Dear Readers, Daily Current Affairs Questions Quiz for SBI, IBPS, RBI, RRB, SSC Exam 2026 of  12th & 13th  July  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) As per the news, Financial Intelligence Unit–India (FIU-IND) secured which position at the Best Egmont Case Award (BECA) 2026 during the Egmont Group Plenary held in Baku, Azerbaijan?

(a) Winner

(b) Runner-up

(c) Second Runner-up

(d) Special Jury Award

(e) Excellence Award

 

2) As per the news, under the Ahimsa Investment Movement (AIM) Framework, companies are classified into which categories based on the impact of their products, services, and business practices on animals?

(a) Green, Orange, and Red bands

(b) Platinum, Gold, and Silver bands

(c) A, B, and C grades

(d) Sustainable, Transitional, and Conventional categories

(e) Low, Medium, and High Impact categories

 

3) As per the news, how much loan has the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) committed as part of the World Bank’s $890 million financing package for India's PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana?

(a) $600 million

(b) $700 million

(c) $820 million

(d) $850 million

(e) $890 million

 

4) As per the All-India Survey on Higher Education (AISHE) 2023–24, consider the following statements:

1. The Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) in higher education increased to 30.0 in 2023–24.
2. The Gender Parity Index (GPI) stood at 1.08, indicating that female enrolment exceeded male enrolment.
3. Total enrolment in higher education reached an all-time high of 4.5 crore students in 2023–24.

(a) Only Statement 1 is correct

(b) Only Statements 1 and 2 are correct

(c) Only Statements 2 and 3 are correct

(d) All the above

(e) Only Statements 1 and 3 are correct

 

5) As per the news, who launched the new Letter of Authorisation (LoA) regime to promote sustainable high-seas fishing and strengthen India's Blue Economy?

(a) Narendra Modi

(b) Jagdeep Dhankhar

(c) Rajnath Singh

(d) Shivraj Singh Chouhan

(e) Sarbananda Sonowal

 

6) As per the news, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) won the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) Prize 2026 for which flagship initiative?

(a) PM-WANI

(b) BharatNet Phase III

(c) Samriddh Gram: Integrated Phygital Service Delivery Model

(d) Digital India Bhashini Mission

(e) National Broadband Mission

 

7) As per the news, who has been appointed as the Managing Director (MD) for OpenAI India Operations?

(a) Sam Altman

(b) Kevin Weil

(c) Brad Lightcap

(d) Mira Murati

(e) Prabhjeet Singh

 

8) As per the news, the Carl Gustaf Mark-IV (M4) 84 mm lightweight recoilless rocket launcher is developed by which company?

(a) Lockheed Martin

(b) BAE Systems

(c) Thales Group

(d) Saab

(e) Rheinmetall

 

9) As per the news, NASA astronaut Anil Menon is scheduled to launch to the International Space Station (ISS) aboard which spacecraft?

(a) SpaceX Crew Dragon

(b) Boeing Starliner

(c) Soyuz MS-29

(d) Orion

(e) Tianzhou-10

 

10) As per the news, the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) plans to centralise the National Bridge Health Monitoring Software by involving which institution?

(a) IIT Madras

(b) IIT Delhi

(c) IIT Bombay

(d) IISc Bengaluru

(e) NIT Tiruchirappalli

11) As per the news, which semiconductor foundry is associated with DeepSeek's custom AI chip project?

(a) Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC)

(b) Intel Foundry Services

(c) GlobalFoundries

(d) Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corporation (SMIC)

(e) Samsung Foundry

 

12) As per the news, PROMISE (Polar Rover for Observation, Mapping, and In-Situ Exploration) is being considered by NASA for deployment under which programme?

(a) Apollo Programme

(b) Artemis Programme

(c) Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS)

(d) Lunar Gateway Programme

(e) Mars Sample Return Mission

 

13)  As per the news, India’s first mobile “Liquid Tree” (SALT) was developed by which institution?

(a) CSIR–National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (CSIR-NEERI)

(b) Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru

(c) CSIR–Central Institute of Mining and Fuel Research (CSIR-CIMFR)

(d) Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi

(e) National Botanical Research Institute (NBRI)

 

14) As per the news, South Korea's 4th next-generation medium-sized Earth Observation Satellite has been developed under which organisation?

(a) Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST)

(b) Korea Aerospace Research Institute (KARI)

(c) Korea Meteorological Administration (KMA)

(d) Ministry of Science and ICT

(e) Korea AeroSpace Administration (KASA)

 

15) As per the news, the newly inaugurated International Centre for Civilizational Studies in Bishkek is named after which two epics?

(a) Ramayana and Iliad

(b) Mahabharata and Odyssey

(c) Manas and Mahabharata

(d) Shahnameh and Ramayana

(e) Manas and Gilgamesh

 

16) As per the news, the Australia-India Partnership for Cyber, Critical Technologies and Supply Chains (PACTS) focuses on how many key pillars?

(a) Three

(b) Four

(c) Six

(d) Five

(e) Seven

 

17) As per the news, Sourav Ganguly became the _____ Indian cricketer to be inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame.

(a) 12th

(b) 11th

(c) 10^th

(d) 13th

(e) 14th

 

18) As per the news, World Malala Day is observed every year on____________

(a) 10 July

(b) 12 July

(c) 13 July

(d) 15 July

(e) 24 October

 

19) As per the news, TIME Magazine included Malala Yousafzai among the World's Most Influential People in which year?

(a) 2011

(b) 2012

(c) 2013

(d) 2014

(e) 2015

 

20) As per the news, consider the following statements regarding OpenAI's GPT-5.6:

1. OpenAI develops the GPT (Generative Pre-trained Transformer) series of Large Language Models (LLMs).
2. Terra is the base variant of GPT-5.6.
3. Luna offers performance comparable to GPT-5.5 at nearly half the cost.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

(a) Only Statement 1 is correct

(b) Only Statements 1 and 2 are correct

(c) Only Statements 2 and 3 are correct

(d) All the above

(e) Only Statement 3 is correct

 

Answers:

1) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

Financial Intelligence Unit–India (FIU-IND) secured the Runner-up position at the Best Egmont Case Award (BECA) 2026 during the Egmont Group Plenary held in Baku, Azerbaijan.

The achievement came under the leadership of Shri Amit Mohan Govil, Director, FIU-IND.

The Best Egmont Case Award (BECA) is one of the highest honours of the Egmont Group, recognising excellence in financial intelligence, international cooperation, and efforts to combat money laundering and terrorist financing.

Detailed Explanation:

Financial Intelligence Unit–India (FIU-IND) secured the Runner-up position at the Best Egmont Case Award (BECA) 2026 during the Egmont Group Plenary held in Baku, Azerbaijan.

The achievement came under the leadership of Shri Amit Mohan Govil, Director, FIU-IND.

The Best Egmont Case Award (BECA) is one of the highest honours of the Egmont Group, recognising excellence in financial intelligence, international cooperation, and efforts to combat money laundering and terrorist financing.

FIU-IND’s case was selected as one of only two finalist cases from 182 member jurisdictions of the Egmont Group, before being declared the Runner-up.

The investigation originated from intelligence shared by the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) regarding a large-scale cyber fraud.

FIU-IND uncovered a sophisticated money laundering network involving approximately ₹868 crore in cyber fraud proceeds, over 5,000 mule bank accounts, and cross-border cryptocurrency transactions.

 

2) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

NSE Indices Limited, the index services subsidiary of the National Stock Exchange (NSE), launched the Nifty500 Ahimsa Index.

The Nifty500 Ahimsa Index is a thematic index that tracks companies from the Nifty 500 universe whose business practices follow the principles of Ahimsa (non-violence).

The index was developed in collaboration with the Ahimsagain Foundation using the Ahimsa Investment Movement (AIM) Framework.

Under the AIM Framework, companies are classified into Green, Orange, and Red bands based on the impact of their products, services, and business practices on animals.

Detailed Explanation:

NSE Indices Limited, the index services subsidiary of the National Stock Exchange (NSE), launched the Nifty500 Ahimsa Index.

The Nifty500 Ahimsa Index is a thematic index that tracks companies from the Nifty 500 universe whose business practices follow the principles of Ahimsa (non-violence).

The index excludes companies involved in activities that harm animals, enabling values-based and ethical investing.

The index was developed in collaboration with the Ahimsagain Foundation using the Ahimsa Investment Movement (AIM) Framework.

Under the AIM Framework, companies are classified into Green, Orange, and Red bands based on the impact of their products, services, and business practices on animals.

Only Green-band companies are eligible for inclusion, while Orange and Red-band companies are excluded from the index.

The index provides diversified sectoral representation by selecting eligible companies from the Nifty 500, while promoting responsible and sustainable business practices.

 

3) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

The World Bank Board of Executive Directors approved an $890 million financing package for India’s national rooftop solar programme on 9–10 July 2026.

The funding supports PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana, India’s flagship residential rooftop solar scheme for rural and urban households.

The scheme aims to install rooftop solar systems in 10 million households across India, promoting clean energy generation and grid-connected electricity supply.

The financing package includes an $820 million loan from the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD), a $60 million concessional loan from the Clean Technology Fund (CTF), and a $10 million grant from the IBRD’s Livable Planet Fund.

Detailed Explanation:

The World Bank Board of Executive Directors approved an $890 million financing package for India’s national rooftop solar programme on 9–10 July 2026.

The funding supports PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana, India’s flagship residential rooftop solar scheme for rural and urban households.

The scheme aims to install rooftop solar systems in 10 million households across India, promoting clean energy generation and grid-connected electricity supply.

The financing package includes an $820 million loan from the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD), a $60 million concessional loan from the Clean Technology Fund (CTF), and a $10 million grant from the IBRD’s Livable Planet Fund.

The programme is expected to mobilise an additional $4.2 billion in private financing through commercial loans for residential rooftop solar installations.

The initiative is projected to create around 1.7 million jobs across the renewable energy manufacturing, installation, and services value chain.

The financing aims to reduce financial barriers for households and strengthen the capacity of Distribution Companies (DISCOMs), banks, and solar equipment vendors.

DISCOMs (Distribution Companies) are key entities responsible for electricity distribution and consumer services in India.

Rooftop solar systems generate electricity at the point of consumption, helping reduce household electricity bills and improving energy security.

The scheme also promotes domestic manufacturing of rooftop solar equipment, supporting the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.

4) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

The Union Ministry of Education released the All-India Survey on Higher Education (AISHE) Reports for 2022–23 and 2023–24, highlighting record growth in higher education enrolment, Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER), women's participation, Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education, and enrolment of Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), and Other Backward Classes (OBCs).

The Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) in higher education increased to 30.0 in 2023–24, compared to 29.5 in 2022–23 and 23.7 in 2014–15, reflecting improved access to higher education among the 18–23 years age group.

Female enrolment rose to 2.24 crore in 2023–24, up from 2.18 crore in 2022–23 and 1.57 crore in 2014–15, recording an increase of 42.2% since 2014–15. The female Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) stood at 31.2, higher than the national average.

The Gender Parity Index (GPI) reached 1.08 in 2023–24 and has remained above 1 for the past seven years, indicating that female enrolment exceeds male enrolment in higher education.

Detailed Explanation:

The Union Ministry of Education released the All-India Survey on Higher Education (AISHE) Reports for 2022–23 and 2023–24, highlighting record growth in higher education enrolment, Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER), women's participation, Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education, and enrolment of Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), and Other Backward Classes (OBCs).

The All-India Survey on Higher Education (AISHE) is the Government of India's annual web-based survey that collects data from universities, colleges, and standalone higher education institutions on student enrolment, faculty, infrastructure, academic programmes, examination results, and institutional facilities.

Total enrolment in higher education reached an all-time high of 4.5 crore students in 2023–24, registering a 31.5% increase from 3.42 crore in 2014–15.

The Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) in higher education increased to 30.0 in 2023–24, compared to 29.5 in 2022–23 and 23.7 in 2014–15, reflecting improved access to higher education among the 18–23 years age group.

Female enrolment rose to 2.24 crore in 2023–24, up from 2.18 crore in 2022–23 and 1.57 crore in 2014–15, recording an increase of 42.2% since 2014–15. The female Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) stood at 31.2, higher than the national average.

The Gender Parity Index (GPI) reached 1.08 in 2023–24 and has remained above 1 for the past seven years, indicating that female enrolment exceeds male enrolment in higher education.

 

5) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar launched the new Letter of Authorisation (LoA) regime to promote sustainable high-seas fishing, enhance the income of fishing communities, and strengthen India's Blue Economy.

The Letter of Authorisation (LoA) is a regulatory mechanism that authorises Indian fishing vessels to undertake fishing operations in the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and the high seas through a simplified and transparent approval process.

Detailed Explanation:

Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar launched the new Letter of Authorisation (LoA) regime to promote sustainable high-seas fishing, enhance the income of fishing communities, and strengthen India's Blue Economy.

The Letter of Authorisation (LoA) is a regulatory mechanism that authorises Indian fishing vessels to undertake fishing operations in the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and the high seas through a simplified and transparent approval process.

The initiative aims to promote sustainable deep-sea fishing, increase access to high-value marine species, reduce pressure on overexploited coastal fisheries, and improve the utilisation of marine resources.

India has a coastline of over 11,000 kilometres and an Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of nearly 2.4 million square kilometres (24 lakh sq. km.), but most fishing activities are currently confined within 40–50 nautical miles from the coast.

The new regime is expected to strengthen Fish Farmer Producer Organisations (FFPOs) and fishing cooperatives, generate employment opportunities, increase seafood exports, and expand India's presence in the global seafood market.

 

6) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT), under the Ministry of Communications, won the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) Prize 2026 for its flagship Samriddh Gram: Integrated Phygital Service Delivery Model, enabled by the BharatNet initiative.

The award was presented during the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) Forum 2026 held in Geneva, Switzerland, under Action Line C6 – Enabling Environment.

Detailed Explanation:

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT), under the Ministry of Communications, won the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) Prize 2026 for its flagship Samriddh Gram: Integrated Phygital Service Delivery Model, enabled by the BharatNet initiative.

The award was presented during the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) Forum 2026 held in Geneva, Switzerland, under Action Line C6 – Enabling Environment.

Samriddh Gram is a rural digital transformation initiative built on the BharatNet broadband network to convert digital connectivity into socio-economic opportunities by establishing Samriddhi Kendras in villages across India.

Samriddhi Kendras function as integrated "phygital" service centres, combining digital platforms with assisted physical services to improve access to government services, financial inclusion, healthcare, education, skill development, and agricultural support, especially for citizens with limited digital literacy.

The initiative was recognised for demonstrating how telecommunication infrastructure, Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), and community participation can improve public service delivery and promote inclusive rural development.

 

7) Answer: E

Short Explanation:

OpenAI has appointed Prabhjeet Singh, former Head of Uber India and South Asia, as the Managing Director (MD) for India Operations.

As Managing Director, Prabhjeet Singh will lead consumer growth, enterprise adoption, and strategic partnerships for OpenAI in India.

OpenAI also announced the limited preview release of its latest AI model family, GPT-5.6.

Detailed Explanation:

OpenAI has appointed Prabhjeet Singh, former Head of Uber India and South Asia, as the Managing Director (MD) for India Operations.

As Managing Director, Prabhjeet Singh will lead consumer growth, enterprise adoption, and strategic partnerships for OpenAI in India.

OpenAI also announced the limited preview release of its latest AI model family, GPT-5.6.

The GPT-5.6 rollout will be phased, while the company coordinates with the United States (U.S.) Government for wider public availability.

GPT-5.6 introduces three variants: Sol (flagship model), Terra (mid-tier model), and Luna (base model).

Terra offers performance comparable to GPT-5.5 at nearly half the cost, making it a more cost-effective AI model.

Luna is designed to provide faster AI responses and is available without requiring a subscription.

 

8) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

Indian Army issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) in July 2026 to procure 450 Carl Gustaf Mark-IV (M4) 84 mm lightweight recoilless rocket launchers.

The Carl Gustaf M4 is a shoulder-fired, multi-role recoilless rifle system designed for infantry support, anti-armour operations, bunker destruction, and battlefield combat.

The Carl Gustaf weapon system is developed by Saab, Sweden, and has been in service with the Indian Army since 1974 through earlier M2 and M3 variants.

Detailed Explanation:

Indian Army issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) in July 2026 to procure 450 Carl Gustaf Mark-IV (M4) 84 mm lightweight recoilless rocket launchers.

The Carl Gustaf M4 is a shoulder-fired, multi-role recoilless rifle system designed for infantry support, anti-armour operations, bunker destruction, and battlefield combat.

The Carl Gustaf weapon system is developed by Saab, Sweden, and has been in service with the Indian Army since 1974 through earlier M2 and M3 variants.

The M4 variant weighs less than 7 kg, compared to 14 kg (M2) and 10 kg (M3), significantly improving mobility and endurance, especially in high-altitude regions.

The Carl Gustaf M4 will be manufactured in India at Saab’s facility in Reliance MET City, Jhajjar, Haryana.

Saab’s Jhajjar facility is India’s first fully foreign-owned defence manufacturing unit, established after receiving approval for 100% Foreign Direct Investment (FDI).

Construction of the Saab manufacturing plant began in March 2024, supporting both Indian Armed Forces and global export markets.

 

9) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) astronaut Anil Menon is scheduled to launch to the International Space Station (ISS) on 14 July 2026 aboard the Roscosmos Soyuz MS-29 spacecraft.

The launch will take place from the Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan.

Anil Menon will travel with Roscosmos cosmonauts Pyotr Dubrov and Anna Kikina as part of Expedition 74/75.

The Soyuz MS-29 spacecraft will automatically dock with the Prichal module of the ISS after a two-orbit, three-hour journey.

Detailed Explanation:

National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) astronaut Anil Menon is scheduled to launch to the International Space Station (ISS) on 14 July 2026 aboard the Roscosmos Soyuz MS-29 spacecraft.

The launch will take place from the Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan.

Anil Menon will travel with Roscosmos cosmonauts Pyotr Dubrov and Anna Kikina as part of Expedition 74/75.

The Soyuz MS-29 spacecraft will automatically dock with the Prichal module of the ISS after a two-orbit, three-hour journey.

On arrival, the crew will join NASA astronauts Jessica Meir, Jack Hathaway, Chris Williams, ESA astronaut Sophie Adenot, and Roscosmos cosmonauts Sergey Kud-Sverchkov, Serhei Mikaev, and Andrey Fedyaev.

The mission will last approximately 8 months, with the crew expected to return to Earth in April 2027.

This will be Anil Menon’s first spaceflight since being selected as a NASA astronaut in 2021 and completing astronaut training in March 2024.

10) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

The Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) plans to centralise the National Bridge Health Monitoring Software by involving Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras and the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC).

The software is linked to the Bridge Health Monitoring System (BHMS), which uses sensor-based technology for real-time monitoring of bridges on the National Highway network.

The Bridge Health Monitoring System (BHMS) continuously monitors bridge movement, stress, vibration, and structural health using sensors installed on bridge components.

Detailed Explanation:

The Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) plans to centralise the National Bridge Health Monitoring Software by involving Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras and the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC).

The software is linked to the Bridge Health Monitoring System (BHMS), which uses sensor-based technology for real-time monitoring of bridges on the National Highway network.

The Bridge Health Monitoring System (BHMS) continuously monitors bridge movement, stress, vibration, and structural health using sensors installed on bridge components.

The Ministry has introduced a standardised Model Request for Proposal (Model RFP) for all future BHMS projects.

Under the new policy, the supply, installation, and maintenance of sensors will be awarded separately through competitive bidding.

All BHMS components in highway contracts where physical work has not yet started will be de-scoped and re-tendered using the new Model RFP.

The objective is to create a uniform framework for deploying continuous real-time bridge monitoring systems across India's National Highway network

11) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

DeepSeek is a Chinese Artificial Intelligence (AI) startup headquartered in Hangzhou, China.

In July 2026, DeepSeek was linked to the development of a custom AI chip designed for AI inference workloads and to reduce China’s dependence on foreign semiconductor technology.

Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corporation (SMIC), China’s largest semiconductor foundry, is associated with the project.

Detailed Explanation:

DeepSeek is a Chinese Artificial Intelligence (AI) startup headquartered in Hangzhou, China.

In July 2026, DeepSeek was linked to the development of a custom AI chip designed for AI inference workloads and to reduce China’s dependence on foreign semiconductor technology.

AI Inference is the stage where a trained AI model processes inputs and generates outputs such as text, images, or predictions.

AI Training is the process of building an AI model using large datasets and high computational power, requiring more advanced hardware than inference.

The AI chip project reportedly began around July 2025 and remained in an early development stage during 2026.

DeepSeek has been recruiting chip-design engineers and holding discussions with semiconductor foundries and memory manufacturers for chip production.

Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corporation (SMIC), China’s largest semiconductor foundry, is associated with the project.

12) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is considering repurposing PROMISE (Polar Rover for Observation, Mapping, and In-Situ Exploration) into a lunar rover for the Artemis Programme.

PROMISE is a full-scale engineering model that was originally built to support the Curiosity and Perseverance Mars rover missions.

If approved, PROMISE will explore the Moon’s South Pole, one of the key target regions of the Artemis Programme.

Detailed Explanation:

National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is considering repurposing PROMISE (Polar Rover for Observation, Mapping, and In-Situ Exploration) into a lunar rover for the Artemis Programme.

PROMISE is a full-scale engineering model that was originally built to support the Curiosity and Perseverance Mars rover missions.

If approved, PROMISE will explore the Moon’s South Pole, one of the key target regions of the Artemis Programme.

The rover will map lunar terrain, search for water ice and other resources, identify sites for future lunar infrastructure, and support NASA’s long-term goal of establishing a permanent human presence on the Moon.

PROMISE is powered by a Radioisotope Thermoelectric Generator (RTG), a nuclear power source that generates electricity from the natural decay of radioactive material.

 

13) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

Scientists at the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research–Central Institute of Mining and Fuel Research (CSIR-CIMFR), Dhanbad, Jharkhand, developed India’s first mobile “Liquid Tree”, called the Smart Algal Liquid Tree (SALT).

SALT (Smart Algal Liquid Tree) is an innovative air purification system designed to improve air quality in densely populated urban and industrial areas where planting conventional trees is difficult.

Detailed Explanation:

Scientists at the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research–Central Institute of Mining and Fuel Research (CSIR-CIMFR), Dhanbad, Jharkhand, developed India’s first mobile “Liquid Tree”, called the Smart Algal Liquid Tree (SALT).

SALT (Smart Algal Liquid Tree) is an innovative air purification system designed to improve air quality in densely populated urban and industrial areas where planting conventional trees is difficult.

SALT is a compact container filled with water and microalgae, which are microscopic single-celled organisms that perform photosynthesis by absorbing carbon dioxide (CO₂) and releasing oxygen (O₂).

Microalgae are responsible for generating nearly 50% of the Earth’s oxygen through photosynthesis.

SALT works by drawing or bubbling polluted air through the algae-filled tank, where CO₂ is absorbed, oxygen is released, and certain air pollutants are trapped or biologically processed.

14) Answer: E

Short Explanation:

South Korea is set to launch its 4th next-generation medium-sized Earth Observation Satellite aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base, California, USA.

The satellite has been developed under the Korea AeroSpace Administration (KASA).

The 500-kg satellite carries indigenous high-resolution imaging payloads capable of capturing images of the entire Korean Peninsula every three days.

The satellite will be placed in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) at an altitude of approximately 888 km.

Detailed Explanation:

South Korea is set to launch its 4th next-generation medium-sized Earth Observation Satellite aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base, California, USA.

The satellite has been developed under the Korea AeroSpace Administration (KASA).

The 500-kg satellite carries indigenous high-resolution imaging payloads capable of capturing images of the entire Korean Peninsula every three days.

The satellite will be placed in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) at an altitude of approximately 888 km.

After launch, the satellite will undergo four months of in-orbit testing before becoming fully operational in the first half of 2027.

The Earth Observation Satellite will support agriculture, forest management, disaster response, climate change monitoring, environmental observation, and public safety.

15) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

India and Kyrgyzstan strengthened their cultural and academic partnership with the inauguration of the International Centre for Civilizational Studies “Manas and Mahabharata” in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan.

The centre has been established by the Manas National Academy in collaboration with the Centre for the Studies of International Relations (CSIR), New Delhi, to promote comparative civilizational research, cultural diplomacy, and academic exchanges.

Detailed Explanation:

India and Kyrgyzstan strengthened their cultural and academic partnership with the inauguration of the International Centre for Civilizational Studies “Manas and Mahabharata” in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan.

The centre has been established by the Manas National Academy in collaboration with the Centre for the Studies of International Relations (CSIR), New Delhi, to promote comparative civilizational research, cultural diplomacy, and academic exchanges.

The centre aims to encourage interdisciplinary research on the Mahabharata of India and the Manas epic of Kyrgyzstan, covering areas such as history, literature, philosophy, international relations, and cultural studies.

The initiative seeks to promote civilizational dialogue, humanitarian diplomacy, international research collaboration, faculty and student exchanges, and studies on the shared historical and cultural heritage of the Eurasian region.

During the event, trilateral cooperation agreements were signed between the Manas National Academy, the Centre for the Studies of International Relations (CSIR), New Delhi, and seven leading universities of Kyrgyzstan to facilitate joint research projects, academic partnerships, and educational exchange programmes.

As part of the event, the first Hindi translation of the Kyrgyz national epic "Manas" was released. The translation was prepared by Professor Hem Chandra Pande and Professor Ramakant Dwivedi, based on the Russian poetic adaptation by Mar Baizhiev, and includes the three major sections—Manas, Semetey, and Seitek.

 

16) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

India and Australia launched the Australia-India Partnership for Cyber, Critical Technologies and Supply Chains (PACTS) during the third India- Australia Annual Summit held in Melbourne, Australia, in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

The partnership focuses on five key pillars: Supply Chain Flexibility and Diversification, Critical Technologies, Cybersecurity, Digital Resilience, and Defence Research Cooperation.

Detailed Explanation:

India and Australia launched the Australia-India Partnership for Cyber, Critical Technologies and Supply Chains (PACTS) during the third India- Australia Annual Summit held in Melbourne, Australia, in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

The Australia-India Partnership for Cyber, Critical Technologies and Supply Chains (PACTS) aims to strengthen cooperation in cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, semiconductors, critical minerals, digital resilience, defence research, and resilient supply chains.

The partnership will bring together government institutions, private companies, universities, research organisations, and defence technology developers to promote innovation, technology collaboration, investment, and commercialisation of research.

The partnership focuses on five key pillars: Supply Chain Flexibility and Diversification, Critical Technologies, Cybersecurity, Digital Resilience, and Defence Research Cooperation.

The initiative seeks to enhance economic resilience, strengthen national security, reduce dependence on single-country supply chains, and ensure secure access to critical technologies and strategic minerals.

 

17) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

Former India captain Sourav Ganguly was inducted into the International Cricket Council (ICC) Hall of Fame, becoming the 12th Indian cricketer to receive one of cricket's highest individual honours.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) Hall of Fame recognises retired cricketers who have made exceptional contributions to the game through outstanding performances, leadership, and lasting impact on international cricket.

Detailed Explanation:

Former India captain Sourav Ganguly was inducted into the International Cricket Council (ICC) Hall of Fame, becoming the 12th Indian cricketer to receive one of cricket's highest individual honours.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) Hall of Fame recognises retired cricketers who have made exceptional contributions to the game through outstanding performances, leadership, and lasting impact on international cricket.

Popularly known as "Dada", Sourav Ganguly is credited with transforming Indian cricket through his aggressive leadership, building a fearless team, and laying the foundation for India's success in international cricket.

Under his captaincy, India reached the 2003 International Cricket Council (ICC) Cricket World Cup Final, registered several memorable overseas Test victories, and nurtured future stars such as Mahendra Singh (MS) Dhoni, Virender Sehwag, Harbhajan Singh, Yuvraj Singh, and Zaheer Khan.

 

18) Answer: B

World Malala Day is observed annually on 12 July to honour Malala Yousafzai and raise awareness about the right to education, women's empowerment, and children's rights across the world.

The United Nations (UN) declared 12 July as Malala Day in recognition of Malala Yousafzai's contribution to promoting girls' education and human rights.

Malala Yousafzai was born on 12 July 1997 in Mingora, Pakistan. In 2014, at the age of 17, she became the youngest-ever recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize for her advocacy of girls' education.

19) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

TIME Magazine included Malala Yousafzai among the World's Most Influential People in 2013. She has also received the United Nations Human Rights Prize and the Liberty Medal.

In 2017, Malala Yousafzai joined the University of Oxford for higher education and continues to campaign globally for girls' education and women's rights through the Malala Fund.

Detailed Explanation:

World Malala Day is observed annually on 12 July to honour Malala Yousafzai and raise awareness about the right to education, women's empowerment, and children's rights across the world.

On her 16th birthday (12 July 2013), Malala addressed the United Nations (UN) Youth Assembly in New York, delivering a landmark speech advocating universal access to education.

TIME Magazine included Malala Yousafzai among the World's Most Influential People in 2013. She has also received the United Nations Human Rights Prize and the Liberty Medal.

In 2017, Malala Yousafzai joined the University of Oxford for higher education and continues to campaign globally for girls' education and women's rights through the Malala Fund.

 

20) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

GPT-5.6 introduces three variants: Sol (flagship model), Terra (mid-tier model), and Luna (base model).

Terra offers performance comparable to GPT-5.5 at nearly half the cost, making it a more cost-effective AI model.

Luna is designed to provide faster AI responses and is available without requiring a subscription.

OpenAI develops the GPT (Generative Pre-trained Transformer) series of Large Language Models (LLMs) used for text generation, reasoning, coding, and AI-powered applications.

Detailed Explanation:

OpenAI also announced the limited preview release of its latest AI model family, GPT-5.6.

The GPT-5.6 rollout will be phased, while the company coordinates with the United States (U.S.) Government for wider public availability.

GPT-5.6 introduces three variants: Sol (flagship model), Terra (mid-tier model), and Luna (base model).

Terra offers performance comparable to GPT-5.5 at nearly half the cost, making it a more cost-effective AI model.

Luna is designed to provide faster AI responses and is available without requiring a subscription.

OpenAI is an American Artificial Intelligence (AI) research organisation known for developing Generative AI technologies.

OpenAI develops the GPT (Generative Pre-trained Transformer) series of Large Language Models (LLMs) used for text generation, reasoning, coding, and AI-powered applications.