Posts

International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) officially comes into force
The Framework Agreement on the establishment of the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) has officially come into force, as announced by the Environment Ministry. The IBCA and its Secretariat have become a treaty-based, inter-governmental international organization and legal entity as of January 23.
Five countries – Nicaragua, Eswatini, India, Somalia, and Liberia – have deposited their instruments of ratification under the Framework Agreement. A total of 27 countries, including India, have consented to join the IBCA. Several international and national organizations working in wildlife conservation have partnered with the IBCA.
The IBCA was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on April 9, 2023, during the ‘Commemorating 50 years of Project Tiger’ event. The Union Cabinet approved the establishment of the IBCA last year, with its headquarters in India.
The IBCA aims to conserve seven big cats: Tiger, Lion, Leopard, Snow Leopard, Cheetah, Jaguar, and Puma.
India-Maldives Joint Military Exercise ‘Ekuverin’ Begins in Maldives
The 13th edition of the joint military exercise ‘Ekuverin’ between the Indian Army and the Maldives National Defence Force began on February 2, 2025, in the Maldives.
This bilateral annual exercise, named ‘Ekuverin’ which means ‘Friends’ in the Dhivehi language, is conducted alternately in India and the Maldives. The 2023 edition took place in Chaubatia, Uttarakhand, from June 11 to 24.
Bart De Wever sworn in as Belgium’s new Prime Minister
Bart De Wever has been sworn in as Belgium’s new prime minister on February 3, 2025, in an oath-taking ceremony before King Philippe at the Royal Palace.
De Wever’s coalition government consists of five parties, with seven francophone ministers and seven Flemish ministers. The new government’s agenda focuses on budget reform, stricter migration policies, and economic restructuring.
However, there are concerns about gender equality, as only three women are represented in the 15-member cabinet. Additionally, the government faces the challenge of bridging Belgium’s linguistic and political divides.
Current Affairs MCQs : 3 February 2025
Q.: Who won the Tata Steel Masters 2025 title on 2 Feb 2025 at Wijk aan Zee, Netherlands?
A) D. Gukesh
B) Viswanathan Anand
C) R. Praggnanandhaa
D) Vincent Keymer
Show Answer
C) R. Praggnanandhaa
Indian Grandmaster R. Praggnanandhaa clinched the prestigious Tata Steel Masters 2025 title by defeating World Champion D. Gukesh in a thrilling tiebreaker on 2 Feb 2025 at Wijk aan Zee, Netherlands. This victory makes him the first Indian since Viswanathan Anand in 2006 to claim the prestigious title.
Q.: How many consecutive budgets has Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented as of 2025?
A) Six
B) Seven
C) Eight
D) Nine
Show Answer
Ans: C) Eight
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the Union Budget 2025 in Parliament on February 1, 2025. This was her eighth consecutive budget presentation, making her the first Finance Minister to achieve this milestone.
Q.: Up to what amount is no income tax payable under the new tax regime in Budget 2025?
A) ₹10 lakh
B) ₹11 lakh
C) ₹12 lakh
D) ₹13 lakh
Show Answer
Ans: C) ₹12 lakh
Income Tax Reforms: No income tax payable up to ₹12 lakh under the new tax regime.
Q.: As per Budget 2025, How many Atal Tinkering Labs are planned to be set up in government schools over the next five years?
A) 40,000
B) 45,000
C) 50,000
D) 55,000
Show Answer
Ans: C) 50,000
Education: 50,000 Atal Tinkering Labs to be set up in government schools over the next five years.
Q.: US President Donald Trump imposed tariffs on imports from which countries on February 1, 2025?
A) Mexico, Canada, and China
B) Mexico, India, and China
C) Canada, Japan, and China
D) Mexico, Canada, and Japan
Show Answer
Ans: A) Mexico, Canada, and China
On February 1, 2025, President Donald Trump imposed significant tariffs on imports from Mexico, Canada, and China. The tariffs include a 25% increase on imports from Mexico and Canada, and a 10% increase on imports from China
Q.: Which country won the U19 Women’s T20 Cricket World Cup on 2 Feb 2025?
A) Australia
B) South Africa
C) India
D) England
Show Answer
Ans: C) India
India retained their U19 Women’s T20 Cricket World Cup title with a nine-wicket win over South Africa in the summit clash at the Bayuemas Oval on 2 Feb 2025.
India retained U19 Women’s T20 Cricket World Cup Title
Trisha Gongadi put out a sparkling all-round performance as a dominant India retained their U19 Women’s T20 Cricket World Cup title with a nine-wicket win over South Africa in the summit clash at the Bayuemas Oval on 2 Feb 2025.
A stellar bowling performance, with the spinners taking nine wickets – three of which went to Trisha – along with fielders stepping up nicely, helped Niki Prasad-led India bowl out South Africa for 82 on a slow pitch.
In the chase, Trisha made 44 not out off 33 balls while Sanika Chalke slammed an unbeaten 26 off 22 deliveries to help India complete the chase in 11.2 overs. This victory marks India’s second successive triumph in the U19 Women’s T20 World Cup, showing their dominance at this level as they also became the first side to win the title without losing any game.
Brief Scores:
- South Africa 82 all out (Mieke van Voorst 23, Fay Cowling 15; Trisha Gongadi 3-15, Parunika Sisodia 2-6)
- India 84/1 in 11.2 overs (Trisha Gongadi 44 not out, Sanika Chalke 26 not out; Kayla Reyneke 1-14)
India won by nine wickets.
US imposes tariffs on imports from Mexico, Canada, and China
On February 1, 2025, President Donald Trump imposed significant tariffs on imports from Mexico, Canada, and China. The tariffs include a 25% increase on imports from Mexico and Canada, and a 10% increase on imports from China, citing issues such as illegal immigration and the smuggling of fentanyl as reasons for the decision.
This move has led to swift retaliatory measures from the affected countries, signaling the beginning of a broader trade war.
Main Highlights of Budget 2025
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the Union Budget 2025 in Parliament on February 1, 2025. This was her eighth consecutive budget presentation, making her the first Finance Minister to achieve this milestone.
Here are the main highlights of Budget 2025:
Income Tax Reforms: No income tax payable up to ₹12 lakh under the new tax regime.
Capex Increase: Capital expenditure (Capex) rises to ₹11.21 lakh crore for FY2025-26.
Agriculture Initiatives: Launch of Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana targeting 100 districts with low productivity.
Nuclear Energy Mission: Aim to develop 100 GW of nuclear power by 2047, with ₹20,000 crore allocated for Small Modular Reactors (SMRs).
MSME Support: Customized credit cards for MSMEs, enhanced investment and turnover limits, and a new fund of funds.
Urban Development: ₹1 lakh crore Urban Challenge Fund to transform cities into growth hubs.
Employment Generation: Plans to generate 22 lakh jobs through various schemes.
Regional Connectivity: Modified UDAN Scheme to enhance regional connectivity to 120 new destinations.
Healthcare: Enhanced credit limits for farmers and inclusion of gig economy workers in welfare schemes.
Education: 50,000 Atal Tinkering Labs to be set up in government schools over the next five years.
MCQs on Budget 2025:
Q.: How many consecutive budgets has Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented as of 2025?
A) Six
B) Seven
C) Eight
D) Nine
Ans: C) Eight
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the Union Budget 2025 in Parliament on February 1, 2025. This was her eighth consecutive budget presentation, making her the first Finance Minister to achieve this milestone.
Q.: Up to what amount is no income tax payable under the new tax regime in Budget 2025?
A) ₹10 lakh
B) ₹11 lakh
C) ₹12 lakh
D) ₹13 lakh
Ans: C) ₹12 lakh
Income Tax Reforms: No income tax payable up to ₹12 lakh under the new tax regime.
Q.: As per Budget 2025, How many Atal Tinkering Labs are planned to be set up in government schools over the next five years?
A) 40,000
B) 45,000
C) 50,000
D) 55,000
Ans: C) 50,000
Education: 50,000 Atal Tinkering Labs to be set up in government schools over the next five years.
Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa wins Tata Steel Masters 2025
Indian Grandmaster R. Praggnanandhaa clinched the prestigious Tata Steel Masters 2025 title by defeating World Champion D. Gukesh in a thrilling tiebreaker on 2 Feb 2025 at Wijk aan Zee, Netherlands. This victory makes him the first Indian since Viswanathan Anand in 2006 to claim the prestigious title.
The event ended dramatically, with both Gukesh and Pragg tied at 8.5 points after 13 rounds. In the tiebreak, Gukesh won the first of two blitz games and needed only a draw in the second to secure the title. However, Pragg staged a stunning comeback, winning both blitz games to clinch the championship.
Current Affairs MCQs : 1 February 2025
Q.: Who was honoured with the BCCI’s Lifetime Achievement Award at the Board’s annual gala in Mumbai on 1 February 2025?
A) Ravi Shastri
B) Farokh Engineer
C) Sachin Tendulkar
D) Col. C.K. Nayudu
Show Answer
Ans: C) Sachin Tendulkar
Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar has been honoured with the BCCI’s Lifetime Achievement Award at the Board’s annual gala in Mumbai on 1 February 2025.
Q.: Which state now has the maximum number of Ramsar sites in India as on February 2025?
A) Kerala
B) Punjab
C) Tamil Nadu
D) Gujarat
Show Answer
Ans: C) Tamil Nadu
The Centre has announced the addition of four new Ramsar sites in India, taking the total to 89. Tamil Nadu become the state with the most Ramsar sites, now totaling 20.
Q.: What has the World Health Organization (WHO) recently recommended to combat hypertension and related cardiovascular diseases?
A) Increase sodium intake
B) Switch from regular table salt to potassium-enriched salt substitutes
C) Reduce potassium intake
D) Eliminate salt from the diet entirely
Show Answer
Ans: B) Switch from regular table salt to potassium-enriched salt substitutes
The World Health Organization (WHO) has released new guidelines recommending the switch from regular table salt to potassium-enriched salt substitutes as part of efforts to combat hypertension and related cardiovascular diseases.
Q.: As per the Economic Survey 2025, what is the projected growth rate of India’s real GDP for the financial year 2025?
A) 5.4%
B) 6.4%
C) 7.1%
D) 6.7%
Show Answer
Ans: B) 6.4%
The Economic Survey, presented by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on 31 Jan 2025, estimates India’s real GDP to grow by 6.4 percent in the financial year 2025
Economic Survey Projects India’s Real GDP to Grow by 6.4% in FY 2025
The Economic Survey, presented by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on 31 Jan 2025, estimates India’s real GDP to grow by 6.4 percent in the financial year 2025, with growth likely ranging between 6.3 and 6.8 percent in FY 2026.
The survey highlights that the fundamentals of the domestic economy remain robust, with steady growth supported by the agriculture and services sector. Rural demand is improving due to record Kharif production and favorable agricultural conditions. The manufacturing sector faced challenges due to weak global demand and seasonal conditions, but private consumption remained stable.
Fiscal discipline and strong external balance contributed to macroeconomic stability, supported by a services trade surplus and healthy remittance growth. The survey stresses the importance of improving global competitiveness through grassroots-level structural reforms and deregulation.
In Q1 of FY 2025, GDP grew by 6.7 percent, while Q2 saw a 5.4 percent growth, resulting in a real GDP growth of 6 percent in the first half of the fiscal year. The agriculture sector maintained steady growth, recording a 3.5 percent growth rate in Q2. The industrial sector grew by 6 percent in the first half of FY 2025, with a notable 8.3 percent growth in Q1. The services sector performed well, achieving a 7.1 percent growth in the first half of FY 2025.
Fiscal discipline has progressively improved, and retail headline inflation, measured by the Consumer Price Index, softened from 5.4 percent in FY 2024 to 4.9 percent from April to December 2024. Food inflation is expected to ease in Q4 of FY 2025. The unemployment rate for individuals aged 15 years and above has steadily declined from 6 percent in 2017-18 to 3.2 percent in 2023-24, according to the 2023-24 annual Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) report.
WHO Urges Shift to Potassium-Enriched Salt Substitutes to Combat Hypertension
The World Health Organization (WHO) has released new guidelines recommending the switch from regular table salt to potassium-enriched salt substitutes as part of efforts to combat hypertension and related cardiovascular diseases. The WHO’s mission to lower sodium intake stems from extensive research highlighting the health risks posed by excess sodium consumption.
Excess sodium can lead to high blood pressure, posing a significant risk for millions globally. Studies indicate approximately 1.9 million deaths annually are linked to high salt consumption, with hypertension as the underlying factor for heart disease, stroke, and kidney disorders. Interestingly, many people are unaware of their high sodium intake, which averages around 4.3 grams per day, far exceeding the WHO’s recommendation of less than 2 grams.
India Adds Four New Ramsar Sites, Taking Tally to 89
The Centre has announced the addition of four new Ramsar sites in India, taking the total to 89. The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change shared this news ahead of World Wetlands Day, stating that the new sites include Sakkarakottai Bird Sanctuary and Therthangal Bird Sanctuary in Tamil Nadu, Khecheopalri Wetland in Sikkim, and Udhwa Lake in Jharkhand.
Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav highlighted that India continues to have the highest number of Ramsar sites in Asia and ranks third in the world. He congratulated Tamil Nadu for becoming the state with the most Ramsar sites, now totaling 20. This addition also marks a significant achievement for Sikkim and Jharkhand, which have added their first Ramsar sites.
Sachin Tendulkar Honoured with BCCI Lifetime Achievement Award 2025
Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar has been honoured with the BCCI’s Lifetime Achievement Award at the Board’s annual gala in Mumbai on 1 February 2025. Tendulkar, now 51, becomes the 31st recipient of this prestigious award, which was first introduced in 1994 to honor India’s inaugural cricket captain, Col. C.K. Nayudu.
Throughout his illustrious career, Tendulkar played an astounding 664 international matches for India, amassing the highest number of runs in both Test (15,921) and ODI (18,426) cricket history. He also holds the record for the most appearances in both formats, with 200 Test matches and 463 ODIs to his name. One of Tendulkar’s crowning achievements was being a crucial member of India’s 2011 World Cup-winning team, marking his record sixth and final tournament appearance.
In recent years, other notable recipients of the Lifetime Achievement Award include former India head coach Ravi Shastri and wicket-keeping legend Farokh Engineer, who received the honor in 2023.
Current Affairs MCQs : 31 January 2025
Q.: When did the Budget session of Parliament begin in 2025?
A) January 1, 2025
B) January 31, 2025
C) February 1, 2025
D) February 10, 2025
Show Answer
Answer: B) January 31, 2025
Q.: Who addressed the joint sitting of both Houses at the beginning of the Budget session in 2025?
A) Prime Minister Narendra Modi
B) President Droupadi Murmu
C) Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman
D) Speaker of the Lok Sabha
Show Answer
Answer: B) President Droupadi Murmu
Q.: What is the theme of the New Delhi World Book Fair 2025?
A) Unity in Diversity
B) Celebrating Literature
C) We the People of India
D) A Global Vision
Show Answer
Answer: C) We the People of India
The New Delhi World Book Fair 2025 will begin on February 1 at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. The theme of this year’s fair is “We the People of India”.
Q.: Where is the new 30,000-bed migrant detention facility planned to be built by the US?
A) Guantanamo Bay, Cuba
B) Arizona, USA
C) California, USA
D) Texas, USA
Show Answer
Answer: A) Guantanamo Bay, Cuba
US President Donald Trump has announced plans to build a 30,000-bed migrant detention facility at the US Navy base in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, separate from the existing high-security prison.
US Plans 30,000-Bed Migrant Detention Facility at Guantanamo Bay
US President Donald Trump has announced plans to build a 30,000-bed migrant detention facility at the US Navy base in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, separate from the existing high-security prison.
The facility, managed by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), will house migrants, including those intercepted at sea, whom Trump referred to as the “worst criminal illegal aliens.”
This announcement follows Trump’s signing of the Laken Riley Act, which mandates the jailing of undocumented immigrants accused of violent crimes. The act is named after a Georgia nursing student murdered by a Venezuelan migrant.
The Cuban government has condemned the move, calling it illegal and inhumane, as Guantanamo Bay has been historically controversial due to allegations of detainee mistreatment.
World Book Fair 2025 from February 1 to 9
The New Delhi World Book Fair 2025 will begin on February 1 at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. The theme of this year’s fair is “We the People of India,” marking 75 years of the Republic of India.
The nine-day event will be inaugurated by President Droupadi Murmu. Yuvraj Malik, Director of the National Book Trust, mentioned that Russia is the focus country for this year’s fair, with participation from over 50 countries, including France, Argentina, Spain, Colombia, Abu Dhabi, and Qatar. The fair will feature nearly 2,000 publishers and 1,000 speakers.
Budget session of Parliament to begin on Jan 31
The Budget session of Parliament began on January 31, 2025, with President Droupadi Murmu addressing a joint sitting of both Houses. Following this, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will present the Economic Survey when both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha meet briefly. On February 1, 2025, she will present the Union Budget for 2025-26. The Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha will then discuss the Motion of Thanks on the President’s Address on February 3, 2025.
During this session, 16 bills will be discussed, including the Finance Bill 2025, the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2024, the Immigration and Foreigners Bill 2025, the Banking Laws (Amendment) Bill 2024, and the Railways (Amendment) Bill 2024. The first part of the Budget session will run until February 13, 2025, and the second part will take place from March 10 to April 4, 2025.
Current Affairs MCQs : 30 January 2025
Q.: On which occasion did over seven crore devotees take a holy dip in the Sangam at Prayagraj on January 29, 2025?
A. Makar Sankranti
B. Mauni Amavasya
C. Basant Panchami
D. Kartik Purnima
Show Answer
Ans: B. Mauni Amavasya
Q.: What is the purpose of the Beating Retreat ceremony held at Vijay Chowk in New Delhi on January 29, 2025?
A. To celebrate India’s Independence Day
B. To mark the end of the Republic Day celebrations
C. To commemorate the Indian Armed Forces Day
D. To honor the national leaders of India
Show Answer
Ans: B. To mark the end of the Republic Day celebrations
The Beating Retreat ceremony at Vijay Chowk in New Delhi on January 29, 2025, marked the conclusion of the Republic Day celebrations.
Q.: What was the theme of Uttar Pradesh’s tableau that won the best tableau award at the Republic Day Parade 2025?
A. Kharchi Puja
B. Mahakumbh 2025 – Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas
C. Eco-Friendly Wooden Toys
D. Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh
Show Answer
Ans: B. Mahakumbh 2025 – Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas
Uttar Pradesh’s tableau titled ‘Mahakumbh 2025 – Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas’ won the best tableau award at the Republic Day Parade on January 26 at Kartavya Path, New Delhi.
Uttar Pradesh’s ‘Mahakumbh 2025’ Tableau Wins Best Award at Republic Day Parade
Uttar Pradesh’s tableau titled ‘Mahakumbh 2025 – Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas’ won the best tableau award at the Republic Day Parade on January 26 at Kartavya Path, New Delhi.
Tripura’s tableau themed ‘Eternal Reverence: The worship of 14 Deities in Tripura – Kharchi Puja’ secured the second place.
Andhra Pradesh’s tableau depicting ‘Etikoppaka Bommalu – Eco-Friendly Wooden Toys’ won the third prize.
Ministry of Tribal Affairs‘ ‘Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh’ won the best tableau award among Central Ministries and Departments.
Jammu and Kashmir Rifles Contingent won the best marching contingent award among Services.
Delhi Police Marching Contingent won the award among CAPFs and other auxiliary forces.
Central Public Works Department and ‘Jayati Jai Mamah Bharatam’ Dance Group received the Special Prize for 75 years of the Constitution of India.
Gujarat won the best tableau award in the Popular Choice Category for ‘Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas’.
Uttar Pradesh was the runner-up in the Popular Choice Category.
Uttarakhand’s tableau on ‘Cultural Heritage and Adventure Sports’ won the third spot in the Popular Choice Category.
Signals Contingent won the Best Marching Contingent award among Services in the Popular Choice Category.
CRPF Marching Contingent won the Best Marching Contingent award among CAPFs and other auxiliary forces in the Popular Choice Category.
Beating Retreat ceremony at Vijay Chowk to mark the conclusion of the Republic Day celebrations
The Beating Retreat ceremony at Vijay Chowk in New Delhi on January 29, 2025, marked the conclusion of the Republic Day celebrations. Held at sunset, the ceremony featured captivating performances by the bands of the Indian Army, Navy, Air Force, Delhi Police, and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF).
The event was attended by dignitaries including President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. The ceremony included a variety of patriotic tunes, ending with the ever-popular “Sare Jahan Se Acha”.
Record Attendance and Unfortunate Incident Mark Mauni Amavasya at Kumbh Mela
On January 29, 2025, over seven crore devotees took a holy dip in the Sangam at Prayagraj during Mauni Amavasya. Following their dip in the Triveni Sangam, devotees performed rituals and offered prayers. The Maha Kumbh Mela, which began on January 13, has seen more than 26 crore devotees take a holy dip so far.
Tragically, at least 30 people lost their lives, and 60 others were injured in an incident at Sangam Ghat in the early hours of January 29. DIG Kumbh Mela Vaibhav Krishna reported that the incident occurred when a large crowd gathered, leading to broken barricades. Swift rescue operations were carried out, including creating a green corridor for ambulances to transport the injured to hospitals.
Current Affairs MCQs : 29 January 2025
Q.: What is the theme of the 38th National Games inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in in Dehradun on January 28, 2025?
A. Unity in Diversity
B. Digital India
C. Green Games
D. Sports for All
Show Answer
Ans: C. Green Games
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 38th National Games in Dehradun on January 28, 2025. The event, held at the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium. The theme for this year’s games is “Green Games”.
Q. Who has been conferred with the Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy for ICC Men’s Cricketer of the Year 2024?
(A) Virat Kohli
(B) Rohit Sharma
(C) Jasprit Bumrah
(D) Ravindra Jadeja
Show Answer
Answer: (C) Jasprit Bumrah
Q.: What milestone does launch of NVS-02 satellite on January 29, 2025, mark for ISRO from Sriharikota?
A. 50th launch
B. 75th launch
C. 100th launch
D. 125th launch
Show Answer
Ans: C. 100th launch
On January 29, 2025, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully launched the NVS-02 satellite from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota. This mission, conducted using the GSLV-F15 rocket, marks ISRO’s 100th launch from Sriharikota.
ISRO Celebrates 100th Launch Milestone with NVS-02 Success
On January 29, 2025, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully launched the NVS-02 satellite from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota. This mission, conducted using the GSLV-F15 rocket, marks ISRO’s 100th launch from Sriharikota.
The NVS-02 satellite is part of the Navigation with Indian Constellation (NavIC) system, aimed at enhancing India’s space-based navigation services. The satellite will provide accurate positioning services for various sectors, including transportation, defense, and logistics.
Jasprit Bumrah wins Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy as ICC men’s cricketer of the year 2024
Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah has been honored with the Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy for ICC Men’s Cricketer of the Year 2024, recognizing his exceptional performance across all cricket formats.
Bumrah becomes the first Indian pacer to win this award, joining an elite list of Indian cricketers that includes Rahul Dravid (2004), Sachin Tendulkar (2010), Ravichandran Ashwin (2016), and Virat Kohli (2017, 2018).
Bumrah played a crucial role in India’s T20 World Cup victory in 2024, emerging as the tournament’s leading wicket-taker. Additionally, he dominated Test cricket with 71 wickets in 13 matches, the highest by any bowler in 2024. Despite strong competition, Bumrah also won the ICC Men’s Test Cricketer of the Year award.
PM Modi inaugurates 38th National Games in Dehradun
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 38th National Games in Dehradun on January 28, 2025. The event, held at the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium, marks the 25th anniversary of Uttarakhand’s formation and features over 10,000 athletes from across India.
The theme for this year’s games is “Green Games,” emphasizing sustainability with eco-friendly medals and a tree planted for each medal winner.
The National Games of India is a prestigious multi-sport event where athletes from various states and union territories compete in disciplines such as athletics, boxing, and swimming.
Current Affairs MCQs : 28 January 2025
Q.: Who has been crowned the ICC Women’s ODI Cricketer of the Year for performance in 2024?
A) Laura Wolvaardt
B) Tammy Beaumont
C) Smriti Mandhana
D) Hayley Matthews
Show Answer
Answer: C) Smriti Mandhana
India’s opener and vice-captain, Smriti Mandhana, has been named the ICC Women’s ODI Cricketer of the Year 2024 for her exceptional performance.
Q.: Who was honoured with the Padma Shri in 2025 for transforming apple cultivation in India?
A) Hariman Sharma
B) M.S. Swaminathan
C) Subhash Palekar
D) Rajendra Singh
Show Answer
Answer: A) Hariman Sharma
Hariman Sharma, a farmer from Himachal Pradesh, received the Padma Shri for his revolutionary contribution to Indian agriculture. He developed HRMN-99, a self-pollinating, low-chilling apple variety.
Q.: Who was named the ICC Men’s Test Cricketer of the Year 2024?
a) Ravindra Jadeja
b) Jasprit Bumrah
c) Virat Kohli
d) Rohit Sharma
Show Answer
Answer: b) Jasprit Bumrah
Jasprit Bumrah has been awarded the ICC Men’s Test Cricketer of the Year 2024 for his outstanding performance. He took an astonishing 71 wickets while bowling 357 overs in 13 matches, at an average of 14.92 in 2024.
Q.: What is the total amount the RBI plans to inject into the banking system in 2025?
a) Rs 1 lakh crore
b) Rs 1.1 lakh crore
c) Rs 2 lakh crore
d) Rs 1.5 lakh crore
Show Answer
Answer: b) Rs 1.1 lakh crore
On January 27, 2025, the RBI announced a plan to inject Rs 1.1 lakh crore into the banking system via open market purchases of securities, a variable rate repo auction, and a $5 billion dollar-rupee swap auction.
RBI Announces Rs 1.1 Lakh Crore Liquidity Injection to Ease Tight Conditions
On January 27, 2025, the RBI announced a plan to inject Rs 1.1 lakh crore into the banking system via open market purchases of securities, a variable rate repo auction, and a $5 billion dollar-rupee swap auction. The RBI will purchase Rs 60,000 crore in government securities in three tranches (Jan 30, Feb 13, Feb 20). A Rs 50,000 crore repo auction is scheduled for Feb 7, and a $5 billion swap auction on Jan 31.
Liquidity remains tight with a deficit of over Rs 3 lakh crore. The RBI also introduced new liquidity coverage norms requiring banks to set aside funds for risks, especially due to mobile and internet banking usage. Banks are concerned these norms may impact credit growth.
This initiative is under the tenure of RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra, who succeeded Shaktikanta Das in December.
Jasprit Bumrah wins ICC Men’s Test Cricketer of the Year award
Jasprit Bumrah has been awarded the ICC Men’s Test Cricketer of the Year 2024 for his outstanding performance. He took an astonishing 71 wickets while bowling 357 overs in 13 matches, at an average of 14.92 in 2024.
Renowned for his yorkers and consistency, Bumrah was instrumental in India’s success across formats, including the ODI World Cup and major Test series.
Hariman Sharma, ‘The Apple Man of India,’ honoured with Padma Shri for Transforming Apple Cultivation in India
Hariman Sharma, a farmer from Himachal Pradesh, received the Padma Shri for his revolutionary contribution to Indian agriculture.
He developed HRMN-99, a self-pollinating, low-chilling apple variety, enabling apple cultivation in tropical and sub-tropical regions with temperatures up to 40-45°C.
The innovation expanded apple farming across 29 Indian states and Union Territories, improving accessibility and affordability.
Sharma’s journey began in 1998 when he planted discarded seeds, refining the variety by 2001 through grafting to produce up to 75 kg per plant annually.
Initially overlooked, the variety was validated by NIF in 2012 with trials by ICAR and Krishi Vigyan Kendras, benefiting farmers, especially in North-Eastern states.
Sharma has received multiple awards, including the National Award for Grassroots Innovation (2017) and National Innovative Farmer Award (2016), and represented India at the ASEAN Innovation Forum in 2023.
HRMN-99 is a symbol of grassroots innovation, transforming apple cultivation, empowering farmers, and contributing to food security in India.
Smriti Mandhana named ICC Women’s ODI Cricketer of the Year for 2024 performances
India’s opener and vice-captain, Smriti Mandhana, has been named the ICC Women’s ODI Cricketer of the Year 2024 for her exceptional performance.
She scored a career-best 747 runs in 13 innings, leading the Women’s ODI run charts, surpassing players Laura Wolvaardt (697), Tammy Beaumont (554), and Hayley Matthews (469).
This is her third ICC recognition, having won in 2018 and 2022 as well.