50 Important Current Affairs MCQs with Answers & Explanations – 28 October 2026
50 Important Current Affairs MCQs with Answers & Explanations – 28 October 2026
Daily Current Affairs | India & World | GK | Competitive Exam Preparation
Welcome to today’s current affairs practice set for UPSC, SSC, Banking, Railway, State PSC, Defence, and other competitive examinations. These 50 multiple-choice questions cover national news, government schemes, economy, science and technology, environment, international affairs, sports, and important appointments.
Table of Contents
Section 1: National Current Affairs
Questions 1–10
1. Which conclave was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Bharat Mandapam in October 2026?
A) India AI Summit 2026
B) Emerging Science, Technology and Innovation Conclave (ESTIC) 2026
C) National Education Conclave 2026
D) Digital India Expo 2026
Correct Answer: B) Emerging Science, Technology and Innovation Conclave (ESTIC) 2026
Explanation: ESTIC 2026 brought together scientists, innovators, startups and other participants to discuss India’s science, technology and innovation priorities. It opened at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi on 27 October.
2. The 14th International Tourism Mart scheduled for 29–31 October 2026 will be held in which state?
A) Assam
B) Meghalaya
C) Arunachal Pradesh
D) Sikkim
Correct Answer: C) Arunachal Pradesh
Explanation: The event is scheduled to take place in Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh. It promotes tourism in India’s northeastern region and brings together tourism stakeholders and international buyers.
3. India and which country formally began negotiations for a Preferential Trade Agreement on 28 October 2026?
A) Mexico
B) Japan
C) Germany
D) Australia
Correct Answer: A) Mexico
Explanation: India and Mexico signed the Terms of Reference for negotiations. This document establishes the framework, scope and roadmap for the proposed trade agreement.
4. The Punah Bharan mobile application launched in October 2026 is primarily associated with which sector?
A) Railway ticketing
B) Groundwater recharge planning
C) Digital education
D) Road safety
Correct Answer: B) Groundwater recharge planning
Explanation: The application supports scientific groundwater recharge planning using geospatial data. It was developed by BISAG-N in collaboration with the National Water Mission and the Ministry of Jal Shakti.
5. Which organisation issued an advisory on protecting the human rights of female inmates and their children on 28 October 2026?
A) NITI Aayog
B) National Human Rights Commission
C) National Commission for Women
D) Central Vigilance Commission
Correct Answer: B) National Human Rights Commission
Explanation: The NHRC issued an advisory concerning the rights and welfare of female prisoners and their children. The issue involves prison conditions, healthcare, dignity and child welfare.
6. The cheetah identified as KNG22 was associated with which national park?
A) Gir National Park
B) Kaziranga National Park
C) Kuno National Park
D) Ranthambore National Park
Correct Answer: C) Kuno National Park
Explanation: KNG22 was a young male cheetah associated with Kuno National Park in Madhya Pradesh. Reports dated 28 October stated that it died from injuries caused by firearm pellets.
7. The 14th International Tourism Mart is organised by which Union ministry?
A) Ministry of Culture
B) Ministry of Tourism
C) Ministry of Home Affairs
D) Ministry of Commerce and Industry
Correct Answer: B) Ministry of Tourism
Explanation: The Ministry of Tourism organises the International Tourism Mart in collaboration with participating northeastern state governments to promote regional tourism.
8. Which organisation seized approximately 55,000 smuggled e-cigarettes at Kolkata’s Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port, according to reports published on 28 October?
A) Enforcement Directorate
B) Directorate of Revenue Intelligence
C) National Investigation Agency
D) Central Bureau of Investigation
Correct Answer: B) Directorate of Revenue Intelligence
Explanation: The DRI reported the seizure of approximately 55,000 e-cigarettes valued at about ₹13.50 crore. The goods were reportedly concealed in a consignment whose declared contents differed from the actual cargo.
9. Which state is home to Bharat Mandapam, the venue for ESTIC 2026?
A) Maharashtra
B) Gujarat
C) New Delhi
D) Karnataka
Correct Answer: C) New Delhi
Explanation: Bharat Mandapam is a major convention and exhibition complex in New Delhi. It hosts national and international conferences, exhibitions and government events.
10. The National Green Hydrogen Mission aims to achieve at least how much annual green hydrogen production capacity by 2030?
A) 1 million metric tonnes
B) 3 million metric tonnes
C) 5 million metric tonnes
D) 15 million metric tonnes
Correct Answer: C) 5 million metric tonnes
Explanation: India’s National Green Hydrogen Mission has an approved outlay of ₹19,744 crore and targets at least 5 million metric tonnes of annual green hydrogen production capacity by 2030.
Section 2: Economy and Government Schemes
Questions 11–20
11. What was the reported growth rate of India’s Index of Industrial Production (IIP) in September 2026?
A) 3.2%
B) 4.5%
C) 6.7%
D) 9.1%
Correct Answer: C) 6.7%
Explanation: The current-affairs report published on 28 October stated that industrial production grew by 6.7% in September 2026, supported by manufacturing and electricity-related output.
12. The Container Manufacturing Promotion Scheme approved in October 2026 has an announced outlay of how much?
A) ₹2,000 crore
B) ₹5,000 crore
C) ₹10,000 crore
D) ₹25,000 crore
Correct Answer: C) ₹10,000 crore
Explanation: The scheme is intended to expand domestic container manufacturing and reduce dependence on imported containers. The reported outlay is ₹10,000 crore, extending up to 2039–40.
13. What is the reported outlay of the Pradhan Mantri Viksit Gram Swaraj Yojana?
A) ₹3,500 crore
B) ₹5,000 crore
C) ₹7,395.55 crore
D) ₹15,000 crore
Correct Answer: C) ₹7,395.55 crore
Explanation: The scheme was reported as a centrally sponsored initiative for strengthening panchayats and rural governance during 2026–27 to 2030–31.
14. Following the reported October 2026 Cabinet decision, what was the revised Dearness Allowance rate for eligible central government employees?
A) 50%
B) 55%
C) 60%
D) 63%
Correct Answer: D) 63%
Explanation: The report stated that a 3-percentage-point increase took the Dearness Allowance rate to 63% of basic pay, effective from 1 July 2026. Dearness Allowance helps compensate employees for changes in the cost of living.
15. The Khet Bachao Abhiyan Rabi 2026 was associated with which sector?
A) Agriculture
B) Space research
C) Banking
D) Tourism
Correct Answer: A) Agriculture
Explanation: The campaign focused on agricultural outreach during the rabi season. Its reported activities included visits by scientists and agricultural support camps in rural Delhi.
16. The Technology Development Board reportedly sanctioned ₹116 crore to Manastu Space Technologies for what purpose?
A) Electric buses
B) Green satellite propulsion
C) Solar-powered trains
D) Underwater communication
Correct Answer: B) Green satellite propulsion
Explanation: The reported funding supports development of an indigenous green propulsion system for satellites, an area relevant to more sustainable and efficient space operations.
17. Which organisation operates the Government e-Marketplace (GeM)?
A) Ministry of Commerce and Industry
B) Ministry of External Affairs
C) Ministry of Education
D) Ministry of Panchayati Raj
Correct Answer: A) Ministry of Commerce and Industry
Explanation: GeM is an online public procurement platform that enables government departments and eligible public organisations to procure goods and services transparently.
18. Which body monitors major central-sector infrastructure projects in India?
A) Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation
B) Election Commission of India
C) University Grants Commission
D) National Green Tribunal
Correct Answer: A) Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation
Explanation: MoSPI monitors central-sector infrastructure projects and publishes information on their cost, progress and implementation. Its project-monitoring work helps track large public investments.
19. The National Green Hydrogen Mission was approved by the Union Cabinet in which year?
A) 2019
B) 2021
C) 2023
D) 2025
Correct Answer: C) 2023
Explanation: The Union Cabinet approved the mission in January 2023. Its objectives include developing green hydrogen production, supporting related technologies and building a domestic hydrogen ecosystem.
20. What is the primary purpose of a Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA)?
A) To abolish all national currencies
B) To reduce trade barriers on selected goods between participating economies
C) To create a single global parliament
D) To prohibit international investment
Correct Answer: B) To reduce trade barriers on selected goods between participating economies
Explanation: A PTA provides preferential tariff treatment to selected goods traded between participating countries. Its scope is generally narrower than that of a comprehensive free trade agreement.
Section 3: Science, Technology and Environment
Questions 21–30
21. What does NGLV stand for in India’s space programme?
A) National Geographical Launch Vehicle
B) Next Generation Launch Vehicle
C) New Global Lunar Vehicle
D) National Green Launch Vision
Correct Answer: B) Next Generation Launch Vehicle
Explanation: The Next Generation Launch Vehicle is a proposed Indian launch system intended to increase launch capability. A report on India’s space technologies noted its planned capability to carry heavier payloads into low Earth orbit.
22. SpaDeX is an Indian space mission associated with which capability?
A) Satellite docking
B) Deep-sea mining
C) Weather balloon recovery
D) Asteroid deflection testing
Correct Answer: A) Satellite docking
Explanation: SpaDeX stands for Space Docking Experiment. It focuses on demonstrating the technologies required for two spacecraft to rendezvous and dock in orbit.
23. NavIC is India’s system for which purpose?
A) Navigation and positioning
B) Underwater mineral exploration
C) Agricultural crop insurance
D) Digital banking
Correct Answer: A) Navigation and positioning
Explanation: NavIC, or Navigation with Indian Constellation, is India’s regional satellite navigation system. It provides positioning and timing services over India and surrounding areas.
24. ISRO was established in which year?
A) 1956
B) 1962
C) 1969
D) 1975
Correct Answer: C) 1969
Explanation: The Indian Space Research Organisation was established on 15 August 1969. It is responsible for India’s space research, satellite development and launch programmes.
25. India’s first sounding rocket was launched from which location?
A) Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh
B) Thumba, Kerala
C) Bengaluru, Karnataka
D) Chandipur, Odisha
Correct Answer: B) Thumba, Kerala
Explanation: India’s first sounding rocket was launched from Thumba on 21 November 1963. The location near Thiruvananthapuram became an important early centre of India’s space programme.
26. Which organisation is associated with the development of geospatial applications such as the Punah Bharan app?
A) BISAG-N
B) SEBI
C) FSSAI
D) NABARD
Correct Answer: A) BISAG-N
Explanation: Bhaskaracharya National Institute for Space Applications and Geo-informatics (BISAG-N) works on geospatial technology and its applications in governance, planning and development.
27. A newly reported bent-toed gecko, Cyrtodactylus dimensis, was associated with which Indian state?
A) Assam
B) Punjab
C) Goa
D) Rajasthan
Correct Answer: A) Assam
Explanation: The report placed the species in the Umrangso area of Dima Hasao district, Assam. Discoveries of new species help improve knowledge of biodiversity and habitat conservation.
Handwritten Notes
28. What is the main environmental advantage of green hydrogen produced using renewable electricity?
A) It necessarily increases coal consumption
B) It can reduce emissions associated with hydrogen production
C) It eliminates the need for all electricity
D) It produces no water under any circumstances
Correct Answer: B) It can reduce emissions associated with hydrogen production
Explanation: Green hydrogen is generally produced by splitting water through electrolysis powered by renewable electricity. Its climate benefit depends on the electricity source and the wider production process.
29. Which gas is the principal component of conventional natural gas?
A) Oxygen
B) Methane
C) Nitrogen dioxide
D) Hydrogen sulphide
Correct Answer: B) Methane
Explanation: Natural gas consists mainly of methane. Methane is also a potent greenhouse gas when released into the atmosphere, making leakage reduction important for climate policy.
30. Which instrument is most directly used to monitor earthquakes?
A) Seismograph
B) Barometer
C) Hygrometer
D) Anemometer
Correct Answer: A) Seismograph
Explanation: A seismograph records ground motion caused by earthquakes and other seismic events. A barometer measures atmospheric pressure, a hygrometer measures humidity and an anemometer measures wind speed.
Section 4: International Affairs and Defence
Questions 31–40
31. The 13th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus) in October 2026 was scheduled in which country?
A) Thailand
B) Philippines
C) Vietnam
D) Indonesia
Correct Answer: B) Philippines
Explanation: The meeting was scheduled in Cebu, Philippines, on 28–29 October 2026. ADMM-Plus brings ASEAN members and dialogue partners together to discuss defence and security cooperation.
32. Who led India’s delegation to the 13th ADMM-Plus, according to the October 2026 current-affairs report?
A) Amit Shah
B) Rajnath Singh
C) S. Jaishankar
D) Piyush Goyal
Correct Answer: B) Rajnath Singh
Explanation: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh was reported to be leading the Indian delegation to the meeting in Cebu, where regional defence cooperation was on the agenda.
33. The ADMM-Plus is primarily concerned with which field?
A) Defence and security cooperation
B) International film production
C) Global postal services
D) Agricultural exports only
Correct Answer: A) Defence and security cooperation
Explanation: ADMM-Plus is a regional defence forum involving ASEAN and its dialogue partners. It supports discussion and cooperation on shared security challenges.
34. Which country was involved in the newly announced PTA negotiations with India on 28 October 2026?
A) Mexico
B) Norway
C) Egypt
D) South Korea
Correct Answer: A) Mexico
Explanation: India and Mexico signed the Terms of Reference to formally launch negotiations for a Preferential Trade Agreement. The proposed arrangement aims to strengthen bilateral trade relations.
35. Which international organisation is responsible for the World Heritage List?
A) UNESCO
B) WTO
C) OPEC
D) INTERPOL
Correct Answer: A) UNESCO
Explanation: UNESCO administers the World Heritage Convention, which identifies cultural and natural sites of outstanding universal value. World Heritage status can support conservation and international awareness.
36. The United Nations headquarters is located in which city?
A) Geneva
B) New York City
C) Paris
D) Vienna
Correct Answer: B) New York City
Explanation: The UN headquarters is in New York City, United States. The organisation was founded in 1945 to promote international cooperation, peace and security.
37. Which organisation is primarily responsible for international public-health coordination?
A) World Health Organization
B) International Labour Organization
C) World Trade Organization
D) International Maritime Organization
Correct Answer: A) World Health Organization
Explanation: The World Health Organization, or WHO, is a specialised United Nations agency that coordinates international public-health work and provides guidance on disease prevention and health emergencies.
38. Which organisation publishes the World Economic Outlook?
A) International Monetary Fund
B) World Bank alone
C) UNESCO
D) International Court of Justice
Correct Answer: A) International Monetary Fund
Explanation: The IMF publishes the World Economic Outlook, which examines global economic developments and provides forecasts for growth, inflation and other major economic indicators.
39. The International Court of Justice is based in which city?
A) Brussels
B) The Hague
C) Rome
D) Washington, D.C.
Correct Answer: B) The Hague
Explanation: The International Court of Justice is the principal judicial organ of the United Nations. It settles legal disputes submitted by states and issues advisory opinions on legal questions.
40. Which Indian ministry is responsible for conducting the country’s foreign relations?
A) Ministry of External Affairs
B) Ministry of Finance
C) Ministry of Rural Development
D) Ministry of Labour and Employment
Correct Answer: A) Ministry of External Affairs
Explanation: The Ministry of External Affairs manages India’s diplomatic relations, foreign policy, consular services and engagement with international organisations.
Section 5: Sports, Important Institutions and General Awareness
Questions 41–50
41. The reported bronze medal by India’s Harmeet Desai and Yashaswini Ghorpade in October 2026 was in which sport?
A) Badminton
B) Table tennis
C) Tennis
D) Squash
Correct Answer: B) Table tennis
Explanation: The pair reportedly won bronze in mixed doubles at the Asian Table Tennis Championships in Tashkent. The result was reported as India’s first medal in that event in 72 years.
FREE Current Affairs PDF
42. Which organisation is responsible for administering the Olympic Games?
A) FIFA
B) International Olympic Committee
C) International Cricket Council
D) World Athletics alone
Correct Answer: B) International Olympic Committee
Explanation: The International Olympic Committee (IOC) leads the Olympic Movement and oversees the organisation of the Olympic Games in cooperation with host cities and international sports federations.
43. Which body governs international cricket?
A) ICC
B) FIFA
C) FIDE
D) BWF
Correct Answer: A) ICC
Explanation: The International Cricket Council is the global governing body for cricket. It organises major international tournaments and establishes regulations and standards for the sport.
44. The Asian Games are organised under the authority of which organisation?
A) Olympic Council of Asia
B) European Olympic Committees
C) African Union
D) Commonwealth Secretariat
Correct Answer: A) Olympic Council of Asia
Explanation: The Olympic Council of Asia oversees the Asian Games and other major multi-sport events for Asian nations and territories.
45. Which Indian institution is responsible for monetary policy and the issuance of banknotes, subject to applicable exceptions?
A) Reserve Bank of India
B) NITI Aayog
C) SEBI
D) National Stock Exchange
Correct Answer: A) Reserve Bank of India
Explanation: The RBI is India’s central bank. Its responsibilities include monetary policy, currency management, regulation of much of the banking system and maintaining financial stability.
46. Which organisation regulates India’s securities market?
A) SEBI
B) NABARD
C) SIDBI
D) IRDAI
Correct Answer: A) SEBI
Explanation: The Securities and Exchange Board of India regulates the securities market and works to protect investors and promote fair and orderly market practices.
47. Which constitutional body conducts elections to Parliament and state legislatures in India?
A) Union Public Service Commission
B) Election Commission of India
C) Finance Commission
D) National Human Rights Commission
Correct Answer: B) Election Commission of India
Explanation: The Election Commission of India is responsible for administering elections to Parliament, state legislatures, and the offices of the President and Vice-President.
48. Which constitutional article establishes the Election Commission of India?
A) Article 21
B) Article 32
C) Article 324
D) Article 356
Correct Answer: C) Article 324
Explanation: Article 324 vests the superintendence, direction and control of elections in the Election Commission of India, subject to the Constitution and relevant laws.
49. Which institution is the principal body responsible for promoting and coordinating university education in India?
A) University Grants Commission
B) Election Commission of India
C) Reserve Bank of India
D) Central Pollution Control Board
Correct Answer: A) University Grants Commission
Explanation: The UGC coordinates and maintains standards of university education in India. It also performs functions relating to recognition and support of eligible higher-education institutions.
50. Which Indian government initiative is specifically associated with developing a domestic green hydrogen ecosystem?
A) National Green Hydrogen Mission
B) Digital India Mission
C) Smart Cities Mission
D) National Solar Cooking Programme
Correct Answer: A) National Green Hydrogen Mission
Explanation: The National Green Hydrogen Mission aims to develop India’s green hydrogen production capacity, encourage domestic technologies, create demand and support the country’s clean-energy transition. Its reported 2030 target is at least 5 million metric tonnes of annual production capacity.
