1.

As per the World Development Report, what is the per centage of low-income countries had an open-
date policy?
[A] 5%
[B] 11%
[C] 22%
[D] 33%
Correct Answer: B [11%]
As per the recent World Development Report by the World Bank, most countries have not implemented
the open-data policy, particularly the developing economies.
Only 11 per cent low-income countries consistently made their data available with an open license. The
per centage in lower-middle-income countries was 19 per cent; for upper-middle-income countries is 22
per cent and high-income countries at 44 per cent.

2.‘Mitali Express’, a new passenger train which was inaugurated recently, connects Dhaka with which
Indian city
[A] Kolkata
[B] New Jalpaiguri
[C] Guwahati
[D] Gangtok
Correct Answer: B [New Jalpaiguri]
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Bangladeshi counterpart Sheikh Hasina has recently inaugurated
the new passenger train named ‘Mithali Express’.
It connects Dhaka Cantonment and New Jalpaiguri in West Bengal via Chilahati, a border railway station
in Bangladesh. This is the third passenger train after Maitree Express (Dhaka-Kolkata) and Bandhan
Express (Khulna-Kolkata).

3.‘VAJRA PRAHAR 2021’ is a military exercise held between the special forces of India and which other
country?
[A] France
[B] USA
[C] Japan
[D] Sri Lanka
Correct Answer: B [USA]
Special forces of India carried out a joint military exercise with the US Special forces at Bakloh in
Himachal Pradesh.
The 11th edition of the joint special forces exercise ‘Vajra Prahar 2021’ was held with an aim to share
the best practices and experiences in joint mission planning and operational tactics. In February 2021,
the Armies of both the countries carried out ‘Exercise Yudh Abhyas’.

4.“Anandam: The Center for Happiness” has been inaugurated at which institution?
[A] IIT Bombay
[B] IIT Madras
[C] IIM Jammu
[D] IIT Guwahati
Correct Answer: C [IIM Jammu]
Union Education Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal recently inaugurated “Anandam: The Center for Happiness”
at the Indian Institute of Management (IIM), Jammu virtually.
The Center aims to help people overcome mental stress and help spread positivity. The prime objectives
will be divided into five broad categories: Counselling, Holistic wellness, Elective courses on Happiness
Development, Research and Leadership & Faculty Development.

5.Which country has created a world record for Fastest Road construction?
[A] China
[B] Japan
[C] India
[D] UAE
Correct Answer: C [India]
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari announced that India holds the world record for fastest road construction.
India has entered Guinness World Records by building a 2.5 km 4-lane concrete road within 24 hours. It
also built 25-km bitumen Solapur-Bijapur road within 24 hours. A record construction of 37 km per day
was achieved in financial year 2020-21.

6.Which Ministry has amended the rules pertaining to location of thermal power plants near cities and
national capital region?
[A] Ministry of Home Affairs
[B] Ministry of Power
[C] Ministry of New and Renewable Energy
[D] Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change
Correct Answer: D [Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change]
The Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has amended the rules
pertaining to location of thermal power plants within 10 km of major cities with more than 10 lakh
population and the National Capital Region.
As per the amended rules, certain emission norms have been mandated to be adhered by the thermal
power plants latest by the end of 2022.

7.Which international organization has released the “World 2030: Public Survey” Report?
[A] IMF
[B] World Bank
[C] UNDP
[D] UNESCO
Correct Answer: D [UNESCO]
The UNESCO has recently released a report titled “World 2030: Public Survey Report”. This report is
based on surveys conducted around the world from May 2020 to September 2020.
As per the report, climate change, violence and conflict, loss of biodiversity, discrimination and
inequality etc are some of the important challenges affecting a peaceful society.

8.As per the data by National Savings Institute, which state has made highest contribution to
government’s small savings schemes?
[A] Uttar Pradesh
[B] Madhya Pradesh
[C] West Bengal
[D] Haryana
Correct Answer: C [West Bengal]
As per the data released by National Savings Institute under the Ministry of Finance, West Bengal has
made the highest contribution to government’s small savings schemes and has a share of more than
15% in deposits at post offices and banks.
West Bengal is followed by Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Gujarat and Tamil Nadu in the list.

9.Which University has secured the 1st place among Indian Universities in Academic Ranking of World
Universities (ARWU) 2020?
[A] Anna University
[B] JNU
[C] JNTU
[D] Calcutta University
Correct Answer: D [Calcutta University]
The Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU) 2020, also known as the Shanghai Ranking has
been released recently.
As per the ranking, Calcutta University has been ranked 1st among the Indian Universities and 3rd
among higher educational institutions in the country. 15 India Universities have made it into the ARWU
2020 list.

10.Who has clinched the Miami Open Men’s tennis title recently?
[A] Hubert Hurkacz
[B] Novak Djokovic
[C] Roger Federer
[D] Andy Murray
Correct Answer: A [Hubert Hurkacz]
Hubert Hurkacz of Poland has recently clinched the Miami Open Men’s title. He defeated Jannik Sinner
of Italy to take away the cup.
Presently, he is ranked 37th in the world. He has defeated two top 10 opponents in this tournament.
With this he is projected to move up to 16th in world ranking.

11.In which state / UT is the 1.3-kilometre-long Chenab Bridge being constructed?

[A] Uttarakhand
Uttarakhand
Uttarakhand
Uttarakhand
[B] Assam
[C] Jammu and Kashmir
[D] Himachal Pradesh
Correct Answer: C [Jammu and Kashmir]
The 1.3-kilometre-long Chenab Bridge is being constructed in the UT of Jammu and Kashmir. It is being
placed 359 metres above the bed of the Chenab river and is considered the world’s highest railway
bridge.
Recently, construction of the arch of the bridge has been completed, which is termed as a milestone
achievement by the Northern Railways zone of Indian Railways.

12.Which organisation has allowed private sector firms to partner in production of missile systems?
[A] ISRO
[B] DRDO
[C] BEML
[D] HAL
Correct Answer: B [DRDO]
The Defence Research Development Organisation (DRDO) has allowed private sector firms to join hands
with it in development and production of missile systems.
This announcement has been made under the Development-cum-Production Partner programme. The
programmes covered under the programme include the Vertical Launched Short Range Surface to Air
Missile system (VL-SRSAM).

13.Who has been appointed as the 48th Chief Justice of India?

[A] Justice NV Ramana
[B] Justice Uday Lalit
[C] Justice Arvind Bobde
[D] Justice Nariman
Correct Answer: A [Justice NV Ramana]
The President of India has Justice NV Ramana as the 48th Chief Justice of India, in accordance with the
powers conferred under Article 124 of Indian Constitution. He will assume charge as the Chief Justice of
India on 24th April 2021.
He has been a judge of the Supreme Court since the year 2014. He will have a term of 16 months before
his retirement.

14.Under the Integrated Health Information Platform (IHIP) launched by the Health Ministry, how many
diseases can be tracked?
[A] 10
[B] 15
[C] 20
[D] 33
Correct Answer: D [33]
The Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare – Dr Harsh Vardhan has launched the Integrated
Health Information Platform (IHIP) in a virtual mode, recently.
This platform is capable of tracking 33 diseases as compared to 18 diseases in the earlier version of the
platform. The new version of IHIP will house the data entry and management for India’s disease
surveillance program.

15.As per the ‘Tribunals Reforms Ordinance’ promulgated recently, the powers of Appellate authorities
are vested with which body?
[A] Supreme Court
[B] High Courts
[C] Home Affairs Ministry
[D] Enforcement Directorate
Correct Answer: B [High Courts]
The Centre promulgated the Tribunal Reforms (Rationalisation and Conditions of Service) Ordinance
2021 recently.
As per the ordinance, existing appellate authorities are replaced and their powers are vested High
Courts. The laws covered are Cinematograph Act; Copyright Act; Customs Act; Patents Act; AAI Act;
Trade Marks Act; GI of Goods (registration and protection) Act; Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers
Rights Act and Control of NH (land and traffic) Act.

16.As per the latest World Economic Outlook released by IMF in April 2021, what would be India’s
growth rate in FY 22?
[A] 10.5 %
[B] 12.5 %
[C] 14%
[D] 16%
Correct Answer: B [12.5 %]
The latest edition of the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) World Economic Outlook was released
recently.
It has raised India’s growth projection to 12.5 per cent for FY22 which made the country rank highest
among all countries including both the emerging and advanced economies. This year, the country is
expected to contract by 8 per cent.

17.What does “A” stand for, in “G-SAP 1.0”, which was seen in the news recently?[A] Acquisition
[B] Awareness
[C] Aid
[D] Across
Correct Answer: A [Acquisition]
In the first bi monthly monetary policy statement for the year 2021-22, RBI has stated that it would
conduct open market purchase of government securities amounting Rs.1 lakh crore, under its G-sec
Acquisition Programme (G-SAP 1.0).
The first tranche of G sec purchase operations amounting Rs.25,000 crore is scheduled on 15th April
2021.

18.Which Indian state has been advised to use ‘Artificial Rain’ to extinguish Forest fires?
[A] Himachal Pradesh
[B] Uttarakhand
[C] Kerala
[D] Karnataka
Correct Answer: B [Uttarakhand]
Uttarakhand has been hit by severe forest fire recently. There are 40 active fire spots in the forests of
Garhwal and Kumaon regions.
The Uttarakhand High Court has asked the state government to explore the possibility of using artificial
rain to put off the forest fires. It also directed the state to extinguish the fires in two weeks and
implement the ‘National Green Tribunal’s 12-point guidelines’ issued during the forest fires of 2017.

19.What is the maximum balance that an individual customer can hold with payments banks?
[A] Rs 50000
[B] Rs 1 lakh
[C] Rs 2 lakhs
[D] Rs 5 lakhs
Correct Answer: C [Rs 2 lakhs]
The Reserve Bank of India has doubled the limit of maximum balance that an individual customer can
hold with payments banks to Rs 2 lakh.
The announcement in this matter was made by RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das after the meeting of the
Monetary Policy Committee. As per the current norms, the payment banks can hold a maximum balance
of Rs 1 lakh per customer. This expansion will help them to serve more MSMEs.

20.India has agreed to collaborate with which country on the 2030 agenda with focus on clean and
green energy?
[A] Brazil
[B] China
[C] USA
[D] Japan
Correct Answer: C [USA]
The Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the US Special Presidential Envoy for climate John Kerry
have agreed to come together and collaborate for the 2030 climate change agenda.
The special focus of the collaboration would be clean and green energy, adequate finance, resilient
infrastructure and green hydrogen.

21.Which Indian state has been reported to have been affected by the second wave of bird flu?
[A] Uttar Pradesh
[B] Madhya Pradesh
[C] Himachal Pradesh
[D] Assam
Correct Answer: C [Himachal Pradesh]
The state of Himachal Pradesh has been reported to be affected by second wave of bird flu. Recently,
100 migratory birds have died in Pong Dam Lake in Kangra district of the state.
The National Institute of High Security Animal Diseases situated in Bhopal, has confirmed the presence
of H5N8 avian influenza among dead birds. It is said that this strain is different from the H5N1 that was
detected earlier this year.

22.PLI scheme for White Goods has been approved recently. What are the goods covered under the tag?
[A] Pharmaceutical Ingredients
[B] Air Conditioners and LED Lights
[C] Telecom Devices
[D] Petroleum Products
Correct Answer: B [Air Conditioners and LED Lights]
The Union Cabinet headed by the Prime Minister has approved a production linked incentive (PLI)
scheme for white goods (i.e) Air Conditioners and LED Lights. The scheme has been approved with a
budget of Rs.6238 crores.
This scheme aims to make manufacturing in India globally competitive and enhance the manufacturing
efficiency.

23.Which institution has released Draft guidelines on Trade credit insurance?

[A] ECGC
[B] IRDAI
[C] ESIC
[D] EXIM Bank
Correct Answer: B [IRDAI]
The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has recently released Draft
guidelines on Trade credit insurance.
It has proposed a regulatory framework to facilitate general insurance companies to offer trade credit
insurance covers. Trade credit insurance protects businesses against the risk of non-payment for goods
and services by buyers.

24.As per the US-based Pew Research Centre, how many Indians have been pushed out from the middle
class due to COVID 19 pandemic?
[A] 10 million
[B] 12 million
[C] 32 million
[D] 50 million
Correct Answer: C [32 million]
As per a recent release by the US-based Pew Research Centre, the COVID 19 pandemic has pushed
about 32 million Indians out of the middle class.
The report states that the number of middle-class Indians earning $10 – $20 a day has reduced by 32
million.

25.Which two organisations are planning to launch a platform for advising poor countries on climate
changing funding?
[A] RBI and SEBI
[B] ADB and AIIB
[C] World Bank and IMF
[D] NDB and ADB
Correct Answer: C [World Bank and IMF]
The World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) have planned to launch a dedicated
platform that would advise the poor nations on funding their climate and conservation activities.
It is proposed that the platform would consist of UN officials, non-governmental organisations, private
investors and rating agencies, to aid and advise the funding activities.

26.As an acknowledgement of gender equality, which country replaced the term “Airmen” by
“Aviators”?
[A] France
[B] Germany
[C] Australia
[D] New Zealand
Correct Answer: C [Australia]
Australian air force personnel will be known as aviators rather than airmen, as per the Australia’s Chief
of Air Force.
Australia has the highest female participation in any branch of the country’s military at over 20% of the
15,000 personnel in the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF). It also aims to have 25% women strength in
the force by 2023.

27.Commerce and Industry Minister launched the ‘Trade facilitation mobile app’ of which office?
[A] DGFT
[B] DGTR
[C] MPEDA
[D] APEDA
Correct Answer: A [DGFT]
Commerce and industry Minister Piyush Goyal recently launched the “Trade facilitation mobile app” of
the Directorate General of Foreign Trade.
The app has a state-of-the-art system and provides real-time trade policy updates, applications and real-
time data. It will also provide artificial intelligence-based 24×7 assistance and all services of the DGFT.

28.By what percentage, the net indirect tax collection in 2020-21 has grown over the previous year?
[A] 1%
[B] 10%
[C] 12.3%
[D] 15%
Correct Answer: C [12.3%]
As per the data released by the Union Finance Ministry, net indirect tax collection in 2020-21 grew
12.3% over the previous financial year.
The total collection stood at Rs.10.71 lakh, thereby exceeding the indirect tax collection target of Rs.9.89
lakh set for the FY 2020-21.

29.The European Commission has planned to raise what amount annually until 2026, to make its
economy green and digital?
[A] 150 billion euros
[B] USD 1000 million
[C] Rs.1000 crore
[D] USD 50 million
Correct Answer: A [150 billion euros]
The European Commission has proposed to make borrowings amounting 150 billion euros till the year
2026.
The proceeds of the borrowing will be used to make its economy greener and more digitalized. The
funds are proposed to be raised through auctions and syndication through a primary deal network.

30.From which date, the Government is set to implement mandatory hallmarking of gold jewellery?
[A] April 20 2021
[B] May 1 2021
[C] June 1 2021
[D] August 1, 2021
Correct Answer: C [June 1 2021]
The Government of India is set to implement mandatory hallmarking of gold jewellery and artefacts
from June 1, 2021.
Hallmarking is a purity certification of gold and is presently voluntary in nature. Mandatory hallmarking
was announced by the Government in November 2019 and more than a year’s time was given to
jewellers to register with BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) for hallmarking.
31.Which species has been found to have had a population of 2.5 billion during 2.4 million years?
[A] Tyrannosaurus rex
[B] Spinosaurus
[C] Velociraptor
[D] Triceratops
Correct Answer: A [Tyrannosaurus rex]
As per a recent study, the first calculation of the total Tyrannosaurus rex population during the 2.4
million years.
T. rex was among the largest carnivorous dinosaurs, with a skull about 5 feet long, muscular jaws with a
strong bite force capable of crushing bone. They also noted a doctrine called Damuth’s law which states
that the bigger the animal, the fewer the individuals.

32.Which country has drafted ‘Ecocide’ bill to punish acts of environmental damage?
[A] Germany
[B] France
[C] New Zealand
[D] Brazil
Correct Answer: B [France]
The National Assembly of France has recently approved the creation of an “ecocide” offence, which
seeks to punish acts of environmental damage.
The bill will be applied to the most serious cases of environmental damage at national level, such as the
pollution of a river. An offence of endangering the environment is punishable on the lines of
endangering life.

33.Which institution developed the world’s first affordable and long-lasting hygiene product named
“DuroKea Series”?
[A] IISc Bangalore
[B] IIT Hyderabad
[C] IIT Madras
[D] NIT Warangal
Correct Answer: B [IIT Hyderabad]
Union Minister of Education Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ virtually launched world’s first affordable and
long-lasting hygiene product in the name of “DuroKea Series”.
The hygiene product has been launched by IIT Hyderabad researchers. This innovative and long-lasting
technologies was developed to combat COVID-19 virus spreading.

34.Table Mountain National Park, which was seen in the news recently, is located in which country?
[A] Australia
[B] South Africa
[C] New Zealand
[D] Philippines
Correct Answer: B [South Africa]
A massive fire, which has been burning along the Table Mountain National Park, South Africa, is said to
be damaging buildings.
Around 200 firefighters along with four helicopters have been dispatched to put off the massive blaze.
Mostert’s Mill, a historic windmill near the University of Cape Town built around 1796, has also been
damaged by the fire.

35.The UN Security Council has agreed to deploy cease-fire agreement in which country, that was led by
Moammar Gadhafi?
[A] Sudan
[B] Mexico
[C] Libya
[D] Israel
Correct Answer: C [Libya]
The U.N Security council is to deploy six-month-old cease-fire agreement in Libya, which has been in
political crisis, after the removal of dictator Moammar Gadhafi in 2011
Libya is heading toward December elections after over ten years of political chaos. Libya’s transitional
government welcomed the UNSC decision to deploy international monitors to watch the old cease-fire.

36.PSA Oxygen Plants were sanctioned for installation in public health facilities. What is the expansion of
PSA?
[A] Pressure Swing Adsorption
[B] Pressure Sleep Adjustment
[C] Private School Administration
[D] Primary Sleep Adjustment
Correct Answer: A [Pressure Swing Adsorption]
The Health Ministry announced that 162 Pressure Swing Adsorption, PSA oxygen plants have been
sanctioned by the Government of India for installation in public health facilities in all States.
This step would enhance the local oxygen capacity by over 154 Metric Tonnes. Out of 162 PSA Oxygen
plants, 33 have been installed. States have also requested the Centre to provide additional 100 oxygen
plants.

37.With reference to Defence, what is “INAS 323”, that was recently commissioned?
[A] Unmanned Aerial Vehicle
[B] Air Squadron
[C] Submarine
[D] Missile Launcher
Correct Answer: B [Air Squadron]
Indian Navy’s first unit of the indigenously-built Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) Mk III, Indian Naval Air
Squadron 323 (INAS 323), was commissioned at INS Hansa, Goa.
The Mk III version of the ALH will be used for Search and Rescue, Special Operations and Coastal
Surveillance. The squadron will operate three ALH Mk III helicopters, a multi-role chopper with the
Shakti engine manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).

38.Who has been appointed as the Director General of “National Anti-Doping Agency”?
[A] Navin Agarwal
[B] Siddharth Singh Longjam
[C] S Ramann
[D] R Gandhi
Correct Answer: B [Siddharth Singh Longjam]
IAS officer Siddharth Singh Longjam is to take over as the National Anti-Doping Agency’s Director
General.
The officer will succeed Navin Agarwal, who introduced Athletes Biological Passport (ABP) for around 60
elite Indian sportspersons during his tenure. Longjam is currently serving as joint secretary in the Sports
Ministry.

39.Who was the head of Committee on Financial System 1991 and Committee on Banking Reforms
1998?
[A] Manmohan Singh
[B] Venu Shastri
[C] M. Narasimham
[D] YV Reddy
Correct Answer: C [M. Narasimham]
The former RBI Governor Shri. M. Narasimham passed away recently at the age of 94 years. He was the
13th Governor of RBI and till date is the only Governor of RBI to be appointed from Reserve Bank cadre.
He chaired the Committee on Financial System (CFS) 1991 and the Committee on Banking Reforms 1998,
which forms the financial sector landscape that is in existence today.

40.FACT rebel group, who were seen in the news recently, are associated with which country?
[A] Sudan
[B] Chad
[C] Afghanistan
[D] Nigeria
Correct Answer: B [Chad]
Fighters of the Front for Change and Concord in Chad (FACT) rebel group was formed in 2016. The group
said to have crossed into Chad recently with the aim of overthrowing President Idriss Deby.
A day after provisional results of Deby being re-elected, the military announced that President, had died
due to wounds suffered during a battle against the rebels.

41.Which state / UT has recently formed an Oxygen audit committee?

[A] Kerala
[B] Maharashtra
[C] Goa
[D] Delhi
Correct Answer: D [Delhi]
The Government of Delhi has formed a 24-member oxygen audit committee, in wake of the acute
shortage of medical oxygen in hospitals across Delhi.
The committee would be monitoring the oxygen stocks and their consumption continuously. It would
also ensure that the utilization of oxygen is rational and optimal.

42.KRI Nanggala-402, is a submarine of which country, in search of which the Indian Navy has joined the
rescue operation?
[A] Nepal
[B] Sri Lanka
[C] Indonesia
[D] Japan
Correct Answer: C [Indonesia]
The Indian Navy has recently joined the rescue operation for an Indonesian submarine KRI Nanggala-402
and its 53-member crew that went missing.
After its 44-year-old submarine went missing while conducting a torpedo drill north of the island of Bali,
Indonesia had sought assistance from India. Indian Navy’s Deep-Submergence Rescue Vessel (DSVR) left
from Visakhapatnam as a part of the rescue operation.

43.When is the Earth Day observed every year?

[A] March 30
[B] April 1
[C] April 15
[D] April 22
Correct Answer: D [April 22]
Every year, Earth Day is observed on April 22nd. The first such day was observed in the year 1970.
In this year’s Earth Day, US President Joe Biden announced his commitment to slash the US’s carbon
emission by at least 50% by the year 2030, based on 2005 levels.

44.Japan is set to hold its first joint military drill with which two countries against China’s aggression?
[A] India and US
[B] US and France
[C] Russia and US
[D] Russia and France
Correct Answer: B [US and France]
Japan is set to hold its first joint military drill with the US and French troops, amidst the increased
actions of China in the regional waters.
The exercise would be held from May 11 to 17 and will be the first large-scale exercise in Japan involving
ground troops from all three countries. The exercise also would deepen the Defence cooperation
between the three countries.

45.When is the “International Day of Multilateralism and Diplomacy for Peace” observed across the
world?
[A] April 24
[B] April 26
[C] April 28
[D] April 30
Correct Answer: A [April 24]
The “International Day of Multilateralism and Diplomacy for Peace” is observed on April 24, every year
across the world.
On 12 December 2018, the General Assembly adopted the resolution, “International Day of
Multilateralism and Diplomacy for Peace. It was first observed on April 24, 2019.

46.As per the recent guidelines of the RBI, what is the maximum tenure of the MD & CEO or WTD (whole
time director) of banks?
[A] 5 years
[B] 10 years
[C] 15 years
[D] 20 years
Correct Answer: C [15 years]
Reserve Bank of India issued instructions on governance for banks, including private sector banks, small
finance banks (SFBs) and wholly owned subsidiaries of foreign banks.
As per the guidelines, the post of MD & CEO or WTD (whole time director) cannot be held by same
person for more than 15 years. Banks are asked to implement this before October 1, 2021.

47.When is the UN’s International Delegate’s Day observed every year?

[A] February 1
[B] March 1
[C] April 1
[D] April 25
Correct Answer: D [April 25]
Every year, 25th of April is observed by the United Nations as the International Delegate’s Day.
This day marks the anniversary of the first day of the San Francisco Conference in the year 1945, during
which delegates from fifty countries came together for the first time in San Francisco.

48.On which date, UN observes International Chernobyl Disaster Remembrance Day?

[A] April 20
[B] April 26
[C] April 30
[D] May 1
Correct Answer: B [April 26]
The Chernobyl nuclear disaster took place in the year 1986. Every year the United Nations observes April
26 as the International Chernobyl Disaster Remembrance Day.
This year marks the 30th anniversary of the nuclear disaster. This day is dedicated to raise awareness of
regarding the risks of nuclear energy and the consequences of Chernobyl disaster.
49.What is the common name given to the medicines that are widely used to relieve pain and reduce
inflammation?
[A] Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
[B] ACE inhibitors
[C] Angiotensin receptor blockers
[D] Corticosteroid drugs
Correct Answer: A [Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs]
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are medicines that are widely used to relieve pain,
reduce inflammation, and bring down a high temperature.
As per the recent guidelines from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), some painkillers like
Ibuprofen are found to worsen COVID-19. Hence, it advised against consuming non-steroidal anti-
inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

50.To counter China’s dominance, Trade ministers of India, Japan and Australia launched SCRI. What is
SCRI?
[A] Switching to Climate Resilience Initiative
[B] Supply Chain Resilience Initiative
[C] Smart Climate Resilience Initiative
[D] Smart Commerce and Trade Resilience Initiative
Correct Answer: B [Supply Chain Resilience Initiative]
In a move to counter China’s dominance of supply chain in the Indo-Pacific region, Trade ministers of
India, Japan and Australia on Tuesday launched the Supply Chain Resilience Initiative (SCRI).
Initially, SCRI will focus on sharing best practices on supply chain resilience, investment promotion
events and buyer-seller matching events. The Ministers also decided to convene at least once a year to
provide guidance for implementing the initiative.

41.Which type of institutions have been allowed to start functioning in Gujarat’s GIFT
City?
[A] Payment Banks
[B] NBFCs
[C] AIFIs
[D] Neo Banks
Hide Answer
Correct Answer: B [NBFCs]
Notes:
Non-bank finance companies (NBFCs) both local and global, are allowed to start
operations in Gujarat’s GIFT City, by the International Financial Services Centre (IFSC).
They will be allowed to offer the complete range of financial services including loans,
investment banking, and third-party product sales.
42.As per RBI, maximum of …….. dividend can be paid by Banks from their profits in
2020-21, to remain resilient during Covid 19 crisis?
[A] 10%
[B] 50%
[C] 75%
[D] 100%
Hide Answer
Correct Answer: B [50%]
Notes:
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has stated that Banks, in order to stay resilient during
the Covid-19 crisis, could pay a maximum of 50% of dividend from their profits in 2020-
21.
RBI has further stated that, the Board of Directors of the Banks should consider the
current and projected capital position of the bank vis-a-vis the applicable capital
requirements, before making any payout decisions.
43.“Anzac Day” is observed on which date of every year?
[A] April 1
[B] April 15
[C] April 25
[D] April 30
Hide Answer
Correct Answer: C [April 25]
Notes:
Anzac Day, is observed every year on the 25th of April. It is observed as a
Remembrance Day in Australia and New Zealand, which commemorates all those who
have served and died during wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping operations.
Anzac stands for “Australian and New Zealand Army Corps” who served in the Gallipoli
Campaign during the first world war.
44.Chloe Zhao has been conferred with the Oscar Award for which movie?
[A] Nomadland
[B] Hometown
[C] Sense and sensibility
[D] The Social network
Hide Answer
Correct Answer: A [Nomadland]
Notes:
Chloe Zhao who belongs to China, has become the 1st Asian woman to win an Oscar
Academy Award under the “Best Director” category.
She has been conferred with this prestigious award for her movie “Nomadland”. The
movie is also adjudged as the Best Picture of the year.
45.Which is the third most populous country in the world, with the recently released
population of 331,449,281?
[A] Indonesia
[B] Pakistan
[C] USA
[D] Bangladesh
Hide Answer
Correct Answer: C [USA]
Notes:
The Census Bureau of the United States announced that the population of the US is
331,449,281. This is a 7.4% increase over the last decade and is also the second
slowest ever.
The population figures will be used by state legislatures or independent commissions to
redraw the country’s political maps to represent the shifts in population.
46.Which institution is to conduct ‘Bank Customers’ Satisfaction Survey’ on bank
mergers?
[A] NITI Aayog
[B] RBI
[C] SEBI
[D] Finance Ministry
Hide Answer
Correct Answer: B [RBI]
Notes:
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has decided to conduct a customer satisfaction survey
to find out the impact of the recent mergers of public sector banks.
The ‘Bank Customers’ Satisfaction Survey’ will cover a total of 20,000 respondents from
21 states. As many as 22 questions would be asked to assess if the merger was
positive from the point of customer services.
47.What is the estimated growth rate of India in FY 22, as per Oxford Economics?
[A] 8.5%
[B] 10.2%
[C] 12.5%
[D] 14.2%
Hide Answer
Correct Answer: B [10.2%]
Notes:
Global forecasting firm Oxford Economics revised its India GDP growth forecast for
2021 to 10.2 per cent from the earlier forecast of 11.8 per cent.
It highlighted the country’s escalating health burden, uncertain vaccination rate and lack
of a strong government strategy to contain the pandemic. IMF projected a 12.5 per cent
growth rate for India in 2021, while RBI, in its last policy review, had projected a GDP
growth rate of 10.5 per cent.
48.Viverricula indica is the name of which cat-like mammal, that has been rescued
recently in East Godavari?
[A] Civet
[B] Mongoose
[C] Genet
[D] Hyena
Hide Answer
Correct Answer: A [Civet]
Notes:
Three number of small Indian civets have been rescued and recovered by the East
Godavari Wildlife Management authorities in two separate rescue operations.
The small Indian civet, bearing scientific name Viverricula indica, is native to South and
Southeast Asia. It is categorized as Least Concern in the IUCN Red List.
49.Which country has adopted a new anti-espionage regulation to prevent ‘Foreign
infiltration’ in key companies?
[A] India
[B] China
[C] USA
[D] Russia
Hide Answer
Correct Answer: B [China]
Notes:
China has unveiled a new anti-espionage regulation, which seeks to prevent ‘foreign
infiltration’ in key companies and organisations.
Under the regulation, the National security authority will prepare lists of the firms that
are susceptible to foreign infiltration and require security measures. The regulation will
also draft the procedures to guard against foreign threats and espionage.
50.‘Plain of Jars’ is a famous archaeological site, located in which country?
[A] Greece
[B] Egypt
[C] Laos
[D] Spain
Hide Answer
Correct Answer: C [Laos]
Notes:
The Plain of Jars is a famous archaeological landscape located in northern Laos. It
consists of thousands of stone jars scattered around the valleys and the foothills of the
Xiangkhoang Plateau.
As per a recent research, the mysterious Plain of Jars were likely used as a burial site
for much longer than previously known. The research suggests that the massive jars
could be more than 3,000 years old.

1.Which state has recommended a judicial inquiry against central agencies including the
Enforcement Directorate?
[A] Punjab
[B] Kerala
[C] Chhattisgarh
[D] Telangana
Hide Answer
Correct Answer: B [Kerala]
Notes:
The Left front government in Kerala has decided to recommend a judicial inquiry against
the central agencies, including the Enforcement Directorate.
Earlier, the Crime Branch registered an FIR against some ED officials for derailing the
probe in the gold smuggling and dollar cases. The state has decided to appoint Justice
(Retd) KV Mohan to head the commission.
2.What is the theme of the ‘World Development Report’ 2021?
[A] Data for better lives
[B] Development after Covid
[C] Self-Reliant countries
[D] Replacement of Jobs
Hide Answer
Correct Answer: A [Data for better lives]
Notes:
World Development Report 2021 has been released with the theme of ‘Data for Better
Lives’— Leveraging greater value from data to help the poor
This is the first World Development Report which focused solely on the role of data for
development. As the Covid pandemic made the global data inequalities even greater,
the report speaks on how do we tap the full value of data, to ensure equitable access for
poor people.
3.As per USA, India has been added to the list of countries affected by which disease?
[A] Tuberculosis
[B] AIDS
[C] African swine fever
[D] Ebola
Hide Answer
Correct Answer: C [African swine fever]
Notes:
The United States of America (USA) has released a notification which classifies India
among the list of countries affected with African swine fever disease.
With this, the USA has imposed certain restrictions on import of pork and pork products
from India.
This notification has been made by the United States Department of Agriculture’s
Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS).
4.When is the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the
Transatlantic Slave Trade observed by UN?
[A] March 1
[B] March 10
[C] March 15
[D] March 25
Hide Answer
Correct Answer: D [March 25]
Notes:
Every year on 25th March, the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of
Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade is observed by the United Nations.
This day remembers those who suffered and died at the hands of the brutal slavery
system. It also aims to raise awareness about the dangers of racism and prejudice.
5.‘Shaheen 1-A’ is the nuclear- capable ballistic missile, recently launched by which
country?
[A] Pakistan
[B] Afghanistan
[C] UAE
[D] Israel
Hide Answer
Correct Answer: A [Pakistan]
Notes:
Pakistan has successfully test-fired a nuclear-capable surface-to-surface ballistic
missile named Shaheen-1A.
The missile has a range of 900 kilometres with sophisticated and advanced guidance
system. In February, Pakistan successfully test-fired a nuclear-capable surface-to-
surface ballistic missile which can strike targets up to 290 km.
6.Mount Merapi, which was recently observed to have released ash and debris, is an
active volcano in which country?
[A] Philippines
[B] Australia
[C] Indonesia
[D] Japan
Hide Answer
Correct Answer: C [Indonesia]
Notes:
Mount Merapi is an active volcano located in the Central Java province of Indonesia.
Being the most active volcano in Indonesia, it has erupted constantly since 1548.
Recently, the volcano was observed releasing ash high into the air and sending streams
of lava and debris along its slopes. As per media reports, clouds of hot ash were blown
200 meters or 656 feet above the surface.
7.Which country is to play host to the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Women’s
Asian Cup 2022?
[A] UK
[B] India
[C] Sri Lanka
[D] Bangladesh
Hide Answer
Correct Answer: B [India]
Notes:
The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Women’s Asian Cup India 2022 Organising
Committee confirmed the venues of the tournament.
D.Y. Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai, TransStadia in Ahmedabad and the Kalinga
Stadium in Bhubaneswar will host the premier women’s football competition, from
January 20 to February 6, 2022.
8.As per the annual report of the Central Information Commission, which Union ministry
made the highest rejections of requests?
[A] Agriculture Ministry
[B] Defence Ministry
[C] Home Ministry
[D] External Affairs Ministry
Hide Answer
Correct Answer: C [Home Ministry]
Notes:
According to the Central Information Commission’s annual report, the Centre has only
rejected 4.3% of all Right to Information (RTI) requests in 2019-20.
Almost 40% of these rejections did not include any valid reason and did not come under
the permissible exemption clauses in the RTI Act. 90% of rejections were done by the
Prime Minister’s Office. Home Ministry had the highest rate of rejections, at 20% of all
RTIs received.
9.‘VAJRA PRAHAR 2021’ is a military exercise held between the special forces of India
and which other country?
[A] France
[B] USA
[C] Japan
[D] Sri Lanka
Hide Answer
Correct Answer: B [USA]
Notes:
Special forces of India carried out a joint military exercise with the US Special forces at
Bakloh in Himachal Pradesh.
The 11th edition of the joint special forces exercise ‘Vajra Prahar 2021’ was held with an
aim to share the best practices and experiences in joint mission planning and
operational tactics. In February 2021, the Armies of both the countries carried out
‘Exercise Yudh Abhyas’.
10.What is the amount raised by the Government from disinvestment of CPSEs in 2020-
21?
[A] Rs 39000 crore
[B] Rs 32835 crore
[C] Rs 29000 crore
[D] Rs 22835 crore
Hide Answer
Correct Answer: B [Rs 32835 crore]
Notes:
The Government has raised Rs 32,835 crore from disinvestment of CPSEs through
share sale and buybacks during the year 2020-21.
Thus, the disinvestment target set in the revised estimates (RE) for current fiscal -Rs
32000 crore. Initially, Rs 2.10 lakh crore originally budgeted as the target for this year,
but was later reduced to Rs 32000 crore, on account of the Covid-19 pandemic.
11.What amount of refinance assistance will be provided by RBI to All India Financial
Institutions (AIFIs)?
[A] Rs.5000 crore
[B] Rs.50,000 crore
[C] Rs.5 lakh crore
[D] Rs. 50 lakh crores
Hide Answer
Correct Answer: B [Rs.50,000 crore]
Notes:
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has decided to provide a sum of Rs.50,000 crore to
the All-India Financial Institutions (AIFIs) namely NABARD, SIDBI and NHB.
NABARD would receive Rs.25,000 crore, SIDBI would receive Rs.15,000 crore and
NHB would receive a sum of Rs.10,000 crore as refinance credit facility.
12.What is the name for the experiment, in which Scientists from Singapore attach
electrodes to a Venus flytrap plant?
[A] Plant Xylem Experiment
[B] Robo Plant Experiment
[C] Thermos Experiment
[D] Thermogel Experiment
Hide Answer
Correct Answer: B [Robo Plant Experiment]
Notes:
Scientists from Singapore are working on an experiment named “Robo Plants”. Under
the experiment electrodes are attached to a Venus flytrap plant.
These electrodes fit tightly to the plant’s surface using a thermogel. These electrodes
monitor weak electrical pulses naturally emitted by plants.
13.In which Indian state/UT, ‘Civil defence personnel’ are commonly found?
[A] Delhi
[B] Goa
[C] Puducherry
[D] Chhattisgarh
Hide Answer
Correct Answer: A [Delhi]
Notes:
‘Civil defence personnel’ are commonly found in Delhi. They work under the District
magistrates and are governed by the Civil Defence Act, 1968.
Recently, the Delhi Police issued a statement that civil defence personnel, also known
as Delhi Civil Defence (DCD) volunteers, have no power to persecute people for
violation of Covid-19 appropriate behaviour.
14.What is the maximum balance that an individual customer can hold with payments
banks?
[A] Rs 50000
[B] Rs 1 lakh
[C] Rs 2 lakhs
[D] Rs 5 lakhs
Hide Answer
Correct Answer: C [Rs 2 lakhs]
Notes:
The Reserve Bank of India has doubled the limit of maximum balance that an individual
customer can hold with payments banks to Rs 2 lakh.
The announcement in this matter was made by RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das after the
meeting of the Monetary Policy Committee. As per the current norms, the payment
banks can hold a maximum balance of Rs 1 lakh per customer. This expansion will help
them to serve more MSMEs.
15.“Advanced Antiquities Management System”, which was making news recently, is
launched by which state/UT?
[A] Chhattisgarh
[B] Goa
[C] Tamil Nadu
[D] Kerala
Hide Answer
Correct Answer: B [Goa]
Notes:
The Directorate of Archives and Archaeology (DAA) of Goa inaugurated the Advanced
Antiquities Management System (AAMS).
This is said to be the first system in the country for storage of antiquities. The AAMS is a
software-driven automated storage which is used for the storage of various objects. The
system provides information about an antiquity and will ensure safety of the antiquities.
16.What is the growth rate of Domestic consumption of petroleum products in FY21 in
India?
[A] + 12.5%
[B] + 2.5 %
[C] – 3.1%
[D] – 9.1 %
Hide Answer
Correct Answer: D [- 9.1 %]
Notes:
Domestic consumption of petroleum products in India in FY21 fell 9.1% year-on-year (y-
o-y) to 194.7 million tonnes (MT).
The main reason is said to be the low sales of transportation fuel amid the country-wide
Covid-19 lockdown. Petroleum sales have fallen for the first time since FY99 and Diesel
sales also dipped 11.9%.
17.Which institution is set to launch a hand book for Online Dispute Resolution (ODR)?
[A] SEBI
[B] RBI
[C] NITI Aayog
[D] IRDAI
Hide Answer
Correct Answer: C [NITI Aayog]
Notes:
Indian Government’s think tank – NITI Aayog has planned to launch a hand book for
Online Dispute Resolution (ODR). This book would serve as an invitation to business
leaders to adopt ODR in India.
The book would be published in association with organizations like Agami and Omidyar
Network India, ICICI Bank, Ashoka Innovators for the Public etc.
18.Commerce and Industry Minister launched the ‘Trade facilitation mobile app’ of
which office?
[A] DGFT
[B] DGTR
[C] MPEDA
[D] APEDA
Hide Answer
Correct Answer: A [DGFT]
Notes:
Commerce and industry Minister Piyush Goyal recently launched the “Trade facilitation
mobile app” of the Directorate General of Foreign Trade.
The app has a state-of-the-art system and provides real-time trade policy updates,
applications and real-time data. It will also provide artificial intelligence-based 24×7
assistance and all services of the DGFT.
19.Raisina Dialogue is a flagship global conference organised by which country?
[A] China
[B] Japan
[C] India
[D] Switzerland
Hide Answer
Correct Answer: C [India]
Notes:
The Raisina Dialogue is India’s flagship global conference on geopolitics. It is the
biggest foreign policy conference organised by the Union Ministry of External Affairs
along with the Observer Research Foundation.
The sixth edition of the dialogue, from April 13 to 16, is being held virtually due to the
coronavirus pandemic. Prime Minister Modi is to inaugurate the conference virtually.
20.As of April 14, 2021, which is the second-most affected Covid-19 country in the
world?
[A] USA
[B] India
[C] Brazil
[D] Israel
Hide Answer
Correct Answer: B [India]
Notes:
India has recently become the second-most affected Covid-19 country in the world
overtaking Brazil. The top position is held by the United States of America.
Recently, India has been reporting more than 1.5 lakh COVID cases every day and the
overall infection has crossed 13.53 million.