Dear Readers, Daily Current Affairs Questions Quiz for SBI, IBPS, RBI, RRB, SSC Exam 2026 of 11th 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.

 

Start Quiz

 

1) According to the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) public statement of 13 February 2026, which of the following countries remains on the “High-Risk Jurisdictions subject to a Call for Action” list due to serious deficiencies in its anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorist financing (CFT) regime?

(a) Kuwait

(b) Papua New Guinea

(c) Myanmar

(d) Philippines

(e) Vietnam

2) As of 2026, HDFC Bank and Swiggy expanded their co-branded credit card portfolio in 2026 with the launch of Swiggy BLCK HDFC Bank Credit Card and Swiggy Ornge HDFC Bank Credit Card. In which year was their existing co-branded credit card portfolio originally introduced?

(a) 2021

(b) 2023

(c) 2020

(d) 2024

(e) 2025

3) In 2026, Jammu and Kashmir Bank (J&K Bank) signed a co-lending agreement with which NBFC to provide home loans and expand its retail lending business across India?

(a) Home First Finance Company India Limited

(b) Bajaj Finance Limited

(c) Tata Capital Limited

(d) L&T Finance Limited

(e) Muthoot Finance Limited

4) The Government of India notified standards for green ammonia and green methanol under which flagship initiative aimed at making India a global hub for green hydrogen?

(a) National Bioenergy Mission

(b) National Electric Mobility Mission

(c) National Solar Mission

(d) National Green Hydrogen Mission

(e) National Clean Energy Fund

 

5) Which state government launched Project GANGA to provide high-speed internet connectivity to over 20 lakh rural households in the next two to three years?

(a) Bihar

(b) Madhya Pradesh

(c) Jharkhand

(d) Rajasthan

(e) Uttar Pradesh

6) According to the Government of India, the country’s inter-regional power transmission capacity is planned to increase to 143 Gigawatts (GW) by which year to strengthen the national power grid?

(a) 2028

(b) 2026

(c) 2027

(d) 2030

(e) 2032

7) What is the theme of the 11^th Raisina Dialogue 2026, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi?

(a) Saṁskāra – Assertion, Accommodation, Advancement

(b) Global Order in Transition

(c) Shaping Future Governments

(d) Building Resilient Democracies

(e) Cooperation for a Sustainable Future

 

8) In 2026, Romania officially became the 118th member country of which international organisation after depositing its Instrument of Ratification with India’s Ministry of External Affairs?

(a) International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA)

(b) International Solar Alliance (ISA)

(c) Global Solar Council (GSC)

(d) Clean Energy Ministerial (CEM)

(e) International Energy Agency (IEA)

9) During the State Visit of Finland’s President Alexander Stubb to India in March 2026, India and Finland elevated their bilateral ties to which Strategic Partnership?

(a) Strategic Partnership for Green Energy

(b) Strategic Partnership for Trade and Investment

(c) Strategic Partnership for Technology and Innovation

(d) Strategic Partnership for Digitalisation and Sustainability

(e) Strategic Partnership for Climate Action

10) Who has been appointed as the Interim CEO of Fino Payments Bank, as approved by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI)?

(a) Rishi Gupta

(b) Ketan Merchant

(c) Sudhir Gupta

(d) Amitava Chatterjee

(e) Anup Bagchi

11) Who was appointed as the third Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran by the Assembly of Experts after the death of Ali Khamenei?

(a) Mojtaba Khamenei

(b) Hassan Rouhani

(c) Alireza Arafi

(d) Ebrahim Raisi

(e) Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf

12) Who has taken charge as the Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director (CEO & MD) of Asset Reconstruction Company (India) Limited (Arcil) with effect from 8 March 2026?

(a) Pallav Mohapatra

(b) Rajkiran Rai

(c) Rashesh Shah

(d) Nitin Gupta

(e) Phanindranath Kakarla

 

13) What is the name of the large joint military exercise launched by the United States and South Korea on 9 March 2026 to strengthen defence cooperation and military readiness?

(a) Ulchi Freedom Guardian

(b) Pacific Thunder

(c) Iron Shield

(d) Freedom Shield

(e) Eagle Resolve

14) Who released the document “Defence Forces Vision 2047: A Roadmap for a Future-Ready Indian Military” in New Delhi on 10 March 2026?

(a) Narendra Modi

(b) Rajnath Singh

(c) Ajit Doval

(d) Anil Chauhan

(e) Giridhar Aramane

15) During International Women’s Day 2026 celebrations in Maharashtra, a Guinness World Record was set in Dombivli when 9,111 women and girls performed which traditional dance simultaneously?

(a) Lezim

(b) Lavani

(c) Garba

(d) Ghoomar

(e) Bharatanatyam

16) Which company partnered with Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay to establish the “IIT Bombay–Honeywell Centre of Excellence for Future Skills and Innovation” at the Powai campus?

(a) Microsoft

(b) IBM

(c) Google

(d) Siemens

(e) Honeywell

17) As of 2026, Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) – Chennai Unit signed an MoU with which organisation to provide assistive devices to 709 Divyaangans in Ramanathapuram and Sivagangai districts of Tamil Nadu?

(a) National Handicapped Finance and Development Corporation

(b) Rehabilitation Council of India

(c) National Institute for Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities

(d) Artificial Limbs Manufacturing Corporation of India (ALIMCO)

(e) National Trust for Welfare of Persons with Disabilities

18) In 2026, The Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati (IIT-G) signed an MoU with which international university group to strengthen research collaboration in artificial intelligence and healthcare?

(a) University of Oxford

(b) Coventry University Group

(c) University of Cambridge

(d) Imperial College London

(e) University College London

19) According to the Brand Finance Banking 500 Report 2026, which bank ranked first globally for the tenth consecutive year with a brand value of USD 90.9 billion?

(a) JPMorgan Chase

(b) HSBC

(c) Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC)

(d) Bank of America

(e) China Construction Bank

 

20) As of 2026, India submitted its 7th National Report to which international convention to assess progress toward 23 National Biodiversity Targets (NBTs) aligned with the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF)?

(a) Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD)

(b) United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC)

(c) Ramsar Convention on Wetlands

(d) Convention on Migratory Species (CMS)

(e) United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD)


21) In 2026, Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) signed an agreement on Joint Calibration and Validation Activities and Scientific Studies for Earth Observation Missions with which space agency?

(a) NASA

(b) Roscosmos

(c) European Space Agency (ESA)

(d) Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA)

(e) China National Space Administration (CNSA)

22) As of 2026, Researchers at the University of Waterloo, Canada developed a new method to convert plastic waste into acetic acid using which energy source?

(a) Wind energy

(b) Geothermal energy

(c) Hydropower

(d) Nuclear energy

(e) Sunlight

23) In 2026, Researchers from Berhampur University recorded the rare shrimp-like marine amphipod “Stenothoe lowryi” for the first time in Indian waters at which state?

(a) Andhra Pradesh

(b) Tamil Nadu

(c) Kerala

(d) Odisha

(e) West Bengal

24) In the first edition of the New Delhi World Para Athletics Grand Prix held in 2025, which country finished first in the medal tally?

(a) China

(b) India

(c) Russia

(d) Japan

(e) United States

25) In 2026, Lance Havildar (retd) K.G. George, who passed away,  was a Vir Chakra (VC) awardee of which war?

(a) Indo-China War 1962

(b) Indo-Pak Conflict 1947–48

(c) India–Pakistan War 1971

(d) Kargil War 1999

(e) India–Pakistan War 1965

Answers:

1) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

• The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) issued updated public statements on 13 February 2026 identifying jurisdictions with weaknesses in anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorist financing (CFT)
• In its document “High-Risk Jurisdictions subject to a Call for Action”, FATF reaffirmed that North Korea, Iran, and Myanmar remain high-risk jurisdictions with serious strategic deficiencies in their AML/CFT regimes.

Detailed Explanation:

• The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) issued updated public statements on 13 February 2026 identifying jurisdictions with weaknesses in anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorist financing (CFT)
• In its document “High-Risk Jurisdictions subject to a Call for Action”, FATF reaffirmed that North Korea, Iran, and Myanmar remain high-risk jurisdictions with serious strategic deficiencies in their AML/CFT regimes.
• Myanmar, added to the Call for Action list in October 2022, continues to remain on the list; countries are advised to apply enhanced due diligence measures while ensuring that humanitarian aid and remittance flows are not disrupted.
• FATFalso released a list of “Jurisdictions under Increased Monitoring” (Grey List), referring to countries working with FATF to address strategic AML/CFT deficiencies through agreed action plans.
• As per the February 2026 update, Kuwait and Papua New Guinea were newly added to the increased monitoring list, joining other countries already under monitoring.

2) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

• HDFC Bank Limitedand Swiggy, a food delivery and quick commerce platform, jointly launched two new co-branded credit cards: Swiggy BLCK HDFC Bank Credit Card and Swiggy Ornge HDFC Bank Credit Card.
• The launch expands their existing co-branded credit portfolio, which was introduced in 2023.

Detailed Explanation:

• HDFC Bank Limitedand Swiggy, a food delivery and quick commerce platform, jointly launched two new co-branded credit cards: Swiggy BLCK HDFC Bank Credit Card and Swiggy Ornge HDFC Bank Credit Card.
• These cards are aimed at providing travel and daily spending rewards across food, shopping, and lifestyle categories.
• The launch expands their existing co-branded credit portfolio, which was introduced in 2023.
• Objective: The cards are designed to cover different spending segments and offer rewards in the form of cashback on food delivery, quick commerce, online shopping, and travel.
• Phased Roll Out: The cards will be rolled out gradually and can be applied via the Swiggy app or HDFC Bank digital platforms.
  
  

3) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

• Jammu and Kashmir Bank (J&K Bank)has partnered with two non-banking financial companies (NBFCs) to expand its retail lending business, especially outside Jammu and Kashmir.
• The bank signed a co-lending agreement with Home First Finance Company India Limited to provide home loans.

Detailed Explanation:

• Jammu and Kashmir Bank (J&K Bank)has partnered with two non-banking financial companies (NBFCs) to expand its retail lending business, especially outside Jammu and Kashmir.
• The bank signed a co-lending agreement with Home First Finance Company India Limited to provide home loans.
• J&K Bankalso partnered with IIFL Finance to expand gold loan services.
• The agreements aim to increase credit outreach and strengthen retail loan offerings across India.
• The agreements were signed at the bank’s Jammu zonal office in the presence of MD & CEO Amitava Chatterjee, Executive Director Sudhir Gupta, and senior officials from the bank and partner institutions.
• Under the co-lending model, banks and NBFCs jointly finance loans, combining the bank’s deposit base and branch network with the NBFCs’ credit delivery mechanisms.

4) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

• The India Government has officially notified standards for green ammonia and green methanol under the National Green Hydrogen Mission to accelerate the adoption of hydrogen-based fuels and support the transition to cleaner energy systems.
• The new standards define how green ammonia and green methanol must be produced using renewable energy sources, ensuring that these fuels meet strict environmental sustainability criteria.

Detailed Explanation:

• The India Government has officially notified standards for green ammonia and green methanol under the National Green Hydrogen Mission to accelerate the adoption of hydrogen-based fuels and support the transition to cleaner energy systems.
• The new standards define how green ammonia and green methanol must be produced using renewable energy sources, ensuring that these fuels meet strict environmental sustainability criteria.
• The National Green Hydrogen Mission is the flagship initiative of the Government of India aimed at making India a global hub for green hydrogen production, utilisation and export.
• The mission focuses on reducing dependence on fossil fuels and promoting the use of renewable energy sources.
• By notifying the green ammonia and green methanol standards, the government aims to strengthen India’s hydrogen ecosystem.
  
  

5) Answer: E

Short Explanation:

• The Uttar Pradesh Government launched Project GANGA to provide high-speed internet connectivity to more than 20 lakh rural households over the next two to three years.
• The initiative aims to expand digital connectivity in rural and semi-urban areas, improve access to online services and create new employment opportunities.
• For the implementation of the project, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the State Transformation Commission (STC) and One OTT Entertainment Limited, a subsidiary of the Hinduja Group.

Detailed Explanation:

• The Uttar Pradesh Government launched Project GANGA to provide high-speed internet connectivity to more than 20 lakh rural households over the next two to three years.
• The initiative aims to expand digital connectivity in rural and semi-urban areas, improve access to online services and create new employment opportunities.
• For the implementation of the project, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the State Transformation Commission (STC) and One OTT Entertainment Limited, a subsidiary of the Hinduja Group.
• The project will focus on improving broadband connectivity in villages, enabling better access to online education, digital platforms and communication services.
• A key component of the project is the creation of Digital Service Providers (DSPs) at the Nyaya Panchayat level to deliver broadband and digital services.
• Around 8,000 to 10,000 local entrepreneurs will be selected as Digital Service Providers and will receive training, financial assistance, network infrastructure and technology support.

6) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

• The India Government announced that the country’s inter-regional power transmission capacity will increase to 143 Gigawatts (GW) by 2027 to strengthen electricity flow across regions.
• Currently, India’s inter-regional transmission capacity stands at around 120 GW as of December 2025.

Detailed Explanation:

• The India Government announced that the country’s inter-regional power transmission capacity will increase to 143 Gigawatts (GW) by 2027 to strengthen electricity flow across regions.
• Currently, India’s inter-regional transmission capacity stands at around 120 GW as of December 2025.
• The expansion is part of efforts to strengthen the National Power Grid and support the rapidly rising electricity demand across the country.
• Shripad Yesso Naik, Union Minister of State for Power, informed the Parliament of India that the national transmission network is being continuously expanded to match growing electricity generation and consumption.
• Under the government plan, India’s inter-regional transmission capacity will increase to:
  • 143 GW by 2027
  • 168 GW by 2032
• The expansion will enable electricity generated in one region to be efficiently transmitted to other regions with higher demand, improving overall grid efficiency.
• According to government projections, India’s peak electricity demand is expected to reach around 388 GW by 2032.

7) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

• Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, inaugurated the 11th edition of the Raisina Dialogue in New Delhi.
• Alexander Stubb, President of Finland, attended the inaugural session as the Chief Guest and delivered the keynote address.
• The theme of Raisina Dialogue 2026 is “Saṁskāra – Assertion, Accommodation, Advancement.”

Detailed Explanation:

• Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, inaugurated the 11th edition of the Raisina Dialogue in New Delhi.
• Alexander Stubb, President of Finland, attended the inaugural session as the Chief Guest and delivered the keynote address.
• The Raisina Dialogue is India’s flagship conference on geopolitics and geo-economics, focusing on major global challenges and international policy issues.
• The dialogue is witnessing participation from representatives of 110 countries, including Ministers, former Heads of State and Government, Members of Parliament, military commanders and industry leaders.
• The theme of Raisina Dialogue 2026 is “Saṁskāra – Assertion, Accommodation, Advancement.”
• Over three days, policymakers and global experts will engage in discussions across six thematic pillars.
• Key thematic pillars include “Contested Frontiers: Power, Polarity, and Periphery,” “Repairing the Commons: New Groups, New Guardians, New Avenues,” and “Trade in the Time of Tariffs: Recovery, Resilience, Reinvention.”
  
  

8) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

• Sena Latif, Ambassador of Romania, submitted the Instrument of Ratification to S. Gangadhar, Joint Secretary and Head of Depository at the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), confirming Romania’s ratification of the Framework Agreement of the International Solar Alliance (ISA).

Detailed Explanation:

• Sena Latif, Ambassador of Romania, submitted the Instrument of Ratification to S. Gangadhar, Joint Secretary and Head of Depository at the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), confirming Romania’s ratification of the Framework Agreement of the International Solar Alliance (ISA).
• In December 2023, the ISA announced that Romania signed the Framework Agreement, making it the 118th member country of the alliance.

The ratification was completed after Romania deposited its Instrument of Ratification, officially becoming a member of the ISA.

9) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

• Alexander Stubb, President of Finland, paid a four-day State Visit to India from 4–7 March 2026 at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, accompanied by a high-level delegation.
• The visit aimed to strengthen cooperation in digitalisation, sustainability, innovation, and trade, and elevated bilateral ties to a Strategic Partnership for Digitalisation and Sustainability.

Detailed Explanation:

• Alexander Stubb, President of Finland, paid a four-day State Visit to India from 4–7 March 2026 at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, accompanied by a high-level delegation.
• The visit aimed to strengthen cooperation in digitalisation, sustainability, innovation, and trade, and elevated bilateral ties to a Strategic Partnership for Digitalisation and Sustainability.
• This visit marked Alexander Stubb’s first visit to India in his current capacity as President of Finland.
• During the visit, PM Narendra Modi and President Alexander Stubb held bilateral discussions to enhance cooperation in trade, innovation, digital technologies, sustainability, and multilateral forums.

10) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) approved the appointment of Ketan Merchant, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of Fino Payments Bank, as the Interim Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the bank.

Detailed Explanation:

• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) approved the appointment of Ketan Merchant, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of Fino Payments Bank, as the Interim Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the bank.
• Ketan Merchantwill perform the duties of Managing Director (MD) and CEO under the Banking Regulation Act, 1949, for a period not exceeding four months from the date of RBI approval.
• He succeeded Rishi Gupta, the MD and CEO of Fino Payments Bank, who stepped aside after being arrested in connection with alleged Goods and Services Tax (GST)
  
  

11) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

• Mojtaba Khameneiwas appointed as the Supreme Leader of Iran by the Assembly of Experts following the death of his father, Ali Khamenei, in airstrikes.
• With this appointment, Mojtaba Khamenei became the third Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran.

Detailed Explanation:

• Mojtaba Khameneiwas appointed as the Supreme Leader of Iran by the Assembly of Experts following the death of his father, Ali Khamenei, in airstrikes.
• With this appointment, Mojtaba Khamenei became the third Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran.
• The Assembly of Experts, a constitutional body in Iran, is responsible for appointing and supervising the Supreme Leader.
• The decision to appoint Mojtaba Khamenei was taken after a decisive vote by the members of the Assembly of Experts.
• Mojtaba Khameneisucceeded Iranian cleric Alireza Arafi, who had been serving as the interim Supreme Leader of Iran.
  
  

12) Answer: E

Short Explanation:

• Phanindranath Kakarlahas taken charge as Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director (CEO & MD) of Asset Reconstruction Company (India) Limited (Arcil) with effect from 8 March 2026.

Detailed Explanation:

• Phanindranath Kakarlahas taken charge as Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director (CEO & MD) of Asset Reconstruction Company (India) Limited (Arcil) with effect from 8 March 2026.
• He succeeds Pallav Mohapatra, who had been leading Arcil since March 2021.
• Kakarlajoined Arcil on 2 April 2025 as President under a board-approved succession plan to ensure a smooth transition with Mohapatra’s tenure.
• Prior to Arcil, Phanindranath Kakarla held senior leadership positions at Edelweiss Group.
  
  

13) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

• The United States and South Korea began a large joint military exercise named Freedom Shield on 9 March 2026.
• The exercise involves thousands of troops, with about 18,000 South Korean troops participating, while the number of American troops has not been confirmed by US Forces Korea.
• Freedom Shieldwill continue until 19 March 2026, involving multiple training and operational activities, including live, virtual, constructive, and field-based exercises.

Detailed Explanation:

• The United States and South Korea began a large joint military exercise named Freedom Shield on 9 March 2026.
• The exercise involves thousands of troops, with about 18,000 South Korean troops participating, while the number of American troops has not been confirmed by US Forces Korea.
• Freedom Shieldwill continue until 19 March 2026, involving multiple training and operational activities, including live, virtual, constructive, and field-based exercises.
• The exercise is aimed at strengthening defence cooperation, military readiness, and operational coordination between the United States and South Korea.
• The drills are designed to reflect the Korea Theater of Operations, creating a combined, joint, all-domain, and interagency operating environment.

14) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

• Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singhreleased ‘Defence Forces Vision 2047: A Roadmap for a Future-Ready Indian Military’ at South Block, New Delhi on March 10, 2026.
• The vision document was articulated by Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff to transform the Defence Forces into a modern, integrated, and technologically-advanced military capable of supporting India’s aspiration to become Viksit Bharat by 2047.

Detailed Explanation:

• Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singhreleased ‘Defence Forces Vision 2047: A Roadmap for a Future-Ready Indian Military’ at South Block, New Delhi on March 10, 2026.
• The vision document was articulated by Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff to transform the Defence Forces into a modern, integrated, and technologically-advanced military capable of supporting India’s aspiration to become Viksit Bharat by 2047.
• The document outlines strategic reforms, capability enhancements, and organisational changes required to address the evolving geostrategic, technological, and security environment.
• It envisions the military transforming into an integrated, multi-domain, and agile force capable of deterring adversaries, responding across the full spectrum of conflict, and protecting expanding strategic interests amid rapidly changing global and regional dynamics
  
  

15) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

• International Women’s Day 2026was celebrated across Maharashtra with various events such as rallies, sports competitions, awareness campaigns and cultural performances under the theme “Give to Gain.” 
• A major highlight of the celebrations was a Guinness World Record Lezim dance performance held in Dombivli.

Detailed Explanation:

• International Women’s Day 2026was celebrated across Maharashtra with various events such as rallies, sports competitions, awareness campaigns and cultural performances under the theme “Give to Gain.” 
• Several districts organised marathons, bike rallies, sports events and vaccination drives to promote women’s empowerment, health awareness and community participation.
• A major highlight of the celebrations was a Guinness World Record Lezim dance performance held in Dombivli.
• A total of 9,111 women and girls from Dombivli and Kalyan performed the traditional Lezim dance simultaneously at the Savalaram Maharaj Sports Complex.
• The performance broke the previous world record of 7,338 participants, demonstrating collective participation of women while celebrating Maharashtra’s cultural heritage.
  
  

16) Answer: E

Short Explanation:

• Indian Institute of Technology Bombaypartnered with Honeywell to establish a Centre of Excellence (CoE) for sustainability skills and innovation at its Powai Campus in Mumbai.

Detailed Explanation:

• Indian Institute of Technology Bombaypartnered with Honeywell to establish a Centre of Excellence (CoE) for sustainability skills and innovation at its Powai Campus in Mumbai.
• The centre will be named the IIT Bombay–Honeywell Centre of Excellence for Future Skills and Innovation and aims to train over 100,000 students in sustainability-related fields by 2030 through industry–academia collaboration.
• The initiative is funded by the Honeywell Hometown Solutions India Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Honeywell in India.

17) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

• Bharat Electronics Limited – Chennai Unit (BEL-Chennai)signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Artificial Limbs Manufacturing Corporation of India (ALIMCO) to provide assistive devices to Persons with Disabilities (Divyaangans) in Ramanathapuram District and Sivagangai District of Tamil Nadu.

Detailed Explanation:

• Bharat Electronics Limited – Chennai Unit (BEL-Chennai)signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Artificial Limbs Manufacturing Corporation of India (ALIMCO) to provide assistive devices to Persons with Disabilities (Divyaangans) in Ramanathapuram District and Sivagangai District of Tamil Nadu.
• The MoU was signed by Jayandran, General Manager of BEL-Chennai, and A. V. Ashok Kumar, Senior Manager and Unit Head of ALIMCO, in the presence of Vikraman N, Director (Human Resources) of BEL.
• Under this initiative, 709 Divyaangans will receive specially designed assistive devices and equipment aimed at improving mobility, accessibility and quality of life.
• The programme targets beneficiaries in aspirational districts to promote inclusive development and social empowerment.
• The collaboration highlights the role of technology-driven solutions in supporting persons with disabilities and creating equitable opportunities in underserved regions.

18)Answer: B

Short Explanation:

• The Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati (IIT-G) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Coventry University Group (CUG), United Kingdom, to strengthen global research collaboration in artificial intelligence and healthcare.

Detailed Explanation:

• The Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati (IIT-G) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Coventry University Group (CUG), United Kingdom, to strengthen global research collaboration in artificial intelligence and healthcare.
• The agreement aims to promote academic mobility, joint research initiatives and collaborative degree programmes between the two institutions.
• The partnership is expected to expand India–United Kingdom cooperation in emerging technology sectors, particularly in the application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in healthcare systems.
• The MoU establishes a long-term strategic partnership focused on research collaboration, innovation and academic engagement between India and the United Kingdom.

19) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

• According to the Brand Finance Banking 500 Report 2026, the combined brand value of the world’s top 500 banking brands reached about 1.8 trillion US dollars in 2026, reflecting a 13% increase compared to 2025.
• Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC)ranked first globally for the tenth consecutive year, with a brand value of 90.9 billion US dollars and a AAA+ brand rating.

Detailed Explanation:

• According to the Brand Finance Banking 500 Report 2026, the combined brand value of the world’s top 500 banking brands reached about 1.8 trillion US dollars in 2026, reflecting a 13% increase compared to 2025.
• Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC)ranked first globally for the tenth consecutive year, with a brand value of 90.9 billion US dollars and a AAA+ brand rating.
• Chinese banks dominated the top positions, with four banks occupying the top four ranks, showing China’s strong presence in global banking.
• United States banks also maintained a strong presence, with five banks featured in the global top ten list.
• HSBCof the United Kingdom returned to the top 10 ranking for the first time since 2019, recording a 21.2% increase in brand value.

20) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

• Indiasubmitted its 7th National Report to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) assessing progress toward 23 National Biodiversity Targets (NBTs) and 142 indicators aligned with the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF).

Detailed Explanation:

• Indiasubmitted its 7th National Report to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) assessing progress toward 23 National Biodiversity Targets (NBTs) and 142 indicators aligned with the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF).
• The report states that only two out of 23 national biodiversity targets are currently on track, while the remaining targets have policy plans but lack quantitative evidence or clear projections for 2030.
• The report is India’s first full progress assessment since the adoption of the KMGBF in 2022, serving as a reality check on the country’s commitment to halt biodiversity loss by 2030.
• The report was prepared by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change with inputs from 33 central ministries, Wildlife Institute of India, National Biodiversity Authority, and technical support from the United Nations Development Programme.
  
  
  

Answer: C

Short Explanation:

• The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the European Space Agency (ESA) virtually signed an agreement titled “ESA–ISRO Arrangement concerning Joint Calibration and Validation Activities and Scientific Studies for Earth Observation Missions.”
• The agreement was signed by Ganesh Pillai, Scientific Secretary of ISRO, and Simonetta Cheli, Director of Earth Observation Programmes at ESA.
• The objective of the agreement is to improve the accuracy and reliability of satellite data used for climate monitoring, environmental research, and Earth science studies.

 

Detailed Explanation:

• The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the European Space Agency (ESA) virtually signed an agreement titled “ESA–ISRO Arrangement concerning Joint Calibration and Validation Activities and Scientific Studies for Earth Observation Missions.”
• The agreement was signed by Ganesh Pillai, Scientific Secretary of ISRO, and Simonetta Cheli, Director of Earth Observation Programmes at ESA.
• The objective of the agreement is to improve the accuracy and reliability of satellite data used for climate monitoring, environmental research, and Earth science studies.
• The ISRO–ESA cooperation began in 1978 and was renewed in 2002, strengthening long-term collaboration between the two major space agencies.
• The partnership covers multiple areas, including Earth Observation, navigation systems, ground station support, human spaceflight, deep-space communications, and support for missions like Chandrayaan and Aditya.
• ISRO’s Deep Space Antenna and ground station facilities have provided support for ESA and joint space missions.

22) Answer: E

Short Explanation:

• Researchersat the University of Waterloo, Canada, have developed an innovative method to convert plastic waste into acetic acid, the main component of vinegar, using only sunlight.
• The breakthrough provides a promising solution to tackle plastic pollution while producing a valuable industrial chemical.

Detailed Explanation:

• Researchersat the University of Waterloo, Canada, have developed an innovative method to convert plastic waste into acetic acid, the main component of vinegar, using only sunlight.
• The breakthrough provides a promising solution to tackle plastic pollution while producing a valuable industrial chemical.
• The technique relies on a light-driven chemical reaction that breaks down plastic materials into useful compounds without requiring extreme heat or toxic chemicals.
• Sunlight-powered plastic conversion: The research team, led by Professor Yimin Wu, designed a photocatalysis system where sunlight acts as the primary energy source to transform plastic polymers into acetic acid.
• The reaction occurs at room temperature, making it more energy-efficient than traditional chemical recycling methods.

23) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

• Marine science researchersfrom Berhampur University have recorded the presence of a rare shrimp-like marine amphipod species in Indian waters for the first time.
• The discovery was made at Arjyapalli in Odisha’s Ganjam district during a field survey of rocky coastal habitats.

Detailed Explanation:

• Marine science researchersfrom Berhampur University have recorded the presence of a rare shrimp-like marine amphipod species in Indian waters for the first time.
• The discovery was made at Arjyapalli in Odisha’s Ganjam district during a field survey of rocky coastal habitats.
• The species was identified as “Stenothoe lowryi”, which was previously reported only from Malaysia and whose distribution in other regions was largely unknown.
• The research was led by Shesdev Patro, Assistant Professor in the Department of Marine Science at Berhampur University, under the Mukhyamantri Research Innovation Extramural Programme (MRIEP) funded by the Odisha State Higher Education Council for the 2024–25 academic year.

24) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

• The second edition of the World Para Athletics Grand Prix 2026 – New Delhi will be held in New Delhi from March 11 to March 13, 2026.
• In the first edition of the New Delhi World Para Athletics Grand Prix held in 2025, India finished first in the medal tally.

Detailed Explanation:

• The second edition of the World Para Athletics Grand Prix 2026 – New Delhi will be held in New Delhi from March 11 to March 13, 2026.
• Participating countries include India, Russia, Nepal, Bhutan, Hong Kong, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Egypt.
• India will field the largest contingent with about 219 athletes, competing in multiple track and field events across different sport classifications.
• Leading Indian para-athletes participating in the event include Mariyappan Thangavelu, Sumit Antil and Praveen Kumar, all of whom are Paralympic gold medallists.
• Preeti Palcreated history at the Paris Paralympics 2024 by winning two bronze medals in the women’s 100 metres and 200 metres T35 events.
• In the first edition of the New Delhi World Para Athletics Grand Prix held in 2025, India finished first in the medal tally.

25) Answer: E

• Lance Havildar (retd) K.G. George, a Vir Chakra (VC) awardee of the 1965 India–Pakistan War, passed away in Kottayam, Kerala, at the age of 95.
• He was born in February 1931 in Kerala.
• He served in the Indian Army (IA) in the Corps of Signals, the army’s communication arm, which was established on 15 February 1911.