Current Affairs Based on The Assam Tribune
Q1. By how many times has Assam’s overall debt increased in the last 10 years?
A. 2.5 times
B. 3.5 times
C. 4.5 times
D. 5.5 times
See: Daily Current Affairs 14 July 2026
Answer: C
Explanation:
The overall debt of Assam rose more than 4.5 times from Rs 35,690 crore on March 31, 2016 to Rs 1,61,761 crore on March 31, 2025. Finance Minister Jayanta Mallabaruah informed the State Assembly that the state had paid Rs 9,467.75 crore as interest in 2024-25 alone. Total liabilities now stand at Rs 1.62 lakh crore.
Out of the total, Rs 18,582 crore are interest-free 50-year loans while loans with interest amount to Rs 1,43,179 crore. The minister highlighted the interest burden paid to various lenders during the year.
Q2. How much forest land has been freed from encroachers in Assam in the last five years?
A. 5,861 ha
B. 10,861 ha
C. 15,861 ha
D. 20,861 ha
Answer: C
Explanation:
More than 15,861 hectares of forest land have been freed from encroachers in Assam during the last five years through eviction drives. Over 3,12,982 hectares still remain under encroachment in reserved forests and proposed reserve forests. A total of 15,859 households were evicted during these drives.
The state has a total forest land area of 18,01,953.536 hectares. Eviction drives will continue in phases to free the remaining land under encroachment.
Q3. Popular Assamese actress Purabi Sharma passed away at what age?
A. 55 years
B. 60 years
C. 65 years
D. 70 years
Answer: C
Explanation:
Purabi Sharma, a well-known Assamese actress who worked in several blockbusters, passed away at the age of 65 due to cardiac arrest. She was declared dead on arrival at Marwari Hospitals around 6:15 pm. She had suffered cardiac arrest while in the bathroom of her house.
She made her debut with Ajoli Nobou and became a household name through popular Assamese serials and films. She is survived by her husband veteran actor Tapan Das and a daughter.
Q4. What is the title of the first comprehensive Assamese book on the state’s rare and threatened birds?
A. Asomor Pakhi
B. Asomor Dusprapya Sorai
C. Assam Birds
D. Dusprapya Pakhi
Answer: B
Explanation:
The book titled Asomor Dusprapya Sorai (Assam’s Rare and Threatened Birds) was officially released in Guwahati. Authored by Firoz Hussain and Kabir Saikia, it is the first comprehensive publication in Assamese language dedicated to the state’s threatened and endangered bird species. It provides detailed information on identification, habitat, behaviour and conservation status of each species.
The book is richly illustrated with high-quality photographs and serves as a valuable resource for birdwatchers, students and researchers. It aims to inspire greater awareness and appreciation for nature and wildlife conservation.
Q5. Which Indian state signed an MoU with a Norwegian company for the country’s first river kinetic energy project?
A. Assam
B. Arunachal Pradesh
C. Meghalaya
D. Nagaland
Answer: B
Explanation:
Arunachal Pradesh signed an MoU with Norwegian company Tidal Sail AS for implementation of a 500-kW river kinetic energy demonstration project. This will be the first such facility in India and will demonstrate technology that generates electricity directly from river currents without major civil infrastructure.
The project is supported by the Union Ministry of New and Renewable Energy and is expected to enhance energy security while ensuring environmentally responsible utilisation of natural resources.
Q6. How many of the 19 sub-sectors in India’s services sector posted double-digit growth in April according to the new index?
A. 10
B. 12
C. 14
D. 16
Answer: C
Explanation:
The Ministry of Statistics released the first sub-sectoral Index of Services Production showing that 14 of 19 sub-sectors posted double-digit year-on-year growth in April. The new index provides a more timely measure of activity in the formal services sector which accounts for more than half of India’s economic output.
Wholesale trade, retail, accommodation, food, road transport, air transport and banking were among the sub-sectors that recorded strong growth. The index will be published on the 29th of every month.
Q7. The United States recently reimposed what measure on Iran in retaliation for attacks on ships?
A. Full trade embargo
B. Partial blockade
C. Complete naval blockade
D. Airspace closure
Answer: B
Explanation:
The US reimposed a partial blockade on Iran and intensified its airstrike campaign in retaliation for Tehran’s attacks on ships trying to pass through the Strait of Hormuz. The American strikes hit Iranian army barracks and wounded more than 260 people across the country.
Iranian officials said the strikes have intensified fighting and set a 60-day period for negotiations on nuclear issues. The US and Israel launched the war on Iran on June 13.
Q8. From which date has the MGNREGA scheme been replaced by VB-GRAM-G in Assam?
A. June 1, 2026
B. July 1, 2026
C. August 1, 2026
D. January 1, 2027
Answer: B
Explanation:
The Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) has been replaced by the Viksit Bharat - Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (VB-GRAM-G) scheme in Assam from July 1, 2026. The new scheme guarantees 125 days of wage employment every year to eligible rural households based on demand.
It covers 318 categories of works grouped under four broad heads including water conservation, rural infrastructure and livelihood. Biometric attendance, GPS-based monitoring and artificial intelligence will be used for transparency.
Q9. The new US $1 coin to be issued will feature which personality to commemorate 250 years of American independence?
A. Abraham Lincoln
B. George Washington
C. Donald Trump
D. Thomas Jefferson
Answer: C
Explanation:
The US Mint will issue a new $1 coin featuring President Donald Trump on one side to commemorate 250 years of American independence. The coin carries a portrait of Trump with the phrases “In God We Trust” and “Liberty” while the reverse features an eagle.
The first non-round gold and silver versions are already available. The coin is part of commemorative issues marking America’s 250th anniversary.
Q10. On whose 49th death anniversary were rich tributes paid at Dighalipukhuri in Guwahati?
A. Pulin Das
B. RG Baruah
C. Sonam Wangchuk
D. Purabi Sharma
Answer: B
Explanation:
Rich tributes were paid to RG Baruah, founder of the Assam Tribune Group, on his 49th death anniversary at Dighalipukhuri in Guwahati. Floral tributes were offered at his statue by family members, journalists and dignitaries including Radha Govinda Baruah’s great grand-daughter.
Speakers called for renewed efforts to preserve and promote the ideals of the pioneering journalist who built modern Assam through his contributions in many spheres.
Q11. Which organisation launched the SARAL portal for simplified regulatory approvals in the Northeast?
A. NEDFi
B. NABARD
C. NITI Aayog
D. Ministry of Home Affairs
Answer: A
Explanation:
The North Eastern Development Finance Corporation Ltd (NEDFi) launched the SARAL (Simplified Access to Regulatory Approvals and Licences) portal at NEDFi Convention Centre in Guwahati. The portal provides a one-stop digital platform for small, medium and micro enterprises of NER to obtain approvals and licences easily.
It offers single-window access to more than 40 central and state compliances and includes a virtual repository of vetted templates and documents for compliance filing.
Q12. Which company announced plans to launch satellite internet service in South Africa in 2027?
A. SpaceX
B. Amazon
C. Google
D. Microsoft
Answer: B
Explanation:
Amazon announced that it would launch its new satellite internet service called Amazon Leo in South Africa in 2027. The company said it was its first satellite internet agreement on the African continent and would partner with local provider Herotel.
The move comes amid competition with Elon Musk’s Starlink, which has already launched services in several African countries. Amazon aims to provide high-speed internet to underserved areas.
Q13. Who was appointed Chair of the newly constituted ICC Governance Review Committee?
A. Sourav Ganguly
B. Devajit Saikia
C. Jay Shah
D. Roger Binny
Answer: B
Explanation:
BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia was appointed Chair of the ICC’s new Governance Review Committee during the recent Annual Conference in Edinburgh. The committee will oversee crucial sectors of the global game and has two ICC sub-committees to assist it.
Saikia is also part of the newly established ICC Franchise Leagues Committee. The move is seen as a significant administrative development for cricket governance.
Q14. The United States recently expanded its military strikes into which part of Iran?
A. Southern Iran
B. Northern Iran
C. Western Iran
D. Eastern Iran
Answer: B
Explanation:
The United States expanded its airstrikes campaign against Iran by hitting targets further north of the Islamic Republic. American forces struck Iranian power infrastructure in a bid to break the naval blockade in the Strait of Hormuz and ease pressure on shipping.
The strikes come amid renewed threats by Iran to close the Red Sea route and involve the Houthi movement. Tehran may engage Houthis to block oil supplies in response.
Q15. The nine-day Kang Festival, also known as Rath Yatra, began in which state?
A. Assam
B. Manipur
C. Tripura
D. Meghalaya
Answer: B
Explanation:
The nine-day Kang Festival (Rath Yatra) began with traditional pomp and gaiety in Manipur. The main events include pulling of the kang (traditional chariot) and offering of flowers and fruits to Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra and Subhadra at Shree Shree Govindajee Temple in Imphal.
The festival is also being celebrated at other temples including ISKCON temple in Imphal West district. Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla and other leaders attended the celebrations.
Q16. Who was recently appointed as the new Prime Minister of Ukraine?
A. Volodymyr Zelenskyy
B. Serhii Koretskyi
C. Oleksandr Kornienko
D. Denys Shmyhal
Answer: B
Explanation:
Ukrainian Parliament appointed Serhii Koretskyi as Prime Minister as part of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s latest government reshuffle. Koretskyi said his foremost task is to fully equip Ukraine’s defence forces and accelerate expansion of the defence industry.
He emphasised continuing support for frontline communities enduring Russian attacks and securing additional resources from international partners. The appointment comes at a critical time for Ukraine.
Q17. Which political party decided to launch a nationwide movement for Imran Khan’s release starting August 5?
A. PML-N
B. PPP
C. PTI
D. TLP
Answer: C
Explanation:
Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) parliamentary committee decided to hold a nationwide movement starting August 5 to demand the release of party chief Imran Khan. The decision was taken during a meeting chaired by PTI’s interim chairman Gohar Ali Khan.
August 5 marks the completion of three years of Imran Khan’s imprisonment. The movement will include public meetings, demonstrations and a long march.
Q18. Pulin Das, a veteran sportsman and organiser, was remembered on which death anniversary in Guwahati?
A. 5th
B. 10th
C. 12th
D. 15th
Answer: C
Explanation:
Pulin Das was remembered on his 12th death anniversary at a memorial meeting held at his residence on Lamb Road in Guwahati’s Jorpukhuripar locality. He played a pivotal role in the formation of several key sports bodies in Assam including the Assam Cricket Association and Assam Football Association.
The Pulin Das Memorial Committee organised the event to honour his contributions as a noted sportsman, veteran organiser and pioneer in sports journalism.
Q19. India’s first hydrogen-powered train was flagged off by Prime Minister Modi from which state?
A. Punjab
B. Haryana
C. Rajasthan
D. Gujarat
Answer: B
Explanation:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off India’s first hydrogen-powered train connecting Jind and Sonipat in Haryana. The 89-km distance will be covered in two hours with the train halting at 12 intermediate stations.
The train is 3200 horse-power and is the world’s most powerful hydrogen-powered train with 10 coaches. It marks a major step towards green mobility and Make in India in the railway sector.
Q20. Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk completed how many days of hunger strike as on July 17?
A. 10 days
B. 15 days
C. 20 days
D. 25 days
Answer: C
Explanation:
Educator and climate activist Sonam Wangchuk completed 20 days of hunger strike on July 17 in Delhi. He asserted he would stay alive till July 20 at any cost even as doctors warned that his prolonged fast had reached a critical stage.
He is protesting against alleged examination irregularities at Jantar Mantar. Over 160 prominent citizens from Assam appealed to him to end the indefinite fast.
Q21. The United States recently expanded airstrikes on Iran targeting which key infrastructure?
A. Only military bases
B. Bridges and energy sites
C. Only airports
D. Agricultural fields
Answer: B
Explanation:
The United States expanded its airstrike campaign against Iran by hitting bridges, energy sites and collapsing a tower at a key Iranian port. The strikes aim to break the naval blockade in the Strait of Hormuz and ease pressure on shipping.
Iran launched missile attacks against US-allied nations in the Middle East in response. Oil prices rose close to their highest level in a month following the developments.
Q22. Prime Minister Modi’s recent visit to Indonesia is expected to give a boost to which Indian policy?
A. Neighbourhood First Policy
B. Act East Policy
C. Look West Policy
D. SAGAR Policy
Answer: B
Explanation:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Indonesia is expected to give a boost to the implementation of India’s Act East Policy. The visit is seen as strengthening connectivity and cooperation in many sectors including maritime, space, defence and trade that will benefit the Northeast region.
Both countries reaffirmed the Shared Vision of India-Indonesia Maritime Cooperation in the Indo-Pacific and agreed to strengthen cooperation on maritime safety and security.
Q23. Who was confirmed as the new Prime Minister of the United Kingdom?
A. Keir Starmer
B. Andy Burnham
C. Rishi Sunak
D. Boris Johnson
Answer: B
Explanation:
Andy Burnham was confirmed as the newly elected leader of the UK’s Labour Party and will become Britain’s next Prime Minister. The 56-year-old MP for Makerfield in northern England is set to take charge at 10 Downing Street next week.
He thanked outgoing leader Keir Starmer for his service and said he is ready to lead on the foundations laid by the previous government. Burnham will be invited by King Charles III to form the new government.
Q24. Which Slovenian official was appointed to referee the 2026 FIFA World Cup final?
A. Slavko Vincic
B. Szymon Marciniak
C. Daniele Orsato
D. Anthony Taylor
Answer: A
Explanation:
FIFA appointed Slovenian official Slavko Vincic to referee the 2026 FIFA World Cup final between Argentina and Spain at the New Jersey Stadium. Vincic has been a FIFA referee since 2010 and has officiated in major tournaments including the 2018 and 2022 World Cups.
He expressed honour at the appointment and said playing with golden stripes is something beautiful. The other match officials for the final were also named by FIFA.
Q25. Legendary West Indian cricketer Sir Garfield Sobers passed away at what age?
A. 85 years
B. 89 years
C. 92 years
D. 95 years
Answer: B
Explanation:
Sir Garfield Sobers, one of the greatest all-rounders in cricket history, passed away at the age of 89. He played 93 Tests for West Indies between 1954 and 1974, scoring 8,032 runs and taking 235 wickets while also excelling as a brilliant fielder.
Sobers captained West Indies in 39 Tests between 1965 and 1972. He was widely regarded as the game’s greatest all-rounder and leaves behind a lasting legacy that continues to inspire generations.
Daily Current Affairs 15-18 July 2026 | Based on The Assam Tribune