1. India recently inaugurated its first fully operational Quantum Computing Lab for public access. Which city is home to this groundbreaking facility, aimed at advancing indigenous quantum research?
A) Bengaluru
B) Hyderabad
C) Pune
D) New Delhi
Correct answer: D) New Delhi Notes: New Delhi has become the hub for India’s quantum computing aspirations with the inauguration of the National Quantum Computing Research Lab (NQCRL). This state-of-the-art facility, established under the National Quantum Mission, provides researchers, startups, and academic institutions with unprecedented access to advanced quantum processors and development tools. The NQCRL aims to accelerate India’s position in the global quantum race, fostering innovation in areas like drug discovery, material science, and secure communication protocols. Its public accessibility marks a significant step towards democratizing quantum technology and building a robust ecosystem for future quantum applications within the country’s scientific community.
2. The United Nations General Assembly recently adopted a resolution establishing the ‘Global Drought Resilience Fund’. Which region’s increasing water scarcity crisis primarily spurred the creation of this fund?
A) Southeast Asia
B) Horn of Africa
C) Central Europe
D) Amazon Basin
Correct answer: B) Horn of Africa Notes: The Horn of Africa has been grappling with an unprecedented multi-year drought, leading to severe humanitarian crises, food insecurity, and displacement across nations like Somalia, Ethiopia, and Kenya. In response to this escalating environmental and social challenge, the United Nations General Assembly overwhelmingly passed a resolution to create the ‘Global Drought Resilience Fund’. This fund is designed to provide long-term financial support for sustainable water management, climate-resilient agriculture, and early warning systems in drought-prone regions worldwide, with an initial focus on bolstering resilience and recovery efforts in the severely affected Horn of Africa, ensuring future preparedness against similar climatic shocks.
3. The Indian Defence Ministry recently announced Project ‘Vidyut Rakshak’. What is the primary objective of this new initiative?
A) To develop indigenous AI-powered surveillance drones for border security.
B) To enhance cyber warfare capabilities against state-sponsored attacks.
C) To modernize naval fleets with advanced anti-submarine warfare technology.
D) To establish a nationwide network of next-generation missile defence systems.
Correct answer: A) To develop indigenous AI-powered surveillance drones for border security. Notes: Project ‘Vidyut Rakshak’ is a pivotal initiative launched by the Indian Defence Ministry, aimed at significantly bolstering India’s border security infrastructure. Under this project, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and private Indian defence manufacturers are collaborating to design, develop, and deploy advanced Artificial Intelligence (AI)-powered surveillance drones. These drones will feature enhanced reconnaissance capabilities, real-time data analysis, and autonomous navigation, providing a critical technological edge in monitoring challenging terrains and deterring unauthorized incursions. This indigenous development also aligns with the ‘Make in India’ policy, strengthening the nation’s self-reliance in cutting-edge defence technologies and creating new jobs within the sector.
4. The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare recently unveiled the ‘Arogya Bharat Digital Mission 2.0’. Which of the following is its primary goal?
A) To provide free health insurance to all citizens above 60 years of age.
B) To establish a unified digital health infrastructure across all public and private hospitals.
C) To launch a national telemedicine service for remote areas.
D) To eradicate five major communicable diseases by 2030.
Correct answer: B) To establish a unified digital health infrastructure across all public and private hospitals. Notes: The ‘Arogya Bharat Digital Mission 2.0’ represents a significant leap in India’s healthcare transformation journey. Building upon the foundational efforts of its predecessor, the mission’s core objective is to create a seamless and interoperable digital health ecosystem nationwide. This includes the widespread adoption of electronic health records (EHRs), unique health IDs for all citizens, and a standardized platform for data exchange between public and private healthcare providers. By digitizing health services and patient information, the mission aims to improve accessibility, efficiency, and quality of care, reduce healthcare costs, and empower individuals with greater control over their health data, ultimately fostering a more connected and patient-centric healthcare system across the country.
5. India recently hosted the 4th edition of the ‘Global Indigenous Games’, showcasing traditional sports and cultural practices from over 50 nations. Which city served as the primary host for this major international event?
A) Jaipur
B) Chennai
C) Guwahati
D) Varanasi
Correct answer: C) Guwahati Notes: Guwahati, the gateway to Northeast India, successfully hosted the prestigious 4th Global Indigenous Games, an international event dedicated to preserving and celebrating traditional sports and cultural heritage. Delegates and athletes from more than 50 countries converged in the city, participating in unique disciplines like ‘Kabaddi’ (India), ‘Capoeira’ (Brazil), ‘Archery’ (Bhutan), and various forms of wrestling and martial arts indigenous to different communities. The event was not just a sporting spectacle but also a vibrant cultural exchange, featuring traditional music, dance, and craft exhibitions. Hosting these games underscores India’s commitment to promoting cultural diversity and fostering international cooperation through the universal language of sport, highlighting the rich tapestry of global indigenous traditions.
