1. India’s ISRO recently launched its latest advanced Earth observation satellite. What is the name of this satellite, designed for enhanced disaster management and climate monitoring?
A) Bhaskara-IV
B) Netra-V
C) Cartosat-IV
D) RISAT-3
Correct answer: B) Netra-V Notes: On December 29, 2025, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully launched the Netra-V satellite from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre. This state-of-the-art satellite represents a significant leap in India’s Earth observation capabilities, offering high-resolution imagery and data critical for various applications. Netra-V is specifically designed to provide enhanced insights into climate change patterns, monitor environmental degradation, and significantly improve disaster response mechanisms by offering real-time data for flood, drought, and cyclone prediction and management. Its advanced sensors are expected to aid in sustainable resource management and provide crucial inputs for urban planning and agricultural monitoring, solidifying India’s position in space technology.
2. Which international accord was finalized at the ‘Global Climate Action Summit 2025’ held in Geneva, focusing on equitable technology transfer for sustainable energy?
A) Paris Agreement II
B) Geneva Accord on Sustainable Energy Transition
C) Global Green Technology Pact
D) Climate Equity Protocol
Correct answer: B) Geneva Accord on Sustainable Energy Transition Notes: The ‘Global Climate Action Summit 2025’, which concluded in Geneva on December 28, saw the historic finalization of the “Geneva Accord on Sustainable Energy Transition.” This landmark agreement aims to accelerate the global shift towards renewable energy sources by establishing a robust framework for equitable technology transfer between developed and developing nations. A core tenet of the accord is its commitment to providing financial and technical assistance to countries facing significant challenges in adopting green technologies, ensuring a truly inclusive global effort to combat climate change. The agreement also sets ambitious targets for reducing reliance on fossil fuels and promoting energy efficiency worldwide.
3. What new initiative, announced by the Indian government on December 27, 2025, aims to significantly boost domestic manufacturing, particularly in semiconductor and green hydrogen production?
A) Make in India 2.0
B) Atmanirbhar Bharat 2.0
C) India’s Industrial Leap
D) National Manufacturing Mission
Correct answer: B) Atmanirbhar Bharat 2.0 Notes: The Indian government unveiled “Atmanirbhar Bharat 2.0” on December 27, 2025, as a follow-up to its flagship self-reliance initiative. This new phase places a strong emphasis on fostering advanced manufacturing capabilities within the country, with specific incentives and policy support directed towards two crucial sectors: semiconductor fabrication and green hydrogen production. The initiative seeks to reduce India’s reliance on imports, create high-skill jobs, and position the nation as a global hub for these critical future technologies. It includes significant investment in R&D, skill development, and collaboration with international partners, aiming to drive sustained economic growth and technological independence.
4. Indian medical researchers, in collaboration with international partners, recently announced a significant breakthrough in developing a gene therapy for which common neurodegenerative disorder?
A) Alzheimer’s Disease
B) Parkinson’s Disease
C) Multiple Sclerosis
D) Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)
Correct answer: B) Parkinson’s Disease Notes: A consortium of Indian and international medical researchers announced a groundbreaking development on December 26, 2025: the successful preclinical development of a novel gene therapy targeting Parkinson’s Disease. This therapy aims to modify specific genes responsible for dopamine production in the brain, offering a potential long-term solution rather than just symptom management. The research, conducted over several years, has shown promising results in animal models, demonstrating improved motor function and reduced neurodegeneration. This breakthrough could revolutionize the treatment landscape for Parkinson’s patients globally, paving the way for human clinical trials in the near future and bringing hope to millions affected by the debilitating condition.
5. Which prominent Indian Grandmaster recently secured their first-ever World Rapid Chess Championship title at the tournament held in Almaty?
A) Viswanathan Anand
B) D. Gukesh
C) R Praggnanandhaa
D) Vidit Gujrathi
Correct answer: C) R Praggnanandhaa Notes: Indian chess prodigy Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa made history on December 28, 2025, by winning his inaugural World Rapid Chess Championship title. The prestigious tournament, held in Almaty, saw Praggnanandhaa display exceptional skill, strategic depth, and remarkable composure against a field of world-class opponents. This victory marks a significant milestone in his burgeoning career and further solidifies India’s growing dominance in the global chess arena. His consistent performance and ability to thrive under pressure earned him the coveted title, bringing immense pride to the nation and inspiring a new generation of chess enthusiasts across the country.
