Dear Readers, Daily Current Affairs Questions Quiz for SBI, IBPS, RBI, RRB, SSC Exam 2026 of 14th January 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) According to the World Gold Council (WGC), India’s gold ETF holdings were 57.5 tonnes in 2024, showing a sharp rise in investor participation. Which Indian gold Exchange Traded Fund (ETF) ranked among the top 15 gold ETFs globally in terms of net inflows during 2025?

(a) HDFC Gold ETF

(b) SBI Gold ETF

(c) ICICI Prudential Gold ETF

(d) Nippon India ETF Gold BeES

(e) Kotak Gold ETF

2) With reference to India’s retail inflation (CPI) in December 2025, consider the following statements:

1. CPI inflation fell to 1.33%, the lowest level in three months.
2. The moderation in inflation was mainly driven by a sharp decline in food prices.
3. Both rural and urban inflation remained within the RBI’s tolerance band of 2–6%.
4. The current base year for calculating CPI in India is 2012.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

(a) 1, 2 and 4 only

(b) 1, 2 and 3 only

(c) 1, 3 and 4 only

(d) 2, 3 and 4 only

(e) 1, 2, 3 and 4

3) Which state has emerged as the top-performing large state in generating APAAR (Automated Permanent Academic Account Registry) IDs, achieving about 88.63% coverage of enrolled students as of January 2026?

(a) Chhattisgarh

(b) Madhya Pradesh

(c) Rajasthan

(d) Odisha

(e) Jharkhand

4) The 25th All India Major Port Cultural Meet 2025–26, which concluded at Jayadev Sadan after four days of cultural performances, was hosted by which port authority?

(a) Mumbai Port Authority

(b) Deendayal Port Authority

(c) Cochin Port Authority

(d) Chennai Port Authority

(e) Paradip Port Authority

5) In 2026, India ranks as the world’s ______ largest fish producer, contributing about ______ of global fish production.

(a) 1st; 15%

(b) 2nd; 8%

(c) 3rd; 10%

(d) 4th; 6%

(e) 5th; 5%

6) The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) inaugurated a regional office in which state to strengthen agricultural and processed food exports?

(a) Odisha

(b) Madhya Pradesh

(c) Chhattisgarh

(d) Jharkhand

(e) Telangana

7) The Uttar Pradesh Regional AI Impact Conference 2026, aimed at promoting responsible and scalable AI adoption, is being hosted in which city?

(a) Lucknow

(b) Kanpur

(c) Varanasi

(d) Noida

(e) Agra

8) Which Goa-based industrialist was conferred Italy’s civilian honour “Cavaliere dell’Ordine della Stella d’Italia” (Knight of the Order of the Star of Italy) for promoting India–Italy cooperation?

(a) Vijay Mallya

(b) Aditya Puri

(c) Shrinivas Dempo

(d) NoelTata

(e) Mukesh Ambani

9) Who has been appointed as the Chair of the UN Secretary-General’s Advisory Board on Disarmament Matters (ABDM) for 2026–27, marking the first time an Indian leads this UN body?

(a) D.B. Venkatesh Varma

(b) R. S. Prasad

(c) S. Jaishankar

(d) Harsh Vardhan Shringla

(e) Vinay Mohan Kwatra

10) Who became the first woman Chief Justice of the Meghalaya High Court?

(a) Indira Banerjee

(b) Ranjana Desai

(c) Gita Mittal

(d) Revati Mohite-Dere

(e) Hima Kohli

11) Which Olympic medallist has been appointed as the Director of the National Olympic Academy (NOA) of India?

(a) Abhinav Bindra

(b) Sushil Kumar

(c) Gagan Narang

(d) Mary Kom

(e) Neeraj Chopra

12) The first-ever joint Military–Civil Fusion (MCF) exercise conducted by the Indian Army is named as___________was held at the Diggi Range, Khadki Military Station, Pune, Maharashtra.

(a) Vajra Prahar

(b) Surya Kiran

(c) Shakti-2026

(d) Yudh Abhyas

(e) Sanjha Shakti

13) The PSLV-C62 mission launched by Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) in 2026 aimed to place how many satellites into a sun-synchronous polar orbit (SSO)?

(a) 5

(b) 10

(c) 16

(d) 20

(e) 25

14) Which company’s AI models has Apple partnered with to power its Apple Foundation Models, including the revamped Siri?

(a) Microsoft

(b) IBM

(c) Amazon

(d) Google (Gemini AI)

(e) OpenAI

15) Where was the flight test of the Third-Generation Man-Portable Anti-Tank Guided Missile (MPATGM) successfully conducted by DRDO?

(a) Pokhran, Rajasthan

(b) Ahilya Nagar, Maharashtra

(c) Chandipur, Odisha

(d) Hyderabad, Telangana

(e) Bengaluru, Karnataka

16) What is the name of Ola Electric’s first portable home battery energy storage system (BESS) launched in Tamil Nadu?

(a) Shakti

(b) Prakash

(c) Urja

(d) Jyoti

(e) Tejas

17) In 2026,  GAIL (India) Limited partnered with Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB) to launch which campaign promoting the adoption of  Piped Natural Gas (PNG) and Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) across India?

(a) Clean Energy India 2026

(b) Green Fuel Mission

(c) National PNG Drive 2.0 (#NonStopZindagi)

(d) Gas for All Campaign

(e) Energy India Initiative

18) What is the name of the world’s first lunar time-keeping software developed by Chinese scientists to support navigation and communication for lunar missions?

(a) MoonClock

(b) LunarChrono

(c) LunaTrack

(d) SeleneTime

(e) LTE440

19) Which two organisations signed an MoU to enhance cooperation in dairy research, innovation, and technology integration to benefit dairy farmers in India?

(a) CSIR and NABARD

(b) ICAR and FSSAI

(c) ICAR and NDDB

(d) NITI Aayog and NDDB

(e) DRDO and ICAR

20) During German Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s visit to India in Gandhinagar, major agreements were signed between India and Germany. Which of the following areas were included in these agreements?

(a) Migration, mobility, and skilled workforce cooperation

(b) Security cooperation and clean energy initiatives

(c) Cultural partnership and maritime heritage collaboration

(d) Visa-free transit facility for Indian nationals

(e) All of the above

21) Which Indian cricketer became the second-highest run-scorer in international cricket, surpassing Kumar Sangakkara’s tally of 28,016 runs?

(a) Rohit Sharma

(b) Virat Kohli

(c) MS Dhoni

(d) Sachin Tendulkar

(e) Shikhar Dhawan

22) Which former Indian hockey player and Olympian passed away at the age of 73 in Jalandhar, Punjab?

(a) Davinder Singh Garcha

(b) Dhanraj Pillay

(c) Balbir Singh Sr.

(d) Roop Singh

(e) Ajit Pal Singh

23) In 2025, India became the third-largest gold Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) market globally. What were the net inflows into Indian gold ETFs during this period?

(a) USD 1.3 billion

(b) USD 2.5 billion

(c) USD 4.4 billion

(d) USD 15.5 billion

(e) USD 50 billion

24) What is the current base year used for calculating India’s Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation?

(a) 2004

(b) 2010

(c) 2011

(d) 2015

(e) 2012

25) What is the national deadline set by the Government of India for the completion of APAAR(Automated Permanent Academic Account Registry) ID generation?

(a) 31 December 2026

(b) 15 January 2026

(c) 31 January 2026

(d) 28 February 2026

(e) 31 March 2026

Answers: 

1) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

• Domestic gold Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) in India saw their holdings jump 65% to 95 tonnes in 2025, making India the 6th largest holder of gold ETFs globally, up from 8th place in 2024.
• According to the World Gold Council (WGC), India’s gold ETF holdings were 57.5 tonnes in 2024, showing a sharp rise in investor participation.
• India ranked third globally in gold ETF inflows during 2025, with net investments of USD 4.37 billion.
• Nippon India ETF Gold BeES, India’s largest gold ETF, ranked among the top 15 gold ETFs globally in terms of net inflows, attracting $1.17 billion during 2025.

Detailed Explanation:

• Domestic gold Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) in India saw their holdings jump 65% to 95 tonnes in 2025, making India the 6th largest holder of gold ETFs globally, up from 8th place in 2024.
• According to the World Gold Council (WGC), India’s gold ETF holdings were 57.5 tonnes in 2024, showing a sharp rise in investor participation.
• India ranked third globally in gold ETF inflows during 2025, with net investments of USD 4.37 billion.
• Net inflows into Indian gold ETFs reached $4.4 billion in 2025, more than three times the $1.3 billion in 2024, making India the third-largest gold ETF market after the US ($50 billion) and China ($15.5 billion).
• Nippon India ETF Gold BeES, India’s largest gold ETF, ranked among the top 15 gold ETFs globally in terms of net inflows, attracting $1.17 billion during 2025.
• Nippon India ETF Gold BeES also led domestic gold ETF inflows by a wide margin, strengthening its leadership in India’s expanding gold ETF market.
• The gold ETF boom in India was driven by a more than 60% rise in gold prices in 2025, fuelled by global uncertainty, a weaker US dollar, and a strong investor preference for regulated precious metal investments.

2) Answer: E

Short Explanation:

• India’s retail inflation (CPI) eased to 1.33% in December 2025, marking the lowest level in three months and remaining well below the RBI’s tolerance band.
• The decline in inflation was mainly due to a sharp fall in food prices, especially vegetables, fruits, eggs, spices, and pulses.
• Rural inflation stood at 1.44%, while urban inflation was 2.26%, both remaining under control.

Detailed Explanation:

• India’s retail inflation (CPI) eased to 1.33% in December 2025, marking the lowest level in three months and remaining well below the RBI’s tolerance band.
• The decline in inflation was mainly due to a sharp fall in food prices, especially vegetables, fruits, eggs, spices, and pulses.
• Rural inflation stood at 1.44%, while urban inflation was 2.26%, both remaining under control.
• Despite the rise in certain items, overall inflation remains well below the RBI’s tolerance band of 2–6%, keeping price pressures under control.
• Retail inflation, also known as Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation, measures the change in retail prices of goods and services that households purchase for daily consumption.
• CPI is calculated using a base year, which serves as a benchmark for comparison; the current base year is 2012.

3) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

• Chhattisgarh has emerged as the top-performing large state in generating APAAR (Automated Permanent Academic Account Registry) IDs, achieving around 88.63% coverage of enrolled students as of early January 2026.
• The state has created 50,60,941 APAAR IDs out of 57,10,207 enrolled students across 57,045 schools, reflecting strong execution and administrative coordination.
• APAAR ID is a permanent digital academic identity enabling secure storage of certificates, credits, achievements and academic records, ensuring academic continuity, supporting nationwide mobility, reducing paperwork and strengthening education governance under India’s digital education reforms.

Detailed Explanation:

• Chhattisgarh has emerged as the top-performing large state in generating APAAR (Automated Permanent Academic Account Registry) IDs, achieving around 88.63% coverage of enrolled students as of early January 2026.
• The state has created 50,60,941 APAAR IDs out of 57,10,207 enrolled students across 57,045 schools, reflecting strong execution and administrative coordination.
• APAAR ID is a permanent digital academic identity enabling secure storage of certificates, credits, achievements and academic records, ensuring academic continuity, supporting nationwide mobility, reducing paperwork and strengthening education governance under India’s digital education reforms.
• The initiative aligns with the national push towards Digital Public Infrastructure in Education, enhancing transparency and student-centric service delivery.
• Bemetara recorded the highest coverage at 96.40%, followed by Rajnandgaon (96.38%), while districts like Raigarh, Korea, Raipur, Korba, Dhamtari, Durg and Balodabazar have crossed 93% coverage; most districts have achieved over 80%, except a few like Narayanpur, Bijapur, Sukma, Balrampur and Dantewada.
• The state government implemented a mission-mode strategy involving continuous monitoring, district-level targets and coordinated efforts by teachers, district administration and education departments to ensure inclusion of maximum students.
• The Central Government has set the national deadline of January 31, 2026 for APAAR ID completion, and Chhattisgarh is on track with time-bound efforts to achieve full coverage.

4) Answer: E

Short Explanation:

• The 25th All India Major Port Cultural Meet 2025–26 concluded at Jayadev Sadan, Paradip Port, after four days of cultural performances.
• The event was organized by Paradip Port Authority (PPA) in association with the Major Ports Sports Control Board.
• Around 200 artistes from 9 major ports participated, showcasing talent in music, dance, drama and other cultural disciplines.
• The valedictory ceremony was attended by P.L. Haranadh, Chairman, Paradip Port Authority, as Chief Guest.

Detailed Explanation:

• The 25th All India Major Port Cultural Meet 2025–26 concluded at Jayadev Sadan, Paradip Port, after four days of cultural performances.
• The event was organized by Paradip Port Authority (PPA) in association with the Major Ports Sports Control Board.
• Around 200 artistes from 9 major ports participated, showcasing talent in music, dance, drama and other cultural disciplines.
• The valedictory ceremony was attended by P.L. Haranadh, Chairman, Paradip Port Authority, as Chief Guest.
• Mumbai Port Authority secured the Runners-up position, while Deendayal Port Authority and Cochin Port Authority were declared Joint Second Runners-up.
• The programme was presided over by S. Rout, Chairman of the Cultural Organising Committee, with senior PPA officials including A. K. Bose, Ashoka Kumar Sahu and D. P. Sethi present.
• The meet aimed to promote unity, cultural integration, harmony and camaraderie among employees of India’s major ports, strengthening bonds within the maritime fraternity.

5) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

• India now ranks as the world’s 2nd largest fish producer, contributing around 8% of global fish production.

Detailed Explanation:

• India’s fish production increased to 197.75 lakh tonnes in FY 2024–25, up from 95.79 lakh tonnes in FY 2013–14, marking a 106% rise in a decade.
• The fisheries sector has become a major contributor to the rural economy and supports about 3 crore fishers and fish farmers across the country.
• Since 2014–15, government initiatives have generated 74.66 lakh employment opportunities (direct and indirect) in the fisheries value chain.
• India now ranks as the world’s 2nd largest fish producer, contributing around 8% of global fish production.

6) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

• The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) has inaugurated its Regional Office in Raipur, Chhattisgarh.
• The office was inaugurated during the 2nd India International Rice Summit held in Chhattisgarh.
• The initiative aims to strengthen agricultural and processed food exports from Chhattisgarh and support farmers, Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) and exporters.
• Chhattisgarh has strong export potential, especially in premium non-basmati rice and GI-tagged rice varieties such as Jeera Phool Rice and Nagri Dubraj Rice.
• The state also produces fruits, vegetables and minor forest produce including mahua and tamarind, offering significant scope for export growth.
• The Raipur APEDA office will provide export registration, advisory services, market intelligence, certification support, and assistance in export facilitation, infrastructure development and market linkage.
• The office has already supported the export of fortified rice kernels from Chhattisgarh to Costa Rica and Papua New Guinea, demonstrating its functional impact.

Detailed Explanation:

• The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) has inaugurated its Regional Office in Raipur, Chhattisgarh.
• The office was inaugurated during the 2nd India International Rice Summit held in Chhattisgarh.
• The initiative aims to strengthen agricultural and processed food exports from Chhattisgarh and support farmers, Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) and exporters.
• Chhattisgarh has strong export potential, especially in premium non-basmati rice and GI-tagged rice varieties such as Jeera Phool Rice and Nagri Dubraj Rice.
• The state also produces fruits, vegetables and minor forest produce including mahua and tamarind, offering significant scope for export growth.
• The Raipur APEDA office will provide export registration, advisory services, market intelligence, certification support, and assistance in export facilitation, infrastructure development and market linkage.
• The office has already supported the export of fortified rice kernels from Chhattisgarh to Costa Rica and Papua New Guinea, demonstrating its functional impact.
• APEDA functions under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India, and is responsible for promoting exports of agricultural and processed food products, including quality certification, branding and international market access.
• Establishment of the regional office will decentralize export promotion and provide direct on-ground support to stakeholders in Chhattisgarh.

7) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

• IndiaAI, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) and Government of Uttar Pradesh (UP) are set to host the Uttar Pradesh Regional AI Impact Conference 2026 in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh.
• The conference was announced by PIB Delhi on 11 January 2026.
• The event aims to promote responsible, inclusive and scalable Artificial Intelligence (AI) adoption across Indian states.

Detailed Explanation:

• IndiaAI, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) and Government of Uttar Pradesh (UP) are set to host the Uttar Pradesh Regional AI Impact Conference 2026 in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh.
• The conference was announced by PIB Delhi on 11 January 2026.
• The event aims to promote responsible, inclusive and scalable Artificial Intelligence (AI) adoption across Indian states.
• The conference will showcase Uttar Pradesh’s leadership in AI-driven governance and public service delivery.
• It will serve as an official precursor to the IndiaAI Impact Summit 2026, which will be held in New Delhi from 16–20 February 2026.
• The Lucknow conference is part of a national series of eight Regional AI Impact Conferences being organised under the IndiaAI framework.
• Objective: To align state-level AI initiatives with the broader IndiaAI Mission, ensuring safe, trustworthy, citizen-centric and responsible AI development in India.

8) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

• Goa-based industrialist Shrinivas Dempo has been conferred Italy’s prestigious civilian honour “Cavaliere dell’Ordine della Stella d’Italia” (Knight of the Order of the Star of Italy).
• The honour recognises his long-standing contributions in supporting Italian citizens in India and promoting India–Italy cooperation in business, culture, and community engagement.

Detailed Explanation:

• Goa-based industrialist Shrinivas Dempo has been conferred Italy’s prestigious civilian honour “Cavaliere dell’Ordine della Stella d’Italia” (Knight of the Order of the Star of Italy).
• The honour recognises his long-standing contributions in supporting Italian citizens in India and promoting India–Italy cooperation in business, culture, and community engagement.
• The award highlights Dempo’s role in strengthening bilateral ties beyond government channels, showcasing the importance of industry leaders and non-state actors in international relations.
• The honour was presented during a special ceremony held in Goa.
• The decoration was conferred by Walter Ferrara, Consul General of Italy in Mumbai, on behalf of the Government of Italy.
• The Order of the Star of Italy is awarded to foreign nationals and Italians abroad who significantly contribute to enhancing Italy’s international relations and cooperation.
• The rank “Cavaliere” (Knight) represents a high level of recognition for sustained contribution to cultural diplomacy, economic ties and community engagement, reinforcing Italy’s soft power outreach.

9) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

• D.B. Venkatesh Varma, a senior Indian diplomat and member of the National Security Advisory Board, has been appointed Chair of the UN Secretary-General’s Advisory Board on Disarmament Matters (ABDM) for 2026–27.

Detailed Explanation:

• D.B. Venkatesh Varma, a senior Indian diplomat and member of the National Security Advisory Board, has been appointed Chair of the UN Secretary-General’s Advisory Board on Disarmament Matters (ABDM) for 2026–27.
• This marks the first time an Indian has been chosen to lead the UN disarmament advisory body, a milestone for Indian diplomacy.
• The Advisory Board on Disarmament Matters (ABDM) was established in 1978 pursuant to paragraph 124 of the Final Document of the Tenth Special Session of the UN General Assembly.

10) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

• Justice Revati Mohite-Dere, a judge of the Bombay High Court (HC), was sworn in as the first woman Chief Justice (CJ) of the Meghalaya High Court, marking a historic milestone.

Detailed Explanation:

• Justice Revati Mohite-Dere, a judge of the Bombay High Court (HC), was sworn in as the first woman Chief Justice (CJ) of the Meghalaya High Court, marking a historic milestone.
• The oath of office was administered by Chandrashekhar H. Vijayashankar, Governor of Meghalaya, at the Durbar Hall of Lok Bhavan in Shillong, Meghalaya.
• She succeeded Justice Soumen Sen, who was transferred to the Kerala High Court.

11) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

• Olympic medallist Gagan Narang has been appointed as the Director of the National Olympic Academy (NOA) of India by the Indian Olympic Association (IOA).
• The appointment was approved during the IOA Executive Council meeting on 8 January 2026 and unanimously endorsed by the IOA General House on 9 January 2026 in Ahmedabad.
• Simultaneously, the IOA launched the National Olympic Education and Development Programme (NOEDP), a structured national framework to promote Olympic education and athlete development.
• The NOEDP will be implemented in partnership with National Sports Federations and State Olympic Associations, targeting athletes and sport stakeholders from grassroots to elite levels.

Detailed Explanation:

• Olympic medallist Gagan Narang has been appointed as the Director of the National Olympic Academy (NOA) of India by the Indian Olympic Association (IOA).
• The appointment was approved during the IOA Executive Council meeting on 8 January 2026 and unanimously endorsed by the IOA General House on 9 January 2026 in Ahmedabad.
• Simultaneously, the IOA launched the National Olympic Education and Development Programme (NOEDP), a structured national framework to promote Olympic education and athlete development.
• The NOEDP will be implemented in partnership with National Sports Federations and State Olympic Associations, targeting athletes and sport stakeholders from grassroots to elite levels.

12) Answer: E

Short Explanation:

• The Indian Army (IA) conducted the first-ever two-day joint Military–Civil Fusion (MCF) exercise named ‘Sanjha Shakti’.
• The exercise was held at the Diggi Range, Khadki Military Station, Pune, Maharashtra from 8–9 January 2026.
• It was conducted under the aegis of the Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Goa (MG & G) Area of the Southern Command.

Detailed Explanation:

• The Indian Army (IA) conducted the first-ever two-day joint Military–Civil Fusion (MCF) exercise named ‘Sanjha Shakti’.
• The exercise was held at the Diggi Range, Khadki Military Station, Pune, Maharashtra from 8–9 January 2026.
• It was conducted under the aegis of the Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Goa (MG & G) Area of the Southern Command.
• The primary objective of the exercise was to enhance civil–military synergy, rapid response capability, and public safety in rear areas.
• The exercise witnessed participation from the Indian Army and 16 key civilian agencies, including Maharashtra Police, Force One, and fire and emergency services.

13) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

• The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) launched the PSLV-C62 mission, its first launch of 2026, from the First Launch Pad at Sriharikota.
• The mission aimed to place Anvesha (EOS-N1) and 15 other satellites into a sun-synchronous polar orbit (SSO).

Detailed Explanation:

• The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) launched the PSLV-C62 mission, its first launch of 2026, from the First Launch Pad at Sriharikota.
• The mission aimed to place Anvesha (EOS-N1) and 15 other satellites into a sun-synchronous polar orbit (SSO).
• The mission was executed through NewSpace India Limited (NSIL) and was the ninth dedicated commercial Earth-observation mission of PSLV.
• PSLV-C62 mission failed, becoming the second consecutive failure of the PSLV, resulting in the loss of 16 satellites, including a foreign Earth-observation payload.
• The 44.4-metre-tall rocket was launched from Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota, after a 22.5-hour countdown, aiming for a 512-km Sun-synchronous orbit.

14) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

• Apple has signed a multi-year deal with Google to use Google’s Gemini AI models to power its Apple Foundation Models.
• The Apple Foundation Models will drive future Apple Intelligence features, including the revamped Siri.
• Apple chose Gemini AI because it offers the most capable AI foundation, while ensuring privacy through on-device processing and Apple’s Private Cloud Compute (PCC).

Detailed Explanation:

• Apple has signed a multi-year deal with Google to use Google’s Gemini AI models to power its Apple Foundation Models.
• The Apple Foundation Models will drive future Apple Intelligence features, including the revamped Siri.
• Apple chose Gemini AI because it offers the most capable AI foundation, while ensuring privacy through on-device processing and Apple’s Private Cloud Compute (PCC).
• Previously, Apple had partnered with OpenAI’s ChatGPT to handle complex Siri queries, but it is now unclear how this partnership will continue after Gemini takes over Siri’s core intelligence.
• The new AI-powered Siri, expected with iOS 26.4 in March 2026, will be able to understand personal context from emails, messages, and calendars to provide customised answers.

15) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

• The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), under the Ministry of Defence (MoD), successfully conducted the flight test of the Third-Generation Man-Portable Anti-Tank Guided Missile (MPATGM).
• The test demonstrated the top-attack capability of MPATGM against a moving armoured target.
• The flight test was carried out at the KK Ranges in Ahilya Nagar, Maharashtra.
• The test was conducted by the Defence Research & Development Laboratory (DRDL), a laboratory of DRDO, located in Hyderabad, Telangana.

Detailed Explanation:

• The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), under the Ministry of Defence (MoD), successfully conducted the flight test of the Third-Generation Man-Portable Anti-Tank Guided Missile (MPATGM).
• The test demonstrated the top-attack capability of MPATGM against a moving armoured target.
• The flight test was carried out at the KK Ranges in Ahilya Nagar, Maharashtra.
• The test was conducted by the Defence Research & Development Laboratory (DRDL), a laboratory of DRDO, located in Hyderabad, Telangana.
• The missile was launched from a tripod-mounted launcher as well as a military vehicle-mounted launcher.
• The primary objective of the test was to validate flight performance, accuracy, and effectiveness against both moving and static armoured targets.

16) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

• Ola Electric has launched its first portable home battery energy storage system (BESS) named ‘Shakti’ at its Gigafactory in Krishnagiri, Tamil Nadu.

Detailed Explanation:

• Ola Electric has launched its first portable home battery energy storage system (BESS) named ‘Shakti’ at its Gigafactory in Krishnagiri, Tamil Nadu.
• The launch marks Ola’s entry into the residential battery storage market, expanding its business beyond electric vehicles (EVs).
• Shakti is powered by Ola’s indigenous 4680 Bharat Cell and features advanced battery management, intelligent energy storage, and safety systems.
• The system is designed to provide backup power for homes and offices, allowing users to store electricity for use during power cuts or peak demand.

17) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

• GAIL (India) Limited partnered with the Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB) for the National PNG Drive 2.0.
• The campaign is part of the nationwide “#NonStopZindagi” initiative, running from 1 January to 31 March 2026.

Detailed Explanation:

• GAIL (India) Limited partnered with the Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB) for the National PNG Drive 2.0.
• The campaign is part of the nationwide “#NonStopZindagi” initiative, running from 1 January to 31 March 2026.
• The campaign aims to promote the adoption of Piped Natural Gas (PNG) and Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) across India.
• The initiative promotes PNG, CNG, and the City Gas Distribution (CGD) ecosystem to support India’s clean energy transition.
• It emphasizes the safety, reliability, convenience, cost-efficiency, and environmental benefits of these fuels.
• The national goal is to increase the share of natural gas in India’s primary energy basket to 15% by 2030 and strengthen a gas-based economy.
• PNGRB’s“One Nation, One Grid, One Tariff” framework standardizes transportation charges, integrates the national gas grid, and reduces costs for consumers.

18) Answer: E

Short Explanation:

• Chinese scientists from the Purple Mountain Observatory, Nanjing, have developed the world’s first lunar time-keeping software called LTE440 (Lunar Time Ephemeris).
• LTE440 is designed to accurately track time on the Moon, supporting navigation, landings, and communication systems for future lunar missions.
• Time on the Moon runs faster than on Earth by approximately 56 millionths of a second (56 microseconds) per day due to weaker gravity and relativistic effects.

Detailed Explanation:

• Chinese scientists from the Purple Mountain Observatory, Nanjing, have developed the world’s first lunar time-keeping software called LTE440 (Lunar Time Ephemeris).
• LTE440 is designed to accurately track time on the Moon, supporting navigation, landings, and communication systems for future lunar missions.
• Time on the Moon runs faster than on Earth by approximately 56 millionths of a second (56 microseconds) per day due to weaker gravity and relativistic effects.
• If lunar time differences are not corrected, they can cause major errors in space navigation over time.
• The software uses a high-precision model that accounts for the Moon’s gravity and orbital motion, allowing direct comparison between Earth time and lunar time in one step.
• LTE440 builds on the International Astronomical Union’s 2024 framework for a Moon-specific time standard, making the concept of “Moon time” a practical tool for future lunar exploration.
• The software ensures accuracy within a few tens of nanoseconds even over 1,000 years, according to a paper published in Astronomy and Astrophysics (December 2025 issue).

19) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

• The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance cooperation in dairy research, innovation, technology integration and extension services.
• The MoU aims to benefit millions of dairy farmers by improving productivity, resilience, value addition and establishing a strong research–field connect.
• The collaboration covers the entire dairy value chain including production, processing and value addition, with emphasis on multidisciplinary research, technology validation and capacity building.

Detailed Explanation:

• The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance cooperation in dairy research, innovation, technology integration and extension services.
• The MoU aims to benefit millions of dairy farmers by improving productivity, resilience, value addition and establishing a strong research–field connect.
• The collaboration covers the entire dairy value chain including production, processing and value addition, with emphasis on multidisciplinary research, technology validation and capacity building.
• ICAR will contribute scientific expertise and modern technologies, while NDDB will support large-scale field testing, adoption and implementation.
• Senior leadership including Mangi Lal Jat emphasized integrated farming, fodder security and sustainable solutions like gaushala-based manure management, while Meenesh Shah highlighted creation of a global-scale integrated dairy research platform aligned with Viksit Bharat
• ICAR is India’s apex agricultural research body, and NDDB is the key institution behind India’s dairy revolution (White Revolution); both have previously collaborated, making this MoU a continuation of their longstanding partnership.

20) Answer: E

Short Explanation:

• India and Germany signed major agreements covering migration, mobility, security cooperation, clean energy, and cultural partnership during bilateral talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in Gandhinagar, Gujarat.

Detailed Explanation:

• India and Germany signed major agreements covering migration, mobility, security cooperation, clean energy, and cultural partnership during bilateral talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in Gandhinagar, Gujarat.
• Both sides emphasized legal migration and skilled workforce cooperation, especially for Indian healthcare professionals. A Joint Declaration of Intent on Global Skills Partnership was issued to facilitate structured, ethical and mutually beneficial mobility of skilled workers.
• Germany announced visa-free transit facility for Indian nationals, strengthening people-to-people ties, travel convenience, business, education and cultural exchanges.
• Agreements were signed to enhance security cooperation, reaffirming commitment to tackling regional and global security challenges through dialogue and collaboration.
• Clean and sustainable energy emerged as a priority. An India–Germany Centre of Excellence will be established to promote green technologies, innovation and climate solutions, aligning with India’s energy transition goals and Germany’s clean-tech leadership.
• A cultural partnership was announced between the German Maritime Museum and National Maritime Heritage Complex, Lothal (Gujarat), strengthening maritime heritage and cultural diplomacy.

21) Answer: B

• Short Explanation:
• Virat Kohli, Indian cricketer, has become the second-highest run-scorer in international cricket, surpassing Kumar Sangakkara (Sri Lanka).
• He achieved this milestone during the 1st ODI against New Zealand held in Vadodara.
• Kohli surpassed Sangakkara’s tally of 28,016 international runs during his 93-run innings off 91 balls.

Detailed Explanation:

• Virat Kohli, Indian cricketer, has become the second-highest run-scorer in international cricket, surpassing Kumar Sangakkara (Sri Lanka).
• He achieved this milestone during the 1st ODI against New Zealand held in Vadodara.
• Kohli surpassed Sangakkara’s tally of 28,016 international runs during his 93-run innings off 91 balls.
• With this, Virat Kohli’s total international career runs stand at 28,068 runs across Tests, ODIs and T20 Internationals.
• Kohli now ranks 2nd, behind Sachin Tendulkar, who remains the highest run-scorer in international cricket with 34,357 runs.
• His innings helped India chase a target of 301 runs, securing victory by 4 wickets with 6 balls remaining.
• He was awarded the Player of the Match, and India took a 1–0 lead in the three-match ODI series.

22) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

• Davinder Singh Garcha, a former Indian hockey player and Olympian passed away at the age of 73 years in Jalandhar, Punjab.
• Davinder Singh Garcha was born on 7 December 1952 in Amritsar, Punjab.

Detailed Explanation:

• Davinder Singh Garcha, a former Indian hockey player and Olympian passed away at the age of 73 years in Jalandhar, Punjab.
• Davinder Singh Garcha was born on 7 December 1952 in Amritsar, Punjab.
• He represented India in international hockey and played over 30 international matches, scoring 19 goals in three major international tournaments.
• He was a key member of the Indian Hockey Team that won the Gold Medal at the 1980 Moscow Olympic Games held in Moscow, Russia.
• During the 1980 Olympics, he scored 8 goals in 6 matches, playing a crucial role in India’s success.
• India secured its record 8th Olympic Gold Medal in hockey by defeating Spain by 4–3 in the final match.

23) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

• Net inflows into Indian gold ETFs reached $4.4 billion in 2025, more than three times the $1.3 billion in 2024, making India the third-largest gold ETF market after the US ($50 billion) and China ($15.5 billion).

Detailed Explanation:

• According to the World Gold Council (WGC), India’s gold ETF holdings were 5 tonnes in 2024, showing a sharp rise in investor participation.
• India ranked third globally in gold ETF inflows during 2025, with net investments of USD 4.37 billion.
• Net inflows into Indian gold ETFs reached $4.4 billion in 2025, more than three times the $1.3 billion in 2024, making India the third-largest gold ETF market after the US ($50 billion) and China ($15.5 billion).

24) Answer: E

• Retail inflation, also known as Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation, measures the change in retail prices of goods and services that households purchase for daily consumption.
• CPI is calculated using a base year, which serves as a benchmark for comparison; the current base year is 2012.

25) Answer: C

• APAAR ID is a permanent digital academic identity enabling secure storage of certificates, credits, achievements and academic records, ensuring academic continuity, supporting nationwide mobility, reducing paperwork and strengthening education governance under India’s digital education reforms.
• The Central Government has set the national deadline of January 31, 2026 for APAAR ID completion, and Chhattisgarh is on track with time-bound efforts to achieve full coverage.