1. Which private space company recently achieved a historic milestone with the successful orbital test flight and precise vertical landing of its next-generation heavy-lift reusable rocket, codenamed “Starfire-1”?
A) Quantum Aerospace
B) Astravita Space
C) Galactic Horizons
D) Stellar Dynamics
Correct answer: B) Astravita Space Notes: Astravita Space’s Starfire-1 launch on November 28, 2025, from its private launch facility, marks a pivotal moment for commercial spaceflight. The successful first-stage landing, following an orbital test flight, demonstrates the company’s advanced capabilities in reusable rocket technology, significantly reducing launch costs and increasing flight frequency. This achievement positions Astravita Space as a formidable player alongside global leaders, signaling a new era of accessibility for satellite deployment and future crewed missions. The “Starfire-1” is specifically designed for heavy payloads, promising to reshape the economics of space logistics and foster greater innovation within the burgeoning global space economy, opening up new frontiers for exploration and commercial ventures.
2. The recently concluded Global Climate Action Summit (GCAS) 2025 in Nairobi saw participating nations commit to establishing a new ‘Green Adaptation Fund’. What is its primary objective?
A) To fund space-based carbon capture technologies.
B) To support developing nations in building resilience against climate impacts.
C) To subsidize fossil fuel industries for transition to cleaner energy.
D) To finance industrial-scale reforestation projects only in developed countries.
Correct answer: B) To support developing nations in building resilience against climate impacts. Notes: The Global Climate Action Summit (GCAS) 2025, held in Nairobi, concluded with a landmark agreement to establish the ‘Green Adaptation Fund’. This critical initiative is specifically designed to channel financial resources towards developing nations, empowering them to proactively build resilience and adapt to the increasingly severe impacts of climate change. Unlike previous funds primarily focused on mitigation, the Green Adaptation Fund emphasizes measures like strengthening infrastructure against extreme weather, developing drought-resistant crops, and improving early warning systems. This collective commitment underscores a global recognition of differentiated responsibilities and the urgent need for equitable climate action.
3. The Indian government recently launched the “PM-Kaushal Uday” scheme. What is its core focus?
A) Providing interest-free loans for agricultural startups.
B) Enhancing digital literacy and skill development in rural youth.
C) Subsidizing solar panel installations for small businesses.
D) Promoting traditional Indian handicrafts through international exhibitions.
Correct answer: B) Enhancing digital literacy and skill development in rural youth. Notes: The “PM-Kaushal Uday” scheme, recently unveiled by the Indian government, is a comprehensive initiative aimed at revolutionizing skill development among rural youth. Recognizing the growing demand for digital and technical skills in an evolving economy, the scheme focuses on providing accessible training programs in areas such as coding, data analytics, digital marketing, and AI fundamentals. Its objective is to equip young individuals from remote and underserved regions with market-relevant skills, thereby enhancing their employability and fostering entrepreneurship. This initiative is crucial for bridging the urban-rural skill gap and ensuring inclusive growth across the nation.
4. India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) recently conducted a successful flight test of the “Prabal” anti-satellite (ASAT) missile system. What does ‘Prabal’ signify in this context?
A) A new generation battlefield tank.
B) India’s indigenous capability to neutralize hostile satellites.
C) An advanced air-to-air combat missile.
D) A long-range submarine-launched ballistic missile.
Correct answer: B) India’s indigenous capability to neutralize hostile satellites. Notes: The successful flight test of India’s indigenous “Prabal” anti-satellite (ASAT) missile system by DRDO on November 27, 2025, marks a significant leap in the nation’s strategic defence capabilities. ‘Prabal’ demonstrates India’s advanced proficiency in space warfare, signifying its ability to effectively neutralize hostile satellites in low Earth orbit. This capability acts as a potent deterrent, safeguarding India’s critical space assets, including communication, surveillance, and navigation satellites, which are vital for both civilian and military operations. The test reinforces India’s commitment to maintaining peace and stability in space while asserting its technological prowess.
5. Which Indian state’s unique folk art form, “Tholpavakkoothu,” a traditional shadow puppetry, was recently accorded UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage status?
A) Rajasthan
B) Kerala
C) West Bengal
D) Odisha
Correct answer: B) Kerala Notes: Kerala’s captivating “Tholpavakkoothu,” a traditional shadow puppetry, recently received the prestigious UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage status on November 29, 2025. This ancient art form, primarily performed in Bhadrakali temples, uses leather puppets to narrate stories from the Hindu epic Ramayana. The recognition highlights the art’s profound cultural significance, intricate craftsmanship, and its role in preserving oral traditions and community identity. This UNESCO designation will not only boost the visibility and conservation efforts for Tholpavakkoothu but also promote cultural tourism and provide artisans with vital support, ensuring its legacy for future generations.
