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1. Which country introduced the Tropical Forest Forever Facility (TFFF) during the COP28 climate summit in Dubai?
[A] Brazil
[B] France
[C] China
[D] Russia
Correct Answer: A [Brazil]
Notes:
In 2023, Brazil launched the Tropical Forest Forever Facility (TFFF) at the COP28 climate summit in Dubai. This program is intended to provide financial rewards to tropical countries for forest conservation. It uses satellite technology to monitor forest health and compensates nations based on their preservation efforts. However, some non-profits and indigenous groups have raised concerns about how the program will be implemented and its potential effects. The TFFF aims to offer significant financial rewards to countries that protect or restore tropical forests, with a payment system that gives a set amount for each hectare of forest each year. Brazil, Indonesia, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo are major participants, together holding about 52% of the world’s rainforests. The TFFF is expected to have two versions ready by COP30 in Belem, Brazil, and aims to generate $4 billion each year by attracting around $125 billion in investments. There are worries about how quickly funds will need to be repaid and the risk of losing funds during economic downturns. Critics argue that this model may not adequately support local communities, as only 20% of the funds would actually reach them.
2. Kuno National Park, which was recently seen in the news, is located in which state?
[A] Assam
[B] Sikkim
[C] Nagaland
[D] Madhya Pradesh
Correct Answer: D [Madhya Pradesh]
Notes:
India has made significant progress in restoring its cheetah population with the birth of five cubs at Kuno National Park. This success is part of Project Cheetah, which aims to bring cheetahs back to India and restore ecological balance. The project involves relocating African cheetahs from Namibia and South Africa to revive the extinct population. Recently, a female cheetah named Nirva gave birth to five cubs in Kuno National Park, located in Madhya Pradesh. This achievement highlights the positive impact of the reintroduction project and enhances India’s efforts in biodiversity conservation. Kuno National Park spans 750 sq.km and is situated near the Vindhyan Hills, named after the Kuno River, a key tributary of the Chambal River.
3. Which ministry has reported an increase in the utilisation of funds for water resource schemes in the fiscal year 2024-2025?
[A] Ministry of Finance
[B] Ministry of Jal Shakti
[C] Ministry of Rural Development
[D] Ministry of Current Affairs
Correct Answer: B [Ministry of Jal Shakti]
Notes:
The Jal Shakti Ministry has noted an increase in the use of funds for water resource projects in the fiscal year 2024-2025. By March 2025, almost all central funds were utilized, showing better efficiency in managing funds and working with state governments. The central government set aside Rs 13,431.48 crore for Centrally Sponsored Schemes (CSS), and by March 2025, Rs 13,216.34 crore was spent, resulting in a utilization rate of 98.39%. In contrast, Central Sector schemes had a lower utilization rate of 81.79%, with Rs 5,376.73 crore spent from an allocation of Rs 6,573.73 crore. In the previous year, only 49.45% of CSS funds were used. The total spending for CSS reached Rs 15,804.73 crore in FY 2024-2025, a significant rise from Rs 10,059.15 crore in FY 2023-2024, indicating faster project implementation. Officials credit the increase in fund usage to better release processes and improved cooperation with states. Funds sent to states rose from Rs 2,902.73 crore in FY 2023-2024 to Rs 4,756.48 crore in FY 2024-2025, showing enhanced collaboration between the central and state governments. The balances in State Nodal Agency (SNA) accounts decreased, with CSS balances dropping from Rs 2,404.98 crore to Rs 1,347.38 crore, and Central Sector schemes seeing a decline from Rs 1,293.50 crore to Rs 608.63 crore, suggesting faster fund deployment for projects.
4. What is the name of the app launched by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA)?
[A] Subhadra App
[B] Sarvashakti App
[C] Vipatt Appa
[D] Sachet App
Correct Answer: D [Sachet App]
Notes:
The Sachet app, made by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), aims to improve disaster preparedness in India. Prime Minister Narendra Modi mentioned it in his recent ‘Mann ki Baat’ speech. The app sends real-time geo-tagged alerts for different disasters and uses the Common Alerting Protocol (CAP) to provide timely notifications based on users’ locations. People can register for alerts specific to their states or districts, enhancing local awareness. It addresses disasters like floods, cyclones, landslides, tsunamis, and forest fires. The app also gives daily weather updates and forecasts from the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), ensuring users get important information from official sources. Furthermore, it includes essential resources like disaster management guidelines and helpline numbers. A notable feature is its satellite connectivity, which enables communication during severe emergencies when regular networks may not work. To cater to India’s diverse population, the app supports 12 Indian languages, with translation and read-out options for wider accessibility. It is available for download on both Android and iOS, encouraging inclusive disaster preparedness.
5. When was the UDAN scheme launched?
[A] 2015
[B] 2016
[C] 2020
[D] 2021
Correct Answer: B [2016]
Notes:
India’s aviation industry used to focus on big cities, making air travel a luxury for the wealthy. However, the UDAN scheme, launched in 2016, has changed this by making air travel more affordable for everyone. It connects smaller cities and regions with major urban areas, improving regional access and economic growth. As of April 27, 2025, the scheme marks eight years of success in expanding air travel options for the public.
6. Which nodal space agency has introduced a new initiative named Satellite Bus as a Service (SBaaS)?
[A] Space Applications
[B] Space Commission
[C] IN-SPACe
[D] Space Tutor
Correct Answer: C [IN-SPACe]
Notes:
The Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) has launched a new program called Satellite Bus as a Service (SBaaS). This program is designed to motivate private companies in India to create and build satellite-bus platforms. The aim is to lessen reliance on imports and foster innovation in the Indian space industry. It will position India as a global provider of small satellite-bus and hosted-payload services. A satellite bus is the main structure of a satellite, housing the necessary systems for its operation. The payload, which consists of various tools and technologies, is mounted on this bus. This standardized design allows for flexibility in satellite missions. It encourages innovation among Indian Non-Governmental Entities (NGEs), reduces dependence on foreign satellite technology, and supports the creation of small satellite-bus platforms for various uses, boosting the growth of India’s private space sector. Implementation will occur in phases: Phase I will shortlist up to four NGEs based on their technical skills to develop a modular, multi-mission satellite-bus system. Phase II will see IN-SPACe support up to two hosted-payload missions to test the effectiveness of the developed platforms.
7. Recently, which country military deployed an anti-ship missile launcher on Batan Island in the Philippines?
[A] India
[B] United States
[C] China
[D] Japan
Correct Answer: B [United State]
Notes:
The US military recently set up an anti-ship missile launcher on Batan Island in the Philippines, increasing its military presence near Taiwan and the South China Sea. This move comes amid ongoing territorial disputes with China, which has taken control of Tiexian Reef, raising tensions. The missile system was deployed during the annual Balikatan exercises, involving around 9,000 American and 5,000 Filipino troops, aimed at improving military readiness and deterring aggression. These exercises simulated real combat situations, highlighting the growing rivalry between the US and China. Tiexian Reef, also known as Sandy Cay, is part of the Spratly Islands and is located near Thitu Island, where the Philippines has a military facility and a new coast guard base.
8. Who was recently honored by Fiji with the ‘Companion of the Order of Fiji’?
[A] Ratan Tata
[B] Azim Premji
[C] Madhusudan Sai
[D] Sudha Murthy
Correct Answer: C [Madhusudan Sai]
Notes:
Madhusudan Sai, a distinguished humanitarian, was recently awarded the prestigious ‘Companion of the Order of Fiji’ in recognition of his outstanding contributions to healthcare and social welfare. His significant initiatives, particularly the founding of the Sri Sathya Sai Sanjeevani Children’s Hospital, have profoundly influenced the healthcare landscape in Fiji, providing essential medical services to children in need, irrespective of their backgrounds. This honor was bestowed upon him by the President of Fiji, Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, during a formal ceremony at the State House on April 25, 2025, underscoring his unwavering commitment to serving humanity.
9. Which of the following was recently honored with the Udyog Vikas Award?
[A] National Industrial Corridor Development Corporation (NICDC)
[B] Bengaluru-Mumbai Industrial Corridor (BMIC)
[C] Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor (DMIC)
[D] Amritsar-Kolkata Industrial Corridor (AKIC)
Correct Answer: A [National Industrial Corridor Development Corporation (NICDC)]
Notes:
The National Industrial Corridor Development Corporation (NICDC) was awarded the Udyog Vikas Award at a Janmabhumi Daily event in Kerala. This award recognizes NICDC’s important contribution to changing India’s industrial scene, especially with the Palakkad Industrial Smart City project, which is part of a larger initiative to create Greenfield Industrial Smart Cities in Kerala.
10. Which state/UT has launched the Ayushman Vay Vandana Scheme, granting free health insurance worth Rs 10 lakh to Seniors 70+?
[A] Pondicherry
[B] Delhi
[C] Bihar
[D] Assam
Correct Answer: B [Delhi]
Notes:
The Delhi government has launched the Ayushman Vay Vandana Scheme to provide free health insurance of Rs 10 lakh for seniors aged 70 and above. This program aims to improve healthcare access and offers free treatments, annual check-ups, and secure digital health records to support the dignity and health of elderly citizens. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta introduced the scheme on April 28, 2025, during an event where the first health cards were given out.
11. Which ministry, the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) has recently been authorised to share information with the Enforcement Directorate (ED) under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act?
[A] Ministry of Finance
[B] Ministry of Industry and Commerce
[C] Ministry of Home Affairs
[D] Ministry of External Affairs
Correct Answer: A [Ministry of Finance]
Notes:
The Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) has been given permission to share information with the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to help fight increasing cyber frauds targeting the public. I4C, which is part of the Ministry of Home Affairs, acts as a central point for tackling cybercrime in India. Its goal is to improve the country’s response to cyber threats by raising public awareness and enhancing law enforcement capabilities. The Revenue Department has placed I4C under Section 66 of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, allowing it to collaborate with the ED and other agencies to track down cyber fraudsters. This cooperation is essential for following the money linked to these crimes, enabling the ED to take action against offenders under anti-money laundering laws. Cyber fraud can take many forms, including fake websites, misleading social media pages, and scam ads. Fraudsters often use one-time passwords (OTPs) or harmful links to deceive people, which can lead to compromised devices and financial losses.
12. Which organization has recently released the State of the World’s Indigenous Peoples Report?
[A] United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs
[B] International Labour Organisation (ILO)
[C] International Monetary Fund (IMF)
[D] United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
Correct Answer: A [United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs]
Notes:
The UN has published the State of the World’s Indigenous Peoples Report, showing that Indigenous Peoples make up about six percent of the global population but safeguard around 80 percent of the Earth’s biodiversity. Despite this, they receive less than one percent of international climate funding, raising serious concerns about fairness in climate initiatives. Indigenous economies depend mainly on agriculture, fishing, and forestry, but climate change creates uncertainty for these livelihoods. Unpredictable weather and environmental damage threaten their economic independence. As traditional methods become less effective, Indigenous communities struggle to maintain their lifestyles. Their ancestral lands are endangered by climate change, disrupting traditional practices. External pressures weaken Indigenous Peoples’ role in environmental protection. The loss of land jeopardizes their sovereignty and cultural ties to the environment. They also face increased risks from climate-related health problems, worsened by limited healthcare access. Traditional food sources are impacted, leading to nutritional challenges. The health and well-being of these communities are jeopardized by climate effects.
13. Kalaignar Centenary Park is located in which Indian state?
[A] Kochi
[B] Amaravati
[C] Chennai
[D] Pondicherry
Correct Answer: C [Chennai]
Notes:
Kalaignar Centenary Park in Chennai opened in October 2024 and has quickly become a favorite spot for both fun and learning. Built at a cost of ₹46 crore to honor former Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi, this park is an important addition to the city’s public areas. It features a green space along with modern attractions like a zipline, an aviary, and displays of special plants. The park aims to raise environmental awareness, offer recreational activities, and pay tribute to Karunanidhi’s legacy.
14. World Intellectual Property Day is celebrated every year on which day?
[A] April 26
[B] April 27
[C] April 28
[D] April 29
Correct Answer: B [April 26]
Notes:
World Intellectual Property Day is observed on April 26 each year to promote awareness of intellectual property (IP) rights and their importance in encouraging innovation and creativity. The theme for 2025 is ‘IP and Music: Feel the Beat of IP,’ which emphasizes how IP supports artists and the music industry worldwide. This day highlights the importance of IP protection in helping creators, musicians, and innovators secure their work and receive recognition and rewards for their efforts.
15. When is International Chernobyl Disaster Remembrance Day observed annually?
[A] April 29
[B] April 28
[C] April 27
[D] April 26
Correct Answer: D [April 26]
Notes:
April 26 is International Chernobyl Disaster Remembrance Day, established by the UN on December 8, 2016, to remember the victims and raise awareness about ongoing issues. The Chernobyl disaster, which happened on April 26, 1986, is a key event in nuclear energy history, affecting health, the environment, and nuclear policies. The explosion at the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant released a lot of radioactive material, causing long-term damage and suffering. This day reminds us of the challenges still faced by the affected areas.
16. What is the theme of World Veterinary Day 2025?
[A] Veterinarians are Essential Health Workers
[B] Animal Health Takes a Team
[C] Strengthening Veterinary Resilience
[D] The Veterinarian Response to the Covid-19 Crisis
Correct Answer: B [Animal Health Takes a Team]
Notes:
World Veterinary Day 2025 will be on April 26, with the theme ‘Animal Health Takes a Team’. This theme emphasizes teamwork in veterinary medicine, showing how veterinarians, nurses, technicians, and researchers must work together. The day celebrates the vital role of veterinarians in promoting animal health and public safety. It also highlights their contributions to food safety and environmental protection. The goal is to raise awareness about animal health and the efforts of veterinarians around the world.