Current Affairs MCQs 2 October 2026 | MCQQUESTIONS.IN | Daily Current Affairs Practice
This practice set is designed for UPSC, SSC, Banking, Railway, State PSC, Defence and other competitive examinations. It covers national affairs, international events, economy, science and technology, environment, sports, and important days.
Today’s special focus: Gandhi Jayanti, the International Day of Non-Violence, rural development, digital tolling, public policy and economic developments.
The latest available current-affairs reporting includes the launch of the People’s Plan Campaign 2026–27, changes to exempted FASTag validity, and the Reserve Bank of India’s upcoming October policy meeting. These topics are reflected below, with developing economic expectations distinguished from confirmed decisions.
Table of Contents
Section 1: National Current Affairs
1. Gandhi Jayanti is observed every year on which date?
A) 15 August B) 2 October C) 26 January D) 14 November
Correct Answer: B) 2 October
Analytical Explanation: Gandhi Jayanti commemorates the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, born on 2 October 1869 at Porbandar in present-day Gujarat. The day honours his contributions to India’s freedom movement and his philosophy of truth and non-violence.
2. The International Day of Non-Violence is observed on which date?
A) 21 September B) 24 October C) 2 October D) 10 December
Correct Answer: C) 2 October
Analytical Explanation: The United Nations observes the International Day of Non-Violence on 2 October, the birthday of Mahatma Gandhi. The observance promotes non-violence through education and public awareness.
3. Mahatma Gandhi was born in which present-day Indian state?
A) Rajasthan B) Gujarat C) Maharashtra D) Madhya Pradesh
Correct Answer: B) Gujarat
Analytical Explanation: Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi was born in Porbandar, Gujarat, on 2 October 1869. His ideas of satyagraha and non-violent resistance influenced freedom movements in India and other parts of the world.
4. The People’s Plan Campaign 2026–27 is associated with which area of governance?
A) Village-level development planning B) Space exploration C) International trade D) Urban metro construction
Correct Answer: A) Village-level development planning
Analytical Explanation: The campaign, also known as Sabki Yojana, Sabka Vikas, promotes participatory planning through Gram Panchayats and Gram Sabhas. Special Gram Sabhas scheduled for 2 October 2026 are intended to support preparation of local development plans.
5. The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) primarily conducts examinations for recruitment to:
A) Private-sector companies B) Central public services and civil services C) State university admissions only D) Municipal private contractors
Correct Answer: B) Central public services and civil services
Analytical Explanation: UPSC is a constitutional body established under Articles 315–323 of the Constitution of India. It conducts examinations such as the Civil Services Examination and advises the government on specified recruitment and service matters.
6. Which constitutional article provides for the Union Public Service Commission?
A) Article 280 B) Article 324 C) Article 315 D) Article 356
Correct Answer: C) Article 315
Analytical Explanation: Article 315 provides for a Public Service Commission for the Union and for each state. Article 320 describes important functions of these commissions, while Article 324 deals with the Election Commission.
7. The Gram Sabha consists primarily of:
A) Only elected Members of Parliament B) Registered voters in a village or area covered by a Gram Panchayat C) Only government employees D) Only village-level elected representatives
Correct Answer: B) Registered voters in a village or area covered by a Gram Panchayat
Analytical Explanation: A Gram Sabha provides a forum for local participation in rural governance. It can discuss village development priorities and hold the Gram Panchayat accountable, subject to the applicable constitutional and state-law framework.
8. FASTag is mainly used in India for:
A) Electronic toll collection B) Passport verification C) Railway ticket reservations D) Digital land registration
Correct Answer: A) Electronic toll collection
Analytical Explanation: FASTag uses Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology to enable electronic toll payments. It reduces the need for cash transactions at toll plazas and can improve traffic flow when the system operates effectively.
9. What does MLFF mean in the context of highway tolling?
A) Multi-Level Fuel Framework B) Multi-Lane Free Flow C) Motor Licensing and Fitness Facility D) Managed Local Freight Fee
Correct Answer: B) Multi-Lane Free Flow
Analytical Explanation: Multi-Lane Free Flow is a barrierless tolling approach that allows vehicles to pass without stopping at conventional toll barriers. NHAI’s reported deployment at Paranur Toll Plaza in Tamil Nadu is an example of this technology.
10. Which organisation is responsible for the development and management of India’s National Highways network at the national level?
A) NHAI B) SEBI C) UGC D) NABARD
Correct Answer: A) NHAI
Analytical Explanation: The National Highways Authority of India operates under the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways. It is responsible for developing, maintaining and managing entrusted sections of the National Highways network.
Section 2: Economy and Banking
11. Which institution determines India’s monetary policy and sets the policy repo rate?
A) Ministry of Education B) Reserve Bank of India C) Election Commission of India D) NITI Aayog
Correct Answer: B) Reserve Bank of India
Analytical Explanation: The RBI conducts monetary policy to maintain price stability while keeping the objective of growth in mind. Its Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) determines the policy repo rate within India’s inflation-targeting framework.
12. What was the RBI repo rate reported after its August 2026 policy meeting?
A) 4.50% B) 5.00% C) 5.25% D) 6.50%
Correct Answer: C) 5.25%
Analytical Explanation: Reuters reported that the RBI kept the benchmark repo rate unchanged at 5.25% at its August 2026 meeting. Ahead of the October meeting, analysts were discussing the possibility of a rate increase; that expectation should not be confused with an announced policy decision.
13. One basis point is equal to:
A) 1 percentage point B) 0.1 percentage point C) 0.01 percentage point D) 10 percentage points
Correct Answer: C) 0.01 percentage point
Analytical Explanation: One basis point equals one-hundredth of a percentage point. Therefore, a 25-basis-point increase in a repo rate of 5.25% would take it to 5.50%, assuming the increase is applied directly.
14. What is the primary purpose of increasing the repo rate when inflationary pressure is high?
A) To encourage unlimited borrowing B) To make borrowing potentially more expensive and moderate demand C) To eliminate all taxation D) To increase the money supply without limit
Correct Answer: B) To make borrowing potentially more expensive and moderate demand
Analytical Explanation: A higher policy rate can increase lending costs and reduce demand-driven price pressure. However, its effects depend on how banks, businesses and households respond, and it cannot directly resolve every supply-side cause of inflation.
15. Which index measures changes in the prices of a basket of goods and services purchased by households?
A) Consumer Price Index B) Human Development Index C) Index of Industrial Production D) Purchasing Managers’ Index
Correct Answer: A) Consumer Price Index
Analytical Explanation: The Consumer Price Index (CPI) measures retail price changes for a defined basket of consumer goods and services. It is an important measure of consumer inflation and plays a central role in India’s monetary-policy framework.
16. What does GDP stand for?
A) General Development Programme B) Gross Domestic Product C) Government Debt Provision D) Global Distribution Policy
Correct Answer: B) Gross Domestic Product
Analytical Explanation: GDP measures the value of final goods and services produced within a country’s domestic territory during a specified period. Real GDP adjusts for price changes, allowing economic output to be compared more meaningfully over time.
17. Which institution regulates India’s securities market?
A) SEBI B) NABARD C) IRDAI D) FCI
Correct Answer: A) SEBI
Analytical Explanation: The Securities and Exchange Board of India regulates the securities market and aims to protect investors, promote market development and regulate market participants. Its responsibilities differ from those of the RBI, which regulates banking and monetary policy.
18. What is the full form of UPI?
A) Unified Payments Interface B) Universal Purchase Instrument C) United Payment Institution D) Unified Public Investment
Correct Answer: A) Unified Payments Interface
Analytical Explanation: UPI is an instant payment system developed by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI). It enables interoperable digital payments between participating bank accounts through supported applications.
19. Which institution is principally associated with rural development finance and agricultural credit in India?
A) NABARD B) SEBI C) TRAI D) UPSC
Correct Answer: A) NABARD
Analytical Explanation: The National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development supports agriculture, rural infrastructure and rural financial institutions. It plays a developmental and refinancing role in India’s rural credit system.
20. What does fiscal deficit generally represent?
A) Total exports minus total imports B) Government’s total expenditure minus its total receipts, excluding borrowings C) Total bank deposits minus cash withdrawals D) Private investment minus household savings
Correct Answer: B) Government’s total expenditure minus its total receipts, excluding borrowings
Analytical Explanation: The fiscal deficit indicates the government’s borrowing requirement for a given period. It is not the same as the trade deficit, which concerns the difference between exports and imports.
Section 3: International Current Affairs
21. The 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly opened in which month of 2026?
A) January B) March C) September D) December
Correct Answer: C) September
Analytical Explanation: The UN’s 2026 calendar lists the opening of the 81st session of the General Assembly on 8 September 2026. The General Assembly is the UN’s main deliberative, policymaking and representative organ.
22. The headquarters of the United Nations is located in:
A) Geneva, Switzerland B) New York City, United States C) Paris, France D) Vienna, Austria
Correct Answer: B) New York City, United States
Analytical Explanation: The UN’s principal headquarters is in New York City. The organisation also has major offices in Geneva, Vienna and Nairobi, each supporting different areas of its international work.
23. The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are targeted for achievement by which year?
A) 2025 B) 2030 C) 2040 D) 2050
Correct Answer: B) 2030
Analytical Explanation: The 17 SDGs form the core of the UN’s 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, adopted in 2015. They cover issues such as poverty, health, education, gender equality, climate action and sustainable economic development.
24. COP31, the 2026 UN Climate Change Conference, is scheduled to take place in which country?
A) Türkiye B) Japan C) Canada D) Brazil
Correct Answer: A) Türkiye
Analytical Explanation: The UN’s selected-events calendar lists COP31 in Antalya, Türkiye, from 9–20 November 2026. The conference is part of the international climate process under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change.
25. Which organisation publishes the World Economic Outlook?
A) International Monetary Fund B) World Trade Organization C) International Court of Justice D) UNESCO
Correct Answer: A) International Monetary Fund
Analytical Explanation: The International Monetary Fund (IMF) publishes the World Economic Outlook, which analyses global economic trends and provides economic forecasts. It is widely used by governments, researchers and financial institutions.
26. Which organisation is primarily responsible for setting international standards and coordinating work on public health?
A) WHO B) WTO C) ILO D) WIPO
Correct Answer: A) WHO
Analytical Explanation: The World Health Organization is a specialised agency of the United Nations concerned with international public health. It supports disease surveillance, health guidance, emergency coordination and cooperation between countries.
27. The headquarters of the World Trade Organization is located in:
A) Rome B) Geneva C) London D) Washington, D.C.
Correct Answer: B) Geneva
Analytical Explanation: The WTO is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland. It provides a forum for trade negotiations, administers trade agreements and operates a framework for addressing trade disputes among its members.
28. Which international organisation is associated with the protection of children and child welfare?
A) UNICEF B) OPEC C) WTO D) INTERPOL
Correct Answer: A) UNICEF
Analytical Explanation: UNICEF works to protect children’s rights and improve their health, education, nutrition, safety and overall well-being. It operates in countries around the world, often in partnership with governments and local organisations.
29. The International Day of Peace is observed by the United Nations on:
A) 5 June B) 21 September C) 2 October D) 10 November
Correct Answer: B) 21 September
Analytical Explanation: The UN’s International Day of Peace is observed on 21 September. It is distinct from the International Day of Non-Violence on 2 October, although both observances promote peaceful societies.
30. Which UN body has primary responsibility for maintaining international peace and security?
A) Security Council B) General Assembly Secretariat only C) International Labour Organization D) UN Development Programme
Correct Answer: A) Security Council
Analytical Explanation: Under the UN Charter, the Security Council has primary responsibility for maintaining international peace and security. Its membership comprises five permanent members and ten non-permanent members elected for two-year terms.
Section 4: Science and Technology
31. What is the primary function of artificial intelligence (AI)?
A) To enable machines to perform tasks associated with human intelligence B) To eliminate all computer networks C) To replace every scientific method D) To generate electricity directly from software
Correct Answer: A) To enable machines to perform tasks associated with human intelligence
Analytical Explanation: AI systems can perform tasks such as language processing, pattern recognition, prediction and problem-solving. Their capabilities vary, and AI-generated results can contain errors, making verification important.
32. Which Indian organisation is responsible for the country’s civilian space programme?
A) DRDO B) ISRO C) CSIR D) BARC
Correct Answer: B) ISRO
Analytical Explanation: The Indian Space Research Organisation develops and operates space systems for applications including communications, navigation, Earth observation and scientific exploration. DRDO focuses primarily on defence research and development.
33. What does a satellite in geostationary orbit do?
A) Remains stationary relative to Earth’s surface, approximately above the same point B) Orbits the Moon instead of Earth C) Travels around Earth in exactly one hour D) Has no orbital motion
Correct Answer: A) Remains stationary relative to Earth’s surface, approximately above the same point
Analytical Explanation: A geostationary satellite follows a circular, equatorial orbit in the same direction as Earth’s rotation, with an orbital period of approximately one sidereal day. This makes it useful for communications and weather monitoring.
34. Which technology is central to most modern cryptocurrency systems for recording transactions across a distributed network?
A) Blockchain B) Magnetic tape only C) Analog radio D) Optical microscopy
Correct Answer: A) Blockchain
Analytical Explanation: Blockchain is a type of distributed ledger that records transactions in linked data structures. Cryptocurrencies often use blockchain, but blockchain technology also has other applications and does not automatically guarantee that a system is secure or trustworthy.
35. Which gas is most directly associated with human-caused global warming because of its release from fossil-fuel combustion?
A) Oxygen B) Carbon dioxide C) Helium D) Neon
Correct Answer: B) Carbon dioxide
Analytical Explanation: Carbon dioxide is a major long-lived greenhouse gas emitted through activities such as burning coal, oil and natural gas. It absorbs infrared radiation and contributes to the warming of Earth’s climate system.
36. What is the main purpose of cybersecurity?
A) To protect systems, networks and data from digital threats B) To increase computer screen brightness C) To eliminate all internet communication D) To prevent all software updates
Correct Answer: A) To protect systems, networks and data from digital threats
Analytical Explanation: Cybersecurity uses measures such as authentication, encryption, access controls, monitoring and software updates to reduce digital risks. Effective protection combines technology with responsible user behaviour.
37. Which of the following is an example of renewable energy?
A) Coal B) Petroleum C) Solar energy D) Natural gas
Correct Answer: C) Solar energy
Analytical Explanation: Solar energy comes from sunlight and is naturally replenished. Coal, petroleum and natural gas are fossil fuels formed over geological timescales and are non-renewable on human timescales.
Section 5: Environment and Geography
38. World Environment Day is observed annually on:
A) 22 April B) 5 June C) 16 September D) 11 December
Correct Answer: B) 5 June
Analytical Explanation: World Environment Day is a major international observance led by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). It raises awareness and encourages action on issues such as pollution, biodiversity loss and climate change.
39. The ozone layer is primarily located in which atmospheric layer?
A) Troposphere B) Stratosphere C) Mesosphere D) Exosphere
Correct Answer: B) Stratosphere
Analytical Explanation: The ozone layer is concentrated in the stratosphere and absorbs much of the Sun’s harmful ultraviolet radiation. The Montreal Protocol established international controls on many ozone-depleting substances.
40. Which of the following is a biodiversity hotspot in India?
A) Western Ghats B) Thar Desert alone C) Indo-Gangetic Plain alone D) Deccan Plateau alone
Correct Answer: A) Western Ghats
Analytical Explanation: The Western Ghats are recognised as a global biodiversity hotspot because of their high levels of endemic species and substantial habitat loss. India’s biodiversity also includes the Himalaya, Indo-Burma and Sundaland hotspot regions.
41. What is the main objective of rainwater harvesting?
A) To collect and store rainwater for later use or groundwater recharge B) To increase ocean salinity C) To prevent all evaporation D) To increase fossil-fuel production
Correct Answer: A) To collect and store rainwater for later use or groundwater recharge
Analytical Explanation: Rainwater harvesting can improve local water availability, reduce surface runoff and help recharge groundwater. Its effectiveness depends on rainfall patterns, storage capacity, water quality and local geology.
42. Which international agreement aims to limit global warming and strengthen climate action?
A) Paris Agreement B) Treaty of Versailles C) Antarctic Treaty alone D) Geneva Convention alone
Correct Answer: A) Paris Agreement
Analytical Explanation: Adopted in 2015 under the UN climate framework, the Paris Agreement seeks to hold the increase in global average temperature to well below 2°C above pre-industrial levels and pursue efforts to limit it to 1.5°C.
Section 6: Sports, Awards and Important Days
43. Which Indian women’s team reportedly won a bronze medal in squash at the 2026 Asian Games?
A) Indian women’s squash team B) Indian women’s rugby team C) Indian women’s ice hockey team D) Indian women’s handball team
Correct Answer: A) Indian women’s squash team
Analytical Explanation: A current-affairs report published on 1 October 2026 identifies India’s women’s squash team as a bronze-medal winner at the 2026 Asian Games. For exam use, verify the official event results before publication, especially where reporting is developing.
44. The Asian Games are organised under the authority of which organisation?
A) Olympic Council of Asia B) FIFA C) International Cricket Council D) World Athletics alone
Correct Answer: A) Olympic Council of Asia
Analytical Explanation: The Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) oversees the Asian Games, a multi-sport event for athletes representing Asian National Olympic Committees. The event is distinct from the Olympic Games and the Commonwealth Games.
45. The Nobel Prizes were established through the will of:
A) Alfred Nobel B) Albert Einstein C) Isaac Newton D) Louis Pasteur
Correct Answer: A) Alfred Nobel
Analytical Explanation: Alfred Nobel, a Swedish inventor and industrialist, established the prizes through his will. The original prize categories were Physics, Chemistry, Physiology or Medicine, Literature and Peace. The economics award was established later in memory of Nobel.
46. National Sports Day in India is observed on:
A) 29 August B) 15 August C) 2 October D) 26 January
Correct Answer: A) 29 August
Analytical Explanation: India’s National Sports Day commemorates the birth anniversary of hockey legend Major Dhyan Chand, born on 29 August 1905. The observance highlights the importance of sports, fitness and sporting achievement.
47. World Teachers’ Day is observed internationally on:
A) 5 October B) 14 November C) 8 March D) 1 May
Correct Answer: A) 5 October
Analytical Explanation: UNESCO identifies 5 October as World Teachers’ Day. It recognises teachers’ contributions and highlights issues concerning teaching, professional development and the status of the teaching profession.
48. International Literacy Day is observed on:
A) 8 September B) 24 October C) 11 July D) 10 December
Correct Answer: A) 8 September
Analytical Explanation: International Literacy Day, led by UNESCO, highlights literacy as a foundation for education, participation in society and lifelong learning. Literacy initiatives include access to reading, writing and essential learning skills.
49. Which organisation awards the Nobel Peace Prize?
A) Norwegian Nobel Committee B) Swedish Academy C) International Monetary Fund D) European Parliament in every case
Correct Answer: A) Norwegian Nobel Committee
Analytical Explanation: The Nobel Peace Prize is awarded by the Norwegian Nobel Committee. The other original Nobel Prizes are awarded by Swedish institutions specified in Alfred Nobel’s will.
50. Which of the following is the principal purpose of the Right to Information Act, 2005, in India?
A) To promote transparency and accountability in public authorities B) To abolish all public records C) To regulate private-sector stock prices D) To replace the Constitution of India
Correct Answer: A) To promote transparency and accountability in public authorities
Analytical Explanation: The Right to Information Act, 2005, gives citizens a legal mechanism to request information from public authorities, subject to statutory exemptions. It supports transparency and accountability in governance.
Quick Revision: Important Facts – Current Affairs MCQs 2 October 2026
| Topic | Key fact |
| Gandhi Jayanti | 2 October |
| International Day of Non-Violence | 2 October |
| People’s Plan Campaign | Sabki Yojana, Sabka Vikas |
| UPSC | Article 315 |
| FASTag | Electronic toll collection |
| MLFF | Multi-Lane Free Flow |
| RBI repo rate reported after August 2026 meeting | 5.25% |
| One basis point | 0.01 percentage point |
| Securities market regulator | SEBI |
| Rural development finance | NABARD |
| UN headquarters | New York City |
| COP31 | Antalya, Türkiye, 9–20 November 2026 |
| SDG target year | 2030 |
| WHO | International public health |
| ISRO | India’s space organisation |
| Ozone layer | Stratosphere |
| World Environment Day | 5 June |
| National Sports Day (India) | 29 August |
| World Teachers’ Day | 5 October |
| RTI Act | 2005 |
