Stay updated with important Current Affairs through this simple Current Affairs Quiz covering important events from 2025 and 2026. These Current Affairs MCQs are useful for TNPSC preparation and other competitive exams. Try each question and check your understanding of recent events.
Note: Detailed explanation for all questions is given below the Test, helping you to understand the concept clearly and improve your TNPSC exam preparation.
Essential Points for Revision – Current Affairs Quiz
Each question in this Current Affairs Quiz is followed by a simple explanation of the correct answer and why the other options are wrong. This helps TNPSC aspirants understand the important facts while practising Current Affairs MCQs.
Use this section as a last-minute revision guide before attempting the quiz. It covers all important topics in a simple, exam-focused format to improve accuracy and confidence.
1. When was the 76th Republic Day Parade held in India?
Answer: B. 26 January 2025
Detailed Explanation
The 76th Republic Day Parade was held on 26 January 2025 at Kartavya Path, New Delhi. Republic Day is celebrated every year on 26 January to commemorate the day the Constitution of India came into effect in 1950, making India a republic.
The Constitution was adopted on 26 November 1949 and came into force on 26 January 1950. The date 26 January was chosen to honour the Purna Swaraj Declaration of 1930, when the Indian National Congress declared complete independence as its goal.
The Republic Day Parade is an important national event showcasing India’s military strength, cultural diversity, achievements and constitutional values.
Why Other Options Are Wrong
- A. 24 January 2025: Incorrect. Republic Day is celebrated on 26 January, not 24 January.
- B. 26 January 2025: Correct. The 76th Republic Day Parade was held on this date.
- C. 28 January 2025: Incorrect. The Republic Day Parade had already taken place on 26 January.
- D. 30 January 2025: Incorrect. 30 January is observed as Martyrs’ Day, commemorating the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi in 1948.
2. The 2025 Prayag Maha Kumbh Mela witnessed over how many participants?
Answer: D. Over 660 million
Detailed Explanation
The Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 was held in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, from 13 January to 26 February 2025. The 45-day event witnessed an extraordinary turnout, with over 66.30 crore (660 million) devotees and visitors recorded by the conclusion of the Mela. The Government of India reported that the expected participation of 45 crore was exceeded during the event.
The Maha Kumbh is held at Prayagraj once every 12 years and is associated with the sacred Triveni Sangam, the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna and the mythical Saraswati. The major bathing festivals during the 2025 Maha Kumbh included Makar Sankranti, Mauni Amavasya, Basant Panchami, Magh Purnima and Maha Shivaratri.
Why Other Options Are Wrong
- A. 50 million: Incorrect. The final participation was far greater than 50 million; it exceeded 660 million.
- B. 100 million: Incorrect. More than 100 million participants had already been recorded by 23 January 2025, well before the event concluded.
- C. 200 million: Incorrect. The final participation was more than three times this figure, exceeding 660 million.
- D. Over 660 million: Correct. The Maha Kumbh 2025 recorded over 66.30 crore (660 million) devotees and visitors by its conclusion
3. The 38th National Games of India (2025) were held in which state?
Answer: B. Uttarakhand
Detailed Explanation
The 38th National Games of India were held in Uttarakhand from 28 January to 14 February 2025. The Games were inaugurated in Dehradun by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Competitions were conducted across 11 cities in 8 districts of the state.
The 2025 National Games featured athletes from across India competing in 35 sports disciplines. Yoga and Mallakhamb were included in the National Games for the first time. The theme of the 38th National Games was “Green Games”, reflecting its focus on environmental sustainability.
The Games concluded on 14 February 2025, with Uttarakhand hosting the event across various venues.
Why Other Options Are Wrong
- A. Uttar Pradesh: Incorrect. Uttar Pradesh was not the host state of the 38th National Games; the event was hosted by Uttarakhand.
- B. Uttarakhand: Correct. Uttarakhand hosted the 38th National Games from 28 January to 14 February 2025.
- C. Maharashtra: Incorrect. Maharashtra participated in the National Games but did not host the 38th edition.
- D. Karnataka: Incorrect. Karnataka was among the participating states but was not the host state of the 38th National Games.
4. On 7 May 2025, India conducted a nationwide mock civil defence drill named?
Answer: B. Operation Abhyaas
Detailed Explanation
Operation Abhyaas was a nationwide civil defence mock exercise conducted on 7 May 2025 to strengthen India’s preparedness for emergencies and hostile-attack situations. The exercise focused on testing emergency response systems, evacuation procedures, civil defence preparedness and coordination among different agencies.
During the exercise, civil defence sirens, evacuation drills, emergency response mechanisms and blackout exercises were carried out at several locations. Civil Defence volunteers, Home Guards, police, fire services and local administration participated in the drills. The exercise was designed to help authorities and the public respond effectively during an emergency.
The name Operation Abhyaas is therefore associated with the nationwide civil defence preparedness exercise conducted on 7 May 2025.
Why Other Options Are Wrong
- A. 24 January 2025: Incorrect. This date has no connection with the nationwide civil defence mock exercise described in the question.
- B. Operation Abhyaas: Correct. Operation Abhyaas was the name associated with the civil defence mock exercise conducted on 7 May 2025.
- C. Operation Suraksha: Incorrect. This was not the name given to the 7 May 2025 nationwide civil defence exercise.
- D. Operation Raksha: Incorrect. This was not the official name of the exercise conducted on 7 May 2025.
5. “Operation Brahma” was India’s relief mission to assist which country after a natural disaster?
Answer: C. Myanmar
Detailed Explanation
Operation Brahma was launched by the Government of India in March 2025 to provide humanitarian assistance and disaster relief to Myanmar after a devastating earthquake struck the country on 28 March 2025. India responded quickly by deploying relief materials, medical teams, search-and-rescue personnel and other emergency assistance.
Under Operation Brahma, the Indian Army established a field hospital to provide medical treatment to earthquake victims, while the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) deployed a specialised search-and-rescue team. The Indian Navy and Indian Air Force also transported essential relief supplies such as medicines, food, drinking water, tents and other emergency materials to Myanmar.
The operation reflected India’s role as a first responder in the region and its commitment to providing Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) to neighbouring countries during major disasters.
Why Other Options Are Wrong
- A. Nepal: Incorrect. Operation Brahma was not launched for earthquake relief in Nepal. It was specifically associated with India’s humanitarian response to the 2025 earthquake in Myanmar.
- B. Bangladesh: Incorrect. Bangladesh was not the country assisted under Operation Brahma.
- C. Myanmar: Correct. Operation Brahma was launched to provide humanitarian and disaster relief assistance to Myanmar following the 28 March 2025 earthquake.
- D. Sri Lanka: Incorrect. Operation Brahma was not related to disaster relief in Sri Lanka. India has undertaken other humanitarian and disaster-relief operations involving Sri Lanka.
6. India–Pakistan conflict in May 2025 led to a ceasefire agreement on:
Answer: C. 10 May 2025
Detailed Explanation
India and Pakistan reached an understanding to stop all firing and military action on 10 May 2025, following several days of military escalation between the two countries. The understanding was reached directly between the Directors General of Military Operations (DGMOs) of India and Pakistan. The cessation of firing and military activities was agreed to take effect from 5:00 PM Indian Standard Time on 10 May 2025.
The development followed India’s military response under Operation Sindoor, launched on 7 May 2025 after the Pahalgam terrorist attack of 22 April 2025. The 10 May understanding brought an immediate halt to military action across land, air and sea.
Why Other Options Are Wrong
- A. 5 May: Incorrect. The ceasefire understanding was not reached on 5 May 2025.
- B. 8 May: Incorrect. An all-party meeting was held on 8 May to brief political leaders regarding Operation Sindoor, but the ceasefire understanding came later.
- C. 10 May: Correct. India and Pakistan agreed on 10 May 2025 to stop firing and military activities.
- D. 12 May: Incorrect. 12 May was not the date on which the ceasefire understanding was reached. The agreement had already been announced on 10 May.
7. India’s cross-border military action in 2025 was codenamed:
Answer: B. Operation Sindoor
Detailed Explanation
Operation Sindoor was the codename given to India’s military action launched on 7 May 2025. The operation was carried out by the Indian Armed Forces against terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoK) following the Pahalgam terrorist attack on 22 April 2025.
According to the Government of India, the operation targeted nine terrorist sites. The action involved coordinated operations by India’s armed forces and was presented by the government as a response aimed at targeting terrorist infrastructure while avoiding Pakistani military facilities.
The name Operation Sindoor became an important current-affairs topic in 2025 and is relevant for questions on India’s defence, national security and major events of 2025.
Why Other Options Are Wrong
- A. Operation Thunder: Incorrect. This was not the codename given to India’s 2025 military action.
- B. Operation Sindoor: Correct. Operation Sindoor was the codename officially used for the Indian military action launched on 7 May 2025.
- C. Operation Vajra: Incorrect. This was not the codename of the 2025 military action.
- D. Operation Rakshak: Incorrect. Operation Rakshak was not the codename given to the military action conducted in May 2025.
8. Which major bilateral trade partner did India reach a record trade volume with in 2025?
Answer: B. China
Detailed Explanation
India and China recorded a record bilateral trade volume in 2025, with total trade reaching approximately US$155.6 billion during the calendar year. This represented a significant increase compared with the previous year. The record trade figure included India’s exports to China as well as imports from China.
China has remained one of India’s major trading partners, particularly because of India’s substantial imports of electronic components, machinery, chemicals, pharmaceutical ingredients and other industrial goods. At the same time, India exports products such as electrical machinery, chemicals, minerals and agricultural and marine products to China. Official Indian data also shows that India-China goods trade reached US$127.71 billion in financial year 2024–25.
The 2025 record is therefore an important current-affairs fact related to India’s foreign trade and economic relations with China.
Why Other Options Are Wrong
- A. China: Correct. India-China bilateral trade reached a record level of about US$155.6 billion in 2025.
- B. USA: Incorrect. The question refers to the record bilateral trade volume with China in 2025.
- C. EU: Incorrect. The European Union is an important trading partner of India, but it was not the answer associated with the record bilateral trade figure mentioned in the question.
- D. Japan: Incorrect. Japan is an important economic partner of India, but the record bilateral trade volume referred to in this question was with China.
9. Which index showed India’s global rank in innovation/performance in 2025?
Answer: D. All of the above (India ranked in all)
Detailed Explanation
In 2025, India was included in all three major global indices mentioned in the question: the Global Innovation Index (GII), Global Peace Index (GPI) and Human Development Index (HDI). These indices measure different aspects of a country’s performance and development.
In the Global Innovation Index 2025, published by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), India ranked 38th among 139 economies. The index evaluates innovation capabilities using indicators related to areas such as research and development, technology, knowledge creation and high-tech exports.
In the Global Peace Index 2025, published by the Institute for Economics & Peace, India ranked 115th among 163 countries. The index assesses countries using indicators related to peacefulness, conflict and societal safety and security.
In the Human Development Index 2025, published by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), India ranked 130th among 193 countries and territories. The HDI considers three major dimensions: health, education and standard of living.
Therefore, all three indices provided a global ranking for India in 2025, making “All of the above” the correct answer.
Why Other Options Are Wrong
- A. Global Peace Index: Incorrect. The Global Peace Index did show India’s global rank in 2025, but it was not the only index mentioned in the question.
- B. Global Innovation Index: Incorrect. The Global Innovation Index also ranked India in 2025, but the question includes two other applicable indices as well.
- C. Human Development Index: Incorrect. The Human Development Index ranked India in 2025, but it was not the only applicable index.
- D. All of the above: Correct. India had a published global ranking in the Global Innovation Index, Global Peace Index and Human Development Index in 2025.
10. Which summit did the Election Commission of India host in January 2026?
Answer: B. IICDEM (India International Conference on Democracy and Election Management)
Detailed Explanation
The Election Commission of India (ECI) hosted the inaugural India International Conference on Democracy and Election Management (IICDEM) 2026 from 21 to 23 January 2026 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. The three-day international conference was organised by the India International Institute of Democracy and Election Management (IIIDEM) under the aegis of the ECI.
The conference brought together representatives from Election Management Bodies (EMBs), international organisations, foreign missions, academics and election experts to discuss issues related to democracy and election management. The conference also included discussions on electoral processes, technology, election administration and sharing of international best practices.
An important development during IICDEM 2026 was the launch of ECINET, the Election Commission of India’s one-stop digital platform for election-related information and services.
Why Other Options Are Wrong
- A. ECI Summit: Incorrect. This was not the official name of the international conference hosted by the Election Commission of India in January 2026.
- B. IICDEM: Correct. IICDEM stands for India International Conference on Democracy and Election Management, held from 21 to 23 January 2026 in New Delhi.
- C. Electoral Congress: Incorrect. This was not the official name of the conference hosted by the ECI.
- D. Global Voting Forum: Incorrect. This was not the name of the ECI’s January 2026 international conference.
11. The World Interfaith Harmony Week is observed during:
Answer: C. 1–7 February
Detailed Explanation
The World Interfaith Harmony Week is observed every year from 1 to 7 February to promote mutual understanding, harmony and cooperation among people of different religions and faiths. The observance was proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in 2010 through Resolution 65/5.
The initiative encourages governments, institutions and civil society to promote interfaith dialogue and goodwill and to strengthen peaceful relationships among people belonging to different religious traditions. The first World Interfaith Harmony Week was observed in February 2011.
The week highlights the importance of peace, tolerance, mutual respect and understanding among different faith communities.
Why Other Options Are Wrong
- A. 1–7 January: Incorrect. World Interfaith Harmony Week is observed during the first week of February, not January.
- B. 7–14 February: Incorrect. The official observance covers the first seven days of February, from 1 to 7 February.
- C. 1–7 February: Correct. The United Nations designates 1–7 February every year as World Interfaith Harmony Week.
- D. 8–15 March: Incorrect. These dates are not associated with World Interfaith Harmony Week.
12. India achieved the No. 2 global position for LEED-certified green real estate in 2025 in:
Answer: B. Commercial space outside USA
Detailed Explanation
India secured the second position globally for LEED-certified space outside the United States in 2025, according to the annual ranking released by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) and Green Business Certification Inc. (GBCI). India recorded 16.11 million gross square metres of LEED-certified space across 611 projects, placing it behind mainland China.
LEED stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design. It is a globally recognised green building rating system that evaluates buildings and projects based on areas such as energy efficiency, water conservation, materials, indoor environmental quality and sustainable development.
The 2025 ranking specifically measured LEED-certified space outside the United States, and India ranked second based on the total certified space. The growth covered sectors including offices, industrial facilities, warehouses, hospitality, retail and education.
Why Other Options Are Wrong
- A. Residential buildings: Incorrect. The ranking was based on LEED-certified space across commercial and other project categories, not specifically residential buildings.
- B. Commercial space outside USA: Correct. India ranked No. 2 outside the United States based on total LEED-certified space in 2025.
- C. Renewable energy output: Incorrect. The LEED ranking measures green building certification, not a country’s renewable energy generation.
- D. Digital sector: Incorrect. The ranking does not measure the performance or size of a country’s digital sector.
13. The Pravasi Bharatiya Divas 2025 was recently celebrated in which Indian state?
Answer: A. Odisha
Detailed Explanation
The 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention was held from 8 to 10 January 2025 in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. Pravasi Bharatiya Divas is observed to recognise the contributions of the Indian diaspora and strengthen their connection with India.
The theme of the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas 2025 was “Diaspora’s Contribution to a Viksit Bharat.” The convention was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 9 January 2025.
The event included discussions and sessions covering areas such as innovation, technology, sustainable development, entrepreneurship, culture and the contribution of the Indian diaspora. The Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards were also presented during the convention.
Why Other Options Are Wrong
- A. Odisha: Correct. The 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention was held in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, from 8–10 January 2025.
- B. Kerala: Incorrect. Kerala was not the host state of the 2025 Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention.
- C. Rajasthan: Incorrect. Rajasthan was not the venue for the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention.
- D. Haryana: Incorrect. Haryana did not host the 2025 Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention.
14. The Global Gold Price surge in 2025 was mainly driven by:
Answer: B. Tariff wars & geopolitical tensions
Detailed Explanation
Gold prices witnessed a significant rise during 2025, with several factors contributing to the surge. Among the major drivers were geopolitical tensions, tariff and trade-policy uncertainty, central bank demand, investment demand and a weaker U.S. dollar.
Gold is traditionally considered a safe-haven asset. During periods of geopolitical uncertainty and economic or trade-related risks, investors may increase their exposure to gold as a way of diversifying their portfolios and managing uncertainty.
The World Gold Council reported that gold recorded a remarkable 67% annual return in 2025. Its analysis identified geopolitical risk and options-market activity as important contributors, while tariff and trade risks, central-bank demand and a weaker U.S. dollar also supported gold prices.
Why Other Options Are Wrong
- A. Higher production: Incorrect. Increased gold production would generally add to supply and does not explain the major price surge seen in 2025.
- B. Tariff wars & geopolitical tensions: Correct. Trade-policy uncertainty and geopolitical risks were among the important factors supporting the rise in gold prices.
- C. Digital currency shifts: Incorrect. Changes in digital currencies were not the primary driver identified for the major 2025 gold-price surge.
- D. Low demand: Incorrect. Strong investment and central-bank demand were among the factors supporting gold prices; therefore, low demand does not explain the surge.
15. India’s AI Impact Summit in February 2026 is expected to be attended by:
Answer: D. President of France Emmanuel Macron
Detailed Explanation
The India AI Impact Summit 2026 was held at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, in February 2026. Emmanuel Macron, President of France, was among the prominent world leaders who participated in the summit.
President Macron addressed the Opening Ceremony on 19 February 2026 along with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres. The summit brought together world leaders, policymakers, technology companies and other stakeholders to discuss the development and responsible use of artificial intelligence.
The participation of the French President highlighted the importance of international cooperation in AI, particularly in areas such as innovation, responsible AI development and global governance.
Why Other Options Are Wrong
- A. President of USA: Incorrect. The person identified in the question as the prominent attending leader was not the U.S. President.
- B. Chancellor of Germany: Incorrect. The German Chancellor was not the leader referred to in the question.
- C. Prime Minister of UK: Incorrect. The UK Prime Minister was not the answer associated with the stated participation.
- D. President of France Emmanuel Macron: Correct. French President Emmanuel Macron participated in the India AI Impact Summit 2026 and addressed its opening ceremony.
16. Bharat Mela 2026 cultural festival is scheduled in which Middle Eastern country?
Answer: C. Kuwait
Detailed Explanation
Bharat Mela 2026 was organised by the Embassy of India in Kuwait in association with Kuwait’s Touristic Enterprise Company. The cultural festival was held on 13 February 2026 at Green Island in Kuwait. It showcased India’s rich cultural heritage, cuisine, music, dance, handicrafts and artistic traditions.
The event provided an opportunity to showcase India’s cultural diversity and strengthen people-to-people and cultural ties between India and Kuwait. More than 700 artists participated in the cultural performances, making it a major celebration of Indian culture in the Gulf region.
Why Other Options Are Wrong
- A. UAE: Incorrect. Bharat Mela 2026 referred to in the question was organised by the Embassy of India in Kuwait.
- B. Saudi Arabia: Incorrect. Saudi Arabia was not the host country of Bharat Mela 2026.
- C. Kuwait: Correct. The 2026 Bharat Mela was organised in Kuwait at Green Island.
- D. Qatar: Incorrect. Qatar was not the location of the Bharat Mela 2026 mentioned in the question.
17. Delhi Khel Mahakumbh 2026 promotes which activity?
Answer: B. Sports & youth development
Detailed Explanation
The Delhi Khel Mahakumbh 2026 is a multi-sport initiative of the Directorate of Education and Sports, Government of Delhi, aimed at promoting a strong sporting culture and identifying grassroots sporting talent among young people.
The initiative provides young athletes with opportunities to participate in organised sporting competitions and develop skills such as discipline, teamwork, confidence, resilience and fair play. It also focuses on youth engagement, women’s participation and inclusive opportunities in sports.
The 2026 edition included multiple sporting disciplines and was designed to provide a structured platform for young athletes across Delhi.
Why Other Options Are Wrong
- A. Education reform: Incorrect. Although the initiative has connections with the education system, its primary focus is sports participation and development of sporting talent.
- B. Sports & youth development: Correct. The programme promotes sports participation, grassroots talent development and youth engagement.
- C. Art & culture: Incorrect. Art and cultural activities are not the primary purpose of Delhi Khel Mahakumbh.
- D. Digital trade: Incorrect. Digital trade is unrelated to the objectives of the Khel Mahakumbh.
18. The 2025 Prayag Maha Kumbh occurred at which confluence?
Answer: D. Triveni Sangam, Prayagraj
Detailed Explanation
The 2025 Maha Kumbh Mela was held in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, at the sacred Triveni Sangam. Triveni Sangam is traditionally regarded as the meeting point of three rivers: the Ganga, Yamuna and the mythical Saraswati.
The confluence is considered one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites in India. During the Maha Kumbh, millions of devotees gathered at Prayagraj to participate in religious ceremonies and take a holy bath at the Sangam.
The 2025 Maha Kumbh was held from 13 January to 26 February 2025 and became one of the largest religious gatherings in the world.
Why Other Options Are Wrong
- A. Nashik: Incorrect. Nashik is associated with the Kumbh Mela held at the Godavari River, not the 2025 Prayag Maha Kumbh.
- B. Haridwar: Incorrect. Haridwar is another major Kumbh Mela location, associated with the Ganga River, but it was not the venue of the 2025 Maha Kumbh.
- C. Ujjain: Incorrect. Ujjain hosts the Kumbh, known as Simhastha, at the Shipra River.
- D. Triveni Sangam, Prayagraj: Correct. The 2025 Maha Kumbh was held at the Triveni Sangam, the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna and traditionally believed Saraswati.
19. 2025 National Games of India were inaugurated by:
Answer: C. Prime Minister Narendra Modi
Detailed Explanation
The 38th National Games of India were inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 28 January 2025 in Dehradun, Uttarakhand. The National Games brought together athletes from across India to compete in various sporting disciplines.
The 2025 edition was organised as “Green Games”, with an emphasis on environmental sustainability. The event also highlighted the importance of sports in youth development and India’s broader sporting ambitions.
The Games were held across various venues in Uttarakhand from 28 January to 14 February 2025.
Why Other Options Are Wrong
- A. President of India: Incorrect. The 38th National Games were inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
- B. Vice President of India: Incorrect. The Vice President did not inaugurate the 38th National Games.
- C. Prime Minister Narendra Modi: Correct. Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Games in Dehradun on 28 January 2025.
- D. Sports Minister: Incorrect. The Union Sports Minister participated in the event, but the formal inauguration was conducted by the Prime Minister.
20. Nationwide civil defence drills in May 2025 were organized by:
Answer: B. Ministry of Home Affairs & NDMA
Detailed Explanation
India conducted a nationwide Civil Defence Mock Exercise, Operation Abhyaas, on 7 May 2025 to strengthen preparedness and response mechanisms during emergencies. The exercise was conducted across districts in the country and focused on improving civil defence preparedness, emergency response, evacuation procedures, warning systems and coordination among different agencies.
The exercise was conducted under the Ministry of Home Affairs, with civil administration, police, fire services, Civil Defence volunteers and other stakeholders participating. The exercise also involved measures such as air-raid warning systems and blackout drills to assess preparedness for emergency situations.
The broader disaster-management and preparedness framework also involves institutions such as the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA). Therefore, among the options given, Ministry of Home Affairs & NDMA is the intended answer.
Why Other Options Are Wrong
- A. Ministry of Defence: Incorrect. The nationwide civil defence exercise was conducted under the Ministry of Home Affairs, rather than being organised solely by the Ministry of Defence.
- B. Ministry of Home Affairs & NDMA: Correct. The exercise was conducted under the civil-defence and disaster-preparedness framework involving the Ministry of Home Affairs and relevant disaster-management authorities.
- C. State governments: Incorrect. State and district authorities participated in implementing the exercise, but the nationwide exercise was not organised independently by state governments.
- D. NDRF alone: Incorrect. The exercise involved multiple agencies and stakeholders; it was not conducted solely by the National Disaster Response Force.
21. In 2025, India–China bilateral trade grew by approximately:
Answer: C. 12% year-on-year
Detailed Explanation
India–China bilateral trade reached a record high of about US$155.6 billion in 2025, registering more than 12% year-on-year growth. The figure was reported by Chinese Ambassador Xu Feihong in February 2026.
The growth reflected an increase in overall trade between the two countries. India’s exports to China also increased during the year, showing growth in India’s trade engagement with one of its major economic partners.
The 2025 trade figure is important for understanding India’s foreign trade, imports, exports and economic relations with China.
Why Other Options Are Wrong
- A. 2%: Incorrect. The reported year-on-year growth was significantly higher than 2%.
- B. 9.7%: Incorrect. The 9.7% figure referred specifically to the growth in India’s exports to China, not the overall bilateral trade growth.
- C. 12% year-on-year: Correct. Overall India–China bilateral trade grew by more than 12% year-on-year in 2025.
- D. 25%: Incorrect. The reported overall bilateral trade growth was not 25%.
22. Which major cultural heritage festival is held at UNESCO site in Karnataka in 2026?
Answer: A. Hampi Utsav
Detailed Explanation
Hampi Utsav, also known as Vijaya Utsav, is a major cultural festival held at Hampi in Karnataka, the historic capital of the Vijayanagara Empire. Hampi is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its outstanding historical, architectural and cultural significance.
The festival celebrates the heritage of the Vijayanagara Empire through cultural performances, music, dance, traditional arts and other programmes. The 2026 edition was officially announced by the Vijayanagara district administration, with preparations and the official logo launch marking the event.
Hampi Utsav therefore connects Karnataka’s rich historical heritage with its contemporary cultural celebrations.
Why Other Options Are Wrong
- A. Hampi Utsav: Correct. It is the major cultural festival associated with the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hampi in Karnataka.
- B. Mysore Dasara: Incorrect. Mysore Dasara is a major festival of Karnataka, but it is associated with Mysuru, not the UNESCO heritage site of Hampi.
- C. Khajuraho Festival: Incorrect. The Khajuraho Dance Festival is held at Khajuraho in Madhya Pradesh, not Karnataka.
- D. Konark Dance Festival: Incorrect. The Konark Dance Festival is associated with Konark in Odisha, not Hampi in Karnataka.
23. The 2025 National Games mascot and events number approx:
Answer: B. 11354 athletes across 35 sports
Detailed Explanation
The 38th National Games of India, held in Uttarakhand from 28 January to 14 February 2025, saw participation from approximately 11,354 athletes representing states, Union Territories and the Services Sports Control Board.
The Games featured 32 competitive sports along with demonstration events, and many current-affairs references describe the overall programme as involving 35 sports. Therefore, the key fact for this question is the participation of approximately 11,354 athletes and the broad sporting programme of the Games.
The official mascot of the 38th National Games was “Mauli,” inspired by the Himalayan Monal, the state bird of Uttarakhand.
Why Other Options Are Wrong
- A. 5000 athletes: Incorrect. Participation was much higher, with around 11,354 athletes taking part.
- B. 11354 athletes across 35 sports: Correct in the context of the question. The Games involved approximately 11,354 athletes and a programme commonly reported as 35 sports.
- C. 15000 athletes: Incorrect. The recorded participation was approximately 11,354 athletes, not 15,000.
- D. 20 sports: Incorrect. The National Games featured substantially more than 20 sporting disciplines.
Partner note: I recommend changing the question slightly to “The 2025 National Games witnessed approximately how many athletes participating?” if you want maximum factual precision. The present wording mixes the athlete count with the number of sports.
24. India’s civil drill Operation Abhyaas in 2025 took place across how many districts?
Answer: D. 244 districts
Detailed Explanation
Operation Abhyaas was a nationwide civil defence mock exercise conducted on 7 May 2025 across 244 districts of India. The exercise was designed to strengthen the country’s preparedness and the ability of authorities and citizens to respond during emergencies or hostile situations.
The drill included activities such as air-raid siren testing, blackout exercises, evacuation procedures, emergency response training and public awareness activities. Civil Defence volunteers, Home Guards, police, fire services and other local authorities participated in the exercise.
The exercise was particularly significant because it was conducted across a large number of designated civil defence districts simultaneously.
Why Other Options Are Wrong
- A. 100: Incorrect. The exercise covered considerably more than 100 districts.
- B. 150: Incorrect. The number of districts involved was higher than 150.
- C. 300: Incorrect. The exercise was conducted across 244 districts, not 300.
- D. 244 districts: Correct. Operation Abhyaas was conducted across 244 districts on 7 May 2025.
25. The 76th Republic Day Parade included displays of:
Answer: B. Military hardware & cultural tableaux
Detailed Explanation
The 76th Republic Day Parade, held on 26 January 2025 at Kartavya Path, New Delhi, showcased India’s military capabilities as well as its rich cultural diversity.
The parade featured displays of military equipment including the T-90 Bhishma tank, NAG missile system, BrahMos, Pinaka multi-launcher rocket system and Akash Weapon System. A Tri-Services tableau was also presented for the first time, highlighting coordination and integration among the Army, Navy and Air Force.
Alongside the military displays, tableaux from States and Union Territories and Union Government ministries and departments presented India’s cultural heritage, development and achievements. Cultural performances involving thousands of artists were also part of the celebrations.
Why Other Options Are Wrong
- A. Only marching contingents: Incorrect. The parade included marching contingents as well as military equipment, tableaux and cultural performances.
- B. Military hardware & cultural tableaux: Correct. The 2025 parade combined displays of military equipment with cultural and developmental tableaux.
- C. Cultural performances only: Incorrect. Military hardware and marching contingents were also major components of the parade.
- D. Foreign dance troupes: Incorrect. The parade focused primarily on India’s military capabilities, cultural heritage and national achievements rather than foreign dance troupes.
Further Reading:
For official information and further reading, TNPSC aspirants can refer to the Press Information Bureau (PIB) for government announcements, schemes, national events and other important current affairs.
🔗 Press Information Bureau (PIB)
Keep practising these Current Affairs MCQs regularly and revise the important facts from each question. Consistent practice can help strengthen your TNPSC Current Affairs preparation and improve your confidence for the exam.