Current Affairs
1. What is the total outlay of Assam’s capital expenditure plan for 2026–2031 under which Asom Mala 4.0 will upgrade 6,000 km of roads?
A. ₹50,000 crore
B. ₹1 lakh crore
C. ₹1.5 lakh crore
D. ₹2 lakh crore
See: Daily Current Affairs 12-15 August 2026
Answer: C
Explanation:
The Chief Minister unveiled a ₹1.5 lakh crore capital expenditure plan for 2026 to 2031 with a major focus on infrastructure. Asom Mala 4.0 is a key component aimed at upgrading 6,000 kilometres of road networks across the state. The plan is intended to improve connectivity and support long-term economic growth.
Asom Mala is Assam’s flagship road development programme. The 4.0 phase marks a significant scaling up of earlier editions.
2. How many new co-districts did Assam announce for better local administration?
A. Six
B. Eight
C. Ten
D. Twelve
Answer: B
Explanation:
The state officially announced the formation of eight new co-districts to streamline governance and local administration. The new units include Kamalpur, Barhampur, Ranganadi, Sissibargaon, Chabua-Lahowal, Khumtai, Katigorah and Barkhola. The move aims to bring administration closer to people in large districts.
Co-districts function as intermediate administrative units. Similar experiments have been tried in other states to reduce the burden on district headquarters.
3. The Assam government rolled out a five-year roadmap to grant legal land ownership rights to how many tea garden families?
A. 1.5 lakh
B. 2.5 lakh
C. 3.5 lakh
D. 5 lakh
Answer: C
Explanation:
The state government rolled out a five-year roadmap to provide official legal land ownership rights to over 3.5 lakh families residing within tea garden regions. The measure is aimed at giving long-term security to tea garden communities. Implementation will be phased over five years.
Land rights for tea garden workers have been a long-pending demand. Secure tenure is expected to improve access to credit and welfare schemes.
4. Assam created a new Department of Youth Empowerment and Development by amalgamating which of the following?
A. Only NCC and NSS
B. NCC, NSS, Nehru Yuva Kendra and skill programmes
C. Only skill development missions
D. Sports and education departments
Answer: B
Explanation:
A dedicated Department of Youth Empowerment and Development was established by amalgamating the NCC, NSS, Nehru Yuva Kendra and various skill development programmes into a single governance framework. The aim is to bring youth-related schemes under one administrative roof. This is expected to improve coordination and delivery.
Youth-focused departments exist in several states. Combining training, volunteer and skill bodies can reduce overlap in programmes.
5. AssamSAT, which the state is advancing with a private implementation partner, is planned as what type of satellite?
A. Communication satellite
B. Navigation satellite
C. Earth-observation satellite
D. Weather balloon system
Answer: C
Explanation:
The state government advanced plans to launch AssamSAT, a dedicated Earth-observation satellite system, by moving forward with the selection of a private-sector implementation partner. The satellite is intended to support planning, disaster monitoring and resource mapping. Private partnership is being used to speed up implementation.
State-level Earth-observation missions can complement ISRO data. Similar state satellite initiatives have been discussed in other Indian states.
6. Assam announced free medical treatment for children below 18 years for how many identified critical diseases?
A. Over 20
B. Over 35
C. Over 50
D. Over 75
Answer: C
Explanation:
A state health initiative was announced to provide completely free medical treatment for children below 18 years suffering from over 50 specifically identified critical diseases. The scheme aims to reduce out-of-pocket expenditure for families. Coverage is limited to the listed critical conditions.
Child health schemes often complement Ayushman Bharat. Early treatment of critical illnesses can lower long-term disability and costs.
7. Official preparations have begun for a 2028 event marking how many years since Sukapha’s arrival in the Brahmaputra Valley?
A. 500 years
B. 600 years
C. 700 years
D. 800 years
Answer: D
Explanation:
Official preparations have commenced for a grand event in 2028 to mark 800 years since the arrival of Swargadeo Chao Lung Sukapha in the Brahmaputra Valley. Sukapha is regarded as the founder of the Ahom kingdom. The commemoration is expected to highlight Assam’s historical identity.
Sukapha’s arrival is a major cultural milestone in Assam. State-level commemorations of founding figures are common across India.
8. Assam school teachers revived their agitation mainly citing which two issues?
A. Pension cuts and transfers
B. Unfulfilled salary assurances and census duty disruptions
C. Closure of schools and mid-day meal delays
D. New recruitment rules and promotions
Answer: B
Explanation:
State school teachers revived their salary agitation campaign, citing unfulfilled administrative assurances and disruptions caused by mandatory census duties pulling them away from classroom teaching. The protest reflects ongoing service-condition disputes. Census work has reduced teaching time in many schools.
Teacher unions in several states have raised similar concerns during census and election duty periods. Classroom time versus official duty remains a recurring issue.
10. Excavators in Mayong unearthed stone structures dated to which century along with medieval terracotta artifacts?
A. 5th century
B. 7th century
C. 10th century
D. 12th century
Answer: B
Explanation:
Excavators unearthed 7th-century stone structures and medieval terracotta artifacts in the Mayong region. The finds offer deeper insights into the ancient historical timelines of the Brahmaputra Valley. Mayong is known for its archaeological and cultural significance.
Mayong has long been associated with folklore and early settlement history. Archaeological work in the valley continues to refine Assam’s early chronology.
11. The official flood damage survey in Sivasagar identified over how many affected houses, with a reporting deadline of August 30?
A. 18,000
B. 25,000
C. 42,500
D. 60,000
Answer: C
Explanation:
The official flood damage survey in Sivasagar reached 85% completion, identifying over 42,500 affected houses. Authorities urged remaining households to report before the August 30 deadline. Accurate listing is needed for relief and reconstruction.
Post-flood house surveys are the basis for compensation. Incomplete reporting often delays assistance to the worst-hit families.
12. Assam waived July electricity bills for domestic and Jeevan Dhara consumers using up to how many units in severely flood-hit districts?
A. 100 units
B. 200 units
C. 300 units
D. 500 units
Answer: C
Explanation:
The government announced a complete waiver of July electricity bills for domestic and Jeevan Dhara consumers using up to 300 units in severely flood-hit districts like Sivasagar and Charaideo. The relief is targeted at households affected by flooding. It is meant to ease immediate financial pressure.
Utility bill waivers are a common post-disaster measure. Jeevan Dhara connections typically serve low-consumption rural households.
13. What is the size of the comprehensive flood rehabilitation bill drafted by Assam?
A. ₹250 crore
B. ₹500 crore
C. ₹1,000 crore
D. ₹2,000 crore
Answer: C
Explanation:
A comprehensive ₹1,000-crore rehabilitation bill was drafted for state flood recovery. The central government mandated strict beneficiary verifications before final disbursement of funds. Verification is intended to prevent leakages and duplicate claims.
Large rehabilitation packages usually combine state and central support. Beneficiary lists are a frequent point of scrutiny after disasters.
14. Experts attributed Assam’s unusually severe and prolonged flooding to climate change and which oceanic phenomenon?
A. El Niño only
B. La Niña only
C. Indian Ocean Dipole
D. Pacific Decadal Oscillation
Answer: C
Explanation:
Experts and environmental officials attributed the unusually severe and prolonged flooding in Assam to the combined anomalous influences of climate change and shifting patterns of the Indian Ocean Dipole. The IOD affects monsoon rainfall over the Indian subcontinent. Unusual IOD phases can intensify extreme rain events.
The Indian Ocean Dipole is the difference in sea-surface temperatures between the western and eastern Indian Ocean. It is an important driver of monsoon variability.
15. How many FIRs were filed against political figures over alleged threats during flood relief distribution disputes?
A. Four
B. Six
C. Eight
D. Ten
Answer: C
Explanation:
Law enforcement filed eight FIRs against prominent political figures for allegedly making provocative remarks and issuing threats during disputes regarding the distribution of state flood relief. The cases arose from tensions around beneficiary selection and relief delivery. Authorities acted to prevent further polarisation.
Relief distribution often becomes politically sensitive after major floods. Legal action is meant to deter intimidation of officials and beneficiaries.
16. Security agencies arrested a fourth operative of which network in Hailakandi’s Ramnathpur area?
A. ULFA-I
B. Shahzad Bhatti Network
C. NSCN faction
D. IM-backed module
Answer: B
Explanation:
Security agencies apprehended a fourth operative of the Shahzad Bhatti Network in the Ramnathpur area of Hailakandi as part of a coordinated nationwide security crackdown. The arrest is part of a wider operation against the group. Hailakandi lies in southern Assam.
Multi-state crackdowns typically follow intelligence sharing among agencies. Border districts in the Barak Valley have seen several such operations.
17. Leadership of Assam and which neighbouring state initiated an inquiry after a hostile firing incident along their border?
A. Meghalaya
B. Nagaland
C. Arunachal Pradesh
D. Mizoram
Answer: C
Explanation:
Following a hostile firing incident along the Assam–Arunachal Pradesh border, leadership from both states initiated an impartial inquiry to investigate the underlying causes and de-escalate tensions. The probe is intended to prevent the situation from worsening. Border disputes between the two states have flared periodically.
Assam shares a long and partly disputed boundary with Arunachal Pradesh. Joint inquiries are often used as a first step after violent incidents.
18. The Meghalaya opposition flagged rising border tensions and concerns of farmers from which area?
A. Tura
B. Lapangap
C. Jowai
D. Nongpoh
Answer: B
Explanation:
The Meghalaya opposition assembly formally flagged rising border tensions over transport rows and highlighted escalating concerns from Lapangap farmers along the disputed inter-state boundaries. The issue involves movement of goods and access to farmland. Inter-state border rows have repeatedly affected local livelihoods.
Assam–Meghalaya boundary disputes have seen several rounds of talks. Farmer access and transport restrictions are common flashpoints.
19. India’s domestic space economy reached which value, with projections of $40–45 billion in the next decade?
A. $3 billion
B. $6 billion
C. $9 billion
D. $15 billion
Answer: C
Explanation:
Official data revealed that India’s domestic space economy successfully reached the $9 billion mark. Rapid projections indicate a surge to $40–45 billion over the next decade. Growth is being driven by satellite services, launches and private participation.
India’s space sector has expanded beyond government programmes. Commercial launch and downstream applications are key growth areas.
20. Private investment in India’s space sector rose six-fold to how much by 2026?
A. $218.5 million
B. $418.5 million
C. $618.5 million
D. $818.5 million
Answer: C
Explanation:
Private investments within the Indian space sector witnessed a six-fold increase to reach $618.5 million by 2026. The surge was largely driven by strategic FDI liberalisations and new startup frameworks. Policy changes have opened more of the value chain to private firms.
FDI reforms and IN-SPACe have encouraged private launch and satellite ventures. Startup activity has grown across manufacturing and downstream services.
21. Nagaland Police announced a single-window digital complaint portal to be functional within how many days?
A. 7 days
B. 12 days
C. 21 days
D. 30 days
Answer: B
Explanation:
The Nagaland Police announced the implementation of a comprehensive single-window digital complaint portal, to be functional within 12 days to streamline public grievance redressal. The portal is meant to make filing and tracking complaints easier. Digital police services are being expanded across states.
Single-window systems reduce multiple visits to police stations. Similar e-FIR and grievance portals exist in several Indian states.
22. India’s National Security Advisor held talks in Beijing with the Chinese Vice President ahead of which dialogue round on the LAC?
A. 20th Special Representative round
B. 22nd Special Representative round
C. 25th Special Representative round
D. 30th Special Representative round
Answer: C
Explanation:
The National Security Advisor held high-level talks with the Chinese Vice President in Beijing ahead of the 25th round of Special Representative dialogues aimed at stabilising peace along the Line of Actual Control. The talks are part of efforts to manage the boundary issue. Special Representative-level dialogue is the main political track.
India–China border talks have continued despite periodic military stand-offs. Confidence-building on the LAC remains a core agenda.
23. Multiple US state governments proclaimed August 15, 2026 as what?
A. India Trade Day
B. India Day
C. Diaspora Day
D. Gandhi Jayanti Week
Answer: B
Explanation:
Multiple state governments across the United States officially proclaimed August 15, 2026 as ‘India Day’ to honour the Indian diaspora and their cultural contributions. The proclamations coincided with India’s Independence Day. They reflect the growing political visibility of the Indian-American community.
Several US states have earlier issued similar India-related proclamations. Diaspora outreach is an important strand of India’s public diplomacy.
24. Indian union ministers met the Prime Minister of which country ahead of the ISMR to boost trade and technology ties?
A. Malaysia
B. Indonesia
C. Singapore
D. Thailand
Answer: C
Explanation:
Indian union ministers conducted extensive meetings with the Prime Minister of Singapore ahead of the ISMR, laying groundwork to significantly boost bilateral trade and technological collaboration. Singapore is a key partner in finance, skills and advanced manufacturing. The meetings were preparatory in nature.
India–Singapore ties cover trade, fintech, skills and defence. ISMR-linked engagement is used to deepen economic partnership.
25. The Tripura Chief Minister indicated a potential electoral understanding ahead of which polls in September?
A. Lok Sabha bypolls
B. Municipal corporation polls
C. Village committee polls
D. Autonomous council polls
Answer: C
Explanation:
The Chief Minister of Tripura publicly indicated a potential electoral understanding between key political parties ahead of the village committee polls slated for September. Village committee elections are important in Tripura’s local governance structure. Seat-sharing or understanding can shape grassroots outcomes.
Local body polls often preview larger political alignments. Village committees are a key tier of rural administration in the state.
26. A three-day session of the Manipur Legislative Assembly was scheduled to start from which date?
A. August 25
B. September 2
C. September 10
D. September 15
Answer: B
Explanation:
A short three-day session of the Manipur Legislative Assembly was scheduled starting September 2. Opposition members formally dissented and demanded an extended sitting period. The duration of the session became a political issue.
Short sessions limit the time available for debate and questions. Opposition parties often seek longer sittings after periods of unrest.
27. Severe flooding in Odisha affected an estimated how many people?
A. 5.44 lakh
B. 8.44 lakh
C. 13.44 lakh
D. 18.44 lakh
Answer: C
Explanation:
Torrential monsoon rains triggered severe flooding across Odisha, affecting an estimated 13.44 lakh people and prompting massive state-wide emergency rescue and relief operations. Large-scale evacuation and relief camps were activated. The floods added to the monsoon disaster burden in eastern India.
Odisha is frequently affected by both cyclones and riverine floods. Rapid rescue capacity has improved after previous disasters.
28. Industrial accidents in which two states left two dead in a pharma plant blast and three engineers dead in a factory explosion?
A. Gujarat and Odisha
B. Telangana and Jharkhand
C. Maharashtra and Bihar
D. Tamil Nadu and Chhattisgarh
Answer: B
Explanation:
A reactor blast at a Telangana pharmaceutical plant left two dead, while a separate factory explosion in Jharkhand claimed the lives of three engineers. The accidents occurred around the same period. They have renewed attention on industrial safety standards.
Pharma and chemical plants carry high process-safety risks. Factory explosions often trigger inquiries into compliance and emergency protocols.
29. The Indian Army recovered and defused a live mortar shell during patrols in which J&K district?
A. Kupwara
B. Rajouri
C. Poonch
D. Baramulla
Answer: C
Explanation:
The Indian Army successfully intercepted and safely defused a live mortar shell discovered during patrols along the Line of Control in the Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir. The recovery reduced the risk to troops and civilians. Such finds occur periodically along the LoC.
Poonch is a sensitive border district. Disposal of unexploded ordnance is a routine but high-risk military task.
30. A US Senate sanctions bill threatens 100% tariffs on goods from countries that are top importers of what?
A. Iranian crude
B. Russian oil and gas
C. Chinese rare earths
D. Venezuelan oil
Answer: B
Explanation:
The United States Senate passed a sanctions bill that introduces the threat of imposing 100% tariffs on goods from countries, including India, that remain top importers of Russian oil and gas. The measure is aimed at tightening pressure related to the Russia conflict. India is among the countries that have continued discounted Russian energy imports.
Secondary tariff threats are a tool of US economic statecraft. Energy import patterns have been a point of friction in several bilateral relationships.
31. Who was elected President of Bangladesh after the first fiercely contested national poll since 1991?
A. Muhammad Yunus
B. Khaleda Zia
C. Mirza Fakhrul
D. Sheikh Hasina
Answer: C
Explanation:
Mirza Fakhrul of the BNP was officially elected as the President of Bangladesh following the country’s first fiercely contested national poll since 1991. The election marked a major political transition. The BNP’s elevation to the presidency is a significant shift in Dhaka’s power structure.
Bangladesh’s presidency is largely ceremonial but politically symbolic. Contested polls after a long gap draw close regional attention.
32. The United States officially removed which country from its list of state sponsors of terrorism?
A. Iran
B. North Korea
C. Syria
D. Cuba
Answer: C
Explanation:
The United States officially removed Syria from its designated list of state sponsors of terrorism, a major diplomatic reversal welcomed by authorities in Damascus. The delisting has political and economic implications. It reflects a change in Washington’s approach after the earlier regime transition.
The US state-sponsor list carries sanctions and diplomatic costs. Removal is rare and usually follows a major political shift.
33. Which former Nepal Prime Minister returned to active politics amid money-laundering investigations?
A. K.P. Sharma Oli
B. Pushpa Kamal Dahal
C. Sher Bahadur Deuba
D. Madhav Kumar Nepal
Answer: C
Explanation:
Former Nepalese Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba formally returned to active politics and public life amidst ongoing state investigations into alleged money-laundering activities. His return revives the role of a veteran Nepali Congress leader. Legal proceedings remain a parallel track.
Nepal’s politics has seen frequent leadership changes. Senior leaders often remain influential despite legal cases.
34. The US administration announced an upcoming honour for the crew of which lunar mission?
A. Artemis I
B. Artemis II
C. Artemis III
D. Apollo 50
Answer: B
Explanation:
The US administration formally announced an upcoming honour for the crew of the historic Artemis II space mission for their contributions to modern lunar exploration. Artemis II is a crewed mission around the Moon. The honour recognises a key step in the return-to-Moon programme.
Artemis is NASA’s programme to return astronauts to the lunar region. Crew recognition is part of public communication around the missions.
35. A Chinese Long March 7A rocket exploded after launch from Wenchang, destroying which satellite?
A. Gaofen-12
B. Zhongxing-4B
C. Tianzhou-8
D. Yaogan-40
Answer: B
Explanation:
A Chinese Long March 7A rocket exploded into a fireball seconds after launch from the Wenchang site, resulting in the total destruction of the Zhongxing-4B communications satellite. The failure is a setback for China’s commercial and communications launch programme. Wenchang is a major coastal launch centre.
Long March rockets are the backbone of China’s launch fleet. Early-flight explosions usually trigger investigations into propulsion and range safety.
36. US Central Command activated its first-ever multinational unit of what kind in the Middle East?
A. Naval strike group
B. Attack drone unit
C. Cyber task force
D. Missile defence battery
Answer: B
Explanation:
The United States Central Command formally activated its first-ever multinational attack drone unit in response to shifting geopolitical security dynamics in the Middle East. The unit reflects the growing role of unmanned systems in regional operations. Multinational participation is meant to share capability and cost.
Drones have become central to Middle East security operations. Combined units allow partners to operate under a common command structure.
37. A hospital fire in Islamabad’s gynaecology ward killed at least how many newborn babies?
A. 5
B. 10
C. 15
D. 25
Answer: C
Explanation:
A massive fire broke out in the primary gynaecology ward of a major hospital in Islamabad, resulting in the deaths of at least 15 newborn babies. The tragedy triggered public outrage and questions on hospital safety. Investigations typically focus on electrical systems and emergency exits.
Hospital fires have occurred in several South Asian cities. Neonatal wards are especially vulnerable because infants cannot be evacuated quickly.
38. Bangladeshi agencies arrested two suspects in the murder of a Hindu family in which district?
A. Khulna
B. Sylhet
C. Rangpur
D. Chittagong
Answer: C
Explanation:
Law enforcement agencies in Bangladesh apprehended two suspects linked to the murder of a Hindu family in the Rangpur district, which had sparked widespread local protests. The arrests came after public pressure for action. Communal violence cases remain highly sensitive.
Rangpur is in northern Bangladesh. Swift arrests are often demanded after attacks on minority families.
39. University applications from Indian students to the US dropped by about what percentage due to tighter immigration policies?
A. 5%
B. 10%
C. 15%
D. 25%
Answer: C
Explanation:
International educational reports confirmed a sharp 15% drop in university applications from Indian students to the US, driven largely by tightening immigration policies. India has been one of the largest sources of international students. Policy uncertainty affects both undergraduate and graduate applications.
Visa rules, work permits and political climate influence student flows. Alternative destinations in Europe, Canada and Asia often gain when US inflows dip.
40. Preparations were finalised for the September opening of the first major traditional Hindu temple in which country?
A. Germany
B. France
C. Spain
D. Italy
Answer: B
Explanation:
Logistical preparations were finalised for the grand opening of the BAPS Mandir in September, marking the inauguration of the first major traditional Hindu temple structure in France. The temple is expected to serve the Indian diaspora and visitors. BAPS has built prominent temples in several countries.
Diaspora temples also function as cultural centres. France has a growing Indian and Hindu community in and around major cities.
41. Tens of thousands of Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh held rallies demanding repatriation to which country?
A. Thailand
B. India
C. Myanmar
D. Malaysia
Answer: C
Explanation:
Tens of thousands of Rohingya refugees living in camp networks in Bangladesh held coordinated rallies demanding immediate, safe and dignified return procedures to Myanmar. Most Rohingya fled violence in Rakhine State. Repatriation has remained stalled for years.
Bangladesh hosts one of the world’s largest refugee populations. Safe return depends on security guarantees and citizenship-related issues in Myanmar.
42. The death toll from a 7.7-magnitude earthquake in Indonesia climbed to how many?
A. 21
B. 35
C. 51
D. 78
Answer: C
Explanation:
The confirmed death toll from a devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake in Indonesia climbed to 51, with international rescue operations intensifying in remote, landslide-hit regions. Aftershocks and damaged roads slowed relief. Indonesia sits on the Pacific Ring of Fire.
High-magnitude quakes in Indonesia often trigger landslides in hilly terrain. International teams are frequently mobilised for remote search-and-rescue.
43. Unprecedented downpours in Japan caused floods and landslides that resulted in at least how many casualties?
A. Two
B. Four
C. Six
D. Twelve
Answer: C
Explanation:
Unprecedented torrential downpours triggered widespread river flooding and landslides across Japan, resulting in at least six casualties and heavy infrastructural damage. Evacuations were ordered in several prefectures. Extreme rainfall events have become more frequent in parts of East Asia.
Japan has advanced early-warning systems but localised cloudbursts can still overwhelm rivers. Landslides are a major secondary hazard.
44. A ferry capsize on Lake Kariba in Zimbabwe left 15 dead and how many officially missing?
A. 11
B. 19
C. 27
D. 40
Answer: C
Explanation:
A passenger transport ferry capsized on Lake Kariba in Zimbabwe, leading to 15 confirmed fatalities and leaving at least 27 individuals officially listed as missing. Lake crossings in the region often involve overcrowded vessels. Search operations continued after the accident.
Lake Kariba lies on the Zambia–Zimbabwe border. Inland ferry disasters are frequently linked to weather, overloading and weak regulation.
45. India finished fourth at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow with how many medals, including 13 golds?
A. 29
B. 34
C. 39
D. 45
Answer: C
Explanation:
India concluded its trimmed-down Commonwealth Games 2026 campaign in Glasgow with a fourth-place overall finish, securing 39 total medals, including 13 golds. The contingent was smaller than in some previous editions. Medal winners came from a mix of individual and team events.
The Commonwealth Games remain a major multi-sport platform for India. Fourth place keeps India among the leading Commonwealth nations.
46. India received the sporting baton to host the centenary Commonwealth Games in 2030 in which city?
A. New Delhi
B. Bengaluru
C. Ahmedabad
D. Hyderabad
Answer: C
Explanation:
During the closing ceremony of the 2026 CWG, India formally received the sporting baton, setting the stage for Ahmedabad to host the historic centenary edition of the Commonwealth Games in 2030. The 2030 Games will mark 100 years of the event. Hosting rights are a major organisational commitment.
Ahmedabad has been developing large sports infrastructure. Centenary Games usually carry extra ceremonial and legacy expectations.
47. Which city was selected to host the 2028 India Open badminton tournament?
A. New Delhi
B. Hyderabad
C. Guwahati
D. Lucknow
Answer: C
Explanation:
Guwahati was officially selected to host the prestigious 2028 India Open badminton tournament following scheduling adjustments related to Republic Day security protocols in Delhi. The shift gives the Northeast a major international badminton event. India Open is part of the BWF World Tour calendar.
Guwahati has hosted international sporting events before. Relocating events for security and calendar reasons is not uncommon.
48. Subhadeep Ghosh, who took charge as India’s fielding coach, hails from which place in Assam?
A. Jorhat
B. Dibrugarh
C. Digboi
D. Silchar
Answer: C
Explanation:
Subhadeep Ghosh, originally from Digboi, Assam, formally took charge as the new fielding coach for the senior Indian men’s national cricket team ahead of their international Test series. Fielding has become a specialised coaching role in modern cricket. His appointment adds a Northeast connection to the national support staff.
Support-staff changes often precede a home or overseas Test cycle. Fielding standards are now treated as a match-winning skill.
49. IIT Guwahati researchers developed a low-cost catalyst using nickel and which organic compound to produce green hydrogen from water?
A. Graphene
B. Anthracene
C. Cellulose
D. Chitosan
Answer: B
Explanation:
Researchers at IIT Guwahati successfully engineered a highly efficient, low-cost chemical catalyst utilising nickel and anthracene to sustainably produce green hydrogen directly from water. The work aims to bring down the cost of water-splitting. Nickel-based catalysts are being explored as alternatives to expensive noble metals.
Green hydrogen is a priority under India’s energy transition plans. Academic catalysts still need scale-up and durability testing for industry use.
50. Solar power projects and which other plants were inaugurated across Indian states with subsidies to cut carbon footprints?
A. Nuclear mini-reactors
B. Compressed bio-gas plants
C. Coal gasification units
D. Offshore wind farms only
Answer: B
Explanation:
Extensive solar power generation projects and compressed bio-gas plants were formally inaugurated across multiple Indian states, backed by government subsidies aimed at reducing regional carbon footprints. The twin push covers electricity and waste-to-energy. Compressed bio-gas also supports cleaner cooking and transport fuel.
India’s energy mix strategy combines solar capacity with bio-energy from agricultural and urban waste. Subsidies are used to improve project viability in early years.
Daily Current Affairs 16-26 August 2026 | Based on The Assam Tribune