1. What significant milestone was recently achieved by ISRO’s Gaganyaan-2 mission, involving the crucial crew module re-entry tests?
A) Successful orbital insertion of the full crew module with astronauts
B) Completion of high-altitude abort test (HAAT) for crew safety
C) Successful atmospheric re-entry and splashdown of an uncrewed crew module
D) Integration of the service module with the propulsion system
Correct answer: C) Successful atmospheric re-entry and splashdown of an uncrewed crew module Notes: ISRO’s Gaganyaan-2 mission recently achieved a critical step towards human spaceflight capability with the successful atmospheric re-entry and controlled splashdown of an uncrewed crew module prototype in the Bay of Bengal. This test, conducted from a sub-orbital trajectory, validated key technologies related to heat shield performance, parachute deployment sequence, and recovery operations. It provides vital data for refining the re-entry trajectory and ensuring the safety of astronauts during their return to Earth. This success marks a significant advancement for India’s ambitious human spaceflight program, moving closer to the eventual manned mission. The data gathered is crucial for the final design and operational procedures.
2. Which international organization recently concluded its annual summit in Tashkent, focusing on regional security, counter-terrorism, and economic cooperation among member states?
A) BRICS
B) G20
C) Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO)
D) ASEAN
Correct answer: C) Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Notes: The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) recently concluded its annual Heads of State Summit in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. The summit focused on enhancing regional security, strengthening mechanisms for counter-terrorism efforts, and deepening economic cooperation among its member nations, which include India, China, Russia, and several Central Asian states. Key discussions revolved around shared security challenges, promoting trade and investment, and fostering cultural exchanges. The leaders emphasized the importance of multilateralism and addressing global issues collectively. India actively participated in the deliberations, highlighting its commitment to regional stability and connectivity initiatives within the SCO framework. The Tashkent Declaration outlined future areas of cooperation.
3. A major global initiative to establish ‘Blue Carbon’ markets for marine ecosystem restoration was launched at the recent UN Climate Change Conference (COP30). What are ‘Blue Carbon’ ecosystems primarily known for?
A) Their role in increasing ocean acidity
B) Their exceptional capacity to capture and store atmospheric carbon
C) Their use in developing new forms of marine biotechnology
D) Their contribution to deep-sea mining operations
Correct answer: B) Their exceptional capacity to capture and store atmospheric carbon Notes: ‘Blue Carbon’ ecosystems, such as mangroves, salt marshes, and seagrass meadows, are globally recognized for their remarkable ability to sequester and store significant amounts of atmospheric carbon dioxide. They play a crucial role in mitigating climate change by locking carbon away in their biomass and sediments for centuries. The major global initiative launched at COP30 aims to create ‘Blue Carbon’ markets, providing financial incentives for the conservation and restoration of these vital coastal and marine habitats. This mechanism seeks to mobilize investment into natural climate solutions, recognizing their dual benefits for biodiversity protection and carbon sequestration, ultimately supporting climate action goals. The initiative underscores the growing importance of ocean-based climate solutions.
4. The Indian government recently announced the ‘National Cyber Security Policy 2025’. Which of the following is NOT a primary objective of this new policy?
A) Strengthening critical information infrastructure protection
B) Promoting indigenous cyber security product development
C) Establishing a universal social media monitoring framework
D) Enhancing international cooperation on cyber threats
Correct answer: C) Establishing a universal social media monitoring framework Notes: The ‘National Cyber Security Policy 2025’, recently unveiled by the Indian government, has several key objectives aimed at bolstering the nation’s digital defenses. Its primary goals include strengthening the protection of critical information infrastructure, promoting the development and adoption of indigenous cyber security products and services, fostering research and development, building capacity through skill development, and enhancing international cooperation to combat trans-border cyber threats. While the policy addresses overall cyber hygiene and threat intelligence, establishing a universal social media monitoring framework is not explicitly stated as a primary objective. The focus remains on securing digital assets and fostering a resilient cyber ecosystem for all citizens and organizations.
5. A major international consortium recently announced a significant multi-billion dollar investment in India, specifically targeting the expansion of which sector for clean energy transition?
A) Traditional coal-fired power plants
B) Green hydrogen production and infrastructure
C) Petroleum refining capabilities
D) Nuclear fission research facilities
Correct answer: B) Green hydrogen production and infrastructure Notes: A consortium of leading global investors recently committed a multi-billion dollar investment towards expanding India’s green hydrogen production and related infrastructure. This significant infusion of capital underscores India’s growing prominence as a hub for renewable energy and its ambitious targets for achieving net-zero emissions. The funds are earmarked for developing large-scale electrolyser manufacturing, setting up green hydrogen production facilities, and establishing storage and distribution networks across the country. This investment is crucial for decarbonizing hard-to-abate sectors like steel, cement, and fertilizers, positioning India as a global leader in the clean energy transition and creating numerous job opportunities in the sustainable energy sector. It aligns with India’s National Green Hydrogen Mission goals.
