1. What is the name of India’s recently deployed advanced Venus orbiter mission, successfully completing its critical orbital insertion maneuver to study Venus’s atmosphere and surface?
A) Mangalyaan-2
B) Chandrayaan-4
C) Shukrayaan-2
D) Aditya-L2
Correct answer: C) Shukrayaan-2 Notes: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) announced on December 3, 2025, the successful orbital insertion of its highly anticipated “Shukrayaan-2” mission around Venus. This advanced orbiter, building on India’s successful interplanetary missions, is equipped with a suite of sophisticated instruments designed to conduct an in-depth study of Venus’s dense atmosphere, surface features, and geological processes. The mission’s primary objectives include mapping the planet’s surface, analyzing atmospheric composition, and understanding its thermal and volcanic activity, providing crucial data for global planetary science research. This achievement marks a significant milestone for India in deep space exploration.
2. Which new regional trade and investment agreement, recently ratified by India along with key ASEAN nations, Australia, and South Korea, focuses on resilient supply chains and digital trade standards?
A) Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP)
B) Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP)
C) Indo-Pacific Economic Cooperation Framework (IPECF)
D) Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad)
Correct answer: C) Indo-Pacific Economic Cooperation Framework (IPECF) Notes: India has formally ratified the newly established “Indo-Pacific Economic Cooperation Framework (IPECF),” marking a significant step towards bolstering economic ties and stability in the region. This groundbreaking agreement, which includes key ASEAN member states, Australia, and South Korea, aims to create robust and resilient supply chains, promote fair trade practices, and set high standards for digital trade and sustainable economic growth. The ratification underscores India’s commitment to deeper economic integration and collaborative prosperity within the Indo-Pacific, enhancing its strategic presence and influence in crucial global value chains. IPECF is seen as a key pillar for future regional economic architecture.
3. The recently concluded COP30 summit in Manaus, Brazil, established a new multi-billion dollar fund with participating nations committing to specific targets for ecological restoration. What is this initiative primarily focused on?
A) Arctic Ice Cap Preservation Fund
B) Global Ocean Plastic Cleanup Drive
C) Amazon Reforestation Initiative
D) Saharan Greening Project
Correct answer: C) Amazon Reforestation Initiative Notes: The landmark COP30 climate summit, hosted in Manaus, Brazil, concluded with the unanimous establishment of the “Amazon Reforestation Initiative.” This crucial program is backed by a multi-billion dollar fund, with significant pledges from member nations committed to reversing deforestation and undertaking massive ecological restoration efforts across the Amazon basin. The initiative sets specific, measurable targets for reforestation and sustainable land management, aiming to protect one of the world’s most vital carbon sinks and biodiversity hotspots. This agreement is hailed as a pivotal moment in global climate action, recognizing the Amazon’s critical role in regulating the Earth’s climate system.
4. The Ministry of Finance recently launched “Gram Samriddhi Abhiyan.” What is the primary objective of this new national program?
A) Promoting urban infrastructure development in Smart Cities.
B) Enhancing rural infrastructure, promoting agro-based industries, and providing skill development for rural youth.
C) Digitizing land records across all metropolitan areas.
D) Providing universal healthcare access in all district hospitals.
Correct answer: B) Enhancing rural infrastructure, promoting agro-based industries, and providing skill development for rural youth. Notes: The Ministry of Finance has unveiled “Gram Samriddhi Abhiyan,” a comprehensive national program designed to invigorate India’s rural economy. The initiative’s core objectives include significant investment in rural infrastructure, such as roads, connectivity, and storage facilities, alongside robust support for agro-based industries. Furthermore, a major component of the program focuses on skill development for rural youth, equipping them with modern competencies to participate in the evolving economic landscape. Initially launched across 500 districts, the Abhiyan aims to create sustainable livelihoods and foster holistic development in India’s villages, reducing urban-rural disparity and promoting self-reliance.
5. Which Indian city has been provisionally selected by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to host the 2036 Summer Olympics, following a rigorous evaluation process?
A) New Delhi
B) Mumbai
C) Bengaluru
D) Ahmedabad
Correct answer: D) Ahmedabad Notes: The International Olympic Committee (IOC) officially confirmed on December 3, 2025, that Ahmedabad, India, has been provisionally selected as the host city for the 2036 Summer Olympics. This historic decision comes after an extensive evaluation of Ahmedabad’s proposed infrastructure, sustainable development plans, and its readiness to host a global event of this magnitude. The bid emphasized the city’s modern sports facilities, planned green initiatives, and India’s growing economic prowess. This marks a monumental achievement for India, positioning it on the global sports stage and promising significant economic and cultural impetus for the entire nation in the run-up to 2036.
