Dear Readers, Daily Current Affairs Questions Quiz for SBI, IBPS, RBI, RRB, SSC Exam 2026 of 19th  March 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) According to the Department of Commerce, what was India’s cumulative total exports (merchandise + services) during April–February 2025–26?

(a) USD 713.53 Billion

(b) USD 790.86 Billion

(c) USD 900.51 Billion

(d) USD 402.93 Billion

(e) USD 387.93 Billion

2) As of 2026, Shri Health Suraksha 2.0, an upgraded health insurance plan, has been launched by which company?

(a) ICICI Lombard General Insurance

(b) New India Assurance Company

(c) Shriram General Insurance Company

(d) HDFC ERGO General Insurance

(e) Bajaj Allianz General Insurance

3) Which village in Odisha is set to become the state’s first smart village under a CSIR(Council of Scientific and Industrial Research) initiative?

(a) Ralegan Siddhi

(b) Punsari

(c) Dharnai

(d) Hiware Bazar

(e) Kusunpur

4) Consider the following statements regarding India’s unemployment data for February 2026:

1. The overall unemployment rate increased to 5.2% in February 2026.
2. The urban unemployment rate declined to 6.6% in February 2026.
3. The rural unemployment rate increased to 4.5% in February 2026.
4. The female unemployment rate declined to 5.1% in February 2026.

Which of the statements given above is/are incorrect?

(a) 1 and 3 only

(b) 1, 2 and 3 only

(c) 2 and 4 only

(d) 1 and 4 only

(e) 1, 3 and 4 only

5) In 2026, the ‘24 Speed Post’ service, recently launched for next-day guaranteed delivery, will initially be available in how many metropolitan cities?

(a) 4

(b) 5

(c) 3

(d) 6

(e) 8

6) As of 2026, India has submitted its first National Report on the Nagoya Protocol under which Article that mandates reporting on Access and Benefit Sharing (ABS)?

(a) Article 5

(b) Article 12

(c) Article 29

(d) Article 15

(e) Article 21

7) Which Geographical Indication (GI)-tagged rice from Assam was recently exported for the first time to the United Kingdom and Italy?

(a) Joha rice

(b) Gobindobhog rice

(c) Basmati rice

(d) Ponni rice

(e) Sona Masuri rice

 

8) Which company became the first mining company in India to produce 50 million tonnes of iron ore in a single financial year (2025–26)?

(a) Coal India Limited

(b) Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL)

(c) NMDC Limited

(d) Hindustan Zinc Limited

(e) Vedanta Limited

9) What is the sanctioned amount for the Integrated Aqua Park Project announced in Anantnag, Jammu & Kashmir?

(a) ₹50 crore

(b) ₹75 crore

(c) ₹150 crore

(d) ₹100 crore

(e) ₹200 crore

10) Under Brazil’s new law regulating minors’ access to social media, children below which age must link their accounts to a legal guardian?

(a) 12 years

(b) 16 years

(c) 17 years

(d) 18 years

(e) 21 years

11) Who has become Nepal’s first transgender woman Member of Parliament, marking a milestone for LGBTQ representation?

(a) Anjali Lama

(b) Bandana Rana

(c) Sunil Babu Pant

(d) Manisha Koirala

(e) Bhumika Shrestha

12) As of 2026, Jagat Prakash Nadda has been appointed as the Chairman of which committee under the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers?

(a) Parliamentary Standing Committee

(b) National Language Promotion Committee

(c) Hindi Advisory Committee

(d) Official Communication Committee

(e) Central Administrative Committee

13) Which animated short film won the Best Director Award at the New York Short Animation Festival 2026?

(a) CHYIMI

(b) Ghoomketu

(c) Bombay Rose

(d) The Banyan Tree

(e) Kandahar

14) Consider the following statements regarding the Sahitya Akademi Award 2025:

1. The awards recognise literary works in 24 Indian languages.
2. A total of 10 poetry collections have been awarded.
3. The selection process began with an open call for nominations in January 2025.
4. Only novels and short stories are considered for the awards.

Which of the statements given above is/are incorrect?

(a) 2 and 4 only

(b) 1 and 3 only

(c) 2, 3 and 4 only

(d) 1 and 2 only

(e) 3 and 4 only

 

15) In 2026, India has started the process of signing Terms of Reference to begin trade negotiations with which two countries?

(a) Vietnam and Thailand

(b) Philippines and Maldives

(c) Indonesia and Malaysia

(d) Sri Lanka and Bangladesh

(e) Japan and South Korea

 

16) As of 2026, the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities signed an MoU with which organisation to support persons with hearing impairment?

(a) NITI Aayog

(b) UNESCO

(c) World Bank

(d) UNICEF

(e) Coalition of the Willing

17) As of 2026, The Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs), whose keel laying ceremony was recently held, are being constructed by which company?

(a) Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE)

(b) Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL)

(c) Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL)

(d) Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL)

(e) Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL)

 

18) As of 2026, the IOS SAGAR(Security and Growth for All in the Region) programme begins with professional training interactions at Indian Naval establishments located in which city?

(a) Kochi

(b) Visakhapatnam

(c) Mumbai

(d) Chennai

(e) Goa

19) As of 2026, Gujarat’s first sounding rocket at Bavaliyari village near Dholera, launch was conducted by which startup?

(a) Skyroot Aerospace

(b) Agnikul Cosmos

(c) Dhruva Space

(d) Bellatrix Aerospace

(e) Omspace Rocket and Exploration Private Limited (OSRE)

20) In 2026,  Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) signed a long-term Supply and Purchase Agreement (SPA) for green ammonia with which company?

(a) Mitsubishi Corporation

(b) Samsung C&T Corporation

(c) Toshiba Energy Systems

(d) Siemens Energy

(e) TotalEnergies

21) As of 2026,  the Floating LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) Buoy System, recently tested off the coast of Tamil Nadu, was developed by which organisation?

(a) Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)

(b) Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)

(c) National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT)

(d) Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS)

(e) Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES)

22) In 2026, Researchers from which institution developed an advanced MXene-based material for hydrogen fuel production and solar-powered desalination?

(a) IIT Delhi

(b) IIT Guwahati

(c) IIT Bombay

(d) IISc Bengaluru

(e) IIT Madras

 

23) Which organisation discovered two new species of lichen moths, Caulocerahollowayi and Asura buxa, in the Eastern Himalayas?

(a) Botanical Survey of India (BSI)

(b) Wildlife Institute of India (WII)

(c) Zoological Survey of India (ZSI)

(d) National Biodiversity Authority (NBA)

(e) Forest Survey of India (FSI)

24) Who is the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu & Kashmir?

(a) R.K. Mathur

(b) B.D. Mishra

(c) Girish Chandra Murmu

(d) Satya Pal Malik

(e) Manoj Sinha

25) Who is the Governor of Odisha?

(a) Ramesh Bais

(b) Hari Babu Kambhampati

(c) Bandaru Dattatreya

(d) Arif Mohammed Khan

(e) Thaawarchand Gehlot

Answers:

1) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

The Department of Commerce (DoC) under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoC&I) reported that India’s cumulative exports (merchandise and services combined) for April-February 2025-26 reached an estimated USD 790.86 Billion (Bn), registering a growth of 5.79%.

Merchandise exports during April-February 2025-26 stood at USD 402.93 Bn, up from USD 395.66 Bn in the previous year, registering a growth of 1.84%.

Detailed Explanation:

The Department of Commerce (DoC) under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoC&I) reported that India’s cumulative exports (merchandise and services combined) for April-February 2025-26 reached an estimated USD 790.86 Billion (Bn), registering a growth of 5.79%.

Merchandise exports during April-February 2025-26 stood at USD 402.93 Bn, up from USD 395.66 Bn in the previous year, registering a growth of 1.84%.

Services exports are estimated at USD 387.93 Bn, compared to USD 351.93 Bn in the previous year, showing a growth of 10.23%.

India’s total imports for April-February 2025-26 are estimated at USD 900.51 Bn, growing by 7.37%, with merchandise imports at USD 713.53 Bn compared to USD 657.46 Bn the previous year.

In February 2026 alone, total exports reached USD 76.13 Bn, showing an 11.05% increase compared to February 2025.

 

2) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

Shriram General Insurance Company (SGIC) launched Shri Health Suraksha 2.0, an upgraded health insurance plan designed to provide flexible and comprehensive medical coverage while reducing out-of-pocket expenses.

The plan addresses gaps in traditional health policies by removing restrictions and offering benefits such as unlimited restoration of the sum insured within a policy year.

Shri Health Suraksha 2.0 provides a cumulative bonus of up to 250% for claim-free years, increasing the base sum insured over time.

Detailed Explanation:

Shriram General Insurance Company (SGIC) launched Shri Health Suraksha 2.0, an upgraded health insurance plan designed to provide flexible and comprehensive medical coverage while reducing out-of-pocket expenses.

The plan addresses gaps in traditional health policies by removing restrictions and offering benefits such as unlimited restoration of the sum insured within a policy year.

Shri Health Suraksha 2.0 provides a cumulative bonus of up to 250% for claim-free years, increasing the base sum insured over time.

The policy eliminates room rent capping and ICU charge limits, allowing policyholders to choose hospital rooms based on medical necessity without financial restrictions.

The plan follows a zero co-payment structure, ensuring that the insurer covers the full admissible claim amount without requiring the insured to share costs.

It provides coverage for ambulance and air ambulance services up to the sum insured, expanding access to emergency medical transport.

The plan includes coverage for medical consumables, which are often excluded in standard health policies.

3) Answer: E

Kusunpur village in Kendrapada district of Odisha is set to become the first smart village in the state under an initiative of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research functioning under the Ministry of Science and Technology.

The project aims to transform the village, which has around 130 families and a population of about 700, into a model of sustainable and self-reliant rural development.

The initiative seeks to bring advanced technology and scientific solutions directly to rural communities.

4) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

India’s unemployment rate declined marginally to 4.9 percent in February 2026, according to the National Statistics Office through the Periodic Labour Force Survey.

The overall unemployment rate among persons aged 15 years and above declined to 4.9 percent, reflecting stable employment trends across rural and urban areas.

Rural unemployment rate remained unchanged at 4.2 percent, showing stable employment conditions in rural regions without major fluctuations.

The female unemployment rate among persons aged 15 years and above declined significantly from 5.6 percent in January 2026 to 5.1 percent in February 2026.

Detailed Explanation:

India’s unemployment rate declined marginally to 4.9 percent in February 2026, according to the National Statistics Office through the Periodic Labour Force Survey.

The unemployment rate in January 2026 was recorded at 5 percent, indicating a slight improvement in the labour market during February 2026.

The overall unemployment rate among persons aged 15 years and above declined to 4.9 percent, reflecting stable employment trends across rural and urban areas.

Urban unemployment rate among persons aged 15 years and above declined to 6.6 percent in February 2026, compared to 6.7 percent in January 2026, indicating a marginal recovery in employment opportunities in urban areas.

Rural unemployment rate remained unchanged at 4.2 percent, showing stable employment conditions in rural regions without major fluctuations.

The female unemployment rate among persons aged 15 years and above declined significantly from 5.6 percent in January 2026 to 5.1 percent in February 2026.

Urban female unemployment rate decreased from 9.8 percent to 8.7 percent, indicating improvement in employment opportunities for women in urban areas.

5) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

The Department of Posts, under the Ministry of Communications, has launched the ‘24 Speed Post’ service to provide next-day guaranteed delivery for urgent consignments.

The service will initially operate in six major metropolitan cities of India.

Detailed Explanation:

The Department of Posts, under the Ministry of Communications, has launched the ‘24 Speed Post’ service to provide next-day guaranteed delivery for urgent consignments.

The service was launched at Akashvani Bhawan.

The 24 Speed Post service is designed for time-sensitive parcels and important documents, ensuring faster delivery compared to standard postal timelines.

The service will initially operate in six major metropolitan cities of India.

Cities covered in the first phase include:
– New Delhi
– Mumbai
– Chennai
– Kolkata
– Bengaluru
– Hyderabad

6) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

India has submitted its first National Report on the Nagoya Protocol on Access and Benefit Sharing to the Convention on Biological Diversity.

The report was submitted on February 27, 2026 by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change in collaboration with the National Biodiversity Authority.

The report highlights India’s progress in implementing global biodiversity agreements between November 1, 2017 and December 31, 2025.

The submission has been made under Article 29 of the Nagoya Protocol, which requires countries to monitor and report progress in implementing Access and Benefit Sharing rules.

Detailed Explanation:

India has submitted its first National Report on the Nagoya Protocol on Access and Benefit Sharing to the Convention on Biological Diversity.

The report was submitted on February 27, 2026 by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change in collaboration with the National Biodiversity Authority.

The report highlights India’s progress in implementing global biodiversity agreements between November 1, 2017 and December 31, 2025.

The submission has been made under Article 29 of the Nagoya Protocol, which requires countries to monitor and report progress in implementing Access and Benefit Sharing rules.

The Access and Benefit Sharing mechanism ensures that benefits arising from the use of genetic resources and traditional knowledge are shared fairly with the countries and communities providing them.

India’s report demonstrates the country’s commitment to the Convention on Biological Diversity and progress towards Target 13 of the updated National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan.

India had earlier submitted an interim national report in November 2017.

India’s Access and Benefit Sharing framework operates under the Biological Diversity Act, 2002, which provides the legal foundation for biodiversity governance in the country.

7) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry facilitated the first export consignment of 25 metric tonnes of Geographical Indication tagged  Joha rice from Assam to the United Kingdom and Italy.

The shipment was dispatched, in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture, Government of Assam.

Detailed Explanation:

The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry facilitated the first export consignment of 25 metric tonnes of Geographical Indication tagged  Joha rice from Assam to the United Kingdom and Italy.

The shipment was dispatched, in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture, Government of Assam.

Joha rice is an indigenous aromatic rice variety known for its distinct fragrance and fine grain texture.

The rice variety received the Geographical Indication tag in 2017, enhancing its recognition in premium domestic and international markets.

The initiative aims to promote unique agricultural products from India’s North-Eastern region in global markets and strengthen export opportunities for farmers.

In Assam, Joha rice is cultivated across around 21,662 hectares with an estimated production of about 43,298 metric tonnes in Financial Year 2024–25.

Major Joha rice producing districts in Assam include Nagaon, Baksa, Goalpara, Sivasagar, Majuli, Chirang and Golaghat

8) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

NMDC Limited, a Navratna Central Public Sector Enterprise under the Ministry of Steel, has become the first mining company in India to produce 50 million tonnes of iron ore in a single financial year (Financial Year 2025–26).

The milestone was achieved days before the close of the Financial Year 2025–26, marking a historic achievement for the company.

Established in 1958, NMDC Limited was created to develop and utilise India’s iron ore resources.

Detailed Explanation:

NMDC Limited, a Navratna Central Public Sector Enterprise under the Ministry of Steel, has become the first mining company in India to produce 50 million tonnes of iron ore in a single financial year (Financial Year 2025–26).

The milestone was achieved days before the close of the Financial Year 2025–26, marking a historic achievement for the company.

Established in 1958, NMDC Limited was created to develop and utilise India’s iron ore resources.

The company produced around 10 million tonnes of iron ore in 1978, and over the decades its production has increased fivefold to reach 50 million tonnes in Financial Year 2025–26.

The achievement highlights the transformation of NMDC Limited into the backbone of India’s iron ore supply chain.

The company has recorded rapid growth in recent years, with production increasing from about 30 million tonnes in 2015 to 50 million tonnes in 2025–26.

Nearly one-fifth of the current production capacity has been added in the last four years, marking the fastest expansion phase in the company’s history.

The milestone is significant as India aims to expand its steelmaking capacity to 300 million tonnes by 2030, increasing the importance of stable domestic iron ore supply.

9) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

Rajiv Ranjan Singh, Union Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying and Panchayati Raj, announced the sanction of a ₹100 crore Integrated Aqua Park Project in Anantnag district, Jammu and Kashmir.

The announcement was made during the National Conference on Cold Water Fisheries organised by the Department of Fisheries, Government of India at  the Sher‑e‑Kashmir International Conference Centre in Srinagar.

Detailed Explanation:

Rajiv Ranjan Singh, Union Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying and Panchayati Raj, announced the sanction of a ₹100 crore Integrated Aqua Park Project in Anantnag district, Jammu and Kashmir.

The announcement was made during the National Conference on Cold Water Fisheries organised by the Department of Fisheries, Government of India at  the Sher‑e‑Kashmir International Conference Centre in Srinagar.

During the event, the “Model Guidelines for the Development of Cold-Water Fisheries” and Model Guidelines for Reservoir Fisheries and Aquaculture Management were also released.

The Integrated Aqua Park in Anantnag will strengthen aquaculture infrastructure, boost cold-water fisheries development, increase fish production and create employment opportunities in the region.

10) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

Brazil has begun enforcing a new law regulating minors’ access to social media and online platforms, marking a significant step in global efforts to safeguard children in the digital space.

The law came into effect in 2026, following its approval in 2025 after a major scandal involving alleged sexual exploitation of minors on Instagram.

Key provisions: Children and adolescents under 16 years must link their social media accounts to a legal guardian, and self-declaration of age is no longer permitted.

Detailed Explanation:

Brazil has begun enforcing a new law regulating minors’ access to social media and online platforms, marking a significant step in global efforts to safeguard children in the digital space.

The law came into effect in 2026, following its approval in 2025 after a major scandal involving alleged sexual exploitation of minors on Instagram.

Brazil has a population of over 212 million with high internet penetration, raising concerns about the psychological and social impact of online platforms on adolescents.

Key provisions: Children and adolescents under 16 years must link their social media accounts to a legal guardian, and self-declaration of age is no longer permitted.

Platforms are required to implement reliable age verification systems, including identity document uploads and biometric verification, to prevent access to violent, pornographic, or harmful content.

Tech companies must remove content involving sexual exploitation or abuse and report such instances to authorities, with penalties for non-compliance including fines up to 50 million reais, account suspensions, or complete bans.

Brazil’s data protection authority (ANPD) is responsible for implementing and monitoring the law.

11) Answer: E

Short Explanation:

Bhumika Shrestha, a 37-year-old LGBTQ rights activist, has become Nepal’s first transgender woman Member of Parliament, marking a historic milestone in South Asia for inclusivity and representation of marginalised communities.

Bhumika Shrestha was elected as a proportional representation MP under the Rastriya Swatantra Party and is a prominent advocate for transgender and sexual minority rights in Nepal.

Detailed Explanation:

Bhumika Shrestha, a 37-year-old LGBTQ rights activist, has become Nepal’s first transgender woman Member of Parliament, marking a historic milestone in South Asia for inclusivity and representation of marginalised communities.

Bhumika Shrestha was elected as a proportional representation MP under the Rastriya Swatantra Party and is a prominent advocate for transgender and sexual minority rights in Nepal.

Her appointment follows political changes in Nepal, including anti-corruption protests in 2025 that led to the fall of the previous government and the rise of a reform-oriented leadership, enabling greater representation for underrepresented communities, including LGBTQ individuals.

Shrestha’s policy priorities include effective implementation of constitutional provisions for LGBTQ rights, legal protection, social inclusion, and addressing systemic discrimination against sexual minorities.

12) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

The Union Government has reconstituted the Hindi Advisory Committee for the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers.

Union Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda has been appointed as the Chairman, while Minister of State Anupriya Patel is the Vice-Chairperson of the committee.

The reconstitution was officially notified through a Gazette of India resolution.

Detailed Explanation:

The Union Government has reconstituted the Hindi Advisory Committee for the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers.

Union Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda has been appointed as the Chairman, while Minister of State Anupriya Patel is the Vice-Chairperson of the committee.

The reconstitution was officially notified through a Gazette of India resolution.

The committee includes 6 Members of Parliament (MPs) nominated from different bodies:

4 MPs nominated by the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs

2 MPs nominated by the Parliamentary Committee on Official Language

The panel ensures diverse representation, including:

4 members from the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers

3 members from the Department of Official Language (MHA)

1 member each from Vishwa Hindi Parishad and Hindi Prachar Sabha, Hyderabad

 

13) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

The animated short film CHYIMI, directed by Partha Sarathi Mahanta, won the Best Director Award at the New York Short Animation Festival 2026.

The achievement highlights the growing global recognition of Indian and Assamese animation storytelling on international platforms.

Detailed Explanation:

The animated short film CHYIMI, directed by Partha Sarathi Mahanta, won the Best Director Award at the New York Short Animation Festival 2026.

The achievement highlights the growing global recognition of Indian and Assamese animation storytelling on international platforms.

Partha Sarathi Mahanta, a senior police officer, is currently serving as Inspector General of Police in Assam and Commissioner of Police in Guwahati.

The award marks a significant milestone for Indian animation at international film festivals.

The New York Short Animation Festival is an international event that showcases innovative animated short films from filmmakers around the world.

By winning the Best Director Award, the film CHYIMI stood out among numerous entries from different countries.

The recognition celebrates excellence in storytelling, creativity and artistic direction in animated filmmaking.


14) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

The Sahitya Akademi, India’s National Academy of Letters, announced the Sahitya Akademi Award 2025, recognising outstanding literary works in 24 Indian languages.

The award honours 8 poetry collections, 4 novels, 6 short story collections, 2 essay books, 1 literary criticism work, 1 autobiography and 2 memoirs.

The selection process began in January 2025 when Sahitya Akademi issued an open call for nominations for literary works in recognised languages.

Detailed Explanation:

The Sahitya Akademi, India’s National Academy of Letters, announced the Sahitya Akademi Award 2025, recognising outstanding literary works in 24 Indian languages.

The award honours 8 poetry collections, 4 novels, 6 short story collections, 2 essay books, 1 literary criticism work, 1 autobiography and 2 memoirs.

The selection process began in January 2025 when Sahitya Akademi issued an open call for nominations for literary works in recognised languages.

Jury members representing each language evaluated the submitted works, and the final recommendations were approved by the competent authority of Sahitya Akademi.

The selection process ensures that literary works are honoured based on merit, originality and contribution to Indian literature.

Genre-wise distribution of awards:
– Poetry – 8 books
– Novels – 4 books
– Short story collections – 6 books
– Essays – 2 books
– Literary criticism – 1 book
– Autobiography – 1 book
– Memoirs – 2 books

15) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

India has started the process of signing Terms of Reference to begin trade negotiations with the Philippines and Maldives, according to the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.

The initiative aims to strengthen economic relations and promote bilateral trade between India and the two countries.

India will negotiate a Preferential Trade Agreement with the Philippines and a Free Trade Agreement with the Maldives.

Detailed Explanation:

India has started the process of signing Terms of Reference to begin trade negotiations with the Philippines and Maldives, according to the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.

The initiative aims to strengthen economic relations and promote bilateral trade between India and the two countries.

India will negotiate a Preferential Trade Agreement with the Philippines and a Free Trade Agreement with the Maldives.

Under the Terms of Reference, India and the Philippines will start negotiations for a Preferential Trade Agreement.

A Preferential Trade Agreement allows partner countries to reduce or eliminate import duties on selected goods, making trade more affordable and competitive.

India’s exports to the Philippines increased by 3.11 percent to 2.16 billion United States dollars in 2024–25.

Imports from the Philippines declined by 17.8 percent to 1.17 billion United States dollars during the same period.

16) Answer: E

Short Explanation:

The Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment signed a Memorandum of  Understanding with the Coalition of the Willing in New Delhi to strengthen empowerment and opportunities for persons with hearing impairment.

The agreement aims to accelerate inclusive development and improve accessibility for the deaf and hard-of-hearing community in India.

Detailed Explanation:

The Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment signed a Memorandum of  Understanding with the Coalition of the Willing in New Delhi to strengthen empowerment and opportunities for persons with hearing impairment.

The agreement aims to accelerate inclusive development and improve accessibility for the deaf and hard-of-hearing community in India.

The Memorandum of Understanding was signed in the presence of V. Vidhyavathi, Secretary, Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities; Manmeet Kaur Nanda, Additional Secretary; Pradeep A., Director, Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities; and Kumar Raju, Director of the Indian Sign Language Research and Training Centre.

The partnership seeks to create an integrated life-cycle model of empowerment for persons with hearing impairment, covering early intervention, education, skill development, employment and social inclusion.

The Coalition of the Willing is a consortium of organisations working in technology, education, accessibility and social empowerment.

17) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

The keel laying ceremony of Yard 16402 & 16403, the second and third ships of six Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs), was held at M/s YMPL, Ratnagiri.

These Next Generation OPVs have a range of 5,000 nautical miles and can achieve a maximum speed of 23 knots.

The ships are being indigenously designed, developed, and constructed by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) under the Buy (Indian-IDDM) category, in line with the government’s Atmanirbhar Bharat vision.

Detailed Explanation:

The keel laying ceremony of Yard 16402 & 16403, the second and third ships of six Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs), was held at M/s YMPL, Ratnagiri.

These Next Generation OPVs have a range of 5,000 nautical miles and can achieve a maximum speed of 23 knots.

Each ship measures 117 meters in length and has a crew strength of 11 officers and 110 men.

The OPVs will feature state-of-the-art machinery and advanced technological systems, including AI-based predictive maintenance, Remote Piloted Drones, Integrated Bridge System (IBS), and Integrated Platform Management System (IPMS).

The ships are being indigenously designed, developed, and constructed by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) under the Buy (Indian-IDDM) category, in line with the government’s Atmanirbhar Bharat vision.

The contract for the construction of six Next Generation OPVs was concluded on December 20, 2023.

 

18) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

The Indian Navy assumed the chair of the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS) in February 2026, and the current edition of IOS SAGAR includes participation from 16 IONS nations.

The initiative aligns with the Government of India’s SAGAR vision (Security and Growth for All in the Region) and contributes to the broader MAHASAGAR framework (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security Across the Regions).

Detailed Explanation:

India reaffirmed its commitment to collaborative maritime security in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) with the commencement of the second edition of Indian Ocean Ship (IOS) SAGAR.

The Indian Navy assumed the chair of the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS) in February 2026, and the current edition of IOS SAGAR includes participation from 16 IONS nations.

The initiative aligns with the Government of India’s SAGAR vision (Security and Growth for All in the Region) and contributes to the broader MAHASAGAR framework (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security Across the Regions).

IOS SAGAR is a unique operational engagement programme enabling naval personnel from Friendly Foreign Countries to train and sail together onboard an Indian Naval Ship, promoting practical cooperation, interoperability, and shared understanding of maritime operations.

The programme begins with professional training interactions at Indian Naval training establishments in Kochi, exposing participants to key aspects of naval operations, seamanship practices, and maritime security concepts


19) Answer: E

Short Explanation:

Gujarat achieved a major milestone in the space sector with the successful launch of its first sounding rocket at Bavaliyari village near Dholera, marking its entry into India’s private space technology ecosystem.

The launch was conducted by Ahmedabad-based startup Omspace Rocket and Exploration Private Limited (OSRE), highlighting the role of private players in India’s space sector.

Detailed Explanation:

Gujarat achieved a major milestone in the space sector with the successful launch of its first sounding rocket at Bavaliyari village near Dholera, marking its entry into India’s private space technology ecosystem.

The launch was conducted by Ahmedabad-based startup Omspace Rocket and Exploration Private Limited (OSRE), highlighting the role of private players in India’s space sector.

The single-stage sub-orbital rocket was launched from a temporary launch facility/complex and successfully reached an altitude of approximately 3 kilometres (km).

The rocket carried a mini-satellite designed for weather data collection, showcasing its scientific and practical application

20) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) signed a binding long-term Supply and Purchase Agreement (SPA) with Samsung C&T Corporation for the supply of green ammonia over a 15-year period starting from the second half of FY2028-29.

The deal is valued at over USD 3 billion, making it one of the world’s largest long-term green ammonia offtake agreements.

Under the SPA, RIL will supply green ammonia produced through a fully integrated clean energy ecosystem established in India.

Detailed Explanation:

Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) signed a binding long-term Supply and Purchase Agreement (SPA) with Samsung C&T Corporation for the supply of green ammonia over a 15-year period starting from the second half of FY2028-29.

The deal is valued at over USD 3 billion, making it one of the world’s largest long-term green ammonia offtake agreements.

Under the SPA, RIL will supply green ammonia produced through a fully integrated clean energy ecosystem established in India.

This partnership is the first in a series of global offtake agreements supporting RIL’s clean energy expansion.

The agreement is aligned with India’s National Green Hydrogen Mission (NGHM), aiming to build a competitive clean-energy platform and achieve net-zero emissions by 2035.

Hydrogen and ammonia are considered key building blocks of the transition to cleaner energy, as they act as CO2-neutral fuels and feedstocks for the production of green chemicals.

21) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

India achieved a technological milestone with the successful testing of an indigenously developed Floating LiDAR Buoy System by the National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT) off the coast of Muttom, Tamil Nadu.

The Floating LiDAR Buoy System is an advanced ocean-based instrument designed to measure wind conditions over the sea using LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) technology.

Detailed Explanation:

India achieved a technological milestone with the successful testing of an indigenously developed Floating LiDAR Buoy System by the National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT) off the coast of Muttom, Tamil Nadu.

The Floating LiDAR Buoy System is an advanced ocean-based instrument designed to measure wind conditions over the sea using LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) technology.

The system emits laser pulses from a buoy on the ocean surface, which interact with airborne particles and are reflected back to sensors to determine wind speed, direction, and atmospheric variations at different altitudes.

Unlike traditional tools, the system can measure wind profiles up to 300 metres above sea level, providing comprehensive and accurate real-time data.

Key advantages include continuous monitoring in remote marine areas, high-precision vertical wind profiles, and support for offshore energy planning, including wind power projects.

 

22) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

Researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati (IIT Guwahati) developed an advanced material capable of producing hydrogen fuel via water electrolysis and enabling solar-powered desalination, addressing clean energy generation and access to safe drinking water simultaneously.

The findings were published in the journal “Advanced Functional Materials” by a research team led by Prof. P.K. Giri.

Detailed Explanation:

Researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati (IIT Guwahati) developed an advanced material capable of producing hydrogen fuel via water electrolysis and enabling solar-powered desalination, addressing clean energy generation and access to safe drinking water simultaneously.

The findings were published in the journal “Advanced Functional Materials” by a research team led by Prof. P.K. Giri.

The material demonstrates exceptional performance in the Hydrogen Evolution Reaction (HER) with an ultralow overpotential of 12 mV, significantly outperforming conventional platinum-based catalysts (Pt/C).

Hydrogen fuel produced by this material is clean, emitting only water upon use, offering a sustainable alternative to fossil fuel-based hydrogen production.

The innovation uses MXenes, a class of two-dimensional materials with high electrical conductivity, engineered into ultra-thin, ribbon-like structures.

 

23) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

The Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) has announced the discovery of two new species of lichen moths, namely “Caulocerahollowayi” and “Asura buxa”, from the Eastern Himalayas.

The discovery enhances India’s biodiversity records and was published in the international journal Zootaxa.

Detailed Explanation:

The Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) has announced the discovery of two new species of lichen moths, namely “Caulocerahollowayi” and “Asura buxa”, from the Eastern Himalayas.

The discovery enhances India’s biodiversity records and was published in the international journal Zootaxa.

Caulocerahollowayi was discovered near Golitar in Sikkim, while Asura buxa was identified in Panijhora, West Bengal.

The species were identified and described by scientists Navneet Singh, Santosh Singh, and Srishti Bhattacharya associated with ZSI.

The identification was based on scientific characteristics such as wing colouration, fascia patterns, and genitalia structure differences.

24) Answer: E

About Jammu & Kashmir:

Chief Minister: Omar Abdullah

Lieutenant Governor: Manoj Sinha

Capital: Srinagar (Summer), Jammu (Winter)

National Parks: Dachigam National Park, Hemis National Park, Kishtwar National Park

Wildlife Sanctuaries: Overa-Aru Wildlife Sanctuary, Gulmarg Wildlife Sanctuary, Nandini Wildlife Sanctuary, Surinsar-Mansar Wildlife Sanctuary


25) Answer: B

About Odisha:

Chief Minister: Mohan Charan Majhi

Governor: Hari Babu Kambhampati

Capital: Bhubaneswar

National Parks: Simlipal National Park, Bhitarkanika National Park

Wildlife Sanctuaries: Chandaka Wildlife Sanctuary, Nandankanan Zoological Park, Kuldiha Wildlife Sanctuary, Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary, Kotagarh Wildlife Sanctuary, Lakhari Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, Baisipalli Wildlife Sanctuary