Daily & Latest Current Affairs in 2025

Correct Answer :   46%

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* A study highlighted that emissions from private aviation increased by 46% between 2019 and 2023.

* This rapid growth underscores the environmental challenges posed by the aviation sector, which is already a significant contributor to global greenhouse gas emissions.

* Private jets have a disproportionately high carbon footprint per passenger compared to commercial flights and trains, exacerbating their environmental impact through CO2 emissions and additional greenhouse gases like nitrogen oxides and vapour trails.

Correct Answer :   Russia

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* The carcass of Yana, a 50,000-year-old baby mammoth, was discovered in Russia's Batagaika crater in Siberia.

* This area, known as the "gateway to the underworld," has been exposed due to melting permafrost caused by global warming.

* Such discoveries are rare, with only seven mammoth carcasses recovered worldwide, making Yana's find an exceptional contribution to understanding Pleistocene-era fauna and climate conditions.

* The permafrost also preserves other ancient animal remains, highlighting its significance in studying Earth's prehistoric life and climate change.

Correct Answer :   Daudhan dam

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* The Ken-Betwa link national project involves the construction of the Daudhan dam, which is a crucial component of the project.

* The dam will help in water transfer from the Ken River to the Betwa River, providing irrigation, drinking water, and industrial water to regions in Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh.

* The project aims to boost agriculture, provide drinking water to 44 lakh people, and promote tourism in the region.

Correct Answer :   Unorganised sector

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* The Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maandhan Yojana (PM-SMY) is a central pension scheme launched in 2019 to benefit workers in the unorganised sector, such as street vendors, domestic workers, and agricultural labourers.

* These workers, with a monthly income of up to Rs 15,000, contribute a small premium with the government matching their contribution.

* Despite its ambitious goals, the scheme has faced challenges, including low enrollment, reduced government funding, and minimal coverage relative to the vast unorganised workforce, highlighting the need for revisions to enhance its effectiveness.

Correct Answer :   Karnataka

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* The 1924 Belgaum Congress session, chaired by Mahatma Gandhi, was held in Belgaum, located in present-day Karnataka.

* This was the only session presided over by Gandhi, where he emphasized combating untouchability, promoting khadi, and fostering Hindu-Muslim unity.

* The event is celebrated for its focus on both political independence and social reform, leaving a lasting legacy, including infrastructure like the Pampa Sarovara well. The centenary celebration highlights its historical and cultural significance in India's freedom movement.

Correct Answer :   Article 153

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* Article 153 of the Indian Constitution mandates that there shall be a Governor for each State.

* It also allows one person to serve as Governor for multiple States if required.

* The Governor acts as the constitutional head of the State, exercising executive powers as prescribed in the Constitution.

* Their role is vital in maintaining the federal structure, ensuring the State's administration aligns with constitutional provisions. This makes Article 153 fundamental to the governance framework in India.

Correct Answer :   Saudi Arabia

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* Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 focuses on localizing 50% of its defence spending to reduce reliance on imports and bolster its indigenous defence industry.

* This aligns with India's Make in India initiative, promoting joint ventures and technological collaborations in areas such as shipbuilding, AI, and cybersecurity.

* The growing defence cooperation between India and Saudi Arabia highlights the mutual goal of self-reliance and technology sharing, strengthening their bilateral ties.

Correct Answer :   Kollam

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Kollam, a port city in Kerala, was once known as the “Cashew Capital of the World.” It earned this title because of its large-scale cashew production and global influence on cashew prices. However, the industry in Kollam has declined over the years due to various challenges.

Cashew are one of the most popular nuts in the world, loved for their creamy texture and delicious flavor. They are used in a variety of dishes and snacks, making them a favorite for people of all ages. But have you ever wondered which Indian district is known as the “Cashew Capital of the World”?

Worldwide Cashew Production :

In 2023, the world produced 1,250,000 metric tons of cashews. This nut is popular for its taste and health benefits, with countries like Vietnam and India leading production. Cashews are a key ingredient in snacks and various cuisines globally.

Why Kollam is Known as the Cashew Capital of the World?

Kollam used to be the largest producer of cashews in the world. The city had over 780 licensed cashew factories that supplied cashews to global markets. Kollam’s exporters played a key role in deciding the global price of cashews. It was also home to major organizations like the Kerala State Cashew Development Corporation (KSCDC) and the Cashew Export Promotion Council of India (CEPCI).

Present Status of Kollam’s Cashew Industry :

Today, the number of licensed cashew factories in Kollam has dropped from over 780 to less than 80. Despite this decline, the Kerala State Cashew Development Corporation and the Cashew Export Promotion Council of India continue to operate from Kollam.

Reasons for the Decline of Kollam’s Cashew Industry :

Competition from Vietnam : Vietnam has emerged as a strong competitor in the cashew market. Unlike Kollam, Vietnam uses advanced technology and automated processes, making their production faster and cheaper.

Relocation of Factories : Many cashew factories in Kollam have moved to other states like Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, where operating costs are lower.

Lack of Technology in Kollam : Kollam’s cashew industry still relies heavily on manual labor. The lack of modern machinery has made it hard for the city to compete with countries like Vietnam
Vietnam’s Crop Yields and Kollam’s Impact: Although Vietnam’s domestic cashew crop yields have recently fallen, Kollam’s industry struggles to regain its lost status due to other ongoing challenges.

Correct Answer :   Puducherry

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The 20th anniversary of the 2004 tsunami was observed across the coastal districts of Nagapattinam, Mayiladuthurai, and Karaikal in Tamil Nadu on December 26, 2024. The events served to honor the victims of the devastating disaster, recognize the resilience of the survivors, and reflect on the progress made in rebuilding communities affected by the tsunami. Wreath-laying ceremonies, processions, and interfaith prayers were organized, with participation from government officials, local leaders, and community members.

Key Events At Different Locations

Nagapattinam :

Velankanni :

Mayiladuthurai :

Karaikal :

Additional Observances :

Correct Answer :   Dr. Sandip Shah

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Dr. Sandip Shah has been appointed as the new Chairperson of the National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL), a board under the Quality Council of India (QCI). With over 30 years of experience in healthcare, pathology, and diagnostics.

This appointment marks a significant step in NABL’s mission to enhance quality and reliability in testing and calibration services.

Key Points About Dr. Shah

Educational Backgrounds :

Professional Experience :

Key Achievements :

NABL and QCI Overview :

Transition in Leadership :