1. Which global forum recently adopted a landmark resolution, significantly shaped by India’s proposals, establishing a comprehensive international framework for ethical Artificial Intelligence (AI) governance and responsible innovation?
A) World Economic Forum (WEF)
B) United Nations General Assembly (UNGA)
C) G7 Summit
D) European Union Parliament
Correct answer: B) United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) Notes: The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) recently adopted a groundbreaking resolution on artificial intelligence, championing a global approach to ensure AI systems are safe, secure, and trustworthy. India played a pivotal role in drafting and promoting this resolution, advocating for a balanced framework that fosters innovation while addressing ethical concerns, human rights, and potential misuse. This initiative underscores a collective commitment from member states to develop common principles for the responsible development and deployment of AI technologies, aiming to bridge the digital divide and ensure equitable access to AI’s benefits for all nations, particularly developing ones. The framework emphasizes transparency, accountability, and multi-stakeholder collaboration in AI governance.
2. India’s “National Green Hydrogen Mission” has seen recent advancements with the launch of “Project Surya Kiran.” What is the primary focus of this new initiative?
A) Establishment of large-scale solar power parks in desert regions.
B) Development of decentralized green hydrogen production units for rural areas.
C) Promoting electric vehicle adoption through charging infrastructure expansion.
D) Research and development into advanced battery storage solutions.
Correct answer: B) Development of decentralized green hydrogen production units for rural areas. Notes: “Project Surya Kiran” is a significant new initiative under India’s ambitious National Green Hydrogen Mission, launched in early 2026. Its core objective is to accelerate the development and deployment of decentralized, small-scale green hydrogen production units, particularly targeting rural and remote regions across the country. This strategy aims to reduce reliance on fossil fuels in localized energy grids, promote energy self-sufficiency in villages, and create new economic opportunities through hydrogen-based applications in agriculture and small industries. The project leverages India’s abundant renewable energy resources to produce green hydrogen, contributing directly to the nation’s decarbonization goals and energy transition roadmap. It represents a strategic step towards making green hydrogen accessible and economically viable at the grassroots level.
3. India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) recently announced a major breakthrough in the field of ultra-secure communication. Which advanced technology did they successfully demonstrate for strategic defence applications?
A) Hypersonic data transfer protocols
B) Satellite-based laser communication
C) Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) over long distances
D) Terahertz wireless communication systems
Correct answer: C) Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) over long distances Notes: The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has achieved a significant milestone by successfully demonstrating Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) over unprecedented long distances, specifically tailored for strategic defence applications. QKD is a highly secure communication method that utilizes the principles of quantum mechanics to ensure unbreakable encryption. This breakthrough allows for the secure exchange of cryptographic keys, making it virtually impossible for eavesdroppers to intercept without detection. This advancement is crucial for India’s national security, providing an impervious layer of communication for critical military and governmental operations, protecting sensitive data from sophisticated cyber threats and future quantum attacks. It positions India among the few nations with advanced capabilities in quantum communication technology.
4. The recent BRICS+ summit, concluded on March 19, 2026, saw extensive discussions on a major initiative aimed at de-dollarization and fostering intra-bloc trade. What was this key economic agenda item?
A) Establishment of a unified BRICS digital currency for trade settlements.
B) Launch of a BRICS Free Trade Agreement encompassing all member nations.
C) Formation of a joint BRICS investment fund for infrastructure projects.
D) Expansion of the New Development Bank’s lending capacity to non-member states.
Correct answer: A) Establishment of a unified BRICS digital currency for trade settlements. Notes: The BRICS+ summit, held just yesterday, March 19, 2026, focused heavily on discussions regarding the creation of a unified BRICS digital currency. This ambitious initiative aims to facilitate direct trade settlements among member nations, reducing reliance on the US dollar and enhancing financial autonomy. Proponents argue that such a currency would streamline cross-border transactions, lower conversion costs, and provide a more stable alternative in a volatile global financial landscape. While the technical and regulatory frameworks are still being developed, the consensus at the summit underscored a strong political will among BRICS+ members to move forward with this economic integration project, signaling a significant shift in global financial architecture and promoting multilateralism in trade.
5. Which city has been officially confirmed as the host for the 2038 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games, marking a historic return to the region for the global sporting event?
A) Salt Lake City, USA
B) Sapporo, Japan
C) Vancouver, Canada
D) Aosta Valley, Italy
Correct answer: A) Salt Lake City, USA Notes: Salt Lake City, Utah, USA, has been officially confirmed by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) as the host for the 2038 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games. This decision marks a historic return for the global sporting spectacle to the city, which previously hosted the Winter Games in 2002. The bid highlighted the city’s existing world-class venues, robust infrastructure, and a strong commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. The choice reflects the IOC’s strategy to prioritize bids that leverage existing facilities, minimizing construction costs and environmental impact, and ensuring a lasting legacy for the host region. The announcement was met with enthusiasm, emphasizing community engagement and the promotion of winter sports culture.