21. What is the primary objective of Mission Mausam?
[A] Develop new agricultural technologies
[B] Make India a ‘Weather-ready and Climate-smart’ nation
[C] Enhance disaster relief operations through satellite imaging
[D] Boost India’s space exploration capabilities
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [Make India a ‘Weather-ready and Climate-smart’ nation]
Notes:
The Prime Minister will launch ‘Mission Mausam’ on the 150th foundation day of the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The mission aims to make India a ‘Weather-ready and Climate-smart’ nation by advancing weather and climate science. It has a budget of Rs 2,000 crore over two years and will be implemented by India Meteorological Department (IMD), Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, and National Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasting. It focuses on improving forecasting accuracy, real-time local weather updates, and weather management technologies. The program includes cutting-edge technologies like high-resolution observations, next-gen radars, satellites, and high-performance computers. It addresses climate change, improves air quality data, and prepares citizens for extreme weather events.
22. What is the name of India’s first indigenous micro-missile system designed to counter swarm drones?
[A] Bhargavastra
[B] Agni
[C] Vayu
[D] Saryu
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [Bhargavastra]
Notes:
India has successfully tested the Bhargavastra, its first micro-missile system to counter swarm drones. It is designed to counter the threat of swarm drones. It was developed by Economic Explosives Ltd. Bhargavastra detects small flying machines over 6 km and hits targets over 2.5 km. It uses guided micro-munitions and can fire more than 64 micro missiles simultaneously. The system operates in all terrains, including high-altitude areas. It fulfills Army Air Defence requirements, marking India’s first counter-drone system with micro missiles.
23. Which animals are primarily affected by Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD), that was recently seen in news?
[A] Cows and goats
[B] Deer, elk, moose, and reindeer
[C] Birds
[D] Dogs and cats
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [Deer, elk, moose, and reindeer]
Notes:
Scientists are concerned about the potential for ‘zombie deer’ disease, or Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD), to affect humans. CWD is a fatal neurological disease that primarily affects deer, elk, moose, and reindeer. Caused by prions, misfolded proteins that damage the brain, leading to severe dysfunction and spongy tissue. It spreads through body fluids like saliva, feces, blood, and urine, and can remain infectious in the environment for years. Symptoms include weight loss, behavioral changes, and increased drinking and salivation. There is no cure or vaccine, and although there’s no confirmed human transmission, experts remain cautious.
24. National Bureau of Fish Genetic Resources (NBFGR) was established under which institution?
[A] Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)
[B] Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)
[C] National Biodiversity Authority (NBA)
[D] Ministry of Fisheries
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)]
Notes:
Around 100 tribal people from Pulicat will receive training in pearl spot culture, crab fattening, and clownfish aquaculture, organized by the National Bureau of Fish Genetic Resources (NBFGR). NBFGR was established in 1983 under Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), focuses on fish germplasm conservation. Its infrastructure was set up in Lucknow in 1999. NBFGR’s vision includes the sustainable utilization and conservation of fish genetic resources. The bureau works on documenting fish diversity, developing databases, genotyping, and genebanking to support fish population health and sustainability.
25. What is the rank of India in the QS World Future Skills Index 2025?
[A] First
[B] Second
[C] Third
[D] Fourth
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [Second]
Notes:
India ranks second after the US in the QS World Future Skills Index 2025 for job market preparedness in AI, digital, and green sectors. India scores highly in the “Future of Work” indicator, trailing the US by less than a point. The country excels in readiness for digital roles alongside Mexico. However, India faces challenges in its higher education system, industry collaboration, and equipping graduates with in-demand skills. Despite strong GDP growth and a youthful population, India lags in sustainability and innovation metrics. To unlock potential, India needs better integration between education and industry.
26. Which state government has recently launched a pension scheme to provide a monthly pension to individuals during the Emergency (1975–1977)?
[A] Bihar
[B] Uttar Pradesh
[C] Gujarat
[D] Odisha
Show Answer
Correct Answer: D [Odisha]
Notes:
Odisha has launched a pension scheme providing ₹20,000 per month for individuals detained during the Emergency (1975–1977). The scheme also covers medical expenses for eligible recipients alive as of January 1, 2025. Similar pension schemes exist in Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Rajasthan, and Assam. Those arrested under the Maintenance of Internal Security Act, Defence of India Rules, and related laws during the Emergency can apply. Over 300 people in Odisha are eligible, with an annual cost of ₹8 crore for the state government. Applications are required for pension and medical benefits.
27. Which organization has published the “Prospects for Children in 2025: Building Resilient Systems for Children’s Futures” report?
[A] International Labour Organization (ILO)
[B] United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
[C] United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF)
[D] World Bank
Show Answer
Correct Answer: C [United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) ]
Notes:
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) report “Prospects for Children in 2025” warns of escalating crises affecting children globally. More than 473 million children, or 19%, lived in conflict zones in 2023, facing risks like displacement, starvation, and trauma. Nearly 400 million children are in countries burdened by debt, limiting education, healthcare, and social services. In low-income nations, debt servicing outpaces social spending, deepening poverty for 1.8 billion children. Climate change impacts children, with only 2.4% of climate finance directed to child-responsive initiatives. Digital inequality affects access to essential services, especially for youth in low-income countries and adolescent girls. UNICEF calls for increased financing to protect children’s health, education, and well-being.
28. Which ministry has launched the toolkit for 9th edition of Swachh Survekshan (SS), the world’s largest urban cleanliness survey?
[A] Ministry of Commerce and Industry
[B] Ministry of Jal Shakti
[C] Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs
[D] Ministry of Home Affairs
Show Answer
Correct Answer: C [Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs]
Notes:
The Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs launched the toolkit for the 9th edition of Swachh Survekshan (SS), the world’s largest urban cleanliness survey. A new category, the “Super Swachh League,” has been introduced to recognize cities excelling in cleanliness. Cities are now categorized into five groups based on population, with awards for top cities in each group. Assessment will focus on parameters like waste management, sanitation, and cleanliness at tourist spots. The field assessment phase will run from February 15 to March 2025.
29. Chincholi Wildlife Sanctuary is located in which state?
[A] Odisha
[B] Assam
[C] Karnataka
[D] Maharashtra
Show Answer
Correct Answer: C [Karnataka]
Notes:
The Forest Department is urging residents of Sheribikanahalli Tanda, in the Chincholi Wildlife Sanctuary, to relocate due to the area’s ecological sensitivity. Chincholi Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Kalburgi District, North Karnataka, and spans 134.88 sq.km. It was declared a sanctuary in 2011. It is the first dry land wildlife sanctuary in South India and is also referred to as the Ooty of Telangana. The sanctuary is home to the Chandrampalli dam and four smaller dams. It also shelters the Lambani Tandas, a protected tribal community living in the forest.
30. What are the names of the two new initiatives launched by the Rubber Board to enhance India’s rubber industry?
[A] Green Rubber and RPIS
[B] iSNR (Indian Sustainable Natural Rubber) and INR Konnect
[C] Ne-Mitra and SustainRubber
[D] None of the Above
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [iSNR (Indian Sustainable Natural Rubber) and INR Konnect]
Notes:
The Rubber Board launched two initiatives, iSNR (Indian Sustainable Natural Rubber) and INR Konnect. iSNR ensures compliance with the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) by streamlining the rubber supply chain for EU markets. It provides traceability certificates verifying the origin of rubber products and their compliance with EUDR standards. This initiative aims to make Indian natural rubber competitive and responsible globally, promoting sustainable production and industry growth. INR Konnect is a web-based platform connecting untapped rubber growers with adopters to improve plantation productivity. It certifies participants, offers training in sustainable practices, and maintains a database of certified tappers.