1. India’s ‘Samudrayaan Mission’ recently achieved a significant milestone by successfully deploying its indigenous deep-sea submersible ‘Matsya 6000’ for crewed exploration. What is the primary objective of this mission?
A. To study deep-sea seismic activity and earthquake prediction.
B. To explore mineral resources like polymetallic nodules in the central Indian Ocean.
C. To conduct marine biodiversity surveys and discover new species.
D. To establish India’s first underwater research station for long-term studies.
Correct answer: B. Notes: India’s ‘Samudrayaan Mission,’ part of the broader Deep Ocean Mission, aims to develop indigenous capabilities for deep-sea exploration. The recent successful deployment of ‘Matsya 6000’ is a crucial step towards understanding the potential of the deep ocean. Its primary objective focuses on exploring polymetallic nodules, hydrothermal sulfides, and gas hydrates in the Central Indian Ocean Basin. These resources hold significant economic value and are vital for various industries. The mission also seeks to advance India’s technological prowess in oceanography, robotics, and marine biology, positioning the nation as a leader in sustainable ocean resource management and scientific research. This initiative aligns with global efforts towards blue economy principles and sustainable development goals.
2. Which international organization recently hosted a high-level summit focused on developing a unified global framework for responsible AI governance, amidst growing concerns over AI’s ethical implications and potential misuse?
A. United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)
B. Group of Seven (G7)
C. Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD)
D. International Telecommunication Union (ITU)
Correct answer: C. Notes: The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) recently held a crucial summit to address the pressing need for a unified global framework for Artificial Intelligence (AI) governance. With rapid advancements in AI technology, concerns regarding data privacy, bias, accountability, and the potential for misuse have escalated. The OECD, known for its recommendations on AI principles since 2019, aims to foster international cooperation in developing ethical guidelines, regulatory standards, and best practices that promote trustworthy AI while mitigating risks. This summit brought together policymakers, industry leaders, and experts to forge consensus on common approaches, ensuring that AI development benefits humanity responsibly and equitably across member nations and beyond, preventing a fragmented global regulatory landscape.
3. The Indian government recently launched the ‘Pradhan Mantri Jan Aushadhi Utkarsh Yojana’ (PMJAUY). What is the main objective of this new scheme?
A. To provide financial assistance for higher education to economically weaker sections.
B. To promote the use of traditional Indian medicine systems across rural areas.
C. To enhance the accessibility and affordability of quality generic medicines for all citizens.
D. To support small and marginal farmers with modern agricultural equipment.
Correct answer: C. Notes: The ‘Pradhan Mantri Jan Aushadhi Utkarsh Yojana’ (PMJAUY) is an extension and enhancement of the existing Jan Aushadhi Pariyojana, aiming to further expand the network of Jan Aushadhi Kendras (J.A.K.s) across the country. Its core objective is to ensure the widespread availability of high-quality, affordable generic medicines, making healthcare more accessible and economical for all sections of society, especially the poor and marginalized. The scheme emphasizes creating awareness about generic drugs, reducing out-of-pocket expenditure on medicines, and promoting rational drug therapy. By strengthening the supply chain and expanding reach, PMJAUY seeks to empower patients and relieve the financial burden of healthcare, contributing significantly to public health welfare and social equity.
4. In a recent significant development in environmental policy, which Indian state government passed a landmark ‘Climate Resilience Act 2026’ aiming to integrate climate adaptation and mitigation strategies across all state-level planning and infrastructure projects?
A. Gujarat
B. Maharashtra
C. Kerala
D. Uttarakhand
Correct answer: B. Notes: The Maharashtra state government recently enacted a pioneering ‘Climate Resilience Act 2026,’ making it one of the first Indian states to legislate a comprehensive framework for climate action. This landmark act mandates the integration of climate adaptation and mitigation strategies into all future state-level planning, infrastructure development, and policy-making. It focuses on building climate-resilient infrastructure, promoting renewable energy, enhancing disaster preparedness, and protecting vulnerable ecosystems. The act establishes a dedicated Climate Change Council to oversee its implementation, monitor progress, and ensure cross-sectoral coordination. This proactive legislative step reflects Maharashtra’s commitment to addressing the growing challenges of climate change, safeguarding its natural resources, and ensuring sustainable development for its citizens.
5. India recently celebrated the launch of the ‘Bharat Shakti Exercise 2026’, showcasing the integrated capabilities of the Indian Armed Forces. Which city or region typically serves as the primary venue for such large-scale tri-service live-fire and manoeuvre exercises?
A. Pokhran, Rajasthan
B. Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh
C. Andaman & Nicobar Islands
D. Leh, Ladakh
Correct answer: A. Notes: The ‘Bharat Shakti Exercise’ is a monumental tri-service live-fire and manoeuvre exercise that showcases the cutting-edge capabilities, interoperability, and combined might of the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. These large-scale demonstrations, involving a wide array of indigenous weapon systems and platforms, are typically conducted in the desert firing ranges of Pokhran, Rajasthan. The vast expanse and varied terrain of Pokhran provide an ideal environment for simulating complex battlefield scenarios, allowing the armed forces to test their readiness, refine operational doctrines, and demonstrate their deterrent capabilities. This exercise underscores India’s commitment to self-reliance in defence, modernizing its military, and ensuring national security through robust, integrated defence preparedness.
