Business, Economy & Banking Current Affairs MCQs

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The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE), National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC), and Intel India launched the ‘AI for Entrepreneurship’ micro-learning module. It aims to simplify AI concepts and encourage entrepreneurial thinking among young innovators. The programme targets training 1 lakh youth by 2025 to help them succeed in a technology-driven economy. The module focuses on AI for business growth, entrepreneurial strategies, and problem-solving. It is designed for both urban and rural learners to ensure inclusivity.

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LIC launched the ‘One Man Office’ (OMO) initiative on February 17, 2025. It is a digital initiative to enhance LIC agents’ efficiency with 24×7 digital services. The initiative aligns with LIC’s vision of ‘Insurance for All by 2047.’ It provides online tools for policy sales, customer service, and business management. LIC aims to make its agents independent and productive through digital transformation. The initiative eliminates the need for a traditional office setup. It benefits both policyholders and LIC by integrating technology into insurance services.

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India’s Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) rose for the first time after three quarters. PMI measures business activity in manufacturing and services sectors through surveys. It helps assess whether market conditions are expanding, contracting, or stable. There are two types: Manufacturing PMI and Services PMI. Manufacturing PMI is based on new orders, output, employment, supplier delivery times, and stock purchases. A PMI above 50 indicates expansion, while below 50 shows contraction. PMI is released monthly by S&P Global, a global financial analytics firm.

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Paytm launched ‘Paytm Solar Soundbox’, India’s first solar-powered payment soundbox for merchants. The device charges quickly with minimal sunlight and provides full-day power for uninterrupted payments. It is a Made in India product and an eco-friendly solution using low-cost alternative energy. It is designed for rural and remote areas with electricity shortages, ensuring digital inclusion. The initiative supports small shop owners, promotes financial inclusion, and encourages sustainable practices across India.

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The Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways launched the One Nation-One Port Process (ONOP). ONOP aims to standardize port operations across India’s major ports. The initiative removes inconsistencies in documentation, reduces inefficiencies, lowers costs, and minimizes delays. The Ministry reduced container operation documents by 33%, from 143 to 96. Bulk cargo documents were cut by 29%, from 150 to 106.

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Yes Bank was the only Indian bank to be included in the 2025 S&P Global Sustainability Yearbook, which recognizes the top 15% of global banking leaders. Yes Bank was also the highest-rated bank in India for sustainability for the third year in a row. Yes Bank scored 72 out of 100 on the S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment (CSA).

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The Geological Survey of India (GSI) is celebrating its 175th year of geoscientific legacy. It was established in 1851 by Sir Thomas Oldham to locate coal deposits for the Railways. GSI provides geological expertise for policy-making, commercial, and socio-economic needs. It documents geological processes across India’s land and offshore areas. The organization conducts geological, geophysical, and geochemical surveys with advanced techniques. Its primary functions include updating geoscientific data and assessing mineral resources. GSI operates under the Ministry of Mines as an attached office.

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Gum Arabic, used in products like Coca-Cola and M&M’s, is increasingly trafficked from rebel-held regions in Sudan, disrupting supply chains. It is a water-soluble exudate from Acacia senegal and A. seyal species. It is native to North Africa, also grows in Australia, India, and South America. Major producers include Cameroon, Chad, Mali, Nigeria, and Sudan. Sudan is the world’s largest producer of gum arabic, accounting for 70% of the market. Gum Arabic is non-toxic, odourless, and dissolves in water, forming a clear solution. It is used as a stabilizer and emulsifier in food products.

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HDFC Bank launched Project HAKK (Hawai Anubhavi Kalyan Kendra) to support Indian Air Force (IAF) pensioners, veterans, and families. The bank signed an MoU with IAF through the Assistant Chief of Air Staff – Accounts & Air Veterans and CSC (Common Service Centre) Academy. 25 centres will be set up across Air Force units in cities like New Delhi, Bengaluru, Pune, Guwahati, and Chandigarh. In collaboration with CSC Academy, the bank will offer skill development and financial training to help veterans and their families become financially independent.

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State Bank of India (SBI) launched ‘Asmita’, a collateral-free, low-interest loan program for women entrepreneurs. The scheme aims to boost business borrowings for women-led MSMEs. It offers quick financial support through a digital process. SBI also introduced the ‘Nari Shakti’ platinum debit card.