Science & Technology Current Affairs MCQs

Notes:
West Nile Virus (WNV) has been detected for the first time in mosquitoes in the United Kingdom, as confirmed by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA). The virus was found in Aedes vexans mosquitoes from wetlands near the River Idle in Nottinghamshire during July 2023 under the Vector-Borne RADAR surveillance program. WNV spreads mainly between birds and mosquitoes but can occasionally infect humans and horses. Most human cases show no symptoms, but about 20% may have flu-like symptoms. In rare cases, WNV can cause serious brain conditions like encephalitis or meningitis. The current public health risk is very low, with no widespread transmission found.

Notes:
At the I/O Developers Conference 2025, Google launched its AI-first restructuring strategy called AI Matryoshka. AI Matryoshka is a multi-layered artificial intelligence ecosystem where Google’s core AI acts like the central brain, similar to a Matryoshka doll. It is built around Gemini 2.5 models and aims to change how users, developers, and enterprises interact with technology. This system powers everything from Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) to user-facing apps. The goal is to deeply embed AI across all Google platforms and create smart, autonomous systems that respond in real time.

Notes:
On May 23, 2025, Chennai-based startup Agnikul Cosmos successfully test-fired India’s first electric motor-driven semi-cryogenic engine. This marks a major step for private players in advancing Indian space technology. The engine uses electric motors instead of traditional gas generators to power fuel pumps, allowing precise thrust control and quick response. It runs on semi-cryogenic propulsion using liquid oxygen (LOX) and refined kerosene, balancing performance and cost. This innovation boosts engine reliability and suits future sub-orbital missions.

Notes:
On May 27, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled Indian Railways’ first 9,000 Horsepower (HP) electric locomotive engine in Dahod, Gujarat. This was part of his two-day Gujarat visit to launch projects worth over ₹24,000 crore in Dahod, Bhuj, and Gandhinagar. The locomotive was manufactured under the ‘Make in India’ initiative at the Dahod rolling stock workshop. The workshop’s foundation was laid in 2022 and built in just three years with an investment of ₹21,405 crore. The engine can haul 4,600 tonnes of freight and the facility can produce 120 locomotives annually, expandable to 150. Around 1,200 engines will be manufactured over the next decade for both domestic and export purposes.

Notes:
Recently, three new startups were selected to build India’s own Foundation Model under the IndiaAI Mission, marking a big step in boosting local Artificial Intelligence (AI) capabilities. The IndiaAI Mission was launched in 2023 as a joint effort by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) and the National Association of Software and Service Companies (NASSCOM). It supports startups and researchers by providing access to high-end computing power. The mission promotes “Making AI in India” by developing AI technologies locally.

Notes:
Recently, India’s first agentic Artificial Intelligence (AI) named Kruti was launched by the startup Krutrim. It is a next-generation Generative AI (GenAI) tool that goes beyond just providing information. Kruti can act independently to manage complex tasks, make decisions, and solve problems for users and organizations. It uses advanced reasoning and step-by-step planning to handle multi-layered challenges without constant human input. It processes large amounts of data from various sources to create strategies and complete tasks on its own.

Notes:
The Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT) recently launched the ‘Samarth’ Incubation Program to support startups in the Telecom and Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector. C-DOT is an autonomous telecom research and development institution under the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Government of India. The program offers financial grants, advanced technical resources, and expert guidance to help startups grow from idea stage to commercial success. It focuses on building sustainable and scalable business models.

Notes:
Adani Group has recently commissioned India’s first off-grid 5 megawatt (MW) green hydrogen pilot plant in Kutch, Gujarat. The plant has been developed by Adani New Industries Limited (ANIL), which is the clean energy arm of Adani Enterprises Limited. An off-grid green hydrogen plant produces hydrogen using electrolysis powered entirely by renewable sources like solar or wind and is not connected to the main power grid. This plant runs fully on solar energy and includes a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) for continuous operation.

Notes:
Recently, India’s Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla made history by piloting the Axiom-4 mission aboard SpaceX’s Dragon capsule from Kennedy Space Center, Florida. He became the first Indian in 41 years to cross the Kármán line after Rakesh Sharma’s spaceflight in 1984. Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Shukla and called him the first Indian en route to the International Space Station (ISS). This marks a major milestone for India in human spaceflight and international space collaboration.

Notes:
Recently, Software Technology Parks of India (STPI) announced it is repositioning itself to lead the next wave of digital transformation across the country. STPI was established in 1991 as an autonomous society under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY). It promotes software exports and implements the Software Technology Park (STP) and Electronics Hardware Technology Park (EHTP) schemes to support the IT/ITES sector. STPI facilitates software development, export procedures, and ensures compliance with customs and foreign exchange regulations.