8 April 2026, Questions & Answers

Explanation

The article explicitly states that for the Lok Sabha, changes will have to be made to Article 81 and for the Assemblies to Article 170. These articles govern the composition of the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies respectively.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article says the government is using 2011 Census data to fast-track the reservation. Statement 2 is incorrect; the article states the increase is 50%, not 33%. Statement 3 is correct as the article mentions the strength would increase by 50% only by the next general elections in 2029.

Explanation

The article clearly states that the proposal aims to increase Lok Sabha seats from 543 to 816. 543 is the current number, 550 is the constitutional ceiling mentioned, and 500 is unrelated to Lok Sabha.

Explanation

The article mentions that Union Home Minister Amit Shah conveyed that the Government wants to bring the amendment Bill without waiting for the Census exercise to be completed as it would take a long time. Expediting the reservation is the core reason.

Explanation

As per the article, the Constitution (106th Amendment) Act, 2023, defers implementation until after a delimitation exercise is undertaken. This is a key procedural condition mentioned in the Act.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; the proposed expansion is to 816 seats, not 1000. Statement 3 is incorrect; the concern is that northern states, not southern states, would gain more parliamentary power due to higher populations.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the size of the Lok Sabha may be expanded to 816 seats, a nearly 50% increase from the current 543. The other options are plausible but incorrect distractors.

Explanation

The article argues that by moving ahead with the 2011 data, the government is postponing the pressures that would arise from the expected caste data in the next Census, including demands for OBC sub-quotas within women's reservation.

Explanation

The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) was constituted 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 incorrect as the MPC decided to keep the repo rate unchanged at 5.25%, not increase it. Statement 2 is incorrect because the SDF rate was kept at 5%, not 5.25%. Statement 3 is correct as per the article where Governor Malhotra highlighted the West Asia conflict as a risk.

Explanation

The article states that the Marginal Standing Facility (MSF) rate remains at 5.50%. The repo rate is 5.25% and the SDF rate is 5%. The MSF rate is typically set 25 basis points above the repo rate.

Explanation

Holding the rate steady suggests the MPC believes the current policy stance is appropriate to manage inflation, allowing time for past rate increases to work through the economy. The mention of global risks like the West Asia conflict supports this cautious, wait-and-watch approach.

Explanation

The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) is a statutory and institutionalized framework under Section 45ZB of the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934, as amended in 2016. Its primary objective is to maintain price stability.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: The MPC kept the repo rate unchanged at 5.25%. Statement 2 is incorrect: The GDP forecast for FY2027 was LOWERED to 6.9%, not raised. The 7.6% figure is the revised estimate for FY2026. Statement 3 is correct: The RBI Governor explicitly stated that upside risks to inflation have increased due to the West Asia conflict and rising oil prices.

Explanation

According to the article, RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra announced that CPI inflation for FY27 is projected at 4.6%. The options 3.2% and 4.0% are the inflation rates for specific months or quarters mentioned, while 5.2% is the projection for Q3 of FY27.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the RBI Governor warned that elevated imported inflation due to rising oil prices can widen the current account deficit (CAD). Higher import bills for crude oil negatively impact the current account balance. The other options are not supported by the article's content.

Explanation

The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) was constituted 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 the article states headline retail inflation is set to average 4.6% in the current fiscal (FY27). Statement 2 is incorrect because the GDP growth projection for FY27 was revised down to 6.9% from 7.6% in FY26, not increased. Statement 3 is correct as the article explicitly mentions the West Asia conflict and Strait of Hormuz closure unleashed fresh price pressures, increasing upside risks to inflation.

Explanation

The RBI now expects the price of India's crude oil basket to average $85 per barrel in FY27, revising it up from its previous assumption of $70/bbl disclosed in October 2025. $113 and $129 were peak prices observed in March and April, respectively, not the full-year average projection.

Explanation

As per the Governor's address, RBI's intervention is aimed at 'smoothening excessive and disruptive volatility without targeting any specific level or band for the exchange rate'. This is consistent with India's long-standing policy of market-determined exchange rates.

Explanation

The Supreme Court invoked Article 142 of the Constitution, which grants it the power to pass any order necessary for doing 'complete justice'. This article was specifically mentioned in the judgment to annul the marriage and terminate all proceedings.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the Supreme Court directed the husband to pay ₹5 crore as permanent alimony. Statement 2 is correct as the Court ruled that he cannot evade his duty to maintain her only because she was highly educated. Statement 3 is incorrect as the Court rejected the husband's counter-claim of ₹20 crore.

Explanation

The family court had earlier, on February 6, 2019, directed the husband to pay ₹80,000 per month as interim maintenance. This included ₹50,000 to the wife and ₹15,000 each to the two children along with educational expenses.

Explanation

The Supreme Court ruled that a husband cannot evade his legal duty to maintain his wife and children only because she was highly educated or professionally qualified. This reaffirms that maintenance is a statutory duty, not contingent on the recipient's earning capacity.

Explanation

The Supreme Court invoked Article 142, which grants it the power to pass any order necessary for doing 'complete justice' in any matter before it. This extraordinary power was used to quash the criminal proceedings, prioritizing the welfare of the settled family.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the Court quashed proceedings under IPC Sections 363, 368, 376(2)(d) and POCSO Act Sections 5(8) and 6. Statement 2 is incorrect because the bench consisted of Justices Vikram Nath and N V Anjaria, not the CJI. Statement 3 is correct as the judgment explicitly refers to the precedent set in K Kirubakaran vs State of Tamil Nadu (2025).

Explanation

The Supreme Court set aside the order dated June 19, 2025, of the Uttarakhand High Court, which had refused to quash the criminal case. The FIR in the matter was originally registered in Uttarakhand.

Explanation

The Court's core reasoning was that the subsequent voluntary marriage, cohabitation, and birth of a child created a new social reality. Continuing prosecution would be 'harassing' and an 'abuse of process of law', disrupting their settled married life. This welfare-centric approach outweighed the strict application of penal laws.

Explanation

Article 324 of the Indian Constitution vests the superintendence, direction, and control of elections in the Election Commission of India. The article explicitly mentions that the ECI derives 'plenary powers' from this provision to conduct exercises like the Special Intensive Revision (SIR).

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: The article states that 27,16,393 out of 60,06,675 names (45.22%) were deleted. Statement 2 is incorrect: The Sabarimala review prominently discusses Article 17 (Abolition of Untouchability), not Article 21. Statement 3 is correct: The article mentions that the Kalpakkam FBR will initially use uranium-plutonium mixed oxide (MOX) fuel.

Explanation

The article states that the total number of voters fell to 6.77 crore from 7.66 crore at the start of the SIR, which is a fall of 11.62%. The other options are close but incorrect distractors based on other percentages mentioned in the article.

Explanation

As defined in the article, attaining criticality means the initiation of a self-sustaining nuclear fission reaction, which is a key milestone indicating the reactor core is functioning as designed. It is a step towards, but not the same as, full power generation (Option A).

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions Article 25(2)(b) as the constitutional provision under discussion. This clause empowers the State to make laws providing for social welfare and reform or throwing open Hindu religious institutions of a public character to all sections of Hindus.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the Solicitor General stated that a secular court lacks scholarly competence in religious matters. Statement 2 is incorrect; the bench is reviewing the 2018 Sabarimala judgment, not a 2020 judgment. Statement 3 is correct as the article mentions the PIL was filed by the Indian Young Lawyers Association in 2006.

Explanation

The article clearly states that the 9-judge bench is examining questions arising from petitions seeking review of the 'September 28, 2018, judgment' on Sabarimala. The year 2006 is when the PIL was filed, making it a close distractor.

Explanation

As per the article, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta argued that 'a secular court can’t decide a religious practice as mere superstition because you don’t have scholarly competence.' The other options, while plausible in a broader debate, are not mentioned in the provided text.

Explanation

Article 142 of the Constitution grants the Supreme Court the power to pass any decree or order necessary for doing 'complete justice' in any matter before it. The article explicitly mentions the Supreme Court used this power in the West Bengal SIR case.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect: The article states 'The Court order did not mention it [the figure].' Statement 2 is correct as per the article's data. Statement 3 is correct as the order directed the ECI to publish a supplementary list and discussed tribunal members' honoraria.

Explanation

The article states: 'Bengal had 7.66 crore names, almost exactly the same as the 7.67 crore adult population of the state at that time.' This was the voter count before the SIR process led to exclusions and deletions.

Explanation

The article frames the case as a 'test case for electoral democracy', comparing it to ADM Jabalpur for fundamental rights. The core concern is that the Court approved mass deletions without examining the flawed process, which could disenfranchise citizens and skew electoral outcomes.

Explanation

The Election Commission of India is the constitutional body established under Article 324 with the power of superintendence, direction, and control of elections, including preparation and revision of electoral rolls.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article: West Bengal's voter roll fell from 7.66 crore to 6.77 crore (11.62% decrease). Statement 2 is correct: SC ensured transparency in Bihar but gave EC benefit of doubt in Bengal. Statement 3 is incorrect: The 27+ lakh disenfranchised voters represent over 45% (not less than 30%) of those under adjudication.

Explanation

The article states that 27,16,393 voters (more than 27 lakh) were disenfranchised in West Bengal. The 60 lakh figure refers to those whose eligibility was under adjudication, not those ultimately disenfranchised.

Explanation

The article emphasizes that democracy rests on equal voting rights, and the mass deletions compromise this principle. Article 326 guarantees the right to vote to every citizen. While other options mention constitutional rights, the core issue is specifically the franchise.

Explanation

The article states that the Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) is at Kalpakkam. Kalpakkam, located in Tamil Nadu, is a major nuclear power and research complex housing the Madras Atomic Power Station and the Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research (IGCAR), which is responsible for the PFBR.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect. Criticality is the state where a self-sustaining nuclear chain reaction begins; it is the first step, not the start of commercial generation. Statement 2 is correct as it defines the 'breeder' characteristic. Statement 3 is correct as the PFBR is a cornerstone of the second stage, which focuses on fast breeder reactors.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) at Kalpakkam achieved criticality on April 6, 2026. April 8 is the article's publication date, while the other dates are close distractors.

Explanation

The article explains that current PHWRs are inefficient, using only about 1% of their fuel. Fast breeder reactors are part of a staged program to vastly improve fuel utilization and eventually enable the use of India's large thorium reserves, ensuring long-term energy security.

Explanation

The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) is a statutory committee constituted under the RBI Act to determine the benchmark interest rate (repo rate) in India. The article mentions the MPC's decision to leave the repo rate unchanged.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article states the MPC left the repo rate unchanged at 5.25%. Statement 2 is incorrect; the RBI forecasts GDP growth for FY 2026-27 to decline to 6.9% from an estimated 7.6% in FY 2025-26. Statement 3 is correct as the article explicitly mentions the RBI's baseline assumption of $85/bbl crude oil price for its forecasts.

Explanation

The article states that a scenario analysis by RBI staff found that growth could fall to 6.7% in 2026-27 if crude oil prices average $95/barrel in the current fiscal. The baseline forecast is 6.9%, and 6.4% is the projected growth for 2027-28 under the same scenario.

Explanation

The article explains that if the rupee weakens by 5% over the RBI's assumption of 94/$ in 2026-27, then inflation could be 40 bps higher, while a cheaper currency would benefit exports and push GDP growth higher by 25 bps. This highlights the dual impact of exchange rate movements.

Explanation

The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) is a statutory body constituted under the RBI Act to determine the monetary policy of India, including the policy interest rate (repo rate). The article mentions the Governor Sanjay Malhotra-led MPC.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; the SDF rate remained at 5% and the MSF rate at 5.5%, not vice versa. Statement 3 is correct as the GDP growth was projected at 6.9%. Hence, only statements 1 and 3 are correct.

Explanation

The article explicitly states the quarterly GDP projections: Q1 at 6.8%, Q2 at 6.7%, Q3 at 7%, and Q4 at 7.2%. Therefore, the correct projection for Q4 is 7.2%.

Explanation

The article mentions that the policy review came amid heightened global uncertainty, driven largely by escalating tensions in West Asia which disrupted critical energy supply routes and triggered a sharp spike in crude oil prices. This external risk was a key consideration.

Explanation

The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) is the statutory committee constituted under the RBI Act, 1934, to determine the policy interest rate (repo rate) required to achieve the inflation target. The article mentions the MPC forecasting growth and keeping the policy rate unchanged.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: The article states the repo rate was kept unchanged at 5.25%. Statement 2 is incorrect: The GDP forecast for FY27 was lowered to 6.9% (from 7.6% in FY26), not revised upwards. Statement 3 is correct: The Governor explicitly mentioned shocks due to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz as a risk.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: "CPI inflation in FY27 is projected at a higher level of 4.6 per cent." The other options are close distractors: 3.2% was the headline inflation in February 2026.

Explanation

The article directly quotes the Governor: "Elevated crude oil prices could increase imported inflation and widen the current account deficit." While fertilizer shortages and other disruptions are mentioned as secondary impacts, the primary and most direct channel highlighted is imported inflation via higher energy prices.

Explanation

The repo rate is a key monetary policy instrument set by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). SEBI regulates securities markets, while IMF and World Bank are international financial institutions.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per SBI research cited in the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; FPIs pulled out (were net sellers of) a record ₹1.14 lakh crore in March. Statement 3 is correct as the article states roughly 40% of India's crude imports transited the Strait of Hormuz before the war.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that on April 8, the RBI held the repo rate at 5.25 per cent. The other options are close distractors representing different potential policy rates.

Explanation

The article states the RBI's decision reflects a recognition that monetary policy cannot fix a supply shock (the oil price surge due to geopolitical conflict). The other options describe different policy rationales not mentioned as the primary reason in the article.

Explanation

The article explicitly states Iran considered the possibility of jointly charging a fee for passage through the Strait of Hormuz with Oman. This was mentioned as a maximalist aim within Iran's negotiation strategy.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: The ceasefire was announced by US President Donald Trump after 38 days of war. Statement 2 is incorrect: The demand lists are Iran's '10-point' and the US's '15-point', not 12 and 10. Statement 3 is correct: The article lists 'hand over enriched uranium to the IAEA and allow inspectors full access' as part of Washington's 15-point demands.

Explanation

The article states, "This is the official number of retaliatory 'waves' of drones and missiles that the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps launched, announcing each wave as they struck (each with varying effectiveness)." The number 99 is explicitly mentioned as the official count.

Explanation

The article details Iran's multi-pronged strategy aimed at proving three abilities, including its tolerance to absorb costs and its ability to impose costs through reciprocal escalation. This was central to establishing itself as a powerful state that must be engaged on equitable terms, not for achieving unrealistic goals like regime change or UNSC membership.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that a viable solution for the Strait of Hormuz is to apply the principles of the 1936 Montreux Convention, which affirmed Turkey's sovereignty over the Bosphorus and Dardanelles Straits while guaranteeing peacetime civilian navigation.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: The pause came hours before US President Donald Trump's deadline. Statement 2 is incorrect: Iran demanded the agreement be anchored in a binding United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolution, not a General Assembly resolution. Statement 3 is correct: The article lists capping enrichment at 1% and resuming IAEA inspections under the Additional Protocol as potential Iranian concessions.

Explanation

The article states: 'Global markets have responded with immediate elation, with oil prices falling by 15 per cent...' This is a direct data point from the news content.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: 'Ultimately, the strongest guarantor of this ceasefire is the American political calendar.' It elaborates that rising gasoline prices threaten President Trump's approval ratings before the mid-term elections, giving him a domestic incentive to secure a deal.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: 'Iran-backed Hezbollah also expanded the conflict into Lebanon, firing rockets toward Israel...' Hezbollah is a Lebanese Shia militant group and political party backed by Iran.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article states the war was triggered by strikes on Feb 28 that killed Khamenei. Statement 2 is incorrect; the next talks are in Islamabad, Pakistan, not Riyadh. Statement 3 is correct as Iran's Revolutionary Guards announced the closure of the Strait to vessels from those nations.

Explanation

The article states: 'At least 87 people were reported dead after the vessel... was torpedoed...' The other numbers are distractors: 175 were killed in a strike on a school in Minab, 6 were US soldiers killed in Kuwait, and 51 was an initial (later revised) toll for the school strike.

Explanation

The Strait of Hormuz is a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments (20% of traffic). By restricting access to adversaries' vessels, Iran aimed to leverage its geographic control to apply economic pressure and gain a strategic advantage in the conflict, as indicated by the US threat to reopen it.

Explanation

The article explicitly states the paper draws its findings from the Socio-Economic Caste Census conducted in 2011, which covered 650 million individuals. This is a key static fact about the data source.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the top 10% own 44% of land. Statement 2 is incorrect: Bihar has the highest share (20.1%), not the lowest (Uttar Pradesh has the lowest at 7.3%). Statement 3 is incorrect: the article states places with higher SC population share have substantially higher levels of inequality.

Explanation

The article clearly states that about 46% of households are landless. 44% is the land owned by the top 10%, 32% is owned by the top 5%, and 59% is the landlessness rate specifically in Bihar, not nationally.

Explanation

The article states that villages in 'princely states' show lower levels of land inequality amongst all households compared to directly-ruled British areas. It also states zamindari areas show higher inequality, contradicting option C. The study found agricultural suitability and market access account for 18.3% of variation, not over 50%.

Explanation

As per the article, the directive was issued by the Environment Ministry on April 1 through an office memorandum to state and central authorities. The official name is the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC).

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article mentions the freeze date is January 1, 2028. Statement 2 is incorrect; the article states the phase-down will involve amending the Ozone Depleting Substances Rules, 2000, not the Environment Protection Act. Statement 3 is correct as India ratified the Kigali Amendment in 2021.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that India's phase-down schedule will see an 85% reduction in HFCs by 2047. The schedule begins with a 10% reduction by 2032, escalating to 85% by 2047.

Explanation

The article states the directive is a mechanism 'to regulate and progressively reduce HFC production to meet India’s international commitments.' Halting new clearances ensures no additional production capacity is built that would make it harder to achieve the legally binding phase-down targets starting in 2028.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the policy was announced by Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs Manohar Lal and was notified by the Centre. The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) is the nodal ministry for urban development policies in India.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article mentions the policy is aimed at creating affordable housing for lower- and middle-income groups. Statement 2 is incorrect because the specified radius is 500 meters, not 1 kilometer. Statement 3 is correct as the article lists metro lines, RRTS corridors, and railway stations as the covered transit corridors.

Explanation

The article clearly states that areas within 500 metres of metro lines, RRTS corridors, and railway stations will be opened for development. This is a precise data point crucial for Prelims-type factual questions.

Explanation

The article's central theme is that the TOD policy is a move aimed at creating large-scale, planned affordable housing projects by opening up areas near transit corridors. The other options are either not mentioned or contradict the core idea of integrating housing with public transport to reduce congestion.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the ceasefire was 'Pakistan-brokered'. This highlights Pakistan's diplomatic role in regional geopolitics, a static fact relevant for International Relations sections.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article: 'oil prices had surged by over 50% in March due to the effective halt in vessel movements through the Strait of Hormuz'. Statement 2 is correct: the EIA said 'production shut-ins will fall to 6.7 million bpd in May'. Statement 3 is incorrect because the article states prices are 'still over 30% higher than the pre-war levels'.

Explanation

The article states: 'India depends on imports to meet over 88% of its crude oil needs, over 40% of which came via the Strait of Hormuz.' Option D (88%) is the total import dependency, not the share via Hormuz. Option C (55%) is the share for natural gas imports via the strait.

Explanation

The article details that to cover the shortfall from West Asia, India ramped up oil imports from Russia, which jumped over 80% to about 2 million bpd. This was facilitated by a temporary waiver from the US. This demonstrates India's pragmatic energy diplomacy in a crisis.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has issued the directive to chief secretaries of all states and Union Territories. The MHA oversees internal security, police, and the criminal justice system, including forensics.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article mentions launching a special drive to eliminate all backlogs by July. Statement 2 is incorrect; the directive calls for recognizing specialized degrees from institutions like the National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU), not exclusively IITs. Statement 3 is correct as digital integration via the e-Forensics module under ICJS is a key priority mentioned.

Explanation

The article states that conviction rates are 'hovering around 30-40 per cent in serious crimes'. The other options are plausible but incorrect distractors. This data point highlights the rationale behind the forensic reform push.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the MHA calls for 'granting FSLs administrative autonomy by separating them from police functions to uphold scientific integrity.' This is a key reform to ensure unbiased, scientific analysis independent of investigative influence. The other options would compromise, not uphold, scientific integrity.

Explanation

The article states that the Supreme Court bench was hearing criminal appeals challenging a 2019 Madras High Court verdict in connection with the 2014 assault. Therefore, the Madras High Court's verdict was under challenge.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect as the Supreme Court clearly held that the word 'bastard' does NOT amount to an offence of obscenity under IPC 294(b). Statements 2 and 3 are correct as per the article: the court upheld Sivakumar's conviction under IPC 304 Part II and reduced his sentence from five to three years, noting the 'heat of the moment' circumstance.

Explanation

The article explicitly states the punishment under IPC Section 294(b): 'imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to three months, or with fine, or with both.' Therefore, the maximum term is three months.

Explanation

The core of the Supreme Court's ruling was drawing 'a sharp line between vulgarity and criminal obscenity.' It clarified that while 'bastard' is offensive, it does not satisfy the legal definition of obscenity under IPC 294(b), which must relate to sexually explicit or morally depraving content.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the Iranian National Security Council formulated the 10-point plan. This body is responsible for national security and strategic policy formulation in Iran.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article's list of demands. Statement 2 is correct as it calls for US withdrawal. Statement 3 is incorrect; the article states the phrase 'acceptance of enrichment' was included in the Farsi version but missing from the English versions shared with journalists.

Explanation

The article specifies that talks will begin in Islamabad on April 10. The two-week ceasefire is the period agreed upon for talks, not the start date itself.

Explanation

The article states that the demand for a binding UNSC resolution reflects Tehran's demand for 'long-term guarantees rather than a temporary truce'. This seeks to institutionalize the agreement under international law, making it more durable.

Explanation

The Strait of Hormuz is the narrow passage that connects the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea. This geographical fact is fundamental static GK related to world geography and energy routes.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article: 'The 14-day reprieve... was achieved 90 minutes before Trump’s deadline'. Statement 2 is incorrect; Iran's 10-point plan includes 'Acceptance of enrichment', not its halt. Statement 3 is correct as Trump stated the ceasefire is 'subject to Iran’s agreement to pause its blockade... through the strait'.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the Strait of Hormuz 'handles about one-fifth of global oil shipments'. This is a critical data point for questions on global energy security and trade routes.

Explanation

The article quotes the US President: 'Based on conversations with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir, of Pakistan, and wherein they requested that I hold off... I agree to suspend...'. This highlights the role of third-party diplomatic intervention in conflict de-escalation.

Explanation

The Strait of Hormuz is the narrow passage that links the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman and the wider Arabian Sea. This geography makes it a critical transit route for global oil shipments, as mentioned in the article's context of Iran's leverage.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article: a two-week ceasefire was announced, and Iran agreed to reopen the Strait. Statement 2 is incorrect; the negotiations are based on Iran's 10-point proposal, which the US accepted as a workable basis, though a US 15-point proposal was also mentioned as part of the background. Statement 3 is correct; Pakistan's leadership mediated, and Islamabad is set to host the talks on 10 April 2026.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: "And so, 39 days since the war began, the world breathed a sigh of relief..." The conflict started on 28 February 2026, and the ceasefire was announced on 7 April 2026, which aligns with the 39-day duration.

Explanation

The article describes the Strait's closure as Iran's 'strongest weapon' and part of its 'escalation strategy.' By disrupting 20% of global energy flows and causing oil prices to spike, Iran aimed to inflict widespread economic pain, thereby creating pressure and bargaining leverage against the US and its allies during negotiations.

Explanation

The article directly quotes the ISRO Chairperson regarding the Gaganyaan mission launch date. ISRO is the primary agency responsible for India's space program, including the Gaganyaan human spaceflight mission.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect: The article states the mission was 'scheduled' for Q1 2026 but has been 'delayed'; it was not successfully launched. Statement 2 is correct: The article mentions the HLVM3 is at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) in Sriharikota. Statement 3 is correct: The article explicitly states the mission will demonstrate 're-entry and recovery of crew module'.

Explanation

The article clearly states: 'The HLVM3 G1/OM1 mission... was scheduled to be launched in the first quarter of 2026.' The other options are incorrect as they are not mentioned in the provided content.

Explanation

The article states the mission will 'demonstrate end-to-end mission, including aerodynamics characterisation of human rated launch vehicle, mission operations of orbital module, and re-entry and recovery of crew module.' This directly aligns with validating systems for the future human (crewed) mission. The other objectives are not mentioned.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the deal was "brokered by Pakistan at the eleventh hour" and that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif acted as the intermediary, proposing the extension of the deadline.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article: the ceasefire reopened the strait for two weeks after a 39-day closure. Statement 2 is incorrect; the IEA data states the strait handled roughly 25% of global seaborne oil trade, not 50%. Statement 3 is correct as the article mentions Iran's 10 conditions, including control over passage protocols.

Explanation

The article directly quotes IEA data: "The Strait of Hormuz handled an average of 20 million barrels of oil per day in 2025." The other options are plausible but incorrect figures.

Explanation

The article details that the closure caused Brent crude to top $106 per barrel (a 50% spike) and led to supply chains buckling. While other options might be indirect effects, the direct and immediate consequence highlighted is the oil price shock and supply chain disruption.

Explanation

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) is a branch of Iran's Armed Forces, established after the 1979 Iranian Revolution. The article explicitly states that 'Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said in a statement... it hit several targets.'

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article states the pipeline was diverting oil after Iran shuttered the Strait of Hormuz. Statement 2 is incorrect; the pipeline moves oil FROM the eastern fields TO Yanbu on the Red Sea, not the reverse. Statement 3 is incorrect; the attack was claimed by Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), not the regular army.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: 'The pipeline was diverting around 7 million barrels per day (bpd) from the kingdom’s oil heartland in the east to the Red Sea port of Yanbu.' Option C (4.6 million bpd) is a distractor, representing Yanbu loadings in a specific week, not the pipeline's total diverted capacity.

Explanation

The article's core context is that the pipeline became Saudi Arabia's 'only outlet for crude exports' after Iran 'effectively shuttered the Strait of Hormuz.' Its strategic value lies in offering an alternative land-based route to bypass this critical maritime chokepoint during geopolitical tensions.

Explanation

The Gallup World Poll is conducted by Gallup, Inc., a renowned American analytics and advisory firm known for its public opinion polls worldwide. The other organizations are involved in development, finance, or global forums but are not the conductors of this specific poll.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article states the closure removed 'approximately one-fifth of the world’s seaborne crude'. Statement 2 is correct as it mentions the US approval at 31% and China's at 36%, 'the widest gap in nearly two decades'. Statement 3 is incorrect; the article states the allocation for Chabahar Port was 'zeroed out' (reduced to zero), not increased.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: 'With crude oil import dependence at approximately 88.6 per cent for FY 2025-26...'. The other options are plausible but incorrect distractors.

Explanation

The article's 'way forward' section explicitly states that for India, 'on energy security, diversification can no longer be treated as a medium-term aspiration' and that accelerating renewables, broadening imports, and building strategic reserves are 'now economic imperatives'. The other options contradict the article's analysis of India's complex position and the BRICS' lack of a common currency.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the scheme was 'developed jointly by the state Tourism Department and IRCTC.' IRCTC (Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation) is a subsidiary of Indian Railways involved in tourism packages.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article mentions 'development of a glass bridge and a canopy walk... in the Kanger Valley National Park.' Statement 2 is correct as it mentions upgrading '45 existing porta cabin schools with permanent buildings.' Statement 3 is incorrect; the article states '45 youths have been trained,' not 450.

Explanation

The article clearly states: 'two major projects on the Indravati River... at a cost of Rs 2,024 crore.' The other options are numerical distractors.

Explanation

The article's core theme is transforming Bastar from a 'Maoist corridor' by using tourism and infrastructure development as tools for holistic growth and service delivery. This aligns with counter-insurgency objectives of establishing governance. The other options are not supported by the article's content.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the Bombay School was 'shaped by the commercial dynamism of the emerging Parsi and Gujarati capitalists operating in the space created by the empire in western India and the Arabian Sea.'

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article's description of the Bombay School. Statement 2 is correct as per the description of the Ludhiana School. Statement 3 is incorrect; the article describes the First Anglo-Afghan War as a 'catastrophic retreat' that 'vindicated the Bombay School's scepticism about continental adventures', not a victory for the Ludhiana School.

Explanation

The article states: 'Today, nearly 9 million Indian workers, nearly $50 billion in annual remittances, and critical energy and logistics dependencies tie India inextricably to the Gulf.' The other options are distractors not mentioned.

Explanation

The article concludes that 'the Arab Gulf's positive political evolution offers India a counterweight to the destabilising impulses emanating from Pakistan and Iran.' It does not suggest abandoning the land frontier (Option A), reducing Central Asian engagement (Option C), or moving towards isolationism (Option D).

Explanation

The article explicitly states that Iran's Supreme National Security Council said in a statement that the adoption of a UNSC resolution would render the agreements binding. This council is Iran's top security decision-making body.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the plan requires 'acceptance of enrichment'. Statement 2 is incorrect; the plan demands lifting of 'all primary and secondary sanctions'. Statement 3 is correct as the Supreme National Security Council stated a UNSC resolution would render agreements binding under international law.

Explanation

The article states the Strait of Hormuz is 'a conduit for around a fifth of the world's oil'. One-fifth translates to approximately 20%. This is a key data point for understanding the strategic importance of the strait.

Explanation

The article directly quotes the Supreme National Security Council stating that 'the adoption of such a resolution shall render all these agreements binding under international law'. This is the stated objective, aiming to secure a durable and legally enforceable agreement.

Explanation

The article mentions Brett Leatherman as the assistant director of the FBI's Cyber Division, which is part of the U.S. Justice Department. The action was carried out by the Justice Department.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect because the article states the targets were 'worldwide', including global military and government sectors. Statement 3 is incorrect as the article explicitly mentions the action was 'court-authorised'.

Explanation

The article states the Justice Department said on Tuesday (April 7, 2026) it carried out the disruption. The publication date is April 8, 2026, but the announcement was made on the previous day.

Explanation

The article quotes Brett Leatherman of the FBI's Cyber Division saying, 'Given the scale of this threat, sounding the alarm wasn't enough.' This indicates the proactive action was necessitated by the magnitude of the espionage threat.