Current Affairs MCQs: 21-April-2026 | UPSC, SSC Daily Quiz with Answers & Notes

Correct answer: B) Enhanced payload capacity for GSLV Mk-III

Notes: In a significant boost to India’s space capabilities, ISRO successfully conducted the final test-firing of its new “Vikram-II” semi-cryogenic engine. This powerful propulsion system is specifically designed to enhance the payload capacity of the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle Mark-III (GSLV Mk-III), India’s heaviest operational launcher. This development is crucial for future heavy satellite launches and crewed missions, directly impacting India’s position in global space exploration. The current affairs analysis highlights ISRO’s ongoing commitment to indigenous technology and cost-effective space access. This latest news is vital for UPSC current affairs and exam preparation, showcasing advancements in Science & Technology. It aligns with the government initiative to strengthen India’s self-reliance in space.

Correct answer: C) Cooperation in renewable energy and climate resilience

Notes: India and Brazil have inked the “Sustainable Futures Pact,” a landmark agreement fostering deeper collaboration on renewable energy solutions and climate resilience. This pact, emerging from recent bilateral dialogues, underscores both nations’ commitment to global environmental sustainability. It includes provisions for technology transfer, joint research in green energy, and shared strategies for adapting to climate change impacts. This international relations development holds significant global implications, especially for the Global South. For competitive exam preparation, understanding such international agreements is key. This current affairs update highlights India’s proactive role in global climate initiatives and its strategic partnerships, making it relevant for latest news analysis and policy significance.

Correct answer: B) Testing innovative financial products in a controlled environment

Notes: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has unveiled “FinTech Sandbox 2.0,” an updated regulatory framework designed to facilitate controlled testing of innovative financial products and services. This initiative aims to foster innovation within India’s FinTech sector while ensuring consumer protection and financial stability. It provides a safe space for companies to experiment with new technologies without immediate full regulatory burden. This economic impact move is crucial for the growth of digital finance. This development is highly relevant for today current affairs and UPSC current affairs, reflecting the RBI’s forward-looking approach to the evolving financial landscape. It represents a significant government policy update in the financial technology domain.

Correct answer: A) Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs

Notes: The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs has recently launched the “Zero Waste Cities Challenge” as part of its ongoing efforts towards sustainable urban development. This nationwide initiative encourages metropolitan areas to adopt comprehensive strategies for waste reduction, segregation, and recycling, aiming for minimal landfill usage. It provides a competitive platform for cities to showcase their best practices and achieve zero-waste targets. This government initiative has significant environmental and governance implications. Understanding such schemes is critical for current affairs 2026 and exam preparation. This latest news update highlights India’s commitment to urban sustainability and is a key topic for GK quiz sections related to environment and policy significance.

Correct answer: B) Understanding regional biodiversity and conservation efforts

Notes: Scientists recently announced the discovery of ‘Channa indica,’ a new species of freshwater fish found in the biodiverse regions of the Western Ghats. This finding underscores the ecological richness and unique biodiversity of this critical global hotspot. Such discoveries are vital for understanding the delicate balance of ecosystems and informing targeted conservation strategies to protect endangered species and their habitats. This environment and ecology development is important for current affairs analysis. For UPSC current affairs and exam preparation, this highlights the ongoing exploration and conservation challenges in India’s natural heritage. This latest news emphasizes the importance of biodiversity surveys and their role in national ecological planning.