Current Affairs Quiz - March 2025

Notes:
ISRO recently conducted a successful hot test on the semi-cryogenic engine (SE2000), advancing towards finalizing the cryogenic stage. The semi-cryogenic engine (SCE) uses liquid oxygen (LOX) as an oxidizer and refined kerosene (RP-1) as fuel. ISRO is developing the 2000 kN thrust SCE for future heavy-lift launch vehicles. Kerosene is more cost-effective and easier to handle than liquid hydrogen, simplifying storage and reducing mission costs. The engine will enhance ISRO’s launch vehicle payload capacity and is planned for use in the Next Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV).

Notes:
Maharashtra government appointed a panel to investigate pollution in the Panchaganga River. It is a major tributary of the Krishna River, flowing through Maharashtra. The river originates from Prayag Sangam in the Sahyadri mountains, Kolhapur district. It is formed by the confluence of five rivulets—Kasari, Kumbhi, Tulsi, Bhogawati, and Saraswati. The river flows about 80 km before joining the Krishna River. It holds spiritual significance, with many temples along its banks. Pollution has risen due to untreated sewage from Kolhapur, affecting agriculture and water quality.

Notes:
ISRO is developing a LOX-methane engine for the Next Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV) with a reusable booster stage and two expendable upper stages. The engine will have multiple restart capability to enhance mission flexibility and booster recovery. Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC) is developing a spark torch igniter for higher ignition reliability and cleaner combustion. On March 3, a successful test of the igniter was conducted using GSLV Cryogenic Upper Stage vernier engine. Further tests will be conducted to improve performance and advance development.

Notes:
The Global Terrorism Index (GTI) 2025 report, published by the Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP), shows a 45% surge in terrorism-related deaths in Pakistan in 2024. Pakistan is now the second-most terrorism-affected country, moving up from fourth place. Terrorism deaths rose from 748 in 2023 to 1,081 in 2024, marking one of the highest global increases. Terrorist attacks more than doubled, from 517 in 2023 to 1,099 in 2024, crossing 1,000 for the first time. A recent attack on Bannu Cantonment in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa killed five soldiers and 13 civilians. The Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) intensified operations, linked to the Afghan Taliban’s rise in Kabul.

Notes:
Dr. Anju Rathi Rana has become the first woman Secretary of the Department of Legal Affairs, Ministry of Law and Justice. Her appointment marks an important step for gender diversity in top government positions. She has represented India at international forums, including the BRICS Ministers of Justice Meeting. She has contributed to legal reforms and gender representation in the judiciary.

Notes:
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.

Notes:
New Delhi is hosting its first-ever World Para-Athletics Grand Prix 2025 at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium. The event takes place from March 11 to March 13, featuring over 280 para-athletes from 20 countries. The tournament includes over 90 competitions with nations like Saudi Arabia, Germany, Australia, Brazil, Nepal, and Japan participating.

Notes:
Oscar-winning actor Gene Hackman died of heart disease shortly after his wife, Betsy Arakawa, passed away from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS). HPS is a rare infectious disease that starts with flu-like symptoms and can cause severe lung and heart issues. It is mainly transmitted by rodents through airborne particles from their urine, droppings, or saliva. Symptoms include fever, fatigue, muscle aches, headaches, and abdominal issues, with a 38% mortality rate if respiratory problems develop. There is no specific treatment, but early medical care can improve survival chances.

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On March 9, 2023, Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare and BJP President Jagat Prakash Nadda launched two welfare schemes for girls in Tripura—Mukhyamantri Balika Samriddhi Yojana and Mukhyamantri Kanya Atmanirbhar Yojana. Under the Balika Samriddhi Yojana, BPL families will receive a Rs 50,000 bond for newborn girls, expected to grow to Rs 10 lakh by the time they turn 18. The Kanya Atmanirbhar Yojana will provide free scooties to 140 meritorious girls in Higher Secondary from all education boards.

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The 54th National Safety Week is being observed across India. It is celebrated annually from March 4 to March 10 to raise awareness about safety precautions in various sectors. This year’s theme is ‘Safety and Well-being Crucial for Viksit Bharat’, emphasizing the role of safety in a developed India.