1. Which nation successfully deployed the ‘Artemis IV’ lunar gateway module on March 9, 2026, marking a critical step towards sustained human presence on the Moon?
A) China
B) United States
C) European Space Agency
D) India
Correct answer: B) United States Notes: The successful deployment of the ‘Artemis IV’ lunar gateway module by the United States on March 9, 2026, marks a pivotal moment in international space exploration. This module, part of NASA’s ambitious Artemis program, is designed to serve as a critical multi-purpose outpost orbiting the Moon, significantly facilitating future missions to the lunar surface and potentially beyond. It provides essential docking ports for incoming spacecraft, enhanced habitats for astronauts, and a state-of-the-art laboratory for scientific research. This milestone brings humanity closer to establishing a permanent off-world presence, underscoring global efforts and fostering unprecedented international collaboration in deep space endeavors.
2. The recently signed ‘Indo-Pacific Green Partnership’ agreement, focusing on renewable energy and sustainable development, includes which of the following countries as a key founding member alongside India, launched on March 8, 2026?
A) Japan, Australia, South Korea
B) Vietnam, Philippines, Indonesia
C) Germany, France, Italy
D) South Africa, Brazil, Argentina
Correct answer: A) Japan, Australia, South Korea Notes: The ‘Indo-Pacific Green Partnership,’ formally launched on March 8, 2026, represents a significant diplomatic and environmental initiative. Beyond India, key founding members include Japan, Australia, and South Korea, aiming to foster collaboration on renewable energy projects, green infrastructure development, and sustainable resource management across the Indo-Pacific region. This partnership seeks to counter climate change challenges while promoting economic stability and regional cooperation, particularly in critical sectors like green technology transfer and capacity building. It underscores a collective commitment to a sustainable and resilient future in a geopolitically crucial area.
3. Which organization recently published the ‘Global Biodiversity Outlook 6’ report on March 7, 2026, highlighting critical targets missed and new strategies for 2030 biodiversity conservation?
A) World Wildlife Fund (WWF)
B) United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)
C) Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) Secretariat
D) Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC)
Correct answer: C) Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) Secretariat Notes: The ‘Global Biodiversity Outlook 6’ (GBO-6) report, released by the Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) on March 7, 2026, provides a stark assessment of the global progress towards biodiversity targets. It critically evaluates the achievements and failures since the adoption of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework in 2022, detailing how many critical goals for halting and reversing biodiversity loss by 2030 remain off track. The report outlines urgent new strategies, policy recommendations, and increased funding mechanisms necessary for nations to accelerate their conservation efforts and meet the ambitious goals for a nature-positive future.
4. The Indian government recently launched the “Digital Seva Setu 2.0” scheme on March 9, 2026, primarily aimed at enhancing which of the following?
A) Rural sports infrastructure and talent development
B) Digital delivery of government services in remote areas
C) Promotion of traditional Indian arts and crafts internationally
D) Financial literacy and inclusion for urban poor
Correct answer: B) Digital delivery of government services in remote areas Notes: The “Digital Seva Setu 2.0” scheme, inaugurated by the Indian government on March 9, 2026, is a significant upgrade to its predecessor, primarily focusing on revolutionizing the digital delivery of government services, especially in remote and underserved areas. This enhanced initiative leverages advanced connectivity and user-friendly interfaces to ensure citizens can access essential services like land records, pension applications, and utility payments without needing to travel to district headquarters. It aims to bridge the digital divide, empower rural populations through improved access to governance, and streamline administrative processes, thus fostering greater transparency and efficiency in public service delivery.
5. Which Indian classical dance form was recently inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity on March 8, 2026?
A) Kathakali
B) Odissi
C) Sattriya
D) Manipuri
Correct answer: C) Sattriya Notes: The Sattriya dance, a vibrant and spiritual classical dance-drama from Assam, India, was officially inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity on March 8, 2026. This recognition highlights its profound cultural significance, rooted in the 15th-century Vaishnavite Bhakti movement initiated by Srimanta Sankaradeva. Sattriya encompasses music, dance, and drama, traditionally performed by male monks (Bhokots) in monastic institutions (Sattras), though now widely performed by women as well. Its inscription ensures global visibility, promoting its preservation, dissemination, and recognition as a valuable component of shared human heritage.
