Showing questions for October 22, 2025
- Total: 30 questions
Question 1 Oct 22, 2025
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What luxury car model has the Lokpal of India sought to procure for its seven members through a recent public tender?
BMW 330 LiThe Lokpal of India issued a public tender to procure seven BMW 330 Li (Long Wheelbase) sedans, each valued at over Rs 70 lakh, for its members. This move has drawn sharp criticism from activists and public interest lawyers, including Prashant Bhushan, who questioned the necessity and ethics of such luxury expenditure by an anti-corruption body. The tender specifies the 'M Sport' variant in white color. Critics argue that the decision contradicts the institution's mandate of promoting integrity and fiscal prudence. The controversy has reignited debates about the Lokpal’s operational independence and effectiveness.
Question 2 Oct 22, 2025
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According to a recent clarification by USCIS, which group is exempt from the new $100,000 fee on H-1B visa petitions introduced in September 2025?
Individuals already in the US seeking a change of status or extensionThe US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) clarified that the new $100,000 fee on H-1B visa petitions applies only to new applicants applying from outside the United States. Those already in the US who are filing for a change of status (e.g., from F-1 to H-1B) or an extension of their existing H-1B are exempt. This clarification was issued following President Donald Trump’s September 19, 2025 proclamation restricting entry of certain non-immigrant workers. The policy aims to discourage new foreign hires but allows current visa holders to adjust status without the fee burden. Business groups, including the US Chamber of Commerce, have challenged the policy in court.
Question 3 Oct 22, 2025
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A suspicious death in Panchkula led to a criminal probe involving which former Punjab DGP and his wife, a former minister?
Mohammad MustafaThe death of 35-year-old advocate Aqil Akhter in Panchkula on October 16, initially reported as a drug overdose, turned into a criminal investigation after a disturbing video surfaced. In the video dated August 27, Aqil accused his father and wife of an illicit relationship and expressed fear for his life. Following a complaint by Shamshudeen Chaudhary, the Panchkula police registered an FIR under murder and criminal conspiracy sections of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita. The accused include former Punjab DGP Mohammad Mustafa, his wife Razia Sultana (a former state minister), and their daughter (Aqil’s wife). An SIT has been formed to conduct a scientific investigation.
Question 4 Oct 22, 2025
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What record-breaking figure did India’s Diwali sales reach in 2025, according to the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT)?
₹6.05 Lakh CroreDiwali sales in 2025 reached a historic high of ₹6.05 Lakh Crore, comprising ₹5.40 Lakh Crore in goods and ₹65,000 Crore in services, as reported by CAIT. This marks a significant jump from ₹4.25 Lakh Crore in 2024, driven by revised GST rates and strong consumer confidence. Traditional and non-corporate retail contributed 85% of total sales, highlighting the resilience of small traders. Key sectors included grocery/FMCG (12%), gold/jewellery (10%), and electronics (8%). The data was gathered from a nationwide survey across 60 major distribution centers, including Tier 2 and 3 cities.
Question 5 Oct 22, 2025
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Which diplomatic move did India make regarding its mission in Kabul in October 2025?
Upgraded its technical mission to a full embassyIn October 2025, India upgraded its technical mission in Kabul to a full-fledged embassy, signaling a strategic re-engagement with Afghanistan after more than four years of minimal diplomatic presence. Although India has not formally recognized the Taliban government, this pragmatic step aims to enhance cooperation in development, humanitarian aid, and regional security. The decision followed talks between External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi. India has historically invested over $3 billion in Afghan infrastructure and social projects. The embassy upgrade reflects India’s intent to maintain influence and support stability in the region despite complex geopolitical dynamics.