1. Which ministry recently launched the Civil Registration System (CRS) mobile application to integrate technology with governance?
[A] Ministry of Home Affairs
[B] Ministry of Defence
[C] Ministry of Urban Development
[D] Ministry of Tourism
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [Ministry of Home Affairs]
Notes:
The Union Home Minister launched the Civil Registration System (CRS) mobile app to integrate technology with governance.
The app, developed by the Registrar General and Census Commissioner of India (RGCCI), enables registration of births and deaths nationwide. It simplifies the process, allowing citizens to register these events anytime, from anywhere, in their state’s official language. The RGCCI, under the Ministry of Home Affairs, oversees the Census, compiles population data, and manages the CRS. Established in 1961, RGCCI provides data essential for social, economic, and policy decisions across government levels.
2. What atmospheric phenomenon was recently observed above Antarctica’s Pine Island Glacier by NASA’s Landsat 8 satellite?
[A] Fog bank
[B] Sea smoke
[C] Aurora borealis
[D] Dust storm
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [Sea smoke]
Notes:
NASA’s Landsat 8 satellite captured images of ‘sea smoke’ rising from Antarctica’s Pine Island Glacier, a phenomenon where frigid air meets warm water, creating fog-like plumes. This rare atmospheric event highlights the glacier’s vulnerability and the impact of strong winds on polar ice sheets. Sea smoke forms when cold air cools and condenses over open waters, resulting in ghostly ice crystal plumes that can influence ice mass balance. Pine Island Glacier is known for its rapid retreat and significant role in ice flow dynamics.
3. Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD), which was seen in the news, primarily affect which animals?
[A] Deer, elk, and moose
[B] Cattle and sheep
[C] Pigs and Wolves
[D] Dogs and cats
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [Deer, elk, and moose]
Notes:
New York State authorities confirmed a case of Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) in a deer facility, highlighting its impact on deer, elk, and moose. CWD is a fatal neurological disease caused by prions that damage brain tissue in cervids. It leads to severe symptoms like weight loss, lack of coordination, drooling, and eventually death. CWD spreads through bodily fluids and contaminated environments, but there is no evidence of it infecting humans. Symptoms can take up to 16 months to appear, and there is currently no vaccine or treatment available.
4. According to a study by Columbia University, which major health risk is associated with long-term exposure to arsenic in water?
[A] Cardiovascular disease
[B] Neurological disorders
[C] Skin cancer
[D] Respiratory diseases
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [Cardiovascular disease]
Notes:
A Columbia University study found that long-term exposure to arsenic in water may increase cardiovascular disease risk. Arsenic is a natural element found in air, water, and soil, and can also be released by industries like mining. It exists in organic and highly toxic inorganic forms; contaminated water and food are common exposure sources. High arsenic levels cause poisoning, with symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, while long-term exposure can lead to skin changes. Arsenic is used in rat poisons, insecticides, semiconductors, glass-making, and wood preservation, though its use is heavily controlled due to toxicity.
5. Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR), which was seen in the news, works under which ministry?
[A] Ministry of Science and Technology
[B] Ministry of Agriculture
[C] Ministry of Urban Development
[D] Ministry of Education
Show Answer
Correct Answer: D [Ministry of Education]
Notes:
Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR) faculty and staff have appealed to the Education Minister regarding delays in implementing 7th Central Pay Commission pay scales. ICSSR was founded by the Government of India in 1969, based on Prof. V. K. R. V. Rao’s recommendations. It is an autonomous body under the Department of Higher Education, Ministry of Education, promoting social science research. ICSSR funds projects, fellowships, international collaborations, and publications in social sciences. It supports 24 research institutes, six regional centers, and five recognized institutes across India.
6. Abhay Prabhavana Museum, a largest museum of ideas dedicated to Jain philosophy, recently inaugurated in which city?
[A] Pune
[B] Indore
[C] Visakhapatnam
[D] Varanasi
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [Pune]
Notes:
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari inaugurated the Abhay Prabhavana Museum in Pune, India’s largest museum dedicated to Jain philosophy and heritage. Set on 50 acres along the Indrayani river, it features 30 galleries showcasing the essence of Jain philosophy through interactive exhibits, artworks, and advanced technology. The museum aims to attract over 2,000 visitors daily and will include a separate children’s section to simplify complex concepts, making it a global cultural landmark.
7. Common Cat Snake, recently discovered in Valmiki Tiger Reserve, is endemic to which region?
[A] South America
[B] South Asia
[C] North Africa
[D] Australia
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [South Asia]
Notes:
The common cat snake was recently discovered in Valmiki Tiger Reserve, Bihar. Its scientific name is Boiga trigonata, and it is endemic to South Asia. It is found across India, except in the northeast and islands. It inhabits various forests and elevations. It is venomous but not highly dangerous to humans, used primarily for subduing prey. It is classified as “Least Concern” on the IUCN Red List.
8. Which northeastern state has implemented Odd-Even Scheme to reduce traffic congestion?
[A] Mizoram
[B] Nagaland
[C] Manipur
[D] Sikkim
Show Answer
Correct Answer: D [Sikkim]
Notes:
The Government of Sikkim has introduced Odd-Even traffic rules in Gangtok from today to reduce congestion. The rule applies from Mayfair Fatak to GICI, Zero Point. Vehicles with odd and even registration numbers can travel on odd and even dates, respectively. Exemptions include taxis, vehicles of additional secretary level or above, ambulances, police, and essential services. Media and certain tourists are also exempt with valid ID.
9. Which organizations recently released the ‘Hunger Hotspots Outlook Report’?
[A] Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the World Food Programme (WFP)
[B] World Health Organization (WHO) and International Monetary Fund (IMF)
[C] International Labour Organization (ILO) and European Union (EU)
[D] World Bank and International Monetary Fund (IMF)
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the World Food Programme (WFP) ]
Notes:
The report, titled ‘Hunger Hotspots’ for the period between November 2024 and May 2025, was published recently. The new report by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the World Food Programme (WFP) indicates that acute food insecurity is expected to worsen in 22 countries over the next six months. Sudan, Palestine, South Sudan, Haiti, and Mali are on the highest alert. Kenya, Lesotho, Namibia, and Niger are newly added hunger hotspots. Burkina Faso, Ethiopia, Malawi, Somalia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe remain on the list. Climate issues like La Niña may increase floods in Southern Africa and cause drought in Ethiopia, Kenya, and Somalia.
10. Bidar Fort, which was seen in the news, is located in which state?
[A] Karnataka
[B] Maharashtra
[C] Rajasthan
[D] Madhya Pradesh
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [Karnataka]
Notes:
The Karnataka Board of Waqfs claims 17 monuments inside the historic Bidar Fort as its property. The Archaeological Survey of India, the official custodian of the fort, is reportedly unaware of this claim. Bidar Fort is located in Bidar city on Karnataka’s northern plateau. The fort’s history spans over 500 years, beginning with the Western Chalukya dynasty. Sultan Ahmed Shah Wali of the Bahmani dynasty chose Bidar as his capital in 1430 and transformed the fort into a grand citadel. The fort is constructed from trap rock, with stone and mortar fort walls. Its entrance gate features a high dome, originally painted with vibrant colors inside.