Dear Readers, Daily Current Affairs Questions Quiz for SBI, IBPS, RBI, RRB, SSC Exam 2026 of  18th  July  2026. Daily GK quiz online for bank & competitive exam. Here we have given the Daily Current Affairs Quiz based on the previous days Daily Current Affairs updates. Candidates preparing for IBPS, SBI, RBI, RRB, SSC Exam 2026 & other competitive exams can make use of these Current Affairs Quiz.

 

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1) Recently in news, Delhivery Financial Services Pvt. Ltd. received RBI approval for a Certificate of Registration (CoR) as which type of financial institution?

(a) Small Finance Bank (SFB)

(b) Payment Bank

(c) Type-II Non-Banking Financial Company–Non-Deposit Taking (NBFC-ND)

(d) Asset Reconstruction Company (ARC)

(e) Housing Finance Company (HFC)

 

2) Recently, since which financial year has the Services Sector continuously contributed more than 50% of India's Gross Value Added (GVA)?

(a) 2011–12

(b) 2012–13

(c) 2013–14

(d) 2014–15

(e) 2015–16

 

3) Recently, Bloomberg facilitated the first electronic trade in Indian Government Bonds (IGBs) by integrating its Bloomberg Terminal with which trading platform?

(a) BOLT

(b) Negotiated Dealing System–Order Matching (NDS-OM)

(c) NSE NEAT

(d) INET Trading System

(e) CBLO Platform

 

4) Recently, India unveiled "SHANTI" as its guiding vision for the 2028–2029 UN Security Council (UNSC) Non-Permanent Membership campaign. What does "SHANTI" stand for?

(a) Securing Holistic Advancement through Norms, Trust and Integrity

(b) Strategic Harmony and National Trust Initiative

(c) Sustainable Humanitarian Action through International Cooperation

(d) Security, Harmony and Alliance for Nations through Inclusion

(e) Strengthening Humanitarian Assistance through New Technology and Innovation

 

5) Recently, the Union Cabinet approved the Mobile Phone Manufacturing Scheme (MPMS). What is the total outlay of the scheme?

(a) ₹42,500 crore

(b) ₹50,000 crore

(c) ₹62,500 crore

(d) ₹75,000 crore

(e) ₹82,500 crore

 

6) Recently, the Government of India revised the Special Additional Excise Duty (SAED) on petroleum product exports. By how much was the SAED on diesel exports increased?

(a) ₹10.5 per litre

(b) ₹12.5 per litre

(c) ₹13.5 per litre

(d) ₹15.5 per litre

(e) ₹17.5 per litre

 

7) Recently, which metro rail system is set to introduce driverless train operations on its Green Line and Purple Line?

(a) Delhi Metro

(b) Bengaluru Metro

(c) Chennai Metro

(d) Kolkata Metro

(e) Mumbai Metro

 

8) Recently, the Ministry of Heavy Industries (MHI) invited global bids to establish how much Advanced Chemistry Cell (ACC) battery manufacturing capacity under the PLI Scheme?

(a) 5 GWh

(b) 10 GWh

(c) 20 GWh

(d) 40 GWh

(e) 50 GWh

 

9) Recently, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) approved the National Investment Policy for Urea-2026 (NIPU-2026). Which policy does NIPU-2026 replace?

(a) National Fertilizer Policy, 2008

(b) Urea Subsidy Policy, 2015

(c) New Investment Policy (NIP)-2012

(d) Nutrient Based Subsidy (NBS) Policy

(e) National Chemical Policy, 2011

 

10) Recently, the 3rd India–European Union Trade and Technology Council (TTC) Meeting was held in which city?

(a) Brussels, Belgium

(b) Berlin, Germany

(c) Paris, France

(d) Rome, Italy

(e) Vienna, Austria

 

11) Recently, consider the following statements regarding Semicon 2.0:

1. Semicon 2.0 has been approved with a total outlay of ₹1,27,500 crore.
2. The programme aims to strengthen semiconductor design, manufacturing, packaging, research, innovation, and talent development in India.
3. Semicon 2.0 is built around six strategic pillars.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

(a) Only 1

(b) Only 2 and 3

(c) Only 1 and 3

(d) All the above

(e) Only 1 and 2

 

12) Recently, the United Nations (UN) released the first UN-commissioned scientific assessment of Artificial Intelligence (AI). What is the name of this report?

(a) Global AI Governance Report 2026

(b) World Artificial Intelligence Outlook 2026

(c) Preliminary Report of the Independent International Scientific Panel on Artificial Intelligence (AI)

(d) International AI Development Report 2026

(e) Global AI Risk Assessment Report

 

13) Recently, who has been appointed as the new Secretary of the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES)?

(a) M. Ravichandran

(b) Dr. Srinivasa Kumar Tummala

(c) Rajesh Gokhale

(d) Ajay Kumar Sood

(e) V. Narayanan

 

14) Recently, who has been appointed as the new Prime Minister of Ukraine?

(a) Denys Shmyhal

(b) Yulia Svyrydenko

(c) Sergii Koretskyi

(d) Oleksii Reznikov

(e) Ruslan Stefanchuk

15) Recently, which Indian Navy warship is set to be commissioned on 22 July 2026 as the second Mahe-class Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW-SWC)?

(a) INS Arnala

(b) INS Malvan

(c) INS Surat

(d) INS Nilgiri

(e) INS Kavaratti

 

16) Recently, researchers from IACS and SNBNCBS developed a new porous organic anode material for high-performance lithium-ion batteries. What is the material called?

(a) Graphene Oxide Framework (GOF)

(b) Metal Organic Framework (MOF)

(c) Covalent Organic Framework (COF)

(d) Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP)

(e) Solid Electrolyte Interface (SEI)

 

17) Recently, which Kerala-based private spacetech startup successfully launched the satellite KOYO aboard SpaceX's Transporter-17 mission?

(a) Skyroot Aerospace

(b) Agnikul Cosmos

(c) Pixxel

(d) HEX20

(e) Bellatrix Aerospace

 

18) Recently, CSIR–Central Road Research Institute (CSIR-CRRI) is celebrating its Platinum Jubilee during which period?

(a) 16 July 2026 to 16 July 2027

(b) 15 August 2026 to 15 August 2027

(c) 1 January 2026 to 31 December 2026

(d) 1 April 2026 to 31 March 2027

(e) 26 January 2026 to 26 January 2027

 

19) Recently, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) signed a multi-million, multi-year agreement with which company to transform its global network operations using Artificial Intelligence (AI)?

(a) ABB

(b) Siemens

(c) Schneider Electric

(d) Hitachi Energy

(e) Honeywell

 

20) Recently, the Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI), in collaboration with NIFTEM-Thanjavur, launched a pilot Short-Term Skill Training Programme (STSTP) on which certificate programme?

(a) Food Safety Supervisor (NSQF Level 4)

(b) Assistant Baking Technician (NSQF Level 3)

(c) Dairy Processing Technician (NSQF Level 5)

(d) Food Packaging Technician (NSQF Level 4)

(e) Bakery Production Manager (NSQF Level 5)

 

21) Recently, researchers from ATREE discovered two new species of rare solitary bees during the Siang Expedition in which Indian state?

(a) Assam

(b) Sikkim

(c) Nagaland

(d) Meghalaya

(e) Arunachal Pradesh

22) Recently, Union Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal launched which portal to provide digital access to Hindi legal literature?

(a) e-Nyay Portal

(b) e-VSP (Vidhi Sahitya Prakashan) Portal

(c) e-Law India Portal

(d) Nyaya Setu Portal

(e) Legal India Digital Portal

23) Recently, Nelson Mandela International Day 2026 was observed globally on which date?

(a) 11 July 2026

(b) 15 July 2026

(c) 18 July 2026

(d) 20 July 2026

(e) 25 July 2026

 

24) According to the news, NDS-OM (Negotiated Dealing System–Order Matching) was launched by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) in which year?

(a) 2002

(b) 2003

(c) 2004

(d) 2005

(e) 2010

 

25) Recently, India is the world's ______ largest mobile phone manufacturer.

(a) First

(b) Second

(c) Third

(d) Fourth

(e) Fifth

Answers:

1) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

Delhivery Financial Services Private Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Delhivery Limited, received Reserve Bank of India (RBI) approval for the grant of a Certificate of Registration (CoR) as a Type-II Non-Banking Financial Company–Non-Deposit Taking (NBFC-ND).

RBI clarified that the Certificate of Registration (CoR) will be issued subject to the submission of specified documents to the satisfaction of the central bank, as mentioned in the approval letter.

Detailed Explanation:

Delhivery Financial Services Private Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Delhivery Limited, received Reserve Bank of India (RBI) approval for the grant of a Certificate of Registration (CoR) as a Type-II Non-Banking Financial Company–Non-Deposit Taking (NBFC-ND).

RBI clarified that the Certificate of Registration (CoR) will be issued subject to the submission of specified documents to the satisfaction of the central bank, as mentioned in the approval letter.

The approval will enable Delhivery Financial Services to expand its financial services offerings and strengthen its logistics ecosystem.

The company plans to provide credit facilities, payment solutions, FasTag aggregation, fuel cards, and insurance for truckers, fleet owners, and other logistics stakeholders to reinforce Delhivery’s logistics network.

Delhivery Financial Services Pvt. Ltd. was incorporated in January 2026 as the financial services arm of Delhivery Limited, dedicated to offering financial products for the logistics sector.

 

2) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

The National Statistics Office (NSO) under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) launched the 1st trial Sub-sectoral Index of Services Production (ISP), India's first official monthly indicator to measure services sector output.

The ISP measures short-term changes in the volume of output produced by the formal services sector relative to the base year, and should not be equated with Gross Value Added (GVA) used for GDP estimation.

The Services Sector has contributed more than 50% of India's Gross Value Added (GVA) continuously since 2013–14, making it the largest contributor to India's GDP.

Detailed Explanation:

The National Statistics Office (NSO) under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) launched the 1st trial Sub-sectoral Index of Services Production (ISP), India's first official monthly indicator to measure services sector output.

The Index of Services Production (ISP) is designed as a high-frequency macroeconomic indicator to capture the short-term performance of the formal services sector, complementing the Index of Industrial Production (IIP).

The base year for the trial ISP is 2024–25, and the first index has been released for April 2026.

The trial ISP currently covers 19 sub-sectors, representing nearly 60% of India's formal services sector.

The ISP measures short-term changes in the volume of output produced by the formal services sector relative to the base year, and should not be equated with Gross Value Added (GVA) used for GDP estimation.

The Services Sector has contributed more than 50% of India's Gross Value Added (GVA) continuously since 2013–14, making it the largest contributor to India's GDP.

 

3) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

Bloomberg has facilitated the first electronic trade in Indian Government Bonds (IGBs) through its Bloomberg Terminal by integrating it with the Negotiated Dealing System–Order Matching (NDS-OM).

The new platform enables Foreign Portfolio Investors (FPIs) to electronically execute, monitor, allocate, and settle trades in Indian Government Bonds (IGBs) with domestic and international banks through a single integrated platform.

The Bloomberg Terminal is directly connected to NDS-OM, which is operated by Clearcorp Dealing Systems (India) Ltd., providing an end-to-end electronic workflow for trading Government Securities (G-Secs).

Detailed Explanation:

Bloomberg has facilitated the first electronic trade in Indian Government Bonds (IGBs) through its Bloomberg Terminal by integrating it with the Negotiated Dealing System–Order Matching (NDS-OM).

The new platform enables Foreign Portfolio Investors (FPIs) to electronically execute, monitor, allocate, and settle trades in Indian Government Bonds (IGBs) with domestic and international banks through a single integrated platform.

The Bloomberg Terminal is directly connected to NDS-OM, which is operated by Clearcorp Dealing Systems (India) Ltd., providing an end-to-end electronic workflow for trading Government Securities (G-Secs).

The first electronic trade on the Bloomberg-NDS-OM platform was successfully executed by State Street Investment Management.

The integration connects Bloomberg’s global liquidity network with India’s NDS-OM platform, improving market access, operational efficiency, transparency, and liquidity in the Indian Government Bond market.

4) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

India has officially launched its campaign for election as a Non-Permanent Member of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for the 2028–2029 term.

External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar launched India's candidature at the United Nations (UN) Headquarters, New York, and unveiled SHANTI as India's guiding vision for the campaign.

SHANTI stands for Securing Holistic Advancement through Norms, Trust and Integrity, reflecting India's approach to promoting global peace, security, multilateral cooperation, and equitable development.

Detailed Explanation:

India has officially launched its campaign for election as a Non-Permanent Member of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for the 2028–2029 term.

External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar launched India's candidature at the United Nations (UN) Headquarters, New York, and unveiled SHANTI as India's guiding vision for the campaign.

SHANTI stands for Securing Holistic Advancement through Norms, Trust and Integrity, reflecting India's approach to promoting global peace, security, multilateral cooperation, and equitable development.

During the launch, Dr. S. Jaishankar highlighted that the world is facing growing conflicts and instability, making the role of the United Nations more important than ever.

India reiterated its commitment to dialogue, diplomacy, peaceful conflict resolution, and representing the interests of the Global South.

 

5) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the Mobile Phone Manufacturing Scheme (MPMS) with a total outlay of ₹62,500 crore to strengthen India's mobile phone manufacturing ecosystem.

The scheme aims to boost domestic manufacturing, increase value addition, strengthen supply chains, promote Indian mobile brands, and position India as a global hub for mobile phone manufacturing under the Make in India initiative.

MPMS will be implemented for five years, from FY 2026–27 to FY 2030–31, and will provide performance-linked incentives to eligible manufacturers.

Detailed Explanation:

The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the Mobile Phone Manufacturing Scheme (MPMS) with a total outlay of ₹62,500 crore to strengthen India's mobile phone manufacturing ecosystem.

The scheme aims to boost domestic manufacturing, increase value addition, strengthen supply chains, promote Indian mobile brands, and position India as a global hub for mobile phone manufacturing under the Make in India initiative.

MPMS will be implemented for five years, from FY 2026–27 to FY 2030–31, and will provide performance-linked incentives to eligible manufacturers.

The scheme seeks to enhance mobile phone manufacturing capabilities, promote local production of key components, reduce import dependence, encourage product design and Research & Development (R&D), and build a resilient electronics supply chain.

Under the scheme, eligible manufacturers will receive performance-linked incentives ranging from 2.25% to 5% on qualified sales of mobile phones manufactured in India, based on category and performance criteria.

Manufacturers sourcing specified components domestically will be eligible for an additional incentive of up to 1.5%, encouraging localisation and deeper value addition.

 

6) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

The Government of India has revised the Special Additional Excise Duty (SAED), commonly known as the windfall tax, on the export of petroleum products with effect from 16 July 2026.

According to the Ministry of Finance, the revised rates will remain effective for the fortnight beginning 16 July 2026 and will be reviewed in the next fortnightly revision.

The revised SAED rates are:

Diesel (Exports): Increased from ₹8.5/litre to ₹15.5/litre

Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) (Exports): Increased from ₹7.5/litre to ₹14.5/litre

Petrol (Exports): Reduced from ₹4/litre to ₹2.5/litre

Detailed Explanation:

The Government of India has revised the Special Additional Excise Duty (SAED), commonly known as the windfall tax, on the export of petroleum products with effect from 16 July 2026.

According to the Ministry of Finance, the revised rates will remain effective for the fortnight beginning 16 July 2026 and will be reviewed in the next fortnightly revision.

The revised SAED rates are:

Diesel (Exports): Increased from ₹8.5/litre to ₹15.5/litre

Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) (Exports): Increased from ₹7.5/litre to ₹14.5/litre

Petrol (Exports): Reduced from ₹4/litre to ₹2.5/litre

Special Additional Excise Duty (SAED) is imposed on the export of petroleum products when global crude oil prices rise sharply, resulting in extraordinary profits for exporters.

The objective of the revised duty is to ensure adequate domestic fuel availability, discourage excessive exports during periods of high international oil prices, limit windfall gains, and strengthen India's energy security.

 

7) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

Kolkata Metro is set to introduce driverless metro train operations on the Green Line and Purple Line, marking a major milestone in India's urban public transport system.

The Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS) has approved driverless operations on the Green Line after successfully completing safety inspections and trials.

With the launch, Kolkata will become one of the few Indian cities, after Delhi and Bengaluru, to operate Grade of Automation 4 (GoA-4) driverless metro services.

The first phase of driverless operations will cover the Green Line (Howrah Maidan–Salt Lake Sector V), spanning 16.6 km with 12 stations.

The Green Line includes India's first underwater metro tunnel beneath the Hooghly River, connecting the western and eastern parts of Kolkata.

Detailed Explanation:

Kolkata Metro is set to introduce driverless metro train operations on the Green Line and Purple Line, marking a major milestone in India's urban public transport system.

The Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS) has approved driverless operations on the Green Line after successfully completing safety inspections and trials.

With the launch, Kolkata will become one of the few Indian cities, after Delhi and Bengaluru, to operate Grade of Automation 4 (GoA-4) driverless metro services.

The first phase of driverless operations will cover the Green Line (Howrah Maidan–Salt Lake Sector V), spanning 16.6 km with 12 stations.

The Green Line includes India's first underwater metro tunnel beneath the Hooghly River, connecting the western and eastern parts of Kolkata.

Driverless operations have also been planned for the Purple Line, further expanding Kolkata Metro's automated network.

The driverless trains use Communication-Based Train Control (CBTC) technology with Grade of Automation 4 (GoA-4), enabling automatic acceleration, braking, speed regulation, station stopping, door operation, and train movement without a driver.

8) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

The Ministry of Heavy Industries (MHI) has invited global bids to establish 10 GWh of Advanced Chemistry Cell (ACC) battery manufacturing capacity under the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for ACC Batteries.

The bidding marks the final phase of the ₹18,100 crore PLI Scheme, aimed at creating a robust domestic ACC battery manufacturing ecosystem and reducing India's dependence on imported batteries.

Both domestic and global manufacturers are eligible to participate in the bidding process.

Detailed Explanation:

The Ministry of Heavy Industries (MHI) has invited global bids to establish 10 GWh of Advanced Chemistry Cell (ACC) battery manufacturing capacity under the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for ACC Batteries.

The bidding marks the final phase of the ₹18,100 crore PLI Scheme, aimed at creating a robust domestic ACC battery manufacturing ecosystem and reducing India's dependence on imported batteries.

Both domestic and global manufacturers are eligible to participate in the bidding process.

The Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for ACC Batteries was approved by the Union Cabinet in 2021 with:

Financial Outlay: ₹18,100 crore

Target Manufacturing Capacity: 50 GWh

Capacity Already Allocated: 40 GWh

Current Bidding Capacity: 10 GWh

The scheme aims to promote domestic manufacturing of Advanced Chemistry Cell (ACC) batteries, strengthen the battery value chain, support clean energy adoption, and enhance India's energy security.

Advanced Chemistry Cell (ACC) batteries are high-performance rechargeable batteries offering higher energy density, faster charging, longer life, and improved safety compared to conventional batteries.

 

9) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the National Investment Policy for Urea-2026 (NIPU-2026) to promote self-reliance in urea production under  the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.

NIPU-2026 has been introduced by the Department of Fertilizers to encourage investment in new gas-based urea manufacturing plants across the country.

The policy replaces the New Investment Policy (NIP)-2012, whose investment window closed in October 2019.

Detailed Explanation:

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the National Investment Policy for Urea-2026 (NIPU-2026) to promote self-reliance in urea production under  the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.

NIPU-2026 has been introduced by the Department of Fertilizers to encourage investment in new gas-based urea manufacturing plants across the country.

The policy replaces the New Investment Policy (NIP)-2012, whose investment window closed in October 2019.

The policy aims to increase domestic urea production, reduce dependence on imports, attract public and private investment, improve transparency in project economics, and strengthen India's fertilizer security.

The policy focuses on establishing energy-efficient and environment-friendly gas-based urea plants using modern technologies.

A key feature of NIPU-2026 is the separation of fixed and variable costs, ensuring greater transparency, fair cost estimation, and better financial planning for investors.

10) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

India and the European Union (EU) held the 3rd India–European Union Trade and Technology Council (TTC) Meeting in Brussels, Belgium, to deepen cooperation in trade, technology, innovation, and resilient supply chains.

During the meeting, both sides discussed expanding collaboration in Artificial Intelligence (AI), semiconductors, electric vehicles (EVs), renewable energy technologies, digital technologies, high-performance computing, and secure digital infrastructure.

The meeting also focused on building trusted and resilient supply chains, enhancing bilateral trade and investment, and promoting economic resilience amid global trade and technology disruptions.

Detailed Explanation:

India and the European Union (EU) held the 3rd India–European Union Trade and Technology Council (TTC) Meeting in Brussels, Belgium, to deepen cooperation in trade, technology, innovation, and resilient supply chains.

During the meeting, both sides discussed expanding collaboration in Artificial Intelligence (AI), semiconductors, electric vehicles (EVs), renewable energy technologies, digital technologies, high-performance computing, and secure digital infrastructure.

The meeting also focused on building trusted and resilient supply chains, enhancing bilateral trade and investment, and promoting economic resilience amid global trade and technology disruptions.

External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar emphasized that trusted partnerships have become increasingly important due to global supply chain disruptions and challenges in accessing advanced technologies.

India and the European Union agreed to strengthen cooperation in emerging technologies, digital transformation, and innovation to support a secure, sustainable, and modern global economy.

Under clean energy and electric mobility, discussions covered cooperation in electric vehicles (EVs), battery technology, renewable energy, green hydrogen, energy efficiency, and sustainable mobility.

 

11) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved Semicon 2.0, India's next-generation semiconductor policy, with a total outlay of ₹1,27,500 crore.

Semicon 2.0 aims to strengthen India's semiconductor design, manufacturing, packaging, research, innovation, and talent development ecosystem, while building a resilient semiconductor supply chain and promoting technological self-reliance.

Semicon 2.0 is built around six strategic pillars:

Strengthening semiconductor design

Developing semiconductor equipment, materials, and chemicals

Establishing additional semiconductor fabrication (Fab) facilities

Strengthening the Assembly, Testing, Marking and Packaging (ATMP) and Outsourced Semiconductor Assembly and Test (OSAT) ecosystem

Accelerating research and development (R&D)

Talent development and skill enhancement

Detailed Explanation:

The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved Semicon 2.0, India's next-generation semiconductor policy, with a total outlay of ₹1,27,500 crore.

Semicon 2.0 aims to strengthen India's semiconductor design, manufacturing, packaging, research, innovation, and talent development ecosystem, while building a resilient semiconductor supply chain and promoting technological self-reliance.

The programme builds upon Semicon 1.0 and seeks to establish a comprehensive semiconductor ecosystem, covering chip design, fabrication, packaging, materials, equipment, research, and skilled workforce development.

The initiative aims to attract global semiconductor manufacturers, enhance the capabilities of Indian chip design companies, promote domestic semiconductor production, reduce dependence on imports, and position India as a trusted global semiconductor hub.

Semiconductors are critical for industries such as mobile devices, Artificial Intelligence (AI), electric vehicles, telecommunications, defence, medical devices, industrial electronics, and automation.

Semicon 2.0 is built around six strategic pillars:

Strengthening semiconductor design

Developing semiconductor equipment, materials, and chemicals

Establishing additional semiconductor fabrication (Fab) facilities

Strengthening the Assembly, Testing, Marking and Packaging (ATMP) and Outsourced Semiconductor Assembly and Test (OSAT) ecosystem

Accelerating research and development (R&D)

Talent development and skill enhancement

 

12) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

The United Nations (UN) released the Preliminary Report of the Independent International Scientific Panel on Artificial Intelligence (AI), the first UN-commissioned scientific assessment of Artificial Intelligence (AI).

The report warns that AI development is advancing faster than global governance and urges governments to strengthen AI regulatory frameworks and international cooperation.

The report was prepared by a 40-member Independent International Scientific Panel on AI, comprising scientists and experts from all five UN regions.

The panel is co-chaired by Yoshua Bengio (Turing Award laureate) and Maria Ressa (Nobel Peace Prize laureate).

Detailed Explanation:

The United Nations (UN) released the Preliminary Report of the Independent International Scientific Panel on Artificial Intelligence (AI), the first UN-commissioned scientific assessment of Artificial Intelligence (AI).

The report warns that AI development is advancing faster than global governance and urges governments to strengthen AI regulatory frameworks and international cooperation.

The report was prepared by a 40-member Independent International Scientific Panel on AI, comprising scientists and experts from all five UN regions.

The panel is co-chaired by Yoshua Bengio (Turing Award laureate) and Maria Ressa (Nobel Peace Prize laureate).

The objective of the report is to provide an independent scientific assessment of AI opportunities, risks, and governance to support evidence-based policymaking worldwide.

The report evaluates the impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) across science, healthcare, education, agriculture, economy, security, environment, human rights, democracy, governance, and AI reliability.

13) Answer: B

Government of India (GoI) appointed Dr. Srinivasa Kumar Tummala as the new Secretary, Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES).

The appointment was approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) for a tenure of 2 years from the date of assuming office or until further orders, whichever is earlier.

Before this appointment, Dr. Srinivasa Kumar Tummala served as the Head of the Indian Ocean Tsunami Warning and Mitigation System (IOTWMS) Secretariat under the UNESCO Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (UNESCO-IOC) in Perth, Australia.

 

14) Answer: C

Ukraine's Parliament (Verkhovna Rada) approved the appointment of Sergii Koretskyi as the Prime Minister (PM) of Ukraine, succeeding Yulia Svyrydenko.

Sergii Koretskyi was serving as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Naftogaz of Ukraine, the country's state-owned energy company, before becoming Prime Minister.

He secured 289 votes in the 450-member Verkhovna Rada, obtaining parliamentary approval for his appointment as Prime Minister.

 

15) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

The Indian Navy will commission INS Malvan on 22 July 2026, the second Mahe-class Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW-SWC).

The commissioning ceremony will be presided over by Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh, Chief of the Air Staff, in the presence of Vice Admiral Sanjay Vatsayan, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief (FOC-in-C), Western Naval Command.

INS Malvan has been built by Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL), Kochi, showcasing India's growing capability in indigenous naval shipbuilding.

Detailed Explanation:

The Indian Navy will commission INS Malvan on 22 July 2026, the second Mahe-class Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW-SWC).

The commissioning ceremony will be presided over by Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh, Chief of the Air Staff, in the presence of Vice Admiral Sanjay Vatsayan, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief (FOC-in-C), Western Naval Command.

INS Malvan has been built by Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL), Kochi, showcasing India's growing capability in indigenous naval shipbuilding.

The warship has over 80% indigenous content, reflecting the success of the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative in the defence sector.

INS Malvan represents India's advancement in warship design, construction, and systems integration, strengthening the country's self-reliance in naval defence.

The Mahe-class ASW-SWC is specially designed for Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) operations in shallow waters, enhancing the Indian Navy's coastal defence capabilities.

 

16) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

Researchers from the Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science (IACS) and S. N. Bose National Centre for Basic Sciences (SNBNCBS), both under the Department of Science and Technology (DST), developed a new porous organic anode material for high-performance lithium-ion batteries.

The newly developed material is a Covalent Organic Framework (COF), a porous organic material designed to improve energy storage capacity, fast charging, and battery durability.

The research team was led by Dr. Urmimala Maitra (IACS) and Dr. Pradip Pachfule (SNBNCBS).

Detailed Explanation:

Researchers from the Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science (IACS) and S. N. Bose National Centre for Basic Sciences (SNBNCBS), both under the Department of Science and Technology (DST), developed a new porous organic anode material for high-performance lithium-ion batteries.

The newly developed material is a Covalent Organic Framework (COF), a porous organic material designed to improve energy storage capacity, fast charging, and battery durability.

The research team was led by Dr. Urmimala Maitra (IACS) and Dr. Pradip Pachfule (SNBNCBS).

The COF-based anode material enables lithium ions to move more efficiently, resulting in faster charging, improved ion transport, enhanced charge storage, and greater structural stability.

Using the new COF material, the lithium-ion battery achieved 80% charging in just over one minute while maintaining excellent performance over repeated charging and discharging cycles.

The material also demonstrated the ability to store sodium ions, creating opportunities for the development of low-cost sodium-ion batteries in the future.

 

17) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

Kerala-based private spacetech startup HEX20 successfully launched its second satellite, KOYO (Kinetic Optical Yaw Observer) aboard SpaceX's Transporter-17 mission from Vandenberg Space Force Base, California, USA.

KOYO successfully entered Earth orbit as a multi-payload technology demonstration platform, carrying 81 payloads for in-orbit technology validation and commissioning of international payloads.

The primary objective of the KOYO Mission is to qualify and validate space hardware before operational deployment through real-time in-orbit testing.

The satellite carries payloads from several international partners, including Aegiverse (Taiwan), Amplified Space (USA), National Central University (Taiwan), and ET Space Power.

Detailed Explanation:

Kerala-based private spacetech startup HEX20 successfully launched its second satellite, KOYO (Kinetic Optical Yaw Observer) aboard SpaceX's Transporter-17 mission from Vandenberg Space Force Base, California, USA.

KOYO successfully entered Earth orbit as a multi-payload technology demonstration platform, carrying 81 payloads for in-orbit technology validation and commissioning of international payloads.

The primary objective of the KOYO Mission is to qualify and validate space hardware before operational deployment through real-time in-orbit testing.

The satellite carries payloads from several international partners, including Aegiverse (Taiwan), Amplified Space (USA), National Central University (Taiwan), and ET Space Power.

The mission successfully validated several indigenously developed HEX20 technologies, including a new solar panel deployment mechanism, deployable monopole antenna, advanced hinge system, and the AX CubeSat platform.

KOYO is designed to operate for 18–24 months, during which it will continue technology validation, payload testing, and space system performance evaluation.

During the commissioning phase, the satellite successfully decoded over 1,500 beacon packets and exe

18) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

CSIR–Central Road Research Institute (CSIR-CRRI) commenced its Platinum Jubilee Celebrations from 16 July 2026 to 16 July 2027, marking 75 years of scientific excellence in road infrastructure research.

As part of the celebrations, CSIR-CRRI launched the first phase of nationwide implementation of its advanced indigenous road infrastructure technologies across 16 towns/locations in India.

The initiative aims to demonstrate, commercialise, and scale up innovative road construction and maintenance technologies through collaboration with industry and implementing agencies.

Detailed Explanation:

CSIR–Central Road Research Institute (CSIR-CRRI) commenced its Platinum Jubilee Celebrations from 16 July 2026 to 16 July 2027, marking 75 years of scientific excellence in road infrastructure research.

As part of the celebrations, CSIR-CRRI launched the first phase of nationwide implementation of its advanced indigenous road infrastructure technologies across 16 towns/locations in India.

The initiative aims to demonstrate, commercialise, and scale up innovative road construction and maintenance technologies through collaboration with industry and implementing agencies.

The celebrations were inaugurated by Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences.

During the event, Dr. Jitendra Singh reviewed indigenous innovations in road engineering, pavement technologies, Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS), road safety, and sustainable construction materials.

The Minister launched the Automatic Modified Mix Seal Surfacing (MSS+) Smart Mix Pro Mixing Plant, designed for the large-scale implementation of the indigenous Modified Mix Seal Surfacing (MSS+) road technology.

cuted more than 75 ground commands, confirming its stable orbital performance.

19) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) signed a multi-million, multi-year agreement with ABB to transform ABB’s global network operations using Artificial Intelligence (AI).

The agreement marks the next phase of the 20-year partnership between TCS and ABB, expanding TCS’s role to deliver end-to-end AI-driven global network operations.

The main objective is to transform ABB’s global network into a standardised, centrally managed, AI-driven digital infrastructure through an integrated Network-as-a-Service (NaaS) model.

Detailed Explanation:

Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) signed a multi-million, multi-year agreement with ABB to transform ABB’s global network operations using Artificial Intelligence (AI).

The agreement marks the next phase of the 20-year partnership between TCS and ABB, expanding TCS’s role to deliver end-to-end AI-driven global network operations.

The main objective is to transform ABB’s global network into a standardised, centrally managed, AI-driven digital infrastructure through an integrated Network-as-a-Service (NaaS) model.

Under the agreement, TCS will manage end-to-end global network operations using Service Integration and Management (SIAM), a Global Network Operations Centre (GNOC), advanced cybersecurity, and modernised Local Area Network (LAN), Wide Area Network (WAN), and Software-Defined Wide Area Network (SD-WAN) systems.

The AI-powered network transformation will improve user experience, operational efficiency, security, regulatory compliance, scalability, and real-time AI-based network monitoring.

 

20) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

The Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI), in collaboration with the National Institute of Food Technology Entrepreneurship and Management (NIFTEM), Thanjavur, launched a pilot Short-Term Skill Training Programme (STSTP) on the Assistant Baking Technician (NSQF Level 3) Certificate Programme at the ITC – Integrated Consumer Goods Manufacturing and Logistics (ITC-ICML) facility in Trichy, Tamil Nadu.

The programme was inaugurated by Prof. V. Palanimuthu, Director, NIFTEM-Thanjavur, in the presence of Surjeet Singh Roria, General Manager (GM) & Head, ITC-ICML, and Padmanabhan T., Senior HR Manager, ITC-ICML.

Detailed Explanation:

The Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI), in collaboration with the National Institute of Food Technology Entrepreneurship and Management (NIFTEM), Thanjavur, launched a pilot Short-Term Skill Training Programme (STSTP) on the Assistant Baking Technician (NSQF Level 3) Certificate Programme at the ITC – Integrated Consumer Goods Manufacturing and Logistics (ITC-ICML) facility in Trichy, Tamil Nadu.

The programme was inaugurated by Prof. V. Palanimuthu, Director, NIFTEM-Thanjavur, in the presence of Surjeet Singh Roria, General Manager (GM) & Head, ITC-ICML, and Padmanabhan T., Senior HR Manager, ITC-ICML.

The objective of the STSTP is to upskill youth in food processing, manufacturing, and allied sectors, thereby enhancing employability and promoting entrepreneurship in the food processing industry.

The programme offers nationally recognised certifications aligned with the National Skills Qualifications Framework (NSQF), ensuring industry-relevant skill development.

The first batch comprises 18 trainees, who will undergo Industry-Integrated Training (IIT) with practical on-site training at ITC-ICML from 7 July to 20 August 2026.

 

21) Answer: E

Short Explanation:

Researchers from the Ashoka Trust for Research in Ecology and the Environment (ATREE), Bengaluru (Karnataka) discovered two new species of rare solitary bees during the Siang Expedition in the Siang Valley, Arunachal Pradesh (AR).

The newly discovered bee species are Elaphropoda triangulata and Habropoda adi, and the findings were published in the European Journal of Taxonomy.

Detailed Explanation:

Researchers from the Ashoka Trust for Research in Ecology and the Environment (ATREE), Bengaluru (Karnataka) discovered two new species of rare solitary bees during the Siang Expedition in the Siang Valley, Arunachal Pradesh (AR).

The newly discovered bee species are Elaphropoda triangulata and Habropoda adi, and the findings were published in the European Journal of Taxonomy.

The discovery highlights the rich biodiversity and ecological importance of the Eastern Himalayas, one of the world's biodiversity hotspots.

Elaphropoda triangulata was named after its distinctive triangular abdominal markings, while Habropoda adi was named in honour of the indigenous Adi community of Arunachal Pradesh.

Both newly discovered species are solitary ground-nesting bees, which build individual nests instead of living in colonies like honeybees

22) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

Union Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal launched the e-VSP (Vidhi Sahitya Prakashan) Portal, developed by the Legislative Department, to provide digital access to Hindi legal literature.

The e-VSP Portal offers Supreme Court and High Court judgments, legal journals, reference books, Acts, legal publications, and other Hindi legal resources on a single digital platform.

Detailed Explanation:

Union Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal launched the e-VSP (Vidhi Sahitya Prakashan) Portal, developed by the Legislative Department, to provide digital access to Hindi legal literature.

The e-VSP Portal offers Supreme Court and High Court judgments, legal journals, reference books, Acts, legal publications, and other Hindi legal resources on a single digital platform.

The portal aims to make legal knowledge easily accessible to lawyers, judges, law students, teachers, researchers, and citizens worldwide, thereby promoting inclusive access to justice.

The e-VSP Portal has been jointly developed by the Legislative Department, Official Languages Wing, Vidhi Sahitya Prakashan (VSP), and the National Informatics Centre (NIC).

 

23) Answer: C

Nelson Mandela International Day 2026 was observed globally on 18 July 2026 to honour the life, legacy, and humanitarian contributions of Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela, the former President of South Africa.

The day, also known as Mandela Day, encourages people across the world to serve their communities and promote peace, equality, justice, and human dignity.

The first Nelson Mandela International Day was observed on 18 July 2009 in New York.

 

24) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

NDS-OM (Negotiated Dealing System–Order Matching) is an anonymous, screen-based electronic order-matching platform for secondary market trading in Government Securities (G-Secs).

Launched: 2005 by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).

Operated by: Clearcorp Dealing Systems (India) Ltd., with trade settlement guaranteed by the Clearing Corporation of India Limited (CCIL).

Tradable Instruments: Central Government Securities (G-Secs), State Development Loans (SDLs), and Treasury Bills (T-Bills).

Detailed Explanation:

NDS-OM (Negotiated Dealing System–Order Matching) is an anonymous, screen-based electronic order-matching platform for secondary market trading in Government Securities (G-Secs).

Launched: 2005 by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).

Operated by: Clearcorp Dealing Systems (India) Ltd., with trade settlement guaranteed by the Clearing Corporation of India Limited (CCIL).

Tradable Instruments: Central Government Securities (G-Secs), State Development Loans (SDLs), and Treasury Bills (T-Bills).

The platform also provides a Request for Quote (RFQ) segment, enabling members to negotiate bilateral trades electronically.

Trade Settlement under NDS-OM follows the T+1 settlement cycle and is guaranteed by CCIL, ensuring secure and efficient settlement.

Types of NDS-OM Members

Direct Members: Have current accounts with the RBI and can directly settle trades on NDS-OM.

Indirect Members: Do not have RBI current accounts and settle transactions through Direct Members; most Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs)/FPIs access the platform through this route.

 

25) Answer: B

Indian mobile phone brands investing in product design, innovation, and Research & Development (R&D) may receive an additional incentive of up to 3% on eligible sales.

The scheme builds upon the success of the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for Large Scale Electronics Manufacturing, which helped attract global smartphone manufacturers, increase mobile phone exports, integrate India into global electronics supply chains, and generate large-scale employment.

India is currently the second-largest mobile phone manufacturer in the world, with around 99% of mobile phones sold in the domestic market being manufactured in India.