Dear Readers, Daily Current Affairs Questions Quiz for SBI, IBPS, RBI, RRB, SSC Exam 2025 of 18th February 2025. 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 2025 & other competitive exams can make use of these Current Affairs Quiz.

 

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1) Recently (Feb’25), Which bank has received approval from the RBI to establish an IFSC Banking Unit at GIFT City, Gujarat?

(a) Punjab National Bank

(b) Bank of Baroda

(c) State Bank of India

(d) Bank of Maharashtra

(e) HDFC Bank

2) According to the IPPB report, how many key locations have been set up with service counters, mobile banking units, and customer assistance kiosks at Mahakumbh 2025?

(a) Three

(b) Four

(c) Five

(d) Six

(e) Seven

3) What is the name of India's first AI-powered credit card expert launched by CheQ?

(a) CardBuddy

(b) Wisor

(c) FinGenie

(d) CreditMax

(e) SmartPay

4) As per the Feb’25 report, Which financial entity's Certificate of Registration (CoR) was canceled by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI)?

(a) Bajaj Finserv Ltd

(b) X10 Financial Services Ltd

(c) Muthoot Finance Ltd

(d) Shriram Finance Ltd

(e) Indiabulls Housing Finance Ltd

5) Which insurance company has partnered with CARS24 Financial Services in a corporate agency tie-up?

(a) ICICI Prudential Life

(b) SBI Life Insurance

(c) HDFC Life

(d) Max Life Insurance

(e) Bajaj Allianz Life

6) In how many states will PNB MetLife’s Group Credit Life Insurance be available through Truhome Finance? 

(a) 10

(b) 12

(c) 15

(d) 17

(e) 20

7) Recently, In which rural areas, both Liberty General Insurance & Maruti Suzuki Insurance Broking Boost Insurance Awareness expanded its outreach?

(a) Villages in Rajasthan

(b) Gram Panchayats in Punjab

(c) Small towns in Maharashtra

(d) Tribal areas in Jharkhand

(e) Coastal regions of Tamil Nadu

8) According to the report, the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India Unveils ‘Bima Trinity’ Plan, Reviews Insurance Sector at 9th Bima Manthan. Which of the following is not a component of Bima Trinity?

(a) Bima Sugam

(b) Bima Vistaar

(c) Bima Vahaak

(d) Bima Shakti

(e) None of the above

9) What is the main objective of the Deregulation Commission announced by Prime Minister Modi?

(a) To create new tax regulations

(b) To minimize state intervention in governance

(c) To implement stricter regulatory policies

(d) To enforce labor laws

(e) To nationalize private industries

10) Recently, Madhya Pradesh introduced India’s First Global Capability Centre (GCC) Policy 2025. Which cities are highlighted as key players in the GCC Policy 2025?

(a) Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru

(b) Indore, Bhopal, and Jabalpur

(c) Pune, Ahmedabad, and Chennai

(d) Kolkata, Jaipur, and Hyderabad

(e) Lucknow, Chandigarh, and Surat

11) What is the investment target for the clean mobility sector under the Clean Mobility Policy 2025–2030?

(a) ₹25,000 crore

(b) ₹35,000 crore

(c) ₹50,000 crore

(d) ₹75,000 crore

(e) ₹100,000 crore

12) What is the name of the initiative launched by the West Bengal government to address natural disasters and generate employment opportunities?

(a) Nodi Udyog

(b) Nodi Bandhan

(c) Jala Samridhi

(d) Pani Vikas

(e) Jal Jeevan

13) Who was Prabdev (PD) Singh succeeding as the CEO of Standard Chartered in India and South Asia?

(a) Ranjit Kumar

(b) Amitabh Choudhury

(c) Zarin Daruwala

(d) Ashok Gupta

(e) Shashi Sethi

14) Which military force is involved in the Dharma Guardian exercise along with the Indian Army?

(a) Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force

(b) Russia Air Self-Defense Force

(c) Japan Ground Self-Defense Force

(d) U.S. Army

(e) Chinese Ground Forces

15) Recently(Feb '25), Which institution developed the solar dehydration technique to help farmers preserve their produce?

(a) Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru

(b) Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur

(c) Indian Institute of Technology Bombay

(d) Indian Agricultural Research Institute

(e) Indian Institute of Technology Delhi

16) What is the name of the space telescope used to discover the Einstein ring around a nearby galaxy?

(a) Hubble Space Telescope

(b) James Webb Space Telescope

(c) Euclid Space Telescope

(d) Spitzer Space Telescope

(e) Chandra X-ray Observatory

17) According to the report, the first flight test of the Next Generation BrahMos missile is scheduled for 2026. Which country is expected to be the second foreign buyer of the BrahMos NG missile after the Philippines?

(a) Saudi Arabia

(b) Indonesia

(c) Malaysia

(d) Vietnam

(e) Japan

18) Recently, China's space station will welcome more commercial spaceflights in 2025 including cargo crafts and launch vehicles. What special feature is expected for China’s fourth batch of taikonauts in the upcoming missions?

(a) They will include payload specialists from Hong Kong and Macau.

(b) They will be the first batch to live on the ISS.

(c) They will all be women astronauts.

(d) They will be primarily focused on space tourism.

(e) They will include astronauts from Russia and China.

19) Recently,the 9th Asian Winter Games were held in Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, China, from February 7 to February 14, 2025. What were the names of the mascots for the 9th Asian Winter Games?

(a) "Snowy" & "Frosty"

(b) "Binbin" & "Nini"

(c) "Toby" & "Luna"

(d) "Blizz" & "Chill"

(e) "Tiga" & "Yuki"

20) Which beverage brand was replaced by Campa Cola in the IPL 2025 co-presenting rights deal?

(a) Sprite

(b) Mountain Dew

(c) 7up

(d) Thums Up

(e) Fanta

21) As per the news, Ugandan runner Jacob Kiplimo Breaks Half-Marathon World Record in Barcelona. Which runner's world record did Jacob Kiplimo break in Barcelona?

(a) Eliud Kipchoge

(b) Joshua Cheptegei

(c) Yomif Kejelcha

(d) Haile Gebrselassie

(e) Kenenisa Bekele

22) Who won the "Sportstar of the Year (Female)" award at the 2025 Sportstar Aces Awards?

(a) Mary Kom

(b) Manu Bhaker

(c) P.V. Sindhu

(d) Saina Nehwal

(e) Hima Das

23) What anniversary does the 2025 observance of International Childhood Cancer Day (ICCD) mark?

(a) 20th anniversary

(b) 21st anniversary

(c) 22nd anniversary

(d) 23rd anniversary

(e) 24th anniversary

24) Which country topped the medal tally at the 9th Asian Winter Games in 2025?

(a) Japan

(b) Republic of Korea

(c) China

(d) Kazakhstan

(e) Philippines

25) What is a notable feature of the Zhuque-3 rocket?

(a) It is China’s first liquid-fueled rocket.

(b) It is a reusable rocket with a stainless steel design.

(c) It is designed for launching only crewed missions.

(d) It can launch up to 30 tons for single-use missions.

(e) It has a payload capacity of 30 tons for reusable missions.

26) Which physicist first predicted the phenomenon of gravitational lensing?

(a) Isaac Newton

(b) Albert Einstein

(c) Stephen Hawking

(d) Carl Sagan

(e) Galileo Galilei

27) Which year was the 1st edition of the Dharma Guardian exercise held?

(a) 2018

(b) 2020

(c) 2019

(d) 2017

(e) 2021

28) Which state introduced the Clean Mobility Policy 2025–2030 to establish itself as a hub for green transportation?

(a) Maharashtra

(b) Tamil Nadu

(c) Karnataka

(d) Gujarat

(e) Uttar Pradesh

29) Which ministry is responsible for India Post Payments Bank (IPPB)?

(a) Ministry of Finance

(b) Ministry of Communications

(c) Ministry of External Affairs

(d) Ministry of Rural Development

(e) Ministry of Home Affairs

30) Which scheme was launched on April 24, 2020, aims to provide legal documentation for properties in village Abadi areas?

(a) Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana

(b) Swachh Bharat Abhiyan

(c) Svamitva Yojana

(d) Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan

(e) Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana

Answers :

1) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

The Bank of Maharashtra (BoM) has received approval from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to establish an International Financial Services Centre (IFSC) Banking Unit at GIFT City in Gandhinagar, Gujarat.

This will be BoM's first international branch, enabling offshore banking operations from within India.

Detailed Explanation:

The Bank of Maharashtra (BoM) has received approval from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to establish an International Financial Services Centre (IFSC) Banking Unit at GIFT City in Gandhinagar, Gujarat.

This will be BoM's first international branch, enabling offshore banking operations from within India.

The IFSC Banking Unit will provide BoM access to international financial markets, enabling the bank to offer a comprehensive range of products, including External Commercial Borrowings (ECBs), to clients with foreign currency funding requirements.

GIFT City, India's first IFSC, aims to transform the nation's financial landscape by offering world-class banking services domestically, reducing reliance on offshore financial hubs.

2) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

India Post Payments Bank is providing comprehensive banking services for millions of pilgrims at the Mahakumbh 2025, ensuring convenience and security for all financial transactions.

Service counters, mobile banking units, and customer assistance kiosks have been set up at five key locations across Mahakumbh.

Detailed Explanation:

India Post Payments Bank is providing comprehensive banking services for millions of pilgrims at the Mahakumbh 2025, ensuring convenience and security for all financial transactions.

Service counters, mobile banking units, and customer assistance kiosks have been set up at five key locations across Mahakumbh.

IPPB’s Daak Sevaks are providing doorstep banking, enabling devotees to withdraw cash from Aadhaar-linked accounts through Aadhaar ATMs (AePS).

Devotees can also access a variety of banking services by calling 7458025511.

IPPB is fostering a cashless ecosystem by enabling local vendors and small businesses to accept digital payments via DakPay QR Cards, supporting the government’s Digital India vision.

IPPB has launched awareness campaigns to educate pilgrims and vendors about its services.

3) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

CheQ's launch of Wisor, India's first AI-powered credit card expert, is a significant step forward in simplifying and streamlining credit card management for Indian users.

Wisor provides a Q&A chat interface where users can instantly receive human-like responses to their credit card inquiries, eliminating the need for users to search through various bank websites or forums.

Detailed Explanation:

CheQ's launch of Wisor, India's first AI-powered credit card expert, is a significant step forward in simplifying and streamlining credit card management for Indian users.

Wisor provides a Q&A chat interface where users can instantly receive human-like responses to their credit card inquiries, eliminating the need for users to search through various bank websites or forums.

Wisor also aggregates spending data across multiple credit cards and merchants in one view, making it easier for users to track and analyze their expenses month-over-month.

Additionally, Wisor centralizes credit card rewards, including points, cashback, and benefits, offering personalized advice on how to maximize these rewards, ensuring users don’t miss out on opportunities.

Wisor is currently available to 10,000 Beta users, providing an exclusive opportunity to experience the product before its wider rollout.

This launch is part of 7 new products CheQ is introducing this month, showcasing their commitment to innovation in the fintech space.

4) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has cancelled the Certificate of Registration (CoR) of X10 Financial Services Ltd (formerly Abhishek Securities Ltd) under Section 45-IA (6) of the RBI Act, 1934, due to serious violations in its lending practices, particularly in digital lending operations.

Detailed Explanation:

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has cancelled the Certificate of Registration (CoR) of X10 Financial Services Ltd (formerly Abhishek Securities Ltd) under Section 45-IA (6) of the RBI Act, 1934, due to serious violations in its lending practices, particularly in digital lending operations.

X10 Financial Services, based in Mumbai, was issued its CoR on 2 June 2015.

Over the years, it outsourced key functions of its digital lending operations to various service providers, including Wecash Technology Pvt Ltd (WeRupee) and Mobicred Technology Pvt Ltd (Cashcred).

RBI's investigation revealed significant lapses in governance and compliance, particularly in the outsourcing of critical functions such as credit appraisal, interest rate setting, and KYC verification.

These functions were outsourced without adequate due diligence, raising concerns about the integrity of its operations.

X10 Financial Services violated the RBI-prescribed code of conduct for outsourcing financial services.

5) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

HDFC Life has partnered with CARS24 Financial Services Private. Limited. in a corporate agency tie-up, aiming to provide life insurance solutions to CARS24 customers.

Detailed Explanation:

HDFC Life has partnered with CARS24 Financial Services Private. Limited. in a corporate agency tie-up, aiming to provide life insurance solutions to CARS24 customers.

CARS24 Financial Services Private Limited ("CARS24 Financial Services") is a professionally managed Non-Banking Financial Company ("NBFC") registered with the Reserve Bank of India and with IRDAI as an Insurance Corporate Agent.

The Company is a part of CARS24 group and offers a variety of vehicle financing solutions to customers.

INSURE24, a major milestone for CARS24, is set to transform the digital insurance landscape for India's rapidly growing online consumer base.

6) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

PNB MetLife India Insurance Company Limited has announced a strategic partnership with Truhome Finance (formerly Shriram Housing Finance Limited) to offer Group Credit Life Insurance to Truhome Finance’s home loan customers.

The insurance solutions will be available across 165 Truhome Finance branches in 17 states, providing financial protection to homeowners and their families by covering outstanding loan liabilities in unforeseen circumstances.

Detailed Explanation:

PNB MetLife India Insurance Company Limited has announced a strategic partnership with Truhome Finance (formerly Shriram Housing Finance Limited) to offer Group Credit Life Insurance to Truhome Finance’s home loan customers.

This collaboration aligns with PNB MetLife’s mission, Milkar Life Aage Badhein, and underscores its commitment to expanding reach and promoting financial inclusion.

The insurance solutions will be available across 165 Truhome Finance branches in 17 states, providing financial protection to homeowners and their families by covering outstanding loan liabilities in unforeseen circumstances.

7) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

Liberty General Insurance, in collaboration with Maruti Suzuki Insurance Broking Pvt Ltd, is committed to enhancing insurance awareness and accessibility through its ‘Bima Prachaar Aur Prasaar’ initiative.

As the non-life insurer for Delhi, Liberty is extending its outreach to underserved communities in Punjab, such as in Gram Panchayats, with programs like free vehicle inspections, eye check-ups, and educational sessions on insurance.

Detailed Explanation:

Liberty General Insurance, in collaboration with Maruti Suzuki Insurance Broking Pvt Ltd, is committed to enhancing insurance awareness and accessibility through its ‘Bima Prachaar Aur Prasaar’ initiative.

This program promotes financial literacy and the significance of insurance protection in both urban and rural regions, aligning with the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India’s (IRDAI) vision of ‘Insurance for All by 2047’.

As the non-life insurer for Delhi, Liberty is extending its outreach to underserved communities in Punjab, such as in Gram Panchayats, with programs like free vehicle inspections, eye check-ups, and educational sessions on insurance.

8) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) held the 9th edition of Bima Manthan, its quarterly review meeting with insurance company CEOs, on February 13-14.

Bima Trinity consists of 3 key components

Bima Sugam: A unified digital marketplace for selling, servicing, and claiming insurance policies across insurers.

Bima Vistaar: A first-of-its-kind composite insurance product covering life, accident, property, and hospitalisation.

Bima Vahaak: A women-centric, localised insurance distribution model to boost insurance penetration.

Detailed Explanation:

The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) held the 9th edition of Bima Manthan, its quarterly review meeting with insurance company CEOs, on February 13-14.

A key highlight of the meeting was the unveiling of Bima Trinity, a transformative initiative aimed at enhancing accessibility, affordability, and efficiency in the insurance sector.

Bima Trinity consists of 3 key components

Bima Sugam: A unified digital marketplace for selling, servicing, and claiming insurance policies across insurers.

Bima Vistaar: A first-of-its-kind composite insurance product covering life, accident, property, and hospitalisation.

Bima Vahaak: A women-centric, localised insurance distribution model to boost insurance penetration.

9) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced the establishment of a Deregulation Commission to minimize state intervention in governance and enhance the ease of doing business.

Modi underlined property rights reform as a critical step toward economic empowerment in rural areas. The Svamitva Yojana, launched on April 24, 2020, aims to provide legal documentation for properties in village Abadi areas.

Detailed Explanation:

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced the establishment of a Deregulation Commission to minimize state intervention in governance and enhance the ease of doing business.

Key Objectives of the Deregulation Commission:

Reducing government interference in economic activities.

Simplifying governance structures and eliminating outdated regulations.

Encouraging private sector participation in key industries.

Implementing Jan Vishwas 2.0 to modernize business laws.

Modi underlined property rights reform as a critical step toward economic empowerment in rural areas. The Svamitva Yojana, launched on April 24, 2020, aims to provide legal documentation for properties in village Abadi areas.

Key Features of Svamitva Yojana:

Drone and GIS mapping for accurate land records.

Legal property rights unlocking ₹100 lakh crore in assets.

Increased access to bank loans for rural property owners.

Reduction in land disputes through structured demarcation.

3 lakh villages surveyed, 2.25 lakh property cards distributed so far.

10) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

Madhya Pradesh becomes the first state in India to introduce the Global Capability Centre Policy 2025.

The policy aims to attract 50+ GCCs and create 37,000+ direct jobs. Infrastructure development includes five SEZs and 15+ IT parks, with key cities like Indore, Bhopal, and Jabalpur playing a central role.

Detailed Explanation:

Madhya Pradesh becomes the first state in India to introduce the Global Capability Centre Policy 2025.

Aims to position the state as a global hub for innovation and collaboration.

It Supports decentralization by encouraging businesses to expand beyond metro cities into tier-2 cities.

The GCC Policy 2025 offers incentives for capital expenditure, payroll, upskilling, and R&D, with a focus on IT, finance, engineering, HR, AI, and cybersecurity.

The policy aims to attract 50+ GCCs and create 37,000+ direct jobs. Infrastructure development includes five SEZs and 15+ IT parks, with key cities like Indore, Bhopal, and Jabalpur playing a central role.

Over 50,000 tech graduates annually from 300+ engineering colleges ensure a skilled workforce.

Madhya Pradesh ranks 4th in Ease of Doing Business (2023), with streamlined regulatory processes and single-window clearances for investors.

11) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

The Energy Department of Karnataka introduced the Clean Mobility Policy 2025–2030 to establish the state as a hub for green transportation.

The targets include ₹50,000 crore in investments in the clean mobility sector, which is expected to create one lakh new jobs across the state.

Detailed Explanation:

The Energy Department of Karnataka introduced the Clean Mobility Policy 2025–2030 to establish the state as a hub for green transportation.

It was launched by Energy Minister K.J. George at the Global Investors’ Meet.

₹25,000 crore has already been secured in the EV value chain investments, which include battery pack manufacturing, cell production, OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers), charging infrastructure, and research & development. An additional ₹15,000 crore is expected by August 31, 2025, according to Industries Minister MB Patil.

The targets include ₹50,000 crore in investments in the clean mobility sector, which is expected to create one lakh new jobs across the state.

Karnataka is set to become a leading hub for clean mobility and green energy industries.

12) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

The West Bengal government has launched the “Nodi Bandhan” initiative as part of its 2025-26 budget, aiming to address natural disasters and generate employment opportunities.

The name "Nodi Bandhan" was personally coined by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.

Detailed Explanation:

The West Bengal government has launched the “Nodi Bandhan” initiative as part of its 2025-26 budget, aiming to address natural disasters and generate employment opportunities.

The name "Nodi Bandhan" was personally coined by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.

Introduced as part of the 2025-26 budget, the "Nodi Bandhan" (River Bond) scheme aims to combat natural disasters while generating employment opportunities.

Focuses on interconnecting rivers and wetlands to promote sustainable development and mitigate environmental challenges.

Aligns with the state’s commitment to flood prevention, river erosion control, and economic growth.

13) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has approved the appointment of Prabdev (PD) Singh as the CEO of Standard Chartered (StanC) in India and South Asia.

He succeeds Zarin Daruwala, who will retire at the end of March 2025.

Detailed Explanation:

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has approved the appointment of Prabdev (PD) Singh as the CEO of Standard Chartered (StanC) in India and South Asia.

Singh’s Experience and Background:

A corporate banking veteran.

Former CEO of JP Morgan India.

Stepped down in June 2023 before completing his term.

Had previously received regulatory approval in January 2023 for a three-year term at JP Morgan.

Singh will begin his three-year term on April 1, 2025.

He succeeds Zarin Daruwala, who will retire at the end of March 2025.

Brings extensive banking experience to Standard Chartered.

14) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

The 6th edition of Dharma Guardian will be held at Mount Fuji, Japan from February 25 to March 9, 2025.

The 5th edition of Joint Military Exercise ‘DHARMA GUARDIAN’ between the Indian Army and the Japan Ground Self Defence Force commenced at Mahajan Field Firing Ranges in Rajasthan.

Detailed Explanation:

The 6th edition of Dharma Guardian will be held at Mount Fuji, Japan from February 25 to March 9, 2025.

The 5th edition of Joint Military Exercise ‘DHARMA GUARDIAN’ between the Indian Army and the Japan Ground Self Defence Force commenced at Mahajan Field Firing Ranges in Rajasthan.

The Exercise is scheduled to be conducted from 25th February to 9th March 2024.

The 1st edition of the Dharma Guardian exercise was held in 2018 at Counter Insurgency Warfare School, Vairengte (Mizoram), India from 01 November to 14 November 2018.

15) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur has developed a solar dehydration technique to help farmers preserve their produce and reduce post-harvest losses.

To demonstrate the practical use of this technology, IIT Kanpur conducted a training session for around 30 farmers from the Hariya Nature Farming Producer Company and Lavkush Farmer Producer Organization (FPO) under the Namami Gange project.

Detailed Explanation:

Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur has developed a solar dehydration technique to help farmers preserve their produce and reduce post-harvest losses.

The Ranjit Singh Rozi Shiksha Kendra at IIT Kanpur introduced the technology to provide farmers with an alternative to distress sales by enabling them to store their produce longer and sell when market demand rises.

To demonstrate the practical use of this technology, IIT Kanpur conducted a training session for around 30 farmers from the Hariya Nature Farming Producer Company and Lavkush Farmer Producer Organization (FPO) under the Namami Gange project.

The training was held in collaboration with Shramik Bharti and led by Professors Sandeep Sangal and Kallol Mondal, who explained how solar dehydration can help farmers store their produce for longer periods.

16) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

Scientists using the Euclid space telescope discovered a bright ring of light circling a nearby galaxy.

This is an Einstein ring, a rare phenomenon that occurs when light from a distant galaxy bends around a closer galaxy.

The ring encircles a galaxy located 590 million light-years away from Earth.

The discovery was made in the NGC 6505 galaxy, situated in the Draco constellation.

Detailed Explanation:

Scientists using the Euclid space telescope discovered a bright ring of light circling a nearby galaxy.

This is an Einstein ring, a rare phenomenon that occurs when light from a distant galaxy bends around a closer galaxy.

The ring encircles a galaxy located 590 million light-years away from Earth.

The discovery was made in the NGC 6505 galaxy, situated in the Draco constellation.

Einstein rings are formed when light from a more distant galaxy bends due to the gravitational influence of a closer galaxy, creating a circular halo of light.

This phenomenon is known as gravitational lensing, a concept first predicted by physicist Albert Einstein.

Gravitational lensing happens when light passes through a massive object (a galaxy or black hole), bending its path and magnifying objects behind it, much like an optical lens.

The Euclid space telescope, operated by the European Space Agency (ESA), is part of a six-year mission launched in 2023.

17) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

The BrahMos NG (Next Generation) missile system is undergoing significant advancements, with its production expected to start around 2027-2028.

Indonesia is in advanced talks to secure a $450 million deal for the BrahMos NG, potentially becoming the second foreign buyer after the Philippines.

Detailed Explanation:

The BrahMos NG (Next Generation) missile system is undergoing significant advancements, with its production expected to start around 2027-2028.

The BrahMos NG is designed to be smaller, lighter, and more compact than its predecessor, making it adaptable for smaller delivery systems like the Sukhoi-30MKI fighter and Tejas aircraft.

It weighs 1.6 tonnes (down from 3 tonnes) and is 6 meters long (previously 9 meters).

The missile maintains the same range of 290 km and speed of 3.5 Mach.

It also features a reduced radar cross-section and a homemade seeker with AESA radar for better precision.

Indonesia is in advanced talks to secure a $450 million deal for the BrahMos NG, potentially becoming the second foreign buyer after the Philippines.

18) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

China's aerospace industry achieved a record-breaking 68 rocket launches in 2024, with even greater plans for 2025, including the launch of several new commercial spacecraft.

Among these are the Haoloong space cargo shuttle and Qingzhou cargo spacecraft, which will be launched aboard the Zhuque-3 and Lijian-2 rockets, respectively.

This year, China’s Tiangong space station will welcome two more crews from the Shenzhou-20 and Shenzhou-21 missions, as well as the Tianzhou-9 cargo spacecraft.

These crewed missions may involve China's fourth batch of taikonauts, including payload specialists from Hong Kong and Macau.

Detailed Explanation:

China's aerospace industry achieved a record-breaking 68 rocket launches in 2024, with even greater plans for 2025, including the launch of several new commercial spacecraft.

Among these are the Haoloong space cargo shuttle and Qingzhou cargo spacecraft, which will be launched aboard the Zhuque-3 and Lijian-2 rockets, respectively.

This year, China’s Tiangong space station will welcome two more crews from the Shenzhou-20 and Shenzhou-21 missions, as well as the Tianzhou-9 cargo spacecraft.

These crewed missions may involve China's fourth batch of taikonauts, including payload specialists from Hong Kong and Macau.

Notably, the Zhuque-3 rocket, a next-generation reusable rocket, will make its maiden flight.

This stainless steel reusable liquid launch vehicle boasts a 4.5-meter diameter and a first stage designed for 20 reuses, supporting a payload of 21.3 tons for single-use and 18.3 tons for reusable missions.

In addition, the Qingzhou-1 cargo spacecraft will launch aboard the Lijian-2 rocket in September 2025, marking the first low-cost cargo transportation project for the Chinese space station by a commercial aerospace company.

19) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

The 9th Asian Winter Games were held in Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, China, from February 7 to February 14, 2025. Organized by the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) and supported by the International Skating Union (ISU), the event witnessed participation from 34 countries across 11 winter sports disciplines.

Theme & Mascots:

Mascots: "Binbin" & "Nini" (tigers)

Motto: "Dream of Winter, Love among Asia"

Detailed Explanation:

The 9th Asian Winter Games were held in Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, China, from February 7 to February 14, 2025. Organized by the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) and supported by the International Skating Union (ISU), the event witnessed participation from 34 countries across 11 winter sports disciplines.

Theme & Mascots:

Mascots: "Binbin" & "Nini" (tigers)

Motto: "Dream of Winter, Love among Asia"

Medal Tally – China Leads the Standings

China – 85 medals (32 Gold, 27 Silver, 26 Bronze)

Republic of Korea – 45 medals (16 Gold, 15 Silver, 14 Bronze)

Japan – 37 medals (10 Gold, 12 Silver, 15 Bronze)

Kazakhstan & Philippines rounded off the top five.

India’s Performance at the 2025 Asian Winter Games

India sent its largest-ever contingent of 59 athletes.

No medals won, but significant improvement in winter sports.

Tara Prasad (figure skater) finished 8th in women’s skating, achieving her personal best.

20) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

Reliance Consumer Products' Campa Cola has acquired the co-presenting rights for IPL 2025, marking a major move in India's beverage market.

The ₹200 crore deal replaces Coca-Cola's Thums Up, signaling a shift in industry dynamics.

Detailed Explanation:

Reliance Consumer Products' Campa Cola has acquired the co-presenting rights for IPL 2025, marking a major move in India's beverage market.

The ₹200 crore deal replaces Coca-Cola's Thums Up, signaling a shift in industry dynamics.

Co-Presenting Rights: Campa Cola secured ₹200 crore sponsorship for IPL 2025.

Market Impact: Replaces Thums Up, which held the spot in the previous season.

21) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

Ugandan runner Jacob Kiplimo made history by shattering the half-marathon world record in Barcelona.

The 24-year-old clocked 56 minutes 42 seconds, reclaiming the record he first held in 2021.

His time was 48 seconds faster than the previous world record set by Ethiopia’s Yomif Kejelcha in November 2024.

Detailed Explanation:

Ugandan runner Jacob Kiplimo made history by shattering the half-marathon world record in Barcelona.

The 24-year-old clocked 56 minutes 42 seconds, reclaiming the record he first held in 2021.

His time was 48 seconds faster than the previous world record set by Ethiopia’s Yomif Kejelcha in November 2024.

Massive Improvement: Broke the previous record by 48 seconds—the biggest single improvement in history.

Comparable Feat: His record improvement rivals Eliud Kipchoge’s 78-second marathon record leap in 2018.

Women’s Race Winner: Joyciline Jepkosgei (Kenya) won with a personal best of 1:04:13, setting a course record.

22) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

The 2025 Sportstar Aces Awards held at the Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai, celebrated India’s top sporting talents.

Hockey legend P.R. Sreejesh and shooter Manu Bhaker took home the prestigious honours, with several other athletes across various sports acknowledged for their remarkable achievements.

Detailed Explanation:

The 2025 Sportstar Aces Awards held at the Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai, celebrated India’s top sporting talents.

Hockey legend P.R. Sreejesh and shooter Manu Bhaker took home the prestigious honours, with several other athletes across various sports acknowledged for their remarkable achievements.

Top Individual Winners

P.R. Sreejesh (Hockey)

Sportstar of the Year (Male)

Key player in India’s bronze medal win at the 2024 Paris Olympics

Received the award from Binod Mishra (SBI Deputy MD) and Leander Paes

Manu Bhaker (Shooting)

Sportstar of the Year (Female) & Sportswoman of the Year

Won two medals at the 2024 Paris Olympics

Dedicated the win to her father and coach

Presented the awards by ICC Chairman Jay Shah

Swapnil Kusale (Shooting)

Sportsman of the Year

Won bronze at the 2024 Paris Olympics

23) Answer: E

Short Explanation:

International Childhood Cancer Day (ICCD), observed annually on February 15, is a global movement aimed at raising awareness about childhood cancer, advocating for improved treatments, and supporting young cancer patients and their families.

The 2025 observance marks the 24th anniversary of ICCD, established in 2002 by Childhood Cancer International (CCI).

24) Answer: C

The 9th Asian Winter Games were held in Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, China, from February 7 to February 14, 2025. Organized by the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) and supported by the International Skating Union (ISU), the event witnessed participation from 34 countries across 11 winter sports disciplines.

Theme & Mascots:

Mascots: "Binbin" & "Nini" (tigers)

Motto: "Dream of Winter, Love among Asia"

Medal Tally – China Leads the Standings

China – 85 medals (32 Gold, 27 Silver, 26 Bronze) 🏆

Republic of Korea – 45 medals (16 Gold, 15 Silver, 14 Bronze)

Japan – 37 medals (10 Gold, 12 Silver, 15 Bronze)

Kazakhstan & Philippines rounded off the top five.

25) Answer: B

This year, China’s Tiangong space station will welcome two more crews from the Shenzhou-20 and Shenzhou-21 missions, as well as the Tianzhou-9 cargo spacecraft.

These crewed missions may involve China's fourth batch of taikonauts, including payload specialists from Hong Kong and Macau.

Notably, the Zhuque-3 rocket, a next-generation reusable rocket, will make its maiden flight.

This stainless steel reusable liquid launch vehicle boasts a 4.5-meter diameter and a first stage designed for 20 reuses, supporting a payload of 21.3 tons for single-use and 18.3 tons for reusable missions.

26) Answer: B

Scientists using the Euclid space telescope discovered a bright ring of light circling a nearby galaxy.

This is an Einstein ring, a rare phenomenon that occurs when light from a distant galaxy bends around a closer galaxy.

The ring encircles a galaxy located 590 million light-years away from Earth.

The discovery was made in the NGC 6505 galaxy, situated in the Draco constellation.

This phenomenon is known as gravitational lensing, a concept first predicted by physicist Albert Einstein.

Gravitational lensing happens when light passes through a massive object (a galaxy or black hole), bending its path and magnifying objects behind it, much like an optical lens.

27) Answer: A

The 6th edition of Dharma Guardian will be held at Mount Fuji, Japan from February 25 to March 9, 2025.

The 5th edition of Joint Military Exercise ‘DHARMA GUARDIAN’ between the Indian Army and the Japan Ground Self Defence Force commenced at Mahajan Field Firing Ranges in Rajasthan.

The 1st edition of the Dharma Guardian exercise was held in 2018 at Counter Insurgency Warfare School, Vairengte (Mizoram), India from 01 November to 14 November 2018.

28) Answer: C

The Energy Department of Karnataka introduced the Clean Mobility Policy 2025–2030 to establish the state as a hub for green transportation.

₹25,000 crore has already been secured in the EV value chain investments, which include battery pack manufacturing, cell production, OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers), charging infrastructure, and research & development. An additional ₹15,000 crore is expected by August 31, 2025, according to Industries Minister MB Patil.

The targets include ₹50,000 crore in investments in the clean mobility sector, which is expected to create one lakh new jobs across the state.

The Comprehensive Clean Mobility Policy (CMP) incorporates the EV policy, which was set to expire in 2027.

29) Answer: B

About India Post Payments Bank (IPPB):

Established: IPPB was launched on September 1, 2018, under the Department of Posts, Ministry of Communication, and is fully owned by the Government of India.

Headquarters : New Delhi, India

Vision: To be the most accessible, affordable, and trusted bank for common people in India, especially targeting the unbanked and underbanked populations.

The IPPB, is a division of India Post that is under the ownership of the Department of Post, a department under the Ministry of Communications of the Government of India.

30) Answer: C

PM Modi underlined property rights reform as a critical step toward economic empowerment in rural areas. The Svamitva Yojana, launched on April 24, 2020, aims to provide legal documentation for properties in village Abadi areas.

Key Features of Svamitva Yojana:

Drone and GIS mapping for accurate land records.

Legal property rights unlocking ₹100 lakh crore in assets.

Increased access to bank loans for rural property owners.

Reduction in land disputes through structured demarcation.

3 lakh villages surveyed, 2.25 lakh property cards distributed so far.