Dear Readers, Daily Current Affairs Questions Quiz for SBI, IBPS, RBI, RRB, SSC Exam 2026 of  21st August  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.

 

Start Quiz

 

1) Recently in news, which sector accounted for 77% of the total Priority Sector Lending (PSL) portfolio of Regional Rural Banks (RRBs) during FY 2025–26?

(a) MSMEs

(b) Housing

(c) Education

(d) Agriculture and Allied Activities

(e) Renewable Energy

2) Recently in news, ICRA has retained India’s GDP growth forecast for FY27 at what rate?

(a) 6.2%

(b) 6.5%

(c) 6.7%

(d) 7.0%

(e) 7.7%

 

3) Recently in news, Jammu & Kashmir Bank signed a Corporate Agency Agreement (CAA) with which company to offer insurance products through its distribution network?

(a) HDFC Life Insurance

(b) ICICI Prudential Life Insurance

(c) SBI Life Insurance

(d) LIC of India

(e) Max Life Insurance

4) Recently in news, which component mainly drove the increase in India’s forex reserves during the week ended July 24, 2026?

(a) Gold Reserves

(b) Special Drawing Rights (SDRs)

(c) Reserve Tranche Position

(d) Foreign Currency Assets (FCAs)

(e) IMF Credit Balance

 

5) Recently in news, Razorpay Launches Vulcan, India’s First AI-Powered Payments Foundation Model. Therfore, India’s digital e-commerce market is projected to reach around USD 350 billion by which year?

(a) 2027

(b) 2028

(c) 2029

(d) 2030

(e) 2035

6) Recently in news, which lending-rate framework did the RBI clarify that NBFCs will not be required to adopt under its proposed harmonised interest-rate regulations?

(a) Base Rate

(b) MCLR

(c) EBLR

(d) Repo Linked Rate

(e) Bank Rate

7) Recently in news, India’s merchandise exports reached a record high of how much in July 2026?

(a) USD 38.34 billion

(b) USD 40.12 billion

(c) USD 42.56 billion

(d) USD 44.24 billion

(e) USD 46.10 billion

8) Recently in news, the Supreme Court directed the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to prepare and circulate a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for banks within what time period?

(a) Two weeks

(b) Three weeks

(c) Eight weeks

(d) Six weeks

(e) Four weeks

 

9) Recently in news, what was India’s Unemployment Rate (UR) in July 2026, according to the PLFS bulletin?

(a) 4.5%

(b) 4.8%

(c) 5.1%

(d) 5.5%

(e) 6.0%

 

10) Recently in news, who will chair the 31st Southern Zonal Council meeting?

(a) Narendra Modi

(b) Amit Shah

(c) Rajnath Singh

(d) NirmalaSitharaman

(e) N. Chandrababu Naidu

11) Recently in news, the Muzaffarpur–Sitamarhi–Sonbarsa section being upgraded to four-lane standards is part of which National Highway?

(a) NH-27

(b) NH-28

(c) NH-30

(d) NH-22

(e) NH-31

 

12) Recently in news, Cotton Corporation of India Limited (CCI) celebrated which Foundation Day in 2026?

(a) 54th Foundation Day

(b) 55th Foundation Day

(c) 56th Foundation Day

(d) 57th Foundation Day

(e) 58th Foundation Day

13) Consider the following statements regarding the Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rojgar Yojana (PM-VBRY):

1. PM-VBRY was launched for the period from 1 August 2025 to 31 July 2027.
2. The scheme has a total financial outlay of ₹99,446 crore.
3. Under the employee component, eligible first-time employees can receive a maximum incentive of ₹15,000.
4. Under the employer component, eligible employers can receive up to ₹3,000 per month for two years for every additional employee retained for at least six months.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) Only 1 and 2

(b) Only 2 and 3

(c) Only 1, 2 and 3

(d) All the above

(e) None of the above

14) Recently in news, the amended BharatNet programme in Odisha has been approved at an estimated cost of how much?

(a) ₹2,584.82 crore

(b) ₹3,084.82 crore

(c) ₹3,384.82 crore

(d) ₹3,684.82 crore

(e) ₹4,384.82 crore

15) Recently in news, who topped the Celebrity Brand Valuation Report 2025 by Kroll as India’s most valuable celebrity brand?

(a) Virat Kohli

(b) Ranveer Singh

(c) Shah Rukh Khan

(d) Sachin Tendulkar

(e) Mahendra Singh Dhoni

16) Recently in news, Exercise MAITREE-XV (2026) is being conducted between India and which country?

(a) Vietnam

(b) Thailand

(c) Indonesia

(d) Malaysia

(e) Singapore

17) Recently in news, the “Aparajita – Parang La 2026” expedition is being organised by which organisation?

(a) Border Security Force (BSF)

(b) National Cadet Corps (NCC)

(c) Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP)

(d) National Disaster Response Force (NDRF)

(e) Indian Coast Guard (ICG)

 

18) Recently in news, how many strategically important defence items are included in the 6th Positive Indigenisation List (PIL)?

(a) 305

(b) 350

(c) 389

(d) 405

(e) 425

19) Recently in news, the Competition Commission of India (CCI) approved Tata Steel’s acquisition of what percentage additional equity stake in TM International Logistics Limited (TMILL)?

(a) 15%

(b) 20%

(c) 23%

(d) 25%

(e) 30%

20) Recently in news, the 65th Subroto Cup International Football Tournament 2026 features teams across which three categories?

(a) Senior Men’s, Senior Women’s and Junior Boys’

(b) Junior Boys’ U-19, Junior Girls’ U-19 and Sub-Junior Boys’ U-14

(c) Junior Girls’ U-17, Junior Boys’ U-17 and Sub-Junior Boys’ U-15

(d) Junior Girls’ U-18, Junior Boys’ U-18 and Sub-Junior Boys’ U-16

(e) Senior Boys’ U-17, Junior Girls’ U-15 and Sub-Junior Boys’ U-13

21) Recently in news, who authored the book “Bringing the Cheetah Back to India: How Diplomacy Made Conservation’s Big Mission Possible”?

(a) Amitav Ghosh

(b) Prashant Agrawal

(c) Ramachandra Guha

(d) Sanjeev Sanyal

(e) Vikram Sampath

 

22) Recently in news, William F. Rasmussen, who passed away at the age of 93, was the co-founder of which organisation?

(a) ESPN

(b) FIFA

(c) NBC Sports

(d) CNN

(e) CBS Sports

23) Recently in news, Sadbhavana Diwas, World Mosquito Day and Akshay Urja Day are observed annually on which date?

(a) August 15

(b) August 18

(c) August 19

(d) August 21

(e) August 20

24) Recently in news, World Breastfeeding Week (WBW) is observed annually from which period?

(a) August 1–5

(b) August 1–7

(c) August 2–8

(d) August 5–10

(e) August 7–14

 

25) Recently in news, World Fintech Day is observed annually on which date?

(a) July 31

(b) August 20

(c) August 2

(d) August 1

(e) August 10

Answers:

1) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

During FY 2025–26, Regional Rural Banks (RRBs) continued to strengthen rural economic development and financial inclusion by expanding credit delivery and maintaining a strong focus on Priority Sector Lending (PSL).

Almost all RRBs achieved the overall PSL target, reflecting their strong focus on priority sectors and financial inclusion.

Agriculture and allied activities remained the largest component of the RRB credit portfolio, with outstanding credit of ₹3.78 lakh crore, accounting for 77% of total PSL.

Detailed Explanation:

During FY 2025–26, Regional Rural Banks (RRBs) continued to strengthen rural economic development and financial inclusion by expanding credit delivery and maintaining a strong focus on Priority Sector Lending (PSL).

The gross loans outstanding of RRBs increased by 10.3%, rising from ₹5,24,163 crore in FY 2024–25 to ₹5,78,349 crore in FY 2025–26.

Under the RBI’s Priority Sector Lending framework, RRBs recorded an average achievement of 91.7% of Adjusted Net Bank Credit (ANBC) against the prescribed overall PSL target of 75%.

Almost all RRBs achieved the overall PSL target, reflecting their strong focus on priority sectors and financial inclusion.

Agriculture and allied activities remained the largest component of the RRB credit portfolio, with outstanding credit of ₹3.78 lakh crore, accounting for 77% of total PSL.

 

2) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

The credit rating agency in India, ICRA Limited has estimated India’s real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth at 7% for Q1 FY27 (April–June 2026).

The estimated 7% GDP growth marks a four-quarter low, compared with 7.8% growth in Q4 FY26, mainly due to slower expansion in the services sector.

ICRA projected industrial sector growth at 7.7% in Q1 FY27.

ICRA has retained India’s FY27 GDP growth forecast at 6.7%, compared with 7.7% growth estimated for FY26.

Detailed Explanation:

The credit rating agency in India, ICRA Limited has estimated India’s real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth at 7% for Q1 FY27 (April–June 2026).

The estimated 7% GDP growth marks a four-quarter low, compared with 7.8% growth in Q4 FY26, mainly due to slower expansion in the services sector.

ICRA projected industrial sector growth at 7.7% in Q1 FY27.

Agriculture, forestry and fishing growth is projected at 4% in Q1 FY27.

Services sector growth is estimated at 7.9% in Q1 FY27.

ICRA expects services Gross Value Added (GVA) growth to moderate to 7.9% in Q1 FY27 from 9.9% in Q4 FY26.

ICRA has retained India’s FY27 GDP growth forecast at 6.7%, compared with 7.7% growth estimated for FY26.

 

3) Answer: A

Jammu & Kashmir Bank Limited (J&K Bank) has signed a Corporate Agency Agreement (CAA) with HDFC Life Insurance Company Limited (HDFC Life) to offer a wide range of customer-centric insurance products.

Under the strategic partnership, J&K Bank customers will be able to access a comprehensive range of HDFC Life insurance products through the bank's distribution network.

The insurance offerings will cater to different life stages and financial needs, including protection, savings, investments and retirement planning

4) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

India's foreign exchange (forex) reserves increased by $6.12 billion to $682.35 billion in the week ended July 24, 2026, according to data released by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).

The growth was mainly driven by a $4.87 billion increase in Foreign Currency Assets (FCAs), the largest component of India's forex reserves.

India's Foreign Currency Assets (FCAs) rose to $555.93 billion during the week ended July 24, 2026.

Detailed Explanation:

India's foreign exchange (forex) reserves increased by $6.12 billion to $682.35 billion in the week ended July 24, 2026, according to data released by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).

The latest increase followed a $1.08 billion rise in the previous week, when India's forex reserves stood at $676.24 billion.

The increase in forex reserves reflects continued strengthening of India's external sector buffer and provides greater protection against external economic shocks.

The growth was mainly driven by a $4.87 billion increase in Foreign Currency Assets (FCAs), the largest component of India's forex reserves.

India's Foreign Currency Assets (FCAs) rose to $555.93 billion during the week ended July 24, 2026.

5) Answer:D

Razorpay, a leading Indian fintech company, has launched “Razorpay Vulcan”, India’s first Artificial Intelligence (AI)-powered payments foundation model.

Razorpay Vulcan is designed to make digital transactions more reliable, secure and predictable.

The launch is significant as India’s digital e-commerce market is projected to reach around USD 350 billion by 2030.

The AI-powered payments model was developed using technologies from NVIDIA and Amazon Web Services (AWS).

 

6) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has proposed to harmonise and standardise the regulatory framework for interest rates on advances across all Regulated Entities (REs) to improve loan-pricing transparency and strengthen consumer protection.

The proposal aims to ensure greater uniformity in lending-rate practices across regulated entities while maintaining proportionality in regulation.

The RBI clarified that the proposal will not bring major changes to the existing lending-rate framework and will not require NBFCs to adopt the EBLR regime.

Detailed Explanation:

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has proposed to harmonise and standardise the regulatory framework for interest rates on advances across all Regulated Entities (REs) to improve loan-pricing transparency and strengthen consumer protection.

The proposal aims to ensure greater uniformity in lending-rate practices across regulated entities while maintaining proportionality in regulation.

The RBI clarified that the proposal will not bring major changes to the existing lending-rate framework and will not require NBFCs to adopt the EBLR regime.

The rationalisation will address operational issues in the existing Marginal Cost of Funds Based Lending Rate (MCLR) and External Benchmark Linked Lending Rate (EBLR) frameworks.

After 2016, banks migrated to the MCLR framework, which links lending rates to the marginal cost of funds.

 

7) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

The Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI) released India’s foreign trade data for July 2026 and April–July 2026-27.

India’s overall exports, including merchandise and services, increased from USD 70.72 billion in July 2025 to USD 80.14 billion in July 2026, registering a 13.31% year-on-year (Y-o-Y) growth.

India’s overall imports increased by 15.83%, rising from USD 82.16 billion in July 2025 to USD 95.16 billion in July 2026.

India’s total trade deficit stood at USD 15.03 billion in July 2026, higher than the USD 11.43 billion trade deficit recorded in July 2025.

India’s merchandise exports increased by 19.63%, from USD 36.98 billion in July 2025 to USD 44.24 billion in July 2026.

Merchandise exports of USD 44.24 billion in July 2026 surpassed the previous record of USD 38.34 billion recorded in July 2022.

Detailed Explanation:

The Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI) released India’s foreign trade data for July 2026 and April–July 2026-27.

India’s overall exports, including merchandise and services, increased from USD 70.72 billion in July 2025 to USD 80.14 billion in July 2026, registering a 13.31% year-on-year (Y-o-Y) growth.

India’s overall imports increased by 15.83%, rising from USD 82.16 billion in July 2025 to USD 95.16 billion in July 2026.

India’s total trade deficit stood at USD 15.03 billion in July 2026, higher than the USD 11.43 billion trade deficit recorded in July 2025.

India’s merchandise exports increased by 19.63%, from USD 36.98 billion in July 2025 to USD 44.24 billion in July 2026.

8) Answer: E

Short Explanation:

The Supreme Court of India directed the Centre, States, Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and telecom authorities to strengthen measures against “digital arrest” scams and cyber fraud.

The Supreme Court directed the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to prepare and circulate a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for banks within four weeks to deal with cyber-enabled financial fraud.

The e-Zero FIR mechanism was functional in 19 States, while only 14 States had notified their State Cyber Crime Coordination Centres.

Detailed Explanation:

The Supreme Court of India directed the Centre, States, Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and telecom authorities to strengthen measures against “digital arrest” scams and cyber fraud.

The Supreme Court directed the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to prepare and circulate a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for banks within four weeks to deal with cyber-enabled financial fraud.

The RBI’s SOP will provide for temporary debit holds on suspected mule accounts, particularly those linked to money laundering and cyber fraud.

The court directed authorities to establish effective grievance redressal mechanisms, money restoration systems and time-bound recovery of defrauded funds.

The Supreme Court also directed authorities to initiate criminal action against cyber fraudsters through the e-Zero FIR mechanism.

Merchandise exports of USD 44.24 billion in July 2026 surpassed the previous record of USD 38.34 billion recorded in July 2022.

 

9) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

The National Statistics Office (NSO) under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) released the Monthly Bulletin of the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) for July 2026.

India’s Unemployment Rate (UR) declined to 5.1% in July 2026, compared with 5.5% in June 2026, indicating an improvement in the labour market.

The July 2026 PLFS bulletin is the 16th bulletin in the current series covering the period from April 2025 to July 2026.

Detailed Explanation:

The National Statistics Office (NSO) under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) released the Monthly Bulletin of the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) for July 2026.

India’s Unemployment Rate (UR) declined to 5.1% in July 2026, compared with 5.5% in June 2026, indicating an improvement in the labour market.

The July 2026 PLFS bulletin is the 16th bulletin in the current series covering the period from April 2025 to July 2026.

The PLFS bulletin provides estimates of three major labour-market indicators: Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR), Worker Population Ratio (WPR) and Unemployment Rate (UR).

These labour-market indicators are measured using the Current Weekly Status (CWS) approach.

The Unemployment Rate (UR) for persons aged 15 years and above stood at 4.5% in rural areas in July 2026.

 

10) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

Union Home Minister Amit Shah will chair the 31st Southern Zonal Council meeting at Kovalam near Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu.

The meeting will focus on Centre-State coordination, inter-State issues and regional development through cooperative federalism.

The Zonal Councils were established under Sections 15 to 22 of the States Reorganisation Act, 1956, to provide a structured platform for discussing inter-State and Centre-State issues.

Detailed Explanation:

Union Home Minister Amit Shah will chair the 31st Southern Zonal Council meeting at Kovalam near Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu.

The meeting will focus on Centre-State coordination, inter-State issues and regional development through cooperative federalism.

The Southern Zonal Council comprises Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Telangana, along with the Union Territories of Puducherry, Andaman and Nicobar Islands and Lakshadweep.

The meeting is being organised by the Inter-State Council Secretariat under the Ministry of Home Affairs, with the Tamil Nadu Government hosting the event.

Chief Ministers, Lieutenant Governors, Administrators and senior ministers from the member States and Union Territories, along with senior Central Government officials, will participate.

The Zonal Councils were established under Sections 15 to 22 of the States Reorganisation Act, 1956, to provide a structured platform for discussing inter-State and Centre-State issues

11) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the upgradation of the 82.578-kilometre Muzaffarpur–Sitamarhi–Sonbarsa section of National Highway 22 (NH-22) to four-lane standards in Bihar.

The project will be implemented under the Hybrid Annuity Mode (HAM) at a total capital cost of ₹3,590.73 crore.

Detailed Explanation:

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the upgradation of the 82.578-kilometre Muzaffarpur–Sitamarhi–Sonbarsa section of National Highway 22 (NH-22) to four-lane standards in Bihar.

The project will be implemented under the Hybrid Annuity Mode (HAM) at a total capital cost of ₹3,590.73 crore.

The upgraded corridor will connect Muzaffarpur, where it links with National Highway 27 (NH-27), to Sonbarsa near the India–Nepal border.

The project is expected to reduce traffic congestion and travel time and improve road safety, fuel efficiency and vehicle operating costs in densely populated areas including Muzaffarpur, Muksudpur, Runni Saidpur, Thumma, Dumra, Bhutahi and Sonbarsa.

The four-lane corridor has been designed for a maximum speed of 100 kilometres per hour, with an average operating speed of 80 kilometres per hour. It will have no at-grade median openings to ensure safer and smoother traffic movement.

The project has been planned under the PM GatiShakti National Master Plan to strengthen multimodal connectivity with important economic, social and logistics nodes.

12) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

Cotton Corporation of India Limited (CCI), a Public Sector Undertaking under the Ministry of Textiles, celebrated its 56th Foundation Day at Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Maharashtra.

Union Minister of Textiles Giriraj Singh attended the event and highlighted the importance of cotton for India’s rural economy, agricultural prosperity and self-reliance.

During Cotton Season 2025–26, Cotton Corporation of India Limited procured more than 522 lakh quintals of seed cotton (kapas) through nearly 24 lakh farmer transactions, directly transferring ₹41,530 crore to farmers’ Aadhaar-linked bank accounts.

Detailed Explanation:

Cotton Corporation of India Limited (CCI), a Public Sector Undertaking under the Ministry of Textiles, celebrated its 56th Foundation Day at Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Maharashtra.

Union Minister of Textiles Giriraj Singh attended the event and highlighted the importance of cotton for India’s rural economy, agricultural prosperity and self-reliance.

During Cotton Season 2025–26, Cotton Corporation of India Limited procured more than 522 lakh quintals of seed cotton (kapas) through nearly 24 lakh farmer transactions, directly transferring ₹41,530 crore to farmers’ Aadhaar-linked bank accounts.

The Minimum Support Price (MSP) for seed cotton (kapas) has been increased by around 7% for Cotton Season 2026–27, aimed at strengthening the income security of cotton farmers.

The Cotton Productivity Mission – Kapas Kanti was highlighted as a major initiative with an outlay of ₹5,659 crore for five years to improve cotton productivity and quality, modernise processing infrastructure and promote sustainable and climate-resilient cultivation.

Kasturi Cotton Bharat aims to promote premium Indian cotton from “Farm to Fashion to Global Market” through quality certification, traceability and sustainability standards.

 

13) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rojgar Yojana (PM-VBRY), the Centre’s employment-linked incentive scheme, completed one year of implementation in August 2026.

The scheme was launched for the period 1 August 2025 to 31 July 2027 with a total financial outlay of ₹99,446 crore.

Under the employee component, first-time employees earning up to ₹1 lakh per month are eligible for a one-time incentive equal to one month’s Employees’ Provident Fund wage, subject to a maximum of ₹15,000.

The employee incentive is provided in two instalments after completion of 6 months and 12 months of continuous service, with the second instalment linked to completion of a financial literacy programme.

Under the employer component, eligible employers can receive an incentive of up to ₹3,000 per month for two years for every additional employee retained for at least six months.

Detailed Explanation:

Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rojgar Yojana (PM-VBRY), the Centre’s employment-linked incentive scheme, completed one year of implementation in August 2026.

More than 72 lakh first-time employees have joined the formal workforce since the launch of the scheme in August 2025.

The scheme was launched for the period 1 August 2025 to 31 July 2027 with a total financial outlay of ₹99,446 crore.

PM-VBRY aims to generate employment for more than 3.5 crore people, including 1.92 crore first-time employees, through an Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO)-linked framework.

Under the employee component, first-time employees earning up to ₹1 lakh per month are eligible for a one-time incentive equal to one month’s Employees’ Provident Fund wage, subject to a maximum of ₹15,000.

The employee incentive is provided in two instalments after completion of 6 months and 12 months of continuous service, with the second instalment linked to completion of a financial literacy programme.

14) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

The Odisha Government signed a tripartite agreement with Digital Bharat Nidhi, Department of Telecommunications and Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited for implementing the ₹3,384.82 crore amended BharatNet programme in the state.

The programme aims to provide fibre-based broadband connectivity to all 6,799 Gram Panchayats of Odisha over the next 10 years.

Detailed Explanation:

The Odisha Government signed a tripartite agreement with Digital Bharat Nidhi, Department of Telecommunications and Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited for implementing the ₹3,384.82 crore amended BharatNet programme in the state.

The programme aims to provide fibre-based broadband connectivity to all 6,799 Gram Panchayats of Odisha over the next 10 years.

Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited has been designated as the Single Project Management Agency, while Creative Newtech Private Limited has been appointed as the Project Implementing Agency.

The project will establish a carrier-grade Internet Protocol-Multiprotocol Label Switching network to provide reliable high-speed broadband and Fibre-to-the-Home connectivity to Gram Panchayats, government institutions, rural communities and households.

Under the employer component, eligible employers can receive an incentive of up to ₹3,000 per month for two years for every additional employee retained for at least six months

15) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

Shah Rukh Khan has emerged as India’s most valuable celebrity brand with a brand value of USD 177.9 million, according to the Celebrity Brand Valuation Report 2025 by Kroll.

Shah Rukh Khan moved from 3rd position in 2024 to 1st position in 2025, despite not having a theatrical release since Dunki in December 2023.

Ranveer Singh secured the 2nd position with a brand value of USD 162.9 million, while Virat Kohli slipped to 3rd position with USD 158.4 million.

Sachin Tendulkar ranked 4th with a brand value of USD 125.9 million, followed by Mahendra Singh Dhoni at 5th position with USD 115.3 million.

Detailed Explanation:

Shah Rukh Khan has emerged as India’s most valuable celebrity brand with a brand value of USD 177.9 million, according to the Celebrity Brand Valuation Report 2025 by Kroll.

Shah Rukh Khan moved from 3rd position in 2024 to 1st position in 2025, despite not having a theatrical release since Dunki in December 2023.

Ranveer Singh secured the 2nd position with a brand value of USD 162.9 million, while Virat Kohli slipped to 3rd position with USD 158.4 million.

Sachin Tendulkar ranked 4th with a brand value of USD 125.9 million, followed by Mahendra Singh Dhoni at 5th position with USD 115.3 million.

Alia Bhatt secured 6th position with a brand value of USD 93.9 million, while Deepika Padukone ranked 7th with USD 89.2 million.

Hrithik Roshan ranked 8th with USD 88.9 million, Amitabh Bachchan ranked 9th with USD 80.8 million, and Akshay Kumar secured 10th position with USD 80 million.

16) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

The Indian Army (IA) contingent has departed for Thailand to participate in the 15th edition of India-Thailand Joint Military Exercise MAITREE-XV (2026).

Exercise MAITREE-XV is being conducted from 18 August to 31 August 2026 at Vibhavadi Rangsit Camp, Surat Thani, Thailand.

The main aim of Exercise MAITREE is to foster military cooperation between India and Thailand and enhance interoperability, mutual understanding and joint operational capabilities.

Detailed Explanation:

The Indian Army (IA) contingent has departed for Thailand to participate in the 15th edition of India-Thailand Joint Military Exercise MAITREE-XV (2026).

Exercise MAITREE-XV is being conducted from 18 August to 31 August 2026 at Vibhavadi Rangsit Camp, Surat Thani, Thailand.

The main aim of Exercise MAITREE is to foster military cooperation between India and Thailand and enhance interoperability, mutual understanding and joint operational capabilities.

The exercise focuses on strengthening the combined capabilities of the two armies in conducting Joint Counter-Insurgency/Terrorist Operations in jungle and semi-urban environments.

The joint operations are conducted under Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter, which deals with action with respect to threats to peace, breaches of peace and acts of aggression.

17) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh flagged off the All India Girls High Altitude Long Trek “Aparajita – Parang La 2026”, a flagship adventure activity of the National Cadet Corps (NCC), in New Delhi, Delhi.

The flag-off ceremony was attended by Lieutenant General Virendra Vats, Director General, NCC, along with senior officials from the NCC and Ministry of Defence (MoD).

Detailed Explanation:

Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh flagged off the All India Girls High Altitude Long Trek “Aparajita – Parang La 2026”, a flagship adventure activity of the National Cadet Corps (NCC), in New Delhi, Delhi.

The flag-off ceremony was attended by Lieutenant General Virendra Vats, Director General, NCC, along with senior officials from the NCC and Ministry of Defence (MoD).

The Aparajita – Parang La 2026 expedition will cover approximately 250 km over a period of more than 30 days.

The expedition will cross the Parang La Pass, located at an altitude of 5,578 metres (18,300 feet).

Parang La Pass connects the Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh with the Changthang region of Ladakh.

18) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

The Ministry of Defence (MoD), through the Department of Defence Production (DDP), has notified the 6th Positive Indigenisation List (PIL) comprising 405 strategically important defence items.

The 6th PIL includes 389 items of Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) and 16 items of the Indian Coast Guard (ICG).

Detailed Explanation:

The Ministry of Defence (MoD), through the Department of Defence Production (DDP), has notified the 6th Positive Indigenisation List (PIL) comprising 405 strategically important defence items.

The 6th PIL includes 389 items of Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) and 16 items of the Indian Coast Guard (ICG).

The list covers critical components, spares, raw materials, Line Replaceable Units (LRUs), sub-systems and sub-assemblies required for various defence platforms.

The 6th PIL carries an estimated business potential of ₹3,070 crore and aims to promote domestic defence manufacturing while reducing dependence on imports.

The items cover major air platforms such as Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH), Light Utility Helicopter (LUH), Su-30MKI, Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) and the AL-31FP engine.

The SRIJAN Defence Portal was launched by the Department of Defence Production in August 2020 as a dedicated platform for DPSUs and Service Headquarters (SHQs) to offer defence items to Indian industry for indigenous development and production.

19) Answer: C

The Competition Commission of India (CCI) approved Tata Steel Limited’s acquisition of an additional 23% equity stake in TM International Logistics Limited (TMILL).

The transaction involves Tata Steel acquiring the entire 23% equity shareholding held by existing joint venture partner IQ Martrade Holding Und Management GmbH (IQ Martrade).

Following completion of the transaction, IQ Martrade will exit TM International Logistics Limited and cease to be a shareholder.

20) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

The 65th Subroto Cup International Football Tournament 2026 commenced at Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Stadium, New Delhi.

Lovepreet Singh, member of the Indian men’s national weightlifting team, attended the opening ceremony as the Guest of Honour.

In the opening match of the Junior Girls Under-17 category, Meghalaya defeated Chandigarh 2–0, with goals scored by Genefa and Wandari.

The tournament features 108 teams across three categories: Junior Girls Under-17, Junior Boys Under-17 and Sub-Junior Boys Under-15.

Detailed Explanation:

The 65th Subroto Cup International Football Tournament 2026 commenced at Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Stadium, New Delhi.

The tournament was inaugurated by Air Marshal S. Sivakumar, Air Officer-in-Charge Administration and Vice Chairman, Subroto Mukerjee Sports Education Society.

Lovepreet Singh, member of the Indian men’s national weightlifting team, attended the opening ceremony as the Guest of Honour.

In the opening match of the Junior Girls Under-17 category, Meghalaya defeated Chandigarh 2–0, with goals scored by Genefa and Wandari.

The tournament features 108 teams across three categories: Junior Girls Under-17, Junior Boys Under-17 and Sub-Junior Boys Under-15.

Each category is divided into 8 groups, with group winners progressing to the knockout stages and subsequently the finals.

21) Answer: B

Prashant Agrawal, a 1998-batch Indian Foreign Service (IFS) officer, has authored the book “Bringing the Cheetah Back to India: How Diplomacy Made Conservation’s Big Mission Possible.”

The book, published by Hachette India, documents the diplomatic, logistical and ecological efforts involved in the reintroduction of cheetahs in India under Project Cheetah.

 

22) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

William F. Rasmussen, the co-founder of ESPN (Entertainment and Sports Programming Network), passed away at the age of 93 in Seattle, Washington,the United States of America (USA).

William F. Rasmussen was born on 15 October 1932 in Chicago, USA.

He was honoured by the Connecticut Sports Museum and Hall of Fame in 1997.

Detailed Explanation:

William F. Rasmussen, the co-founder of ESPN (Entertainment and Sports Programming Network), passed away at the age of 93 in Seattle, Washington,the United States of America (USA).

William F. Rasmussen was born on 15 October 1932 in Chicago, USA.

He was honoured by the Connecticut Sports Museum and Hall of Fame in 1997.

He was inducted into the Rutgers University Wall of Fame in 2002.

He was inducted into the DePauw University Media Wall of Fame in 2012.

He was inducted into the Sports Broadcasting Hall of Fame in 2025, recognising his contribution to sports television.

He was named among The Sports 100 and was honoured by USA Today in 1994 as the “Father of Sports Television.”

In 2026, he later collaborated on the “Sports Heaven: The Birth of ESPN” documentary and book project, further documenting the origins of ESPN

23) Answer: E

Short Explanation:

Sadbhavana Diwas is observed annually on August 20 to commemorate the birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi.

World Mosquito Day is observed annually on August 20 to raise awareness about malaria and other mosquito-borne diseases and promote measures for their prevention and control.

Akshay Urja Day is observed annually on 20 August in India to create awareness about renewable energy and promote the adoption of sustainable energy sources.

Detailed Explanation:

Sadbhavana Diwas is observed annually on August 20 to commemorate the birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi.

The term “Sadbhavana” means goodwill, harmony and friendly relations.

World Mosquito Day is observed annually on August 20 to raise awareness about malaria and other mosquito-borne diseases and promote measures for their prevention and control.

The day commemorates the discovery made by Sir Ronald Ross on August 20, 1897, when he established that female mosquitoes transmit malaria parasites to humans.

Akshay Urja Day is observed annually on 20 August in India to create awareness about renewable energy and promote the adoption of sustainable energy sources.

The term “Akshay Urja” means “inexhaustible energy” and refers to naturally replenished sources such as solar energy, wind energy, hydropower, biomass and geothermal energy.

24) Answer: B

World Breastfeeding Week (WBW) is observed annually from August 1 to 7 to promote the importance of breastfeeding for the health, nutrition and well-being of infants and children.

World Breastfeeding Week 2026 Theme: “Breastfeeding for a sustainable start in life: strengthen what works.”

25) Answer: D

World Fintech Day is observed annually on August 1 to celebrate the evolution of Financial Technology (FinTech) and its role in transforming the global financial ecosystem.

World Fintech Day 2026 was hosted by the Türkiye Fintech Association in Istanbul, Türkiye, bringing together fintech leaders, innovators and stakeholders from the international fintech community.

The theme of World Fintech Day 2026 is “Potential to Impact: Trusted, Connected, Global Systems for Inclusive Finance.”