1. India’s first “AI City” will be established in which location?
A) Gurugram
B) Hyderabad
C) Bengaluru (Bidadi)
D) Pune
Answer
C) Bengaluru (Bidadi)
Explanation: The Government of India has announced plans to build its first AI City in Bidadi, Bengaluru, with an investment of ₹2 lakh crore. This will serve as a hub for AI innovation, startups, and green technologies, boosting Karnataka’s position as a tech capital.
2. Which institute topped the NIRF 2025 rankings in both Overall and Engineering categories?
A) IIT Delhi
B) IISc Bengaluru
C) IIT Bombay
D) IIT Madras
Answer
D) IIT Madras
Explanation: IIT Madras retained its top position in both the Overall and Engineering categories in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) 2025. IISc Bengaluru ranked second overall, showing IIT Madras’ consistent excellence in research and innovation.
3. From which date has the government allowed ethanol production from sugarcane juice, syrup, and molasses to support the 20% blending target in petrol?
A) October 1, 2025
B) November 1, 2025
C) December 1, 2025
D) September 22, 2025
Answer
B) November 1, 2025
Explanation: The ethanol production policy is aimed at reducing India’s fuel import dependence by enabling 20% ethanol blending with petrol. This measure also supports sugarcane farmers and the biofuel economy.
4. The 10-year benchmark bond yield rose to what percentage, increasing the cost of government borrowing?
A) 6.25%
B) 6.30%
C) 6.4651%
D) 6.50%
Answer
C) 6.4651%
Explanation: A rise in bond yields means the government has to pay higher interest when borrowing funds. This is a crucial macroeconomic indicator relevant for UPSC Economy preparation.
5. Which state announced cashless medical treatment for all teachers in September 2025?
A) Maharashtra
B) Uttar Pradesh
C) Gujarat
D) Bihar
Answer
B) Uttar Pradesh
Explanation: Uttar Pradesh introduced a cashless medical scheme covering all teachers, benefitting nearly nine lakh educators, improving access to healthcare in the education sector.
6. When will the new GST rates, offering tax relief on essentials and health insurance, come into effect?
A) September 15, 2025
B) September 22, 2025
C) October 1, 2025
D) October 10, 2025
Answer
B) September 22, 2025
Explanation: The new GST structure was designed to give relief to consumers ahead of the festive season, aligning with Navratri and Diwali celebrations.
7. The 2025 Asia Cup cricket tournament is being held in which country?
A) India
B) Sri Lanka
C) UAE
D) Bangladesh
Answer
C) UAE
Explanation: The Asia Cup 2025 is a T20-format tournament being hosted in the United Arab Emirates, continuing the trend of UAE hosting major cricketing events.
8. Which astronomical event is set to be visible across India on the night of September 7–8, 2025?
A) Solar Eclipse
B) Total Lunar Eclipse (Blood Moon)
C) Meteor Shower
D) Partial Lunar Eclipse
Answer
B) Total Lunar Eclipse (Blood Moon)
Explanation: The Blood Moon eclipse will last 82 minutes, making it a rare celestial event. It is visible from India and most parts of the world, important for science and geography preparation.
9. What is the deadline for UPS government employees to switch from the old pension scheme (UPS) to the New Pension Scheme (NPS)?
A) September 15, 2025
B) September 22, 2025
C) September 30, 2025
D) October 1, 2025
Answer
C) September 30, 2025
Explanation: This is a one-time option given by the government to migrate from the old pension system to the NPS, significant for questions on government schemes and reforms.
10. Which disaster in Punjab led to 46 deaths and over 1.5 lakh people being affected by early September 2025?
A) Landslides
B) Earthquake
C) Flooding
D) Drought
Answer
C) Flooding
Explanation: Punjab was hit by severe flooding, leading to large-scale evacuations and damage. The Prime Minister is visiting affected areas, highlighting disaster management measures.