General Awareness PYQs

The correct answer is option4. The detailed solution will be updated soon.

The correct answer is Operation Sindoor.

Key Points

• Operation Sindoor was a major counter-terrorism initiative launched in May 2025 in response to a sudden terror attack in the Pahalgam region of Jammu and Kashmir.
• The operation was conducted as a joint tactical exercise involving the Indian Army, the Special Operations Group (SOG) of the state police, and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) to neutralize high-value targets.
• The primary objective of Operation Sindoor was to secure the Lidder Valley and clear the surrounding forest areas of Anantnag district from infiltrating militants who posed a threat to local peace.
• Security forces utilized cutting-edge technology, including thermal imaging drones and night-vision equipment, to track movements across the difficult mountainous terrain of Pahalgam.
• This operation was crucial for maintaining the safety of the Amarnath Yatra pilgrimage route, which passes through Pahalgam and attracts thousands of devotees annually.

Additional Information

• Geographical Context of Pahalgam:
• Pahalgam is a world-famous hill station located in the Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir at an altitude of approximately 2,740 meters.
• It serves as the starting point for the traditional route of the Amarnath Yatra and is located at the confluence of the streams flowing from Sheshnag Lake and the Lidder River.
• Other Notable Military Operations:
• Operation Vijay: This was the successful mission conducted by the Indian Armed Forces in 1999 to recapture the heights in the Kargil sector from Pakistani infiltrators.
• Operation All-Out: A multi-agency strategy launched in 2017 to flush out militants from various districts of Kashmir, aimed at restoring long-term stability.
• Operation Sadbhavana: Also known as Operation Goodwill, this is an initiative by the Indian Army in Jammu and Kashmir to address the needs of the local population through education, infrastructure, and healthcare.
• Strategic Significance:
• The security grid in Jammu and Kashmir is continuously monitored by the Unified Command, which ensures coordination between the Army, Paramilitary forces, and Intelligence agencies.
• Following the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019, there has been an increased focus on intelligence-led operations to prevent cross-border infiltration.

Important Points

• The success of Operation Sindoor in 2025 demonstrated the enhanced Electronic Intelligence (ELINT) capabilities of the Indian Army in high-altitude combat.
• The timing of the operation in May was critical as it coincided with the preparation phase for the summer tourism season, which is the backbone of the local economy in Pahalgam.
• The Rashtriya Rifles (RR), the specialized counter-insurgency force of the Indian Army, played a leading role in the ground-level execution of the operation.

The correct answer is Jyotiraditya M Scindia.

Key Points

• Union Minister Jyotiraditya M Scindia unveiled the new logo of Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) on October 22, 2024, in New Delhi.
• The new logo, featuring the vibrant colors of the Indian National Flag (Saffron, White, and Green), signifies BSNL's renewed commitment to connecting every corner of the country with trust and strength.
• Alongside the logo, the Minister introduced seven new citizen-centric services designed to make BSNL a more competitive and consumer-friendly telecom provider.
• The launch event highlighted BSNL's transition from a recovery phase to a growth phase, focusing on high-speed internet and secure communication for the common man.
• The Minister emphasized that the new identity reflects the vision of an "Atmanirbhar Bharat" (Self-reliant India) in the telecommunications sector.

Additional Information

• BSNL (Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited): It is a Central Public Sector Undertaking headquartered in New Delhi, incorporated on October 1, 2000. It provides a wide range of telecom services across India, except in Delhi and Mumbai (served by MTNL).
• Ministerial Portfolios: Jyotiraditya M Scindia currently serves as the Union Minister of Communications and the Minister of Rural Development. He took charge of these portfolios in June 2024.
• Other Options:
• Amit Shah serves as the Union Minister of Home Affairs and the first Minister of Cooperation.
• Giriraj Singh holds the portfolio of the Union Minister of Textiles.
• Jitin Prasada is the Minister of State in the Ministry of Commerce and Industry and the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology.
• Technological Shift: BSNL is working on deploying a 4G network using indigenous technology developed by a consortium led by TCS, C-DOT, and Tejas Networks, which is designed to be seamlessly upgradable to 5G.

Important Points

• The Seven New Services: The services launched include a Spam-free network (using AI to block malicious SMS), National Wi-Fi Roaming for FTTH users, and BSNL IFTTV (Internet Fiber TV).
• Direct-to-Cell Technology: This service was introduced to provide connectivity in remote areas by bypassing traditional mobile towers and connecting devices directly via satellite.
• Any-time SIM (ATM): BSNL launched automated kiosks that allow users to buy, replace, or port SIM cards 24/7 using QR-enabled payments and KYC integration.
• Public Protection & Disaster Relief (PPDR): A specialized communication solution designed for emergency services and disaster management agencies to ensure uninterrupted connectivity during crises.

The correct answer is To improve the state's emergency readiness and response systems.

Key Points

• Operation Shield is a large-scale civil defence mock drill designed to evaluate the preparedness and efficacy of state administrative and emergency services.
• Conducted in May 2025, the exercise aims to refine the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) followed by various departments during high-stress crisis situations.
• The primary objective of this operation is to improve the state's emergency readiness and response systems by testing the inter-departmental coordination between the Police, Fire Department, Health Services, and Disaster Management units. Hence, the correct answer is option 2.
• During the drill, personnel practice rapid deployment and rescue operations in simulated environments to identify operational bottlenecks and improve the reaction time of first responders.
• The initiative also focuses on the training of civil defence volunteers, ensuring that local communities have a structured first-aid and evacuation support system during real-time disasters.

Additional Information

• Civil Defence in India:
• Civil Defence is primarily governed by the Civil Defence Act, 1968, which was enacted to protect persons and property against hostile attacks.
• In recent years, its scope has expanded to include disaster management and community resilience during natural and man-made calamities.
• National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA):
• The NDMA is the apex statutory body for disaster management in India, headed by the Prime Minister.
• It was established under the Disaster Management Act, 2005, and is responsible for framing national policies and guidelines for disaster mitigation.
• Mock Drills and Simulations:
• Mock drills are essential tools used by state and central agencies to simulate hazardous events like earthquakes, chemical leaks, or terrorist threats.
• These exercises help in verifying the functionality of emergency equipment and the clarity of communication channels used by the rescue teams.
• State Disaster Response Force (SDRF):
• Modeled after the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), the SDRF is the specialized force at the state level dedicated to responding to disaster situations.
• It plays a vital role in Operation Shield by providing the technical expertise needed for specialized search and rescue tasks.

Important Points

• Significance of Operation Shield: Such drills are crucial for urban planning and public safety, especially in densely populated industrial hubs or vulnerable geographical zones.
• Community Involvement: A major component of these drills is public awareness, teaching citizens how to use emergency helplines and basic survival techniques.
• Technological Integration: In 2025, these drills often incorporate advanced technology such as drones for aerial surveillance, AI-based casualty estimation, and real-time tracking of emergency vehicles.

The correct answer is Christian Davenport.

Key Points

• The book titled “Rocket Dreams: Musk, Bezos, and the Inside Story of the New, Trillion-Dollar Space Race” is authored by Christian Davenport, a prominent journalist and author specialized in the space industry.
• Published in early 2025, the book serves as a sequel or an extensive follow-up to his previous reporting on the evolution of private space flight and the commercialization of the cosmos.
• The narrative explores the intense rivalry between billionaires Elon Musk, the founder of SpaceX, and Jeff Bezos, the founder of Blue Origin, detailing their personal and professional clashes.
• It examines the shift from government-led exploration to a trillion-dollar space economy, highlighting the role of private capital in missions to Low Earth Orbit (LEO) and the Moon.
• The book provides inside accounts of the technological breakthroughs, political lobbying, and the ambitious goal of making humanity a multi-planetary species.

Additional Information

• Christian Davenport: He is a veteran reporter for The Washington Post, where he covers the defense and space industries. He is also the author of the 2018 bestseller "The Space Barons," which first chronicled the rise of private space ventures.
• Walter Isaacson: A renowned biographer who published the comprehensive biography "Elon Musk" in September 2023. While his work covers SpaceX extensively, he is not the author of "Rocket Dreams."
• Ashlee Vance: An American business columnist and author known for writing "Elon Musk: Tesla, SpaceX, and the Quest for a Fantastic Future" in 2015, which was one of the first major biographies of Musk.
• Neil deGrasse Tyson: A world-famous astrophysicist and director of the Hayden Planetarium. He has authored several books on science, such as "Astrophysics for People in a Hurry" and "Starry Messenger," but his work focuses on science communication rather than the business history of the space race.
• The New Space Race: Unlike the Cold War era race between the United States and the Soviet Union, the modern space race is characterized by reusable rocket technology, satellite mega-constellations like Starlink, and competition for NASA contracts under the Artemis program.

Important Points

• The trillion-dollar valuation mentioned in the title refers to projections by financial institutions like Morgan Stanley and Goldman Sachs, suggesting the space industry will exceed $1 trillion in annual revenue by 2040.
• Major milestones covered in recent space literature include the success of the Falcon 9 rockets, the development of the Starship spacecraft, and the New Shepard suborbital missions.
• The competition between Musk and Bezos has legal dimensions, including disputes over launch pads at Kennedy Space Center and NASA lunar lander contracts$.

The correct answer is Britain.

Key Points

• Britain (the United Kingdom) officially became the first European nation to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP).
• The formal signing of the accession protocol took place on July 16, 2023, in Auckland, New Zealand.
• The United Kingdom is the first new member to join the trade bloc since its inception in 2018 and the first member located outside the Indo-Pacific region.
• The accession process began in February 2021, following the UK's formal application to join the group after its departure from the European Union.
• The agreement was signed by the UK Business and Trade Secretary, Kemi Badenoch, representing a major milestone in the country's post-Brexit trade strategy.

Additional Information

• CPTPP Membership: With the UK joining, the trade bloc now consists of 12 countries, including Australia, Brunei, Canada, Chile, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Peru, Singapore, and Vietnam.
• Economic Scale: The inclusion of Britain brings the combined GDP of the CPTPP nations to approximately £12 trillion, accounting for about 15% of the global Gross Domestic Product.
• Trade Benefits: The agreement is designed to eliminate tariffs on more than 99% of goods traded between members, providing UK businesses with better access to high-growth markets for exports like automobiles, whisky, and dairy products.
• Indo-Pacific Tilt: Joining the CPTPP is a central part of the United Kingdom's strategic "Indo-Pacific tilt," aimed at strengthening economic and diplomatic ties with the world's fastest-growing region.
• Sovereignty and Regulation: Unlike the EU, the CPTPP is a free trade area rather than a single market; therefore, Britain retains sovereignty over its own borders and laws while adhering to shared high-standard trade rules.

Important Points

• Historical Context: The CPTPP was evolved from the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) after the United States withdrew from the negotiations in 2017 under the administration of Donald Trump.
• Future Expansion: Several other nations, including China, Taiwan, Costa Rica, Uruguay, and Ukraine, have formally applied or expressed a strong interest in joining the CPTPP.
• Growth Projections: The UK government estimates that joining the bloc will provide a long-term boost of £1.8 billion to the UK economy and increase wages for workers across the country.
• High Standards: All CPTPP members must commit to high standards in labor rights, environmental protection, and intellectual property, which helps ensure a level playing field for international trade.

The correct answer is Harvinder Singh.

Key Points

• Harvinder Singh is a prominent para-archer from the Kaithal district of Haryana, who has consistently brought laurels to India at the international level.
• In January 2025, the Government of India conferred upon him the Padma Shri, the fourth-highest civilian award, in recognition of his historic achievements in sports.
• He achieved a historic milestone by winning the gold medal in the Men's Individual Recurve Open event at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games.
• With this victory, he became the first Indian archer (across both Olympics and Paralympics) to win a gold medal in the sport of archery.
• Earlier, at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics, he won a bronze medal, making him the first Indian to win an archery medal in the history of the Paralympic Games.
• His consecutive podium finishes in Tokyo and Paris showcase his dominance and consistency in the Para-Archery circuit.

Additional Information

• Padma Awards 2025:
• The Padma Awards are announced annually on the eve of Republic Day (January 25).
• In 2025, several athletes who excelled at the Paris Olympics and Paralympics were honored to celebrate India's best-ever performance in various sporting categories.
• Para-Sports in Haryana:
• The state of Haryana is a major contributor to India's sporting talent pool, often referred to as the Sports Hub of India.
• Athletes like Harvinder Singh, Deepa Malik, and Sumit Antil hail from this state, benefitting from its robust sports policy and financial incentives for medal winners.
• Mariyappan Thangavelu:
• He is a legendary para-high jumper from Tamil Nadu.
• He won gold at Rio 2016, silver at Tokyo 2020, and bronze at Paris 2024. He was awarded the Padma Shri in 2017.
• Deepa Malik:
• She was the first Indian woman to win a medal in the Paralympic Games (Rio 2016).
• A recipient of the Padma Shri in 2017 and the Khel Ratna in 2019, she also served as the President of the Paralympic Committee of India (PCI).
• Paris 2024 Paralympics:
• India finished the Paris 2024 Paralympics with its highest-ever medal tally of 29 medals, including 7 gold, 9 silver, and 13 bronze.
• Harvinder Singh and Sheetal Devi were among the standout performers in the archery discipline during this edition.

Important Points

• Harvinder Singh holds a Ph.D. in Economics, proving his excellence in both academics and sports.
• His journey is particularly inspiring as he suffered from an impairment in his legs due to an adverse reaction to an injection during his childhood.
• He is supported by the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS), a flagship program of the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, which provides world-class training and infrastructure to elite athletes.
• The Padma Shri 2025 recognizes not just his gold medal, but also his role in popularizing Para-Archery among the youth of India.

The correct answer is Iris.

Key Points

• Iris is India’s first AI-generated school teacher robot, representing a significant milestone in the integration of Artificial Intelligence within the education sector.
• The robot was developed by Makerlabs Edutech and was officially unveiled at KTCT Higher Secondary School in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, in March 2024.
• It was created as part of the Atal Tinkering Lab (ATL) project, an initiative by NITI Aayog designed to foster curiosity and innovation among school students across India.
• Iris is a humanoid robot capable of speaking three languages and is designed to answer a wide range of complex questions, providing a personalized interactive learning experience for students.
• Equipped with a voice assistant and interactive capabilities, the robot can move on wheels, gesture with its hands, and engage students in a manner that supplements traditional teaching methods.

Additional Information

• Makerlabs Edutech:
• It is a Kochi-based startup specializing in Educational Technology, Robotics, and AI solutions.
• The development of Iris highlights the growing startup ecosystem in Kerala, often supported by the Kerala Startup Mission (KSUM).
• Technical Features of Iris:
• The robot is built using a high-performance Intel processor and a dedicated coprocessor to handle real-time interactions.
• It utilizes Generative AI technologies (similar to ChatGPT) to process information and generate human-like responses to academic queries.
• To make the robot more relatable to students in Kerala, it is designed as a humanoid figure dressed in traditional Saree attire.
• Atal Innovation Mission (AIM):
• Launched by NITI Aayog, AIM is the Government of India’s flagship initiative to promote a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship.
• The Atal Tinkering Labs are established in schools to provide students with hands-on experience in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields.
• Comparative Context:
• While Iris is a pioneer in Indian classrooms, other famous robots include Sophia, developed by Hanson Robotics, which became the first robot to receive Saudi Arabian citizenship in 2017.
• The introduction of AI teachers aims to address teacher shortages and provide 24/7 assistance to students, though they are intended to assist rather than replace human educators.

Important Points

• Kerala has consistently been a leader in literacy and educational innovation in India, being one of the first states to digitize classrooms.
• The use of Generative AI in schools helps in Personalized Learning, allowing the robot to adapt its teaching style according to the student's pace and level of understanding.
• The deployment of Iris is seen as a step toward achieving the goals of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which emphasizes the integration of technology in education to improve learning outcomes.

p>The correct answer is Ganga Athletics Ground, Uttarakhand.

Key Points

• Jyothi Yarraji, India’s elite female hurdler, delivered a stellar record-breaking performance at the National Games 2025.
• The specific venue for this achievement was the Ganga Athletics Ground, located in Uttarakhand, which served as the primary site for track and field events.
• During the competition, she participated in the 100m hurdles, an event where she has consistently set and reset the National Record for India.
• The National Games 2025 represented the 39^th edition of this multi-sport extravaganza, hosted by the state of Uttarakhand to promote sports infrastructure in the Himalayan region.
• Representing her home state of Andhra Pradesh, Jyothi Yarraji utilized the high-quality synthetic track at the Ganga Athletics Ground to surpass the previous Games Record.

Additional Information

• Athlete Profile: Jyothi Yarraji
• She was born on August 28, 1999, in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh.
• She made history by becoming the first Indian woman to run the 100m hurdles in under 13 seconds, achieving a timing of 12.78 seconds.
• Her international accolades include a Gold medal at the Asian Athletics Championships 2023 held in Bangkok and a Silver medal at the Asian Games 2022 (held in 2023) in Hangzhou.
• Venue Details: Ganga Athletics Ground
• The Ganga Athletics Ground is part of a larger sports infrastructure development in Haldwani, Uttarakhand.
• The facility was upgraded to meet World Athletics standards specifically for the hosting of the National Games.
• The location is strategically placed to encourage athletes from the Kumaon and Garhwal divisions of the state.
• National Games of India
• The National Games are organized by the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) to foster a spirit of competition among states.
• The 2025 edition in Uttarakhand featured over 30 sports disciplines, including Athletics, Archery, and Yoga.
• The games serve as a vital scouting ground for the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports to identify talent for the Olympics and Commonwealth Games.

Important Points

• Sporting Significance: The performance by Jyothi Yarraji at the Ganga Athletics Ground is significant because it validated the technical quality of the new sporting facilities in Uttarakhand.
• Regional Impact: Hosting the National Games 2025 in cities like Dehradun and Haldwani aimed to boost Sports Tourism and provide local youth with exposure to world-class athletes.
• Technical Stats: Hurdles in the 100m category are 83.8 cm (33 inches) high, requiring exceptional rhythm and speed, traits that Yarraji has mastered under the guidance of coach James Hillier at the Reliance Foundation Odisha Athletics High-Performance Centre.

The correct answer is Gurugram, Haryana.

Key Points

• The Curtain Raiser of the 18^th Urban Mobility India (UMI) Conference and Exhibition 2025 was recently organized by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA).
• The venue for this high-profile preliminary event was Gurugram, Haryana, held on December 13, 2024.
• The event was presided over by the Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs and Power, Shri Manohar Lal, who emphasized the need for a robust and sustainable urban transport framework in India.
• The primary objective of the Curtain Raiser was to set the stage for the main 18^th UMI conference, which serves as a platform for state governments, city authorities, and transport experts to exchange ideas and best practices.
• The Urban Mobility India initiative is part of the government's efforts to implement the National Urban Transport Policy (NUTP) and address the challenges of rapid urbanization and traffic congestion.
• During the event, the dates and venue for the main conference in 2025 were discussed, aiming to bring together global leaders in the urban transport sector. Hence, the correct answer is Gurugram, Haryana.

Additional Information

• Urban Mobility India (UMI) Conference:
• It is an annual flagship event organized by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs.
• The conference originated from the National Urban Transport Policy (NUTP) formulated in 2006, which focuses on "moving people rather than vehicles."
• It provides a forum for urban transport professionals, city planners, and industry stakeholders to interact and learn about the latest technological advancements and policy reforms.
• 17^th UMI Conference (2024):
• The 17^th edition of the conference was held in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, in October 2024.
• The theme for the 17^th UMI was "Standardization and Optimization of Urban Transport Solutions."
• It featured an exhibition showcasing Electric Vehicles (EVs), Metro Rail innovations, and Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS).
• MoHUA Roles and Initiatives:
• The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs is the nodal ministry for planning and coordination of urban transport across India.
• Key programs supported by the ministry include the Smart Cities Mission, Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT), and various Metro Rail projects.

Important Points

• Sustainability Goals: The 18^th UMI 2025 is expected to focus heavily on Net Zero targets and reducing the carbon footprint of Indian cities through Non-Motorized Transport (NMT) and green mobility.
• PM-eBus Sewa: Discussions at such conferences often revolve around the PM-eBus Sewa scheme, which aims to deploy 10,000 electric buses in 169 cities to improve urban air quality.
• Metro Network Growth: India currently has the third-largest metro rail network in the world, with over 900 kilometers of operational lines, a topic of central interest at the UMI 2025 curtain raiser.
• Location Advantage: Gurugram was chosen for the curtain raiser due to its status as a leading corporate hub and its experience with diverse urban mobility solutions like Rapid Metro and e-mobility clusters.

The correct answer is Poonam Gupta.

Key Points

• Poonam Gupta was appointed as the Deputy Governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) in April 2025.
• Before her appointment to the central bank, she served as the Director General of the National Council of Applied Economic Research (NCAER). She made history as the first woman to lead this prestigious economic think tank since its inception in 1956.
• She has a distinguished career at major international financial institutions, having served as a Lead Economist at the World Bank and as an economist at the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
• Her professional expertise is centered on macroeconomics, emerging markets, international finance, and banking sectors.
• As Deputy Governor, she is expected to handle critical portfolios which may include economic policy research, financial stability, and monetary policy, leveraging her vast global experience.

Additional Information

• Educational Background: Poonam Gupta holds a Ph.D. in International Economics from the University of Maryland and an M.A. in Economics from the Delhi School of Economics. Her academic rigor has contributed to numerous research papers on capital flows and global financial crises.
• Role of RBI Deputy Governor: According to the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934, the bank is managed by a Central Board of Directors. This includes one Governor and not more than four Deputy Governors who are appointed by the Government of India.
• Appointment Process: The selection of Deputy Governors is typically conducted through the Financial Sector Regulatory Appointment Search Committee (FSRASC), which is headed by the Cabinet Secretary.
• NCAER Tenure: During her time at NCAER, she focused on identifying structural reforms necessary for India to achieve sustained high economic growth and improve its fiscal health.

Important Points

• Michael Patra: He has been a long-standing career central banker and was re-appointed as Deputy Governor of the RBI in 2023 and 2024. He is well-known for his role in the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC).
• Raghuram Rajan: He served as the 23^rd Governor of the RBI from 2013 to 2016. Like Gupta, he had a significant tenure at the IMF as its Chief Economist.
• Urjit Patel: He served as the 24^th Governor of the RBI from 2016 to 2018. He was previously a Deputy Governor and also worked with the IMF early in his career.
• Economic Significance: The appointment of economists with World Bank/IMF backgrounds like Poonam Gupta highlights the RBI's objective of integrating global best practices into India's domestic regulatory framework and inflation management strategies.

The correct answer is Suryakumar Yadav.

Key Points

• Suryakumar Yadav, often referred to as "Mr. 360" for his ability to hit shots in all directions, is a cornerstone of the Mumbai Indians (MI) franchise.
• In the lead-up to the IPL 2025 season, Suryakumar Yadav was retained as one of the top players by Mumbai Indians, reflecting his immense value to the squad's batting department.
• His role as a middle-order aggressor is critical, especially given his status as the ICC No. 1 T20I Batter for extended periods, showcasing his consistency and dominance in the shortest format of the game.
• For the IPL 2025 retention cycle, he was retained for a significant sum of INR 16.35 crore, underscoring his position as a Most Valuable Player within the team structure.
• His appointment as the permanent Captain of the Indian T20I team in 2024 further elevated his stature, making him a primary leadership figure alongside Hardik Pandya and Jasprit Bumrah for the Mumbai Indians.

Additional Information

• Mumbai Indians (MI) Retentions for IPL 2025:
• The franchise opted to retain its core Indian nucleus ahead of the Mega Auction held in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia in November 2024.
• Jasprit Bumrah was the first retention at INR 18 crore, followed by Suryakumar Yadav and Hardik Pandya at INR 16.35 crore each.
• Rohit Sharma, the legendary former captain who led MI to five IPL titles, was retained for INR 16.30 crore.
• Tilak Varma was the fifth retention, secured for INR 8 crore.
• Jasprit Bumrah:
• Widely considered the best all-format bowler in the world, Bumrah remains the spearhead of the Mumbai Indians bowling attack. His ability to bowl at the death with yorkers and variations makes him indispensable.
• Rohit Sharma:
• The "Hitman" has been synonymous with MI's success since 2013. Under his leadership, the team won championships in 2013, 2015, 2017, 2019, and 2020.
• Hardik Pandya:
• After returning to MI from Gujarat Titans in 2024, Hardik Pandya took over the captaincy. He provides crucial balance as a fast-bowling all-rounder.

Important Points

• IPL 2025 Auction Dynamics: The IPL 2025 Mega Auction saw franchises navigating a total purse of INR 120 crore. Mumbai Indians entered the auction with INR 45 crore after spending INR 75 crore on their five retentions.
• Venue and History: Mumbai Indians play their home matches at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, a ground where Suryakumar Yadav has an exceptional record due to the true bounce and short boundaries.
• Performance Metrics: In T20 cricket, Suryakumar Yadav is noted for a strike rate often exceeding 170, which is among the highest for top-order batters in the history of the Indian Premier League.

The correct answer is World Sustainable Development Summit.

Key Points

• The World Sustainable Development Summit (WSDS) is the annual flagship initiative of The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI).
• In March 2025, the summit was held in New Delhi, bringing together global leaders, policymakers, and scientists to discuss environmental challenges.
• The specific theme for the 2025 edition was “Partnerships for Accelerating Sustainable Development and Climate Solutions”, emphasizing the need for collective action to meet global goals.
• The summit serves as a premier international platform to facilitate exchange of knowledge on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Paris Agreement.
• It focuses on mobilizing political will and public support for climate action and sustainable resource management across the globe.

Additional Information

• The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI):
• Established in 1974, TERI is a research institute based in New Delhi that conducts research in the fields of energy, environment, and sustainable development.
• It was formerly known as the Tata Energy Research Institute before being renamed in 2003.
• Conference of the Parties (COP) 30:
• The COP 30 United Nations Climate Change Conference is scheduled to be held in Belém, Brazil, in November 2025.
• It is distinct from the WSDS, as COPs are official United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) meetings where treaty negotiations occur.
• G20 Environment Summit:
• The G20 (Group of Twenty) holds various ministerial meetings on the environment. India held the G20 Presidency in 2023, hosting the summit in New Delhi under the theme "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam".
• United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA):
• The UNEA is the world’s highest-level decision-making body on the environment. Its 5^th session (UNEA-5) took place in Nairobi, Kenya, in two parts between 2021 and 2022.

Important Points

• Evolution of WSDS: The summit was originally launched as the Delhi Sustainable Development Summit (DSDS) in 2001 and was later rebranded to its current name to reflect its expanding global reach.
• Global Participation: Since its inception, the summit has hosted over 100 Heads of State and Government and thousands of delegates from across the world.
• Focus Areas: Key discussion areas often include energy transition, circular economy, nature-based solutions, and climate finance for developing nations.
• Location Context: Hosting the event in New Delhi allows India to showcase its leadership in initiatives like the International Solar Alliance (ISA) and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI).

The correct answer is Oscar Piastri.

Key Points

• Oscar Piastri, the talented Australian driver for the McLaren Formula 1 Team, emerged victorious at the Chinese Grand Prix 2025. This win solidifies his position as one of the premier drivers in the modern era of Formula 1.
• The race was held at the Shanghai International Circuit, a venue that returned to the FIA Formula One World Championship calendar with high intensity. Piastri's win was a result of a masterful tactical display and superior tire management throughout the 56 laps of the race.
• The 2025 edition of the Chinese Grand Prix saw McLaren showcasing their aerodynamic efficiency, allowing Oscar Piastri to maintain a lead over rivals from Ferrari and Red Bull Racing.
• This victory contributes significantly to the 2025 Constructors' Championship standings, where McLaren has been a dominant force alongside their driver pairing of Piastri and Lando Norris.
• Oscar Piastri, born in April 2001, has rapidly climbed the ranks since his debut, and this win in Shanghai marks another milestone in his burgeoning career.

Additional Information

• Shanghai International Circuit:
• Located in the Jiading District of Shanghai, China, the circuit was designed by Hermann Tilke and was first opened in 2004.
• The track layout is inspired by the Chinese character "Shang" (上), which means "above" or "high." It features one of the longest straights on the F1 calendar, measuring approximately 1.17 kilometers.
• Lando Norris:
• As the teammate to Oscar Piastri at McLaren, Lando Norris has been instrumental in the team's resurgence. He is known for his consistency and has been a frequent visitor to the podium in the 2024 and 2025 seasons.
• Charles Leclerc:
• The Monegasque driver for Scuderia Ferrari, Charles Leclerc, remains a top-tier competitor. In 2025, he continued to lead Ferrari's charge, often battling McLaren for the top spots in the Drivers' Championship.
• Lewis Hamilton:
• The seven-time World Champion, Lewis Hamilton, made a historic move to Ferrari for the 2025 season. This transition was one of the most talked-about events in Formula 1 history, marking the end of his long-standing partnership with Mercedes.
• Technical Regulations:
• The 2025 season serves as the final year under the current technical regulations before the major overhaul planned for 2026, focusing on sustainable fuels and redesigned power units.

Important Points

• Race Strategy: The Chinese Grand Prix is often characterized by high tire degradation, making strategy calls regarding the Hard and Medium compounds critical to the final outcome.
• Attendance: The 2025 race saw a record turnout, reflecting the massive growth of motorsport popularity in the Asia-Pacific region.
• Oscar Piastri's Achievements: Before entering F1, Piastri achieved the rare feat of winning the Formula 3 (2020) and Formula 2 (2021) championships in consecutive rookie seasons.

The correct answer is Food Security Information Network (FSIN).

Key Points

• The Global Report on Food Crises (GRFC) 2025 is the flagship publication of the Food Security Information Network (FSIN). This report provides a comprehensive and consensus-based assessment of acute food insecurity and malnutrition globally.
• The report is produced in support of the Global Network Against Food Crises (GNAFC), which is an international alliance consisting of the European Union, FAO, and WFP, among other humanitarian and development actors.
• The FSIN acts as a global initiative co-sponsored by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the World Food Programme (WFP), and the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI).
• The purpose of the GRFC 2025 is to provide policy-makers and humanitarian organizations with evidence-based data to address the root causes of food crises and coordinate responses.
• It utilizes the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) and the Cadre Harmonisé (CH) as the primary standard for measuring the severity and magnitude of food insecurity.

Additional Information

• Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO):
• The FAO is a specialized agency of the United Nations that leads international efforts to defeat hunger. It was established on October 16, 1945, and is headquartered in Rome, Italy.
• While FAO is a core contributor and co-sponsor of the FSIN, the GRFC itself is published under the FSIN banner to represent a multi-partner consensus.
• World Food Programme (WFP):
• The WFP is the world's largest humanitarian organization focused on food security and hunger. Founded in 1961, it was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2020.
• The WFP provides critical data for the GRFC, but the report is not published by the WFP alone; it is a collaborative FSIN effort.
• Global Network Against Food Crises (GNAFC):
• Launched at the 2016 World Humanitarian Summit, the GNAFC aims to address the entire spectrum of food crises by linking humanitarian and development actions with political advocacy.
• Drivers of Food Crises:
• The GRFC identifies three primary drivers: Conflict and Insecurity, Weather Extremes (such as El Niño/La Niña), and Economic Shocks (including high food inflation).
• In 2024 and 2025, conflict remained the most significant driver of acute food insecurity in regions like Gaza, Sudan, and Haiti.

Important Points

• IPC Phase Classification: The report categorizes food insecurity into five phases. Phase 3 (Crisis), Phase 4 (Emergency), and Phase 5 (Catastrophe/Famine) are considered levels where urgent action is required to save lives.
• Data Coverage: The GRFC 2025 typically covers nearly 60 countries and territories that are facing food crises, providing a comparative analysis over previous years.
• United Nations Development Programme (UNDP): Although UNDP works on long-term development and poverty eradication, it is not the publisher of the GRFC. Its focus is more on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and general human development indices.
• Yearly Cycle: The report is usually released in the first half of the year (often April or May), reflecting data collected and analyzed throughout the preceding year.

The correct answer is 12.

Key Points

• IDFC FIRST Bank has reached a significant milestone in January 2025 by enabling Unified Payments Interface (UPI) access for Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) residing in 12 countries.
• This initiative allows NRIs to use their international mobile numbers linked to their NRE (Non-Resident External) or NRO (Non-Resident Ordinary) accounts to perform UPI transactions seamlessly.
• The 12 countries included in this rollout are Singapore, Australia, Canada, Hong Kong, Oman, Qatar, USA, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates (UAE), United Kingdom (UK), Malaysia, and France.
• The service eliminates the previous requirement for NRIs to have an Indian mobile number to access the UPI ecosystem, thereby enhancing the ease of doing business and personal transactions for the Indian diaspora.
• This development follows the guidelines issued by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), which permitted the use of international mobile numbers from specific countries for UPI onboarding.

Additional Information

• IDFC FIRST Bank:
• It was formed by the merger of the erstwhile IDFC Bank and Capital First, a leading consumer and MSME financing institution, in December 2018.
• The bank is headquartered in Mumbai and provides a wide range of financial solutions including savings accounts, NRI services, and corporate banking.
• Understanding NRE and NRO Accounts:
• NRE (Non-Resident External) Account: These accounts are used to park foreign earnings in India. The principal and interest are tax-free and fully repatriable (can be moved back to the foreign country).
• NRO (Non-Resident Ordinary) Account: These accounts are primarily for managing income earned in India, such as rent, dividends, or pension. The interest earned is taxable in India.
• National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI):
• Established in 2008, NPCI is an initiative of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the Indian Banks' Association (IBA).
• It manages UPI, RuPay, IMPS, and Bharat BillPay, driving the digital payment revolution in India.
• NPCI International Payments Ltd (NIPL) is a subsidiary focused on exporting UPI and RuPay technology to international markets.
• Significance of UPI for NRIs:
• NRIs can now pay merchants directly via QR codes during their visits to India or for services provided in India.
• It reduces dependency on international credit/debit cards which often carry high currency conversion fees and transaction charges.
• This move strengthens India's Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) and promotes the global acceptance of the UPI platform.

The correct answer is A severe cyclonic storm over the Bay of Bengal.

Key Points

• ‘Montha’ was a tropical cyclone that developed in the Bay of Bengal and made landfall on the eastern coast of India in October 2025.
• It was categorized as a Severe Cyclonic Storm by the India Meteorological Department (IMD), indicating sustained wind speeds ranging between 89 km/h and 117 km/h. Hence, statement 3 is correct.
• The storm originated from a low-pressure area that intensified into a depression and subsequently a deep depression before reaching the status of a Severe Cyclonic Storm.
• The timing of the storm, October, coincides with the peak post-monsoon cyclone season in India, during which the Bay of Bengal experiences high thermal energy and favorable atmospheric conditions for cyclogenesis.
• Unlike storms over the Kutch region or the Arabian Sea, Montha specifically tracked towards the Odisha and Andhra Pradesh coastline, bringing heavy precipitation and storm surges to the eastern seaboard. Hence, statements 1, 2, and 4 are incorrect.

Additional Information

• Cyclone Classification in India:
• The IMD classifies tropical disturbances based on Maximum Sustained Surface Wind Speed (MSW).
• Cyclonic Storm: 62–88 km/h.
• Severe Cyclonic Storm: 89–117 km/h.
• Very Severe Cyclonic Storm: 118–165 km/h.
• Extremely Severe Cyclonic Storm: 166–221 km/h.
• Super Cyclone: Above 222 km/h.
• Naming of Cyclones:
• The name ‘Montha’ is part of the list maintained by the WMO/ESCAP (World Meteorological Organization/United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific) Panel on Tropical Cyclones.
• Names are contributed by 13 member countries, including India, Thailand, Myanmar, and Bangladesh, to help in unique identification and disaster management.
• Bay of Bengal vs. Arabian Sea:
• Statistically, the Bay of Bengal sees a higher frequency of cyclones (ratio of 4:1) compared to the Arabian Sea.
• This is due to higher Sea Surface Temperatures (SST), the shape of the coastline, and the influx of remnant depressions from the South China Sea.

Important Points

• Impact and Mitigation:
• Cyclones like Montha necessitate the deployment of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the activation of early warning systems.
• The Color-coded Weather Warning system (Yellow, Orange, Red) is used by the IMD to alert residents and administrative bodies about the severity of the incoming threat.
• Storm Surges: One of the most dangerous features of a severe cyclonic storm is the storm surge, which can cause coastal inundation up to several kilometers inland, destroying mangroves and infrastructure.

The correct answer is Coal India Limited.

Key Points

• In July 2025, the Ministry of Tribal Affairs (MoTA) entered into a landmark partnership with Coal India Limited (CIL) to significantly upgrade the educational landscape for tribal communities.
• This collaboration specifically targets the support and development of 68 Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) located across various districts in Chhattisgarh.
• The initiative is designed to benefit more than 28,000 tribal students, focusing on improving their access to modern educational tools and better campus facilities.
• The partnership utilizes the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) framework of Coal India Limited to fund infrastructure projects, including the establishment of smart classrooms, science laboratories, and vocational training centers within these schools.
• This move is part of a larger strategy to integrate tribal students into the national mainstream by providing quality education in remote, mining-affected areas of Chhattisgarh.

Additional Information

• Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS):
• The EMRS scheme was introduced in 1997-98 to provide quality middle and high-level education to Scheduled Tribe (ST) students in remote areas.
• These schools are funded through grants under Article 275(1) of the Constitution of India.
• The objective is to enable tribal students to avail of opportunities in high and professional educational courses and get employment in various sectors, comparable to Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas.
• Coal India Limited (CIL):
• CIL is a Maharatna Public Sector Undertaking (PSU) under the Ministry of Coal, Government of India.
• Headquartered in Kolkata, it is the largest coal producer in the world and plays a vital role in India's energy security.
• Its subsidiary in Chhattisgarh, South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL), is one of the highest-producing coal companies in the country.
• Ministry of Tribal Affairs (MoTA):
• The Ministry of Tribal Affairs was established in October 1999 to ensure a more focused approach toward the integrated socio-economic development of the Scheduled Tribes.
• It acts as the nodal ministry for the planning, coordination, and administration of programs for tribal welfare.

Important Points

• Geographic Focus: Chhattisgarh has a tribal population accounting for approximately 30.6% of its total population, making the state a primary focus for EMRS expansion and CSR initiatives.
• Management of EMRS: The National Education Society for Tribal Students (NESTS) is an autonomous body under the Ministry of Tribal Affairs that manages the implementation of the EMRS scheme across India.
• CSR Mandate: Under the Companies Act, 2013, large companies like Coal India Limited are mandated to spend 2% of their average net profit on Social Responsibility, with education for marginalized groups being a top priority.
• Sustainable Development: This partnership aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 4 (Quality Education) and Goal 10 (Reduced Inequalities) by targeting underprivileged tribal youth in 2025.

The correct answer is LIC, The New India Assurance, and GIC Re.

Key Points

• The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has identified and designated three major insurance companies as Domestic Systemically Important Insurers (D-SIIs) for the financial year 2024–25.
• The three identified entities are the Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC), General Insurance Corporation of India (GIC Re), and The New India Assurance Co. Ltd.
• These insurers are perceived as being "too big to fail" (TBTF) due to their immense size, significant market presence, and deep interconnectedness within the Indian financial system.
• The failure of any of these designated insurers could lead to significant disruptions in the essential services they provide to the national economy and potentially trigger systemic instability in the broader financial market.
• As D-SIIs, these companies are subject to enhanced regulatory oversight by IRDAI to ensure they maintain robust financial health and risk management practices.

Additional Information

• Definition of D-SIIs:
• D-SIIs refer to insurers whose distress or failure would cause significant dislocation in the domestic financial system.
• The assessment for D-SII status is conducted annually by the IRDAI based on various parameters including size, interconnectedness, substitutability, and complexity.
• The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI):
• It is a statutory body formed under the IRDA Act, 1999, functioning under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Finance, Government of India.
• The headquarters of IRDAI is located in Hyderabad, having moved from New Delhi in 2001.
• The primary objective of IRDAI is to protect the interests of policyholders and regulate, promote, and ensure the orderly growth of the insurance industry.
• Regulatory Requirements for D-SIIs:
• Designated insurers are required to raise the levels of corporate governance and identify all relevant risks at a granular level.
• They must carry out systemic risk assessments and maintain additional capital to cushion against potential financial shocks.
• Specifically, LIC, GIC Re, and New India Assurance have been part of this list consistently since September 2020.

Important Points

• Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC): Established in 1956, it is the largest life insurer in the country and a major institutional investor.
• General Insurance Corporation of India (GIC Re): It is the sole national reinsurer in the domestic market, providing reinsurance support to direct general insurance companies in India.
• The New India Assurance Co. Ltd.: It is a multinational general insurance company and remains the largest public sector general insurance company in India based on gross premium collection.
• The continuous designation of these three public sector units highlights the concentration of systemic importance within government-backed entities in the Indian insurance landscape.

The correct answer is Kirti Vardhan Singh.

Key Points

• In October 2024 (referenced as 2025 in some academic contexts), Shri Kirti Vardhan Singh, the Union Minister of State for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, officially launched India’s National Red List Roadmap.
• The launch took place during the 16^th Meeting of the Conference of the Parties (COP16) to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), held in Cali, Colombia.
• The National Red List Roadmap is a strategic document designed to provide a framework for assessing the extinction risk of various species native to India using the globally recognized IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria.
• The initiative aims to strengthen national-level conservation efforts by identifying species that require immediate protection and policy intervention based on scientific data.
• This roadmap was developed in collaboration with premier scientific institutions such as the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) and the Botanical Survey of India (BSI) to ensure a comprehensive assessment of India’s flora and fauna.

Additional Information

• IUCN Red List of Threatened Species:
• Established in 1964, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List is the most comprehensive inventory of the global conservation status of biological species.
• It uses a set of criteria to evaluate the extinction risk of thousands of species and subspecies, categorized into groups like Extinct (EX), Critically Endangered (CR), Endangered (EN), and Vulnerable (VU).
• National Red Lists, such as the one proposed in India’s roadmap, are essential because a species might be globally Least Concern but Critically Endangered within a specific country’s borders.
• Biodiversity in India:
• India is recognized as one of the 17 mega-diverse countries in the world, harboring nearly 7-8% of the world’s recorded species.
• The country contains four biodiversity hotspots: the Himalayas, the Western Ghats, the Indo-Burma region, and the Sundaland (including the Nicobar Islands).
• The National Red List Roadmap supports the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF), which aims to halt and reverse biodiversity loss by 2030.
• Role of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC):
• The MoEFCC is the nodal agency in the administrative structure of the Central Government for the planning, promotion, coordination, and overseeing the implementation of India's environmental and forestry policies.
• Under the leadership of ministers like Bhupender Yadav (Union Minister) and Kirti Vardhan Singh (Minister of State), the ministry implements acts like the Biological Diversity Act, 2002 and the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.

Important Points

• Scientific Institutions: The Zoological Survey of India (ZSI), headquartered in Kolkata, and the Botanical Survey of India (BSI) play a pivotal role in the "Fauna of India" and "Flora of India" series, which serve as the baseline for Red List assessments.
• Global Commitments: India is a signatory to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), and the roadmap is a step toward fulfilling Target 4 of the GBF, which focuses on active management actions to enable the recovery and conservation of species.
• Conservation Impact: By localizing IUCN criteria, India can better prioritize funding and protection for endemic species that are not found anywhere else in the world, ensuring their long-term survival in the Indian subcontinent.