1. The ‘Akash Ganga’ initiative, recently launched by India, primarily aims to achieve which of the following objectives?
A) To establish a pan-India network of rural digital libraries.
B) To develop indigenous large-scale orbital debris removal technology.
C) To accelerate the adoption of hydrogen fuel cells in public transport.
D) To create a national digital health repository for all citizens.
Correct answer: B Notes: The ‘Akash Ganga’ initiative, unveiled by ISRO on January 27, 2026, marks a significant step towards addressing the growing concern of space debris. This ambitious project focuses on the research and development of indigenous technologies for active orbital debris removal and mitigation. Utilizing a combination of advanced robotics, laser-based systems, and sophisticated propulsion methods, ‘Akash Ganga’ aims to ensure the long-term sustainability of India’s space assets and contribute to global efforts in maintaining a cleaner orbital environment. The first prototype mission for debris capture and de-orbiting is scheduled for late 2027, positioning India as a leader in sustainable space operations. This initiative underscores India’s commitment to responsible space exploration and addresses a critical challenge facing future space endeavors.
2. Which international organization recently adopted the ‘Global Climate Resilience Charter 2026’ focusing on sustainable urban development and extreme weather preparedness?
A) United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
B) World Economic Forum (WEF)
C) G7 Group
D) Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)
Correct answer: A Notes: The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) formally adopted the ‘Global Climate Resilience Charter 2026’ on January 27, 2026, during its annual summit. This landmark charter is designed to provide a comprehensive framework for nations and urban centers to enhance their resilience against the escalating impacts of climate change, particularly extreme weather events. It emphasizes nature-based solutions, innovative financing mechanisms, and collaborative governance models to build sustainable and climate-proof cities. The charter encourages signatory countries to integrate climate resilience into their national urban planning policies and disaster risk reduction strategies. It further commits to sharing best practices and providing technical assistance to developing nations in implementing its provisions, marking a crucial step towards global climate adaptation.
3. The “Project SuryaKiran,” frequently in news, is associated with which of the following sectors in India?
A) Development of indigenous submarine technology.
B) Expansion of solar energy infrastructure in remote areas.
C) Modernization of border security forces.
D) Promotion of traditional Indian art forms globally.
Correct answer: B Notes: “Project SuryaKiran,” launched on January 27, 2026, by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, is a transformative initiative aimed at significantly expanding India’s solar energy infrastructure, particularly in hard-to-reach and remote regions. The project focuses on deploying decentralized solar microgrids and off-grid solar solutions to electrify villages and provide reliable power to communities currently underserved by the national grid. It integrates innovative battery storage technologies to ensure continuous power supply and also includes components for skill development and local employment generation in solar panel installation and maintenance. “SuryaKiran” is expected to boost energy access, reduce carbon emissions, and contribute significantly to India’s ambitious renewable energy targets, fostering sustainable development across rural landscapes.
4. India recently signed a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the “Indo-Pacific Economic Corridor (IPEC)” bloc. Which of the following is *not* a primary objective of this new agreement?
A) To facilitate greater market access for Indian agricultural products.
B) To strengthen supply chain resilience across member nations.
C) To establish a common currency among IPEC members.
D) To promote digital trade and cross-border data flow.
Correct answer: C Notes: India’s Free Trade Agreement with the newly formed “Indo-Pacific Economic Corridor (IPEC)” bloc, finalized on January 27, 2026, aims to significantly boost economic cooperation and integration. The primary objectives include enhancing market access for goods and services, particularly for Indian agricultural products, strengthening regional supply chain resilience, and fostering the growth of digital trade and cross-border data flows. This agreement seeks to create a robust and interconnected economic ecosystem in the Indo-Pacific. However, establishing a common currency among IPEC members is *not* an objective of this FTA. FTAs typically focus on tariff reductions, trade facilitation, and regulatory alignment, not monetary union, which is a much broader and complex form of economic integration requiring distinct agreements and institutions.
5. Which Indian state government recently launched the “Yuva Kranti Yojana” aimed at providing skill development and entrepreneurship opportunities to its youth, particularly in emerging technologies?
A) Maharashtra
B) Karnataka
C) Uttar Pradesh
D) West Bengal
Correct answer: B Notes: The Karnataka state government officially launched the “Yuva Kranti Yojana” on January 27, 2026, marking a significant step towards empowering the state’s youth. This ambitious scheme is designed to address the unemployment challenge by providing comprehensive skill development and fostering entrepreneurship, with a particular focus on emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, blockchain, robotics, and sustainable agriculture practices. The “Yuva Kranti Yojana” will establish incubation centers, offer subsidized loans for startups, and provide extensive training programs tailored to market demands. The government aims to equip over 5 lakh youth with future-ready skills in the next three years, ensuring they are competitive in the rapidly evolving global economy and contribute to the state’s economic growth and innovation ecosystem.
