1.Where did the Indian Navy’s First Training Squadron, INS Sujata, INS Shardul, and ICGS Veera, recently arrive as part of a Long-Range Training Deployment?
Solution:
The correct answer is Changi Naval Base, Singapore
In News
- Indian Navy’s First Training Squadron (1TS) arrived at Changi Naval Base, Singapore on 6th February 2025.
Key Points
- The squadron consists of INS Sujata, INS Shardul, and ICGS Veera.
- Part of a Long-Range Training Deployment to Southeast Asia, strengthening maritime cooperation.
- Dr. Shilpak Ambule, High Commissioner of India to Singapore, visited the ships and interacted with Sea Trainees.
- Senior Officer 1TS and Commanding Officers of INS Sujata & ICGS Veera met Col Rinson Chua Hon Liat of the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN).
- Engagement activities planned:
- Professional exchanges and cross-training visits.
- Friendly sports fixtures between the two navies.
- The visit reinforces India-Singapore maritime partnership under SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) initiative.
2.Where is the BIMSTEC Youth Summit 2025 being held?
Solution:
The correct answer is Gandhinagar
In News
- BIMSTEC Youth Summit 2025 will be held in Gandhinagar, Gujarat from 7th to 11th February 2025.
Key Points
- Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya will inaugurate the event on 8th February 2025.
- Announced during the 4th BIMSTEC Summit (Kathmandu, 2018) to bring together youth from BIMSTEC nations.
- Theme: “Youth as a Bridge for Intra-BIMSTEC Exchange”, focusing on youth-led initiatives and SDG progress.
- 70 delegates from 7 BIMSTEC countries (10 per country) will participate based on expertise in key areas.
- Objectives include:
- Engaging youth in addressing global challenges, economic and social issues.
- Facilitating exchange of perspectives on strategic youth empowerment issues.
- Generating innovative solutions for regional and global development.
- “Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue X BIMSTEC” session to highlight youth development initiatives.
- Mera Yuva Bharat (MY Bharat) initiative will be showcased as a tech-driven youth development program.
- Delegates will visit key landmarks:
- Dandi Kutir – India’s largest museum on Mahatma Gandhi.
- Sabarmati Ashram – Gandhi’s former residence.
- Sabarmati Riverfront – A modern urban development project.
- GIFT City – India’s first smart city & International Financial Services Centre (IFSC).
- BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation) includes India, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Nepal, and Bhutan.
- Focus areas: Climate change, poverty alleviation, sustainable development, and economic cooperation.
3.How much loan has Kerala secured from the World Bank for the Kerala Health System Improvement Programme?
Solution:
The correct answer is ₹2,424 crore
In News
- Kerala government approved ₹2,424 Cr loan from the World Bank for the Kerala Health System Improvement Programme.
Key Points
- Aim: Improve healthcare infrastructure, prevent diseases, and enhance emergency response under the Programme for Results (P for R) model.
- Focus on poor welfare, elderly care, climate-related health risks, and digital health expansion.
- Plans to strengthen trauma care, ambulance networks, and non-communicable disease prevention
4.Who has been appointed as the new Head of Citibank India, succeeding Ashu Khullar?
Solution:
The correct answer is K Balasubramanian
In News
- K Balasubramanian to replace Ashu Khullar as India subcontinent sub-cluster and banking head of Citibank.
Key Points
- Appointment subject to RBI approval; he will report to Amol Gupte, Asia South head.
- Ashu Khullar, Citi India head since 2019, to become co-head of Global Asset Managers (GAM).
- Khullar’s tenure (2019-2025) saw Citi as a top investment bank in equity capital markets and M&A.
- Gupte emphasized Citi India’s strong business momentum and confidence in Balasubramanian’s leadership.
- Balasubramanian joined Citi India in 1996, has over two decades of experience in various roles.
- Holds a commerce degree from St Xavier’s College, Kolkata, is a CA and cost accountant (ICWA).
5.After the United States, which country announced its withdrawal from the World Health Organization (WHO), citing sovereignty concerns?
Solution:
The correct answer is Argentina
In News
- Argentina announced withdrawal from WHO, following Trump’s similar move last month.
Key Points
- President Javier Milei ordered the withdrawal, instructing Foreign Minister Gerardo Werthein to act.
- Decision based on differences in health management, especially WHO’s role during COVID-19 lockdowns.
- Argentina’s government blamed WHO for economic damage due to prolonged quarantines.
- Presidential statement criticized WHO, questioning its role as a supranational body imposing decisions.
- Argentina does not receive WHO funds, so withdrawal will not affect healthcare finances.
- Government claims more flexibility in policy-making and better resource allocation.
- Trump previously withdrew US from WHO, citing COVID-19 mismanagement and political influence.
- WHO defended its role, with Tedros Adhanom warning against politicization of global health issues.
- Milei’s policies align with Trump, influencing regional decisions on trade, border security, and migration control.
- Argentina to reinforce its border with Bolivia by constructing a 200-meter fence in Salta province.
- Ecuador imposed a 27% tariff on Mexican goods, seeking fair trade deals.
- El Salvador proposed a deal to imprison US-deported criminals for financial gains.
6.How much did the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) disburse in settlements during FY 2024-25, which is a historic record?
Solution:
The correct answer is ₹2.05 lakh crore
In News
- EPFO settles record 5.1 crore claims in FY 2024-25, disbursing ₹2.05 lakh crore, surpassing 4.5 crore claims (₹1.82 lakh crore) of last year.
Key Points
- Key reforms: Auto-settled claims, simplified member profile changes, enhanced KYC compliance improved efficiency.
- Auto-claim settlements doubled to 1.9 crore from 89.5 lakh in FY 2023-24, significantly reducing processing time.
- PF transfer process streamlined:
- Only 8% of claims need both member & employer attestation.
- 48% of claims now directly submitted by members.
- 44% of transfer requests processed automatically.
- Member profile updates improved:
- 97.2% of updates self-approved by members.
- Only 1% need employer approval; office intervention reduced to 0.4%.
- Rejection rates dropped:
- Employer rejections at 1.1%, regional office rejections at 0.2%.
- Mandaviya credits reforms for faster claim settlements & reduced grievances.
7.Who won the gold medal in the women’s 75kg category at the 38th National Games 2025?
Solution:
The correct answer is Lovlina Borgohain.
In News
- Indian boxer Lovlina Borgohain won the gold medal in the women’s 75kg category at the 38th National Games 2025 in Uttarakhand.
Key Points
- Lovlina Borgohain defeated Chandigarh’s Pranshu Rathore 5-0 by unanimous decision to claim gold.
- She had previously won gold in the same weight category at the 2022 National Games held in Gujarat.
- Shiva Thapa won silver in the men’s 63.5kg category after losing to Vanshaj of Services Sports Central Board.
- Ankushita Boro created history by winning her third consecutive gold medal in the 66kg welterweight category.
Additional Information
- Other Notable Boxing Winners:
- Men’s 51kg Flyweight: Mandengbam Singh (gold)
- Women’s 60kg Division: Jaismine Lamboria (gold)
- Women’s Flyweight 50kg: Nivedita Kari (gold)
- Women’s Bantamweight 54kg: Divya Panwar (gold)
- Event Duration: The 38th National Games began on January 28 and will continue till February 14, 2025.
8.What is the aim of the recently launched Sujala Project in Karnataka?
Solution:
The correct answer is To combat drought and recharge groundwater.
In News
- Karnataka government launched the Sujala Project to address drought conditions and improve groundwater levels through a watershed program.
Key Points
- Karnataka has 79% drought-prone land, making it the second most affected state after Rajasthan.
- The Sujala Project focuses on increasing water table levels and improving agricultural productivity.
- The Watershed Yatra, launched on February 5, raises awareness about watershed development and conservation.
- It includes activities like essay competitions, processions, and community awareness drives in Tumkuru, Mandya, and Chickballapur.
Additional Information
- Similar Initiatives in Other States:
- Maharashtra
- Major water initiative – ‘Jalyukt Shivar Abhiyan’
- Gujarat
- Major water initiative – ‘Sujalam Sufalam Jal Abhiyan’
- Madhya Pradesh
- Major water initiative – ‘Balram Talab Yojana’
9.What is the title of the official song for the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025?
Solution:
The correct answer is Jeeto Baazi Khel Ke.
In News
- The ICC released the official song of the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025, titled “Jeeto Baazi Khel Ke.”
- The song is performed by Atif Aslam and aims to build excitement ahead of the tournament.
Key Points
- The song is produced by Abdullah Siddiqui, with lyrics written by Adnan Dhool and Asfandyar Asad.
- It visually celebrates Pakistan’s culture, showcasing its streets, markets, and stadiums.
- The ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 will be held from February 19 to March 9 in Pakistan and the UAE.
- The tournament features the world’s top eight teams competing in 15 matches over 19 days.
Additional Information
- ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Highlights:
- Tournament Dates: February 19 – March 9, 2025
- Venues: Pakistan and UAE
- Tournament Director: Sumair Ahmad Syed
- Final Match Ticket Sale: After the first semi-final in Dubai
- ICC Chief Commercial Officer: Anurag Dahiya
10.Which boxer in the women’s 66kg category won gold at the 38th National Games 2025?
Solution:
The correct answer is Ankushita Boro.
In News
- Junior world champion Ankushita Boro won gold in the women’s 66kg welterweight category at the 38th National Games 2025.
- She defeated Uttarakhand’s Kajal 5-0 to secure her victory.
Key Points
- Ankushita Boro created history by winning her third consecutive gold medal at the National Games.
- Lovlina Borgohain won gold in the women’s 75kg category, defeating Pranshu Rathore.
- Shiva Thapa won silver in the men’s 63.5kg category after losing to Vanshaj of Services Sports Central Board.
- The 38th National Games 2025 featured 13 boxing categories in both men’s and women’s divisions.
Additional Information
- Other Notable Boxing Winners:
- Women’s 60kg Division: Jaismine Lamboria (gold)
- Women’s Flyweight 50kg: Nivedita Kari (gold)
- Women’s Bantamweight 54kg: Divya Panwar (gold)
- Men’s 51kg Flyweight: Mandengbam Singh (gold)
- Event Duration: The 38th National Games began on January 28 and will continue till February 14, 2025.
FEBRUARY Days & Events
| Date | Special Days |
| 1 February | Union Budget |
| Indian Coast Guard Day | |
| 2 February | World Wetlands Day |
| RA Awareness Day | |
| 2 February to 8 February | International Development Week |
| 3 February | National Golden Retriever Day |
| Vasant Panchami | |
| 4 February | World Cancer Day |
| National Day of Sri Lanka | |
| 5 February | Delhi Legislative Elections |
| 6 February | International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation |
| 7 February to 14 February | Valentine’s Week |
| 7 February | Surajkund Crafts Mela |
| 8 February | National Opera Day |
| 9 February | Baba Amte’s Death Anniversary |
| 10 February | National Deworming Day |
| World Pulses Day | |
| International Epilepsy Day | |
| 11 February | World Day of the Sick |
| International Day of Women and Girls in Science | |
| Safer Internet Day | |
| 12 February | Darwin Day |
| Abraham Lincoln’s Birthday | |
| National Productivity Day | |
| 13 February | World Radio Day |
| Sarojini Naidu Birth Anniversary | |
| 14 February | Saint Valentine’s Day |
| World Congestion Heart Defect Awareness Day | |
| 17 February to 27 February | Taj Mahostsav |
| 19 February to 9 March | ICC Champions Trophy |
| 20 February | Arunachal Pradesh Foundation Day |
| World Anthropology Day | |
| Mizoram Foundation Day | |
| World Day of Social Justice | |
| 21 February | International Mother Language Day |
| 22 February | World Thinking Day |
| 23 February | World Peace and Understanding Day |
| 24 February | Central Excise Day |
| 26 February | Mahashivratri |
| Veer Savarkar’s Death Anniversary | |
| 27 February | World NGO Day |
| 28 February | National Science Day |
| Rare Disease Day | |
| Ramadan |
1. When is the Union Budget presented in India?
a) February 1
b) February 2
c) February 5
d) February 10
Answer: a) February 1
2. When is Indian Coast Guard Day celebrated?
a) February 5
b) February 1
c) February 10
d) February 15
Answer: b) February 1
3. What is observed on February 2 to raise awareness about wetland conservation?
a) World Environment Day
b) World Wetlands Day
c) Earth Day
d) Wildlife Conservation Day
Answer: b) World Wetlands Day
4. Which day is observed on February 2 to raise awareness about rheumatoid arthritis?
a) RA Awareness Day
b) World Arthritis Day
c) Bone Health Day
d) Joint Awareness Day
Answer: a) RA Awareness Day
5. When is International Development Week celebrated?
a) February 2 to 8
b) February 5 to 10
c) February 7 to 14
d) February 12 to 18
Answer: a) February 2 to 8
6. What breed is honored on National Golden Retriever Day on February 3?
a) Labrador Retriever
b) German Shepherd
c) Golden Retriever
d) Beagle
Answer: c) Golden Retriever
7. Which festival marks the arrival of spring and honors Goddess Saraswati?
a) Makar Sankranti
b) Holi
c) Vasant Panchami
d) Diwali
Answer: c) Vasant Panchami
8. What is observed on February 4 to spread awareness about cancer?
a) World Cancer Day
b) World Health Day
c) National Cancer Awareness Day
d) International Oncology Day
Answer: a) World Cancer Day
9. Which country celebrates its National Day on February 4?
a) India
b) Sri Lanka
c) Nepal
d) Bhutan
Answer: b) Sri Lanka
10. What event is scheduled on February 5, 2025, in Delhi?
a) Lok Sabha Elections
b) Delhi Legislative Elections
c) Republic Day Parade
d) Independence Day Celebrations
Answer: b) Delhi Legislative Elections
11. When is Safer Internet Day observed in 2025?
a) February 4
b) February 5
c) February 6
d) February 7
Answer: b) February 5
12. Which Indian leader’s death anniversary is observed on February 6?
a) Mahatma Gandhi
b) Lal Bahadur Shastri
c) Indira Gandhi
d) Lata Mangeshkar
Answer: d) Lata Mangeshkar
13. Which international day is observed on February 6 to raise awareness against female genital mutilation?
a) International Women’s Health Day
b) International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation
c) Global Women’s Rights Day
d) International Human Rights Day
Answer: b) International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation
14. When is Rose Day celebrated as part of Valentine’s Week?
a) February 7
b) February 10
c) February 12
d) February 14
Answer: a) February 7
15. What is celebrated on February 8 during Valentine’s Week?
a) Hug Day
b) Propose Day
c) Kiss Day
d) Promise Day
Answer: b) Propose Day
16. What is observed on February 9 to promote dental health awareness?
a) World Dentist Day
b) National Tooth Care Day
c) World Oral Health Day
d) Toothache Day
Answer: d) Toothache Day
17. What international observance is marked on February 10 to celebrate pulses?
a) World Nutrition Day
b) International Year of Pulses
c) World Pulses Day
d) Global Food Security Day
Answer: c) World Pulses Day
18. Which famous Indian leader’s birth anniversary is observed on February 11?
a) Jawaharlal Nehru
b) Sarojini Naidu
c) Bhagat Singh
d) Rajendra Prasad
Answer: b) Sarojini Naidu
19. What day is observed on February 12 to honor Darwin’s contribution to science?
a) Science Day
b) World Evolution Day
c) Charles Darwin Day
d) Global Research Day
Answer: c) Charles Darwin Day
20. When is National Productivity Day celebrated in India?
a) February 10
b) February 12
c) February 15
d) February 20
Answer: b) February 12