1. India recently launched the “National Green Hydrogen Innovation Challenge” to accelerate indigenous development in the sector. Which ministry is primarily responsible for overseeing this initiative?
A) Ministry of Finance
B) Ministry of New and Renewable Energy
C) Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change
D) Ministry of Science and Technology
Correct answer: B) Ministry of New and Renewable Energy Notes: The “National Green Hydrogen Innovation Challenge,” launched on February 22, 2026, aims to foster cutting-edge research and development in green hydrogen production, storage, and utilization technologies within India. This initiative is a critical component of India’s larger National Green Hydrogen Mission, which seeks to establish India as a global hub for green hydrogen production and export. The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) is the nodal ministry for this significant program, aligning with its mandate to promote renewable energy sources and sustainable development. The challenge offers substantial grants and incubation support to innovators, propelling India towards energy independence and climate goals. This aligns with India’s long-term vision for a sustainable energy future, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and mitigating climate change impacts globally.
2. The UN Security Council, in its latest session, adopted a landmark resolution establishing a new framework for regulating autonomous weapon systems. Which permanent member notably abstained from the final vote, citing concerns over definitional ambiguities?
A) United States
B) China
C) Russia
D) United Kingdom
Correct answer: C) Russia Notes: On February 22, 2026, the United Nations Security Council passed a pivotal resolution aiming to establish global guidelines and a review mechanism for the development and deployment of fully autonomous weapon systems. This move is seen as a crucial step towards preventing an unchecked arms race in AI-powered weaponry and addressing ethical concerns. While the resolution garnered broad support, Russia notably abstained from the vote. Its representative articulated concerns regarding the lack of precise definitions for “autonomy” and “meaningful human control” within the resolution text, suggesting these ambiguities could lead to varied interpretations and hinder effective implementation. This abstention highlights the ongoing international debate and challenges in forging consensus on regulating emerging military technologies, particularly among major global powers. The resolution nevertheless marks a significant milestone in international security discussions.
3. Scientists at the International Wheat and Maize Improvement Center (CIMMYT) recently announced a breakthrough in developing climate-resilient wheat strains capable of thriving in extreme drought conditions. This development is most significant for addressing which global challenge?
A) Renewable Energy Transition
B) Digital Divide
C) Food Security and Climate Adaptation
D) Space Exploration Funding
Correct answer: C) Food Security and Climate Adaptation Notes: The breakthrough announced by CIMMYT on February 22, 2026, regarding drought-resistant wheat strains represents a major leap forward in agricultural science. This development is critically important for global food security, especially as climate change intensifies, leading to more frequent and severe drought events in many agricultural regions. By developing wheat varieties that can withstand prolonged water scarcity, scientists are providing farmers, particularly in vulnerable developing nations, with tools to maintain crop yields and livelihoods. This directly addresses the challenge of adapting food production systems to changing climatic conditions and ensures a more stable food supply for a growing global population, thereby mitigating potential food crises and associated socio-economic instability. It emphasizes the crucial role of scientific innovation in building resilience against environmental challenges.
4. The Indian government has unveiled “Project Drishti,” a new initiative to leverage AI and satellite imagery for enhanced urban planning and infrastructure development across Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities. This project primarily falls under which broader governmental objective?
A) Rural Electrification
B) Smart City Mission Enhancement
C) Defence Modernization
D) Space Tourism Promotion
Correct answer: B) Smart City Mission Enhancement Notes: “Project Drishti,” launched by the Indian government on February 22, 2026, represents a significant step towards modernizing urban development in India. By integrating artificial intelligence with advanced satellite imagery, the project aims to provide granular data and predictive analytics for more efficient urban planning, traffic management, waste disposal, and infrastructure development in rapidly growing Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities. This initiative is a direct extension and enhancement of the existing Smart City Mission, which seeks to transform Indian cities into sustainable and citizen-friendly urban centers. Project Drishti will help overcome challenges like unplanned growth and resource management, ensuring that future urban expansions are well-coordinated, environmentally sound, and cater effectively to the needs of their inhabitants, thereby accelerating the vision of ‘Smart India’.
5. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) recently announced a new framework for “Sustainable Sports Venues,” encouraging host cities to prioritize existing infrastructure and temporary facilities. This policy aims to mitigate which primary concern regarding major sporting events?
A) Athlete Performance Standards
B) Financial Overruns and Environmental Impact
C) Spectator Engagement Levels
D) Broadcast Rights Negotiations
Correct answer: B) Financial Overruns and Environmental Impact Notes: The International Olympic Committee’s new framework for “Sustainable Sports Venues,” unveiled on February 22, 2026, is a crucial response to the escalating criticisms surrounding the economic and environmental legacy of major sporting events. Historically, host cities have often incurred massive financial overruns constructing new, bespoke venues that become underutilized “white elephants” post-event. Furthermore, the extensive construction contributes significantly to carbon emissions and habitat destruction. This new policy encourages cities to leverage existing infrastructure, utilize temporary venues, and prioritize sustainable building practices, thereby dramatically reducing both the financial burden on taxpayers and the ecological footprint of the Games. It aims to make hosting major sports events more attractive, feasible, and responsible, aligning the Olympic movement with global sustainability goals and ensuring a positive, lasting legacy for communities.
