5 June 2026, Questions & Answers

Explanation

The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) was constituted as a statutory body under Section 45ZB of the amended Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934. Its primary objective is to maintain price stability while keeping in mind the objective of growth.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; the MPC decided to continue with the 'neutral' stance, not change it. Statement 3 is correct as the article states the growth forecast was lowered to 6.6% from 6.9%. Hence, option C is correct.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the CPI inflation for FY27 is projected at 5.1%, which is 50 basis points more than the earlier projection. The other options are distractors: 4.1% is not mentioned, 4.7% is the core inflation projection, and 5.9% is the Q3 FY27 projection.

Explanation

The Governor stated that considerable risks to the baseline assessment exist due to uncertainty about the duration and intensity of the conflict, magnitude of its spillovers, and the pace of supply chain restoration. This uncertainty was a key reason for maintaining the status quo. The other factors were either not mentioned or not cited as primary reasons.

Explanation

The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) is a six-member statutory committee constituted under the RBI Act, 1934. Its primary objective is to determine the policy interest rate (repo rate) required to achieve the inflation target, as mentioned in the article regarding the interest rate decision.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect as the MPC decided to leave the policy repo rate unchanged at 5.25%. Statement 2 is incorrect because the RBI revised the FY27 GDP growth forecast downwards to 6.6% from 6.9%. Statement 3 is correct as explicitly mentioned in the article: 'The core inflation forecast for the current year has also been increased to 4.7% from 4.4%'.

Explanation

The article provides the revised quarterly inflation forecasts: '5.9% in October-December 2026'. This is a critical data point as it shows inflation nearing the upper bound of the RBI's target range (6%) during that quarter.

Explanation

Core inflation excludes volatile food and fuel prices. An increase in its forecast, as stated in the article ('indicator of underlying demand'), suggests that price pressures are becoming broad-based and driven by domestic demand factors, which is a key concern for monetary policy.

Explanation

The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) is the nodal agency for collecting, compiling, and disseminating official statistics in India, including the National Income accounts and GDP estimates.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article: the provisional estimate of 7.7% is slightly faster than the 7.6% estimated in February 2026. Statement 2 is incorrect: manufacturing grew at 10.7% for the full year but slowed to 7.3% in Q4. Statement 3 is correct: RBI Governor projected growth for 2026-27 at 6.6%.

Explanation

The article states that the agriculture sector is expected to see growth slowing to 3% in 2025-26. Option A (4.2%) is the growth for the previous year (2024-25). Option C (3.6%) is the Q4 growth for 2025-26. Option B (3.8%) is the Q4 growth for 2024-25.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions that economists have warned growth in 2026-27 is expected to slow due to pressure on demand and price levels being exerted by the crisis in West Asia, along with the expectation of a lower-than-normal monsoon. The other options are not mentioned in the article as reasons for the projected slowdown.

Explanation

The Supreme Court held that victims of trafficking for commercial sexual exploitation have a constitutional right to rehabilitation, which flows from Articles 21 (Right to Life) and 23 (Prohibition of traffic in human beings) of the Constitution.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect. The Court declined to create the OCIA; instead, it noted the Centre had empowered the NIA in 2019. Statement 2 is correct as the judgment directs that AHTUs be strengthened and headed by DySP-rank officers. Statement 3 is correct as the Court examined Section 17 of the ITPA, 1956, and emphasized the need to distinguish between voluntary and involuntary sex work.

Explanation

The litigation traces back to a petition filed in 2004 by Prajwala, a Hyderabad-based anti-trafficking organisation. The petition argued that victims were treated as criminals and that the absence of a Victim Protection Plan made rehabilitation ineffective.

Explanation

The judgment emphasizes that 'the goal is not merely to punish the perpetrator but also to empower the victims by guaranteeing and realising their rights.' The Victim Protection Plan is designed to give victims 'centre stage' and prioritize their needs through consent-based rehabilitation, reflecting this victim-centric shift.

Explanation

The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of the Reserve Bank of India is the statutory body mandated to determine the policy repo rate to achieve the inflation target. The article discusses the decisions of the MPC's bi-monthly meeting.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: The MPC raised the CPI inflation projection for FY2027 to 5.1% from 4.6%, a 50 bps hike. Statement 2 is incorrect: The MPC pared (cut) the real GDP growth projection for FY2027 by 30 bps to 6.6%. Statement 3 is correct: The article explicitly states that inflation risks remain tilted to the upside owing to sub-par monsoon and global supply-chain risks.

Explanation

The article states: 'We project it to more than double to around 2 per cent of GDP in FY2027 from the 0.9 per cent expected in FY2026.' The other options are distractors: 0.9% is the expected CAD for FY2026.

Explanation

The article clarifies that the RBI governor made announcements 'to attract capital flows' and that these were 'aimed at incentivising more foreign capital inflows, especially in government securities (G-secs).' This was done to address currency weakness and support the balance of payments, not to change the policy rate directly.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) announced these measures. RBI is India's central bank and the primary regulator for foreign exchange management, ECBs, and banking operations.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect because the hedging support is for FCNR(B) deposits, not FCNR(A). Statement 3 is incorrect as the FAR was expanded to include 15-, 30-, and 40-year bonds, not 10- and 20-year bonds.

Explanation

The article provides the exact figure: "Banks raised just $ 946 million in FY26 under the FCNR (B) route." The other options are distractors: $7 billion was the FY25 figure, and ~$30 billion was raised under the 2013 special swap scheme.

Explanation

The article's opening states the coordinated policy push is "aimed at encouraging capital inflows, supporting the rupee and bolstering India’s foreign exchange reserves." The other options describe potential secondary effects or unrelated policy goals.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the official data comes from the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE). MNRE is the nodal ministry responsible for all matters relating to new and renewable energy in India.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: The article states solar capacity is 154.24 GW, with ground-mounted at 117.36 GW and rooftop at 26.75 GW, making ground-mounted the majority. Statement 2 is incorrect: The storage requirement of 82.37 GWh is for 2026-27, not 2031-32 (which is 411.4 GWh). Statement 3 is correct: The article mentions wind generation often intensifies during evening and monsoon, creating a complementary relationship with solar.

Explanation

The article clearly states that according to the National Electricity Plan, 2023, India's projected storage requirement is expected to surge to 411.4 GWh by 2031-32. 82.37 GWh is the requirement for 2026-27, and 2,380 GWh is a long-term projection for 2047.

Explanation

The article identifies 'intermittent supply' as a core challenge. Solar produces during daylight, but national demand peaks in the evening. This temporal mismatch creates grid balancing issues, making its management the primary strategic challenge, shifting focus from mere capacity addition to grid stability and storage.

Explanation

The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) was constituted under Section 45ZB of the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934, as amended in 2016. Its primary objective is to maintain price stability while keeping in mind the objective of growth.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect because the FAR was expanded to include 15-, 30-, and 40-year tenor G-Secs, not 10- and 20-year. Statement 3 is incorrect; the time was restored to nine months from 15 months, not reduced to six months.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of the RBI has decided to keep the repo rate unchanged at 5.25%. This is a precise data point frequently asked in prelims.

Explanation

The article quotes RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra stating that these measures, along with tax benefits, "should help attract foreign capital for government borrowing." The FAR is specifically designed to make Indian government bonds more accessible to foreign investors.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions 'Reserve Bank Governor Sanjay Malhotra' as the official making the statement on forex reserves. The other names are former RBI Governors.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article states 'India's foreign exchange reserves stood at a healthy $682.3 billion' as of May 29, 2026. Statement 2 is correct as the article mentions the reserves are 'adequate to provide import cover for about 11 months'. Statement 3 is correct as it is mentioned that 'The kitty had expanded to an all-time high of $728.494 billion during the week ended February 27 this year'.

Explanation

The RBI Governor stated that the reserves are adequate in terms of standard metrics, including 'external debt (89.1%)'. This means external debt as a percentage of forex reserves is 89.1%. The other options are close distractors.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the Governor pointed to 'the surge in energy prices and persistent trade policy uncertainties' as factors that 'continue to pose upside risks to India’s current account deficit in 2026-27'. The other options, while plausible economic risks, are not the specific ones mentioned.

Explanation

The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) is a statutory committee constituted under the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934. Its primary mandate is to determine the policy repo rate to achieve the inflation target set by the Government of India.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the repo rate was held at 5.25%. Statement 2 is incorrect; the GDP forecast was revised downwards to 6.6%, not upwards to 6.9%. Statement 3 is correct; the CPI inflation forecast was raised to 5.1%, which exceeds the RBI's medium-term target of 4%.

Explanation

The article states that the cumulative increase in retail fuel prices following the West Asia conflict is estimated to have a direct impact of around 35 basis points (bps) on headline CPI inflation.

Explanation

As explained in the article, when the repo rate is kept unchanged, lending rates and deposit rates are unlikely to change immediately. This leads to stable EMIs for borrowers and predictable financing costs for businesses, fostering a stable interest rate environment.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the tax exemption applies to FIIs as well as the Bank for International Settlements (BIS), which is an organisation of central banks from around the world. The other institutions are not mentioned in the article.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: The article confirms the scrapping of both long-term and short-term capital gains tax. Statement 2 is correct: RBI Governor announced removal of limits pertaining to short-term investment, concentration and individual securities under the General Route. Statement 3 is incorrect: The changes come into effect from April 1, 2026, not immediately.

Explanation

The article directly quotes Axis Bank economists stating that 'no tax on FII investment in government debt could lead to $45-50 billion inflows over two years.' The other figures are distractors; $60 billion is the estimated BoP deficit.

Explanation

The article's core premise is that the move is 'Amid pressure to attract foreign funds and also stabilise the rupee' and is expected to 'bridge to some extent the looming balance of payments (BoP) deficit'. While other options might be secondary effects, the primary objective is clearly managing external sector vulnerabilities.

Explanation

The judgment specifically refers to Section 86(7) of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, which mandates that every election petition shall be tried as expeditiously as possible and efforts shall be made to conclude the trial within six months. This is the core legal framework for election disputes in India.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect. The Madras High Court held that middle school headmasters DO qualify as gazetted officers for attesting postal ballots, which was the basis for the recount. Statement 2 is correct as per the article. Statement 3 is incorrect. The Supreme Court, in May 2026, disposed of the appeal without deciding the core legal question, leaving it open for future determination.

Explanation

The recount report showed that out of the 203 postal ballots initially rejected, 153 were valid votes cast in favour of DMK's M Appavu. This was the key data point that transformed his 49-vote loss into a 103-vote victory.

Explanation

The court's strong criticism centered on the inordinate delay in resolving the election dispute, which outlived the Assembly term itself. It emphasized that Section 86(7) of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, requires election petitions to be decided expeditiously, preferably within six months, to uphold democratic integrity. The failure to do so undermined the voters' mandate.

Explanation

The Enforcement Directorate is a law enforcement agency under the Department of Revenue, which is part of the Ministry of Finance. It is responsible for investigating economic crimes like money laundering and foreign exchange violations.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article: the court explicitly said "The existence of a prior registered scheduled offence is not a jurisdictional prerequisite" for actions under Section 50. Statement 2 is incorrect because the court held that "an ECIR cannot be equated with an FIR under the Code of Criminal Procedure". Statement 3 is correct as the article mentions the court "relied heavily on the Supreme Court's judgment in Vijay Madanlal Choudhary".

Explanation

The court stressed that "prosecution for money laundering stands on a different footing" and "To initiate prosecution for offence under Section 3, PMLA registration of scheduled offence is a prerequisite". The other options relate to the inquiry stage, not prosecution.

Explanation

The core ruling is that for an 'inquiry' (the foundational process), the ED can issue summons and seek documents under Section 50 PMLA when it receives information suggesting proceeds of crime. A prior registered scheduled offence is not needed at this stage, which grants the ED operational flexibility to initiate probes early.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the study "Moving beyond exposure: a globally comparable framework for heat risk assessment in cities" was an Oxford University study, with the lead author being a DPhil researcher at the Oxford Smith School.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article says the study analysed 205 cities with populations >1 million. Statement 2 is incorrect because risk was assessed on three factors (exposure, vulnerability, coping capacity), not just temperature. Statement 3 is correct as researchers warned about AC's role in a 'vicious cycle' of warming.

Explanation

The article's opening line clearly states: "India has more cities among the world’s 50 most heat-vulnerable than any other country, with 14 cities featuring in an Oxford University study." The other options are close distractors.

Explanation

The article quotes the report: "Increased fossil fuel-based electricity demand, high global-warming-potential refrigerant gases and waste heat emissions can exacerbate urban warming over time." This describes a feedback loop or 'vicious cycle' where AC use contributes to the very problem it tries to solve.

Explanation

The article states that the MMRDA signed an MoU with the Singapore-based company for the masterplan. MMRDA is the statutory body responsible for planning and development of the Mumbai Metropolitan Region.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article mentions the official name. Statement 2 is incorrect because the consultant is Singapore-based Surbana Jurong, not Japanese. Statement 3 is correct as the project covers 124 villages in Uran, Panvel, and Pen tehsils of Raigad district.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: "Phase 1 of the masterplan is to be carried out at a cost of Rs 11.89 crore." ₹23.12 crore is the estimated cost for Phase 2, and ₹35.01 crore is the sum of both phases.

Explanation

The article clearly states that with the Atal Setu and NMIA nearby, Third Mumbai is planned as an urban hub to attract business and investments. This indicates the strategic intent to capitalize on this transport infrastructure.

Explanation

The India Meteorological Department (IMD), under the Ministry of Earth Sciences, is the principal agency responsible for meteorological observations and weather forecasting in India, including the crucial monsoon forecast as mentioned in the article.

Explanation

Statement 1 and 2 are correct as per the article. Statement 3 is incorrect. The IMD projection of 92% LPA places the monsoon in the 'below normal' category, not the 'deficient' category (which is less than 90% LPA). This is a classic examiner trap.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that according to the MoSPI Consumer Price Index Press Release (2026), food inflation rose to 4.2% in April 2026. The other numbers are close distractors.

Explanation

The article clearly identifies three channels: heat stress, agricultural uncertainty, and inflation. It does not mention disruption to global supply chains or manufacturing exports as a primary transmission channel of El Niño's economic impact in India.

Explanation

The Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) is a policy instrument implemented by the European Union. It is designed to price carbon emissions on certain imported goods to prevent carbon leakage and ensure a level playing field for EU industries.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article which states 'half of the $4 trillion SDG financing gap lies in the energy transition alone.' Statement 2 is correct as the article mentions 'fossil fuel combustion accounts for 0.95 million premature deaths in India' annually. Statement 3 is incorrect as the article projects that 'India’s renewable sector could generate 3.4 million jobs by 2030.'

Explanation

The article explicitly states: 'In India, estimates suggest that achieving the Sustainable Development Goals will require additional investments of around 6% of GDP annually.' The other figures are distractors.

Explanation

The article's core argument is that current investment decisions are based on an 'incomplete investment thesis' because they fail to account for co-benefits like health gains and job creation. The proposed framework aims to measure and value these combined returns to direct more capital towards high-impact solutions.

Explanation

The National Coastal Mission is a component of India's National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC), which is coordinated by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC). It focuses on coastal sustainability and resilience.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: The article states coastal States spent ₹2,641 crore on hard protection measures over the last decade. Statement 2 is incorrect: The National Coastal Mission's budget actually fell from ₹195 crore in 2022-23 to ₹50 crore in 2024-25. Statement 3 is correct: The MISHTI programme aims at restoring 540 square kilometres of mangroves across nine States.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions that climate change is multiplying threats along India's 11,000-kilometre coastline. This is a standard static GK fact often asked in Prelims, but here it is directly sourced from the news context.

Explanation

The article identifies the most overlooked barrier as the ambiguity surrounding the term EbA, with a policy space crowded by overlapping concepts like Nature-based Solutions (NbS) and Eco-DRR. This creates uncertainty in classification, monitoring, and financing, keeping EbA interventions fragmented.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the 'Reserve Bank of India (RBI)’s own Report on Currency and Finance estimates that India needs an additional annual investment of at least 2.5% of GDP for green financing until 2030.'

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; the $100 billion annual promise was made at Paris, while the Baku NCQG commits $300 billion by 2035. Statement 3 is correct as mentioned in the article.

Explanation

The article clearly states: 'the cost of achieving net-zero emissions by 2070 is estimated at $10.1 trillion'. $2.5 trillion is the cost for NDC by 2030.

Explanation

The article highlights that the RBI's 2025 Directions require banks to integrate climate risks and importantly, make eligible green activities qualify as PSL. This is a regulatory shift to steer bank credit, not a direct ban, subsidy, or tax.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the Critical Minerals Global Supply Chain Observatory (GSCO) was launched by India and the United Kingdom (UK) on June 5, 2026.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect because the Indian partner is IIT (ISM) Dhanbad, not the Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru. Statement 3 is correct as Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy stated the observatory is a step towards 'supporting clean energy transitions'.

Explanation

The article clearly states the formal launch date was Thursday, June 5, 2026. October 2025 is the date when the observatory was first announced, not launched.

Explanation

The core objective, as stated in the article, is to institute a 'data-driven platform to monitor and analyse global critical mineral supply chains'. While supporting clean energy and unlocking investment are broader goals, the primary mechanism is the data and analysis platform.

Explanation

The National Family Health Survey (NFHS) is conducted by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW), Government of India, with the International Institute for Population Sciences (IIPS) as the nodal agency. The article references data from NFHS-6.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect. The article states improvements in stunting, wasting, and severe wasting are 'neither uniform nor even,' with pockets of significant concern. Statement 2 is correct: at age nine, overweight/obesity was 14.6% and underweight was 21.6%. Statement 3 is correct as explicitly mentioned: 'the mother’s BMI was a predictor of childhood thinness'.

Explanation

The article clearly states: 'NFHS-6 which indicates that 30.7% of women aged 15-49 were overweight or obese in 2023-24, compared to 24% in NFHS-5'. 24% is the NFHS-5 figure, 26.3% is the thinness prevalence at age 7 from the Vellore study, and 45% is the stunting rate at age 2 from the same study.

Explanation

The article concludes that a 'one-sided intervention' would be a mistake. It cites the FAO recommendation that 'programmes once designed primarily to combat undernutrition (ICDS, school meals, PDS) now need to be re-thought to address both inadequate calories/micronutrients and poor-quality, ultra-processed, high-sugar, high-fat diets.'

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) receives only 0.07% of the annual budget, highlighting chronic underfunding for environmental issues.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article clearly proposes the Economic Survey as the model for EnvSI. Statement 2 is incorrect; the correct figure is 29.7%, not 'less than 20%'. Statement 3 is correct as the Yale survey of 10,751 Indians found 71% experienced heatwaves.

Explanation

The article directly quotes the Desertification and Land Degradation Atlas of India, stating that 29.7% of the country's land is degraded. This is a key data point for understanding the scale of the land crisis.

Explanation

The article argues that data already exists but is fragmented. The core objective of EnvSI is to create a unified platform that aggregates this evidence, conducts audits, and issues actionable assessments to inform policy, not to fund research, replace MoEFCC, or enforce regulations directly.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions that the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) started recognising companies aligning with government guidelines as startups. DPIIT operates under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect as the article states 'DPIIT recognition not being mandatory for startups to operate'. Statement 2 is correct: Tier 3 towns accounted for 71% of new startups in 2025, surpassing Tier 1 cities (18%). Statement 3 is incorrect: Women founders' CAGR was 20%, higher than men's 14%.

Explanation

The article clearly states: 'From 288 in 2016, which was just 3% of the total startups functioning then, the DPIIT’s coverage has increased...' The other percentages correspond to different metrics: 15% was the share of Tier 3 towns in 2016, 49% was Tier 1 city share in 2020, and 65% was Tier 1 city share in 2016.

Explanation

The data shows innovation and entrepreneurship spreading beyond major urban hubs, which is a positive sign of decentralized economic development and inclusive growth. This spread is likely due to improved digital infrastructure, local talent, and supportive policies, not a decline in metro innovation or forced relocation.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the menstrual leave proposal is implemented as part of the 'Project Menstrual Dignity' of the Kerala government. This is the specific policy framework under which the initiative falls.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article mentions Cusat pioneered the leave in Jan 2023 and the state later extended it to universities. Statement 2 is incorrect as the article details opposition from figures like Noorbina Rasheed and R. Sreelekha, who raised privacy concerns. Statement 3 is correct, directly quoting student Steffi's view that it helps dismantle stigma.

Explanation

The article clearly states: "Three years ago, in January 2023, the Cochin University of Science and Technology (Cusat) mainstreamed the issue..." This is the key factual date associated with the origin of this policy model.

Explanation

The article quotes critics like Noorbina Rasheed and R. Sreelekha who fear that recording menstrual leave could make private information public, causing psychological distress and potential bullying. Other options like financial burden or constitutional amendment are not discussed as primary concerns in the article.

Explanation

As per the article, Nigeria, Niger, Chad, Cameroon, and Benin formed the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) to coordinate counter-terrorism efforts in the Lake Chad Basin region against groups like ISWAP and Boko Haram.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as ISWAP was formed after a 2015 split within Boko Haram over allegiance to ISIS. Statement 2 is correct as the article states ISWAP uses a consultative structure and taxes fishing/farming. Statement 3 is incorrect as the article explicitly mentions ISWAP has a significant presence in neighbouring states like Niger, Chad, and Cameroon.

Explanation

The article states that the joint operation by Nigerian forces and U.S. African Command killed 175 Islamic militants. This operation targeted ISWAP and killed senior commander Abu-Bilal al-Minuki.

Explanation

The article identifies porous borders, weak governance, and gaps in intelligence sharing among affected states (Nigeria, Niger, Chad, Cameroon) as key factors that contributed to ISWAP's growing influence and ability to operate across national boundaries.

Explanation

The SRS report is released by the Office of the Registrar General & Census Commissioner, India, which falls under the Ministry of Home Affairs. This office is responsible for demographic surveys and the census.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect: Maharashtra's SRB (899) is lower than the national average (918). Statement 2 is incorrect: Urban SRB (885) is lower than rural SRB (910). Statement 3 is correct: Both Maharashtra's urban SRB and Haryana's overall SRB are 885.

Explanation

The article states that Maharashtra's TFR stands at 1.4 children per woman. The national average is 1.9. Options B, C, and D are the national average, replacement level, and the TFR of Uttar Pradesh respectively, acting as distractors.

Explanation

The article highlights this as an alarming divergence, indicating that the problem of son preference has penetrated urban societies, possibly facilitated by access to technology in private healthcare. The other options are contradicted by the article.

Explanation

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is headquartered in Vienna, Austria. It is an autonomous international organization within the United Nations system responsible for promoting the peaceful use of nuclear energy.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect: Iran's stockpile is enriched to 60% purity, not 90%; 90% is the weapons-grade threshold. Statement 3 is correct: The Bushehr plant uses Russian-supplied uranium enriched to 4.5% for power generation. Hence, option C is correct.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that Iran maintains a stockpile of 440.9 kg of uranium enriched up to 60% purity. The other options are close distractors to test precise recall of the figure.

Explanation

The IAEA's safeguards responsibilities are mandated by the Safeguards Agreement under the NPT. Being unable to discharge them means Iran is not providing the necessary access for verification, which constitutes a breach of its treaty obligations and raises serious non-proliferation concerns.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the UN has imposed economic sanctions on North Korea. The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) is the primary body responsible for imposing such international sanctions under Chapter VII of the UN Charter.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article (first visit in nearly seven years, last in June 2019). Statement 2 is incorrect; the new facility is for producing nuclear bomb fuels (uranium enrichment), not conventional weapons. Statement 3 is correct as experts cited in the article say the disclosure implies Kim's eagerness to cement nuclear state status to demand lifting of sanctions.

Explanation

The article clearly states that Xi Jinping's last visit to North Korea was in June 2019. This is a direct factual recall from the text, testing attention to specific dates in international diplomacy.

Explanation

As quoted from analyst William Yang in the article, China seeks to use Xi's trip to 'reassert its influence over Pyongyang and safeguard its strategic interests in northeast Asia.' This is in response to North Korea building closer ties with Russia. The other options are not supported as primary objectives by the article's content.

Explanation

The Strait of Hormuz is a narrow waterway that separates Iran to the north from the Musandam Peninsula of Oman to the south. It connects the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article states the figure declined to 35% in the week of May 25-31. Statement 2 is incorrect; the PGSA said it would disallow U.S. and Israel-linked ships and prioritize nations friendly to Iran. Statement 3 is correct as the analysis estimates 28% of such ships were China-bound.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that Lloyd’s List data shows ships with an 'Iran nexus' accounted for nearly 97% of crossings in mid-March. This high figure underscores Iran's dominant control over the strait at that peak period.

Explanation

The PGSA's role in granting transit permits represents an institutionalized mechanism for Iran to exert sovereignty over the strait. This action challenges the established international law principle of 'innocent passage' through territorial waters and 'transit passage' through straits used for international navigation under UNCLOS.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the UN Secretary-General António Guterres warned that the conflict risks spiralling 'out of control' during the emergency UN Security Council meeting. This is a direct factual extraction from the text.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article's mention that Russia continues to describe it as a 'special military operation'. Statement 2 is correct, detailing the Ukrainian strike on Starobilsk. Statement 3 is incorrect because the article states Russia has denied responsibility for the Galati drone strike.

Explanation

The article provides the specific figure: 'Russia was already running a huge budget deficit of around 5.9 trillion roubles by April this year brought on by the war and Western sanctions.' The other options are plausible but incorrect distractors.

Explanation

The article's analysis states: 'the only hope against this happening is that the U.S.... refuses to acquiesce with the invocation of Article 5 as this requires a unanimous decision.' This is presented as a specific mechanism to prevent escalation.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that 'managed retreat' is one of the four primary strategies for coastal adaptation articulated by the UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) in its Sixth Assessment Report.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article states managed retreat has primarily taken the form of state-funded buyouts and regulatory zoning. Statement 2 is incorrect; the Kosi embankments led to siltation, raising the riverbed and causing catastrophic floods when breached. Statement 3 is correct as the article uses the Lagos project as a key example of maladaptation.

Explanation

The article clearly states: "In 2018, the Odisha government moved more than 500 families in a cluster of seven villages called Satabhaya... to a rehabilitation colony in Bagapatia."

Explanation

The article's core argument is that hard engineering can be a trap of 'maladaptation'. It states that if engineering "diverts more investments in high-risk zones... it will only compound the catastrophe." The other options are not the primary criticism raised in the text.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that Anthropic makes the Claude family of AI models. This is a direct static fact from the news content. The other options are models developed by OpenAI (GPT), Google (Gemini), and Meta (Llama).

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article's core proposal. Statement 2 is correct as Anthropic compared the verification challenge to nuclear arms control, stating AI training is harder to monitor. Statement 3 is incorrect; the article mentions the White House acknowledged the power of Anthropic's Mythos model but also notes the proposal faces pushback from officials who say it overstates risks.

Explanation

The article clearly states that President Trump signed an executive order allowing the government '30 days to conduct a preliminary review of the most powerful U.S. AI models before their release.' The other options are plausible but incorrect distractors.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that U.S. officials and tech executives argue any slowdown 'risks handing China a decisive strategic edge in what many see as the defining technology race of the century.' This is the core geopolitical obstacle highlighted. The other options are not mentioned as primary reasons.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the study was conducted by scientists from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), New Delhi, along with ICMR-NIRBID, Mumbai. ICMR is India's apex body for biomedical research.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article mentions social discrimination as a key challenge. Statement 2 is incorrect; the study highlighted ASHAs and ANMs as crucial facilitators and recommended better training, not reducing their role. Statement 3 is correct as logistical challenges like staff shortages and sample transport issues were reported.

Explanation

The article states that screening led to the identification of 'more than 21.66 lakh carriers of the sickle cell trait'. 'Over 2.66 lakh' refers to individuals with the disease, and 'over 7.57 crore' is the total number of people screened.

Explanation

The article clearly states that the mission 'seeks to screen vulnerable populations and eliminate the disease by 2047'. The other options are not mentioned as primary objectives in the provided content.

Explanation

The article mentions India's chief negotiator is Darpan Jain, who is an Additional Secretary in the Department of Commerce. The Department of Commerce under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry is the nodal body for formulating India's foreign trade policy and conducting trade negotiations.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal's statement. Statement 2 is incorrect; the framework was finalized in February 2026 (joint statement on Feb 7), before the U.S. tariff announcement in late February. Statement 3 is correct as the article explicitly states the pact aims to give India preferential access over competitors like Sri Lanka, Pakistan, and Bangladesh.

Explanation

The article clearly states: 'New Delhi has also expressed its intentions to purchase $500 billion of U.S. energy products, aircraft and aircraft parts, precious metals, technology products, and coking coal over the next five years.' This is a key data point for factual recall.

Explanation

The article directly quotes Minister Goyal stating the pact 'will give preferential access to India over our competitors' and later emphasizes that 'It is important that India gets an advantage over its competitor nations on the tariff front.' While other options may be broader foreign policy goals, the article's core economic rationale is securing a competitive tariff advantage.

Explanation

The article states that the Supreme Court's landmark decision in Justice K.S. Puttaswamy v. Union of India (2017) ruled that the right to privacy is a fundamental right under Article 21 of the Constitution. The 2026 ruling balances a child's right to know paternity against this right.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect. The article explicitly states the Supreme Court has consistently held that 'DNA tests should not be ordered routinely'. Statement 2 is correct as per the article's description of Section 112. Statement 3 is incorrect; the article states that in Goutam Kundu (1993), the court 'rejected the use of blood testing... as a first resort'.

Explanation

The article directly mentions that after the Supreme Court's landmark decision of 'Justice K.S. Puttaswamy v. Union of India' in 2017, which ruled that the right to privacy is a fundamental right under Article 21, the court has continuously ruled that compulsory DNA testing interferes with this right.

Explanation

The core of the 2026 ruling, as described in the article, is the balancing act. The court observed that 'a child's legitimate interest to know the biological parent must be balanced by the potential father's right to protect his privacy and dignity.' The other options are not mentioned in the context of this case.

Explanation

Article 123 of the Indian Constitution empowers the President to promulgate ordinances when Parliament is not in session. The news mentions the tax exemption is being implemented via an ordinance-based amendment.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect. The article specifies the exemption is for the 12.5% long-term capital gains tax (LTCG), not for short-term gains. Statement 2 is correct, as SGBs have been included in the FAR basket. Statement 3 is incorrect; the limit is 6%, not 8%.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the overall quantitative investment limit for FPI investment is set at two percent (2%) of the outstanding stock of State Government securities (SGSs). The limit for Central Government securities is 6%.

Explanation

The article quotes the government's statement about recognizing the need for a competitive tax regime to attract global capital and an expert saying it would make G-Secs more tax-efficient for overseas investors. While it may indirectly help the rupee, the direct objective is to boost bond market inflows, not to directly stop equity outflows.

Explanation

Article 280 of the Constitution mandates the establishment of a Finance Commission every five years to make recommendations on the distribution of net proceeds of taxes between the Union and the States. This is its core function, directly related to the issues raised in Kerala's White Paper.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect: Kerala's share increased from 1.92% (15th FC) to 2.38% (16th FC). Statement 2 is correct as per the article's quote on 'abrupt discontinuation'. Statement 3 is correct as CM V.D. Satheesan presented it on June 4, 2026.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: "Over the five-year period of the 15th Commission, Kerala had received ₹37,814 crore as RD grants." ₹2,412 crore was for state and sector-specific grants, making option A a close distractor.

Explanation

The White Paper directly counters the 16th FC's 'fiscal complacency' rationale, arguing that the deficits may be structural. It states the 'abrupt discontinuation places the immediate adjustment burden on recipient States', which is the core concern articulated in the article.

Explanation

The article clearly states that Chief Justice of India Surya Kant delivered the public lecture on the given topic at Birkbeck College, University of London.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as it is the core message of the lecture. Statement 2 is incorrect because the CJI specifically said technology is neither inherently benevolent nor harmful, and the law's role is not to resist it. Statement 3 is correct as he mentioned AI's potential for timely and effective justice.

Explanation

The article's published date and the context of the news clearly indicate the lecture was delivered and reported in the year 2026.

Explanation

The CJI explicitly stated that the central challenge is to ensure humanity retains authorship of the principles by which it is governed, even as decision-making is increasingly mediated by algorithmic systems.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the Finance Ministry issued the statement regarding the tax exemption. While RBI regulates the FAR framework and SEBI regulates FPIs, the specific tax policy announcement was made by the Ministry of Finance.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is correct as Sovereign Green Bonds have been included in the FAR basket. Statement 3 is incorrect; the limit for State Government Securities is 2%, not 6%. The 6% limit is for Central Government Securities.

Explanation

The article clearly mentions the waiver of the '12.5% long term capital gains tax (LTCG)'. The other options are common tax rates in India but are not the specific rate mentioned in this context.

Explanation

The Finance Ministry's statement, as quoted in the article, says the step aims to 'rationalise the tax treatment' and 'align the taxation on G-Secs with many comparable jurisdictions' to attract global capital. The move targets debt, not equity, and is a tax exemption, not a revenue-raising measure.

Explanation

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is the central banking institution responsible for regulating monetary policy, banking operations, and deposit rates in India, as highlighted in the article where the Governor clarified the norms.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per RBI Governor's clarification. Statement 2 is incorrect as undisclosed preferential rates are 'not acceptable'. Statement 3 is correct as the article mentions HDFC Bank's internal audit findings on payments to MSRDC.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that HDFC Bank's internal records showed interest payments of ₹45 crore to MSRDC for the mentioned financial years. The other options are close distractors.

Explanation

The core concern, as stated by the Governor, is transparency. Banks must clearly display rates, and any undisclosed differential rate beyond permissible categories is not acceptable, which safeguards fairness and market integrity.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that state-run Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is in contact with the Sukhoi Design Bureau for possible collaboration on the Su-57 fighter jet. HAL is India's primary aircraft manufacturer under the Ministry of Defence.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per President Putin's offer of 'no restrictions whatsoever'. Statement 2 is incorrect; the article states the AMCA is unlikely to enter service before 2035, not by 2030. Statement 3 is correct as India formally withdrew from the FGFA programme in 2021.

Explanation

The article states that the Indian government is considering procuring at least two squadrons – around 36 aircraft – of the Su-57, subject to technical specifications being met. A squadron typically consists of 16-18 aircraft.

Explanation

The article directly links Russia's outreach to 'supply chain disruptions caused by the war in Ukraine' which have pushed India to diversify its procurement, adding urgency to Moscow's offer to maintain its defence partnership with New Delhi.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the research team developing the first AI-designed vaccine is from the University of Cambridge, led by Prof. Jonathan Heeney.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article's claim of a 'first.' Statement 2 is incorrect; the initial safety trial involved 39 people, with a 200-person trial planned next. Statement 3 is correct as the article mentions separate vaccines for flu and Ebola are being developed.

Explanation

The article clearly states that the trials designed to assess safety were conducted with 39 people. The 200-person figure is for the planned next trial.

Explanation

The core objective, as quoted from Prof. Heeney, is to 'get ahead of the curve.' The AI is used to design a 'super-antigen' that trains the immune system to protect against a wide family of viruses, addressing the challenge of mutations and new zoonotic infections.

Explanation

The article states the cooperative bank first moved the Permanent Lok Adalat in 2021 seeking compensation. The Lok Adalat's order was later challenged in the High Court. Permanent Lok Adalats are established under the Legal Services Authorities Act for public utility service disputes.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect. The court rejected BSNL's contention on jurisdiction, holding that civil claims arising from fraud can go before a Permanent Lok Adalat. Statement 2 is correct as the court directed BSNL to pay ₹50,50,762 for net loss and ₹5,00,000 for consequential damages. Statement 3 is incorrect; the court stated this duty is 'central to the integrity of the digital financial system', not peripheral.

Explanation

The court directed BSNL to pay ₹50,50,762 for net financial loss and ₹5,00,000 for consequential damages, totaling ₹55,50,762 or approximately ₹55.5 lakh. ₹5 lakh was the earlier Lok Adalat award. ₹87.7 lakh was the total fraudulent amount siphoned.

Explanation

The court's core reasoning is that telecom providers occupy a 'unique and irreplaceable position' as 'custodians of the mobile numbers that serve as authentication anchors.' Their negligence in SIM issuance introduces systemic vulnerability into India's OTP-based digital financial architecture, making their duty of care public and systemic.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the panel of air quality experts was 'tasked by the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) in Delhi-NCR'. The CAQM is the statutory body responsible for air quality management in the region.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article states 'Government vehicles will be excluded from this scheme.' Statement 2 is incorrect; the article clarifies that 'BS-IV vehicles may either be scrapped or sold outside NCR' under certain conditions. Statement 3 is correct as the scheme 'specifically targets BS-IV vehicles as well as older trucks and buses' and is distinct from past EV-focused schemes like PM-eBus Sewa.

Explanation

The government statement cited in the article says the scheme is likely to benefit '2.07 lakh (1.91 lakh trucks and 16,329 buses) owners'. Option C (34,449) is the number of BS-VI compliant buses in the region, and option D (1,26,549) is the number of pre-BS to BS-IV compliant buses, both mentioned elsewhere in the article as context.

Explanation

The article's core analysis highlights that while older trucks and buses constitute only 3% of the fleet, their emission load is disproportionately high (one pre-BS vehicle pollutes as much as 14 BS-VI vehicles). The scheme's objective, as stated, is to 'reduce air pollution', and this targeted approach addresses the most polluting segment efficiently. Other options are secondary or not the primary focus.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the 'US Trade Representative proposed tariffs'. The USTR is the principal US trade agency responsible for developing and coordinating trade policy and leading negotiations.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect: The new proposals are under Section 301, not Section 122 (which was used for the earlier 10% levy). Statement 2 is incorrect: India falls in the latter category facing a 12.5% tariff, not 10%. Statement 3 is correct as per the article.

Explanation

The article clearly states: 'That period will end on July 24.' This date is directly linked to the 150-day maximum duration for the tariff levied under Section 122.

Explanation

The article states that 54 countries, including India, are said to have 'failed "to impose a legal prohibition on the importation of goods" that have been produced by forced labour'. While a separate investigation on 'structural excess capacity' is mentioned, the primary rationale for the Section 301 tariff proposal is the forced labour issue.