Dear Readers, Daily Current Affairs Questions Quiz for SBI, IBPS, RBI, RRB, SSC Exam 2026 of  18th August  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) Recently in news, SEBI has proposed introducing a mandatory Credit Risk-o-Meter for debt securities. Which colour would represent the "Lowest Credit Risk" category under the proposed framework?

(a) Red

(b) Dark Orange

(c) Irish Green

(d) Chartreuse

(e) Neon Yellow

 

2) Recently in news, which Public Sector Bank (PSB) recorded the highest decline in fraud cases during FY 2025–26?

(a) Central Bank of India

(b) Indian Bank

(c) UCO Bank

(d) Indian Overseas Bank (IOB)

(e) Union Bank of India

 

3) Recently in news, Bank of Baroda (BoB) raised USD 700 million under which programme through the issuance of Senior Unsecured Fixed Rate Notes (FRNs)?

(a) External Commercial Borrowing (ECB) Programme

(b) Masala Bond Programme

(c) USD 5 Billion Global Medium Term Note (GMTN) Programme

(d) India Infrastructure Finance Programme

(e) Sovereign Green Bond Programme

 

4) Recently in news, which company received an Investment Banking licence from IFSCA to operate from GIFT City under the IFSCA (Capital Market Intermediaries) Regulations, 2025?

(a) BlackRock IFSC Private Limited

(b) Nexent Capital IFSC Private Limited

(c) JP Morgan IFSC Private Limited

(d) Goldman Sachs IFSC Private Limited

(e) Morgan Stanley IFSC Private Limited

5) Recently in news, India and Nepal agreed to use which technology to map cross-border land occupation along their shared boundary?

(a) LiDAR Satellites

(b) Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR)

(c) Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs)

(d) Geographic Information System (GIS) only

(e) Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR)

6) Recently in news, the Karnataka Cabinet approved the 'Sandhya Kiran' cashless healthcare scheme with a maximum annual treatment coverage of how much per eligible family?

(a) ₹2 lakh

(b) ₹3 lakh

(c) ₹5 lakh

(d) ₹7 lakh

(e) ₹10 lakh

7) Recently in news, NITI Aayog's report titled “Key Sectors to Position India as a Global Manufacturing Hub” extensively analyses how many key sectors in its first phase?

(a) Two sectors

(b) Three sectors

(c) Six sectors

(d) Four sectors

(e) Eight sectors

 

8) Recently in news, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a nationwide sports talent identification campaign for children belonging to which age group?

(a) 3–10 years

(b) 5–15 years

(c) 6–18 years

(d) 8–16 years

(e) 10–20 years

9) Recently in news, how many States and Union Territories have already declared cancer as a “notifiable disease,” according to the Supreme Court proceedings?

(a) 12

(b) 15

(c) 17

(d) 19

(e) 21

10) Recently in news, how many blackbucks were released into the Banni Grasslands of Kutch, Gujarat, as part of a wildlife restoration initiative?

(a) 10

(b) 15

(c) 18

(d) 25

(e) 20

 

11) Recently in news, who chairs the 12-member high-powered committee constituted to examine the restoration and future management of the Teesta Barrage Project (TBP)?

(a) Chairman of the NITI Aayog

(b) Chairman of the Central Water Commission (CWC)

(c) Secretary, Ministry of Jal Shakti

(d) Director General, National Disaster Management Authority

(e) Chairman of the National Water Development Agency

 

12) Recently in news, the Gaj Gaurav Awards 2026 were presented to how many mahouts from Jaldapara National Park, West Bengal, for their contribution to flood-rescue operations?

(a) 5

(b) 6

(c) 7

(d) 8

(e) 10

13) Recently in news, India signed MoUs with which country for the implementation of 8 development projects in education, health and agriculture under the HICDP framework?

(a) Bhutan

(b) Bangladesh

(c) Nepal

(d) Sri Lanka

(e) Myanmar

 

14) Recently in news, lithium and gallium deposits are being explored in which basin of Andhra Pradesh?

(a) Kadapa Basin

(b) Godavari Basin

(c) Krishna Basin

(d) Pennar Basin

(e) Kurnool Basin

15) Recently in news, who has been appointed as the Managing Director and CEO of Manappuram Finance Limited for a five-year term starting from 1 January 2027?

(a) V. P. Nandakumar

(b) Ashish Singh

(c) Rajiv Ranjan

(d) Sanjay Malhotra

(e) Shailesh Kumar

16) Recently in news, who stepped down as the Executive Chairman of Tata Sons Private Limited after completing his current term on 20 February 2027?

(a) Cyrus Mistry

(b) S. Ramadorai

(c) V. P. Nandakumar

(d) Natarajan Chandrasekaran

(e) N. Ganapathy Subramaniam

17) Recently in news, who has been appointed as a Part-Time Non-Official Director on the Board of UCO Bank?

(a) Manohar Lal Paliwal

(b) Ashish Singh

(c) V. P. Nandakumar

(d) Natarajan Chandrasekaran

(e) Rajiv Ranjan

18) Recently in news, the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) launched its e-Inspection and e-Certified Copy Services under which initiative?

(a) Digital India Mission

(b) e-Courts 1.0 Initiative

(c) e-Courts 2.0 Initiative

(d) National Judicial Infrastructure Programme

(e) Mission Nyaya

19) Recently in news, which company launched ‘Vaidya AI’, an India-focused healthcare reasoning model under the IndiaAI Mission?

(a) Tata Consultancy Services (TCS)

(b) Wipro

(c) Infosys

(d) Fractal Analytics

(e) HCLTech

20) Recently in news, JSW Neo Energy Limited and Bhutan’s Druk Green Power Corporation Limited signed an agreement to jointly develop which hydroelectric project?

(a) 720 MW Punatsangchhu-I Hydroelectric Project

(b) 1,020 MW Punatsangchhu-II Hydroelectric Project

(c) 900 MW Mangdechhu Hydroelectric Project

(d) 920 MW Punatsangchhu-III Hydroelectric Project

(e) 1,200 MW Sunkosh Hydroelectric Project

21) Recently in news, Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) entered into a strategic collaboration with which company for the indigenisation and local manufacturing of PEM electrolyser systems for green hydrogen projects in India?

(a) Hystar AS

(b) Nel ASA

(c) Plug Power

(d) Siemens Energy

(e) Thyssenkrupp Nucera

 

22) Recently in news, which consortium will develop India’s first indigenous, fully commercial Earth Observation satellite constellation under the PPP model?

(a) TeamIndus Consortium

(b) Allied Orbits Private Limited Consortium

(c) Skyroot Space Consortium

(d) Bharat Space Consortium

(e) Agnikul Cosmos Consortium

23) Recently in news, Sumit Sarkar, who passed away at the age of 87, was renowned as a scholar of which field?

(a) Ancient Indian History

(b) Medieval Indian History

(c) Modern Indian History

(d) Indian Archaeology

(e) Indian Geography

 

24) Recently in news, Major General Sunil Kumar Razdan (Retd), who passed away at the age of 70, was a recipient of which gallantry award?

(a) Param Vir Chakra

(b) Ashoka Chakra

(c) Kirti Chakra

(d) Maha Vir Chakra

(e) Vir Chakra

25) As per the news, UCO Bank is headquartered in which city?

(a) Mumbai

(b) Chennai

(c) Kolkata

(d) New Delhi

(e) Bengaluru

Answers:

1) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has proposed introducing a mandatory colour-coded Credit Risk-o-Meter for debt securities to help investors assess and compare credit risk more easily before investing.

The proposal builds on SEBI’s existing Risk-o-Meter framework for Mutual Funds (MFs), which classifies risk into six levels ranging from Low to Very High.

Irish Green would represent Lowest credit risk, while Red would represent High to very high risk of default.

The other proposed colour categories are Chartreuse for Very low credit risk, Neon Yellow for Low credit risk, Caramel for Moderate credit risk, and Dark Orange for Moderate risk of default.

Detailed Explanation:

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has proposed introducing a mandatory colour-coded Credit Risk-o-Meter for debt securities to help investors assess and compare credit risk more easily before investing.

The proposal builds on SEBI’s existing Risk-o-Meter framework for Mutual Funds (MFs), which classifies risk into six levels ranging from Low to Very High.

The proposed Credit Risk-o-Meter would convert the existing credit rating scale from AAA to D into a standardised six-level colour-coded visual scale.

The framework aims to simplify complex alphanumeric credit ratings such as AAA, AA+, and BBB-, enabling investors to compare debt securities more easily and align investments with their risk appetite.

The proposed six colour-coded credit-risk levels are Lowest credit risk, Very low credit risk, Low credit risk, Moderate credit risk, Moderate risk of default, and High to very high risk of default.

Irish Green would represent Lowest credit risk, while Red would represent High to very high risk of default.

The other proposed colour categories are Chartreuse for Very low credit risk, Neon Yellow for Low credit risk, Caramel for Moderate credit risk, and Dark Orange for Moderate risk of default.

2) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

Fraud involving Public Sector Banks (PSBs) increased sharply by 58% in value to ₹35,671 crore in FY 2025-26, compared with ₹22,582 crore in FY 2024-25.

Among individual PSBs, Indian Overseas Bank (IOB) recorded the highest decline of 95% in fraud cases during FY26.

Central Bank of India and Indian Bank each recorded a 91% decline in fraud cases during FY26.

The decline in fraud cases was not uniform across all PSBs, as some banks reported significant increases during the year.

UCO Bank recorded a 211% increase in fraud cases, while Bank of Maharashtra reported a 36% increase.

Union Bank of India recorded a relatively marginal 3% increase in fraud cases during FY26.

Detailed Explanation:

Fraud involving Public Sector Banks (PSBs) increased sharply by 58% in value to ₹35,671 crore in FY 2025-26, compared with ₹22,582 crore in FY 2024-25.

At the same time, the number of reported fraud cases declined by 79%, falling from 27,356 cases in FY25 to 5,786 cases in FY26.

The data indicates a trend of fewer but potentially larger and more sophisticated frauds being reported in Public Sector Banks.

Among individual PSBs, Indian Overseas Bank (IOB) recorded the highest decline of 95% in fraud cases during FY26.

Central Bank of India and Indian Bank each recorded a 91% decline in fraud cases during FY26.

The decline in fraud cases was not uniform across all PSBs, as some banks reported significant increases during the year.

UCO Bank recorded a 211% increase in fraud cases, while Bank of Maharashtra reported a 36% increase.

Union Bank of India recorded a relatively marginal 3% increase in fraud cases during FY26.

Recoveries from fraud-related cases more than doubled to approximately ₹2,514 crore in FY26, compared with the previous financial year.

Punjab & Sind Bank recorded the highest recovery from fraud-related cases at approximately ₹772.31 crore in FY26, compared with only ₹0.5 crore in FY25.

Punjab National Bank (PNB) ranked second in recovery at ₹604.37 crore, with its recoveries increasing by nearly six times compared with the previous year.

Bank of India (BoI) ranked third with fraud recoveries of ₹429.08 crore, representing an increase of more than 71 times over its FY25 recovery.

The top three PSBs in fraud-related recoveries in FY26 were Punjab & Sind Bank – ₹772.31 crore, Punjab National Bank – ₹604.37 crore, and Bank of India – ₹429.08 crore

3) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

Bank of Baroda (BoB) has concluded the issuance of Senior Unsecured Fixed Rate Notes (FRNs) with three-year and five-year maturities, raising a total of USD 700 million under Regulation S.

BoB raised USD 400 million through three-year FRNs at a coupon rate of 5.114% per annum.

BoB also raised USD 300 million through five-year FRNs at a coupon rate of 5.318% per annum.

The notes were issued under BoB’s USD 5 billion Global Medium Term Note (GMTN) Programme, which enables the bank to raise funds from international investors through debt instruments such as bonds and notes.

Detailed Explanation:

Bank of Baroda (BoB) has concluded the issuance of Senior Unsecured Fixed Rate Notes (FRNs) with three-year and five-year maturities, raising a total of USD 700 million under Regulation S.

BoB raised USD 400 million through three-year FRNs at a coupon rate of 5.114% per annum.

BoB also raised USD 300 million through five-year FRNs at a coupon rate of 5.318% per annum.

The notes were issued under BoB’s USD 5 billion Global Medium Term Note (GMTN) Programme, which enables the bank to raise funds from international investors through debt instruments such as bonds and notes.

The bonds will be issued through Bank of Baroda’s IFSC Banking Unit (IBU) branch at GIFT City, Gandhinagar, with issuance scheduled from 20 August 2026.

The three-year and five-year bonds will be listed on the India International Exchange (India INX) and NSE-IX at GIFT City.

The notes will also be listed on the Singapore Stock Exchange, according to the bank’s regulatory filing.

4) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

The International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA) granted an Investment Banking licence to Nexent Capital IFSC Private Limited (Nexent Capital) to operate from GIFT City, Gandhinagar, Gujarat.

Nexent Capital is the GIFT City-based arm of U.S.-based Nexent Capital Management and received formal registration from IFSCA on 31 July 2026.

The registration was granted under the IFSCA (Capital Market Intermediaries) Regulations, 2025, allowing Nexent Capital to undertake regulated investment banking activities from India’s International Financial Services Centre (IFSC).

Detailed Explanation:

The International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA) granted an Investment Banking licence to Nexent Capital IFSC Private Limited (Nexent Capital) to operate from GIFT City, Gandhinagar, Gujarat.

Nexent Capital is the GIFT City-based arm of U.S.-based Nexent Capital Management and received formal registration from IFSCA on 31 July 2026.

The registration was granted under the IFSCA (Capital Market Intermediaries) Regulations, 2025, allowing Nexent Capital to undertake regulated investment banking activities from India’s International Financial Services Centre (IFSC).

Nexent Capital is authorised to manage Initial Public Offerings (IPOs) and Follow-on Public Offerings (FPOs) under the regulatory framework applicable to capital market intermediaries.

The licence also permits Nexent Capital to undertake Special Purpose Acquisition Company (SPAC) listings, secondary listings, and Depository Receipt issuances.

The company can undertake Debt Capital Market transactions and provide other capital market advisory services within the GIFT City IFSC regulatory framework.

5) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

India and Nepal have agreed to complete the mapping of cross-border land occupation within three years, addressing a long-standing technical issue along their shared boundary.

The survey will use Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) to identify and document areas where citizens of either country are cultivating or residing on land technically falling within the territory of the other country.

The joint UAV-based survey is expected to begin after the monsoon, around September–October 2026.

Detailed Explanation:

India and Nepal have agreed to complete the mapping of cross-border land occupation within three years, addressing a long-standing technical issue along their shared boundary.

The survey will use Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) to identify and document areas where citizens of either country are cultivating or residing on land technically falling within the territory of the other country.

The joint UAV-based survey is expected to begin after the monsoon, around September–October 2026.

The decision was taken at the 13th meeting of the Survey Officials’ Committee (SOC) held in Lucknow. The meeting also approved the annual plan and budget for the survey.

Aerial images captured by UAVs will be jointly analysed by India and Nepal to determine the extent of cross-border land occupation and establish a common technical assessment.

The issue has emerged partly due to changes in river courses along the India–Nepal border. In several riverine areas, the Fixed Boundary Principle was used during the original demarcation, but shifting river channels subsequently altered the position of land.

The 182 sets of strip maps signed by India and Nepal in 2007 had already identified hundreds of hectares where citizens of one country were cultivating or residing on land belonging technically to the other country.

The Survey Officials’ Committee (SOC) functions under the Boundary Working Group (BWG), which is headed by the survey chiefs of India and Nepal.

6) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

The Karnataka Cabinet approved the ‘Sandhya Kiran’ cashless healthcare scheme for State Government pensioners below 70 years, family pensioners and eligible dependents.

The scheme aims to provide financial and health security through cashless healthcare services and initially covers around 4.93 lakh beneficiaries, including 3.11 lakh State Government pensioners below 70 years and their eligible dependents.

Under the scheme, eligible families can avail cashless treatment up to ₹5 lakh per year on a floater basis for secondary, tertiary and emergency healthcare at empanelled hospitals.

The scheme has been formulated under the Ayushman Bharat–Arogya Karnataka (AB-ArK) regulations, with applicable benefit packages and revised treatment rates.

Detailed Explanation:

The Karnataka Cabinet approved the ‘Sandhya Kiran’ cashless healthcare scheme for State Government pensioners below 70 years, family pensioners and eligible dependents.

The scheme aims to provide financial and health security through cashless healthcare services and initially covers around 4.93 lakh beneficiaries, including 3.11 lakh State Government pensioners below 70 years and their eligible dependents.

Under the scheme, eligible families can avail cashless treatment up to ₹5 lakh per year on a floater basis for secondary, tertiary and emergency healthcare at empanelled hospitals.

The scheme has been formulated under the Ayushman Bharat–Arogya Karnataka (AB-ArK) regulations, with applicable benefit packages and revised treatment rates.

Service pensioners will contribute 1.25% of their basic pension, while family pensioners will contribute 0.75% of their basic family pension.

The scheme is expected to generate around ₹117 crore annually through beneficiary contributions, against an estimated annual treatment cost of ₹81.75 crore.

70% of the treatment cost will be met through beneficiary contributions, amounting to around ₹57.22 crore, while the remaining 30% will be contributed by the Karnataka Government, amounting to around ₹24.53 crore.

To maintain financial sustainability, the contribution rate will automatically increase by 0.05 percentage points (5 basis points) whenever corpus utilisation exceeds 85%.

7) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

NITI Aayog released the report titled “Key Sectors to Position India as a Global Manufacturing Hub”, identifying high-potential sectors that can help India become a global manufacturing powerhouse.

The report extensively analyses four key sectors — Chemicals, Textiles, Telecom & Networking Equipment, and Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Manufacturing.

The assessment considers factors such as market potential, infrastructure readiness, policy support, raw material availability, technology readiness, employment potential and India’s position in the global value chain.

The study was conducted in four phases: shortlisting sectors based on relative attractiveness, comprehensive assessment of shortlisted sectors, benchmarking international best practices, and developing actionable recommendations and a roadmap.

Detailed Explanation:

NITI Aayog released the report titled “Key Sectors to Position India as a Global Manufacturing Hub”, identifying high-potential sectors that can help India become a global manufacturing powerhouse.

The report extensively analyses four key sectors — Chemicals, Textiles, Telecom & Networking Equipment, and Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Manufacturing.

The assessment considers factors such as market potential, infrastructure readiness, policy support, raw material availability, technology readiness, employment potential and India’s position in the global value chain.

The study was conducted in four phases: shortlisting sectors based on relative attractiveness, comprehensive assessment of shortlisted sectors, benchmarking international best practices, and developing actionable recommendations and a roadmap.

The report will be followed by studies covering 8 more sectors.

Chemicals Sector: India can increase domestic value addition by expanding downstream production, improving feedstock utilisation, reducing import dependence and strengthening downstream capabilities; strategic use of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) can further support competitiveness.

Textiles Sector: The industry contributes about 2% to India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), 11% to manufacturing Gross Value Added (GVA) and 9% of merchandise exports, while providing livelihoods to more than 45 million people.

In Fiscal Year 2025, India exported textile products worth USD 37.7 billion, accounting for 4.1% of global textile and apparel exports, making India the 6th-largest textile exporter globally.

8) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a nationwide sports talent identification campaign for children aged 5–15 years to identify and nurture young sporting talent across India.

The campaign will be conducted across villages, cities and schools, with special attention to identifying talented girls.

The initiative is part of India’s preparations for a potential bid to host the 2036 Olympic Games.

Detailed Explanation:

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a nationwide sports talent identification campaign for children aged 5–15 years to identify and nurture young sporting talent across India.

The campaign will be conducted across villages, cities and schools, with special attention to identifying talented girls.

The initiative is part of India’s preparations for a potential bid to host the 2036 Olympic Games.

PM Modi highlighted that India is moving forward as a strong contender to host the 2036 Olympics and will host the Commonwealth Games in 2030.

The campaign will assess the abilities of identified children and provide specialised training to develop them into athletes capable of representing India at the highest level.

PM Modi noted that the Olympic Games feature around 40 sports and 325–350 events, while India currently does not participate or qualify in nearly two-thirds of these events, highlighting the need to expand participation across sporting disciplines.

India’s sports ecosystem has been strengthened through initiatives such as Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS), Khelo India Games, University Games, Winter Games and Beach Games, along with investments in sports infrastructure, coaching, sports medicine and nutrition.

9) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

The Supreme Court of India has asked the remaining 19 States and Union Territories (UTs) to consider declaring cancer as a “notifiable disease” to facilitate early detection, timely treatment and proper care of cancer patients.

A Bench headed by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant issued the direction.

17 of the 36 States and Union Territories have already notified cancer as a notifiable disease, following recommendations of a Parliamentary Standing Committee.

Detailed Explanation:

The Supreme Court of India has asked the remaining 19 States and Union Territories (UTs) to consider declaring cancer as a “notifiable disease” to facilitate early detection, timely treatment and proper care of cancer patients.

A Bench headed by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant issued the direction.

17 of the 36 States and Union Territories have already notified cancer as a notifiable disease, following recommendations of a Parliamentary Standing Committee.

The direction came while hearing a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) seeking the declaration of cancer as a notifiable disease across India.

The Central Government informed the Court that health is a State subject and that 17 States have already taken the decision.

The Supreme Court directed the remaining 19 States and UTs to consider the recommendations and take appropriate decisions, and also asked them to file compliance affidavits.

The Court further sought measures for implementing cancer screening across the country.

 

10) Answer: E

Short Explanation:

The Gujarat Forest Department released 20 blackbucks into the Banni Grasslands of Kutch, Gujarat, on India’s 80th Independence Day, with technical support from the Greens Zoological Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre (GZRRC), Vantara.

The 20 blackbucks comprised 5 males and 15 females, transferred from Vantara’s facility in Jamnagar after obtaining approvals from the Chief Wildlife Warden of Gujarat and the Central Zoo Authority (CZA).

Detailed Explanation:

The Gujarat Forest Department released 20 blackbucks into the Banni Grasslands of Kutch, Gujarat, on India’s 80th Independence Day, with technical support from the Greens Zoological Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre (GZRRC), Vantara.

The 20 blackbucks comprised 5 males and 15 females, transferred from Vantara’s facility in Jamnagar after obtaining approvals from the Chief Wildlife Warden of Gujarat and the Central Zoo Authority (CZA).

Before release, the animals underwent veterinary examination, health screening, quarantine and disease surveillance, followed by prescribed protocols for safe and humane transportation and release.

The initiative aims to restore native wildlife and the ecological character of the Banni Grasslands, strengthen the herbivore community, support natural predator-prey relationships and build a more resilient grassland ecosystem.

Banni Grassland is a vast grassland ecosystem in Kutch, Gujarat, supporting pastoral communities and diverse native wildlife, including blackbuck, chinkara, nilgai and wild boar.

The recovery of native herbivores, along with habitat conservation and scientific grassland management, is expected to strengthen biodiversity and ecological balance in the Banni landscape.

11) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

India has constituted a 12-member high-powered committee to examine the restoration and future management of the Teesta Barrage Project (TBP) in West Bengal, including the strengthening of the barrage and associated infrastructure.

The committee was constituted on 10 July 2026 and is chaired by the Chairman of the Central Water Commission (CWC), with a mandate to submit its report within 6 months.

The committee includes representatives from Sikkim and West Bengal at the Joint Secretary level or equivalent.

Detailed Explanation:

India has constituted a 12-member high-powered committee to examine the restoration and future management of the Teesta Barrage Project (TBP) in West Bengal, including the strengthening of the barrage and associated infrastructure.

The committee was constituted on 10 July 2026 and is chaired by the Chairman of the Central Water Commission (CWC), with a mandate to submit its report within 6 months.

The committee includes representatives from Sikkim and West Bengal at the Joint Secretary level or equivalent.

The committee will assess current water utilisation, future water demand, water availability, siltation and management of the Teesta River Basin, while also examining the impact of climate change.

It will examine measures to develop climate-resilient strategies, strengthen the existing barrage and associated infrastructure, increase the carrying capacity of the Teesta and its drainage channels and improve overall river-basin management.

The committee will also study regulatory measures governing water releases from upstream dams and storage facilities, including the Gajaldoba Barrage.

The Joint Detailed Technical Study, aimed at preparing a Teesta River Basin Comprehensive Management Plan, held its first meeting on 6 August 2026.

The development comes amid growing Chinese involvement in Bangladesh’s plans for the Teesta River, including technical cooperation for the management and restoration of the river.

12) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

The Gaj Gaurav Awards 2026 were conferred during the national celebrations of World Elephant Day in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh.

The ceremony was hosted by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) to recognise frontline contributions to elephant conservation and management.

Kirti Vardhan Singh, Minister of State for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, presented the awards.

Seven mahouts from Jaldapara National Park, West Bengal, received the Gaj Gaurav Awards 2026 for their contribution to flood-rescue operations.

Bikash Kharia and Rajiv Oraon rescued and protected 6 stranded captive elephants during severe floods.

Detailed Explanation:

The Gaj Gaurav Awards 2026 were conferred during the national celebrations of World Elephant Day in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh.

The ceremony was hosted by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) to recognise frontline contributions to elephant conservation and management.

Kirti Vardhan Singh, Minister of State for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, presented the awards.

Seven mahouts from Jaldapara National Park, West Bengal, received the Gaj Gaurav Awards 2026 for their contribution to flood-rescue operations.

Bikash Kharia and Rajiv Oraon rescued and protected 6 stranded captive elephants during severe floods.

Ajibul Haque, Ajit Gabur, Momtaz Alam, Amasur Kharia and Dilip Munda helped guide 13 displaced wild rhinoceroses to safety.

The Ministry released “30 Giant Steps”, highlighting 30 achievements and policy initiatives under Project Elephant during 2020–2026.

A Regional Action Plan for Comprehensive Understanding and Management of Human–Elephant Conflict in Southern India was launched for Karnataka, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, with a ₹500 crore financial commitment from the Government of India.

World Elephant Day is observed annually on 12 August to promote elephant conservation and protection.

13) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

The Embassy of India in Nepal and various Government of Nepal bodies signed Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) for the implementation of 8 development projects in education, health and agriculture.

The projects will be implemented using Indian grant assistance through local government entities and institutions under the Government of Nepal.

The 8 projects have a combined estimated value of 803 million Nepali Rupees.

The projects have been selected under India’s High Impact Community Development Projects (HICDPs) framework and will be implemented across different regions of Nepal.

Detailed Explanation:

The Embassy of India in Nepal and various Government of Nepal bodies signed Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) for the implementation of 8 development projects in education, health and agriculture.

The projects will be implemented using Indian grant assistance through local government entities and institutions under the Government of Nepal.

The 8 projects have a combined estimated value of 803 million Nepali Rupees.

The projects have been selected under India’s High Impact Community Development Projects (HICDPs) framework and will be implemented across different regions of Nepal.

The agreements were signed between the Embassy of India in Kathmandu, Nepal’s Ministry of Land Management, Cooperatives, Federal Affairs and General Administration, and the designated project implementation authorities.

The initiatives aim to strengthen development in the key priority sectors of health, education and agriculture.

14) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

The Andhra Pradesh Government signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research–National Geophysical Research Institute (CSIR-NGRI) for detailed exploration of lithium and gallium deposits in the Vempalle area of the Kadapa Basin.

Preliminary studies by CSIR-NGRI around Thummalapalle indicated the presence of lithium and gallium minerals in the Kadapa Basin.

The estimated concentration of lithium is up to 1,000 parts per million (ppm), while gallium is estimated at up to 250 ppm.

Detailed Explanation:

The Andhra Pradesh Government signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research–National Geophysical Research Institute (CSIR-NGRI) for detailed exploration of lithium and gallium deposits in the Vempalle area of the Kadapa Basin.

Preliminary studies by CSIR-NGRI around Thummalapalle indicated the presence of lithium and gallium minerals in the Kadapa Basin.

The estimated concentration of lithium is up to 1,000 parts per million (ppm), while gallium is estimated at up to 250 ppm.

The MoU will facilitate detailed geological studies and assessment of the mineral potential of the region.

The exploration project will be fully funded by the National Mineral Exploration Trust (NMET), with an estimated cost of around ₹140 crore.

The Andhra Pradesh Government also signed an MoU with Indian Institute of Technology (Indian School of Mines), Dhanbad–TEXMiN to promote research, advanced technology and skill development in the State’s mining sector.

Under the agreement, IIT (ISM) Dhanbad will establish a Centre of Excellence for Mining in Andhra Pradesh.

The Centre of Excellence will focus on strengthening mining research, adoption of advanced technologies and development of skilled human resources.

15) Answer: B

Ashish Singh has been appointed as the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (MD & CEO) of Manappuram Finance Limited for a five-year term starting from 1 January 2027.

Ashish Singh will succeed V. P. Nandakumar, who has been serving as the company’s Managing Director and CEO and will retire from his executive position.

V. P. Nandakumar will continue as Managing Director and Chairman of Manappuram Finance until 31 December 2026 and will thereafter become the company’s Non-Executive Chairman

16) Answer: D

Natarajan Chandrasekaran stepped down as the Executive Chairman of Tata Sons Private Limited after completing his current term on 20 February 2027.

Natarajan Chandrasekaran was first appointed as Chairman of Tata Sons in February 2017, following the removal of Cyrus Mistry.

He was reappointed as Chairman in 2022 and served as the head of the Tata Group’s holding company until the completion of his term.

17) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

UCO Bank has appointed Chartered Accountant Shri Manohar Lal Paliwal as a Part-Time Non-Official Director on its Board of Directors.

The appointment was made through Central Government nomination and became effective from 12 August 2026.

Detailed Explanation:

UCO Bank has appointed Chartered Accountant Shri Manohar Lal Paliwal as a Part-Time Non-Official Director on its Board of Directors.

The appointment was made through Central Government nomination and became effective from 12 August 2026.

Manohar Lal Paliwal will serve as a Part-Time Non-Official Director for a tenure of three years from the date of the Central Government notification or until further orders, whichever is earlier.

As a Chartered Accountant, Paliwal brings professional financial and accounting expertise to the Board of UCO Bank.

As a Non-Official Director, Paliwal will contribute to Board deliberations and provide an independent perspective on the bank’s operations, governance, and strategic matters.

18) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

The National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) launched its electronic (e)-Inspection and e-Certified Copy Services in New Delhi, Delhi to provide faster digital access to judicial records.

The new digital services have been introduced under the e-Courts 2.0 initiative, aimed at improving transparency, efficiency, and accessibility in the judicial system.

The services were inaugurated virtually by Justice Anupinder Singh Grewal, President of the NCLT.

Detailed Explanation:

The National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) launched its electronic (e)-Inspection and e-Certified Copy Services in New Delhi, Delhi to provide faster digital access to judicial records.

The new digital services have been introduced under the e-Courts 2.0 initiative, aimed at improving transparency, efficiency, and accessibility in the judicial system.

The services were inaugurated virtually by Justice Anupinder Singh Grewal, President of the NCLT.

The e-Inspection Service enables registered users to inspect case records online through the NCLT e-Filing portal.

The e-Certified Copy Service enables registered users to submit requests online and receive approved certified documents digitally, reducing the need for physical visits.

The new system provides faster, convenient, transparent, and trackable access to judicial records for stakeholders.

 

19) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

Fractal Analytics has launched Vaidya AI, an India-focused healthcare reasoning model under the IndiaAI Mission, with beta testing beginning in Mumbai.

The pilot is being conducted in partnership with the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) and will provide a Health AI Chatbot on WhatsApp powered by Vaidya AI.

During the initial pilot, the chatbot will use healthcare datasets from six BMC facilities, including two major hospitals, to provide citizens with quick and reliable healthcare information.

Detailed Explanation:

Fractal Analytics has launched Vaidya AI, an India-focused healthcare reasoning model under the IndiaAI Mission, with beta testing beginning in Mumbai.

The pilot is being conducted in partnership with the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) and will provide a Health AI Chatbot on WhatsApp powered by Vaidya AI.

During the initial pilot, the chatbot will use healthcare datasets from six BMC facilities, including two major hospitals, to provide citizens with quick and reliable healthcare information.

The initiative is expected to be expanded across various BMC healthcare facilities, ranging from dispensaries to major hospitals, including KEM, with a privacy-first architecture.

The chatbot will generate easy-to-understand summaries of laboratory reports in English, Marathi, and other languages, improving access to medical information for citizens.

 

20) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

JSW Neo Energy Limited (JSWNEL), a subsidiary of JSW Energy, and Bhutan’s Druk Green Power Corporation Limited (DGPC) have signed an agreement to jointly develop the 920 MW Punatsangchhu-III Hydroelectric Project.

The Punatsangchhu-III Hydroelectric Project will be located on the Punatsangchhu River in Wangdue Phodrang District, Bhutan.

The project will be developed through a Special Purpose Joint Venture (JV) company on a Build-Own-Operate-Transfer (BOOT) basis.

Detailed Explanation:

JSW Neo Energy Limited (JSWNEL), a subsidiary of JSW Energy, and Bhutan’s Druk Green Power Corporation Limited (DGPC) have signed an agreement to jointly develop the 920 MW Punatsangchhu-III Hydroelectric Project.

The Punatsangchhu-III Hydroelectric Project will be located on the Punatsangchhu River in Wangdue Phodrang District, Bhutan.

The project will be developed through a Special Purpose Joint Venture (JV) company on a Build-Own-Operate-Transfer (BOOT) basis.

Under the proposed joint venture, Druk Green Power Corporation (DGPC) will hold a 51% stake, while JSW Neo Energy will hold the remaining 49% stake.

The 920 MW project will strengthen India–Bhutan energy cooperation, particularly in the area of renewable power development.

The Punatsangchhu-III project marks JSW Neo Energy’s first power generation venture outside India, making it an important step in the company’s international expansion.

 

21) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) and Norway-based Hystar AS entered into a strategic collaboration for the phased indigenisation and local manufacturing of Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) electrolyser systems for green hydrogen projects in India.

The collaboration was signed in New Delhi, Delhi, by Y. Srinivas Rao, Executive Director, Heavy Power Equipment Plant, Hyderabad, Sutripto De, General Manager & Head, New & Renewable Energy Business, BHEL, and Fredrik Mowill, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Hystar AS, Norway.

The partnership will enable BHEL to offer both PEM and alkaline electrolyser solutions, strengthening its capabilities in the green hydrogen technology sector.

Detailed Explanation:

Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) and Norway-based Hystar AS entered into a strategic collaboration for the phased indigenisation and local manufacturing of Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) electrolyser systems for green hydrogen projects in India.

The collaboration was signed in New Delhi, Delhi, by Y. Srinivas Rao, Executive Director, Heavy Power Equipment Plant, Hyderabad, Sutripto De, General Manager & Head, New & Renewable Energy Business, BHEL, and Fredrik Mowill, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Hystar AS, Norway.

The partnership will enable BHEL to offer both PEM and alkaline electrolyser solutions, strengthening its capabilities in the green hydrogen technology sector.

BHEL’s new PEM electrolyser capability will complement its earlier collaboration with thyssenkrupp nucera India Private Limited for alkaline electrolyser systems.

Hystar AS will contribute its high-efficiency PEM electrolyser technology, while BHEL will leverage its expertise in engineering, manufacturing, and project execution.

22) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

Union Minister of State (MoS) Dr. Jitendra Singh, Department of Space (DoS), informed the Lok Sabha that Indian Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe) has approved and signed an agreement for India’s first indigenous, fully commercial Earth Observation (EO) satellite constellation under the Public Private Partnership (PPP) model.

The agreement has been signed with the Allied Orbits Private Limited Consortium, which is led by PixxelSpace India Private Limited and includes Dhruva Space Private Limited, PierSight Space Private Limited, and Satsure Analytics India Pvt. Ltd.

Detailed Explanation:

Union Minister of State (MoS) Dr. Jitendra Singh, Department of Space (DoS), informed the Lok Sabha that Indian Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe) has approved and signed an agreement for India’s first indigenous, fully commercial Earth Observation (EO) satellite constellation under the Public Private Partnership (PPP) model.

The agreement has been signed with the Allied Orbits Private Limited Consortium, which is led by PixxelSpace India Private Limited and includes Dhruva Space Private Limited, PierSight Space Private Limited, and Satsure Analytics India Pvt. Ltd.

The consortium will design, build, own and operate a 12-satellite Earth Observation constellation supported by indigenous ground infrastructure.

The constellation will provide panchromatic, multispectral, hyperspectral, and Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) observation capabilities.

The consortium will invest more than ₹1,200 crore for developing the Earth Observation constellation, which is expected to be developed and operationalised by 2029.

The Seed Fund Scheme provides grants of up to ₹1 crore to start-ups and NGEs for space applications such as agriculture, disaster management, urban planning, and marine domain awareness.

The Government has allocated ₹500 crore for Common Technical Facilities and is also supporting State Governments in establishing Space Manufacturing Clusters.

23) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

Eminent Marxist historian and scholar of modern Indian history Sumit Sarkar passed away at the age of 87 in New Delhi due to age-related ailments.

Sumit Sarkar was widely regarded as a leading scholar of Indian nationalism, colonialism and the Indian freedom movement, particularly from the perspective of different social groups, classes and popular movements.

He was born in 1939 to noted historian Sushobhan Sarkar.

Detailed Explanation:

Eminent Marxist historian and scholar of modern Indian history Sumit Sarkar passed away at the age of 87 in New Delhi due to age-related ailments.

Sumit Sarkar was widely regarded as a leading scholar of Indian nationalism, colonialism and the Indian freedom movement, particularly from the perspective of different social groups, classes and popular movements.

He was born in 1939 to noted historian Sushobhan Sarkar.

In 2003, he received the Sarit Chatterjee Memorial Award from the Indian History and Culture Society for his contribution to the study of the Indian freedom movement.

In 2004, he received the Rabindra Puraskar for his book Writing Social History.

Sumit Sarkar returned the Rabindra Puraskar in 2007 in protest against the treatment of farmers by the CPI(M)-led Left Front government in West Bengal.

 

24) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

Major General Sunil Kumar Razdan (Retd), a decorated Indian Army officer and recipient of the Kirti Chakra and Vishisht Seva Medal (VSM), passed away at the age of 70 in New Delhi, Delhi.

Major General Sunil Kumar Razdan was known for his distinguished military service, exceptional courage and resilience.

He was born on 8 October 1954 at Happy Valley, in present-day Shillong, Meghalaya.

He served in the 7th Battalion, The Parachute Regiment (Special Forces) (7 PARA SF), an elite unit of the Indian Army.

Detailed Explanation:

Major General Sunil Kumar Razdan (Retd), a decorated Indian Army officer and recipient of the Kirti Chakra and Vishisht Seva Medal (VSM), passed away at the age of 70 in New Delhi, Delhi.

Major General Sunil Kumar Razdan was known for his distinguished military service, exceptional courage and resilience.

He was born on 8 October 1954 at Happy Valley, in present-day Shillong, Meghalaya.

He served in the 7th Battalion, The Parachute Regiment (Special Forces) (7 PARA SF), an elite unit of the Indian Army.

In 1994, then Lieutenant Colonel Sunil Kumar Razdan led a counter-terrorist operation in Jammu & Kashmir against Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorists who were holding young women hostage.

The Kirti Chakra is India’s second-highest peacetime gallantry award, presented for exceptional courage, bravery and sacrifice.

He was also awarded the Vishisht Seva Medal (VSM) for his exceptional military service.

25)Answer: C

About UCO Bank :

Founded : 6 January 1943

Headquarters : Kolkata, West Bengal, India

MD & CEO : Ashwani Kumar