Current Affairs - Current Affairs

Exercise : Daily Current Affairs
  • January 18, 2025 Current Affairs
1.
Which country is hosting the 900 MW Upper Karnali Hydro-electric Project under a joint venture involving IREDA, SJVN, and NEA?
Nepal
Bhutan
India
Bangladesh
Answer: Option
Explanation:
The 900 MW Upper Karnali Hydro-electric Project is being developed in Nepal through a joint venture involving the Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency Ltd. (IREDA), SJVN Ltd., GMR Energy Ltd., and Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA). This project, operating under the Build-Own-Operate-Transfer model, aims to enhance energy security in the region and foster renewable energy development, showcasing cross-border collaboration in sustainable energy initiatives.

2.
Which crop did ISRO successfully germinate in space using its Compact Research Module for Orbital Plant Studies (CROPS)?
Wheat
Lobia
Rice
Maize
Answer: Option
Explanation:
ISRO achieved a groundbreaking milestone in space agriculture by germinating black-eyed pea (lobia) seeds aboard its Compact Research Module for Orbital Plant Studies (CROPS). This experiment demonstrates the potential for growing sustainable food sources in space, crucial for long-duration missions. By simulating Earth-like conditions, ISRO's initiative addresses challenges like microgravity, radiation, and limited sunlight, paving the way for self-sustaining food systems for astronauts on extended space explorations.

3.
Where did the National Science Drama Festival 2024-25 commence on 18th January 2025?
Mumbai
New Delhi
Kolkata
Bengaluru
Answer: Option
Explanation:
The National Science Drama Festival 2024-25 began on 18th January 2025 at the National Science Centre, New Delhi. Organized by the National Council of Science Museums, the festival aims to promote science education through engaging drama performances on critical topics such as artificial intelligence, climate change, and water conservation. This event follows local and state-level competitions across India.

4.
In which state was the National Institute of Mental Health Rehabilitation (NIMHR) inaugurated to support mental health and empower Divyangjan?
Rajasthan
Gujarat
Madhya Pradesh
Maharashtra
Answer: Option
Explanation:
The National Institute of Mental Health Rehabilitation (NIMHR) was inaugurated in Sehore, Madhya Pradesh, by Dr. Virendra Kumar. With an investment of ₹127 crores, the institute includes facilities like a Cross Disability Early Intervention Centre and Pradhan Mantri Divyasha Kendra. This initiative aims to support mental health and empower Divyangjan, emphasizing the government's focus on mental health rehabilitation and inclusive development.

5.
Which automobile company launched its first locally-produced electric vehicle in India priced at ₹49 lakh?
Tesla
Hyundai
Mercedes-Benz
BMW
Answer: Option
Explanation:
BMW India unveiled its first locally-produced electric vehicle, the BMW X1 Long Wheelbase All Electric, at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025. Manufactured at BMW's Chennai plant, this EV features a 66.4 kWh battery, a PMSM electric motor delivering 204 hp, and a claimed range of 531 km. The launch signifies BMW's commitment to sustainable mobility and the growing EV market in India.

6.
Who has been appointed as the Ombudsman and Ethics Officer of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)?
Justice D.Y. Chandrachud
Justice N.V. Ramana
Justice Arun Mishra
Justice S.A. Bobde
Answer: Option
Explanation:
Justice Arun Mishra, a former Supreme Court judge, has been appointed as the Ombudsman and Ethics Officer of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). Known for his extensive legal expertise and leadership experience, he will address ethical issues and disputes in Indian cricket. This appointment is a significant milestone in his career, which includes serving as Chief Justice of the Rajasthan and Calcutta High Courts and as the youngest Chairman of the Bar Council of India.

7.
Which sector was the focus of the NITI Aayog workshop on Carbon Capture, Utilization & Storage to achieve India's net-zero target by 2070?
Cement Sector
Steel Sector
Power Sector
Textile Sector
Answer: Option
Explanation:
NITI Aayog organized a workshop on Carbon Capture, Utilization & Storage (CCUS) focusing on the Indian cement sector, which contributes 5.8% of the nation’s CO₂ emissions. The workshop emphasized decarbonization strategies and technologies crucial to achieving India's net-zero target by 2070. The cement sector plays a significant role in this goal, as CCUS can potentially reduce its emissions by 35%-45%.

8.
On which date did the Lokpal of India commemorate its first Foundation Day in 2025?
January 14
January 15
January 17
January 16
Answer: Option
Explanation:
The Lokpal of India celebrated its inaugural Foundation Day on January 16, 2025, marking 11 years since its establishment under the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013. The event, held in New Delhi, featured dignitaries such as Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna and Justice N. Santosh Hegde. Chairperson Justice A.M. Khanwilkar addressed the gathering, reflecting on the Lokpal’s journey and outlining strategies to combat corruption, including leveraging advanced technologies and fostering collaboration with other agencies.

9.
Which company is the beneficiary of the ₹11,440 crore revival package approved by the Union Cabinet?
Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL)
Tata Steel Limited
Rashtriya Ispat Nigam Limited (RINL)
JSW Steel Limited
Answer: Option
Explanation:
The Union Cabinet approved a significant ₹11,440 crore revival package for Rashtriya Ispat Nigam Limited (RINL), also known as Vizag Steel, to address its financial challenges. The package includes ₹10,300 crore as equity capital and conversion of ₹1,140 crore in working capital loans into preference shares. The revival plan aims to stabilize RINL's operations, improve steel production, and secure its long-term sustainability by modernizing the plant and ensuring a steady supply of raw materials.

10.
Which country launched Pakistan's first indigenous Electro-Optical Satellite (PRSC-EO1) on January 17, 2025?
China
United States
Japan
European Space Agency
Answer: Option
Explanation:
On January 17, 2025, China successfully launched Pakistan’s first indigenous Electro-Optical Satellite (PRSC-EO1) from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center using the Long March-2D rocket. This satellite is equipped with advanced electro-optical sensors to enhance Pakistan’s capabilities in Earth observation, disaster management, resource monitoring, and urban planning. This launch signifies a continuation of China-Pakistan collaboration in space technology, building on earlier satellite launches and cooperative projects for communication and lunar exploration.

11.
Which country recently celebrated 60 years of diplomatic ties with India, unveiling a commemorative logo?
Malaysia
Singapore
Indonesia
Thailand
Answer: Option
Explanation:
India and Singapore marked 60 years of diplomatic relations with a commemorative logo unveiled by President Droupadi Murmu and Singapore President Tharman Shanmugaratnam. The logo features elements from the flags and national flowers (lotus and orchid) of both countries. Singapore, an island country in Southeast Asia, has strong cultural ties with India, as ethnic Indians constitute around 9% of its resident population.