1. India’s recent ‘Astra Mission’ has successfully tested a groundbreaking quantum communication network in low-earth orbit. What is the primary objective of this mission?
A. To develop secure, unhackable communication channels for defense applications.
B. To map the Earth’s gravitational field with unprecedented accuracy.
C. To research new forms of sustainable propulsion for interstellar travel.
D. To establish a global network for real-time climate monitoring.
Correct answer: A Notes: The ‘Astra Mission’ marks a significant leap in India’s space technology and cybersecurity capabilities. Its primary objective is to develop and test secure, unhackable communication channels leveraging the principles of quantum entanglement. By establishing a robust quantum communication network in low-earth orbit, India aims to safeguard sensitive data from potential cyber threats, especially in critical defense and strategic sectors. This initiative places India among a select few nations actively pioneering quantum communication in space, promising a future of truly secure data transmission impervious to conventional eavesdropping techniques. The mission’s success paves the way for advanced encryption methods and enhanced national security infrastructure, underscoring India’s growing prowess in frontier technologies.
2. The ‘Kyoto Protocol 2.0’ was recently ratified by a majority of G20 nations. What is its core focus, distinguishing it from its predecessor?
A. Regulating global cryptocurrency markets to prevent financial instability.
B. Mandating strict limits on deep-sea mining to protect marine biodiversity.
C. Establishing legally binding targets for reducing methane emissions from agricultural and industrial sources.
D. Promoting international cooperation on space debris mitigation strategies.
Correct answer: C Notes: The ‘Kyoto Protocol 2.0’, ratified by a majority of G20 nations, represents an ambitious new chapter in global climate action, specifically targeting methane emissions. While its predecessor focused largely on carbon dioxide, this updated protocol places legally binding targets on reducing methane emissions from key sources like agriculture (livestock, rice cultivation) and industrial processes (oil and gas production, waste management). Methane is a potent greenhouse gas, far more impactful than CO2 over a shorter timeframe, making its reduction crucial for rapidly mitigating global warming. This protocol underscores an evolving understanding of climate science and a commitment to address all significant greenhouse gases comprehensively, aiming for a faster impact on limiting temperature rises.
3. Which of the following constitutional amendments, recently passed by the Indian Parliament, introduces a mandatory ‘Citizen’s Right to Recall’ for elected representatives at the local government level?
A. The 106th Amendment Act
B. The 107th Amendment Act
C. The 108th Amendment Act
D. The 109th Amendment Act
Correct answer: B Notes: The 107th Constitutional Amendment Act, recently passed by the Indian Parliament, is a landmark legislative measure introducing the ‘Citizen’s Right to Recall’ for elected representatives at the local government level (Panchayats and Municipalities). This significant amendment aims to enhance accountability and responsiveness in local governance by empowering citizens to remove underperforming or corrupt representatives before their term ends, through a defined petition and voting process. It signifies a major step towards strengthening grassroots democracy and ensuring that elected officials remain truly representative of their constituents’ will. This reform is expected to usher in a new era of civic engagement and stricter oversight over local political leadership across the country.
4. The ‘Digital India Health Mission 2.0’ has recently launched a new initiative to integrate traditional Indian medical systems (AYUSH) into the national digital health ecosystem. What is the core feature of this integration?
A. Mandatory teleconsultation for all AYUSH practitioners.
B. A unified digital health ID for all citizens encompassing both modern and AYUSH treatment records.
C. Exclusive government funding for AYUSH research without private sector involvement.
D. International standardization of AYUSH diagnostic methods.
Correct answer: B Notes: The ‘Digital India Health Mission 2.0’ has introduced a pivotal initiative to seamlessly integrate India’s rich traditional medical systems (AYUSH – Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homoeopathy) into the national digital health ecosystem. The core feature of this integration is the creation of a unified digital health ID for all citizens. This ID will serve as a comprehensive repository, encompassing a patient’s entire medical history, including records from both modern (Allopathy) and AYUSH treatments. This move aims to provide a holistic view of an individual’s health journey, facilitate better-coordinated care, and promote informed decision-making by healthcare providers, bridging the gap between conventional and traditional medicine within a single digital framework.
5. Which city has been officially selected to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games, following a recent decision by the Commonwealth Games Federation?
A. Glasgow, Scotland
B. Hamilton, Canada
C. Colombo, Sri Lanka
D. Birmingham, England
Correct answer: B Notes: Hamilton, Canada, has been officially selected by the Commonwealth Games Federation to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games. This decision marks a significant moment as Hamilton was also the host city for the very first British Empire Games (predecessor to the Commonwealth Games) in 1930, making the 2030 event a centenary celebration in its birthplace. The city’s bid emphasized sustainability, leveraging existing infrastructure, and a focus on community engagement and legacy projects. This return to Hamilton underscores the historical significance of the Games and Canada’s enduring commitment to the Commonwealth sporting movement. Preparations will now commence to ensure a memorable and fitting centennial celebration of athletic excellence and cultural exchange.
