Dear Readers, Daily Current Affairs Questions Quiz for SBI, IBPS, RBI, RRB, SSC Exam 2026 of 31st January 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 international classification framework has been recommended by the Expert Group for updating India’s Consumer Price Index (CPI) item classification?

(a) ISIC 2018 – International Standard Industrial Classification (2018)

(b) SNA 2008 – System of National Accounts (2008)

(c) COICOP 2018 – Classification of Individual Consumption According to Purpose (2018)

(d) WPI 2017 – Wholesale Price Index (2017 series)

(e) IIP 2011 – Index of Industrial Production (2011 series)

2) Under which framework will the NPS Swasthya Pension Scheme function within the National Pension System (NPS), permitted by Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA)?

(a) Single Scheme Framework (SSF)

(b) Multiple Scheme Framework (MSF)

(c) Centralised Pension Framework (CPF)

(d) Unified Pension Architecture (UPA)

(e) Sectoral Pension Model (SPM)

3) As of 2026, the Economic Survey 2025–26, India aims to become Global Financial Hub with GIFT City IFSC and Global Capability Centre (GCC) Expansion.  In the Global Financial Centres Index, what was GIFT City’s global rank as highlighted in the Economic Survey 2025–26?

(a) 30th

(b) 35th

(c) 40th

(d) 43rd

(e) 50th

4) Which public sector bank has received RBI approval to open a branch at GIFT City International Financial Services Centre (IFSC), Gandhinagar?

(a) State Bank of India

(b) Bank of Baroda

(c) Punjab National Bank

(d) Canara Bank

(e) Punjab & Sind Bank

5) Under the India–EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA), what is the maximum number of branches that European Union (EU) banks are allowed to open in India over a four-year period?

(a) 5 branches

(b) 15 branches

(c) 10 branches

(d) 20 branches

(e) 25 branches

6) Which Union Minister outlined the Government of India’s vision for integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) across education and skilling ecosystems at Google’s AI for Learning Forum in New Delhi?

(a) Dharmendra Pradhan

(b) Piyush Goyal

(c) Jayant Chaudhary

(d) Rajeev Chandrasekhar

(e) Ashwini Vaishnaw

7) What is the official title of Meghalaya’s living root bridges nominated by India to United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization  (UNESCO) for the 2026–27 World Heritage evaluation cycle?

(a) Sacred Groves of Meghalaya

(b) Living Bridges Cultural Landscape

(c) Root Architecture of Northeast India

(d) Khasi–Jaintia Heritage Landscape

(e) Jingkieng Jri / Lyu Chrai Cultural Landscape

8) Which company became India’s first heavy-duty electric truck manufacturer to receive certification under the Prime Minister Electric Drive Revolution in Innovative Vehicle Enhancement Scheme (PM E-DRIVE) Scheme?

(a) Montra Electric

(b) Ashok Leyland

(c) Mahindra Electric

(d) Eicher Motors

(e) Tata Motors

9) Which institution will act as the host institution and provide logistical and secretarial support to the high-level Committee on FPOs in Tamil Nadu?

(a) NABARD – National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development

(b) ICAR–National Research Centre for Banana, Tiruchirappalli

(c) SFAC – Small Farmers’ Agribusiness Consortium

(d) ICAR–ATARI, Hyderabad – Agricultural Technology Application Research Institute

(e) NAFED – National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India Limited

10) The National Institution for Transforming India launched Sampoornata Abhiyan 2.0 will be conducted for a three-month period from 28 January to 14 April 2026. Who launched Sampoornata Abhiyan 2.0?

(a) Amitabh Kant

(b) B. V. R. Subrahmanyam

(c) Rohit Kumar

(d) Rajiv Kumar

(e) Suman Bery

11) Under the NPS Swasthya Pension Scheme, what is the maximum percentage of an individual’s own contribution that can be withdrawn for medical expenses?

(a) 10%

(b) 15%

(c) 20%

(d) 25%

(e) 50%

12) In 2026, India and the European Union endorsed the “2030 Joint India–European Union Comprehensive Strategic Agenda” for the next five years. Who were the Chief Guests of India’s 77th Republic Day in 2026?

(a) Kaja Kallas and Ursula von der Leyen

(b) Ursula von der Leyen and Antonio Luis Santos da Costa

(c) Ursula von der Leyen and Narendra Modi

(d) Antonio Luis Santos da Costa and Kaja Kallas

(e) Ursula von der Leyen and Piyush Goyal

13) Which Ministry of the Government of India signed an MoU with the World Economic Forum (WEF) at WEF 2026 to establish a Skills Accelerator in India?

(a) Ministry of Education

(b) Ministry of Labour & Employment

(c) Ministry of Electronics and IT

(d) Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship (MSDE)

(e) Ministry of Heavy Industries

14) Which airline operated the inaugural Dhaka–Karachi flight after Pakistan and Bangladesh resumed direct air connectivity?

(a) Pakistan International Airlines (PIA)

(b) Biman Airlines

(c) Emirates Airlines

(d) Air Arabia

(e) Qatar Airways

15) What is the name of Taiwan’s domestically developed submarine that recently completed its first underwater sea trial?

(a) Seahorse

(b) Dolphin

(c) Triton

(d) Narwhal

(e) Kraken

16) In 2026, India’s Space Economy Worth USD 8.4 Billion with 399 Start-ups in Launch Vehicles, Satellites, and Space Technology. According to IN-SPACe’s Decadal Vision Report, what is India’s target for the space economy by 2033?

(a) USD 44 billion

(b) USD 33 billion

(c) USD 38 billion

(d) USD 45 billion

(e) USD 50 billion

17) Which two companies signed a resource-sharing agreement during India Energy Week 2026 to strengthen India’s energy security?

(a) Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) and ONGC

(b) Indian Oil Corporation and BPCL

(c) GAIL and Cairn India

(d) Adani Gas and ONGC

(e) Hindustan Petroleum and Reliance Industries

18) What is the name of the portal recently operationalised by Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) to monitor Central Sector Infrastructure Projects worth ₹150 crore and above?

(a) OCMS-2006 – Online Computerised Monitoring System

(b) IPMP – Integrated Project Monitoring Portal

(c) PAIMANA – Project Assessment, Infrastructure Monitoring & Analytics for Nation-building

(d) PRAGATI – Pro-Active Governance and Timely Implementation

(e) GEM – Government e-Marketplace

19) Which new school is being established at IIM Ahmedabad through a ₹100 crore endowment from Ms. Chandrika Krishnamurthy Tandon and Mr. Ranjan Tandon?

(a) School of Data Science

(b) School of Machine Learning

(c) School of Robotics and Automation

(d) Krishnamurthy Tandon School of Artificial Intelligence

(e) School of Computational Analytics

20) Which apex institution under the Ministry of AYUSH signed an MoU with the Centre for Ayurveda Education, Innovation and Technology to strengthen digital health initiatives in Ayurveda?

(a) National Institute of Ayurveda, Jaipur

(b) All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA)

(c) Central Council for Research in Ayurveda and Siddha (CCRAS)

(d) National Institute of Naturopathy, Pune

(e) Institute of Teaching and Research in Ayurveda, Gujarat

21) Which state/UT topped the medal tally in the 6th Khelo India Winter Games 2026 at the Nawang Dorjan Stobdan Stadium, Leh, Union Territory of Ladakh?

(a) Ladakh

(b) Maharashtra

(c) Jammu & Kashmir

(d) Punjab

(e) Haryana

22) In 2026, Michael Nobbs, who passed away at the age of 72, was associated with which sport?

(a) Cricket

(b) Football

(c) Hockey

(d) Tennis

(e) Badminton

23) As of 2026, Martyrs Day in India is observed on 30th January to commemorate the death of which leader?

(a) Mahatma Gandhi

(b) Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel

(c) Subhas Chandra Bose

(d) Bhagat Singh

(e) Jawaharlal Nehru

24) What is the theme of World Leprosy Day 2026 observed on 30th January?

(a) End Leprosy Now

(b) Fight Leprosy, Save Lives

(c) Cure Leprosy, End Suffering

(d) Stop Leprosy, Spread Awareness

(e) Leprosy is curable, the real challenge is stigma

25) What is the theme of World Neglected Tropical Diseases Day 2026?

(a) End Tropical Diseases Now

(b) Fight Neglected Diseases

(c) Unite. Act. Eliminate

(d) Neglected Diseases for All

(e) Awareness, Prevention, Cure

Answers :

1) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) released the Report of the Expert Group on Comprehensive Updation of the Consumer Price Index (CPI).

A key recommendation is the adoption of the COICOP 2018 framework (Classification of Individual Consumption According to Purpose) up to the sub-class level for item classification.

Detailed Explanation:

The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) released the Report of the Expert Group on Comprehensive Updation of the Consumer Price Index (CPI).

The Expert Group for CPI base revision included experts from academia, senior officials from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), and Government of India representatives.

The report aims to capture changing household consumption behaviour and incorporate global best practices and methodological developments in CPI compilation.

A key recommendation is the adoption of the COICOP 2018 framework (Classification of Individual Consumption According to Purpose) up to the sub-class level for item classification.

The CPI item basket and weights will be updated using data from the Household Consumption Expenditure Survey (HCES) 2023-24.

The CPI 2024 series will include 358 weighted items, mapped to 12 Divisions, 43 Groups, 62 Classes, and 192 Sub-classes in line with the COICOP 2018 classification.

2) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

The Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) permitted the launch of ‘NPS Swasthya Pension Scheme’ as a Proof of Concept (PoC) under its Regulatory Sandbox Framework to integrate health benefits with pension savings.

The scheme is introduced under the PFRDA Act, 2013 and operates with temporary relaxations in the PFRDA (Exits and Withdrawals under NPS) Regulations, 2015 during the PoC period.

Detailed Explanation:

The Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) permitted the launch of ‘NPS Swasthya Pension Scheme’ as a Proof of Concept (PoC) under its Regulatory Sandbox Framework to integrate health benefits with pension savings.

The scheme is introduced under the PFRDA Act, 2013 and operates with temporary relaxations in the PFRDA (Exits and Withdrawals under NPS) Regulations, 2015 during the PoC period.

NPS Swasthya Pension Scheme will function as a specific sector scheme under the Multiple Scheme Framework (MSF) of the National Pension System (NPS).

The pilot project will be launched by approved Pension Funds (PFs) for a limited period, subject to prior approval from PFRDA.

For implementation, PFs may collaborate with Central Recordkeeping Agencies (CRAs), fintech firms, and Health Benefit Administrators (HBAs) / Third-Party Administrators (TPAs).

Eligibility: Any Indian citizen can enrol, provided they have a Common Scheme Account (CSA) under NPS.

3) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

The Economic Survey 2025–26 highlights India’s ambition to become a global financial and services hub, led by GIFT City IFSC and large-scale Global Capability Centre (GCC) expansion.

GIFT City improved its global standing, ranking 43rd among 120 financial centres in the Global Financial Centres Index, and gained 10 places in fintech rankings through sandboxes and innovation hubs.

Detailed Explanation:

The Economic Survey 2025–26 highlights India’s ambition to become a global financial and services hub, led by GIFT City IFSC and large-scale Global Capability Centre (GCC) expansion.

GIFT City has emerged as a key conduit for global capital flows, facilitating onshore financial activities previously routed through Singapore, Mauritius, and the Cayman Islands.

As of 30 November 2025, over 1,034 domestic and international entities were registered at GIFT IFSC, spanning banking, capital markets, insurance, fintech, and fund management.

The creation of the International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA) in April 2020 as a unified regulator replaced fragmented oversight by RBI, SEBI, IRDAI, and PFRDA for IFSC operations.

GIFT City improved its global standing, ranking 43rd among 120 financial centres in the Global Financial Centres Index, and gained 10 places in fintech rankings through sandboxes and innovation hubs.

4) Answer: E

Short Explanation:

Punjab & Sind Bank has received Reserve Bank of India (RBI) approval to open a branch at the International Financial Services Centre (IFSC) in GIFT City, Gandhinagar.

The new branch will operate within GIFT City, India’s globally competitive financial services hub.

Detailed Explanation:

Punjab & Sind Bank has received Reserve Bank of India (RBI) approval to open a branch at the International Financial Services Centre (IFSC) in GIFT City, Gandhinagar.

The new branch will operate within GIFT City, India’s globally competitive financial services hub.

The move strengthens the bank’s capabilities in foreign currency lending, trade finance, treasury operations, and international banking services.

Punjab & Sind Bank is a state-owned public sector bank, headquartered in New Delhi, led by MD & CEO Swarup Kumar Saha.

Opening a branch at GIFT City IFSC marks the bank’s formal entry into global financial services and aligns with India’s ambition of positioning GIFT City as a world-class financial hub.

5) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

India has agreed to allow European Union (EU) banks to open up to 15 branches over a four-year period under the India–EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA).

The move represents a calibrated opening of India’s financial services sector, while retaining safeguards for domestic stability and national interests.

Currently, European banks operating in India include Deutsche Bank, BNP Paribas, and Societe Generale.

Detailed Explanation:

India has agreed to allow European Union (EU) banks to open up to 15 branches over a four-year period under the India–EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA).

The move represents a calibrated opening of India’s financial services sector, while retaining safeguards for domestic stability and national interests.

Currently, European banks operating in India include Deutsche Bank, BNP Paribas, and Societe Generale.

The cap of 15 branches reflects India’s cautious approach to financial sector liberalisation, balancing foreign participation with regulatory oversight by domestic authorities.

Under the FTA, India allows 100% foreign direct investment (FDI) in the insurance sector and 74% FDI in banking services.

6) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

A landmark collaboration was announced between Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE), Google Cloud, and Chaudhary Charan Singh University (CCSU), Meerut, positioning CCSU as India’s first Artificial Intelligence-enabled State University pilot.

The initiative aligns with the Prime Minister’s vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, focusing on technology-driven development.

Detailed Explanation:

A landmark collaboration was announced between Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE), Google Cloud, and Chaudhary Charan Singh University (CCSU), Meerut, positioning CCSU as India’s first Artificial Intelligence-enabled State University pilot.

The initiative aligns with the Prime Minister’s vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, focusing on technology-driven development.

Under the pilot, CCSU Meerut will act as a living laboratory for AI-first education, implementing personalised AI tutors, AI-driven skill-gap analysis, and intelligent document processing for administrative efficiency.

The pilot will benefit CCSU’s affiliated colleges, with scalability planned across over 45,000 colleges and 1,200 universities in India.

The initiative is aligned with the Government’s ₹60,000 crore Model Industrial Training Institute Scheme, enabling integration of AI-enabled curricula in vocational institutions.

Google announced an ₹85 crore Google.org grant to Wadhwani Artificial Intelligence to support AI integration into national platforms such as Study Webs of Active Learning for Young Aspiring Minds (SWAYAM) and Poshan Tracker, targeting nearly 75 million learners.

7) Answer: E

Short Explanation:

India has formally submitted the nomination dossier of Meghalaya’s living root bridges, titled “Jingkieng Jri / Lyu Chrai Cultural Landscape”, to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) for the 2026–27 World Heritage evaluation cycle.

Detailed Explanation:

India has formally submitted the nomination dossier of Meghalaya’s living root bridges, titled “Jingkieng Jri / Lyu Chrai Cultural Landscape”, to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) for the 2026–27 World Heritage evaluation cycle.

The dossier was submitted by Vishal V. Sharma, India’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to UNESCO, to Lazare Assomo Eloundou, Director of UNESCO’s World Heritage Centre.

The nominated cultural landscape spans the Khasi Hills and Jaintia Hills of Meghalaya.

8) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

Montra Electric, the electric commercial vehicle business vertical of the Murugappa Group, became the first heavy-duty electric truck manufacturer in India to receive certification under the Prime Minister Electric Drive Revolution in Innovative Vehicle Enhancement Scheme (PM E-DRIVE) of the Government of India.

Detailed Explanation:

Montra Electric, the electric commercial vehicle business vertical of the Murugappa Group, became the first heavy-duty electric truck manufacturer in India to receive certification under the Prime Minister Electric Drive Revolution in Innovative Vehicle Enhancement Scheme (PM E-DRIVE) of the Government of India.

The company delivered India’s first PM E-DRIVE certified electric heavy-duty truck, Rhino 5538 Electric Vehicle 6×4 tractor trailer, to UltraTech Cement Limited, India’s largest cement and ready-mix concrete company.

Certification under the ₹10,900 crore PM E-DRIVE Scheme provides direct customer incentives of up to ₹9.6 lakh per vehicle for the Rhino 5538 Electric Vehicle, improving economic viability of electric heavy-duty trucks.

The PM E-DRIVE Scheme has allocated ₹500 crore exclusively for electric trucks, aiming to accelerate the shift from conventional fuels in logistics, mining, infrastructure, and manufacturing sectors.

9) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare constituted a high-level Committee to review and strengthen the functioning of Farmer Producer Organisations in Tamil Nadu.

Indian Council of Agricultural Research – National Research Centre for Banana, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, along with Krishi Vigyan Kendras through Indian Council of Agricultural Research – Agricultural Technology Application Research Institutes, Hyderabad, Telangana, will act as the host institution and provide logistical and secretarial support.

Detailed Explanation:

The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare constituted a high-level Committee to review and strengthen the functioning of Farmer Producer Organisations in Tamil Nadu.

It will recommend measures to strengthen operational efficiency, technical support systems, institutional coordination, and market linkages, with special focus on key crops of Tamil Nadu.

The Committee is expected to submit its final report within two months to the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare.

Indian Council of Agricultural Research – National Research Centre for Banana, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, along with Krishi Vigyan Kendras through Indian Council of Agricultural Research – Agricultural Technology Application Research Institutes, Hyderabad, Telangana, will act as the host institution and provide logistical and secretarial support.

10) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

Detailed Explanation:

The National Institution for Transforming India launched Sampoornata Abhiyan 2.0 to ensure essential services reach the most remote and underserved populations.

The campaign aims to fast-track development and achieve 100 percent saturation of key development indicators across Aspirational Districts and Aspirational Blocks in India.

Sampoornata Abhiyan 2.0 will be conducted for a three-month period from 28 January to 14 April 2026.

The campaign was launched by B. V. R. Subrahmanyam, Chief Executive Officer, National Institution for Transforming India, in the presence of Rohit Kumar, Additional Secretary and Mission Director, Aspirational Districts and Blocks Programme, National Institution for Transforming India, along with Planning Secretaries.

The initiative expands Sampoornata Abhiyan 2024 and covers 112 Aspirational Districts and 513 Aspirational Blocks under the Aspirational Districts and Blocks Programme.

11) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

The Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority introduced the National Pension System Swasthya Pension Scheme through a circular issued under the Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority Act, 2013.

Subscribers are permitted to make partial withdrawals for medical expenses up to 25 percent of their own contributions, with no restriction on the number of withdrawals, after accumulation of a minimum corpus of fifty thousand rupees.

Detailed Explanation:

The Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority introduced the National Pension System Swasthya Pension Scheme through a circular issued under the Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority Act, 2013.

The scheme has been launched as a Proof of Concept under the Regulatory Sandbox Framework to integrate health-related benefits with the National Pension System.

It will operate as a specific sector scheme under the Multiple Scheme Framework.

Pension Funds may collaborate with Central Recordkeeping Agencies, financial technology firms, and Health Benefit Administrators or Third-Party Administrators for administration of the scheme.

Any Indian citizen is eligible to enrol under the scheme, provided the individual has a Common Scheme Account, which can be opened if not already available.

Subscribers are permitted to make partial withdrawals for medical expenses up to 25 percent of their own contributions, with no restriction on the number of withdrawals, after accumulation of a minimum corpus of fifty thousand rupees.

12) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Union Commission, and Antonio Luis Santos da Costa, President of the European Union Council, paid an official visit to India from January 25 to January 27, 2026, as Chief Guests for the 77th Republic Day of India, on the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Detailed Explanation:

Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Union Commission, and Antonio Luis Santos da Costa, President of the European Union Council, paid an official visit to India from January 25 to January 27, 2026, as Chief Guests for the 77th Republic Day of India, on the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The visit was accompanied by a high-level European Union delegation, including Kaja Kallas, Vice-President of the European Union Commission, marking her first official visit to India.

The 16th India–European Union Summit was co-chaired in New Delhi by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, President of the European Union Council Antonio Luis Santos da Costa, and President of the European Union Commission Ursula von der Leyen.

The previous summit was held virtually in July 2020.

India and the European Union endorsed the “2030 Joint India–European Union Comprehensive Strategic Agenda” for the next five years.

13) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

The 56th Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum (WEF) was held from 19–23 January 2026 at Davos-Klosters, Switzerland, with the theme “A Spirit of Dialogue.”

The WEF 2026 served as a neutral global platform for dialogue on global cooperation, innovation, economic growth, and inclusive prosperity amid geopolitical and technological challenges.

The Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship (MSDE), Government of India, signed an MoU with WEF to establish a Skills Accelerator in India.

Detailed Explanation:

The 56th Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum (WEF) was held from 19–23 January 2026 at Davos-Klosters, Switzerland, with the theme “A Spirit of Dialogue.”

The WEF 2026 served as a neutral global platform for dialogue on global cooperation, innovation, economic growth, and inclusive prosperity amid geopolitical and technological challenges.

The Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship (MSDE), Government of India, signed an MoU with WEF to establish a Skills Accelerator in India.

The Government of Maharashtra signed 19 MoUs worth ₹14.50 lakh crore (USD 175 billion) at WEF 2026.

Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis announced India’s first Innovation City near Navi Mumbai International Airport, with an investment of ₹91,000 crore (USD 11 billion) by Tata Sons.

The Government of Uttar Pradesh (UP) signed MoUs worth ₹9,750 crore, focusing on clean energy, renewable energy (RE), AI, digital infrastructure, and defence manufacturing.

14) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

Pakistan and Bangladesh have resumed direct air connectivity after a 14-year gap, indicating a notable improvement in bilateral relations.

The inaugural Dhaka–Karachi flight was operated by Biman Bangladesh Airlines, ending the suspension in place since 2012.

Detailed Explanation:

Pakistan and Bangladesh have resumed direct air connectivity after a 14-year gap, indicating a notable improvement in bilateral relations.

The inaugural Dhaka–Karachi flight was operated by Biman Bangladesh Airlines, ending the suspension in place since 2012.

Flight BG341 departed from Dhaka’s Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport and landed at Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport, greeted with a traditional water cannon salute.

Officials from both countries attended the departure ceremony, highlighting the political significance of the flight.

15) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

Taiwan has successfully completed the first underwater sea trial of its domestically developed submarine, marking a major milestone in strengthening maritime deterrence against China.

The submarine, named “Narwhal” (also known as Hai Kun), conducted a shallow-water submerged navigation test off Kaohsiung, Taiwan’s southern port city.

Detailed Explanation:

Taiwan has successfully completed the first underwater sea trial of its domestically developed submarine, marking a major milestone in strengthening maritime deterrence against China.

The submarine, named “Narwhal” (also known as Hai Kun), conducted a shallow-water submerged navigation test off Kaohsiung, Taiwan’s southern port city.

The trial was confirmed by CSBC Corporation, Taiwan’s state-owned shipbuilder leading the indigenous submarine programme.

Taiwan plans a total of eight domestically built submarines under this programme to enhance its ability to protect vital sea lanes and conduct sea denial operations.

The programme has leveraged expertise and technology from the United States and the United Kingdom, a notable breakthrough for diplomatically isolated Taiwan.

China considers Taiwan its territory and has increased military pressure through frequent naval exercises around the island.

16) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

India’s space economy is currently valued at USD 8.4 billion, with 399 space start-ups operating in launch vehicles, satellites, propulsion systems, and space-grade electronics.

According to IN-SPACe’s Decadal Vision Report, India aims to expand its space economy from USD 8.4 billion (2022) to USD 44 billion by 2033, including USD 11 billion in exports.

Detailed Explanation:

India’s space economy is currently valued at USD 8.4 billion, with 399 space start-ups operating in launch vehicles, satellites, propulsion systems, and space-grade electronics.

Indian Space Policy 2023 permits private entities to undertake end-to-end space activities, including launches, satellite manufacturing and operations, data services, and ground stations.

IN-SPACe has disbursed ₹2.36 crore under its Seed Fund and Pre-Incubation Entrepreneurship Programme to support early-stage space ventures.

According to IN-SPACe’s Decadal Vision Report, India aims to expand its space economy from USD 8.4 billion (2022) to USD 44 billion by 2033, including USD 11 billion in exports.

The Decadal Vision Strategy of IN-SPACe focuses on three pillars: Revenue Generation, Ecosystem Development, and Catalysing Space Activities.

17) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) and Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Limited (ONGC) signed a resource-sharing agreement during India Energy Week (IEW) 2026 in Goa (27–30 January 2026) to enhance operational efficiency and strengthen India’s energy security.

The agreement enables delivery of specialized logging, well services, subsea equipment, and emergency response by jointly leveraging offshore assets to optimize performance.

Detailed Explanation:

Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) and Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Limited (ONGC) signed a resource-sharing agreement during India Energy Week (IEW) 2026 in Goa (27–30 January 2026) to enhance operational efficiency and strengthen India’s energy security.

The agreement enables delivery of specialized logging, well services, subsea equipment, and emergency response by jointly leveraging offshore assets to optimize performance.

The framework covers operations in the Krishna Godavari (KG) Basin and Andaman offshore blocks.

Shared assets include Offshore Supply Vessels (OSVs), Multipurpose Support Vessels (MSVs), tugs, drilling rigs, platforms, pipelines, processing facilities, and power systems.

The agreement is governed by the Oilfields (Regulation and Development) Amendment Act, 2025 (ORDA Act 2025), and foreign-flagged OSVs require approvals from the Ministry of Defence (MoD), Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), and Director General of Shipping (DGS), with shared-use allowing seamless movement.

18) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) has operationalised PAIMANA (Project Assessment, Infrastructure Monitoring & Analytics for Nation-building) to monitor Central Sector Infrastructure Projects worth ₹150 crore and above.

Detailed Explanation:

The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) has operationalised PAIMANA (Project Assessment, Infrastructure Monitoring & Analytics for Nation-building) to monitor Central Sector Infrastructure Projects worth ₹150 crore and above.

PAIMANA replaces the old OCMS-2006 (Online Computerised Monitoring System), thereby modernising infrastructure project monitoring.

Following the principle of “one data, one entry”, PAIMANA is integrated via APIs with the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade’s (DPIIT)Integrated Project Monitoring Portal (IPMP / IIG-PMG).

This integration allows automatic data flow from IPMP, reducing manual data entry, with approximately 60% of projects updated automatically.

The portal was operationalised through coordination with 20+ Central Ministries/Departments, along with DEA and DPIIT, covering project mapping, data migration, validation, and analytics.

19) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (IIMA) exchanged a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Ms. Chandrika Krishnamurthy Tandon and Mr. Ranjan Tandon for the establishment of the Krishnamurthy Tandon School of Artificial Intelligence at IIMA.

Detailed Explanation:

Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (IIMA) exchanged a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Ms. Chandrika Krishnamurthy Tandon and Mr. Ranjan Tandon for the establishment of the Krishnamurthy Tandon School of Artificial Intelligence at IIMA.

The MoU exchange took place in the presence of Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, Union Minister of Education, Government of India, in New Delhi, and Ambassador Shri Vinay Kwatra virtually from the United States of America.

The School will be established through a ₹100 crore endowment contributed by Ms. Chandrika Krishnamurthy Tandon, alumna of Post Graduate Programme Class of 1975 of IIMA, and Mr. Ranjan Tandon.

The MoU exchange was held in the lead-up to the India – Artificial Intelligence Impact Summit 2026.

20) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

The All India Institute of Ayurveda, the apex institution under the Ministry of AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga, and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy), signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Centre for Ayurveda Education, Innovation and Technology, marking a significant step towards strengthening digital health initiatives in Ayurveda.

Detailed Explanation:

The All India Institute of Ayurveda, the apex institution under the Ministry of AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga, and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy), signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Centre for Ayurveda Education, Innovation and Technology, marking a significant step towards strengthening digital health initiatives in Ayurveda.

The Memorandum of Understanding focuses on cutting-edge research, technology transfer, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning-enabled analysis of Ayurvedic data, and the development of innovative educational frameworks within the Ayurvedic sector.

The collaboration aims to integrate modern technologies with traditional Ayurvedic knowledge to enhance research, education, and evidence-based practices.

21) Answer: E

Short Explanation:

The sixth edition of the Khelo India Winter Games 2026 was inaugurated by Lieutenant Governor Kavinder Gupta at the Nawang Dorjan Stobdan Stadium, Leh, Union Territory of Ladakh.

The first phase of the Games, dedicated to ice sports, was held from 20 January to 26 January 2026.

In the medal tally, Haryana topped the table with 5 Gold, 1 Silver, and 2 Bronze medals.

Detailed Explanation:

The sixth edition of the Khelo India Winter Games 2026 was inaugurated by Lieutenant Governor Kavinder Gupta at the Nawang Dorjan Stobdan Stadium, Leh, Union Territory of Ladakh.

The first phase of the Games, dedicated to ice sports, was held from 20 January to 26 January 2026.

In the medal tally, Haryana topped the table with 5 Gold, 1 Silver, and 2 Bronze medals.

Ladakh secured the second position with 2 Gold, 5 Silver, and 4 Bronze medals.

Maharashtra finished third with 2 Gold, 3 Silver, and 2 Bronze medals.

The Games were organised by the Department of Youth Services and Sports, Union Territory of Ladakh, under the supervision of the Sports Authority of India, with technical support from National Sports Federations.

22) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

Michael Nobbs, former Australian hockey player, passed away at the age of 72 after a prolonged illness.

He earned 76 international caps for Australia between 1979 and 1985.

Nobbs was part of the Australian hockey teams that competed in the 1981 Hockey World Cup in Bombay and the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics.

Detailed Explanation:

Michael Nobbs, former Australian hockey player, passed away at the age of 72 after a prolonged illness.

He earned 76 international caps for Australia between 1979 and 1985.

Nobbs was part of the Australian hockey teams that competed in the 1981 Hockey World Cup in Bombay and the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics.

He became the coach of the Indian men’s hockey team in 2011, following India’s failure to qualify for the 2008 Beijing Olympics.

23) Answer: A

Martyrs Day 2026 is observed on 30th January.

Martyrs Day 2026 is held to remember the death of Mahatma Gandhi, who was killed on 30th January 1948.

His full name is Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, he is frequently referred to as "Bapu," or the "Father of the Nation."

24) Answer: E

World Leprosy Day 2026 is observed on 30th January 2026.

The theme for World Leprosy Day 2026 is "Leprosy is curable, the real challenge is stigma". 

25) Answer: C

The World Neglected Tropical Diseases Day 2026 is celebrated every year on the 30th of January 2026.

World Neglected Tropical Diseases Day Theme is "Unite. Act. Eliminate".