Dear Readers, Daily Current Affairs Questions Quiz for SBI, IBPS, RBI, RRB, SSC Exam 2026 of 05th November 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.

Start Quiz

 

1)According to the SEBI framework, which of the following statements about Depository Receipts (DRs) issued by REITs and InvITs at GIFT City is correct?

(a) DR holders and their beneficial owners must be persons resident in India.

(b) A fresh issue of DRs requires prior approval from unitholders, with at least 75% of the total votes cast in favour of the resolution.

(c) DRs can be listed only on the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) and the National Stock Exchange (NSE).

(d) Prior approval from unitholders is required for every subsequent DR offering, even within the overall limit already approved.

(e) The cooling-off period for illiquid units of privately listed InvITs was increased from 8 weeks to 12 weeks.

 

2)In news, Razorpay Payments Private Limited received the final Payment Service Provider (PSP) licence from which authority to operate from GIFT City, Gandhinagar, Gujarat?

(a) The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI)

(b) The Reserve Bank of India (RBI)

(c) The International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA)

(d) The National Stock Exchange (NSE)

(e) The India International Exchange (India INX)

 

3)Recently, Fibe (formerly EarlySalary) launched UPI payment services on its application after receiving which authorisation, and from which authority?

(a) Payment Service Provider (PSP) licence from the International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA)

(b) Third-Party Application Provider (TPAP) authorisation from the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI)

(c) Depository Receipt (DR) framework approval from the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI)

(d) Payment Service Provider (PSP) licence from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI)

(e) Third-Party Application Provider (TPAP) authorisation from the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI)

 

4)During the 74th Foundation Day celebrations of the Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO), Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya called upon officials to draw inspiration from which set of principles articulated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi?

(a) The 'Panchsheel' principles

(b) The 'Panch Pran' principles

(c) The 'Panchayat Raj' principles

(d) The 'Panch Karma' principles

(e) The 'Panchvati' principles

 

5)According to Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, the Northern Bullet Train Corridor aims to reduce the existing Delhi–Siliguri journey time from approximately 20 hours to how many hours?

(a) 4 hours

(b) 2 hours

(c) 6 hours

(d) 10 hours

(e) 12 hours

 

6)According to the India Science and Technology (S&T) Scoreboard launched by NITI Aayog, which state recorded the highest number of research publications during 2024–25?

(a) Uttar Pradesh

(b) Maharashtra

(c) Karnataka

(d) Tamil Nadu

(e) Gujarat

 

7)Which district in Sikkim has become India's first notified Organic Fisheries Cluster under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY)?

(a) Gangtok

(b) Namchi

(c) Mangan

(d) Gyalshing

(e) Soreng

 

8)Recently, Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh launched the BRICS Sustainable Lifestyle Week 2026 and flagged off a Cyclothon at Khuman Lampak, Imphal. Approximately how many cyclists were flagged off by the Chief Minister?

(a) 100 cyclists

(b) 150 cyclists

(c) 200 cyclists

(d) 250 cyclists

(e) 300 cyclists

 

9)The 17th Conference of the Parties (COP17) to the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) was held at which venue?

(a) The Meridian Expo and Event Centre in Yerevan, Armenia

(b) The Khuman Lampak Sports Complex in Imphal, Manipur

(c) The Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City), Gandhinagar

(d) The Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi

(e) The United Nations Headquarters in New York

 

10)The 13th ADMM-Plus was held on 29 October 2026 at the Mactan Expo Center in Cebu, the Philippines. This meeting was conducted under which ASEAN 2026 theme?

(a) "Taking Action for Nature"

(b) "Navigating Our Future, Together"

(c) "Sustainable and Environmentally Responsible Lifestyles"

(d) "Panch Pran"

(e) "Trusted Institution for India's Workforce"

 

11)How many part-time members were selected in total for the National Dental Commission (NDC) and its three Autonomous Boards, and what is their tenure?

(a) 9 members for a tenure of two years

(b) 10 members for a tenure of three years

(c) 19 members for a tenure of two years

(d) 19 members for a tenure of three years

(e) 10 members for a tenure of two years

 

12)Under the revised pathway approved by the Union Cabinet, what additional engagement period will be offered to the 75% of Agniveers who are not selected for regular enrolment after their initial four-year service?

(a) One year

(b) Three years

(c) Two years

(d) Four years

(e) Six months

 

13)In which format was the 5th edition of Exercise Tiger Triumph 2026 conducted to enhance coordination, joint planning and interoperability between the armed forces of India and the United States?

(a) Tabletop Exercise (TTX)

(b) Command Post Exercise (CPX)

(c) Field Training Exercise (FTX)

(d) Live Fire Exercise (LFX)

(e) Joint Maritime Exercise (JME)

 

14)Which Indian Navy warship participated in the India–Republic of Korea Navy Bilateral Exercise that concluded at Busan on 29 October 2026?

(a) INS Kolkata

(b) INS Vikrant

(c) INS Shivalik

(d) INS Chennai

(e) INS Sahyadri

 

15)Which two Indian armed forces jointly conducted a long-range maritime airdrop mission in the Arabian Sea during the intervening night of 1–2 November 2026?

(a) Indian Air Force and Indian Navy

(b) Indian Air Force and Indian Army

(c) Indian Army and Indian Navy

(d) Indian Coast Guard and Indian Navy

(e) Indian Army and Indian Coast Guard

 

16)Which organisation organised the two-day seminar on “Cyber-Enabled Cognitive Warfare” that concluded in New Delhi on 3 November 2026?

(a) Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)

(b) National Security Council Secretariat (NSCS)

(c) Indian Institute of Defence Studies (IIDS)

(d) National Defence College (NDC)

(e) Centre for Joint Warfare Studies (CENJOWS)

 

17)Where was the 9th High-Level Meeting (HLM) between the Indian Coast Guard and the Sri Lanka Coast Guard held on 3 November 2026?

(a) Colombo, Sri Lanka

(b) New Delhi, India

(c) Galle, Sri Lanka

(d) Mirissa, Sri Lanka

(e) Chennai, India

 

18)Which company received approval from the Competition Commission of India (CCI) to acquire 100% of IntelliSmart Infrastructure Private Limited for ₹3,050 crore?

(a) Aditya Birla Renewables Limited

(b) Shell Overseas Investment B.V.

(c) Adani Energy Solutions Limited

(d) National Investment and Infrastructure Fund

(e) Prosus N.V.

 

19)Who inaugurated the 183rd Seismological Observatory in Kishtwar, Jammu & Kashmir?

(a) Amit Shah

(b) Dr. Jitendra Singh

(c) Rajnath Singh

(d) Ashwini Vaishnaw

(e) Kiren Rijiju

 

20)Which organisation signed a Letter of Association (LoA) with DAKSHIN – Global South Centre of Excellence on 3 November 2026 to strengthen research collaboration and technology partnerships for Global South countries?

(a) Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)

(b) NITI Aayog

(c) Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)

(d) Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)

(e) Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)

 

21)Which state government signed an agreement with Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN) and Tamil Nadu FibreNet Corporation (TANFINET) to expand rural broadband access?

(a) Kerala

(b) Karnataka

(c) Andhra Pradesh

(d) Tamil Nadu

(e) Telangana

 

22)Which state government signed an agreement with IBA Particle Therapy India Pvt. Ltd. to establish a ₹600 crore proton beam therapy centre at GMCH?

(a) Assam

(b) Meghalaya

(c) Manipur

(d) Tripura

(e) Mizoram

 

23)Consider the following statements regarding the QS World University Rankings: Asia 2027:

India has 325 universities in the rankings, including 34 new entrants.

India is the second most represented higher education system in Asia, after Mainland China.

IIT Delhi retained its position as India's highest-ranked institution at 59th position in 2027.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) Only 1

(b) Only 2

(c) Only 1 and 2

(d) Only 2 and 3

(e) All of the above

 

24)In Nov’26, which eminent neurosurgeon and Padma Shri awardee passed away at the age of 74 in New Delhi?

(a) Dr. Devi Prasad Shetty

(b) Professor Dr. Ashok Kumar Mahapatra

(c) Dr. K. S. Reddy

(d) Dr. Naresh Trehan

(e) Dr. V. S. Mehta

 

25)On which date is the International Day for Biosphere Reserves (World Biosphere Reserve Day) observed annually by UNESCO?

(a) 3 November

(b) 4 November

(c) 5 November

(d) 10 November

(e) 21 November

 

Answers:

1)Answer: B

Short Explanation:

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) issued frameworks allowing Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) and Infrastructure Investment Trusts (InvITs) to issue Depository Receipts (DRs) backed by their units and list them on exchanges at Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City), Gandhinagar, Gujarat.

The framework provides REITs and InvITs with an additional route to raise funds from foreign investors and access overseas capital.

Depository Receipts (DRs) are foreign currency-denominated instruments issued by a foreign depository against underlying units deposited with a domestic custodian.

The framework allows foreign investors, including Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), to invest in Indian REITs and InvITs without directly purchasing their units on domestic exchanges.

The two permitted exchanges for listing DRs at GIFT City are India International Exchange (India INX) and NSE International Exchange (NSE IX).

A fresh issue of DRs requires prior approval from unitholders, with at least 75% of the total votes cast in favour of the resolution.

Prior approval will not be required for subsequent DR offerings within the overall limit already approved by unitholders.

Detailed Explanation:

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) issued frameworks allowing Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) and Infrastructure Investment Trusts (InvITs) to issue Depository Receipts (DRs) backed by their units and list them on exchanges at Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City), Gandhinagar, Gujarat.

The framework provides REITs and InvITs with an additional route to raise funds from foreign investors and access overseas capital.

Depository Receipts (DRs) are foreign currency-denominated instruments issued by a foreign depository against underlying units deposited with a domestic custodian.

The framework allows foreign investors, including Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), to invest in Indian REITs and InvITs without directly purchasing their units on domestic exchanges.

The two permitted exchanges for listing DRs at GIFT City are India International Exchange (India INX) and NSE International Exchange (NSE IX).

A fresh issue of DRs requires prior approval from unitholders, with at least 75% of the total votes cast in favour of the resolution.

Prior approval will not be required for subsequent DR offerings within the overall limit already approved by unitholders.

If existing unitholders transfer their units for issuing DRs, the REIT or InvIT must provide all existing unitholders an opportunity to participate in the offering.

DR holders and their beneficial owners cannot be persons resident in India.

SEBI prescribed eligibility conditions requiring issuers and unitholders transferring units not to be debarred from accessing capital markets, classified as wilful defaulters or identified as fugitive economic offenders.

SEBI reduced the Offer for Sale (OFS) cooling-off period for illiquid units of privately listed InvITs from 12 weeks to 8 weeks.

The revised 8-week cooling-off period applies to purchases and sales before and after an OFS and came into effect immediately.

Under the existing OFS framework, the cooling-off period was 2 weeks for the most liquid shares, 4 weeks for liquid shares and 12 weeks for illiquid shares.

SEBI introduced the relaxation because privately listed InvITs face liquidity constraints due to their high trading lot sizes, which restrict participation mainly to institutional investors, corporates and high-net-worth individuals.

 

2)Answer: C

Short Explanation:

Razorpay Payments Private Limited received the final Payment Service Provider (PSP) licence from the International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA) to operate from Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City), Gandhinagar, Gujarat.

The company received in-principle approval in April 2026 before obtaining the final PSP authorization.

Detailed Explanation:

Razorpay Payments Private Limited received the final Payment Service Provider (PSP) licence from the International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA) to operate from Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City), Gandhinagar, Gujarat.

The company received in-principle approval in April 2026 before obtaining the final PSP authorization.

The licence will enable Razorpay to facilitate international collections, settlements, global investments and multi-currency transactions through its GIFT City-based infrastructure.

Razorpay will enable Indian investment and wealth management platforms to offer overseas equities through a single compliant infrastructure.

These services will operate in accordance with the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) and GIFT City regulations.

Razorpay's banking integrations with RBL Bank Limited and ICICI Bank Limited are already operational on its network, and the company plans to add more banking partners.

 

3)Answer: B

Short Explanation:

Fibe (formerly EarlySalary), a digital lending platform, launched Unified Payments Interface (UPI) payment services on its application after receiving Third-Party Application Provider (TPAP) authorisation from the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI).

The TPAP approval enables Fibe to offer UPI payment services directly through its own application in partnership with Payment Service Provider (PSP) banks.

The UPI service is available to consumers across India, including those who are not existing borrowers or customers of Fibe.

Detailed Explanation:

Fibe (formerly EarlySalary), a digital lending platform, launched Unified Payments Interface (UPI) payment services on its application after receiving Third-Party Application Provider (TPAP) authorisation from the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI).

The TPAP approval enables Fibe to offer UPI payment services directly through its own application in partnership with Payment Service Provider (PSP) banks.

The UPI service is available to consumers across India, including those who are not existing borrowers or customers of Fibe.

Through the new service, users can make payments using their bank accounts, RuPay credit cards and eligible credit lines linked to UPI.

Third-Party Application Provider (TPAP) is a non-bank entity authorised by NPCI to provide UPI payment services through its application in partnership with PSP banks.

The launch marks Fibe's entry into the UPI payments segment as part of its expansion into digital financial services.

 

4)Answer: B

Short Explanation:

The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) celebrated its 74th Foundation Day on 1 November 2026 in New Delhi.

The occasion marked EPFO’s journey from a statutory provident fund organisation established in 1952 to one of India’s leading social security institutions.

Union Minister for Labour and Employment Mansukh Mandaviya presided over the celebrations.

He also called upon officials to draw inspiration from the ‘Panch Pran’ principles articulated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Detailed Explanation:

The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) celebrated its 74th Foundation Day on 1 November 2026 in New Delhi.

The occasion marked EPFO’s journey from a statutory provident fund organisation established in 1952 to one of India’s leading social security institutions.

Union Minister for Labour and Employment Mansukh Mandaviya presided over the celebrations.

Other attendees included:

Chandra Bhushan Kumar, Secretary, Ministry of Labour and Employment.

Ramesh Krishnamurthi, Central Provident Fund Commissioner.

Representatives of workers, employers and other stakeholders.

Addressing the gathering, Mansukh Mandaviya highlighted that EPFO had emerged as a trusted institution for India's workforce over its 74-year journey.

He stated that the trust placed in the organisation was reflected in its accumulated corpus of approximately ₹32 lakh crore, built through contributions from more than 8 crore members.

Appreciating the organisation's technological transformation initiatives, including CITES 2.01, he urged EPFO officials to prioritise workers' welfare and ensure effective service delivery at the last mile.

He also called upon officials to draw inspiration from the ‘Panch Pran’ principles articulated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

 

5)Answer: C

Short Explanation:

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved the Northern Bullet Train Corridor, a proposed high-speed rail route that will connect Delhi with Guwahati via Siliguri.

The approval was announced by Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh.

The Railway Minister made the announcement during his visit to Varanasi to flag off the Varanasi–New Delhi Vande Bharat Sleeper Express.

According to Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, the corridor aims to reduce the existing 20-hour journey between Delhi and Siliguri to approximately 6 hours.

Detailed Explanation:

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved the Northern Bullet Train Corridor, a proposed high-speed rail route that will connect Delhi with Guwahati via Siliguri.

The approval was announced by Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh.

The Railway Minister made the announcement during his visit to Varanasi to flag off the Varanasi–New Delhi Vande Bharat Sleeper Express.

The Northern Bullet Train Corridor is expected to improve connectivity across Northern and Eastern India by significantly reducing travel time.

The proposed high-speed rail corridor will cover approximately 1,500 kilometres and pass through Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and West Bengal before extending to Assam.

The important stations along the proposed corridor include:

Delhi

Agra

Kanpur

Lucknow

Ayodhya

Varanasi

Prayagraj

Patna

Siliguri

Guwahati

According to Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, the corridor aims to reduce the existing 20-hour journey between Delhi and Siliguri to approximately 6 hours.

The Minister stated that ticket fares would be economical and significantly lower than airfares, making high-speed rail travel more accessible.

 

6)Answer: D

Short Explanation:

Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra emerged as the top three states in research publications in the India Science and Technology (S&T) Scoreboard launched by NITI Aayog.

In terms of patent applications filed, Tamil Nadu secured the first position, followed by Maharashtra and Karnataka.

The number of research publications recorded by the top three states during 2024–25 was:

Tamil Nadu: 44,611 publications

Uttar Pradesh: 29,298 publications

Maharashtra: 28,947 publications

Detailed Explanation:

Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra emerged as the top three states in research publications in the India Science and Technology (S&T) Scoreboard launched by NITI Aayog.

In terms of patent applications filed, Tamil Nadu secured the first position, followed by Maharashtra and Karnataka.

The number of research publications recorded by the top three states during 2024–25 was:

Tamil Nadu: 44,611 publications

Uttar Pradesh: 29,298 publications

Maharashtra: 28,947 publications

NITI Aayog Vice Chairman Ashok Kumar Lahiri released the India S&T Scoreboard and stated that the further development of India's science and technology sector requires a more active role from state governments.

NITI Aayog Member (Science and Technology) Abhay Karandikar emphasised that effective science and technology policymaking must be based on reliable and comparable evidence.

Developed as a key NITI Aayog initiative, the India S&T Scoreboard is an interactive platform that provides an integrated overview of the science and technology landscape across Indian states and Union Territories.

 

7)Answer: E

Short Explanation:

Soreng district in Sikkim has become India’s first notified Organic Fisheries Cluster under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY).

The Central Government launched a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for organic certification of fisheries in the Northeastern region to promote chemical-free fish production, establish certification standards and improve market access for organic fish products.

Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying Rajiv Ranjan Singh launched the SOP and inaugurated fisheries development projects worth ₹3.75 crore during his visit to Sikkim.

Detailed Explanation:

Soreng district in Sikkim has become India’s first notified Organic Fisheries Cluster under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY).

The Central Government launched a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for organic certification of fisheries in the Northeastern region to promote chemical-free fish production, establish certification standards and improve market access for organic fish products.

Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying Rajiv Ranjan Singh launched the SOP and inaugurated fisheries development projects worth ₹3.75 crore during his visit to Sikkim.

The visit was undertaken to review the implementation of fisheries development initiatives.

The inaugurated projects cover essential fisheries infrastructure and production technologies, including:

Hatcheries

Fish feed mills

Cold storage facilities

Biofloc technology

Recirculatory Aquaculture Systems (RAS)

These projects aim to strengthen the entire fisheries value chain, covering fish production, processing, value addition and marketing.

The Soreng Organic Fisheries Cluster will promote ecologically sustainable fish farming without harmful chemicals, antibiotics and pesticides. It will focus particularly on Amur carp, Indian Major Carps and trout.

 

8)Answer: C

Short Explanation:

Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh launched BRICS Sustainable Lifestyle Week 2026 from November 1 to 7, 2026 and flagged off a Cyclothon at Khuman Lampak, Imphal.

The weeklong programme, organised by the Government of Manipur, will continue until 7 November 2026.

The initiative aims to promote sustainable and environmentally responsible lifestyles among people.

During the launch programme, Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh administered an environmental protection pledge to participants.

The Chief Minister flagged off approximately 200 cyclists from Khuman Lampak.

Detailed Explanation:

Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh launched BRICS Sustainable Lifestyle Week 2026 from November 1 to 7, 2026 and flagged off a Cyclothon at Khuman Lampak, Imphal.

The weeklong programme, organised by the Government of Manipur, will continue until 7 November 2026.

The initiative aims to promote sustainable and environmentally responsible lifestyles among people.

During the launch programme, Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh administered an environmental protection pledge to participants.

Along with other distinguished guests, he also planted saplings at the Khuman Lampak Sports Complex as part of the environmental awareness initiative.

The Chief Minister flagged off approximately 200 cyclists from Khuman Lampak.

The cyclists proceeded through various locations across Imphal city before returning to Khuman Lampak.

 

9)Answer: A

Short Explanation:

The 17th Conference of the Parties (COP17) to the United Nations (UN) Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) was held at the Meridian Expo and Event Centre in Yerevan, Armenia, under the theme “Taking Action for Nature.”

COP17 was presided over by Hambardzum Matevosyan, Minister of Environment of the Republic of Armenia.

COP17 adopted nearly 50 decisions to strengthen biodiversity conservation and accelerate the implementation of the Kunming–Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF).

Union Minister Bhupender Yadav, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), led the Indian delegation at COP17.

India reaffirmed its commitment to biodiversity conservation and highlighted its updated National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP), comprising 23 national targets and 142 indicators.

Detailed Explanation:

The 17th Conference of the Parties (COP17) to the United Nations (UN) Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) was held at the Meridian Expo and Event Centre in Yerevan, Armenia, under the theme “Taking Action for Nature.”

COP17 was presided over by Hambardzum Matevosyan, Minister of Environment of the Republic of Armenia.

COP17 adopted nearly 50 decisions to strengthen biodiversity conservation and accelerate the implementation of the Kunming–Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF).

Union Minister Bhupender Yadav, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), led the Indian delegation at COP17.

India reaffirmed its commitment to biodiversity conservation and highlighted its updated National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP), comprising 23 national targets and 142 indicators.

The conference logo was inspired by “Polymmatus eriwanensis (Eriwan Blue)”, a butterfly species endemic to Armenia.

The COP17 logo featured 23 colours, representing the 23 action targets of the Kunming–Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF).

COP17 adopted the Yerevan Pathway to accelerate the implementation of the KMGBF by 2030.

 

10)Answer: B

Short Explanation:

The 20th ASEAN Defence Ministers' Meeting (ADMM) and 13th ADMM-Plus were held on 28 and 29 October 2026, respectively, at the Mactan Expo Center in Cebu, the Philippines.

The meetings were conducted under the ASEAN 2026 theme “Navigating Our Future, Together”.

The meetings brought together ASEAN Defence Ministers and eight dialogue partners to strengthen regional defence and security cooperation.

The meetings were chaired by Gilberto C. Teodoro Jr., Secretary of the Department of National Defense (DND), Philippines.

Detailed Explanation:

The 20th ASEAN Defence Ministers' Meeting (ADMM) and 13th ADMM-Plus were held on 28 and 29 October 2026, respectively, at the Mactan Expo Center in Cebu, the Philippines.

The meetings were conducted under the ASEAN 2026 theme “Navigating Our Future, Together”.

The meetings brought together ASEAN Defence Ministers and eight dialogue partners to strengthen regional defence and security cooperation.

The meetings were chaired by Gilberto C. Teodoro Jr., Secretary of the Department of National Defense (DND), Philippines.

Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh represented India at the meetings.

Rajnath Singh proposed establishing an India–ASEAN Youth Bridge to promote people-to-people connectivity, digital innovation and capacity building in defence cooperation.

 

11)Answer: C

Short Explanation:

The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare selected part-time members of the National Dental Commission (NDC) and its three Autonomous Boards through a draw of lots, in accordance with the National Dental Commission Act, 2023, and the rules framed under it.

A total of 19 part-time members were selected for a tenure of two years, comprising 10 members representing State/UT Governments and 9 members representing State Dental Councils.

Detailed Explanation:

The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare selected part-time members of the National Dental Commission (NDC) and its three Autonomous Boards through a draw of lots, in accordance with the National Dental Commission Act, 2023, and the rules framed under it.

Smt. Punya Salila Srivastava, Secretary, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, participated in the selection process.

A total of 19 part-time members were selected for a tenure of two years, comprising 10 members representing State/UT Governments and 9 members representing State Dental Councils.

The 10 part-time members representing State/UT Governments were selected from Sikkim, Jharkhand, Keralam, Uttarakhand, Mizoram, Rajasthan, Arunachal Pradesh, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir.

Under Section 17(5) of the National Dental Commission Act, 2023, the second part-time member for each of the three Autonomous Boards was selected from among the nine State Dental Council representatives.

 

12)Answer: C

Short Explanation:

The Union Cabinet approved a revised pathway for the absorption of Agniveers into the regular Armed Forces, introducing an additional two-year engagement period for the 75% of Agniveers who are not selected for regular enrolment after their initial four-year service.

Under the revised arrangement, 25% of Agniveers will continue to be offered regular employment in the Defence Forces based on merit after completing their initial four-year tenure.

The remaining 75% of Agniveers will be offered an additional two-year engagement period based on the recommendations of the Indian Defence Forces.

After completing the additional two-year engagement period, all Agniveers will be offered another opportunity for enrolment as regular soldiers, subject to their willingness and fulfilment of selection criteria.

Detailed Explanation:

The Union Cabinet approved a revised pathway for the absorption of Agniveers into the regular Armed Forces, introducing an additional two-year engagement period for the 75% of Agniveers who are not selected for regular enrolment after their initial four-year service.

Under the revised arrangement, 25% of Agniveers will continue to be offered regular employment in the Defence Forces based on merit after completing their initial four-year tenure.

The remaining 75% of Agniveers will be offered an additional two-year engagement period based on the recommendations of the Indian Defence Forces.

After completing the additional two-year engagement period, all Agniveers will be offered another opportunity for enrolment as regular soldiers, subject to their willingness and fulfilment of selection criteria.

The revised arrangement aims to align the aspirations of Agniveers with organisational requirements and operational efficiency.

The decision was taken after an objective assessment of Agniveers' performance in terms of skills, motivation, physical fitness and technological capabilities.

The second engagement period will provide higher remuneration, an enhanced Seva Nidhi package and seniority benefits.

The Agnipath Scheme, launched on 14 June 2022, will continue based on its achievements after four years of implementation.

 

13)Answer: C

Short Explanation:

The 5th edition of the India–US Bilateral Tri-Service Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) Exercise, Tiger Triumph 2026, commenced with its opening ceremony on 2 November 2026 at the Maritime Warfare Centre (MWC), Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh.

The Tiger Triumph exercise series began in 2019, with its 1st edition held at Visakhapatnam and Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh, India.

The 4th edition of Exercise Tiger Triumph was conducted along India's Eastern Seaboard from 1 to 13 April 2025.

The 2026 edition is being conducted as a Tabletop Exercise (TTX) to enhance coordination, joint planning and interoperability between the armed forces of India and the United States during large-scale HADR operations.

Detailed Explanation:

The 5th edition of the India–US Bilateral Tri-Service Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) Exercise, Tiger Triumph 2026, commenced with its opening ceremony on 2 November 2026 at the Maritime Warfare Centre (MWC), Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh.

The Tiger Triumph exercise series began in 2019, with its 1st edition held at Visakhapatnam and Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh, India.

The 4th edition of Exercise Tiger Triumph was conducted along India's Eastern Seaboard from 1 to 13 April 2025.

The opening ceremony of the 5th edition was presided over by Rear Admiral Vishal Bishnoi, Flag Officer Commanding, Eastern Fleet, Indian Navy, and Rear Admiral Joaquin J. Martinez de Pinillos, Vice Commander, US Pacific Fleet.

The 2026 edition is being conducted as a Tabletop Exercise (TTX) to enhance coordination, joint planning and interoperability between the armed forces of India and the United States during large-scale HADR operations.

The main objective of Tiger Triumph 2026 is to strengthen India–US defence cooperation and improve the ability of both countries' armed forces to respond jointly to regional crises and natural disasters.

 

14)Answer: E

Short Explanation:

The Indian Navy–Republic of Korea Navy (IN–RoKN) Bilateral Exercise successfully concluded with the participation of INS Sahyadri at Busan, Republic of Korea, on 29 October 2026.

The exercise aimed to strengthen maritime cooperation, interoperability and mutual understanding between the Indian Navy and the Republic of Korea Navy (RoKN).

The exercise was conducted in two phases: the Harbour Phase and the Sea Phase.

Detailed Explanation:

The Indian Navy–Republic of Korea Navy (IN–RoKN) Bilateral Exercise successfully concluded with the participation of INS Sahyadri at Busan, Republic of Korea, on 29 October 2026.

The exercise aimed to strengthen maritime cooperation, interoperability and mutual understanding between the Indian Navy and the Republic of Korea Navy (RoKN).

The exercise was conducted in two phases: the Harbour Phase and the Sea Phase.

During the Harbour Phase, personnel from both navies participated in professional discussions, cross-deck visits, operational briefings and Subject Matter Expert Exchanges (SMEEs).

The harbour activities facilitated the exchange of operational perspectives and best practices between the two navies.

Cultural exchanges and sporting engagements during the harbour phase helped foster camaraderie, mutual trust and interpersonal relationships among naval personnel.

 

15)Answer: A

Short Explanation:

The Indian Air Force (IAF) and the Indian Navy jointly conducted a long-range maritime airdrop mission during the intervening night of 1–2 November 2026 in support of anti-piracy operations in the Arabian Sea.

The mission was conducted more than 3,000 km from Mumbai using an IAF C-17 Globemaster III aircraft.

The aircraft air-delivered specialised tactical equipment and MARCOS personnel in coordination with an Indian Navy ship and a maritime reconnaissance aircraft.

Detailed Explanation:

The Indian Air Force (IAF) and the Indian Navy jointly conducted a long-range maritime airdrop mission during the intervening night of 1–2 November 2026 in support of anti-piracy operations in the Arabian Sea.

The mission was conducted more than 3,000 km from Mumbai using an IAF C-17 Globemaster III aircraft.

The aircraft air-delivered specialised tactical equipment and MARCOS personnel in coordination with an Indian Navy ship and a maritime reconnaissance aircraft.

The operation covered over 6,000 km and involved more than 8 hours of flying.

The mission demonstrated the IAF's capability in long-range precision air-delivery operations and highlighted the strong operational synergy between the IAF and Indian Navy.

The operation reaffirmed India's commitment to maritime security, freedom of navigation and the safety of international shipping in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).

 

16)Answer: E

Short Explanation:

The two-day seminar on “Cyber-Enabled Cognitive Warfare” concluded in New Delhi on 3 November 2026.

The seminar was organised by the Centre for Joint Warfare Studies (CENJOWS) under the aegis of Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff (HQ IDS).

Air Chief Marshal Ashutosh Dixit, Chief of the Air Staff, delivered a special address and emphasised synergised and coordinated functioning among all stakeholders to improve operational effectiveness and situational awareness.

Detailed Explanation:

The two-day seminar on “Cyber-Enabled Cognitive Warfare” concluded in New Delhi on 3 November 2026.

The seminar was organised by the Centre for Joint Warfare Studies (CENJOWS) under the aegis of Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff (HQ IDS).

Air Chief Marshal Ashutosh Dixit, Chief of the Air Staff, delivered a special address and emphasised synergised and coordinated functioning among all stakeholders to improve operational effectiveness and situational awareness.

General Anil Chauhan (Retd.), former Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) and Director of the Vivekananda International Foundation, also delivered a special address.

The seminar focused on emerging threats in the cyber-enabled cognitive domain, particularly the convergence of Cyber Capabilities, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Information Manipulation and Psychological Influence.

 

17)Answer: D

Short Explanation:

The 9th High-Level Meeting (HLM) between the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) and the Sri Lanka Coast Guard (SLCG) was held on 3 November 2026 at Mirissa, Sri Lanka.

The Indian delegation was led by Director General Paramesh Sivamani, Director General of the Indian Coast Guard.

The Sri Lankan delegation was headed by Rear Admiral Ruwan Rupasena, Director General of the Sri Lanka Coast Guard.

The meeting focused on strengthening bilateral maritime cooperation in Marine Pollution Response, Maritime Search and Rescue (SAR) and Maritime Law Enforcement.

Detailed Explanation:

The 9th High-Level Meeting (HLM) between the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) and the Sri Lanka Coast Guard (SLCG) was held on 3 November 2026 at Mirissa, Sri Lanka.

The Indian delegation was led by Director General Paramesh Sivamani, Director General of the Indian Coast Guard.

The Sri Lankan delegation was headed by Rear Admiral Ruwan Rupasena, Director General of the Sri Lanka Coast Guard.

The meeting focused on strengthening bilateral maritime cooperation in Marine Pollution Response, Maritime Search and Rescue (SAR) and Maritime Law Enforcement.

Both sides explored opportunities to enhance capacity building and technical assistance to strengthen operational cooperation between the two Coast Guards.

Both delegations reaffirmed their commitment to addressing emerging maritime challenges and improving maritime safety, security and environmental protection across their shared maritime domain.

The meeting aimed to promote coordinated responses to maritime contingencies and strengthen regional cooperation for a safe, secure and clean maritime environment in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).

 

18)Answer: C

Solution:

Short Explanation:

The Competition Commission of India (CCI) approved five major proposed transactions across the food services, renewable energy (RE), power infrastructure, financial services and telecommunications sectors.

Food Services: CCI approved the merger of Sapphire Foods India Limited with Devyani International Limited, combining their Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) and Pizza Hut businesses.

Renewable Energy: CCI approved Aditya Birla Renewables Limited's proposed acquisition of 100% of Solenergi Power Private Limited from Shell Overseas Investment B.V.

Power Infrastructure: CCI approved Adani Energy Solutions Limited's proposed acquisition of 100% of IntelliSmart Infrastructure Private Limited for Rs. 3,050 crore from the National Investment and Infrastructure Fund (NIIF) and Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL).

Detailed Explanation:

The Competition Commission of India (CCI) approved five major proposed transactions across the food services, renewable energy (RE), power infrastructure, financial services and telecommunications sectors.

Food Services: CCI approved the merger of Sapphire Foods India Limited with Devyani International Limited, combining their Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) and Pizza Hut businesses.

Renewable Energy: CCI approved Aditya Birla Renewables Limited's proposed acquisition of 100% of Solenergi Power Private Limited from Shell Overseas Investment B.V.

Power Infrastructure: CCI approved Adani Energy Solutions Limited's proposed acquisition of 100% of IntelliSmart Infrastructure Private Limited for Rs. 3,050 crore from the National Investment and Infrastructure Fund (NIIF) and Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL).

Financial Services: CCI approved the acquisition of a certain shareholding in Navi Limited, founded by Sachin Bansal, by MIH Payments Holdings B.V., an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of Prosus N.V.

Telecommunications: CCI approved French company Vega SAS's proposed acquisition of a 16.2% stake in Vodafone Group PLC.

Vodafone Group PLC operates telecommunications businesses across Europe and Africa and has a presence in India through Vodafone Idea Limited.

 

19)Answer: B

Short Explanation:

Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) Dr. Jitendra Singh, Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES), inaugurated the 183rd Seismological Observatory in Kishtwar, Jammu & Kashmir (J&K).

The observatory will transmit real-time seismic data to the National Centre for Seismology (NCS), New Delhi, to strengthen earthquake monitoring and disaster preparedness in high seismic zones.

With the inauguration of the Kishtwar observatory, Jammu & Kashmir now has four Seismological Observatories, located in Jammu, Srinagar, Udhampur and Kishtwar.

Detailed Explanation:

Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) Dr. Jitendra Singh, Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES), inaugurated the 183rd Seismological Observatory in Kishtwar, Jammu & Kashmir (J&K).

The observatory will transmit real-time seismic data to the National Centre for Seismology (NCS), New Delhi, to strengthen earthquake monitoring and disaster preparedness in high seismic zones.

With the inauguration of the Kishtwar observatory, Jammu & Kashmir now has four Seismological Observatories, located in Jammu, Srinagar, Udhampur and Kishtwar.

The Kishtwar observatory uses advanced digital seismic equipment, replacing traditional analogue systems, to monitor earthquake hazards, support emergency response and guide safer infrastructure planning.

The Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) plans to establish 100 additional Seismological Observatories, including four each in Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh.

 

20)Answer: E

Short Explanation:

The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and DAKSHIN – Global South Centre of Excellence, operating under the Research and Information System for Developing Countries (RIS), signed a Letter of Association (LoA) on 3 November 2026.

The partnership aims to strengthen capacity building, research collaboration and technology partnerships for the advancement of countries in the Global South.

DAKSHIN aims to promote knowledge sharing and mutual learning among Global South countries by developing sustainable, affordable and locally relevant solutions.

Detailed Explanation:

The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and DAKSHIN – Global South Centre of Excellence, operating under the Research and Information System for Developing Countries (RIS), signed a Letter of Association (LoA) on 3 November 2026.

The partnership aims to strengthen capacity building, research collaboration and technology partnerships for the advancement of countries in the Global South.

DAKSHIN aims to promote knowledge sharing and mutual learning among Global South countries by developing sustainable, affordable and locally relevant solutions.

The collaboration will focus on technology transfer, resource sharing, exchange of experiences and collaborative strategies to address common developmental challenges and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

CSIR will contribute its scientific and technological expertise and a portfolio of affordable, adaptable and ready-to-deploy technologies to meet the developmental needs of Global South countries.

The key objectives of the agreement include joint policy studies, scaling up development interventions, capacity building, human resource development and skill upgradation

 

21)Answer: D

Short Explanation:

Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN), the Government of Tamil Nadu and Tamil Nadu FibreNet Corporation (TANFINET) signed an agreement at Sanchar Bhawan, New Delhi, to expand rural broadband access across Tamil Nadu.

Shyamal Misra, Administrator of DBN, attended the agreement-signing event, while Atul Anand, Additional Chief Secretary for Artificial Intelligence, Information Technology and Digital Services, participated through video conference.

The agreement is part of the state-led Amended BharatNet Programme and focuses on providing fibre-based broadband connections to rural households.

Central financial subsidy support is expected to facilitate more than 5 lakh rural household fibre connections. The agreement also provides for on-demand broadband connectivity in 4,767 villages.

Detailed Explanation:

Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN), the Government of Tamil Nadu and Tamil Nadu FibreNet Corporation (TANFINET) signed an agreement at Sanchar Bhawan, New Delhi, to expand rural broadband access across Tamil Nadu.

Shyamal Misra, Administrator of DBN, attended the agreement-signing event, while Atul Anand, Additional Chief Secretary for Artificial Intelligence, Information Technology and Digital Services, participated through video conference.

The agreement is part of the state-led Amended BharatNet Programme and focuses on providing fibre-based broadband connections to rural households.

Central financial subsidy support is expected to facilitate more than 5 lakh rural household fibre connections. The agreement also provides for on-demand broadband connectivity in 4,767 villages.

Digital Bharat Nidhi, formerly known as the Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF), operates under the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and supports telecommunications access in underserved areas. TANFINET, a state-owned enterprise, is the implementing agency for the programme in Tamil Nadu.

The Union Cabinet approved the Amended BharatNet Programme on 4 August 2023 to upgrade, consolidate and expand the existing BharatNet network.

Improved rural broadband connectivity is expected to support services such as e-governance, online education, telemedicine and digital payments.

BharatNet was designed as a middle-layer network connecting broadband infrastructure across Community Development Blocks and village councils.

The Telecommunications Act, 2023 allows DBN to support telecommunications research and development, pilot projects and connectivity initiatives in underserved areas.

 

22)Answer: A

Short Explanation:

The Government of Assam signed an agreement with IBA Particle Therapy India Pvt. Ltd. to establish a ₹600 crore proton beam therapy centre at Gauhati Medical College and Hospital (GMCH), Guwahati.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced that the facility will be India’s first proton therapy centre operated by a state government. The project is expected to be completed within three years.

The agreement follows the Assam Cabinet’s approval of the project earlier in 2026. With the signing of the contract, the project has moved towards procurement and construction.

Detailed Explanation:

The Government of Assam signed an agreement with IBA Particle Therapy India Pvt. Ltd. to establish a ₹600 crore proton beam therapy centre at Gauhati Medical College and Hospital (GMCH), Guwahati.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced that the facility will be India’s first proton therapy centre operated by a state government. The project is expected to be completed within three years.

The agreement follows the Assam Cabinet’s approval of the project earlier in 2026. With the signing of the contract, the project has moved towards procurement and construction.

Project details and funding:

Total project cost: Approximately ₹600 crore.

World Bank loan: ₹315 crore.

Assam Government contribution: ₹285 crore.

Implementation programme: World Bank-supported Assam State Secondary Healthcare Initiative for Service Delivery Transformation (ASSIST).

The programme is implemented through the Assam Health Infrastructure Development and Management Society.

The centre will use ProteusONE, a compact, single-room proton therapy system manufactured by Belgium-based Ion Beam Applications SA (IBA), the parent company of the Indian contracting firm.

 

23)Answer: C

Short Explanation:

India has expanded its presence in the QS World University Rankings: Asia 2027, with 325 Indian universities, including 34 new entrants.

This makes India the second most represented higher education system in Asia, after Mainland China.

Indian Institute of Technology Delhi (IIT Delhi) retained its position as India's highest-ranked institution, but declined from 59th in 2026 to 66th in 2027.

Detailed Explanation:

India has expanded its presence in the QS World University Rankings: Asia 2027, with 325 Indian universities, including 34 new entrants.

This makes India the second most represented higher education system in Asia, after Mainland China.

The rankings cover 1,722 universities across 26 higher education systems.

Despite India's increased representation, all six of its highest-ranked institutions have slipped in the latest edition, highlighting the challenge of translating a larger higher education presence into stronger positions among Asia's leading universities.

Indian Institute of Technology Delhi (IIT Delhi) retained its position as India's highest-ranked institution, but declined from 59th in 2026 to 66th in 2027.

Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru ranked second among Indian institutions at 79th, followed by Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT Bombay) at 83rd.

Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) secured 85th position, while Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur (IIT Kharagpur) and Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IIT Kanpur) ranked 90th and 97th, respectively. All six leading Indian institutions recorded a decline compared with the previous edition.

University of Delhi also moved outside Asia's top 100, falling from 95th to 106th. In contrast, some other Indian institutions improved their positions.

University of Hong Kong retained the first position for the second consecutive year.

Peking University secured the second position.

Tsinghua University climbed from 9th to 3rd, giving Mainland China two universities among Asia's top three.

 

24)Answer: B

Eminent neurosurgeon and Padma Shri awardee Professor Dr. Ashok Kumar Mahapatra passed away in New Delhi, Delhi, at the age of 74.

He was born on 29 December 1952 in Puri, Odisha.

He was conferred the Padma Shri Award in 2025, India's fourth-highest civilian award, for his contributions to the field of Medicine.

He received the C. V. Raman Award for Scientific Excellence in 2022 for his outstanding contributions to scientific research and medical science.

 

25)Answer: A

The International Day for Biosphere Reserves (BRs), also known as World Biosphere Reserve Day, is observed globally every year on 3 November by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) to promote biodiversity conservation and sustainable development.

3 November 2026 marks the 5th observance of the International Day for Biosphere Reserves.