Daily Current Affairs April 26 & 27
Table of Contents
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April 26 & 27 | Daily Current Affairs 2025
Important Days – Daily Current Affairs April 26 & 27
1. When is World Design Day celebrated every year?
A) June 29
B) April 15
C) April 27
D) May 1
E) March 25
Answer: C) April 27
Event and Location:
- Event: Celebration of World Design Day
- Date: April 27 every year
- Location: Global observance
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandate: To celebrate and recognize the role of design in making everyday life beautiful, functional, and meaningful.
- Objective: To promote awareness of design’s impact on society, inspire innovation, and acknowledge designers’ contributions to improving quality of life.
Important Terms Explained:
- World Design Day: An international event highlighting how design enhances daily living, celebrated on April 27 every year.
- International Council of Graphic Design Associations (ico-D): The global organization that initiated World Design Day to promote design excellence worldwide.
- Graphic Design: The art and practice of planning and projecting ideas and experiences through visual and textual content.
- Art Nouveau: A design movement in the late 19th century emphasizing organic forms, texture, and color in architecture and art.
Tabular Summary:
Parameter | Details |
Why in the News | World Design Day celebrated on April 27 |
Established by | International Council of Graphic Design Associations (ico-D) |
First Observed | 1995 (originally called World Graphics Day) |
Key Objective | Recognize and inspire appreciation for the role of design in everyday life |
Major Activities | Social media awareness, museum visits, honoring designers |
Famous Milestones | Dürer’s “The Apocalypse” (1498), Birth of Photoshop (1987-88) |
World Industrial Design Day | Celebrated on June 29 by the World Design Organization |
Why We Love It | Celebrates creativity, makes life more beautiful, inspires innovation |
Next Observances | April 27, 2025 (Sunday); April 27, 2026 (Monday); April 27, 2027 (Tuesday) |
2. On which date is World Intellectual Property Day celebrated each year?
A) April 25
B) April 26
C) May 1
D) March 26
E) April 20
Answer: B) April 26
Event and Location:
- Event: Celebration of World Intellectual Property Day
- Date: April 26 every year
- Location: Global observance
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandate: To promote awareness about the role of intellectual property (IP) in fostering innovation and creativity globally.
- Objective: To highlight the importance of a balanced IP system that rewards inventors and creators while benefiting society at large.
Important Terms Explained:
- Intellectual Property (IP): Creations of the mind such as inventions, literary and artistic works, designs, symbols, names, and images used in commerce, legally protected by rights like patents, trademarks, copyrights, and industrial designs.
- Patent: An exclusive right granted for an invention, providing protection against unauthorized use.
- Trademark: A recognizable sign, design, or expression identifying products or services of a particular source.
- Industrial Design: Protection granted to the visual design of objects that are not purely utilitarian.
- Copyright: A legal right protecting the use of creators’ original works like books, music, and art.
Tabular Summary:
Parameter | Details |
Why in the News | World Intellectual Property Day celebrated globally |
Date | April 26 annually |
First Established | In 2000 by WIPO member states |
Significance | Promotes understanding of IP’s role in creativity and innovation |
IP Rights Highlighted | Patents, trademarks, industrial designs, copyrights |
WIPO Convention | Came into force on April 26, 1970 |
Role of IP | Encourages economic returns, protects innovations, supports societal progress |
World IP Day Themes | Celebrates artists, inventors, researchers, businesses, and innovators |
3. When is National Ai Day celebrated every year?
A) April 25
B) April 26
C) April 27
D) March 26
E) May 1
Answer: B) April 26
Event and Location:
- Event: Celebration of National Ai Day
- Date: April 26 every year
- Location: Global observance, with roots in Chinese and Japanese cultures
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandate: To celebrate the cultural significance of the word ‘Ai’, meaning love, adoration, and affection in Chinese and Japanese.
- Objective: To honor notable personalities named ‘Ai’ and appreciate the artistic and cultural contributions they have made globally.
Important Terms Explained:
- Ai: A Chinese and Japanese word meaning ‘love,’ ‘affection,’ or ‘adoration,’ commonly used as a personal name.
- Kanji: A system of Japanese writing using Chinese characters.
- Hanzi: Traditional Chinese characters used in written Chinese.
Tabular Summary:
Parameter | Details |
Why in the News | Celebration of National Ai Day on April 26 |
Meaning of ‘Ai’ | ‘Love,’ ‘Affection,’ or ‘Adoration’ in Chinese and Japanese |
Famous Personalities | Ai Wei Wei (artist), Ai Sugiyama (tennis star), Ai Otsuka (musician) |
First Song by Ai Otsuka | Composed at age 15 |
Major Achievements | Ai Wei Wei’s activism, Ai Sugiyama’s Grand Slam record, Ai Otsuka’s chart-topping albums |
Cultural Relevance | Name embraced in both China and Japan with identical meanings |
Special Activities | View Ai Wei Wei’s art, read Ai Qing’s poetry, paint the kanji for ‘Ai’ |
Upcoming Observances | April 26, 2025 (Saturday); April 26, 2026 (Sunday); April 26, 2027 (Monday) |
4. What is the theme for World Veterinary Day 2025?
A) Promoting Diversity, Equity and Inclusiveness
B) Veterinarians are Essential Health Workers
C) Animal Health Takes a Team
D) Strengthening Veterinarians Resilience
E) Veterinary Care for All Species
Answer: C) Animal Health Takes a Team
Event and Location:
- Event: World Veterinary Day 2025 Celebration
- Date: April 26, 2025 (last Saturday of April)
- Location: Global observance
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandate: To recognize the contributions of veterinarians and veterinary team members in promoting animal health and welfare.
- Objective: To highlight the importance of teamwork among veterinarians, technicians, managers, and paraprofessionals in providing the highest standard of care.
Important Terms Explained:
- World Veterinary Day (WVD): An international day to celebrate the vital role veterinarians and their teams play in animal health and public welfare, created by the World Veterinary Association.
- WVA (World Veterinary Association): A global organization committed to animal health, welfare, and public health advocacy through the veterinary profession.
- Health4Animals: A global animal health industry association that sponsors the World Veterinary Day Award.
- Veterinary Paraprofessionals: Trained personnel who support veterinarians in providing healthcare to animals.
Tabular Summary:
Parameter | Details |
Why in the News | Celebration of World Veterinary Day 2025 with the theme “Animal Health Takes a Team” |
Date of Celebration | April 26, 2025 |
Established by | World Veterinary Association in 2000 |
Theme for 2025 | Animal Health Takes a Team |
Focus Area | Emphasizing collaboration among veterinary teams |
Eligibility for Award | Only WVA members under the 2025 WVD theme |
Award Sponsor | Health4Animals |
Hashtag for Campaign | #WorldVeterinaryDay |
Significant Past Winners | 2024: Emirates Veterinary Association; 2023: Nepal Veterinary Medical Association; 2022: Nigeria Veterinary Medical Association |
Obituary – Daily Current Affairs April 26 & 27
5. Who among the following historians, known for pioneering research on Kerala’s history, passed away at the age of 92 in 2025?
A) Irfan Habib
B) Romila Thapar
C) R. Champakalakshmi
D) M. G. S. Narayanan
E) Satish Chandra
Answer: D) M. G. S. Narayanan
Event and Location:
- Event: Passing away of Muttayil Govinda Sankara Narayanan (M. G. S. Narayanan)
- Date: April 26, 2025
- Location: Malaparamba, Kozhikode, Kerala, India
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandate: To preserve and advance the historical identity of Kerala and South India through rigorous research.
- Objective: To promote the integration of epigraphic and archaeological evidence in Indian historiography and deepen the understanding of regional history.
Important Terms Explained:
- Indian Council of Historical Research (ICHR): A premier institution in India responsible for the promotion and funding of historical research and scholarship.
- Epigraphy: The study of inscriptions or epigraphs engraved into materials like stone or metal, crucial for reconstructing ancient histories.
- Kerala Identity in Historiography: Emphasizing Kerala’s distinctive social, cultural, and political history within the broader narrative of Indian history.
Tabular Summary:
Parameter | Details |
Why in the News | Death of eminent historian M. G. S. Narayanan |
Birth | August 20, 1932, in Ponnani, Kerala |
Death | April 26, 2025, at Malaparamba, Kozhikode |
Key Positions Held | Member Secretary and Chairman of ICHR |
Academic Affiliation | University of Calicut |
Published Works | Over 200 books and articles, including 112 research papers |
Research Focus | Kerala’s ancient history, temple inscriptions, Brahmin settlements |
Institutional Memberships | South Indian History Congress, Epigraphical Society of India, others |
Contribution to Methodology | Promoted use of epigraphic and archaeological sources |
International Recognition | Represented India at global academic conferences |
Ranking – Daily Current Affairs April 26 & 27
6. Which Indian scheme launched in December 2024 offers a 35% operating cost reimbursement for shifting cargo movement to inland waterways?
A) Bharatmala Scheme
B) Jal Jeevan Mission
C) Sagarmala Project
D) Jalvahak Scheme
E) Inland Freight Incentive Program
Answer: D) Jalvahak Scheme
Event and Location:
- Event: India’s record cargo movement on inland waterways in FY 2024–25
- Date: Fiscal Year 2024–25
- Location: India
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandate: To promote and expand the use of Inland Water Transport (IWT) as a major freight and passenger movement mode.
- Objective: To enhance multimodal logistics efficiency, reduce carbon footprint, cut logistics costs, and support sustainable economic development.
Important Terms Explained:
- Inland Water Transport (IWT): Transportation of goods and passengers through navigable rivers, canals, backwaters, and creeks within the country.
- National Waterways (NWs): Specific stretches of rivers and inland waters declared as national waterways for cargo and passenger movement under the National Waterways Act, 2016.
- Jalvahak Scheme: A scheme launched in December 2024 offering financial incentives for shifting cargo transport to inland waterways.
- Tonnage Tax: A system where taxation is based on the vessel’s carrying capacity instead of the company’s profit, aimed at reducing tax burdens for shipping operators.
- Indo-Bangladesh Protocol Route: A bilateral route agreement between India and Bangladesh allowing the movement of goods through designated inland water routes.
Tabular Summary:
Parameter | Details |
Why in the News | India’s Record Cargo Movement on Inland Waterways in FY 2024–25 |
Record Cargo Movement | 145.5 MMT in FY 2024–25 (CAGR: 20.86%) |
National Waterways | Increased from 5 (2014) to 111 (2024) |
Operational NW Length | 4,894 km (up from 2,716 km in 2014–15) |
Passenger Movement | 1.61 crore recorded in 2023–24 |
Key Commodities | Coal, Iron Ore, Sand, Fly Ash (68% of cargo) |
Major Projects | MMTs, IMTs, community jetties, fairway maintenance |
Green Technology | Hybrid Electric and Hydrogen-fueled vessels introduced |
Jalvahak Scheme | ₹95.42 crore; 35% operating cost reimbursement |
Tonnage Tax | Extended to inland vessels (Feb 2025) |
Digital Tools | LADIS, RIS, PANI, MIRS, centralized registration portal |
Indo-Bangladesh Route | Successful trial on Routes 5 & 6 (Maia to Sultanganj) |
Banking and Finance – Daily Current Affairs April 26 & 27
7. What did the Supreme Court recently allow RBI and banks to do regarding big loan defaulters?
A) Waive all loans permanently
B) Restart fresh proceedings against big defaulters
C) Introduce a new loan restructuring scheme
D) Allow defaulters to claim tax rebates
E) Offer automatic clearance for pending loans
Answer: B) Restart fresh proceedings against big defaulters
Event and Location:
- Event: Supreme Court allows RBI and banks to act afresh against major loan defaulters
- Date: Ruling announced in April 2025
- Location: New Delhi, India
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandate: To enable the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and banks to proceed with fresh administrative and criminal actions against major loan defaulters.
- Objective: To reinforce accountability in the banking system by ensuring fraudulent borrowers face proceedings, even if earlier actions were quashed.
Important Terms Explained:
- RBI (Reserve Bank of India): India’s central banking institution regulating monetary policy and banking operations.
- FIR (First Information Report): A formal police document initiating criminal proceedings after a reported offense.
- Natural Justice: A legal principle ensuring fair hearing and impartial decision-making processes before administrative actions are taken.
- Fraud Classification: The designation of a borrower’s account as fraudulent, leading to civil and criminal consequences like blacklisting.
Tabular Summary:
Parameter | Details |
Why in the News | Supreme Court allows RBI and banks to proceed against big defaulters afresh |
Court Ruling | Set aside various High Court orders quashing earlier proceedings |
Scope of Action | Fresh administrative and criminal actions allowed |
Key Observation | Criminal cases and administrative actions are separate and independent |
Borrower’s Rights | Borrowers must be given a hearing before being tagged as fraud |
Key Laws Cited | Principles of natural justice, RBI Master Circular dated July 1, 2016 |
Past Errors Corrected | FIRs wrongly dismissed earlier can now be revived |
Impact | Strengthens lender’s rights to act against loan defaulters |
8. In FY25, what was the total credit card spending recorded in India according to RBI data?
A) ₹18.32 lakh crore
B) ₹19.25 lakh crore
C) ₹20.15 lakh crore
D) ₹21.16 lakh crore
E) ₹22.50 lakh crore
Answer: D) ₹21.16 lakh crore
Event and Location:
- Event: Credit card spending in India reached a record ₹21.16 lakh crore in FY25
- Date: Data compiled till March 2025
- Location: India
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandate: To monitor and report consumer spending trends through credit card usage as a key economic indicator.
- Objective: To understand the shift towards digital and credit-based consumption, driven by urbanization and consumer confidence.
Important Terms Explained:
- Credit Card Spend: The total value of transactions made through credit cards during a specific period.
- Cards in Force: The number of active credit cards issued and in circulation.
- Net Additions (MoM): The monthly increase or decrease in the number of active credit cards, reflecting issuance trends.
- Macroprudential Tightening: Regulatory policies implemented by RBI to curb excessive credit growth and maintain financial system stability.
Tabular Summary:
Parameter | Details |
Why in the News | Credit card spends in India topped ₹21.16 lakh crore in FY25 |
FY25 Credit Card Spend | ₹21.16 lakh crore (15% growth YoY) |
FY24 Credit Card Spend | ₹18.32 lakh crore |
Cards in Circulation (Mar-25) | 10.98 crore cards |
March 2025 Monthly Spend | ₹2.02 lakh crore |
Net Additions (Mar-25) | 5.69 lakh cards |
Top Issuers | HDFC Bank (2.2 lakh cards), Axis Bank (1.3 lakh cards), ICICI Bank (97,799 cards) |
Key Observations | Digital spending and credit preference driving growth |
Challenges Ahead | Stable card issuance expected but slower than previous years |
Sector Strategy | Focus on cross-selling, maintaining credit quality over aggressive expansion |
Business and Economy – Daily Current Affairs April 26 & 27
9. Reliance Retail’s net profit rose by what percentage in the fourth quarter of 2024-25?
A) 20%
B) 25%
C) 30%
D) 35%
E) 40%
Answer: C) 30%
Event and Location:
- Event: Reliance Retail’s sales growth and net profit increase in Q4 FY2024-25
- Date: Results reported in April 2025 for Q4 FY2024-25
- Location: Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandate: To drive growth through strategic store network recalibration and emphasis on operational efficiencies.
- Objective: To boost net revenue and profits by expanding digital commerce, optimizing retail formats, and enhancing customer experience.
Important Terms Explained:
- Reliance Retail: The retail division of Reliance Industries Limited, India’s largest retailer by revenue and store count.
- Outlet Streamlining: A strategic move involving the closure of underperforming stores to optimize operations and profitability.
- Digital Commerce: Online retail activities conducted via e-commerce platforms, contributing significantly to total revenue.
- New Commerce: A business model combining traditional retail networks with digital technologies to empower small merchants and local shops.
Tabular Summary:
Parameter | Details |
Why in the News | Reliance Retail reports 16% sales rise and 30% net profit growth in Q4 FY2024-25 |
Q4 Net Profit | ₹3,519 crore (30% rise YoY) |
Q4 Gross Revenue | ₹88,620 crore (16% rise YoY) |
Retail Division | Operated 19,340 stores as of March-end 2025 |
New Store Additions | 1,085 stores opened in Q4; 2,659 stores opened during FY25 |
Store Rationalization | 2,100 stores shut during FY25 across grocery and fashion |
Retail Space | 77.4 million sq ft as of March-end |
Full-Year Revenue | ₹2,90,979 crore (8% rise YoY) |
Full-Year Net Profit | ₹12,392 crore (12% rise YoY) |
Digital and New Commerce Contribution | 18% of total revenue |
Consumer Products Sales | ₹11,450 crore in FY25 |
Key Focus Areas | Operational efficiencies, innovative formats, enhanced customer experience |
10. How much does ONGC plan to spend on green energy projects in FY2025?
A) ₹2,500 crore
B) ₹3,000 crore
C) ₹3,500 crore
D) ₹4,000 crore
E) ₹5,000 crore
Answer: C) ₹3,500 crore
Event and Location:
- Event: ONGC announces ₹3,500 crore investment in green energy for FY2025
- Date: Publicized in April 2025
- Location: New Delhi, India
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandate: To expand ONGC’s green energy generation capacity and achieve a renewable energy target of 10 GW by 2030.
- Objective: To diversify ONGC’s portfolio by investing in solar and wind energy projects and acquiring renewable energy assets.
Important Terms Explained:
- ONGC (Oil and Natural Gas Corporation): A government-owned oil and gas corporation involved in energy exploration and production in India.
- Green Energy: Energy derived from renewable sources like solar and wind, aimed at reducing carbon emissions and environmental impact.
- Ayana Renewable Power: A renewable energy platform fully acquired by ONGC Green and NTPC Green, expanding ONGC’s green energy portfolio.
- Exploration & Production (E&P): Activities related to searching for and extracting crude oil and natural gas.
Tabular Summary:
Parameter | Details |
Why in the News | ONGC to invest ₹3,500 crore in green energy projects in FY2025 |
Investment Focus | 1 GW of renewable capacity split between solar and wind |
Green Energy Target | 10 GW capacity by 2030 |
Recent Acquisition | Full ownership in Ayana Renewable Power for ₹6,248 crore |
Portfolio Acquired | 2.1 GW operational, 2 GW under construction capacity |
Additional Capex on Core Business | ₹35,000 crore for exploration and production (E&P) |
Projected Future Capex | Up to ₹45,000 crore annually by FY2029 |
Dividend Declared | ₹11.30 per equity share for FY2024-25 |
Share Movement | ONGC shares up 4% in 2025 |
Appointments – Daily Current Affairs April 26 & 27
11. Who has been appointed as Executive Director of Reliance Industries Ltd (RIL) starting May 1, 2025?
A) Akash Ambani
B) Isha Ambani
C) Anant Ambani
D) Mukesh Ambani
E) Nita Ambani
Answer: C) Anant Ambani
Event and Location:
- Event: Appointment of Anant Ambani as Executive Director of Reliance Industries Ltd
- Date: Effective from May 1, 2025
- Location: Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandate: To strengthen Reliance Industries Ltd’s core leadership by inducting the next generation into executive management.
- Objective: To accelerate RIL’s strategic focus on energy transition, green energy, and ensure seamless leadership succession.
Important Terms Explained:
- Executive Director (Whole-time Director): A member of the company’s board who is actively involved in day-to-day management and operations.
- Reliance Industries Ltd (RIL): One of India’s largest conglomerates, with diversified businesses in energy, petrochemicals, retail, digital services, and textiles.
- Energy Transition: Shifting from traditional fossil fuels to renewable and sustainable energy sources.
- Green Energy Initiatives: Projects and investments by companies like RIL to promote renewable sources such as solar, wind, and hydrogen energy.
Tabular Summary:
Parameter | Details |
Why in the News | Anant Ambani appointed Executive Director of Reliance Industries Ltd |
Name | Anant M. Ambani |
New Role | Executive Director (Whole-time) at RIL |
Effective Date | May 1, 2025 |
Term Duration | Five years |
Previous Role | Non-executive Director at RIL |
Education | Graduate from Brown University |
Sibling Roles | Isha & Akash Ambani – Non-Executive Directors since October 2023 |
Key Leadership Role | Head of RIL’s Energy Vertical since August 2022 |
Other Boards | Jio Platforms, Reliance Retail Ventures, New Energy & Solar Energy companies, Reliance Foundation |
Significance | First among Ambani siblings in an executive role at RIL |
Awards – Daily Current Affairs April 26 & 27
12. Which Indian filmmaker received the ‘Officer of the Order of Arts and Letters’ honour from the French Government in 2025?
A) Zoya Akhtar
B) Mira Nair
C) Payal Kapadia
D) Rima Das
E) Meghna Gulzar
Answer: C) Payal Kapadia
Event and Location:
- Event: Payal Kapadia awarded the ‘Officer of the Order of Arts and Letters’ by France
- Date: Publicized in April 2025
- Location: French Consulate, Mumbai, India
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandate: To recognize outstanding contribution to global cinema by an independent Indian filmmaker.
- Objective: To honour Payal Kapadia’s influence on international cinema and support of independent filmmaking.
Important Terms Explained:
- Officer of the Order of Arts and Letters (Officier dans l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres): A prestigious French honour recognizing eminent artists, writers, and filmmakers for their contribution to arts and literature.
- Grand Prix at Cannes: The second-most prestigious award at the Cannes Film Festival, given for outstanding filmmaking.
- Independent Cinema: A sector of cinema produced outside of major studio systems, often with smaller budgets and greater artistic freedom.
Tabular Summary:
Parameter | Details |
Why in the News | Payal Kapadia receives prestigious French honour |
French Honour | Officer of the Order of Arts and Letters |
Award Ceremony | Held at French Consulate, Mumbai |
Speech and Gratitude | Thanked French Government for supporting independent cinema |
Breakthrough at Cannes | ‘All We Imagine As Light’ won the Grand Prix at 77th Cannes Film Festival |
Previous Achievements | ‘A Night of Knowing Nothing’ won Golden Eye; ‘Afternoon Clouds’ featured at Cannes |
Global Recognition | Golden Globe nomination, shortlisted for Oscars (France’s entry) |
Co-production Location | France |
Indian Luminaries with Award | Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, Deepika Padukone, Lata Mangeshkar |
13. Which initiative won Hubballi Airport the highest honour at the ACI Green Airports Recognition 2025?
A) Digital Innovation Award
B) Excellence in Safety Award
C) Platinum Honour for Green Initiatives
D) Best Passenger Service Award
E) Sustainability Innovation Award
Answer: C) Platinum Honour for Green Initiatives
Event and Location:
- Event: Hubballi Airport Wins Platinum Honour for Green Initiatives
- Date: April 16, 2025
- Location: New Delhi (award ceremony) and Hubballi, Karnataka (airport)
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandate: To promote sustainable energy practices and reduce carbon emissions at airports.
- Objective: To implement innovative green initiatives through the deployment of renewable energy projects, exemplified by the 8 MW solar power plant at Hubballi Airport.
Important Terms Explained:
- ACI Green Airports Recognition: An award by Airports Council International (ACI) recognizing exemplary sustainable practices at airports.
- Sustainable Energy at Airports: The adoption of renewable energy sources, such as solar power, to achieve energy efficiency and reduce environmental impact in aviation.
- Solar Power Plant: A facility that converts sunlight into electricity, significantly contributing to reducing carbon emissions by providing clean energy.
Tabular Summary:
Parameter | Details |
Why in the News | Hubballi Airport wins Platinum Honour for Green Initiatives |
Award | Platinum Recognition at ACI Green Airports Recognition 2025 |
Award Category | Sustainable Energy at Airports (for airports with fewer than 6 million passengers) |
Ceremony Details | Held at ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East Regional Assembly in New Delhi on April 16, 2025 |
Accepted by | Rajesh Nilkanth Shinde, Executive Director (Technical), Airports Authority of India (AAI) |
Solar Plant Details | 8 MW solar power plant commissioned at Hubballi Airport in December 2022, supplying clean energy to Hubballi, Belagavi, Mysuru, and future terminals |
Environmental Impact | Generates over 11 million units of clean electricity annually; reduces carbon emissions by approximately 215,000 tonnes |
Strategic Significance | Validates AAI’s commitment to sustainable infrastructure and supports India’s net-zero carbon targets |
Science and Technology – Daily Current Affairs April 26 & 27
14. What is the name of NASA’s new quantum sensor project designed to map Earth’s gravitational field with unprecedented precision?
A) GRACE-FO
B) Quantum Gravity Mapper
C) Quantum Gravity Gradiometer Pathfinder
D) Gravity Recovery Satellite
E) EarthSense Pathfinder
Answer: C) Quantum Gravity Gradiometer Pathfinder
Event and Location:
- Event: Development of the Quantum Gravity Gradiometer Pathfinder (QGGPf)
- Date: Publicized in April 2025
- Location: NASA-led initiative, United States
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandate: To develop a compact, highly sensitive Quantum Gravity Gradiometer Pathfinder (QGGPf) for gravity mapping.
- Objective: To measure minute variations in Earth’s gravitational field for applications in climate science, resource exploration, navigation, and planetary research.
Important Terms Explained:
- Quantum Gravity Gradiometer Pathfinder (QGGPf): A compact, space-based quantum sensor aimed at detecting fine gravitational variations for precision mapping.
- Quantum Sensor: A device that uses principles of quantum mechanics, like ultra-cold atoms, to achieve extreme sensitivity in measurements.
- Gravity Mapping: The process of detecting variations in Earth’s gravitational field to reveal hidden geological and structural features.
- General Theory of Relativity: Einstein’s theory explaining gravity as the warping of spacetime caused by mass and energy.
Tabular Summary:
Parameter | Details |
Why in the News | NASA’s Quantum Gravity Gradiometer Pathfinder development |
Project Name | Quantum Gravity Gradiometer Pathfinder (QGGPf) |
Purpose | To measure tiny variations in Earth’s gravitational field |
Sensor Type | Quantum sensor |
Key Features | Ten times more sensitive than classical sensors, compact at 125 kg |
Deployment | Space-based |
Primary Applications | Climate science, resource exploration, planetary research |
Working Principle | Ultra-cold atoms detecting gravitational variations |
Future Potential | Enhancing navigation, security, and testing fundamental physics |
Partnering Entities | NASA with private firms and academic institutions |
15. Which institution collaborated with CMC Vellore for India’s first gene therapy trial for Haemophilia?
A) AIIMS Delhi
B) ICMR Pune
C) BRIC-inStem
D) NCBS Bangalore
E) Tata Memorial Centre
Answer: C) BRIC-inStem
Event and Location:
- Event: India’s first-in-human gene therapy trial for Haemophilia
- Date: Publicized in April 2025
- Location: BRIC-inStem, Bengaluru, India
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandate: To advance gene-based treatment for Haemophilia through India’s first clinical gene therapy trial.
- Objective: To translate cutting-edge biotech research into real-world healthcare solutions and strengthen India’s biotechnology-driven economic growth.
Important Terms Explained:
- Gene Therapy: A medical technique involving the introduction, removal, or alteration of genetic material within a patient’s cells to treat or prevent disease.
- Haemophilia: A rare genetic disorder where the blood does not clot properly due to lack of clotting factors.
- BRIC-inStem: Biotechnology Research and Innovation Council at the Institute for Stem Cell Science and Regenerative Medicine, leading advanced biomedical research.
- BIO-E3 Policy: A policy initiative aimed at driving biotechnology’s contribution to Economy, Employment, and Environment sectors.
- CReATE Centre: A specialized center focusing on embryology, infertility, and birth defects research.
Tabular Summary:
Parameter | Details |
Why in the News | India’s Breakthrough in Gene Therapy for Haemophilia |
Institution Visited | BRIC-inStem, Bengaluru |
Key Trial Reviewed | Gene therapy for Haemophilia (with CMC Vellore) |
Minister’s Vision | Biotech as nation-building & future economic driver |
Biotech Sector Growth | $165.7 billion in 2024, target $300 billion by 2030 |
Startup Boom | Over 10,000 biotech startups from just 50 a decade ago |
Key Innovations | Anti-viral mask, Kisan Kavach pesticide shield |
New Facilities Highlighted | Biosafety Level III Lab, CReATE Centre |
Policy Support | BIO-E3 Policy for boosting economy, employment, environment |
Institutional Integration | Formation of BRIC unifying 14 research institutions |
Suggestions by Minister | Initiate MD-PhD programs, better communication outreach |
16. Which Bengaluru-based startup has been selected as the first under the ₹10,000 crore IndiaAI Mission to build an indigenous foundation model?
A) Sarvam AI
B) BharatGPT
C) Krutrim AI
D) PraanAI
E) Vaani Systems
Answer: A) Sarvam AI
Event and Location:
- Event: Sarvam AI selected as the first startup under the IndiaAI Mission
- Date: Announced on April 26, 2025
- Location: New Delhi, India
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandate: To develop an indigenous foundational AI model under the ₹10,000 crore IndiaAI Mission.
- Objective: To advance India’s capabilities in artificial intelligence by building high-parameter models and fostering innovation in programming and engineering.
Important Terms Explained:
- IndiaAI Mission: A ₹10,000 crore government initiative aimed at promoting the development of indigenous AI technologies and foundation models.
- Foundational Model: A large AI model trained on vast datasets that can be fine-tuned for a variety of downstream applications.
- Nvidia H100 GPU: Advanced graphics processing units designed for AI model training and high-performance computing, providing massive computational power for AI research.
- Sarvam AI: A Bengaluru-based AI startup selected to lead India’s initiative to build large-scale indigenous AI models.
Tabular Summary:
Parameter | Details |
Why in the News | Sarvam AI selected as first startup under IndiaAI Mission |
Startup Name | Sarvam AI |
Project | Build an indigenous foundation model under ₹10,000 crore IndiaAI Mission |
Completion Timeline | Six months |
GPU Access | 4,096 Nvidia H100 GPUs for six months |
Model Size | 70 billion parameters |
Key Features | Innovations in programming and engineering |
Union IT Minister’s Statement | Ashwini Vaishnaw emphasized competitiveness with the best global models |
Investor Backing | Lightspeed Venture Partners, Khosla Ventures, Peak XV Partners |
Applications Received | More than 400 applications for building Indian models |
Defence – Daily Current Affairs April 26 & 27
17. Which organisation successfully conducted a long-duration ground test of an Active Cooled Scramjet Subscale Combustor in Hyderabad on April 25, 2025?
A) ISRO
B) DRDO
C) HAL
D) BEL
E) BHEL
Answer: B) DRDO
Event and Location:
- Event: Successful long-duration ground test of Active Cooled Scramjet Subscale Combustor
- Date: April 25, 2025
- Location: Scramjet Connect Test Facility, Hyderabad
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandate: To validate the design and performance of an advanced scramjet combustor.
- Objective: To advance India’s indigenous hypersonic cruise missile development and demonstrate long-duration scramjet technology.
Important Terms Explained:
- Scramjet Engine: An air-breathing engine where combustion occurs at supersonic speeds without moving parts, crucial for hypersonic flight above Mach 5.
- Active Cooled Scramjet Subscale Combustor: A prototype combustor featuring cooling systems to withstand extreme temperatures during hypersonic flight conditions.
- Hypersonic Cruise Missile: Missiles capable of sustained speeds above Mach 5, leveraging scramjet engines for propulsion.
- Scramjet Connect Test Facility: A specialized testing infrastructure for validating scramjet engines and combustors under simulated flight conditions.
Tabular Summary:
Parameter | Details |
Why in the News | DRDO achieves major hypersonic tech milestone with scramjet combustor test |
Conducted by | DRDL (Defence Research and Development Laboratory), under DRDO |
Test Facility | Scramjet Connect Test Facility, Hyderabad |
Test Duration | Over 1,000 seconds |
Previous Test | 120 seconds in January 2025 |
Technology | Active Cooled Scramjet Subscale Combustor |
Engine Type | Scramjet (Supersonic Combustion Ramjet) |
Speed Range | Hypersonic (above Mach 5 / 6,100 km/h) |
Key Benefit | Air-breathing propulsion — no onboard oxidizer required |
Strategic Relevance | Crucial for future hypersonic cruise missiles |
Significance | Marks readiness for full-scale flight testing |
Govt. Statement | Defence Minister Rajnath Singh praised the achievement |
International Affairs – Daily Current Affairs April 26 & 27
18. Which country is finalizing a ₹63,000-crore deal with India for the acquisition of 26 Rafale-Marine fighter jets in April 2025?
A) Russia
B) France
C) United States
D) Israel
E) United Kingdom
Answer: B) France
Event and Location:
- Event: Finalization of India–France Rafale-M Jet Deal
- Date: April 28, 2025
- Location: Remote signing between India and France
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandate: To acquire 26 Rafale-Marine (Rafale-M) fighter jets for Indian Navy use.
- Objective: To strengthen India’s naval aviation capability and bridge the operational gap until the indigenous Twin Engine Deck-Based Fighter (TEDBF) is inducted.
Important Terms Explained:
- Rafale-Marine (Rafale-M): Carrier-based variant of Dassault Aviation’s Rafale fighter designed for naval operations.
- Government-to-Government (G-to-G) Deal: Direct procurement deal between two governments ensuring faster acquisition.
- Twin Engine Deck-Based Fighter (TEDBF): Future Indian indigenous twin-engine carrier-based fighter aircraft project.
- INS Vikramaditya: Russian-origin aircraft carrier operated by the Indian Navy.
- INS Vikrant: India’s first indigenously built aircraft carrier, commissioned in 2022.
Tabular Summary:
Parameter | Details |
Why in the News | Finalization of India–France Rafale-M Jet Deal |
Deal Value | ₹63,000 crore |
Total Jets | 26 (22 single-seaters, 4 twin-seaters) |
Deal Type | Government-to-Government (G-to-G) |
Signing Date | April 28, 2025 |
Delivery Timeline | Starts in 3.5 years, complete in 6.5 years |
Deployment Carriers | INS Vikramaditya and INS Vikrant |
Launch Mechanism | Ski-jump take-off, arrestor hook landing |
Required Modifications | Adjustments to carrier elevators for Rafale-M |
Strategic Importance | Bridging capability gap until TEDBF induction |
19. Which fusion method has China reportedly used in its revolutionary hydrogen bomb that avoids traditional fissile materials?
A) Nuclear Fission
B) Heavy Water Reactor Fusion
C) Magnesium Hydride-based Fusion
D) Radioactive Decay Fusion
E) Neutron Bomb Fusion
Answer: C) Magnesium Hydride-based Fusion
Event and Location:
- Event: China’s testing of a fissile-free revolutionary hydrogen bomb
- Date: Publicized in April 2025
- Location: China
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandate: To develop a fissile-free hydrogen bomb using alternative fusion techniques like magnesium hydride-based ignition.
- Objective: To revolutionize nuclear weapon technology while challenging existing arms control treaties and global security frameworks.
Important Terms Explained:
- Hydrogen Bomb (Thermonuclear Bomb): A two-stage nuclear weapon where a fission bomb triggers a powerful fusion reaction using hydrogen isotopes.
- Fissile-Free Hydrogen Bomb: A thermonuclear device that does not require traditional fissile materials like uranium or plutonium to initiate fusion.
- Inertial Confinement Fusion (ICF): A method that uses powerful lasers or ion beams to compress and heat fusion fuel to achieve nuclear fusion.
- Magnetic Compression (Z-pinch plasma system): A technique that uses magnetic fields to compress plasma and initiate fusion reactions.
- NPT (Non-Proliferation Treaty): An international treaty aimed at preventing the spread of nuclear weapons and promoting peaceful uses of nuclear energy.
- CTBT (Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty): A treaty banning all nuclear explosions for military or civilian purposes.
Tabular Summary:
Parameter | Details |
Why in the News | China has tested a fissile-free revolutionary hydrogen bomb |
Recent Development | Use of magnesium hydride-based fusion without fissile materials |
Traditional H-Bomb Mechanism | Fission of U-235/Plutonium followed by fusion of deuterium-tritium |
New Fusion Techniques | Inertial Confinement Fusion, Magnetic Compression (Z-pinch) |
Global Treaty Challenge | Circumvents NPT & CTBT definitions due to absence of fissile material |
Security Concerns | Dual-use risks, difficulty in detection, potential covert use |
Proposed Solutions | Revise legal frameworks, establish FWVB under IAEA, strengthen surveillance |
Implications for India | Need for fusion-detection capability and policy adaptation |
National Affairs – Daily Current Affairs April 26 & 27
20. India is planning to allow what maximum percentage of foreign ownership in its nuclear power sector according to the new proposal?
A) 26%
B) 49%
C) 51%
D) 74%
E) 100%
Answer: B) 49%
Event and Location:
- Event: India’s proposal to allow 49% foreign investment in nuclear power
- Date: Publicized in April 2025
- Location: India
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandate: To attract foreign and domestic private investment into India’s nuclear power sector for expanding clean energy capacity.
- Objective: To enhance nuclear power production, reduce coal dependency, meet emission targets, and achieve 100 GW nuclear capacity by 2047.
Important Terms Explained:
- Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, 2010: Indian legislation outlining the liability framework for nuclear accidents, protecting operators and victims.
- Atomic Energy Act, 1960: Governs nuclear energy production and research in India, restricting private and foreign involvement until now.
- Nuclear Liability: Legal responsibility for damages caused by nuclear incidents; previously a major barrier for foreign investment in India’s nuclear sector.
- Foreign Direct Investment (FDI): Investment by foreign entities into domestic industries, requiring regulatory approvals in strategic sectors like nuclear energy.
Tabular Summary:
Parameter | Details |
Why in the News | India to allow 49% foreign investment in nuclear power sector |
Policy Proposal | Up to 49% foreign stake allowed with prior government approval |
Legal Changes | Amendments to Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act and Atomic Energy Act |
Timeline | Union Cabinet review soon; Monsoon Session of Parliament (July 2025) |
Nuclear Capacity Target | Expand from 8 GW to 100 GW by 2047 |
Interested Foreign Companies | Westinghouse Electric, GE-Hitachi, EDF, Rosatom |
Interested Indian Companies | Reliance Industries, Tata Power, Adani Power, Vedanta |
Investment Estimation | ~$26 billion by Indian conglomerates |
Risk Barrier | Nuclear liability concerns previously restricting foreign entry |
Clean Energy Strategy | Shift from coal to nuclear, supplementing solar and wind energy |
21. When is the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra 2025 scheduled to be conducted after its five-year suspension?
A) April to June 2025
B) June to August 2025
C) May to July 2025
D) July to September 2025
E) August to October 2025
Answer: B) June to August 2025
Event and Location:
- Event: Resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra after five years
- Date: Announced on April 26, 2025; Yatra scheduled between June and August 2025
- Location: Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar, Tibet Autonomous Region, China
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandate: To facilitate Indian citizens’ pilgrimage to Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar through organized official routes.
- Objective: To promote religious pilgrimage, strengthen India-China cultural ties, enhance border infrastructure, and boost tourism in Uttarakhand and Sikkim.
Important Terms Explained:
- Kailash Mansarovar Yatra (KMY): A government-facilitated pilgrimage for Indian citizens to the sacred Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar in Tibet, revered by Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Bon followers.
- Lipulekh Pass: Traditional and historical trekking route for KMY, located in Uttarakhand, operational since 1981.
- Nathu La Pass: Motorable route for KMY, located in Sikkim, introduced in 2015 to facilitate easier access for pilgrims.
- MEA (Ministry of External Affairs): The Government of India’s ministry responsible for conducting the KMY and managing international relations related to the pilgrimage.
Tabular Summary:
Parameter | Details |
Why in the News | Resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra after five years |
Yatra Schedule | June to August 2025 |
Routes Available | Lipulekh Pass (Uttarakhand) and Nathu La Pass (Sikkim) |
Pilgrim Quota | 750 pilgrims divided into batches of 50 each |
Registration Portal | https://kmy.gov.in |
Coordinating Agencies | MEA, MHA, ITBP, state governments, KMVN |
Religious Significance | Sacred to Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Bon followers |
Economic Impact | Boosts tourism and employment in Uttarakhand and Sikkim |
Strategic Importance | Enhances border infrastructure and national security |
Environmental Concerns | Need for sustainable and eco-friendly pilgrimage practices |
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