Daily Prelims MCQs – Current Affairs – 1st September 2025
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Welcome to your Daily UPSC Prelims Current Affairs MCQs – 1st September 2025. This is part of our subject-wise daily series where Monday is dedicated to Current Affairs, helping aspirants stay updated with the latest news linked to the UPSC Prelims syllabus.
Today’s set of 10 questions has been curated from recent national and international developments, with detailed explanations to help aspirants:
Revise dynamic current affairs in a UPSC format
Link static concepts with current issues
Sharpen Prelims elimination skills
Topics covered today include: Daruma Doll, Blue Dragon sea slug, H-1B visa program, ISRO–JAXA Chandrayaan-5 LUPEX mission, Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC), National Sports Day 2025 theme, India–Japan partnership, Titas River, North Indian dams, and the Mumbai–Ahmedabad Bullet Train project.
Stay consistent with these daily quizzes to strengthen your preparation for UPSC Prelims 2026.
Click Here to read the Monthly Current Affairs Pointers (CAP).
QUESTION 1
Regarding the “Daruma Doll”, consider the following statements:
1. It is a traditional Chinese wish doll.
2. It is modelled after Bodhidharma.
3. It is considered a symbol of perseverance and good luck.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
(a) Only one
(b) Only two
(c) All three
(d) None
Answer (b)
Explanation:
During Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Japan, Rev Seishi Hirose, the head priest of the Daruma-ji temple, gifted him a Daruma Doll, which is a well-known cultural artifact in Japan.
The Daruma Doll is a traditional Japanese talisman often crafted from papier-mâché. It is commonly associated with making wishes and setting goals. Hence, Statement 1 is incorrect as it is not Chinese but Japanese in origin.
The design of the doll is based on Bodhidharma, a 5th-century Indian monk who founded Zen Buddhism (a school of Mahayana Buddhism) in China. Therefore, Statement 2 is correct.
This doll is widely regarded as a symbol of persistence and luck. In Japanese culture, it is commonly used to encourage people to pursue their goals with determination. Thus, Statement 3 is correct.
The figure of Bodhidharma, known in Japan as Daruma Daishi, is said to have meditated continuously for nine years, facing a wall without moving. This legend is reflected in the limbless, rounded form of the doll and its blank eyes, symbolizing intense focus and the setting of goals. The doll’s shape also suggests resilience—when knocked over, it returns to an upright position, reinforcing its association with perseverance.
QUESTION 2
With reference to the Blue Dragons, consider the following statements:
They are a small marine species of sea slug that float on the ocean's surface, carried by currents.
Their diet consists of jellyfish and similar marine creatures.
They are mainly found in temperate waters.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
(a) Only one
(b) Only two
(c) All three
(d) None
Answer (b)
Explanation:
Recently, multiple beaches in Spain — including Vivers beach in Guardamar del Segura, Santa Bárbara beach in La Línea de la Concepción, and Famara beach in Lanzarote — were temporarily closed due to the arrival of a tiny but dangerous marine creature: the blue dragon.
Scientifically known as Glaucus atlanticus, blue dragons are a type of small sea slug that are unique in their habitat. Unlike many sea slugs that live on the ocean floor, blue dragons live at the surface of the sea, drifting along with the movement of ocean currents. They float upside down — comparable to how humans might float on their backs — by retaining an air bubble in their stomach, which helps with buoyancy. Therefore, Statement 1 is correct.
These creatures have a specialized diet. They feed on jellyfish and other stinging marine organisms such as the Portuguese man o’ war (a siphonophore). What makes them especially fascinating is their ability to absorb and reuse the venomous stinging cells (called nematocysts) from their prey, storing them in the finger-like extensions on their bodies. Hence, Statement 2 is correct.
In terms of geographic range, blue dragons inhabit warm, tropical waters — not temperate zones. They are commonly found in the Pacific, Atlantic, and Indian Oceans, and sightings have been reported in regions such as Australia, South Africa, and the United States. As a result, Statement 3 is incorrect.
Note: Temperate waters refer to ocean regions that are neither extremely cold nor tropical, typically found in mid-latitude zones. Since blue dragons are native to tropical climates.
QUESTION 3
Concerning the H-1B visa program, consider the following statements:
It permits U.S. employers to recruit foreign professionals for roles that require specialized skills and a minimum of a bachelor's degree.
There is no upper limit on the total number of new H-1B visas issued annually.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Answer (a)
Explanation:
Recently, Howard Lutnick, United States Commerce Secretary, referred to the H-1B visa system as a “scam” and urged prominent American firms to prioritize hiring U.S. citizens. His remarks stirred debate, especially since the program has been a major immigration pathway for skilled Indian professionals.
The H-1B visa is a non-immigrant visa that enables U.S. companies to employ foreign workers in roles that require expertise in specialized fields, such as IT, finance, engineering, and medicine. As per the U.S. Department of Labor, eligible positions must require at least a bachelor’s degree in a specific specialty. Thus, Statement 1 is correct.
However, there is a numerical cap on the number of new H-1B visas issued each fiscal year. The U.S. government limits it to 65,000 visas annually, with an additional 20,000 visas reserved for individuals who have earned a Master’s degree or higher from U.S. institutions. Therefore, Statement 2 is incorrect.
Note: The term cap here refers to a legally enforced ceiling or limit on the total number of new visa issuances allowed per year.
QUESTION 4
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is collaborating on the Chandrayaan-5 / LUPEX (Lunar Polar Exploration) mission with which of the following space agencies?
(a) European Space Agency
(b) National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)
(c) Canadian Space Agency
(d) Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency
Answer (d)
Explanation:
In a significant step toward deepening bilateral ties, India and Japan jointly announced a new security cooperation framework and launched an Economic Security Initiative, with Japan committing a planned investment of $68 billion in India over the coming ten years.
As part of this broader strategic collaboration, ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) signed an agreement with JAXA (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency) to work jointly on the upcoming Chandrayaan-5 / LUPEX mission.
The LUPEX (LUnar Polar EXploration) mission, part of India’s Chandrayaan series, will focus on exploring lunar volatile substances, especially water molecules, near the Permanently Shadowed Regions (PSRs) of the Moon’s South Pole. These areas are of particular interest because they are constantly in shadow and may preserve ancient water ice and other materials.
The mission will follow in the footsteps of earlier Chandrayaan efforts:
Chandrayaan-1: First Indian mission to the Moon (orbital mission).
Chandrayaan-2: Orbiter-based study.
Chandrayaan-3: Successful soft landing with rover deployment.
Chandrayaan-4 (planned): A mission focused on returning lunar samples to Earth.
For Chandrayaan-5 / LUPEX, the launch will be executed using Japan's H3-24L rocket, developed by JAXA. The lander will be built by ISRO, while the rover will be manufactured by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI), Japan. ISRO is also developing scientific instruments to be carried on board.
Note: The Permanently Shadowed Regions (PSRs) are areas near the lunar poles that never receive sunlight, and thus can trap volatile elements like water ice—making them vital for both science and future lunar missions.
QUESTION 5
With reference to the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC), consider the following statements:
It transports warm surface waters from tropical regions to the Northern Hemisphere.
The Gulf Stream is not a component of the AMOC.
A shutdown of the AMOC would lead to cooling in the Northern Hemisphere and an increase in rainfall over Europe.
How many of the above statements are correct?
(a) Only one
(b) Only two
(c) All three
(d) None
Answer (a)
Explanation:
A recent scientific study has raised alarms over the stability of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC). The researchers suggest that the tipping point — the critical threshold beyond which the AMOC could irreversibly collapse — may be reached within the next few decades. However, the actual collapse of the circulation might take 50 to 100 years to fully occur.
The AMOC is a massive system of ocean currents forming the Atlantic arm of the global thermohaline circulation, often referred to as the global ocean conveyor belt. This system plays a crucial role in regulating the Earth’s climate by distributing heat and nutrients across different ocean basins.
One of AMOC’s main functions is the northward transport of warm surface waters from equatorial regions toward the higher latitudes of the Northern Hemisphere. Upon reaching colder regions, the water cools, becomes denser, and sinks, forming deep ocean currents that eventually flow back southward. Therefore, Statement 1 is correct.
The Gulf Stream, a powerful, warm Atlantic ocean current, is an integral part of the AMOC. It contributes significantly to the relatively mild climate in parts of Europe and the eastern United States. Without the support of AMOC, the Gulf Stream would weaken, leading to substantial cooling in Europe. Hence, Statement 2 is incorrect.
Climate models indicate that an AMOC collapse would cause widespread cooling across the Northern Hemisphere, particularly affecting Europe and North America. However, instead of increasing rainfall over Europe, such a collapse would actually lead to a reduction in European precipitation, potentially disrupting agriculture and water availability. It can also alter global weather systems like El Niño. Thus, Statement 3 is incorrect.
Note: The thermohaline circulation is driven by differences in temperature (thermo) and salinity (haline), which together determine water density.
QUESTION 6
With reference to National Sports Day in India, consider the following statements:
It marks the birth anniversary of Major Dhyan Chand.
The official theme for the year 2025 is “Ek Ghanta, Khel ke Maidan Main”.
National Sports Day was first observed in 2010 to promote sports and honour Indian athletes.
The Khelo India initiative was launched during National Sports Day celebrations in 2015.
How many of the above statements are correct?
(a) Only one
(b) Only two
(c) Only three
(d) All four
Answer (b)
Explanation:
National Sports Day in India is celebrated every year on August 29. The date was chosen to commemorate the birth of Major Dhyan Chand, born on August 29, 1905. He is celebrated as one of the greatest field hockey players in history and is often referred to as the “Wizard of Hockey”. Hence, Statement 1 is correct.
For the year 2025, the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports has announced the theme as “Ek Ghanta, Khel ke Maidan Main” (translated: One Hour on the Playground), which promotes physical activity and grassroots participation in sports between August 29 to 31 as part of a national movement. Thus, Statement 2 is also correct.
Although the day is intended to celebrate Indian athletes and raise awareness about the importance of sports, it was first officially observed in 2012, not in 2010. Therefore, Statement 3 is incorrect.
The Khelo India initiative, aimed at strengthening India’s sports culture and infrastructure at the grassroots level, was launched in 2018, and not during National Sports Day in 2015. Hence, Statement 4 is incorrect.
Note: On this day, prestigious sports awards such as the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award are presented by the President of India, recognising the outstanding achievements of Indian athletes.
QUESTION 7
The evolution of India–Japan bilateral ties has progressed through several stages. Consider the following milestones:
In the year 2000, the relationship was elevated to a Global Partnership.
In 2010, it advanced to a Strategic and Global Partnership.
In 2020, it was further upgraded to a Special Strategic and Global Partnership.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 3 only
Answer (a)
Explanation:
As Prime Minister Narendra Modi departed for the 15th India–Japan Annual Summit, it highlighted the long-standing and institutionalized diplomatic dialogue between the two countries. Notably, India holds Annual Summits only with Japan and Russia, making these relationships uniquely high-level.
The India–Japan partnership has grown significantly over the years, marked by key upgrades:
In 2000, the two countries declared their relationship as a Global Partnership. Hence, Statement 1 is correct.
The partnership was then redefined in 2006, not 2010, as a Strategic and Global Partnership. Hence, Statement 2 is incorrect.
Later, in 2014, it was elevated once again to a Special Strategic and Global Partnership — not in 2020 as mentioned in the statement. Hence, Statement 3 is incorrect.
This upgraded framework reflects not only economic and political cooperation but also shared values between two major Asian democracies, especially in their vision for a free, open, and rules-based Indo-Pacific region.
Japan is also a key partner in India’s Act East Policy and leads the connectivity pillar under India’s Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI). In addition, it remains India’s largest provider of Official Development Assistance (ODA).
QUESTION 8
With reference to the Titas River, consider the following statements:
It is a tributary within the Surma-Meghna river system.
The river originates from within Indian territory.
It flows through Meghalaya and directly merges with the Brahmaputra River.
How many of the above statements are correct?
(a) Only one
(b) Only two
(c) All three
(d) None
Answer (a)
Explanation:
The Tripura state government has recently proposed the idea of diverting water from the Titas River, which flows into Bangladesh, to supply drinking water to residents under the Agartala Municipal Corporation (AMC).
The Titas River is a 98-km long transboundary river and is a part of the Surma-Meghna river system, one of the key river systems in the northeastern region of the Indian subcontinent. Therefore, Statement 1 is correct.
Contrary to some assumptions, the Titas does not originate in India. Instead, it originates from the Brahmanbaria district in Bangladesh. While it does flow close to India's Tripura state, and even crosses into India at some points (entering 5 to 12 km into Indian territory), its source is entirely within Bangladesh. Hence, Statement 2 is incorrect.
The river does not flow through Meghalaya nor does it merge directly with the Brahmaputra River. Instead, it eventually joins the Meghna River in Bangladesh. The Brahmaputra, while connected to the broader river network, is not directly linked with the Titas in this context. So, Statement 3 is incorrect.
Note: The Surma-Meghna system is a major river system in northeastern India and Bangladesh, and includes many tributaries like the Titas, which are vital for agriculture and local livelihoods.
QUESTION 9
Consider the following pairs of dams and the rivers they are constructed on:
1. Pong dam – Chenab
2. Ranjit Sagar Dam – Beas
3. Bhakra Nangal Dam – Sutlej
How many of the above pairs are correctly matched?
(a) Only one pair
(b) Only two pairs
(c) All three pairs
(d) None of the pairs
Answer (a)
Explanation:
Due to recent flood-like conditions in Punjab, several districts have been impacted by heavy water releases from three major dams: Bhakra, Pong, and Ranjit Sagar.
Pair 1 is not correct:
The Pong Dam, also known as the Maharana Pratap Sagar Dam, is not built on the Chenab River. It is actually located on the Beas River, in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh.
Pair 2 is not correct:
The Ranjit Sagar Dam (also referred to as Thein Dam) is constructed on the Ravi River, not the Beas. It lies at the border of Punjab (Pathankot) and Jammu & Kashmir, and is primarily used for irrigation and hydroelectric power generation.
Pair 3 is correct:
The Bhakra Nangal Dam is a prominent gravity dam built across the Sutlej River, situated near Nangal, on the border of Himachal Pradesh and Punjab, close to Rupnagar district. It is one of the tallest dams in India, playing a major role in water storage, irrigation, and power generation.
QUESTION 10
The first bullet train project in India, the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail (MAHSR) corridor, will pass through which of the following?
1. Gujarat
2. Goa
3. Maharashtra
4. Dadra & Nagar Haveli
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(a) 1 and 3 only
(b) 1, 2 and 3
(c) 1, 2, 3 and 4
(d) 1, 3 and 4
Answer (d)
Explanation:
The bullet train project in India is based on the Japanese Shinkansen technology — a renowned high-speed rail system that started in 1964 on the Tokyo–Shin-Osaka route. The word ‘Shinkansen’ translates to ‘New Trunk Line’, referring to its function as a high-speed transport artery.
According to the National High Speed Rail Corporation Limited (NHSRCL), the Indian version will use E5 Series Shinkansen trains between Mumbai and Ahmedabad. These trains are expected to run at speeds up to 320 kmph and cover the 508-km distance in roughly 2 hours and 7 minutes on limited-stop services.
The Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail corridor traverses through:
Gujarat (Ahmedabad, Sabarmati, Anand, Vadodara, Bharuch, Surat, Billimora, Vapi)
Maharashtra (Mumbai, Thane, Virar, Boisar)
The Union Territory of Dadra & Nagar Haveli
The project does not pass through Goa.
Therefore, the correct states and UT involved are Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Dadra & Nagar Haveli.
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