Current Affairs Quiz 2026: Latest GK Questions with Answers

Quiz: Top 100 Current Affairs 2026 GK Questions and Answers

List of All the GK Questions with Explanation

Q1. Who became the 53rd Chief Justice of India in November 2025?

• Answer: Justice Surya Kant
• Explanation: Justice Surya Kant was sworn in as the 53rd Chief Justice of India on November 24, 2025 succeeding Justice Sanjiv Khanna. He was born in Haryana and elevated to the Supreme Court in May 2019. His term as CJI continues until February 2027. The Chief Justice of India heads the Supreme Court and is also the head of the National Judicial Appointments Commission.

Q2. India celebrated which Republic Day on January 26, 2026?

• Answer: 77th Republic Day
• Explanation: India celebrated its 77th Republic Day on January 26, 2026. Republic Day marks the date in 1950 when the Constitution of India came into force replacing the Government of India Act 1935. The parade at Kartavya Path New Delhi showcases India’s military might, cultural diversity and developmental achievements. The Republic Day parade has been held annually since 1950.

Q3. Which Indian state was renamed Keralam in 2026?

• Answer: Kerala
• Explanation: The Union Cabinet approved the renaming of Kerala to Keralam in February 2026. The Kerala Assembly had passed a unanimous resolution seeking the name change in June 2024. The name Keralam in Malayalam means Land of Coconut Trees — kera means coconut tree and alam means land. PM Modi said the decision reflects the will of the people and strengthens India’s cultural connect.

Q4. Which Indian astronaut became the first Indian to visit the International Space Station in 2026?

• Answer: Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla
• Explanation: Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla of the Indian Air Force became the first Indian to reach the International Space Station on June 26, 2026 through Axiom Mission 4. He spent 20 days on the ISS orbiting Earth 320 times experiencing 16 sunrises and sunsets every day. His mission was a stepping stone for India’s Gaganyaan human spaceflight programme.

Q5. Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla received which gallantry award on Republic Day 2026?

• Answer: Ashok Chakra
• Explanation: Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla was awarded the Ashok Chakra — India’s highest peacetime gallantry award — on Republic Day January 26, 2026. He is one of India’s four astronaut-designates selected for the Gaganyaan mission. The Ashok Chakra is awarded for the most conspicuous bravery or some daring or pre-eminent act of valour or self-sacrifice in peacetime.

Q6. USA withdrew from which international organisation in January 2026?

• Answer: World Health Organization (WHO)
• Explanation: US President Donald Trump signed an executive order withdrawing the USA from the WHO in January 2026. This was Trump’s second WHO withdrawal after a similar action during his first term reversed by President Biden. The USA was WHO’s largest donor contributing approximately 15% of its budget. The withdrawal affected global health programmes particularly for developing nations.

Q7. PM Modi became the first Indian PM to receive which honour in 2026?

• Answer: Top honour from the Israeli Parliament (Knesset)
• Explanation: Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Israel in 2026 and became the first Indian Prime Minister to be conferred the highest honour by the Israeli Knesset (Parliament). India and Israel share strong ties in defence, agriculture, water technology and cybersecurity. The visit elevated the India-Israel Strategic Partnership and strengthened cooperation in counter-terrorism and innovation.

Q8. Padma Awards 2026 recognised how many total recipients?

• Answer: 131 recipients
• Explanation: President Droupadi Murmu approved 131 Padma Awards for 2026 announced on Republic Day eve January 25, 2026. The awards included 5 Padma Vibhushan, 13 Padma Bhushan and 113 Padma Shri. The list included 19 women, 6 foreigners or NRIs and 16 posthumous awards. The Padma Awards are India’s highest civilian honours awarded annually for distinguished service.

Q9. Which veteran Bollywood actor received Padma Vibhushan posthumously in 2026?

• Answer: Dharmendra
• Explanation: Veteran Bollywood actor Dharmendra received the Padma Vibhushan posthumously in 2026. Known as He-Man of Bollywood, Dharmendra had a career spanning over 60 years starring in iconic films like Sholay and Phool Aur Patthar. Padma Vibhushan is India’s second highest civilian honour awarded for exceptional and distinguished service to the nation.

Q10. Which cricketer received the Padma Shri in 2026?

• Answer: Rohit Sharma
• Explanation: India’s cricket captain Rohit Sharma received the Padma Shri in 2026. Rohit Sharma led India to the T20 World Cup 2024 title and ICC Champions Trophy 2025. He is known for holding the record for most centuries in T20 Internationals. He announced his retirement from Test cricket in 2025 after a distinguished career spanning over 15 years.

Q11. Singer Alka Yagnik received which Padma Award in 2026?

• Answer: Padma Bhushan
• Explanation: Veteran playback singer Alka Yagnik received the Padma Bhushan in 2026. She has sung over 10,000 Bollywood songs in a five-decade career and won the Filmfare Award for Best Female Playback Singer a record seven times. She was diagnosed with a rare nerve disorder causing hearing loss in 2024 making this recognition particularly meaningful for her.

Q12. Which industry tycoon received the Padma Bhushan in 2026?

• Answer: Uday Kotak
• Explanation: Uday Kotak, founder and former MD of Kotak Mahindra Bank, received the Padma Bhushan in 2026 for distinguished contribution to banking and finance. Kotak Mahindra Bank is one of India’s largest private sector banks with over 1,800 branches. Uday Kotak built the bank from scratch into a full-service financial conglomerate and is known for his views on corporate governance.

Q13. India won the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 defeating which country in the final?

• Answer: New Zealand
• Explanation: India won the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 defeating New Zealand in the final. The tournament was hosted by Pakistan but India played all matches at a neutral venue in Dubai due to political tensions. India remained unbeaten throughout the tournament. Rohit Sharma captained the team. This was India’s third Champions Trophy title after 2002 and 2013.

Q14. The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final was played in which city?

• Answer: Dubai
• Explanation: The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final was played at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium as India declined to travel to Pakistan. All of India’s matches including the final were hosted in Dubai. The ICC adopted a hybrid hosting model for this tournament. Pakistan hosted matches for all other teams. India won the tournament comfortably defeating New Zealand in the final.

Q15. India won the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 defeating which country?

• Answer: New Zealand (by 96 runs)
• Explanation: India won the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 defeating New Zealand by 96 runs in the final held at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. This was India’s third T20 World Cup title after 2007 and 2024. India has established itself as the dominant force in T20 cricket with this back-to-back World Cup win in 2024 and 2026.

Q16. The ICC T20 World Cup 2026 final was held at which stadium?

• Answer: Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad
• Explanation: The ICC T20 World Cup 2026 final was held at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, Gujarat — the world’s largest cricket stadium with a capacity of over 1,32,000 spectators. India defeated New Zealand by 96 runs in the final. The Narendra Modi Stadium was renamed from Sardar Patel Stadium in 2021 and has hosted several major international cricket events.

Q17. Commonwealth Games 2026 was held in which city?

• Answer: Glasgow, Scotland
• Explanation: The 2026 Commonwealth Games was held in Glasgow, Scotland with the opening ceremony on July 23, 2026 at the OVO Hydro. Glasgow previously hosted the Commonwealth Games in 2014. The Asian Games in 2026 are being held in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan. India sent a 126-member contingent to the Glasgow Commonwealth Games.

Q18. Who were India’s flag bearer and baton bearer at the 2026 Commonwealth Games?

• Answer: Mirabai Chanu (flag bearer) and Lovlina Borgohain (baton bearer)
• Explanation: Olympic medallists Mirabai Chanu and Lovlina Borgohain were named India’s flag bearer and baton bearer respectively for the opening ceremony of CWG 2026 in Glasgow on July 23. The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) made the announcement on July 18, 2026. IOA President PT Usha said it was a proud moment to have two accomplished sportswomen leading the contingent.

Q19. Mirabai Chanu has won Commonwealth Games gold at which two editions?

• Answer: Gold Coast 2018 and Birmingham 2022
• Explanation: Mirabai Chanu won gold medals at the Commonwealth Games in Gold Coast 2018 (48kg) and Birmingham 2022 (49kg). She is also the Olympic silver medallist from Tokyo 2020. At CWG 2026 in Glasgow she competes in the 48kg category after the weight category reclassification. She holds a personal best total of 205kg in weightlifting.

Q20. Lovlina Borgohain is associated with which sport?

• Answer: Boxing
• Explanation: Lovlina Borgohain is one of India’s top boxers who won a bronze medal at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics in the welterweight category. She is from Golaghat district of Assam. At the 2026 Commonwealth Games she served as India’s baton bearer alongside flag bearer Mirabai Chanu. She has been a consistent performer at Asian Games, Commonwealth Games and World Championships.

Q21. India’s new Army Chief who took over on June 30, 2026 is?

• Answer: General Dhiraj Seth
• Explanation: General Dhiraj Seth became the 31st Chief of the Army Staff on June 30, 2026 succeeding General Upendra Dwivedi. He announced VIJAY as his roadmap acronym for the Indian Army aligned with the Ministry of Defence’s Decade of Transformation 2023-2032. The roadmap focuses on building a digitised, technology-enabled, self-reliant and multi-domain capable force.

Q22. What does the acronym VIJAY stand for in India’s Army’s 2026 transformation roadmap?

• Answer: India’s Army transformation roadmap towards a digitised, self-reliant, multi-domain force
• Explanation: General Dhiraj Seth announced VIJAY as the Indian Army’s development roadmap on taking charge as COAS in July 2026. The roadmap is aligned with the Ministry of Defence’s Decade of Transformation 2023-2032. It envisions transforming India’s army from a manpower-intensive conventional force to a modern technology-enabled fighting force capable of multi-domain operations.

Q23. Operation Sindoor was launched on which date?

• Answer: May 7, 2025
• Explanation: India launched Operation Sindoor on May 7, 2025 striking nine terror infrastructure targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. The operation was a response to the Pahalgam terror attack of April 22, 2025 in which 26 civilians mostly tourists were killed in Jammu and Kashmir. Operation Sindoor lasted four days and was India’s most expansive multi-domain military operation in over 50 years.

Q24. What was the Pahalgam attack that triggered Operation Sindoor?

• Answer: Terror attack killing 26 civilians mostly tourists on April 22, 2025
• Explanation: Terrorists attacked tourists in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir on April 22, 2025 killing 26 civilians. India held Pakistan-based terror groups responsible. Two weeks later India launched Operation Sindoor as a calibrated military response. The attack was one of the deadliest terror attacks on civilians in Kashmir in recent years and shocked the nation triggering a strong political and military response.

Q25. How many terror infrastructure targets were struck in Operation Sindoor?

• Answer: Nine targets
• Explanation: India struck nine terror infrastructure targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir during Operation Sindoor. The targets included terror training camps, weapon storage facilities and launch pads used by groups responsible for attacks in India. India described the operation as executed with precision, proportionality and clarity of purpose. Advanced drones and AI-guided precision weapons were used to minimise collateral damage.

Q26. India marked the first anniversary of Operation Sindoor in which month of 2026?

• Answer: May 2026
• Explanation: India marked the first anniversary of Operation Sindoor on May 7, 2026. Ceremonies were held at the National War Memorial in New Delhi. In June 2026 the government revealed the names of six soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice during the operation. Their names were inscribed on Wall 3D at the National War Memorial. Operation Sindoor reshaped India’s defence doctrine and military procurement priorities.

Q27. India’s National War Memorial is located in which city?

• Answer: New Delhi
• Explanation: India’s National War Memorial is located near India Gate in New Delhi. It was inaugurated by PM Modi on February 25, 2019. The memorial honours soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice since independence in 1947. It covers 40 acres with four concentric circles. Names of over 26,000 soldiers killed in various wars and operations are inscribed on granite tablets. An eternal flame burns at its centre continuously.

Q28. FIFA World Cup 2026 was hosted by which three countries?

• Answer: USA, Canada and Mexico
• Explanation: The 2026 FIFA World Cup was hosted jointly by the United States, Canada and Mexico — the first ever three-nation World Cup. The tournament opened on June 11, 2026 at the historic Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. The final was scheduled for July 19, 2026 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey USA. This was Mexico’s third time hosting the World Cup after 1970 and 1986.

Q29. How many teams participated in FIFA World Cup 2026?

• Answer: 48 teams
• Explanation: FIFA World Cup 2026 expanded to 48 teams from the previous 32-team format. Teams were divided into 12 groups of 4 with top 2 plus 8 best third-placed teams advancing to a new round of 32. Total matches increased from 64 to 104. The expansion was designed to include more nations from Africa, Asia and smaller football confederations giving them World Cup experience.

Q30. FIFA World Cup 2026 opened at which historic stadium?

• Answer: Estadio Azteca, Mexico City
• Explanation: The FIFA World Cup 2026 opened on June 11, 2026 at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City — the most iconic football stadium in the world. The Azteca previously hosted World Cup finals in 1970 and 1986 making it the only stadium to host two World Cup finals. This was also the first time Mexico hosted the opening match of a World Cup since 1970.

Q31. Satkosia Tiger Reserve received NTCA approval for which programme in June 2026?

• Answer: Resuming tiger reintroduction
• Explanation: Satkosia Tiger Reserve in Odisha received in-principle approval from the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) on June 30, 2026 for resuming tiger reintroduction. An earlier attempt in 2018 had failed. The reserve had no tigers at the time of the June 2026 assessment. The new strategy focuses on better community engagement, habitat preparation and careful selection of tigers before translocation.

Q32. India’s tiger population as per 2022 census stands at how many?

• Answer: 3,682 tigers
• Explanation: India’s tiger population reached 3,682 as per the 2022 tiger census. India has grown its tiger population from just 1,411 in 2006 to 3,682 in 2022 — an increase of over 160% in 16 years. India is home to approximately 75% of the world’s wild tiger population. India’s 55 tiger reserves spread across 18 states are managed under Project Tiger launched in 1973.

Q33. India’s government identified how many priority tiger reserves for special attention in 2026?

• Answer: 25 priority tiger reserves
• Explanation: India identified 25 priority tiger reserves in 2026 where special attention will be given to habitat restoration, prey base improvement and tiger reintroduction where necessary. This reflects India’s new conservation strategy that focuses on balanced distribution of tigers across all reserves rather than just maximising total numbers. Reserves like Satkosia, Sariska and others that lost tiger populations are priority targets.

Q34. Which new mission was announced in Union Budget 2026 for sports development?

• Answer: Khelo India Mission
• Explanation: The Union Budget 2026-27 launched the Khelo India Mission as a comprehensive 10-year programme to transform India’s sports sector. The sports budget received an 18% increase. The mission focuses on systematic coach development, sports science integration, world-class infrastructure, talent identification and competition pathways. India aims to significantly improve its medal count at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

Q35. Union Budget 2026 allocated how much for sports goods manufacturing?

• Answer: Rs 500 crore
• Explanation: Union Budget 2026-27 allocated Rs 500 crore for a dedicated sports goods manufacturing initiative. India is already one of the world’s largest exporters of cricket, badminton and outdoor sports equipment mainly from Jalandhar and Meerut. The allocation aims to promote manufacturing excellence, research and innovation in equipment design and materials science under Make in India advancing India’s position as a global sports goods hub.

Q36. India’s bid to host the Olympics is for which year?

• Answer: 2036
• Explanation: India has submitted its bid to host the 2036 Summer Olympics with Ahmedabad proposed as the host city and Narendra Modi Stadium as the main venue. PM Modi announced India’s Olympic bid at the Paris 2024 closing ceremony. India is investing heavily in sports infrastructure ahead of the 2026 Commonwealth Games and 2030 Asian Games. The IOC will announce the 2036 host in the late 2020s.

Q37. India’s semiconductor fab plant at Dholera is being set up by which company?

• Answer: Tata Electronics
• Explanation: Tata Electronics received approval to build India’s first semiconductor fabrication plant at Dholera Special Investment Region in Gujarat in collaboration with Taiwan’s PSMC. The plant will manufacture 28nm chips for automotive, industrial and consumer electronics. India imports over $20 billion worth of semiconductors annually. The plant is expected to begin chip production in 2026-27 reducing India’s semiconductor import dependence.

Q38. India’s National AI Mission was launched with how much funding?

• Answer: Rs 10,000 crore
• Explanation: India’s IndiaAI Mission was approved with Rs 10,000 crore funding in 2024 to build AI computing infrastructure, develop foundation AI models in Indian languages and create AI applications for agriculture, healthcare, education and governance. India hosted the Global AI Summit in 2026 cementing its position as a key voice in global AI governance. India’s AI market is projected to reach $17 billion by 2027.

Q39. India hosted the Global AI Summit in 2026 — India chairs which global AI body?

• Answer: Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence (GPAI)
• Explanation: India chairs the Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence (GPAI) — an international multi-stakeholder initiative supporting responsible development and use of AI. GPAI was established in 2020 with 29 member countries. India’s approach to AI governance emphasises inclusive AI, data privacy, ethical frameworks and using AI to solve development challenges in education, agriculture and healthcare.

Q40. CBDT Chairman Ravi Agrawal was reappointed for how long from July 1, 2026?

• Answer: Six months (until December 31, 2026)
• Explanation: Ravi Agrawal was reappointed as Chairman of the Central Board of Direct Taxes for a six-month extension from July 1 to December 31, 2026. The CBDT administers income tax laws and oversees the income tax department. India’s direct tax collections have been growing steadily reaching Rs 22 lakh crore in FY 2025-26. Higher tax compliance driven by digital tracking and PAN-Aadhaar linkage has boosted collections.

Q41. Air Marshal Nagesh Kapoor was appointed as what in January 2026?

• Answer: Vice Chief of Air Staff (VCAS) of the Indian Air Force
• Explanation: Air Marshal Nagesh Kapoor was appointed as the Vice Chief of Air Staff of the Indian Air Force in January 2026. The VCAS is the second highest position in the IAF. India’s Air Force is undergoing major modernisation with Rafale multirole fighters, Tejas Mark 1A in production, procurement of MQ-9B Predator drones and development of the advanced Tejas Mark 2 fighter by HAL.

Q42. India’s first woman Chief Justice of Meghalaya High Court is?

• Answer: Justice Revati Mohite Dere
• Explanation: Justice Revati Mohite Dere was appointed as the first woman Chief Justice of the Meghalaya High Court in January 2026. She previously served as a judge at the Bombay High Court. India has been making efforts to increase representation of women in the higher judiciary. The Supreme Court collegium recommends High Court appointments to the President who makes the formal appointment.

Q43. India’s Census 2027 will be the country’s which numbered census?

• Answer: 16th Census
• Explanation: India’s Census 2027 will be the 16th census. India’s first census under British rule was in 1872. Regular decennial censuses have been conducted since 1881. The 2021 census was postponed due to COVID-19. Census 2027 will be India’s first digital census using mobile app-based enumeration. It will provide critical data for policy-making, welfare scheme delivery and parliamentary delimitation for the next decade.

Q44. India’s 16th Finance Commission is headed by whom?

• Answer: Dr. Arvind Panagariya
• Explanation: The 16th Finance Commission was constituted in December 2023 under the chairmanship of Dr. Arvind Panagariya, former Vice Chairman of NITI Aayog. The Finance Commission recommends the distribution of central tax revenues between the Union and State governments. The 16th Finance Commission will cover 2026-27 to 2030-31. Its recommendations will determine states’ share of central taxes for five years.

Q45. Which scheme provides Rs 6,000 per year to small farmers?

• Answer: PM Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN)
• Explanation: PM Kisan Samman Nidhi was launched in February 2019 providing Rs 6,000 per year in three instalments of Rs 2,000 to farmers with landholding up to 2 hectares. Over 9.5 crore farmers benefit from the scheme. The amount is directly transferred to farmers’ bank accounts through DBT. The scheme has disbursed over Rs 3 lakh crore to farmers since inception making it one of India’s largest direct benefit transfer programmes.

Q46. Ayushman Bharat was extended to which new category in 2024-25?

• Answer: Senior citizens above 70 years
• Explanation: The government extended Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY to all senior citizens aged 70 and above in September 2024 regardless of income. This provides health insurance cover of Rs 5 lakh per year for hospitalisation benefiting approximately 6 crore elderly Indians. Ayushman Bharat is the world’s largest government-funded health insurance programme covering over 55 crore beneficiaries at network hospitals across India.

Q47. India’s Union Budget 2026-27 was presented by which Finance Minister?

• Answer: Nirmala Sitharaman
• Explanation: Nirmala Sitharaman presented her ninth consecutive Union Budget on February 1, 2026 making her the Finance Minister with the most budget presentations in Indian history. The budget focused on Khelo India Mission for sports, semiconductor manufacturing, infrastructure investment, AI development and middle-class tax relief. India’s budget size has grown significantly reflecting the country’s position as the world’s fifth largest economy.

Q48. India became the world’s how many largest economy in 2025?

• Answer: Fifth largest economy
• Explanation: India surpassed the United Kingdom to become the world’s fifth largest economy by nominal GDP in 2022 and consolidated this position through 2025. India’s GDP crossed $3.5 trillion. India is on track to become the third largest economy by 2030 surpassing Japan and Germany. India’s growth is driven by infrastructure investment, digital economy, manufacturing expansion under PLI schemes and strong domestic consumption.

Q49. RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra was appointed in which month and year?

• Answer: December 2024
• Explanation: Sanjay Malhotra was appointed as the 26th Governor of the Reserve Bank of India in December 2024 succeeding Shaktikanta Das who served for six years. Malhotra is a 1990 batch IAS officer from Rajasthan cadre and previously served as Revenue Secretary in the Finance Ministry. As RBI Governor he heads the Monetary Policy Committee which sets interest rates and manages India’s monetary policy and foreign exchange reserves.

Q50. India’s UPI crossed how many billion transactions annually?

• Answer: Over 100 billion transactions
• Explanation: India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) crossed 100 billion annual transactions in 2024-25. UPI was launched in 2016 and is now the world’s largest real-time payment system. Monthly UPI transactions regularly exceed 10 billion with a value of over Rs 15 lakh crore. UPI is managed by NPCI and has been adopted by several countries including UAE, Singapore, France, Nepal and Bhutan making India a global model for digital payments.

Q51. India’s target for renewable energy capacity by 2030 is how much?

• Answer: 500 GW
• Explanation: India has committed to achieving 500 GW of non-fossil fuel energy capacity by 2030 as part of its Nationally Determined Contributions under the Paris Agreement. India has already achieved over 200 GW of renewable capacity. Rajasthan leads in solar energy with the Bhadla Solar Park being the world’s largest solar park. India is among the top five countries globally in renewable energy capacity.

Q52. Which state has the highest installed solar energy capacity in India?

• Answer: Rajasthan
• Explanation: Rajasthan leads India in solar energy capacity due to its vast arid land, high solar radiation exceeding 6 kWh per square metre daily and low land costs. The Bhadla Solar Park in Jodhpur district covers over 14,000 acres with 2,245 MW capacity making it the world’s largest solar park. Rajasthan is followed by Gujarat, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu in installed solar capacity.

Q53. India’s Project Tiger was launched in which year?

• Answer: 1973
• Explanation: Project Tiger was launched on April 1, 1973 with just 9 tiger reserves under Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. It is widely regarded as one of the world’s most successful wildlife conservation programmes. India’s tiger population has grown from 1,827 in 2014 to 3,682 in 2022. The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) oversees all 55 tiger reserves across 18 Indian states.

Q54. COP30 climate conference was held in which city of Brazil?

• Answer: Belém
• Explanation: COP30 was held in Belém, a city in the Amazon region of Brazil in November 2025. Belém sits at the mouth of the Amazon River — the world’s largest tropical rainforest. COP30 required all countries to submit new and more ambitious climate pledges called Nationally Determined Contributions. Developing nations pushed for increased climate finance from developed countries to fund their transition to clean energy.

Q55. International Solar Alliance (ISA) was jointly launched by India and which country?

• Answer: France
• Explanation: The International Solar Alliance (ISA) was jointly launched by India and France at COP21 in Paris in November 2015. ISA is headquartered in Gurugram, India and aims to mobilise over $1 trillion in solar investments by 2030. The alliance has over 120 member countries and facilitates solar energy deployment through technology transfer, financing and capacity building for member nations.

Q56. India’s National Clean Air Programme targets how much reduction in air pollution?

• Answer: 40% reduction by 2026 from 2017 baseline
• Explanation: The National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) launched in January 2019 targets a 40% reduction in PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations by 2026 from 2017 baseline levels. The programme covers 131 non-attainment cities that do not meet national air quality standards. Delhi consistently ranks as one of the world’s most polluted cities. Cities receive funds for air quality monitoring stations, source studies and pollution control measures.

Q57. India’s first green hydrogen hub is being set up in which state?

• Answer: Andhra Pradesh
• Explanation: Andhra Pradesh is developing India’s first green hydrogen hub leveraging its abundant renewable energy resources including wind and solar. India’s National Green Hydrogen Mission launched in 2023 targets production of 5 million tonnes of green hydrogen annually by 2030 with planned investment of Rs 8 lakh crore. Green hydrogen is produced by electrolyzing water using renewable electricity emitting zero carbon.

Q58. India’s Gaganyaan mission will use which rocket?

• Answer: LVM3 (Launch Vehicle Mark 3)
• Explanation: India’s Gaganyaan human spaceflight mission uses the LVM3 rocket formerly known as GSLV Mark III. LVM3 is ISRO’s heaviest and most powerful rocket capable of lifting 10,000 kg to Low Earth Orbit. The rocket successfully launched Chandrayaan-3 in 2023. Gaganyaan will carry three Indian astronauts called Vyomanauts to 400 km altitude for three days making India only the fourth country to independently send humans to space.

Q59. India’s first bullet train project connects which two cities?

• Answer: Mumbai and Ahmedabad
• Explanation: India’s first High Speed Rail (HSR) project connects Mumbai and Ahmedabad covering 508 km. The project uses Japan’s Shinkansen bullet train technology with trains running at speeds up to 320 km/h. Japan is funding 81% of the project cost through a soft loan at 0.1% interest over 50 years. The project will reduce travel time between the two cities from 8 hours to approximately 2 hours.

Q60. India’s space station Bharatiya Antariksh Station is planned to be operational by which year?

• Answer: 2035
• Explanation: India’s Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS) is planned to be established in low earth orbit by 2035. The station will be at 400 km altitude and weigh approximately 20 tonnes. India’s Gaganyaan programme is the foundation for this ambition. BAS will make India one of only four entities operating a space station alongside USA, Russia and China establishing India as a major spacefaring nation.

Q61. India’s S-400 missile system was purchased from which country for how much?

• Answer: Russia for $5.43 billion
• Explanation: India signed a $5.43 billion deal with Russia for five S-400 Triumf air defence systems in October 2018. The S-400 can track 160 targets and engage 72 simultaneously at ranges up to 400 km. India went ahead despite US CAATSA sanctions threat citing strategic autonomy. Post-Operation Sindoor India accelerated delivery of remaining S-400 batteries. The system significantly enhances India’s multi-layered air defence capability.

Q62. India’s INS Vikrant displaces how much and was commissioned when?

• Answer: 45,000 tonnes, commissioned September 2, 2022
• Explanation: INS Vikrant was commissioned by PM Modi on September 2, 2022 in Kochi. It is India’s first domestically built aircraft carrier constructed at Cochin Shipyard Ltd. The carrier displaces 45,000 tonnes, is 262 metres long and can carry up to 36 aircraft. It uses 76% indigenous components. INS Vikrant represents India’s enhanced maritime power projection capability in the Indian Ocean Region.

Q63. Tejas Mark 2 fighter jet is being developed by which organisation?

• Answer: HAL (Hindustan Aeronautics Limited)
• Explanation: HAL is developing the Tejas Mark 2 as a more advanced 4.5 generation fighter than the Tejas Mark 1A. It will be powered by the GE-F414 engine with 110 kN thrust and feature an AESA radar, advanced electronic warfare suite and greater weapons payload capacity. The Indian Air Force plans to order over 120 Tejas Mark 2 aircraft to replace ageing MiG-21 and Jaguar fleets.

Q64. India’s PM Gati Shakti is a digital platform for what purpose?

• Answer: Multi-modal infrastructure connectivity planning
• Explanation: PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan was launched on October 13, 2021. It is a digital GIS-based platform integrating infrastructure planning of 16 ministries including railways, roads, ports, airports, waterways and logistics. It uses satellite data to plan infrastructure holistically avoiding duplication and project delays. PM Gati Shakti has helped reduce infrastructure project approval timelines and improved coordination between government departments significantly.

Q65. One Nation One Election proposal aims to synchronise which elections?

• Answer: Lok Sabha and all State Assembly elections simultaneously
• Explanation: One Nation One Election (ONOE) proposes holding Lok Sabha and all State Assembly elections simultaneously to reduce election frequency, expenditure and policy paralysis caused by the Model Code of Conduct. The Ram Nath Kovind committee submitted its report recommending ONOE in 2024. The proposal requires constitutional amendments. Supporters cite cost savings of over Rs 10,000 crore while critics argue it undermines federalism.

Q66. PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana was launched to provide what benefit?

• Answer: Free electricity up to 300 units per month through rooftop solar panels
• Explanation: PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana was launched by PM Modi in February 2024. It aims to install rooftop solar panels on 1 crore households providing free electricity up to 300 units per month. The government provides subsidies for solar installation. The scheme advances India’s renewable energy target of 500 GW by 2030 while providing financial relief to middle-class and lower-income households on electricity bills.

Q67. Odisha’s Subhadra Yojana provides how much financial benefit to women?

• Answer: Rs 50,000 over five years
• Explanation: Odisha’s Subhadra Yojana launched after BJP won the 2024 Odisha elections provides financial assistance of Rs 50,000 to women over five years in two instalments. The money is directly transferred to women’s bank accounts. The scheme is named after Goddess Subhadra worshipped at the Jagannath Temple in Puri. Similar direct benefit schemes for women have been launched in Maharashtra, Jharkhand and MP.

Q68. India’s Vande Bharat Express trains run at what maximum speed?

• Answer: 160 km per hour
• Explanation: Vande Bharat Express is India’s semi-high-speed train running at speeds up to 160 km/h. The first Vande Bharat ran in February 2019. By 2025 over 100 Vande Bharat trains operate on more than 100 routes across India. The train features automatic doors, GPS-based passenger information, bio-vacuum toilets and improved passenger amenities. A sleeper version for overnight journeys is also being developed by ICF Chennai.

Q69. The 2026 Asian Games will be held in which city?

• Answer: Aichi-Nagoya, Japan
• Explanation: The 2026 Asian Games will be held in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan in September-October 2026. India is sending a strong contingent aiming to improve upon their medal haul at the Hangzhou Asian Games 2023 where India won 107 medals including 28 gold finishing fourth. India is also hosting the 2030 Asian Games in Delhi-NCR which will serve as a dress rehearsal for India’s 2036 Olympic bid.

Q70. India’s IOA President who congratulated the CWG 2026 flagbearers is?

• Answer: PT Usha
• Explanation: PT Usha is the President of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) elected in December 2022. She is a legendary Indian athlete known as the Payyoli Express having won four gold medals at the 1986 Asian Games. She became the first athlete to be elected IOA President. She congratulated Mirabai Chanu and Lovlina Borgohain on being named India’s flag and baton bearers for CWG 2026 in Glasgow.

Q71. India’s 126-member CWG 2026 contingent’s Chef de Mission is?

• Answer: Rohit Rajpal
• Explanation: Davis Cup captain Rohit Rajpal was appointed as India’s Chef de Mission for the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. The Chef de Mission leads and manages the entire national contingent at international multi-sport events. India sent 126 athletes to CWG 2026 competing across multiple sports including weightlifting, boxing, athletics, wrestling and swimming aiming for a strong medal performance.

Q72. Mirabai Chanu’s personal best total in weightlifting is how much?

• Answer: 205 kg
• Explanation: Mirabai Chanu’s personal best total of 205 kg was achieved at the Asian Weightlifting Championships and equalled at the National Weightlifting Championships 2026 in Modinagar where she also broke national snatch and clean and jerk records. She competes in the 48 kg category at CWG 2026 in Glasgow. She is a two-time Commonwealth Games gold medallist from Gold Coast 2018 and Birmingham 2022.

Q73. USA celebrated its how many years of independence on July 4, 2026?

• Answer: 250 years (Semiquincentennial)
• Explanation: The United States celebrated its 250th anniversary of independence on July 4, 2026 called America250. The USA declared independence from Great Britain on July 4, 1776. President Trump organised large celebrations including military parades in Washington DC. The semiquincentennial was the biggest Fourth of July celebration in American history marking 250 years of American democracy, governance and global influence.

Q74. India’s Digital India programme aims to achieve what by 2026?

• Answer: $1 trillion digital economy
• Explanation: Digital India launched in 2015 aims to achieve a $1 trillion digital economy by 2025-26. India’s digital economy includes IT services, e-commerce, digital payments, fintech and digital content. India has over 900 million internet users. India processes the highest volume of real-time digital payments globally through UPI. India’s IT sector exports over $250 billion annually making it the world’s largest IT services exporter.

Q75. Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana maximum loan was increased to how much in Budget 2024?

• Answer: Rs 20 lakh
• Explanation: The Union Budget 2024-25 increased the maximum loan limit under PM Mudra Yojana from Rs 10 lakh to Rs 20 lakh for the Tarun Plus category. PM Mudra Yojana launched in 2015 provides micro-finance loans to small businesses and self-employed individuals. Since launch over 47 crore loans worth Rs 27 lakh crore have been sanctioned bringing micro-enterprises into the formal financial ecosystem.

Q76. India’s MGNREGS was strengthened from July 1, 2026 — how many days of work does it guarantee?

• Answer: 100 days per year (150 days in drought-affected areas)
• Explanation: MGNREGS guarantees 100 days of unskilled manual work per year to rural households with drought-affected areas getting up to 150 days. It is the world’s largest rural employment programme covering over 15 crore households. The scheme was enacted in 2005 and covers all rural districts of India. Wage rates are linked to CPI-AL and revised annually. MGNREGS serves as a critical social safety net during agricultural distress.

Q77. India’s National Education Policy 2020 recommends mother tongue instruction until which class?

• Answer: Class 5 (preferably until Class 8)
• Explanation: NEP 2020 recommends mother tongue, home language or local/regional language as the medium of instruction until at least Class 5 and preferably until Class 8. NEP 2020 replaced the 1986 Education Policy and focuses on foundational literacy and numeracy, multidisciplinary learning, reduced curriculum load and promotion of Indian languages. It also introduces a 5+3+3+4 curricular structure replacing the 10+2 system.

Q78. India’s foreign exchange reserves crossed how much at their peak in 2025?

• Answer: Over $700 billion
• Explanation: India’s foreign exchange reserves crossed $700 billion at their peak in 2025 making India one of the world’s largest holders of forex reserves. India’s reserves provide over 10 months of import cover. The RBI manages forex reserves to ensure exchange rate stability and maintain confidence in India’s external sector. Strong reserves protect India from external shocks like global currency crises and commodity price spikes.

Q79. India’s Sariska Tiger Reserve celebrated which anniversary of tiger reintroduction in 2026?

• Answer: 18th anniversary
• Explanation: India marked the 18th anniversary of tiger reintroductions at Sariska Tiger Reserve in Alwar, Rajasthan in July 2026. Sariska had lost all tigers to poaching by 2004-05 and became the world’s first tiger reserve to successfully reintroduce tigers when the programme started in 2008. Today Sariska has over 25 tigers. The Aravalli mountain range ecological corridor connects Sariska with Ranthambore Tiger Reserve.

Q80. The 29th NTCA meeting in July 2026 was held at which institute?

• Answer: Central Academy for State Forest Service (CASFOS), Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu
• Explanation: The 29th Meeting of the National Tiger Conservation Authority was held at CASFOS in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu in July 2026 chaired by Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav. CASFOS is India’s premier institute for training forest service officers. The meeting focused on the new tiger conservation strategy including revival of 25 priority reserves and the Satkosia reintroduction programme in Odisha.

Q81. India won the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 — this was India’s which T20 World Cup title?

• Answer: Third T20 World Cup title (after 2007 and 2024)
• Explanation: India won the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 defeating New Zealand by 96 runs in the final at Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad. This was India’s third T20 World Cup championship after winning in 2007 under MS Dhoni and in 2024 under Rohit Sharma. India has established itself as the most dominant force in T20 cricket having won three of the last four T20 World Cup editions.

Q82. India’s Stanzin Lundup participated in which event at the Winter Olympics 2026?

• Answer: Winter Olympics 2026 (finishing 104th in his event)
• Explanation: India sent two athletes to the 2026 Winter Olympics held in Milan-Cortina, Italy. Stanzin Lundup finished 104th in his event while Arif Khan finished 39th in his respective discipline. India has very limited Winter Olympics participation due to minimal winter sports infrastructure. Both athletes compete in alpine skiing. The government is working to develop winter sports facilities in Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand and J&K.

Q83. India won how many medals at the 2026 Asian Beach Games?

• Answer: Six medals (3 gold, 2 silver, 1 bronze) finishing sixth
• Explanation: India sent 31 athletes to the 2026 Asian Beach Games winning 6 medals including 3 gold, 2 silver and 1 bronze finishing sixth in the medals tally. The Asian Beach Games features beach and water-based sports. India’s performance at the 2026 Asian Beach Games reflects improving standards in beach sports in India. India is investing in developing coastal sports infrastructure ahead of international events.

Q84. India’s Decade of Transformation for defence covers which period?

• Answer: 2023 to 2032
• Explanation: India’s Ministry of Defence launched the Decade of Transformation covering 2023-2032 to modernise all three armed services. The plan includes increased indigenisation of defence equipment, integration of AI and drone systems into military operations, development of theatre commands for joint operations and building a technology-enabled self-reliant defence industrial base. New Army Chief General Dhiraj Seth’s VIJAY roadmap is fully aligned with this framework.

Q85. Venezuela was hit by earthquakes of which magnitude in June 2026?

• Answer: 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude
• Explanation: Two powerful earthquakes of magnitudes 7.2 and 7.5 struck Venezuela near Montalbán and Yumare on June 24, 2026 killing at least 32 people and injuring over 700. India extended humanitarian support to Venezuela following the disaster. India’s National Disaster Response Force has developed significant expertise in international disaster relief operations having assisted in Nepal, Turkey, Syria and other disaster-hit nations.

Q86. India’s National Infrastructure Pipeline targets how much investment?

• Answer: Rs 111 lakh crore
• Explanation: India’s National Infrastructure Pipeline (NIP) targets Rs 111 lakh crore in infrastructure investment covering transport, energy, water, social and commercial infrastructure. The NIP was announced in 2019 as a guiding framework for infrastructure development. India’s infrastructure investment as a percentage of GDP has been rising reaching approximately 4.5% of GDP. Infrastructure investment creates multiplier effects on economic growth employment and productivity.

Q87. India’s direct tax collection crossed how much in FY 2025-26?

• Answer: Rs 22 lakh crore
• Explanation: India’s direct tax collections crossed Rs 22 lakh crore in FY 2025-26 reflecting strong economic growth and improved compliance. India’s taxpayer base has expanded significantly through faceless assessment, pre-filled tax returns and PAN-Aadhaar linkage. Growing direct tax collections reduce India’s fiscal deficit and enable higher government spending on infrastructure, defence and welfare without excessive borrowing.

Q88. India’s PM Mudra Yojana has sanctioned how many loans since inception?

• Answer: Over 47 crore loans worth Rs 27 lakh crore
• Explanation: PM Mudra Yojana launched in April 2015 has sanctioned over 47 crore loans worth over Rs 27 lakh crore since inception. The scheme has three categories — Shishu (up to Rs 50,000), Kishor (Rs 50,000 to Rs 5 lakh) and Tarun Plus (Rs 10 to 20 lakh). The scheme has empowered millions of small entrepreneurs, artisans and self-employed individuals who previously lacked access to formal credit.

Q89. India’s first AI clinic was inaugurated in which year?

• Answer: 2026
• Explanation: India inaugurated its first AI-powered clinic in 2026 as part of the government’s push to use artificial intelligence in healthcare. AI clinics use machine learning algorithms to assist doctors in diagnosis, treatment planning and patient monitoring. India’s healthcare sector is seeing rapid AI adoption for early detection of diseases like cancer, diabetic retinopathy and tuberculosis. AI-assisted diagnostics are particularly valuable in rural areas with limited specialist doctors.

Q90. Kushal Dalal won gold in which event at the 2026 Indoor Archery World Series?

• Answer: Men’s compound individual
• Explanation: Kushal Dalal won gold in the men’s compound individual event at the GT Open of the 2026 Indoor Archery World Series. India has been building strength in archery with investments in coaching, equipment and training infrastructure. Indian archers have been competitive at international level particularly in compound archery. India won multiple medals at the 2026 World Archery Para Series winning 7 gold, 2 silver and 3 bronze medals.

Q91. India’s Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana has provided free LPG connections to how many households?

• Answer: Over 10 crore households
• Explanation: PM Ujjwala Yojana launched on May 1, 2016 has provided over 10 crore free LPG connections to women from BPL households across India. Ujjwala 2.0 launched in 2021 extended benefits to migrants. The scheme has significantly reduced indoor air pollution in rural homes improving women’s health. It has replaced polluting biomass cookstoves with clean LPG fuel saving millions from respiratory diseases caused by smoke inhalation.

Q92. India’s Tata Electronics semiconductor plant at Dholera will produce which type of chips?

• Answer: 28 nanometre (28nm) chips
• Explanation: Tata Electronics’ Dholera plant will produce 28nm chips for automotive, industrial and consumer electronics applications in collaboration with Taiwan’s PSMC. While not cutting-edge (compared to 3-5nm chips by TSMC), 28nm chips are widely used in most everyday electronics. India’s semiconductor mission aims to first establish mature-node manufacturing before advancing to more sophisticated chip technology. The plant creates thousands of high-skill jobs in Gujarat.

Q93. India’s Axiom Mission 4 was launched aboard which rocket?

• Answer: SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket carrying Crew Dragon spacecraft
• Explanation: Axiom Mission 4 carrying Shubhanshu Shukla to the ISS was launched aboard SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket with a Crew Dragon spacecraft from Kennedy Space Centre in Florida. SpaceX’s commercial crew programme has made space access available to multiple nations. The Crew Dragon can carry up to 7 astronauts. Axiom Space arranges commercial missions to the ISS for private individuals and government astronauts from countries without their own crewed launch capability.

Q94. India’s 2030 Asian Games will be hosted by which city?

• Answer: Delhi-NCR
• Explanation: India has been awarded the hosting rights for the 2030 Asian Games in Delhi-NCR. This will be a massive sporting event boosting India’s sports infrastructure and international visibility. The 2030 Asian Games will serve as preparation for India’s 2036 Olympic hosting bid. India previously hosted the Asian Games in 1951 (first edition) and 1982. Delhi’s infrastructure will be significantly upgraded for the 2030 Games.

Q95. Which India-hosted multi-sport event is coming up after Commonwealth Games 2026?

• Answer: 2030 Asian Games in Delhi-NCR
• Explanation: After the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow and 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya Japan, India is gearing up to host the 2030 Asian Games in Delhi-NCR. India’s sports ministry is investing in world-class sports infrastructure across disciplines. The government is also building a major sports science institute and national training centres as part of the Khelo India Mission announced in Budget 2026.

Q96. India’s SEBI got a new Chairman in February 2025 — who is it?

• Answer: Tuhin Kanta Pandey
• Explanation: Tuhin Kanta Pandey was appointed SEBI Chairman in February 2025 succeeding Madhabi Puri Buch. He is a 1987 batch IAS officer from Odisha cadre. Previously as DIPAM Secretary he oversaw India’s largest IPO — the LIC listing which raised Rs 21,000 crore in 2022. SEBI is India’s capital markets regulator overseeing stock exchanges, mutual funds, brokers and listed companies ensuring investor protection and market integrity.

Q97. India’s Kuno National Park is associated with which conservation programme?

• Answer: Cheetah reintroduction programme
• Explanation: Kuno National Park in Madhya Pradesh is the site of India’s ambitious cheetah reintroduction programme. India reintroduced 8 cheetahs from Namibia in September 2022 followed by 12 more from South Africa in February 2023. The cheetah had become extinct in India in 1952. While the programme has faced challenges with some deaths, the surviving cheetahs have produced cubs giving hope for establishment of a wild cheetah population in India.

Q98. India’s GDP growth rate projected by IMF for FY 2024-25 was how much?

• Answer: 6.5%
• Explanation: The IMF projected India’s GDP growth at 6.5% for FY 2024-25 making India the fastest growing major economy in the world surpassing China’s growth rate. India’s growth is driven by infrastructure investment, manufacturing expansion under PLI schemes, strong domestic consumption and digital economy growth. India aims to sustain 7-8% annual growth to achieve its target of becoming a $5 trillion economy and the world’s third largest by 2030.

Q99. India UK FTA is expected to double bilateral trade to how much?

• Answer: $100 billion by 2030
• Explanation: The India-UK Free Trade Agreement signed in 2025 is expected to double bilateral trade from $35 billion to $100 billion by 2030. The deal reduces tariffs on Indian textiles, leather goods, pharmaceuticals and IT services in the UK and on Scotch whisky, British cars and financial services in India. The FTA also addresses professional mobility allowing Indian workers easier access to UK job market creating significant opportunities for Indian IT professionals.

Q100. India’s Bharat Ratna is India’s highest civilian award — it has been awarded to how many recipients so far?

• Answer: 53 recipients as of 2024
• Explanation: Bharat Ratna is India’s highest civilian honour instituted in 1954. It has been awarded to 53 recipients including former presidents, prime ministers, scientists, artists and sports personalities. Recipients include Dr. BR Ambedkar, Sachin Tendulkar, Atal Bihari Vajpayee, MS Swaminathan and Dr. Manmohan Singh among others. The award is not limited to Indian citizens and has also been conferred on Nelson Mandela and Mother Teresa. There is no limit on the number of awards per year.