1. India recently inaugurated the ‘Surya Shakti’ project, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at significantly boosting the nation’s capacity in which energy sector?
A) Quantum Computing for Energy Optimization
B) Advanced Nuclear Fusion Research
C) Grid-scale Solar Energy Storage and Transmission
D) Geothermal Power Generation
Correct answer: C) Grid-scale Solar Energy Storage and Transmission Notes: The ‘Surya Shakti’ project, unveiled by the Prime Minister, marks a pivotal moment in India’s renewable energy journey. It focuses on developing and deploying advanced battery storage solutions and smart grid technologies to efficiently store surplus solar energy generated during peak hours and distribute it during non-peak times. This ambitious initiative includes the construction of several massive solar-plus-storage parks across states like Rajasthan and Gujarat, aiming to stabilize the national grid, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and ensure a consistent supply of clean energy nationwide. It’s a key step towards achieving India’s ambitious climate targets and energy independence by 2047, promising to revolutionize the country’s energy infrastructure and promote sustainable development.
2. Which multilateral organization recently passed a landmark resolution calling for a global moratorium on the development and deployment of fully autonomous weapons systems (LAWS)?
A) North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO)
B) United Nations General Assembly
C) G7 Group of Nations
D) Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO)
Correct answer: B) United Nations General Assembly Notes: The United Nations General Assembly recently adopted a non-binding but significant resolution urging member states to implement an immediate global moratorium on the development, production, and deployment of lethal autonomous weapons systems (LAWS). This resolution, spearheaded by a coalition of over 100 nations and civil society groups, reflects growing international concern over the ethical, legal, and humanitarian implications of machines making life-and-death decisions without meaningful human control. While not legally enforceable, the resolution sends a powerful political message, aiming to kickstart formal negotiations for a new international treaty or a protocol to the Convention on Certain Conventional Weapons (CCW) to regulate or ban such weapons. This is a crucial step towards preventing a future arms race in AI weaponry.
3. India’s ‘Neel Harit Abhiyan’ (Blue-Green Mission), launched recently, primarily focuses on the restoration and sustainable management of which specific ecological systems?
A) Himalayan Alpine Meadows
B) Coastal Mangroves and Coral Reefs
C) Thar Desert Oases
D) Shola Forests of the Western Ghats
Correct answer: B) Coastal Mangroves and Coral Reefs Notes: The ‘Neel Harit Abhiyan’ (Blue-Green Mission) is a comprehensive national initiative launched by India’s Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, targeting the critical coastal ecosystems of mangroves and coral reefs. Recognizing their immense value as carbon sinks, biodiversity hotspots, and natural barriers against extreme weather events, the mission aims for large-scale restoration, protection, and sustainable management. It involves community participation, advanced scientific research for climate resilience, and stricter enforcement against degradation. The mission seeks to enhance India’s coastal resilience, protect marine biodiversity, and improve the livelihoods of coastal communities dependent on these vibrant ecosystems, contributing significantly to India’s blue economy and climate action commitments.
4. The Union Cabinet recently approved the ‘Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojna (PMGSY) Phase IV’ with a renewed focus. What is the key innovation or expanded scope of this latest phase?
A) Construction of multi-lane national highways in rural areas.
B) Emphasis on climate-resilient and green technology roads, including solar-powered lighting.
C) Development of dedicated freight corridors connecting agricultural markets.
D) Expansion of expressways to every district headquarter.
Correct answer: B) Emphasis on climate-resilient and green technology roads, including solar-powered lighting. Notes: PMGSY Phase IV, approved by the Union Cabinet, represents a significant upgrade to India’s flagship rural road development program. While continuing the mission of connecting unconnected habitations, this phase places a strong emphasis on integrating climate resilience and green technologies into road construction. Key features include the use of sustainable materials, advanced drainage systems to withstand extreme weather, and the incorporation of solar-powered street lighting and digital signboards along newly built rural roads. This forward-looking approach aims to ensure that rural infrastructure is not only robust but also environmentally sustainable, reducing the carbon footprint and enhancing safety and accessibility for rural communities, aligning with India’s broader climate goals.
5. Which Indian state recently launched the ‘AI for All’ initiative, aiming to provide basic Artificial Intelligence literacy to every household by 2030 through accessible online modules and community workshops?
A) Maharashtra
B) Kerala
C) Uttar Pradesh
D) Tamil Nadu
Correct answer: B) Kerala Notes: Kerala, renowned for its high literacy rates and digital initiatives, has launched the ambitious ‘AI for All’ program. This pioneering state-wide initiative aims to democratize access to Artificial Intelligence knowledge, ensuring that every household has a basic understanding of AI concepts, its applications, and its societal implications by 2030. The program will roll out free, user-friendly online modules, leveraging local languages, and organize community-based workshops across gram panchayats. By fostering a digitally inclusive society, Kerala seeks to empower its citizens with essential future skills, bridge the digital divide, and prepare its workforce for the evolving demands of the AI-driven economy, further solidifying its position as a leader in human development and technological adoption.
