India Current Affairs [Nation & States] MCQs

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Kavach 4.0 is an advanced automatic train protection system developed by Research Design and Standards Organization (RDSO) of Indian Railways to enhance safety and efficiency in train operations. This system aims to prevent accidents by minimizing human error through technology-driven solutions. All locomotives with the previous Kavach version will be upgraded to the new 4.0 version. The North Frontier Railway network, covering 1,966 kilometers from Malda Town to Dibrugarh, is the first area for Kavach 4.0 implementation.

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Odisha CM Mohan Charan Majhi declared unseasonal rain a natural calamity. The decision aims to compensate farmers for crop damage using the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF). Farmers with 33% or more crop loss will receive assistance as per the relief code. About ₹291.59 crore in aid will be provided to 6,66,720 affected farmers. Unseasonal rain damaged crops on 2,26,791 hectares of agricultural land between December 20-28. The announcement was made at the ‘Krushi Odisha Conclave’ 2025 in Bhubaneswar.

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The Miyawaki Technique, developed by Japanese botanist Akira Miyawaki, accelerates forest growth by planting native species closely together. This method enhances biodiversity, improves soil quality, and creates lush green spaces even in urban areas. In Prayagraj, over 1.2 lakh trees of various species have been planted using this technique, contributing to better air quality and environmental conservation ahead of the Mahakumbh 2025. The dense forests help absorb carbon, reduce pollution, and restore ecological balance, showcasing an effective approach to urban greening and sustainability.

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The Twipra Student Federation (TSF) protested in Agartala, demanding the Roman script for the Kokborok language. Kokborok is the language of the Borok people, officially recognized in Tripura on January 19, 1979. It is a Sino-Tibetan language with roots traced back to the 1st century AD. Historical records of Tripuri kings in Raj Ratnakar were written in Kokborok. The term “Kokborok” combines Kok (verbal) and Borok (people). As of the 2011 Census, 8,80,537 people in Tripura speak Kokborok, comprising 23.97% of the state’s population.

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Siachen Glacier now has 4G and 5G services provided by an Indian telecom firm. It is a piedmont glacier in the Karakoram Range, part of the “Third Pole,” containing vast freshwater reserves. It is the world’s second-longest nonpolar glacier after Fedchenko Glacier in Tajikistan. Known as the highest battleground, India gained control in 1984 under Operation Meghdoot.

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The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) launched the Sanchar Saathi mobile app on January 17, 2025, to report fraudulent communications directly from call logs. The app builds on the Sanchar Saathi portal, launched in May 2023, aimed at combating fraud calls and improving mobile security. Users can check and manage mobile connections, disconnect unauthorized ones, and verify device authenticity. The app supports the government’s broader goal of enhancing mobile network accessibility and security for Indian users.

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For the first time, a tri-services tableau will feature at the 76th Republic Day Parade on January 26, 2025. The tableau’s theme is “Shashakt aur Surakshit Bharat” (Empowered and Secure India), showcasing joint operations between the Army, Navy, and Air Force. It will highlight key defence platforms like Arjun Tank, Tejas MKII, Advanced Light Helicopter, INS Visakhapatnam, and a Remotely Piloted Aircraft. The tableau reflects India’s aim for ‘Aatmanirbharta’ (self-reliance) in defence.

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The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) recently set up a new Regional Office in Varanasi. IWAI, established under the Inland Waterways Authority of India Act (1985), focuses on developing and maintaining Inland Water Transport infrastructure on national waterways. It receives grants from the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways. The headquarters is in Noida, Uttar Pradesh, with regional offices in Guwahati, Patna, Kochi, Bhubaneswar, and Kolkata. The Varanasi office will oversee development works on the Ganga and its tributaries in Uttar Pradesh, including rivers like Betwa, Chambal, and Gomti.

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Barmer District launched the ‘MY NREGA App’ to improve the MNREGA process, allowing workers to apply for jobs digitally from home. The app eliminates the need for workers to visit Gram Panchayats, streamlining employment requests and reducing delays. The app allows family members to apply on behalf of others and provides real-time tracking of applications. MNREGA workers, especially women, actively participated in the app’s launch. It is being tested in five Gram Panchayats before a district-wide rollout. The app promotes digitization, efficiency, and transparency in rural welfare programs.

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The Ministry of Ayush launched the “Shatavari – For Better Health” campaign to promote awareness of medicinal plants. It was inaugurated by Shri Prataprao Jadhav, Minister of State (Independent Charge), Ministry of Ayush. The campaign is led by the National Medicinal Plants Board (NMPB), which has previously promoted Amla, Moringa, Giloe, and Ashwagandha. Financial assistance of ₹18.9 lakh will support eligible organizations in promoting Shatavari. The initiative strengthens India’s focus on traditional medicine and holistic well-being.