Daily Current Affairs Quiz 2025 (17th November, 2025), Check Important Questions Here

Q1. According to the latest announcement by the Ministry of Science & Technology (2025), India has become the world’s ____ largest patent filer.

(A). 4th

(B). 5th

(C). 6th

(D). 8th

Answer: c

Solution:

The correct answer is (c) 6th.
• India filed more than 64,000 patent applications in the latest assessment.
• Over 55% of these applications were filed by resident Indian innovators.
• India’s Global Innovation Index ranking improved from 81st to 38th in recent years.
• The rise reflects growth in start-ups, applied sciences, and innovation-driven sectors.
Information Booster:

• India filed 64,000+ patents as per 2025 data.
55%+ of patent filings came from Indian residents.
• India’s GII rank improved from 81 → 38 globally.
• Start-Up India & innovation policies boosted filing rates.
• Patent filings are critical for India’s knowledge-economy shift.

Q2. Which two beaches from Odisha received the Blue Flag Certification for 2025–26?

(A). Chandrabhaga & Gopalpur

(B). Puri Golden Beach & Sunapur Beach

(C). Paradip & Ramchandi

(D). Talasari & Pati Sonapur

Answer: c

Solution:

The correct answer is: (b) Puri Golden Beach & Sunapur Beach
Explanation:

• Odisha’s Puri Golden Beach received Blue Flag status for the 7th consecutive year.
• Sunapur Beach (Ganjam) received it for the 3rd consecutive year.
• Both beaches were certified for 2025–26 by FEE (Denmark).
Information Booster:

• Blue Flag Programme: Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), Denmark.
• Total Blue Flag beaches in India (2025–26): 13 recognised, 12 certified.
• Criteria: 33 parameters (water quality, waste management, safety).
• Puri Golden Beach = One of India’s most visited pilgrimage beaches.
• Sunapur = Located at confluence of Bahuda River + Bay of Bengal.
Additional Knowledge:

• Chandrabhaga (Odisha) was India’s first Blue Flag beach (2018).
• Blue Flag gives international eco-tourism recognition.
• Facilities include: lifeguards, accessible pathways, zero-liquid discharge systems.

Q3. India will build the world’s deepest underwater laboratory at what depth under the Indian Ocean?

(A). 2,000 metres

(B). 4,500 metres

(C). 6,000 metres

(D). 1,000 metres

Answer: c

Solution:

The correct answer is (c) 6,000 metres.
• India plans to build the world’s deepest underwater research lab at 6,000 m depth by 2047.
• It will be part of Vision 2047 and linked to Deep Ocean Mission.
• A pilot demonstrator module at 500 m depth will precede the full-scale habitat.
Information Booster:

• World’s deepest human-occupied underwater lab: planned by India (6,000 m).
• Current global lab: Aquarius Reef Base (USA – only 19 m).
• Mission supported by: Ministry of Earth Sciences.
• Structure: Titanium & composite pressure hull for 600× atmospheric pressure.
• Part of: Samudrayaan Mission + Deep Ocean Mission.
Additional Knowledge:

• Pilot module will host 3 scientists for over 24 hours.
• Lab will have 360-degree viewing panels, oxygen regulation, docking bays.
• Research focus: deep-sea biodiversity, geology, drug discovery, high-pressure biology.
• Communication: acoustic + fibre-optic systems.
• India aims to lead global marine biotechnology & deep-ocean exploration.

Q4. Garuda-2025, the bilateral air exercise between India and France, is being held at which air base?

(A). Avord Air Base

(B). Istres-Le Tubé Air Base

(C). Mont-de-Marsan Air Base

(D). Landivisiau Air Base

Answer: c

Solution:

The correct answer is: (c) Mont-de-Marsan Air Base
Explanation:

• The Indian Air Force contingent arrived in France for Exercise Garuda-2025.
• The exercise is being conducted at the Mont-de-Marsan Air Base.
• It will take place from 16–27 November 2025 with the French Air & Space Force.
Information Booster:

• Exercise Garuda was first held in 2003.
• It is a biennial India–France bilateral air exercise.
• Indian aircraft participating: Su-30 MKI.
• French aircraft participating: Rafale.
• Focus areas: interoperability, air-combat training, refuelling, tactical manoeuvres.
Additional Knowledge:

Avord Air Base – French Air & Space Force base used mainly for transport and training aircraft.
Istres-Le Tubé Air Base – Known for aerial refuelling operations in France.
Landivisiau Air Base – Main operating base of the French Naval Aviation Rafale-M fleet.

Q5. Shafali Verma has been appointed the Brand Ambassador of which state’s Women’s Commission in 2025?

(A). Uttar Pradesh

(B). Haryana

(C). Rajasthan

(D). Gujarat

Answer: c

Solution:

The correct answer is: (b) Haryana
Explanation:

• Shafali Verma was appointed Brand Ambassador of the Haryana State Women’s Commission.
• Announcement made by CM Nayab Singh Saini in New Delhi.
• She was honoured for her performance in the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 final.
• Received ₹1.5 crore, a ceremonial shawl, and a Grade A sports certificate.
Information Booster:

• Shafali scored 87 runs & took 2 wickets in the 2025 WC final.
• Awarded Player of the Final vs South Africa.
• India won its first-ever ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup in 2025.
• Haryana govt often honours top sportspersons (wrestling, boxing, cricket).
• Role aims at women empowerment & gender equality campaigns.

Q6. India recently emerged as the world’s 6th-largest patent filer with over 64,000 applications. Who announced this achievement?

(A). Nirmala Sitharaman

(B). Dr. Jitendra Singh

(C). Ashwini Vaishnaw

(D). Rajeev Chandrasekhar

Answer: b

Solution:

The correct answer is (b) Dr. Jitendra Singh.
• India became the 6th-largest patent filer globally, with 64,000+ patent applications.
• Over 55% of these filings were by resident Indian innovators, indicating strong domestic R&D growth.
• The announcement was made by Dr. Jitendra Singh, MoS Science & Technology, during a tech-fest in New Delhi.
• India has shown a sharp improvement in the Global Innovation Index, rising from 81st to 38th position.
Information Booster:

• Patent filings reflect intellectual property creation and innovation ecosystem strength.
• India’s rise is linked to Start-Up India, R&D incentives, and easier patent filing norms.
• Patent applications crossed 64,000, placing India in the top innovation economies.
• Resident filing share (>55%) shows India moving from technology consumer to technology creator.
• Patent surge aligns with Atmanirbhar Bharat, Make in India, and innovation-led growth vision.

Q7. Who inaugurated the 30th CII Partnership Summit 2025 held in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh?

(A). Prime Minister Narendra Modi

(B). President Droupadi Murmu

(C). Vice-President C.P. Radhakrishnan

(D). Minister of Commerce & Industry

Answer: c

Solution:

The correct answer is (c) Vice-President C.P. Radhakrishnan.
• He inaugurated the 30th CII Partnership Summit on 14 November 2025 in Visakhapatnam.
• The summit is jointly organised by CII + DPIIT + Government of Andhra Pradesh.
• Theme of 2025 edition: “Technology, Trust and Trade: Navigating the New Geoeconomic Order.”
Information Booster:

• Total delegates: 2,500+ from 77 countries.
• Andhra Pradesh targets USD 0.5 trillion investment and 50 lakh jobs.
• AP CM Chandrababu Naidu announced USD 20 billion investments secured in 17 months.
• Focus sectors: Drones, Electronics, Aerospace, Semiconductors, Defence, Space.
• The summit aligns with India’s global positioning as a technology-driven economy.
Additional Knowledge:

• The CII Partnership Summit was first launched in 1995.
• DPIIT functions under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry.
• Visakhapatnam is being developed as a major investment and industrial hub on the eastern coast.
• C.P. Radhakrishnan became Vice-President of India in 2025.
• Andhra Pradesh promotes “ Speed of Doing Business” through real-time project approvals.

Q8. Which country will jointly host the 2026 FIH Hockey World Cup along with Belgium?

(A). France

(B). Germany

(C). Netherlands

(D). Spain

Answer: c

Solution:

 The correct answer is: (c) Netherlands
Explanation:

• The 2026 FIH Hockey World Cup will be co-hosted by Belgium and the Netherlands.
• The matches will be played at Belfius Hockey Arena (Wavre) and Wagener Stadium (Amsterdam).
• The tournament will take place from 15–30 August 2026.
• Both men’s and women’s events will be held together for the first time.
Information Booster:

• Hosts: Belgium & Netherlands
• Venues: Wavre (Belgium) & Amsterdam (Netherlands)
• Teams: 16 men’s + 16 women’s
• Special Feature: First-ever ParaHockey World Cup
• Format: New dual-group progression model
Additional Knowledge:

• Belgium will host the men’s final.
• Netherlands will host the women’s final.
• Tournament draw scheduled for March 2026.
• Continental championships + playoffs will decide remaining qualified teams.
• Event organised under the FIH (International Hockey Federation).

Q9. Veteran actress Kamini Kaushal, who recently passed away at the age of 98, made her debut with which film that won the Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival?

(A). Do Bhai

(B). Neecha Nagar

(C). Shaheed

(D). Arzoo

Answer: c

Solution:

The correct answer is: (b) Neecha Nagar
Explanation:

• Kamini Kaushal debuted in 1946 with Neecha Nagar.
• The film won the Palme d’Or at the first Cannes Film Festival.
• The film’s global recognition placed Indian cinema on the world map.
Information Booster:

• Neecha Nagar (1946) – directed by Chetan Anand.
• First and only Indian film to win Palme d’Or.
• Cannes Film Festival began in 1946.
• Kamini Kaushal was among India’s earliest naturalistic actresses.
• Active in films for over 70 years.
Additional Knowledge:

• Do Bhai (1947) boosted her early fame.
• Shaheed (1948) highlighted her strong screen presence.
• Arzoo (1965) featured her in a key character role.

Q10. Which traditional Lepcha musical instruments from Sikkim received the GI Tag on 5 November 2025?

(A). Tungbuk and Pumtong Pulit

(B). Sarinda and Algoza

(C). Dotara and Pena

(D). Dhol and Madal

Answer: a

Solution:

The correct answer is (a) Tungbuk and Pumtong Pulit.
• The Government of India granted GI registration to Tungbuk (string instrument) and Pumtong Pulit (bamboo flute) of the Lepcha tribe, Sikkim, on 5 November 2025.
• GI certificates were awarded during the 1st Tribal Business Conclave in New Delhi.
• Applications were filed by Ugen Palzor Lepcha (Tungbuk) and Namgyal Lepcha (Pumtong Pulit).
Information Booster:

GI Tags in India are granted under the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999.
• NABARD, Gangtok provided technical and documentation support for the GI process.
• GI tag protects authenticity, cultural identity, and commercial rights of indigenous products.
• Lepchas are recognized as Sikkim’s primitive tribe with strong eco-spiritual traditions.
• Tungbuk and Pumtong Pulit are classified under GI category: Musical Instruments.
Additional Knowledge:

• GI Registry Headquarters: Chennai.
• First GI in India: Darjeeling Tea (2004).
• Sikkim’s notable earlier GIs: Dalle Khursani, Sikkim Large Cardamom.
• GI tag validity: 10 years, renewable indefinitely.
• Cultural bodies involved in the conclave: Ministry of Culture, Ministry of Tribal Affairs, Ministry of Commerce & Industry.

Which District of Uttar Pradesh is Known as the City of Namkeen?

Many districts in Uttar Pradesh are known for their special food items, traditional industries, and unique identities. One district has become especially famous because of its long history of snack making, where local shops and small factories prepare delicious namkeen enjoyed in many parts of India. This popularity has given the district a well-known nickname connected to its tasty and crunchy snacks.

An Overview of Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh is a large and populous state in northern India, with Lucknow as its capital. Earlier known as the United Provinces, it is famous for its rich culture and spiritual heritage. The state includes holy places like Varanasi, Ayodhya, and Mathura. Located in the Indo-Gangetic plain, it shares borders with many Indian states and also with Nepal.

City of Namkeen in Uttar Pradesh

The district known as the “City of Namkeen” in Uttar Pradesh is Farrukhabad. This nickname comes from the district’s strong namkeen-making tradition, which has continued for generations.

Why Farrukhabad is Known as the City of Namkeen?

Farrukhabad has been preparing namkeen for nearly 200 years. The district is especially famous for dalmoth, a spicy and crunchy snack made with lentils and special spices. This namkeen is not only popular in Uttar Pradesh but is also sent to many other states because of its unique taste. Many small factories and local shops here are fully dedicated to namkeen production, making it an important part of the district’s identity.

What makes Farrukhabad’s Namkeen Special?

  • The recipes used in Farrukhabad have been passed down through families for decades.
  • Dalmoth from this district has a distinct flavor that makes it different from namkeen made elsewhere.
  • Even well-known personalities, including former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, enjoyed namkeen from Farrukhabad, adding to its fame.

What is Umrah? Know About Its Meaning, History and Significance

Umrah is a special form of worship that Muslims perform by travelling to the holy city of Makkah. It is often called the “minor pilgrimage” because it is not compulsory like Hajj, but it holds great value in Islam. Muslims perform specific rituals near the Ka’aba to seek forgiveness, strengthen their faith, and feel spiritually refreshed. Many people travel from around the world to experience this peaceful and blessed journey.

Meaning of Umrah

Umrah is a short pilgrimage that brings Muslims closer to Allah. It involves simple but meaningful actions like entering a state of purity, walking around the Ka’aba, and praying. Even though it is not obligatory, it is considered a very rewarding act of worship.

History of Umrah

The history of Umrah goes back to the time of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). He wished to perform Umrah with his companions, but they were initially stopped by the people of Makkah. After peaceful negotiations, a treaty was signed which allowed the Muslims to perform Umrah the following year. Since then, millions of Muslims continue to follow this blessed practice.

Why Umrah is Important?

Umrah carries deep spiritual meaning. It is a chance to leave behind daily worries and focus only on Allah. Pilgrims make du’a, ask for forgiveness, and reflect on their lives. The Prophet (PBUH) encouraged Muslims to perform Umrah because it helps wash away sins and brings peace to the heart.

Rewards of Performing Umrah

Umrah is known for its great rewards. It wipes away past sins, increases blessings in wealth, and strengthens a person’s iman. The Prophet (PBUH) taught that the reward of Umrah done in Ramadan is equal to the reward of Hajj. It is also said that those who perform Umrah are guests of Allah, and He grants them what they ask for.

How to Perform Umrah?

Umrah follows a simple sequence of steps:

1. Entering Ihram: Pilgrims make their intention and wear special clothing called Ihram.

2. Tawaf: They walk around the Ka’aba seven times while remembering Allah.

3. Praying at Maqam Ibrahim: After completing Tawaf, pilgrims offer two units of prayer.

4. Drinking Zamzam: Pilgrims drink the blessed Zamzam water.

5. Sa’i: They walk between the hills of Safa and Marwa seven times.

6. Cutting Hair: Men shave or trim their hair, while women cut a small portion. This ends the state of Ihram.

Umrah vs. Hajj

Though both pilgrimages take place in Makkah, they are different:

  • Umrah can be done anytime and takes only a few hours.
  • Hajj happens only in Dhul Hijjah and is mandatory once in a lifetime for those who are able.
  • Hajj includes more rituals and takes several days.

Travelling for Umrah

Many people book Umrah packages because they include visas, hotels, and travel arrangements. Some prefer to plan everything themselves by applying for a Saudi visa, booking flights, and choosing hotels near the Haram in Makkah.

Basic Rules for Performing Umrah

To perform Umrah, a person must:

  • Be a Muslim
  • Be mature and mentally sound
  • Be physically able to travel
  • Have enough money for the trip
  • Hold a valid passport and follow visa rules
  • Ensure safe travel arrangements

RBI’s 10 % Tier‑I Cap on Acquisition Financing: Banks Seek More Flexibility

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has stirred the financial sector with a draft proposal allowing banks to finance corporate acquisitions—domestically and internationally. While this marks a significant policy shift aimed at enabling Indian companies to scale strategically, the framework has triggered debates. With a cap on acquisition financing exposure set at 10% of a bank’s Tier-I capital, and a 30% equity contribution mandate from the acquiring firm, many bankers believe the proposed limits may hinder the very intent of driving bold mergers and acquisitions.

What is the New Framework?

The RBI’s draft circular opens a formal path for banks to finance Indian firms acquiring controlling stakes in other companies, with strict guidelines in place,

  • Banks may fund up to 70% of the acquisition deal, provided the acquiring company contributes 30% in equity.
  • The acquiring firm must be listed and profitable for three years, with a satisfactory net worth.
  • Bank exposure for acquisition financing is capped at 10% of Tier-I capital, maintaining conservative lending norms.
  • Overall capital market exposure is also limited: 20% for direct, and 40% for combined (direct + indirect) exposures.
  • Valuation safeguards, debt-equity ratio caps (3:1), and secure collateral (usually the target company’s shares) are mandated.

Why Bankers Say the 10% Cap is Restrictive

While the initiative is widely welcomed, several industry insiders suggest the regulations may limit actual execution on large or strategic deals,

  • 10% of Tier-I capital could prove too tight for large banks involved in major infrastructure or overseas acquisitions.
  • The requirement that 30% equity must be contributed by the acquiring company is seen as restrictive if only common equity is accepted.
  • Bankers suggest that other capital instruments—preference shares, convertible debentures, and hybrid securities—should also count as equity to ease structuring.
  • Without broader recognition of such instruments, many large deals may look elsewhere for funding, including overseas private equity or NBFCs.

Opportunities

  • Banks can now directly participate in M&A financing, driving deeper engagement with corporate clients.
  • Offers corporates a regulated route to raise acquisition funds without depending heavily on offshore or shadow banking.
  • Expands bank credit books into higher-margin segments with strategic relevance.

Challenges

  • M&A deals are complex—valuation risks, post-deal integration, and cash flow uncertainties remain key concerns.
  • A narrow definition of “equity” may reduce transaction flexibility and slow approval processes.
  • Conservative exposure caps could delay India’s ambitions to create global-scale conglomerates.

Relevance for Policy Watchers

The new proposal is highly relevant for aspirants preparing for competitive exams, particularly in economics, banking, and governance,

  • It marks a paradigm shift in RBI’s stance on M&A financing, which had been restricted since 2006.
  • Expected to be finalized and implemented from April 1, 2026.
  • Requires understanding of key financial terms like Tier-I capital, capital market exposure, acquisition leverage, and hybrid capital instruments.

42 Indians Dead In Bus–Tanker Collision Near Medina

A devastating road accident near Medina in Saudi Arabia has claimed the lives of at least 42 Indian nationals, most of whom were Umrah pilgrims from Hyderabad. The bus, traveling from Mecca to Medina, collided with a diesel tanker around 1:30 am IST near Mufrihat, causing a massive fire that left the vehicle completely charred. With identification challenges, emergency responses underway, and government coordination intensifying, the incident has triggered widespread grief and urgent action from authorities in India and Saudi Arabia.

Overview of the Accident

A bus carrying Umrah pilgrims met with a catastrophic collision near Medina.

Key Points

  • The collision occurred around 1:30 am IST.
  • Location: Near Mufrihat, on the route from Mecca to Medina.
  • The bus collided with a diesel tanker and immediately caught fire.
  • At least 42 of the victims were Indian nationals, many from Hyderabad, Telangana.
  • Around 45 deaths are feared in total.

Passengers and Impact

The tragedy struck while many passengers were asleep, offering little chance of escape.

Details

  • Passengers were returning after completing Umrah rituals in Mecca.
  • Reports indicate many women and children among the deceased.
  • The bus became fully charred, complicating identification.
  • One survivor, Mohd Abdul Shoiab, has been hospitalized; condition unknown.

Rescue and Emergency Response

Local Saudi authorities and emergency teams responded immediately.

Key Points

  • Rescue teams faced difficulty due to the intense fire.
  • Identification of bodies is proving challenging due to severe burns.
  • Medical aid and evacuation procedures are ongoing.

Travel Agencies and Victim Details

Reports indicate that several victims had traveled through Hyderabad-based agencies.

Key Points

  • At least 16 pilgrims were associated with Al-Meena Hajj and Umrah Travels.
  • Others were traveling through another Hyderabad-based agency.
  • Verification of identities is ongoing.

Reactions from Indian Leaders

Prime Minister Narendra Modi

  • Expressed deep sorrow and condolences.
  • Assured that Indian officials in Riyadh and Jeddah are providing full assistance.
  • Confirmed close coordination with Saudi authorities.

Asaduddin Owaisi

  • Stated that 42 Umrah pilgrims were on the bus.
  • In contact with embassy officials for continuous updates.
  • Requested the government to bring back the bodies and ensure medical care for survivors.

Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar

  • Said he was “deeply shocked” by the tragedy.
  • Stated that Indian missions are giving the fullest support to families.

Sheikh Hasina Sentenced to Death: Bangladesh’s Political Earthquake

The political landscape of Bangladesh has been shaken by a historic verdict delivered by the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT). Former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, ousted after a massive student uprising that led to the fall of her government, has been sentenced to death for crimes against humanity. The trial, conducted in Hasina’s absence, has drawn criticism and allegations of political vendetta.

Background of the Case

Sheikh Hasina, a dominant figure in Bangladesh’s politics for decades, found herself at the center of controversy following the student-led mass protests that unfolded last year. These protests escalated into a nationwide uprising, ultimately leading to the collapse of her administration.

Key Points

  • Hasina served as Prime Minister for multiple terms.
  • Student protests escalated into a national movement.
  • Her government was toppled following civil unrest.

The International Crimes Tribunal Verdict

The ICT announced the death sentence after months of proceedings. The charges centered around alleged crimes against humanity committed during the unrest preceding her ouster.

Charges Included

  • Killing of multiple individuals during the student uprising
  • Crimes against humanity during the turbulence that preceded her removal from office
  • Alleged misuse of power during her tenure

Sheikh Hasina’s Response

Sheikh Hasina rejected the verdict outright, calling it politically motivated and biased.

Hasina’s Claims

  • The ruling interim government, led by Muhammad Yunus, influenced the verdict.
  • The trial was conducted in her absence, which she claims reflects unfair procedures.
  • She accused the government of targeting her for political reasons.

Role of the Interim Government

After her removal from office, an interim administration headed by Muhammad Yunus took control. The verdict has intensified debates over whether the judiciary maintained independence during the politically volatile period.

Key Observations

  • Interim government oversaw legal proceedings.
  • Political environment remained unstable post-uprising.
  • The verdict may have deep political consequences for Bangladesh.

Implications for Bangladesh’s Future

The sentencing of a former Prime Minister is a monumental event with long-term consequences.

Possible Impacts

  • Intensified political polarization
  • Public unrest or protests from supporters
  • A shift in Bangladesh’s democratic framework
  • Global attention on the nation’s judicial and political processes

Takeaways

  • Sheikh Hasina has been sentenced to death by the International Crimes Tribunal for crimes against humanity.
  • The verdict is linked to last year’s student uprising that brought down her government.
  • The trial took place in Hasina’s absence, raising concerns about fairness.
  • Hasina claims the ruling is politically motivated and influenced by the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus.
  • The decision marks a critical moment in Bangladesh’s political history with potentially far-reaching consequences.
  • The verdict may intensify political tensions and spark domestic and international reactions.

Centre Targets Awarding 10,000 km of National Highway Projects in FY 2026

The Union government, through the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways (MoRTH), has set a target to award 10,000 km of national highway (NH) projects in the financial year 2025‑26 (FY 2026), aiming to reverse a downward trend in project awards over recent years.

Current Trend and the Recovery Target

  • The volume of fresh NH project awards has dipped: from roughly 12,000 km in FY 2023 to about 7,500 km in FY 2024, and further down to approximately 6,000 km in FY 2025.
  • With the new target of 10,000 km in FY 2026, the ministry plans to restore momentum and push ahead with highway infrastructure growth.
  • The focus is not only on quantity (km) but also quality, speed of award, and enabling smoother execution of awarded contracts.

Why This Matters

  • Connectivity & Growth: National highways are vital for linking economic hubs, improving logistics efficiency, and supporting regional development.
  • Infrastructure Push: The target signals the government’s strong commitment to infrastructure for jobs, GDP growth, and transport efficiency.
  • Execution Challenges: Awarding projects is the first step—realising construction, land acquisition, environmental clearances and quality outcomes remain key.
  • Industry Impact: Contractors, developers and ancillary industries (steel, cement, equipment) stand to benefit from higher award volumes.

Key Considerations & Challenges

  • Right‑of‑Way (RoW) & Clearances: In many cases awards are delayed due to land acquisition, forest/clearance issues—remedying these remains critical.
  • Funding & Monetisation: Infrastructure funding (via toll‑operate‑transfer bundles, asset monetisation, InvITs) will need to scale alongside project awards.
  • Execution Speed: Rapid awarding must translate into timely construction and hand‑over; past bottlenecks (monsoon delays, contractor constraints) must be managed.
  • Sustainability and Quality: Awards should include environmental safeguards, maintenance provisions and future‑proofing (expressways, high‑speed corridors).

Key Static Facts for Competitive Exams

  • Target for FY 2025‑26: Awarding 10,000 km of national highway projects.
  • Previous Award Levels: ~12,000 km in FY 2023; ~7,500 km in FY 2024; ~6,000 km in FY 2025.
  • Ministry: Ministry of Road Transport & Highways (MoRTH), Government of India.
  • Significance: Indicates renewed focus on infrastructure, especially highways, under national policy framework.

How Many Districts of Rajasthan Share an International Border?

Rajasthan is India’s largest state, situated in the northwest region. It touches the international border, which makes several of its districts important for security, trade, and cultural exchange. These areas include wide desert landscapes, famous historical places, and significant military setups. The communities living here follow a distinct way of life influenced by the region’s traditions, environment, and interactions across the border.

An Overview of Rajasthan

Rajasthan is the largest state in India, covering 342,239 square kilometers. It is the northwest of the country and has the vast Thar Desert. Rajasthan shares its border with Pakistan and five Indian states: Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat. The Tropic of Cancer passes through its southern part. It is India’s seventh-largest state by population and has a rich cultural heritage.

Number of Districts of Rajasthan

Rajasthan is divided into 50 districts. These districts help in better administration and development. Each district has its own unique culture, history and geography. Some districts are in deserts, while others have fertile lands and historical sites.

Number of District of Rajasthan that share an International Border

Rajasthan has 4 districts that share an international border. These districts are located along the western side of the state. They play an important role in security, trade and culture due to their proximity to the border.

Districts that Share an International Border

A total of four districts in Rajasthan share a border with Pakistan. These districts are:

  • Jaisalmer
  • Barmer
  • Sri Ganganagar
  • Bikaner

Significance of These Districts

These districts of Rajasthan are important for security, as they have military bases protecting India’s boundary. They also support trade between India and Pakistan. The culture of these areas is influenced by both countries, with shared traditions and languages. Additionally, these districts have desert landscapes, historical sites, and important defense infrastructure.

Which is the Only Indian State which has Two IIT Institutes?

India’s top engineering colleges are the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs). These institutes provide excellent education, research opportunities and great job prospects. Most Indian states have only one IIT, but one special state has two. This makes it a key center for learning and innovation. IITs play an important role in shaping India’s future by producing skilled engineers and inventors. In this article, we will explore this unique state with two IITs.

Number of IIT Institutes in India

IITs are India’s top engineering institutes, known for producing excellent engineers, researchers and entrepreneurs. There are 23 IITs across the country, each offering high-quality education, advanced research facilities and great job opportunities for students. These institutes play a key role in technological growth.

The Only Indian State with the Two IITs

Uttar Pradesh is the only state in India that has two IITs: IIT Kanpur and IIT BHU Varanasi. IIT Kanpur is known for its excellent engineering programs, while IIT BHU is one of the oldest and most respected institutes in the country. Both IITs provide high-quality education, advanced research opportunities, and help strengthen India’s progress in science and technology.

Know About IIT Kanpur

The Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IIT Kanpur) is a prestigious public engineering institute in Uttar Pradesh, India. It was declared an Institute of National Importance under the Institutes of Technology Act. Known for its academic excellence. IIT Kanpur ranks among India’s top institutions. The PK Keller Library is a key feature of the campus. By January 2025, the institute has produced 17 Padma Shri, 4 Padma Bhushan, 1 Padma Vibhushan and 33 Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Prize winners.

An Overview of IIT BHU Varanasi

The Indian Institute of Technology (Banaras Hindu University) Varanasi (IIT-BHU) is a public technical university in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. It was founded in 1919 as Banaras Engineering College, became Institute of Technology, BHU in 1968 and was designated as IIT in 2012. The institute has 16 departments, 3 inter-disciplinary schools and a Humanities & Social Sciences Section. It is located inside the Banaras Hindu University (BHU) Campus, offering world-class education and research.

Who is Known as Desert Fox?

Many great military leaders in history earned special names because of their unique skills and achievements. One such leader became famous for his smart battle tactics in the hot, dry deserts during World War II. His clever strategies and quick movements made him a strong and respected commander. Because of his success in desert warfare, he was given a special title that is still remembered today.

Who is Known as Desert Fox?

Field Marshal Erwin Rommel was a famous German commander during World War II. He became known as “The Desert Fox” because of his smart and successful battle tactics in the North African desert. Many soldiers admired him for his brave leadership and strategic skills. Later, he was connected to a plan against Adolf Hitler, and in October 1944, he was forced to take his own life.

What is Meant by “Desert Fox”?

The name “Desert Fox” refers to someone who is clever, fast, and skilled in desert warfare. It was famously given to Erwin Rommel, a German general in World War II, for his clever military strategies in North Africa. The term combines “Desert” (hot, dry battlefield) and “Fox” (a clever, fast animal).

Who was Erwin Rommel?

Erwin Rommel was a German field marshal during World War II. He was famous for his military skills and was nicknamed “The Desert Fox” for his victories in North Africa. Although he supported Adolf Hitler at first, he was later linked to a plot to assassinate Hitler. To avoid a trial and protect his family, he was forced to commit suicide. Rommel remains a debated figure in history.

Role of Erwin Rommel in World War II

Rommel became famous during World War II. In February 1941, he was sent to North Africa to lead the German forces. His brilliant strategies and surprise attacks helped Germany win many battles in the desert. This is how he earned the title “The Desert Fox.”

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