Daily PIB Quiz – 05 Aug 2025

1. Which of the following statements regarding the inaugural India-New Zealand Defence Strategic Dialogue are correct?

1. The dialogue aimed to enhance bilateral cooperation in areas such as training, capability building, and maritime security.

2. The dialogue was a direct outcome of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in March 2025.

3. Discussions included cooperation on global commons and emerging areas of security concern.

4. The Indian side commended New Zealand’s role in a multinational naval task force, involving Indian Navy personnel.

A. 1, 2 and 3 only
B. 1, 3 and 4 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2, 3 and 4

2. What is the significance of the ‘White Shipping Information Exchange’ discussed during the India-New Zealand Defence Strategic Dialogue?

A. It is a mechanism for sharing information about commercial shipping activity to enhance maritime domain awareness and security.
B. It is a platform for exchanging white papers on defense-related policies and strategies.
C. It is a system for tracking the movement of white-listed vessels in the Indian Ocean region.
D. It facilitates the exchange of information about humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations.

3. The recent elevation of India-Philippines relations to a ‘Strategic Partnership’ encompasses cooperation in which of the following sectors?

A. Defense and security, healthcare, and digital technologies only
B. Trade and commerce, agriculture, and tourism only
C. All sectors mentioned in options a and b
D. None of the above

4. India’s engagement with the Philippines, as described, is significant for which of the following reasons?

A. It primarily focuses on economic benefits for India.
B. It is solely driven by concerns about regional maritime security.
C. It contributes to regional stability and aligns with India’s broader strategic goals in the Indo-Pacific region.
D. It is primarily aimed at countering terrorism in South Asia.

5. The 64th National Exhibition of Art’s initiative to allow the sale of award-winning artworks aligns most directly with which of the following government objectives?

A. Promoting tourism and cultural exchange
B. Enhancing traditional art conservation efforts
C. Strengthening the creative economy and supporting artists
D. Increasing government revenue from art sales

6. Lalit Kala Akademi, the organizer of the NEA, can best be described as:

A. A private art gallery promoting contemporary Indian art
B. An autonomous body under the Ministry of Culture, promoting visual arts in India
C. A non-governmental organization focused solely on preserving traditional Indian art
D. A government department responsible for cultural heritage sites

7. The Offshore Areas Atomic Minerals Operating Rights Rules, 2025, were primarily notified to:

A. Allow private companies to mine thorium.
B. Regulate the exploration of atomic minerals by private entities.
C. Formalize the procedure for granting operating rights for atomic minerals, exclusively to government entities.
D. Amend the 2002 Act to permit foreign investment in atomic mineral exploration.

8. Consider the following statements regarding the legal framework governing atomic minerals in India:

1. The Offshore Areas Mineral (Development and Regulation) Act, 2002, was amended in 2023 to explicitly restrict private participation in atomic mineral exploration.

2. The Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) plays a crucial role in regulating atomic minerals.

3. Media reports suggesting private sector involvement in offshore atomic mineral mining are factually accurate.

(4) Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 only
C. 1, 2 and 3
D. 3 only

9. Which of the following statements regarding the initiatives undertaken by the Ministry of Cooperation are correct?

1. A target has been set to establish 2 lakh multipurpose cooperative societies in 5 years, with significant progress already made.

2. Three national-level cooperative societies have been established to promote the cooperative sector, agriculture, and farmers’ interests.

3. The ministry has established institutional mechanisms like Inter-Ministerial Committees (IMCs) and State Cooperative Development Committees (SDC) for effective implementation and monitoring of initiatives.

4. The National Cooperative Policy-2025 aims to increase milk procurement by 50% in the next five years through White Revolution 2.0.

A. 1 and 2 only
B. 1, 2, and 3 only
C. 1, 2, 3, and 4
D. 2 and 4 only

10. The Ministry of Cooperation’s initiatives aim to strengthen various sectors within the cooperative framework. Which of the following sectors is NOT a primary focus of these initiatives?

A. Dairy cooperatives
B. Fisheries cooperatives
C. Information technology companies
D. Sugar cooperatives

11. Which of the following statements accurately reflects the objectives of the ‘Haat on Wheels’ initiative launched on National Handloom Day?

1. To provide direct market access to handloom weavers, bypassing intermediaries.

2. To promote the concept of ‘vocal for local’ and sustainable fashion.

3. To showcase the diversity of Indian handloom weaves to a wider audience.

4. To generate employment opportunities in the urban textile industry.

A. 1 and 2 only
B. 1, 2, and 3 only
C. 1, 2, 3, and 4
D. 1 and 3 only

12. The 11th National Handloom Day celebrations highlighted which key aspect of India’s handloom sector?

A. The role of technology in modernizing handloom production
B. The export potential of Indian handlooms in the global market
C. The socio-economic importance of handlooms in rural livelihoods and cultural preservation
D. The challenges faced by handloom weavers due to competition from power looms

13. Which of the following government initiatives are directly related to the promotion and preservation of India’s traditional handloom sector?

1. The launch of the ‘Haat on Wheels’ mobile retail initiative.

2. The organization of the Exclusive Handloom Expo showcasing 116 weaves.

3. Financial assistance schemes for handloom artisans.

4. Initiatives to promote the use of synthetic dyes in handloom production.

A. 1, 2, and 3 only
B. 1 and 2 only
C. 2 and 4 only
D. 1, 2, 3, and 4

14. Which of the following statements regarding the Defence Acquisition Council’s (DAC) approvals in August 2025 are correct?

1. The DAC approved procurements totaling approximately Rs 67,000 crore, encompassing upgrades to various defence systems.

2. The Indian Army received approval for enhanced night vision capabilities for its BMP vehicles.

3. The Indian Air Force’s air surveillance capabilities in mountainous regions will be improved through the procurement of mountain radars.

4. The Indian Navy’s anti-submarine warfare capabilities will be strengthened by the procurement of Compact Autonomous Surface Craft.

A. 1 only
B. 1, 2, and 3 only
C. 1, 2, 3, and 4
D. 2 and 4 only

15. The Defence Acquisition Council’s August 2025 approvals focused on enhancing the capabilities of the Indian Armed Forces. Which of the following procurement approvals is NOT directly aimed at improving surveillance or combat capabilities?

A. Upgradation of BARAK-1 Point Defence Missile System
B. Procurement of Mountain Radars
C. Sustenance of C-17 and C-130J fleets
D. Procurement of Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPAs)

16. Considering the August 2025 DAC approvals, which service branch’s procurement focuses most directly on anti-submarine warfare (ASW)?

A. Indian Army
B. Indian Air Force
C. Indian Navy
D. All three services equally

17. Which of the following statements regarding the National Scheme for ITI Upgradation are correct?

1. The scheme aims to upgrade 1000 government ITIs using a hub-and-spoke model.

2. The scheme is entirely funded by the Indian government without any external assistance.

3. State governments play a crucial role in identifying suitable ITI clusters for development under the scheme.

4. The scheme envisions industry-managed skilling institutions, with a focus on integrating education and vocation.

A. 1 and 3 only
B. 1, 3, and 4 only
C. 1 and 4 only
D. 2 and 3 only

18. The National Scheme for ITI Upgradation, launched in May 2025, is primarily focused on which of the following?

(2) a) Enhancing the quality of vocational training provided in government ITIs.

(3) b) Establishing new private ITIs across India.

(4) c) Improving the infrastructure of engineering colleges in India.

(5) d) Promoting entrepreneurship among graduates of engineering colleges.

A. a
B. b
C. c
D. d

19. Which of the following statements regarding the Competition Commission of India’s (CCI) recent approval is/are correct?

1. The CCI has approved the acquisition of Jaiprakash Associates Limited (JAL) by Dalmia Cement (Bharat) Limited.

2. This acquisition is a result of a corporate insolvency resolution process (CIRP) under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016 (IBC).

3. Dalmia Cement (Bharat) Limited is a subsidiary of a company primarily engaged in manufacturing and selling cement.

4. JAL’s business activities are limited solely to the cement sector.

A. 1 and 2 only
B. 1, 2, and 3 only
C. 1, 2, and 4 only
D. 1, 2, 3, and 4

20. The acquisition of Jaiprakash Associates Limited by Dalmia Cement (Bharat) Limited, approved by the CCI, is primarily significant because it exemplifies which of the following aspects of Indian business and regulatory framework?

A. The growing consolidation within the cement industry
B. The effectiveness of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code in resolving corporate distress
C. The increasing role of foreign direct investment in Indian infrastructure
D. The CCI’s proactive approach to promoting competition in the real estate sector

21. With respect to the companies involved in the acquisition approved by the CCI, which of the following statements is correct?

A. Dalmia Cement (Bharat) Limited is the ultimate parent entity of the Dalmia Bharat Group.
B. Jaiprakash Associates Limited (JAL) is primarily engaged in the manufacture and sale of cement.
C. DBL is indirectly involved in the acquisition through its affiliates.
D. The acquisition represents a merger between two companies of equal size and market share.

22. Which of the following statements regarding the Competition Commission of India’s (CCI) recent approval is/are correct?

1. The CCI has approved the acquisition of a significant stake in Theobroma Foods Private Limited.

2. The acquiring entities are solely Indian-based private equity firms.

3. Theobroma Foods operates primarily in the bakery and confectionery sector.

4. The acquisition involves entities associated with the ChrysCapital group.

A. 1 and 3 only
B. 1, 3, and 4 only
C. 1 and 2 only
D. 2 and 4 only

23. The Competition Commission of India’s (CCI) role in the acquisition of Theobroma Foods’ equity shares primarily involves:

A. Ensuring fair market competition is not unduly impacted by the acquisition
B. Regulating the pricing of Theobroma Foods’ products post-acquisition
C. Directly investing in Theobroma Foods to boost its market share
D. Supervising the day-to-day operations of Theobroma Foods after the acquisition

24. Considering the nature of the acquisition and the involved entities, which regulatory aspect is LEAST likely to be a primary focus of the CCI’s review?

A. Market dominance and potential anti-competitive practices
B. Foreign direct investment regulations related to the acquiring entities
C. Compliance with food safety and product standards of Theobroma Foods
D. Impact on consumer prices and market competition in the bakery and confectionery sector

25. The revamped India Cine Hub portal, launched in June 2024, offers which of the following features to streamline the filmmaking process?

A. GIS-based location mapping and common application forms for various states
B. Integrated access to filming permissions, incentives, and resource mapping across levels
C. Crowdsourced content from industry professionals and differentiated workflows
D. All of the above

26. Considering the conference’s discussions, which policy initiatives are aimed at boosting India’s creative economy and film infrastructure?

A. Promoting low-cost cinema halls in underserved areas through modular and mobile cinema models
B. Encouraging participation in film festivals like IFFI and WAVES to showcase regional talent and incentives
C. Developing India’s live entertainment economy by utilizing existing infrastructure and providing policy support
D. All of the above

27. Which of the following statements accurately reflects India’s initiatives to boost its shipbuilding industry and enhance maritime security?

1. The Shipbuilding Financial Assistance Policy (SBFAP) guidelines have been amended to increase participation in shipbuilding.

2. The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) is solely responsible for all aspects of maritime security, including coastal and offshore security.

3. The government has introduced the Green Tug Transition Programme (GTTP) to promote environmentally sustainable tugboat operations.

4. India’s coastal shipping cargo traffic has nearly doubled in the last decade.

A. 1 and 3 only
B. 1, 3, and 4 only
C. 2 and 4 only
D. 1, 2, 3, and 4

28. India’s cargo handling capacity in its ports has shown a consistent increase over the past five years. Which of the following factors is LEAST likely to have contributed significantly to this growth?

A. Increased efficiency in port operations
B. Government policies promoting domestic shipbuilding
C. Growth in India’s import-export trade volume
D. A decline in global shipping rates

29. With reference to the Sagarmala Programme, which of the following statements is/are correct?

1. The programme involves projects worth a total investment of approximately Rs. 5.79 lakh crore.

2. More than half of the Sagarmala projects are currently under implementation or in the development stage.

3. Delays in project implementation are primarily attributed to funding constraints.

4. A National Sagarmala Apex Committee has been established for high-level coordination and policy guidance.

A. 1 and 4 only
B. 1, 2, and 4 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 2 and 3 only

30. Which of the following statements regarding the Jal Marg Vikas Project (JMVP) are correct?

1. JMVP is implemented by the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) with World Bank assistance.

2. The project focuses on augmenting the capacity of National Waterway-1 (NW-1) along the Ganga-Bhagirathi-Hooghly river system.

3. The project has led to a significant increase in cargo movement on NW-1, exceeding 15 million tonnes annually.

4. The project’s infrastructure development includes multimodal terminals, intermodal terminals, and community jetties.

A. 1 and 2 only
B. 1, 2, and 4 only
C. 1, 2, 3, and 4
D. 2 and 3 only

31. Considering the information provided, which statement best reflects the current status of inland waterway development in Uttar Pradesh?

1. Significant investments have been made, leading to substantial growth in cargo movement on major waterways.

2. The state government has fully developed its river infrastructure, eliminating logistical challenges.

3. While progress has been made, there are areas where further development is deemed unfeasible due to various constraints.

4. The state’s inland waterway network is now fully integrated with the national network, ensuring seamless transportation.

A. 1
B. 2
C. 3
D. 4

32. The posthumous award of the Maha Vir Chakra to Captain Chander Narain Singh highlights which of the following aspects of military service?

1. Exceptional bravery in the face of danger.

2. Outstanding leadership during combat operations.

3. Unwavering commitment to duty even in the face of death.

4. Strategic planning and tactical brilliance that led to a decisive victory.

A. 1, 2, and 3 only
B. 1 and 4 only
C. 2 and 4 only
D. 1, 2, 3, and 4

33. The donation of Captain Chander Narain Singh’s medals to the Garhwal Rifles Regimental Centre Museum signifies:

1. The family’s desire to honor his legacy and sacrifice.

2. The preservation of a tangible symbol of military valor for future generations.

3. The strengthening of the bond between the military and the families of fallen soldiers.

4. A formal government decree to display all Maha Vir Chakra medals in designated museums.

A. 1, 2, and 3 only
B. 2 and 4 only
C. 1 and 4 only
D. 4 only

34. Which of the following statements regarding the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) interventions in the microfinance sector are correct?

1. RBI deregulated interest rates on microfinance loans in March 2022 to promote market competition and potentially lower rates.

2. RBI mandates that Regulated Entities (REs) must have a board-approved interest rate policy with transparent components.

3. RBI guidelines require Credit Information Companies (CICs) to submit income and credit data of microfinance borrowers to Credit Institutions (CIs).

A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 only
C. 1 and 2 only
D. 1, 2, and 3

35. The role of Self-Regulatory Organizations (SROs) like Sa-Dhan and MFIN in the Indian microfinance sector includes:

A. Monitoring member compliance with regulations and providing a platform for policy consultations
B. Directly setting interest rate caps for microfinance loans
C. Providing microfinance loans directly to rural borrowers
D. Supervising the activities of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) in the microfinance sector

36. Consider the following measures aimed at protecting microfinance borrowers in India:

1. Capping the total indebtedness of a borrower.

2. Limiting the number of lenders to a single borrower.

3. Mandating a 50% cap on repayment obligations as a percentage of monthly household income.

(4) Which of the above is/are implemented or promoted by regulatory bodies?

A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1, 2, and 3
D. 3 only

37. The state visit of the Philippine President to India resulted in the establishment of a Strategic Partnership. What are the key pillars of this partnership, according to the agreement reached between the two nations?

A. Political and economic cooperation only
B. Defense, security, and economic cooperation only
C. Political, defense, economic, science and technology, connectivity, and cultural cooperation
D. Maritime security and counter-terrorism cooperation only

38. Which of the following statements accurately reflect the key themes discussed at the inaugural Annual Trident Lecture Series?

1. The need for the Indian armed forces to rapidly integrate disruptive technologies into their operational strategies.

2. Emphasis on restructuring existing military hierarchies to better suit modern warfare needs.

3. The importance of incorporating traditional Indian strategic thought into contemporary military doctrines.

4. The urgent need for reforms within the Indian military’s tri-service structure.

A. 1 and 2 only
B. 1, 2, and 3 only
C. 1, 2, 3, and 4
D. 2 and 4 only

39. Which of the following statements regarding the Annual Trident Lecture Series is/are correct?

1. The series aims to foster critical analysis of contemporary warfare and national security.

2. The first General Bipin Rawat Paper on Manned-Unmanned Teaming was released during the inaugural event.

3. The series is a biannual event focused exclusively on technological advancements in warfare.

A. 1 and 2 only
B. 1 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 3 only