Q.1) The proposed Standing Authority on Environment Impact Assessment (SAEIA) is intended to address delays in environmental clearances primarily caused by the non-functioning of which state-level bodies?
[a] National Green Tribunal and CPCB
[b] SEIAA and SEAC
[c] State Pollution Control Boards and District Authorities
[d] Forest Advisory Committee and NBWL
View Answer
Answer: [b] SEIAA and SEAC
Explanation:
The Ministry of Environment Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has issued a draft notification proposing the creation of a Standing Authority on Environment Impact Assessment (SAEIA) and a Standing Committee on Environment Impact Appraisal (SCEIA). These bodies aim to fast-track environmental clearances (EC) and prevent delays in project approvals when state-level authorities become non-functional or fail to complete appraisals on time. Environmental clearances in India are currently governed by the Environment Impact Assessment Notification 2006 issued under the Environment Protection Act 1986. At the state level, clearances are handled by SEIAA and SEAC, which have a three-year tenure (extendable by one year). However, delays in their reconstitution often slow down project approvals, prompting the proposal for SAEIA and SCEIA.
Q.2) According to the recent NITI Aayog report on Natural Farming, which of the following best distinguishes Natural Farming from Organic Farming?
[a] Natural farming allows synthetic fertilizers while organic farming does not
[b] Organic farming relies only on livestock-based inputs
[c] Natural farming relies entirely on on-farm inputs and natural processes
[d] Organic farming eliminates all pesticides while natural farming does not
View Answer
Answer: [c] Natural farming relies entirely on on-farm inputs and natural processes
Explanation:
NITI Aayog has released a comprehensive report and training manual titled “Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit & Best Practices Guide.” The toolkit aims to promote chemical-free, livestock-based farming systems that enhance biodiversity and ecological harmony. It provides structured guidance on training frameworks, implementation strategies, and best practices to scale up natural farming across India. Natural Farming is rooted in ecological principles and eliminates the use of synthetic chemical fertilizers and pesticides, relying instead on natural biological processes within the farm ecosystem. The system integrates crops, trees, and livestock to maintain ecological balance.
Q.3) The National Highways Green Cover Index (NH-GCI), recently released by NHAI, is primarily used to:
[a] Measure traffic congestion on national highways
[b] Assess vegetation and plantation cover along national highways
[c] Monitor highway construction quality
[d] Evaluate road safety performance
View Answer
Answer: [b] Assess vegetation and plantation cover along national highways
Explanation:
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) introduced the National Highways Green Cover Index (NH-GCI) to scientifically assess vegetation along India’s national highway network. Developed in collaboration with National Remote Sensing Centre, a centre of Indian Space Research Organisation, the index provides a quantitative evaluation of green cover within the Right of Way (RoW) of highways. The assessment is based on chlorophyll detection using high-resolution satellite imagery from Resourcesat-2/2A LISS-IV sensors, enabling accurate monitoring of vegetation density. The initiative stems from a three-year MoU signed in January 2024 between NHAI and NRSC, aimed at strengthening technology-driven environmental monitoring in highway infrastructure development.
Q.4) According to the amended FDI guidelines for countries sharing land borders with India, investments with non-controlling beneficial ownership up to what percentage can now be allowed under the automatic route?
[a] 5%
[b] 10%
[c] 15%
[d] 20%
View Answer
Answer: [b] 10%
Explanation:
The Union Cabinet approved amendments to India’s FDI policy concerning countries sharing land borders with India (LBCs). These changes introduce a clearer definition of Beneficial Owner (BO) aligned with the Prevention of Money Laundering Rules 2005. Under the revised framework, investments from LBC investors with non-controlling beneficial ownership up to 10% can now be allowed through the automatic route, provided they comply with sectoral caps and other regulatory requirements. However, such investments must still be reported to the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT). The policy aims to enhance investor clarity, facilitate legitimate capital flows, and maintain safeguards for national economic security.
Q.5) Under the restructured Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) 2.0, the Government aims to provide tap water connections to how many rural households in India?
[a] 15 crore
[b] 17.5 crore
[c] 19.36 crore
[d] 22 crore
View Answer
Answer: [c] 19.36 crore
Explanation:
The Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) has been restructured to shift from infrastructure creation to a citizen-centric water service delivery system. The mission is implemented by the Ministry of Jal Shakti and focuses on ensuring sustainable piped drinking water supply in rural areas. Under Jal Jeevan Mission 2.0, the government aims to provide tap water connections to all 19.36 crore rural households and certify every Gram Panchayat as “Har Ghar Jal.” The restructuring also emphasises improved water governance, scheme sustainability, and stronger operation and maintenance systems. The mission is targeted for completion by December 2028, with MoUs to be signed with States and Union Territories to ensure adherence to timelines.
Q.6) The Second Advance Estimates of Agricultural Production for 2025–26 released by the Government of India cover which of the following crop seasons?
[a] Kharif only
[b] Rabi only
[c] Kharif and Rabi
[d] Kharif, Rabi and Summer
View Answer
Answer: [c] Kharif and Rabi
Explanation:
The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare released the Second Advance Estimates of Agricultural Production for 2025–26, covering major crops from the Kharif and Rabi seasons, while estimates for summer crops will be included in the Third Advance Estimates. The production assessment uses multiple data sources, including crop area data from States and Union Territories, remote sensing information, inputs from the Weekly Crop Weather Watch Group, and data from agricultural monitoring agencies. Yield estimation is primarily based on Crop Cutting Experiments (CCEs) along with historical production trends and prevailing weather conditions. Since some CCEs for crops like tur, sugarcane, and castor are still underway, the estimates may be revised in future releases.
Q.7) NETRA, recently launched by the National Dam Safety Authority (NDSA), is primarily related to:
[a] Flood forecasting through satellite imagery
[b] AI-based monitoring and review of dam safety
[c] River interlinking project monitoring
[d] Hydropower generation forecasting
View Answer
Answer: [b] AI-based monitoring and review of dam safety
Explanation:
A new office of the National Dam Safety Authority (NDSA) was inaugurated to strengthen dam safety governance and improve monitoring systems across India. During the event, several digital initiatives were launched to support data-driven decision-making in dam safety management. These include the official NDSA website, developed according to DBIM 3.0 (Digital Brand Identity Manual) guidelines, featuring a GIS-based “Specified Dams” section with a map-based interface displaying the location and technical details of dams across India. Another key initiative is NETRA (NDSA Engine for Tracking and Review using AI), an AI-based monitoring platform developed in collaboration with Weapons and Electronics Systems Engineering Establishment, a research laboratory of the Indian Navy.
Q.8) The “Jan Bhagidari – Driver-Led Reporting” initiative, recently introduced by IHMCL and NHAI, is primarily aimed at:
[a] Increasing toll collection efficiency
[b] Allowing drivers to report highway issues digitally
[c] Monitoring vehicle emissions on highways
[d] Managing electronic toll collection systems
View Answer
Answer: [b] Allowing drivers to report highway issues digitally
Explanation:
The Indian Highways Management Company Limited (IHMCL), promoted by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with commercial vehicle aggregator platforms to improve safety, efficiency, and ease of travel on national highways. The initiative aims to deploy technology-driven and interoperable digital solutions to enhance highway operations and driver experience. A key component of the programme is the integration of the Rajmargyatra App with commercial vehicle platforms, enabling drivers and fleet operators to access highway-related services. The initiative also introduces “Jan Bhagidari – Driver-Led Reporting,” allowing drivers to actively report road issues, thereby strengthening participatory monitoring and improving maintenance and safety on highways.
Q.9) GI-tagged Karbi Anglong ginger, recently exported to London, originates from which Indian state?
[a] Meghalaya
[b] Assam
[c] Arunachal Pradesh
[d] Nagaland
View Answer
Answer: [b] Assam
Explanation:
The GI-tagged Karbi Anglong ginger originates from Karbi Anglong district in Assam and has recently entered the international market with its first shipment to the United Kingdom. The export consignment of 1.2 metric tonnes was flagged off from Krishi Bhawan. This variety is cultivated in the Singhasan Hills using traditional Jhum and Tila farming practices. It is widely known for its strong aroma, bold flavour, high pungency, and rich oil content, making it one of India’s most distinctive ginger varieties. The GI tag helps protect its geographical identity and promotes its recognition in international markets.
Q.10) ‘Sudarshan’, recently in news, is an AI-based surveillance tool developed by which organisation?
[a] Reserve Bank of India
[b] Securities and Exchange Board of India
[c] Ministry of Electronics and IT
[d] National Stock Exchange
View Answer
Answer: [b] Securities and Exchange Board of India
Explanation:
The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has developed an AI-powered surveillance tool called ‘Sudarshan’ to monitor digital platforms and identify misleading financial content. The system analyses large volumes of audio, video, and textual data to detect patterns of unregistered financial advisory activities and false claims made by online influencers. Using Sudarshan, SEBI has removed over 1.2 lakh misleading posts by finfluencers, strengthening its oversight of digital financial content. The AI framework allows SEBI to proactively flag suspicious narratives rather than relying solely on investor complaints. In addition, the regulator has warned retail investors about the high risks of options trading, where most traders reportedly incur losses.
Q.11) According to the Maharashtra Economic Survey 2025–26, what is the projected economic growth rate of Maharashtra for FY 2025–26?
A. 6.8%
B. 7.4%
C. 7.9%
D. 8.5%
View Answer
Answer: C. 7.9%
Explanation:
The Maharashtra Economic Survey 2025-26 projects that Maharashtra’s economy will grow at 7.9% in FY 2025–26, higher than the national growth estimate of 7.4%. The state continues to remain India’s largest sub-national economy, with a projected nominal GSDP of ₹51 lakh crore and a 14.3% share in India’s GDP. The survey also highlights rising per capita income (₹3,47,903) and a fiscal deficit of 2.7% of GSDP, which remains within the FRBM limit of 3%, reflecting sound fiscal management.
Q.12) According to the UN report “Ensuring and Strengthening Access to Justice for All Women and Girls”, women globally hold approximately what percentage of the legal rights afforded to men?
A. 54%
B. 64%
C. 74%
D. 84%
View Answer
Answer: B. 64%
Explanation:
The Ensuring and Strengthening Access to Justice for All Women and Girls released by the United Nations reveals that women globally have only 64% of the legal rights available to men. The report highlights significant gaps in legal systems worldwide, including the lack of consent-based rape laws in 54% of countries, the persistence of child marriage in nearly three-quarters of nations, and the absence of equal pay legislation in 44% of countries. These findings highlight systemic barriers preventing women and girls from accessing justice and equal protection under the law.
Q.13) The date of International Women’s Day (8 March) commemorates which historical event?
[a] Adoption of the UN Convention on Women’s Rights
[b] Women’s strike in Petrograd during the Russian Revolution
[c] First global women’s conference held in Paris
[d] Establishment of the League of Nations Commission on Women
View Answer
Answer: [b] Women’s strike in Petrograd during the Russian Revolution
Explanation:
International Women’s Day, observed every year on 8 March, honours women’s achievements and promotes gender equality worldwide. The date commemorates a massive strike by women workers in Petrograd, Russia, on 8 March 1917, who demanded “bread and peace.” The protest played a significant role in the events leading to the Russian Revolution of 1917 and eventually contributed to women gaining the right to vote in Russia. The United Nations began officially observing International Women’s Day in 1975 during International Women’s Year, and the UN General Assembly formally recognised it in 1977, reinforcing gender equality as a fundamental global objective.
Q.14) What is the key technological feature introduced for the first time in India’s Census 2027?
[a] Use of biometric authentication for enumeration
[b] Self-Enumeration option for citizens through an online portal
[c] Satellite-based population counting
[d] Mandatory Aadhaar linkage for census data
View Answer
Answer: [b] Self-Enumeration option for citizens through an online portal
Explanation:
For Census 2027, the Government of India has introduced several digital innovations to modernise the enumeration process. During the launch event, Amit Shah unveiled the mascots “Pragati” and “Vikas” and introduced digital census platforms developed by the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing. A major innovation is the Self-Enumeration facility, allowing citizens to fill in household details online before the door-to-door survey. The web-based portal supports 16 languages and generates a unique Self-Enumeration ID, which will later be verified by enumerators during field visits. This marks a significant step towards conducting India’s first fully digital census.
Q.15) Operation Sankalp, recently in news, was launched by India primarily to:
[a] Conduct joint naval exercises in the Indian Ocean
[b] Safeguard merchant vessels and ensure maritime security in the Gulf region
[c] Evacuate Indian citizens from conflict zones
[d] Monitor illegal fishing activities in the Arabian Sea
View Answer
Answer: [b] Safeguard merchant vessels and ensure maritime security in the Gulf region
Explanation:
Operation Sankalp is an Indian Navy maritime security mission launched in 2019 to protect Indian-flagged merchant vessels and commercial shipping routes in the Gulf of Aden and Gulf of Oman amid rising piracy threats and regional tensions. Under this operation, Indian naval ships such as frigates and destroyers are deployed to escort merchant vessels, deter piracy, and maintain maritime stability. With the recent escalation of tensions in West Asia, these ships have been placed on standby for possible Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) missions if required. The deployment reflects India’s commitment to safeguarding global trade routes and supporting regional maritime security.