SF Prep

RSSB (RSMSSB) Current Affairs Quiz — All time

Daily news by your exam, state and topic — each with a short summary, key facts and MCQs.

7 days 1 month 3 months 6 months 12 months All
3351 news · 9115 MCQs
Score: 0 / 0 attempted · 91 questions
Indian aquanauts dive to 4,025 m and 5,002 m in the Atlantic aboard French submersible Nautile
Q1

What was the maximum depth reached by an Indian aquanaut during the Indo-French deep dives in the Atlantic in August 2025?

Show answer

Correct answer: B — 5,002 m

Cdr (Retd) Jatinder Pal Singh reached 5,002 m, while Raju Ramesh reached 4,025 m, India's deepest-ever dives.

Q2 Advanced

The Indian aquanauts' record dives of August 2025 were made aboard Nautile, a submersible belonging to which institution?

Show answer

Correct answer: D — IFREMER (France)

The dives were a collaborative activity with IFREMER (France), the French marine research institute, aboard its submersible Nautile.

Q3 Advanced

Consider the following statements about India's Samudrayaan mission, as described in August 2025: 1. It aims to send three aquanauts to a depth of 6,000 m in the submersible MATSYA-6000 by 2027. 2. MATSYA-6000 is being developed by the National Institute of Oceanography, Goa. Which of the above is/are correct?

Show answer

Correct answer: A — 1 only

Statement 1 is correct: Samudrayaan aims to send three aquanauts to 6,000 m in MATSYA-6000 by 2027. Statement 2 is incorrect: MATSYA-6000 is being developed by the National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT), Chennai, under the Ministry of Earth Sciences.

Q4 Advanced

Consider the following statements about MATSYA-6000: 1. It is designed for an operational endurance of 12 hours and an emergency endurance of up to 96 hours. 2. It completed wet trials at L&T Shipyard, Kattupalli, in early 2025. Which of the above is/are correct?

Show answer

Correct answer: C — Both 1 and 2

Both statements are correct. MATSYA-6000 is designed for 12 hours of operational and up to 96 hours of emergency endurance, and completed wet trials at L&T Shipyard, Kattupalli, Tamil Nadu, in January–February 2025.

RBI MPC keeps repo rate unchanged at 5.50%, retains neutral stance
Q5

At what level did the RBI's Monetary Policy Committee keep the policy repo rate in its August 2025 meeting?

Show answer

Correct answer: C — 5.50%

The MPC unanimously voted to keep the policy repo rate unchanged at 5.50%.

Q6 Advanced

What CPI inflation did the RBI's MPC project for 2025-26 in August 2025?

Show answer

Correct answer: D — 3.1%

Considering all factors, CPI inflation for 2025-26 was projected at 3.1%.

Q7 Advanced

Consider the following statements about the RBI's monetary policy decision of August 2025: 1. The standing deposit facility rate remained at 5.25% and the marginal standing facility rate at 5.75%. 2. The MPC changed its stance from neutral to accommodative. Which of the above is/are correct?

Show answer

Correct answer: A — 1 only

Statement 1 is correct: the SDF rate stayed at 5.25% and the MSF rate and Bank Rate at 5.75%. Statement 2 is incorrect: all members decided to continue with the neutral stance.

Q8 Advanced

Consider the following statements about the RBI's August 2025 policy: 1. The MPC projected real GDP growth for 2025-26 at 6.5%. 2. The decision to keep the repo rate unchanged was taken by a 4–2 majority. Which of the above is/are correct?

Show answer

Correct answer: A — 1 only

Statement 1 is correct: real GDP growth for 2025-26 was projected at 6.5%. Statement 2 is incorrect: the MPC voted unanimously to keep the repo rate unchanged.

Rajya Sabha passes Carriage of Goods by Sea Bill, 2025, repealing 1925 Act
Q9

The Carriage of Goods by Sea Bill, 2025, passed by the Rajya Sabha on 6 August 2025, repeals an Act of which year?

Show answer

Correct answer: B — 1925

The Bill repeals the century-old Indian Carriage of Goods by Sea Act, 1925.

Q10 Advanced

Which internationally accepted set of maritime rules does the Carriage of Goods by Sea Bill, 2025 adopt?

Show answer

Correct answer: D — Hague-Visby Rules

The Bill adopts the Hague-Visby Rules, a globally accepted maritime standard also followed by countries like the United Kingdom.

Q11 Advanced

Consider the following statements about the maritime bills of 6 August 2025: 1. The Lok Sabha passed the Merchant Shipping Bill, 2025 on the same day the Rajya Sabha passed the Carriage of Goods by Sea Bill, 2025. 2. The Carriage of Goods by Sea Bill, 2025 was introduced in the Rajya Sabha by Minister of State Shantanu Thakur. Which of the above is/are correct?

Show answer

Correct answer: C — Both 1 and 2

Both statements are correct. On 6 August 2025 the Lok Sabha cleared the Merchant Shipping Bill and the Rajya Sabha passed the Carriage of Goods by Sea Bill, which was introduced by MoS Shantanu Thakur.

Defence Acquisition Council clears proposals worth about ₹67,000 crore
Q12

What was the approximate total value of the proposals cleared by the Defence Acquisition Council on 5 August 2025?

Show answer

Correct answer: D — About ₹67,000 crore

The DAC chaired by Rajnath Singh approved proposals amounting to a total cost of about ₹67,000 crore.

Q13 Advanced

Which procurement cleared for the Indian Navy by the DAC in August 2025 is meant for detection, classification and neutralisation of threats in anti-submarine warfare missions?

Show answer

Correct answer: B — Compact Autonomous Surface Craft

The Compact Autonomous Surface Craft will give the Navy the capability to detect, classify and neutralise threats in anti-submarine warfare missions.

Q14 Advanced

Consider the following statements about the DAC approvals of 5 August 2025: 1. The SAKSHAM/SPYDER Weapon System of the Air Force is to be upgraded for integration with the Integrated Air Command and Control System. 2. AoN for Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) RPAs was accorded only for the Indian Air Force. Which of the above is/are correct?

Show answer

Correct answer: A — 1 only

Statement 1 is correct: the SAKSHAM/SPYDER upgrade is for integration with the Integrated Air Command and Control System. Statement 2 is incorrect: AoN for MALE RPAs was accorded for all three Services.

Q15 Advanced

Consider the following statements about the DAC approvals of 5 August 2025: 1. AoN was accorded for the procurement of additional S-400 squadrons. 2. AoN was accorded for the sustenance of the C-17 and C-130J fleets. Which of the above is/are correct?

Show answer

Correct answer: B — 2 only

Statement 1 is incorrect: the S-400 approval was for a comprehensive annual maintenance contract, not new squadrons. Statement 2 is correct: AoN was accorded for sustenance of the C-17 and C-130J fleets.

India and the Philippines establish a Strategic Partnership during President Marcos's State Visit
Q16

During the State Visit of Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. in August 2025, India and the Philippines elevated their ties to which level?

Show answer

Correct answer: B — Strategic Partnership

On 5 August 2025, the two countries signed a Declaration establishing a Strategic Partnership between India and the Philippines.

Q17 Advanced

The India–Philippines Strategic Partnership established in August 2025 is guided by a Plan of Action covering which period?

Show answer

Correct answer: D — 2025-2029

The declaration states that the Strategic Partnership is guided by the Plan of Action (2025-2029), adopted on 5 August 2025.

Q18 Advanced

Consider the following statements about the India–Philippines Strategic Partnership declaration of August 2025: 1. It marks the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations, established in 1949, and recalls the Treaty of Friendship signed on 11 July 1952. 2. It reiterates both countries' strong support for ASEAN Centrality. Which of the above is/are correct?

Show answer

Correct answer: C — Both 1 and 2

Both statements are correct. The declaration celebrates 75 years of diplomatic relations established in 1949, emphasises the Treaty of Friendship of 11 July 1952, and reiterates strong support for ASEAN Centrality.

Q19 Advanced

Consider the following statements about the outcomes of the Philippine President's State Visit to India in August 2025: 1. India extended a gratis e-tourist visa facility to Filipino nationals for one year from August 2025. 2. India and the Philippines signed a Free Trade Agreement during the visit. Which of the above is/are correct?

Show answer

Correct answer: A — 1 only

Statement 1 is correct: a gratis e-tourist visa facility was extended to Filipino nationals for one year from August 2025. Statement 2 is incorrect: the two sides only adopted Terms of Reference for negotiations on a Preferential Trade Agreement.

Q20 Advanced

During the Philippine President's visit in August 2025, a Statement of Intent on cooperation in the peaceful uses of outer space was signed between the Philippine Space Agency and which Indian body?

Show answer

Correct answer: D — Indian Space Research Organisation

The list of outcomes includes a Statement of Intent between the Indian Space Research Organisation and the Philippine Space Agency on cooperation on the peaceful uses of outer space.

Inaugural India–New Zealand Defence Strategic Dialogue held in New Delhi
Q21

The inaugural India–New Zealand Defence Strategic Dialogue, held in New Delhi on 5 August 2025, was constituted under an MoU signed in which month?

Show answer

Correct answer: A — March 2025

The dialogue was constituted under an MoU signed between the two countries in March 2025.

Q22 Advanced

Consider the following statements about the inaugural India–New Zealand Defence Strategic Dialogue (August 2025): 1. It was held in Wellington. 2. It was co-chaired by the defence ministers of the two countries. Which of the above is/are correct?

Show answer

Correct answer: D — Neither 1 nor 2

Neither statement is correct. Statement 1 is incorrect: the dialogue was held in New Delhi. Statement 2 is incorrect: it was co-chaired by Joint Secretary (International Cooperation) Amitabh Prasad and New Zealand's Head of International Branch Kathleen Pearce.

PM GatiShakti: 293 infrastructure projects worth ₹13.59 lakh crore evaluated through Network Planning Group
Q23

As per the government's reply of August 2025, how many infrastructure projects have been evaluated through the Network Planning Group mechanism under PM GatiShakti?

Show answer

Correct answer: C — 293

So far, 293 infrastructure projects amounting to ₹13.59 lakh crore have been evaluated through the NPG mechanism.

Q24 Advanced

Consider the following statements about the PM GatiShakti National Master Plan, as stated in August 2025: 1. It has a specific and separate fund allocation in the Union Budget. 2. 36 States/UTs have been onboarded on the platform. Which of the above is/are correct?

Show answer

Correct answer: B — 2 only

Statement 1 is incorrect: the PM GatiShakti National Master Plan has no specific or separate fund allocation. Statement 2 is correct: 36 States/UTs have been onboarded on PMGS NMP.

India beat England by six runs at The Oval to draw the Test series 2-2
Q25

By what margin did India beat England in the fifth Test at The Oval on 4 August 2025?

Show answer

Correct answer: B — 6 runs

India won by 6 runs, its closest Test victory by runs, to draw the series 2-2.

Q26

What was the final result of the 2025 England–India Test series for the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy?

Show answer

Correct answer: A — Series drawn 2-2

Series drawn 2-2: India's six-run win at The Oval levelled the five-match series.

Q27 Advanced

Consider the following statements about the Oval Test of August 2025: 1. It was India's first-ever Test victory at The Oval. 2. Shubman Gill's 754 runs are the most by any batter in a Test series between England and India. Which of the above is/are correct?

Show answer

Correct answer: B — 2 only

Statement 1 is incorrect: it was India's third Test win at The Oval, after 1971 and 2021. Statement 2 is correct: no batter has scored more runs in an England–India series than Gill's 754, which passed Graham Gooch's 752 from 1990.

Q28 Advanced

Who took five wickets in England's second innings and was Player of the Match in India's six-run win at The Oval in August 2025?

Show answer

Correct answer: D — Mohammed Siraj

Mohammed Siraj took 5 for 104, bowling Gus Atkinson with a yorker to seal the win, and was named Player of the Match.

Pariksha Pe Charcha 2025 gets Guinness World Record for most registrations on a citizen engagement platform in one month
Q29

Pariksha Pe Charcha 2025 earned a Guinness World Record for how many valid registrations received in one month?

Show answer

Correct answer: B — 3.53 crore

The record recognises 3.53 crore valid registrations received for the 8th edition on the MyGov platform.

Q30 Advanced

Consider the following statements about the Guinness World Record conferred on Pariksha Pe Charcha in August 2025: 1. Pariksha Pe Charcha has been organised by the Ministry of Education in collaboration with MyGov since 2018. 2. The record was for the largest live television audience for an educational programme. Which of the above is/are correct?

Show answer

Correct answer: A — 1 only

Statement 1 is correct: PPC has been organised by the Ministry of Education with MyGov since 2018. Statement 2 is incorrect: the record was for the most people registered on a Citizen Engagement Platform in one month.

Q31

The Guinness World Record conferred on Pariksha Pe Charcha in August 2025 recognised registrations for which edition of the programme?

Show answer

Correct answer: D — 8th

8th edition (PPC 2025), with 3.53 crore valid registrations on MyGov.

DoT cuts telecom security test evaluation fees by up to 95% under ComSec
Q32

Under the revised ComSec fee structure effective 1 August 2025, what is the security test evaluation fee for Group A telecom equipment?

Show answer

Correct answer: A — ₹10,000

Fees for Group A equipment dropped to ₹10,000 from ₹2,00,000 under the revised ComSec structure.

Q33 Advanced

Consider the following statements about the DoT's ComSec changes announced in August 2025: 1. Optical Line Terminals and Optical Networking Terminals are under mandatory security testing. 2. Government R&D institutes such as C-DOT and CDAC are fully exempted from security test evaluation fees for applications until 31 March 2028. Which of the above is/are correct?

Show answer

Correct answer: B — 2 only

Statement 1 is incorrect: Optical Line Terminals and Optical Networking Terminals are subject to voluntary security certification. Statement 2 is correct: C-DOT, CDAC and other government R&D institutes are fully exempted for applications until 31 March 2028.

Q34

By up to what percentage did the Department of Telecommunications cut security test evaluation fees under the ComSec scheme, as announced on 4 August 2025?

Show answer

Correct answer: C — 95%

95%; fees that earlier ranged from ₹2,00,000 to ₹3,50,000 now range from ₹10,000 to ₹50,000.

NITI Aayog launches India Electric Mobility Index and report on a $200 billion EV opportunity
Q35

The India Electric Mobility Index launched by NITI Aayog in August 2025 scores States/UTs out of 100 across how many indicators?

Show answer

Correct answer: C — 16

The IEMI scores all States and UTs out of 100 across 16 indicators under three core themes.

Q36 Advanced

According to NITI Aayog's August 2025 EV report, India seeks to attain what share of electric vehicles in total vehicles sold by 2030?

Show answer

Correct answer: D — 30%

The report states that India seeks to attain a 30% share of electric vehicles in total vehicles sold by 2030.

Q37 Advanced

Consider the following statements about NITI Aayog's EV releases of August 2025: 1. Charging Infrastructure Readiness is one of the three themes of the India Electric Mobility Index. 2. EV sales in India rose from 50,000 in 2016 to 2.08 million in 2024. Which of the above is/are correct?

Show answer

Correct answer: C — Both 1 and 2

Both statements are correct. Charging Infrastructure Readiness is one of the IEMI's three themes, and the report notes EV sales rose from 50,000 in 2016 to 2.08 million in 2024.

Sitender wins 60 kg freestyle gold as India finish U17 World Wrestling Championships in Athens with nine medals
Q38

In which category did Sitender win gold at the U17 World Wrestling Championships 2025?

Show answer

Correct answer: A — Men's freestyle 60 kg

Men's freestyle 60 kg; he beat Japan's Rihito Hiura 9-4 in the final.

Q39

The U17 World Wrestling Championships 2025, which concluded on 3 August 2025, were held in which city?

Show answer

Correct answer: D — Athens

Athens, Greece, at the Ano Liosia Olympic Hall, the wrestling venue of the 2004 Olympics.

Q40 Advanced

Consider the following statements about India's performance at the U17 World Wrestling Championships 2025: 1. India won nine medals, including four gold. 2. India defended its women's freestyle team title. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Show answer

Correct answer: C — Both 1 and 2

Both are correct. India's tally was four gold, four silver and one bronze.

PM releases 20th instalment of PM-KISAN from Varanasi, transferring over ₹20,500 crore to 9.7 crore farmers
Q41

Which instalment of PM-KISAN did Prime Minister Narendra Modi release from Varanasi on 2 August 2025?

Show answer

Correct answer: B — 20th

The Prime Minister released the 20th instalment of PM-KISAN, transferring more than ₹20,500 crore to over 9.7 crore farmers.

Q42 Advanced

Approximately how much money was transferred to farmers with the PM-KISAN instalment released on 2 August 2025?

Show answer

Correct answer: D — More than ₹20,500 crore

More than ₹20,500 crore was transferred to over 9.7 crore farmers with the 20th instalment.

Q43

From which city did the Prime Minister release the 20th instalment of PM-KISAN in August 2025?

Show answer

Correct answer: A — Varanasi

The 20th instalment was released by the Prime Minister in Varanasi, where he also launched development works worth about ₹2,200 crore.

Q44 Advanced

Consider the following statements about PM-KISAN, as reported in August 2025: 1. The scheme was launched on 24 February 2019. 2. Over ₹3,77,000 crore has so far been transferred directly to farmers' accounts under the scheme. Which of the above is/are correct?

Show answer

Correct answer: C — Both 1 and 2

Both statements are correct. PM-KISAN was launched on 24 February 2019, and the Agriculture Minister said over ₹3,77,000 crore has been transferred directly to farmers so far.

15th Indian Organ Donation Day: India recorded over 18,900 organ transplants in 2024
Q45

According to the Health Ministry at the 15th Indian Organ Donation Day (August 2025), how many organ transplants did India perform in 2024?

Show answer

Correct answer: A — Over 18,900

India performed over 18,900 organ transplants in 2024, the highest ever recorded in a single year.

Q46 Advanced

Consider the following statements made at the 15th Indian Organ Donation Day (August 2025): 1. India ranks second globally in the total number of organ transplants. 2. More than 3.30 lakh citizens have pledged their organs since the Aadhaar-based NOTTO online pledge website was launched in 2023. Which of the above is/are correct?

Show answer

Correct answer: B — 2 only

Statement 1 is incorrect: India ranks third globally, behind the United States and China. Statement 2 is correct: more than 3.30 lakh citizens have pledged their organs since the Aadhaar-based pledge website was launched in 2023.

Q47

Which body organised the 15th Indian Organ Donation Day in New Delhi on 2 August 2025?

Show answer

Correct answer: D — National Organ and Tissue Transplant Organization (NOTTO)

National Organ and Tissue Transplant Organization (NOTTO), under the Directorate General of Health Services.

Election Commission doubles annual remuneration of Booth Level Officers
Q48

After the Election Commission's decision of 2 August 2025, what is the annual remuneration of a Booth Level Officer (BLO)?

Show answer

Correct answer: C — ₹12,000

The Commission doubled the annual remuneration of BLOs from ₹6,000 to ₹12,000.

Q49 Advanced

Consider the following statements about the Election Commission's remuneration decision of August 2025: 1. Electoral Registration Officers and Assistant Electoral Registration Officers were given an honorarium for the first time. 2. The previous revision of BLO remuneration was done in 2019. Which of the above is/are correct?

Show answer

Correct answer: A — 1 only

Statement 1 is correct: honorariums of ₹30,000 for EROs and ₹25,000 for AEROs were provided for the first time. Statement 2 is incorrect: the last such revision was done in 2015.

Q50 Advanced

What honorarium did the Election Commission provide for Electoral Registration Officers (EROs) in August 2025?

Show answer

Correct answer: B — ₹30,000

EROs were given an honorarium of ₹30,000, and AEROs ₹25,000, for the first time.

Election Commission announces schedule for 17th Vice-Presidential Election; poll and counting on 9 September 2025
Q51

On which date is the poll, if necessary, for the 17th Vice-Presidential Election scheduled, as announced on 1 August 2025?

Show answer

Correct answer: C — 9 September 2025

The poll, if necessary, and the counting are both scheduled for 9 September 2025 at Parliament House.

Q52 Advanced

According to the Election Commission, what is the total strength of the Electoral College for the 2025 Vice-Presidential Election?

Show answer

Correct answer: B — 788

The Electoral College comprises a total of 788 members of both Houses of Parliament: 233 elected and 12 nominated Rajya Sabha members and 543 elected Lok Sabha members.

Q53 Advanced

Consider the following statements about the 2025 Vice-Presidential Election: 1. The security deposit for a candidate is ₹15,000. 2. A nomination paper must be subscribed by at least 20 electors as proposers and at least 20 other electors as seconders. Which of the above is/are correct?

Show answer

Correct answer: C — Both 1 and 2

Both statements are correct. The security deposit is ₹15,000, and each nomination needs at least 20 proposers and 20 seconders from among the electors.

Q54 Advanced

Who has been appointed Returning Officer for the 2025 Vice-Presidential Election?

Show answer

Correct answer: D — Secretary General, Rajya Sabha

The Election Commission, in consultation with the Central Government, appointed the Secretary General, Rajya Sabha as the Returning Officer.

71st National Film Awards announced: 12th Fail is Best Feature Film; Shah Rukh Khan and Vikrant Massey share Best Actor
Q55

Which film won the Best Feature Film award at the 71st National Film Awards announced on 1 August 2025?

Show answer

Correct answer: B — 12th Fail

12th Fail won the Best Feature Film award at the 71st National Film Awards for the year 2023.

Q56

Who won the Best Actress award at the 71st National Film Awards?

Show answer

Correct answer: A — Rani Mukerji

Rani Mukerji won Best Actress for Mrs. Chatterjee Vs Norway; it is her first National Film Award.

Q57 Advanced

Consider the following statements about the 71st National Film Awards: 1. Shah Rukh Khan and Vikrant Massey shared the Best Actor award. 2. The Feature Film Jury was chaired by P. Sheshadri. Which of the above is/are correct?

Show answer

Correct answer: A — 1 only

Statement 1 is correct: Shah Rukh Khan (Jawan) and Vikrant Massey (12th Fail) shared Best Actor. Statement 2 is incorrect: the Feature Film Jury was chaired by Ashutosh Gowariker; P. Sheshadri chaired the Non-Feature Film Jury.

Q58 Advanced

Which film was adjudged Best Film in AVGC (Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming and Comic) at the 71st National Film Awards?

Show answer

Correct answer: D — Hanu-Man

Hanu-Man was adjudged Best Film in AVGC (Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming and Comic) at the 71st National Film Awards.

Gross GST collections rise 7.5% to about ₹1.96 lakh crore in July 2025
Q59

What were India's gross GST collections for July 2025, as per data released on 1 August 2025?

Show answer

Correct answer: A — About ₹1.96 lakh crore

Gross GST collections for July 2025 were ₹1,95,735 crore, about ₹1.96 lakh crore.

Q60 Advanced

By what percentage did gross GST collections in July 2025 grow over July 2024?

Show answer

Correct answer: C — 7.5%

Gross GST collections grew 7.5%, from ₹1,82,075 crore in July 2024 to ₹1,95,735 crore in July 2025.

Q61 Advanced

Consider the following statements about GST data for July 2025: 1. Refunds rose 66.8% to ₹27,147 crore. 2. Net GST revenue grew by more than 10% over July 2024. Which of the above is/are correct?

Show answer

Correct answer: A — 1 only

Statement 1 is correct: refunds rose 66.8% to ₹27,147 crore. Statement 2 is incorrect: because of the surge in refunds, net GST revenue was ₹1,68,588 crore, up only 1.7%.

Q62 Advanced

What was the gross GST revenue from imports in July 2025?

Show answer

Correct answer: D — ₹52,712 crore

Gross import revenue in July 2025 was ₹52,712 crore, up 9.7% from a year earlier.

Sonali Mishra assumes charge as Director General of Railway Protection Force
Q63

Who assumed charge as Director General of the Railway Protection Force on 1 August 2025?

Show answer

Correct answer: B — Sonali Mishra

Sonali Mishra, a 1993-batch IPS officer of the Madhya Pradesh cadre, assumed charge as Director General of the RPF.

Q64 Advanced

What is the motto of the Railway Protection Force, cited when its new Director General took charge in August 2025?

Show answer

Correct answer: A — Yasho Labhasva

On assuming charge, the new DG reaffirmed the values of vigilance, courage and service that define the RPF's motto “Yasho Labhasva”.

Mines Ministry recognises seven Centres of Excellence under National Critical Mineral Mission
Q65 Advanced

Which of the following was NOT among the Centres of Excellence recognised under the National Critical Mineral Mission in August 2025?

Show answer

Correct answer: D — IIT Madras

IIT Madras is not in the list. The four recognised IITs are those at Bombay, Hyderabad, Roorkee and the ISM campus in Dhanbad, along with CSIR-IMMT, CSIR-NML and NFTDC.

Q66 Advanced

On which model will each Centre of Excellence under the National Critical Mineral Mission operate as a consortium?

Show answer

Correct answer: A — Hub & Spoke model

Each CoE will operate as a consortium on a Hub & Spoke model, with the hub institute bringing in industry and R&D or academic partners.

Railways plans permanent holding areas, access control and station directors at 73 crowded stations
Q67

At how many identified stations did the Railways announce permanent holding areas and complete access control in August 2025?

Show answer

Correct answer: B — 73

Permanent waiting areas and complete access control will be introduced at 73 identified stations that periodically face heavy crowds.

Q68 Advanced

Consider the following statements about the Railways' crowd-management plan announced on 1 August 2025: 1. Only passengers with confirmed reserved tickets will get direct access to platforms at the identified stations. 2. Pilot projects for holding areas have started at stations including New Delhi, Varanasi and Ayodhya. Which of the above is/are correct?

Show answer

Correct answer: C — Both 1 and 2

Both statements are correct. Confirmed reserved ticket holders get direct platform access, and pilots are under way at New Delhi, Anand Vihar, Varanasi, Ayodhya and Ghaziabad.

Seven coal blocks auctioned in 12th round of commercial coal mining auctions
Q69

How many coal blocks were successfully auctioned in the 12th round of commercial coal auctions, as announced on 1 August 2025?

Show answer

Correct answer: B — Seven

Seven coal blocks were successfully auctioned in the forward auctions held from 28 to 31 July 2025.

Q70 Advanced

Consider the following statements about the 12th round of commercial coal auctions: 1. The auctioned blocks are located in Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh. 2. Since commercial coal mining began in 2020, a total of 131 coal blocks have been auctioned. Which of the above is/are correct?

Show answer

Correct answer: C — Both 1 and 2

Both statements are correct. The seven blocks lie in Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh, and 131 coal blocks with 277.31 MTPA capacity have been auctioned since 2020.

India's manufacturing PMI rises to 59.1 in July 2025, a 16-month high
Q71

What was the HSBC India Manufacturing PMI for July 2025, released on 1 August 2025?

Show answer

Correct answer: C — 59.1

The HSBC India Manufacturing PMI stood at 59.1 in July 2025, a 16-month high.

Q72 Advanced

Consider the following statements about India's manufacturing PMI for July 2025: 1. It signalled the strongest improvement in the sector since March 2024. 2. Business confidence rose to its highest level in three years. Which of the above is/are correct?

Show answer

Correct answer: A — 1 only

Statement 1 is correct: the July reading was the strongest improvement since March 2024. Statement 2 is incorrect: business confidence fell to its lowest level in three years.

Cabinet raises PMKSY outlay to ₹6,520 crore for 15th Finance Commission cycle
Q73

What total outlay did the Union Cabinet approve on 31 July 2025 for the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana for 2021-22 to 2025-26?

Show answer

Correct answer: C — ₹6,520 crore

The Cabinet approved a total outlay of ₹6,520 crore, including an additional ₹1,920 crore.

Q74 Advanced

How many multi-product food irradiation units are to be supported under PMKSY as per the Cabinet decision of 31 July 2025?

Show answer

Correct answer: A — 50

₹1,000 crore will support 50 multi-product food irradiation units and 100 NABL-accredited food testing labs.

Q75 Advanced

Consider the following statements about the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana (PMKSY): 1. The food irradiation units will be supported under its Integrated Cold Chain and Value Addition Infrastructure (ICCVAI) component. 2. The NABL-accredited food testing labs will be supported under its Food Safety and Quality Assurance Infrastructure (FSQAI) component. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Show answer

Correct answer: D — Both 1 and 2

Both are correct as per the Cabinet release; both components are demand-driven.

US executive order sets 25% reciprocal tariff on Indian goods
Q76

What reciprocal tariff rate did the US executive order of 31 July 2025 set for India?

Show answer

Correct answer: A — 25%

Annex I of Executive Order 14326 lists India at 25%.

Q77 Advanced

From which date did the 25% US reciprocal tariff on Indian goods under the executive order of 31 July 2025 take effect?

Show answer

Correct answer: D — 7 August 2025

The order applies from 12:01 a.m. EDT seven days after 31 July 2025, i.e. 7 August 2025; Business Standard reported it took effect on 7 August.

Q78 Advanced

Consider the following statements about Annex I of US Executive Order 14326 (31 July 2025): 1. Bangladesh is listed at 20%. 2. Japan is listed at 15%. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Show answer

Correct answer: C — Both 1 and 2

Both are correct as per Annex I of the order.

Vice-Presidential Election 2025: ECI finalises Electoral College list
Q79

As per Article 66(1), cited by the ECI on 31 July 2025, the Electoral College for the Vice-Presidential election consists of:

Show answer

Correct answer: A — Elected and nominated members of the Rajya Sabha and elected members of the Lok Sabha

The ECI release quotes Article 66(1): elected members of the Rajya Sabha, nominated members of the Rajya Sabha and elected members of the Lok Sabha.

Q80 Advanced

Under which Article of the Constitution is the Election Commission mandated to conduct the election to the office of Vice-President, as stated by the ECI on 31 July 2025?

Show answer

Correct answer: D — Article 324

The ECI release says it is mandated under Article 324 to conduct the Vice-Presidential election.

Q81 Advanced

Consider the following statements about the Vice-Presidential election: 1. Rule 40 of the Presidential and Vice-Presidential Elections Rules, 1974 requires the ECI to prepare and maintain an updated list of members of the Electoral College. 2. Nominated members of the Rajya Sabha are excluded from the Electoral College. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Show answer

Correct answer: B — 1 only

Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is wrong: Article 66(1) includes nominated members of the Rajya Sabha.

CCEA approves four railway multitracking projects worth ₹11,169 crore
Q82

The four railway multitracking projects approved by the CCEA on 31 July 2025 will increase the Indian Railways network by about:

Show answer

Correct answer: D — 574 km

The projects will add about 574 km to the existing network.

Q83 Advanced

Which of the following was NOT among the four railway projects approved by the CCEA on 31 July 2025?

Show answer

Correct answer: A — Wardha–Ballarshah 4th line

The four projects were Itarsi–Nagpur 4th line, Aurangabad–Parbhani doubling, Aluabari Road–New Jalpaiguri 3rd and 4th lines, and Dangoaposi–Jaroli 3rd and 4th lines.

Cabinet approves ₹2,000-crore grant-in-aid scheme for NCDC
Q84

The Central Sector Scheme 'Grant in aid to NCDC' approved by the Cabinet on 31 July 2025 has what outlay and period?

Show answer

Correct answer: B — ₹2,000 crore over four years, 2025-26 to 2028-29

The scheme has ₹2,000 crore for four years from 2025-26 to 2028-29, at ₹500 crore a year.

Q85 Advanced

On the basis of the ₹2,000-crore grant approved on 31 July 2025, how much will NCDC be able to raise from the open market over four years?

Show answer

Correct answer: C — ₹20,000 crore

The Cabinet release says NCDC will be able to raise ₹20,000 crore from the open market.

India's resolution on sustainable lifestyles for wetlands adopted at Ramsar COP15
Q86

Where was the 15th Conference of Parties (COP15) of the Ramsar Convention, which adopted India's wetlands resolution on 30 July 2025, held?

Show answer

Correct answer: C — Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

Ramsar COP15 was held at Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe.

Q87 Advanced

India's resolution adopted at Ramsar COP15 on 30 July 2025 was titled:

Show answer

Correct answer: B — Promoting Sustainable Lifestyles for the Wise Use of Wetlands

The resolution was 'Promoting Sustainable Lifestyles for the Wise Use of Wetlands'.

Q88 Advanced

According to the Environment Ministry, India's resolution at Ramsar COP15 received support from how many Ramsar Contracting Parties?

Show answer

Correct answer: A — 172

The release says the resolution received support from the 172 Ramsar Contracting Parties.

23 chip-design projects sanctioned under Design Linked Incentive scheme
Q89

How many chip-design projects had been sanctioned under the Design Linked Incentive scheme, as stated by MeitY on 30 July 2025?

Show answer

Correct answer: D — 23

MeitY said 23 chip-design projects had been sanctioned under DLI.

Q90 Advanced

What is the outlay of the Design Linked Incentive (DLI) scheme under the Semicon India Programme?

Show answer

Correct answer: B — ₹1,000 crore

The DLI scheme has an outlay of ₹1,000 crore within the ₹76,000-crore Semicon India Programme.

Q91 Advanced

Consider the following statements about the Design Linked Incentive scheme: 1. It offers a product design incentive of up to 50% of eligible costs, capped at ₹15 crore per application. 2. Chip designs from academic institutions under the scheme have been fabricated at SCL, Mohali. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Show answer

Correct answer: C — Both 1 and 2

Both are correct: the cap is ₹15 crore per application, and 20 designs from 17 institutions were fabricated at SCL, Mohali.