8 July 2026, Questions & Answers

Explanation

The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas oversees India's crude oil imports, domestic production, refining capacity, and strategic petroleum reserves. The article discusses crude import dependence and the need to build strategic reserves, which falls under this ministry's purview.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: NSO provisional estimates put GDP growth at 7.7% for 2025-26. Statement 2 is correct: RBI projected 6.6% real GDP growth for 2026-27. Statement 3 is incorrect: The article states the current account deficit was 0.6% of GDP in 2025-26, not 1.5%. The 1.5% figure is the projected CAD for 2026-27 after normalisation of oil prices.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: 'The monthly average price of the Indian crude oil basket was $114.5 per bbl in April 2026.' It declined to $106.2 in May and further to $86.3 as of June 24, 2026. Option A ($86.3) is the June 24 figure, option B ($106.2) is May's average, and option D is not mentioned.

Explanation

The article explicitly recommends that India should 'shore up its fertilizer reserves and reserves for other critical primary commodities including crude' and 'further diversify sources of imported crude and also reduce reliance on imports through the Strait of Hormuz.' This is a practical policy response to reduce vulnerability to geopolitical disruptions.

Explanation

The article states that the Union Food and Public Distribution (F&PD) Department published the draft amendment. This department falls under the Ministry of Food and Public Distribution, which oversees the implementation of NFSA and PDS.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the draft amendment details. Statement 2 is incorrect because the article explicitly says the amendment does not address the issue of ineligible beneficiaries. Statement 3 is incorrect because the opposition is due to smaller families in these states, not larger ones. Hence only statement 1 is correct.

Explanation

The article mentions that the number of AAY cardholders below the family size of five members is 15.75 lakh out of a total of 18.64 lakh. 58.51 lakh is the number of beneficiaries covered by those cardholders, and 69.27 lakh is the total beneficiaries.

Explanation

Both Tamil Nadu and Kerala have argued that the per-capita entitlement will disadvantage states with smaller households, as their allocation will drop. The article quotes Kerala's Food Minister stating that families with fewer than five members will be affected, and TN's CM provided data on the sharp reduction in monthly tonnage.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the Indian Mujahideen was designated a terrorist organisation under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). The other options are other anti-terror laws but not mentioned in this context.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the HC upheld death sentences for 38. Statement 2 is incorrect: the trial began in 2009, not 2012. Statement 3 is correct: compensation of ₹10 lakh for death was ordered. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article states that 56 people were killed in the 21 coordinated bomb blasts. 21 is the number of blasts, 38 is the number of death sentences, and 49 is the total number of convicts. Hence 56 is the correct answer.

Explanation

The article highlights that the special court's 2022 verdict awarding death to 38 was the first in Indian judicial history, and the HC upheld it, making it one of the largest. Option A is false (no link to 26/11), C is false (49 convicted, 28 acquitted), D is false (compensation for all injury types).

Explanation

Article 136 of the Constitution grants the Supreme Court the discretionary power to grant special leave to appeal against any judgment or order of any court or tribunal in India. In this case, the Tamil Nadu government used this provision to challenge the Madras High Court order.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: The Madras High Court declared the 2024 GO unconstitutional. Statement 2 is correct: The court noted that Islam preaches social equality, so converts cannot claim backward status. Statement 3 is correct: The state government has appealed to the Supreme Court via SLP. Hence all three are correct.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions that the government order was notified in 2024. The High Court struck down this order, and the state government appealed in 2026.

Explanation

The High Court ruled that conversion to Islam, which preaches social equality, cannot be used to claim backward status. The core issue is whether reservation benefits survive religious conversion, testing the intersection of secularism, religious freedom, and affirmative action.

Explanation

The article states that the India-Japan Joint Economic Forum hosted over 150 leading Japanese corporations looking to invest in India. The other options are not mentioned in this context.

Explanation

All statements are directly supported by the article: the summit dates (July 1-3, 2026), the investment amount ($12.5B), and the defence co-production projects (Mogami-class frigates and radio antenna masts).

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions 'a massive $12.5 billion in fresh Japanese investment' during PM Takaichi's visit. The other options are plausible distractors.

Explanation

The article highlights that Japan faces a shrinking labour force while India has many young workers facing unemployment. The solution is structured, multidisciplinary talent acquisition with cultural orientation and institutional support, not short-term migration.

Explanation

Mohammad-Bagher Ghalibaf, Iran's Parliament Speaker and top negotiator, accused the U.S. of violating the MoU. This is directly from the article.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the MoU was signed on June 17, 2026. Statement 2 is incorrect because the ceasefire covers only Lebanon (Article 1), not Gaza. Statement 3 is correct as Iran promised never to make a nuclear bomb. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the MoU was signed by the U.S. and Iran on June 17, 2026. The other dates: July 8 is the publication date, February 28 is the date of the Supreme Leader's assassination, and June 26 is when the trilateral framework was announced.

Explanation

Article 5 of the MoU states that Iran will 'make arrangements' for the 'safe passage of commercial vessels' through the Strait of Hormuz. The other options relate to Article 1 (Lebanon ceasefire) or broader MoU goals.

Explanation

The article states that price data came from the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, while overall import data came from the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. The specific price data per barrel is from the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: total oil imports in May 2026 were 218.2 tonnes, 12% higher than April. Statement 2 is incorrect: the price was $106 per barrel in May 2026, not $64 (which was the May 2025 price). Statement 3 is correct: India imported $430.5 million worth of oil from Iran in April 2026.

Explanation

The article calculates the premium as $46 per tonne: Russian oil cost $916 per tonne versus the average import price of $870 per tonne. Options $64 (May 2025 barrel price) and $106 (May 2026 barrel price) are distractors. $916 is the actual price of Russian oil per tonne.

Explanation

The article quotes Prerna Prabhakar of CSEP stating that the premium is likely due to the dependence of India and China on Russian oil, exacerbated by supply disruptions from the West Asia war that began in end-February 2026. Other options are not mentioned in the article.

Explanation

The article states the FTA must be formally approved by the Council of the European Union and the European Parliament before it enters into force. The European Commission negotiates trade deals but does not have final approval authority.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: negotiations continued for 'almost two decades' (from 2006 to 2026). Statement 2 is incorrect: India will remove tariffs on 97% of EU exports, not 99% (99% refers to EU removing duties on Indian exports). Statement 3 is correct: €500 million over two years for India's greenhouse gas reduction and industrial transformation.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: 'In goods and services together, two-way trade is over 180 billion dollars.' The other options are plausible distractors but not the exact figure mentioned.

Explanation

The Ambassador emphasized that the FTA represents a choice of 'openness over protectionism, cooperation over fragmentation, and rule-based trade over the unpredictability of one-sided trade arrangements.' It aims to build resilient and trusted supply chains, not just reduce tariffs on agriculture or replace the WTO.

Explanation

The judgment was delivered by the Allahabad High Court, specifically by a Division Bench of Justices Siddharth and Vivek Saran, as mentioned in the article.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the court called preventive detention a 'draconian' provision. Statement 2 is incorrect: the court explicitly held that preventive detention cannot be used as a substitute for punitive action or to get around bail orders. Statement 3 is correct: the court noted non-application of mind as no reasoned orders were passed by the district magistrate, state, or advisory board.

Explanation

The article states that the order was passed on July 7, 2026. August 20, 2025 is the date when the detention order was informed to the man.

Explanation

The court held that preventive detention is a 'drastic measure' and cannot be used as a tool to defeat bail. It emphasized the duty of courts to minutely scrutinize such orders to protect personal liberty.

Explanation

The Strait of Hormuz, between Iran and Oman, is the chokepoint through which about 20% of global oil and LNG transits. The Strait of Malacca is for East Asia, Suez Canal connects Mediterranean to Red Sea, and Bab-el-Mandeb is near Yemen. The article specifically discusses Hormuz tensions.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: article says 'Around 40% of India's crude oil imports... came from West Asia through the strait.' Statement 2 is correct: 'The US has also revoked its sanctions waiver for Iranian oil, which would effectively make Tehran's crude unpalatable for most of the world, except for perhaps China.' Statement 3 is incorrect: article says 'every $1-per-barrel increase bumps up the country's oil import bill by up to $2 billion', not $1 billion.

Explanation

The article states: 'Brent futures were over $78 per barrel, up nearly 6%.' The other options are distractors; 4% is too low, 8% and 10% are higher than the actual rise.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that every $1/barrel rise adds $2 billion to the import bill and every 10% oil price increase widens the current account deficit by 0.4% of GDP. It also mentions that India had to import at extremely high rates, prioritizing supply security over price. Options A, C, and D are not supported by the article.

Explanation

EPFO is a statutory body under the Ministry of Labour and Employment, as explicitly mentioned in the article when referring to Labour and Employment Minister Mansukh Mandaviya. The ministry oversees all EPFO operations including the new portal launch.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: CITES has enabled a single centralised database. Statement 2 is incorrect: interest credit now happens by July 15, not October-November (which was the old timeline). Statement 3 is correct: withdrawal categories streamlined from 13 to 3 (essential needs, housing, special circumstances). Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the annual interest of Rs 1.44 lakh crore will be auto-processed and credited to 34 crore EPF accounts by July 15. The other options are close distractors with different magnitudes (crore vs lakh crore).

Explanation

The article repeatedly highlights that the portal enables automated pre-validation of claims, upfront identification of deficiencies, and SMS/portal communication, which reduces claim rejections and improves first-time acceptance. Interest rate increase is separate (recommended by CBT), not the portal's objective. Decentralisation is opposite of centralisation.

Explanation

The US Central Command (CENTCOM) is responsible for US security interests in the Middle East and Central Asia, including Iran and the Strait of Hormuz. The article explicitly mentions CENTCOM as the command that ordered the strikes.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: Trump made the remarks at the NATO Summit in Ankara. Statement 2 is incorrect: Iran struck Bahrain, where the US 5th Fleet is headquartered, not Qatar. Statement 3 is correct: Trump said America would reimpose its naval blockade in the Strait of Hormuz. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article explicitly states the MoU was signed 'three weeks ago' before the latest round of fighting. The other options are close distractors not mentioned in the text.

Explanation

The Strait of Hormuz is a vital chokepoint through which a large share of the world's oil passes. Any military conflict there threatens global oil prices and energy security. The other options are not directly linked to this waterway's function.

Explanation

The article states that under ECTA, all Indian exports to Australia now have duty-free access. CEPA is a different agreement with UAE, and FTA/PTA are generic terms not specific to this context.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the article mentions the shared ambition to raise bilateral trade to $100 bn by 2030. Statement 2 is incorrect: the article says 'arrangements for future Australian uranium exports to India might be finalised shortly', not that exports have already commenced. Statement 3 is correct: the India-Australia Renewable Energy Partnership is implemented through a Solar Taskforce and a Green Hydrogen Task Force.

Explanation

The article explicitly states 'the shared ambition to raise bilateral trade from $33 billion in 2025 towards $100 bn by 2030'. The other options are distractors not mentioned in the article.

Explanation

The article states that under ECTA, all Indian exports to Australia have duty-free access, and preferential access to 90% of Australia's trade value facilitates Australian exports. This is the core trade liberalisation objective of the agreement.

Explanation

The article states that under the 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' campaign, the Delhi government will plant 70 lakh saplings in collaboration with residents. This is a specific campaign launched by Union Home Minister Amit Shah.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: Amit Shah announced planting 1 crore saplings across 6,300 hectares of the Ridge over four years. Statement 2 is incorrect: only 5,000 hectares were notified as reserved forests, not the entire 6,300 hectares. Statement 3 is correct: the plan includes replacing invasive babul with native species like peepal, banyan, neem, and jamun. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article mentions that over the past year, the Delhi government had provided protection to 5,000 hectares in the Ridge by notifying its areas as reserved forests. The other options are distractors: 6,300 hectares is the total area for rejuvenation, not all reserved.

Explanation

The article states that the plan aims to revive the Ridge's biodiversity, soil, water, and environment. Replacing invasive babul with native species like peepal and banyan helps restore the natural ecosystem, which is the core ecological objective. Other options are secondary or not mentioned.

Explanation

The article states that AICTE is India's apex statutory regulator for technical education under the AICTE Act, 1987. This is a static fact about the establishment of AICTE.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the article mentions AICTE placed 58 engineering colleges under progressive closure in 2025-26. Statement 2 is incorrect: the article explicitly says AICTE approval is 'not a one-time licence but a continuous regulatory process'. Statement 3 is correct: NBA introduced outcome-based accreditation aligned with the Washington Accord. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article specifically states that 'AICTE's decision during 2025-26 to place 58 engineering colleges under progressive closure'. Option D (950) is the number of courses discontinued, not colleges. Options B and C are close distractors not mentioned in the article.

Explanation

The article states that progressive closure is 'typically invoked for persistently low admissions, failure to recruit and retain qualified faculty, or continued non-compliance with prescribed academic, infrastructure, and operational norms'. Option A is incorrect because NBA accreditation was not a requirement for intake expansion after COVID-19. Options C and D are not mentioned as primary reasons.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions a study titled 'Unconditional Women Cash Transfer Programmes in India' from the EAC-PM Working Paper Series. NITI Aayog, RBI, and the Ministry of Women and Child Development are different bodies.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct — the PRS report mentions ₹1.68 lakh crore spending. Statement 2 is incorrect because MGNREGA allocation (₹86,000 crore) is lower than cash transfer spending (₹1.68 lakh crore). Statement 3 is correct — consolidated state debt fell from 31% to 29.2% as per budget estimates. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article states Punjab has a debt burden of 46.4% of GSDP. West Bengal is 38.9%, Bihar is 36.8%, and the consolidated state debt average is 29.2%. The other options are close distractors from the same data set.

Explanation

The article directly quotes the RBI saying these schemes 'run the risk of crowding out' investments and that high debt levels and contingent liabilities pose risks to state finances. While other concerns may exist, the RBI's specific warning was about fiscal sustainability and capital expenditure crowding out.

Explanation

The article mentions that the RBI noted in its Financial Stability Report the rapid growth in gold loans. The RBI is the central bank and regulator of the financial system, responsible for publishing the FSR biannually.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: banks' gold loans grew 105% YoY as of May 2026. Statement 2 is correct: non-banks' gold loan share increased from 3% (May 2024) to 6% (May 2026). Statement 3 is incorrect: the RBI warned that a prolonged correction could weaken collateral protection, not strengthen it.

Explanation

The article states: 'loans given by non-banks against gold jewellery were up a massive 70% year-on-year as at the end of May.' The 105% figure is for banks, 18% is overall bank credit growth, and 14% is non-banks' total loan growth.

Explanation

The RBI's Financial Stability Report stated: 'A prolonged correction in gold prices could weaken collateral protection, increase borrower stress, and result in higher delinquencies.' This is the core risk associated with gold loan growth when prices are volatile.

Explanation

The article states that the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) Director-General Anurag Garg led the Indian delegation. NCB is India's central agency for combating drug trafficking under the Ministry of Home Affairs.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the declaration was adopted on July 7, 2026, in Guwahati under India's chairmanship. Statement 2 is incorrect as the declaration focuses on anti-drug trafficking cooperation, not economic or trade issues. Statement 3 is correct as India specifically proposed a BRICS Virtual Working Group during the meeting.

Explanation

The article states that the Guwahati Declaration was adopted at the conclusion of the two-day BRICS Heads of Anti-Drug Agencies meeting on July 7, 2026. June 26 is the date India released its Vision Document on Drug Control, not the declaration date.

Explanation

The declaration reaffirms BRICS commitment to coordinated efforts against illicit drug trafficking, focusing on synthetic drugs, New Psychoactive Substances, and misuse of digital and maritime routes by transnational syndicates. The other options are common distractors not supported by the article.

Explanation

The Pentagon reversed the 2018 renaming of U.S. Pacific Command to U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, changing it back to Pacific Command on June 16, 2026, under the current U.S. administration.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the Quad's origins trace to the QSD in 2004. Statement 2 is incorrect: the Quad does not hold 2+2 meetings; only bilateral 2+2s exist between member countries. Statement 3 is correct: the article states the U.S. National Security Strategy 2025 prioritises the Western Hemisphere and mentions the Quad only in passing. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: 'On June 16, the Pentagon renamed the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command back to the U.S. Pacific Command.' The other dates (July 8, 2026) is the publication date, and (May 26, 2026) is the date of the Quad joint press conference in New Delhi.

Explanation

The article states: 'health and climate have been the primary beneficiaries' of Quad's funding, while 'security issues make up close to two-thirds of Quad's initiatives.' The $20 billion Critical Minerals Initiative is a stated target with no funds allocated, highlighting the mismatch.

Explanation

As per the article, IRDAI designates LIC as a Domestic Systemically Important Insurer every year. This is an insurance-sector regulatory function, not under RBI, SEBI, or the Finance Ministry.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: life insurers hold close to a quarter (25%) of central government dated securities. Statement 2 is correct: LIC holds about 19% of all outstanding central government dated securities. Statement 3 is incorrect: insurance penetration declined to 2.7% of GDP in FY25, below the global average of 3.0%.

Explanation

The article states that LIC's IRDAI regulatory filings for March 2025 show ₹20.2 lakh crore in central government securities alone, and ₹32.3 lakh crore in total government and government-guaranteed securities across all funds. Options A is the total figure including guaranteed securities, not just central government.

Explanation

The article argues that life insurers are a key source of patient, counter-cyclical capital for government securities. Declining penetration reduces the flow of household savings into sovereign debt, potentially forcing the government to rely on less stable sources like foreign investors, which could increase borrowing costs and rollover risk.

Explanation

The article explicitly discusses the NEP 2020's revised undergraduate framework. The RTE Act pertains to school education, UGC Act regulates universities, and NCF is a curriculum framework, not the policy that introduced the new framework.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the article says 'not more than 50% of the whole course as the main discipline'. Statement 2 is incorrect: AEC, SEC, and VAC are mandatory, not optional. Statement 3 is correct: the article states the expanded curriculum combines core with mandatory and elective components, requiring a broader range of academic requirements each semester.

Explanation

Prof. Narain said 'Two-thirds at least should be the main discipline'. Two-thirds is approximately 66.67%. The other options are distractors: 50% is the current proportion, 80% was the earlier proportion.

Explanation

The article quotes Insha Mirza saying that with many papers, continuous assignments, AEC, SEC, and VAC classes each with separate assignments, viva, and projects, most time goes into meeting deadlines, leaving little time for deep research. The other options are not mentioned as the primary reason.

Explanation

Education is a subject on the Concurrent List (List III) of the Seventh Schedule of the Indian Constitution. This allows both the Centre and states to make laws, but also means the Centre cannot unilaterally force state boards to adopt uniform grading or syllabus changes, as mentioned in the article about 'voluntary alignment'.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: The article says 'the Ministry of Education has fast-tracked a set of reforms under the Prime Minister’s Office' and the recommendation is from a 'high-level nine-member committee'. Statement 2 is incorrect: The article explicitly states that the 'calendar problem' has not been fully addressed in the committee’s recommendations. Statement 3 is correct: The article mentions easing pressure of one-shot testing and addressing dummy schools.

Explanation

The article states: 'give Class 12 board examination marks a weightage of up to 50% — suitably normalised — in the merit lists for competitive medical and engineering admissions.' The other percentages are distractors.

Explanation

The article warns: 'the entire admission cycle for medicine and engineering across the country becomes hostage to the slowest board in the system.' This creates a risk of delayed counselling and compressed academic calendars, which is the core calendar problem discussed.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that CENTCOM announced the strikes. CENTCOM is responsible for U.S. military operations in the Middle East. The other commands cover different geographic regions.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: CENTCOM said it hit more than 80 targets and over 60 IRGC boats. Statement 2 is correct: the article mentions Khamenei's funeral and that he was killed in a joint US-Israel strike. Statement 3 is correct: Qatar's spokesperson condemned the attack and held Iran legally responsible.

Explanation

The article states that US forces struck 'more than 60 Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) small boats'. Option C (60) is the closest exact number mentioned. Options 40, 50, and 70 are incorrect as they do not match the reported figure.

Explanation

CENTCOM's statement explicitly said the strikes were 'to impose heavy costs for targeting and attacking commercial shipping crewed by innocent civilians in an international waterway'. Options A and C are not mentioned; option D is incorrect because the strikes were a response to violations of the interim deal, not to enforce it.

Explanation

The UDISE+ report is released by the Ministry of Education, as mentioned in the article. It is the official database for school education data in India. Other ministries do not handle school education data collection.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: government school enrolment fell from 12.75 crore to 11.89 crore, a decline of 86 lakh. Statement 2 is incorrect because the article says teachers crossed 1.03 crore (1,02,73,020), not 1.02 crore. Statement 3 is correct: secondary dropout rate declined from 8.2% to 7%. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The report states that total enrolment stood at 24.72 crore in 2025-26, down from 24.80 crore in 2023-24. The other options are distractors: 24.80 crore is the previous year's figure, 23.89 crore is close to government school enrolment, and 25.72 crore is not mentioned.

Explanation

The article notes a 'continued shift in school preferences' with government schools losing 86 lakh students and private schools gaining 88 lakh, even as dropout rates decline and retention improves. This indicates that parents are choosing private schools even when government schools are retaining students better. Options A and D are not supported; option C is not mentioned.

Explanation

This Act, commonly called the PEMSR Act, was enacted to prohibit manual scavenging, ban insanitary latrines, and rehabilitate persons engaged in this practice. It is enforced by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment. The Bombay HC in this news relied on this Act for rehabilitation directions.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the judgment: ₹30 lakh per family. Statement 2 is false – the court directed the STATE government to pay, not the private owner. Statement 3 is correct: the HC ordered rehabilitation under the PEMSR Act. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The court ordered ₹30 lakh each for two families, totalling ₹60 lakh. Distractors: ₹30 lakh is per family, not total; ₹10 lakh was the earlier Supreme Court guideline amount in Safai Karmachari Andolan (2014), but this HC enhanced it.

Explanation

The PEMSR Act focuses on prohibition AND rehabilitation – including training, loans, and skill development to help former scavengers shift to dignified occupations. The Bombay HC judgment specifically directed rehabilitation under this Act, emphasising the need to lift affected families out of financial hardship.

Explanation

CDSCO is the national regulatory authority for drugs and cosmetics. The Drug Consultative Committee is an expert committee under the apex drug regulator, which is CDSCO (or DCGI as its head). The Ministry of Health is the parent ministry, not the regulator itself. DCGI is the head of CDSCO, but the organisation is CDSCO.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the committee recommended that states put up all orders (suspension, cancellation, stop production, recall) online. Statement 2 is incorrect: the deadline is 'before the 10th of every month', not 15th. Statement 3 is correct: a sub-committee was recommended to study the necessity and feasibility of registering packaging material suppliers.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the committee recommended sharing details 'before the 10th of every month'. The 5th, 15th, and end of month are distractors.

Explanation

The article highlights that details of regulatory actions are not uploaded by states, leading to a 'regulatory disconnect' where manufacturers with cancelled licences submit photocopies. The recommendation aims to make the information public and share it with CDSCO to prevent such exploitation. Option A is not the primary objective; option C is not mentioned; option D is incorrect because CDSCO cannot act independently—state regulators are responsible for enforcement.

Explanation

The article states that the Bureau of Energy Efficiency under the Ministry of Power oversees the Indian Carbon Market platform. Other ministries may be involved in related policies, but specifically for CCTS oversight, the Ministry of Power is correct.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect because CASA deposits are low-cost (3-4% interest). Statement 2 is correct as per the article: term deposits and CDs carry 7-8% interest. Statement 3 is correct: the article mentions the ratio rose from 75% in mid-2025 to 82.5% as of June 15. Hence option D is correct.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the app can connect wirelessly over Bluetooth Low Energy within an operating range of around 15 metres. The other options are distractors not mentioned in the article.

Explanation

The article states: 'The ultimate objective is to push industries towards a low-carbon growth trajectory through reduction, removal or avoidance of GHG emissions.' Option A is incorrect as no absolute reduction target is given; Option C is a secondary effect; Option D is not mentioned.

Explanation

The article states that the Allahabad High Court, through Justice Brij Raj Singh, delivered this ruling on July 7, 2026.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect because Section 2(s) includes persons who have lived together at any point, not just currently. Statement 2 is correct as per the article. Statement 3 is incorrect; the court held that a divorce decree does not erase past domestic violence liability.

Explanation

The article specifically mentions that the couple married on April 18, 2017, in Lucknow. The other options are close distractors.

Explanation

The court explicitly held that a divorce decree does not absolve liability for past cruelty, and the wife remains eligible for protection under the DV Act. Options A, C, and D contradict the judgment.

Explanation

Article 28(1) explicitly states that no religious instruction shall be provided in any educational institution wholly maintained out of State funds. Article 25 deals with freedom of religion, Article 30 with rights of minorities to establish educational institutions, and Article 21 with protection of life and personal liberty.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect: the court dismissed the petition and found no violation of Article 28(1). Statement 2 is correct: the court explicitly distinguished moral instruction from religious instruction. Statement 3 is correct: the state counsel cited NEP 2020's mandate to integrate Indian Knowledge Systems. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article states that the government order was dated 12.6.2026. The petition was filed on the same date (June 12, 2026). The other options are close distractors but incorrect.

Explanation

The court noted that the order uses 'compulsory' and 'ensure' only in the context of school administration and discipline, with no negative consequences for students who choose not to recite. This distinguishes it from coercive religious instruction. Option A is not the primary reasoning; the court did not declare the mantra non-religious. Option C is false. Option D is irrelevant.

Explanation

The article clearly states that the Madras High Court, presided by Justice B Pugalendhi, passed the order on July 3, 2026. This is a static fact about the judicial body involved.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect because the court explicitly said neither the Act nor Rules prohibit deployment of a woman teacher. Statement 2 is correct: the petitioner placed on record such an undertaking. Statement 3 is correct: the court criticized authorities for not independently deciding the issue and directed reconsideration. Hence option D.

Explanation

The order was dated July 3, 2026, as per the article. May 28, 2025 is the transfer date, November 6, 2025 is the date of a previous court direction, and July 8, 2026 is the publication date of the news article.

Explanation

The court's core reasoning was that there was no statutory prohibition. The teacher's qualifications were not the basis, and the school lacked infrastructure, not adequacy. The court rejected the school's objection as legally unfounded.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the FBI's Los Angeles Field Office led the US investigation. The DEA and HSI assisted, but the lead agency was the FBI.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect: the Bhagwanpuria enterprise is led by Jaggu Bhagwanpuria, not Lawrence Bishnoi. Statement 3 is correct: the operation arrested 24 defendants from the Bishnoi, Bhagwanpuria, and Dhanda groups.

Explanation

The article clearly states that the FBI charged Nagra with helping gangsters extort $400,000 from a family in Los Angeles by threatening to file false murder charges.

Explanation

The article directly links a police officer's corruption to the success of a transnational extortion scheme. This points to systemic weaknesses in police accountability and the need for reforms to prevent law enforcement from being used as a tool for organized crime.

Explanation

The article states that Goldy Brar was added to the Fourth Schedule of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, which is India's primary anti-terror law. TADA and POTA are no longer in force, and NSA is for preventive detention.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct – Goldy Brar allegedly masterminded the murder of Sidhu Moosewala. Statement 2 is incorrect – he is an Indian citizen who went to Canada on a student visa. Statement 3 is correct – the FBI charged him with RICO conspiracy (Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations).

Explanation

The article clearly states that the FBI announced a reward of up to $50,000. The other amounts are distractors not mentioned in the news.

Explanation

The article describes Operation Hard Ball as a 'multinational crackdown on organised crime'. The focus is on dismantling criminal enterprises like the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, not solely drug trafficking or border security.

Explanation

FSSAI is the statutory body under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare that regulates food safety and standards in India. It issued notices to manufacturers objecting to the use of 'energy drink' label and therapeutic claims.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article: 75mg caffeine and 27g sugar per 250ml can. Statement 2 is incorrect because caffeine does not eliminate the need for sleep; it only temporarily wards off drowsiness. Statement 3 is correct: energy drinks are stimulant beverages, not for hydration like sports drinks.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that a 250 ml can contains approximately 27 g of added sugar, equivalent to nearly seven teaspoons. The other options are distractors not mentioned in the article.

Explanation

FSSAI clarified that no notified standard exists for 'energy drink' under Indian food regulations, and foods cannot make therapeutic or functional claims unless specifically permitted. This is the regulatory basis for issuing notices.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) cut its 2026 growth projection. The IMF is the primary global institution for macroeconomic surveillance and policy coordination.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect: the IMF cut the forecast to 3.0%, not 3.1% (3.1% was the April forecast). Statement 2 is correct: the Strait of Hormuz was virtually blocked due to Iranian retaliation. Statement 3 is correct: the IMF projects 3.4% growth in 2027.

Explanation

The article states: 'Global inflation meanwhile, is anticipated to accelerate to 4.7% this year.' The other options are growth rates: 3.0% (2026 growth), 3.1% (April forecast), and 3.4% (2027 growth).

Explanation

The IMF downgraded growth in West Asia and Central Asia by 1.2 percentage points to 0.7%, attributing it to a longer closure of the Strait of Hormuz. Other regions had smaller or upward revisions (China's forecast was raised slightly to 4.6%).

Explanation

The mission aims to attain foundational literacy and numeracy by the end of Grade 3 by 2026-27, as explicitly stated in the article. The goal is that every child can read with understanding and do basic math by Grade 2, but the benchmark assessment is at Grade 3.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article mentions ₹2,700 crore annual funding. Statement 2 is correct – it reaches over five crore children and 17 lakh teachers. Statement 3 is incorrect because the target is by the end of Grade 3 (not Grade 2) by 2026-27; the article says 'by the end of Grade 3, by 2026-27' and 'by Grade 2' for basic skills but the ultimate benchmark is Grade 3.

Explanation

ASER 2024 reported that 23.4% of Class 3 students could read a Class 2-level text. This is an increase from 16.3% in 2022 and 20.9% in 2018. The 76.6% figure represents those who could not read at that level.

Explanation

The article clearly states that the mission aims to attain foundational literacy and numeracy by the end of Grade 3 by 2026-27. Options A and C are related to general education goals but not the specific mission objective. Option D is a component of the mission (teacher training allocation) but not the primary objective.

Explanation

NCERT is the autonomous body under the Ministry of Education that develops and publishes textbooks for school education. The revised textbook 'Exploring Society: India and Beyond' is published by NCERT.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article: economic background is now listed along with caste, religion, etc. Statement 2 is incorrect: the UGC regulations do NOT include economic background. Statement 3 is correct: the Supreme Court imposed a blanket ban on the earlier textbook for containing 'offending' content on corruption in the judiciary.

Explanation

The news article explicitly states that the revised textbook is called 'Exploring Society: India and Beyond'. The earlier textbook (before revision) had a different title. This fact is directly from the article.

Explanation

According to the article, the controversy erupted over a section titled 'Corruption in the judiciary' in the earlier textbook. The Supreme Court termed the content 'offending' and imposed a complete blanket ban on further publication and digital dissemination. The other options are not supported by the article.

Explanation

Tribal Research Institutes are established and supervised by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs. The ministry also handles policies and programs for Scheduled Tribes, including schemes like the Van Dhan Vikas Kendra and PM Janman. The other ministries deal with different portfolios (Culture for heritage, Social Justice for other backward classes, Rural Development for rural infrastructure).

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: The TRIs resolved to become Centres of Excellence and to formulate a national tribal research agenda for 2027-2032. Statement 2 is incorrect: The workshop was organized by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs (not Rural Development) and was held in Odisha, not New Delhi. Statement 3 is correct: The declaration includes a mandate for community-level need analysis to ensure research is grounded in local realities. Hence, both 1 and 3 are correct.

Explanation

The article states that the Ministry of Tribal Affairs recognized seven best-performing TRIs from Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Tripura, Maharashtra, Kerala, Telangana, and Jharkhand. Options like five or nine are common distractors. The number is explicitly mentioned as 'seven'.

Explanation

Tribal Affairs Secretary Ranjana Chopra explicitly stated that autonomy is needed to 'bridge the gap between research, policy, and the people they serve.' The other options may be secondary benefits but are not the stated primary objective. Autonomy would allow TRIs to be more responsive to grassroots needs and to work effectively with state departments, universities, and multilateral organizations.

Explanation

The IMF regularly releases the World Economic Outlook (WEO) report, including quarterly updates. The article explicitly states the IMF released a quarterly update to its WEO report with the growth forecasts.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: IMF lowered global growth forecast to 3% (cut of 10 bps). Statement 2 is incorrect: India's growth was cut by 10 bps, not 20 bps. Statement 3 is correct: IMF expects Iran's economy to contract by 5.4% in its 2026 fiscal year.

Explanation

The IMF raised its forecast for India's GDP growth in 2027-28 by 20 bps from April to 6.7%. Option A (6.4%) is the 2026-27 forecast, option C (7.0%) is the calendar year 2026 forecast, and option D (6.6%) is the RBI's forecast for 2026-27.

Explanation

The IMF explicitly stated, 'The most imminent risk to the baseline forecast stems from developments in the Middle East.' Renewed conflict would propagate through higher commodity prices, supply shortages, and exchange rate pressures. While other options are mentioned as risks, they are secondary or conditional.

Explanation

The CCPA was established under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, and issued the Guidelines for Prevention and Regulation of Dark Patterns in 2023. SEBI is involved only for listed companies as per the study's recommendation, but the core authority remains the CCPA.

Explanation

Statement 1 and 2 are directly from the article. Statement 3 is incorrect: the most common dark pattern was 'Drip Pricing' (65%), not 'Interface Interference' (52%). Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The study explicitly states that Drip Pricing was found on 214 platforms out of 214+ total? Actually it says 'Drip Pricing was found on 214 platforms (65 per cent)'. So 65% is correct. The other options are percentages of other dark patterns (52% Interface Interference, 36% Nagging, 21% Privacy Zuckering).

Explanation

The study recommends that SEBI require a 'dark pattern-free' self-declaration for listed and aspiring companies to protect consumer trust and corporate governance. Option C is part of the broader CCPA guidelines, not SEBI's primary objective. Option D is incorrect as SEBI would complement CCPA, not replace it.

Explanation

The Meghalaya High Court, presided by Justice B Bhattacharjee, quashed the POCSO proceedings after recording the survivor's voluntary consent and noting that the couple is married with a child.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the survivor was a minor at the time of the relationship. Statement 2 is incorrect: the court found the consent was voluntary and not under threat or coercion. Statement 3 is correct: the couple has a daughter and both families have accepted their marriage.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions that the survivor was 23 years old at the time of the court order. The options 20, 21, and 22 are close distractors.

Explanation

The court held that since the couple is married, living together happily, and has a child, sending the accused to jail would not serve the cause of justice and would cause great injustice to the wife and child.

Explanation

The article mentions the PGI was released by the Union Ministry of Education. Previously known as MHRD, it was renamed in 2020. Option B is correct.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: article says Delhi recorded 100% retention at foundational, preparatory, and middle stages. Statement 2 is correct: secondary stage GER increased from 91 to 91.7. Statement 3 is correct: the article explicitly states no district achieved the highest Utkarsh grade. Hence all three are correct.

Explanation

The article states: 'The GER at the preparatory stage (Classes III to V) increased from 51 to 52.2.' Thus the current value is 52.2. Option A (51) is the previous year’s value, C (102.8) is foundational GER, D (115) is middle stage GER.

Explanation

The article clearly states: 'the grading system is intended to help States and districts identify strengths and gaps instead of competing through numerical rankings.' Options A and C are not mentioned; D is not a purpose of PGI.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the Astra missiles are developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). The IAF is the user, HAL is a manufacturer of aircraft, and the Ministry of Defence oversees procurement but does not develop.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article (range 80-110 km, Mach 4.5). Statement 2 is incorrect: Astra Mk 1 uses a single-pulse motor, while Astra Mk 2 uses a dual-pulse motor. Statement 3 is correct: the article states that Astra Mk 3 is officially named Gandiva. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article states that the Astra Mk 3 (Gandiva) could have a range of over 350 km. The other options: 200 km is the range of Astra Mk 2, 110 km is the maximum of Mk 1, 160 km is an earlier target for Mk 2.

Explanation

The article mentions multiple significances: it is India's first export of Astra, it will be a counter to the PL-15, and it will help India build greater self-reliance by reducing dependence on imports like Meteor and R-77. All three options are correct, making D the right answer.

Explanation

The article explicitly states the report is from TransUnion CIBIL, a credit information company registered with the RBI. The other options are regulatory bodies but not the publisher of this specific report.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article: delinquency at 180 dpd rose to 8.1% from 5.8%. Statement 2 is incorrect: the share of consumers holding only a credit card declined from 50% to 33% (not increased). Statement 3 is correct: Gen Z opened new unsecured loans at a higher rate than millennials. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article clearly states: 'Delinquency level in 180 dpd category since 2022 has gone up from 5.8% to 8.1% in March 2026.' Option A (5.8%) is the 2022 figure, option D (8.7%) is the delinquency for a specific sub-group (4+ years card experience with 3+ personal loans), and option B is not mentioned.

Explanation

The article states: 'Consumers in this segment who missed two or more repayments across products were substantially more likely to become seriously delinquent on their credit cards than other customer groups.' The other options contradict the report's findings.

Explanation

The Indian Forest Act, 1927 provides the legal framework for declaring Reserved Forests. Under Section 4, a preliminary notification is issued, and under Section 20, final notification is made. The Wildlife Protection Act deals with Protected Areas (National Parks, Wildlife Sanctuaries), not Reserved Forests.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: The Delhi Ridge is the northern extension of the Aravalli Hill Ranges. Statement 2 is incorrect: The Southern Ridge is the largest zone at ~6,200 ha, not the smallest. Statement 3 is correct: The Ridge Management Board was constituted on 6 October 1995 as per Supreme Court directions in M.C. Mehta vs Union of India.

Explanation

The article states that the Centre and Delhi government have resolved to develop 6,300 hectares of the Green Ridge area into forest land over the next four years. 6,200 hectares is the area of the Southern Ridge alone, 864 ha is the Central Ridge area, and 7,000 ha is not mentioned.

Explanation

The article explains that the Ridge is a tropical dry thorn forest with xerophytic adaptations. Species like Jacaranda and Sausage tree are not characteristic of Ridge ecosystems and typically require higher moisture availability and sustained irrigation. Planting them goes against ecological restoration principles. While some are exotic, the primary concern is their unsuitability to the dry conditions, not just being non-native.

Explanation

According to the article, the West Bengal College Service Commission (WBCSC) had recommended the appointment of the petitioner to the post of assistant professor of English in 2023. The college refused to accept that recommendation, leading to the court case.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect because the court explicitly stated that the right to profess religion does not permit hurting the religious sentiments of others. Statement 2 is correct: the court observed that the decision was bona fide, free of arbitrariness, and in the best interest of the institution. Statement 3 is correct: the bench allowed the college’s appeal and set aside the single judge’s order directing appointment.

Explanation

The article states that the order was passed on July 1, 2026, as mentioned in the quote: 'stated the July 1 order'. The article was published on July 8, 2026, which is a different date.

Explanation

The court noted that the Facebook posts expressed strong views on religion, particularly against the Ramakrishna Mission and its monks, and had the propensity to hurt the sentiments of other religions. The college’s refusal was based on this plausible ground, and the court held that the decision was not malafide or arbitrary.

Explanation

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) is the nodal ministry responsible for managing India's foreign relations, including bilateral summits, strategic partnerships, and diplomatic engagements with other nations. The MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal provided updates on this visit.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as mentioned in the article. Statement 2 is incorrect - the focus is on cooperation in Indo-Pacific, critical minerals, and education, not specifically manufactured goods trade. Statement 3 is correct as Flinders University was the latest to receive approval.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that eight Australian universities have been approved to set up campuses across India, with Flinders University being the latest addition. This is a key data point under the New Education Policy partnership.

Explanation

The article highlights that the summit aims to bring new opportunities and prosperity for Small Island Developing States and strengthen QUAD ties. This aligns with the broader strategic goal of ensuring a free and open Indo-Pacific, implicitly countering China's assertive stance. Trade and investment are secondary benefits, not the primary strategic objective.

Explanation

The article features an interview with New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, who explicitly states that New Zealand, working with India, needs to remake the case for a rules-based system. This reflects a shared strategic perspective between the two nations.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: Modi's visit is the first in roughly 40 years. Statement 2 is incorrect: Luxon identified three pillars (economy, defence/security, people-to-people), not four, and education is part of people-to-people ties, not a separate pillar. Statement 3 is correct: Luxon said NZ has legal immigration, not illegal, which is why it avoids anti-immigrant sentiments.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions that Modi will be in New Zealand on July 10 and 11. This is a straightforward factual retrieval question testing attention to specific dates mentioned in the news.

Explanation

Luxon explicitly links the need to 'remake the case' with the fact that Global South countries like India and Brazil 'haven't really been part of that system' created post-WWII. While trade and immigration are related topics, the core objective mentioned is reforming multilateral institutions to be more inclusive and effective in a multipolar world.