Dear Readers, Daily Current Affairs Questions Quiz for SBI, IBPS, RBI, RRB, SSC Exam 2026 of 21st 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) Which macro-prudential regulatory tool requires banks to build additional capital buffers during periods of strong credit growth and favourable economic conditions?

(a) Statutory Liquidity Ratio (SLR)

(b) Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR)

(c) Countercyclical Capital Buffer (CCyB)

(d) Liquidity Adjustment Facility (LAF)

(e) Marginal Standing Facility (MSF)

2) In 2026, the Department of Financial Services (DFS), Ministry of Finance recently organised a workshop on the Insolvency and Bankruptcy (Amendment) Act, 2026. Who chaired this workshop?

(a) Shri Sanjay Malhotra

(b) Shri M. Nagaraju

(c) Shri T. V. Somanathan

(d) Shri Ajay Seth

(e) Shri Rajiv Gauba

 

3) Who has been selected as the fund manager for the ₹20,000-crore Maritime Investment Fund (MIF) to promote investment in India’s maritime sector?

(a) SEBI Ventures

(b) IIFCL

(c) SBI Ventures

(d) Climate Fund Managers

(e) NITI Aayog

 

4) As of 2026, Mahindra & Mahindra and which bank signed an MoU to launch India’s first sustainability-linked dealer financing programme in the automotive sector?

(a) HDFC Bank

(b) ICICI Bank

(c)SBI  

(d) Axis Bank

(e) DBS Bank

5) In 2026, the ₹450 crore ropeway project recently approved by the Government of Uttarakhand connects Rishikesh to which pilgrimage site?

(a) Neelkanth Mahadev Temple

(b) Badrinath Temple

(c) Kedarnath Temple

(d) Gangotri Temple

(e) Yamunotri Temple

 

6) Consider the following statements regarding Central Government infrastructure projects in India:

1. Maharashtra ranks first in the country with 215 projects worth around ₹5.5 trillion.
2. Uttar Pradesh ranks second with 180 projects valued at approximately ₹4.3 trillion.
3. Gujarat ranks third with 141 projects worth around ₹2.1 trillion.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

(e) 1 and 3 only

7) Consider the following statements regarding the proposed Automated People Mover (APM) system at Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport, New Delhi:

1. The APM system is expected to be operational by 2029.
2. It will be developed by Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) with an estimated cost of ₹3,000–₹4,000 crore.
3. The system will connect Terminal 1, Terminal 2, Terminal 3, Aerocity, and Cargo City over a 7.7 km corridor.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) All are correct

 

8) As of 2026, the Cabinet meeting approving the implementation of the 7th Pay Commission in West Bengal was chaired by____________

(a) Mamata Banerjee

(b) Suvendu Adhikari

(c) Jagdeep Dhankhar

(d) Dilip Ghosh

(e) Amit Shah

 

9) In 2026, India has recently notified new fuel standards for higher ethanol-blended petrol (E22, E25, E27 and E30). Which organisation has issued these standards?

(a) NITI Aayog

(b) Ministry of New and Renewable Energy

(c) Bureau of Indian Standards

(d) Oil and Natural Gas Corporation

(e) Indian Oil Corporation

 

10) As of 2026, Indian Railways has approved a ₹238 crore infrastructure and safety upgrade project for which railway section under the Northern Railway Zone?

(a) Delhi–Amritsar section

(b) Jammu–Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra section

(c) Lucknow–Varanasi section

(d) Mumbai–Ahmedabad section

(e) Howrah–Patna section

11) In 2026, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has recently appointed Shri Gunveer Singh as Executive Director (ED). He was earlier associated with which department as Chief General Manager-in-Charge?

(a) Department of Banking Regulation

(b) Department of Financial Inclusion

(c) Department of Currency Management

(d) Department of Economic Policy Research

(e) Department of Payment and Settlement Systems

 

12) Who has been sworn in as the new Prime Minister of Iraq and became the youngest Prime Minister in the country’s modern history?

(a) Mohammed Shia al-Sudani

(b) Haibet al-Halbousi

(c) Ali Falih Kadhim al-Zaidi

(d) Nouri al-Maliki

(e) Barham Salih

13) Under the ADITI 3.0 innovation framework, which company secured a contract from the Indian Navy for integration and commissioning of a High Power Microwave (HPM) system?

(a) Tonbo Imaging

(b) DRDO

(c) BEL

(d) HAL

(e) L&T Defence

 

14) Which air defence system, also known as the “Sudarshan Chakra”, is being inducted by India under a $5.43 billion agreement signed with Russia in 2018?

(a) Iron Dome

(b) Akash Missile System

(c) Patriot System

(d) Barak-8

(e) S-400 Triumf

 

15) As of 2026, Larsen & Toubro (L&T) has partnered with which France-based company to develop Unmanned Mine Countermeasure (MCM) systems for the Indian Navy?

(a) Dassault Aviation

(b) Safran

(c) Naval Group

(d) Exail Technologies

(e) Thales Group

 

16) In 2026, Researchers from the Institute of Nano Science and Technology (INST), Mohali enhanced pyroelectric performance by adding a small amount of which material into a ferroelectric polymer?

(a) Nanogold

(b) Copper oxide

(c) Silver nanoparticles

(d) Graphene oxide

(e) Silicon carbide

 

17) In 2026, Scientists from CSIR–National Geophysical Research Institute (NGRI), Hyderabad recently discovered an ancient underground river channel (palaeo-channel) between which two cities in Uttar Pradesh?

(a) Lucknow–Varanasi

(b) Prayagraj–Kanpur

(c) Agra–Gorakhpur

(d) Meerut–Bareilly

(e) Ayodhya–Sultanpur

18) In 2026, Liberty Mutual Insurance recently increased its stake in Liberty General Insurance Limited (LGI) to 74%. In which year Liberty General Insurance Limited was established?

(a) 2008

(b) 2010

(c) 2012

(d) 2013

(e) 2015

 

19) Who launched the Ayush Anudan Portal at Kartavya Bhawan to strengthen digital governance in the Ayush sector?

(a) Narendra Modi

(b) Prataprao Jadhav

(c) Mansukh Mandaviya

(d) Amit Shah

(e) Rajnath Singh

 

20) As of 2026, Google and Blackstone have launched a $5 billion Artificial Intelligence cloud infrastructure venture based on which Google-developed chips?

(a) GPU

(b) ASIC

(c) Tensor Processing Units (TPUs)

(d) Quantum Processors

(e) Neural Engines

 

21) As of 2026, Bharat Forge Limited has signed an MoU with the Government of Andhra Pradesh to establish India’s first private-sector Marine Gas Turbine facility in which city?

(a) Visakhapatnam

(b) Tirupati

(c) Vijayawada

(d) Kurnool

(e) Guntur

22) In 2026, Anti-Terrorism Day in India is observed every year on 21 May to mark the death anniversary of which former Prime Minister?

(a) Indira Gandhi

(b) Rajiv Gandhi

(c) Jawaharlal Nehru

(d) Lal Bahadur Shastri

(e) Atal Bihari Vajpayee

 

23) The World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development, observed on 21 May, was officially declared by which organisation?

(a) UNESCO

(b) World Bank

(c) United Nations General Assembly

(d) WHO

(e) UNDP

 

24) In 2015, a resolution related to cultural diversity and sustainable development was adopted by which committee of the United Nations General Assembly?

(a) First Committee

(b) Second Committee

(c) Third Committee

(d) Fourth Committee

(e) Sixth Committee

25) What is the currency of Iraq?

(a) Riyal

(b) Dirham

(c) Dollar

(d) Pound

(e) Dinar

Answers:

1) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has decided not to activate the Countercyclical Capital Buffer (CCyB) at present, stating that current economic and banking conditions do not require its implementation.

The decision was taken after RBI reviewed key CCyB indicators, especially the credit-to-GDP gap, which is the primary indicator for assessing systemic credit risk in the economy.

The Countercyclical Capital Buffer (CCyB) is a macro-prudential regulatory tool used in the banking system.

Detailed Explanation:

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has decided not to activate the Countercyclical Capital Buffer (CCyB) at present, stating that current economic and banking conditions do not require its implementation.

The decision was taken after RBI reviewed key CCyB indicators, especially the credit-to-GDP gap, which is the primary indicator for assessing systemic credit risk in the economy.

The Countercyclical Capital Buffer (CCyB) is a macro-prudential regulatory tool used in the banking system.

CCyB requires banks to build additional capital buffers during periods of strong credit growth and favourable economic conditions.

The main objective of CCyB is to ensure banks accumulate sufficient capital during good economic times so that they can continue lending during financial stress or economic downturns.

Another key objective is to prevent excessive and indiscriminate lending during periods of rapid credit expansion, thereby helping to reduce system-wide financial risks.

RBI stated that CCyB can be activated as a pre-announced measure whenever warranted by economic conditions.

After review and empirical analysis of indicators, RBI concluded that it is not necessary to activate CCyB at this point in time..

 

2) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

The Department of Financial Services (DFS), Ministry of Finance organised a half-day workshop on the Insolvency and Bankruptcy (Amendment) Act, 2026 in New Delhi.

The workshop was chaired by Shri M. Nagaraju, Secretary, DFS, and attended by senior officials from the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA), Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (IBBI), legal experts, and representatives of public sector banks and financial institutions including NARCL, IDRCL, and ASREC (India) Limited.

Detailed Explanation:

The Department of Financial Services (DFS), Ministry of Finance organised a half-day workshop on the Insolvency and Bankruptcy (Amendment) Act, 2026 in New Delhi.

The workshop was chaired by Shri M. Nagaraju, Secretary, DFS, and attended by senior officials from the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA), Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (IBBI), legal experts, and representatives of public sector banks and financial institutions including NARCL, IDRCL, and ASREC (India) Limited.

The main objective of the workshop was to deliberate on the impact of recent amendments to the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) on the banking sector and to strengthen stakeholder understanding of its implementation framework.

It was highlighted that till December 2025, more than 8,800 Corporate Insolvency Resolution Processes (CIRPs) had been admitted under the IBC, reflecting large-scale use of the insolvency resolution system.

 

3) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

The Government of India selected SBI Ventures as the fund manager for the ₹20,000-crore Maritime Investment Fund (MIF) to promote investment in India’s maritime sector.

The Maritime Investment Fund (MIF) is a major component of the ₹25,000-crore Maritime Development Fund approved by the Union Cabinet.

The Central Government will contribute ₹9,800 crore (49%) through budgetary support for the fund.

Detailed Explanation:

The Government of India selected SBI Ventures as the fund manager for the ₹20,000-crore Maritime Investment Fund (MIF) to promote investment in India’s maritime sector.

The Maritime Investment Fund (MIF) is a major component of the ₹25,000-crore Maritime Development Fund approved by the Union Cabinet.

The Central Government will contribute ₹9,800 crore (49%) through budgetary support for the fund.

The remaining 51% of the corpus will be mobilised from private investors, sovereign wealth funds, institutional investors, CPSEs, PSUs and major port authorities through a blended finance model.

The fund will be registered as a closed-end Category I/II Alternative Investment Fund (AIF) under the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI).

The Maritime Investment Fund may establish multiple sub-funds focusing on different segments of the maritime industry.

SBI Ventures was selected through a competitive bidding process, defeating a consortium of Indian Infrastructure Finance Company Limited and Climate Fund Managers.

 

4) Answer: E

Short Explanation:

Mahindra & Mahindra and DBS Bank India signed an Memorandum of Understanding  (MoU) to launch India’s first sustainability-linked dealer financing programme in the automotive sector on 19 May 2026.

The programme links loan interest rates for authorised Mahindra dealers to their environmental, social and governance (ESG) performance along with sales targets.

Dealers will be assessed under Mahindra’s Green Dealership Programme based on key ESG parameters such as greenhouse gas emissions, water consumption, renewable energy usage, rainwater harvesting, waste management, EV charging infrastructure, and eSUV sales volume.

Detailed Explanation:

Mahindra & Mahindra and DBS Bank India signed an Memorandum of Understanding  (MoU) to launch India’s first sustainability-linked dealer financing programme in the automotive sector on 19 May 2026.

The programme links loan interest rates for authorised Mahindra dealers to their environmental, social and governance (ESG) performance along with sales targets.

Dealers will be assessed under Mahindra’s Green Dealership Programme based on key ESG parameters such as greenhouse gas emissions, water consumption, renewable energy usage, rainwater harvesting, waste management, EV charging infrastructure, and eSUV sales volume.

Dealers meeting defined sustainability thresholds will receive preferential interest rates on loans used for purchasing passenger and commercial vehicles.

The ESG metrics for the programme were jointly designed by Mahindra & Mahindra and DBS Bank India to ensure a structured sustainable financing framework.

The initiative focuses on addressing Scope 3 emissions, which are indirect emissions across the value chain including dealers and distributors, supporting overall decarbonisation efforts.

5) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

The Government of Uttarakhand has planned a ₹450 crore ropeway project connecting Rishikesh to the famous Neelkanth Mahadev Temple.

The proposed ropeway will cover a distance of around 6.5 kilometres and is expected to reduce travel time from nearly three hours to just 15 minutes.

Detailed Explanation:

The Government of Uttarakhand has planned a ₹450 crore ropeway project connecting Rishikesh to the famous Neelkanth Mahadev Temple.

The proposed ropeway will cover a distance of around 6.5 kilometres and is expected to reduce travel time from nearly three hours to just 15 minutes.

The ropeway alignment will begin from the Tapovan area in Rishikesh and connect directly to the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, which is an important pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Shiva.

At present, pilgrims either travel through a winding 30-kilometre mountain road route or trek around 9 kilometres through forest terrain to reach the temple.

The project is considered important because religious tourism plays a major role in Uttarakhand’s economy. The temple attracts thousands of devotees every year, especially during:

Shravan month

Mahashivratri

 

6) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

India is witnessing rapid infrastructure expansion through major Central  Government projects across sectors such as highways, railways, airports, industrial corridors, ports, energy, and urban development.

According to recent data, Maharashtra ranks first in the country in terms of the number of Central Government projects.

The state currently has 215 projects with an estimated investment of around ₹5.5 trillion.

Uttar Pradesh ranks second with 180 projects worth approximately ₹4.3 trillion. Major infrastructure growth in the state includes expressways, railway expansion, and defence corridor projects.

Gujarat ranks fourth with 127 projects and investment value of nearly ₹4.3 trillion. The state remains a major hub for manufacturing, petrochemicals, logistics, and port-led development.

Detailed Explanation:

India is witnessing rapid infrastructure expansion through major Central  Government projects across sectors such as highways, railways, airports, industrial corridors, ports, energy, and urban development.

According to recent data, Maharashtra ranks first in the country in terms of the number of Central Government projects.

The state currently has 215 projects with an estimated investment of around ₹5.5 trillion.

Uttar Pradesh ranks second with 180 projects worth approximately ₹4.3 trillion. Major infrastructure growth in the state includes expressways, railway expansion, and defence corridor projects.

Andhra Pradesh holds the third position with 141 projects valued at around ₹2.1 trillion.

Gujarat ranks fourth with 127 projects and investment value of nearly ₹4.3 trillion. The state remains a major hub for manufacturing, petrochemicals, logistics, and port-led development.

Madhya Pradesh and Bihar each have 125 projects, reflecting rising infrastructure development in central and eastern India.

Karnataka has 121 projects worth around ₹2 trillion, while Odisha and Jharkhand are witnessing major investments in mining, railways, energy, and industrial infrastructure.

Among northeastern states, Assam leads with 89 projects worth around ₹1.2 trillion.

7) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI Airport), New Delhi is set to launch its first automated air train system by 2029 to improve passenger movement across the airport.

The project will be developed by Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) with an estimated investment of around ₹3,000 crore to ₹4,000 crore.

The Automated People Mover (APM) system will connect major airport locations including:

Terminal 1

Terminal 2

Terminal 3

Aerocity

Cargo City

The complete air train corridor will cover around 7.7 kilometres and is aimed at providing faster, smoother, and seamless terminal transfers for passengers.

Detailed Explanation:

Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI Airport), New Delhi is set to launch its first automated air train system by 2029 to improve passenger movement across the airport.

The project will be developed by Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) with an estimated investment of around ₹3,000 crore to ₹4,000 crore.

The Automated People Mover (APM) system will connect major airport locations including:

Terminal 1

Terminal 2

Terminal 3

Aerocity

Cargo City

The complete air train corridor will cover around 7.7 kilometres and is aimed at providing faster, smoother, and seamless terminal transfers for passengers.

Initially, DIAL had planned to implement the project through a concessionaire model by appointing a private operator. However, after limited response from bidders, DIAL decided to directly fund the project through its own resources.

 

8) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

The Government of West Bengal has approved the implementation of the 7th Pay Commission for state government employees and pensioners. The decision was taken during a Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari.

During the previous pay revision, West Bengal had used a 2.57 fitment factor under the 6th Pay Commission. This time, discussions suggest a possible range between 2.0 and 2.5, but the final figure has not yet been officially announced.

Detailed Explanation:

The Government of West Bengal has approved the implementation of the 7th Pay Commission for state government employees and pensioners. The decision was taken during a Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari.

The revised pay structure is expected to benefit lakhs of employees working in state government departments, boards, corporations, aided institutions, and educational bodies.

Pensioners are also likely to receive revised pension benefits under the new pay structure.

The most important factor still awaited is the fitment factor, which will determine the actual increase in salaries and pensions. A fitment factor is the multiplier used to revise the existing basic pay of employees.

For example, if an employee’s current basic salary is ₹20,000:

With a 2.0 fitment factor, revised salary becomes ₹40,000.

With a 2.25 fitment factor, revised salary becomes ₹45,000.

With a 2.5 fitment factor, revised salary becomes ₹50,000.

During the previous pay revision, West Bengal had used a 2.57 fitment factor under the 6th Pay Commission. This time, discussions suggest a possible range between 2.0 and 2.5, but the final figure has not yet been officially announced.

 

9) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

India has officially notified new fuel standards for higher ethanol-blended petrol, including E22, E25, E27, and E30, marking a major step in the country’s clean energy and biofuel transition.

The new standards have been notified by the Bureau of Indian Standards for petrol blended with up to 30% ethanol for use in petrol engine vehicles.

Detailed Explanation:

India has officially notified new fuel standards for higher ethanol-blended petrol, including E22, E25, E27, and E30, marking a major step in the country’s clean energy and biofuel transition.

The new standards have been notified by the Bureau of Indian Standards for petrol blended with up to 30% ethanol for use in petrol engine vehicles.

E30 fuel means petrol containing 30% ethanol and 70% conventional gasoline. Similarly, E20 contains 20% ethanol blended with petrol.

Ethanol is an alcohol-based biofuel generally produced from agricultural feedstocks such as sugarcane, maize, and biomass materials.

The notification is currently a preparatory regulatory step and does not mean that E30 petrol will be immediately launched across fuel stations in India.

The move signals the Government of India’s long-term roadmap beyond the existing E20 ethanol blending programme and reflects confidence in expanding biofuel adoption further.

 

10) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

Indian Railways has approved a ₹238 crore infrastructure and safety upgrade project for the Jammu–Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra rail section under the Northern Railway Zone.

The project aims to improve passenger safety, operational reliability, and long-term infrastructure resilience on this strategically important railway route in Jammu and Kashmir.

The approved works include slope stabilisation, tunnel rehabilitation, seepage treatment, and bridge protection measures in vulnerable sections of the route.

Detailed Explanation:

Indian Railways has approved a ₹238 crore infrastructure and safety upgrade project for the Jammu–Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra rail section under the Northern Railway Zone.

The project aims to improve passenger safety, operational reliability, and long-term infrastructure resilience on this strategically important railway route in Jammu and Kashmir.

The approved works include slope stabilisation, tunnel rehabilitation, seepage treatment, and bridge protection measures in vulnerable sections of the route.

Additional safety interventions will also be implemented at identified high-risk locations to strengthen railway operations in difficult mountainous terrain.

The Jammu–Katra railway section passes through challenging geological regions with unstable slopes, harsh weather conditions, and difficult rock formations, which can impact railway safety and infrastructure durability.

The project is expected to reduce risks related to landslides, tunnel damage, seepage issues, and environmental threats affecting train movement and railway infrastructure.

11) Answer: E

Short Explanation:

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) appointed Shri Gunveer Singh as Executive Director (ED) with effect from 18 May 2026, marking a key leadership change in the central bank.

Prior to his promotion, Shri Gunveer Singh served as Chief General Manager-in-Charge of the Department of Payment and Settlement Systems (DPSS) at RBI.

Detailed Explanation:

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) appointed Shri Gunveer Singh as Executive Director (ED) with effect from 18 May 2026, marking a key leadership change in the central bank.

Prior to his promotion, Shri Gunveer Singh served as Chief General Manager-in-Charge of the Department of Payment and Settlement Systems (DPSS) at RBI.

He has over three decades of experience in RBI, working in areas such as payment and settlement systems, banking supervision, non-banking supervision, risk monitoring and government banking.

Shri Singh has also served internationally as a payment systems expert at the Central Bank of Oman, providing him exposure to cross-border payment frameworks and regulatory practices.

As Executive Director, he will be responsible for overseeing the Department of Payment and Settlement Systems (DPSS).

12) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

Ali Falih Kadhim al-Zaidi was sworn in as the new Prime Minister (PM) of Iraq and Commander-in-Chief of Iraq’s Armed Forces.

Ali Falih Kadhim al-Zaidi was nominated by the Coordination Framework political alliance.

At the age of 40 years, al-Zaidi became the youngest Prime Minister in Iraq’s modern history.

Detailed Explanation:

Ali Falih Kadhim al-Zaidi was sworn in as the new Prime Minister (PM) of Iraq and Commander-in-Chief of Iraq’s Armed Forces.

Ali Falih Kadhim al-Zaidi was nominated by the Coordination Framework political alliance.

At the age of 40 years, al-Zaidi became the youngest Prime Minister in Iraq’s modern history.

The official swearing-in ceremony was held in Baghdad, Iraq.

Outgoing Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani formally transferred power to the new administration.

The Iraqi Parliament session was chaired by Haibet al-Halbousi.

The Parliament approved 14 out of 23 ministerial positions along with the government program.

 

13) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

Tonbo Imaging, a Bengaluru-based defence technology company, has secured a contract from the Indian Navy under the ADITI 3.0 innovation framework on 19 May 2026.

The contract involves integration and commissioning of a High Power Microwave (HPM) system for naval platforms, strengthening India’s indigenous defence capabilities.

The project is supported under the Ministry of Defence’s iDEX initiative (Innovations for Defence Excellence) and the Defence Innovation Organisation (DIO) framework.

Detailed Explanation:

Tonbo Imaging, a Bengaluru-based defence technology company, has secured a contract from the Indian Navy under the ADITI 3.0 innovation framework on 19 May 2026.

The contract involves integration and commissioning of a High Power Microwave (HPM) system for naval platforms, strengthening India’s indigenous defence capabilities.

The project is supported under the Ministry of Defence’s iDEX initiative (Innovations for Defence Excellence) and the Defence Innovation Organisation (DIO) framework.

High Power Microwave (HPM) systems are directed-energy weapons that use electromagnetic energy to disable or degrade electronic systems, sensors and unmanned platforms, especially useful in counter-drone and maritime threat scenarios.

The selection of Tonbo Imaging under ADITI 3.0 highlights India’s focus on developing indigenous strategic defence technologies aligned with naval modernisation needs.

14) Answer: E

Short Explanation:

India is set to receive the fourth squadron of the Russian-origin S-400 Triumf, strengthening its air defence capabilities.

The S-400 system is part of a $5.43 billion agreement signed in 2018 between India and Russia for the procurement of five S-400 squadrons.

The S-400 Triumf is a long-range surface-to-air missile system designed to intercept and destroy aircraft, cruise missiles and ballistic missiles at multiple ranges and altitudes.

The system is operated by the Indian Air Force (IAF) for strategic air defence deployment across key regions.

Detailed Explanation:

India is set to receive the fourth squadron of the Russian-origin S-400 Triumf, strengthening its air defence capabilities.

The S-400 system is part of a $5.43 billion agreement signed in 2018 between India and Russia for the procurement of five S-400 squadrons.

The S-400 Triumf is a long-range surface-to-air missile system designed to intercept and destroy aircraft, cruise missiles and ballistic missiles at multiple ranges and altitudes.

The system is operated by the Indian Air Force (IAF) for strategic air defence deployment across key regions.

The delivery schedule was originally targeted for completion by 2023, but faced delays due to the Russia–Ukraine conflict and global supply chain disruptions.

The fourth S-400 unit was inspected by Indian Air Force personnel in Russia by mid-April 2026 before being transported to India via sea and air routes.

The fourth squadron is expected to be deployed in Rajasthan, providing long-range air defence coverage along the western frontier.

The fifth and final squadron under the original contract is expected by November 2026 and is likely to be deployed along the northern border with China.

The system is also popularly referred to as the “Sudarshan Chakra”, highlighting its role in India’s multi-layered air defence network.

16) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

Larsen & Toubro Limited (L&T) has entered into a strategic partnership with France-based Exail Technologies to deliver advanced Unmanned Mine Countermeasure (MCM) systems for the Indian Navy (IN).

The collaboration will provide an Unmanned MCM Suite featuring autonomous and remotely operated systems for the safe detection, identification, and neutralisation of naval mines.

Detailed Explanation:

Larsen & Toubro Limited (L&T) has entered into a strategic partnership with France-based Exail Technologies to deliver advanced Unmanned Mine Countermeasure (MCM) systems for the Indian Navy (IN).

The collaboration will provide an Unmanned MCM Suite featuring autonomous and remotely operated systems for the safe detection, identification, and neutralisation of naval mines.

Under the agreement, L&T will act as the Prime Contractor and will offer the Unmanned MCM Suite to shipyards involved in the Indian Navy’s proposed programme for 12 Mine Counter Measure Vessels.

Exail Technologies will serve as the Technology Partner, contributing its expertise in advanced unmanned maritime systems.

The partnership will ensure the deployment of Exail’s globally proven MCM technologies, which are already operational with several navies worldwide.

 

16) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

Researchers have developed a new ultrathin flexible film capable of efficiently converting tiny temperature fluctuations into electrical signals, enabling applications in smart photodetectors, low-grade heat harvesters, and flexible electronic systems.

The innovation supports growing demand for lightweight, flexible, and low-power materials for next-generation wearable devices and autonomous sensors used in healthcare, environmental monitoring, and energy-efficient electronics.

Scientists from the Institute of Nano Science and Technology (INST), Mohali, an autonomous institute under the Department of Science & Technology (DST), demonstrated that adding a small amount of nanogold into a ferroelectric polymer significantly enhances pyroelectric performance.

Detailed Explanation:

Researchers have developed a new ultrathin flexible film capable of efficiently converting tiny temperature fluctuations into electrical signals, enabling applications in smart photodetectors, low-grade heat harvesters, and flexible electronic systems.

The innovation supports growing demand for lightweight, flexible, and low-power materials for next-generation wearable devices and autonomous sensors used in healthcare, environmental monitoring, and energy-efficient electronics.

Earlier systems based on plasmonic-pyroelectric and PVDF composites improved thermal-to-electrical conversion, but relied on micron-thick structures and less controlled interfaces, limiting use in ultrathin flexible electronics.

There is increasing research focus on combining plasmonic effects with pyroelectric polymers to develop self-powered, high-speed devices that respond to both thermal and optical stimuli.

Scientists from the Institute of Nano Science and Technology (INST), Mohali, an autonomous institute under the Department of Science & Technology (DST), demonstrated that adding a small amount of nanogold into a ferroelectric polymer significantly enhances pyroelectric performance.

 

17) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

Scientists from the CSIR–National Geophysical Research Institute (NGRI), Hyderabad have identified an ancient underground river channel (palaeo-channel) beneath the Prayagraj–Kanpur stretch in Uttar Pradesh.

A palaeo-channel is defined as an abandoned or buried river course that is preserved below the surface and filled with materials such as sand, silt, or groundwater.

Detailed Explanation:

Scientists from the CSIR–National Geophysical Research Institute (NGRI), Hyderabad have identified an ancient underground river channel (palaeo-channel) beneath the Prayagraj–Kanpur stretch in Uttar Pradesh.

A palaeo-channel is defined as an abandoned or buried river course that is preserved below the surface and filled with materials such as sand, silt, or groundwater.

The identified buried river channel lies 10–15 metres below the ground surface and extends for approximately 200 kilometres from Prayagraj to Kanpur.

The discovery was made using airborne geophysical surveys conducted via helicopters, followed by confirmatory drilling at multiple sites including Sarai Akil, Sirathu, Manjhanpur, Fatehpur, and Balwant Tola.

The drilling operations revealed sandy deposits consistent with ancient riverbed sediments, confirming the presence of a palaeo-fluvial system.

The buried river system is part of a groundwater aquifer system and continues to contain significant subsurface water reserves.

 

18) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

Liberty Mutual Insurance increased its stake in Liberty General Insurance Limited (LGI) to 74% from 55.40%, strengthening its presence in India’s insurance market.

The stake increase follows Liberty Mutual’s earlier rise in shareholding from 49% to 55.40% in September 2025, reflecting growing foreign investment in India’s insurance sector.

Liberty General Insurance Limited was established in 2013 and provides retail, commercial, and industrial insurance products.

Detailed Explanation:

Liberty Mutual Insurance increased its stake in Liberty General Insurance Limited (LGI) to 74% from 55.40%, strengthening its presence in India’s insurance market.

The stake increase follows Liberty Mutual’s earlier rise in shareholding from 49% to 55.40% in September 2025, reflecting growing foreign investment in India’s insurance sector.

Liberty General Insurance Limited was established in 2013 and provides retail, commercial, and industrial insurance products.

The company offers a wide range of insurance solutions including health, motor, property, marine, engineering, and liability insurance.

After the transaction, the shareholding structure of Liberty General Insurance consists of 74% held by Summit Asia Investments Holdings Pte. Ltd. (a group entity of Liberty Mutual Insurance) and 26% held by Enam Securities.

 

19) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

Prataprao Jadhav launched the Ayush Anudan Portal at Kartavya Bhawan to strengthen digital governance and transparency in the Ayush sector.

The portal was developed by the Ministry of Ayush under the Ayush Grid initiative to streamline the submission, processing, approval and monitoring of funding proposals under various Central Sector Schemes.

Detailed Explanation:

Prataprao Jadhav launched the Ayush Anudan Portal at Kartavya Bhawan to strengthen digital governance and transparency in the Ayush sector.

The portal was developed by the Ministry of Ayush under the Ayush Grid initiative to streamline the submission, processing, approval and monitoring of funding proposals under various Central Sector Schemes.

Ayush Grid is a flagship digital initiative of the Government of India aimed at creating an integrated, transparent and citizen-centric digital ecosystem for the Ayush sector using modern technology.

The initiative is aligned with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of “Ease of Doing Business” and “Ease of Living”.

The Ayush Anudan Portal has been designed as a comprehensive digital platform to ensure 100% transparency, efficiency, accountability and easy accessibility in grant management processes.

 

20) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

Google and Blackstone have launched a new $5 billion Artificial Intelligence cloud infrastructure venture aimed at strengthening Artificial Intelligence computing capabilities and challenging the dominance of Nvidia in the global Artificial Intelligence chip market.

The new venture will be built around Google’s custom-designed Tensor Processing Units (TPUs), which are specialised chips developed specifically for Artificial Intelligence and machine learning workloads.

Detailed Explanation:

Google and Blackstone have launched a new $5 billion Artificial Intelligence cloud infrastructure venture aimed at strengthening Artificial Intelligence computing capabilities and challenging the dominance of Nvidia in the global Artificial Intelligence chip market.

The new venture will be built around Google’s custom-designed Tensor Processing Units (TPUs), which are specialised chips developed specifically for Artificial Intelligence and machine learning workloads.

The project will provide Compute-as-a-Service, allowing businesses to rent powerful Artificial Intelligence computing infrastructure through cloud platforms instead of building expensive hardware systems themselves.

Blackstone is investing around $5 billion into the venture, making it one of the largest recent investments in Artificial Intelligence infrastructure and cloud computing.

The first phase of the project is expected to include nearly 500 megawatts of data centre capacity, reflecting the large-scale infrastructure requirements of Artificial Intelligence systems.

 

21) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

Bharat Forge Limited has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Government of Andhra Pradesh to establish India’s first private-sector Marine Gas Turbine facility in Visakhapatnam.

The project was announced during the Aerospace and Defence Manufacturing Conclave held in Puttaparthi, Andhra Pradesh.

The Memorandum of Understanding was signed by Guru Biswal, Chief Executive Officer-Aerospace, Bharat Forge Limited, and defence scientist Dr G. Satheesh Reddy, former Chairman of the Defence Research and Development Organisation.

Detailed Explanation:

Bharat Forge Limited has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Government of Andhra Pradesh to establish India’s first private-sector Marine Gas Turbine facility in Visakhapatnam.

The project was announced during the Aerospace and Defence Manufacturing Conclave held in Puttaparthi, Andhra Pradesh.

The Memorandum of Understanding was signed by Guru Biswal, Chief Executive Officer-Aerospace, Bharat Forge Limited, and defence scientist Dr G. Satheesh Reddy, former Chairman of the Defence Research and Development Organisation.

The event was attended by Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, and senior government and defence officials.

The upcoming facility will become the first private-sector unit in India with complete capabilities for Marine Gas Turbine repair, servicing, and overhaul.

The facility will provide advanced services including blade restoration, rotor balancing, combustor liner repairs, component manufacturing, testing infrastructure, and round-the-clock operational support.

 

22) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

Anti-Terrorism Day is observed every year on 21 May in India to spread awareness about the dangers of terrorism, violence, and extremism.

The day is observed to promote peace, unity, harmony, and national integration among citizens.

Anti-Terrorism Day is observed on the death anniversary of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, who was assassinated in 1991 during an election campaign.

Detailed Explanation:

Anti-Terrorism Day is observed every year on 21 May in India to spread awareness about the dangers of terrorism, violence, and extremism.

The day is observed to promote peace, unity, harmony, and national integration among citizens.

Anti-Terrorism Day is observed on the death anniversary of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, who was assassinated in 1991 during an election campaign.

Rajiv Gandhi served as the 6th Prime Minister of India from 1984 to 1989.

After the assassination of Rajiv Gandhi, the Government of India decided to observe 21 May as Anti-Terrorism Day to educate people about the harmful effects of terrorism on society.

23) Answer: C

World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development is observed every year on 21 May to raise awareness about the importance of cultural diversity, dialogue, inclusion, and sustainable development.

The day was adopted by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in 2001.

In 2002, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) officially declared 21 May as the World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development.

24) Answer: B

In 2015, the Second Committee of the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution related to cultural diversity and sustainable development.

The United Nations recognises that cultural diversity plays an important role in achieving the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

 

25) Answer: E

About Iraq :

Capital : Baghdad

Currency : Iraqi dinar