Dear Readers, Daily Current Affairs Questions Quiz for SBI, IBPS, RBI, RRB, SSC Exam 2026 of  17th  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, Indian Mercantile Co-operative Bank Limited, Lucknow has been excluded from the Second Schedule of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Act, 1934. Under which section of the RBI Act, 1934 is a bank granted Scheduled Bank status?

(a) Section 17

(b) Section 22

(c) Section 35A

(d) Section 42

(e) Section 45

 

2) As per the news, where did the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) organise the 3rd Annual Conference of Internal Ombudsmen (IO)?

(a) New Delhi

(b) Chennai

(c) Mumbai

(d) Hyderabad

(e) Bengaluru

 

3) As per the news, the Variable Annuity component of Axis Max Life Smart Retirement Income with Sustained Earnings Plan (Smart RISE) is linked to which index?

(a) BSE Sensex

(b) NIFTY Bank Index

(c) NIFTY Midcap 100 Index

(d) NIFTY 50 Index

(e) NIFTY Next 50 Index

 

4) As per the Ministry of Commerce and Industry's Trade Data for Q1 (April–June) FY2026–27, consider the following statements:

1. India's total exports during Q1 FY2026–27 stood at USD 232.73 billion.
2. Merchandise exports during Q1 FY2026–27 were USD 129.32 billion.
3. Service exports during Q1 FY2026–27 were estimated at USD 103.41 billion.

(a) Only 1

(b) Only 2

(c) Only 1 and 3

(d) Only 2 and 3

(e) All the above

 

5) As per the RBI's draft amendment on acquisition of major shareholding in banks, after obtaining one-time RBI approval, eligible institutional investors can increase or retain their stake in the same banking company up to what limit without seeking fresh approval?

(a) 5% of the paid-up share capital or voting rights

(b) 7.5% of the paid-up share capital or voting rights

(c) 10% of the paid-up share capital or voting rights

(d) 15% of the paid-up share capital or voting rights

(e) 26% of the paid-up share capital or voting rights

 

6) As per the news, the trial version of India's first Index of Services Production (ISP) has been launched with which base year?

(a) 2011–12

(b) 2017–18

(c) 2019–20

(d) 2023–24

(e) 2024–25

 

7) As per the news, the Indian Grey Hornbill has been successfully reintroduced to which forest after an absence of more than 60 years?

(a) Kaziranga National Park

(b) Gir Forest

(c) Jim Corbett National Park

(d) Bandipur National Park

(e) Kanha National Park

 

8) As per the news, which state has announced the establishment of India's first government-driven Artificial Intelligence (AI) University?

(a) Telangana

(b) Tamil Nadu

(c) Maharashtra

(d) Karnataka

(e) Gujarat

 

9) As per the World LNG Report 2026, which Indian LNG terminal ranked as the 6th largest LNG regasification terminal in the world?

(a) Kochi LNG Terminal

(b) Hazira LNG Terminal

(c) Ennore LNG Terminal

(d) Dahej LNG Terminal

(e) Dhamra LNG Terminal

10) As per the news, the Government of India secured approval for developing a Codex Standard for which product under the Codex Committee on Processed Fruits and Vegetables (CCPFV)?

(a) Black Pepper

(b) Cashew Kernels

(c) Turmeric

(d) Cumin Seeds

(e) Green Cardamom

 

11) As per the news, Ukraine and nine European countries announced the formation of which coalition to strengthen Europe's defence against ballistic missile threats?

(a) Anti-ballistic Missile Coalition

(b) European Air Shield Coalition

(c) NATO Missile Defence Initiative

(d) European Strategic Defence Alliance

(e) Integrated Air Defence Coalition

 

12) As per the news, who was conferred the 60th Jnanpith Award (2025), India's highest literary honour?

(a) Jayakanthan

(b) Akilan

(c) R. Vairamuthu

(d) Poomani

(e) Perumal Murugan

 

13) As per the news, which Indian-origin economist has been appointed to head the Balance Sheet Policy Task Force under the US Federal Reserve's Monetary Policy Framework review?

(a) Raghuram Rajan

(b) Asha Sharma

(c) Raj Chetty

(d) Arvind Subramanian

(e) Kaushik Basu

 

14) As per the news, Operation Southern Readiness 26-2 will be conducted under the aegis of which Combined Task Force (CTF)?

(a) Combined Task Force 150

(b) Combined Task Force 151

(c) Combined Task Force 152

(d) Combined Task Force 153

(e) Combined Task Force 154

 

15) As per the news, the indigenous technology for producing C-Phycocyanin was developed by which institution?

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

(b) CSIR–National Chemical Laboratory (NCL), Pune

(c) Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati

(d) Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras

(e) National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Mohali

 

16) As per the news, NIDAR 2.0 is being launched under which initiative?

(a) Digital India Programme

(b) Startup India Initiative

(c) SwaYaan Initiative

(d) Make in India Initiative

(e) PM Gati Shakti Initiative

 

17) As per the news, the Online Portal Application for Registration of Coal Exchanges was launched under the regulatory oversight of which organisation?

(a) Coal Controller Organisation (CCO)

(b) Ministry of Power

(c) Coal India Limited (CIL)

(d) Central Electricity Authority (CEA)

(e) NITI Aayog

 

18) As per the news, the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) between India and the United Kingdom (UK) came into effect on________to increase bilateral trade to USD 100 billion by 2030.

(a) 1 July 2026

(b) 10 July 2026

(c) 15 July 2026

(d) 20 July 2026

(e) 1 August 2026

 

19) As per the news, what is the name of the official mascot of the 22nd Commonwealth Table Tennis Championship 2026?

(a) Shera

(b) Udaan

(c) Veera

(d) Mayur

(e) Garuda

 

20) As per the news, World Day for International Justice is observed every year on___________

(a) 15 July

(b) 16 July

(c) 17 July

(d) 18 July

(e) 19 July

 

Answers:

1) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

Indian Mercantile Co-operative Bank Limited., Lucknow has been excluded from the Second Schedule of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Act, 1934, through a notification dated 4 June 2026, published in the Gazette of India (Part III – Section 4) on 22 June 2026.

With its removal from the Second Schedule, the bank loses its status as a Scheduled Bank under the RBI Act, 1934.

As a result, the bank will no longer enjoy the privileges available to Scheduled Banks, including access to RBI refinance facilities, participation in monetary policy operations, and liquidity support mechanisms provided by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).

Detailed Explanation:

Indian Mercantile Co-operative Bank Limited., Lucknow has been excluded from the Second Schedule of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Act, 1934, through a notification dated 4 June 2026, published in the Gazette of India (Part III – Section 4) on 22 June 2026.

With its removal from the Second Schedule, the bank loses its status as a Scheduled Bank under the RBI Act, 1934.

As a result, the bank will no longer enjoy the privileges available to Scheduled Banks, including access to RBI refinance facilities, participation in monetary policy operations, and liquidity support mechanisms provided by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).

Scheduled Bank status is granted under Section 42 of the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934, subject to compliance with prescribed regulatory requirements.

To qualify as a Scheduled Bank, a bank must satisfy conditions such as minimum capital requirements, maintenance of Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR)/reserve requirements, and compliance with RBI's regulatory and supervisory norms.

 

2) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) organised the 3rd Annual Conference of Internal Ombudsmen (IO) in Mumbai, Maharashtra.

The conference brought together Internal Ombudsmen (IOs) from various Regulated Entities (REs), including Banks, Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs), Credit Information Companies (CICs), and other regulated institutions, along with RBI Ombudsmen and senior RBI officials.

The event was also attended by Managing Directors (MDs), Chief Executive Officers (CEOs), Executive Directors (EDs) in charge of customer service, and Principal Nodal Officers (PNOs) of regulated entities.

Detailed Explanation:

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) organised the 3rd Annual Conference of Internal Ombudsmen (IO) in Mumbai, Maharashtra.

The conference brought together Internal Ombudsmen (IOs) from various Regulated Entities (REs), including Banks, Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs), Credit Information Companies (CICs), and other regulated institutions, along with RBI Ombudsmen and senior RBI officials.

The event was also attended by Managing Directors (MDs), Chief Executive Officers (CEOs), Executive Directors (EDs) in charge of customer service, and Principal Nodal Officers (PNOs) of regulated entities.

Shri Swaminathan J., Deputy Governor, RBI, delivered the keynote address, urging Internal Ombudsmen to ensure meaningful, fair, and effective resolution of customer complaints.

The Deputy Governor advised IOs to identify recurring customer issues, conduct root cause analysis, and recommend remedial measures to improve grievance handling.

 

3) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

Axis Max Life Insurance Limited launched Axis Max Life Smart Retirement Income with Sustained Earnings Plan (Smart RISE), a retirement-focused insurance product designed to provide stable post-retirement income.

Smart RISE combines a Guaranteed Annuity with a Variable Annuity linked to the NIFTY 50 Index, offering both fixed income and market-linked growth potential.

Detailed Explanation:

Axis Max Life Insurance Limited launched Axis Max Life Smart Retirement Income with Sustained Earnings Plan (Smart RISE), a retirement-focused insurance product designed to provide stable post-retirement income.

Smart RISE combines a Guaranteed Annuity with a Variable Annuity linked to the NIFTY 50 Index, offering both fixed income and market-linked growth potential.

The plan aims to provide predictable retirement income, equity market participation, financial security, and long-term legacy planning.

The Guaranteed Annuity component provides fixed and predictable income throughout the selected annuity period.

The Variable Annuity component is linked to the NIFTY 50 Index, enabling policyholders to benefit from potential equity market returns while receiving retirement income.

4) Answer: E

Short Explanation:

According to the data, India's total exports during Q1 FY27 stood at USD 232.73 billion, while total imports were estimated at USD 270.15 billion.

Merchandise exports during Q1 FY27 increased to USD 129.32 billion, compared to USD 111.57 billion in Q1 FY26, reflecting strong growth in goods exports.

Service exports during April–June FY27 were estimated at USD 103.41 billion, up from USD 97.41 billion during the corresponding period of FY26.

Detailed Explanation:

The Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoC&I) released India's Trade Data for Quarter 1 (Q1: April–June) of Financial Year 2026–27 (FY27) and for the month of June 2026.

According to the data, India's total exports during Q1 FY27 stood at USD 232.73 billion, while total imports were estimated at USD 270.15 billion.

Merchandise exports during Q1 FY27 increased to USD 129.32 billion, compared to USD 111.57 billion in Q1 FY26, reflecting strong growth in goods exports.

Service exports during April–June FY27 were estimated at USD 103.41 billion, up from USD 97.41 billion during the corresponding period of FY26.

Merchandise imports during Q1 FY27 rose to USD 216.18 billion, compared to USD 180.31 billion in Q1 FY26.

Service imports during April–June FY27 were estimated at USD 53.97 billion, compared to USD 49.51 billion in April–June FY26.

5) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has released a draft amendment proposing a one-time approval mechanism for eligible institutional investors to acquire and retain major shareholding (5% or more) in the same banking company without seeking repeated approvals.

Under the proposed framework, prior RBI approval will continue to be mandatory for the first acquisition of a major shareholding in a bank.

After obtaining the one-time approval, eligible investors can increase or retain their stake in the same bank up to 10% of the paid-up share capital or voting rights without seeking fresh RBI approval every time their holding falls below and later exceeds 5%.

Detailed Explanation:

Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has released a draft amendment proposing a one-time approval mechanism for eligible institutional investors to acquire and retain major shareholding (5% or more) in the same banking company without seeking repeated approvals.

Under the proposed framework, prior RBI approval will continue to be mandatory for the first acquisition of a major shareholding in a bank.

After obtaining the one-time approval, eligible investors can increase or retain their stake in the same bank up to 10% of the paid-up share capital or voting rights without seeking fresh RBI approval every time their holding falls below and later exceeds 5%.

The proposed facility will be available only to "Qualifying Persons", including SEBI-registered Mutual Funds, IRDAI-registered Insurance Companies, and PFRDA-registered Pension Funds.

To qualify, these institutional investors must not belong to the promoter group or group entities of the concerned banking company.

The proposal applies to Commercial Banks, Small Finance Banks (SFBs), Payments Banks, and Local Area Banks (LABs).

Under the existing framework, any investor whose holding falls below 5% must obtain fresh RBI approval before acquiring another major shareholding, even in the same bank.

 

6) Answer: E

Short Explanation:

The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) has introduced India’s first trial version of the Index of Services Production (ISP) to measure the monthly performance of the formal services sector.

The Index of Services Production (ISP) has been launched with the base year 2024–25 and provides a short-term indicator to track changes in the output of India's services economy.

Similar to the Index of Industrial Production (IIP), which measures output in manufacturing, mining, and electricity sectors, the ISP will monitor monthly production trends in key service industries.

Detailed Explanation:

The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) has introduced India’s first trial version of the Index of Services Production (ISP) to measure the monthly performance of the formal services sector.

The Index of Services Production (ISP) has been launched with the base year 2024–25 and provides a short-term indicator to track changes in the output of India's services economy.

Similar to the Index of Industrial Production (IIP), which measures output in manufacturing, mining, and electricity sectors, the ISP will monitor monthly production trends in key service industries.

The pilot ISP covers 19 service sub-sectors, accounting for around 60% of India's services sector, which contributes more than 50% of India’s Gross Value Added (GVA).

The introduction of ISP will strengthen macroeconomic monitoring, support evidence-based policymaking, and provide timely information to businesses, investors, analysts, and policymakers.

The first ISP report covering April 2026 showed strong growth in the services sector, with 14 out of 19 sub-sectors recording double-digit year-on-year growth.

The highest growth-performing service sectors in April 2026 were:

Accommodation and Food Services: 37.2%

Retail Trade: 30.8%

Administrative and Support Services: 28.7%

Real Estate Services: 27.7%

Telecommunication Services: 22.8%

 

7) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

The Gujarat Forest Department has successfully reintroduced the Indian Grey Hornbill to the Gir Forest, marking the return of the species after an absence of more than 60 years.

The species had disappeared from the Gir ecosystem during the 1950s–1960s, primarily due to hunting pressure.

Detailed Explanation:

The Gujarat Forest Department has successfully reintroduced the Indian Grey Hornbill to the Gir Forest, marking the return of the species after an absence of more than 60 years.

The species had disappeared from the Gir ecosystem during the 1950s–1960s, primarily due to hunting pressure.

Scientific assessments confirmed that the reintroduced hornbills have survived, established permanent territories, adapted to the habitat, and successfully bred for four consecutive breeding seasons, making it one of India's most successful bird reintroduction programmes.

Under the conservation programme, 40 Indian Grey Hornbills were released into Gir in two phases:

2021–22: 28 hornbills

2023: 12 hornbills

Eleven male hornbills were fitted with satellite transmitters to monitor their movement, habitat use, territorial establishment, nesting behaviour, and breeding success.

 

8) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar announced that the state will establish India’s first government-driven Artificial Intelligence (AI) University during Google I/O Connect India 2026 held at the Bangalore International Exhibition Centre (BIEC), Bengaluru.

The initiative aims to position Karnataka as an "AI-native State" by promoting Artificial Intelligence (AI)-driven education, research, innovation, and governance.

The proposed AI University will serve as a centre of excellence for Artificial Intelligence by developing world-class AI talent, promoting advanced AI research, encouraging innovation and entrepreneurship, and strengthening collaboration among academia, industry, and government.

Detailed Explanation:

Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar announced that the state will establish India’s first government-driven Artificial Intelligence (AI) University during Google I/O Connect India 2026 held at the Bangalore International Exhibition Centre (BIEC), Bengaluru.

The initiative aims to position Karnataka as an "AI-native State" by promoting Artificial Intelligence (AI)-driven education, research, innovation, and governance.

The proposed AI University will serve as a centre of excellence for Artificial Intelligence by developing world-class AI talent, promoting advanced AI research, encouraging innovation and entrepreneurship, and strengthening collaboration among academia, industry, and government.

The university will also help create a skilled workforce to meet the growing demand of AI-driven industries and support India's digital economy.

Alongside the university, the Karnataka Government will establish an AI Hub to promote AI research, startup incubation, innovation, and industry collaboration.

The AI Hub will provide a platform for startups, researchers, companies, and academic institutions to develop AI-based solutions, undertake advanced research, and accelerate the commercialisation of AI technologies.

9) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

The International Gas Union (IGU) has released the World LNG Report 2026, providing a comprehensive review of the global Liquefied Natural Gas  (LNG) industry and market trends.

Global LNG trade reached a record 437 million tonnes in 2025, registering a 6.3% increase, the strongest annual growth since 2022.

India added 52.5 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) of LNG regasification capacity across eight terminals, surpassing Spain to become the 4th largest LNG regasification market globally in 2025.

The Dahej LNG Terminal in Gujarat ranked as the 6th largest LNG regasification terminal in the world and remains India's largest ultra-scale LNG energy hub.

Detailed Explanation:

The International Gas Union (IGU) has released the World LNG Report 2026, providing a comprehensive review of the global Liquefied Natural Gas  (LNG) industry and market trends.

Global LNG trade reached a record 437 million tonnes in 2025, registering a 6.3% increase, the strongest annual growth since 2022.

The growth was driven by expanding LNG supplies from the United States, Qatar, Australia, Russia, and other major producing countries.

Canada and Mauritania/Senegal became new LNG-exporting countries, marking the first new LNG export markets since 2022.

Europe's LNG imports increased significantly following the expiry of Russian natural gas pipeline transit through Ukraine in early 2025.

Asia accounted for the largest increase in global LNG regasification capacity during 2025, with China contributing 24% and India contributing 11.3% of the total global capacity additions.

Although Asia Pacific remained the world's largest LNG-importing region, LNG imports into the region declined due to lower demand from China and India.

India added 52.5 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) of LNG regasification capacity across eight terminals, surpassing Spain to become the 4th largest LNG regasification market globally in 2025.

The Dahej LNG Terminal in Gujarat ranked as the 6th largest LNG regasification terminal in the world and remains India's largest ultra-scale LNG energy hub.

 

10) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

The 49th Session of the Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC49) was held from 6–11 July 2026 in Geneva, Switzerland, where India achieved major success in the development of science-based global food standards.

At CAC49, seven Codex standards and guidelines developed under India's chairmanship and co-chairmanship were officially adopted, highlighting India's growing leadership in the global food safety framework.

The Government of India (GoI) also secured approval for new work on developing a Codex Standard for Cashew Kernels under the Codex Committee on Processed Fruits and Vegetables (CCPFV).

Detailed Explanation:

The 49th Session of the Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC49) was held from 6–11 July 2026 in Geneva, Switzerland, where India achieved major success in the development of science-based global food standards.

At CAC49, seven Codex standards and guidelines developed under India's chairmanship and co-chairmanship were officially adopted, highlighting India's growing leadership in the global food safety framework.

The Government of India (GoI) also secured approval for new work on developing a Codex Standard for Cashew Kernels under the Codex Committee on Processed Fruits and Vegetables (CCPFV).

The Indian delegation was led by Rajit Punhani, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), along with technical experts from FSSAI and the Spices Board.

Under India's chairmanship, the Commission adopted the Codex Standards for Dried Coriander Seeds and Fresh Curry Leaves, providing internationally harmonised quality benchmarks and facilitating global trade.

Under India's co-chairmanship, five Codex texts were adopted, including Standards for Vanilla, Large Cardamom, Guidelines for the Safe Use and Reuse of Water in Food Production and Processing, Guidelines for the Control of Campylobacter and Salmonella in Chicken Meat, and Provisions for Joint Presentation and Multipack Formats under the General Standard for the Labelling of Prepackaged Foods.

 

11) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

Ukraine and nine European countries announced the formation of an Anti-ballistic Missile Coalition to strengthen Europe's defence against the growing ballistic missile threat.

The announcement was made on the sidelines of the Coalition of the Willing (CoW) Summit held in Paris, France, which brought together over 30 countries and at least 25 Heads of State.

The primary objective of the Anti-ballistic Missile Coalition is to develop a shared ballistic missile defence capability for Europe.

Detailed Explanation:

Ukraine and nine European countries announced the formation of an Anti-ballistic Missile Coalition to strengthen Europe's defence against the growing ballistic missile threat.

The announcement was made on the sidelines of the Coalition of the Willing (CoW) Summit held in Paris, France, which brought together over 30 countries and at least 25 Heads of State.

The primary objective of the Anti-ballistic Missile Coalition is to develop a shared ballistic missile defence capability for Europe.

The 10 founding members of the coalition are Ukraine, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Sweden, and the United Kingdom (UK).

The coalition was formed in response to the increasing threat posed by ballistic missiles, which are more difficult to intercept than cruise missiles or drones.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine and its allies will jointly develop a mass-produced, low-cost anti-ballistic missile defence system within the next 12 months (1 year).

 

12) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

Tamil poet, lyricist, and writer R. Vairamuthu was conferred the 60th Jnanpith Award (2025), India's highest literary honour, at a ceremony held in New Delhi.

The award was presented by Dr. Karan Singh, noted scholar and statesman, in recognition of R. Vairamuthu's outstanding contribution to Tamil literature.

With this honour, R. Vairamuthu became the third Tamil writer from Tamil Nadu to receive the Jnanpith Award, after a gap of 24 years.

Detailed Explanation:

Tamil poet, lyricist, and writer R. Vairamuthu was conferred the 60th Jnanpith Award (2025), India's highest literary honour, at a ceremony held in New Delhi.

The award was presented by Dr. Karan Singh, noted scholar and statesman, in recognition of R. Vairamuthu's outstanding contribution to Tamil literature.

With this honour, R. Vairamuthu became the third Tamil writer from Tamil Nadu to receive the Jnanpith Award, after a gap of 24 years.

The previous Tamil recipients of the Jnanpith Award are:

Akilan (1975)

Jayakanthan (2002)

R. Vairamuthu (2025)

The award carries a cash prize of ₹11 lakh, a bronze statue of Goddess Vagdevi (Saraswati), and a citation.

 

13) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

The United States Federal Reserve (US Fed) appointed three Indian-origin experts—Raghuram Rajan, Raj Chetty, and Asha Sharma—to lead three of its five task forces reviewing the US Federal Reserve's Monetary Policy Framework.

The five task forces were announced by US Federal Reserve Chair Kevin Warsh as part of a comprehensive review of the Fed's monetary policy framework.

Raghuram Rajan, Professor of Finance at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business and former Governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), was appointed to head the Balance Sheet Policy Task Force.

Detailed Explanation:

The United States Federal Reserve (US Fed) appointed three Indian-origin experts—Raghuram Rajan, Raj Chetty, and Asha Sharma—to lead three of its five task forces reviewing the US Federal Reserve's Monetary Policy Framework.

The five task forces were announced by US Federal Reserve Chair Kevin Warsh as part of a comprehensive review of the Fed's monetary policy framework.

Raghuram Rajan, Professor of Finance at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business and former Governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), was appointed to head the Balance Sheet Policy Task Force.

The Balance Sheet Policy Task Force will review the costs, benefits, and institutional implications of the Federal Reserve's balance sheet framework.

Raj Chetty, Professor of Economics at Harvard University and Director of Opportunity Insights, was appointed to lead the Data Task Force.

 

14) Answer: E

Short Explanation:

Indian Navy will host Operation Southern Readiness 26-2 at the Southern Naval Command, Kochi (Kerala) from 20–23 July 2026 as a four-day multinational maritime training engagement.

The exercise will be conducted in partnership with the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) under the aegis of Combined Task Force 154 (CTF 154), the Indian Navy-led and CMF's dedicated Training Task Force.

Detailed Explanation:

Indian Navy will host Operation Southern Readiness 26-2 at the Southern Naval Command, Kochi (Kerala) from 20–23 July 2026 as a four-day multinational maritime training engagement.

The exercise will be conducted in partnership with the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) under the aegis of Combined Task Force 154 (CTF 154), the Indian Navy-led and CMF's dedicated Training Task Force.

The exercise will bring together personnel from CMF Partner Nations to strengthen professional maritime security training, gain practical operational experience, and exchange Best Practices.

Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) is a multinational maritime partnership of more than 40 nations committed to enhancing regional capacity building and collective maritime security.

The training programme will include classroom instruction, simulator-based training, and hands-on practical training to improve the operational skills of participating personnel.

The Data Task Force will focus on improving the quality, accuracy, and timeliness of economic data used for monetary policy decision-making.

 

15) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

Technology Development Board (TDB) under the Department of Science & Technology (DST), Government of India, has extended financial assistance to M/s K. N. Biosciences (India) Private Limited, Hyderabad for the project “Production of C-Phycocyanin using Spirulina sp. as a Cell Factory.”

The project aims to commercialise indigenous technology for producing C-Phycocyanin, a natural blue pigment, reducing India's dependence on imported natural colourants and strengthening biotechnology-based sustainable manufacturing.

C-Phycocyanin has applications in the food, nutraceutical, agriculture, aquaculture, poultry feed, and biostimulant sectors, making it a high-value biotechnology product.

The technology was developed by the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati using an indigenous Spirulina strain (NCIM 5143) and transferred to the company through a Transfer of Technology (ToT) Agreement for commercial production.

Detailed Explanation:

Technology Development Board (TDB) under the Department of Science & Technology (DST), Government of India, has extended financial assistance to M/s K. N. Biosciences (India) Private Limited, Hyderabad for the project “Production of C-Phycocyanin using Spirulina sp. as a Cell Factory.”

The project aims to commercialise indigenous technology for producing C-Phycocyanin, a natural blue pigment, reducing India's dependence on imported natural colourants and strengthening biotechnology-based sustainable manufacturing.

C-Phycocyanin has applications in the food, nutraceutical, agriculture, aquaculture, poultry feed, and biostimulant sectors, making it a high-value biotechnology product.

The technology was developed by the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati using an indigenous Spirulina strain (NCIM 5143) and transferred to the company through a Transfer of Technology (ToT) Agreement for commercial production.

The initiative represents the successful commercialisation of publicly funded research and supports the Government's vision of Bioeconomy, Sustainable Manufacturing, and Aatmanirbhar Bharat.

 

16) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), in partnership with the Drone Federation India (DFI), launched the 2nd edition of the National Innovation Challenge for Drone Application and Research (NIDAR 2.0) for 2026–27 under the SwaYaan Initiative at Electronics Niketan, New Delhi.

During the launch event, S. Krishnan, Secretary, MeitY, formally unveiled the problem statements, poster, and rulebook for NIDAR 2.0.

NIDAR 2.0 focuses on developing autonomous drone systems, indigenous avionics, and core drone components, promoting self-reliance (Aatmanirbharta) in India's drone ecosystem.

A key highlight of NIDAR 2.0 is the integration of the indigenously developed VEGA Processor under the Digital India RISC-V (DIR-V) Programme, challenging participants to build drone intelligence using indigenous technology.

The competition is organised under two specialised tracks: Track 1 – Drone Innovation and Track 2 – Component Innovation.

Detailed Explanation:

The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), in partnership with the Drone Federation India (DFI), launched the 2nd edition of the National Innovation Challenge for Drone Application and Research (NIDAR 2.0) for 2026–27 under the SwaYaan Initiative at Electronics Niketan, New Delhi.

During the launch event, S. Krishnan, Secretary, MeitY, formally unveiled the problem statements, poster, and rulebook for NIDAR 2.0.

NIDAR 2.0 focuses on developing autonomous drone systems, indigenous avionics, and core drone components, promoting self-reliance (Aatmanirbharta) in India's drone ecosystem.

A key highlight of NIDAR 2.0 is the integration of the indigenously developed VEGA Processor under the Digital India RISC-V (DIR-V) Programme, challenging participants to build drone intelligence using indigenous technology.

The competition is organised under two specialised tracks: Track 1 – Drone Innovation and Track 2 – Component Innovation.

 

17) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

Union Minister of Coal and Mines, G. Kishan Reddy, in the presence of Minister of State Satish Chandra Dubey and Coal Secretary Vikram Dev Dutt, launched the Online Portal Application for Registration of Coal Exchanges in New Delhi during the Curtain Raiser Event for Indian Mining Week 2026.

The launch marks India's transition from a policy framework to operational readiness for Coal Exchanges, inviting eligible entities to apply for registration under the regulatory oversight of the Coal Controller Organisation (CCO).

Detailed Explanation:

Union Minister of Coal and Mines, G. Kishan Reddy, in the presence of Minister of State Satish Chandra Dubey and Coal Secretary Vikram Dev Dutt, launched the Online Portal Application for Registration of Coal Exchanges in New Delhi during the Curtain Raiser Event for Indian Mining Week 2026.

The launch marks India's transition from a policy framework to operational readiness for Coal Exchanges, inviting eligible entities to apply for registration under the regulatory oversight of the Coal Controller Organisation (CCO).

A Coal Exchange is an online trading platform where buyers and sellers of coal and processed coal products can undertake delivery-based coal contracts approved by the Authority.

The Coal Exchange will ensure transparent market-based price discovery, quality assurance through Authority-approved coal sampling agencies, advanced market surveillance, secure clearing and settlement backed by a Settlement Fund, and an effective grievance redressal mechanism.

NIDAR 2.0 offers a prize pool of over ₹65 lakh, along with corporate internships, startup incubation support, cloud computing credits, software support, and mentorship to help winning teams commercialise their innovations.

The SwaYaan Initiative was approved in July 2022 with an outlay of nearly ₹90 crore to develop a skilled workforce and strengthen India's drone ecosystem.

The first edition of NIDAR, launched in March 2025, attracted 3,448 students from 22 States, 4 Union Territories, and 109 cities, with participants developing drone solutions for precision agriculture and disaster management.

The inaugural edition concluded with 93 finalist teams, while 24 winning teams received prizes worth ₹40 lakh.

 

18) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

The Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) between India and the United Kingdom (UK) came into effect on 15 July 2026, marking a major milestone in bilateral economic and trade relations.

The agreement aims to increase bilateral trade to USD 100 billion by 2030 from the current level of around USD 55–60 billion, while promoting trade, investment, supply chain integration, employment generation, and long-term economic cooperation.

Detailed Explanation:

The Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) between India and the United Kingdom (UK) came into effect on 15 July 2026, marking a major milestone in bilateral economic and trade relations.

The agreement aims to increase bilateral trade to USD 100 billion by 2030 from the current level of around USD 55–60 billion, while promoting trade, investment, supply chain integration, employment generation, and long-term economic cooperation.

India–UK bilateral trade currently stands at around USD 55–60 billion, including USD 25.12 billion in merchandise trade (FY 2025–26) and USD 35.44 billion in services trade (2024).

Under the agreement, Indian exports in sectors such as textiles and apparel, leather products, footwear, gems and jewellery, plastics, and other labour-intensive industries will receive zero-duty access to the UK market, enhancing their global competitiveness.

 

19) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta unveiled ‘Mayur’, the official mascot of the 22nd Commonwealth Table Tennis Championship 2026, at a special ceremony in New Delhi.

The 22nd Commonwealth Table Tennis Championship 2026 will be held from 27 July to 2 August 2026 at the Thyagraj Stadium, New Delhi.

Detailed Explanation:

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta unveiled ‘Mayur’, the official mascot of the 22nd Commonwealth Table Tennis Championship 2026, at a special ceremony in New Delhi.

The 22nd Commonwealth Table Tennis Championship 2026 will be held from 27 July to 2 August 2026 at the Thyagraj Stadium, New Delhi.

The championship is expected to witness participation from over 35 Commonwealth countries, making it one of the largest editions of the tournament.

‘Mayur’ is inspired by the Indian Peacock, the National Bird of India, and reflects the values of unity, friendship, cultural diversity, sportsmanship, and international cooperation.

20) Answer: C

World Day for International Justice 2026 was observed globally on 17 July 2026 to recognise and promote the importance of the international justice system.

The day is also known by various names such as International Justice Day, World Day for International Justice, and Day of International Criminal Justice.