3 July 2026, Questions & Answers

Explanation

As per the Bill, the certificates will be issued by Gram Sabhas (rural areas) or urban local bodies (urban areas). This ensures local-level identification and reduces bureaucratic delays.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: The Bill covers women engaged in agriculture and allied activities. Statement 2 is incorrect: The Bill specifically removes land ownership as a precondition. Statement 3 is correct: MSSRF (Chennai) conducted stakeholder consultations and advocated for the Bill. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article states that the Bill was passed on Thursday, July 2, 2026. July 1, 2026 was a Wednesday, and July 3 is the date of publication. The correct date is July 2, 2026.

Explanation

The Bill aims to correct the historic non-recognition of women farmers. By issuing certificates, it ensures women can access government schemes, subsidies, credit, and market support without needing to own land. Land ownership is not a precondition; the Bill does not provide land rights but rather access to existing schemes.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi visited India for summit talks with PM Narendra Modi. This is a direct fact from the news.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect because the article states that the first Trump administration (Trump 1.0) adopted a confrontational policy and built coalitions; Trump 2.0 is transactional and avoids coalition-building. Statement 2 is correct as per the article: the Pentagon reverted INDOPACOM to PACOM. Statement 3 is correct: both countries have unresolved disputes with China. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: 'The Pentagon's decision to revert the Indo-Pacific Command (INDOPACOM) to its original name, Pacific Command (PACOM).' Hence the new name is Pacific Command.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: 'Both countries seek to reduce dependence on Chinese technologies and rare earths.' While other options may be secondary or implicit, the direct objective mentioned is reducing Chinese dependence.

Explanation

The article states that Vikram-1 will be launched from the first launchpad of SDSC SHAR in Sriharikota, which is ISRO's historic launchpad. It is the first time a private company is launching from this facility.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the article explicitly calls Vikram-1 India's first privately developed orbital-class rocket. Statement 2 is incorrect: the payload capacity is to Low Earth Orbit (LEO), not GTO. Statement 3 is correct: the mission duration is mentioned as around 20 minutes.

Explanation

The article clearly states that the launch can happen anytime between July 12 and August 4, 2026 from SDSC SHAR. The other options are incorrect dates.

Explanation

The article states that the main objective is to gather and access critical data across propulsion, stage separation, guidance, navigation, control, and overall vehicle performance. While test satellites are carried, the primary goal is data collection for future commercial launches.

Explanation

The article explicitly states the externment order was passed under the Maharashtra Police Act. The other options are different preventive laws not mentioned in the context.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct per the court's ruling. Statement 2 is incorrect – the order relied on five FIRs, not two. Statement 3 is correct as per Justice Jamdar's observation. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article mentions that the Divisional Commissioner confirmed the externment for a period of one year. The other options are not mentioned in the news.

Explanation

The court explicitly held that the externment order affected the petitioner's fundamental rights under Articles 19 (freedom of speech and expression) and 21 (right to live with dignity).

Explanation

The DAC is the highest decision-making body for defence capital acquisitions and is chaired by the Defence Minister. The Prime Minister is not directly involved, and the CDS and NSA are members but not chairpersons.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: DAC approved proposals worth ₹52,000 crore. Statement 2 is incorrect: 'Akash Tarang' is an Anti-Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Electronic Warfare System for the Army, not a surface-to-air missile for the Navy. Statement 3 is correct: DAC is chaired by the Defence Minister.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the DAC approved proposals worth nearly ₹52,000 crore. The other options are common distractors used in defence procurement figures.

Explanation

The article describes 'Akash Tarang' as an 'Anti-Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Electronic Warfare System', indicating its purpose is to counter enemy drones through electronic warfare techniques, not physical interception or anti-tank roles.

Explanation

The Defence Acquisition Council is the highest decision-making body in the Ministry of Defence for approving new defence procurement proposals. It is chaired by the Defence Minister, as mentioned in the article.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: Akash Tarang is designed to protect against hostile drones. Statement 2 is incorrect: FW-HAPS was approved for the Indian Air Force, not the Navy. Statement 3 is correct: The Kamikaze drone system provides enhanced electronic warfare capability with greater lethality and cost-effectiveness as per the article. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article clearly states that the DAC accorded AoN for defence acquisition proposals worth nearly ₹52,000 crore. The other options are plausible distractors but not mentioned in the news.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that MIGM will strengthen sea denial capabilities by restricting adversary movement. The other options, while related to naval roles, are not mentioned in the context of MIGM.

Explanation

The article quotes former Ambassador to Japan Sujan Chinoy, who is the Director-General of MP-IDSA. This institute is a premier think tank under the Ministry of Defence, focusing on national security and strategic studies.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: Japan raised defence spending from 1% to 2% of GDP. Statement 2 is incorrect: the ban was overturned but exports are only allowed to 17 specific nations with defence cooperation frameworks, and internal clearances are required. Statement 3 is correct: India is among the 17 nations listed.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that Japan intends to privilege the 17 countries with which it has defence technology cooperation frameworks for arms sales, joint production, and development. India is one of these nations.

Explanation

The article notes that Japan’s limited geography necessitates a risk mitigation strategy of dispersing its military industrial complex to trusted partner countries. India is positioned to fill this need under Aatmanirbhar Bharat.

Explanation

MAHASAGAR is India's vision for the Indo-Pacific, but the article contrasts it with Japan's FOIP. SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) is a similar Indian initiative. However, the article explicitly mentions 'India's MAHASAGAR' as distinct from 'Japan's FOIP'. Since MAHASAGAR is not defined in the article, and the only related term is SAGAR (which is a known static concept), the most likely correct option is SAGAR. But note that MAHASAGAR is a specific term; for exam purposes, students should know that SAGAR is the broader Indian maritime vision.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the 2022 Cert-In directive required storing of names, email IDs, contact numbers, IP addresses for five years. Statement 2 is correct: the new framework may require local offices and compliance officers. Statement 3 is incorrect: the article states over 24,000 orders were issued in 2025, not 12,000. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article lists species under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 found in Hasdeo-Arand: Elephant, Leopard, Sloth Bear, Indian Grey Wolf, Honey Badger, Four-Horned Antelope, Indian Pangolin, Giant Squirrel, and Rusty-spotted Cat. Asiatic Lion is found only in Gir (Gujarat) and is not present in Hasdeo-Arand. Hence option D is correct.

Explanation

The article states that the new scheme streamlines withdrawal categories from 13 to three (essential needs, housing, special circumstances) and introduces a minimum balance of 25%. The contribution rate remains unchanged at 12%. The primary change is procedural simplification and encouraging savings. Option B captures this. Options A and D are false; option C is about coverage which is not discussed in this news.

Explanation

The FIR included Section 3/4 of the Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Act, 2019, which criminalizes instant triple talaq. Other acts deal with Shariat application, divorce grounds, and maintenance, not triple talaq.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct – the victim married in April 2015 at age 15. Statement 2 is incorrect – the Act only criminalizes triple talaq, not halala. Statement 3 is correct – the court used these phrases in its observations.

Explanation

According to the FIR and court order, the second halala occurred in February 2025. The first halala was in November 2016. The other options are distractors: 2021 was the year of the second triple talaq.

Explanation

The court explicitly stated that 'personal law cannot shield crime' when criminal law applies. It did not declare halala unconstitutional (A is false). Triple talaq's validity is not the issue here (C). POCSO applies to all minors under 18, regardless of marriage (D is false).

Explanation

Article 21 states 'No person shall be deprived of his life or personal liberty except according to procedure established by law.' The Supreme Court has interpreted this to include the right to a fair and speedy trial, which is central to the debate on pre-trial detention in this article.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect: the Court denied bail despite long detention, not because of it. Statement 2 is incorrect: the Court explicitly said delay does not create an iron-clad right to bail — it must be weighed against other factors. Statement 3 is correct: the Court referred the issue to the Chief Justice to constitute a larger Bench to resolve the inconsistency.

Explanation

The article states that at the time of the Court's judgment, Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam had spent 'more than five years in jail without trial'. At the time of writing (July 2026), it is approaching six years. Option D is a distractor as it says 'more than 6 years', but the correct figure at judgment was >5 years.

Explanation

The article argues that by using 'gravity of offence' to override the delay in trial, the Court creates a 'sliding scale' that allows indefinite detention for those accused of serious crimes, undermining Article 21. Option B is not discussed; C and D are not supported by the text.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions 'SAMAGRA MP (a citizen-centric social security platform by the Government of Madhya Pradesh)'. Hence, it is a Madhya Pradesh state initiative.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the article mentions myths about vaccine-induced infertility caused initial resistance. Statement 2 is incorrect: the article states 'the challenge is often not vaccine hesitancy but data invisibility'. Statement 3 is correct: the district relied on the 'Nudge Approach' to design an environment where vaccination became the default choice.

Explanation

The article clearly states: 'providing free HPV vaccinations to 1.15 crore girls aged 14-15 years'.

Explanation

The article emphasises that 'at the grassroots, the challenge is often not vaccine hesitancy but data invisibility'. The district leveraged multiple databases to create hyper-localised master lists, ensuring eligible girls were not missed.

Explanation

The article explicitly states 'The UN’s Preliminary Report of the Independent International Scientific Panel on AI', confirming the UN as the issuing body.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the report stresses the North-South divide. Statement 2 is false because the report details harms such as deepfakes and fatal parasocial fantasies. Statement 3 is correct as the article specifically names Anthropic's Mythos and Fable models.

Explanation

The article states: 'even as Anthropic’s Mythos and Fable held out the tantalising promise... the U.S. pulled access, leaving the firms that had these models to ponder the risk'.

Explanation

The article mentions that Global South countries face a choice between capital-intensive AI development or accepting terms set by a few dominant companies, and that they lack regulatory capacity over models far more advanced than their own ecosystems.

Explanation

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) is responsible for India's foreign relations, including diplomatic visits, treaties, and bilateral agreements. The PM's visit to New Zealand falls under the MEA's purview.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article: the last visit was 40 years ago. Statement 2 is incorrect because the FTA eliminates 95% of tariffs on goods from New Zealand, not on all goods traded. Statement 3 is correct as the article mentions discussions on maritime security and global issues.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the FTA will eliminate 95% of tariffs on goods from New Zealand. The other options are close distractors but incorrect.

Explanation

The visit is historic as it is the first by an Indian PM in 40 years. The FTA signed in April 2026 provides the economic foundation, and discussions will cover trade, investment, maritime security, and global issues, reflecting a comprehensive deepening of ties.

Explanation

The article specifically mentions that the directive was issued by the Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (Cert-In) in 2022, requiring VPNs to store customer data.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the 2022 Cert-In directive mandated data storage for five years. Statement 2 is correct: the new framework proposes mandatory India offices and compliance officers. Statement 3 is incorrect: the article says Telegram was temporarily blocked ahead of the NEET-UG retest, not permanently blocked.

Explanation

The article states 'over 24,000 orders issued in 2025', up from 12,000 in 2024. 24,000 is the correct figure. 12,000 was the figure for 2024.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: 'The primary concern that the government has is that VPNs are being increasingly used by people to get around the blocking of apps and online content.' The other options are not mentioned or not the primary concern.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the Delhi government's strategy comprises most elements of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) that have so far guided the NCR's approach to containing winter smog.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article says curbs on vehicles and construction will come into force from November 1. Statement 2 is incorrect – the article explicitly warns against treating Work From Home as a substitute for clean commuting. Statement 3 is incorrect – the article says bans and restrictions should not be part of a long-term pollution control strategy.

Explanation

The article states that Delhi government and private offices will operate with 50% in-person staff attendance under the proactive winter plan.

Explanation

The article explicitly says this proactive approach would allow workplaces and business establishments to redesign work-flows, stagger employee attendance, invest in digital infrastructure, and make transport arrangements before the pollution season begins.

Explanation

Namami Gange is a flagship programme under the Ministry of Jal Shakti, which was formed in 2019 by merging the Ministry of Water Resources and Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as Jajmau CETP has 20 MLD capacity. Statement 2 is incorrect because the Sisamau drain released both untreated sewage and industrial effluent, not just sewage. Statement 3 is correct as the Mathura CETP serves industrial units including the Mathura Refinery.

Explanation

The article clearly states that Jajmau CETP has a treatment capacity of 20 MLD. 6.5 MLD is the capacity of Mathura CETP, and 140 MLD is the volume of the Sisamau drain. 50 MLD is not mentioned.

Explanation

ZLD norms require that no liquid effluent is discharged from the facility. This directly aims to prevent industrial pollution from entering rivers like the Ganga. While water reuse may be a side benefit, the core objective is pollution abatement.

Explanation

The order was issued by the Ministry of Finance, as mentioned in the article. The Ministry of Power had sought the exemption, but the final order came from the Finance Ministry, which oversees public procurement and financial regulations.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the firms are allowed to participate in tenders for critical power projects. Statement 2 is incorrect because the exemption is valid for two years, not five. Statement 3 is correct as the order explicitly says it should not be treated as a precedent.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the 'Union Ministry of Power had sought the exemption in January' for entities with manufacturing units in India. The order was issued in June 2026.

Explanation

The article states that the exemption comes as India accelerates expansion of its transmission network to support rising electricity demand and renewable energy additions. The limited, non-precedential nature of the exemption shows it is a strategic, calibrated move rather than a full normalization of ties.

Explanation

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) is the nodal ministry for the OCI scheme. The article states that the MHA launched the e-OCI card and oversees OCI services. The Ministry of External Affairs handles passports and visa issuance abroad for other categories, but OCI falls under MHA's jurisdiction.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as mentioned in the article. Statement 2 is incorrect because the e-OCI card exempts holders from reporting to police authorities, not requiring it. Statement 3 is correct as the card provides a lifelong visa. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article explicitly states, 'It is likely to impact more than 50 lakh OCI card holders.' The other options are close distractors but 50 lakh is the exact figure mentioned.

Explanation

The MHA described the e-OCI card as a 'major citizen-centric initiative aimed at transforming OCI services for the Indian diaspora through a fully digital system.' The other options are contrary to the article's intent as the card enhances ease of living and does not restrict or replace citizenship.

Explanation

The Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act, 1991 was enacted to freeze the religious character of places of worship as they existed on August 15, 1947, and to prevent their conversion. The Allahabad HC in this case clarified that the Act does not bar state acquisition for public purpose.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the judgment. Statement 2 is correct: the bench comprised Justice J.J. Munir and Justice Arun Kumar. Statement 3 is incorrect because the petitioners were shopkeepers/tenants, not mutawallis. The court noted they lacked locus standi.

Explanation

The article mentions six mosques: Anjuman Intezamia Masjid, Masjid Rangile Shah, Masjid Ali Raza Khan, Masjid Karimullah Baig, Masjid Nisaran, and Masjid Sangamarmar. The petitioners sought to protect these mosques from acquisition.

Explanation

The petitioners argued that the mosques existed before August 15, 1947, and their acquisition would violate the Places of Worship Act, 1991, which protects the religious character of such sites. The court rejected this argument, holding that the Act does not bar acquisition for public purpose.

Explanation

The Vizhinjam port is developed under a PPP with the Kerala government as the landlord. The concession agreement was signed with the state government, which retains ownership and grants operating rights to the private partner. The state government's approval is required for any change in ownership of more than 25% shares.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: Adani Ports plans to divest 49% stake to MSC Group (Switzerland). Statement 2 is incorrect: The concession agreement requires prior state permission for any transfer of more than 25% shares; Adani can dilute up to 74% only after second year of operations, but still subject to state approval. Statement 3 is correct: An empowered committee headed by the Chief Secretary is reviewing the proposal.

Explanation

The article states the Kerala government has spent around ₹4,000 crore on the port and ancillary infrastructure, and its total financial commitment stands at around ₹5,600 crore in the first phase. Option A (₹2,454 crore) is Adani's investment in phase 1. Option D (₹13,220 crore) is the expansion fund to be raised from the stake sale.

Explanation

The article states that the opposition leader Pinarayi Vijayan argued that the move could create a monopoly for a single shipping company, forcing exporters to rely on its vessels and freight rates. Additionally, national security interests must be considered when ownership of critical infrastructure changes. While other options are mentioned, these are the primary concerns highlighted.

Explanation

The article explicitly lists the required approvals: state government approval, FDI approval from Government of India, and Competition Commission of India approval. It does not mention Ministry of External Affairs. SEBI disclosure requirements are also mentioned but not as an approval. The Ministry of External Affairs is not involved in this transaction.

Explanation

The article states that UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres launched the AI Environmental Transparency Initiative during London Climate Week. This initiative urges AI companies to measure and disclose their environmental impact.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: Google's emissions jumped 82% since 2019. Statement 2 is incorrect: Amazon's emissions rose 58% since 2019, not in the last year (the last year increase was 16%). Statement 3 is correct: the article says both companies pollute more for every dollar of revenue, a first since at least 2021 for Amazon.

Explanation

The article states: 'data centres worldwide use so much energy that only 10 countries each consume more, making AI the 11th largest energy consumer globally.' Hence, 10 countries consume more, meaning data centres use more energy than the rest.

Explanation

Google's chief sustainability officer stated: 'Our AI infrastructure buildout is currently accelerating faster than the grid is decarbonizing.' This captures the core challenge: AI growth outpaces clean energy transition, leading to rising emissions despite corporate pledges.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that MNJ Cancer Hospital has been designated as the State's Centre of Excellence to validate cancer data before forwarding it to the National Cancer Registry Programme under ICMR. This is a key static fact for exams.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the notification was made on April 6, 2026, and reporting is required within a month. Statement 2 is incorrect: the policy applies to EVERY diagnosed case, whether at government or private hospitals, pathology labs, or diagnostic centres. Statement 3 is correct: MNJ will forward validated data to the NCRP under ICMR.

Explanation

The article states that when adjusted for population, Hanumakonda reported the highest annual incidence at 79 cases per one lakh population, ahead of Hyderabad (72) and Karimnagar (65). This is a classic data-centric question where examiners test precise recall of numbers.

Explanation

The article repeatedly emphasizes that while the registry will provide better data, it will also increase pressure on facilities like MNJ Hospital, which has only one functional radiotherapy machine. Experts argue that without developing comprehensive oncology services (specialists, equipment, palliative care) in peripheral districts, identifying more patients will only expose the system's gaps.

Explanation

The order was issued by Justice Dr Gautam Chowdhary of the Allahabad High Court. The court is based in Uttar Pradesh and has jurisdiction over the state. The other options are different courts not involved in this case.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the court explicitly said Article 21 stands on a higher pedestal. Statement 2 is incorrect: the court did not declare the marriage void; it only granted protection without ruling on validity. Statement 3 is correct: the order stated protection would automatically cease if marriage not registered within two months under U.P. Marriage Registration Rules.

Explanation

The article states that the man was aged about 20 years, while the woman was 23. The groom was a major (above 18) but had not attained the marriageable age of 21 under the Hindu Marriage Act. Options 18 and 19 are incorrect; 21 is the legal age but not his actual age.

Explanation

The court explicitly stated that the right to life under Article 21 stands on a higher pedestal and must be protected regardless of marriage validity. The court did not validate the marriage or enforce child marriage laws; it only addressed the threat to life. Option D is not mentioned as a primary basis.

Explanation

The article states that scientists at the Physical Research Laboratory (PRL) performed the comprehensive geochemical analysis of the APXS data from the Pragyan rover. ISRO is the parent agency but the specific study was conducted by PRL.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect because ISRO clarified that the findings do not suggest ALHA 81005 originated from Shiv Shakti Statio; they only indicate a similar type of magnesium-rich crust. Statement 3 is correct as APXS was used for elemental measurement.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that ALHA 81005 was found during the 1981-82 Antarctic expedition in the Allan Hills region. The other options are distractors; 1972 is the Apollo 17 mission year, 1990 and 2003 are unrelated.

Explanation

The article states that both the meteorite and the landing site represent a similar type of magnesium-rich lunar crust and regolith. This indicates the presence of magnesium-rich materials, consistent with the Lunar Magma Ocean hypothesis. Option A is false as per ISRO clarification. Option C is incorrect because the composition is distinct from typical highland regions. Option D is not supported.

Explanation

Article 21A guarantees free and compulsory education to children aged 6-14 years as a fundamental right. The petition argues that the dummy school-coaching nexus violates this right.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the news mentions the petitioner is advocate Narendra Kumar Goswami. Statement 2 is correct as the plea seeks to align national entrance exams with state syllabus. Statement 3 is incorrect; the petition says children are confined for 14-16 hours, not 10-12 hours.

Explanation

The news explicitly states that the dummy-school nexus confines children to coaching centres for 14–16 hours a day, directly impacting their physical and mental health.

Explanation

The petition seeks directions to dismantle the parallel, fee-driven coaching ecosystem and to align testing patterns of national entrance exams with the state-prescribed school syllabus, ensuring equal educational opportunities.

Explanation

IN-SPACe (Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre) is the single-window agency under the Department of Space that promotes and authorises private sector participation in space activities. The article mentions IN-SPACe issuing an EOI for LVM3 technology transfer.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: The PSLV-C62/EOS-N1 mission on Jan 12, 2026 failed due to a third-stage anomaly. Statement 2 is incorrect: The PSLV-C61 mission (May 18, 2025) also failed to complete its trajectory, also due to a third-stage anomaly. Statement 3 is correct: The national expert committee submitted its report and the anomaly has been resolved.

Explanation

Skyroot Aerospace announced that the launch window for Vikram-1's first test flight (Mission Aagaman) is between July 12 and August 4, 2026, subject to assembly, testing, weather, and range clearance at Sriharikota.

Explanation

The TAF scheme is designed to support Indian Non-Governmental Entities (NGEs) in absorbing, adapting, and commercialising advanced space technologies, bridging the gap between research and operational deployment. The article mentions three startups selected under this fund.

Explanation

The article states that in January 2026, the National Dam Safety Authority (NDSA) enhanced the remuneration/sitting fee for the chairperson to ₹7,500/day and members to ₹6,500/day. This is a key fact under the Dam Safety Act institutional framework.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the five-year requirement from the Act's commencement. Statement 2 is false because only 12 of 60 dams (8 by KSEB, 4 by WR dept) have been evaluated. Statement 3 is correct: the article mentions KSEB added two more members - an expert on hydraulic/hydrological safety and an expert on structural/earthquake safety. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) has 38 dams. The Water Resources department has 22 dams, and total dams in Kerala mentioned are 60. 8 is the number of CDSE completed by KSEB. Careful not to confuse these numbers.

Explanation

The article clearly states the CDSE seeks a review and structural analysis of 'design, construction, operation, maintenance and performance' of dams, along with assessment of hydrologic and hydraulic conditions, flood control aspects and seismic safety. The other options are not mentioned and do not reflect the core purpose of safety evaluation.

Explanation

Khaan Quest is hosted by Mongolia and was originally a bilateral exercise between the US and Mongolia in 2003, later evolving into a multilateral UN peacekeeping exercise in 2006.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article: 23rd edition at Five Hills Training Area. Statement 2 is incorrect – the exercise focused on UN peace support operations under Chapter VII, not Chapter VI (peaceful settlement of disputes). Statement 3 is correct – India displayed a cultural programme embodying 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam'.

Explanation

The article explicitly states 'more than 1,000 troops from 18 countries' participated in the exercise. The other options are plausible distractors created from similar exercises.

Explanation

The article states the exercise provides a platform 'to enhance interoperability, strengthen coordination and improve operational readiness for United Nations peace support operations under Chapter VII of the U.N. Charter.' Options A, C, and D are not mentioned and refer to other types of exercises.

Explanation

The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) is the highest body in the Ministry of Defence for granting Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for all big-ticket capital procurements. The AoN is the first step in the defence procurement process.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: DAC cleared proposals worth Rs 52,000 crore. Statement 2 is incorrect: Akash Tarang is an anti-UAV electronic warfare system, not a surface-to-air missile. Statement 3 is correct: the last DAC meeting in March cleared five additional S-400 systems. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article states that the DAC cleared acquisition proposals worth approximately Rs 52,000 crore. The other options are close distractors; Rs 42,000 crore is too low, while Rs 62,000 and Rs 72,000 crore are not mentioned.

Explanation

According to the Ministry of Defence statement, 'Akash Tarang' will provide effective anti-UAV protection to the Army Formations. It is an Anti-Unmanned Aerial Vehicles Electronic Warfare System, not a missile-based air defence system.

Explanation

In India, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, through its Department of Commerce, is the nodal agency for negotiating and implementing international trade agreements, including Free Trade Agreements (FTAs). The Ministry of External Affairs handles diplomatic aspects, but trade negotiations fall under Commerce and Industry.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the FTA was signed in April 2026. Statement 2 is incorrect because the agreement provides duty-free access for all Indian exports to New Zealand, not the other way around. Statement 3 is correct as bilateral merchandise trade was USD 1.3 billion in 2024-25. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article states that total trade in goods and services reached about USD 2.4 billion in 2024. USD 1.3 billion is the merchandise trade figure for 2024-25, and USD 1.24 billion is the services trade alone. USD 3.6 billion is a distractor figure not mentioned in the article.

Explanation

The visit is the first high-level engagement after the FTA signing and aims to deepen economic relations. The article quotes the NZ PM emphasising trade, jobs, and economic growth. While defense and investment could be on the agenda, the core objective is advancing the trade partnership and exploring broader cooperation. No border dispute exists (distractor).

Explanation

The article explicitly states that an 'International Maritime Organization-led (and US and Oman-backed) plan' sought to create a temporary southern route through Omani waters and a northern route near Iran's Larak island. The IMO is the UN specialized agency responsible for maritime safety and navigation, making it the correct answer.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the MoU was signed on June 18 and provides for unconditional passage for 60 days. Statement 2 is incorrect: Article 5 states the long-term administration is to be determined jointly by Oman and Iran, not solely by Iran. Statement 3 is correct: the IMF data shows a drastic reduction in traffic from 104-115 to 6-12 crossings per day. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that 'The IMF’s seven day moving average for May-June in the Strait varied between six and 12 ship crossings.' The other options are distractors: 104-115 was the figure for the same period in the previous year, and 50-60 and 200-210 are not mentioned in the article.

Explanation

The article explains that Iran’s sensitivities over any attempted new route (however temporary) draw from the Strait of Hormuz’s new value as its main instrument of leverage. Iran does not accept any new or separate arrangements from those currently being pursued. Option A is not mentioned; environmental concerns are not cited. Option C contradicts UNCLOS Article 26 which prohibits flat tolls. Option D is incorrect because Iran rejected the IMO-led plan.

Explanation

The Madras HC invoked Section 4 of the Tamil Nadu Animal Preservation Act, 1958, which permits slaughter only with a certificate showing the animal is over 10 years and unfit for work and breeding. The court used this to justify a total ban, even though the Act itself only regulates slaughter.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: The petition was limited to preventing cow slaughter in public places. Statement 2 is incorrect: The HC's order went beyond statutory provisions, imposing a blanket ban even though the Act only regulates. Statement 3 is correct: The state's SLP argued that the Act provides for regulation, not prohibition.

Explanation

Section 4 of the Act requires a certificate showing the animal is 'over ten years of age and is unfit for work and breeding' before slaughter can be legally permitted. This is a regulatory condition, not a blanket ban.

Explanation

Tamil Nadu argued that the HC imposed a relief that was 'neither pleaded nor prayed for' and that the state law only provides for regulation through licensing, not a complete prohibition. The government also claimed the order amounts to re-writing the law and violates natural justice.

Explanation

The Finance Commission, established under Article 280 of the Constitution, is responsible for recommending the distribution of central tax revenues between the Centre and states. The White Paper mentions the 16th Finance Commission's devolution to Tamil Nadu.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the White Paper states debt CAGR was 14.3% over the post-Covid period. Statement 2 is incorrect: interest payments exceeded capital outlay by more than ₹19,000 crore. Statement 3 is correct: power sector accounted for 14% (₹1.42 lakh crore) of total debt. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The White Paper specifically states that Tamil Nadu's per capita debt is ₹1.29 lakh, the highest among major industrialised states. The other options are distractors: ₹77,569 is Maharashtra's per capita debt, ₹1.11 lakh is Karnataka's, and ₹70,798 is Gujarat's.

Explanation

Capital expenditure is used to create new assets like roads, bridges, and public infrastructure. When interest payments (revenue expenditure) exceed capital outlay, the state's capacity to invest in long-term growth and development is severely constrained, as highlighted in the White Paper.

Explanation

As per the article, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) announced the arrival of the southwest monsoon in Delhi and other states. IMD is the nodal agency under the Ministry of Earth Sciences for weather and climate monitoring in India.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: a positive IOD warms the west relative to the east, pushing moisture toward India. Statement 2 is incorrect — a negative IOD reverses the pattern, cooling the west and warming the east, likely causing drier conditions over India. Statement 3 is correct: the 2019 positive IOD compensated for a 30% June rainfall deficit.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: 'This year, India's monsoon season opened in June with a rainfall shortfall of roughly 40% against the nationwide long-period average.' Other options are distractors; 30% was the June 2019 deficit partially offset by a positive IOD.

Explanation

The article explains that a positive IOD warms the western Indian Ocean, pushing moisture toward east Africa and the Indian subcontinent, boosting rainfall. This mechanism helped offset El Niño's impact in 1997 and 2019. It does not directly weaken El Niño (option A) or rely on a negative IOD (option C). Option D is not supported by the article.

Explanation

The statement was made by Guo Jiakun, spokesperson of China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as highlighted in the article. He said the FOIP concept goes against regional countries' shared aspirations for peace, development and cooperation.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the joint statement. Statement 2 is incorrect - China warned that such cooperation should not be used to create 'small blocs' or stoke confrontation. Statement 3 is correct as both countries discussed the Strategic Outlook for Expanding Japan-India Cooperation in Africa.

Explanation

The article states that Japanese PM Sanae Takaichi wound up her 'three-day India visit' during which New Delhi and Tokyo discussed and advocated a free and open Indo-Pacific.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions this initiative 'aimed at countering China's growing footprint in Africa'. While other options may describe some activities, the core strategic purpose is to provide an alternative to China's BRI and influence in the continent.