Q.1) The IIRIS Chair of Infosec and Forensic Society, recently established through an MoU, has been set up at which institution?
[a] National Law University, Delhi
[b] National Law University, Jodhpur
[c] IIT Bombay
[d] NALSAR University of Law
View Answer
Answer: [b] National Law University, Jodhpur
Explanation:
Leading global risk, security, and intelligence firm IIRIS has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with National Law University Jodhpur to formally establish the IIRIS Chair of Infosec and Forensic Society. This initiative marks the first such Chair in India dedicated specifically to the domains of information security and forensic science. The Chair aims to function as a centre of excellence that promotes research, innovation, and structured industry–academia collaboration in emerging areas of cybersecurity, digital forensics, and intelligence studies.
Q.2) Mt Aconcagua, recently summited by a joint Indian mountaineering team, is located in which country?
[a] Chile
[b] Peru
[c] Argentina
[d] Bolivia
View Answer
Answer: [c] Argentina
Explanation:
A six-member joint expedition team from the Nehru Institute of Mountaineering (NIM), Uttarkashi, and the Jawahar Institute of Mountaineering and Winter Sports (JIM&WS), Pahalgam, successfully summited Mount Aconcagua in Argentina. Standing at 6,961 metres, Mt Aconcagua is the highest peak in South America and the second-highest mountain in the world outside Asia. The successful ascent marks a significant achievement for Indian mountaineering institutions and showcases India’s growing expertise in high-altitude expeditions beyond the Himalayas.
Q.3) Sachin Tendulkar has recently been designated as a ‘Global Champion for Road Safety’ by which organisation?
[a] World Health Organization
[b] United Nations
[c] World Bank
[d] International Road Federation
View Answer
Answer: [b] United Nations
Explanation:
Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar has been designated as a ‘Global Champion for Road Safety’ by the United Nations. With this appointment, he joins a group of prominent international figures advocating for safer roads and responsible driving behaviour worldwide. The announcement was accompanied by a video message in which Tendulkar urged citizens to adopt responsible driving habits and prioritise road safety. The initiative forms part of broader UN efforts aimed at reducing global road traffic fatalities and promoting safer mobility systems.
Q.4) United Nations Road Safety Fund (UNRSF) has launched a Sustainable Road Safety Financing Project in which of the following Indian states?
[a] Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Punjab
[b] Rajasthan, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Assam
[c] Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Odisha, West Bengal
[d] Delhi, Haryana, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh
View Answer
Answer: [b] Rajasthan, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Assam
Explanation:
United Nations Road Safety Fund (UNRSF) has launched a Sustainable Road Safety Financing Project in India to strengthen financial mechanisms and institutional capacity for road safety interventions. The project will be implemented in Rajasthan, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Assam, under the coordination of the UN Resident Coordinator’s Office. Titled “Sustainable Financing for Road Safety in India: A Collaborative Approach”, the project is funded through the UN Road Safety Fund and implemented with technical support from: WHO, UNICEF and UNESCAP.
Q.5) B. Ravindran, recently appointed to a UN scientific panel, is associated with which Indian institution?
[a] IIT Delhi
[b] IISc Bengaluru
[c] IIT Madras
[d] IIIT Hyderabad
View Answer
Answer: [c] IIT Madras
Explanation:
B Ravindran, a faculty member at the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras), has been appointed to the United Nations Independent International Scientific Panel on Artificial Intelligence. This panel is a newly constituted global body tasked with providing rigorous and independent scientific assessments of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its societal impact. It was established through a resolution of the United Nations General Assembly in August 2025. The panel is the first global scientific body dedicated exclusively to Artificial Intelligence, comprising 40 leading experts from different regions and disciplines.
Q.6) Prime Minister Narendra Modi was recently conferred the ‘Speaker of the Knesset Medal’ by which country?
[a] Palestine
[b] United States
[c] Israel
[d] France
View Answer
Answer: [c] Israel
Explanation:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi became part of a select group of global leaders who have received top state honours from both Israel and Palestine. During his two-day state visit to Israel, his second visit after 2017, he was conferred the ‘Speaker of the Knesset Medal’ by the Israeli Parliament following his address in the Knesset, Israel’s Parliament. Earlier, in 2018, PM Modi was awarded the Grand Collar of the State of Palestine, which is considered the highest Palestinian honour bestowed upon foreign dignitaries. Receiving top honours from both Israel and Palestine is diplomatically significant, reflecting India’s balanced engagement and strategic partnerships in the West Asia region.
Q.7) Him-CONNECT, recently organised on the sidelines of WSDS 2026, is primarily aimed at promoting collaboration in which region?
[a] Coastal Regulation Zone
[b] Western Ghats
[c] Indian Himalayan Region
[d] Indo-Gangetic Plain
View Answer
Answer: [c] Indian Himalayan Region
Explanation:
Ministry of Environment Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) organised Him-CONNECT in New Delhi on the sidelines of the World Sustainable Development Summit 2026 (WSDS 2026), hosted by The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI). Him-CONNECT is a collaborative platform designed to connect researchers working in the Indian Himalayan Region (IHR) with start-ups, investors, and policymakers. The objective is to enable the scaling and real-world application of research outcomes, particularly in the domains of climate resilience and sustainable development.
Q.8) The 7th edition of the India–Japan Joint Military Exercise ‘Dharma Guardian’ 2026 is being conducted at which location in India?
[a] Babina, Uttar Pradesh
[b] Foreign Training Node, Chaubattia, Uttarakhand
[c] Mahajan Field Firing Range, Rajasthan
[d] Wellington, Tamil Nadu
View Answer
Answer: [b] Foreign Training Node, Chaubattia, Uttarakhand
Explanation:
The 7th edition of the annual India–Japan Joint Military Exercise ‘Dharma Guardian’ 2026 commenced at the Foreign Training Node Chaubattia, located in Uttarakhand. The exercise is conducted between the Indian Army and the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF). The primary objective of Exercise ‘Dharma Guardian’ is to strengthen military collaboration and enhance combined operational capabilities to conduct joint operations in a semi-urban environment. This edition includes a 120-member contingent from each side. The Japanese contingent is represented by troops from the 32nd Infantry Regiment, while the Indian contingent is drawn from the Ladakh Scouts.
Q.9) The Minimum Support Price (MSP) of raw jute (TD-3 grade) for the 2026-27 marketing season has been fixed at:
[a] ₹5,650 per quintal
[b] ₹5,750 per quintal
[c] ₹5,925 per quintal
[d] ₹6,100 per quintal
View Answer
Answer: [c] ₹5,925 per quintal
Explanation:
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the Minimum Support Price (MSP) of raw jute (TD-3 grade) at ₹5,925 per quintal for the 2026-27 marketing season. This represents an increase of ₹275 per quintal over the previous season. The revised MSP ensures a 61.8% return over the all-India weighted average cost of production, reinforcing income security for jute farmers. India is the largest producer of jute globally. The Jute Corporation of India (JCI) will continue as the Central Government Nodal Agency to undertake Price Support Operations (PSO). Any losses incurred during procurement operations will be fully reimbursed by the Central Government, ensuring effective MSP implementation.
Q.10) National Arogya Fair 2026 was organised to promote which of the following sectors?
[a] Digital Health Infrastructure
[b] Allopathic Medical Research
[c] Traditional Systems of Medicine under AYUSH
[d] Medical Tourism and Hospital Accreditation
View Answer
Answer: [c] Traditional Systems of Medicine under AYUSH
Explanation:
The four-day National Arogya Fair 2026 was organised by the Ministry of AYUSH, Government of India, in collaboration with the All India Ayurvedic Congress, at Shegaon, District Buldhana, Maharashtra. The Fair was conceived as a large-scale public outreach initiative aimed at expanding access to Ayush-based preventive and promotive healthcare systems. Aim of the Initiative is to promote India’s traditional systems of medicine (Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, Homeopathy).
Q.11) Pakyong Airport in Sikkim is being renamed after which freedom fighter?
[a] Tashi Namgyal
[b] Trilochan Pokhrel
[c] Kazi Lhendup Dorjee
[d] Subhash Chandra Bose
View Answer
Answer: [b] Trilochan Pokhrel
Explanation:
Sikkim’s only airport, Pakyong Airport, will be renamed Trilochan Pokhrel Airport in honour of freedom fighter Trilochan Pokhrel. Trilochan Pokhrel, popularly known as “Gandhi Pokhrel”, is regarded as the first independence activist from Sikkim. He actively participated in major national movements led by Mahatma Gandhi, including: Non-Cooperation Movement (1920–22); Civil Disobedience Movement (1930–34); Quit India Movement (1942). Pokhrel belonged to the Khas, Chettri, Bahun community, a sub-group of the Gorkhas.
Q.12) National Science Day is celebrated every year on 28 February to commemorate which of the following discoveries?
[a] Discovery of Radioactivity
[b] Raman Effect
[c] Theory of Relativity
[d] Structure of DNA
View Answer
Answer: [b] Raman Effect
Explanation:
National Science Day is observed every year on 28 February to commemorate the discovery of the Raman Effect by eminent Indian physicist C. V. Raman. The Raman Effect, discovered in 1928, explains the scattering of light and the change in wavelength when light passes through a transparent material. For this groundbreaking discovery, Sir C.V. Raman was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1930, becoming the first Asian to receive a Nobel Prize in the sciences. India observed National Science Day 2026 on 28 February 2026 with the theme: “Women in Science: Catalysing Viksit Bharat”
Q.13) The recently approved first-ever carbon credits under the Paris Agreement have been issued under which mechanism?
[a] Clean Development Mechanism (CDM)
[b] REDD+ Framework
[c] Article 6.4 Mechanism
[d] Kyoto Flexible Mechanism
View Answer
Answer: [c] Article 6.4 Mechanism
Explanation:
The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) has approved the first issuance of carbon credits under the Article 6.4 mechanism of the Paris Agreement (2015). This marks a historic transition of the global carbon market from rule-making to live operationalisation under the Paris framework. It also establishes a global benchmark for high-quality, Paris-aligned carbon credits. More than 165 projects have transitioned from the older Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) of the Kyoto Protocol to the new Article 6.4 mechanism.
Q.14) The fiscal deficit of the Government of India for April–January 2026 (FY 2025-26) stood at what percentage of the full-year Revised Estimate (RE) target?
[a] 74.5%
[b] 63%
[c] 58%
[d] 81%
View Answer
Answer: [b] 63%
Explanation:
As per the monthly accounts released by the Controller General of Accounts (CGA), the Government of India’s fiscal deficit for the period April–January 2026 (FY 2025-26) stood at ₹9.81 lakh crore, amounting to 63% of the full-year Revised Estimate (RE) target of ₹15.58 lakh crore. This reflects an improved fiscal position compared to the same period in FY 2024-25, when the fiscal deficit had reached 74.5% of the annual target. The data indicates: Steady revenue mobilisation, Controlled fiscal management and Front-loaded capital expenditure.
Q.15) The recently signed India–Israel MoU (2026) on Fisheries and Aquaculture primarily aims to promote which of the following sectors?
[a] Deep-sea mineral exploration
[b] Blue Economy and sustainable aquaculture
[c] Inland water transport
[d] Marine defence cooperation
View Answer
Answer: [b] Blue Economy and sustainable aquaculture
Explanation:
During the official state visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Israel in 2026, India and Israel signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on cooperation in the field of Fisheries and Aquaculture. The MoU strengthens bilateral collaboration between India and Israel in advancing sustainable and technology-driven fisheries management practices. The agreement is expected to facilitate knowledge exchange, innovation in aquaculture technologies, improved resource management, and enhanced value-chain development in the fisheries sector.
Q.16) The Standing Committee of the National Board for Wildlife (SC-NBWL) primarily deals with matters related to:
[a] Urban air pollution control
[b] Coastal infrastructure regulation
[c] Wildlife conservation and protected areas
[d] Agricultural subsidies
View Answer
Answer: [c] Wildlife conservation and protected areas
Explanation:
The 89th meeting of the Standing Committee of the National Board for Wildlife (SC-NBWL) was chaired by Union Minister Bhupender Yadav in Bhopal. The SC-NBWL functions under the National Board for Wildlife, which is a statutory body constituted under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. The Standing Committee examined proposals related to: Protected Areas,Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZs), Wildlife Sanctuaries, Tiger Reserves. The Committee ensures that developmental projects near ecologically sensitive wildlife habitats comply with conservation safeguards.
Q.17) The Standing Committee of the National Board for Wildlife (SC-NBWL) primarily deals with matters related to:
[a] Urban air pollution control
[b] Coastal infrastructure regulation
[c] Wildlife conservation and protected areas
[d] Agricultural subsidies
View Answer
Answer: [c] Wildlife conservation and protected areas
Explanation:
The 89th meeting of the Standing Committee of the National Board for Wildlife (SC-NBWL) was chaired by Union Minister Bhupender Yadav in Bhopal. The SC-NBWL functions under the National Board for Wildlife, which is a statutory body constituted under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. The Standing Committee examined proposals related to: Protected Areas, Wildlife Sanctuaries, Tiger Reserves, Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZs). All proposals were scrutinised based on: Ecological sensitivity, Statutory compliance under wildlife laws, and Prescribed mitigation measures.
Q.18) The Central Zoo Authority (CZA) functions under which of the following Acts?
[a] Forest Conservation Act, 1980
[b] Biological Diversity Act, 2002
[c] Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972
[d] Environment Protection Act, 1986
View Answer
Answer: [c] Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972
Explanation:
The 44th Meeting of the Central Zoo Authority (CZA) was chaired by Union Minister Bhupender Yadav at the Indian Institute of Forest Management, Bhopal. Central Zoo Authority is a statutory body constituted under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 to regulate zoos in India and ensure scientific management and conservation standards. Second Cycle of Management Effectiveness Evaluation (MEE). A major focus of the 44th meeting was the second cycle of Management Effectiveness Evaluation (MEE) for zoos. Target is to complete second cycle of MEE for large and medium category zoos by May 2026. MEE is: evidence-based, comprehensive and independent, designed to maintain high operational and conservation standards.
Q.19) The nationwide HPV Vaccination Drive launched in 2026 primarily aims to prevent which of the following diseases?
[a] Breast Cancer
[b] Cervical Cancer
[c] Ovarian Cancer
[d] Tuberculosis
View Answer
Answer: [b] Cervical Cancer
Explanation:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the Nationwide Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccination Campaign from Ajmer, targeting 14-year-old girls. The primary objective of the campaign is to prevent cervical cancer through early immunization. Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a group of 200+ related viruses. It is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI). In nearly 90% of cases, the infection clears naturally without treatment. Persistent infection with high-risk HPV types (especially 16 and 18) can lead to cervical cancer. Vaccination at an early age significantly reduces the risk of HPV-related cancers and aligns with India’s broader public health and cancer prevention strategy.
Q.20) The Gram Sabha of Soundala village recently passed a resolution declaring itself a ‘caste-free’ village. This initiative is primarily aimed at promoting:
[a] Religious conversion
[b] Social equality and non-discrimination
[c] Urban development reforms
[d] Panchayat taxation reforms
View Answer
Answer: [b] Social equality and non-discrimination
Explanation:
The Gram Sabha of Soundala village in Maharashtra unanimously passed a historic resolution declaring itself a ‘caste-free’ village. The resolution aims to eliminate caste-based discrimination and promote social harmony and equality among all residents. Key Provisions of the Resolution: Affirmation that “there will be no discrimination on the basis of caste, religion, creed, or race.” Adoption of the motto: “My religion humanity.” The decision reflects grassroots-level democratic action through the Gram Sabha, reinforcing constitutional values of equality and fraternity.