Dear Readers, Daily Current Affairs Questions Quiz for SBI, IBPS, RBI, RRB, SSC Exam 2026 of 20th May  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) In 2026, India’s 1st AI-powered “phygital” banking branch was inaugurated in Guwahati by Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma. The branch belongs to which bank?

(a) AU Small Finance Bank

(b) Slice Small Finance Bank

(c) Jana Small Finance Bank

(d) Equitas Small Finance Bank

(e) Ujjivan Small Finance Bank

 

2) As of 2026, which bank launched the ‘FD-backed Business Multiplier Metal Credit Card’ for founders, entrepreneurs, startups, and MSMEs?

(a) HDFC Bank

(b) ICICI Bank

(c) IDFC FIRST Bank

(d) Axis Bank

(e) Kotak Mahindra Bank

 

3) In 2026, Morgan Stanley revised India’s real GDP growth forecast for FY2026–27 (FY27) upward to what percentage in its Mid-Year Outlook report?

(a) 6.2%

(b) 6.4%

(c) 6.5%

(d) 6.7%

(e) 7.0%

4) In 2026, the Union Ministry of Education launched a pilot programme to reintegrate out-of-school adolescents through which institution’s flexible learning system?

(a) National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS)

(b) CBSE

(c) NCERT

(d) Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan (KVS)

(e) National Testing Agency (NTA)

5) In 2026, who unveiled “Abhay”, the AI-based helpbot launched by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to verify the authenticity of CBI notices?

(a) Justice B.R. Gavai

(b) Justice Surya Kant

(c) Justice Sanjiv Khanna

(d) Amit Shah

(e) Sanjay Kumar Mishra

6) As of 2026, which state introduced two new digital monitoring systems to strengthen drug safety, public health protection, and regulatory transparency in the pharmaceutical sector?

(a) Tamil Nadu

(b) Maharashtra

(c) Gujarat

(d) Karnataka

(e) Telangana

7) In 2026, which state became the first in India to complete all Priority Areas under Deregulation Phase-II of the national Compliance Reduction and Deregulation Initiative?

(a) Assam

(b) Gujarat

(c) Karnataka

(d) Odisha

(e) Tripura

8) In 2026, Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia launched the “Coffees of Nagaland Mission” with a total outlay of how much?

(a) ₹100 crore

(b) ₹125 crore

(c) ₹150 crore

(d) ₹175 crore

(e) ₹200 crore

9) In 2026, India’s first-ever satellite-tagged Ganges softshell turtle was released into the Brahmaputra River at which national park and tiger reserve?

(a) Manas National Park

(b) Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve

(c) Jim Corbett National Park

(d) Ranthambore National Park

(e) Sundarbans National Park

10) As of 2026, how many international honours and awards from foreign nations has Prime Minister Narendra Modi received after being awarded Norway’s highest civilian honour?

(a) 28

(b) 30

(c) 31

(d) 35

(e) 32

11) In 2026, the United Nations released the “Global Forest Goals (GFG) Report 2026” during which session of the United Nations Forum on Forests (UNFF)?

(a) 18th session

(b) 19th session

(c) 20th session

(d) 21st session

(e) 22nd session

12) In 2026, who assumed charge as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI)?

(a) Amit Agrawal

(b) Saurabh Garg

(c) Shri Saurabh Vijay

(d) Rajesh Kumar Singh

(e) Sanjeev Chopra

13) In 2026, Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh visited Vietnam and the Republic of Korea primarily to strengthen cooperation in which sector?

(a) Agriculture and Trade

(b) Space Research

(c) Education and Skill Development

(d) Tourism and Culture

(e) Defence and Strategic Partnerships

14) In 2026, Flying Wedge Defence & Aerospace (FWDA) announced that its AI-powered UCAV “Kaal Bhairava” will be manufactured at its first international production facility in which country?

(a) Portugal

(b) Germany

(c) France

(d) Italy

(e) Spain

15) In 2026, Prudential plc announced the acquisition of a 75% stake in which insurance company for an initial value of ₹3,500 crore?

(a) SBI Life Insurance

(b) HDFC Life Insurance

(c) Bharti Life Insurance Company Limited

(d) Max Life Insurance

(e) ICICI Prudential Life Insurance

16) In 2026, CSIR signed a 2026–2029 Collaboration Agreement with which Norwegian organization to promote circular economy and sustainability transition research?

(a) Equinor

(b) Nordic Energy Research

(c) SINTEF

(d) Innovation Norway

(e) Norwegian Institute of Technology

 

17) In 2026, discussions on private investment and industry collaboration in India’s nuclear sector were held with a U.S. delegation led by representatives from the Nuclear Energy Institute (NEI) and which organization?

(a) USAID

(b) U.S.-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF)

(c) Brookings Institution

(d) National Science Foundation

(e) U.S. Chamber of Commerce

18) In 2026, scientists discovered the oldest directly dated ice and air sample on Earth from which region of Antarctica?

(a) Allan Hills

(b) McMurdo Dry Valleys

(c) Ross Ice Shelf

(d) Palmer Land

(e) Queen Maud Land

19) In 2026, the Central Information Commission (CIC) ruled that which organization does not fall under the scope of the Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2005?

(a) Sports Authority of India

(b) Indian Olympic Association

(c) Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports

(d) National Cricket Academy

(e) Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)

20) In 2026, who won the men’s and women’s singles titles respectively at the Italian Open?

(a) Novak Djokovic and Iga Świątek

(b) Carlos Alcaraz and Aryna Sabalenka

(c) Casper Ruud and Coco Gauff

(d) Jannik Sinner and Elina Svitolina

(e) Daniil Medvedev and Elena Rybakina

21) In 2026, veteran CPI(M) leader and former Member of Parliament Sudhanshu Sil (Seal), who passed away at the age of 81, represented which constituency in the 14th Lok Sabha?

(a) Kolkata South

(b) Dum Dum

(c) Calcutta North West

(d) Howrah

(e) Barrackpore

22) In 2026, World Metrology Day was observed on which date every year to highlight the importance of measurement science?

(a) 19 May

(b) 20 May

(c) 21 May

(d) 22 May

(e) 25 May

23) In 2026, which pair won the men’s doubles title at the Italian Open, becoming the first all-Italian duo in the Open Era to achieve the feat?

(a) Marcel Granollers and Horacio Zeballos

(b) Rohan Bopanna and Matthew Ebden 

(c) Rajeev Ram and Joe Salisbury

(d) Nikola Mektić and Mate Pavić

(e) Simone Bolelli and Andrea Vavassori

 

24) As of 2026, the currency of Norway is_______

(a) Euro

(b) Dollar

(c) Krone

(d) Franc

(e) Krona

 

25) In 2026, what is the name of the AI-powered Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV) developed by Flying Wedge Defence & Aerospace (FWDA)?

(a) Garuda Astra

(b) Vajra Hawk

(c) Trinetra UAV

(d) Agni Drone

(e) Kaal Bhairava

Answers:

1) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

Chief Minister (CM) of Assam, Himanta Biswa Sarma inaugurated India’s 1st Artificial Intelligence (AI)-powered “phygital” banking branch of Slice Small Finance Bank in Guwahati, Assam.

The launch marks a major step towards financial inclusion by building a more inclusive financial ecosystem for both urban and underserved communities.

Detailed Explanation:

Chief Minister (CM) of Assam, Himanta Biswa Sarma inaugurated India’s 1st Artificial Intelligence (AI)-powered “phygital” banking branch of Slice Small Finance Bank in Guwahati, Assam.

The launch marks a major step towards financial inclusion by building a more inclusive financial ecosystem for both urban and underserved communities.

The banking model is a “phygital” model, which combines physical banking infrastructure with advanced digital technologies to deliver seamless, faster, and customer-friendly services.

The branch provides AI-enabled services, including automated banking solutions, digital onboarding, AI-based customer support, and smart service systems to improve efficiency and customer experience.

 

2) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

IDFC FIRST Bank has launched the ‘FD-backed Business Multiplier Metal Credit Card’ for founders, entrepreneurs, startups, MSMEs, and business owners in Mumbai, Maharashtra.

The card offers a dedicated business credit solution with assured credit limits linked to Fixed Deposits (FDs), starting from a minimum FD of ₹50,000.

The premium metal credit card displays both the business name and cardholder’s name, enabling a professional business identity.

Detailed Explanation:

IDFC FIRST Bank has launched the ‘FD-backed Business Multiplier Metal Credit Card’ for founders, entrepreneurs, startups, MSMEs, and business owners in Mumbai, Maharashtra.

The card offers a dedicated business credit solution with assured credit limits linked to Fixed Deposits (FDs), starting from a minimum FD of ₹50,000.

The premium metal credit card displays both the business name and cardholder’s name, enabling a professional business identity.

The primary objective of the card is to support business expense management, cash flow optimisation, credit profile building, and separation of personal and business spending for startups,Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), entrepreneurs, and self-employed professionals.

It provides a dedicated credit limit for operational expenses, including SaaS subscriptions, UPI payments, real-time spending visibility, and employee cards with spending controls.

Key benefits include FD-backed credit security, up to 45 days interest-free credit period, and zero (0%) forex markup on international transactions.

3) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

Morgan Stanley, the American brokerage firm, released its latest Mid-Year Outlook for India, revising India’s real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth forecast for FY2026–27 (FY27) upward by 50 basis points (bps) to 6.7%, compared to the earlier estimate of 6.2% (April 2026).

The report projects India’s GDP growth for FY28 at 7%, indicating continued strong economic expansion.

Detailed Explanation:

Morgan Stanley, the American brokerage firm, released its latest Mid-Year Outlook for India, revising India’s real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth forecast for FY2026–27 (FY27) upward by 50 basis points (bps) to 6.7%, compared to the earlier estimate of 6.2% (April 2026).

The report projects India’s GDP growth for FY28 at 7%, indicating continued strong economic expansion.

For the first quarter (Q1: April–June) of FY27, India’s GDP growth is projected at 6.5% year-on-year (Y-o-Y).

The report estimates India’s average inflation for FY27 at 4.7%, driven by higher production costs, weaker rupee, and spillover effects on core inflation.

On the global front, global economic growth is expected to moderate to 3.2% in 2026, down from 3.5% in 2025, reflecting a slowdown in major global economies.

 

4) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

The Union Ministry of Education unveiled a new pilot programme as a targeted intervention to reintegrate over 2 crore out-of-school adolescents aged 14–18 years back into the education system through flexible learning pathways.

The initiative was chaired by Sanjay Kumar, Secretary of the Department of School Education and Literacy (DoSEL).

The programme shifts the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS) from a passive voluntary framework to a proactive and state-supported outreach mechanism.

Detailed Explanation:

The Union Ministry of Education unveiled a new pilot programme as a targeted intervention to reintegrate over 2 crore out-of-school adolescents aged 14–18 years back into the education system through flexible learning pathways.

The initiative was chaired by Sanjay Kumar, Secretary of the Department of School Education and Literacy (DoSEL).

The programme shifts the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS) from a passive voluntary framework to a proactive and state-supported outreach mechanism.

The pilot initiative will be implemented in 10 high-concentration districts across 9 States and Union Territories:

Bihar

Chhattisgarh

Delhi

Gujarat

Karnataka

Madhya Pradesh

Maharashtra

Odisha

Ground teams will:

Map out-of-school children

Digitally track their learning progress

Dedicated NIOS facilitators will:

Conduct community mobilisation

Provide student counselling

Assist in enrolment support

The initiative aims to tackle the critical dropout trend in secondary education across India.

According to current Ministry data, only 62 out of every 100 students entering Class I manage to reach Class XII.

5) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

The Central Bureau of Investigation launched “Abhay”, an Artificial Intelligence-Based Helpbot developed to verify the authenticity of notices issued in the name of the Central Bureau of Investigation.

The initiative was unveiled by Justice Surya Kant to help citizens protect themselves from the increasing cases of:

Cyber Fraud

Digital Arrest Scams

Fake Investigation Threats

Online Financial Extortion

Detailed Explanation:

The Central Bureau of Investigation launched “Abhay”, an Artificial Intelligence-Based Helpbot developed to verify the authenticity of notices issued in the name of the Central Bureau of Investigation.

The initiative was unveiled by Justice Surya Kant to help citizens protect themselves from the increasing cases of:

Cyber Fraud

Digital Arrest Scams

Fake Investigation Threats

Online Financial Extortion

“Abhay” has been developed internally by the Central Bureau of Investigation as part of efforts to strengthen cybercrime awareness and improve public safety.

The helpbot provides Real-Time Verification of notices claiming to be issued by the Central Bureau of Investigation.

Through the platform, citizens can check whether a document or notice is:

Genuine

Officially Issued

Potentially Fraudulent

The system works by cross-checking notice details with the official database of the Central Bureau of Investigation and instantly informing users about the authenticity of the document.

 

6) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

Karnataka introduced Two New Digital Monitoring Systems through the State Food Safety and Drug Administration to strengthen Drug Safety, Public Health Protection, and Regulatory Transparency in the pharmaceutical sector.

The first digital system has been developed to automatically block the sale of medicines identified as Not of Standard Quality (NSQ). Once a drug batch is declared substandard, its details will be uploaded into the portal and the batch will immediately be locked, preventing any further sale or distribution within the state.

Detailed Explanation:

Karnataka introduced Two New Digital Monitoring Systems through the State Food Safety and Drug Administration to strengthen Drug Safety, Public Health Protection, and Regulatory Transparency in the pharmaceutical sector.

The first digital system has been developed to automatically block the sale of medicines identified as Not of Standard Quality (NSQ). Once a drug batch is declared substandard, its details will be uploaded into the portal and the batch will immediately be locked, preventing any further sale or distribution within the state.

The system will instantly send alerts to Wholesalers, Distributors, and Drug Suppliers, helping authorities quickly remove unsafe medicines from the market and improve recall efficiency.

The portal will also provide Real-Time Information related to:

Stock Availability

Stock-in-Hand

Quantity Returned to Suppliers

Karnataka also launched a second digital portal to monitor medicines covered under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act.

These medicines are highly sensitive because they are vulnerable to misuse, illegal diversion, and unauthorized consumption.

Under the new system, retailers selling medicines regulated under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act must compulsorily upload and verify:

Patient Details

Doctor Details

Prescription Information

7) Answer: E

Short Explanation:

Tripura became the First State in India to complete all Priority Areas under Deregulation Phase-II of the national Compliance Reduction and Deregulation Initiative led by the Cabinet Secretariat.

With this achievement, Tripura also became the First State in India to complete all 51 Priority Areas under both Phase-I and Phase-II of the reform programme.

The state completed 23 Priority Areas under Phase-I and 28 Priority Areas under Phase-II.

Detailed Explanation:

Tripura became the First State in India to complete all Priority Areas under Deregulation Phase-II of the national Compliance Reduction and Deregulation Initiative led by the Cabinet Secretariat.

With this achievement, Tripura also became the First State in India to complete all 51 Priority Areas under both Phase-I and Phase-II of the reform programme.

The state completed 23 Priority Areas under Phase-I and 28 Priority Areas under Phase-II.

The reform programme was launched in January 2026 with the objective of reducing compliance burdens, simplifying administrative procedures, improving ease of doing business, and creating a more transparent and investor-friendly governance system.

As part of its digital governance initiatives, Tripura launched a Centralised e-Gazette System to provide unified digital access to:

Acts

Rules

Regulations

Government Notifications

The state also introduced an Auto-Appeal Mechanism under the Right to Services Framework. This mechanism aims to improve accountability and ensure timely delivery of government services to citizens.

8) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia launched the ₹175 Crore Coffees of Nagaland Mission to develop Nagaland as a premium specialty coffee destination in India and global markets.

The mission has been launched under the Cluster-Based Coffee Value Chain Development Mission and aims to create a complete coffee ecosystem instead of focusing only on coffee cultivation.

Detailed Explanation:

Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia launched the ₹175 Crore Coffees of Nagaland Mission to develop Nagaland as a premium specialty coffee destination in India and global markets.

The mission has been launched under the Cluster-Based Coffee Value Chain Development Mission and aims to create a complete coffee ecosystem instead of focusing only on coffee cultivation.

The initiative will cover the entire coffee value chain including:

Plantation Development

Coffee Processing

Branding and Marketing

Exports

Traceability Systems

Tourism Promotion

Farmer Capacity Building

The main objective of the mission is to help coffee growers earn higher income by promoting value-added coffee products instead of selling only raw coffee beans.

The programme follows a Cluster-Based Development Approach, where selected regions will be developed as organised coffee production and processing hubs.

Two pilot coffee clusters have been identified under the mission:

Tuophema in Kohima district for Arabica Coffee

Ghotovi in Niuland district for Robusta Coffee

 

9) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

India achieved a major milestone in wildlife conservation by releasing the country’s first-ever satellite-tagged Ganges softshell turtle into the Brahmaputra River at Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve, Assam.

The historic release coincided with Endangered Species Day, observed.

The development was announced by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma.

The satellite telemetry exercise was conducted under a programme of the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.

Detailed Explanation:

India achieved a major milestone in wildlife conservation by releasing the country’s first-ever satellite-tagged Ganges softshell turtle into the Brahmaputra River at Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve, Assam.

The historic release coincided with Endangered Species Day, observed.

The development was announced by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma.

The satellite telemetry exercise was conducted under a programme of the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.

The project involved:

Wildlife Institute of India (WII)

Assam Forest Department

Kaziranga National Park Authorities

National Geographic Society

The Ganges softshell turtle (Nilssonia gangetica) is a large freshwater turtle native to the:

Indus River system

Ganga River system

Mahanadi River system

Brahmaputra River system

The species belongs to the Trionychidae family.

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has listed the Ganges softshell turtle as Endangered in the IUCN Red List.

Assam is globally recognised as a critical habitat for freshwater biodiversity.

The state is home to 21 turtle species found in India.

 

10) Answer: E

Short Explanation:

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was awarded Norway’s highest civilian honour, the Grand Cross of the Royal Norwegian Order of Merit, during his official visit to Norway.

With this recognition, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has now received 32 international honours and awards from foreign nations, reflecting India’s growing diplomatic influence and global engagement.

The award ceremony took place during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s official visit to Oslo and marked an important milestone in India–Norway bilateral relations.

Detailed Explanation:

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was awarded Norway’s highest civilian honour, the Grand Cross of the Royal Norwegian Order of Merit, during his official visit to Norway.

With this recognition, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has now received 32 international honours and awards from foreign nations, reflecting India’s growing diplomatic influence and global engagement.

The award ceremony took place during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s official visit to Oslo and marked an important milestone in India–Norway bilateral relations.

The visit is historically significant because it is:

The First Visit by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Norway

The First Visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Norway in 43 Years

The visit highlighted expanding cooperation between India and Norway in areas such as:

Trade and Investment

Green Energy

Maritime Cooperation

Technology and Innovation

Climate Action

Arctic Research

Blue Economy

 

11) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

The United Nations (UN) released its latest assessment on global forests titled the “Global Forest Goals (GFG) Report 2026” during the 21st session of the United Nations Forum on Forests (UNFF) at the UN Headquarters in New York, United States of America.

The report highlighted that the rising demand for fuelwood (woodfuel and charcoal) is the key driver of global forest loss, especially in sub-Saharan Africa and parts of Asia, despite ongoing afforestation and forest restoration programmes.

Detailed Explanation:

The United Nations (UN) released its latest assessment on global forests titled the “Global Forest Goals (GFG) Report 2026” during the 21st session of the United Nations Forum on Forests (UNFF) at the UN Headquarters in New York, United States of America.

The report highlighted that the rising demand for fuelwood (woodfuel and charcoal) is the key driver of global forest loss, especially in sub-Saharan Africa and parts of Asia, despite ongoing afforestation and forest restoration programmes.

Along with fuelwood demand, the report identified agricultural expansion as the major cause of global deforestation.

The report was jointly prepared by the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UNDESA) and the UN Forum on Forests (UNFF) Secretariat.

It revealed that the global forest cover declined from 4.18 billion hectares (2015) to 4.14 billion hectares (2025), indicating an annual net loss of 4.12 million hectares.

Regionally, South America and Africa recorded the steepest forest decline, losing about 4.1 million hectares and nearly 3 million hectares per year respectively.

12) Answer: C

Shri Saurabh Vijay, an Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer of the 1998 Maharashtra cadre, has assumed charge as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI).

 

13) Answer: E

Short Explanation:’

Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh is undertaking an official visit to Vietnam (May 18–19, 2026) followed by the Republic of Korea (May 19–21, 2026) to strengthen India’s defence and strategic partnerships in Asia.

The visit aims to expand bilateral engagement, with a focus on strategic military cooperation, defence industrial partnerships, and maritime collaboration, supporting peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

Detailed Explanation:

Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh is undertaking an official visit to Vietnam (May 18–19, 2026) followed by the Republic of Korea (May 19–21, 2026) to strengthen India’s defence and strategic partnerships in Asia.

The visit aims to expand bilateral engagement, with a focus on strategic military cooperation, defence industrial partnerships, and maritime collaboration, supporting peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

India–Vietnam Relations

The visit marks 10 years of the India–Vietnam Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, which was further upgraded to an Enhanced Comprehensive Strategic Partnership during the Vietnam President’s State Visit to India (May 5–7, 2026).

Rajnath Singh will hold bilateral talks with Vietnam’s Minister of National Defence General Phan Van Giang.

A key milestone is the Joint Vision Statement of India–Vietnam Defence Partnership towards 2030, signed during the 2022 visit (June 8–10, 2022), which provides a roadmap for future defence cooperation.

The relationship reflects shared democratic values and mutual interest in regional peace and prosperity.

The visit coincides with the 136th birth anniversary of Ho Chi Minh (May 19, 2026), where Raksha Mantri will lay a wreath at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum as a mark of respect.

India–Republic of Korea Relations

In the Republic of Korea visit (May 19–21, 2026), Rajnath Singh will hold bilateral talks with Defence Minister Ahn Gyu-back to review and strengthen defence cooperation.

He will also meet Minister of Defence Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) Lee Yong-cheol and chair the India–Korea Business Roundtable.

14) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

Flying Wedge Defence & Aerospace (FWDA), a deep tech defence company, announced that its flagship Artificial Intelligence (AI)-powered Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV) “Kaal Bhairava” will be manufactured at its first international production facility in Portugal.

The initiative is part of “Operation 777”, which aims to establish 7 global headquarters across 77 countries to expand international defence presence.

The project is being developed in collaboration with SKETCHPIXEL, a European company specializing in advanced fighter jet simulation systems, including those used for the F-16 aircraft.

Detailed Explanation:

Flying Wedge Defence & Aerospace (FWDA), a deep tech defence company, announced that its flagship Artificial Intelligence (AI)-powered Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV) “Kaal Bhairava” will be manufactured at its first international production facility in Portugal.

The initiative is part of “Operation 777”, which aims to establish 7 global headquarters across 77 countries to expand international defence presence.

The project is being developed in collaboration with SKETCHPIXEL, a European company specializing in advanced fighter jet simulation systems, including those used for the F-16 aircraft.

Under the partnership, SKETCHPIXEL will provide simulation, AI integration, communication, and interoperability technologies, strengthening the platform’s advanced operational capabilities.

FWDA will retain full intellectual property rights (IPR) over the core autonomous systems and airframe design, ensuring indigenous control of critical technologies.

The “Kaal Bhairava” UCAV is an indigenously designed, developed, and manufactured platform, built as a Medium-Altitude Long-Endurance (MALE) autonomous combat aircraft.

Both sides will discuss new defence initiatives, regional security issues, and global strategic cooperation.

A joint inauguration of the Indian War Memorial will take place on May 21, 2026, with Minister Kwon Oh-eul, honouring shared historical ties.

 

15) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

Prudential plc has announced the acquisition of a 75% stake in Bharti Life Insurance Company Limited for an initial value of Rs 3,500 crore (around USD 389 million).

The acquisition deal is subject to regulatory approvals and other customary conditions.

Under the transaction arrangement, Prudential plc will acquire a 60% stake from Bharti Life Ventures Pvt. Ltd. and a 15% stake from funds managed by 360 ONE Asset Management.

Detailed Explanation:

Prudential plc has announced the acquisition of a 75% stake in Bharti Life Insurance Company Limited for an initial value of Rs 3,500 crore (around USD 389 million).

The acquisition deal is subject to regulatory approvals and other customary conditions.

Under the transaction arrangement, Prudential plc will acquire a 60% stake from Bharti Life Ventures Pvt. Ltd. and a 15% stake from funds managed by 360 ONE Asset Management.

After completion of the acquisition, Prudential’s India operations will include majority-owned Bharti Life Insurance Company Limited and Prudential HCL Health Insurance Limited.

Prudential will continue to hold minority stakes in two listed entities: a 35% stake in ICICI Prudential Asset Management Company Limited and a 22% stake in ICICI Prudential Life Insurance Company Limited.

 

16) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

During the visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Norway, the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR), Government of India signed a series of key agreements with Norwegian institutions in Oslo to strengthen science, technology, innovation and sustainable development cooperation.

The collaboration targets global challenges and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially in climate change, clean energy, oceans and health sectors.

CSIR signed a 2026–2029 Collaboration Agreement with SINTEF to promote circular economy and sustainability transition research in areas like bio-based materials, offshore wind energy, ocean energy, carbon capture, waste valorization and innovation hubs.

Detailed Explanation:

During the visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Norway, the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR), Government of India signed a series of key agreements with Norwegian institutions in Oslo to strengthen science, technology, innovation and sustainable development cooperation.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between CSIR/DSIR and the Research Council of Norway focuses on research cooperation, innovation, capacity building and technology development through joint workshops, collaborative R&D projects, scientist exchange programmes and periodic reviews.

The collaboration targets global challenges and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially in climate change, clean energy, oceans and health sectors.

CSIR signed a 2026–2029 Collaboration Agreement with SINTEF to promote circular economy and sustainability transition research in areas like bio-based materials, offshore wind energy, ocean energy, carbon capture, waste valorization and innovation hubs.

A Project-Specific Agreement on Ocean Energy and Offshore Wind Energy was signed between multiple CSIR institutes (CSIR-SERC, CSIR-NAL, CSIR-NIO, CSIR-4PI) and SINTEF bodies including SINTEF Ocean, SINTEF Digital, FME NorthWind and SINTEF Community to strengthen India’s renewable energy capabilities.

The collaboration focuses on floating offshore wind technology, reduction of Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE), sustainability, ESG standards, pilot demonstrations, skill development and industrial growth.

The CSIR funding support for this project is approximately ₹341 lakhs, contributing to clean energy and carbon neutrality goals.

 

17) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

A high-level United States (U.S.) industry delegation, comprising representatives from the Nuclear Energy Institute (NEI) and the U.S.-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF), held discussions with Dr. Jitendra Singh on private investment and industry collaboration in India’s nuclear sector.

The visit, facilitated by USISPF, brought together U.S. nuclear industry leaders, business stakeholders, and Indian officials engaged in civil nuclear energy and advanced technology cooperation.

The discussions focused on India’s Nuclear Energy Mission, recent policy reforms enabling private sector participation, and expanding India–U.S. cooperation in clean energy and critical technologies.

Detailed Explanation:

A high-level United States (U.S.) industry delegation, comprising representatives from the Nuclear Energy Institute (NEI) and the U.S.-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF), held discussions with Dr. Jitendra Singh on private investment and industry collaboration in India’s nuclear sector.

The visit, facilitated by USISPF, brought together U.S. nuclear industry leaders, business stakeholders, and Indian officials engaged in civil nuclear energy and advanced technology cooperation.

The discussions focused on India’s Nuclear Energy Mission, recent policy reforms enabling private sector participation, and expanding India–U.S. cooperation in clean energy and critical technologies.

Senior officials including Secretary, Department of Science & Technology Dr. Rajesh S. Gokhale, along with representatives from the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) and DST, participated in the meeting.

Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted that India and the United States share a strong future-oriented partnership in science, technology, clean energy, and emerging sectors, with civil nuclear cooperation gaining strategic importance.

He noted that the U.S.-India TRUST Initiative, launched on 13 February 2025 during the meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and U.S. President Donald Trump, has opened new avenues for collaboration in critical and emerging technologies.

18) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

Scientists working in Antarctica have discovered the oldest directly dated ice and air sample on Earth from the Allan Hills region of East Antarctica.

The sample contains tiny air bubbles trapped in 6-million-year-old ice, making it the oldest directly dated atmospheric sample ever found.

The age of the ice was determined using argon isotope analysis of trapped air, providing accurate geological dating of ancient atmospheric composition.

Detailed Explanation:

Scientists working in Antarctica have discovered the oldest directly dated ice and air sample on Earth from the Allan Hills region of East Antarctica.

The sample contains tiny air bubbles trapped in 6-million-year-old ice, making it the oldest directly dated atmospheric sample ever found.

The age of the ice was determined using argon isotope analysis of trapped air, providing accurate geological dating of ancient atmospheric composition.

The Allan Hills site in East Antarctica is known for ancient blue ice exposures that preserve long-term climate and atmospheric records.

The study revealed evidence of approximately 12°C long-term cooling in Antarctica over the last 6 million years, highlighting major climate change over geological time.

The discovery was made by researchers associated with the National Science Foundation (NSF)-funded Center for Oldest Ice Exploration (COLDEX).

The study was led by Sarah Shackleton (Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution) and John Higgins (Princeton University).

The findings were published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS) in October 2025.

19) Answer: E

Short Explanation:

The Central Information Commission ruled that the Board of Control for Cricket in India does not fall under the scope of the Right to Information Act, 2005.

The decision reverses the Commission’s earlier 2018 ruling, which had declared the Board of Control for Cricket in India as a public authority under the Right to Information Act.

Detailed Explanation:

The Central Information Commission ruled that the Board of Control for Cricket in India does not fall under the scope of the Right to Information Act, 2005.

The decision reverses the Commission’s earlier 2018 ruling, which had declared the Board of Control for Cricket in India as a public authority under the Right to Information Act.

The ruling came while reconsidering an appeal filed in 2017 before the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports seeking information regarding:

Rules for Selection of Indian Cricket Players

Authority Granted to the Board of Control for Cricket in India by the Government

After fresh examination of the case, the Central Information Commission dismissed the appeal and stated that the Board of Control for Cricket in India cannot legally be classified as a public authority.

 

20) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

Elina Svitolina of Ukraine won the women’s singles title at the Italian Open 2026 by defeating Coco Gauff of the United States.

It was Elina Svitolina’s third Italian Open title.

Jannik Sinner of Italy won the men’s singles title after defeating Casper Ruud of Norway.

Detailed Explanation:

Elina Svitolina of Ukraine won the women’s singles title at the Italian Open 2026 by defeating Coco Gauff of the United States.

It was Elina Svitolina’s third Italian Open title.

Jannik Sinner of Italy won the men’s singles title after defeating Casper Ruud of Norway.

With this victory, Jannik Sinner became the first Italian man in 50 years to win the tournament.

Jannik Sinner also completed his Career Golden Masters achievement.

In the men’s doubles category, Simone Bolelli and Andrea Vavassori won the title.

They became the first all-Italian duo in the Open Era to win the men’s doubles trophy at the Italian Open.

 

21) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

Veteran Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)] leader and former Member of Parliament (MP) Sudhanshu Sil (Seal) died at the age of 81 in Kolkata, West Bengal (WB).

Sudhanshu Sil was born on 27 March 1945 in Calcutta, Bengal Province, British India (now Kolkata, West Bengal).

He later served as a Member of Parliament (MP) in the 14th Lok Sabha (2004–2009) representing the Calcutta North West constituency, West Bengal.

Detailed Explanation:

Veteran Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)] leader and former Member of Parliament (MP) Sudhanshu Sil (Seal) died at the age of 81 in Kolkata, West Bengal (WB).

Sudhanshu Sil was born on 27 March 1945 in Calcutta, Bengal Province, British India (now Kolkata, West Bengal).

He had a long political career associated with the CPI(M) and played an important role in local governance, state politics, and parliamentary affairs.

He served as a Councillor of the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) for five terms from 1990 to 2015.

Sudhanshu Sil also served as a Member of the Mayor-in-Council in charge of the Roads Department from 1990 to 2005.

He was elected as a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) from the Jorabagan constituency, West Bengal, serving from 2001 to 2004.

He later served as a Member of Parliament (MP) in the 14th Lok Sabha (2004–2009) representing the Calcutta North West constituency, West Bengal.

22) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

World Metrology Day is observed annually on 20 May to raise awareness about the importance of metrology and measurement science.

The day commemorates the signing of the Metre Convention in Paris, France, in 1875 by representatives of 17 nations.

Detailed Explanation:

World Metrology Day is observed annually on 20 May to raise awareness about the importance of metrology and measurement science.

The day commemorates the signing of the Metre Convention in Paris, France, in 1875 by representatives of 17 nations.

The observance highlights the importance of accurate measurements in science, industry, trade, health, and safety.

Metrology refers to the science of measurement.

The first World Metrology Day was celebrated in 1961.

 

23) Answer: E

Short Explanation:

In the men’s doubles category, Simone Bolelli and Andrea Vavassori won the title.

They became the first all-Italian duo in the Open Era to win the men’s doubles trophy at the Italian Open.

The Italian pair defeated:

Marcel Granollers of Spain

Horacio Zeballos of Argentina

Detailed Explanation:

In the men’s doubles category, Simone Bolelli and Andrea Vavassori won the title.

They became the first all-Italian duo in the Open Era to win the men’s doubles trophy at the Italian Open.

The Italian pair defeated:

Marcel Granollers of Spain

Horacio Zeballos of Argentina

In the women’s doubles category, the title was won by the Russian duo:

Mirra Andreeva

Diana Shnaider

They defeated:

Cristina Bucșa

Nicole Melichar-Martinez of the United States

 

24) Answer: C

About Norway :

Prime Minister : Jonas Gahr Støre

Capital : Oslo

Currency : Norwegian krone

 

25) Answer: E

The “Kaal Bhairava” UCAV is an indigenously designed, developed, and manufactured platform, built as a Medium-Altitude Long-Endurance (MALE) autonomous combat aircraft.

The UCAV features a range of 3,000 km and an endurance capability of over 30 hours, making it suitable for long-duration combat and surveillance missions