8 June 2026, Questions & Answers

Explanation

As per the article, the data was released by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). The RBI is the central bank and the official compiler of India's Balance of Payments statistics, in line with its mandate to manage the external sector.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: The surplus narrowed to $7.1 billion from $13.7 billion a year ago. Statement 2 is incorrect: FII outflows increased to $12 billion from $5.9 billion. Statement 3 is correct: Net services receipts increased to $60.4 billion from $53.3 billion a year ago.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: "Gold import bill for the March 2026 quarter was $22.57 billion". $9.5 billion was the Q4 figure for the previous year, $58 billion was the full-year figure for the previous year, and $71.97 billion is the full-year figure for 2025-26.

Explanation

The article highlights the rising gold import bill and a higher merchandise trade deficit ($83.4 bn vs $59.3 bn) as key pressures. Remittances actually rose, ECBs saw net inflows (though lower), and FDI inflows were higher, not lower.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions that the 'India Meteorological Department has predicted that this year’s monsoon will only be 90% of the LPA.' IMD is the national meteorological service of India responsible for weather forecasting.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article: 'The provisional estimates of GDP growth for 2025-26 have been pegged at 7.7%, which is marginally higher than the 7.6% predicted by the government in February.' Statement 2 is correct: 'The sector’s growth slowed to 3% in 2025-26 from 4.2% in 2024-25, despite the 2025 monsoon having concluded at 108% of its long period average (LPA).' Statement 3 is incorrect: The article states 'The RBI predicted growth will dip to 6.6%', not increase to 7.2%.

Explanation

The article clearly states: 'The data also show the rising dominance of services in the economy, with their share rising to 54.3% of total gross value added (GVA) in 2025-26.' 51.9% was the share in 2022-23, 22.1% was agriculture's share in 2022-23, and 'below 20%' is agriculture's share in 2025-26.

Explanation

The article emphasizes that 'The manufacturing sector’s share has remained largely unchanged, another cause for concern. This suggests that India is not growing its value-added manufacturing sector fast enough.' This structural shift towards services without corresponding manufacturing growth is a key analytical point. The article does not primarily highlight concerns about FDI, inflation, or fiscal deficit.

Explanation

The NFHS is conducted by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) with the International Institute for Population Sciences (IIPS), Mumbai, serving as the nodal agency for survey coordination and implementation.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: Stunting declined from 35.5% to 29.3%. Statement 2 is incorrect: Dietary adequacy increased from 11% to 15.3%, and the article notes stunting declined despite this gap, not because of it. Statement 3 is incorrect: Exclusive breastfeeding declined nationally and sharply in states like UP, while Kerala improved.

Explanation

The article states that overall wasting fell only marginally, from 19.3 per cent to 19 per cent. Option A (5.2%) is the figure for severe wasting. Option C (29.3%) is for stunting, and Option D (31.8%) is for underweight children.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the decline 'suggests the problem is not institutional delivery but postnatal support after discharge.' This points to a gap in counseling and support for mothers in the critical period after birth to initiate and sustain breastfeeding.

Explanation

The National Statistics Office (NSO) under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation is responsible for compiling and releasing official macroeconomic data like GDP estimates, as mentioned in the article which cites NSO data for Q4 growth.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article states growth for the full year was 7.7%, 'the highest in the last three years'. Statement 2 is incorrect because nominal growth was 8.9%, which was 'significantly lower than the 10.1% assumed in the Union budget'. Statement 3 is correct as per the line 'the services sector grew at almost 10 per cent in the fourth quarter'.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: 'In the June Monetary Policy Committee meeting, the RBI has projected the economy to slow down to 6.6 per cent this year, down from its earlier assessment of 6.9 per cent.' 6.9% was the earlier projection, 7.7% and 7.8% are last year's growth rates.

Explanation

The article directly links the measures to 'ease the pressure on the rupee', stating: 'Last week, measures were announced to attract foreign capital and ease the pressure on the rupee.' This is in the context of stress on the balance of payments and the currency.

Explanation

Article 123 of the Indian Constitution grants the President the power to promulgate Ordinances when Parliament is not in session. This is the central constitutional provision relevant to the news about increasing Supreme Court strength via Ordinance.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article states the strength was lifted from 34 to 38. Statement 2 is incorrect because the increase was done via a Presidential Ordinance, not a Parliamentary bill. Statement 3 is correct as explicitly mentioned in the article.

Explanation

The article clearly states: "the President, by Ordinance, lifted the sanctioned strength from 34 to 38." Therefore, the strength before the Ordinance was 34 judges.

Explanation

The core issue highlighted is the use of executive Ordinance power (Article 123) for a significant change in the judiciary's composition, which traditionally requires a parliamentary law under Article 124. This bypasses legislative debate and raises concerns about executive influence over the judiciary, a key pillar of democracy.

Explanation

The article explicitly states the accused was convicted under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, and the High Court upheld this conviction.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the Court reaffirmed that sole testimony is sufficient if credible. Statement 2 is incorrect; the Court stated the testimony requires no corroboration if found reliable. Statement 3 is correct as the Bench relied on the Supreme Court precedent in Ganesan v. State.

Explanation

The article specifies that 'The Allahabad High Court on Wednesday (June 3, 2026) upheld the life imprisonment...'. June 08 is the publication date, making it a close distractor.

Explanation

The concept of a 'sterling witness' signifies a witness whose testimony is inherently trustworthy and credible. The court's finding that the victim was a sterling witness directly supports the legal principle that her sole testimony was sufficient for conviction, requiring no corroboration.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) as the authority that deployed the swap scheme in 2013 and is reviving it. The RBI is India's central bank and the primary regulator for foreign exchange management and banking.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article's context on the 2013 'Taper Tantrum'. Statement 2 is correct; the article states the 2013 subsidy was 3.5% and the current revival involves the RBI fully bearing the exchange rate risk. Statement 3 is incorrect; FCNR(B) deposits are for Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs), and Overseas Citizens of India (OCIs), not Resident Indians.

Explanation

The article clearly states: "The facility ended up being wildly successful, resulting in an inflow of $26 billion..." The $50 billion figure is the projected inflow for the current revival, and $100 billion is the total expected inflow from all measures over 12-24 months.

Explanation

The article quotes Raghuram Rajan's 2013 remark that a stronger rupee "would not only reduce the hedging cost for the RBI but also reduce India’s import bill." It further notes that savings would be greater now given India's $775 billion import bill (2025-26). The other options are not cited as primary benefits in this context.

Explanation

The NFHS is conducted by the International Institute for Population Sciences (IIPS) under the aegis of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW). It is the primary source for national data on health and family welfare indicators.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect: The article states the share dropped from 51.2% to 45.1%. Statement 2 is correct: Exclusive breastfeeding declined from 64.3% to 48.3%. Statement 3 is correct: The article explicitly mentions the WHO recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months.

Explanation

The article specifically states that only 11.2% of children aged 6-23 months were receiving a minimum adequate diet, down from 16% in the previous survey. The other options are distractors: 16% is the previous figure, 52.5% is for complementary feeding for 6-8 months, and 72.2% is for exclusive/predominant breastfeeding.

Explanation

Dr. Uma Vaidyanathan is quoted saying that returning to work early is a major factor, with mothers introducing formula to accommodate care-giving arrangements. The article also clarifies that biological failure of lactation is generally not the issue.

Explanation

Article 22 of the Constitution specifically provides protections against arrest and detention. Clauses (4) to (7) deal with the safeguards applicable to laws providing for preventive detention, such as the requirement to inform the detainee of the grounds and the provision for review by an advisory board.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the HC quashed the PSA detention order. Statement 2 is incorrect; the court explicitly ruled that preventive detention cannot be based on 'stale and remote' past incidents and requires a 'live and proximate link' to future threat. Statement 3 is correct as the judgment states that vague allegations violate the constitutional requirement for definite grounds to make a representation.

Explanation

The article states that the detention order under the PSA was passed in the year 2025. The court noted it was passed after a gap of approximately thirty-three years from the petitioner's release in 1992.

Explanation

The core ruling of the judgment is that preventive detention is not meant to punish past conduct but to prevent future activities. There must exist a 'live and proximate link' between the past conduct relied upon and the present necessity for detention. The court found this link missing due to the 33-year gap.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that following the introduction of the Hydrocarbon Exploration and Licensing Policy (HELP), the Government allocated four blocks for oil and gas exploration in the Andaman-Nicobar Basin. NELP was the older policy, while OALP is a component under HELP.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; the basin is part of the Bengal-Arakan sedimentary system shaped by the Indian and Burmese plates, not the Indo-Gangetic system. Statement 3 is correct as mentioned in the article.

Explanation

The article states that four blocks for oil and gas exploration in the Andaman-Nicobar Basin cover approximately 23,261 square kilometers (SKM). The other options are close distractors not mentioned in the text.

Explanation

The article's core theme is that the discoveries strengthen expectations for the basin's hydrocarbon potential, contributing to the country's long-term energy security and reducing import dependence. While other options might be indirect effects, the primary significance is related to energy resource development.

Explanation

The National Health Authority (NHA) is the apex body mandated to implement the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY). While the Ministry of Health is the parent ministry, the NHA is the specific attached office responsible for execution.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; the ₹976 crore was released for Ayushman Bharat implementation, not for the National Health Mission (for which ₹527 crore was released). Statement 3 is correct as the portability will benefit nearly 1 crore migrant workers.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the scheme will cover an estimated 1.43 crore households in the state. The figure of 1.24 crore refers specifically to the poorest households within that total.

Explanation

The article emphasizes that the inter-state portability built into Ayushman Bharat will immensely benefit migrant workers, allowing them to get treatment in other states. Their previous Swasthya Sathi card was not usable outside West Bengal.

Explanation

The Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad) comprises India, the United States, Japan, and Australia. South Korea, while a key US ally in the Indo-Pacific, is not a formal member of this grouping.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article states the Trump administration saw Pakistan as the intermediary with Iran. Statement 2 is incorrect; the article explicitly says the absolute GDP gap was growing, not reducing. Statement 3 is incorrect; the article says LEMOA 'might be triggered' but this was 'by no means a given', indicating no automatic guarantee.

Explanation

The article clearly states: 'For 30 years, India looked to the US for strategic balance...' and later refers to this period as the duration of the 'special relationship' that is now over.

Explanation

The article explains that under recent US administrations, the China challenge changed to focus on 'commerce, chips, computer software (AI), and critical minerals'. It concludes that 'India is not a crucial player in any of these four Cs', reducing its perceived strategic value in this new phase of competition.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions SEBI Chairman Tuhin Kanta Pandey as the speaker announcing the regulatory reforms. This is a direct factual recall from the news content.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; the article states SEBI intends to allow intraday borrowing as an efficient tool for liquidity mismatches, not make it mandatory. Statement 3 is incorrect; the collaboration is for derivatives on corporate bond indices, not equity indices.

Explanation

The article provides the exact data point: "Mutual fund assets have expanded from Rs 12 trillion to over Rs 80 trillion." The other options are close but incorrect distractors.

Explanation

The article explicitly states the objective is "to facilitate more stable and efficient market openings, thereby reducing volatility and improving trading outcomes for investors." The other options describe potential outcomes or unrelated changes not mentioned in the text.

Explanation

The Most Favored Nation (MFN) principle is a cornerstone rule of the World Trade Organization (WTO). It requires that any trade advantage granted by a member to another country must be extended to all other WTO members. The article discusses India's MFN tariffs in comparison to its FTA partners.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: The article states deficits with these partners grew by 268-381%, compared to 142% with the rest of the world. Statement 2 is incorrect: Indian export-side utilization is low (20-30%), while import-side utilization is high (60-70%). Statement 3 is incorrect: An inverted duty structure is when duties on raw materials are HIGHER than on finished products, which disadvantages downstream manufacturing, not protects it.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that 'only an estimated 20-30 per cent of India’s eligible exports take advantage of FTA preferences.' The 60-70% figure is the estimated import-side utilization rate, making it a key distractor.

Explanation

The article directly links inverted duty structures (high input costs, low finished goods duties) to the growing incentive for firms to manufacture in FTA partner countries like those in ASEAN and then export the finished products duty-free to India. This weakens the 'Make in India' initiative.

Explanation

The article mentions 'US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer'. The United States Trade Representative is the head of the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR), which is responsible for developing and coordinating US international trade policy.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; the probe targets India and 15 other countries, not just India and China. Statement 3 is correct as India has sought assurance against future probes. Hence, option C is correct.

Explanation

The article states: 'Washington has set 12.5% tariffs on 54 countries, including India, China and 10% of six countries, such as Pakistan and the EU.' Therefore, the tariff rate for this group of six countries is 10%.

Explanation

The article references a report by Global Trade Alert pointing out 'restrictive third-country provisions — informally referred to as "poison pills"' in US agreements like USMCA. These clauses could trigger consequences if a partner signs a deal with a 'non-market economy' or a country the US believes threatens its interests, which is a key sovereignty concern for India.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that Bloomberg Index Services Ltd (BISL) had deferred the inclusion and will provide another update by mid-2026. BISL is the index provider and administrator responsible for this decision.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect as the actual growth (7.7%) was higher than the advance estimate (7.6%). Statement 2 is correct as per the article. Statement 3 is incorrect because the RBI lowered, not increased, its forecast by 30 basis points to 6.6%.

Explanation

The article clearly states that while overall GST collections rose only 3% year-on-year in May, the revenue from imports surged 19.1%. This indicates strong import demand for intermediate goods and machinery.

Explanation

The source states that the previous tax treatment reduced the effective post-tax yield for FIIs compared to peer markets. Removing the tax addresses this 'structural disadvantage' to make Indian bonds more competitive, thereby pushing for inclusion in the Bloomberg index.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the Uttar Pradesh government has initiated discussions with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) for launching a satellite dedicated to monitoring weather parameters specific to the state.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is correct; the five cities listed are mentioned for radar installation. Statement 3 is correct; the article states that timely MMS alerts are received through the SACHET platform for lightning warnings.

Explanation

The article states that earlier, 100 to 150 people used to lose their lives due to lightning annually in high-risk districts. After implementing the Early Warning System, annual deaths have reduced to just around a dozen.

Explanation

The article's core theme is improving disaster management. The Chief Minister emphasized the need for accurate and timely forecasts to manage weather-related disasters. The proposed satellite is intended for monitoring weather-related parameters specific to Uttar Pradesh to strengthen early warning systems.

Explanation

The article mentions the 65th anniversary of the mutual defense treaty between the two countries. This treaty, signed in 1961, is formally called the 'Treaty of Friendship, Cooperation and Mutual Assistance between the People's Republic of China and the Democratic People's Republic of Korea'.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: The article states it was his first visit in seven years. Statement 2 is incorrect: Experts predict Xi could refrain from pressing Kim on denuclearization. Statement 3 is correct: The article mentions this year marks 65 years since the treaty was signed.

Explanation

The article states, 'This year marks 65 years since the two countries signed a mutual defense treaty.' The visit is in 2026. Subtracting 65 years gives 1961 as the signing year.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that restoring exclusive influence over North Korea would give Xi Jinping leverage in dealings with US President Trump, who has expressed desire to restart diplomacy with Kim. This is a central theme of the geopolitical analysis provided.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions the 'National Critical Mineral Mission' as India's mechanism for securing rare earths and critical minerals, envisaging stockpiling to reduce vulnerabilities in the EV supply chain.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article states the government is proposing to stop registration of new (fossil-fuel) vehicles after 2028. Statement 2 is incorrect; the article argues EVs REDUCE global vulnerabilities as batteries are not consumables. Statement 3 is incorrect; CSEP analysis shows lifetime costs are SIGNIFICANTLY LOWER, not higher.

Explanation

The article clearly states the proposal is to institute a policy for a move towards electric vehicles by 2028. The other options are plausible distractors based on other climate or policy targets often seen in the news.

Explanation

The article specifically mentions that for stranded assets as production lines shift, firms 'could be asking the government for accelerated depreciation.' This is a fiscal tool to allow faster write-off of asset values, reducing tax liability and easing the financial burden of transition.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the proposal was put forward by U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and presented to President Trump. This is a specific factual detail from the source.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article: 'In April, the UK government paused its agreement to transfer sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius.' Statement 2 is correct: 'The Diego Garcia base... is about 2,360 miles (3,800km) from Iran.' Statement 3 is incorrect: The article says the proposal 'is not believed to be the preferred option at this stage.'

Explanation

The article provides the distance in two units: 'about 2,360 miles (3,800km)'. Option B states the exact figure in miles as mentioned. The other options are incorrect distractors.

Explanation

The U.S. official told Reuters that 'Diego Garcia’s strategic location in the Indian Ocean makes it a vital and indispensable military installation of significant importance to the national security of the United States.' This directly states the strategic security rationale. The other options are not supported by the article's content.

Explanation

The judgment was delivered by Justice Mridul Kumar Kalita of the Gauhati High Court on June 5, 2026, as mentioned in the article. The Bombay and Kerala High Courts were cited as precedents, but the ruling was from Gauhati HC.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect. The court quashed the bigamy case, ruling that a second marriage is not an offence under Section 82 BNS for a Muslim man. Statement 2 is correct as per the judgment's reasoning. Statement 3 is incorrect; the court noted that the APP conceded mere non-registration does not make the marriage void.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the Gauhati High Court, citing Muslim personal law, noted it permits a Muslim man to have up to four wives simultaneously. This is the key factual basis for quashing the bigamy case for a second marriage.

Explanation

The core legal reasoning, as detailed in the article, is that Section 82 of the BNS (like Section 494 IPC) criminalizes bigamy only when the second marriage is 'void'. Since Muslim personal law validates a second marriage (up to four), it is not void, and thus the essential element of the offence is missing.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions the 'Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act, 1971' as the statutory framework for abortion services. While POCSO deals with offences against children and JJ Act with care and protection, the specific law governing termination of pregnancy is the MTP Act, 1971.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; the article states only 106 cases were produced before Medical Boards over 11 years, not 'over 500'. Statement 3 is correct as the article mentions Lucknow zone had the highest concentration (115 cases). Hence, only statements 1 and 3 are correct.

Explanation

The article specifically states: "data furnished by the state revealed only 106 cases of rape victims being produced before Medical Boards for termination-related assistance between 2013 and 2023." 115 is the number of cases in Lucknow zone, 525 is the total pregnancies reported in five years, and 240 is not mentioned.

Explanation

The article states: "the zone-wise distribution... disclosed a pattern of institutional failure that extends across both rural and urban areas of the state." It specifically notes Gorakhpur city recorded zero cases, contradicting option B. The failure is in implementation, not the absence of laws (option D).

Explanation

The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) is the nodal agency for releasing macroeconomic indices like the IIP and the Consumer Price Index (CPI). This is a standard static GK fact linked to the news.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect because the Jai Prakash Narayan Bird Sanctuary (Surha Tal) is a natural oxbow lake in Ballia, Uttar Pradesh, not a man-made reservoir in Bihar. Statement 3 is incorrect; the car is homologated for E85, not E100, though it is technically capable of running on higher blends.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the Nilgiri Tahr population estimate for 2026 stood at 1,364, marking a 4.68% rise over the previous year. The other options are plausible distractors close to the actual figure.

Explanation

The core objective of promoting ethanol-based flex-fuel vehicles is energy security. It aims to cut down India's massive crude oil import bill by substituting it with ethanol, which is produced domestically from sugarcane and other biomass, thereby also supporting farmers. The article mentions the government's success in increasing ethanol blending to 20%.

Explanation

Travel advisories for citizens abroad are issued by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). The MEA, through its overseas missions like the Embassy in Tehran, is responsible for the welfare and protection of Indian nationals in foreign countries.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect as the article states this is the 8th advisory. Statement 2 is incorrect as the advisory explicitly applies to all Indian citizens, including students, businesspersons, pilgrims, and tourists. Statement 3 is correct as per the article which mentions the Embassy facilitated exit through land borders with Armenia and Azerbaijan.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: 'Around 7,500 Indian nationals still remain in Iran.' The other numbers are plausible distractors but are not mentioned in the provided content.

Explanation

The article repeatedly cites 'heightened security concerns' and advises citizens 'to prioritise their safety.' The core objective of such advisories is the welfare and protection of citizens abroad during times of perceived threat, which is a fundamental duty of the government.

Explanation

The Madras High Court has jurisdiction over Tamil Nadu and the Union Territory of Puducherry. Its principal seat is in Chennai, and the news article specifically mentions the Madras High Court's judgment.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the core of the judgment was the lack of nexus between money and electoral inducement. Statement 2 is incorrect as the court reiterated the settled law that a co-accused's confession is not substantive evidence. Statement 3 is incorrect as the court explicitly stated such an approach is legally impermissible.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: "Section 171(E) prescribes punishment for bribery and Section 171(B) defines the ingredients of bribery." This is a direct factual extraction from the news content.

Explanation

The judgment's core ruling is that the offence of electoral bribery requires proof that gratification was intended to induce a specific electoral act (vote/not vote). Merely finding money during elections is insufficient. This upholds a high evidential standard and protects against vague prosecutions.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the forest department made applications through the Centre's Parivesh portal (Pro-Active and Responsive facilitation by Interactive, Virtuous and Environmental Single-window Hub). This portal is specifically designed for such clearances.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article confirms the Gujarat HC took suo motu cognisance. Statement 2 is incorrect; the article states the roads will be constructed from grants under Mukhya Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana's Tribal grants head, not PMGSY. Statement 3 is correct as officials mention the projects require more than 15 hectares of land.

Explanation

The article states: "From 75 maternal deaths per 1 lakh live births in 2016-18, Gujarat saw an MMR of 55 in 2020-22." India's overall MMR is 88, which is a common distractor.

Explanation

The article clearly states that the project awaits clearance from the state forest department, and the process involves multi-stage approvals from Forest and Revenue Departments for land exceeding 15 hectares. The budget (Rs 13.5 crore) was approved, and terrain challenges are secondary, not the primary cause of delay.

Explanation

Lok Adalats are established under the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987, to provide a platform for the amicable settlement of disputes. This is a key static GK fact relevant for Polity and Governance sections.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect. The Court recognized character verification as integral but refined its application; it did not call for its abolition. Statement 2 is incorrect. The Court criticized the recruitment board for treating a compromise as an admission of guilt, calling it 'perverse'. Statement 3 is correct, as the judgment explicitly asks authorities to be sensitive to changing times.

Explanation

The article clearly states that the selection was cancelled by the Telangana State Level Police Recruitment Board. This is a factual data point directly from the news.

Explanation

The judgment underlines the well-settled principle of criminal jurisprudence that unless a charge is proved in a court of law, there is a presumption of innocence. The recruitment board's adverse inference violated this principle as the case was settled without a trial.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that heat-related mortality data for Indian states (1980-2019) was obtained from the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; the article states monsoon UHS will affect 'nearly equivalent areas' (53%) as summer (60%), not a larger area. Statement 3 is directly quoted from the article. Hence, option C is correct.

Explanation

The article clearly states: "from less than 0.01 million square kilometres during the 1980s to 0.04 million square kilometres by 2020." Option A is the 1980s baseline, making it a close distractor.

Explanation

The core finding is that a dangerous health risk (UHS), previously concentrated in summer, is projected to become nearly as severe during the monsoon (July-Oct) under warming. This effectively doubles the annual threat period for vulnerable populations, impacting public health and labour productivity year-round.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions Union Minister for Coal and Mines G. Kishan Reddy announcing the coal gasification push. The Ministry of Coal is the nodal agency for all policy matters related to coal, including its gasification.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is correct; the Minister stated the aim is to reduce import dependence for products like ammonia, methanol, and fertilizers. Statement 3 is incorrect; the allocated amount is 100 million tonnes, not 200 million tonnes.

Explanation

The article clearly states: "...allocating 100 million tonnes of coal for this purpose with incentives worth ₹46,000 crore." ₹60,000 crore refers to savings from reduced coal imports last year, and ₹4 lakh crore is the total investment target.

Explanation

The Minister stated, "India has significant reserves of deep-seated coal and underground gasification offers a viable alternative where conventional mining is not feasible." The other options are not supported by the article; UCG does not eliminate all emissions, is not necessarily cheaper for all reserves, and the goal is import substitution, not export.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the draft regulations were released by the National Commission for Allied and Healthcare Professions. This body was established under the NCAHP Act, 2021, to regulate allied health professions.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article states this is the 'first comprehensive code of ethics'. Statement 2 is incorrect; the regulations are issued by the National Commission for Allied and Healthcare Professions, not the National Medical Commission. Statement 3 is correct as the draft seeks to 'standardise behaviour across professions and states'.

Explanation

The article clearly mentions: "The Hindu will host a webinar titled, 'What new rules mean for allied health', on June 13, 2026 at 5:00 p.m." The other dates are close distractors.

Explanation

The article's core theme is that the draft seeks to fill the gap of a 'common national ethical framework' and aims to 'define professional conduct standards' and 'standardise behaviour'. The other options are not mentioned as primary objectives.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the commentary by Prof. Deepak Pental was published in the journal 'Current Science'. This is a factual recall from the news content.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect as the article clearly states the hybrids were developed through 'mutation breeding', a non-GM process. Statement 2 is correct as the resistance is due to a change making the ALS enzyme tolerant. Statement 3 is correct as Orobanche is identified as the major parasitic weed targeted.

Explanation

The article provides the specific data point: 'In 2024-25, the country imported around 16 million tonnes at about Rs 1.6 lakh crore.' The other options are plausible but incorrect distractors.

Explanation

The core caution from Prof. Pental, as detailed in the article, is that 'strong directional selection' from using only one herbicide will cause weeds to evolve resistance, making the technology fail. This is the central application/impact issue discussed.

Explanation

The article explicitly states the strait is 'Located between Yemen and the Horn of Africa nations of Djibouti and Eritrea.' The other options describe other major straits: Hormuz (Oman-Iran), Malacca (Indonesia-Malaysia).

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article's definition. Statement 2 is incorrect; the article states it is 5% of global oil trade, not 20% (which is closer to the share for the Strait of Hormuz). Statement 3 is correct as per the specific data point mentioned in the article.

Explanation

The article states: 'The attacks disrupted shipping in the Red Sea, through which roughly $1 trillion in goods passed annually before the war.' The other figures are plausible distractors but not mentioned.

Explanation

The article frames the threat as a response to potential Israeli action, demonstrating how control over critical infrastructure like maritime chokepoints can be weaponized to exert pressure and gain strategic advantage in a regional dispute, affecting global economics.

Explanation

The India Meteorological Department (IMD), which issues the monsoon forecast, operates under the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES). While agriculture and water ministries use the forecast, the scientific prediction is MoES's mandate.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: The article states the monsoon reached Kerala on June 4, which was three days past its normal date and four days behind IMD's own forecast. Statement 2 is correct: IMD pegged seasonal rainfall at 90% of LPA with a 60% probability of an outright deficient year. Statement 3 is incorrect: The article says only the northeast is expected to see normal rain; northwest, central India, the peninsula and the monsoon core zone are all forecast to fall short.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the IMD has pegged seasonal rainfall with "a 60% probability of an outright deficient year." The other percentages are distractors not mentioned in the context of this forecast.

Explanation

The article emphasizes that the distribution of rainfall matters, with risks of "sudden long dry spells" leaving "sown crops...unwatered." It further states this monsoon is "exceptionally" consequential because it "arrives atop an input crisis" from West Asia affecting fertilizer and energy. Therefore, proactive management of agricultural and input risks is the core rationale for urgent action.

Explanation

The article explicitly cites the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) for the projection that almost one of five Indians will be over the age of 60 by 2050. The other organizations, while relevant to global data, are not mentioned as the source in this context.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article states medical inflation has stayed between 12-14%, significantly higher than overall inflation. Statement 2 is incorrect because the NPS is described as addressing the absence of a structured pension culture 'outside of government employment', implying it is not mandatory and is open to all. Statement 3 is correct as the article mentions changing societal structures like urbanisation and nuclear families mean retirees may no longer have the same family-support structures.

Explanation

The article specifically states: 'The elderly population in India is likely to rise from about 15 crore today to more than 34 crore over the next three decades.' The other options are close distractors with incorrect starting or ending figures.

Explanation

The article emphasizes that 'the advantage of starting early... is the ability to build a retirement corpus gradually over decades while benefiting from compounding and professional fund management.' While NPS offers tax benefits, the primary strategic advantage highlighted is the power of compounding over a long period. The article does not mention guaranteed returns or RBI management.

Explanation

The National Statistical Office (NSO) was formed by merging the National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) and the Central Statistics Office (CSO). It is the central statistical agency of India and functions under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI).

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect because the NSO revised the GDP growth estimate UPWARDS to 7.7% from the second advance estimate of 7.6%. Statement 2 is incorrect as the article states CPI inflation is forecast at 5.1% for 2026-27, which is lower than the WPI inflation of 8.3% recorded in April 2026. Statement 3 is correct as the article identifies the West Asia conflict as a major cause for the expected slowdown.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: "Crisil expects GDP growth to slow to 6.6 per cent from 7.7 per cent last year." The RBI also pared its growth outlook to the same figure. Option D (7.7%) is the previous year's actual growth, making it a close distractor.

Explanation

The article states, "the policy space to support growth through easy monetary policy has evaporated because of rising inflation risks." It cites rising CPI forecasts, pass-through of input costs, higher fuel prices, and rising household inflation expectations as key reasons. The other options are not cited as primary reasons in the article.

Explanation

The Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) is the apex regulatory body for genetically modified organisms in India. It functions under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), as environmental release of GMOs falls under its purview.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; Bt cotton was approved for commercial cultivation by the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) in 2002, not the CCEA. Statement 3 is correct; the Cotton Seed Price Control Order is a central government regulation introduced in 2015.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the current lint productivity is 441 kg per hectare (in triennium ending (TE) 2025-26). 302 kg/ha was the yield in 2002-03, 566 kg/ha was the peak yield in 2013-14, and 755 kg/ha is the 2031 target.

Explanation

The article argues that price control decisions, by slashing and then abolishing trait fees, made seed innovation commercially unviable for private companies. This led to the withdrawal of next-generation technologies from regulatory consideration, leaving farmers with dated technology and causing productivity stagnation.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that KABIL is a joint venture of three Central Public Sector Enterprises under the Ministry of Mines. This ministry is responsible for the survey, exploration, and mining of minerals.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is correct as ₹1,500 crore in incentives have been allocated for recycling. Statement 3 is incorrect because the import dependence is nearly 93%, not 70%.

Explanation

The article clearly states that the Centre has launched the National Critical Minerals Mission with an outlay of ₹32,000 crore. The other figures are plausible distractors but not mentioned.

Explanation

The Minister highlighted that the acquisition marks a significant step in India's efforts to secure overseas mineral assets and reduce its heavy dependence on imports, which is 93% for critical minerals. This directly addresses supply risks for strategic sectors.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that 'The India Meteorological Department has already forecast a below-normal monsoon...'. IMD is the national meteorological service of India and is the nodal agency for weather forecasting.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect: Farm sector growth was 4.2% in 2024-25 and 3.2% in 2025-26, so growth was lower in 2025-26. Statement 2 is incorrect: The article clearly states 'The real impact might be during the rabi (winter-spring) season', not Kharif. Statement 3 is correct as mentioned: 'The Narendra Modi government must work towards making 2026 India’s year of millets, pulses and oilseeds'.

Explanation

The article states: 'The India Meteorological Department has already forecast a below-normal monsoon, with overall rainfall at 90 per cent of LPA for the four-month season.' The other options are plausible distractors for different monsoon categories (deficient, below normal, normal).

Explanation

The article explicitly links the promotion of these crops to resource efficiency: '...millets, pulses and oilseeds, which also consume less water and fertilisers — especially urea (nitrogen) — than rice, wheat or sugarcane.' This addresses the dual challenge of potential water (monsoon) and fertiliser shortfalls.

Explanation

MCD stands for the Municipal Corporation of Delhi, the unified civic body responsible for Delhi's municipal governance. The article explicitly refers to the 'Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD)'.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article names Ajit Kumar Sinha as the amicus curiae. Statement 2 is incorrect; the collapse happened on May 30, 2026, not June 4. Statement 3 is correct as the status report seeks an affidavit from the Delhi Government on compensating victims' families.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the building collapse 'claimed six lives and injured at least 14 people on May 30'. The other numbers are plausible but incorrect distractors.

Explanation

The core request is for the MCD to file an affidavit detailing surveys and actions taken, and to conduct structural audits and sealing/demolition of illegal structures. This aims to address systemic regulatory failure, not just a single criminal case or a blanket demolition order.

Explanation

The UK administers the Chagos Archipelago as the British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT), which is a type of British Overseas Territory. Crown Dependencies like Jersey are different, and the territory is not a UN Trust Territory.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect: The US is considering buying from Mauritius, not the UK. Statement 2 is correct as per the article's mention of the 1966 lease. Statement 3 is a correct static fact, as the ICJ did issue such an advisory opinion in 2019, which is crucial background to this dispute.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that Diego Garcia is 'site of a major United States military base... leased from Britain in 1966.' 1965 is the year BIOT was created, making it a close distractor.

Explanation

The US official quoted calls Diego Garcia 'a vital and indispensable military installation of significant importance to the national security of the United States.' The proposed purchase is an alternative to the UK ceding sovereignty, aimed at preserving the base's viability, not directly related to QUAD or supporting UN decolonization.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions Chief Justice of India (CJI) Justice Surya Kant as the one delivering the lecture and advocating for the development of 'Swadeshi jurisprudence'. This is a direct factual recall from the news content.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect as 'Swadeshi jurisprudence' is defined as being attentive to India's own context "rather than relying solely upon imported technological models". Statement 2 is correct as per the CJI's definition. Statement 3 is correct as the article mentions serious efforts are underway to explore an indigenous AI ecosystem alongside this jurisprudence.

Explanation

The article clearly states: "Delivering a lecture at the Oxford Union and the Oxford Law Society on the theme 'Constitutional Promise to Digital Reality...'" The other options are distractors: London was the venue for a different conference mentioned, and the Supreme Court is his institution but not the lecture venue.

Explanation

The article directly quotes: "The Supreme Court of India has consciously approached technology as an aid to human reasoning rather than as a substitute for independent judicial thought." This defines the court's cautious and human-centric approach to legal tech, which is central to the news item.

Explanation

As mentioned in the article, Dr. Rajiv Bahl is Secretary to the Government of India, Department of Health Research, Ministry of Health & Family Welfare and Director-General of ICMR. This establishes ICMR's administrative linkage.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article mentions ICMR repositioning institutes as interdisciplinary hubs for digital health, child health, etc. Statement 2 is incorrect; the article states NHRP marks a shift from funding projects to enabling solutions. Statement 3 is correct as NHRP's 13 priority areas include antimicrobial resistance, TB, and mental health.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the National Health Research Programme (NHRP) has identified 13 priority areas. The other numbers are plausible distractors but not mentioned.

Explanation

The article states the shift reflects a move towards integrated, institute-led research where science is designed not just to generate knowledge, but to solve pressing public health challenges. The other options contradict the article's emphasis on interdisciplinary hubs, operational research with states, and a connected ecosystem.