Current Affairs › March 2026 › All MCQ Questions

March 2026 Current Affairs MCQ — All Questions & Answers

Complete collection of March 2026 current affairs MCQ questions with answers — 31 daily quizzes, 620 questions total, with detailed explanations for every answer. Ideal for UPSC Prelims, SSC CGL, RRB NTPC 2026 revision.

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March 2026 Current Affairs Questions — Day by Day

1

1 March 2026 — Current Affairs MCQ

20 questions · with answers

Q1.What is the primary objective of the new EUR 20 million India-Germany climate initiative?

A) To improve resilience in high-risk ecosystems ✓
B) To promote nuclear energy cooperation
C) To build new solar power plants
D) To fund urban public transport in Delhi
Explanation: The initiative, announced under the International Climate Initiative (IKI), focuses on ecosystem-based approaches such as forest restoration, biodiversity connectivity, and erosion control in high-risk regions like the Himalayas and Western Ghats.

Q2.The newly inaugurated inland waterway projects at Dibrugarh are situated on which National Waterway?

A) NW-2 ✓
B) NW-4
C) NW-3
D) NW-1
Explanation: The projects inaugurated by Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal are located on National Waterway-2 (NW-2), which runs along the River Brahmaputra in Assam.

Q3.Which reserve forest in Tamil Nadu was recently inaugurated as the state's first Dark Sky Park?

A) Ariyur Shola Reserve Forest ✓
B) Anamalai Reserve
C) Kalakkad Mundanthurai
D) Mudumalai Forest
Explanation: The Ariyur Shola Reserve Forest, located in the Kolli Hills of the Namakkal district, was inaugurated as Tamil Nadu's first Dark Sky Park to promote astro-tourism.

Q4.Which reserve in Madhya Pradesh holds the title of India's first official Dark Sky Park, designated in 2024?

A) Satpura Tiger Reserve
B) Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve
C) Kanha Tiger Reserve
D) Pench Tiger Reserve ✓
Explanation: Pench Tiger Reserve in Madhya Pradesh became India's first official Dark Sky Park under the International Dark-Sky Places programme and is also recognized as Asia's fifth.

Q5.What is the primary function of the upgraded 'RAJMARG PRAVESH' (Version 2.0) web portal?

A) To report accidents on highways
B) To obtain NOCs for facilities and utilities along National Highways ✓
C) To purchase FastTags for commercial vehicles
D) To book highway tolls
Explanation: The RAJMARG PRAVESH 2.0 portal simplifies the process for citizens and businesses to apply for permissions like fuel stations, wayside amenities, and utility laying (pipelines/cables) along National Highways.

Q6.Who was appointed as the chairman of the reconstituted Hindi Advisory Committee for the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers?

A) Nitin Gadkari
B) JP Nadda ✓
C) Sarbananda Sonowal
D) Anupriya Patel
Explanation: Union Minister Jagat Prakash (JP) Nadda was named chairman of the Hindi Advisory Committee, with Anupriya Patel serving as the Vice-Chairman.

Q7.Which Indian Air Force command conducted the joint maritime exercise 'Kalari Leap'?

A) South Western Air Command
B) Eastern Air Command
C) Western Air Command
D) Southern Air Command ✓
Explanation: The Southern Air Command (SAC) of the Indian Air Force conducted the exercise across the Lakshadweep and Minicoy archipelago to validate joint operational planning.

Q8.Where was the 'Exercise Vayushakti-26' conducted, demonstrating the IAF's integrated air operations?

A) Chandipur, Odisha
B) Jamnagar, Gujarat
C) Leh, Ladakh
D) Pokhran Range, Rajasthan ✓
Explanation: Exercise Vayushakti-26 took place at the Pokhran Field Firing Range in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, involving over 130 aircraft in simulated live combat theatre.

Q9.What historic honor did PM Narendra Modi receive during his February 2026 visit to Israel?

A) Honorary Citizenship of Tel Aviv
B) Key to the City of Jerusalem
C) Order of the Star of Israel
D) Medal of the Knesset ✓
Explanation: PM Narendra Modi became the first Indian PM to address the Israeli Parliament (Knesset) and was conferred the 'Medal of the Knesset' by Speaker Amir Ohana.

Q10.IIFL Home Finance secured a USD 300 million loan from which organization to promote affordable women's housing?

A) World Bank
B) International Monetary Fund
C) Asian Development Bank ✓
D) New Development Bank
Explanation: IIFL Home Finance signed a loan agreement with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to expand affordable housing, with a focus on women borrowers.

Q11.What technology is the 'Finsider' app by Jio Finance primarily based on to provide hyper-personalized services?

A) Agentic AI and Neural Networks ✓
B) Standard automated spreadsheet logic
C) Blockchain and Crypto
D) Manual financial advisory
Explanation: The Finsider app uses Agentic Artificial Intelligence and Neural Networks to dynamically adjust the user interface and provide personalized financial recommendations.

Q12.Which asset management company partnered with the Central Bank of India to distribute mutual fund products?

A) Canara Robeco AMC ✓
B) HDFC Mutual Fund
C) ICICI Prudential AMC
D) SBI Mutual Fund
Explanation: The Central Bank of India signed a distribution agreement with Canara Robeco Asset Management Company (CRAMC) to offer mutual fund products across its branch network.

Q13.What is the unique capability of the new platform launched by Gnani.ai and Razorpay?

A) High-frequency stock trading
B) Automated real estate valuation
C) Global crypto exchange
D) AI-driven in-call UPI payments ✓
Explanation: The platform enables AI to assess payment intent, generate links, and complete UPI transactions during live customer calls using Razorpay’s payment infrastructure.

Q14.Which entity's blue bond was dually listed on the NSE IX at GIFT City in February 2026?

A) DFCC Bank Plc (Sri Lanka) ✓
B) India's State Bank
C) Bangladesh Central Bank
D) Maldives Monetary Authority
Explanation: Sri Lanka’s 1st blue bond, issued by DFCC Bank Plc, was dually listed at the NSE IX in GIFT City, marking the first time a blue bond was admitted for trading in India's IFSC.

Q15.What are the roles of 'Samvaad' and 'Arya' in the partnership between Sarvam and SBI Life?

A) Both are legacy banking software updates
B) Samvaad for customer conversations and Arya for AI orchestration ✓
C) Samvaad for data security and Arya for marketing
D) Samvaad for hardware and Arya for cloud storage
Explanation: Samvaad is Sarvam’s conversational AI platform for managing customer interaction, while Arya is a multi-agent orchestration layer that coordinates workflows.

Q16.What type of missile system is the DRDO's VSHORADS tested at Chandipur?

A) Intercontinental Ballistic Missile
B) Submarine-launched ballistic missile
C) Man-portable air defence missile system ✓
D) Anti-ship cruise missile
Explanation: VSHORADS stands for Very Short-Range Air Defence System, which is a man-portable system designed to neutralize low-altitude aerial threats like UAVs and helicopters.

Q17.What is the 'Dolphin Hunter' INS Anjadip, commissioned in Chennai?

A) A stealth fighter jet
B) An amphibious assault ship
C) A nuclear-powered submarine
D) An Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft ✓
Explanation: INS Anjadip is the third of eight indigenously built Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW SWC), nicknamed the 'Dolphin Hunter'.

Q18.Utsav Charan Das, who passed away in 2026, was a legendary artist of which folk dance form?

A) Bihu
B) Ghoda Nacha ✓
C) Kathak
D) Garba
Explanation: Utsav Charan Das was a renowned artist dedicated to preserving and promoting the traditional Odia folk dance form 'Ghoda Nacha' (dummy horse).

Q19.What is the theme of National Science Day 2026?

A) Artificial Intelligence for All
B) Science for Global Well-being
C) Space Exploration and Human Progress
D) Women in Science: Catalysing Viksit Bharat ✓
Explanation: The theme for the 40th National Science Day (2026) is 'Women in Science: Catalysing Viksit Bharat'.

Q20.National Science Day in India commemorates which scientific discovery?

A) The launch of the first satellite
B) The discovery of the Raman Effect ✓
C) The first atomic test in Pokhran
D) The invention of the polio vaccine
Explanation: National Science Day is observed annually on February 28 to commemorate Sir C. V. Raman's discovery of the 'Raman Effect' in 1928.
20 questions — 1 March 2026 Take interactive quiz →
2

2 March 2026 — Current Affairs MCQ

20 questions · with answers

Q1.What is the primary function of the newly inaugurated Micron ATMP facility in Sanand?

A) Assembly, Test, Marking, and Packaging of memory solutions ✓
B) Manufacturing of micro-satellites
C) Production of raw silicon wafers for solar panels
D) Design and research of artificial intelligence software
Explanation: The facility is an ATMP (Assembly, Test, Marking, and Packaging) plant, which specializes in finishing and testing memory products like DRAM and NAND for AI and mobile applications.

Q2.Which wildlife conservation project in Odisha incorporated extensive tunnels and underpasses to protect local fauna?

A) Khurda–Balangir railway line ✓
B) Bhitarkanika rail expansion
C) Similipal transit project
D) Sambalpur–Jharsuguda corridor
Explanation: The Khurda–Balangir rail line includes a 75-km stretch near Baisipalli Wildlife Sanctuary that features wildlife underpasses and tunnels to mitigate impact on elephant corridors.

Q3.What is the current total cheetah population in India following the arrival of nine cheetahs from Botswana?

A) 28
B) 48 ✓
C) 37
D) 52
Explanation: With the addition of nine cheetahs from Botswana to the existing 28 India-born cubs and others, the total count has reached 48.

Q4.The new Gujarat STI Policy 2026–2031 aims to achieve which intellectual property target by 2031?

A) 100 patents total
B) 5,000 research papers published
C) 500 patents and 1,000 global filings
D) 1,000 intellectual property filings annually ✓
Explanation: The policy targets 1,000 intellectual property filings annually, explicitly aiming for at least 500 patents and 100 global filings per year.

Q5.What is the primary purpose of Maharashtra’s newly launched Divyang Sahayak Portal?

A) To list employment opportunities for retired government officials
B) To monitor the health records of senior citizens
C) To digitize the application and delivery of disability welfare schemes ✓
D) To provide educational grants to underprivileged students
Explanation: The Divyang Sahayak Portal is an integrated digital platform that allows persons with disabilities to apply for benefits, track applications, and access grievance redressal online.

Q6.Varanasi set a Guinness World Record by planting 2,51,446 saplings in one hour using which technique?

A) Miyawaki technique ✓
B) Vertical garden cultivation
C) Hydroponic farming
D) Seed bombing
Explanation: The record-breaking urban forest in Varanasi was developed using the Miyawaki technique, which is known for creating dense, native forests quickly.

Q7.Which of the following is NOT one of the women-centric schemes launched by President Droupadi Murmu in Delhi?

A) Digital Skill Scholarship ✓
B) Free LPG cylinder scheme
C) Pink National Common Mobility Card
D) Delhi Lakhpati Bitiya Yojana
Explanation: The four schemes launched were the Pink National Common Mobility Card, two free LPG cylinders annually, the Delhi Lakhpati Bitiya Yojana, and Meri Punji Mera Adhikaar. There is no Digital Skill Scholarship mentioned.

Q8.Following the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was named to the temporary three-member Leadership Council?

A) Alireza Arafi ✓
B) Ebrahim Raisi
C) Hassan Rouhani
D) Ali Larijani
Explanation: Ayatollah Alireza Arafi was appointed as the jurist member of the three-member council tasked with temporarily assuming the Supreme Leader's duties.

Q9.Why did FPI inflows into India hit a 17-month high in February 2026?

A) Due to the devaluation of the Rupee
B) Because of a sudden reduction in corporate tax rates
C) Driven by strong Q3FY26 earnings and an interim India-US trade deal ✓
D) Following a ban on domestic stock market trading
Explanation: The surge in FPI interest was largely attributed to positive market sentiment driven by a 14.7% earnings growth and the interim trade deal with the US.

Q10.What milestone did India's gross GST collections reach for the fiscal year 2026 (up to Feb 28)?

A) ₹15 lakh crore
B) ₹20 lakh crore ✓
C) ₹18 lakh crore
D) ₹25 lakh crore
Explanation: By February 28, 2026, cumulative gross GST revenue for the fiscal year surpassed the ₹20 lakh crore milestone, reflecting an 8.3% YoY increase.

Q11.Deepak Gupta has been appointed as the CMD of which Indian Maharatna PSU?

A) IOCL
B) NTPC
C) GAIL ✓
D) ONGC
Explanation: Deepak Gupta took charge as the Chairman and Managing Director of GAIL (India) Limited effective March 1, 2026.

Q12.For which specific achievement did Mangaluru International Airport receive the 2025 ASQ Award?

A) Best Eco-friendly Infrastructure
B) Best Cargo Terminal Management
C) Best Airport at Arrivals ✓
D) Best Airport Security
Explanation: Mangaluru International Airport won the 2025 Airport Service Quality (ASQ) Award for 'Best Airport at Arrivals – Globally' based on passenger feedback.

Q13.Which statement best describes the Amondawa tribe's perception of time?

A) They use a complex lunar calendar
B) They do not use words for time or abstract temporal concepts ✓
C) They define time solely by the movement of the sun
D) They view time as an abstract, independent framework
Explanation: The Amondawa tribe organizes their life through socially defined stages and roles, lacking words for abstract temporal concepts like months, years, or numerical ages.

Q14.What is the objective of the 'Nodi Bandhan' initiative in West Bengal?

A) To build new bridges over the Hooghly
B) To dredge and restore the Ichhamati and Jalangi river basins ✓
C) To protect mangrove forests in the Sundarbans
D) To implement a state-wide solar power grid
Explanation: The 'Nodi Bandhan' initiative, supported by GIZ, aims to restore the Ichhamati and Jalangi rivers through basin-based masterplans focusing on dredging and pollution control.

Q15.The Forest Owlet (Athene blewitti) was sighted for the first time in which protected area?

A) Kuno National Park ✓
B) Kanha Tiger Reserve
C) Bandhavgarh National Park
D) Gir National Park
Explanation: The rare and endangered Forest Owlet was recorded in Kuno National Park, likely benefitting from habitat improvements under Project Cheetah.

Q16.Which player powered India's record chase in the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Super 8 stage?

A) Suryakumar Yadav
B) Rohit Sharma
C) Sanju Samson ✓
D) Hardik Pandya
Explanation: Sanju Samson scored a brilliant 97, helping India chase down 196 against the West Indies to secure a semifinal berth.

Q17.What significance did Alyssa Healy's final ODI match have for her career?

A) She became the team captain for the first time
B) She reached 10,000 career runs
C) She helped Australia win the World Cup trophy
D) She scored 158 runs and retired from international cricket ✓
Explanation: Alyssa Healy retired from international cricket after scoring a spectacular 158 off 98 balls in her final ODI match against India.

Q18.What is the primary goal of Gujarat's ₹1,000 crore innovation fund launched under the STI Policy?

A) To accelerate indigenous technology development ✓
B) To subsidize foreign tech imports
C) To provide low-interest loans for housing
D) To construct new research universities
Explanation: The fund is designed to accelerate indigenous technology development to reduce import dependence in critical sectors such as AI and semiconductors.

Q19.Which company invested ₹250 crore in SSD and memory module production at Sanand?

A) Horiba Group
B) Rohm Semiconductor
C) Qualcomm
D) Hotayi Electronic ✓
Explanation: As part of the Gujarat Semiconnect 2026 conference, Malaysia-based Hotayi Electronic committed ₹250 crore to set up SSD and memory module manufacturing in Sanand.

Q20.What is the main role of the Assembly of Experts in Iran's political system?

A) To act as the national intelligence agency
B) To manage the national treasury
C) To set the daily agenda for the Parliament
D) To elect the Supreme Leader ✓
Explanation: The Assembly of Experts is the body constitutionally mandated to select and oversee the successor to the Supreme Leader.
20 questions — 2 March 2026 Take interactive quiz →
3

3 March 2026 — Current Affairs MCQ

20 questions · with answers

Q1.What is the primary objective of the proposed restructuring of the Central Warehousing Corporation (CWC)?

A) To merge with the Ministry of Power
B) To shift its headquarters to Mumbai
C) To privatize all warehousing operations
D) To transition into a Maharatna status company ✓
Explanation: The CWC plans to restructure into a company with a broader operational scope, specifically aiming to achieve Maharatna status as part of its future growth strategy.

Q2.Which mobile application was introduced by the Power Minister during the BEE’s 25th Foundation Day celebration?

A) BEE Efficiency Portal
B) BEE Star Label Mobile App ✓
C) Energy Save India App
D) BEE Compliance Tracker
Explanation: During the BEE@25 event, the Union Power Minister launched the BEE Star Label Mobile App alongside the BEE@25 logo and the RCO portal to enhance transparency and compliance.

Q3.What is the primary conservation goal of the Indian Bison Fest held at Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary?

A) To facilitate the relocation of gaurs
B) To promote tiger tourism exclusively
C) To celebrate the Indian bison and promote conservation awareness ✓
D) To introduce foreign species to the sanctuary
Explanation: The Indian Bison Fest, held at Debrigarh, is designed to celebrate the Indian bison (gaur) and foster greater public awareness regarding their conservation and habitat management.

Q4.What percentage of Haryana's GSDP is represented by the projected fiscal deficit in the 2026-27 budget?

A) 5.15%
B) 2.65% ✓
C) 1.00%
D) 10.28%
Explanation: The Haryana Budget 2026-27 projects a fiscal deficit of ₹40,293 crore, which constitutes 2.65% of the Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP).

Q5.What is the core focus of 'Project HANUMAN' launched in Andhra Pradesh?

A) Developing smart cities
B) Expanding railway infrastructure
C) Addressing human-wildlife conflict ✓
D) Promoting digital literacy in rural areas
Explanation: Project HANUMAN, launched by the Deputy CM of Andhra Pradesh, aims to mitigate human-wildlife conflicts through rapid response teams and data-driven monitoring to protect rural communities and wildlife.

Q6.What major outcome was achieved regarding India and Canada’s trade goals for 2030?

A) A target of CAD 100 billion in trade
B) The termination of all existing trade agreements
C) A trade goal of CAD 70 billion via a CEPA ✓
D) A complete ban on critical mineral imports
Explanation: The negotiations for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between India and Canada aim to boost bilateral trade to CAD 70 billion by the year 2030.

Q7.What record did India achieve during the India AI Impact Summit 2026?

A) Guinness World Record for the most AI responsibility pledges in 24 hours ✓
B) Most AI research papers published in a week
C) Largest gathering of AI robots in one location
D) Highest number of AI startups founded in a month
Explanation: India secured a Guinness World Record title at the summit for receiving over 2.5 lakh pledges related to AI responsibility within a 24-hour period.

Q8.How did India's current account deficit (CAD) change in 2025 according to the RBI?

A) It reached an all-time high of $100 billion
B) It remained stagnant
C) It fell to $30.1 billion ✓
D) It increased to $36.6 billion
Explanation: The RBI reported that India's current account deficit narrowed to $30.1 billion (1% of GDP) in 2025, down from $36.6 billion in the previous year.

Q9.What is the primary role of Dan Bailey at Jio Platforms?

A) President for International Expansion ✓
B) Chief Financial Officer
C) Chief Technology Officer
D) Head of Digital Marketing
Explanation: Jio Platforms appointed Dan Bailey as President to lead the company's international expansion efforts, reporting directly to Akash Ambani.

Q10.Saba Shawl made history by becoming the first Kashmiri woman to hold which position?

A) Director of Police Intelligence
B) Head of Central Jail Srinagar ✓
C) Chief Secretary of J&K
D) Commissioner of Tourism
Explanation: Saba Shawl was appointed to head the high-security Central Jail Srinagar, making her the first Kashmiri woman to lead the facility.

Q11.Shri B.P. Singh's appointment as DGONA at Naval Headquarters focuses on which area?

A) Naval aviation training
B) Naval armament management and logistics ✓
C) Submarine construction
D) Maritime diplomacy
Explanation: As the Director General of Naval Armament, B.P. Singh is responsible for managing armament, procurement, and logistics to ensure the operational readiness of the Indian Navy’s weapon systems.

Q12.Which website secured a top-five global ranking in 2026 according to traffic data?

A) LinkedIn
B) ChatGPT ✓
C) Amazon
D) Wikipedia
Explanation: In 2026, the AI-powered platform ChatGPT entered the top five most-visited websites globally, reflecting the increasing integration of AI tools in daily life.

Q13.What is the primary purpose of Tamil Nadu's new Dark Sky Park at Ariyur Shola?

A) To facilitate gold mining
B) To protect the night sky from light pollution ✓
C) To create a large solar farm
D) To house a new high-security prison
Explanation: The Dark Sky Park in Ariyur Shola was developed to protect natural night skies from light pollution, promoting both scientific observation and astro-tourism.

Q14.What is the main objective of the Bharat Steel 2026 summit?

A) To reduce steel production capacity
B) To position India as a global steel hub and discuss sustainable growth ✓
C) To nationalize all private steel plants
D) To ban the export of Indian steel
Explanation: The Bharat Steel 2026 summit aims to bring together industry leaders to foster collaboration, technological innovation, and sustainable growth to help establish India as a key global steel hub.

Q15.What is the age category for participants in the ASMITA Women’s Sports League 2026?

A) Only 18-25
B) No specific age restrictions
C) Under 10, 10-15, and 15+
D) Under 13, 13–18, and 18+ ✓
Explanation: The league organizes competitions across three age brackets: under 13, 13–18, and 18+ to promote grassroots sports participation among girls.

Q16.What is the 2026 theme for World Wildlife Day?

A) Climate Change and Wildlife Survival
B) Endangered Animals of the World
C) Protecting Ocean Biodiversity
D) Medicinal and Aromatic Plants: Conserving Health, Heritage and Livelihoods ✓
Explanation: The 2026 theme emphasizes the vital importance of medicinal and aromatic plants in healthcare, cultural heritage, and local economies.

Q17.K.P. Unnikrishnan, who passed away in 2026, was a well-known figure for having served as a:

A) Governor of Kerala
B) Chief Justice of India
C) Chief of Army Staff
D) Six-time Lok Sabha MP ✓
Explanation: K.P. Unnikrishnan was a veteran Congress leader and a six-time Lok Sabha MP from Vadakara, Kerala, serving in the 1970s, 80s, and 90s.

Q18.What significant event did K.P. Unnikrishnan oversee while serving in the V.P. Singh Cabinet?

A) The signing of the Indo-US nuclear deal
B) The Green Revolution
C) The evacuation of Indians during the Gulf War ✓
D) The 1991 economic liberalization
Explanation: During his tenure as Union Minister for Surface Transport and Communications, Unnikrishnan was noted for managing the complex evacuation of Indian citizens during the Gulf War crisis.

Q19.Which international treaty’s signing is commemorated on World Wildlife Day?

A) Montreal Protocol
B) Paris Agreement
C) Kyoto Protocol
D) CITES ✓
Explanation: World Wildlife Day commemorates the 1973 signing of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).

Q20.What was the total budget outlay for Haryana for the 2026-27 fiscal year?

A) ₹3.50 lakh crore
B) ₹5.00 lakh crore
C) ₹1.50 lakh crore
D) ₹2.23 lakh crore ✓
Explanation: Nayab Singh Saini presented a budget for Haryana with a total outlay of ₹2,23,658 crore for the 2026-27 period.
20 questions — 3 March 2026 Take interactive quiz →
4

4 March 2026 — Current Affairs MCQ

20 questions · with answers

Q1.Which specific NH-332A project, inaugurated by PM Modi, is expected to reduce travel time by 50%?

A) Chennai-Mamallapuram
B) Madurai-Rameswaram
C) Marakkanam-Puducherry ✓
D) Paramakudi-Ramanathapuram
Explanation: The Marakkanam-Puducherry (NH-332A) four-laning project, with an investment of over Rs 2,100 crore, is specifically designed to cut travel time by 50% while improving access to key sites like Auroville.

Q2.What is the primary objective of the New Seed Act 2026 introduced by the Ministry of Agriculture?

A) To increase export duties on seeds
B) To nationalize all private seed companies
C) To subsidize fertilizer costs
D) To mandate QR code registration and regulate seed quality ✓
Explanation: The New Seed Act 2026 aims to modernize India's agricultural regulatory framework by mandating seed company registration and introducing QR codes on packets to ensure input quality and prevent the sale of substandard products.

Q3.The second phase of the partnership between NITI Aayog and JICA focuses on which government initiative?

A) Digital India Campaign
B) Smart Cities Mission
C) Aspirational Districts and Blocks Programme ✓
D) Skill India Mission
Explanation: The NITI Aayog and JICA signed a pact for Phase II of the Japan–India Cooperative Actions, which specifically targets the Aspirational Districts and Blocks Programme to enhance institutional capacity and governance.

Q4.What is the main purpose of the 'BEE Star Label' mobile application launched on the 25th Foundation Day of the Bureau of Energy Efficiency?

A) To apply for solar subsidy
B) To book repair services for appliances
C) To track real-time electricity consumption
D) To scan QR codes for authentic energy performance details ✓
Explanation: The BEE Star Label mobile application, developed with CLASP, allows consumers to scan QR codes on star-labelled appliances to access authentic, verified energy performance data.

Q5.The Survey of India signed a five-year MoU with which institution to advance geospatial research using AI and ML?

A) Kerala Digital University ✓
B) National Institute of Technology
C) Indian Institute of Science
D) IIT Madras
Explanation: The Survey of India (SoI) partnered with Kerala Digital University to collaborate on mapping, spatial data sciences, and the integration of AI and Machine Learning technologies in geospatial research.

Q6.What technological advancement does the 30 kW Integrated Drive System (IDS) launched at IIT Madras utilize for EVs?

A) Hydrogen Fuel Cell stacks
B) Wide Band Gap (WBG) technology ✓
C) Hybrid Combustion Engines
D) Lithium-Air Battery storage
Explanation: The 30 kW IDS for EVs, developed to reduce import dependency, utilizes Wide Band Gap (WBG)-based power modules, specifically Silicon Carbide (SiC) MOSFETs, for higher thermal stability and efficiency.

Q7.Which organization is conducting the 'Saksham Skill Census' in Mumbai, India’s first AI-driven skill survey?

A) Skill India Council
B) Sapio Analytics ✓
C) Maharashtra IT Cell
D) NITI Aayog
Explanation: The Saksham Skill Census, launched in the H-West ward of Mumbai, is being conducted by Sapio Analytics over the coming months to map youth skills using AI and GIS.

Q8.What is the primary target of the ASMITA Athletics League, which is celebrating its nationwide edition?

A) Boosting women’s participation in sports at the grassroots level ✓
B) Training coaches in rural areas
C) Identifying talent for the Cricket World Cup
D) Promoting indigenous games like Kabaddi
Explanation: The ASMITA League, under the Khelo India Mission, is a gender-neutral initiative designed to boost women’s sports participation and identify talent across various age categories.

Q9.What is the total value of the renewed Bilateral Swap Arrangement (BSA) between the RBI and the Bank of Japan?

A) USD 75 billion ✓
B) USD 100 billion
C) USD 125 billion
D) USD 50 billion
Explanation: In February 2026, the RBI and the Bank of Japan signed the third amendment to the Bilateral Swap Arrangement (BSA) for an amount up to USD 75 billion to ensure economic stability.

Q10.How does the referral model between India INX GA and HSBC IBU function within GIFT City?

A) By facilitating local real estate investments
B) By allowing investors to trade in Indian rupee bonds
C) By providing access to foreign equities under the RBI LRS limit ✓
D) By managing direct tax filings for overseas clients
Explanation: The partnership allows eligible Indian investors to access global investment products like foreign equities and ETFs through the India INX GA platform, adhering to the RBI’s Liberalised Remittance Scheme (LRS) limit.

Q11.Which organization founded by Safeena Husain was recognized for contributions to girls' education in the TIME Women of the Year 2026 list?

A) Educate Girls ✓
B) Nanhi Kali
C) Pratham
D) Smile Foundation
Explanation: Safeena Husain, the founder of Educate Girls, was featured on the TIME list for her work in addressing the educational needs of girls in rural and tribal communities in India.

Q12.Which parliamentary committee did the late KP Unnikrishnan contribute to during his political career?

A) Estimates Committee
B) Joint Committee on Offices of Profit
C) Public Accounts Committee (PAC) ✓
D) Ethics Committee
Explanation: KP Unnikrishnan served as a member of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) from 1980 to 1982, a body responsible for examining government appropriation accounts and CAG reports.

Q13.The book 'Mahatma: A Great Communicator' was authored by an official from which organization?

A) Ministry of Information and Broadcasting
B) Doordarshan
C) Akashvani ✓
D) Press Information Bureau
Explanation: The book, which explores Mahatma Gandhi's communication strategies, was authored by Dr. Dhiraj Kakadia, who is the Additional Director General of Akashvani.

Q14.What is the historical significance of March 1 in relation to the Indian Civil Accounts Service (ICAS)?

A) It is the day ICAS was merged with the IAS
B) It is the date the ICAS was founded, effective retrospectively from 1976 ✓
C) It is the day of the annual audit of the Union Budget
D) It is the date the first female Controller General was appointed
Explanation: Civil Accounts Day is observed on March 1 to mark the foundation of the ICAS, which was established through the 1976 Departmentalisation of Union Accounts Act, effective retroactively from March 1, 1976.

Q15.Which of the following topics is NOT covered by the 16 new publications released by VP C.P. Radhakrishnan?

A) Bankim Chandra Chatterjee
B) Rameswaram Temple
C) Cybersecurity in Banking ✓
D) Manimegalai
Explanation: The 16 publications cover Tamil heritage, architecture, and scholars, including books on Rameswaram, Bankim Chandra Chatterjee, and the epic Manimegalai; cybersecurity was not listed.

Q16.What is the projected fiscal deficit for the state of Haryana for the financial year 2026-27?

A) 4.0%
B) 1.5%
C) 2.65% ✓
D) 3.1%
Explanation: In the budget presented by CM Nayab Singh Saini, the fiscal deficit for FY27 is projected at Rs 40,293.17 crore, which represents 2.65% of the state's GDP.

Q17.Which environmental policy was announced in the Haryana FY27 Budget to promote sustainable energy?

A) Carbon Credit Exchange
B) Electric Vehicle Charging Subsidy
C) Green Hydrogen Policy ✓
D) National Solar Alliance
Explanation: The Haryana government announced the rollout of a Green Hydrogen Policy, with plans for the first plant to be established in Panipat as part of the state's green energy efforts.

Q18.What global body facilitates the observance of World Seagrass Day?

A) FAO
B) UNESCO
C) UNEP ✓
D) WHO
Explanation: The United Nations General Assembly invited the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) to facilitate the observance of World Seagrass Day, which occurs annually on March 1.

Q19.Which sector received the highest allocation in the Haryana FY27 budget among the options provided?

A) Health
B) Agriculture
C) Rural Development
D) Education & Sports ✓
Explanation: The Haryana budget allocated Rs 23,603.69 crore to the Education & Sports sector, which is the highest among the categories listed.

Q20.The Revised Pesticide Act 2026 is intended to replace which older legislation?

A) The Seed Act, 1966
B) The Food Safety Act, 2006
C) The Insecticides Act, 1968 ✓
D) The Agriculture Produce Act, 1970
Explanation: The Revised Pesticide Act 2026, announced by Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, is designed to replace the aging Insecticides Act of 1968 to better regulate pesticides in modern Indian agriculture.
20 questions — 4 March 2026 Take interactive quiz →
5

5 March 2026 — Current Affairs MCQ

20 questions · with answers

Q1.Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney's 2026 visit to India marked his first official trip since which previous Canadian PM visited for the G-20 summit?

A) Justin Trudeau ✓
B) Stephen Harper
C) Paul Martin
D) Brian Mulroney
Explanation: The text notes that Mark Carney's visit in 2026 was his first official visit to India since his predecessor Justin Trudeau visited in 2018 for the G-20 summit.

Q2.What is the primary target of the bilateral trade goal set between India and Canada by 2030?

A) USD 100 billion
B) USD 50 billion ✓
C) USD 75 billion
D) USD 25 billion
Explanation: India and Canada have set a bilateral trade target of USD 50 billion to be achieved by the year 2030.

Q3.What is the interest rate recommended by the CBT for Provident Fund (PF) deposits for the Financial Year 2025-26?

A) 8.50%
B) 8.15%
C) 8.25% ✓
D) 8.00%
Explanation: During the 239th meeting of the Central Board of Trustees, it was recommended to retain the interest rate for EPF deposits at 8.25% for FY26.

Q4.Which organization has been approved to conduct direct recruitment and promotion examinations for the EPFO?

A) NTA
B) SSC
C) IBPS ✓
D) UPSC
Explanation: The Central Board of Trustees approved the Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS) to handle direct recruitment and promotion exams for the EPFO.

Q5.The newly launched 'Government Bank Dashboard' by the CGA is primarily designed to transition government banking from what to what?

A) Public reporting to private auditing
B) Manual processing to automated entries
C) Reactive corrections to proactive oversight ✓
D) Offline logs to cloud-based storage
Explanation: The dashboard serves as a real-time monitoring tool to move from reactive corrections toward proactive oversight of government banking operations.

Q6.Which entity did the Ministry of Defence contract with for the supply of Surface-to-Air VL–Shtil missiles?

A) Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders
B) Hindustan Aeronautics Limited
C) JSC Rosoboronexport ✓
D) Bharat Electronics Limited
Explanation: The MoD signed a contract worth Rs 2,182 crore with the Russian Federation's JSC Rosoboronexport for the procurement of Surface-to-Air VL-Shtil missiles.

Q7.The Indian Navy signed a contract with which shipyard for the construction of four 500-tonne Self-Propelled Fuel Barges?

A) Cochin Shipyard
B) Goa Shipyard
C) Shoft Shipyard Private Limited ✓
D) Garden Reach Shipbuilders
Explanation: The contract was signed with M/s Shoft Shipyard Private Limited, based in Thane, Maharashtra, to strengthen naval logistics and fuel supply.

Q8.What is the primary objective of IRDAI's proposed adoption of Indian Accounting Standards (Ind AS) for insurers?

A) To restrict foreign investment in insurance
B) To enhance global comparability and transparency ✓
C) To reduce the number of insurance companies
D) To increase tax revenue
Explanation: The transition to Ind AS aims to improve performance disclosures, ensure market-consistent measurement of liabilities, and enhance global comparability.

Q9.Dan Bailey was appointed as President of which company to lead its international business?

A) Jio Platforms Limited ✓
B) Reliance Industries
C) Bharti Airtel
D) Tata Digital
Explanation: Dan Bailey, who has over 35 years of experience in consulting and investment banking, was appointed President of Jio Platforms Limited.

Q10.The two new species of earthworms, 'Moniligaster girishi' and 'Drawida reynoldsi', were discovered in which protected area?

A) Periyar National Park
B) Kaziranga National Park
C) Jim Corbett National Park
D) Silent Valley National Park ✓
Explanation: Researchers discovered these two new moniligastrid earthworm species in Silent Valley National Park, located in the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve of Kerala.

Q11.What is unique about the newly discovered fish species 'Gitchak nakan' from Assam?

A) It has bioluminescent skin
B) It can survive on land
C) It is the largest freshwater fish in India
D) It has a complete absence of a skull roof ✓
Explanation: The species 'Gitchak nakan' is notable for its translucent body and the complete absence of a skull roof, with its brain covered only by skin.

Q12.H.K. Dua, who recently passed away, was honored by the Government of India in 1998 with which award?

A) Padma Vibhushan
B) Padma Bhushan ✓
C) Bharat Ratna
D) Padma Shri
Explanation: H.K. Dua, a veteran journalist and diplomat, was awarded the Padma Bhushan, the third-highest civilian honor in India, in 1998.

Q13.What is the 2026 theme for World Wildlife Day?

A) Medicinal and Aromatic Plants: Conserving Health, Heritage and Livelihoods ✓
B) Recovering Key Species for Ecosystem Restoration
C) Big Cats: Predators Under Threat
D) Partnerships for Wildlife Conservation
Explanation: The theme for World Wildlife Day 2026 is 'Medicinal and Aromatic Plants: Conserving Health, Heritage and Livelihoods'.

Q14.The date March 3rd was chosen for World Hearing Day because the numbers '3' and '3' resemble what?

A) The shape of ears ✓
B) The sound waves
C) The cochlea structure
D) The two hemispheres of the brain
Explanation: The date for World Hearing Day (originally International Ear Care Day) was selected because the numbers 3 and 3 resemble the shape of human ears.

Q15.National Security Day (Rashtriya Suraksha Diwas) is observed annually in India on which date?

A) March 20
B) March 15
C) March 1
D) March 4 ✓
Explanation: National Security Day is observed in India on March 4 to honor the nation's security forces.

Q16.The National Security Council (NSC) of India was established by which Prime Minister?

A) Atal Bihari Vajpayee ✓
B) Rajiv Gandhi
C) Manmohan Singh
D) Indira Gandhi
Explanation: The National Security Council was established on November 19, 1998, by former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee.

Q17.The Rs 12.66 crore Challenge Fund launched by Telangana's SERP is intended to support which group of people?

A) Software developers
B) Women and young entrepreneurs ✓
C) Farmers only
D) Rural tech startups only
Explanation: The Challenge Fund aims to provide institutional support and growth roadmaps to over 300 women and young entrepreneurs in rural Telangana.

Q18.Which organizations are collaborating with SERP to implement the Challenge Fund in Telangana?

A) Microsoft, Google, and Amazon
B) TBIS, T-Hub, and WE Hub ✓
C) ISRO, IIT-Hyderabad, and DRDO
D) State Bank of India and NABARD
Explanation: The fund is a collaboration between SERP, TBIS (BITS Pilani), T-Hub, and WE Hub to promote rural entrepreneurship.

Q19.The Uttar Pradesh government signed a Rs 200 crore MoU with which company to improve rail infrastructure?

A) Siemens AG
B) RAILONE GmbH ✓
C) Deutsche Bahn
D) Alstom
Explanation: The Government of Uttar Pradesh signed an MoU with Germany's RAILONE GmbH to introduce advanced rail track technology and modern concrete sleeper manufacturing.

Q20.What is the significance of the Garo-derived name 'Gitchak' for the new blind fish species found in Assam?

A) It means 'red' ✓
B) It means 'small'
C) It means 'underground'
D) It means 'blind'
Explanation: The name 'Gitchak' means 'red', describing the appearance of the translucent, pigment-less fish, while 'na-tok' and 'kana' refer to the absence of eyes.
20 questions — 5 March 2026 Take interactive quiz →
6

6 March 2026 — Current Affairs MCQ

20 questions · with answers

Q1.Where in Montana was the first bust of Mahatma Gandhi unveiled?

A) Missoula City Hall
B) Mike Mansfield Center ✓
C) Montana State University
D) Helena State Capitol
Explanation: The text states, 'The first bust of Mahatma Gandhi in Montana was unveiled on March 4, 2026, at the University of Montana in Missoula. Installed at the Mike Mansfield Center...' This clearly identifies the specific location within the university.

Q2.Which entity gifted the first Mahatma Gandhi bust to Montana?

A) Indian-American Community
B) United Nations
C) Gandhi Memorial Trust
D) Government of India ✓
Explanation: The text explicitly mentions, 'the statue was gifted by the Government of India, symbolizing Gandhi’s enduring message of peace and non-violence.' This highlights the diplomatic significance of the gift.

Q3.The National Green Tribunal (NGT) recently reviewed a quarry plan near which sanctuary to protect an endangered species in Tamil Nadu?

A) Mudumalai National Park
B) Guindy National Park
C) Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
D) Vallanadu Blackbuck Sanctuary ✓
Explanation: The article states the NGT reviewed a 'quarry proposal near the Vallanadu Blackbuck Sanctuary in Tamil Nadu while ensuring protection for the endangered Blackbuck population.' This directly names the sanctuary and the species.

Q4.What was the National Green Tribunal's primary directive regarding the quarry proposal near Vallanadu Sanctuary?

A) Approve the project with minor modifications.
B) Reconsider the project while ensuring wildlife protection. ✓
C) Reject the project outright due to environmental concerns.
D) Transfer the decision-making authority to the state government.
Explanation: The tribunal 'asked the State Environmental Impact Assessment Authority to review the project again instead of rejecting it outright' and 'suggested examining strict environmental safeguards to balance wildlife conservation with development.'

Q5.What is the name of the Bihar government's initiative to upgrade 54 colleges as Centres of Excellence?

A) Vidyarthi Utthan Scheme
B) Gyan Marg Abhiyan
C) Shiksha Sudhar Yojana
D) Saat Nischay-3 ✓
Explanation: The text clearly states, 'The Bihar government has shortlisted 54 colleges and institutions to be developed as Centres of Excellence under the Saat Nischay-3 launched by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar.'

Q6.Which of the following is a key objective of Bihar's 'Saat Nischay-3' initiative for higher education?

A) Reducing student migration to other states. ✓
B) Focusing solely on vocational training.
C) Implementing online-only education models.
D) Establishing new private universities.
Explanation: The program 'seeks to provide quality education within Bihar and reduce student migration to other states,' indicating a primary goal to retain students by improving local educational standards.

Q7.The Hatti Risala Festival, which recently completed 138 years, is celebrated in which city of Maharashtra?

A) Nagpur
B) Pune
C) Jalna ✓
D) Mumbai
Explanation: The article states, 'The Hatti Risala Festival in Jalna has completed 138 years, marking a historic cultural tradition...' This clearly identifies Jalna as the location.

Q8.What unique custom do residents of Jalna observe during the Hatti Risala Festival procession?

A) Lighting firecrackers.
B) Distributing water to participants.
C) Respectfully avoiding playing colours. ✓
D) Offering flowers to the elephant.
Explanation: The text highlights this unique tradition: 'Residents respectfully avoid playing colours as the procession passes.' This emphasizes the reverence for the procession.

Q9.Nitish Kumar plans to step down as Bihar Chief Minister to serve in which legislative institution?

A) Lok Sabha
B) Rajya Sabha ✓
C) Bihar Legislative Council
D) Bihar Legislative Assembly
Explanation: The article states, 'After serving more than two decades and ten terms as Chief Minister, Kumar plans to step down from the post to enter the Upper House of Parliament,' which is the Rajya Sabha.

Q10.What is the projected economic growth rate for Maharashtra in FY 2025–26, as per the State Economic Survey?

A) 7.9% ✓
B) 8.5%
C) 7.4%
D) 6.8%
Explanation: The Maharashtra Economic Survey 2025–26 'projects the economy of Maharashtra to grow by 7.9% in FY 2025–26, higher than the national growth estimate of 7.4% for India.'

Q11.To assist farmers in areas with poor internet connectivity, what new feature has the Maharashtra government added to the e-Crop Registration system?

A) SMS-based registration
B) Postal mail registration
C) Satellite imaging only
D) Offline photo upload ✓
Explanation: The initiative introduced 'an offline photo upload feature in the e-Crop Registration system to help farmers in areas with poor internet connectivity.' This allows photos to be taken offline and uploaded later.

Q12.What is a key characteristic that makes GI-tagged Karbi Anglong Ginger from Assam highly prized?

A) Its long shelf life without refrigeration
B) Its bright yellow color
C) Its unusually small size
D) Its strong aroma and bold flavor ✓
Explanation: The text describes Karbi Anglong Ginger as 'prized for its strong aroma, bold flavor, and medicinal properties,' highlighting its unique sensory qualities.

Q13.To which international city was the first trial consignment of GI-tagged Karbi Anglong Ginger from Assam exported?

A) London ✓
B) Singapore
C) Dubai
D) New York
Explanation: The article states, 'Assam exported GI-tagged Karbi Anglong Ginger to London for the first time on 2 March 2026,' identifying the global debut location.

Q14.According to UN Women's report ahead of International Women’s Day, what percentage of legal rights afforded to men do women globally enjoy?

A) 80%
B) 64% ✓
C) 75%
D) 50%
Explanation: The report found 'that women globally enjoy only 64% of the legal rights afforded to men,' indicating a significant gender gap in legal equality.

Q15.What is a notable characteristic of the Echinus Geyser in Yellowstone National Park that sets it apart?

A) Its water is unusually cold.
B) It's the world's largest acidic geyser. ✓
C) It's the world's tallest geyser.
D) It erupts daily at fixed times.
Explanation: The text identifies it as 'Echinus Geyser, the world’s largest acidic geyser,' emphasizing its unique chemical composition and scale.

Q16.What is identified as the primary vector for the spread of Cassava Brown Streak Disease (CBSD) in sub-Saharan Africa?

A) Aphids
B) Beetles
C) Locusts
D) Whiteflies ✓
Explanation: The article explicitly states that CBSD 'spreads mainly via whiteflies (Bemisia tabaci) and infected planting cuttings,' making whiteflies the primary vector.

Q17.Among India's four largest state economies, which one recorded the fastest GSDP growth (nearly 65%) from 2021–22 to 2024–25?

A) Maharashtra
B) Karnataka ✓
C) Tamil Nadu
D) Gujarat
Explanation: The text mentions, 'During the same period, Karnataka recorded the fastest growth at nearly 65%, driven mainly by its technology and startup ecosystem centered in Bengaluru.'

Q18.According to the Forbes Real-Time Billionaires List (March 2026), who holds the title of the world's richest person?

A) Mark Zuckerberg
B) Jeff Bezos
C) Bernard Arnault
D) Elon Musk ✓
Explanation: The article clearly states, 'Elon Musk remains the world’s richest person with an estimated net worth of $841.4 billion,' according to the March 2026 Forbes list.

Q19.Finn Allen achieved a historic feat by scoring the fastest century in ICC Men’s T20 World Cup history. How many balls did he take?

A) 29 balls
B) 47 balls
C) 38 balls
D) 33 balls ✓
Explanation: The text specifies, 'Finn Allen smashed the fastest century in ICC Men’s T20 World Cup history... reaching 100 in just 33 balls.'

Q20.The International Day for Disarmament and Non-Proliferation Awareness is observed annually on which date?

A) March 1st
B) March 5th ✓
C) March 15th
D) March 8th
Explanation: The article explicitly states, 'Observed annually on March 5, this UN-designated day promotes global awareness of disarmament and non-proliferation issues...'
20 questions — 6 March 2026 Take interactive quiz →
7

7 March 2026 — Current Affairs MCQ

20 questions · with answers

Q1.What significant change is being introduced for the first time in the Census 2027 process in India?

A) It will be conducted in a single phase for all states.
B) Only government officials will be authorized to collect data.
C) It will focus exclusively on urban populations, excluding rural areas.
D) It will be fully digital, allowing citizens to submit information through a Self-Enumeration portal. ✓
Explanation: For the first time, Census 2027 will be fully digital, enabling citizens to submit their information through a dedicated Self-Enumeration portal. This marks a major shift towards modernization and efficiency in data collection, utilizing advanced digital tools.

Q2.The mascots 'Pragati' and 'Vikas' unveiled for Census 2027 symbolize which of the following core values?

A) Gender equality and national development. ✓
B) Agricultural prosperity and industrial development.
C) Economic growth and technological advancement.
D) Urbanization and rural upliftment.
Explanation: The mascots 'Pragati' and 'Vikas' were unveiled to symbolize crucial national values. They represent gender equality and national development, reflecting the census's broader goals beyond just population count.

Q3.The Statement of Intent (SOI) signed between NITI Aayog and UNICEF India primarily aims to improve outcomes in which specific areas?

A) Environmental conservation and climate resilience in coastal regions.
B) Digital literacy and entrepreneurial skills in urban centers.
C) Infrastructure development and sanitation across all districts.
D) Maternal and child nutrition services and health systems in Aspirational Districts. ✓
Explanation: The partnership between NITI Aayog and UNICEF India focuses on enhancing nutrition and health outcomes, particularly strengthening maternal and child nutrition services and health systems. This initiative is specifically targeted at Aspirational Districts and Blocks across India, aiming to improve key health indicators.

Q4.According to the recent reshuffle, who was appointed as the new Governor of Telangana on 6 March 2026?

A) Nand Kishore Yadav
B) Jishnu Dev Varma
C) Syed Ata Hasnain
D) Shiv Pratap Shukla ✓
Explanation: On 6 March 2026, President Droupadi Murmu approved a major Governor reshuffle. Among the key changes, Shiv Pratap Shukla was specifically transferred to assume the role of Governor of Telangana.

Q5.India's first riverine lighthouses are being constructed on which major river?

A) Ganges River
B) Brahmaputra River ✓
C) Godavari River
D) Yamuna River
Explanation: Sarbananda Sonowal laid the foundation for India's first riverine lighthouses on the Brahmaputra River. This project is a pioneering effort to enhance navigation along National Waterway 2 in Northeast India, improving safety for vessels.

Q6.Which of the following locations is NOT one of the planned sites for the new solar-powered riverine lighthouses on the Brahmaputra River?

A) Silghat
B) Pandu
C) Biswanath Ghat
D) Guwahati ✓
Explanation: The text explicitly mentions four locations for the new lighthouses: Pandu, Bogibeel, Silghat, and Biswanath Ghat. Guwahati is not listed among these specific planned sites for the riverine lighthouses.

Q7.C. V. Ananda Bose resigned as Governor of West Bengal on 5 March 2026, citing which primary reason?

A) Disagreements with the central government's policies.
B) Health reasons, weeks before the state Assembly elections. ✓
C) A transfer order to another state by the President.
D) To contest the upcoming state Assembly elections.
Explanation: C. V. Ananda Bose resigned as Governor of West Bengal on 5 March 2026. His resignation was attributed to health reasons, occurring just weeks before the state Assembly elections.

Q8.The 'herSTART 5.0' initiative, recently launched in Gujarat, aims to specifically promote what?

A) Digital education initiatives in rural areas.
B) Youth employment in the information technology sector.
C) Women-led startups and entrepreneurship. ✓
D) Agricultural innovation and sustainable farming practices.
Explanation: Launched by Bhupendra Patel at Gujarat University, 'herSTART 5.0' is an initiative specifically designed to promote women-led startups. It provides crucial support such as incubation, mentorship, and market access for women entrepreneurs.

Q9.What is the primary objective behind Andhra Pradesh's new policy offering a ₹25,000 incentive for couples having a second or third child?

A) To reduce the state's overall population size.
B) To improve the educational attainment levels of children.
C) To address the state's declining fertility rate and growing aging population. ✓
D) To strictly enforce the existing two-child norm.
Explanation: Andhra Pradesh's new policy aims to counter the state's declining Total Fertility Rate, which is currently below the replacement level of 2.1. By offering incentives for a second or third child, the government seeks to encourage population growth and address the demographic challenge of an aging population.

Q10.The 'Strategic Partnership in Digitalization and Sustainability' was announced between India and Finland during the visit of Finnish President Alexander Stubb, alongside which major international event?

A) Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit 2026
B) Raisina Dialogue 2026 ✓
C) World Economic Forum 2026
D) G20 Summit 2026
Explanation: The declaration of a 'Strategic Partnership in Digitalization and Sustainability' between India and Finland occurred during Finnish President Alexander Stubb's visit in March 2026. This significant announcement was made specifically alongside the Raisina Dialogue 2026, a prominent global affairs conference.

Q11.What is a key feature of the 'Spoorthi' programme launched by L&T Finance for women entrepreneurs?

A) It requires 100% ownership by women for all eligible businesses.
B) It exclusively offers short-term working capital loans for only six months.
C) It is exclusively available in designated rural areas and not in metros.
D) It provides flexible loans with extended tenures of up to 25 years for property purchase or Loan Against Property (LAP). ✓
Explanation: The 'Spoorthi' programme by L&T Finance is designed to empower women entrepreneurs with flexible financial solutions. A key feature is its offering of loans with extended tenures of up to 25 years, specifically for property purchase or Loan Against Property (LAP) for business expansion.

Q12.According to the Brand Finance Banking 500 2026 rankings, which bank has been recognized as the world's most valuable banking brand for ten consecutive years?

A) Bank of America
B) Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC) ✓
C) JPMorgan Chase
D) HSBC
Explanation: The Brand Finance Banking 500 2026 report reveals that Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC) has maintained its top position. It has been the world's most valuable banking brand for an impressive ten consecutive years, showcasing its consistent market strength.

Q13.Adani Group partnered with UNESCO for World Engineering Day for Sustainable Development 2026. This collaboration highlights Adani's contribution to which major clean energy project in Gujarat?

A) Khavda Renewable Energy Park ✓
B) Sabarmati Riverfront Development Project
C) Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City)
D) Statue of Unity Construction
Explanation: Adani Group's partnership with UNESCO for World Engineering Day highlights its significant contributions to sustainable infrastructure. The collaboration specifically acknowledges the Khavda Renewable Energy Park in Gujarat, which is being developed by Adani Green Energy Limited as one of the world's largest renewable energy installations.

Q14.IBM has launched its first Infrastructure Innovation Centre in Bengaluru to specifically strengthen India's role in developing which type of advanced systems?

A) Biotechnology and pharmaceutical research platforms.
B) Space exploration and satellite technology.
C) Agricultural mechanization and irrigation systems.
D) Advanced AI and enterprise infrastructure systems. ✓
Explanation: IBM's new Infrastructure Innovation Centre in Bengaluru is strategically aimed at boosting India's involvement in cutting-edge technology. Its core focus is to strengthen the country's role in developing advanced AI and enterprise infrastructure systems, fostering innovation in these critical areas.

Q15.A unique feature of the Sarvam Startup Program launched by Sarvam AI for early-stage AI companies in India is its focus on supporting which aspect of India's diverse user base?

A) Providing free hardware and physical infrastructure to all startups.
B) Offering API credits for an unusually long period of up to five years.
C) Enabling startups to build applications for 22+ Indian languages plus English. ✓
D) Developing AI models exclusively for English-speaking users in India.
Explanation: The Sarvam Startup Program distinguishes itself by supporting India's linguistic diversity. Sarvam AI models provide crucial support for 22+ Indian languages in addition to English, allowing startups to create applications that cater to a broad regional user base.

Q16.The Cycling League of India is notable for being the world's first league of its kind based on which specific structure?

A) University-based teams competing across different states.
B) Amateur cycling clubs competing at local levels.
C) National-level individual championships for professional cyclists.
D) Franchise-based road cycling league with city-based teams. ✓
Explanation: Mansukh Mandaviya unveiled the Cycling League of India, which has achieved global recognition. It is the world's first franchise-based road cycling league, featuring eight city-based teams designed to promote talent development and strengthen India's cycling ecosystem.

Q17.In the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 semifinal at Wankhede Stadium, India secured their place in the final by defeating which team?

A) England ✓
B) Australia
C) New Zealand
D) South Africa
Explanation: India faced England in a thrilling semifinal match of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 at Wankhede Stadium. India emerged victorious by 7 runs, thereby booking their spot in the final against New Zealand.

Q18.What significant record was set during the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 semifinal between India and England at Wankhede Stadium?

A) The most sixes hit in a single T20 World Cup match. ✓
B) The lowest team total recorded in a T20 World Cup semifinal match.
C) The highest individual score ever recorded in a T20 World Cup semifinal.
D) Most centuries scored by batsmen in a single T20 World Cup match.
Explanation: The high-scoring clash between India and England in the T20 World Cup 2026 semifinal made history by recording the most sixes in a T20 World Cup match. A total of 34 sixes were hit during this thrilling encounter, showcasing the power-hitting prowess of both teams.

Q19.India created history by becoming the first team to reach four finals of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup. Which of the following years is NOT one of the years India previously reached the T20 World Cup final, according to the text?

A) 2007
B) 2022 ✓
C) 2024
D) 2014
Explanation: India previously reached the T20 World Cup finals in 2007, 2014, and 2024, and now in 2026. The year 2022 is not mentioned in the provided text as one of the years India reached the final, making it the incorrect option.

Q20.The digital platforms, including the Self-Enumeration portal, for the fully digital Census 2027 are being developed by which organization?

A) Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY)
B) Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC) ✓
C) National Informatics Centre (NIC)
D) Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)
Explanation: The transition to a fully digital Census 2027 involves advanced technological development. The digital platforms, including the Self-Enumeration portal, are being specifically developed by the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC), a premier R&D organization under MeitY.
20 questions — 7 March 2026 Take interactive quiz →
8

8 March 2026 — Current Affairs MCQ

20 questions · with answers

Q1.What is the primary objective of the SWAYATT initiative, which recently celebrated its 7th anniversary?

A) To provide financial incentives for cricket players
B) To boost India's foreign exchange reserves
C) To promote inclusive public procurement for small-scale entrepreneurs ✓
D) To regulate social media usage for minors
Explanation: Launched on February 19, 2019, the SWAYATT initiative under the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) aims to provide startups, women entrepreneurs, youth, and self-help groups with direct access to government buyers.

Q2.Why did the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting suspend TRP ratings for news channels starting March 7, 2026?

A) To protest against global rating standards
B) To prevent sensational reporting of conflict-related news ✓
C) To replace them with a new digital-only ranking system
D) To save administrative costs
Explanation: The suspension was ordered to discourage competitive pressures among news channels, which the government felt led to exaggerated or unverified reporting on the Israel–Iran conflict.

Q3.Which state has proposed banning social media usage for children under 16 in its 2026-27 budget?

A) Andhra Pradesh
B) Karnataka ✓
C) Maharashtra
D) Kerala
Explanation: The government of Karnataka, led by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, included a proposal to ban social media for children under 16 in its 2026-27 budget to curb digital addiction and exposure to harmful content.

Q4.Who is the only woman featured in the top 10 richest individuals in India according to the Hurun Rich List 2026?

A) Leena Tewari
B) Roshni Nadar Malhotra ✓
C) Falguni Nayar
D) Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw
Explanation: Roshni Nadar Malhotra is the only woman to feature in the top 10 of the Hurun Rich List 2026, securing the third rank in the country.

Q5.Which country is scheduled to implement a ban on social media for children under 16 on March 28, 2026?

A) India
B) Indonesia ✓
C) Malaysia
D) Nepal
Explanation: Indonesia announced it will ban social media access for minors under 16, requiring tech companies to implement strict age-verification systems to protect children from cyberbullying and fraud.

Q6.Who is set to become the Prime Minister of Nepal following the 2026 elections?

A) Balendra 'Balen' Shah ✓
B) K. P. Sharma Oli
C) Pushpa Kamal Dahal
D) Sher Bahadur Deuba
Explanation: Following the success of his party, the Rastriya Swatantra Party, in the 2026 parliamentary elections, former Kathmandu mayor Balendra 'Balen' Shah is expected to take office as Prime Minister.

Q7.Which Indian cricketer has become the first to be honored with a Barbie doll in the 'Barbie Dream Team 2026'?

A) Smriti Mandhana ✓
B) Mithali Raj
C) Harmanpreet Kaur
D) Shafali Verma
Explanation: Smriti Mandhana was included in the Barbie Dream Team 2026, making her the first Indian cricketer to receive this honor as part of Mattel’s campaign celebrating influential women.

Q8.What is the primary purpose of the RBI's decision to purchase ₹1 lakh crore worth of government bonds via OMOs?

A) To increase interest rates
B) To reduce inflation
C) To ease liquidity pressures in the banking system ✓
D) To weaken the Indian Rupee
Explanation: Open Market Operations (OMOs) are used by the RBI to inject liquidity into the banking system, helping banks manage cash outflows related to GST and tax obligations at the end of the financial year.

Q9.What contributed most significantly to the record rise in India's forex reserves in February 2026?

A) Increased foreign direct investment
B) Surge in gold reserves and foreign currency assets ✓
C) Increase in government bond sales
D) Reduction in import duties
Explanation: India's foreign exchange reserves hit a record $728.5 billion, primarily driven by a $4.14 billion increase in gold reserves and gains in foreign currency assets.

Q10.What is 'Operation Sankalp' launched by the Indian Navy?

A) A maritime security initiative in West Asia ✓
B) An coastal surveillance exercise along India's borders
C) An anti-piracy mission in the Indian Ocean
D) A humanitarian aid project in Africa
Explanation: Operation Sankalp was launched in 2019 to protect Indian merchant ships and ensure safe navigation in the sensitive sea routes of the Gulf of Oman and the Strait of Hormuz.

Q11.Where will the first-ever Khelo India Tribal Games 2026 take place?

A) Jharkhand
B) Chhattisgarh ✓
C) Madhya Pradesh
D) Odisha
Explanation: The government announced that the Khelo India Tribal Games 2026 will be held across Raipur, Jagdalpur, and Sarguja in the state of Chhattisgarh.

Q12.Which milestone did Jasprit Bumrah reach during the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 semi-final?

A) 500 international wickets across formats ✓
B) 1000 T20I wickets
C) Most wickets in a single World Cup
D) Best bowling figures in a T20I match
Explanation: Jasprit Bumrah achieved 500 international wickets by dismissing Harry Brook, cementing his status alongside Indian legends like Anil Kumble and Ravichandran Ashwin.

Q13.Which organization presents the official theme for International Women's Day regarding legal protections?

A) International Labour Organization
B) World Economic Forum
C) The World Bank
D) The United Nations ✓
Explanation: The official 2026 theme from the United Nations for International Women's Day is 'Rights. Justice. Action. For ALL Women and Girls,' emphasizing legal protections.

Q14.Who has been appointed as the new GOC-in-C of the Western Command of the Indian Army?

A) Lt Gen Pushpendra Pal Singh ✓
B) Lt Gen M. K. Katiyar
C) Lt Gen Upendra Dwivedi
D) General Manoj Pande
Explanation: Lt Gen Pushpendra Pal Singh, currently the Vice Chief of Army Staff, is set to take charge as the Western Command GOC-in-C following the retirement of Lt Gen M. K. Katiyar.

Q15.Which of the following is a major infrastructure project announced in the Karnataka Budget 2026?

A) Mumbai 3.0 development
B) An Intermediate Ring Road in Chennai
C) A national solar power grid
D) Bangalore Robotics and AI Innovation Zone (BRAINz) ✓
Explanation: The Karnataka budget announced the Bangalore Robotics and AI Innovation Zone (BRAINz), a collaborative effort involving the Indian Institute of Science and ISRO.

Q16.What is the primary focus of the 'Punyashlok Ahilyabai Holkar Farmers Loan Waiver Scheme' mentioned in the Maharashtra budget?

A) Subsidizing fertilizer costs
B) Providing free seeds to farmers
C) Waiver of loans up to ₹2 lakh for farmers ✓
D) Increasing minimum support prices for crops
Explanation: The scheme provides a loan waiver of up to ₹2 lakh for farmers, benefiting approximately 28–30 lakh individuals in Maharashtra.

Q17.What does the color purple symbolize in the context of International Women’s Day?

A) Justice and dignity ✓
B) Peace and freedom
C) Unity
D) Hope and progress
Explanation: The color purple, a traditional symbol in the women’s suffrage movement, represents justice and dignity, while green represents hope and white represents unity.

Q18.Which player did Lakshya Sen defeat to reach the semi-finals of the All England Open 2026?

A) Kunlavut Vitidsarn
B) Viktor Axelsen
C) Kodai Naraoka
D) Li Shi Feng ✓
Explanation: Lakshya Sen defeated Li Shi Feng in straight games (21-13, 21-16) to advance to the semi-finals of the All England Open Badminton Championships.

Q19.What is the projected fiscal deficit of Karnataka for the 2026-27 budget?

A) 2.95% of GSDP ✓
B) 4.5% of GSDP
C) 1.5% of GSDP
D) 5.2% of GSDP
Explanation: The Karnataka budget for 2026-27 projects a total spending of ₹4.48 trillion and a fiscal deficit of ₹97,449 crore, which amounts to 2.95% of the GSDP.

Q20.India currently ranks as the ___ largest hub for billionaires globally, per the Hurun Rich List 2026.

A) Second
B) Fourth
C) Third ✓
D) First
Explanation: With 308 billionaires, India has become the third-largest hub for billionaires in the world, trailing behind the United States and China.
20 questions — 8 March 2026 Take interactive quiz →
9

9 March 2026 — Current Affairs MCQ

20 questions · with answers

Q1.What is the primary objective of the SWAYATT initiative celebrated by GeM in March 2026?

A) To provide low-interest loans to large-scale industries
B) To boost international trade exports
C) To digitize all government land records
D) To promote inclusive public procurement for startups, women, and youth ✓
Explanation: The SWAYATT (Startups, Women and Youth Advantage through e-Transactions) initiative was launched to integrate startups, women entrepreneurs, and youth into the national public procurement ecosystem.

Q2.How many national biodiversity targets is India evaluating in its 7th National Report (NR7)?

A) 27
B) 15
C) 23 ✓
D) 20
Explanation: India's 7th National Report to the Convention on Biological Diversity presents an assessment of progress across 23 national biodiversity targets aligned with the Kunming–Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.

Q3.Which institution is the developer of India’s first Integrated Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) plant in Lakshadweep?

A) NTPC
B) DRDO
C) NIOT ✓
D) ISRO
Explanation: The OTEC project in Kavaratti is being developed with the support of the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) and the National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT), which is headquartered in Chennai.

Q4.What is the maximum non-biogenic greenhouse gas emission limit for Green Ammonia as per the new government standards?

A) 0.44 kg CO2 eq/kg
B) 0.62 kg CO2 eq/kg
C) 0.38 kg CO2 eq/kg ✓
D) 0.50 kg CO2 eq/kg
Explanation: Under the new standards notified by the MNRE, Green Ammonia must have total non-biogenic greenhouse gas emissions of not more than 0.38 kg of carbon dioxide equivalent per kilogram of ammonia.

Q5.What is the primary research objective of the DRDO-funded project at Bharathiar University?

A) Synthesizing new biofuels
B) Advancing AI for robotics
C) Improving cybersecurity in defense networks
D) Developing antidotes for toxic organophosphorous compounds ✓
Explanation: The DRDO sanctioned Rs 99.15 lakh to Bharathiar University for a project titled 'Development of Novel Antidote(s) for Highly Toxic Organophosphorous Compounds'.

Q6.What is the tenure of the Flexi-MoU signed between the MSDE and Bajaj Auto for youth skilling?

A) 15 years
B) 20 years
C) 5 years
D) 10 years ✓
Explanation: The agreement between the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) and Bajaj Auto Limited is valid for a period of 10 years.

Q7.Which platform is NABARD using as the anchor for the 'National Climate Stack Innovation Challenge'?

A) DiCRA ✓
B) RURALTECH
C) CLIMATESYS
D) AGRIMARK
Explanation: The project is anchored in DiCRA (Data in Climate Resilient Agriculture), NABARD’s climate data platform, to transition it from a digital public good into a digital public infrastructure.

Q8.Which financial institution acted as the sole loan coordinator for the SBI's USD 500 million social loan?

A) JP Morgan
B) World Bank
C) Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group (MUFG) ✓
D) Asian Development Bank
Explanation: Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group (MUFG) served as the Mandated Lead Arranger, Underwriter, Bookrunner, and sole loan coordinator for SBI's gender-themed social loan.

Q9.Who has been appointed as the next Vice Chief of Army Staff (VCOAS) effective 1st April 2026?

A) Lt Gen Dhiraj Seth ✓
B) Lt Gen P. P. Singh
C) Manoj Jain
D) H. G. Chandrashekar
Explanation: Lt Gen Dhiraj Seth, the current GOC-in-C of Southern Army Command, was announced as the next VCOAS to succeed Lt Gen P. P. Singh.

Q10.Jan Aushadhi Diwas 2026 marks which edition of the observance?

A) 8th ✓
B) 6th
C) 9th
D) 7th
Explanation: The text states that 7th March 2026 marks the observance of the 8th Jan Aushadhi Diwas, with the first being celebrated in 2019.

Q11.What is the estimated fiscal deficit as a percentage of GSDP in the Karnataka FY27 budget?

A) 2.7%
B) 2.95% ✓
C) 3.5%
D) 3.1%
Explanation: The Karnataka budget presented by CM Siddaramaiah estimates the state’s fiscal deficit at Rs 97,449 crore, which accounts for 2.95% of GSDP.

Q12.The Maharashtra budget for FY27 aims to transform the state into a USD 1 trillion economy by when?

A) 2030
B) Not explicitly stated for 1 trillion, only 5 trillion by 2047 ✓
C) 2040
D) 2035
Explanation: The text notes the budget sets a long-term vision of transforming Maharashtra into a USD 1 trillion economy in the coming years and a USD 5 trillion economy by 2047.

Q13.Which Indian ministry organizes the Jan Aushadhi Diwas?

A) Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
B) Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers ✓
C) Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment
D) Ministry of Science and Technology
Explanation: The initiative is organized by the Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Bureau of India (PMBI) under the Department of Pharmaceuticals, Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers.

Q14.Which sector received the largest specific allocation mentioned in the Karnataka FY27 budget highlights?

A) Agriculture
B) Health and family welfare
C) Energy sector
D) Women and child development ✓
Explanation: According to the highlights, the Karnataka budget allocated Rs 36,929 crore for women and child development, which is higher than the allocations for health (Rs 17,817 crore) or agriculture (Rs 8,373 crore).

Q15.What is the primary goal of the 'Punyashlok Ahilyabai Holkar Farmers’ Loan Waiver Scheme' mentioned in the Maharashtra budget?

A) Waiving crop loans up to Rs 2 lakh ✓
B) Subsidizing fertilizers
C) Providing direct cash transfers to landless laborers
D) Providing free electricity to farmers
Explanation: The scheme, highlighted in the Maharashtra budget, mandates the waiver of crop loans up to Rs 2 lakh per farmer outstanding as of 3 September 2025.

Q16.Which of the following is a key feature of the Flexi-MoU scheme implemented by the DGT?

A) Direct funding for startup businesses
B) Mandatory certification from international universities
C) Mandatory 5-year employment guarantee
D) Customized training aligned with emerging technologies ✓
Explanation: The Flexi-MoU scheme allows industries to design customized training programs that are aligned with emerging technologies and the National Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF).

Q17.How much funding is awarded to the top winner of the 'National Climate Stack Innovation Challenge'?

A) Rs 20 lakh
B) Rs 15 lakh ✓
C) Rs 5 lakh
D) Rs 10 lakh
Explanation: The competition offers cash prizes of Rs 15 lakh, Rs 10 lakh, and Rs 5 lakh respectively for the top three solutions.

Q18.Which entity collaborated with NABARD to launch the 'National Climate Stack Innovation Challenge'?

A) IMF and World Bank
B) World Bank and Gates Foundation
C) Gates Foundation and Dalberg Advisors ✓
D) UNEP and Dalberg Advisors
Explanation: NABARD launched the challenge in collaboration with the Gates Foundation and Dalberg Advisors to build a National Climate Stack for rural intelligence.

Q19.What is the primary function of the Vice Chief of Army Staff (VCOAS)?

A) Foreign diplomatic relations for the Army
B) Overseeing operational readiness and modernization ✓
C) Financial oversight of the Defense Ministry
D) Directing civilian intelligence agencies
Explanation: The VCOAS is the second-highest position after the Chief of Army Staff and is responsible for operational readiness, modernization, strategic planning, and coordination among Army commands.

Q20.What does the 'green-shoe option' in a loan facility typically imply?

A) A mandatory donation to environmental charities
B) The option to convert debt into equity
C) The option to increase the size of the offering ✓
D) A lower interest rate based on ESG performance
Explanation: In finance, a greenshoe option (or over-allotment option) allows the underwriters to sell more shares or, in the case of a loan, increase the total size of the facility beyond the initial target.
20 questions — 9 March 2026 Take interactive quiz →
10

10 March 2026 — Current Affairs MCQ

20 questions · with answers

Q1.Which metro corridor completion led to the circular metro connectivity across Delhi according to the recent inauguration by PM Modi?

A) Pink–Blue Line
B) Magenta–Yellow Line
C) Majlis Park–Maujpur Babarpur ✓
D) Violet–Pink Line
Explanation: With the inauguration of the Majlis Park–Maujpur Babarpur corridor, the Delhi Metro Pink Line expanded to approximately 71.56 km, effectively completing a circular metro network across Delhi.

Q2.What is the primary theme of the Raisina Dialogue 2026?

A) Global South – Unity, Progress, Growth
B) Samskara – Assertion, Accommodation, Advancement ✓
C) Democracy – Resilience and Global Security
D) Sustainability – Digital Frontiers and Green Future
Explanation: The 11th edition of the Raisina Dialogue held in 2026 featured the official theme 'Samskara – Assertion, Accommodation, Advancement'.

Q3.Which Indian state ranked first in the effective implementation of the Inter-Operable Criminal Justice System (ICJS) 2.0 as of early 2026?

A) Madhya Pradesh
B) Haryana
C) Uttarakhand ✓
D) Assam
Explanation: Uttarakhand secured the first position nationally with a score of 93.46 on the ICJS/CCTNS Progress Dashboard released by the NCRB, credited to the state's leadership in implementing new criminal laws.

Q4.Romania joined the International Solar Alliance (ISA) as the 118th member country after which action in March 2026?

A) Pledging financial support for solar projects
B) Submitting the Instrument of Ratification ✓
C) Hosting the ISA ministerial summit
D) Signing a memorandum of understanding
Explanation: Romania officially became a member of the International Solar Alliance after its Ambassador submitted the Instrument of Ratification of the Framework Agreement to the Ministry of External Affairs.

Q5.What is the main objective of the newly constituted 17-member committee by the Government of India regarding SEZs?

A) To privatize all existing SEZs
B) To increase the number of SEZs by 50%
C) To phase out tax benefits for export-oriented units
D) To suggest comprehensive reforms and formulate SEZ 2.0 policy ✓
Explanation: The Government of India set up a 17-member committee to review existing export promotion schemes and propose broad-based reforms to formulate a new SEZ 2.0 policy to revive exports.

Q6.Under the partnership between NITI Aayog and Tata Electronics Private Limited (TEPL), what is the key focus area?

A) Development of traditional weaving clusters
B) Expansion of coal mining
C) Privatization of state-run power plants
D) Scaling up electronics production and strengthening supply chains ✓
Explanation: The collaboration aims to enhance India's electronics manufacturing growth by focusing on scaling production, bolstering supply chains, and integrating into global value chains.

Q7.Bank of Baroda became the first bank in India to issue what type of financial instrument worth Rs 10,000 crore?

A) Sovereign Gold Bonds
B) Social Impact Equity Shares
C) Green Infrastructure Bonds ✓
D) Digital Rupee Corporate Notes
Explanation: Bank of Baroda issued Series-I long-term Green Infrastructure Bonds, making it the first Indian bank to issue domestic green bonds for infrastructure financing.

Q8.Which two new co-branded credit cards were launched by HDFC Bank in partnership with Swiggy?

A) Swiggy BLCK and Swiggy Ornge ✓
B) Swiggy Elite and Swiggy Prime
C) Swiggy Travel and Swiggy Foodie
D) Swiggy Gold and Swiggy Silver
Explanation: HDFC Bank and Swiggy launched the 'Swiggy BLCK HDFC Bank Credit Card' for lifestyle spending and the 'Swiggy Ornge HDFC Bank Credit Card' for daily shopping.

Q9.Who was appointed as the new Supreme Leader of Iran following the death of Ali Khamenei?

A) Hassan Rouhani
B) Ebrahim Raisi
C) Mojtaba Khamenei ✓
D) Alireza Arafi
Explanation: Following the death of his father Ali Khamenei, Mojtaba Khamenei was appointed by the Assembly of Experts as the third Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran.

Q10.Why did the RBI approve the appointment of Ketan Merchant as interim CEO of Fino Payments Bank?

A) Merger with a larger public sector bank
B) Resignation of the founder
C) Arrest of the previous MD and CEO regarding GST violations ✓
D) Retirement of the previous board
Explanation: Ketan Merchant was appointed interim CEO after the former MD and CEO, Rishi Gupta, stepped aside due to his arrest in connection with alleged GST violations.

Q11.The agreement between ISRO and ESA signed in March 2026 specifically supports which upcoming Earth Explorer mission?

A) Fluorescence Explorer (FLEX) ✓
B) Gaganyaan
C) Aditya-L1
D) Chandrayaan-4
Explanation: The new collaboration supports the ESA’s Fluorescence Explorer (FLEX) mission, which is designed to monitor global vegetation health by measuring chlorophyll fluorescence.

Q12.Which team won the 10th edition of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in 2026?

A) Australia
B) Sri Lanka
C) New Zealand
D) India ✓
Explanation: India defeated New Zealand in the final at the Narendra Modi Stadium to win their third ICC T20 World Cup title, becoming the first team to defend the championship.

Q13.K.G. George, who passed away in 2026, was a recipient of which gallantry award for his service in the 1965 India–Pakistan War?

A) Vir Chakra ✓
B) Ashoka Chakra
C) Param Vir Chakra
D) Maha Vir Chakra
Explanation: K.G. George was a Vir Chakra awardee, recognized for his bravery in establishing vital communication links under enemy fire during the 1965 conflict.

Q14.What is the 2026 theme for International Women’s Day?

A) Break the Bias
B) Rights. Justice. Action. For ALL Women and Girls ✓
C) Equality for a Sustainable Tomorrow
D) DigitALL: Innovation and Technology
Explanation: The official 2026 theme for the United Nations' observance of International Women’s Day is 'Rights. Justice. Action. For ALL Women and Girls'.

Q15.What is the projected fiscal deficit of Goa for the Financial Year 2026-27?

A) 4.5% of GSDP
B) 1.2% of GSDP
C) 3.8% of GSDP
D) 2.9% of GSDP ✓
Explanation: In the FY27 budget, Goa's fiscal deficit is estimated at Rs 3,895 crore, which accounts for 2.9% of the GSDP, remaining within the limits of the FRBM Act.

Q16.Which country's President visited India as the Chief Guest for the 11th Raisina Dialogue 2026?

A) Sweden
B) Norway
C) Denmark
D) Finland ✓
Explanation: Alexander Stubb, the President of Finland, visited India in March 2026 and served as the Chief Guest and keynote speaker at the 11th Raisina Dialogue.

Q17.Under the ICJS 2.0 implementation, what mechanism was used by Uttarakhand for seamless data sharing?

A) Unified Criminal Portal
B) One Data, One Entry ✓
C) One State, One Database
D) Integrated Justice Cloud
Explanation: Uttarakhand implemented the 'One Data, One Entry' mechanism, which allows for seamless information exchange between the police, courts, jails, prosecution, and forensic labs.

Q18.What is the significance of the Electronics Components Manufacturing Scheme (ECMS) outlay for 2026-27?

A) It aims to reduce electronics imports to zero
B) It enhanced funding to Rs 40,000 crore for component manufacturing capacity ✓
C) It creates a government-run electronics factory
D) It provides direct subsidies to mobile phone consumers
Explanation: The Union Budget 2026–27 enhanced the outlay for the ECMS to Rs 40,000 crore specifically to deepen and strengthen domestic electronics component manufacturing capacity.

Q19.What is the primary function of the 'greenshoe option' in the Bank of Baroda bond issuance?

A) To allow the bank to raise additional capital beyond the base size ✓
B) To provide tax exemptions to retail investors
C) To lock in the bonds for 20 years instead of 7
D) To reduce the interest rate
Explanation: A greenshoe option allows an issuer to increase the size of the offering beyond the initial base amount if there is sufficient investor demand, which BoB utilized to issue Rs 10,000 crore.

Q20.Which sector received the highest allocation in the Goa budget for FY27?

A) Power Sector
B) Tourism
C) Roads and Bridges
D) Health Sector ✓
Explanation: The Health Sector received the largest allocation in the Goa budget, totaling Rs 2,217 crore, covering both the Goa Medical College and Hospital and the Directorate of Health Services.
20 questions — 10 March 2026 Take interactive quiz →
11

11 March 2026 — Current Affairs MCQ

20 questions · with answers

Q1.What was the central theme of the 11th Raisina Dialogue held in 2026?

A) Geopolitics and Global Governance
B) Saṁskāra – Assertion, Accommodation, Advancement ✓
C) The Future of Global Strategic Relations
D) Technological Disruptions and Economic Security
Explanation: The theme for the 11th edition of the Raisina Dialogue was 'Saṁskāra – Assertion, Accommodation, Advancement.' It focused on how various global challenges are reshaping international politics.

Q2.Which Ministry launched the 'Jal Mahotsav 2026' campaign?

A) Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change
B) Ministry of Rural Development
C) Ministry of Jal Shakti ✓
D) Ministry of Panchayati Raj
Explanation: Jal Mahotsav 2026 is a nationwide campaign launched by the Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation under the Ministry of Jal Shakti (MoJS) to promote rural water management.

Q3.The Indo-CIS Pharma-Nutraceutical Corridor aims to facilitate trade in which market region?

A) The South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation
B) The BRICS member nations
C) The Commonwealth of Independent States and the Eurasian healthcare market ✓
D) The European Union and North American markets
Explanation: The corridor is specifically designed to expand access to the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) and the wider Eurasian healthcare market, estimated to be worth USD 7–10 billion.

Q4.What is the primary objective of the MoU signed between AIIMS and ISRO?

A) To train ISRO scientists in advanced robotic surgery
B) To monitor Earth's climate from space using medical sensors
C) To build a new space hospital in New Delhi
D) To advance research in space medicine and support human spaceflight ✓
Explanation: The MoU focuses on medical research related to human spaceflight, specifically studying the physiological and psychological effects of space travel on astronauts.

Q5.According to the SIPRI 2025 report, which country was the world's largest arms importer from 2021–2025?

A) France
B) Saudi Arabia
C) India
D) Ukraine ✓
Explanation: Ukraine emerged as the largest global arms importer during the 2021–2025 period, accounting for 9.7% of total international arms transfers, followed by India.

Q6.Exercise LAMITIYE-2026 represents a milestone in India-Seychelles military cooperation because:

A) It is the first time the exercise is held in India
B) It focuses exclusively on underwater naval combat
C) It is the longest military exercise in history
D) It is the first tri-service participation by the Indian Armed Forces ✓
Explanation: LAMITIYE-2026 is the 11th edition and marks the first time the Indian Armed Forces have participated as a tri-service contingent (Army, Navy, and Air Force).

Q7.Which countries were added to the FATF 'Grey List' following the February 2026 Plenary?

A) Mexico and Brazil
B) Kuwait and Papua New Guinea ✓
C) India and Pakistan
D) Finland and Norway
Explanation: The Financial Action Task Force added Kuwait and Papua New Guinea to its list of jurisdictions under increased monitoring, known as the 'Grey List', due to strategic anti-money laundering deficiencies.

Q8.The NATO exercise 'Cold Response 2026' was conducted in which region?

A) The Mediterranean Sea
B) The Central Asian mountain ranges
C) Northern Norway and Finland ✓
D) The Baltic Sea coast
Explanation: Cold Response 2026 is a biennial Arctic military exercise aimed at bolstering NATO's presence in the polar region, specifically held across Northern Norway and Finland.

Q9.What is the maximum balance allowed on the PhonePe 'RuPay On-The-Go' NCMC card?

A) Rs 2,000 ✓
B) Rs 5,000
C) Rs 10,000
D) Rs 1,000
Explanation: The RuPay 'On-The-Go' prepaid card allows for a maximum balance of Rs 2,000 on its chip, with support for offline transactions up to Rs 500.

Q10.Which two entities were granted Certificates of Registration by IRDAI to start operations in 2026?

A) Tata AIG and LIC Reinsurance
B) Allianz Jio Reinsurance and Kiwi General Insurance ✓
C) Reliance Insurance and SBI General
D) GIC Re and Valueattics Re
Explanation: IRDAI granted registrations to Allianz Jio Reinsurance Limited and Kiwi General Insurance Limited during its 134th Board Meeting.

Q11.Nashik Municipal Corporation's green municipal bond is significant because:

A) It is the first of its kind in India
B) It is fully funded by the World Bank
C) It is Maharashtra's first ULB green municipal bond listed on the NSE ✓
D) It is the largest municipal bond in Asian history
Explanation: While other cities like Ghaziabad and Indore have issued green bonds, Nashik's bond marks the first such issue from an Urban Local Body in Maharashtra to be listed on the NSE.

Q12.The Bokaro Steel Plant received BIS certification for four new steel grades of which category?

A) High Strength Low Alloy (HSLA) steel ✓
B) Aerospace-grade titanium alloys
C) Carbon-neutral structural steel
D) Stainless Steel
Explanation: The Bokaro Steel Plant (SAIL) received certification for grades ISC 440 LA to 550 LA, which are High Strength Low Alloy (HSLA) cold-rolled steel types.

Q13.What is the primary capability of the 'AVATAAR' drone unveiled by AquaAirX?

A) It is an amphibious drone capable of air and underwater operations ✓
B) It is a stealth combat drone for ground-based attacks
C) It is a heavy-lift cargo drone for mountain terrain
D) It is a high-altitude solar-powered satellite drone
Explanation: AVATAAR stands for Amphibious Vehicle for Autonomous Tactical Aerial & Aquatic Reconnaissance, allowing it to transition between air and water environments for surveillance.

Q14.Who won the Australian Grand Prix 2026, marking the season opener?

A) Kimi Antonelli
B) George Russell ✓
C) Max Verstappen
D) Charles Leclerc
Explanation: George Russell of the Mercedes-AMG Petronas team secured the win at the 2026 Australian Grand Prix, which was the opening race of the new F1 technical regulation era.

Q15.What is the theme of the 2026 International Day of Women Judges?

A) Empowering Women in Global Governance
B) Women Judges on the Bench and Beyond: Protecting Access to Justice ✓
C) Strengthening the Rule of Law
D) Equality in the Courts
Explanation: The 2026 theme 'Women Judges on the Bench and Beyond: Protecting Access to Justice' highlights the role of women in ensuring judicial integrity and equal participation.

Q16.In the FY27 Punjab budget, which sector received the highest allocation?

A) Education ✓
B) Agriculture & Allied Sectors
C) Health
D) Women & Social Welfare
Explanation: The Punjab budget for FY27 allocated Rs 19,279 crore to the Education sector, which is the highest among the listed departments.

Q17.What does the term 'Jal Arpan Diwas' signify in the context of Jal Mahotsav 2026?

A) The planting of trees near water bodies
B) The inauguration of new water treatment plants
C) The celebration of women water warriors
D) The handing over of drinking water assets to Gram Panchayats ✓
Explanation: Jal Arpan Diwas symbolizes the transfer of rural drinking water infrastructure to Gram Panchayats to ensure community ownership under the Jal Jeevan Mission.

Q18.What is the main change in F1 power unit regulations introduced in 2026?

A) Mandatory use of hydrogen fuel cells
B) Increase in engine displacement to 3.0 liters
C) A 50:50 power split between the Internal Combustion Engine and the Electric Power Unit ✓
D) Shift to 100% electric engines
Explanation: The 2026 F1 regulations introduced a major change where the power unit features a 50:50 power distribution between the ICE and the EPU to promote hybrid technology.

Q19.Which company is a partner in the Indo-CIS Pharma-Nutraceutical Corridor along with the Uzbekistan Ministry of Health and Pharma Eurasia?

A) Sun Pharma
B) Nutrify Today ✓
C) Apollo Pharmacies
D) Tata Health
Explanation: Nutrify Today, a Bengaluru-based nutraceutical platform, partnered with the Ministry of Health of Uzbekistan and Pharma Eurasia to establish the corridor.

Q20.What fiscal deficit percentage is projected for Punjab in the FY27 budget?

A) 2.06%
B) 4.08% ✓
C) 10%
D) 5.5%
Explanation: Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema projected the fiscal deficit for Punjab for the financial year 2026–27 at 4.08% of the GSDP.
20 questions — 11 March 2026 Take interactive quiz →
12

12 March 2026 — Current Affairs MCQ

20 questions · with answers

Q1.Which airport was recently granted international status by the Indian Cabinet on March 10, 2026?

A) Salem Airport
B) Coimbatore Airport
C) Trichy Airport
D) Madurai Airport ✓
Explanation: The Union Cabinet granted international status to Madurai Airport to boost international connectivity, tourism, and economic growth in the southern districts of Tamil Nadu.

Q2.What is the primary shift in the focus of the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM 2.0)?

A) From infrastructure creation to sustainable service delivery ✓
B) From government-led to private-led water management
C) From urban water supply to rural water supply
D) From groundwater extraction to desalinization projects
Explanation: JJM 2.0 shifts its core objective from the initial phase of building infrastructure to ensuring the sustainable service delivery of rural drinking water.

Q3.What is the function of the 'Sujalam Bharat' framework introduced under the extended Jal Jeevan Mission?

A) To map the rural water supply chain with unique village IDs ✓
B) To monitor groundwater levels via satellite
C) To filter rural water for contaminants
D) To provide financial subsidies to farmers
Explanation: Sujalam Bharat is a digital monitoring framework designed to map the entire rural water supply chain, assigning each village a 'Sujal Gaon' ID for better transparency and tracking.

Q4.The Greenfield connectivity corridor project for Noida International Airport will be implemented using which financial model?

A) Public-Private Partnership (PPP)
B) Engineering-Procurement-Construction (EPC)
C) Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT)
D) Hybrid Annuity Mode (HAM) ✓
Explanation: The project connecting the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway spur to the Noida International Airport is being implemented under the Hybrid Annuity Mode (HAM) across Uttar Pradesh and Haryana.

Q5.What is the main advantage of the PB-SHABD platform managed by Prasar Bharati?

A) It provides encrypted communication channels for government officials
B) It serves as a private social media network for journalists
C) It distributes logo-free, verified news content for media outlets ✓
D) It provides real-time stock market data
Explanation: PB-SHABD acts as a centralized digital feed providing media organizations with ready-to-use, verified news content (videos, text, and photos) without requiring credit or branding.

Q6.Why did the Indian government introduce a 60-day timeline for processing FDI proposals under the revised Press Note 3?

A) To streamline and provide policy clarity for investments from neighboring countries ✓
B) To limit investments from all foreign nations
C) To align with international WTO regulations
D) To discourage Chinese investment in the semiconductor sector
Explanation: The amendment to Press Note 3 aims to reduce bureaucratic delays for investments requiring government scrutiny, particularly from neighboring countries, while ensuring policy clarity for high-growth sectors.

Q7.What is the mandate of the Essential Commodities Act, 1955 invocation concerning LPG supply in 2026?

A) To prioritize household supply and prevent hoarding via a 25-day booking window ✓
B) To transition all households to electric cooking
C) To ban the export of natural gas to West Asia
D) To increase the price of domestic LPG
Explanation: To ensure energy security amid geopolitical tensions, the Act mandates that OMCs prioritize domestic household supply and restricts hoarding through a 25-day booking window.

Q8.What legal precedent does the Supreme Court's ruling in the Harish Rana case reinforce?

A) The legalization of assisted suicide for the elderly
B) The mandatory requirement for organ donation
C) The legal validity of passive euthanasia under specific safeguards ✓
D) The right to active euthanasia
Explanation: The case marks a milestone in India's legal landscape by allowing the withdrawal of life support for a patient in a permanent vegetative state, confirming the legal possibility of passive euthanasia under medical supervision.

Q9.What benefit does the registration of Nagauri Pan Methi with the PPVFRA provide to farmers?

A) It provides a guaranteed government purchase price
B) It mandates an automatic GI tag for all farmers in Rajasthan
C) It grants statutory ownership and protection against biopiracy ✓
D) It allows for the patenting of the plant's medicinal chemical properties
Explanation: Registration under the Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers Rights Act grants the farming community legal ownership, protecting their specific crop variety from misuse and unauthorized commercial exploitation.

Q10.Why are the fiscal deficit ratios for FY23–FY25 reported as higher than previous estimates?

A) Due to the recalculation of GDP using a new base year ✓
B) Due to higher interest payments on international loans
C) Due to increased government spending on defense
D) Due to a decline in national tax revenue
Explanation: The fiscal deficit ratios appear higher in the updated report because the government revised the GDP base year, which changes the denominator used in calculating the deficit-to-GDP ratio.

Q11.Who has been appointed as the interim CEO of IndiGo following Pieter Elbers' resignation?

A) Con Korfiatis
B) Rahul Bhatia ✓
C) Ashwani Lohani
D) Ronojoy Dutta
Explanation: Rahul Bhatia, a promoter and the Managing Director of InterGlobe Aviation, stepped in as interim CEO to oversee the airline following the sudden resignation of Pieter Elbers.

Q12.How is Deloitte’s ConnectSafe facility in Bengaluru distinct from traditional cybersecurity labs?

A) It is free for public use
B) It exclusively targets social media threats
C) It focuses on operational technology in industrial sectors ✓
D) It operates entirely on quantum computing
Explanation: Unlike standard labs focused on IT infrastructure, ConnectSafe specializes in testing operational technology, which supports critical industries like manufacturing, power plants, and healthcare.

Q13.What is the strategic significance of the 'America First Refining' project announced by Reliance Industries?

A) It will be fully owned and operated by the U.S. government
B) It aims to phase out oil refinery technology globally
C) It exclusively refines green hydrogen
D) It is the first refinery built in the U.S. in nearly 50 years ✓
Explanation: The project is a major investment by Reliance Industries in the U.S. and is projected to be the first significant oil refinery constructed in the country in almost five decades.

Q14.Which cultural figure is the recipient of the META Lifetime Achievement Award 2026?

A) Naseeruddin Shah
B) Shabana Azmi
C) Amol Palekar ✓
D) Mahesh Bhatt
Explanation: Amol Palekar is being honored with the 2026 META Lifetime Achievement Award for his extensive and pioneering contributions to both Indian theatre and cinema.

Q15.What is the primary purpose of the new MRO facility for the C-130J Super Hercules aircraft?

A) To provide training for international pilots
B) To convert transport aircraft into fighter jets
C) To manufacture aircraft engines locally
D) To modernize maintenance and reduce dependence on overseas centers ✓
Explanation: The MRO facility, supported by Tata Advanced Systems and Ramco Systems, aims to ensure domestic capability for servicing critical transport aircraft, improving fleet readiness and reducing reliance on foreign maintenance support.

Q16.What is the expected fate of the defunct Van Allen Probe A satellite in March 2026?

A) It will burn up during atmospheric re-entry ✓
B) It will be captured for scientific study
C) It will be deorbited into a controlled landing zone
D) It will drift into deep space
Explanation: The satellite, having completed its mission to study radiation belts, is set to undergo uncontrolled re-entry, where the majority of its 600 kg mass is expected to burn up due to atmospheric friction.

Q17.On which day is 'No Smoking Day' observed, and what is its primary focus?

A) Second Wednesday of March; to honor lung cancer survivors
B) March 11; to promote tobacco cessation ✓
C) March 11; to discuss the economics of the tobacco industry
D) Second Wednesday of March; to legalize vaping
Explanation: No Smoking Day 2026 is marked on March 11 to raise awareness about the severe health risks associated with tobacco and to provide resources for those attempting to quit.

Q18.Hermann Kulke, who recently passed away, was best known for his research on which Indian region's history?

A) The Mughal influence in Delhi
B) The Maratha Empire in Maharashtra
C) Odisha's temple traditions and history ✓
D) Kerala's spice trade
Explanation: Hermann Kulke was an internationally renowned Indologist celebrated for his deep historical research on the Jagannath cult and the Gajapati kingdom of Odisha.

Q19.What was the specific trigger for the operational crisis at IndiGo in December 2025?

A) A technical failure in the booking system
B) New pilot duty time regulations by the DGCA ✓
C) A nationwide labor strike
D) The sudden closure of major airports
Explanation: The significant flight cancellations were linked to the implementation of stricter pilot duty time regulations by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation, which impacted operational scheduling.

Q20.The 'America First' refinery project in Texas is a partnership between the U.S. and which Indian company?

A) Reliance Industries ✓
B) Adani Enterprises
C) Tata Group
D) ONGC
Explanation: Donald Trump announced a $300 billion partnership specifically with Reliance Industries for the development of a large-scale oil refinery at the Port of Brownsville.
20 questions — 12 March 2026 Take interactive quiz →
13

13 March 2026 — Current Affairs MCQ

20 questions · with answers

Q1.What is the primary objective of the Polypropylene Unit being established at the Kochi Refinery in Kerala?

A) To establish a new LNG terminal for household supply
B) To boost domestic polymer production and reduce import dependence ✓
C) To facilitate the export of textile raw materials
D) To increase the export of crude oil
Explanation: The Polypropylene Unit, with a capacity of 400 KTPA, is designed to enhance domestic polymer production, thereby decreasing the country's reliance on imported materials.

Q2.Which state secured the top rank in the second annual edition of NITI Aayog’s Fiscal Health Index (FHI) 2026?

A) Gujarat
B) Odisha ✓
C) Kerala
D) Maharashtra
Explanation: Odisha topped the FHI 2026 list with a score of 73.1, evaluating the financial soundness of states based on data from the Comptroller and Auditor General of India.

Q3.The '5F Vision' associated with the Bharat Tex 2026 event includes which of the following sequences?

A) Farm, Fibre, Factory, Fashion, Foreign ✓
B) Fibre, Farm, Factory, Fashion, Foreign
C) Factory, Fibre, Farm, Fashion, Foreign
D) Farm, Factory, Fibre, Foreign, Fashion
Explanation: The PM's 5F Vision stands for Farm to Fibre, Fibre to Factory, Factory to Fashion, and Fashion to Foreign markets, aiming to strengthen the entire textile value chain.

Q4.What is the primary focus of the partnership between the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) and Voltas Limited?

A) Expanding rural connectivity in Tamil Nadu
B) Collaborating on cooling and smart appliance innovation ✓
C) Improving agricultural yields using AI
D) Promoting traditional textile manufacturing methods
Explanation: The MoU aims to promote collaboration in the cooling and smart appliance ecosystem, focusing on HVAC, AI/ML diagnostics, and IoT-enabled appliances.

Q5.Which ministry released the 2nd Advance Estimates of production of major agricultural crops for 2025-26?

A) Ministry of Textiles
B) Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare ✓
C) Ministry of Rural Development
D) Ministry of Commerce and Industry
Explanation: Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan of the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare released the 2nd Advance Estimates on March 10, 2026.

Q6.Why did the RBI cancel the Certificates of Registration (CoR) of 36 NBFCs in March 2026?

A) Because they failed to reach a specific profit margin
B) To transition them into private banks
C) As a regulatory action for non-compliance ✓
D) Due to a merger with the State Bank of India
Explanation: The RBI cancelled these CoRs as part of its regulatory enforcement, prohibiting the entities from conducting NBFC activities under the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934.

Q7.What is the significance of the partnership between SBI and MUFG Bank?

A) To manage the digital payments ecosystem in Kerala
B) To facilitate cross-border capital flows and economic cooperation between India and Japan ✓
C) To replace traditional banking with AI-only systems
D) To fund the Bharat Tex 2026 initiative
Explanation: The partnership aims to combine SBI's local reach with MUFG's global network to support Japanese companies in India and Indian enterprises in Japan, aligning with the Special Strategic and Global Partnership.

Q8.Which fintech platform was authorised by the RBI in March 2026 to operate as a Payment Aggregator (PA)?

A) BharatPe
B) Paytm
C) PhonePe
D) CRED ✓
Explanation: CRED, operated by Dreamplug Technologies Private Limited, received authorization from the RBI to operate as a Payment Aggregator, allowing it to onboard merchants directly.

Q9.What is the primary reason for Nomura lowering India's GDP growth forecast for FY27 to 7%?

A) The ongoing conflict in West Asia ✓
B) Higher tax rates on the services sector
C) Domestic monsoon failure
D) A decrease in textile exports
Explanation: Nomura lowered the forecast primarily due to the conflict in West Asia, which poses risks to energy supplies and has inflationary implications.

Q10.Who has been appointed as the new MD & CEO of HDFC ERGO General Insurance starting April 16, 2026?

A) Anuj Tyagi
B) Parthanil Ghosh ✓
C) Sumeet Kumar Jarangal
D) Suman Bery
Explanation: Parthanil Ghosh, currently the Executive Director, will succeed Anuj Tyagi as the new MD and CEO of HDFC ERGO.

Q11.The Asia Cup Archery 2027 second leg will be held in India. When was the last time India hosted an international archery event?

A) 2010
B) 2020
C) 2024
D) 2005 ✓
Explanation: India will host the second leg of the Asia Cup Archery in 2027, which is its first international archery event since the 2005 Asian Archery Championships in Delhi.

Q12.What is the theme of World Kidney Day 2026?

A) Kidney Health for the Future
B) Healthy Kidneys, Healthy Life
C) Kidney Health for All – Caring for People, Protecting the Planet ✓
D) Early Detection and Prevention of Kidney Disease
Explanation: The 2026 theme for World Kidney Day, which marks its 20th anniversary, is 'Kidney Health for All – Caring for People, Protecting the Planet'.

Q13.Under which ministry's initiative does the partnership between WHO Foundation and Novo Nordisk to combat childhood obesity align?

A) Digital India
B) Viksit Bharat 2047
C) Make in India
D) Ayushman Bharat – School Health and Wellness Programme ✓
Explanation: The initiative aligns with the Ayushman Bharat – School Health and Wellness Programme, which is a joint effort of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and the Ministry of Education.

Q14.What is the projected retail inflation for India in FY27 according to the CRISIL Intelligence report?

A) 3.8%
B) 2.5%
C) 4.3% ✓
D) 4.5%
Explanation: CRISIL Intelligence projects retail inflation to increase to 4.3% in FY27 from 2.5% in FY26.

Q15.What is the main function of the 'Add-on factors' mentioned in the RBI's Third Amendment Directions, 2026?

A) To calculate interest rates on deposits
B) To limit the amount of gold reserves banks can hold
C) To determine the tax liability of NBFCs
D) To calculate Potential Future Exposure (PFE) for derivative contracts ✓
Explanation: The amendment revises the table of add-on factors used by commercial banks to calculate Potential Future Exposure (PFE) for managing counterparty credit risk in derivative transactions.

Q16.How many households in The Nilgiris and Erode districts are expected to receive PNG connections under the BPCL project?

A) 12 lakh
B) 8.8 lakh ✓
C) 2 lakh
D) 5 lakh
Explanation: The City Gas Distribution Network project in Tamil Nadu aims to provide Piped Natural Gas connections to over 8.8 lakh households.

Q17.Where will Bharat Tex 2026 be held?

A) Bengaluru
B) New Delhi ✓
C) Kolkata
D) Mumbai
Explanation: Bharat Tex 2026, India's flagship global textile event, is scheduled to take place at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi.

Q18.Which category are Kerala and West Bengal placed in regarding the Fiscal Health Index 2026?

A) Performers
B) Front-Runners
C) Excellence
D) Aspirational ✓
Explanation: Kerala and West Bengal are in the Aspirational category, characterized by higher fiscal deficits and elevated debt levels compared to other categories.

Q19.What is the estimated Kharif rice production for the year 2025-26?

A) 1745.13 LMT
B) 167.20 LMT
C) 1239.28 LMT ✓
D) 1741.44 LMT
Explanation: According to the 2nd Advance Estimates released by the MoAFW, Kharif rice production is estimated at 1239.28 LMT.

Q20.Where is the headquarters of the WHO Foundation located?

A) Copenhagen, Denmark
B) New Delhi, India
C) Geneva, Switzerland ✓
D) Washington D.C., USA
Explanation: The WHO Foundation is an independent organization established in 2020 and is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland.
20 questions — 13 March 2026 Take interactive quiz →
14

14 March 2026 — Current Affairs MCQ

20 questions · with answers

Q1.What is the primary objective of the 'Araku Kouni' initiative launched in Andhra Pradesh?

A) To boost industrial output in rural zones
B) To export millets to international markets
C) To promote tribal millet-based diets and preserve culinary heritage ✓
D) To modernize the public school mid-day meal system
Explanation: The 'Araku Kouni' initiative aims to support tribal farmers and preserve indigenous culinary heritage by promoting traditional millet-based dishes.

Q2.Which port has become the first in India to implement a 'Digital Twin' platform?

A) Deendayal Port
B) Jawaharlal Nehru Port
C) V.O. Chidambaranar Port ✓
D) Paradip Port
Explanation: V.O. Chidambaranar Port inaugurated a Digital Twin platform on February 23, 2026, to create a real-time virtual replica of its infrastructure for improved efficiency.

Q3.The newly planned ₹1 trillion semiconductor fund is an expansion of which existing initiative?

A) Make in India Project
B) Semiconductor Incentive Programme launched in 2021 ✓
C) Digital India Mission
D) National Infrastructure Pipeline
Explanation: The ₹1 trillion fund is an expansion of the $10 billion semiconductor incentive programme that was launched by the government in 2021.

Q4.According to Climate Trends analysis, which city ranked as the most polluted in India for 2024-25?

A) Delhi ✓
B) Kolkata
C) Patna
D) Mumbai
Explanation: Delhi remained the most polluted city in India in 2024-25, exhibiting the highest PM2.5 levels, followed by Patna.

Q5.Who administered the oath of office to R. N. Ravi as the 22nd Governor of West Bengal?

A) Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee
B) The outgoing Governor C. V. Ananda Bose
C) Chief Justice of Calcutta High Court Sujoy Paul ✓
D) President Droupadi Murmu
Explanation: R. N. Ravi took the oath as the 22nd Governor of West Bengal on March 12, 2026, administered by the Chief Justice of the Calcutta High Court, Sujoy Paul.

Q6.How much annual financial assistance do farmers receive under the PM-KISAN scheme?

A) ₹6,000 ✓
B) ₹4,000
C) ₹2,000
D) ₹10,000
Explanation: Under the PM-KISAN scheme, eligible farmers receive a total of ₹6,000 annually, distributed in three equal installments of ₹2,000 each.

Q7.What clarification did the Supreme Court provide regarding the 'Creamy Layer' rule for OBC reservations?

A) Parental income alone cannot determine creamy layer status ✓
B) The income limit has been abolished
C) The creamy layer status is determined by state laws only
D) Income is the sole criteria
Explanation: The Supreme Court ruled that parental income alone is not sufficient; authorities must also consider parental occupation, position, and social status.

Q8.Where was the International Rail Coach Expo (IRCE) 2026 held?

A) Bengaluru
B) New Delhi
C) Chennai ✓
D) Mumbai
Explanation: The International Rail Coach Expo 2026 was inaugurated at the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai on March 12, 2026.

Q9.What is the primary purpose of the KSRTC's 'Dhwani Spandana' system?

A) To automate ticket booking for senior citizens
B) To track bus routes via GPS
C) To provide free Wi-Fi on buses
D) To assist visually impaired passengers with audio-based identification ✓
Explanation: Dhwani Spandana is an accessibility system that helps visually impaired passengers identify buses and navigate transport independently through audio guidance.

Q10.What was the retail inflation rate in India for February 2026?

A) 3.21% ✓
B) 3.02%
C) 2.74%
D) 4.00%
Explanation: India's retail inflation based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose to 3.21% in February 2026, up from 2.74% in January.

Q11.Which bank integrated its internet banking platform with the EPFO for EPF payments?

A) South Indian Bank ✓
B) HDFC Bank
C) Canara Bank
D) State Bank of India
Explanation: South Indian Bank launched an EPF payment service integrated with the EPFO through its internet banking platform, SIBerNet.

Q12.What was the primary focus of the RRB Conclave 2026 organized in New Delhi?

A) Strengthening Regional Rural Banks through next-generation reforms ✓
B) Expanding international branches
C) Setting interest rates for savings accounts
D) Corporate banking mergers
Explanation: The RRB Conclave 2026, organized by the Indian Banks' Association, focused on financial inclusion and the digital transformation of Regional Rural Banks.

Q13.How did Canara Bank adjust its MCLR lending rates effective March 12, 2026?

A) Remained unchanged
B) Increased by 10 bps for two- and three-year tenures ✓
C) Increased by 50 bps across all tenures
D) Decreased by 10 bps
Explanation: Canara Bank increased its MCLR lending rates by 10 basis points specifically for two- and three-year tenures.

Q14.Which technology powers the 'Agent Studio' launched by Razorpay?

A) OpenAI's GPT-4
B) Anthropic's Claude AI ✓
C) Google's Gemini
D) Meta's Llama
Explanation: Razorpay's Agent Studio is powered by Anthropic’s Claude AI technology to deploy intelligent agents that automate payment operations.

Q15.Which AI model was launched by Nvidia featuring a 120-billion-parameter count?

A) Claude 3.5
B) Gemini Ultra
C) Nemotron 3 Super ✓
D) GPT-5 Omni
Explanation: Nvidia launched the Nemotron 3 Super, a 120-billion-parameter model designed for autonomous multi-step reasoning and AI agent systems.

Q16.What platform did Perplexity launch to automate digital tasks?

A) Neural Link
B) Agent Studio
C) Personal Computer AI Agent ✓
D) Global Research Hub
Explanation: Perplexity introduced the 'Personal Computer' AI agent, which runs on a Mac mini to perform tasks like research, email drafting, and briefing preparation.

Q17.The suspension of cricketers Javon Searles, Trevon Griffith, and Chitranjan Rathod relates to which tournament?

A) Bim10 2023-24 ✓
B) IPL 2025
C) World Cup 2026
D) T20 Champions League
Explanation: The players were suspended due to alleged corruption, including match manipulation, during the 2023-24 Bim10 tournament in Barbados.

Q18.Which organization declared 2026 as the 'International Year of the Woman Farmer'?

A) ICAR
B) United Nations ✓
C) World Bank
D) World Health Organization
Explanation: During the Global Conference on Women in Agri-Food Systems, President Murmu highlighted the United Nations declaration of 2026 as the International Year of the Woman Farmer.

Q19.What was Hari Murali's professional occupation after his career as a child actor?

A) Film Director
B) Banker
C) VFX Artist ✓
D) Theater Manager
Explanation: After working as a child actor in films like Rasikan and Annan Thampi, Hari Murali pursued studies in animation and worked as a VFX artist.

Q20.Which group collaborated with the Integral Coach Factory to organize the International Rail Coach Expo 2026?

A) NASSCOM
B) FICCI
C) Confederation of Indian Industry ✓
D) Ministry of Finance
Explanation: The International Rail Coach Expo 2026 was organized by the Integral Coach Factory in association with the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII).
20 questions — 14 March 2026 Take interactive quiz →
15

15 March 2026 — Current Affairs MCQ

20 questions · with answers

Q1.What does recent research into deep-sea sediment cores suggest about Earth's magnetic pole reversals?

A) They can last significantly longer than previously believed ✓
B) They have ceased to occur in the current geological epoch
C) They last a maximum of 2,000 years
D) They are becoming more frequent
Explanation: Research analyzing deep-sea sediment cores identified magnetic reversals lasting up to 70,000 years, which is much longer than the previously held belief of 2,000–12,000 years.

Q2.What is the primary role of the Geodynamo within the Earth?

A) Maintaining the temperature of the Earth's crust
B) Generating the Earth's magnetic field through molten iron movement ✓
C) Absorbing harmful solar flares
D) Regulating the Earth's rotation speed
Explanation: The Geodynamo is the process driven by the movement of molten iron in Earth's outer core, which generates the Earth's magnetic field.

Q3.Why is the Texas refinery project involving Reliance Industries significant in the context of U.S. history?

A) It is the first refinery powered entirely by solar energy
B) It is the world's largest refinery for deep-sea oil
C) It is the first refinery to be owned by a non-U.S. company
D) It is the first major new oil refinery built in the U.S. since 1977 ✓
Explanation: The project at the Port of Brownsville is notable as it represents the first major new oil refinery to be constructed in the United States since 1977.

Q4.Which of the following best describes the characteristics of Light Shale Oil?

A) It flows naturally to the surface without drilling
B) It is a heavy, high-sulphur crude oil
C) It is found exclusively in shallow surface reservoirs
D) It has a low density and requires hydraulic fracturing for extraction ✓
Explanation: Light shale oil is a low-density, easily refinable crude trapped in tight formations at great depths, requiring horizontal drilling and hydraulic fracturing to extract.

Q5.Which initiative was launched by the International Solar Alliance (ISA) during its 10th Foundation Day?

A) Worldwide Solar Subsidy for Vehicles
B) Green Hydrogen and Storage Start-up Challenge 2026 ✓
C) Global Mission on Coal Phase-out
D) International Space Weather Monitoring Network
Explanation: ISA launched the Green Hydrogen and Storage Start-up Challenge 2026 to foster innovation in green hydrogen and energy storage solutions.

Q6.What is the 'climate penalty' in the context of urban air quality?

A) The cost of implementing green infrastructure
B) The tax imposed on industries that emit VOCs
C) The phenomenon where rising temperatures worsen pollution even if emissions remain constant ✓
D) The reduction in solar energy production due to smog
Explanation: The 'climate penalty' refers to the situation where climate change-induced heat and rising temperatures accelerate the formation of pollutants like ground-level ozone, worsening air quality regardless of emission levels.

Q7.Surface ozone is described as a secondary air pollutant. How is it primarily formed?

A) Reaction of NOx and VOCs under sunlight and heat ✓
B) Release of gases from volcanic eruptions
C) Direct emission from industrial chimneys
D) Decomposition of stratospheric ozone
Explanation: Surface ozone is formed at ground level when nitrogen oxides (NOx) react with Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) in the presence of strong sunlight and heat.

Q8.What is the core principle of a 'no-fault' compensation policy for vaccine side effects?

A) Victims receive compensation without needing to prove negligence or fault ✓
B) It is only applicable to vaccines manufactured by international companies
C) The government admits full liability for vaccine defects
D) Companies are legally penalized for all minor side effects
Explanation: No-fault liability is a legal principle ensuring that individuals harmed by medical interventions receive relief without the burden of proving that the liable party was negligent.

Q9.What is a major concern regarding blanket bans on children's access to social media?

A) It increases the profitability of social media companies
B) It eliminates the need for digital literacy programs in schools
C) It causes 'risk migration' where children move to less regulated or dangerous digital spaces ✓
D) It forces children to use only state-sponsored platforms
Explanation: Critics argue that bans lead to 'risk migration,' where children circumvent the restrictions or move to darker, unmonitored digital corners like gaming chats or encrypted platforms.

Q10.Cobalt is identified as a critical mineral for India. What is its primary global application?

A) Used in the synthesis of fertilizers
B) Used in lithium-ion batteries for EVs and smartphones ✓
C) Used in manufacturing high-strength steel for bridges
D) Used as a primary coolant in nuclear power plants
Explanation: Cobalt is essential for modern technology, particularly in lithium-ion batteries for electric vehicles and mobile devices, as well as in aerospace superalloys.

Q11.Which of the following is a unique geographic feature of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)?

A) It contains the Sahara Desert's largest oasis
B) It has no border with the Atlantic Ocean
C) The Congo River crosses the Equator twice ✓
D) It is home to the Nile River's primary delta
Explanation: The Congo River is a vital feature of the DRC and holds the distinction of being the only river in the world to cross the Equator twice.

Q12.According to the MoEFCC, what is the primary anthropogenic cause of elephant deaths after electrocution?

A) Habitat loss due to urbanization
B) Train collisions ✓
C) Agricultural pesticides
D) Poaching for ivory
Explanation: Data indicates that train collisions are the second-largest anthropogenic cause of elephant mortality in India, following electrocution.

Q13.Why is the time between 6 PM and 6 AM particularly dangerous for elephants near railway tracks?

A) Train schedules are more frequent at night
B) Driver visibility decreases and elephant movement increases during these hours ✓
C) The sound of trains is amplified at night
D) Elephants are nocturnal and active during this time
Explanation: Nearly 80% of elephant-train accidents occur at night because elephant movement patterns coincide with periods where driver visibility is reduced.

Q14.What is an Apollo-type Near-Earth Asteroid (NEA)?

A) An asteroid located between Mars and Jupiter
B) An asteroid composed entirely of ice and dust
C) An asteroid whose orbital path crosses Earth's ✓
D) An asteroid that has a stable orbit around the Moon
Explanation: Apollo-type asteroids are categorized as Near-Earth Asteroids because their orbital paths intersect with the orbit of the Earth.

Q15.What technology is being used in the India-Singapore project to produce clean hydrogen?

A) Solar-thermal chemical splitting
B) Microwave plasma pyrolysis of methane ✓
C) Biological fermentation of organic waste
D) Electrolysis of seawater
Explanation: The project utilizes microwave plasma pyrolysis, a method that splits methane into hydrogen and solid carbon without releasing CO2.

Q16.How does the AI integration in the plasma system benefit hydrogen production?

A) It replaces the need for microwave technology
B) It monitors and optimizes reactor parameters to improve yield and efficiency ✓
C) It lowers the cost of methane extraction
D) It automatically distributes the hydrogen to consumers
Explanation: AI is integrated into the reactor system to monitor and optimize parameters in real-time, significantly increasing the yield and energy efficiency of the hydrogen production process.

Q17.What is the primary function of Biogenic Volatile Organic Compounds (BVOCs) in nature?

A) They act as natural pesticides to protect plant leaves
B) They are greenhouse gases that cool the planet
C) They are essential fertilizers for soil health
D) They help plants with stress response and communication ✓
Explanation: BVOCs, such as isoprene and terpenes, are naturally emitted by plants and serve important roles in plant communication and responses to environmental stress.

Q18.Which of the following is considered a 'High-value carbon product' that can assist in a dual-revenue model for clean energy?

A) Carbon nanostructures and diamond-graphene hybrids ✓
B) Biomass briquettes
C) Industrial soot
D) Coal ash
Explanation: Advanced carbon materials, such as diamond-graphene hybrid materials and carbon nanostructures, are high-value outputs of the plasma pyrolysis process that can improve project economics.

Q19.What does Article 21 of the Indian Constitution primarily encompass according to the Supreme Court's vaccine policy ruling?

A) The Right to Property
B) The Right to Health as part of the Right to Life ✓
C) The Right to Freedom of Assembly
D) The Right to be compensated for all medical errors
Explanation: The Supreme Court linked the establishment of a no-fault compensation policy to the Right to Health, which is interpreted as a fundamental component of the Right to Life under Article 21.

Q20.Which of the following is an example of an 'onboarding friction' strategy for social media safety?

A) Allowing unrestricted access to all users
B) Removing all content filters
C) Mandatory age-gating mechanisms ✓
D) Encouraging children to use parental accounts
Explanation: Mandatory age-gating mechanisms are designed to create 'friction' that prevents minors from gaining unsupervised or automatic access to platforms, thereby increasing safety.
20 questions — 15 March 2026 Take interactive quiz →
16

16 March 2026 — Current Affairs MCQ

20 questions · with answers

Q1.Which technology was launched by the National Dam Safety Authority (NDSA) in collaboration with the Indian Navy to provide a conversational interface for dam safety?

A) GIS-Dams
B) DBIM 3.0
C) NETRA ✓
D) RBSD
Explanation: NETRA stands for NDSA Engine for Tracking and Review using Artificial Intelligence. It was developed in partnership with the Indian Navy's WESEE to facilitate easier access to regulations and policies.

Q2.What is the primary function of the Rashtriya Bandh Suraksha Darpan (RBSD) platform developed by C-DAC?

A) Digital payment processing for utility bills
B) Public awareness of dam locations
C) Dam Break Analysis and risk assessment ✓
D) Coordination of international dam experts
Explanation: RBSD is a visualization platform designed specifically for Dam Break Analysis to improve risk assessment and monitoring capabilities in dam safety management.

Q3.As of March 2026, how many districts are covered under the mandatory gold hallmarking regime following the implementation of Phase VI?

A) 361
B) 400
C) 380 ✓
D) 373
Explanation: Phase VI, effective from 2 March 2026, added 7 districts, bringing the total number of districts under the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) mandatory hallmarking regime to 380.

Q4.Which legendary Hindustani classical musician was honored by India Post with a special cover to mark her birth centenary?

A) Gangubai Hangal
B) MS Subbulakshmi
C) Kishori Amonkar
D) Annapurna Devi ✓
Explanation: Annapurna Devi was a legendary Hindustani classical musician known for her reclusive nature and mastery of music. A special cover was released at the Kolkata GPO to commemorate her birth centenary.

Q5.The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) signed an MoU with the GATI Foundation to achieve what primary long-term goal?

A) Positioning India as the global skills capital by 2047 ✓
B) Developing regional IT infrastructure
C) Subsidizing industrial machinery for MSMEs
D) Promoting domestic vocational schools
Explanation: The partnership with the GATI Foundation aims to build a mobility-ready workforce and create data-driven roadmaps to position India as the global skills capital by 2047.

Q6.What is the unique aspect of the partnership between the DEPwD and the 'Coalition of the Willing' regarding hearing impairment?

A) It is the first government-only welfare scheme
B) It is India's first integrated life-cycle support model ✓
C) It focuses exclusively on manufacturing hearing aids
D) It provides international scholarships exclusively
Explanation: The initiative represents India's first integrated life-cycle support model for persons with hearing impairment, utilizing a public-private-civil society partnership approach.

Q7.The healthcare infrastructure project in the Rajgarh district of Madhya Pradesh is funded by which public sector undertaking?

A) BHEL
B) National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC)
C) Coal India Limited
D) Oil India Limited (OIL) ✓
Explanation: OIL signed an MoU with the National Scheduled Tribes Finance and Development Corporation (NSTFDC) to provide Rs 86.27 lakh for upgrading health infrastructure in the aspirational district of Rajgarh, MP.

Q8.Which institution is acting as the nodal entity in India for the 'North East Region (NER)- Japan International Academic and Research Consortium'?

A) IIT-Guwahati ✓
B) Gauhati University
C) NIT-Silchar
D) AIIMS-Guwahati
Explanation: IIT-Guwahati leads the Indian side as the nodal institution, collaborating with Japan's Gifu University to foster research and innovation in the NorthEast region.

Q9.What is the primary objective of the partnership between the National Council for Cement and Building Materials (NCB) and TraceXero Technologies?

A) Improving worker safety in cement plants
B) Reducing the cost of construction materials
C) Increasing cement production capacity
D) Developing Carbon Capture and Utilisation (CCU) technologies ✓
Explanation: The partnership focuses on promoting sustainable technologies by developing CCU solutions, which convert CO2 emissions from the cement industry into valuable materials like graphene.

Q10.What is the name of the multi-media awareness campaign launched by the RBI to encourage caution in digital transactions?

A) Pay Safely
B) Digital Suraksha
C) Satark Bharat
D) Thoda Dhyan Se ✓
Explanation: The RBI launched the 'Thoda Dhyan Se' campaign to promote safe digital payment habits during the Digital Payments Awareness Week (DPAW).

Q11.What is the primary focus of the strategic partnership between T-Hub and JETRO?

A) Cultural exchange programs for students
B) Deep-tech and manufacturing startup collaboration ✓
C) Providing loans to small retail shops
D) Promoting agricultural exports to Japan
Explanation: T-Hub and JETRO aim to create high-impact innovation networks, focusing on sectors like deep-tech, AI, space, and manufacturing to integrate startup ecosystems between India and Japan.

Q12.Who was sworn in as the 38th President of Chile in March 2026?

A) Michelle Bachelet
B) Gabriel Boric Font
C) Jose Antonio Kast Rist ✓
D) Sebastian Pinera
Explanation: Jose Antonio Kast Rist, the leader of the Republican Party of Chile, assumed office as the 38th President of Chile following the 2025 presidential election.

Q13.What is the professional background of K.V. Ramana Murty, who was appointed as a Whole-Time Member of SEBI?

A) Indian Revenue Service (IRS)
B) Indian Defence Accounts Service (IDAS) ✓
C) Indian Police Service (IPS)
D) Indian Administrative Service (IAS)
Explanation: K.V. Ramana Murty is a 1991-batch Indian Defence Accounts Service (IDAS) officer who previously served as Additional Controller General of Defence Accounts.

Q14.How many Whole-Time Members (WTMs) are on the SEBI board following the appointment of K.V. Ramana Murty?

A) 3
B) 4 ✓
C) 5
D) 2
Explanation: With the appointment of K.V. Ramana Murty, the total number of Whole-Time Members on the SEBI board has increased to four.

Q15.Why did ISRO use a Nozzle Protection System (NPS) during the recent CE20 engine test?

A) To prevent flow separation effects during sea-level testing ✓
B) To reduce the weight of the engine
C) To monitor engine temperature
D) To increase fuel efficiency
Explanation: Sea-level testing is challenging for high area-ratio nozzles; the NPS is used to control flow separation, which can cause vibrations and thermal damage at lower altitudes.

Q16.Which launch vehicle will utilize the uprated Cryogenic Stage (C32) developed using the upgraded CE20 engine?

A) LVM3 ✓
B) GSLV Mk II
C) PSLV
D) SSLV
Explanation: The CE20 engine tests at 22-tonne thrust are designed to enhance the payload capacity of the LVM3 (Launch Vehicle Mark-3) for future space missions.

Q17.World Rotaract Day is celebrated annually on which date to recognize the contributions of Rotaractors?

A) 20 March
B) 8 March
C) 1 March
D) 13 March ✓
Explanation: World Rotaract Day is observed annually on 13 March to commemorate the establishment of the first Rotaract club in 1968.

Q18.Which ministry is responsible for the 'National Dam Safety Authority' (NDSA) office inaugurated in Delhi?

A) Ministry of Jal Shakti ✓
B) Ministry of Power
C) Ministry of Heavy Industries
D) Ministry of Steel
Explanation: The National Dam Safety Authority (NDSA) operates under the Ministry of Jal Shakti (MoJS), which oversees the governance and safety regulations of dams in India.

Q19.In the context of the BHEL Haridwar facility, what capacity of solar plant was dedicated by Union Minister H. D. Kumaraswamy?

A) 20 MW
B) 1 MW
C) 10 MW
D) 5 MW ✓
Explanation: During his visit to the BHEL manufacturing facility in Haridwar, Minister H. D. Kumaraswamy dedicated a 5 Megawatt (MW) Ground Mounted Solar Power Plant (GMSPP).

Q20.What is the significance of the 2026 observance for Rotaract?

A) It is their 75th anniversary
B) It is their 50th anniversary
C) It is their 58th anniversary ✓
D) It is their 25th anniversary
Explanation: The year 2026 marks the 58th anniversary of the establishment of the first Rotaract club, which was founded in North Carolina, USA, in 1968.
20 questions — 16 March 2026 Take interactive quiz →
17

17 March 2026 — Current Affairs MCQ

20 questions · with answers

Q1.Which Tamil writer became the third to receive the Jnanpith Award with the 2025 honor?

A) G. Sankara Kurup
B) Akilan
C) Jayakanthan
D) R Vairamuthu ✓
Explanation: R Vairamuthu is the third Tamil writer to receive the Jnanpith Award, following Akilan (1975) and Jayakanthan (2002).

Q2.In which film did R Vairamuthu make his debut in the Tamil film industry?

A) Nizhalgal ✓
B) Kallikkattu Ithikasam
C) Moondram Ulaga Por
D) Thanneer Desam
Explanation: R Vairamuthu entered the Tamil film industry in 1980 through the film 'Nizhalgal', directed by Bharathiraja.

Q3.For which literary work did R Vairamuthu win the Sahitya Akademi Award in 2003?

A) Thanneer Desam
B) Moondram Ulaga Por
C) Kallikkattu Ithikasam ✓
D) Sadhan Samman
Explanation: R Vairamuthu was awarded the Sahitya Akademi Award in 2003 for his exceptional literary work titled 'Kallikkattu Ithikasam'.

Q4.Which of the following awards includes a Vagdevi statue as part of the honor?

A) Padma Bhushan
B) SP Adithanar Literary Award
C) Sahitya Akademi Award
D) Jnanpith Award ✓
Explanation: The Jnanpith Award, India's highest literary honor, includes a cash prize of ₹11 lakh, a citation, and a statue of the goddess Vagdevi.

Q5.Who was the first recipient of the Jnanpith Award in 1965?

A) Jayakanthan
B) G. Sankara Kurup ✓
C) Akilan
D) R Vairamuthu
Explanation: The Jnanpith Award was instituted in 1961, and G. Sankara Kurup was its first recipient in 1965.

Q6.How many states and union territories were included in the assembly election schedule announced by the Election Commission?

A) 5 ✓
B) 3
C) 6
D) 4
Explanation: The Election Commission announced the schedule for assembly elections in five regions: Assam, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, and Puducherry.

Q7.What is the primary function of the National Skills Qualification Committee (NSQC)?

A) To manage oil terminals in Iran
B) To oversee the Wildlife Protection Act
C) To align skill development programs with industry needs ✓
D) To conduct nationwide elections
Explanation: The NSQC reviews vocational qualifications and National Occupational Standards to align training programs with the requirements of the industry.

Q8.Why is Kharg Island strategically significant to the global energy supply chain?

A) It facilitates 90% of Iran’s oil exports ✓
B) It is a major center for green hydrogen production
C) It is the primary habitat for the gharial
D) It hosts the International Solar Alliance headquarters
Explanation: Kharg Island functions as a major oil storage and loading hub, with nearly 90% of Iran's oil exports being shipped through its terminals.

Q9.The International Solar Alliance (ISA) was launched during which event?

A) Foundation of the Wildlife Protection Act
B) Paris Climate Conference 2015 ✓
C) 48th NSQC Meeting
D) Gharial conservation summit
Explanation: The ISA was launched by Narendra Modi and François Hollande during the Paris Climate Conference in 2015 to promote global solar energy deployment.

Q10.Where is the headquarters of the International Solar Alliance located?

A) Gurugram ✓
B) Mumbai
C) New Delhi
D) Paris
Explanation: The International Solar Alliance, which promotes solar energy adoption and technology transfer, is headquartered in Gurugram, India.

Q11.What is the conservation status of the gharial (Gavialis gangeticus) according to the IUCN?

A) Critically Endangered ✓
B) Vulnerable
C) Extinct in the wild
D) Endangered
Explanation: The gharial is classified as Critically Endangered by the IUCN and receives the highest level of protection under India's Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.

Q12.Which of the following is identified as a major threat to the gharial population in the National Chambal Sanctuary?

A) Solar energy projects
B) Over-fishing
C) Illegal sand mining ✓
D) Geopolitical tensions
Explanation: Illegal sand mining and habitat destruction are noted as serious threats to the gharial population residing in the National Chambal Sanctuary.

Q13.When does the Model Code of Conduct come into effect during an election process?

A) Immediately after the announcement of election dates ✓
B) The day nominations close
C) The day results are declared
D) One week before the polling begins
Explanation: The Model Code of Conduct (MCC) is a set of guidelines issued by the Election Commission that comes into force immediately upon the announcement of election dates to ensure fair polls.

Q14.Under which organization does the National Skills Qualification Committee (NSQC) operate?

A) International Solar Alliance
B) Election Commission of India
C) Sahitya Akademi
D) National Council for Vocational Education and Training (NCVET) ✓
Explanation: The NSQC functions under the NCVET to strengthen the vocational education ecosystem by improving quality standards.

Q15.How many songs and poems has R Vairamuthu contributed over his career?

A) Over 5,000
B) Over 7,500 ✓
C) Over 500
D) Over 2,000
Explanation: Throughout a career spanning more than five decades, R Vairamuthu has authored more than 7,500 songs and poems.

Q16.Which award did R Vairamuthu receive in 2009 for his overall contribution to Indian Literature?

A) Sadhan Samman ✓
B) Ilakkiya Chinthanai Award
C) Padma Bhushan
D) Padma Shri
Explanation: R Vairamuthu was honored with the Sadhan Samman in 2009 for his significant and overall contributions to Indian literature.

Q17.In what year was R Vairamuthu honored with the Padma Bhushan?

A) 2013
B) 2014 ✓
C) 2003
D) 1999
Explanation: R Vairamuthu received the Padma Shri in 2003 and was subsequently honored with the Padma Bhushan in 2014.

Q18.Which organization awarded the 'Book of the Year' to the Hindi translation of 'Kallikkattu Ithikasam'?

A) NCVET
B) Sahitya Akademi
C) Bharatiya Jnanpith
D) FICCI ✓
Explanation: The Hindi translation of R Vairamuthu’s 'Kallikkattu Ithikasam' received the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) Book of the Year Award in 2018.

Q19.The Jnanpith award is presented for literature in how many languages in India?

A) 22 ✓
B) 23
C) 25
D) 15
Explanation: The Jnanpith Award is awarded annually to Indian citizens for lifetime contributions to literature in any of the 22 scheduled languages of India plus English.

Q20.Which novel by R Vairamuthu won both the Ilakkiya Chinthanai Award and the Thanthai KR Somasundaram Literature Foundation Award in 2013?

A) Kallikkattu Ithikasam
B) Moondram Ulaga Por ✓
C) Thanneer Desam
D) Nizhalgal
Explanation: In 2013, his novel 'Moondram Ulaga Por' achieved critical success by winning two separate prestigious literary awards.
20 questions — 17 March 2026 Take interactive quiz →
18

18 March 2026 — Current Affairs MCQ

20 questions · with answers

Q1.What is the primary objective of the 'Assam Mala 3.0' (AM 3.0) project inaugurated by PM Narendra Modi?

A) To strengthen inter-state road connectivity through new roads and bridges ✓
B) To provide solar energy to rural households
C) To boost inland water navigation in Brahmaputra
D) To renovate historical monuments in Kokrajhar
Explanation: Assam Mala 3.0 is a road infrastructure programme worth Rs 3,200 crore that aims to construct over 900 km of roads and 37 bridges to enhance connectivity between states.

Q2.Where is the world’s first Autonomous Maritime Shipbuilding and Systems Centre being established?

A) Juvvaladinne, Andhra Pradesh ✓
B) Chennai, Tamil Nadu
C) Guwahati, Assam
D) Kolkata, West Bengal
Explanation: Sagar Defence Engineering Private Limited is building the world's first Autonomous Maritime Shipbuilding Centre at Juvvaladinne Fishing Harbour in the Nellore district of Andhra Pradesh.

Q3.Which Ministry announced the Rs 100 crore Integrated Aqua Park project in Anantnag, J&K?

A) Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying ✓
B) Ministry of Road Transport and Highways
C) Ministry of Earth Sciences
D) Ministry of Tribal Affairs
Explanation: The Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying (MoFAH&D) announced the Rs 100 crore Aqua Park for Anantnag during the National Conference on Cold Water Fisheries in Srinagar. Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh heads both MoFAH&D and MoPR — worth noting for exams that link ministers to multiple portfolios.

Q4.Professor Arpita Patra recently became the second Indian woman to summit which volcanic peak?

A) Nevado Ojos del Salado ✓
B) Pico de Orizaba
C) Mount Giluwe
D) Mount Kilimanjaro
Explanation: Arpita Patra of IISc summited Nevado Ojos del Salado, the world's highest volcano, located on the Chile–Argentina border, becoming the second Indian woman to do so after Arunima Sinha.

Q5.How did the Ministry of Finance change the minimum public shareholding (MPS) requirement for companies planning to list?

A) Changed the limit based on profit margins only
B) Reduced the listing MPS from 5% to 2.5% ✓
C) Increased it from 25% to 30%
D) Eliminated it entirely
Explanation: The amendment to the Securities Contracts (Regulation) Rules, 1957 reduces the MPS required at the time of listing from 5% to 2.5%, introducing a new six-category framework.

Q6.Why did the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) impose a penalty on Manappuram Finance Limited?

A) Failure to file annual GST returns
B) Illegal transfer of assets to foreign entities
C) Non-compliance with KMP compensation guidelines ✓
D) Mismanagement of gold loan auctions
Explanation: The penalty was imposed due to the company's non-compliance with Key Managerial Personnel (KMP) compensation guidelines, as identified during a statutory inspection.

Q7.DCM Shriram Limited secured USD 90 million from the IFC for what purpose?

A) To support strategic growth, chemicals business expansion, and rural job creation ✓
B) To diversify into the aviation sector
C) To pay off existing sovereign debt
D) To build a new office complex in Delhi
Explanation: ‘The funds, secured via sustainability-linked NCDs, are intended to strengthen the company’’s strategic initiatives, expand the chemicals business, and create rural jobs through agri-business engagement.’

Q8.What is the projected GDP growth for India in FY26 as per Fitch Ratings' March 2026 outlook?

A) 6.7%
B) 7.5% ✓
C) 8.0%
D) 6.4%
Explanation: ‘Fitch Ratings raised India’’s GDP growth forecast for the Financial Year 2025-26 to 7.5%, driven by stable economic indicators and strong domestic demand.’

Q9.Which film won the most awards at the 98th Academy Awards (Oscars 2026)?

A) Sinners
B) Hamnet
C) One Battle After Another ✓
D) The Last Stand
Explanation: Directed by Paul Thomas Anderson, 'One Battle After Another' was the biggest winner at the 98th Oscars, securing six awards including Best Picture and Best Director.

Q10.R. Vairamuthu, who was selected for the 60th Jnanpith Award, is a renowned writer in which language?

A) Malayalam
B) Telugu
C) Kannada
D) Tamil ✓
Explanation: R. Vairamuthu is a renowned Tamil poet and lyricist, making him the third Tamil writer to receive India's highest literary honour, the Jnanpith Award.

Q11.What is the scientific significance of the newly discovered plant species 'Osbeckia zubeengargiana'?

A) It is the first carnivorous plant found in Manas NP
B) It enriches the botanical diversity of the Melastomataceae family ✓
C) It is a medicinal herb used to cure snake bites
D) It is an invasive species threatening local biodiversity
Explanation: Discovered in Manas National Park, the species belongs to the Melastomataceae family and enriches the botanical diversity of Assam and the genus Osbeckia.

Q12.Which country topped the medal table at the World Para Athletics Grand Prix 2026 held in New Delhi?

A) USA
B) India ✓
C) Bosnia & Herzegovina
D) Russia
Explanation: India dominated the event held at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, New Delhi, securing 208 medals to finish at the top of the medal standings.

Q13.Who is the first-ever Grandmaster from the North East region of India?

A) Mayank Chakraborty ✓
B) D. Gukesh
C) Pentala Harikrishna
D) Viswanathan Anand
Explanation: ‘Mayank Chakraborty, a 17-year-old from Guwahati, Assam, became India’’s 94th Grandmaster and the first from the North East region after his performance in Stockholm.’

Q14.Which major trophy did Sarfaraz Ahmed lead Pakistan to win during his captaincy?

A) Asia Cup 2018
B) ICC Champions Trophy 2017 ✓
C) ICC T20 World Cup 2022
D) ICC World Cup 2019
Explanation: Sarfaraz Ahmed captained the Pakistan team to victory in the ICC Champions Trophy 2017 and was also the captain of the 2006 ICC U-19 World Cup winning team.

Q15.What is the theme for the 2026 International Day of Mathematics?

A) Mathematics for a Sustainable Future
B) Mathematics and Hope ✓
C) The Power of Numbers
D) Mathematics for All
Explanation: The 2026 theme for the International Day of Mathematics, observed on March 14, is 'Mathematics and Hope'.

Q16.What is the primary focus of the 'International Day of Action for Rivers' observed on March 14?

A) To regulate trans-boundary fishing rights
B) To promote international water sports
C) To encourage hydroelectric dam construction
D) To highlight the importance of rivers in ecosystems and water security ✓
Explanation: The day, originally focused on the impact of dams, now emphasizes the critical role rivers play in sustaining livelihoods, ecosystems, and global water security.

Q17.Under the Gaudham Yojana in Chhattisgarh, what is the government's target for cattle shelter establishment?

A) 500 shelters near forest reserves
B) 1,460 cattle shelters across the state ✓
C) One shelter per district
D) 1,000 shelters across urban centers
Explanation: The Chhattisgarh government plans to establish 1,460 Gaudhams, with 10 shelters per development block, to protect and manage stray and abandoned cattle.

Q18.Which of the following is a function/training area for the 'Gaudham' centers in Chhattisgarh?

A) Large scale textile manufacturing
B) Animal Husbandry and Green Fodder Cultivation ✓
C) Artificial Intelligence coding
D) Digital literacy for farmers
Explanation: Gaudhams are designed to serve as training centres for animal husbandry, fodder cultivation, and the production of value-added products from cow dung.

Q19.The 98th Academy Awards were held at which iconic venue?

A) Sydney Opera House
B) Dolby Theatre ✓
C) Madison Square Garden
D) Royal Albert Hall
Explanation: The 98th Academy Awards (Oscars 2026) were held at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, Los Angeles, USA.

Q20.What is the primary reason for the revision of the MPS categories by the Department of Economic Affairs?

A) To ban foreign companies from Indian stock exchanges
B) To force all companies to list on global exchanges
C) To expand the framework to six categories for better equity distribution ✓
D) To increase taxes on corporate houses
Explanation: The framework was expanded from three to six categories to create a more graded and structured approach for public shareholding requirements as companies grow.
20 questions — 18 March 2026 Take interactive quiz →
19

19 March 2026 — Current Affairs MCQ

20 questions · with answers

Q1.Which specific reporting standard does India's recent National Report (NR1) under the Nagoya Protocol adhere to?

A) Article 29 of the Protocol ✓
B) Section 3(2) of the Biological Diversity Act
C) Article 17 of the Protocol
D) Article 10 of the CBD
Explanation: Official documentation for Nagoya Protocol compliance is structured under Article 29, which focuses on tracking and information sharing. Interestingly, the Nagoya Protocol is a supplementary agreement to the Convention on Biological Diversity, which India ratified to manage its rich genetic resources sustainably.

Q2.In the latest commerce update for April-February 2025-26, how did India's service export sector perform compared to the previous year?

A) Declined due to global instability
B) Dropped below USD 300 Bn
C) Remained stagnant
D) Saw an increase from USD 351.93 Bn ✓
Explanation: Service sector growth remains a robust pillar of our economy, as reflected by the rise from USD 351.93 Bn to USD 387.93 Bn. Did you know the Department of Commerce tracks this data monthly to help formulate policies that stabilize our balance of payments?

Q3.What is the primary objective of the newly formed Asia Africa Agri Alliance (AAAA)?

A) Focusing exclusively on green hydrogen energy exports
B) Standardizing banking laws across continents
C) Creating a framework for agricultural trade and technology exchange ✓
D) Providing direct crop insurance to farmers in Africa
Explanation: Aiming to boost cooperation, this alliance is set up as a Section 8 non-profit organization under the Companies Act, 2013. It's an important move because it targets the entire agri-food value chain to bolster food security and trade diplomacy between the two regions.

Q4.How have FSSAI registration and licensing norms been simplified to support Ease of Doing Business?

A) Only online renewal fees were removed
B) All licenses now carry perpetual validity ✓
C) Turnover thresholds were reduced for all vendors
D) Mandatory yearly renewals were enforced
Explanation: By shifting to perpetual validity, authorities are easing the compliance load for food business operators. These regulations, effective from April 2026, represent a significant push by the Ministry of Health to minimize bureaucratic hurdles for small and medium enterprises.

Q5.Regarding the '24 Speed Post' service launched by India Post, which of these is true?

A) It is only available for offline document mailing
B) It covers all state capitals in its first phase
C) It guarantees next-day delivery (D+1) for urgent parcels up to 5kg ✓
D) It prohibits API integration for businesses
Explanation: Premium delivery services like this are game-changers for e-commerce and urgent document couriering. The Department of Posts is leveraging digital logistics and air transmission to compete directly with private courier firms in our major metro cities.

Q6.What is the primary purpose of the Rs 1,250 crore IT Park approved for Puducherry?

A) To transform the Union Territory into a premier IT hub ✓
B) To boost residential housing for central staff
C) To establish a chemical manufacturing zone
D) To serve as an agricultural export warehouse
Explanation: Developing 21.30 acres of land for a specialized SEZ is expected to create around 30,000 jobs over time. It's designed with an eco-friendly focus, blending plug-and-play offices with social infrastructure to attract global investors.

Q7.Which international entity hosted the Exercise Sea Dragon 2026, in which the Indian Navy participated?

A) United States Navy ✓
B) Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force
C) Australian Defense Forces
D) United Kingdom’s Royal Navy
Explanation: Hosted by the 7th Fleet at Andersen Air Force Base, this drill sharpens Anti-Submarine Warfare skills through international cooperation. It’s a recurring strategic exercise that highlights our growing naval interoperability in the Indo-Pacific region.

Q8.What is the focus of the USD 300 million World Bank loan granted to Uttar Pradesh in March 2026?

A) Building new international airport infrastructure
B) Improving industrial manufacturing capacity
C) Agricultural irrigation reform
D) Supporting clean air transition and pollution management ✓
Explanation: Tackling air quality in the Indo-Gangetic Plains is a massive environmental priority given the regional pollution levels. This 10-year loan maturity deal will support state-level efforts to implement cleaner practices and better emission monitoring.

Q9.What unique benefit does Shriram General Insurance's ‘Shri Health Suraksha 2.0’ offer to its policyholders?

A) Zero co-payment and unlimited restoration of sum insured ✓
B) Fixed medical coverage for all AYUSH treatments only
C) Lowering premium for policyholders over age 60
D) Mandatory medical screening after every claim
Explanation: By eliminating room rent caps and co-payment clauses, this plan makes high-end medical care much more accessible for families. Insurance innovation like this is vital in India as it helps protect citizens against the high costs of out-of-pocket medical expenses.

Q10.Reliance Industries' green ammonia deal with Samsung C&T is particularly significant for what reason?

A) It is the first major oil-to-gas trade deal
B) It replaces the existing solar energy policy
C) It supports India's net-zero goal by 2035 via green fuel exports ✓
D) It involves traditional coal-based ammonia refining
Explanation: Valued at USD 3 billion, this agreement is a massive milestone for India's clean energy ambitions. RIL’s target to achieve net-zero emissions aligns with the government's National Green Hydrogen Mission, pushing India to the forefront of the global energy transition.

Q11.Who received the BCCI's Col. C. K. Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award at the Naman Awards 2026?

A) Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma
B) Roger Binny and Rahul Dravid ✓
C) Shubman Gill and Mithali Raj
D) Deepti Sharma and Harshit Rana
Explanation: These awards recognize stalwarts who have defined Indian cricket over the decades. It's worth noting that the BCCI Naman Awards are the highest honors presented annually to acknowledge individual performances across both domestic and international platforms.

Q12.In the context of the 2025 Sahitya Akademi Awards, what material does the recipient receive as a plaque?

A) Silver-leaf paper
B) Engraved copper ✓
C) Gold-plated steel
D) Hand-carved wooden board
Explanation: Renowned filmmaker Satyajit Ray originally designed the plaque given to these literary figures. It's a prestigious honor, as the Sahitya Akademi represents the premier academy for promoting literature across the 24 languages recognized under the Indian Constitution.

Q13.Which agency facilitated the first private sounding rocket launch in Gujarat?

A) DRDO
B) ISRO directly
C) HAL
D) Omspace Rocket and Exploration (OSRE) ✓
Explanation: Private sector participation is scaling up rapidly in our space ecosystem following recent policy liberalizations. Supported by IN-SPACe, this launch demonstrated the feasibility of using local manufacturing like carbon fiber for sub-orbital technology tests.

Q14.Why are lichen moths, such as the ones discovered by the ZSI, considered environmentally significant?

A) They are sensitive indicators of air pollution ✓
B) They help in large-scale seed dispersal
C) They are pollinators for highland tea gardens
D) They produce medicinal chemicals for humans
Explanation: Lichen moth populations often collapse if atmospheric quality drops, making them a natural alarm system for environmentalists. These discoveries by the Zoological Survey of India further highlight the immense biodiversity still waiting to be cataloged in the Himalayan foothills.

Q15.Who secured the first position at the F1 Chinese Grand Prix 2026?

A) George Russell
B) Andrea Kimi Antonelli ✓
C) Charles Leclerc
D) Lewis Hamilton
Explanation: This event marked a brilliant achievement for the Italian driver on the Shanghai circuit. Formula 1's growing popularity in India makes such international results highly relevant for sports-related general awareness sections in competitive exams.

Q16.What does World Sleep Day specifically aim to promote?

A) Global manufacturing of beds
B) Awareness about sleep health and disorder treatment ✓
C) The elimination of daytime work shifts
D) Increased funding for pharmaceutical sleeping pills
Explanation: Managed by the World Sleep Society, this initiative emphasizes how critical proper rest is for physical and mental longevity. Most aspirants ignore that even minor lifestyle shifts related to sleep hygiene are now being studied as public health measures.

Q17.What is a major outcome of the agreements between Himachal Pradesh and the National Dairy Development Board?

A) Tax reduction for private milk retailers
B) Closure of small village-level dairies
C) Implementation of ERP software for dairy management ✓
D) Replacement of cows with mechanical milkers
Explanation: Digital transparency is key to organizing the unorganized dairy sector, which provides income for millions of rural households. The NDDB’s involvement ensures that HP can effectively handle processing volumes, like the 1.5 lakh LPD plant at Dhagwar.

Q18.The turn-over threshold for basic registration under the updated FSSAI food safety framework is now set at:

A) Rs 50 crore
B) Rs 10 lakh
C) Rs 1.5 crore ✓
D) Rs 12 lakh
Explanation: Raising this limit is a relief for many street vendors and small traders who previously faced complex paperwork. It’s part of the government’s 'Ease of Doing Business' initiative to streamline regulatory burdens while maintaining standards.

Q19.Under which act was the Asia Africa Agri Alliance established?

A) The Partnership Act, 1932
B) Societies Registration Act, 1860
C) Public Trust Act, 1950
D) Companies Act, 2013 ✓
Explanation: Formalizing as a Section 8 non-profit provides the alliance with a legal structure to solicit and manage cross-border investments. You'll often see questions about corporate structures like this because they show how international trade blocks manage their administrative accountability.

Q20.Where were the two new species of lichen moths, ‘Caulocerahollowayi’ and ‘Asura buxa’, discovered?

A) Coastal mangrove forests of Odisha
B) The Thar Desert
C) Southern Western Ghats
D) Eastern Himalayas ✓
Explanation: ZSI experts identified these species based on wing patterns and genitalia structures found in the Sikkim and West Bengal regions. Exploring our biological heritage like this is a fundamental role of the ZSI, which works under the Ministry of Environment.
20 questions — 19 March 2026 Take interactive quiz →
20

20 March 2026 — Current Affairs MCQ

20 questions · with answers

Q1.The government recently introduced the BHAVYA scheme. What's its primary objective?

A) Boosting export-oriented textile manufacturing zones
B) Developing green energy corridors in rural areas
C) Establishing 100 industrial parks with plug-and-play facilities ✓
D) Providing subsidies for domestic tech startups
Explanation: That's right, the focus is on scaling up manufacturing infrastructure by creating ready-to-use industrial sites. This effort, under the National Industrial Corridor Development Programme umbrella, is a key move by the Ministry of Commerce to simplify land acquisition hurdles for investors.

Q2.Which agency is responsible for implementing the newly approved Small Hydro Power (SHP) Development Scheme?

A) Ministry of New & Renewable Energy ✓
B) NITI Aayog
C) Ministry of Jal Shakti
D) Ministry of Power
Explanation: Handling the push for sustainable energy, the Ministry of New & Renewable Energy oversees this capacity-building project. You'll find these SHP units are crucial for meeting India's Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement.

Q3.Regarding the Kalinjar Fort area's new designation, which unique geological feature contributed to its status as a National Geo-Heritage Site?

A) Vedic-era cave network
B) Eparchaean Unconformity ✓
C) Cretaceous marine deposits
D) Active volcanic thermal springs
Explanation: Believe it or not, this site preserves a massive 1.3-billion-year temporal gap in Earth's history! It's protected by the GSI, which serves as the premier organization for geological research and heritage conservation in the country.

Q4.Metropolis by Reliance MET City earned India's first LEED Platinum Pre-Certification. What does this rating signify?

A) Excellence in social welfare initiatives
B) Top-tier sustainability in urban planning and design ✓
C) Superior financial returns for green bonds
D) Maximum achievement in affordable housing construction
Explanation: Recognized by GBCI, this award proves that the city's blueprint prioritizes resource efficiency and climate resilience. It’s based on a framework developed by the U.S. Green Building Council, now gaining massive traction in India's urban development sector.

Q5.What's the core focus of the 'Fare Se Fursat' scheme launched by the Ministry of Civil Aviation?

A) Subsidies for international freight logistics
B) Free air travel for senior citizens
C) Tax waivers on aviation turbine fuel
D) Universal pricing for regional air travel on select routes ✓
Explanation: Aiming to make regional flying predictable, the government is piloting fixed-fare pricing on routes like Delhi-Jaipur. This aligns with the UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) initiative, which strives to make air travel accessible to the common person.

Q6.In a notable international development, which nation officially exited the World Health Organization in March 2026?

A) Italy
B) Hungary
C) Argentina ✓
D) Brazil
Explanation: Completing a process initiated by its President, Argentina invoked the Vienna Convention to formalize this departure. International law watchers should note that exiting such UN-affiliated bodies often follows complex notice periods defined by the treaties involved.

Q7.The Edelweiss Nifty LargeMidcap250 Plus 8-13 yr G-sec 70:30 Index Fund is described as a 'hybrid passive index fund'. How does it rebalance?

A) Quarterly
B) Weekly
C) Monthly ✓
D) Daily
Explanation: You'll see that it uses a rules-based system to keep its 70:30 equity-to-debt ratio in check automatically. It’s an interesting move in the Indian Mutual Fund industry, where passive funds have seen massive inflows lately.

Q8.Which maritime collaboration aims to bolster India's green shipping goals by developing a methanol dual-fuel vessel?

A) Cochin Shipyard and DRDO
B) GRSE and HAL
C) Indian Navy and L&T
D) SCI and Mazagon Dock ✓
Explanation: Shipping Corporation of India is partnering with MDL to push for sustainable alternative fuels. This move ties directly into the National Green Hydrogen Mission, a centerpiece of India’s decarbonization strategy for the maritime sector.

Q9.Who was the first Indian Ambassador to receive France’s Legion of Honour (Commandeur rank)?

A) Jawed Ashraf ✓
B) Ajit Doval
C) Vinay Mohan Kwatra
D) S. Jaishankar
Explanation: Decorated for his role in cementing India-France relations, Jawed Ashraf holds a unique distinction among Indian diplomats. The Legion of Honour, France's highest order of merit, has been awarded to only a handful of global figures throughout history.

Q10.Who has been appointed as the interim Part-time Chairman of HDFC Bank following Atanu Chakraborty's resignation?

A) Keki Mistry ✓
B) Deepak Parekh
C) Dinesh Khara
D) Shaktikanta Das
Explanation: Bringing over 40 years of experience to the role, Keki Mistry is a veteran in the housing finance space. Banks usually seek regulatory approval from the RBI for top-level governance appointments under the Banking Regulation Act, 1949.

Q11.Under the NH-927 project approval, which infrastructure development mode is being utilized for the Barabanki-Bahraich highway?

A) Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT)
B) Public-Private Partnership (PPP) - Toll
C) Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC)
D) Hybrid Annuity Mode (HAM) ✓
Explanation: By choosing HAM, the government effectively balances financial risk between the state and the developer. This model has been the preferred choice for major NHAI projects recently, as it eases liquidity constraints for contractors.

Q12.Bain Capital's recent investment approval involves joint management control in which Indian financial entity?

A) Manappuram Finance Limited ✓
B) Muthoot Finance
C) Bajaj Finance
D) Shriram Transport
Explanation: Regulators approved this Rs 4,385 crore capital infusion, which includes its microfinance and home finance subsidiaries. Any acquisition crossing certain thresholds in India must comply with the SEBI Substantial Acquisition of Shares and Takeovers Regulations.

Q13.Global Recycling Day 2026 was celebrated on March 18 with which theme?

A) Circularity in Industry
B) Don't Think Waste – Think Opportunity ✓
C) Zero Plastic for a Greener Future
D) Sustainable Future through Reuse
Explanation: This year marked the 9th time the world observed this day, highlighting the massive economic potential in circularity. The initiative traces back to the Bureau of International Recycling, established in the post-WWII era to standardize scrap trade.

Q14.What is the primary funding source for the 'Punjab Sikhya Kranti 2.0' program?

A) International Monetary Fund (IMF) aid
B) World Bank loan and State funds ✓
C) Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) fund
D) Central Government Grants
Explanation: Collaborating with global financial institutions helps the state overhaul its pedagogical standards with a significant Rs 3,500 crore budget. Large-scale educational reforms are often supported by the World Bank, specifically through its Human Capital Project framework.

Q15.How many specialized Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) were created after the reorganization of the 41 ordnance factories in 2021?

A) Twelve
B) Five
C) Seven ✓
D) Nine
Explanation: This massive restructuring replaced the old OFB model to make defense production more agile and market-responsive. These DPSUs now fall under the administrative control of the Department of Defence Production, ensuring stricter quality and audit compliance.

Q16.In which state is the Rewa airport located, a key stop for the newly launched 'Fare Se Fursat' scheme?

A) Rajasthan
B) Uttar Pradesh
C) Madhya Pradesh ✓
D) Chhattisgarh
Explanation: Connecting Rewa in MP to Raipur shows the government's push for intra-regional connectivity beyond the main metros. This project is a shining example of the regional aviation development policy, which aims to bring remote areas onto the national aerial map.

Q17.What is the maximum central financial assistance provided for Small Hydro Power projects in international border districts under the new 5-year scheme?

A) Rs 30 crore per project ✓
B) Rs 20 crore per project
C) Rs 10 crore per project
D) Rs 15 crore per project
Explanation: Incentives are capped specifically to support those difficult geographical regions that provide security-critical energy. Providing such localized power generation is vital for infrastructure stability in border areas.

Q18.The GSI declared the Kalinjar Fort area a geo-heritage site. Which district is it located in?

A) Lalitpur
B) Banda ✓
C) Jhansi
D) Chitrakoot
Explanation: Situated in the Banda region of UP, this site also features historic architecture from the Gupta period. Protecting such natural wonders helps in geotourism, a segment currently being promoted by the Ministry of Culture.

Q19.For the cotton season 2023-24, the CCEA approved price support funding for which agency?

A) Food Corporation of India
B) National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation
C) Agricultural & Processed Food Products Export Development Authority
D) Cotton Corporation of India Limited ✓
Explanation: Stabilizing farmer income when prices dip is exactly what this MSP-backed mechanism achieves. CCI acts as the primary agency to mop up surplus produce, preventing distress sales and maintaining market equilibrium for our cotton growers.

Q20.What is the total duration covered by the Small Hydro Power (SHP) Development Scheme approved for FY27 to FY31?

A) 4 years
B) 3 years
C) 6 years
D) 5 years ✓
Explanation: Designed for a five-year window, this financial support helps boost renewable capacity by 1500 MW. Long-term energy planning in India is generally executed through five-year tranches, which allows for better budgetary control under the Union Budget.
20 questions — 20 March 2026 Take interactive quiz →
21

21 March 2026 — Current Affairs MCQ

20 questions · with answers

Q1.Which agency is tasked with the implementation and monitoring of the newly launched RELIEF scheme for Indian exporters?

A) Ministry of Commerce and Industry
B) Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT)
C) Export Credit Guarantee Corporation of India (ECGC) ✓
D) Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
Explanation: ECGC, which rebranded from the Export Credit Guarantee Corporation, is the nodal body handling everything from verification to fund disbursement. They're critical here because the scheme addresses risks like higher insurance costs, and as per the Foreign Trade (Development and Regulation) Act, 1992, such state-backed support helps maintain competitiveness during geopolitical volatility.

Q2.The 20th Electric Power Survey project indicates India's installed power capacity will touch which milestone by 2035-36?

A) 520 GW
B) 459 GW
C) 3,365 GW
D) 1,121 GW ✓
Explanation: Projections show our capacity reaching 1,121 GW as demand climbs steadily over the next decade. It's interesting to note that the Ministry of Power utilizes these surveys under the Electricity Act, 2003, to ensure long-term energy security for a rapidly industrializing nation.

Q3.Which Indian state has emerged as the frontrunner in textile exports according to the latest NIRYAT data for FY25?

A) Gujarat
B) Tamil Nadu ✓
C) Maharashtra
D) Telangana
Explanation: Tamil Nadu has secured the top spot, contributing over a fifth of India's total textile export value. Keep in mind that NIRYAT is an invaluable tool for exporters to track state-wise trade performance, originally launched to provide transparency in our foreign trade data.

Q4.What is a unique operational feature of BPCL’s newly launched LPG ATM in Gurugram?

A) It accepts only physical cash deposits
B) It uses lightweight composite 15kg cylinders ✓
C) It uses conventional 31kg iron cylinders
D) It requires biometric fingerprint verification
Explanation: These ATMs dispense 15kg composite cylinders, which are far easier to handle than the traditional bulky iron versions. While this is just a pilot project, the Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board Act sets the standards for safety and distribution that these automated outlets must strictly follow.

Q5.Exercise ‘Amogh Jwala’, held recently in Uttar Pradesh, primarily focused on validating what aspect of the Indian Army's capabilities?

A) Counter-insurgency operations in mountainous terrain
B) Humanitarian aid and disaster relief missions
C) Coastal defense and maritime surveillance
D) Mechanised warfare in a multi-domain environment ✓
Explanation: The exercise showcased the seamless integration of attack helicopters and drone tech into our mechanised formations. It's a vital drill because modern warfare, often discussed in the context of the Integrated Theatre Commands, requires high-level battlefield transparency and real-time connectivity.

Q6.According to the 2026 Forbes Billionaires List, which country claims the highest number of billionaires globally?

A) United States ✓
B) India
C) Mainland China
D) Germany
Explanation: The US leads the list comfortably with nearly a thousand individuals meeting the billionaire threshold. Since Forbes started this list four decades ago, it's served as a reliable, albeit debated, yardstick for global wealth concentration, often referenced during discussions on global economic inequality.

Q7.What is the projected growth rate for global merchandise trade in 2026 according to the World Trade Organization?

A) 2.7%
B) 1.9% ✓
C) 4.8%
D) 2.6%
Explanation: Expectations have been lowered to just 1.9% due to persistent instability in West Asia and a cooling off of AI-driven demand spikes. This trade outlook is closely monitored by the Ministry of Commerce since it directly influences the annual Foreign Trade Policy targets set for Indian industries.

Q8.The 'Krishi Sakhi' initiative was launched by which organization to support women in the agricultural sector?

A) NABARD
B) Ministry of Agriculture
C) Agriculture Insurance Company of India (AIC) ✓
D) Food Corporation of India
Explanation: AIC launched this year-long drive to boost insurance awareness specifically among rural female farmers. It’s timely because 2026 is recognized as the International Year of the Woman Farmer by the FAO, highlighting a major push to include them under schemes like the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana.

Q9.Professor Kaveh Madani, the 2026 Stockholm Water Prize laureate, is noted for shifting global focus toward what area of expertise?

A) Technological desalination advancements
B) Groundwater recharge quantification
C) Infrastructure-based irrigation systems
D) Governance-driven water crisis management ✓
Explanation: He famously challenged the idea that pipes and dams are the only answer, arguing instead that weak political institutions are the true root of water stress. Interestingly, this prize is often dubbed the 'Nobel Prize for Water,' and recipients usually gain significant global influence on climate policy.

Q10.Who was conferred with the Honorary Knight Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (KBE) in March 2026?

A) Mukesh Ambani
B) Ratan Tata
C) Natarajan Chandrasekaran ✓
D) Sunil Bharti Mittal
Explanation: N Chandrasekaran received this high honor for his work in bridging business relations between India and the UK. While he’s a non-UK citizen, he adds 'KBE' as a post-nominal title, a practice following the strict protocols laid out by the Central Chancery of the Orders of Knighthood.

Q11.India has been selected to host the 22nd World Indoor Athletics Championships in 2028 at which location?

A) New Delhi
B) Bengaluru
C) Bhubaneswar ✓
D) Hyderabad
Explanation: Kalinga Indoor Athletics Stadium in Odisha will be the venue for this massive global track and field event. It's a significant leap for India, moving closer to our ambition of hosting larger multi-sport events like the Commonwealth Games or even the Olympics.

Q12.What is the 2026 theme for the International Day of Happiness, observed annually on March 20?

A) Happier Together
B) Be Mindful, Be Grateful, Be Kind
C) Caring and Sharing ✓
D) Building a Global Community
Explanation: This year's focus on 'Caring and Sharing' underscores how social connectivity impacts our collective well-being. The United Nations General Assembly adopted this observance in 2012 to push nations to include citizen happiness as a key metric in their national development strategies.

Q13.French Language Day is celebrated on March 20 annually to commemorate the founding of which organization?

A) Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie (OIF) ✓
B) European Union
C) United Nations
D) UNESCO
Explanation: The date marks the 1970 establishment of the agency that eventually became the OIF, which promotes the French language globally. It's one of six official language days the UN observes to celebrate the linguistic diversity of its staff and international partners.

Q14.What is the theme for the 2024-2026 global campaign for World Oral Health Day?

A) Smile for the World
B) A Happy Mouth is…A Happy Mind ✓
C) Brush for a Better Future
D) Healthy Teeth, Healthy Life
Explanation: Connecting oral health directly to our mental health, this year’s theme highlights how vital a healthy mouth is for general wellbeing. It's led by the FDI World Dental Federation, and public health departments across India use this day to launch free check-up drives in rural schools.

Q15.The Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Smart Healthcare at Chandigarh University, UP, uses which hardware architecture to power its AI models?

A) Google TPU chips
B) AMD EPYC systems
C) Intel Xeon processors
D) NVIDIA Blackwell ✓
Explanation: Using NVIDIA’s Blackwell architecture allows the researchers there to train complex AI models much faster than with older GPU setups. This investment is part of Uttar Pradesh's wider goal to become an AI-ready state, fostering startups that tackle local healthcare accessibility issues.

Q16.Who represents India’s richest individual in the 2026 Forbes World’s Billionaires list?

A) Mukesh Ambani ✓
B) Shiv Nadar
C) Gautam Adani
D) Cyrus Poonawalla
Explanation: Mukesh Ambani maintained his position at the top of the Indian rankings in the most recent survey. Although global wealth shifts frequently, his holding in Reliance remains a massive anchor in our market capitalization rankings and national economic growth projections.

Q17.How many official UN Language Days are celebrated annually to promote the organization's six official languages?

A) Four
B) Twelve
C) Five
D) Six ✓
Explanation: Each of the six languages—English, French, Chinese, Arabic, Russian, and Spanish—gets a dedicated day throughout the calendar to honor multilingualism. Promoting these languages helps the UN maintain cultural equity in its global diplomatic operations and treaty documentation.

Q18.Which of the following is a primary reason cited by the WTO for the projected 2026 slowdown in global trade?

A) Excessive global supply of raw materials
B) Normalization of Artificial Intelligence-related demand ✓
C) Unexpected decline in global tourism
D) Reduction in tariffs globally
Explanation: With the AI investment boom steadying out, we're seeing a moderation in import/export demand related to these technologies. It's quite relevant for aspirants to know how sectoral shifts like AI compute demand now sway macro-trade metrics just as much as fuel or food supplies do.

Q19.Which infrastructure enhancement allows the LPG ATM in Gurugram to notify the nearest gas agency for a refill?

A) An automated threshold alert system when stock drops below two cylinders ✓
B) Manual employee inspection
C) Sensors connected to the local municipality grid
D) A periodic weekly call schedule
Explanation: Smart inventory management is built into these machines to ensure they stay stocked up without requiring constant manual checks. This level of automated logistics is becoming a core part of the 'Smart City' infrastructure being promoted by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs across major Indian metros.

Q20.How many billionaires featured on the 2026 Forbes list, marking a significant record in terms of individual wealth?

A) 3,428 ✓
B) 2,500
C) 539
D) 989
Explanation: The record figure of 3,428 billionaires highlights a notable upward trend in high-net-worth individual accumulation over the last fiscal cycle. Understanding the distribution of this wealth is often linked to research regarding Global Multidimensional Poverty indices in sociology and economics papers.
20 questions — 21 March 2026 Take interactive quiz →
22

22 March 2026 — Current Affairs MCQ

20 questions · with answers

Q1.Which specific geological feature in the Antarctic region recently witnessed a 6.7 magnitude seismic event?

A) Vinson Massif
B) South Shetland Islands ✓
C) Antarctic Peninsula
D) Ross Ice Shelf
Explanation: Seismologists recorded this notable shaking near the South Shetland archipelago recently. Since Antarctica isn't part of any major tectonic plate boundary, these movements usually draw significant interest from global geological research bodies like the GFZ.

Q2.Regarding India's energy landscape, why has the Strait of Hormuz become a critical concern for policymakers?

A) It's the primary route for India's coal exports ✓
B) Recent discovery of undersea natural gas fields
C) Piracy threats targeting LNG tankers
D) It facilitates over 40% of India's crude oil imports
Explanation: High volumes of crude oil vital for the nation's refineries transit through this narrow passage. Strengthening energy security here is crucial because any disruption would directly impact India’s domestic inflation and economic stability.

Q3.Which Indian state has officially secured the top rank in textile exports for the fiscal year 2025?

A) Tamil Nadu
B) Gujarat ✓
C) Karnataka
D) Maharashtra
Explanation: Official trade data highlights this southern state's dominance in the garment and fabric market. Their performance is particularly noteworthy given the Ministry of Textiles' focus on the PLI scheme to boost local production.

Q4.In the context of the recent military escalations near Diego Garcia, what weaponry did Iran reportedly utilize?

A) Ballistic missiles
B) Naval torpedoes
C) Cruise missiles
D) Kamikaze drones ✓
Explanation: Regional tensions escalated after reports surfaced regarding missile launches directed toward international bases. Keeping an eye on such maritime security incidents is important for UPSC candidates since it directly influences the Indian Ocean Region's strategic environment.

Q5.Who was honoured with the prestigious Stockholm Water Prize in 2026?

A) Rajendra Singh
B) Vandana Shiva
C) Kaveh Madani ✓
D) Sunita Narain
Explanation: This global recognition celebrates exceptional contributions toward solving the world's most pressing aquatic issues. It’s often referred to as the 'Nobel Prize for Water' and falls under the environmental ecology syllabus for geography.

Q6.Choose the correct date observed annually to raise awareness about Down Syndrome.

A) March 21 ✓
B) March 22
C) March 23
D) March 20
Explanation: Celebrating inclusion and diversity, the world acknowledges this day to support individuals with unique genetic conditions. UPSC exams frequently include questions on such UN-designated observances to test general awareness.

Q7.To reduce dependence on imported methanol, researchers are testing the small-scale production of which fuel additive?

A) Synthetic Diesel
B) Green Hydrogen
C) Bio-Ethanol
D) Dimethyl Ether ✓
Explanation: Testing for this cleaner fuel alternative is a massive step toward achieving India's self-reliance goals in energy. These technological advancements are key topics under the Science and Technology section of the syllabus.

Q8.Andhra Pradesh government adjusted the public holiday for Ramzan recently due to which reason?

A) Late lunar visibility
B) Local festive demand
C) Cultural preservation orders ✓
D) State election dates
Explanation: Officials pushed the holiday dates because the moon wasn't visible on the date initially planned. Calendar-based public holidays are often determined by religious bodies following traditional astronomical observations.

Q9.India's first shipment of medical supplies meant for Iran originated from which city?

A) Kochi
B) New Delhi
C) Chennai
D) Mumbai ✓
Explanation: Diplomatic ties often rely on humanitarian gestures like providing essential medicines during trying times. Students should recall that India's 'Vaccine Maitri' and similar aid programs are vital components of our soft power diplomacy.

Q10.What entity provided the reporting on the textile export performance of Indian states?

A) NIRYAT data ✓
B) World Trade Organization
C) Reserve Bank of India
D) NITI Aayog
Explanation: Reliable data platforms help us understand the export dynamics across different sectors in our country. Monitoring trade figures is essential for understanding state-wise contributions to India's USD 2 trillion export goal.

Q11.Which German institution documented the recent seismic activity near the Antarctic islands?

A) GFZ
B) Alfred Wegener Institute
C) BGI ✓
D) DLR
Explanation: Reporting on global disasters helps scientists track tectonic shifts in remote, frozen regions. Knowledge of international research agencies like the GFZ can be beneficial when analyzing global environment-related current events.

Q12.What is the primary objective of celebrating World Down Syndrome Day?

A) Promoting inclusion and diversity
B) Protecting labor rights ✓
C) Launching vaccine research
D) Raising medical funding
Explanation: Societal awareness forms the core of this observation, focusing on empowering people living with this chromosomal condition. International days of this nature emphasize equality and the breaking of social stigmas.

Q13.How much Dimethyl Ether (DME) were scientists producing in their recent semi-pilot technology trial?

A) 100 kg/day ✓
B) 250 kg/day
C) 500 kg/day
D) 1,000 kg/day
Explanation: Capacity trials represent early-stage development for sustainable fuel alternatives that could eventually reduce methanol imports. It's a classic example of 'Make in India' efforts directed at green energy innovation.

Q14.Where is the military base located that experienced the recent ballistic missile incident?

A) Oman
B) Bahrain
C) Djibouti ✓
D) Diego Garcia
Explanation: Located in the Indian Ocean, this strategic base has been at the center of recent geopolitical flashpoints. Candidates must remain updated on such locations as they are vital for understanding regional military footprints.

Q15.Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations in 2026 predominantly spanned which timeframe?

A) 21-22 March
B) 19-20 March
C) 18-19 March
D) 20-21 March ✓
Explanation: Cultural festivals follow lunar calendars, which causes variations in official public observance dates. UPSC papers sometimes test these facts to check how well students track current social events.

Q16.Which country does the winner of the 2026 Stockholm Water Prize represent?

A) Iran
B) Iraq ✓
C) Saudi Arabia
D) Turkey
Explanation: Academic contributions from various nations enrich our understanding of climate resilience and water governance. Keeping up with international prize winners helps build a well-rounded profile for the personality-based section of exams.

Q17.Why does India track the Strait of Hormuz so closely regarding crude imports?

A) Security alliances with Oman
B) Taxation agreements
C) Dependency of 40% imports
D) High transit costs ✓
Explanation: Choke points like this are extremely vulnerable, making their monitoring a top priority for national economic safety. You'll find that Geography and International Relations often overlap when studying these strategic trade corridors.

Q18.Which ministry is likely to monitor data like the textile export figures seen in Tamil Nadu?

A) Ministry of External Affairs
B) Ministry of Finance ✓
C) Ministry of MSME
D) Ministry of Commerce and Industry
Explanation: Tracking export trends falls squarely under commerce departments which utilize systems like NIRYAT for accurate reporting. Keeping track of sectoral ministerial roles helps clarify where policy impacts are strongest.

Q19.Which region was hit by a magnitude 6.7 tremor on March 21, 2026?

A) North Pole
B) South Shetland Islands
C) New Zealand ✓
D) Japan
Explanation: Seismology is a fascinating study area, especially when it involves tectonic activity in the Southern Ocean. It's helpful to remember that even remote Antarctic tremors are registered globally by standard sensing stations.

Q20.What is the specific goal of testing DME technology on a semi-pilot scale?

A) Improving textile dyes ✓
B) Replacing imported methanol
C) Cleaning deep-sea oil wells
D) Boosting solar power
Explanation: Research projects like this serve to enhance industrial efficiency while decreasing external market dependency. Students aiming for RRB or SSC should prioritize these tech-innovation updates as they often appear in 'General Science' sections.
20 questions — 22 March 2026 Take interactive quiz →
23

23 March 2026 — Current Affairs MCQ

20 questions · with answers

Q1.Which specific plant is honored during the Sarhul festival, and what significance does it hold for the participating communities?

A) The Sal tree, believed to be the home of a village protector ✓
B) The Neem tree, seen as a medicinal deity
C) The Peepal tree, representing eternal spiritual wisdom
D) The Banyan tree, marking the boundaries of the forest
Explanation: Tribal communities worship the Sal tree as it’s seen as the dwelling place of Sama Maa. Keeping this in mind, remember that Sarhul acts as a precursor to agricultural activities, which only begin after these sacred rituals conclude.

Q2.Regarding the PRARAMBH 2026 initiative, what is the primary purpose behind this newly launched nationwide campaign?

A) To simplify GST filing procedures for small shopkeepers
B) To incentivize digital payment adoption in rural areas
C) To educate the public about the provisions of the Income Tax Act, 2025 ✓
D) To increase tax collection from foreign multinational corporations
Explanation: Launched by the Finance Ministry, this outreach effort aims to prepare taxpayers for the shifts coming into play on April 1, 2026. You should note that 'PRARAMBH' stands for 'Policy Reform and Responsible Action for Mission Viksit Bharat'.

Q3.In the context of the recently cleared Versova-Bhayandar coastal road project, which physiological adaptation allows mangrove trees to thrive in waterlogged, saline soils?

A) Deciduous leaves that shed during high salinity seasons
B) Thick bark that prevents saltwater from entering the plant core
C) Pneumatophores, which function as aerial roots for oxygen absorption ✓
D) Deep taproots that reach freshwater reservoirs miles underground
Explanation: Specialised structures known as pneumatophores emerge from the mud to ensure the plant can respire despite being submerged. Interestingly, mangroves are protected under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 in India due to their vital role in shielding coastlines.

Q4.Which country currently occupies the position of being most impacted by terrorism, according to the 2026 Global Terrorism Index?

A) Somalia
B) Syria
C) Afghanistan
D) Pakistan ✓
Explanation: Recent data from the Institute for Economics and Peace marks a shift, as this neighboring nation topped the list for the first time. Keep in mind that India currently sits at the 13th spot, reflecting the ongoing global landscape of security risks.

Q5.The Mutual Credit Guarantee Scheme (MCGS) recently saw modifications to aid MSMEs. Which entity provides the guarantee coverage to lending institutions?

A) Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
B) National Credit Guarantee Trustee Company Limited (NCGTC) ✓
C) Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI)
D) Export-Import Bank of India (EXIM)
Explanation: NCGTC plays the lead role here by offering up to 60% coverage on eligible credit facilities. This scheme aligns with Budget 2025-26 goals and is specifically tailored for equipment and machinery financing for exporters and manufacturers.

Q6.What is the primary objective of the newly introduced Credit Guarantee Scheme for Microfinance Institutions-2.0 (CGSMFI-2.0)?

A) To offer guarantee cover to banks against losses when lending to MFIs ✓
B) To provide low-interest direct loans to rural farmers
C) To replace all traditional banking in semi-urban regions
D) To regulate the interest rate ceilings of private lending companies
Explanation: It's designed to mitigate expected losses, encouraging financial institutions to extend more credit to smaller players in the sector. The program aims to reach roughly 36 lakh small borrowers by fostering easier capital flow.

Q7.Scientists discovered a new species, Actinidia indica, in which part of India?

A) Ziro Valley, Arunachal Pradesh ✓
B) Valley of Flowers, Uttarakhand
C) Silent Valley, Kerala
D) Nilgiri Hills, Tamil Nadu
Explanation: Discovered by the Botanical Survey of India, this wild kiwi thrives in the temperate forests near Ziro. BSI is the country's premier research organization under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, dedicated to plant exploration.

Q8.Which ship construction project is the INS Taragiri (F41) part of, and which company built it?

A) Project 15B, Cochin Shipyard Limited
B) Project 17A, Mazagon Dock Shipbuilding Ltd ✓
C) Project 75, Larsen & Toubro
D) Project 28, Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers
Explanation: As a stealth frigate, Taragiri is a notable reincarnation of an earlier Leander-class ship. It’s equipped with advanced weapon systems like the BrahMos SSM, highlighting the Navy's commitment to self-reliance under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.

Q9.The Shaheen falcon, noted for its hunting 'stoop', is classified as which type of bird regarding its migration habits?

A) A long-distance trans-continental migrant
B) A high-altitude mountain nomad
C) A non-migratory subspecies of the Peregrine falcon ✓
D) A seasonal coastal wanderer
Explanation: This powerful raptor doesn't follow long-range migration patterns like some other falcons. You might find them in urban settings, such as the one recently spotted nesting in Kochi, showcasing their remarkable adaptability to man-made environments.

Q10.What is the theme for World Water Day 2026?

A) Valuing Water
B) Water and Gender ✓
C) Water for Peace
D) Groundwater: Making the Invisible Visible
Explanation: This year's focus emphasizes the essential part women and girls play in managing our vital water resources. World Water Day originated from a 1992 Rio de Janeiro conference, underlining the global urgency of achieving Sustainable Development Goal 6.

Q11.Which specific ritual act defines the roles of the Pahan and his wife during the Sarhul festival?

A) They purify the village wells to prevent drought
B) They exchange forest seeds to bless the harvest
C) They dance to appease the mountain spirits
D) They represent the union of Sun and Earth to sustain life ✓
Explanation: By symbolizing the vital connection between sunlight and soil, this pair embodies the life-renewing spirit of the festival. It's interesting to note that Sarhul is a pan-tribal event, practiced by communities like the Oraon, Munda, and Santal.

Q12.What is the 'Kar Saathi' feature launched under the PRARAMBH 2026 initiative?

A) A helpline number for grievance redressal
B) A physical help desk at district centers
C) A manual booklet for taxpayer rights
D) An AI-enabled chatbot to assist with tax queries ✓
Explanation: You can use this AI tool to clarify doubts about the new Income Tax Act, 2025, without visiting an office. It's a prime example of the Government’s 'Digital India' push to modernize tax compliance for the average citizen.

Q13.What is the scientific term for the mangrove adaptation where seeds germinate while still attached to the parent tree?

A) Transpiration
B) Photosynthesis
C) Vivipary ✓
D) Pollination
Explanation: This clever biological mechanism helps seedlings survive in saline waters where starting life from a seed in mud would be nearly impossible. Mangroves aren't just coastal borders; they're carbon-sequestering champions that effectively help mitigate climate change.

Q14.India's rank in the 2026 Global Terrorism Index is:

A) 18th
B) 5th
C) 8th
D) 13th ✓
Explanation: We sit at 13th place in this international study conducted by the Institute for Economics and Peace. It's worth remembering that this Sydney-based organization produces these rankings by analyzing 163 countries to track global trends in extremist impact.

Q15.Which feature regarding the Mutual Credit Guarantee Scheme (MCGS) underwent a change to specifically benefit service sector MSMEs?

A) Eligibility criteria expansion ✓
B) Increase in interest rates
C) Decrease in maximum loan amount
D) Removal of all audit requirements
Explanation: They've expanded the reach of the scheme so that service-based enterprises can also tap into these benefits. It’s a crucial update as MSMEs are the backbone of our economy, contributing significantly to job creation and GDP growth.

Q16.What is the guarantee fee structure for the Credit Guarantee Scheme for Microfinance Institutions-2.0 (CGSMFI-2.0)?

A) 0.50% p.a. on the sanctioned amount for the first year ✓
B) A one-time payment of 10% of the loan
C) 2% annually on all outstanding amounts
D) No guarantee fee is charged
Explanation: Starting at 0.50% per annum, the fee structure shifts to apply to the outstanding balance in subsequent years. By guaranteeing up to 80% of losses for small institutions, the government is incentivizing lenders to reach the grassroots level.

Q17.How can the fruits of the newly identified Actinidia indica be visually distinguished from other similar species?

A) They glow in the dark when ripening
B) They exhibit a reticulate lenticel pattern on their olive-green skin ✓
C) They have a unique red-spotted skin
D) They are entirely hairless and bright orange
Explanation: These specific patterns on the surface are key indicators used by BSI researchers to confirm this as a new, distinct species. Arunachal Pradesh is a biodiversity hotspot, which often leads to the identification of rare, previously unknown plant life.

Q18.The INS Taragiri is equipped with what type of propulsion system to handle its 'High-Speed – High Endurance' requirements?

A) Steam Turbine Engines
B) Nuclear-powered pressurized water reactors
C) CODOG (Combined Diesel or Gas) ✓
D) Pure Electric Battery Array
Explanation: Using a combination of gas turbines and diesel engines provides the versatility needed for varied maritime operations. These warships reflect advanced indigenous design capabilities under the Warship Design Bureau (WDB).

Q19.What is the top speed the Shaheen falcon can reach during its hunting 'stoop'?

A) Up to 100 km/h
B) Cannot exceed 50 km/h
C) Roughly 150 km/h
D) Exceeding 300 km/h ✓
Explanation: When these birds tuck their wings and dive, they transform into literal projectiles reaching incredible speeds. Such predatory adaptations are a testament to evolutionary efficiency in the avian world.

Q20.World Water Day is fundamentally linked to achieving which of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals?

A) SDG 15 (Life on Land)
B) SDG 6 (Water and Sanitation) ✓
C) SDG 13 (Climate Action)
D) SDG 1 (No Poverty)
Explanation: Ensuring availability and sustainable management of water for all is the specific target here by 2030. Since its inception in 1993, this day has focused on highlighting challenges like pollution and the global scarcity of clean fresh water.
20 questions — 23 March 2026 Take interactive quiz →
24

24 March 2026 — Current Affairs MCQ

20 questions · with answers

Q1.Which entity was responsible for organizing the Bharat Electricity Summit (BES 2026) in New Delhi?

A) Central Electricity Authority
B) Power Finance Corporation
C) Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) ✓
D) Ministry of New and Renewable Energy
Explanation: Hosting this summit, the Bureau of Energy Efficiency acted as the primary organizer to push forward our national energy goals. It's interesting to note that the BEE was established under the Energy Conservation Act of 2001, making it the nodal agency for efficiency norms.

Q2.The Credit Guarantee Scheme for Microfinance Institutions 2.0 (CGSMFI-2.0) is operated by which organization?

A) Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI)
B) NABARD
C) Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
D) National Credit Guarantee Trustee Company (NCGTC) ✓
Explanation: Managing this guarantee mechanism is the core responsibility of the NCGTC, which functions under the Department of Financial Services. You should know that NCGTC also handles the famous Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro and Small Enterprises, which is a frequent topic in banking exams.

Q3.The Forest Survey of India (FSI) signed a pact with which institute to integrate AI/ML into environmental management?

A) Bhaskaracharya National Institute for Space Applications and Geo-informatics (BISAG-N)
B) Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education
C) National Institute of Hydrology ✓
D) Indian Institute of Remote Sensing (IIRS)
Explanation: Forging a strategic alliance with BISAG-N allows the FSI to harness cutting-edge geospatial tech for better forest monitoring. This collaboration aligns with the mandates of the National Board for Wildlife, which is tasked with advising the government under the Wildlife Protection Act.

Q4.What is the primary objective of the new rare earth magnet pilot plant set up at ARCI in Hyderabad?

A) Recycling electronic waste components
B) Extracting minerals from the ocean floor
C) Manufacturing Nd-Fe-B magnets for EVs and green energy
D) Developing semi-conductors for mobile devices ✓
Explanation: Producing high-performance Neodymium-Iron-Boron magnets is the goal here, helping India cut down on hefty imports. These specialized magnets are a vital piece of the puzzle for the burgeoning electric vehicle and renewable energy sectors in the country.

Q5.The partnership between Rashtriya Raksha University (RRU) and the SSB Academy focuses on which specific area?

A) Providing medical services to soldiers
B) Enhancing national security training and academic accreditation ✓
C) Improving international diplomatic relations
D) Modernizing weaponry for border forces
Explanation: Linking academic rigor with field-level expertise is the main aim of this collaboration for our border forces. RRU, as an 'Institution of National Importance,' functions under the Ministry of Home Affairs and plays a massive role in standardizing security pedagogy.

Q6.According to the Global Terrorism Index 2026, which country has been ranked as the most impacted by terrorism for the first time?

A) Pakistan ✓
B) Burkina Faso
C) India
D) Nigeria
Explanation: Seeing Pakistan at the top of this list marks a grim shift in the global security environment, based on the recent findings by the IEP. This index typically uses a scale from 0 to 10, where a higher score signifies a deeper, more devastating impact of terrorist activities.

Q7.What key initiative was launched under the India-Bhutan postal agreement to streamline financial services?

A) Universal Postal Union–Unified Payments Interface (UPU–UPI) remittance system ✓
B) Unified Payments Interface (UPI) integration
C) International e-wallet launch
D) Cross-border post-banking portal
Explanation: Launching a UPU-UPI system is a game-changer for secure cross-border money transfers between the two neighboring nations. These kinds of agreements fall under the administrative jurisdiction of the Ministry of Communications, which works closely with the Universal Postal Union.

Q8.INS Nilgiri participated in 'Exercise Kakadu 2026', a major naval engagement hosted by which nation?

A) Philippines
B) Malaysia
C) Thailand
D) Australia ✓
Explanation: Setting sail to Darwin, our naval crew engaged in intensive maneuvers to boost interoperability in the Indo-Pacific region. This exercise is one of the premier international events for the Royal Australian Navy, marking their 125th anniversary during this iteration.

Q9.Who was recently appointed as the Non-Executive Part-Time Chairman of South Indian Bank?

A) Abhay Karandikar
B) R. Vijay
C) Jose Joseph Kattoor ✓
D) V. J. Kurian
Explanation: Bringing years of central banking wisdom, this former RBI Executive Director has stepped into a key governance role at the lender. Banking laws require such board appointments to align with strict regulatory guidelines, specifically those outlined in the 1949 Act.

Q10.Ravindra Jadeja was appointed as the brand ambassador for which financial institution in March 2026?

A) Federal Bank
B) Kotak Mahindra Bank
C) South Indian Bank
D) City Union Bank ✓
Explanation: Teaming up with this cricketer is a strategic move for the bank to increase its footprint across the diverse Indian market. These commercial associations are regulated under disclosure norms enforced by the SEBI, ensuring everything stays transparent for investors.

Q11.Kotak Mahindra Capital Company recently reduced its stake in which entity to 19%?

A) Infina Finance Private Limited ✓
B) Derive Trading
C) Bright Star Investments
D) KF Trust
Explanation: Divesting from Infina Finance is a significant reshuffle in the company's asset portfolio, set to conclude by the end of March 2026. This NBFC has historically been a major player in the loan-against-securities and real estate financing markets.

Q12.The late politician Datta Meghe served in which of the following roles during his lengthy career?

A) Governor of Maharashtra
B) Four-time Lok Sabha MP ✓
C) Union Cabinet Minister
D) Chief Justice of a High Court
Explanation: Spanning over five decades, his legislative presence covered both houses of Parliament and the state assembly. It's notable that he represented several key Maharashtra constituencies, leaving a lasting mark on the regional political landscape.

Q13.Which theme was chosen for the 2026 World Day of Theatre for Children and Young People?

A) The Future of Global Theater
B) Together Against Loneliness
C) Celebrating Youth Performance
D) Staging the Rights of the Child to Arts and Culture ✓
Explanation: Highlighting cultural access, this year's focus highlights the fundamental right children have to experience arts. This special day originated from an initiative by ASSITEJ, an international body that works to connect young people with performing arts across the world.

Q14.The UN observes the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination annually to mark the anniversary of which convention?

A) Universal Declaration of Human Rights
B) Convention on the Rights of the Child
C) International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination ✓
D) Geneva Convention
Explanation: Observing this day is a commitment to fight bigotry and celebrate equality on a global stage. The convention, commonly known as ICERD, serves as a crucial human rights treaty that legally binds member states to eradicate racial bias in their jurisdictions.

Q15.What is the 2026 theme for World Down Syndrome Day, observed on March 21?

A) Advocating for Better Healthcare
B) Embracing Inclusive Education
C) Together Against Loneliness ✓
D) Rights to Arts and Culture
Explanation: Focusing on social inclusion is vital for those living with Down syndrome, which is why this theme hits so close to home. The UN officially recognized this observance back in 2011 to push for equal opportunities and improved welfare for the community worldwide.

Q16.In the HP budget for FY27, what is the estimated revenue deficit of the state?

A) Rs 6,577 Crore ✓
B) Rs 58,514 Crore
C) Rs 9,698 Crore
D) Rs 2,83,626 Crore
Explanation: Projecting these fiscal numbers is part of the CM's broader strategy for financial consolidation within the state. Balancing such budgets remains a major challenge for Himachal Pradesh, especially given the state's focus on green energy and mountain-centric rural development.

Q17.Which Ministry does the Forest Survey of India (FSI) operate under?

A) Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change ✓
B) Ministry of Science and Technology
C) Ministry of Rural Development
D) Ministry of Agriculture
Explanation: Operating under the MoEFCC, the FSI is the premier organization that periodically tracks India’s forest cover. It’s an essential body, as the government relies on its data to formulate climate action plans and environmental preservation strategies.

Q18.What is the primary target group for the Credit Guarantee Scheme for Microfinance Institutions 2.0 (CGSMFI-2.0)?

A) Large-scale farmers
B) Small borrowers through NBFC-MFIs and MFIs ✓
C) Government employees
D) Technology start-ups
Explanation: Providing this safety net for lenders encourages them to extend credit to the grassroots level where funding is often hard to get. The scheme essentially lowers the risk for banks, aiming to support about 36 lakh individuals in their financial journey.

Q19.The Bharat Electricity Summit 2026 was inaugurated in which city?

A) Gandhinagar
B) New Delhi ✓
C) Hyderabad
D) Dehradun
Explanation: Hosting the event at Yashobhoomi, the government gathered stakeholders from around the globe to discuss power reforms. Fun fact—the upcoming 2028 edition is already scheduled for Gandhinagar, Gujarat, signaling a rotating host city model.

Q20.As per the 2026 HP Budget, what is the projected fiscal deficit as a percentage of GSDP?

A) 4.2%
B) 3.49% ✓
C) 8.3%
D) 5.1%
Explanation: Keeping the fiscal deficit under control is a priority for the HP government despite heavy social sector spending. This ratio is a key metric economists watch, as it shows how well the state manages its debt in proportion to the total size of its economy.
20 questions — 24 March 2026 Take interactive quiz →
25

25 March 2026 — Current Affairs MCQ

20 questions · with answers

Q1.Which specific institution is responsible for executing the newly launched National AI Skilling Programme announced by Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw?

A) Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI)
B) National Informatics Centre (NIC)
C) Indian Institute of Creative Technologies (IICT) ✓
D) NITI Aayog's RISE Centre
Explanation: Partnering with Google and YouTube, the ministry entrusted this task to the IICT. It's a key push to skill thousands of youth in the media space, keeping in mind the rapid digital transformation happening nationwide.

Q2.The Ministry of Rural Development's new 'Internal Audit Portal' aims to move away from manual auditing. Which organization developed this digital system?

A) Indian Institute of Public Administration (IIPA)
B) Quality Council of India (QCI)
C) Ministry of Information & Broadcasting (MIB)
D) National Informatics Centre (NIC) ✓
Explanation: Developed by the NIC, this portal helps senior leaders keep a real-time check on compliance. Did you know the NIC works under MeitY and provides the digital backbone for most Indian e-governance projects?

Q3.Regarding the financial assistance sanctioned by NITI Aayog to the RISE Centre in Andhra Pradesh, what is the primary focus of this initiative?

A) Promoting heavy industrial exports
B) Digitalizing land records in rural AP
C) Expanding high-speed internet in Ibrahimpatnam
D) Empowering rural women through entrepreneurship ✓
Explanation: Boosting the 'One family-one Entrepreneur' vision is the core goal here. It's heartening to see women being trained in niche fields like solar installation, which falls under NITI Aayog's broader mission to foster grassroot-level economic growth.

Q4.SEBI recently amended the AIF Regulations to make Social Impact Funds (SIF) more accessible. What is the new minimum investment limit for individuals in these funds?

A) Rs 50,000
B) Rs 1 lakh
C) Rs 2 lakhs
D) Rs 1,000 ✓
Explanation: Dropping the requirement from Rs 2 lakhs to just Rs 1,000 is a huge shift to democratize impact investing. Remember, AIFs (Alternative Investment Funds) are governed by SEBI under the 2012 Regulations.

Q5.L&T Finance has recently signed the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC). What is the main objective of this commitment?

A) Listing on international stock exchanges
B) Aligning its strategy with human rights and ESG principles ✓
C) Reducing its physical branch footprint by 50%
D) Securing a low-interest loan from the World Bank
Explanation: Signing this compact shows they're taking their environmental and ethical responsibilities seriously. You might want to note that ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) scores are becoming crucial metrics for banking investments globally.

Q6.What is Goldman Sachs' updated GDP growth forecast for India for the calendar year 2026?

A) 5.9% ✓
B) 6.5%
C) 7.0%
D) 4.6%
Explanation: They revised the earlier projection of 7% downwards following geopolitical shifts like the Iran conflict. Economists often track these 'calendar year' forecasts vs 'fiscal year' ones, so stay sharp during your revisions.

Q7.Razorpay and Sarvam AI are teaming up for a voice-led digital commerce project. Which major food delivery platform is an early partner in this pilot?

A) Zepto
B) Zomato
C) Swiggy ✓
D) Blinkit
Explanation: Integrating voice commands for transactions is a big leap toward making digital payments truly inclusive. This initiative is particularly aimed at breaking language barriers for users comfortable speaking rather than typing.

Q8.Karnataka Grameena Bank (KGB) recently won a national award. Under which mission does the bank's work on Self-Help Groups (SHGs) align?

A) Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM) ✓
B) Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY)
C) Swachh Bharat Abhiyan
D) Digital India Campaign
Explanation: Recognized for stellar credit disbursement to SHGs, KGB has been a key pillar for financial inclusion in the region. Since RRBs are co-owned by the Center, States, and a Sponsor bank, they're essential for reaching the rural last-mile.

Q9.Who was recently appointed as a Co-opted Member of the Sustainability Reporting Standards Board (SRSB) by the ICAI?

A) Shivraj Singh Chouhan
B) Lionel Jospin
C) P.V. Narayana Rao ✓
D) V. M. Rukmini Devi
Explanation: He's set to shape how Indian firms report their sustainability metrics starting in the 2026-27 term. Keep in mind that ICAI acts as the regulator for the accounting profession in India under a 1949 Act.

Q10.The merger of Svatantra Microfin with other entities resulted in the creation of the ______ largest NBFC-MFI in India.

A) Second ✓
B) Fifth
C) Third
D) First
Explanation: This consolidation creates a powerful player capable of offering both small-ticket loans and home finance products. Consolidations like these are often vetted by the Competition Commission to ensure fair market play.

Q11.Where was the new cockroach species, 'Neoloboptera peninsularis', discovered by ZSI scientists?

A) Eastern Himalayas, Sikkim
B) Deccan Peninsula, Maharashtra ✓
C) Sundarbans, West Bengal
D) Western Ghats, Kerala
Explanation: Finding this in Pune is significant because it's the first time DNA barcoding was used for cockroach identification in India. ZSI is the go-to agency under the Ministry of Environment for all such faunal surveys.

Q12.Lionel Jospin, who recently passed away, was a former Prime Minister of which country?

A) Germany
B) France ✓
C) Belgium
D) Italy
Explanation: He's famously remembered for shortening the work week, a move that sparked intense policy debates at the time. Interestingly, his leadership in the Socialist Party left a lasting impact on French progressive politics.

Q13.Which international day is observed on March 21 to focus on protecting the cryosphere and water security?

A) International Nowruz Day
B) International Day of Forests
C) World Poetry Day
D) World Glacier Day ✓
Explanation: This day was established via a UN resolution to sound the alarm on melting ice caps. It's worth remembering that glaciers aren't just cold mountains; they are our primary freshwater reservoirs.

Q14.Fill in the blank: The 2026 theme for the International Day of Forests is ‘Forests and ______’.

A) Climate Action
B) Sustainability
C) Economies ✓
D) Biodiversity
Explanation: Highlighting this link proves that nature conservation isn't just about trees, but about the economic livelihoods that depend on them. The FAO and UNFF organize this event every year to drive global forestry policy.

Q15.Which TV-related feature was launched by Ashwini Vaishnaw to eliminate the need for an external set-top box?

A) MyWAVES
B) Direct-to-Home WiFi
C) Cloud Gaming
D) In-built Satellite Tuner ✓
Explanation: Directly tuning into DD Free Dish signals simplifies life for millions of viewers. This reduction in hardware clutter is a step toward making information access easier for rural and suburban households.

Q16.What is the primary function of the 'MyWaves' feature introduced in the WAVES OTT platform?

A) Subscribing to international news channels
B) Creating, uploading, and sharing content ✓
C) Managing account billing and complaints
D) Watching live sports in 4K
Explanation: Think of it as the government's attempt to give a stage to the creators of Bharat. It empowers citizens to contribute their own digital content, widening the footprint of our local digital ecosystem.

Q17.The 'Action Taken Reports (ATR)' and compliance alerts are key features of which newly launched administrative system?

A) Internal Audit Portal ✓
B) AI Skill Monitoring Portal
C) RISE Skilling Dashboard
D) SEBI Regulatory Tracker
Explanation: Ensuring that audit findings are actually acted upon is what this digital system aims to perfect. It's about fixing the 'compliance gap' that usually delays rural projects in the country.

Q18.What technological process was utilized by ZSI researchers to identify the new cockroach species?

A) Carbon dating
B) Integrative taxonomy including DNA barcoding ✓
C) Remote sensing
D) Bio-acoustic monitoring
Explanation: Combining physical observation with genetic testing makes the identification process incredibly accurate. DNA barcoding is a game-changer for biological sciences in India, helping us categorize endemic species more precisely.

Q19.International Nowruz Day is observed annually on March 21. Which global body holds the 'Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity' list where Nowruz is inscribed?

A) UNDP
B) UNICEF
C) UNESCO ✓
D) WHO
Explanation: It's a beautiful festival celebrating spring and the new year, bridging diverse cultures across borders. Being on the UNESCO list ensures that its ancient traditions are preserved and respected worldwide.

Q20.Regarding the 27th World Poetry Day in 2026, what was the theme announced for the occasion?

A) Poetry as a Bridge for Peace and Inclusion ✓
B) Rhymes for a Sustainable Future
C) Voices of the Endangered Languages
D) Writing the Future of Global Solidarity
Explanation: Poetry serves as a unique medium to connect souls across political divides. You should know that UNESCO proclaimed this day back in 1999 during a conference held in Paris.
20 questions — 25 March 2026 Take interactive quiz →
26

26 March 2026 — Current Affairs MCQ

20 questions · with answers

Q1.The Hudsonian Godwit is known for its incredible endurance during migration. What is its primary threat today?

A) Inability to find nesting partners
B) Predation by invasive species
C) Climate change and habitat loss ✓
D) Over-hunting in South America
Explanation: Birds like this face massive population declines due to rapidly shifting environmental conditions. It's tragic that their long-distance survival is jeopardized by human-induced habitat disruption; interestingly, this species is protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act in the U.S.

Q2.Which collaboration was behind the recently launched national AI Skilling Initiative focusing on media technology?

A) Meta and Netflix
B) Google and YouTube ✓
C) Adobe and OpenAI
D) Microsoft and GitHub
Explanation: Launched by the I&B Ministry, this partnership aims to upskill 15,000 media professionals. It's a strategic move to boost India's AVGC sector, which is currently a key priority under the government's 'Create in India' agenda.

Q3.The Minor Planet Centre (MPC) acts as the global hub for recording small solar system bodies. Where is it located?

A) Cambridge, Massachusetts ✓
B) Paris, France
C) Geneva, Switzerland
D) Pasadena, California
Explanation: Housed within the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory, this center plays a vital role in international astronomical data management. It's important to remember that it operates under the International Astronomical Union, which is the governing body for all planetary nomenclature.

Q4.The Akasha300 3D printer delivered to ISRO is noted for its ability to handle:

A) Nanoparticle deposition
B) Liquid metal casting
C) High-temperature multi-material extrusion ✓
D) Vacuum-based polymer infusion
Explanation: Built by a Kerala-based startup, this machine is designed for complex aerospace requirements needing high-temperature endurance. You should note that ISRO often collaborates with regional startups through the IN-SPACe framework to promote indigenous space manufacturing.

Q5.The MSE-CDP is a government scheme primarily focused on:

A) Digital literacy for rural farmers
B) Increasing productivity in small enterprises ✓
C) Granting soft loans to fintechs
D) Subsidizing exports of textiles
Explanation: Targeting clusters of small-scale units, this scheme provides infrastructure support like Common Facility Centers. It’s categorized as a Central Sector Scheme, which means the funding is provided entirely by the central government, unlike Centrally Sponsored Schemes.

Q6.Which river is often called the 'Remover of Sins' and features a unique estuarine system?

A) Aghanashini ✓
B) Tungabhadra
C) Narmada
D) Sharavathi
Explanation: Originating in the Western Ghats, this Karnataka river is remarkably free-flowing and pristine. Recently, it gained international attention as its estuary was officially declared a Ramsar Site, emphasizing its importance in wetland conservation.

Q7.Which of these is a true statement regarding the Panama Canal's operation?

A) It uses elevators to pull ships overland
B) It lifts ships to account for elevation differences ✓
C) It has been under US control since 1999
D) It connects the Pacific and Indian oceans
Explanation: Since the Pacific Ocean sits at a higher elevation than the Atlantic, this engineering marvel relies on a clever lock system to manage transit. It's worth noting that the handover of the canal to Panama in 1999 was a historic event ending decades of American administrative control.

Q8.What process is used to obtain high-purity Titanium in large industrial quantities?

A) Haber process
B) Bessemer process
C) Frasch process
D) Kroll process ✓
Explanation: Developed by William Justin Kroll, this technique uses magnesium reduction to extract the metal from its chloride. Don't confuse this with the refining of iron, as titanium's high reactivity with oxygen requires a specific, controlled reduction environment.

Q9.The GARBH-INi initiative is a long-term research effort focused on:

A) Geriatric care advancements
B) Adolescent mental health
C) Maternal and child health ✓
D) Vaccine distribution logistics
Explanation: Spearheaded by the Department of Biotechnology, this project tracks 12,000 pregnant women to better predict preterm births. It operates under the larger umbrella of the Atal Jai Anusandhan Biotech Mission, aiming to build data-driven health solutions.

Q10.Titanium has unique chemical properties that make it ideal for prosthetic devices. Why is it used?

A) It is the cheapest metal available
B) It glows in the dark to show bone fractures
C) It is magnetic and keeps bones aligned
D) It is lightweight and doesn't react with tissues ✓
Explanation: Its biocompatibility means the human body generally accepts it without an immune response. This makes it an invaluable material in medical engineering, a field closely monitored under various international quality standards for medical implants.

Q11.What is the primary objective of the Indian Institute of Creative Technologies (IICT) in the new skilling initiative?

A) Testing AI software for cybersecurity
B) Training creative sectors in AI tools ✓
C) Developing 6G networks
D) Manufacturing AI hardware
Explanation: Focusing on animation, visual effects, and gaming, this institute provides the practical training platform for the government's media tech initiative. Such vocational training centers are crucial for expanding India's role in the global gig economy.

Q12.The Aghanashini river project is under scrutiny by UNESCO because of its impact on:

A) Global carbon sink levels
B) World Heritage Conservation frameworks ✓
C) Ancient maritime trade routes
D) Protected coastal urban zones
Explanation: UNESCO intervention highlights the conflict between infrastructure development and the protection of sensitive river ecosystems. Remember that river linking projects often trigger rigorous environmental impact assessments under the National Green Tribunal's guidelines.

Q13.Which of these gases is the only element known to burn in Nitrogen?

A) Titanium ✓
B) Oxygen
C) Hydrogen
D) Argon
Explanation: Titanium's chemical nature is quite aggressive when exposed to pure nitrogen gas. It’s an interesting trivia point often tested in general science sections because it highlights the distinct reactive properties of transition metals.

Q14.The Minor Planet Centre verifies and assigns designations to newly discovered:

A) Subatomic particles in debris
B) Deep sea lifeforms
C) Exoplanets in distant galaxies
D) Small solar system bodies ✓
Explanation: Astronomers from around the globe funnel their observational data to this hub for validation. You might find it interesting that the center maintains one of the most comprehensive archives of near-Earth object sightings in history.

Q15.Within the MSE-CDP scheme, who is responsible for submitting proposals for new Common Facility Centers?

A) The State Government ✓
B) Private Venture Capitalists
C) Individual small business owners
D) Local Gram Panchayats
Explanation: States take the lead by assessing cluster needs and proposing infrastructure upgrades or facilities to the central ministry. This decentralized approach ensures that the specific challenges of a local industrial cluster are prioritized over blanket policies.

Q16.What is a major physiological challenge faced by the Hudsonian Godwit during its migration?

A) It must migrate through high-altitude mountains
B) It loses its ability to see at night
C) It lacks a flight bladder
D) It flies thousands of kilometers without stopping ✓
Explanation: Flying up to 11,000 km in one stint is a feat of extraordinary avian biology. Scientists often study such migrations to understand the effects of global climate changes on navigation pathways and migratory flyways.

Q17.The Akasha300 3D printer includes a heated bed capable of reaching what temperature?

A) Up to 500°C
B) Up to 350°C
C) Up to 110°C ✓
D) Up to 80°C
Explanation: Maintaining precise thermal control is key for printing high-performance aerospace components without warping. While the bed starts at 110°C, it's designed with an upgrade path to 150°C to meet future manufacturing demands.

Q18.The GARBH-INi study classifies preterm births based on gestational age. Which range constitutes 'moderate to late' preterm?

A) 32 to 37 weeks ✓
B) Above 37 weeks
C) 28 to 32 weeks
D) Under 28 weeks
Explanation: Precise gestational categorization is vital for determining the level of clinical support a newborn needs immediately after birth. This specific program aims to improve neonatal survival rates in India, which currently grapple with significant infant mortality figures.

Q19.Which of these is a commercial ore of Titanium?

A) Bauxite
B) Cinnabar
C) Hematite
D) Ilmenite ✓
Explanation: Both Ilmenite and Rutile are the heavy lifters of the titanium industry worldwide. Geology buffs should note that India holds one of the world's largest deposits of Ilmenite, particularly along the coastal sands of the southern states.

Q20.Under the MSE-CDP, the 'cluster approach' is primarily used to:

A) Limit foreign investment in rural areas
B) Replace human labor with machines
C) Improve competitiveness and sustainability ✓
D) Bail out bankrupt companies
Explanation: By grouping similar businesses, the government can efficiently fund testing labs, skill centers, and common raw material depots. It’s an essential strategy under the 'Make in India' initiative to ensure small enterprises can compete globally.
20 questions — 26 March 2026 Take interactive quiz →
27

27 March 2026 — Current Affairs MCQ

20 questions · with answers

Q1.Which specific financial change defines the government's revamped approach to the UDAN scheme?

A) Increased reliance on regional aviation taxes
B) Shifting subsidy funding to the general government budget ✓
C) Implementing a cess on international tickets
D) Private sector equity mandates for airline operators
Explanation: Moving away from the RCS levy, the state is now directly funding these operations to ensure better financial stability. This pivot is crucial because relying on a fluctuating levy often created gaps, whereas direct budgeting provides consistent support under the Ministry of Civil Aviation.

Q2.Why has the subsidy duration for airlines under the revamped UDAN scheme been increased to five years?

A) To boost route viability and prevent sudden closures ✓
B) To accommodate rising fuel costs
C) To offset lower passenger demand in Tier-3 cities
D) To comply with international aviation treaties
Explanation: Data suggests that most regional routes struggle to survive once financial aid is pulled too early. Extending this window gives operators a better shot at reaching self-sustainability, which is vital since the Scheme is governed by the RCS guidelines to foster balanced regional growth.

Q3.The UDAN scheme's recent expansion plans prominently highlight which of these infrastructure improvements?

A) Creating cross-border airstrips for tourism
B) Developing 200 new helipads for better reach ✓
C) Electrifying all regional ground support vehicles
D) Building major metro-city cargo terminals
Explanation: Improving last-mile access in tough terrain is now a major priority, hence the focus on smaller infrastructure like helipads. Such developments are essential for remote accessibility, aligning with the goal of connecting underserved regions that ground transport often fails to reach efficiently.

Q4.How does India's 2035 NDC target for non-fossil energy capacity compare with its earlier 2030 commitments?

A) It focuses exclusively on nuclear power instead
B) It targets a more ambitious 60% capacity ✓
C) It maintains the exact same percentage goal
D) It scales back the target due to infrastructure limits
Explanation: Setting the bar at 60% by 2035 shows India's intent to push beyond the initial 50% target originally set for 2030. This progress reflects a broader commitment to climate action under the UNFCCC framework, balancing our growing electricity needs with global sustainability goals.

Q5.What is the core intent behind India's focus on the 'Lifestyle for Environment' (LiFE) concept within its climate strategy?

A) Limiting the production of luxury consumer goods
B) Legally binding emission caps for rural populations
C) Taxing carbon emissions from individual households
D) Transforming green living into a mass people-led movement ✓
Explanation: Making sustainability a cultural habit rather than just a top-down policy is the heartbeat of the LiFE initiative. By engaging citizens directly—such as with tree-planting campaigns—the government aims to drive environmental change from the bottom up.

Q6.Which principle does India emphasize to balance its developmental requirements with climate mitigation goals?

A) Global trade standardization
B) Absolute neutrality
C) Technological authoritarianism
D) Common But Differentiated Responsibilities ✓
Explanation: India consistently invokes the CBDR-RC principle to argue that developing nations shouldn't be penalized with the same burdens as historically high emitters. It's a key tenet of international climate justice, ensuring that energy security remains a priority as we transition toward cleaner energy.

Q7.Why is the 2011 Census being proposed as the basis for increasing Lok Sabha seats under the Women's Reservation Act?

A) It is the most recent publicly available census
B) It allows for a quick implementation without waiting for new survey data ✓
C) It was mandated by a Supreme Court directive
D) It captures the ideal population ratios for North Indian states
Explanation: Speed is the government's primary motivation here; using the 2011 data sidesteps the delay associated with conducting and processing a fresh Census. This approach reflects the political urgency to implement the reservation policy quickly while keeping the controversial delimitation issue at bay.

Q8.Which constitutional article established the 'one person, one vote' principle for constituency populations?

A) Article 82
B) Article 370
C) Article 81 ✓
D) Article 14
Explanation: Article 81 serves as the backbone for seat distribution, ensuring that constituency sizes remain balanced within states as much as possible. It's a standard feature of our parliamentary democracy, although debates regarding seat expansion often clash with the specific limits defined in this article.

Q9.The long-standing freeze on altering Lok Sabha seat allocations was originally intended to serve what purpose?

A) Reducing the cost of parliamentary elections
B) Protecting states that succeeded in controlling population growth ✓
C) Ensuring equal distribution of reserved seats
D) Allowing more time for the Delimitation Commission to research
Explanation: Historically, there was genuine anxiety that states with lower population growth would lose their political influence if seats were strictly redistributed based on headcounts. This compromise effectively protected those southern states, ensuring they weren't sidelined due to their successful demographic management.

Q10.Which entity is constitutionally empowered to define the territorial boundaries of parliamentary constituencies?

A) The President's Cabinet
B) The State Legislatures
C) The Delimitation Commission ✓
D) The Election Commission of India
Explanation: Though the government sets the broader legislative framework, a specially constituted Delimitation Commission takes charge of the actual boundary-drawing process. This neutral body operates under a specific Act passed by Parliament to ensure political impartiality during the redrawing of local voting zones.

Q11.What is the significance of the Appellate Body in the context of the WTO's dispute settlement mechanism?

A) It is responsible for drafting new trade agreements
B) It facilitates tariff collection for member nations
C) It functions as the judicial branch that enforces global trade rules ✓
D) It handles all international trade negotiations
Explanation: Serving as the organization's 'supreme court,' this body is essential for resolving trade frictions fairly and keeping member nations accountable. Currently, the system is hampered because appointments to this board have been stalled, making the whole mechanism largely toothless.

Q12.Why do some WTO members view 'plurilateral agreements' as a contentious issue?

A) They exclude non-WTO countries entirely
B) They require unanimous approval from all trade partners
C) They make trade rules easier for developing nations
D) They threaten to fragment the uniform global trading order ✓
Explanation: Some worry that allowing groups of countries to form their own side-deals could undermine the unity that the WTO was designed to provide. If the organization turns into a patchwork of selective agreements, the traditional 'all-for-one' rule-making process may effectively collapse.

Q13.What primary argument do developing nations use to resist the elimination of the e-commerce moratorium?

A) They fear it would discourage digital literacy
B) They want to promote domestic digital encryption
C) It contradicts existing laws on physical goods
D) It could result in substantial tax revenue losses ✓
Explanation: Digital trade is booming, and for many emerging economies, the ability to tax these transmissions is a necessary component of domestic revenue generation. Keeping this moratorium in place essentially stops them from tapping into a massive and growing source of national income.

Q14.Which action does the US pursue that negatively impacts the MFN principle in global trade?

A) Imposing arbitrary tariffs outside of agreed limits ✓
B) Promoting open-source trade infrastructure
C) Encouraging higher participation in multilateral forums
D) Strengthening the WTO's judicial appeal system
Explanation: By ignoring the Most Favoured Nation rule—which mandates non-discriminatory treatment—the US has bypassed its obligations through unilateral tariff wars. Such tactics are widely viewed as a move away from rule-based systems toward a coercive, power-centric trade strategy.

Q15.What challenge did India note regarding its renewable energy target as a sign of under-ambition?

A) The gap between installed capacity and actual power generation ✓
B) The lack of available foreign capital for solar farms
C) The failure of state-level adoption of the policy
D) The dependency on imported wind turbine technology
Explanation: Having a high 'capacity' doesn't always translate to the same 'output' because renewable sources are intermittent. Critics argue that focusing only on installed megawatts obscures the reality of actual energy availability, suggesting we need better storage and transmission integration.

Q16.How did the 2001 Constitutional Amendment impact the freeze on delimitation?

A) It empowered states to redraw their own boundaries
B) It linked the freeze to the 1991 Census specifically
C) It immediately ended the delimitation freeze
D) It pushed the expiry date until after the next census post-2026 ✓
Explanation: Legally, this amendment ensured that the current allocation of parliamentary seats wouldn't change until we complete a post-2026 census. It's a strategic legislative 'pause' intended to prevent politically charged reallocations before the next big census cycle is through.

Q17.What is the central 'compensatory principle' suggested as a remedy for the delimitation crisis?

A) Direct financial payouts to states with high growth
B) A temporary increase in the size of the Rajya Sabha
C) Constitutional safeguards ensuring states don't lose relative influence ✓
D) Mandatory federalism training for national MPs
Explanation: Finding a way to protect the political weight of states that effectively curbed their populations is key to solving the current impasse. This theoretical compromise suggests that by crafting smart constitutional amendments, we could prevent the southern states from being penalized for their successful governance.

Q18.Why is the 'Consensus Paralysis' at the WTO considered a systemic structural issue?

A) Because only high-income nations can propose new rules
B) Because all regional blocks must sign off on trade laws
C) Because every single member has a veto-like power ✓
D) Because the WTO staff size has been reduced by 50%
Explanation: Requiring total consensus among all member states makes the WTO incredibly slow to draft or update trade laws compared to modern standards. It’s an antiquated procedural hurdle that forces many nations to look for faster, more flexible Free Trade Agreements outside the system.

Q19.The 'Special and Differential Treatment' (SDT) within the WTO is intended to benefit whom?

A) Developing and Least Developed Countries ✓
B) Maritime carriers involved in international logistics
C) Private airline companies and helicopter operators
D) Highly industrialized nations needing subsidies
Explanation: Think of SDT as a way to level the playing field for emerging economies that aren't on par with global giants. It allows for more flexible timelines and support for these nations, though some developed states now want to restrict these privileges for larger developing economies.

Q20.Which of these is NOT explicitly mentioned as part of India’s current operational strategy for local climate action?

A) National Digital Infrastructure Mission ✓
B) MISHTI
C) Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana
D) Jal Jeevan Mission
Explanation: Programs like MISHTI and the Jal Jeevan Mission are deeply linked to the environment, focusing on things like mangrove conservation and water access. Digital infrastructure, while vital for growth, isn't categorized under the National Action Plan on Climate Change missions highlighted in this context.
20 questions — 27 March 2026 Take interactive quiz →
28

28 March 2026 — Current Affairs MCQ

20 questions · with answers

Q1.The Indian Navy’s 'Operation Urja Suraksha' is primarily focused on safeguarding vessels in which critical maritime location?

A) Strait of Malacca
B) Bab-el-Mandeb Strait
C) Strait of Hormuz ✓
D) Suez Canal
Explanation: Safeguarding energy tankers is the core aim of this naval mission, which includes protecting shipments of LNG and crude oil. It's a strategic move to secure India's energy supply lines, a domain overseen by the Ministry of Defence to ensure national economic stability.

Q2.Which body within the Indian Air Force is responsible for spearheading the 'Vayu Baan' project?

A) Centre for Air Power Studies
B) Directorate of Aerospace Design ✓
C) Air Force Technical College
D) Integrated Defence Staff
Explanation: Leading the development of this drone project, the Directorate is working to cut down our dependency on imported aerial tech. Getting this right is vital because the project helps IAF helicopters engage threats while remaining safely beyond the reach of man-portable missile systems.

Q3.What is the primary technological advantage introduced by the PRISM-SG portal for rail-road bridge projects?

A) Direct fund transfer to bridge contractors
B) Integrated end-to-end digital workflow for approvals ✓
C) Satellite-based real-time land acquisition monitoring
D) Automatic drafting of construction blueprints
Explanation: Replacing slow manual paperwork, this digital platform brings transparency to inspection stages for railway and road infrastructure. Efficiency gains are expected to slash project approval times drastically, helping the government meet targets under the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan.

Q4.Under the recent MoU, what role does YouTube play in promoting India’s folk and tribal music?

A) Official Knowledge Partner ✓
B) Content monetization aggregator
C) Sole distribution platform
D) Digital archive host
Explanation: Providing analytical insights and training, the tech giant is teaming up with the Ministry of Culture to push our traditional arts onto a global stage. This aligns with the 'Vocal for Local' mission, which aims to preserve indigenous heritage using modern digital tools.

Q5.How will the partnership between the Department of Posts and TRIFED streamline the delivery of tribal goods?

A) By creating a dedicated Book Now Pay Later logistics account ✓
B) By digitizing all tribal artifact manufacturing
C) By providing tax-exempt shipping services
D) Through the establishment of rural retail outlets
Explanation: Connecting the vast network of the Postal Department to TRIFED's e-marketplace, this move ensures tribal artisans can reach customers across the country reliably. The special payment facility allows for seamless processing, mirroring similar initiatives that promote rural economy growth.

Q6.What is the primary objective of the Nodal Indigenisation Centre (NIC) set up at Avadi?

A) Managing military equipment imports
B) Training civilian engineers in military aviation
C) Exporting indigenous drone technology
D) Accelerating defence manufacturing and innovation ✓
Explanation: Focusing on cyber-physical and autonomous systems, this hub bridges the gap between Army requirements and academic research. It leverages the state's existing defence corridor, which is a major focus area for 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' in the military sector.

Q7.Which institution launched the 'Gruh Sugam Portal' to assist government personnel in securing home loans?

A) State Bank of India
B) Housing and Urban Development Corporation
C) Ministry of Finance
D) National Housing Bank ✓
Explanation: Regulating housing finance companies, this body launched the portal to ensure personnel posted in remote areas don't face hurdles during loan applications. It's an important statutory institution established under the 1987 Act to expand accessible housing finance across the nation.

Q8.Lakshya AMC has gained prominence as the first Asset Management Company to be headquartered in which city?

A) Ahmedabad ✓
B) Hyderabad
C) Bengaluru
D) Mumbai
Explanation: Breaking the trend of centralizing financial power in metro hubs, this company marks a shift in where financial institutions can originate. It's sponsored by a wealth management firm listed on the national stock exchanges, signalling a growing appetite for mutual funds in tier-2 cities.

Q9.The OECD’s March 2026 outlook lowered India's growth projection for FY27 to what percentage?

A) 7.6%
B) 6.2%
C) 6.1% ✓
D) 6.4%
Explanation: Citing global economic uncertainty, this adjustment reflects a cautious view compared to their earlier estimates. Monitoring these international benchmarks is essential for UPSC candidates, as they heavily influence foreign investment flows into India.

Q10.For the period 2026-31, the Government of India has maintained the inflation target at:

A) 6%
B) 2%
C) 5%
D) 4% ✓
Explanation: Utilizing powers from the RBI Act, the finance ministry confirmed that our central bank will continue targeting this specific mid-point inflation figure. Keeping this consistent is a hallmark of the Flexible Inflation Targeting framework, designed to balance growth with price stability.

Q11.Balendra Shah, recently sworn in as Nepal's PM, belongs to which political party?

A) Communist Party of Nepal
B) Rastriya Swatantra Party ✓
C) Nepali Congress
D) Rastriya Prajatantra Party
Explanation: Surging to power with a significant mandate in the recent elections, he represents a major shift in Nepal's political landscape. His role as the youngest PM is notable for our regional diplomatic ties and bilateral interactions within the South Asian neighbourhood.

Q12.Who was selected to represent India at the World Youth Parliament 2026, focused on global sustainable development?

A) Rajan Mehta
B) Gunjan Soni
C) Sushila Karki
D) Stuti Pradhan ✓
Explanation: Hailing from Sikkim, this young leader was chosen based on her exceptional track record in parliamentary debates and public policy. Such youth platforms are vital as they cultivate future leadership and strengthen India's image in global diplomacy forums.

Q13.What is the historical significance of the 2016 Rio Games in Carolina Marín’s career?

A) She set a new world record for match speed
B) She defeated her longest-running rival in the final
C) She became the first non-Asian to win the Olympic singles title ✓
D) She became the first woman to win back-to-back golds
Explanation: Securing a gold medal in badminton as a European player changed the sport's landscape entirely. Her three world championships solidify her legacy as a titan, though it's important to remember these sporting achievements often reflect shifting global dominance in athletic training.

Q14.The IOC’s new female eligibility policy for the 2028 Olympic Games utilizes which screening method for sex determination?

A) Full physical morphology assessment
B) Medical record history analysis
C) Testosterone level monitoring
D) DNA-based SRY gene screening ✓
Explanation: By implementing this screening, the committee aims to address biological advantages in strength and power to protect the female category. These guidelines are a departure from previous rules and will be enforced globally by the national committees and sporting federations.

Q15.When was World Theatre Day first observed internationally?

A) 1962 ✓
B) 1970
C) 1948
D) 1961
Explanation: Marking the start of a prestigious drama season in Paris, the day was designed to bridge cultures through performance. UNESCO's foundational role in creating the parent organization highlights the importance of soft power and cultural diplomacy in international relations.

Q16.Earth Hour 2026, held on March 28, marked the ____ year of the global environmental event.

A) 30th
B) 25th
C) 20th ✓
D) 15th
Explanation: Commencing as a local Sydney 'lights-off' initiative, this movement has grown into a powerful symbol of climate commitment worldwide. It’s an essential topic for environmental geography sections in exam papers, underscoring the shift toward public-led sustainability awareness.

Q17.Which specific Ministry shares responsibility for the PRISM-SG portal alongside the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways?

A) Ministry of Railways ✓
B) Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs
C) Ministry of Commerce
D) Ministry of Home Affairs
Explanation: Combining the expertise of the rail and road ministries, this initiative ensures streamlined project approvals for infrastructure like over-bridges. It represents an integrated governance approach, which is frequently cited in the context of improving Ease of Doing Business rankings.

Q18.What happens if an athlete is found SRY-positive under the IOC’s new 2028 eligibility guidelines?

A) They gain a special wildcard entry into mixed events
B) They are ineligible for the female category ✓
C) They are completely banned from all Olympic sports
D) They must undergo hormone therapy to compete
Explanation: Applying biological criteria to ensure fairness is the intent behind these strict new rules. While certain athletes might be excluded from specific categories, this standardizing approach across all NOCs aims to settle ongoing debates about biological fairness in high-performance sports.

Q19.The 'Vayu Baan' project reduces India’s technological dependence on which countries?

A) France and United Kingdom
B) United States and China ✓
C) Russia and Israel
D) Germany and Japan
Explanation: Reaching an elite status, India now joins these major powers in owning air-launched drone capabilities. Achieving self-reliance in this tech is a high priority for the national defence agenda to ensure we aren't at the mercy of foreign supply chains during conflicts.

Q20.The inflation target framework for India is defined under which legislative section?

A) Article 280 of the Constitution
B) The FRBM Act, 2003
C) Section 45ZA of the RBI Act ✓
D) Section 12 of the Banking Regulation Act
Explanation: Defining the monetary policy mandate, this section requires the government to notify targets periodically in consultation with the central bank. Understanding the legal framework for inflation is vital for understanding why price stability is the RBI's primary constitutional duty.
20 questions — 28 March 2026 Take interactive quiz →
29

29 March 2026 — Current Affairs MCQ

20 questions · with answers

Q1.Why did the Delhi High Court direct Dr Reddy's to pause the marketing of its semaglutide variant 'Olymviq'?

A) Concerns about its efficacy in diabetes care
B) A lawsuit over generic manufacturing patents
C) A trademark dispute filed by Novo Nordisk regarding brand name similarity ✓
D) Failure to secure an export license for the medication
Explanation: Novo Nordisk approached the court arguing that Olymviq sounded too much like their established product, Ozempic. Because drug names can lead to critical medication errors, the judiciary often takes a protective stance on brand identity. Keep in mind, under the Trade Marks Act of 1999, 'deceptive similarity' is a frequent battleground for pharmaceutical giants looking to protect their market share.

Q2.Which legal precedent does the Indian judiciary cite when deciding if two drug names are 'deceptively similar'?

A) The 2001 Cadila Healthcare case ✓
B) The Patent Act of 1970
C) The Consumer Protection Act of 2019
D) The 2022 Letroz vs Letero verdict
Explanation: Judges rely on the famous Cadila case to determine potential confusion between medical brands. This ruling famously noted that medicines aren't candies, so the bar for name distinction needs to be significantly higher to protect public safety. It's a standard reference point for all IP law students aiming for civil services exams.

Q3.Dr Reddy’s Laboratories recently introduced its own brand of semaglutide. What is the name of this brand?

A) Rybelsus
B) Obeda ✓
C) Mashlo
D) Wegovy
Explanation: Launched in late March, Obeda is the specific brand DRL is using for their diabetes treatment entry. While the company explored other names, this is the one they've moved forward with for the market. Interestingly, regulatory bodies closely monitor these brand launches to ensure they don't mislead patients regarding the medication's therapeutic intent.

Q4.What is the key takeaway from the 'Letroz vs Letero' court ruling mentioned in recent pharma legal news?

A) That trademark protection is invalid for oral medications
B) That expert professionals, like oncologists, are unlikely to be confused by prefix-similar brands ✓
C) That all drugs with the same prefix are prohibited
D) That international names must always be changed by generic makers
Explanation: Specialized doctors aren't considered average consumers, so courts are more lenient when brands are prescribed exclusively by experts. It shows that context matters immensely in trademark litigation. You'll often find these types of legal nuances popping up in UPSC Mains questions regarding the intersection of intellectual property and public health.

Q5.Under Section 13 of the Trademarks Act, why can't generic 'International Non-Proprietary Names' (INNs) be monopolized?

A) Because they are generic names that must remain in the public domain ✓
B) Because they lack the required aesthetic appeal
C) Because they are already patented by the WHO
D) Because they are too expensive to register
Explanation: Monopolizing INNs would stifle competition by preventing other firms from identifying their active ingredients properly. Think of them as the scientific 'common language' for drugs globally. Aspirants should remember that these names serve to ensure standardisation, which is why they cannot be claimed by any single entity as a private trademark.

Q6.How did the 2025 PLFS data characterize the wage growth of women compared to men in India?

A) Women experienced faster wage growth than men across all job categories ✓
B) There was no measurable change in wage patterns between genders
C) Women's wages remained completely stagnant
D) Men saw significantly higher salary hikes due to informal sector dominance
Explanation: It's encouraging to see women catching up in terms of salary growth, even if the absolute gap remains a hurdle. While growth rates are higher, it doesn't immediately solve the broader systemic income disparity. In the context of economic development, the PLFS (Periodic Labour Force Survey) is the primary instrument used by the Ministry of Statistics to track these vital employment trends.

Q7.Which of these sectors shows the most alarming disparity in the latest gender wage data?

A) Government jobs, which show a reverse wage gap
B) The salaried sector, where the gap is non-existent
C) Self-employment, where women earn only 36% of male earnings ✓
D) The IT sector, which shows perfect parity
Explanation: Earning barely over a third of what their male counterparts do in self-employment highlights the struggles with access to capital and quality opportunities. This massive figure highlights why the gender gap is about far more than just monthly paycheques. Understanding these labor market trends is essential for answering questions on inclusive economic growth.

Q8.According to the PLFS 2025 survey, what percentage of women were working in salaried jobs compared to the previous year?

A) It remained steady at 25%
B) It vanished as most women moved to casual labour
C) It rose from 16.6% to 18.2% ✓
D) It decreased significantly due to rural migration
Explanation: Shifting toward salaried roles is a positive sign because these jobs generally offer more social security and income predictability. It represents a subtle, slow improvement in the quality of employment for India's female workforce. For your exam prep, keep a note that formalisation of jobs is a key government priority under the current Labour reform roadmap.

Q9.What is one of the primary drivers behind the gender wage gap mentioned in the recent reports?

A) The complete absence of women in the informal labour sector
B) An excess of women in high-ranking administrative roles
C) A lack of interest among women in pursuing formal education
D) Social norms and a disproportionate burden of unpaid care responsibilities ✓
Explanation: Unpaid domestic care responsibilities often force women into flexible but lower-paying or informal roles. It's a structural barrier rather than an issue of ambition or skill. Sociologists often point to this as the 'double burden' that keeps the economic playing field uneven for women in India.

Q10.Regarding the 2025 labor market trends, what happened to rural and urban unemployment rates?

A) Both rates increased sharply
B) Both saw a decline ✓
C) They spiked due to the global economic slowdown
D) They remained static since 2024
Explanation: A dip in unemployment percentages generally points to an improved labor market sentiment across the country. It's worth noting, however, that while unemployment is down, we must still balance that with the slight decrease in labor force participation. These metrics are published by the NSO and are staple fodder for economics questions.

Q11.What primary argument did Novo Nordisk use to differentiate 'Ozempic' from other generic drugs?

A) That the generic makers don't have proper laboratory equipment
B) That it is the only drug approved for children
C) That 'Ozempic' is an invented, unique term deserving of brand protection ✓
D) That it has better solubility than generic variants
Explanation: Brand strength often comes from distinct, invented names that stick in a consumer's mind, and firms will fight tooth and nail to keep that branding singular. When a name is coined specifically for a product, it enjoys broader protection under intellectual property laws. Legal battles like these are perfect examples of why pharmaceutical companies guard their intellectual property portfolios so aggressively.

Q12.Despite patent expirations for some drugs, why is Novo Nordisk still in a competitive fight in India?

A) They are claiming that the Indian healthcare system is inferior
B) They have entered into a monopoly deal with the government
C) They are attempting to ban all exports from India
D) They are seeking to protect newer drugs like Rybelsus ✓
Explanation: They've shifted focus to their newer offerings as the patents for older ones hit their expiry dates. Protecting their pipeline of new, patent-protected drugs is essential to maintaining their revenue model. Keep in mind that for a firm like this, a robust legal team is as vital as their R&D department when operating in emerging markets.

Q13.In the context of the recent trademark case, what did Dr Reddy's reveal about its 'Olymviq' product strategy?

A) That it will be used for weight loss only
B) That they will focus solely on pediatrics
C) That they have not clearly disclosed the specific intended use of the brand ✓
D) That they plan to sell it as an over-the-counter supplement
Explanation: Keeping the brand positioning vague is an unusual tactic that caught observers' attention. Without clear communication on whether it's for diabetes or weight management, market analysts are left guessing the firm's next move. Transparency in labeling is generally a core requirement, making this 'portfolio' approach quite noteworthy for industry watchers.

Q14.What major shift has the PLFS 2025 survey identified regarding women's employment?

A) Women are abandoning formal jobs in favor of freelance work
B) Women are moving from self-employment towards more stable salaried roles ✓
C) There is a massive surge in women choosing early retirement
D) Women are exclusively moving into the agricultural sector
Explanation: Gradually, more women are entering salaried positions, which generally come with better protections. Moving away from casual or self-employed labor is a standard indicator of a maturing economy. It's definitely an area of the survey that helps show where India's economic growth is actually hitting the ground.

Q15.How did the 2025 PLFS data explain the change in casual labour wages for men vs women?

A) Men's wages rose significantly while women's stagnated
B) Casual wages remained identical to the previous year
C) Both groups saw an equal 10% increase
D) Women’s wages increased by 5.4% while men’s wages saw a marginal decline ✓
Explanation: Interestingly, casual labor saw a positive uptick for women even while the male counterparts saw a slight drop in the growth figures. Data like this illustrates that even in lower-tier jobs, trends can shift in unexpected ways based on demand. For your exam notes, just remember that the PLFS breaks down data by these distinct employment categories.

Q16.Which of the following describes the current status of Novo Nordisk's patent for injectable semaglutide in India?

A) It has already expired ✓
B) It was denied by the Supreme Court in 2020
C) It is valid for the next twenty years
D) It is currently under patent protection
Explanation: Since the patent expired, the company has faced a flood of generic competition entering the market. They're forced to switch their legal focus toward protecting newer formulations rather than fighting off competitors for the original injection. Knowing patent life cycles is crucial for questions about corporate law and economic competition in India.

Q17.The Supreme Court’s ruling on drug trademarks is based on the idea that even 'slightest chance of confusion' is problematic. What does this mean for pharma companies?

A) They are legally required to use English-only names
B) They can use the same name for multiple different drug types
C) They can name drugs anything they want as long as they pay a fee
D) They must exercise extreme caution to avoid choosing names that sound like existing brands ✓
Explanation: Risking a 'sounds-like' naming error is a dangerous game that could lead to lawsuits and loss of market authorization. Courts prioritize the consumer's health, so they won't hesitate to block names that pose even a minor risk of pharmacy-level confusion. This underscores the importance of stringent branding protocols in the medical industry.

Q18.Which indicator does the PLFS use to track if individuals are actually in the job market?

A) Consumer Price Index (CPI)
B) Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR) ✓
C) Gross Domestic Product (GDP)
D) Repo Rate
Explanation: LFPR tells us how many people are actually working or actively searching, making it the go-to metric for understanding labor supply. Even when unemployment figures look 'good,' a falling LFPR can actually be a sign that fewer people are even looking for work. Make sure to differentiate this from the Unemployment Rate, as examiners love testing this distinction.

Q19.Why is the informal sector a point of concern in the latest employment reports?

A) Because it pays higher wages than the formal sector
B) Because it is expanding too rapidly for the government to manage
C) Because it is now fully taxed under the new regulations
D) Because wage growth is slowing and job creation momentum is falling ✓
Explanation: A slow-down in the informal sector is worrying because this is where a huge chunk of the workforce, especially women, makes their living. When this sector hits a wall, it disproportionately hits those with the least cushion for financial shocks. Keeping an eye on these micro-economic trends is a great way to deepen your understanding for paper 3 of the Mains.

Q20.What, according to the news, could potentially mitigate the legal risks Dr Reddy's faces regarding its tablet formulation?

A) Using a different chemical composition in terms of salts to distinguish it from patented Rybelsus ✓
B) Applying for a government-granted monopoly
C) Changing the name of the drug to something totally different
D) Proving that Rybelsus is not effective
Explanation: By utilizing different salt compounds, DRL claims their version doesn't violate the specific patents guarding the original drug. It’s a common strategy for generic manufacturers to innovate around existing patents to get their products to market sooner. Always remember that 'Evergreening' is the process big firms use to keep patents alive, which generics like DRL constantly work to overcome.
20 questions — 29 March 2026 Take interactive quiz →
30

30 March 2026 — Current Affairs MCQ

20 questions · with answers

Q1.Which specific agency was responsible for overseeing the oscillation trials of India's inaugural hydrogen trainset?

A) Indian Railways Board
B) Integral Coach Factory
C) Research Designs and Standards Organisation ✓
D) Ministry of Heavy Industries
Explanation: Testing and validation for railway rolling stock typically fall under the purview of this specialized technical wing. It's the standard certification body that ensures new locomotive technologies meet rigorous safety benchmarks before entering service. By the way, the train will operate in Haryana once fully launched.

Q2.The recent defence deal involving P-8I aircraft maintenance was signed with which country?

A) Israel
B) France
C) United States of America ✓
D) Russia
Explanation: Partnering with this nation helps maintain our long-range maritime reconnaissance capabilities effectively. Such cooperation is vital for enhancing the Navy's strategic reach across the Indian Ocean Region, which is currently a priority for our maritime security architecture.

Q3.What is the primary objective of the partnership between DPIIT and KRAFTON India?

A) Improving national power grid stability
B) Promoting rural handicraft exports
C) Facilitating international education exchanges
D) Boosting gaming and deep-tech startup ecosystems ✓
Explanation: Collaborating on emerging tech areas like Esports and AI helps nurture a fresh generation of homegrown digital creators. You'll find that the DPIIT often seeks such industry-specific MoUs to push India's position in the global creative economy.

Q4.The working arrangement signed between India and the EU concerning industrial aviation specifically focuses on which helicopter model?

A) CH-47 Chinook
B) Kamov Ka-226
C) Airbus H125/AS350 ✓
D) HAL Dhruv
Explanation: Manufacturing this particular model in Bengaluru marks a significant milestone for our aerospace industrial capacity. It's interesting to note that aviation standards are regulated under the Aircraft Act of 1934, which is the foundational legislation for this sector in India.

Q5.Meghalaya recently signed an MoU to advance reforms under JJM 2.0. Which ministry oversees the implementation of this mission?

A) Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs
B) Ministry of Jal Shakti ✓
C) Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change
D) Ministry of Rural Development
Explanation: Ensuring clean drinking water for every household is a massive challenge spearheaded by this ministry. It's worth remembering that this flagship initiative aligns with the Sustainable Development Goal 6, focusing on clean water and sanitation.

Q6.Regarding the new 'Port of Refuge' initiative by APSEZ, what is the core purpose of a Port of Refuge according to IMO standards?

A) To facilitate high-speed luxury cruise liners
B) To exclusively host international naval exercises
C) To provide shelter to vessels facing maritime distress ✓
D) To store hazardous industrial waste from ships
Explanation: Providing a safe haven for damaged ships prevents environmental disasters and helps save lives in choppy waters. If you're studying for maritime exams, look up the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) for more context on these protocols.

Q7.The MoU signed by the National Council for Cement and Building Materials (NCB) with UltraTech Cement targets which outcome?

A) Upskilling construction professionals ✓
B) Lowering cement export taxes
C) Establishing new cement factories
D) Reducing coal consumption in production
Explanation: Developing a technically skilled workforce is essential for executing the country's massive infrastructure push over the coming years. This aligns well with the broader Skill India Mission that emphasizes vocational training to bridge the gap between education and industry needs.

Q8.The Delhi Government's initiative to develop the city as a media hub, in partnership with Prasar Bharati, focuses on which key technological integration?

A) AVGC (Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming and Comics) ✓
B) Blockchain in Public Administration
C) Robotics and Space Research
D) Renewable Energy Grid Management
Explanation: Creating a unified hub for post-production and animation will place Delhi at the heart of the digital entertainment industry. You should know that Prasar Bharati serves as the premier statutory public broadcaster of the nation under the Ministry of I&B.

Q9.The UN task force for the Strait of Hormuz will be led by whom?

A) Jorge Moreira da Silva ✓
B) Antonio Guterres
C) None of the above
D) Jean Arnault
Explanation: Tasked with navigating humanitarian supply chain issues, this leadership team coordinates closely with bodies like UNCTAD. Geopolitical stability in this waterway remains a critical global concern given its immense role in international oil and trade transit.

Q10.Which banking act provides the legal framework for the penalties recently imposed by the RBI on several banks?

A) Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881
B) Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934
C) Companies Act, 2013
D) Banking Regulation Act, 1949 ✓
Explanation: Regulatory compliance is non-negotiable, and the central bank strictly enforces these rules to ensure financial sector integrity. Don't forget that Section 47A gives the RBI the teeth it needs to levy fines against errant institutions.

Q11.Tech Mahindra’s collaboration with IIT Bombay aims to create a '3D Digital Twin' of which specific location?

A) Main Administrative Building
B) Research and Innovation Park
C) Gymkhana Building ✓
D) Central Library
Explanation: Building a virtual model allows for sophisticated real-time monitoring and predictive maintenance, making campus management smarter. These projects showcase how academia-industry ties can pioneer advanced applications in spatial computing.

Q12.Who was honoured with the 'Major Dhyan Chand Lifetime Achievement Award' at the 2026 Hockey India Awards?

A) Gurjant Singh
B) Zafar Iqbal ✓
C) Hardik Singh
D) Prince Deep Singh
Explanation: Recognizing legends of the sport inspires younger generations to reach similar heights on the global stage. Interestingly, Major Dhyan Chand is often called 'The Wizard' for his unparalleled control over the ball.

Q13.Who succeeded Hansraj Gangaram Ahir as the Chairperson of the National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC)?

A) None of the above
B) Sadhvi Niranjan Jyoti ✓
C) Bhuvan Bhushan Kamal
D) Kiran Umesh Mahalle
Explanation: This constitutional body plays a vital role in safeguarding the interests of the backward classes within India. It's classified as a constitutional entity, having been granted that status by the 102nd Constitutional Amendment Act of 2018.

Q14.Which player is famously known as 'Mr Backhand' for his signature reverse-stick shots?

A) Manpreet Singh
B) Gurjant Singh ✓
C) P.R. Sreejesh
D) Hardik Singh
Explanation: His remarkable agility on the field contributed to several historic victories, including Olympic medals for our national squad. He announced his retirement recently, leaving behind a legacy of immense discipline and skill.

Q15.World Piano Day is celebrated annually on the 88th day of the year, symbolizing the 88 keys of the instrument. Who established this observation?

A) Hans Zimmer
B) Yanni
C) Ludovico Einaudi
D) Nils Frahm ✓
Explanation: Focusing on the craft and artistry of music, this day brings professionals and hobbyists together under a shared passion. It’s an interesting cultural observance that emphasizes the mathematical symmetry found in musical instruments.

Q16.The Tunguska Air Defence Missile System contract worth Rs. 445 crore was awarded to which country?

A) Germany
B) Russia ✓
C) United States
D) France
Explanation: Securing these defensive assets is crucial for the Indian Army to upgrade its legacy hardware. Most of our high-end defensive equipment has historically been sourced from Moscow, reflecting long-standing bilateral defence cooperation.

Q17.Which company partnered with the DPIIT to provide structured support to startups in the manufacturing and deep-tech sectors?

A) Tech Mahindra
B) KRAFTON
C) Boeing India
D) Repos Energy ✓
Explanation: This platform brings deep-tech expertise that helps small firms scale their operations effectively. It’s an excellent example of government-backed incubation where the state supports private innovation hubs.

Q18.The Hockey India Jugraj Singh Award for the Upcoming Player (U21) in the Men's category was awarded to?

A) Prince Deep Singh ✓
B) Sakshi Rana
C) Gurjant Singh
D) Hardik Singh
Explanation: Recognizing talent at the junior level is the cornerstone of building a sustainable pipeline for the senior national team. Such awards provide the much-needed financial boost for youngsters beginning their professional athletic journey.

Q19.What is the primary objective of the tri-partite MoU involving APSEZ and SMIT Salvage?

A) Improving maritime emergency response capabilities ✓
B) Building a new container terminal
C) Establishing a carbon-neutral shipping lane
D) Training merchant navy officers
Explanation: Pooling expertise from international firms like SMIT Salvage ensures that India’s coasts are well-protected against unexpected industrial accidents. Maritime preparedness is an essential component of 'Blue Economy' strategies under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways.

Q20.The newly signed MoU for reforms under JJM 2.0 encourages the use of which legislation to support water conservation projects?

A) Right to Information Act, 2005
B) Factories Act, 1948
C) Environment Protection Act, 1986
D) MGNREGA, 2005 ✓
Explanation: Integrating local labor resources with infrastructure work is a clever strategy to ensure project longevity at the grassroots level. MGNREGA has consistently been utilized as a tool for creating durable water-harvesting structures across rural districts.
20 questions — 30 March 2026 Take interactive quiz →
31

31 March 2026 — Current Affairs MCQ

20 questions · with answers

Q1.Which specific location in Uttar Pradesh serves as the site for the newly inaugurated Phase I of the Noida International Airport?

A) Meerut
B) Ghaziabad
C) Greater Noida
D) Jewar ✓
Explanation: Situated in the Gautam Buddh Nagar district, this facility is designed to decongest existing infrastructure in the NCR region. It's built through a strategic PPP model, which the government is actively using to attract private capital into large-scale logistics infrastructure.

Q2.Regarding the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) 2025, which group witnessed a reduction in their unemployment rate?

A) Youth aged 15-29 ✓
B) Women in rural areas
C) Informal sector labourers
D) Senior Citizens
Explanation: Youth unemployment figures dipped slightly to 9.9% in 2025, suggesting a gradual improvement in workforce integration for this demographic. Note that this data is published by the NSO under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, which acts as the nodal agency for all socio-economic statistical collection in the country.

Q3.The 'Telangana Peace Declaration' was a major outcome of which global event held in March 2026?

A) World Buddhist Peace Conference ✓
B) Global South Summit
C) Indo-Vietnam Cultural Meet
D) UNESCO Heritage Congress
Explanation: Hosted in Hyderabad and Buddhavanam, this summit focused on inner ethical transformation to promote harmony worldwide. Since it's linked to the UN's Sustainable Development Goals regarding peace, such diplomatic cultural exchanges are frequent fodder for UPSC ethics-related inquiries.

Q4.India assumed the chairmanship of the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS) for which term after the 2026 maritime exercise?

A) 2026-2028 ✓
B) 2026-2030
C) 2025-2027
D) 2026-2027
Explanation: Leadership of this naval body signifies India's growing role in maintaining maritime security within the Indian Ocean region. Interestingly, IONS was launched back in 2008, and it provides a critical forum for littoral states to collaborate on non-traditional threats like piracy and disaster response.

Q5.What was the primary objective behind the awareness campaign organized by MoEFCC and WWF-India regarding 'Earth Hour' in March 2026?

A) Encouraging a switch to solar energy
B) Protecting tiger corridors
C) Reducing ocean plastic pollution
D) Promoting sustainable lifestyle choices ✓
Explanation: Collaborating with local educational institutes, the outreach aimed to foster environmental stewardship among the youth. This event highlights India's commitment to the EIACP framework, which integrates capacity building with grassroots conservation efforts.

Q6.The Indian Army's recent contract with JCB India for telescopic handlers marks a milestone for which procurement method?

A) Direct Global Tendering
B) Local MSME emergency order
C) Defense Acquisition Council special bypass
D) Government e-Marketplace (GeM) ✓
Explanation: Buying through the GeM portal simplifies the acquisition of non-lethal equipment while ensuring full transparency and competitive bidding. This platform, governed by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, is rapidly becoming the standard for all government-to-business transactions in India.

Q7.What does the 2026 UNESCO Global Education Monitoring (GEM) report suggest regarding progress toward universal secondary education completion?

A) Progress is on track for 2030
B) Only two-thirds of students finish secondary school ✓
C) Completion rates have dropped since 2000
D) Regional inequality has disappeared
Explanation: Global statistics reveal that despite significant growth in enrollment, reaching full secondary completion by 2030 remains a daunting challenge. Keep in mind that SDG 4 remains a key focus for international development agencies monitoring global equality indices.

Q8.What is the primary duration covered under the RBI’s recently unveiled 'Payment Vision 2028' document?

A) Until December 2028 ✓
B) Until June 2028
C) For 5 years
D) Until March 2028
Explanation: Covering a three-year span, this roadmap focuses heavily on making digital transactions safer and more efficient. The central bank has consistently used such long-term vision documents since 2001 to signal policy stability for the evolving fintech industry.

Q9.Sheetal Devi, recently awarded the World Archery Para Archer of the Year 2025, hails from which Indian Union Territory?

A) Delhi
B) Ladakh
C) Jammu and Kashmir ✓
D) Chandigarh
Explanation: Proving that sheer determination overcomes any physical obstacle, she's made history on the global stage. Recognition like this is crucial for the promotion of adaptive sports under India's broader commitment to the Paralympic movement.

Q10.The 'Prakash Kardaley Memorial Awards' presented during the 20th RNG Excellence in Journalism ceremony recognize achievements in which field?

A) Regional documentary filmmaking
B) Political editorial columns
C) Civic journalism ✓
D) Broadcast investigative reporting
Explanation: Celebrating work that brings public concerns into the spotlight, these awards honor the legacy of a legendary editor from the Indian Express group. Journalists often vie for these honors because they recognize impactful ground reporting that drives policy changes.

Q11.The Celeste mission satellites launched by the European Space Agency aim to supplement which existing navigation system?

A) Glonass
B) GPS
C) Galileo ✓
D) BeiDou
Explanation: Integrating LEO satellites adds a fresh, more resilient layer to the current MEO-based infrastructure used for positioning services. ESA’s efforts underscore the European shift towards diversifying its space assets to ensure navigational sovereignty.

Q12.Who made history at the 2026 Japanese Grand Prix by becoming the youngest F1 championship leader?

A) Andrea Kimi Antonelli ✓
B) Lewis Hamilton
C) Charles Leclerc
D) Oscar Piastri
Explanation: Clocking in back-to-back victories has vaulted this talented driver to the forefront of motor racing headlines this season. Formula One remains a high-stakes, technology-intensive sport where such young talents often redefine professional limits.

Q13.Dr. Vijaypat Singhania, who passed away in March 2026, was notably recognized for his aviation world record in which specific activity?

A) Solo jet speed flying
B) Hot air ballooning ✓
C) Cross-continental microlight flight
D) Helicopter acrobatics
Explanation: Setting a sky-high altitude record in 2005 solidified his status as an adventurer far beyond his corporate role at Raymond. Beyond the cockpit, his service as the Sheriff of Mumbai and honorary Air Commodore remains part of his distinguished legacy.

Q14.What is the official 2026 theme for the International Day of Zero Waste?

A) Circular Electronics
B) Food Waste ✓
C) Ocean Plastics
D) Sustainable Cities
Explanation: Tackling the environmental burden caused by discarded sustenance is the core message this year. Coordinated by UNEP and UN-Habitat, the observance helps highlight that domestic habits are essential to achieving the 2030 development agenda.

Q15.Which collaboration model was used to develop the Noida International Airport's Phase I?

A) Foreign Direct Ownership
B) BOOT (Build, Own, Operate, Transfer)
C) Public-Private Partnership (PPP) ✓
D) Direct State Funding
Explanation: Working alongside a Swiss entity, this infrastructure project is a prime example of leveraging international expertise to expand India's transport capacity. Such partnerships are vital for meeting the objectives of the 'Viksit Bharat' mission as outlined by the government.

Q16.In the context of the NSO report, what trend was observed in the percentage of self-employed individuals in 2025?

A) Unchanged
B) A slight increase
C) A downward shift ✓
D) A sharp surge
Explanation: Data suggests that as the formal job market gains strength, the share of individuals classified as self-employed has seen a dip compared to the previous year. Understanding these employment shifts is essential for candidates prepping for economy-based questions in competitive exams.

Q17.Which district in Telangana hosted a segment of the World Buddhist Peace Conference 2026 at Buddhavanam?

A) Rangareddy
B) Medak
C) Warangal
D) Nalgonda ✓
Explanation: Serving as a major hub for this international assembly, Buddhavanam has been identified as a key location to develop into a global peace destination. The state tourism corporation played a pivotal role in ensuring the logistics of this multi-day international forum.

Q18.Which countries were among the participants in the Indian Navy’s IMEX TTX 2026 exercise held in Kochi?

A) United States and Japan
B) Bangladesh, France, and Indonesia ✓
C) Russia and China
D) Germany and Brazil
Explanation: Bringing together a diverse group of navies from the Indian Ocean region, the exercise used simulated environments to refine cooperative strategies. These regional dialogues are crucial for maintaining peace along the world's most congested trade lanes.

Q19.What is the primary function of the telescopic handlers being procured by the Indian Army from JCB India?

A) High-altitude weaponry storage
B) Anti-mine detection
C) Rapid field medical transport
D) Logistics and heavy material lifting ✓
Explanation: These rugged machines are specially designed to improve efficiency in difficult forward areas where manual labor is physically impossible. This procurement reflects the Army’s ongoing modernization drive, prioritizing tools that enhance operational readiness.

Q20.The Celeste mission, aiming to improve PNT services, specifically targets which orbit?

A) Geostationary Orbit (GEO)
B) Low Earth Orbit (LEO) ✓
C) Medium Earth Orbit (MEO)
D) Sun-Synchronous Orbit (SSO)
Explanation: Testing a constellation at this lower altitude aims to increase signal strength and precision for navigation technologies globally. ESA's move to modernize their architectural approach suggests a competitive shift toward more modular, agile satellite networks.
20 questions — 31 March 2026 Take interactive quiz →

About March 2026 Current Affairs for Competitive Exams

This page compiles all March 2026 current affairs MCQ questions with answers published on DailyGK — 31 quizzes and 620+ questions in total. Each question is drawn from that day's most important national and international news, verified for accuracy, and paired with a detailed explanation.

March 2026 current affairs is directly relevant for exams scheduled later in 2026, including UPSC Prelims GS-1, SSC CGL and CHSL General Awareness, RRB NTPC General Knowledge, IBPS PO, and most state PSC examinations. Most exams test current affairs from the preceding 6–12 months, making March high-priority revision material.

For topic-wise revision alongside these current affairs questions, explore the static GK sets: Indian Polity, Indian Economy, Science & Technology, Indian History, and Indian Geography. Combining daily current affairs with static topic revision gives you the strongest preparation base.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many current affairs questions are there for March 2026?

DailyGK published 31 daily quizzes for March 2026, totalling 620+ MCQ questions — each with a full answer key and explanation. A new quiz was published every day throughout the month.

Is March 2026 current affairs important for UPSC Prelims?

Yes. UPSC Prelims tests current affairs from the past 12 months. March 2026 is directly within the revision window for most upcoming UPSC Prelims exams. Focus on government policy decisions, appointments, international summits, and science & technology events from the month.

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Each individual daily quiz on DailyGK has a "Download as PDF" button after you complete it — generating a clean PDF of all questions, answers, and explanations from that day. For the full month, bookmark this page and use your browser's print/save-as-PDF function.

How do I practice March 2026 current affairs MCQ for SSC CGL?

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