Q. When is the uncrewed Gaganyaan G1 mission scheduled to launch?
a) November 2025
b) December 2025
c) January 2026
d) March 2026
Q. On which festival were the Kedarnath and Yamunotri shrines closed for winter?
a) Diwali
b) Bhai Dooj
c) Dussehra
d) Kartik Purnima
Q. Where did Delhi conduct its first artificial rain trial through cloud seeding in collaboration with IIT Kanpur on 23 October 2025?
A) Dwarka
B) Burari
C) Rohini
D) Lajpat Nagar
Delhi has successfully conducted a trial of artificial rain through cloud seeding in the Burari area on October 23, 2025, to combat rising pollution levels. The initiative, led by CM Rekha Gupta in collaboration with IIT Kanpur, used silver iodide and sodium chloride released from an aircraft to test the technology. Despite low humidity, the trial confirmed operational readiness for a full-scale cloud seeding operation planned around October 29, depending on weather conditions.
The project aims to induce rainfall to reduce air pollution, especially during Delhi’s critical pollution season caused by stubble burning and vehicular emissions. It marks a historic scientific step toward pollution control, with potential for replication in other Indian cities if successful.
On 23 October 2025, the portals of Shri Kedarnath Dham and Yamunotri Dham, two of Uttarakhand’s revered Char Dham shrines, were ceremoniously closed on the occasion of Bhai Dooj with traditional rituals, chanting of mantras, and grand floral decorations.
At Kedarnath, the temple doors were closed at 8:30 AM, and the Panchmukhi (five-faced) idol of Lord Kedarnath was placed in a Doli (palanquin) to begin its journey to its winter abode at Omkareshwar Temple, Ukhimath. The Doli will reach Ukhimath on 25 October, where the idol will be ceremoniously installed for six months of winter worship.
Similarly, the Yamunotri Dham in Uttarkashi closed its doors at 12:30 PM, and the palanquin of Goddess Yamuna departed for Kharsali, her winter seat, where devotees can continue to offer prayers until the next pilgrimage season.
This year, over 24 lakh devotees visited both Kedarnath and Yamunotri during the pilgrimage season. On the closing day, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami offered prayers at Kedarnath, seeking the happiness, prosperity, and well-being of the people of the state.
On 23 October 2025, ISRO Chairman Dr. V. Narayanan announced that 90% of work on the Gaganyaan uncrewed test flight mission (G1) has been completed, with the launch scheduled for the first week of December 2025. He confirmed that all key tests — including those on the crew module, escape system, parachute, and communication subsystems — have been successfully conducted. The Vyomamitra humanoid will fly aboard this uncrewed mission to low Earth orbit.
The final crewed Gaganyaan mission is targeted for 2027, during which three Indian astronauts will travel to space and return safely.
Dr. Narayanan also provided updates on other ISRO projects:
Q. Which sportsman was conferred the honorary rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Territorial Army in October 2025?
a) PV Sindhu
b) Virat Kohli
c) Neeraj Chopra
d) Abhinav Bindra
Q. Ningol Chakouba festival is celebrated in which Indian state?
a) Assam
b) Tripura
c) Manipur
d) Meghalaya
Q. Who is the author of the book “Civil-Military Fusion as a Metric of National Power and Comprehensive Security”?
a) Gen Anil Chauhan
b) Lt Gen Raj Shukla (Retd)
c) Gen Upendra Dwivedi
d) Rajnath Singh
Q. According to the Global Forest Resources Assessment (GFRA) 2025, what is India’s global rank in total forest area?
a) 7th
b) 8th
c) 9th
d) 10th
India has risen to the 9th position globally in total forest area, as per the Global Forest Resources Assessment (GFRA) 2025 released by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in Bali. The country also retains its 3rd rank worldwide in annual forest area gain, showcasing strong progress in sustainable forest management and ecological balance.
Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav shared the achievement, crediting the rise from 10th to 9th rank to the government’s effective forest conservation and afforestation policies under Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Key initiatives include the ‘Ek Ped Ma Ke Naam’ campaign, which inspires citizens to plant trees in tribute to their mothers, strengthening community participation in environmental efforts.
The book “Civil-Military Fusion as a Metric of National Power and Comprehensive Security”, authored by Lt Gen Raj Shukla (Retd), was launched on 22 October 2025 in New Delhi. It presents a strategic framework for integrating India’s military capabilities with civil institutions to strengthen national power and comprehensive security. The book highlights Civil-Military Fusion (CMF) as essential for modern warfare, emphasizing jointness, integration, and innovation across defence, governance, and technology sectors.
Launched by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, the event also featured CDS Gen Anil Chauhan and Army Chief Gen Upendra Dwivedi, who praised the concept for promoting strategic synergy. Drawing lessons from Operation Sindoor, the book showcases effective joint command and preemptive defence strategies. It aligns with ongoing defence reforms like the creation of the CDS and focus on indigenous defence production, serving as a vital guide for policymakers and strategists.
Manipur celebrated the Ningol Chakouba festival on 23 October 2025, a traditional occasion that strengthens the bond between married women and their brothers along with their paternal families.
Observed annually on the second day of Hiyangei month in the Meitei calendar, the festival involves married women visiting their parental homes with gifts like fruits and vegetables, sharing a grand feast, and receiving gifts from their brothers.
The term Ningol Chakouba translates to “feast of married women.”
On 22 October 2025, Olympic javelin champion Neeraj Chopra was conferred the honorary rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Territorial Army during a ceremony in New Delhi, attended by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi.
Mr. Singh praised Neeraj as a symbol of perseverance, patriotism, and excellence, inspiring both the sporting community and the Armed Forces.
Neeraj joined the Indian Army in 2016 as a Naib Subedar, later rising to Subedar Major. His accolades include the Arjuna Award (2018), Khel Ratna (2021), Param Vishisht Seva Medal (2022), and Padma Shri (2022), following his historic Tokyo 2020 Olympic gold medal.
Q. Who became Japan’s first female Prime Minister in October 2025?
A) Yuriko Koike
B) Sanae Takaichi
C) Fumio Kishida
D) Yoko Kamikawa
Q. Regional Connectivity Scheme – UDAN (Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik), which completed 9 years on 21 October 2025, is a scheme related to:
A) Connecting railways with all major cities
B) Roadways bus service to connect all districts
C) Providing broadband to all villages
D) Making air travel affordable and connecting smaller cities and towns
Q. Where will the FIDE Chess World Cup 2025 be held from October 31 to November 17?
A) Chennai
B) Mumbai
C) Arpora, Goa
D) New Delhi
India will host the FIDE Chess World Cup 2025 at Resort Rio, Arpora (Goa) from October 31 to November 17, marking the tournament’s return to India after 23 years. The event will feature elite players from 82 countries, including Viswanathan Anand, Gukesh D, and Faustino Oro.
Inaugurated by Goa Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant, the tournament’s logo and anthem celebrate Goan culture and India’s chess heritage. Conducted in a knockout format, the World Cup aims to boost tourism, sports infrastructure, and reinforce India’s growing prominence in global chess. The pleasant Goan climate and scenic venue make it an ideal international sporting destination.
The Regional Connectivity Scheme – UDAN (Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik) has enabled over 1.56 crore passengers to travel through 3.23 lakh flights since its launch on 21 October 2016 under the National Civil Aviation Policy. Marking its 9th anniversary, Civil Aviation Secretary Samir Kumar Sinha called UDAN a transformational initiative that made air travel affordable and accessible. The government plans to extend the scheme beyond April 2027 under an Expanded UDAN Framework, focusing on better connectivity to hilly, North-Eastern, and aspirational regions and developing 120 new destinations.
So far, 649 routes have connected 93 unserved and underserved airports, including 15 heliports and 2 water aerodromes. Over ₹4,300 crore has been given as Viability Gap Funding, and ₹4,638 crore invested in airport development. The government also introduced Guidelines for Seaplane Operations and launched UDAN 5.5, granting Letters of Intent for 150 new routes connecting 30 water aerodromes across coastal and island regions.
On 21 October 2025, Sanae Takaichi became Japan’s first female Prime Minister, elected by both Houses of Parliament with narrow majorities. A former TV anchor, Takaichi began her political career in 1993 and joined the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) in 1996.
She has previously served in the Cabinet under Shinzo Abe, including as Economic Security Minister (2022–2024). The 64-year-old lawmaker from Nara Prefecture now faces major challenges such as slow economic growth, inflation, and yen depreciation.
Q. Which team won the 125th Indian Football Association (IFA) Shield in 2025?
A. East Bengal FC
B. Real Kashmir FC
C. Mohun Bagan Super Giant
D. Bengaluru FC
Q. Which countries mediated the ceasefire between Afghanistan and Pakistan in October 2025?
A. Saudi Arabia and Iran
B. Qatar and Turkiye
C. China and Russia
D. USA and UAE
Q. Who won Bolivia’s 2025 presidential election?
A. Evo Morales
B. Jorge “Tuto” Quiroga
C. Rodrigo Paz
D. Edman Lara
Q. Police Commemoration Day is observed every year on October 21 to commemorate which historical event?
A. Battle of Kargil
B. 26/11 Mumbai Attacks
C. 1959 Hot Springs incident in Ladakh
D. Operation Blue Star
Police Commemoration Day is observed every year on October 21 to honor the supreme sacrifices made by police personnel in the line of duty. The day originated from the 1959 Hot Springs incident in Ladakh, where ten CRPF jawans were martyred after being ambushed by Chinese troops.
The main ceremony takes place at the National Police Memorial (NPM) in New Delhi, featuring the Wall of Valour, a central sculpture, and a museum dedicated to police history.
In 2025, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh led the national tribute, with state-level parades, exhibitions, and outreach programs organized across India to honor fallen heroes. Police units also engaged with schools and communities to spread awareness about the courage and service of the force.
Rodrigo Paz, leader of the Christian Democratic Party (PDC), won Bolivia’s 2025 presidential election with 54.5% of the vote, defeating former interim President Jorge “Tuto” Quiroga (45.5%) in the October 19 runoff. He will assume office on November 8, 2025.
Paz’s victory marks the end of nearly two decades of socialist dominance by the Movement Toward Socialism (MAS), once led by Evo Morales. A 58-year-old economist educated in the U.S., Paz ran on a centrist and reform-oriented platform, pledging “capitalism for all”—balancing market reforms with social welfare.
Bolivia is currently facing a severe economic crisis with high inflation and fuel shortages, which fueled voter dissatisfaction. Paz now faces the challenge of governing without a legislative majority, requiring alliances to stabilize the economy, rebuild investor trust, and strengthen democracy.
Afghanistan and Pakistan reached an immediate ceasefire on October 18, 2025, after a week of deadly border clashes that left dozens dead and hundreds injured. The truce was brokered in Doha with mediation by Qatar and Turkiye, marking a key step toward easing tensions along the 2,600 km border.
The agreement calls for:
The conflict began on October 11, 2025, when Pakistan launched airstrikes in Kabul and Paktika, blaming Afghan-based groups for cross-border attacks—claims denied by Afghanistan.
Mohun Bagan Super Giant clinched the 125th Indian Football Association (IFA) Shield by defeating East Bengal FC 5–4 on penalties after a 1–1 draw in a thrilling Kolkata Derby final at Salt Lake Stadium on October 18, 2025.
🏅 About the IFA Shield:
Founded in 1893, the IFA Shield is the fourth-oldest football tournament in the world (after the FA Cup, Scottish Cup, and Durand Cup). The 2025 edition marked its return after a three-year gap, last held in 2021, when Real Kashmir FC were champions.
On 17 October 2025, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh unveiled the first Tejas LCA Mk1A fighter jet from HAL’s new Nashik production line and inaugurated a second production line for the HTT-40 trainer aircraft.
Rajnath Singh noted that before 2014, around 65–70% of defence equipment was imported, but now about 65% is produced domestically. He praised HAL Nashik for its six-decade contribution to strengthening India’s defence manufacturing.
The Tejas LCA Mk1A is an advanced, 4.5-generation, multi-role fighter jet designed to replace the MiG-21s, featuring improved avionics, air-to-air refuelling, and capabilities for air defence, ground attack, and maritime strike missions.
Q. Which organization developed the Tejas LCA Mk1A fighter jet?
A) DRDO
B) ISRO
C) Bharat Dynamics Limited
D) Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)
Ans: D) Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)
Q: The Indian Hockey Team reached the final of which international tournament in October 2025 held in Malaysia?
A) Asia Cup
B) Hockey Champions Trophy
C) Sultan of Johor Cup
D) Nations Cup
Q. Which organization developed the Tejas LCA Mk1A fighter jet?
A) DRDO
B) ISRO
C) Bharat Dynamics Limited
D) Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)
On 17 October 2025, India defeated Malaysia 2-1 in the final pool match of the Sultan of Johor Cup Men’s Hockey in Johor, Malaysia. The first quarter ended 0-0. Gurjot Singh scored for India in the 22nd minute to give a 1-0 lead at half-time. Malaysia equalized in the 43rd minute through Naaveenesh Panicker. Five minutes later, Sourabh Anand Kushwaha converted a penalty corner to secure India’s win.
With this victory, India entered the final and will face Australia.
Q. National Security Guard (NSG) Raising Day is observed every year on October 16. In which year was the NSG established?
A) 1980
B) 1982
C) 1984
D) 1986
Q. The International Day for the Eradication of Poverty is observed every year on:
A) October 15
B) October 17
C) October 20
D) October 24
The International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, observed on October 17, highlights global efforts to end poverty and uphold the rights and dignity of the poor.
It began on 17 October 1987, when Father Joseph Wresinski led a gathering in Paris to honor victims of poverty. The UN General Assembly later recognized it officially in 1992 through Resolution 47/196.
The day supports Sustainable Development Goal 1 (SDG 1) – End poverty in all its forms everywhere.
Theme 2025: “Supporting Families, Ending Maltreatment” – focusing on strengthening family support and fighting institutional neglect.
Events worldwide include awareness campaigns, policy dialogues, and tributes to those affected. Despite progress, 700 million people still live in extreme poverty, reminding the world that poverty is both an economic and human rights issue.
National Security Guard (NSG) Raising Day is observed every year on October 16 to commemorate the formation of India’s elite counterterrorism and special operations force, known as the Black Cats.
The NSG was established on October 16, 1984, after Operation Blue Star, to combat terrorism and ensure internal security. It functions under the Ministry of Home Affairs and is renowned as the “Zero Error Force” for its precision, discipline, and courage.
The day honors the valor and sacrifices of NSG personnel through ceremonies, parades, and tributes at its main base in Manesar, Haryana.
Key Operations:
Q: Which two countries are participating in the 5th edition of the naval exercise ‘Samudra Shakti’?
A) India and Japan
B) India and Indonesia
C) India and Sri Lanka
D) India and Australia
Q. Which Indian city will host the 2030 Commonwealth Games?
A) New Delhi
B) Ahmedabad
C) Mumbai
D) Bengaluru
Q. The Ministry of Defence has signed a ₹659.47 crore contract in October 2025 to equip which rifle of the Indian Army with advanced night sights?
A) INSAS
B) AK-203
C) SIG716
D) Tavor
Q. “In October 2025, senior Naxal cadres surrendered in Gadchiroli. Who among them was a Polit Bureau Member of the Central Naxal Committee?”
A) Mallujola Venugopal Rao alias Bhupati
B) Ganesh Patil
C) Ramesh Yadav
D) Suresh Singh
On October 15, 2025, in Gadchiroli, Maharashtra, 61 senior Naxal cadres, including Polit Bureau Member Mallujola Venugopal Rao alias Bhupati, surrendered before the Gadchiroli Police in the presence of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. The surrendered group, with a collective bounty of ₹6 crore, included top ranks such as divisional and area committee members.
CM Fadnavis called it the biggest Naxal surrender in Maharashtra’s history, symbolizing the success of efforts led by the Prime Minister and Home Minister against Maoist insurgency. He welcomed the cadres into the mainstream by presenting them a copy of the Indian Constitution, assuring jobs and rehabilitation support.
The CM also stated that North Gadchiroli is now largely Naxal-free and announced a ₹1 crore reward for the Gadchiroli Police for their success in anti-Naxal operations.
On October 15, 2025, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) signed a ₹659.47 crore contract to equip the Indian Army’s SIG716 assault rifles with advanced night sights, greatly enhancing night combat capability.
The indigenous upgrade, under the Buy (Indian-IDDM) category, was awarded to a consortium of MKU Limited and Medbit Technologies, ensuring over 51% local content. The new sights allow accurate targeting up to 500 metres in starlight, boosting operational readiness in border and counter-insurgency operations.
On October 15, 2025, the Executive Board of Commonwealth Sport recommended Ahmedabad, Gujarat, to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games, with final approval due on November 26, 2025, in Glasgow.
Backed by the Government of India, Gujarat, and the Commonwealth Games Association of India, the bid highlights Ahmedabad’s world-class infrastructure like the Narendra Modi Stadium. The 2030 Games will mark the centenary of the Commonwealth Games and be India’s second time hosting after 2010.
The event will boost India’s global sporting image, tourism, and development, reflecting initiatives like Khelo India. India’s bid won over Nigeria, and leaders called it a proud moment for the nation.
The Indian Navy and the Indonesian Navy are conducting the 5th edition of the bilateral maritime exercise “Samudra Shakti” from October 14 to 17 at Visakhapatnam. The exercise aims to strengthen maritime cooperation and interoperability between the two navies.
INS Kavaratti, an anti-submarine warfare corvette, and KRI John Lie, an Indonesian corvette with a helicopter, are participating. The event includes a harbour phase with professional exchanges, yoga, and sports, and a sea phase involving advanced naval drills like helicopter manoeuvres, air defence, weapon firing, and Visit, Board, Search and Seizure (VBSS) operations to boost tactical coordination and joint operational skills.
Q. Who authored the book titled “Ready, Relevant and Resurgent II: Shaping a Future Ready Force”, released in October 2025?
a) Rajnath Singh
b) General Anil Chauhan
c) General Bipin Rawat
d) Ashok Kumar
Q. Where was the inaugural India–South Korea naval bilateral exercise held in October 2025?
a) Visakhapatnam
b) Busan
c) Chennai
d) Seoul
Q. What is the flat customs duty on shipments from India to the U.S. under the new DDP mechanism?
a) 25% of declared FOB value
b) 40% of declared FOB value
c) 50% of declared FOB value
d) 60% of declared FOB value
Q: Which Indian city will host Google’s largest AI and data infrastructure hub outside the U.S.?
a) Bengaluru
b) Hyderabad
c) Visakhapatnam
d) Pune