.0

(c) DigiLocker Customs App

(d) TradeEase Portal

(e) e-Sanchit Plus

4) As per the new GDP base year 2022–23 series, what is the projected share of the agriculture sector in total Gross Value Added (GVA)?

(a) 15%

(b) 16%

(c) 17%

(d) 18%

(e) 20%

5) What was the amount of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) equity inflows into India during Q3 (October–December) FY 2025–26?

(a) $10.88 billion

(b) $12.69 billion

(c) $18.98 billion

(d) $21.52 billion

(e) $17.60 billion

6) The special provisions under the RBI’s NBFC–Miscellaneous Amendment Directions, 2026 for National Urban Co-operative Finance and Development Corporation Ltd. (NUCFDC) will remain effective until which date (unless modified or extended)?

(a) 31 March 2029

(b) 31 March 2028

(c) 30 June 2028

(d) 31 March 2027

(e) 31 December 2029

7) Under the India–EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA), which status has been mutually granted by India and the European Union for a period of five years from the date of its entry into force?

(a) National Treatment Status

(b) Special Safeguard Mechanism

(c) Generalised System of Preferences (GSP)

(d) Preferential Trade Status

(e) Most Favoured Nation (MFN) Status

8) What is the projected Fiscal Deficit of Chhattisgarh for FY 2026–27 as a percentage of Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP)?

(a) 2.25%

(b) 2.50%

(c) 2.87%

(d) 3.20%

(e) 3.50%

9) As of 2026, the upgraded Version 2.0 web portal launched to facilitate issuance of No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for facilities and utilities along National Highways is known as:

(a) Rajmarg Pravesh

(b) Parivahan Setu

(c) Sarathi Portal

(d) Highway Mitra

(e) e-Rajpath

10) In 2026, Tamil Nadu Inaugurates First Dark Sky Park at at Ariyur Shola Reserve Forest, Kolli Hills. Which was India’s first officially designated Dark Sky Park, recognised under the International Dark-Sky Places programme in 2024?

(a) Jim Corbett National Park

(b) Pench Tiger Reserve

(c) Ranthambore Tiger Reserve

(d) Kaziranga National Park

(e) Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve

11) Which card was launched to provide seamless and integrated public transport access with free bus travel for women in Delhi?

(a) Shakti Mobility Card

(b) Delhi Smart Travel Card

(c) Nari Suraksha Transit Card

(d) Pink National Common Mobility Card

(e) Sakhi Transport Pass

12) In 2026, The Ministry of Culture signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with which organisation to formulate a national strategy for India’s Cultural and Creative Economy?

(a) Confederation of Indian Industry

(b) National Institution for Transforming India (NITI Aayog)

(c) Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India

(d) Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry

(e) Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts

13) As of 2026, The India Artificial Intelligence Mission signed a Statement of Intent with which organisation to strengthen India–Sweden cooperation in Artificial Intelligence?

(a) Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency

(b) Sweden Innovation Authority

(c) Business Sweden

(d) Stockholm Chamber of Commerce

(e) Swedish Export Credit Corporation

14) Which Japan-based company signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Government of Gujarat to establish a semiconductor-focused Research and Development centre in Ahmedabad?

(a) Horiba Group

(b) Renesas Electronics Corporation

(c) Toshiba Corporation

(d) Sony Semiconductor Solutions

(e) Mitsubishi Electric Corporation

15) In 2026, Ayatollah Alireza Arafi Appointed as Iran’s Interim Supreme Leader After Khamenei’s Death. Under which Article of the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Iran is a three-member Interim Leadership Council activated in case of the Supreme Leader’s death, dismissal, or incapacity?

(a) Article 107

(b) Article 109

(c) Article 110

(d) Article 111

(e) Article 115

 

16) What is the total value of contracts signed by the Ministry of Defence on March 03, 2026, for the acquisition of ALH Mk-III (MR) helicopters and Shtil missiles?

(a) ₹2,901 crore

(b) ₹3,500 crore

(c) ₹4,250 crore

(d) ₹5,083 crore

(e) ₹6,000 crore

17) As of 2026, a contract for construction of 04 × 500T Self Propelled Fuel Barges was signed with which shipyard?

(a) Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers Limited

(b) Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited

(c) Cochin Shipyard Limited

(d) Goa Shipyard Limited

(e) Shoft Shipyard Private Limited

18) In 2026, the Central Facility for Recombinant Cells and Sensors was inaugurated at the Akkulam campus of BRIC-RGCB (Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology) located in which city?

(a) Kochi

(b) Chennai

(c) Bengaluru

(d) Hyderabad

(e) Thiruvananthapuram

19) As of 2026, Bharti Airtel partnered with which global technology company to deliver a secure and interactive messaging experience using Rich Communications Services (RCS)?

(a) Microsoft

(b) Meta Platforms

(c) Google

(d) Apple

(e) Amazon

20) As of 2026, HCL Technologies signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with which Indian Institute of Technology to advance Artificial Intelligence and intelligent systems research?

(a) Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur

(b) Indian Institute of Technology Bombay

(c) Indian Institute of Technology Madras

(d) Indian Institute of Technology Delhi

(e) Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur

21) What is the name of the agreement formalised between the International Solar Alliance (ISA) and the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi to strengthen cooperation in renewable energy and capacity building?

(a) Strategic Renewable Energy Partnership (SREP)

(b) Clean Energy Cooperation Accord (CECA)

(c) Framework for Action (FFA)

(d) Global Solar Advancement Pact (GSAP)

(e) Renewable Energy Capacity Initiative (RECI)

22)  Consider the following statements regarding the ‘Global Mind Health in 2025’ report released by Sapien Labs:

1. India’s youth aged 18–34 years ranked 60th out of 84 countries with a Mind Health Quotient score of 33.
2. Indians aged 55 years and above ranked 49th globally with a Mind Health Quotient score of 96.
3. The global average Mind Health Quotient score stands at 86.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 1 and 2 only

(c) 2 and 3 only

(d) 1 and 3 only

(e) 1, 2 and 3

23) The National Safety Day celebrated on March 4, 2026 marks which edition of the observance?

(a) 50th

(b) 52nd

(c) 55th

(d) 60th

(e) 75th

24) As per the ‘Global Mind Health in 2025’ report by Sapien Labs, which of the following countries ranked 1st in Mind Health Quotient among youth (18–34 years) and among those aged 55 years and above, respectively?

(a) Nigeria and El Salvador

(b) Ghana and El Salvador

(c) Kenya and Mexico

(d) Zimbabwe and Ghana

(e) Ghana and Indonesia

25) As of 2026, Jitendra Singh released the book titled “Quantum Physics: One Hundred Magical Years”, released during National Science Day 2026 celebrations, was authored by whom?

(a) V. P. N. Nampoori

(b) K. Sivan

(c) Raghunath Mashelkar

(d) Anil Kakodkar

(e) C. N. R. Rao

Answers:

1) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) imposed a monetary penalty of ₹11.50 lakh on Mahindra & Mahindra Financial Services Limited (MMFSL) for regulatory non-compliances observed during its annual inspection with reference to the financial position as on 31 March 2025 (FY25).

The penalty was imposed under Section 58G(1)(b) read with Section 58B(5)(aa) of the RBI Act, 1934.

Detailed Explanation:

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) imposed a monetary penalty of ₹11.50 lakh on Mahindra & Mahindra Financial Services Limited (MMFSL) for regulatory non-compliances observed during its annual inspection with reference to the financial position as on 31 March 2025 (FY25).

The penalty was imposed under Section 58G(1)(b) read with Section 58B(5)(aa) of the RBI Act, 1934.

The RBI found that MMFSL violated the Fair Practices Code by charging revised foreclosure fees on certain loan accounts without including the required terms and conditions in the loan agreements.

The RBI also observed deficiencies in the grievance redressal system, where customer complaints were not escalated to the Internal Ombudsman within the mandated timelines.

In some cases, final decisions on complaints were communicated to customers later than the period prescribed by RBI regulations.

These irregularities were detected during the RBI inspection, after which a show-cause notice was issued to MMFSL before imposing the penalty.

 

2) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

The National Statistics Office (NSO) under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) released the new series of Annual and Quarterly Gross Domestic Product (GDP) with a new base year 2022-23, replacing the previous base year of 2011-12.

As per the estimates, India’s Real GDP (GDP at Constant Prices) is expected to grow by 7.6% to reach ₹322.58 lakh crore in FY26, which is higher than the First Advance Estimate (FAE) growth of 7.4% for FY25.

Detailed Explanation:

The National Statistics Office (NSO) under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) released the new series of Annual and Quarterly Gross Domestic Product (GDP) with a new base year 2022-23, replacing the previous base year of 2011-12.

The NSO released the Second Advanced Estimates (SAE) for Financial Year 2025-26 (FY26) along with quarterly estimates from Q1 of FY23 to Q3 of FY26 and annual estimates for FY23, FY24, and FY25.

As per the estimates, India’s Real GDP (GDP at Constant Prices) is expected to grow by 7.6% to reach ₹322.58 lakh crore in FY26, which is higher than the First Advance Estimate (FAE) growth of 7.4% for FY25.

The Nominal GDP (GDP at Current Prices) is estimated to reach ₹345.47 lakh crore in FY26, compared to ₹318.07 lakh crore in FY25, registering a growth rate of 8.6%.

3) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) launched the upgraded SWIFT 2.0 platform, the revamped Atithi 2.0 app, and the Digital Travellers Guide during International Customs Day 2026 celebrations in New Delhi under the theme “Customs protecting society through vigilance and commitment”.

Detailed Explanation:

The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) launched the upgraded SWIFT 2.0 platform, the revamped Atithi 2.0 app, and the Digital Travellers Guide during International Customs Day 2026 celebrations in New Delhi under the theme “Customs protecting society through vigilance and commitment”.

The event was inaugurated by Pankaj Chaudhary, Union Minister of State for Finance, along with senior officials from the Department of Revenue.

The SWIFT 2.0 (Single Window Interface for Facilitating Trade) is a digital customs clearance platform designed to improve export-import trade facilitation, enhance transparency, reduce processing time, and enable end-to-end digital integration among regulatory agencies.

4) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

Agriculture and allied sector Gross Value Added (GVA) growth is projected at 2.4% in real terms for FY 2025–26, lower than 4.9% in FY 2024–25, indicating weak agricultural sector momentum.

In nominal terms, agriculture GVA growth is projected at only 0.3% in FY26, sharply lower than 9.2% in FY25, reflecting weak price realization and lower commodity price gains.

Detailed Explanation:

Agriculture and allied sector Gross Value Added (GVA) growth is projected at 2.4% in real terms for FY 2025–26, lower than 4.9% in FY 2024–25, indicating weak agricultural sector momentum.

In nominal terms, agriculture GVA growth is projected at only 0.3% in FY26, sharply lower than 9.2% in FY25, reflecting weak price realization and lower commodity price gains.

Under the new GDP base year 2022–23 series, the agriculture sector share in total GVA is expected to rise slightly to 18%, compared to 17% under the old 2011–12 base year series.

Gross Value Added (GVA) measures sectoral production value, calculated as total output minus intermediate consumption costs, representing the economic contribution of sectors.

5) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) equity inflows into India increased by 16.6% year-on-year to $12.69 billion in October–December (Q3) FY 2025–26, compared to $10.88 billion in the same quarter last year.

Total FDI inflows (including equity, reinvested earnings, and other capital) reached $21.52 billion, registering a 13% increase from $18.98 billion in Q3 FY25.

Detailed Explanation:

Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) equity inflows into India increased by 16.6% year-on-year to $12.69 billion in October–December (Q3) FY 2025–26, compared to $10.88 billion in the same quarter last year.

Total FDI inflows (including equity, reinvested earnings, and other capital) reached $21.52 billion, registering a 13% increase from $18.98 billion in Q3 FY25.

December 2025 recorded the highest monthly equity inflows of the quarter at $5.48 billion, showing strong end-period investment momentum.

Singapore remained the largest source of FDI, investing $17.6 billion, followed by the United States with $7.8 billion in investments.

FDI inflows increased from Singapore, USA, and UAE, while inflows from Mauritius and Netherlands declined compared to previous periods.

Maharashtra attracted the highest FDI inflows at $15.38 billion, followed by Karnataka ($11.15 billion) and Gujarat ($5 billion), indicating regional concentration of foreign investment.

6) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) issued the NBFC–Miscellaneous Amendment Directions, 2026 to support the functioning of the National Urban Co-operative Finance and Development Corporation Ltd. (NUCFDC) as the Umbrella Organisation (UO) for Urban Co-operative Banks (UCBs).

These special provisions will remain effective until 31 March 2029, unless modified, withdrawn, or extended by the RBI.

Detailed Explanation:

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) issued the NBFC–Miscellaneous Amendment Directions, 2026 to support the functioning of the National Urban Co-operative Finance and Development Corporation Ltd. (NUCFDC) as the Umbrella Organisation (UO) for Urban Co-operative Banks (UCBs).

NUCFDC’s core mandate is to strengthen the UCB sector by providing liquidity support, technology services, capacity building, and other fund-based and non-fund-based services.

NUCFDC aims to onboard over 1,400 UCBs as members; however, the Companies Act, 2013 limits private placement offers to 200 persons per financial year, creating a regulatory bottleneck.

Under the new RBI amendment, NUCFDC is now permitted to make private placement of equity shares to more than 200 persons per financial year, specifically targeting UCBs and the National Co-operative Development Corporation (NCDC).

These special provisions will remain effective until 31 March 2029, unless modified, withdrawn, or extended by the RBI

7) Answer: E

Short Explanation:

The Government of India and the European Union agreed to grant Most Favoured Nation (MFN) status to each other for a period of five years starting from the date the India–EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA) comes into force.

The MFN provision will remain valid for five years from the FTA’s entry into force, subject to a fourth-year Joint Committee review, and will be automatically terminated unless mutually extended by both parties.

Detailed Explanation:

The Government of India and the European Union agreed to grant Most Favoured Nation (MFN) status to each other for a period of five years starting from the date the India–EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA) comes into force.

The MFN provision will remain valid for five years from the FTA’s entry into force, subject to a fourth-year Joint Committee review, and will be automatically terminated unless mutually extended by both parties.

The MFN status excludes benefits arising from Double Taxation Avoidance Agreements (DTAA), recognition and licensing measures under General Agreement on Trade in Services (GATS) rules, and sensitive agricultural products such as soya, beef, sugar, rice, and dairy products.

The India–EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA) was relaunched in 2022 and was finalised in January 2026, and it will become effective only after ratification by the European Parliament.

8) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

Chhattisgarh Finance Minister Om Prakash Chaudhary presented the ₹1,72,000 crore annual Budget for the Financial Year 2026–27 in the State Legislative Assembly at Raipur, Chhattisgarh.

Total Revenue Receipts are estimated at ₹1,43,000 crore for Financial Year 2026–27.

Capital Expenditure is estimated at ₹26,500 crore, accounting for 15.4 percent of the total Budget.

The Fiscal Deficit is projected at ₹20,400 crore, which is 2.87 percent of Gross State Domestic Product.

Detailed Explanation:

Chhattisgarh Finance Minister Om Prakash Chaudhary presented the ₹1,72,000 crore annual Budget for the Financial Year 2026–27 in the State Legislative Assembly at Raipur, Chhattisgarh.

The Budget outlay is 4.2 percent higher than the previous year’s Budget of ₹1,65,000 crore.

The Budget is centred around the theme ‘SANKALP’ (Samaveshi Vikas, Adhosanrachna, Nivesh, Kushal Manav Sansadhan, Antyoday, Livelihood and Policy se Parinam tak).

Total Revenue Receipts are estimated at ₹1,43,000 crore for Financial Year 2026–27.

Capital Expenditure is estimated at ₹26,500 crore, accounting for 15.4 percent of the total Budget.

The Fiscal Deficit is projected at ₹20,400 crore, which is 2.87 percent of Gross State Domestic Product.

9) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, launched the upgraded Rajmarg Pravesh Version 2.0 web portal to facilitate easy issuance of No Objection Certificates for facilities and utilities along National Highways.

Detailed Explanation:

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, launched the upgraded Rajmarg Pravesh Version 2.0 web portal to facilitate easy issuance of No Objection Certificates for facilities and utilities along National Highways.

The portal enables online applications for permissions related to fuel stations, wayside amenities, private properties, rest area complexes, connecting roads and other facilities along National Highways.

It also allows applicants to seek approval for laying water pipelines, gas pipelines, optical fibre cables, electrical lines and other utility services along or across National Highways.

10) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

Tamil Nadu Forest Minister R S Rajakannappan inaugurated the State’s first Dark Sky Park at Ariyur Shola Reserve Forest, Kolli Hills, in Namakkal district, positioning Tamil Nadu as an emerging astro-tourism destination.

India’s first officially designated Dark Sky Park is the Pench Tiger Reserve in Madhya Pradesh, recognised in 2024 under the International Dark-Sky Places programme, and it is also Asia’s fifth internationally recognised Dark Sky Park.

Detailed Explanation:

Tamil Nadu Forest Minister R S Rajakannappan inaugurated the State’s first Dark Sky Park at Ariyur Shola Reserve Forest, Kolli Hills, in Namakkal district, positioning Tamil Nadu as an emerging astro-tourism destination.

The park has been established at a cost of ₹1 crore with three advanced telescopes and solar-powered infrastructure.

It facilitates night-time observation of stars, planets, the Milky Way and the Moon, while promoting scientific literacy and astronomy awareness among students, researchers and the general public.

The location experiences minimal artificial light within a 1.5 kilometre radius, and its natural terrain provides optimal dark-sky conditions.

The park will remain operational from 15 January to 15 June and will be closed during the monsoon season.

India’s first officially designated Dark Sky Park is the Pench Tiger Reserve in Madhya Pradesh, recognised in 2024 under the International Dark-Sky Places programme, and it is also Asia’s fifth internationally recognised Dark Sky Park.

11) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

The Hon’ble President of India, Droupadi Murmu, launched four women- centric welfare schemes of the Delhi Government at the “Sashakt Nari, Samriddh Delhi” programme held in New Delhi.

The initiatives focus on women’s mobility, safety, financial empowerment and welfare support in the national capital.

The Pink National Common Mobility Card was launched to provide seamless and integrated access to public transport for women.

Detailed Explanation:

The Hon’ble President of India, Droupadi Murmu, launched four women- centric welfare schemes of the Delhi Government at the “Sashakt Nari, Samriddh Delhi” programme held in New Delhi.

The initiatives focus on women’s mobility, safety, financial empowerment and welfare support in the national capital.

The Pink National Common Mobility Card was launched to provide seamless and integrated access to public transport for women.

It supports free bus travel for women and enhances connectivity across Delhi’s transport network.

The card promotes cashless and digital ticketing across buses and other transit systems.

It aims to improve safety, convenience and independence of women commuters in urban areas

12) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

The Ministry of Culture signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry to formulate a comprehensive national strategy for India’s Cultural and Creative Economy.

Detailed Explanation:

The Ministry of Culture signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry to formulate a comprehensive national strategy for India’s Cultural and Creative Economy.

The announcement was made by Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, who described the initiative as a step towards positioning culture as a foundation for economic prosperity and ensuring a secure future for artists and artisans.

The MoU aims to develop a structured roadmap integrating culture with economic policy, expand domestic and international market access, promote entrepreneurship and innovation, and generate employment opportunities in cultural sectors.

13) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

The India Artificial Intelligence Mission, under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, signed a Statement of Intent with Business Sweden at the India Artificial Intelligence Impact Summit 2026 held in New Delhi, Delhi, to strengthen India–Sweden cooperation in Artificial Intelligence and digital technologies.

Detailed Explanation:

The India Artificial Intelligence Mission, under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, signed a Statement of Intent with Business Sweden at the India Artificial Intelligence Impact Summit 2026 held in New Delhi, Delhi, to strengthen India–Sweden cooperation in Artificial Intelligence and digital technologies.

The Statement of Intent aims to establish a structured framework for collaboration in the development, deployment and responsible use of Artificial Intelligence solutions, focusing on practical industrial applications and societal benefits.

Under this partnership, both countries will launch the Sweden–India Technology and Artificial Intelligence Corridor, which will serve as the primary platform connecting governments, industries, startups, investors, researchers and academic institutions to enhance bilateral cooperation in Artificial Intelligence.

14) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

Gujarat’s semiconductor ecosystem received fresh investment proposals worth over ₹1,600 crore from companies based in Japan, South Korea and Malaysia, announced during the Gujarat Semiconnect Conference held in Gandhinagar.

Japan-based Horiba Group, through its Indian arm Horiba India Private Limited, signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Government of Gujarat to establish a dedicated Research and Development centre in Ahmedabad focusing on semiconductor-grade mass flow controllers and advanced instrumentation technologies.

Detailed Explanation:

Gujarat’s semiconductor ecosystem received fresh investment proposals worth over ₹1,600 crore from companies based in Japan, South Korea and Malaysia, announced during the Gujarat Semiconnect Conference held in Gandhinagar.

The investments aim to build an end-to-end semiconductor value chain, covering manufacturing units, semiconductor-grade chemicals, advanced instrumentation, integrated circuit packaging, testing solutions, research and development centres and high-technology startups.

Japan-based Horiba Group, through its Indian arm Horiba India Private Limited, signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Government of Gujarat to establish a dedicated Research and Development centre in Ahmedabad focusing on semiconductor-grade mass flow controllers and advanced instrumentation technologies.

Malaysia-based Hotayi Electronic will invest ₹250 crore to set up an electronics manufacturing facility at Sanand Gujarat Industrial Development Corporation, focusing on Solid State Drive and memory module production, with employment generation of around 1,000 people.

15) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

Alireza Arafi, a senior Iranian cleric, was appointed as Interim Supreme Leader of Iran following the death of Ali Khamenei in a reported USA–Israel airstrike.

Under Article 111 of the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Iran, a three-member Interim Leadership Council is activated in case of the Supreme Leader’s death, dismissal, or incapacity.

Detailed Explanation:

Alireza Arafi, a senior Iranian cleric, was appointed as Interim Supreme Leader of Iran following the death of Ali Khamenei in a reported USA–Israel airstrike.

Ayatollah Alireza Arafi currently serves as Deputy Chairman of the Assembly of Experts (AoE), the constitutional body responsible for appointing and supervising the Supreme Leader.

He has been a member of the Guardian Council (GC) since 2019, which oversees candidate vetting, legislative review, and constitutional supervision.

Under Article 111 of the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Iran, a three-member Interim Leadership Council is activated in case of the Supreme Leader’s death, dismissal, or incapacity.

16) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

On March 03, 2026, the Ministry of Defence, India signed contracts worth a total of ₹5,083 crore for the acquisition of six Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH) Mk-III (Maritime Role) for the Indian Coast Guard and Surface-to-Air Vertical Launch - Shtil missiles for the Indian Navy, in the presence of Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh at South Block, New Delhi.

Detailed Explanation:

On March 03, 2026, the Ministry of Defence, India signed contracts worth a total of ₹5,083 crore for the acquisition of six Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH) Mk-III (Maritime Role) for the Indian Coast Guard and Surface-to-Air Vertical Launch - Shtil missiles for the Indian Navy, in the presence of Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh at South Block, New Delhi.

The contract for ALH Mk-III (MR), along with operational role equipment, engineering support package, and performance-based logistics support, is valued at ₹2,901 crore and has been signed with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited under the Buy (Indian-Indigenously Designed Developed and Manufactured) category.

These twin-engine helicopters feature state-of-the-art capabilities, superior to current airborne platforms, and can undertake maritime security missions from shore-based airfields and ships at sea, enhancing the Indian Coast Guard’s operational capability for safety, protection of artificial islands, offshore installations, fishermen, and marine environment.

17) Answer: E

Short Explanation:

A contract for construction of 04 × 500T Self Propelled Fuel Barges was signed on 02 March 2026 with Shoft Shipyard Private Limited, a MSME shipyard located in Thane, Maharashtra.

The project supports the Indian Navy and promotes the “Make in India” and “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” initiatives of the Government of India.

Detailed Explanation:

A contract for construction of 04 × 500T Self Propelled Fuel Barges was signed on 02 March 2026 with Shoft Shipyard Private Limited, a MSME shipyard located in Thane, Maharashtra.

The project supports the Indian Navy and promotes the “Make in India” and “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” initiatives of the Government of India.

These barges will be constructed under the Classification Rules of the Indian Register of Shipping (IRS) to ensure quality, safety, and operational standards in shipbuilding.

The primary role of these barges is fuel replenishment of ships and submarines in harbour areas and anchorage locations, improving naval operational logistics support.

18) Answer: E

Short Explanation:

Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge), Ministry of Science and Technology (MoS&T) and Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES), inaugurated the Central Facility for Recombinant Cells and Sensors at Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology (BRIC-RGCB), Akkulam campus, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, during National Science Day 2026 celebrations (28 February 2026).

Detailed Explanation:

Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge), Ministry of Science and Technology (MoS&T) and Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES), inaugurated the Central Facility for Recombinant Cells and Sensors at Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology (BRIC-RGCB), Akkulam campus, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, during National Science Day 2026 celebrations (28 February 2026).

The Central Facility for Recombinant Cells and Sensors is an advanced biotechnology research infrastructure aimed at strengthening drug discovery, Medical Genomics (MG), and Agri-Genomics (AG) research, while accelerating target-specific drug discovery and high-throughput screening technologies.

The facility was developed with an approximate capital outlay of ₹60 crore funded by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) to enhance biotechnology innovation and research capacity in India.

The Union Minister also laid the foundation stone for a state-of-the-art Current Good Manufacturing Practice (cGMP) facility at the BRIC-RGCB Akkulam campus, which will support pharmaceutical and biomedical manufacturing quality standards.

He also released the book titled “Quantum Physics: One Hundred Magical Years” authored by V. P. N. Nampoori, highlighting developments in quantum physics research and history.

19) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

Bharti Airtel,a leading Indian telecommunications service provider partnered with Google to deliver a secure and interactive messaging experience for users in India.

The collaboration marks a world-first partnership between a Telecom Service Provider (TSP) and a global technology platform to apply telecom-grade accountability to Over-the-Top (OTT) messaging.

Detailed Explanation:

Bharti Airtel,a leading Indian telecommunications service provider partnered with Google to deliver a secure and interactive messaging experience for users in India.

The collaboration marks a world-first partnership between a Telecom Service Provider (TSP) and a global technology platform to apply telecom-grade accountability to Over-the-Top (OTT) messaging.

The initiative integrates Airtel’s network intelligence with Google’s Rich Communications Services (RCS) platform, enhancing communication quality and digital safety.

The platform uses Artificial Intelligence (AI)-powered spam filters for real-time identity verification of business senders.

20) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

HCL Technologies and Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to translate Artificial Intelligence (AI) and intelligent systems research into enterprise-ready solutions for Global Capability Centers (GCCs).

The MoU was signed during the ‘GCC 4.0: Co-Creating India’s Innovation Powerhouse’ summit held in Hyderabad, Telangana.

Detailed Explanation:

HCL Technologies and Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to translate Artificial Intelligence (AI) and intelligent systems research into enterprise-ready solutions for Global Capability Centers (GCCs).

The MoU was signed during the ‘GCC 4.0: Co-Creating India’s Innovation Powerhouse’ summit held in Hyderabad, Telangana.

The collaboration focuses on AI, robotics, advanced engineering, and next-generation technologies.

The partnership combines HCLTech’s GCC solutions with IIT Kanpur’s research and startup ecosystem, providing researchers access to real-world challenges, research funding, and industry mentorship.

 
21) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

International Solar Alliance (ISA) and Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi formalised a Framework for Action (FFA) in New Delhi to strengthen cooperation in renewable energy advancement, capacity building, academic collaboration, and human resource development across ISA Member Countries.

Detailed Explanation:

International Solar Alliance (ISA) and Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi formalised a Framework for Action (FFA) in New Delhi to strengthen cooperation in renewable energy advancement, capacity building, academic collaboration, and human resource development across ISA Member Countries.

The agreement was signed by Ashish Khanna (Director General, ISA) and Professor Rangan Banerjee (Director, IIT Delhi).

The Framework aims to strengthen collaboration between ISA and IIT Delhi’s Department of Energy Science and Engineering to enhance global clean energy capacity development.

Earlier collaboration supported an M.Tech programme in Renewable Energy Technologies and Management (RETM) for professionals from 18 developing countries across Africa and Asia-Pacific regions.

22) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

The American Non-Government Organisation Sapien Labs released its global report titled Global Mind Health in 2025: Mind Health – The Ability to Navigate Life’s Challenges and Function Productively.

As per the report, India’s youth aged 18 to 34 years ranked 60th out of 84 countries, with a Mind Health Quotient score of 33.

In contrast, Indians aged 55 years and above ranked 49th globally, recording a significantly higher Mind Health Quotient score of 96.

Detailed Explanation:

The American Non-Government Organisation Sapien Labs released its global report titled Global Mind Health in 2025: Mind Health – The Ability to Navigate Life’s Challenges and Function Productively.

As per the report, India’s youth aged 18 to 34 years ranked 60th out of 84 countries, with a Mind Health Quotient score of 33.

In contrast, Indians aged 55 years and above ranked 49th globally, recording a significantly higher Mind Health Quotient score of 96.

The ranking is based on the Mind Health Quotient score, which assesses emotional, social, cognitive and physical capacities of participants across countries.

The global average Mind Health Quotient score stands at 66, while adults aged 55 years and above have a global score of 101, with nearly 10 percent experiencing clinically major mental health challenges.

The global average Mind Health Quotient score for youth aged 18 to 34 years is 36, with 41 percent experiencing clinically major mental health issues.

Among youth aged 18 to 34 years, the top-ranked countries are Ghana (1st), Nigeria (2nd), and Kenya and Zimbabwe (3rd).

For the 55 years and above category, the leading countries are Indonesia (1st), El Salvador (2nd), and Ghana and Mexico (3rd).

23) Answer: C

National Safety Day is celebrated on March 4th, 2026.

The theme for the 55th National Safety Day (celebrating the National Safety Council's Diamond Jubilee) is “Engage, Educate & Empower People to Enhance Safety”.

24) Answer: E

Short Explanation:

Among youth aged 18 to 34 years, the top-ranked countries are Ghana (1st), Nigeria (2nd), and Kenya and Zimbabwe (3rd).

For the 55 years and above category, the leading countries are Indonesia (1st), El Salvador (2nd), and Ghana and Mexico (3rd).

Detailed Explanation:

The American Non-Government Organisation Sapien Labs released its global report titled Global Mind Health in 2025: Mind Health – The Ability to Navigate Life’s Challenges and Function Productively.

As per the report, India’s youth aged 18 to 34 years ranked 60th out of 84 countries, with a Mind Health Quotient score of 33.

In contrast, Indians aged 55 years and above ranked 49th globally, recording a significantly higher Mind Health Quotient score of 96.

Among youth aged 18 to 34 years, the top-ranked countries are Ghana (1st), Nigeria (2nd), and Kenya and Zimbabwe (3rd).

For the 55 years and above category, the leading countries are Indonesia (1st), El Salvador (2nd), and Ghana and Mexico (3rd).

25) Answer: A

Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge), Ministry of Science and Technology (MoS&T) and Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES), inaugurated the Central Facility for Recombinant Cells and Sensors at Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology (BRIC-RGCB), Akkulam campus, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, during National Science Day 2026 celebrations (28 February 2026).

He also released the book titled “Quantum Physics: One Hundred Magical Years” authored by

V. P. N. Nampoori, highlighting developments in quantum physics research and history