Answer: B. Chilika Lake
Explanation: The proposed airport at Puri is located close to Chilika Lake, which is a Ramsar site and an important wetland. The Wildlife Institute of India raised concerns about migratory birds, which may increase the risk of bird strikes. The region is also habitat for Olive Ridley turtles and Irrawaddy dolphins. Hence, ecological risks led to opposition to the project.

Answer: C. April 11
Explanation: World Parkinson’s Day is observed every year on April 11 to mark the birth anniversary of Dr. James Parkinson. He was the first to describe Parkinson’s disease as a neurological disorder. The day aims to raise awareness about early diagnosis, treatment, and care. The 2026 theme “Bridge the Care Gap” highlights the need for better healthcare access for patients.

Answer: C. Satyashodhak Samaj
Explanation: Mahatma Jyotirao Phule founded the Satyashodhak Samaj in 1873 to promote social equality and fight caste discrimination. The organisation worked for the upliftment of lower castes and marginalised communities. It also focused on spreading education, especially among women. Phule’s efforts played a key role in social reform movements in India.

Answer: C. Nepal
Explanation: The Barabanki–Bahraich highway project is designed to improve connectivity to the Rupaidiha Land Port, which links India with Nepal. This route plays a major role in cross-border trade, especially for agricultural and essential goods. India is Nepal’s largest trading partner, making this corridor economically significant. The project is expected to boost trade, logistics, and regional development.

Answer: B. Cybersecurity and bug detection
Explanation: Claude Mythos is an advanced AI model developed by Anthropic to detect vulnerabilities and bugs in software systems. It can identify security flaws that may be missed by human programmers. Due to its powerful capabilities, access is restricted to select companies. The model is part of efforts to strengthen cybersecurity through initiatives like Project Glasswing.

Answer: C. Transition metals
Explanation: Transition metals such as palladium, platinum, and rhodium are widely used as catalysts in industrial and pharmaceutical processes. However, they are rare and expensive, and India largely depends on imports for them. The new research shows that aluminium, when modified chemically, can mimic the catalytic behaviour of these metals. This could reduce costs and improve self-reliance in the future.

Answer: B. Maharashtra
Explanation: Asha Bhosle was born in Sangli, which is located in the present-day state of Maharashtra. She spent a significant part of her life and career in Mumbai, the hub of the Indian film industry. Maharashtra has produced many legendary artists in music and cinema. Her contributions greatly enriched the cultural legacy of the state and the country.

Answer: B. Uzbekistan
Explanation: Exercise DUSTLIK is a bilateral military exercise conducted between India and Uzbekistan. It is held annually, alternating between the two countries. The exercise focuses on joint operations in semi-mountainous terrain and enhances coordination between armed forces. It plays a key role in strengthening defence cooperation and bilateral ties.