Current Affairs Quiz - April 2026

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The Santiaguito Volcano is an active volcano located in western Guatemala near the city of Quetzaltenango. It was formed after the major 1902 eruption of the Santa María Volcano. It consists of a lava-dome complex and is among the most active volcanic regions in the world. The volcano frequently emits ash and smoke, indicating continuous volcanic activity. Occasionally, it produces lava flows and dangerous pyroclastic flows. Recently, an eruption forced hikers to flee as rocks and volcanic material were ejected into the air.

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Recently, Indian scientists discovered a new fanged frog species named Limnonectes motijheel in the Namdapha Tiger Reserve, Arunachal pradesh, highlighting rich biodiversity in Northeast India. It is a newly identified species belonging to the genus Limnonectes, which now has six known species in India. The frog is named after Motijheel Lake, an area known for high amphibian diversity. It belongs to the group called fanged frogs, where males possess small fang-like projections in the lower jaw, possibly used for feeding or territorial behaviour. These frogs are generally found across South and Southeast Asia and show unique reproductive traits.

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Sugor Tso is a high-altitude dual lake system located in the Upper Siang district, Arunachal Pradesh, within the Eastern Himalayan region. It consists of Upper Sugor Tso and Sugor Tso, which are hydrologically connected and fed by the Sugor stream. The lake lies in the Eastern Himalayan biodiversity hotspot, known for rich flora, fauna, and fragile ecosystems. It is formed in natural mountain depressions, receiving water from streams, rainfall, and snowmelt. Due to its remote location and difficult terrain, access is limited, which has helped preserve its natural condition.

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In April 2026, Pay Point India Network became the first private fintech company to gain membership in the Centralised Payment System (CPS) of the Reserve Bank of India. Earlier, CPS access was limited to banks and institutions like National Payments Corporation of India and Clearing Corporation of India Limited. This move allows Pay Point direct access to payment systems such as Real Time Gross Settlement (RTGS) and National Electronic Funds Transfer (NEFT). It reduces dependence on partner banks for transactions and settlements. The company has also been assigned its own Indian Financial System Code (IFSC), enabling it to hold accounts directly with RBI.

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Asia’s first UNESCO Chair on Gender Inclusion and Skill Development for Women’s Empowerment was launched at Symbiosis Skills and Professional University (SSPU) in Pune. The initiative was launched during an international conference organised with UNESCO on “Women Leading the Future of Work.” It aims to promote women’s participation in emerging sectors such as Artificial Intelligence, semiconductors, robotics, and advanced manufacturing. The initiative focuses on inclusive skilling, gender equity, and workforce transformation

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Recently, Rocklink India Pvt. Ltd. set up an integrated recycling facility in Sikandrabad UPSIDC Industrial Area, Uttar Pradesh. The plant focuses on recycling lithium-ion batteries, rare earth magnets, and metal-bearing industrial waste. It has a capacity of 10,000 tonnes/year for lithium-ion batteries and 60 tonnes/month for rare-earth magnets. A rare-earth chloride processing unit (1,500 tonnes/year) is planned for 2026. The initiative supports domestic recovery of critical minerals and promotes a circular economy.

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Recently, Manoj Mukund Naravane launched his book “The Curious and the Classified: Unearthing Military Myths and Mysteries.” He served as the 28th Chief of Army Staff (2019–2022). The book is a non-fiction work exploring myths, traditions, and lesser-known stories of the Indian armed forces. It highlights military history, culture, courage, and folklore. It traces origins of the popular cheer “Chak de Phatte” and discusses legends like Baba Harbhajan Singh.

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The Madras High Court has refused to lift the temporary ban on boating in Pykara Lake, highlighting environmental concerns. Pykara Lake is located in the Nilgiri district of Tamil Nadu and was formed by the construction of a dam on the Pykara River. The river originates from Mukurthi Peak and is the largest river in the district. It is considered sacred by the Toda tribe, an indigenous Adivasi community. The Pykara Dam hosts one of the oldest hydropower plants in South India, generating about 60 MW of electricity.

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The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment launched the SMILE–Beggary Survey Mobile Application during a Chintan Shivir held in Chandigarh (24–26 April 2026). The app is developed under the SMILE Scheme, specifically its Beggary Sub-Scheme for comprehensive rehabilitation. It enables real-time digital data collection by district authorities and implementing agencies, improving accuracy and transparency. The application addresses issues like delayed and inconsistent reporting, ensuring timely monitoring and better coordination. It enhances capabilities for real-time data analytics, performance tracking, and evidence-based policy implementation.

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The Central Cottage Industries Corporation of India launched its first heritage designer collection Soul Threads, marking a revival of India’s artisanal promotion efforts. Soul Threads is a curated initiative showcasing handloom, handicrafts, designer fashion, and cultural performances. The aim is to preserve and promote India’s textile heritage while providing a platform for artisans, designers, and folk artists. It supports the handloom and handicraft economy by connecting traditional craftsmanship with modern markets.