Current Affairs Quiz

Daily Current Affairs Quiz – 01st January 2025

Dear Readers, Daily Current Affairs Questions Quiz for SBI, IBPS, RBI, RRB, SSC Exam 2025 of 01st January 2025. Daily GK quiz online for bank & competitive exam. Here we have given the Daily Current Affairs Quiz based on the previous days Daily Current Affairs updates. Candidates preparing for IBPS, SBI, RBI, RRB, SSC Exam 2025 & other competitive exams can make use of these Current Affairs Quiz.

 

Start Quiz

 

1) According to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Sanjay Malhotra expressed optimism about India’s economic future by pointing to strong business and consumer confidence in 2025. What percentage of GDP growth did India record in the second quarter of FY24 after a 6% growth in the first half of the fiscal year?

(a) 5.2%

(b) 5.1%

(c) 5.3%

(d) 5.4%

(e) 5.5%


2)
A pilot project to offer unsecured loans to gig workers has been launched by the Reserve Bank Innovation Hub (RBIH) in collaboration with Vivifi Finance. When was Vivifi established?

(a) 2012

(b) 2014

(c) 2015

(d) 2016

(e) 2018


3)
In Q2 of FY25, India’s Current Account Deficit (CAD) decreased slightly to what percentage of GDP?

(a) 1.10%

(b) 1.20%

(c) 1.25%

(d) 1.30%

(e) 1.15%


4) T
he Reserve Bank of India has released guidelines for reporting transactions involving gold derivatives to the Clearing Corporation of India Limited Trade Repository. Which section of the RBI Act 1934 gives the RBI the authority to issue these guidelines?

(a) Section 45W

(b) Section 42W

(c) Section 43W

(d) Section 40W

(e) Section 48W


5)
ICICI Prudential Life Insurance and Reinsurance Group of America (RGA) has introduced a new health insurance product. How long does ICICI Pru Wish’s premium guarantee help customers better plan their premium payments?

(a) 10years

(b) 15years

(c) 20years

(d) 25years

(e) 30years


6)
A major overhaul of the Design-Linked Incentive (DLI) scheme, a foundational element of India’s for how many crore semiconductor incentive program, is being proposed by the Ministry of Electronics and IT (MeitY).

(a) Rs.72000crore

(b) Rs.70000crore

(c) Rs.75000crore

(d) Rs.78000crore

(e) Rs.76000crore


7)
The deadline for the Vivad Se Vishwas Scheme 2024 has been moved from December 31, 2024, to January 31, 2025, by the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT), extending it by one month. What percentage higher tax rate will be applied to new applications beginning February 1, 2025?

(a) 5%

(b) 10%

(c) 12%

(d) 15%

(e) 8%


8) Recently, t
he pharmaceutical industry has been facing a crisis due to the revised Schedule M. GMP Norms go into effect in January 2025. Out of 10,500 drug manufacturing units, how many comply with WHO GMP standards?

(a) 1000

(b) 2000

(c) 1500

(d) 2500

(e) 3000


9)
A report examining the self-declared affidavits of India’s 31 Chief Ministers was published by the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) and National Election Watch (NEW). How many crores separate the richest and poorest chief ministers?

(a) Rs.920crore

(b) Rs.910crore

(c) Rs.930crore

(d) Rs.940crore

(e) Rs.950crore


10)
How many crore Payment Security Fund (PSM) will be established to support the Renewable Energy Service Company (RESCO) and Utility-Led or State-Led Aggregation (ULA) models under the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana, according to new guidelines released by the Ministry of New & Renewable Energy (MNRE)?

(a) ₹100 crore

(b) ₹200 crore

(c) ₹300 crore

(d) ₹250 crore

(e) ₹150 crore


11)
Which organization is researching the competitiveness of the renewable energy industry in the BRICS countries?

(a) CCI

(b) SEBI

(c) IREDA

(d) NTPC

(e) NHPC


12) According to the recent announcement (Jan 2025),
When will India host the first-ever World Audio Visual Entertainment Summit (WAVES)?

(a) January 2025

(b) February 2025

(c) March 2025

(d) April 2025

(e) December 2024


13)
Under the recently introduced PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, the government is concentrating on expanding the number of installations; however, the distribution of subsidies to households has been somewhat delayed. By the end of the fiscal year, how many lakh installations does the ministry hope to have?

(a) 11lakh

(b) 10lakh

(c) 12lakh

(d) 15lakh

(e) 13lakh


14)
Which nation has added sake, a traditional rice wine, to its list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity?

(a) China

(b) Japan

(c) USA

(d) South Korea

(e) Thailand


15)
Which state’s chief minister celebrated Good Governance Day by launching the SWAR (Speech and Written Analysis Resource) platform on December 25, 2024?

(a) Haryana

(b) Gujarat

(c) Maharashtra

(d) Madhya Pradesh

(e) West Bengal


16)
The Adani Group-backed Dharavi Redevelopment Project Private Ltd (DRPPL) has been renamed Navbharat Mega Developers Private Ltd (NMDPL) to avoid confusion with which state’s Dharavi Redevelopment Authority (DRA)?

(a) Karnataka

(b) Gujarat

(c) Maharashtra

(d) Madhya Pradesh

(e) West Bengal


17)
As part of its recommendations for the Budget 2025, the Engineering Export Promotion Council (EEPC) of India has suggested implementing a faceless GST audit system. Which Scheme was recommended by EEPC India to include liabilities related to RCM?

(a) Trade Infrastructure for Export Scheme (TIES)

(b) Interest Equalization Scheme

(c) Export Promotion Capital Goods (EPCG) Scheme

(d) Market Access Initiative

(e) Amnesty Scheme


18)
In which state was K N Renuka Pujar appointed as the first transgender guest lecturer at a university?

(a) Karnataka

(b) Gujarat

(c) Maharashtra

(d) Madhya Pradesh

(e) West Bengal


19) Recently,
South Korea’s National Assembly voted to impeach Acting President Han Duk-soo. He is the _________ time in South Korea an acting president has been impeached by parliament.

(a) 1st

(b) 2nd

(c) 3rd

(d) 4th

(e) 5th


20)
Who has been named the chairperson of the Quality Council of India’s (QCI) constituent board, the National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL)?

(a) Sandip Shah

(b) Subbanna Ayyappan

(c) Amitava Mukherjee

(d) Vitul Kumar

(e) Anish Dayal Singh


21)
An additional year has been added to Amitava Mukherjee’s term as Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of the state-owned NMDC Limited, formerly known as the National Mineral Development Corporation. Where was NMDC’s headquarters located?

(a) Karnataka

(b) Telangana

(c) West Bengal

(d) Odisha

(e) Madhya Pradesh


22)
Who was named by the Center to serve as the Central Reserve Police Force’s (CRPF) Director General (DG) starting on January 1, 2025?

(a) Sandip Shah

(b) Subbanna Ayyappan

(c) Amitava Mukherjee

(d) Vitul Kumar

(e) Anish Dayal Singh


23)
For ₹6.6 crore, the board of SBI Life has authorized the purchase of what percentage of Bima Sugam India Federation?

(a) 5%

(b) 10%

(c) 12%

(d) 15%

(e) 20%


24)
In order to become the fastest high-speed train in the world, China unveiled the _________ prototype, a bullet train that can reach 450 km/h during test runs.

(a) CR350

(b) CR250

(c) CR450

(d) CR550

(e) CR150


25) According to the report,
China introduced the Sichuan, a new amphibious assault ship intended to improve the navy’s combat capabilities, especially in far-off waters. The first ship of the _______ type is the Sichuan.

(a) 072

(b) 074

(c) 075

(d) 076

(e) 078


26)
At the 67th National Shooting Championship held at the Dr. Karni Singh Range in Tughlakabad, who was at the top of the field and won gold in the men’s 25-meter standard pistol?

(a) Adarsh Singh

(b) Udhayveer Sidhu

(c) Omkar Singh

(d) Gurpreet Singh

(e) Prashant Kumar


27)
When was World Peace Day 2025 observed?

(a) January 2

(b) December 30

(c) January 1

(d) December 31

(e) January 3


28) Recently,
Acharya Kishore Kunal, a retired IPS officer, has passed away. He worked as the Secretary of the Mahavir Mandir Trust in which city?

(a) Kolkata

(b) Mumbai

(c) Patna

(d) Lucknow

(e) Kohima


29) Recently,
Charles F. Dolan, the founder of several well-known American media companies, passed away. In what year did he launch Home Box Office (HBO), a leading premium cable television network?

(a) 1972

(b) 1971

(c) 1973

(d) 1974

(e) 1975


30) Recently, t
he ________ President of the United States, Jimmy Carter, passed away peacefully at home in Plains, Georgia, at the age of 100.

(a) 35th

(b) 36th

(c) 37th

(d) 38th

(e) 39th


Answers :

1) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

Despite facing global uncertainties, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Sanjay Malhotra is optimistic about India’s economic prospects, citing high consumer and business confidence in 2025 and expecting an improvement in the second half of the financial year.

Growth and Inflation: India recorded a slowdown in GDP growth to 5.4% in Q2 of FY24, with a 6% growth in the first half of the fiscal year.

Detailed Explanation:

Despite facing global uncertainties, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Sanjay Malhotra is optimistic about India’s economic prospects, citing high consumer and business confidence in 2025 and expecting an improvement in the second half of the financial year.

Growth and Inflation: India recorded a slowdown in GDP growth to 5.4% in Q2 of FY24, with a 6% growth in the first half of the fiscal year.

There are discussions about the possibility of RBI reducing policy rates to support growth, especially as inflation moderates.

Strong Business Confidence: The RBI Governor highlighted that businesses are entering 2025 with robust balance sheets and high profitability, contributing to an improved investment scenario.


2) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

The Reserve Bank Innovation Hub (RBIH) has partnered with Vivifi Finance to launch a pilot project aimed at providing unsecured loans to gig workers.

Unified Lending Interface (ULI) is a digital public infrastructure designed to provide lenders with access to critical financial, non-financial, and alternative data for informed credit decisions.

Vivifi India was founded by Anil K Pinapala and Srinath Kompella in 2016.

Detailed Explanation:

The Reserve Bank Innovation Hub (RBIH) has partnered with Vivifi Finance to launch a pilot project aimed at providing unsecured loans to gig workers.

Unified Lending Interface (ULI) is a digital public infrastructure designed to provide lenders with access to critical financial, non-financial, and alternative data for informed credit decisions.

Currently, 36 lenders, including banks and NBFCs, are onboarded, leveraging over 50 data services such as authentication, land records from six states, satellite data, property searches, dairy insights, and document verification.

The RBIH initially launched the Public Tech Platform for Frictionless Credit to develop an end-to-end digital solution for agriculture loans.

This platform was subsequently renamed the Unified Lending Interface and entered its pilot phase on August 17, 2023.

Vivifi India was founded by Anil K Pinapala and Srinath Kompella in 2016.

It offers buy now, pay later (BNPL) services through its major product FlexSalary, an instant personal emergency line of credit.


3) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

India’s Current Account Deficit (CAD) marginally reduced to 1.2% of GDP in Q2 FY25, compared to 1.3% in the same quarter of the previous year.

Absolute CAD Figures: The CAD in absolute terms stood at $11.2 billion in Q2 FY25, slightly down from $11.3 billion in Q2 FY24.

Detailed Explanation:

India’s Current Account Deficit (CAD) marginally reduced to 1.2% of GDP in Q2 FY25, compared to 1.3% in the same quarter of the previous year.

Factors Contributing to Reduction: The reduction in CAD was attributed to:

Increase in net services receipts

Rise in private transfer receipts

Growth in foreign portfolio investment (FPI) inflows

Higher non-resident deposit inflows

Absolute CAD Figures: The CAD in absolute terms stood at $11.2 billion in Q2 FY25, slightly down from $11.3 billion in Q2 FY24.

Foreign Direct Investment (FDI): Net FDI recorded an outflow of $2.2 billion in Q2 FY25, higher than the $0.8 billion outflow during the same period last year.

Merchandise Trade Deficit: The merchandise trade deficit increased to $75.3 billion in Q2 FY25, compared to $64.5 billion in Q2 FY24.


4) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) mandates that Authorized Dealer Category-I Banks report gold derivative transactions to the Clearing Corporation of India Limited. (CCIL) trade repository.

Legal Framework: These guidelines are issued under the powers vested in the RBI under Section 45W of the RBI Act, 1934, Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999, and Banking Regulation Act, 1949.

Detailed Explanation:

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) mandates that Authorized Dealer Category-I Banks report gold derivative transactions to the Clearing Corporation of India Limited. (CCIL) trade repository.

Effective Date: The reporting requirement will start from February 1, 2025 for all over-the-counter (OTC) transactions in gold derivatives conducted by banks and eligible customers.

Retrospective Reporting: Banks are required to retrospectively report all matured and outstanding transactions from April 15, 2024, to February 28, 2025, to ensure data completeness.

This report should be submitted within ten days of the succeeding quarter, starting from the quarter ending December 31, 2024.

Legal Framework: These guidelines are issued under the powers vested in the RBI under Section 45W of the RBI Act, 1934, Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999, and Banking Regulation Act, 1949.


5) Answer: E

Short Explanation:

ICICI Prudential Life Insurance has partnered with Reinsurance Group of America (RGA) to launch a unique health insurance product.

Premium Guarantee and Payment Flexibility:ICICIPru Wish offers a premium guarantee for 30 years, helping customers plan their premium payments better.

Detailed Explanation:

ICICI Prudential Life Insurance has partnered with Reinsurance Group of America (RGA) to launch a unique health insurance product.

The product specifically caters to women’s health, covering critical illnesses and surgeries.

Critical Illness Coverage:The product provides an instant payout of up to 100% of the health cover amount upon the diagnosis of critical illnesses.

Key covered conditions include breast cancer, cervical cancer, uterine cancer, and heart ailments.

Premium Guarantee and Payment Flexibility:ICICIPru Wish offers a premium guarantee for 30 years, helping customers plan their premium payments better.

It also allows customers to take a premium sabbatical for up to 12 months during the premium payment term.


6) Answer: E

Short Explanation:

The Ministry of Electronics and IT (MeitY) is proposing a significant revamp to the Design-Linked Incentive (DLI) scheme, a key pillar of India’s Rs 76,000-crore semiconductor incentive programme.

Detailed Explanation:

The Ministry of Electronics and IT (MeitY) is proposing a significant revamp to the Design-Linked Incentive (DLI) scheme, a key pillar of India’s Rs 76,000-crore semiconductor incentive programme.

The proposed enhancements aim to boost the scheme’s effectiveness by addressing funding challenges faced by startups and attracting larger players to the ecosystem.

 Increased Startup Subsidies

Current Subsidy: Rs 15 crore.

Proposed Subsidy: Rs 30 crore to support startups developing intellectual property (IP) for semiconductor designs.

Financial Overview

DLI Allocation: Rs 1,000 crore from the total Rs 76,000 crore semiconductor incentive fund.


7) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) has extended the Vivad Se Vishwas Scheme 2024 deadline by one month, moving it from December 31, 2024, to January 31, 2025.

Applications filed by this new deadline will benefit from lower tax rates under the scheme.

Starting February 1, 2025, a 10% higher tax rate will apply to new applications.

Detailed Explanation:

The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) has extended the Vivad Se Vishwas Scheme 2024 deadline by one month, moving it from December 31, 2024, to January 31, 2025.

Applications filed by this new deadline will benefit from lower tax rates under the scheme.

Starting February 1, 2025, a 10% higher tax rate will apply to new applications.

Benefits of the Extension

Cost Savings:
Taxpayers can settle disputes without incurring the additional 10% tax surcharge, ensuring smoother resolutions.

Simplified Dispute Resolution:
The scheme facilitates settlements by requiring taxpayers to pay a reduced disputed tax amount plus specified percentages of penalties and interest.

Rates Before and After January 31, 2025:

Before January 31:

100% of disputed tax.

25% of disputed penalty/interest.

After January 31:

110% of disputed tax.

30% of disputed penalty/interest.


8) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

The revised Schedule M guidelines for Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), effective January 2025, have put significant pressure on India’s pharmaceutical industry, especially on Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

Out of 10,500 drug manufacturing units, only 2,000 units comply with the WHO’s GMP norms.

Detailed Explanation:

The revised Schedule M guidelines for Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), effective January 2025, have put significant pressure on India’s pharmaceutical industry, especially on Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

Non-Compliance Among MSMEs

Out of 10,500 drug manufacturing units, only 2,000 units comply with the WHO’s GMP norms.

80% of these units are MSMEs, which face significant financial and infrastructural hurdles in meeting the revised norms.

Stricter GMP Norms

The revised guidelines require:

Enhanced physical infrastructure and air handling units.

Product development reports, process validation, and method validation studies.

Pharmacovigilance and post-marketing studies.

MSMEs find it difficult to absorb the compliance costs without price hikes or financial assistance.


9) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

The Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR), along with the National Election Watch (NEW), has released a report analyzing the self-declared affidavits of India’s 31 Chief Ministers.

The gap between the wealthiest (Naidu) and poorest (Banerjee) CMs is ₹930 crore.

Detailed Explanation:

The Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR), along with the National Election Watch (NEW), has released a report analyzing the self-declared affidavits of India’s 31 Chief Ministers.

The data highlights significant wealth disparities and provides insights into criminal records, gender representation, and financial trends.

Richest and Poorest Chief Ministers

Wealthiest CMs

N.Chandrababu Naidu (Andhra Pradesh): ₹931 crore.

Pema Khandu (Arunachal Pradesh): ₹332 crore.

Siddaramaiah (Karnataka): ₹51 crore.

Poorest CMs

Mamata Banerjee (West Bengal): ₹15 lakh.

Omar Abdullah (Jammu and Kashmir): ₹55 lakh.

Pinarayi Vijayan (Kerala): ₹1.18 crore.

Wealth Gap

The gap between the wealthiest (Naidu) and poorest (Banerjee) CMs is ₹930 crore.


10) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

The Ministry of New & Renewable Energy (MNRE) has unveiled new guidelines establishing a ₹100 crore Payment Security Fund (PSM) to support the Renewable Energy Service Company (RESCO) and Utility-Led or State-Led Aggregation (ULA) models under the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana.

This fund aims to de-risk investments and ensure timely payments for rooftop solar (RTS) installations under these models.

Detailed Explanation:

The Ministry of New & Renewable Energy (MNRE) has unveiled new guidelines establishing a ₹100 crore Payment Security Fund (PSM) to support the Renewable Energy Service Company (RESCO) and Utility-Led or State-Led Aggregation (ULA) models under the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana.

This fund aims to de-risk investments and ensure timely payments for rooftop solar (RTS) installations under these models.

Purpose of the Payment Security Mechanism (PSM-RTS):

Objective: To de-risk investments in RESCO-based models for rooftop solar systems by providing timely payments.

Management: The fund will be administered by the National Programme Implementation Agency (NPIA) and maintained in an interest-bearing bank account.

Corpus Size: ₹100 crore, with potential for supplementation through grants or other funding sources.


11) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

The Competition Commission of India (CCI) is conducting a study to analyzecompetition issues in the renewable energy sector across BRICS nations.

The study is being carried out under the BRICS framework, as stated by CCI Chairperson Ravneet Kaur.

Detailed Explanation:

The Competition Commission of India (CCI) is conducting a study to analyzecompetition issues in the renewable energy sector across BRICS nations.

The study is being carried out under the BRICS framework, as stated by CCI Chairperson Ravneet Kaur.

Other Ongoing Study:

The CCI is also conducting a market study on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its impact on competition.

BRICS Grouping:

The original BRICS countries were Brazil, Russia, India, China, and later South Africa joined the bloc.


12) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

India will host the World Audio Visual Entertainment Summit (WAVES) for the first time in February 2025.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced this during his ‘Mann ki Baat’ radio address

Detailed Explanation:

India will host the World Audio Visual Entertainment Summit (WAVES) for the first time in February 2025.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced this during his ‘Mann ki Baat’ radio address

Purpose: To showcase India’s creative talent and establish the country as a global hub for content creation and creative collaboration.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced WAVES during his ‘Mann Ki Baat’ radio address.

WAVES is positioned as a landmark initiative for India’s entertainment and creative industries, with an invitation for creators from Bollywood, regional cinema, TV, animation, gaming, and entertainment technology sectors to participate.

WAVES is likened to the World Economic Forum for its potential to draw global attention and influence in the media and entertainment sectors.


13) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

The government is focusing on increasing the number of installations under the newly launched PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, the disbursal of subsidy to the households has somewhat been delayed.

The ministry is aiming to reach 12 lakh installations by the end of the fiscal year.

The village with the highest solar installation within a six-month period will receive ₹1 crore in central financial assistance.

Detailed Explanation:

The government is focusing on increasing the number of installations under the newly launched PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, the disbursal of subsidy to the households has somewhat been delayed.

PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana Overview:

Launched on February 13, 2024, with the goal of installing rooftop solar plants in 1 crore households by 2026-27.

Financial Outlay:₹75,021 crore allocated, with ₹13,175.33 crore earmarked for FY24-25.

Energy Generation Goal: Expected to generate 1 lakh crore units of electricity and reduce CO2 emissions by 72 crore tonnes.

Installation and Subsidy Delays:

Applications:20 lakh applications received by October 2024, with only 4.8 lakh installations completed.

Subsidy Disbursal: Only 58.3% of installations (i.e., 2.8 lakh households) have received subsidies.

The delay in subsidy disbursal is attributed to various factors, including a slower momentum during the rainy season, but the average daily capacity remains around 3,000-3,500 installations.

The ministry is aiming to reach 12 lakh installations by the end of the fiscal year.

The village with the highest solar installation within a six-month period will receive ₹1 crore in central financial assistance.


14) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

Japan’s traditional rice wine, sake, has been inducted into UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity list.

This recognition highlights the importance of sake in Japan’s rich culinary and cultural traditions.

Detailed Explanation:

Japan’s traditional rice wine, sake, has been inducted into UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity list.

This recognition highlights the importance of sake in Japan’s rich culinary and cultural traditions.

Sake has a deep-rooted history in Japanese culture, being integral to both traditional rites and modern-day culinary practices.

It is often considered more traditional than even sushi, symbolizing Japanese heritage.

Sake is made through a detailed process of boiling, fermenting, and pressing Japanese rice over a period of two months.

Many breweries producing sake are centuries old and located in mountainous regions.


15) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel launched the SWAR (Speech and Written Analysis Resource) platform on December 25, 2024, marking the occasion of Good Governance Day.

Bhashini AI System: The SWAR platform utilizes the Bhashini artificial intelligence system, designed to facilitate language translation and voice-to-text functionality.

Detailed Explanation:

Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel launched the SWAR (Speech and Written Analysis Resource) platform on December 25, 2024, marking the occasion of Good Governance Day.

The platform was developed by the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) in collaboration with the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology’s Bhashini Team under the National Language Translation Mission (NLTM).

Technology Integration: The platform uses technology to enable communication through voice, with a Speech-to-Text feature integrated into the Gujarat CMO website.

Bhashini AI System: The SWAR platform utilizes the Bhashini artificial intelligence system, designed to facilitate language translation and voice-to-text functionality.


16) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

Dharavi Redevelopment Project Private Ltd (DRPPL), backed by the Adani Group, has been renamed Navbharat Mega Developers Private Ltd (NMDPL) to avoid confusion with the Dharavi Redevelopment Authority (DRA), a Maharashtra government entity.

Board and Ministry Approval: The rebranding received approval from the board of directors and the Ministry of Corporate Affairs.

Detailed Explanation:

Dharavi Redevelopment Project Private Ltd (DRPPL), backed by the Adani Group, has been renamed Navbharat Mega Developers Private Ltd (NMDPL) to avoid confusion with the Dharavi Redevelopment Authority (DRA), a Maharashtra government entity.

Board and Ministry Approval: The rebranding received approval from the board of directors and the Ministry of Corporate Affairs.

Government’s Role Unchanged: The Maharashtra government, through the DRA, will continue as the supervising authority for the project, ensuring its pivotal role remains intact.

Scope: The project covers over 600 acres in Dharavi, one of Mumbai’s largest slum areas.

Stake Distribution:

Adani Group: Holds an 80% stake in NMDPL.

Maharashtra Government: Controls the remaining 20%.


17) Answer: E

Short Explanation:

The Engineering Export Promotion Council (EEPC), India has proposed the introduction of a faceless GST audit system as part of its Budget 2025 recommendations.

EEPC India recommended that RCM-related liabilities be included under the Amnesty Scheme.

Detailed Explanation:

The Engineering Export Promotion Council (EEPC), India has proposed the introduction of a faceless GST audit system as part of its Budget 2025 recommendations.

Inspired by the success of faceless assessment by the Income Tax department, the proposal aims to boost efficiency and reduce compliance burdens.

The initiative is expected to improve India’s ranking in the Ease of Doing Business index, enhancing its attractiveness as a destination for foreign investment.

Reverse Charge Mechanism (RCM):

EEPC India recommended that RCM-related liabilities be included under the Amnesty Scheme.


18) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

K N Renuka Pujar has become the first transgender person to be appointed as a guest lecturer at a university in Karnataka, specifically Vijayanagara Sri Krishnadevaraya University.

Detailed Explanation:

K N Renuka Pujar has become the first transgender person to be appointed as a guest lecturer at a university in Karnataka, specifically Vijayanagara Sri Krishnadevaraya University.

Pujar, aged 27, completed her post-graduation in Kannada, qualifying her for the guest lecturer position.

Out of 30 applicants, Pujar was selected based on her qualifications, good marks, and performance in the lecture, as per the selection committee’s assessment.

Pujar credited her achievement to the strong support of her parents, highlighting their role in her success.


19) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

South Korea’s National Assembly voted to impeach Acting President Han Duk-soo.

First Impeachment of an Acting President: This is the first time in South Korean history that an acting president has been impeached by parliament.

Detailed Explanation:

South Korea’s National Assembly voted to impeach Acting President Han Duk-soo.

This event marks a significant political development in the country.

Han Duk-soo became acting president on December 14, 2024, after President Yoon Suk-yeol was impeached for failing to impose martial law.

The impeachment motion for Han Duk-soo was passed unanimously with a 192-0 vote.

First Impeachment of an Acting President: This is the first time in South Korean history that an acting president has been impeached by parliament.


20) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

Dr. Sandip Shah, an eminent medical professional and visionary leader, has been appointed as the Chairperson of the National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL), a constituent board of the Quality Council of India (QCI).

Dr. Shah succeeds Prof. Subbanna Ayyappan in this role, bringing over 35 years of expertise in healthcare and diagnostics with a distinguished career in pathology, molecular biology, and transplant immunology.

Detailed Explanation:

Dr. Sandip Shah, an eminent medical professional and visionary leader, has been appointed as the Chairperson of the National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL), a constituent board of the Quality Council of India (QCI).

Dr. Shah succeeds Prof. Subbanna Ayyappan in this role, bringing over 35 years of expertise in healthcare and diagnostics with a distinguished career in pathology, molecular biology, and transplant immunology.

He is the Joint Managing Director at Neuberg Diagnostics and the founder of Neuberg Supratech Reference Laboratories.

Additionally, he serves as the Honorary Director at the  Institute of Kidney Diseases and Research Center.


21) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

State-owned NMDC Limited, formerly National Mineral Development Corporation, announced the extension of Amitava Mukherjee’s tenure as Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) for an additional year, effective from November 20, 2024.

About NMDC Limited :

Founded : 1958

Headquarters : Hyderabad, Telangana

Detailed Explanation:

State-owned NMDC Limited, formerly National Mineral Development Corporation, announced the extension of Amitava Mukherjee’s tenure as Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) for an additional year, effective from November 20, 2024.

Amitava Mukherjee is currently serving as the Director (Finance) at NMDC and was previously given the additional charge of CMD.

About NMDC Limited :

Founded : 1958

Headquarters : Hyderabad, Telangana


22) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

The Centre appointed Vitul Kumar, a 1993-batch Uttar Pradesh cadre IPS officer, to officiate as the Director General (DG) of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) from January 1, 2025.

Kumar takes charge following the retirement of Anish Dayal Singh, the outgoing CRPF DG.

Detailed Explanation:

The Centre appointed Vitul Kumar, a 1993-batch Uttar Pradesh cadre IPS officer, to officiate as the Director General (DG) of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) from January 1, 2025.

Kumar takes charge following the retirement of Anish Dayal Singh, the outgoing CRPF DG.

Kumar will hold the position until a regular appointment is made or until further orders.

Kumar is set to retire in 2028 and has been recognized for his contributions to law enforcement and police services.


23) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

SBI Life’s board has approved the acquisition of a 10% stake in Bima Sugam India Federation for ₹6.6 crore.

Detailed Explanation:

SBI Life’s board has approved the acquisition of a 10% stake in Bima Sugam India Federation for ₹6.6 crore.

Bima Sugam India Federation is an unlisted company, incorporated on June 18, 2024, with the goal of creating and operating a centralized marketplace for insurance products and services.

SBI Life will invest ₹6.6 crore to acquire 66 lakh equity shares with a face value of ₹10 each in Bima Sugam’s equity share capital.

The investment is subject to an increase in Bima Sugam’s authorized share capital to accommodate the stake acquisition.


24) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

China unveiled its CR450 prototype, a high-speed bullet train designed to achieve 450 km/h during test runs, making it the world’s fastest high-speed train.

The CR450 surpassed the previous CR400 Fuxing model, which had a maximum speed of 350 km/h.

Detailed Explanation:

China unveiled its CR450 prototype, a high-speed bullet train designed to achieve 450 km/h during test runs, making it the world’s fastest high-speed train.

The CR450 surpassed the previous CR400 Fuxing model, which had a maximum speed of 350 km/h.

Future Testing and Commercial Launch:China Railway plans to conduct line tests for the CR450 and optimize its technical indicators to ensure it enters commercial service as soon as possible.

China’s High-Speed Rail Network:China’s operational HSR network spans about 47,000 km, connecting major cities across the country.

The network has played a critical role in economic and social development, despite not being profitable, by reducing travel times and boosting industrial development along rail routes.

Economic Impact and Profitability:The Beijing-Shanghai train service is the most profitable, while other city networks are still not profitable.

International Expansion:In recent years, China’s high-speed rail network has expanded internationally, with exports to Thailand, Indonesia, and the Belgrade-Novi Sad HSR in Serbia.


25) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

China launched a new amphibious assault ship, named Sichuan, designed to enhance the navy’s combat capabilities, particularly in distant seas.

Ship Specifications:The Sichuan is the first ship of the 076 type and is China’s largest amphibious assault ship to date, displacing 40,000 tonnes.

Development Timeline: The new ship is part of China’s broader naval expansion, following the introduction of its first amphibious assault ships, the Type 075, in 2019.

Detailed Explanation:

China launched a new amphibious assault ship, named Sichuan, designed to enhance the navy’s combat capabilities, particularly in distant seas.

Ship Specifications:The Sichuan is the first ship of the 076 type and is China’s largest amphibious assault ship to date, displacing 40,000 tonnes.

The ship is equipped with an electromagnetic catapult that allows fighter jets to launch directly from its deck.

Combat Functionality:The Sichuan is designed to launch ground troops via landing crafts and provide air support to these troops during amphibious operations.

It also features arrestor technology, enabling fighter jets to land on the ship’s deck.

Development Timeline: The new ship is part of China’s broader naval expansion, following the introduction of its first amphibious assault ships, the Type 075, in 2019.


26) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

Adarsh Singh was in top form, clinching the men’s 25-metre standard pistolgold with a seven-point margin over Udhayveer Sidhu, Omkar Singh and Olympian Gurpreet Singh in the 67th National shooting championship at the Dr. Karni Singh Range, Tughlakabad.

Detailed Explanation:

Adarsh Singh was in top form, clinching the men’s 25-metre standard pistolgold with a seven-point margin over Udhayveer Sidhu, Omkar Singh and Olympian Gurpreet Singh in the 67th National shooting championship at the Dr. Karni Singh Range, Tughlakabad.

Men’s 25m Standard Pistol:

Gold: Adarsh Singh

Won with a seven-point margin, showcasing his dominance.

Silver:Udhayveer Sidhu

Bronze: Omkar Singh

Both Udhayveer and Omkar edged out Olympian Gurpreet Singh for podium finishes based on a better count of inner-10s.

Men’s 50m Free Pistol:

Gold: Prashant Kumar

Displayed consistent precision to claim the top spot.

Women’s & Junior 50m Free Pistol:

Gold (both categories):Sainyam

Achieved an impressive score of 548, underlining her versatility across categories.


27) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

Global Family Day 2025 is observed on the 1st of January 2025.

Every year, Global Family Day, also known as World Peace Day, is observed to encourage the idea of peace and unity in the world.

Detailed Explanation:

Global Family Day 2025 is observed on the 1st of January 2025.

Every year, Global Family Day, also known as World Peace Day, is observed to encourage the idea of peace and unity in the world.

Additionally, it highlights the notion that everyone on the planet is related to one another regardless of nationality, borders, or ethnicity.

On the first day of the new millennium, in 1997, the United Nations General Assembly declared the International Decade for the Culture of Peace and Nonviolence for the Children of the World.


28) Answer: C

Acharya Kishore Kunal, a retired IPS officer, passed away due to cardiac arrest in Patna.

Kunal was an IPS officer of the 1972 batch.

He served as the Chief of the Bihar State Board of Religious Trust (BSBRT), overseeing religious trust affairs in Bihar.

He served as the Secretary of the Mahavir Mandir Trust,Patna, which manages several hospitals in the state.


29) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

Charles F. Dolan, founder of some of the most prominent U.S. media companies, passed away at the age of 98.

Dolan was instrumental in shaping modern cable broadcasting and media.

1972: Launched Home Box Office (HBO), which became a leading premium cable television network.

Detailed Explanation:

Charles F. Dolan, founder of some of the most prominent U.S. media companies, passed away at the age of 98.

Dolan was instrumental in shaping modern cable broadcasting and media.

1972: Launched Home Box Office (HBO), which became a leading premium cable television network.

1973: Founded Cablevision Systems Corp., a major cable provider.

1984: Established American Movie Classics (AMC), a television station focused on classic films.

Created News 12, the first 24-hour local cable news channel in the U.S., in New York City.

Dolan played a critical role in introducing premium and specialized programming to cable television.


30) Answer: E

Short Explanation:

Jimmy Carter, the 39th President of the United States, passed away peacefully at the age of 100 at his home in Plains, Georgia.

Carter was the longest-lived president in U.S. history.

He was the third American president to visit India, during which a village in Haryana was named Carterpuri in his honor.

Detailed Explanation:

Jimmy Carter, the 39th President of the United States, passed away peacefully at the age of 100 at his home in Plains, Georgia.

Carter was the longest-lived president in U.S. history.

He was the third American president to visit India, during which a village in Haryana was named Carterpuri in his honor.

Jimmy Carter served as the 39th President of the U.S. from 1977 to 1981.

He is known for his work in human rights, peacebuilding, and diplomacy.

Carter was considered a friend of India and was the first American president to visit India after the emergency and Janata Party victory in 1977.

He served in both the Atlantic and Pacific fleets and later joined the elite nuclear submarine program.

He was elected as Georgia State Senator in 1962 and as the Governor of Georgia in 1970.

This post was last modified on January 3, 2025 7:11 pm