Current Affairs Quiz - March 2025

Notes:
Scientists confirmed the existence of a fourth form of water, Plastic Ice VII, which forms under extreme conditions. Unlike regular ice, Plastic Ice VII allows water molecules to rotate freely within a rigid crystalline structure. It was first predicted in 2008 and recently proven using neutron-scattering experiments in France. It forms at pressures over 3 GPa (30,000 times Earth’s atmospheric pressure) and temperatures above 450 K (177°C). This discovery helps scientists understand water’s behavior in extreme planetary environments, such as Jupiter’s and Saturn’s moons. It could impact planetary science, materials research, and advanced technology development.

Notes:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi received Mauritius’ highest civilian honor, The Grand Commander of the Order of the Star and Key of the Indian Ocean (GCSK). The award ceremony took place in Port Louis, highlighting India-Mauritius strong diplomatic and cultural ties. This is PM Modi’s 21st international accolade, marking global recognition of his leadership. He dedicated the honor to Indian ancestors who migrated to Mauritius and to all Indians. PM Modi reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening India-Mauritius strategic relations. He also presented the Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card to Mauritius’ President and First Lady, strengthening cultural ties. His participation in global events reflects India’s rising international influence.

Notes:
The 6th edition of the Coordinated Patrol (CORPAT) and the 4th edition of the bilateral exercise ‘BONGOSAGAR’ between the Indian Navy and the Bangladesh Navy commenced on March 10, 2025. The naval exercises are being conducted in the designated maritime areas of the Bay of Bengal, near the Bangladesh and Indian maritime borders. These exercises are being held under the supervision of Commander Flotilla West and aim to enhance maritime security, strengthen cooperation, and combat various criminal activities at sea.

Notes:
Delhi launched solar-hybrid river cruises on the Yamuna River, covering a 22 km stretch between Sonia Vihar and Jagatpur. The initiative promotes eco-friendly tourism, reduces carbon emissions, and enhances sustainable urban mobility. The Yamuna River originates from the Yamunotri Glacier in the Himalayas at 4,421 meters altitude.

Notes:
The Department of Pharmaceuticals organized an industry dialogue in Mumbai on the Pharma MedTech sector (PRIP) Scheme to boost R&D and innovation in the Pharma-MedTech sector. The event brought together industry leaders, research institutes (ICMR, CSIR, NIPERs), and associations to discuss collaborations and industry-academia partnerships. The PRIP Scheme, launched by the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, aims to make India a global leader in Pharma-MedTech R&D.

Notes:
Hockey Jharkhand won the 15th Hockey India Senior Women National Championship 2025, defeating Hockey Haryana 4-3 in a shootout after a 1-1 draw in regulation time. Pramodni Lakra (44′) scored for Hockey Jharkhand, while Captain Rani (42′) netted for Hockey Haryana. The match was closely contested, with both teams missing penalty corner opportunities in the first half. In the shootout, Rajni Kerketta, Nirali Kujur, Binima Dhan, and Captain Alebla Rani Toppo scored for Hockey Jharkhand. Goalkeeper Anjali Bhinjia made two crucial saves, securing the victory. Hockey Mizoram won the bronze medal, defeating Hockey Maharashtra 2-1.

Notes:
The Union Home Minister addressed the 57th annual conference of the All Bodo Students’ Union (ABSU) in Kokrajhar, Assam. He highlighted the success of the Bodo Peace Accord (2020). The accord aimed to bring peace and stability to Bodo-dominated areas, especially the Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR). It was signed by the Government of India, the Assam Government, and Bodo organizations, including the National Democratic Front of Bodoland (NDFB). Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC) was renamed BTR with greater autonomy. Non-Bodo villages in BTC were excluded. BTC’s powers were expanded under the Sixth Schedule. Bodo was recognized as an associate official language of Assam.

Notes:
The 353rd Governing Body meeting of the International Labour Organisation (ILO) is being held in Geneva, Switzerland, from March 10 to 20, 2025. Representatives from governments, workers, and employers discuss key labour and employment policies. India’s delegation, led by Sumita Dawra, Secretary, Ministry of Labour and Employment, highlighted India’s labour welfare and employment efforts. India supported the UN-led Second World Summit for Social Development in Doha, Qatar. India has doubled its social protection coverage to 48.8%, exceeding the global average by 5%.

Notes:
ISRO and Semiconductor Laboratory (SCL) developed two indigenous 32-bit microprocessors, Vikram 3201 and Kalpana 3201, for space applications. Vikram 3201 is India’s first fully indigenous microprocessor for launch vehicles, handling up to 4 GB memory with floating-point support. It advances the 16-bit Vikram 1601 used since 2009. Kalpana 3201 is a 32-bit SPARC V8 RISC processor, compatible with open-source tools and tested with flight software. Both microprocessors were validated in space during the PSLV-C60 mission. Other devices developed include a Reconfigurable Data Acquisition System and Low Drop-out Regulator IC.

Notes:
Union Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports and Labour & Employment, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya inaugurated the National Dope Testing Laboratory (NDTL) Annual Conference-2025 in New Delhi. The theme of the conference is “Anti-Doping Science: Innovations and Challenges”. The event brings together scientists, coaches, physical education professionals, sports federations, and students. Discussions focus on advancements and challenges in anti-doping science. It highlights the role of scientific innovation in doping detection. The conference addresses the evolving nature of prohibited substances and emphasizes collaborative efforts to maintain sports integrity.