Daily Current Affairs: 14-12-2025 | Prelim Booster

Correct answer: B.
Notes: The ‘Gagan-3’ mission represents a monumental leap for India’s space program, as it marks the nation’s first successful crewed mission to an indigenously developed orbital research station. This achievement positions India among a select group of countries capable of independent human spaceflight operations beyond low Earth orbit. The mission focused on conducting microgravity experiments, testing advanced life support systems, and demonstrating long-duration orbital residency capabilities. This success is a culmination of years of dedicated research and development by ISRO, fostering self-reliance and technological prowess in the critical domain of space exploration and establishing a permanent human presence in space for scientific advancement.

Correct answer: C.
Notes: The “Global Treaty on Marine Biodiversity Conservation,” also known as the High Seas Treaty, was recently adopted at a significant UN Summit in Geneva. This landmark agreement aims to protect marine life in areas beyond national jurisdiction, often referred to as the high seas. A core objective of the treaty is to designate and manage marine protected areas (MPAs) in international waters, with a specific target of conserving at least 30% of global oceans by 2030. It also establishes frameworks for environmental impact assessments and equitable sharing of benefits from marine genetic resources, representing a crucial step towards safeguarding fragile ocean ecosystems against overexploitation, pollution, and climate change impacts.

Correct answer: B.
Notes: The “Digital Bharat Infrastructure Fund” (DBIF) has been approved by the Union Cabinet with the ambitious goal of significantly accelerating the deployment of advanced 5G and emerging 6G telecommunication technologies throughout India. A key focus of the fund is bridging the pervasive digital divide that currently affects rural and underserved regions. By leveraging public-private partnerships, the DBIF aims to expand digital connectivity, ensuring equitable access to high-speed internet. This initiative is crucial for fostering digital inclusion, enabling remote education, telemedicine, and e-governance services, thereby boosting economic growth and integrating marginalized communities into the digital mainstream, aligning with the vision of a digitally empowered India.

Correct answer: B.
Notes: The successful test-firing of the “AstraMark-II” missile marks a pivotal enhancement in India’s air defence capabilities, specifically in the domain of beyond-visual-range (BVR) air-to-air combat. This advanced missile system is designed to engage enemy aircraft at long distances, significantly improving the reach and effectiveness of Indian fighter jets. Developed indigenously by DRDO, the AstraMark-II boasts superior guidance systems, enhanced range, and increased maneuverability compared to its predecessors. This development not only bolsters national security by providing a critical strategic asset but also reinforces the ‘Make in India’ initiative in the defence sector, reducing reliance on foreign imports and positioning India as a formidable player in advanced missile technology.

Correct answer: C.
Notes: The “Swasthya Nari, Samarth Bharat” initiative is a comprehensive nationwide program specifically designed to address critical issues related to women’s reproductive health and nutritional well-being, particularly in the rural heartlands of India. Recognizing the profound impact of women’s health on family and national development, this scheme focuses on providing accessible healthcare services, promoting maternal and child health, combating anaemia and malnutrition, and raising awareness about hygiene and family planning. It integrates various existing health programs and introduces new outreach efforts through community health workers. The initiative aims to empower women by ensuring their holistic health, thereby contributing to a stronger and more resilient Indian society.