Daily Current Affairs Quiz26 & 27 April, 2026 National Affairs 1. Project DANTAK Context: Project DANTAK, one of the oldest and most successful overseas projects of the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), celebrated its 66th Raising Day in Thimphu, Bhutan. Established in 1961, it remains a living symbol of the “Friendship Treaty” between India and the Kingdom of Bhutan. What is Project DANTAK? Project DANTAK is an infrastructure initiative by the Government of India, executed by the BRO, specifically for the development of Bhutan. What are key Infrastructure Contributions? Project DANTAK’s footprint is visible across the entire geography of Bhutan: Key Concepts Q: What is the Border Roads Organisation (BRO)? A: A specialized executive force under the Ministry of Defence that develops and maintains road networks in India’s border areas and friendly neighboring countries. Q: Why is Project DANTAK unique? A: Unlike typical infrastructure contracts, DANTAK involves Indian personnel living and working alongside Bhutanese citizens for decades, fostering deep cultural and personal bonds. Q: What is the significance of the East-West Highway? A: Before this highway, traveling between eastern and western Bhutan often required traveling down into India and back up. This road unified the country internally. Conceptual MCQs Q1. In which year was Project DANTAK of the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) established? A) 1947 B) 1961 C) 1975 D) 1993 Q2. Which major international airport in Bhutan was constructed with the assistance of Project DANTAK? A) Thimphu Domestic Airport B) Paro International Airport C) Bagdogra Airport D) Gelephu Airport Q3. The primary objective of Project DANTAK is to provide infrastructure support to which country? A) Nepal B) Myanmar C) Bhutan ) Sri Lanka Answers: Q1: B | Q2: B | Q3: C Exam Relevance Exam Focus Area Relevance Level UPSC CSE GS-2 (International Relations: India-Bhutan ties), GS-3 (Infrastructure/Security) Defence Exams Knowledge of BRO projects and strategic connectivity SSC / General Awareness Significant dates, locations (Thimphu/Paro), and project names 2. The Roadmap to 100% Ethanol Blending Source: The Hindu (TH) Context: Following an appeal by Union Minister Nitin Gadkari on April 21, 2026, India is pivoting toward a more aggressive ethanol strategy. The focus has shifted from the current E20 target to exploring E100 (100% ethanol) and the conversion of ethanol into Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). What is E100? E100 refers to using pure ethanol as a standalone fuel for internal combustion engines. This is fundamentally different from the current “blending” approach where ethanol is mixed with petrol. Key Challenges of 100% Blending A. Vehicle Engineering Ethanol is chemically different from petrol, leading to three main technical hurdles: B. The “Food vs. Fuel” Debate Most ethanol in India (1G) is produced from sugarcane and food grains. Can India move to 100% Ethanol (E100)? While theoretically possible, moving to E100 requires a total overhaul of India’s automotive and supply chain infrastructure. Key Concepts: Keyword Q&A Q: What is “1G” vs “2G” Ethanol? A: 1G (First Generation) is made from food crops like sugarcane and corn. 2G (Second Generation) is made from non-food waste like stalks, husks, and straw. Q: Why does ethanol cause corrosion? A: Ethanol is “hygroscopic” (it attracts water) and can be acidic, which causes it to degrade rubber seals and certain metal parts in older petrol engines. Q: How does CAFE-III help ethanol? A: By setting a lower carbon limit for a carmaker’s entire fleet, the government makes it “cheaper” for the company to sell a few Flex-Fuel cars that use 100% ethanol than to pay fines for selling many petrol SUVs. Conceptual MCQs Q1. What is the main reason a standard petrol engine cannot run on E100 fuel? A) Ethanol has too much energy density B) Ethanol is corrosive and requires different sensors/materials C) Ethanol is too thick for fuel injectors D) Ethanol requires a diesel-style spark plug Q2. The “Alcohol-to-Jet” (ATJ) process is used to create which of the following? A) High-octane racing fuel B) Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) C) Liquid Hydrogen D) 2G Ethanol from rice straw Q3. When does the CAFE-III standard, which targets a 30% reduction in fleet emissions, kick in? A) April 1, 2025 B) October 1, 2024 C) April 1, 2027 D) May 9, 2030 Answers: Q1: B | Q2: B | Q3: C Exam Relevance Exam Focus Area Relevance Level UPSC CSE GS-3 (Energy, Environment, Science & Tech: Biofuels) RBI Grade B Phase II: ESI (Sustainable Development, Energy Policy) SSC / Bank General Awareness (National Biofuel Policy, SAF, and Gadkari’s statements) 3. Soul Threads Source: PIB Context: The Central Cottage Industries Corporation of India (CCIC) has launched its first-ever heritage designer collection, ‘Soul Threads’. This initiative is a strategic pivot for the CCIC, aimed at modernizing the appeal of traditional Indian crafts while ensuring the economic sustainability of local artisans. What is “Soul Threads”? Soul Threads is a curated cultural platform that blends India’s indigenous textile traditions with contemporary high fashion. It is more than just a clothing line; it is an integrated exhibition that includes: Key Objectives & Strategy The CCIC, under the Ministry of Textiles, is using Soul Threads to address specific challenges in the handicraft sector: What are Strategic Features of the Collection? Key Concepts: Keyword Q&A Q: What is the CCIC? A: The Central Cottage Industries Corporation of India is a Public Sector Undertaking (PSU) under the Ministry of Textiles. It acts as the primary agency for the promotion and retail of Indian handlooms and handicrafts through its emporiums. Q: What is the “Cultural Ecosystem” approach? A: It refers to treating textiles not as standalone products, but as part of a larger heritage that includes music, dance, and community stories. Soul Threads uses folk performances to tell the “story” behind the fabric. Q: Why is “Modern Design Language” necessary? A: Many traditional crafts are technically brilliant but may not fit modern lifestyle needs (e.g., heavy sarees that are hard to drape). Reimagining them means making them lighter, more durable, or visually compatible with modern trends. Conceptual MCQs Q1. Which organization launched the ‘Soul Threads’ heritage designer

Daily Current Affairs Quiz24 & 25 April, 2026 National Affairs 1. Corporate Average Fuel Efficiency (CAFE-III) Norms Source: TH Context: In mid-April 2026, Indian automakers reached a consensus on the Corporate Average Fuel Efficiency (CAFE-III) targets. While the headline numbers suggest a significant drop in permissible CO2 emissions, critics argue that the “flexible” design of the framework might allow manufacturers to avoid the radical shift toward electrification. What are CAFE Norms? CAFE (Corporate Average Fuel Efficiency) regulations target the fleet-wide average of fuel consumption and $CO_2$ emissions of a manufacturer’s entire vehicle lineup, rather than individual models. Key Features of the 2026 Consensus The latest draft finalized in April 2026 balances the needs of different industry segments through a “flatter compliance curve.” Key Concepts Q: What is the “WLTP” standard? A: India is shifting from the current MIDC (Modified Indian Driving Cycle) to WLTP (Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicles Test Procedure). WLTP is more rigorous and reflects real-world driving better, but often results in higher reported emission figures, making compliance tougher. Conceptual MCQs Q1. The CAFE-III norms in India are scheduled to be implemented starting from which date? A) April 1, 2026 B) April 1, 2027 C) January 1, 2028 D) April 1, 2032 Q2. Under the proposed super credit scheme for CAFE-III, which technology receives the highest multiplier? A) Strong Hybrids B) Flex-Fuel Vehicles C) Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) D) CNG Vehicles Q3. Which body is responsible for setting the efficiency standards and managing the credit trading under CAFE-III? A) NITI Aayog B) Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) C) RBI D) Ministry of Road Transport and Highways Answers: Q1: B | Q2: C | Q3: B Exam Relevance Exam Focus Area Relevance Level UPSC CSE GS-3 (Environment: Conservation, Pollution; Economy: Infrastructure) RBI Grade B Phase II: ESI (Sustainable Development, Industrial Policy) State PCS Understanding regulatory bodies and sectoral standards 2. Dolphin Friends Initiative Source: TOI Context: The forest department in Prayagraj has officially launched the “Dolphin Friends” (Dolphin Mitras) volunteer network. This initiative aims to bridge the gap between scientific conservation and local community knowledge to protect the endangered Gangetic River Dolphin (Platanista gangetica). What is the Dolphin Friends Initiative? It is a participatory conservation model designed to decentralize river monitoring. Rather than relying solely on departmental patrolling, the initiative creates a dedicated network of volunteers who live and work along the river. Key Concepts: Keyword Q&A Q: What is a “Participatory Conservation Model”? A: A strategy where local communities are not just bystanders but active partners in decision-making and monitoring, ensuring that conservation goals are sustainable and socially inclusive. Q: Why is the Gangetic Dolphin called “Susu”? A: It is a local name derived from the “sneeze-like” sound the dolphin makes when it surfaces to breathe through its blowhole. Q: What are the main threats to these dolphins? A: Habitat fragmentation due to dams/barrages, accidental entanglement in fishing nets (bycatch), pollution (agricultural and industrial), and increased river traffic. Conceptual MCQs Q1. The “Dolphin Friends” initiative was primarily launched in which city to strengthen river monitoring? A) Varanasi B) Prayagraj C) Haridwar D) Kanpur Q2. Why is monitoring intensified specifically during the monsoon season? A) Because the river water is clearest during the monsoon B) Because it is the peak tourism season C) Because it is the primary breeding and reproductive period for dolphins D) Because dolphins migrate to the ocean during the monsoon Q3. Which of the following groups are considered “key stakeholders” in the Dolphin Friends volunteer network? A) Industrialists and miners B) Fishermen and boatmen C) Highway engineers D) Urban planners Answers Exam Relevance Exam Focus Area Relevance Level UPSC CSE GS-3 (Environment: Conservation, Endangered Species, Community-based initiatives) 3. Prime Minister Internship Scheme (PMIS) Context: The Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) has significantly broadened the scope of the Prime Minister Internship Scheme (PMIS). In a major policy shift, the scheme now allows final-year students to gain corporate experience before even completing their degrees, effectively merging classroom learning with industry requirements. What is the PMIS? The PMIS is a “phygital” (physical + digital) flagship initiative aimed at tackling the “employability gap” in India. It places youth in the country’s top 500 companies to provide them with a professional pedigree and hands-on skills. What are the Eligibility and Financials? The scheme is designed to support the youth during their transition into the workforce. Key Concepts Q: What is a “Phygital” initiative? A: It refers to a model that combines a Digital interface (the online application portal) with a Physical work experience (the actual 12-month on-site internship). Q: Can a student apply if their college doesn’t provide an NOC? A: No. The NOC is a mandatory requirement to ensure the internship is integrated with the student’s academic journey without violating attendance rules. Q: Is the stipend paid through the company or the government? A: It is a hybrid model. The government’s share is usually transferred via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) to the intern’s Aadhaar-linked bank account. Conceptual MCQs Q1. Which Ministry is the nodal agency for the Prime Minister Internship Scheme (PMIS)? A) Ministry of Labour and Employment B) Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship C) Ministry of Corporate Affairs D) Ministry of Education Q2. Under the 2026 expansion, which category of students can now apply for the PMIS? A) Only PhD scholars B) Final-year undergraduate and postgraduate students C) 10th and 12th-grade students D) Only those who graduated before 2024 Q3. What is the standard duration of the internship provided under the PMIS? A) 3 months B) 6 months C) 12 months D) 24 months Answers Exam Relevance Exam Focus Area Relevance Level UPSC CSE GS-2 (Govt Policies & Interventions), GS-3 (Employment/Economy) RBI Grade B Phase II: ESI (Social Justice, Employment generation schemes) SSC / Bank General Awareness (Current schemes, Ministry, and age limits) 4. Atal Pension Yojana (APY) Source: TOI Context: The Atal Pension Yojana (APY) has achieved a historic milestone by surpassing 9 crore total gross enrolments. This highlights the growing penetration of formal social security

Daily Current Affairs Quiz23 April, 2026 National Affairs 1. INS Nireekshak in Colombo Source: PIB Context: The Indian Navy’s specialized vessel, INS Nireekshak, arrived at the Port of Colombo on April 21, 2026. It is participating in the 4th edition of IN-SLN DIVEX 2026, a week-long bilateral diving exercise aimed at strengthening maritime security and interoperability in the Indian Ocean. What is INS Nireekshak (A15)? INS Nireekshak is not a standard combat ship; it is a highly specialized Diving Support Vessel (DSV) and an interim Submarine Rescue Vessel (SRV). What is DIVEX 2026? The exercise (April 21–27, 2026) is designed to refine the “underwater” diplomacy between India and Sri Lanka. What is MAHASAGAR? The engagement aligns with India’s MAHASAGAR vision (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions). This framework emphasizes: Key Concepts Q: Why is an “Operational Turnaround (OTR)” visit important? A: OTRs allow a ship to refuel, restock supplies, and provide rest for the crew while simultaneously conducting diplomatic or training exercises in a foreign port. Q: What is a “DSRV”? A: A Deep Submergence Rescue Vehicle. It is a mini-submarine used specifically to rescue sailors from a disabled submarine trapped on the ocean floor. Conceptual MCQs Q1. INS Nireekshak is primarily classified as which type of vessel? A) Guided Missile Destroyer B) Aircraft Carrier C) Diving Support and Submarine Rescue Vessel D) Stealth Frigate Q2. Under the “Aarogya Maitri” initiative, what specific humanitarian aid is INS Nireekshak providing to Sri Lanka? A) 50,000 tons of rice B) Two BHISM portable medical cubes C) A new naval radar system D) Solar power panels for Colombo port Q3. The DIVEX 2026 exercise aligns with which Indian strategic vision for the Indian Ocean? A) Project Mausam B) MAHASAGAR C) Operation Vanilla D) SAGAR-MALA Answers Exam Relevance Exam Focus Area Relevance Level UPSC CSE GS-2 (International Relations, India-Sri Lanka); GS-3 (Security/Defence) SSC / Banking Current Affairs (Naval exercises, New ships, Bilateral agreements) Defence (NDA/CDS) Maritime security, Ship capabilities, Regional strategic visions 2. NARIT-AI Source: Indian Express (IE) Context: The Gujarat Police has developed the Narcotics Analysis & RAG-based Investigation Tool (NARIT-AI) to address a critical decline in conviction rates for cases under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, which fell from 44.4% in 2020 to 25% in 2022. “Primacy of Procedure” In NDPS cases, evidence alone is rarely enough. The law demands strict adherence to procedural steps. How NARIT-AI Works Developed in collaboration with AI startup Gradiante Creative Services, the tool uses Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) to provide a “bulletproof” investigation framework. Key Concepts Q: What is “RAG” (Retrieval-Augmented Generation)? A: It is a technique that gives the AI a “textbook” (a specific database) to look at before it answers. This ensures the AI doesn’t rely on its own internal memory, which might be outdated or incorrect, but instead gives a fact-checked response based on the provided documents. Q: Why is the NDPS Act conviction rate so low? A: Largely due to “procedural non-compliance.” Defense lawyers often win cases not by proving their client is innocent, but by proving the police didn’t follow the exact steps mandated by the law. Q: Does NARIT-AI replace the Public Prosecutor? A: No. It is a “Paralegal Tool.” It helps the police build a “bulletproof” case file before it reaches the prosecutor, making the prosecutor’s job in court much easier. Conceptual MCQs Q1. NARIT-AI is primarily designed to address which issue in narcotics cases? A) Lack of police manpower B) Low conviction rates due to procedural lapses C) High cost of forensic testing D) Shortage of public prosecutors Q2. What technology does NARIT-AI use to ensure its legal advice is factually grounded and does not “hallucinate”? A) Open-source Web Scraping B) Blockchain Encryption C) Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) D) Facial Recognition Q3. Which of the following is NOT a feature of NARIT-AI? A) Generation of draft Chargesheets B) Public access for reporting drug crimes C) Identification of potential prosecution weaknesses D) Checklists for evidence collection Answers Exam Relevance Exam Focus Area Relevance Level UPSC CSE GS-3 (Science & Tech: AI in Governance; Internal Security: Drug Trafficking) Police/Defence Exams Use of technology in modern policing 3. The India–Africa Forum Summit (IAFS) Source: The Hindu (TH) Context: India is set to host the Fourth India-Africa Forum Summit (IAFS-IV) in New Delhi from May 28 to 31, 2026. This landmark event ends an 11-year hiatus since the last summit in 2015 and aims to redefine India’s role as the “Voice of the Global South.” The 2026 Pivot The 2026 summit is unique because it follows the permanent inclusion of the African Union (AU) in the G20 (achieved during India’s 2023 Presidency). The focus has shifted from simple aid to co-development and strategic partnership. What are the Key Pillars of Cooperation? 1. Education & Human Capital The establishment of the IIT Madras campus in Zanzibar, Tanzania (the first international IIT) serves as the flagship model for educational ties. 2. Security & Defense The partnership is moving beyond training to the supply of defense hardware. 3. Diplomatic Footprint India has significantly scaled up its physical presence to counter global competition. History of IAFS Summits Year Venue Key Focus 2008 New Delhi Food and oil price volatility; 14 AU-chosen nations attended. 2011 Addis Ababa Infrastructure and regional economic integration. 2015 New Delhi Largest turnout (all 54 nations); focus on health and solar energy. 2026 New Delhi Critical minerals, digital public infra, and Global South leadership. Key Concepts Q: What is “South-South Cooperation”? A: It is the technical and economic cooperation among developing countries in the “Global South.” Unlike “North-South” cooperation (which is often donor-recipient based), South-South focus is on mutual benefit and shared challenges. Q: Why is the “Global South” term so prominent now? A: India is positioning itself as the bridge between the developed West and the developing world. By leading the Global South, India gains more leverage in international forums like the UN and WTO. Q: What are “Lines of Credit” (LoC)? A: These are “soft