UPSC Weekly Current Affairs Quiz | April 20 to April 26, 2025

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QUESTION 1

Consider the following statements about a dead galaxy:

Statement 1: A galaxy that has stopped creating new stars is referred to as a “dead galaxy”.

Statement 2: It happens when a galaxy uses up its supply of gas, mainly helium, which is essential for the birth of new stars.

Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?

(a) Both Statement 1 and Statement 2 are correct and Statement 2 is the correct explanation for Statement 1.

(b) Both Statement 1 and Statement 2 are correct and Statement 2 is not the correct explanation for Statement 1.

(c) Statement 1 is correct but Statement 2 is incorrect.

(d) Statement 1 is incorrect but Statement 2 is correct.

Explanation

— More than 13 billion years after the Big Bang, astronomers discovered the most distant galaxy ever seen using the James Webb Space Telescope (JSWT), but it has already stopped generating stars.

— The JWST detected light from the newly discovered ‘dead galaxy’ RUBIES-UDS-QG-z7 (the Red Unknowns: Bright Infrared Extragalactic Survey). It is considered to be the most distant and massive ‘dead galaxy’ discovered so far.

— A galaxy that has stopped producing new stars is known as a “dead galaxy”. This occurs when a galaxy depletes its supply of gas, primarily hydrogen, which is required for the formation of new stars. Star formation slows down when there is insufficient cold and dense gas. Hence, statement 1 is correct and statement 2 is not correct.

— Stellar winds, supernovae, and black hole activity can all release this gas. As a result, the galaxy gradually fades, with ageing stars and no new ones to replace them.

— JADES-GS-z7-01-QU, the oldest known “dead” galaxy, was discovered by the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) in March of 2018. It stopped creating stars when the cosmos was only 700 million years old.

Statement 1 is correct but Statement 2 is incorrect.

Therefore, option (c) is the correct answer.

QUESTION 2

Consider the following statements:

1. He is among the last few remaining who have known and worked closely with Sarabhai.

2. He is a celebrated space scientist who also served as a member of the Rajya Sabha and a member of the erstwhile Planning Commission.

3. It was during his time that ISRO embarked on self-reliance and indigenisation, which delayed the programmes a bit but eventually paid off handsomely in creating in-house capabilities.

4. His report on the ecology of the Western Ghats, essentially a review of an earlier report by a committee headed by environmentalist Madhav Gadgil, is the basis on which human activities in specific areas of the Western Ghats are sought to be regulated.

The above mentioned statements refer to:

(a) Dr. P K Mishra

(b) Shri T.V.Somanathan

(c) Dr V. Narayanan

(d) Dr K Kasturirangan

Explanation

— Kasturirangan, a well-known space scientist who also served in the Rajya Sabha and on the erstwhile Planning Commission, died on Friday morning in Bangalore. He was 84 years old and had been suffering from age-related difficulties for the past two years.

— He was one of the last few people who knew and worked closely with Sarabhai.

— Sarabhai was also the tutor who guided Kasturirangan through his PhD in cosmic X-rays at the Physical Research Laboratory in Ahmedabad.

— Kasturirangan played a vital role in transforming ISRO into a formidable space exploration agency that competed with the finest in the world. During his nearly decade-long leadership of the organisation (1994-2003), the Moon mission was designed, and the first discussions about human spaceflight were held.

— Kasturirangan headed ISRO through a turbulent period. This was a period when India faced strict international technological constraints, which worsened following the 1998 nuclear tests. India had been denied critical cryogenic technology, without which a well-developed space program could not be established.

— During Kasturirangan’s tenure, ISRO embarked on self-reliance and indigenisation, which delayed the programmes but paid off handsomely in terms of in-house capabilities.

— He chaired two committees whose reports resulted in important policy changes. His research on the ecology of the Western Ghats, which is largely a review of an earlier report by an environmentalist Madhav Gadgil-led team, serves as the foundation for efforts to restrict human activity in certain parts of the Western Ghats. Kasturirangan also led the group that recommended the New Education Policy.

Therefore, option (d) is the correct answer.

QUESTION 3

With reference to the Air Breathing Propulsion system, consider the following statements:

1. It provides a technological key for a low-cost space transportation system.

2. Air-breathing propulsion systems with supersonic combustion are crucial for sustained high-speed cruise conditions.

3. It eliminates the use of oxidiser being carried by making use of the atmospheric air and thereby significantly improves the payload fraction.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

Explanation

— The Defence Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL), a DRDO unit, completed a long-duration ground test of an Active Cooled Scramjet Subscale Combustor for more than 1,000 seconds at the newly built, cutting-edge Scramjet Connect Test Facility in Hyderabad.

— Scramjets are air-breathing engines that can sustain combustion at supersonic speeds without requiring any mechanical parts. Hypersonic cruise missiles, a type of modern weaponry, can travel at speeds greater than five times the speed of sound (over 6,100 km/h) for extended periods of time, propelled by air-breathing engines.

— Air Breathing Propulsion offers a technology solution for a low-cost space transportation system. They remove the requirement of oxidisers by utilising ambient air, resulting in a substantially higher payload fraction. Hence, statements 1 and 3 are correct.

— Air-breathing propulsion systems with supersonic combustion are essential for maintaining high-speed cruise conditions. Hence, statement 2 is correct.

Therefore, option (d) is the correct answer.

QUESTION 4

With reference to the Rafale-Marine (Rafale-M) fighter jets, consider the following statements:

1. These fighter jets can operate from aircraft carriers.

2. India is set to sign a deal on procuring 26 Rafale-Marine (Rafale-M) fighter jets for the Indian Navy from Russia.

3. The delivery of the jets will begin in 2028-29 after the contract is signed and is expected to be completed by 2031-32.

How many of the statements given above are correct?

(a) Only one

(b) Only two

(c) All three

(d) None

Explanation

— India is to execute an agreement with France to purchase 26 Rafale-Marine (Rafale-M) fighter jets for the Indian Navy. Hence, statement 2 is not correct.

— This comes after the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, got the final go-ahead in early April for the procurement of 26 Rafale-M fighter jets from France for the Indian Navy.

— The Rafale-M jets consist of 22 single-seater jets that can operate from aircraft carriers and four twin-seater trainer jets that are not carrier compatible. The planes will be delivered beginning in 2028-29 after the contract is signed, with completion due in 2031-32. Hence, statements 1 and 3 are correct.

— The Rafale-M fighter jets would be delivered with all necessary ancillary equipment, weaponry, simulators, parts, documentation, crew training, and logistic support. Their procurement from the French government is based on an Inter-Governmental Agreement (IGA).

Therefore, option (b) is the correct answer.

QUESTION 5

Consider the following statements about the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance:

1. It is an intergovernmental organisation formed in 1998.

2. It has 35 Member Countries with India being a founding member.

3. It provided the working definition of anti-Semitism.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 2 and 3 only

(b) 1 only

(c) 1, 2 and 3

(d) 1 and 3 only

Explanation

— Harvard campus and the Trump administration have clashed over charges that the campus has failed to combat anti-Semitism.

— Anti-Semitism is defined as any sort of prejudice against Jewish people, notably the use of stereotypes.

— The International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA), an intergovernmental body founded in 1998, issued the following working definition of anti-Semitism. Hence, statements 1 and 3 are correct.

— The IHRA has 35 Member Countries and 8 Observer Countries. India is not a member of IHRA. Hence, statement 2 is not correct.

— Antisemitism is a certain perspective of Jews that can manifest as hatred towards Jews. Antisemitism manifests itself rhetorically and physically in attacks on Jewish or non-Jewish people and/or their property, as well as Jewish community institutions and religious buildings.

— The name “Semitic” is a misnomer because it refers to a language group rather than a race. Linguistically, the phrase could refer to prejudice against speakers of Semitic languages (particularly Arabs and Ethiopians).

Therefore, option (d) is the correct answer.

QUESTION 6

Consider the following statements about colossal squid:

1. It is one of the largest and most elusive invertebrates on Earth.

2. It is classified as Data Deficient under the IUCN Red List.

3. The colossal squid only lives below 3,000 feet under the surface, in tropical and temperate waters.

How many of the statements given above are correct?

(a) Only one

(b) Only two

(c) All three

(d) None

Explanation

— Experts believe that colossal squid can be as long as seven metres or 23 feet, and weigh up to 500 kg. The giant squid, largest and most elusive invertebrates is thought to grow up to 13 metres or 43 feet, and typically weighs up to 275 kg. Hence, statement 1 is correct.

— It is classified as Least Concern under the IUCN Red List. Hence, statement 2 is not correct.

— Giant squid also live in the frigid depths of the ocean, between 600 to 3,000 feet under the surface, in tropical and temperate waters. Hence, statement 3 is not correct.

Therefore, option (a) is the correct answer.

(Other Source: iucnredlist.org)

QUESTION 7

With reference to the Simla Agreement, consider the following statements:

1. It was signed by Indira Gandhi and Zulfikar Ali Bhutto in 1965.

2. It fixed the Line of Control between both countries from the date of ceasefire, December 17, 1971.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(c) Both 1 and 2

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Explanation

— On July 2, 1972, PM Indira Gandhi and President Bhutto signed the Simla Agreement. Hence, statement 1 is not correct.

— The Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir resulting from the ceasefire of December 17, 1971, would be respected by both sides without prejudice to the recognised position of either side, and neither side shall seek to alter it unilaterally, irrespective of mutual differences and legal interpretations. Hence, statement 2 is correct.

Therefore, option (b) is the correct answer.

QUESTION 8

With reference to the Panchayats, consider the following statements:

1. Balwant Rai Mehta committee proposed a two-tier governance plan in 1957.

2. Minimum age to contest election to panchayat is 18 years.

3. Panchayat Advancement Index, published by the Union Ministry of Panchayati Raj.

How many of the statements given above are not correct?

(a) Only one

(b) Only two

(c) All three

(d) None

Explanation

— Balwant Rai Mehta committee constituted in 1957. In its report, the committee proposed a three-tier structure – at the lowest level, the Village Panchayats, at the intermediary (taluk or block) level, Panchayat Samitis, and at the highest level, the Zilla Parishads. Hence, statement 1 is not correct.

— A person shall be disqualified for being chosen as, and for being, a member of a Panchayat— Provided that no person shall be disqualified on the ground that he is less than twenty-five years of age.

— Provided that no person under the age of twenty-one years shall be eligible for election as a member or office-bearer of the Gram Panchayat. Hence, statement 2 is not correct.

— The Ministry of Panchayati Raj released this Panchayat Advancement index based on a study conducted by the Indian Institute of Public Administration (IIPA). Hence, statement 3 is correct.

Therefore, option (b) is the correct answer.

(Other Source: Constitution of India)

QUESTION 9

Consider the following statements about Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana:

1. Maharashtra government initiative to provide financial support to only women aged 21 to 65.

2. It is a direct cash transfer (DBT) scheme.

3. Family income under Rs 8 lakh is eligible for the scheme.

How many of the statements given above are correct?

(a) Only one

(b) Only two

(c) All three

(d) None

Explanation

— A key election promise made by the Mahayuti, which came to power in December 2024. The initiative aimed to provide financial support to women aged 21 to 65. Hence, statement 1 is correct.

— Under the scheme, money is directly transferred to a bank account linked with Aadhaar. Hence, statement 2 is correct.

— Scheme aims to provide a financial benefit of Rs 1,500 per month to those with an annual family income below Rs 2.5 lakh. Hence, statement 3 is not correct.

Therefore, option (b) is the correct answer.

QUESTION 10

With reference to ‘Institution Deemed to be University’, consider the following statements:

1. The Union Education Ministry grants ‘deemed to be a university’ status.

2. The designation is made on the advice of the concerned state government.

3. Recently, Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), Pune, has been awarded ‘deemed to be university’ status.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 2 only

(b) 1 and 3 only

(c) 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

Explanation

— The Union Education Ministry grants ‘deemed to be a university’ status. Hence, statement 1 is correct.

— The status has been granted with advice from the University Grants Commission (UGC). Hence, statement 2 is not correct.

— On April 22, the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) in Pune was granted an Institution Deemed to be University by the Government of India’s Ministry of Education. Hence, statement 3 is correct.

Therefore, option (b) is the correct answer.

QUESTION 11

The term ‘PM10’ refers to:

1. A particulate matter with a diameter of 10 microns or more.

2. Its permissible limit is 60 μg/m3.

3. It contains inorganic compounds, heavy metals, and biological material.

How many of the statements given above are not correct?

(a) Only one

(b) Only two

(c) All three

(d) None

Explanation

— Particulate Matter (PM10) pollution refers to airborne particles with a diameter of 10 microns or less. Hence, statement 1 is not correct.

— As per National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS), the permissible limit of PM10 is 60 μg/m3. Hence, statement 2 is correct.

— It contains inorganic compounds, heavy metals, and biological material that can penetrate the respiratory system, leading to severe health issues, including respiratory diseases, cardiovascular problems, and premature mortality. Hence, statement 3 is correct.

Therefore, option (a) is the correct answer.

(Other Source: ww2.arb.ca.gov)

QUESTION 12

Recently, seen in news, FatBoyPanel is:

1. It is a new type of Solar Panel.

2. It is a new gaming app.

3. It is a new Malware.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(c) 3 only

(d) None

Explanation

— FatBoyPanel is a new malware affecting over 25 million Android devices in India, posing significant risks by masquerading as fake banking apps shared on WhatsApp.

Therefore, option (c) is the correct answer.

QUESTION 13

With reference to Kamakhya Temple, consider the following statements:

1. It is one of the important Shakti Peethas.

2. The temple is located atop the ‘Nizarapar hills’.

3. Ambubachi Mela is held at Kamakhya Temple.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 2 only

(b) 1 and 3 only

(c) 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

Explanation

— Sara Ali Khan is currently on a spiritual journey across India. She travelled to Guwahati to seek blessings at the Kamakhya Temple — one of the most revered and powerful Shakti Peethas in the country. Hence, statement 1 is correct.

— Kamakhya, perched atop the Nilachal hills. Hence, statement 2 is not correct.

— Ambubachi Mela is one of the famous festivals of Kamakhya Temple. Hence, statement 3 is correct.

Therefore, option (b) is the correct answer.

QUESTION 14

With reference to the Black Sea and Russia, consider the following statements:

1. The Black Sea is by far the warmest marine feature bordering Russia.

2. It is also the only way for Russia to directly access the Mediterranean Sea through the vital Turkish-controlled Bosphorus and Dardanelles straits.

3. The ports of Sochi and Novorossiysk are located in the Black Sea.

How many of the statements given above are correct?

(a) Only one

(b) Only two

(c) All three

(d) None

Explanation

— Barack Obama had “handed over” the Crimean peninsula to Vladimir Putin, but now, “Crimea will stay with Russia,” US President Donald Trump told Time Magazine in an interview.

— Russia’s coastline covers over 37,000 kilometres. However, the majority of it is located north of the Arctic Circle, where sea ice renders many Russian ports useless in the winter. As a result, the hunt for warm water ports has led Russian foreign policy for centuries.

— The Black Sea is by and away the warmest marine feature bordering Russia. It is also Russia’s only direct access to the Mediterranean Sea — via the key Turkish-controlled Bosphorus and Dardanelles straits — and, by extension, southern Europe, Africa, West Asia, and beyond. Hence, statements 1 and 2 are correct.

— The Black Sea ports of Sochi and Novorossiysk, located in southern Russia’s Krasnodar Krai, are quite shallow and require ships to moor offshore. This makes them less-than-ideal bases for the Black Sea Fleet, as opposed to its historic home, the deep-water port of Sevastopol, Crimea. Hence, statement 3 is correct.

Therefore, option (c) is the correct answer.

QUESTION 15

With reference to the Persona Non Grata, consider the following statements:

1. It is a Latin phrase which means “unwelcome person.”

2. The designation received diplomatic meaning at the 1961 Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations.

3. The rules for declaring a person as ‘persona non grata’ are mentioned in the Geneva Convention on Consular Relations, 1963.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 1 only

(c) 2 and 3 only

(d) 3 only

Explanation

— Following the terrorist assaults in Pahalgam, which killed 26 people, India slashed diplomatic relations with Pakistan, suspending the 1960 Indus Water Treaty.

— Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri stated, “The Defence/Military, Naval, and Air Advisors at the Pakistani High Commission in New Delhi have been declared Persona Non Grata.” They have one week to escape India. India would withdraw its own Defence, Navy, and Air Advisors from the Indian High Commission in Islamabad.”

— Persona non grata is a Latin term meaning “unwelcome person.” It has a specific meaning in diplomacy, referring to a diplomat or foreign person whose entry or presence in a particular country is restricted by that government. Hence, statement 1 is correct.

— The name gained diplomatic relevance with the 1961 Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, which established the fundamental principles for how diplomats should be handled, including their rights and privileges in host countries. Hence, statement 2 is correct.

— There are no defined guidelines for when a government can declare a foreign person persona non grata, and the Vienna Convention does not demand an explanation. Hence, statement 3 is not correct.

Therefore, option (a) is the correct answer.

Previous Weekly Quiz

UPSC Weekly Current Affairs Quiz | April 13 to April 19, 2025

UPSC Weekly Current Affairs Quiz | April 06 to April 12, 2025

UPSC Weekly Current Affairs Quiz | March 30 to April 05, 2025

UPSC Weekly Current Affairs Quiz | March 23 to March 29, 2025

UPSC Weekly Current Affairs Quiz | March 16 to March 22, 2025

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Vikas Sharma is working as an intern with indianexpress.com.