Dear Readers, Daily Current Affairs Questions Quiz for SBI, IBPS, RBI, RRB, SSC Exam 2025 of 18th January 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.

 

Start Quiz

 

1) In order to promote the use of the Indian Rupee (INR) and other local/national currencies for settling cross-border transactions, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) announced liberalized standards on January 16, 2025. In which year can foreign banks open accounts in India for trade transactions using Indian rupees (INR) under the Special Rupee Vostro Account (SRVA)?

(a) 2020

(b) 2019

(c) 2021

(d) 2022

(e) 2023

2) Which Insurance company has partnered with Saraswat Co-operative Bank, one of the biggest urban co-ops in India, to provide bancassurance services?

(a) ADITYA BIRLA INSURANCE

(b) SBI LIFE INSURANCE

(c) PNB METLIFE

(d) BAJAJ ALLIANCE INSURANCE

(e) TATA AIA INSURANCE

3) Recently(Jan '25), Piramal Capital & Housing Finance (Piramal Finance) and MobiKwik Systems have partnered strategically to offer personal loans to MobiKwik users. For ZIP EMI ranges, what is the minimum loan amount?

(a) Rs.25000

(b) Rs.50000

(c) Rs.75000

(d) Rs.100000

(e) Rs.150000

4) Despite Tata Sons' continuous efforts to deregister from this category, it is still listed on the Reserve Bank of India's (RBI) list of upper-layer non-banking finance companies (NBFC-UL). In the upper-layer list, how many NBFCs are listed?

(a) 12

(b) 10

(c) 15

(d) 18

(e) 20

5) By the end of January 2025, which bank intends to introduce a cash-flow-based digital MSME loan product with a maximum amount of ₹25 lakh?

(a) Punjab & Sind bank

(b) State bank of India

(c) Punjab National bank

(d) Bank of Baroda

(e) Canara bank

6) In FY26, Bank of Maharashtra (BoM) plans to raise Rs 2,500 crore through a Qualified Institutional Placement (QIP) to support business growth and reduce government holdings to what percentage?

(a) 10%

(b) 50%

(c) 75%

(d) 49%

(e) 51%

7) Which bonds are the subject of an e-learning course being launched by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) and the National Institute of Securities Markets (NISM)?

(a) Corporate bonds

(b) Municipal bonds

(c) Zero Coupon bonds

(d) Treasury bonds

(e) Callable bonds

8) Which Housing Finance changed its name to Truhome Finance following its acquisition by QIA and Warburg Pincus?

(a) L&T finance

(b) Indiabulls

(c) IIFL

(d) Shriram

(e) Sundaram

9) Which Mutual Fund introduced the first exchange-traded fund (ETF) devoted to the Indian railway industry, the Nifty India Railways PSU ETF?

(a) Groww

(b) ET Money

(c) Policy Bazzar

(d) Aditya Birla

(e) Cleartax

10) Which scam has the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) denied, stating that no fraudulent incidents related to UPI transactions have been identified?

(a) Charity Scam

(b) Jumped deposit

(c) Money Mules

(d) Skimming

(e) Overpayment Scam

11) Which bank introduced Liquid Fixed Deposits, a cutting-edge substitute for conventional Fixed Deposits (FDs)?

(a) Bank of India

(b) Indian bank

(c) Bank of Maharshtra

(d) Bank of Baroda

(e) Canara bank

12) According to Swiss Re's latest insurance market outlook report, India's insurance market is poised for rapid growth, with the country projected to lead the G20 nations in premium expansion at what percentage annual rate between 2025 and 2029?

(a) 7.1%

(b) 7.2%

(c) 7.3%

(d) 7.4%

(e) 7.5%

13) As per the report, Indonesia has been admitted as______ full member of the BRICS bloc of developing economies, according to the group's presiding country, Brazil.

(a) 9th

(b) 10th

(c) 8th

(d) 11th

(e) 12th

14) To update central government employees' and pensioners' pay and benefits, the 8th Pay Commission has been authorized by the Union Cabinet, which is led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. What was the year that the 7th Pay Commission was established?

(a) 2014

(b) 2015

(c) 2016

(d) 2017

(e) 2018

15) Which ministry and tourism ministry introduced the Bharat Ranbhoomi Darshan App, which marked the beginning of the "battle tourism" plan?

(a) Ministry of Home Affairs

(b) Ministry of  Civil Aviation

(c) Ministry of  Information & Broadcasting

(d) Ministry of  Defence

(e) Ministry of  Finance

16) As of July 2024, PM WANI had deployed only 2,07,642 hotspots, falling short of the targets of 50 lakh by 2020 and 1 crore by 2022. What year was the Prime Minister's Wi-Fi Access Network Interface (PM-WANI) scheme launched?

(a) 2021

(b) 2022

(c) 2023

(d) 2020

(e) 2019

17) According to the International Labour Organization (ILO), global unemployment will remain at a historically low rate of what percentage in 2024, indicating a steady recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic?

(a) 2%

(b) 3%

(c) 4%

(d) 5%

(e) 6%

18) According to the Protection and Enforcement of Interests in Aircraft Objects Act, 2024, intends to lower Indian airlines' aircraft financing and leasing expenses, which will ultimately lead to cheaper fares. Which year witnessed the adoption of this convention by the International Institute for the Unification of Private Law (UNIDROIT) and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO)?

(a) October 2001

(b) September 2001

(c) November 2001

(d) December 2001

(e) August 2001

19) Under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the Union Cabinet has given its approval for the construction of the Third Launch Pad (TLP) at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. What is the estimated time frame for the establishment of the TLP?

(a) 1year

(b) 2year

(c) 3year

(d) 4year

(e) 5year

20) Which bank has Ashok Chandra as its Managing Director (MD) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) appointed by the government?

(a) Punjab & Sind bank

(b) State bank of India

(c) Punjab National bank

(d) Bank of Baroda

(e) Canara bank

21) Recently(Jan '25), Justice Arun Mishra was appointed as the Board of Control for Cricket in India's (BCCI) Ombudsman and Ethics Officer . In 1999, he was appointed to which state's High Court?

(a) Sikkim

(b) Rajasthan

(c) Mumbai

(d) Madhya Pradesh

(e) Calcutta

22) Which state has sworn in former Army Chief V.K. Singh as its 25th governor?

(a) Manipur

(b) Bihar

(c) Mizoram

(d) Odisha

(e) Assam

23) According to the World Economic Forum's Chief Economists Outlook predicts weaker global economic conditions by 2025. Which country has a less favorable outlook, with subdued consumer demand and lower productivity affecting growth?

(a) Russia

(b) Japan

(c) China

(d) Bangladesh

(e) Europe

24) According to a World Bank report on South Asia's growth estimates, India's economic growth is expected to remain stable at what percentage per year for the next two fiscal years, starting April 2025?

(a) 6.5%

(b) 6.6%

(c) 6.7%

(d) 6.8%

(e) 6.9%

25) According to the Economic Outlook Survey conducted by the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), India's GDP will grow by 6.4% in fiscal year 2024-25. Which sector is expected to expand by 3.6%?

(a) Agriculture

(b) Defence

(c) Manufacturing

(d) Chemical & Fertilizers

(e) Coal & Mine

26) How many tons of carbon dioxide removal credits has Google agreed to buy from Indian startup Varaha. This is the company's first carbon project agreement in India and the biggest involving biochar made from biomass?

(a) 50000

(b) 125000

(c) 150000

(d) 100000

(e) 200000

27) Which organization and the Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) have inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to work together on the development of commodity products and derivatives in Sri Lanka?

(a) CDSL

(b) NCDEX

(c) SEBI

(d) NSE

(e) BSE

28) On January 16, 2025, in New Delhi, President Droupadi Murmu and President Tharman Shanmugaratnam of Singapore unveiled a joint logo to mark which years of diplomatic relations?

(a) 50th

(b) 60th

(c) 90th

(d) 65th

(e) 75th

29) During an unexpected visit to Kyiv, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer signed a historic 100-year partnership agreement with Ukraine. What is the name of the Ukrainian currency?

(a) Koruna

(b) Tugrik

(c) Hryvnia

(d) Forint

(e) Cedi

30) Recently(Jan’25), the Baltic Sentry was established by the North Atlantic Treaty Organization to protect the Baltic Sea's underwater infrastructure. Which ocean's arm is the Baltic Sea?

(a) Arctic Ocean

(b) Southern Ocean

(c) Pacific Ocean

(d) Atlantic Ocean

(e) Indian Ocean

Answers :

1) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) announced liberalised norms on January 16, 2025 to encourage the use of the Indian Rupee (INR) and other local/national currencies for settling cross-border transactions.

The announcement was made at a time when the Indian Rupee had recently touched an all-time low of 86.70 per USD.

Special Rupee Vostro Account (SRVA):Introduced in July 2022, the Special Rupee Vostro Account (SRVA) allows foreign banks to open accounts in India for trade transactions using INR.

Detailed Explanation:

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) announced liberalised norms on January 16, 2025 to encourage the use of the Indian Rupee (INR) and other local/national currencies for settling cross-border transactions.

The announcement was made at a time when the Indian Rupee had recently touched an all-time low of 86.70 per USD.

International Agreements and MoUs:The RBI has signed Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with the central banks of UAE, Indonesia, and Maldives to promote cross-border transactions in local currencies, including INR.

Special Rupee Vostro Account (SRVA):Introduced in July 2022, the Special Rupee Vostro Account (SRVA) allows foreign banks to open accounts in India for trade transactions using INR.

New Provisions Under Liberalised FEMA Regulations:Overseas branches of Authorized Dealer (AD) banks can now open INR accounts for residents outside India to settle current and capital account transactions with residents in India.

Persons resident outside India can settle transactions with other non-residents using balances in their repatriable INR accounts, including Special Non-resident Rupee Accounts and SRVA.

2) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

PNB MetLife has entered into a bancassurance partnership with Saraswat Co-operative Bank, one of India's largest urban co-operative banks.

Promoting PNB MetLife's Brand Positioning:The collaboration reinforces PNB MetLife's brand slogan, Milkar Life Aage Badhaein, meaning "Together, Move Life Forward."

Detailed Explanation:

PNB MetLife has entered into a bancassurance partnership with Saraswat Co-operative Bank, one of India's largest urban co-operative banks.

Target Customer Base:The collaboration will offer insurance products to Saraswat Banks large customer base, consisting of approximately 30 lakh individuals, across 302 branches nationwide.

Bancassurance Model:Bancassurance is a model where banks partner with insurance companies to sell insurance products.

Promoting PNB MetLife's Brand Positioning:The collaboration reinforces PNB MetLife's brand slogan, Milkar Life Aage Badhaein, meaning "Together, Move Life Forward."

3) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

MobiKwik Systems has entered into a strategic partnership with Piramal Capital & Housing Finance (Piramal Finance) to provide personal loans to MobiKwik customers.

Loan Amount & Eligibility:The loan amount for ZIP EMI ranges from INR 50,000 to INR 2,00,000.

Detailed Explanation:

MobiKwik Systems has entered into a strategic partnership with Piramal Capital & Housing Finance (Piramal Finance) to provide personal loans to MobiKwik customers.

Objective of the Partnership:The partnership aims to enhance access to affordable credit solutions, enabling MobiKwik users to apply for and receive personal loans seamlessly through the MobiKwik platform.

Loan Offering:The personal loan offering is designed to cater to various financial needs of individuals, such as education, medical expenses, travel, and other consumption purposes.

Loan Amount & Eligibility:The loan amount for ZIP EMI ranges from INR 50,000 to INR 2,00,000.

4) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

Tata Sons, the holding company of Tata Group, remains on the Reserve Bank of India's (RBI) list of upper-layer non-banking finance companies (NBFC-UL), despite its ongoing application to deregister itself from this category.

Other Notable Upper-Layer NBFCs:15 NBFCs are named in the upper-layer list, including prominent names.

Detailed Explanation:

Tata Sons, the holding company of Tata Group, remains on the Reserve Bank of India's (RBI) list of upper-layer non-banking finance companies (NBFC-UL), despite its ongoing application to deregister itself from this category.

Deregistration Proposal:Tata Sons seeks to deregister itself as a core investment category NBFC because RBI mandates that upper-layer NBFCs must be listed on exchanges by September 2025.

The Shapoorji Paloonji Group, which holds nearly 18.5% of Tata Sons, is reportedly in favor of the company's listing.

Other Notable Upper-Layer NBFCs:15 NBFCs are named in the upper-layer list, including prominent names such as:

LIC Housing Finance, Bajaj Finance, Shriram Finance, Cholamandalam Investment and Finance, L&T Finance, M&M Finance, Aditya Birla Finance, Tata Capital, Piramal Capital, PNB Housing Finance, HDB Financial Services, Sammaan Capital, Muthoot Finance, Bajaj Housing Finance.

5) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

Punjab & Sind Bank (PSB) plans to launch a cash-flow-based digital MSME loan product of up to ₹25 lakh by the end of January 2025.

Objective: The initiative is expected to change the perception of PSB as a "digital-friendly bank," enabling easier and faster loan sanctioning for MSMEs based on cash flow rather than traditional methods.

Detailed Explanation:

Punjab & Sind Bank (PSB) plans to launch a cash-flow-based digital MSME loan product of up to ₹25 lakh by the end of January 2025.

Objective: The initiative is expected to change the perception of PSB as a "digital-friendly bank," enabling easier and faster loan sanctioning for MSMEs based on cash flow rather than traditional methods.

Digital Lending Features:Customers will be able to apply for loans by scanning a QR code, giving a missed call, or visiting the bank's website.

Previous Digital Products:PSB had previously rolled out digital e-car and e-home loan products, using QR codes and missed calls for easy loan application processes.

6) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

Bank of Maharashtra (BoM) plans to raise Rs 2,500 crore through a Qualified Institutional Placement (QIP) in FY26 to support business growth and reduce government holding to 75%.

The bank raised Rs 3,500 crore through QIP, reducing the government's stake from 86.46% to 79.60%.

Detailed Explanation:

Bank of Maharashtra (BoM) plans to raise Rs 2,500 crore through a Qualified Institutional Placement (QIP) in FY26 to support business growth and reduce government holding to 75%.

The bank raised Rs 3,500 crore through QIP, reducing the government's stake from 86.46% to 79.60%.

The share equity was issued at Rs 57.36 per share.

Government Holding and Dispensation:The government's stake in BoM will be reduced to 75% by August 2026, in line with regulatory requirements for minimum public holding (at least 25%).

The bank's capital adequacy ratio (CAR) stood at 18.71% with a Common Equity Tier 1 ratio of 13.60% as of December 2024.

Financial Performance for Q3 FY25:Net Profit Growth: BoM reported a 35.82% YoY increase in net profit, reaching Rs 1,406 crore in Q3 FY25, up from Rs 1,036 crore in Q3 FY24.

7) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has partnered with the National Institute of Securities Markets (NISM) to launch an e-learning course on municipal bonds.

Detailed Explanation:

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has partnered with the National Institute of Securities Markets (NISM) to launch an e-learning course on municipal bonds.

Municipal Bonds Overview: Municipal bonds (muni bonds) are debt securities issued by urban local governments and agencies. They are used to fund everyday obligations and finance capital projects such as highways, roads, and schools.

Course Features:

Self-paced Learning: The course is 10 hours long and can be taken at one's own pace.

Content: Includes expert-led video lectures, interactive quizzes, and real-world case studies.

Free Access: The course is available for free until March 31, 2025. After this date, a nominal fee will be charged.

8) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

Shriram Housing Finance (SHF) has rebranded itself as Truhome Finance following its acquisition by Warburg Pincus and its co-investors, including QIA (Qatar’s sovereign wealth fund), from Shriram Finance.

Detailed Explanation:

Shriram Housing Finance (SHF) has rebranded itself as Truhome Finance following its acquisition by Warburg Pincus and its co-investors, including QIA (Qatar’s sovereign wealth fund), from Shriram Finance.

In December 2024, Shriram Finance completed the sale of its entire stake (84.44% of the shareholding on a fully diluted basis) in SHF to Warburg Pincus for ₹3,929 crore.

The rebranding aligns with Truhome Finance's vision of enabling homeownership and ensuring financial accessibility for individuals across various socio-economic backgrounds.

9) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

Groww Mutual Fund has launched the Groww Nifty India Railways PSU ETF, the first exchange-traded fund (ETF) focused on the Indian railway sector.

The New Fund Offer (NFO) will be open for subscription from January 16 to January 30, 2025.

Detailed Explanation:

Groww Mutual Fund has launched the Groww Nifty India Railways PSU ETF, the first exchange-traded fund (ETF) focused on the Indian railway sector.

The New Fund Offer (NFO) will be open for subscription from January 16 to January 30, 2025.

The ETF aims to track the Nifty India Railways PSU Index-TRI, providing exposure to public sector undertakings (PSUs) crucial to India's railway ecosystem.

The ETF's portfolio spans multiple sectors with significant allocations:

Construction: 26.45%

Financial Services: 17.76%

Consumer Services: 17.54%

10) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has refuted claims about the "Jumped Deposit" scam, stating that no fraud incidents related to UPI transactions have been found.

Detailed Explanation:

The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has refuted claims about the "Jumped Deposit" scam, stating that no fraud incidents related to UPI transactions have been found.

Media reports had described a scam where fraudsters deposit small amounts into UPI users' accounts and use psychological manipulation to encourage larger payment authorizations.

NPCI reaffirmed that UPI is a device-based payment system that securely links a user's account with their registered mobile number and device, ensuring safe transactions.

11) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

Bank of Baroda (BoB) has launched an innovative alternative to traditional Fixed Deposits (FDs) called bob Liquid Fixed Deposits.

Detailed Explanation:

Bank of Baroda (BoB) has launched an innovative alternative to traditional Fixed Deposits (FDs) called bob Liquid Fixed Deposits.

The product combines higher returns with liquidity and flexibility.

Customers can enjoy the benefits of fixed deposit returns with the ease of liquidity similar to a savings account.

Interest Rates:6.85% interest rate for general customers on a 1-year FD.

7.35% for senior citizens on a 1-year FD and 7.40% on a 5-year FD.

Flexibility:The deposit amount can start from ₹5,000.

12) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

According to Swiss Re's latest insurance market outlook report, India's insurance market is poised for rapid growth, with the country projected to lead the G20 nations in premium expansion at an average rate of 7.3% annually between 2025 and 2029.

Detailed Explanation:

According to Swiss Re's latest insurance market outlook report, India's insurance market is poised for rapid growth, with the country projected to lead the G20 nations in premium expansion at an average rate of 7.3% annually between 2025 and 2029.

Swiss Re also forecasts that India will surpass Germany and Japan to become the worlds third-largest economy by the end of this decade.

This trajectory is expected to benefit from steady global economic growth, projected at 2.8% in 2025 and 2.7% in 2026.

Swiss Re also expects India to be the fastest growing G20 economy over the next ten years (2025-2034) with average real GDP growth of 6.2% annually (10% in nominal terms).

13) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

Indonesia has been admitted as a full member of the BRICS bloc of developing economies, the group's presiding country Brazil announced.

Indonesia became the 10th full member of the international BRICS group.

Detailed Explanation:

Indonesia has been admitted as a full member of the BRICS bloc of developing economies, the group's presiding country Brazil announced.

Indonesia became the 10th full member of the international BRICS group.

BRICS was formed by Brazil, Russia, India and China in 2009, and added South Africa in 2010.

Last year, the alliance expanded to embrace Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia and the United Arab Emirates. Saudi Arabia has been invited to join, but has not yet done so.

Turkey, Azerbaijan and Malaysia have formally applied to become members, and a few others have expressed interest.

14) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the establishment of the 8th Pay Commission to revise salaries and allowances for central government employees and pensioners.

The 7th Pay Commission, established in 2016, will end its term in 2026.

Detailed Explanation:

The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the establishment of the 8th Pay Commission to revise salaries and allowances for central government employees and pensioners.

Formation and Timeline:

The decision was announced by Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw.

The chairman and two members of the commission will be appointed soon.

Coverage:

The pay commission covers central government employees and those whose salaries are paid from the Consolidated Fund of India.

Exclusions:

Employees of public sector undertakings (PSUs).

Autonomous bodies.

Gramin Dak Sevaks.

Background:

Pay commissions are set up approximately once every decade.

The 7th Pay Commission, established in 2016, will end its term in 2026.

There are currently 49 lakh central government employees and 65 lakh pensioners under its ambit.

15) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

To promote tourism and highlight India's military heritage, the government has opened significant battlefields to visitors.

A new website, Bharat Ranbhoomi Darshan, has been launchedby Ministry of Defence in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism.

Detailed Explanation:

To promote tourism and highlight India's military heritage, the government has opened significant battlefields to visitors.

These include sites from the 1962 India-China war, offering a deeper connection to the nation's wartime history.

The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has granted civilians access to the following battlefields:

Kibithoo and Bum La Pass in Arunachal Pradesh

Rezang La and Pangong Tso in Ladakh

Doklam, the site of the 2017 conflict

The Army is exploring the possibility of opening additional significant battlefields, including Galwan Valley, Siachen, Kargil, Lipulekh Pass

A new website, Bharat Ranbhoomi Darshan, has been launchedby Ministry of Defence in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism.

This platform offers Virtual tours, Historical narratives, Interactive content

16) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

As of July 2024, only 2,07,642 hotspots had been deployed, far below the target of 50 lakh by 2020 and 1 crore by 2022.

This move aims to revitalise PM-WANI and expand Internet access across India.

The Prime Ministers Wi-Fi Access Network Interface (PM-WANI) scheme, launched in December 2020

Detailed Explanation:

As of July 2024, only 2,07,642 hotspots had been deployed, far below the target of 50 lakh by 2020 and 1 crore by 2022.

This move aims to revitalise PM-WANI and expand Internet access across India.

Policy Changes and Rationale

The Department of Telecommunications amended the PM-WANI framework in September 2024, removing the requirement for PDOs to enter expensive commercial agreements with service providers.

TRAIs rationale for the tariff cap includes:

PDOsfunction as bandwidth resellers and compete with service providers.

Higher tariffs are justified to compensate service providers for the increased data consumption by PDOs.

Retail fibre-to-the-home (FTTH) users typically consume less than 500 GB/month, while PDOs represent higher bandwidth consumption from a single customer.

About PM-WANI

The Prime Ministers Wi-Fi Access Network Interface (PM-WANI) scheme, launched in December 2020

This aims to expand Internet access via public Wi-Fi hotspots managed by Public Data Offices (PDOs).

17) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

The International Labour Organization (ILO) reported that global unemployment will remain at a historically low 5% in 2024, marking a steady recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.

The global jobs gap, which includes 402 million people, highlights unmet labor market demands, with youth and women in low-income countries disproportionately affected.

Detailed Explanation:

The International Labour Organization (ILO) reported that global unemployment will remain at a historically low 5% in 2024, marking a steady recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.

The global jobs gap, which includes 402 million people, highlights unmet labor market demands, with youth and women in low-income countries disproportionately affected.

Global economic growth slowed to 3.2% in 2024, down from 3.3% in 2023, due to challenges like geopolitical tensions, climate change costs, and debt burdens.

Inflation, though reduced in some regions, continues to erode wages, stifling real income growth.

18) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

The Protection and Enforcement of Interests in Aircraft Objects Act, 2024 aims to reduce the leasing and financing costs of aircraft for Indian airlines, ultimately resulting in lower airfares.

This convention was adopted in November 2001 under the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the International Institute for the Unification of Private Law (UNIDROIT).

Detailed Explanation:

The Protection and Enforcement of Interests in Aircraft Objects Act, 2024 aims to reduce the leasing and financing costs of aircraft for Indian airlines, ultimately resulting in lower airfares.

The Act will facilitate India's ratification of the Cape Town Convention, a global treaty that ensures lessors rights to repossess leased high-value equipment, such as aircraft, helicopters, and engines, in the event of payment defaults.

This convention was adopted in November 2001 under the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the International Institute for the Unification of Private Law (UNIDROIT).

India is a signatory to the Cape Town Convention but has yet to ratify it.

19) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has approved the establishment of the Third Launch Pad (TLP) at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh.

The TLP is set to be established within a 48-month timeline, or 4 years.

Detailed Explanation:

The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has approved the establishment of the Third Launch Pad (TLP) at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh.

The project aims to strengthen India's space infrastructure by enhancing the launch capacity for the countrys Next Generation Launch Vehicles (NGLV) and also serving as a standby for the Second Launch Pad (SLP).

The TLP is designed to be universal and adaptable, capable of supporting NGLV, LVM3 vehicles with semicryogenic stages, and scaled-up configurations of NGLV.

Maximum industry participation will be encouraged to ensure efficient implementation, leveraging ISRO's experience from previous launch pad projects.

The TLP is set to be established within a 48-month timeline, or 4 years.

The total fund requirement for the project is ₹3984.86 crore, which will cover the establishment of the launch pad and its associated facilities.

20) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

The government has appointed Ashok Chandra as the Managing Director (MD) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Punjab National Bank (PNB) and Binod Kumar as the MD and CEO of Indian Bank.

The top posts at PNB and Indian Bank fell vacant after the tenures of Atul Kumar Goel and SL Jain, respectively, ended on December 31, 2024.

Detailed Explanation:

The government has appointed Ashok Chandra as the Managing Director (MD) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Punjab National Bank (PNB) and Binod Kumar as the MD and CEO of Indian Bank.

The top posts at PNB and Indian Bank fell vacant after the tenures of Atul Kumar Goel and SL Jain, respectively, ended on December 31, 2024.

Prior to these appointments, Chandra was an executive director at Canara Bank, while Kumar was an executive director at PNB.

Kumar was an executive director at PNB before his new appointment.

21) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

Justice Arun Mishra was appointed as the Ombudsman and Ethics Officer of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).

Justice Arun Mishra had an outstanding career in the legal profession, being elected as the youngest Chairman of the Bar Council of India (1998-99). He was appointed to the Madhya Pradesh High Court in 1999 and later became Chief Justice of the Rajasthan and Calcutta High Courts.

Detailed Explanation:

Justice Arun Mishra was appointed as the Ombudsman and Ethics Officer of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).

Appointment of New BCCI Secretary:Devajit Saikia, a former first-class cricketer and experienced cricket administrator, was appointed as the new secretary of BCCI.

Saikia replaces Jay Shah, who became the Chairman of the International Cricket Council (ICC) in December 2024.

Other BCCI Elections:Prabhtej Singh Bhatia was elected as the Treasurer of the Indian Cricket Board (BCCI).

Justice Arun Mishra had an outstanding career in the legal profession, being elected as the youngest Chairman of the Bar Council of India (1998-99). He was appointed to the Madhya Pradesh High Court in 1999 and later became Chief Justice of the Rajasthan and Calcutta High Courts.

22) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

Former Army Chief V.K. Singh has been sworn in as the 25th Governor of Mizoram.

He replaced Hari Babu Kambhampati, who assumed the governorship of Odisha.

Detailed Explanation:

Former Army Chief V.K. Singh has been sworn in as the 25th Governor of Mizoram.

He replaced Hari Babu Kambhampati, who assumed the governorship of Odisha.

The oath of office was administered by Chief Justice of Gauhati High Court, Vijay Bishnoi, at Raj Bhavan, Aizawl.

V.K. Singhs appointment is considered strategic due to Mizoram's proximity to troubled regions like Myanmar and Bangladesh.

Mizoram shares a 510 km border with Myanmar and a 318 km border with Bangladesh.

23) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

According to the World Economic Forum's Chief Economists Outlook, most economists predict weaker global economic conditions in 2025.

56% of chief economists foresee an economic downturn, while only 17% predict improvements, highlighting uncertainty across key global regions.

In contrast, China faces a less favorable outlook, with subdued consumer demand and weaker productivity affecting its growth.

Detailed Explanation:

According to the World Economic Forum's Chief Economists Outlook, most economists predict weaker global economic conditions in 2025.

56% of chief economists foresee an economic downturn, while only 17% predict improvements, highlighting uncertainty across key global regions.

Despite global challenges, South Asia is seen as a bright spot in the global economic landscape, with 61% of economists predicting strong or very strong growth for the region.

India, specifically, is expected to continue its role as the world's fastest-growing major economy.

This slowdown has led the Reserve Bank of India to revise its growth forecast for the year.

In contrast, China faces a less favorable outlook, with subdued consumer demand and weaker productivity affecting its growth.

Similarly, Europe is also projected to struggle, with 74% of economists predicting weak or very weak growth for the region.

24) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

According to a World Bank report on South Asia's growth estimates, India's economic growth is projected to remain steady at 6.7% per year for the next two fiscal years, beginning April 2025.

Detailed Explanation:

According to a World Bank report on South Asia's growth estimates, India's economic growth is projected to remain steady at 6.7% per year for the next two fiscal years, beginning April 2025.

This indicates a stable outlook for the Indian economy, despite challenges faced in the current fiscal year.

South Asia Growth: Overall growth for the region (excluding India) is expected to reach 3.9% in 2024 and 4.0% in 2025, improving further to 4.3% by 2026.

Pakistan and Sri Lanka are expected to show signs of recovery, supported by better macroeconomic policies.

Services Sector: The services sector is expected to continue its expansion, contributing significantly to India's growth.

Manufacturing Activity: Manufacturing is likely to strengthen, supported by government initiatives aimed at improving the business environment.

Investment Growth: Private investment is expected to rise, although public investment will moderate.

25) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI) Economic Outlook Survey projects India's GDP growth at 6.4% for the financial year 2024-25, reflecting a slowdown from the previous forecast of 7% and the 8.2% growth in 2023-24.

The agricultural sector is projected to grow by 3.6%, while the industrial and services sectors are expected to grow by 6.3% and 7.3%, respectively.

Detailed Explanation:

The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI) Economic Outlook Survey projects India's GDP growth at 6.4% for the financial year 2024-25, reflecting a slowdown from the previous forecast of 7% and the 8.2% growth in 2023-24.

The moderation is attributed to global headwinds, geopolitical tensions, and uneven recovery in advanced economies.

Despite this, a modest revival in economic activity is expected due to increased public capital expenditure, festive season demand, and the normalisation of industrial activity post-monsoon.

The agricultural sector is projected to grow by 3.6%, while the industrial and services sectors are expected to grow by 6.3% and 7.3%, respectively.

Inflation is expected to ease, with the Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation projected at 4.8%, in line with the Reserve Bank of India's forecast, offering relief to consumers and stimulating rural demand.

26) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

Google has agreed to purchase 100,000 tons of carbon dioxide removal credits from Indian startup Varaha, its first such deal with a carbon project in India and the largest involving biomass-produced biochar (also called horticultural charcoal or black gold for soils).

The offtake agreement credits will be delivered to Google by 2030 from Varahas industrial biochar project in the western Indian state of Gujarat, the two firms stated.

Detailed Explanation:

Google has agreed to purchase 100,000 tons of carbon dioxide removal credits from Indian startup Varaha, its first such deal with a carbon project in India and the largest involving biomass-produced biochar (also called horticultural charcoal or black gold for soils).

The offtake agreement credits will be delivered to Google by 2030 from Varahas industrial biochar project in the western Indian state of Gujarat, the two firms stated.

Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed. So far, the New Delhi-based startup is the only Indian company to be listed on carbon removal standard and registry Puro.Earth.

Biochar is produced in two ways: artisanal and industrial.

The artisanal method is community-driven, where farmers burn crop residue in conical flasks without using machines.

In contrast, industrial biochar is made using large reactors that process 50-60 tons of biomass daily.

27) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

The Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) and National Commodity and Derivatives Exchange (NCDEX) of India have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on the development of derivatives and commodity products in Sri Lanka.

Detailed Explanation:

The Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) and National Commodity and Derivatives Exchange (NCDEX) of India have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on the development of derivatives and commodity products in Sri Lanka.

This partnership aims to enhance the product offering and trading instruments at CSE through knowledge-sharing, technological support, and capacity-building programs.

The collaboration is expected to foster mutual growth, expand market offerings, attract new participants, and contribute to a more sustainable and efficient trading ecosystem.

Dilshan Wirasekara, Chairman of CSE, highlighted that this initiative is a key step in diversifying Sri Lankas capital market offerings and introducing world-class trading facilities.

Arun Raste, Managing Director and CEO of NCDEX, emphasized the MoU's potential to create a globally benchmarked platform and contribute to the development of a well-regulated financial market ecosystem

28) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

President Droupadi Murmu and Singapore's President Tharman Shanmugaratnam unveiled a joint logo on January 16, 2025, in New Delhi to commemorate 60 years of diplomatic ties.

The logo features colours from both national flags, the lotus (India's national flower), the orchid (Singapore's national flower), and the number 60, symbolizing mutual trust, friendship, and shared values.

Detailed Explanation:

President Droupadi Murmu and Singapore's President Tharman Shanmugaratnam unveiled a joint logo on January 16, 2025, in New Delhi to commemorate 60 years of diplomatic ties.

The logo features colours from both national flags, the lotus (India's national flower), the orchid (Singapore's national flower), and the number 60, symbolizing mutual trust, friendship, and shared values.

India and Singapore have built a robust partnership spanning political, economic, defence, cultural, and educational domains.

The relationship now also covers advanced manufacturing, healthcare, digitalization, sustainability, and skills development.

Bilateral trade reached USD 35.6 billion in 2023-24, making Singapore Indias 6th largest trade partner.

29) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer signed a landmark 100-year partnership agreement with Ukraine during an unannounced visit to Kyiv.

The agreement emphasizes defence cooperation and recognizes Ukraine as a future NATO ally, underscoring Britains steadfast support in the face of Russia's invasion.

About Ukraine:

Capital: Kyiv

President: Volodymyr Zelenskyy

Prime Minister: Denys Shmyhal

Currency: Hryvnia (₴) (UAH)

Detailed Explanation:

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer signed a landmark 100-year partnership agreement with Ukraine during an unannounced visit to Kyiv.

The agreement emphasizes defence cooperation and recognizes Ukraine as a future NATO ally, underscoring Britain's steadfast support in the face of Russia's invasion.

Kyiv under attack: Starmer's arrival in Kyiv coincided with Russian drone strikes, repelled by air defence systems.

Support for Ukraine: Starmer pledged to work with allies to ensure a robust peace settlement guaranteeing Ukraines security and independence.

Defence industry boost: The agreement includes commitments to deepen ties in defence and strengthen Ukraines military capabilities.

Zelensky's perspective: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called the agreement "truly comprehensive" and highlighted the closeness of ties between the UK and Ukraine.

Military aid: The UK remains one of Ukraines largest military backers, having pledged £12.8 billion in aid since 2022, including an annual commitment of £3 billion"for as long as it takes."

Economic support: A £2.2 billion loan backed by frozen Russian assets was also announced.

About Ukraine:

Capital: Kyiv

President: Volodymyr Zelenskyy

Prime Minister: Denys Shmyhal

Currency: Hryvnia (₴) (UAH)

30) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) has launched a major maritime security operation called Baltic Sentry in response to a series of suspicious incidents targeting critical undersea infrastructure in the Baltic Sea.

The Baltic Sea is a semi-enclosed inland sea located in Northern Europe.

It connects to the Atlantic Ocean through the Danish Straits. Surrounding Countries: Denmark, Germany, Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, Russia, Finland, and Sweden.

Detailed Explanation:

North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) has launched a major maritime security operation called Baltic Sentry in response to a series of suspicious incidents targeting critical undersea infrastructure in the Baltic Sea.

The operation was announced by NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte during the Baltic Sea NATO Allies Summit in Helsinki, where he was joined by Finnish President Alexander Stubb and Estonian Prime Minister Kristen Michal.

Most recently, on December 25, 2024, the Estlink 2 power cable and four telecommunications lines between Finland and Estonia were damaged, leading to Finland's seizure of the Russian oil tanker Eagle S.

The Baltic Sea is a semi-enclosed inland sea located in Northern Europe.

It connects to the Atlantic Ocean through the Danish Straits. Surrounding Countries: Denmark, Germany, Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, Russia, Finland, and Sweden.