8 May 2026, Questions & Answers

Explanation

The article mentions Defence Secretary R K Singh speaking at a security summit. The Defence Secretary is the administrative head of the Department of Defence, which is part of the Ministry of Defence.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect because 'Ashni platoons' are specialised drone platoons, not commando battalions; 'Bhairav battalions' are the high-mobility commando units. Statement 3 is correct as the article mentions the paradigm shift towards a conventional missile force.

Explanation

Defence Secretary R K Singh stated that the majority of the Rs 30,000-crore emergency procurement contracts were intended to acquire modern weaponry like drones and counter-drone systems.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the military is reorganizing into 'smaller, lethal functional units equipped with modern weaponry for future wars.' Units like Ashni (drone platoons) and Rudra (integrated brigades) are examples of this restructuring aimed at creating a more agile and technologically advanced force.

Explanation

The Election Commission of India is a constitutional body established under Article 324, which deals with the superintendence, direction, and control of elections.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; the 2023 Act did the opposite—it replaced the CJI with a Union Cabinet Minister. Statement 3 is correct as it is the exact wording of Article 324(2) mentioned in the article.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that in 2024, petitioners such as the NGO Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) challenged the 2023 law. The other organizations are not mentioned in the provided content.

Explanation

The article states that petitioners argued the 2023 law 'restores the executive’s power and dominance over appointments and defeats the principle held in *Anoop Baranwal* — that the EC must be insulated from executive interference.' The other options describe potential impacts not highlighted as the primary challenge in the article.

Explanation

AVIC is a Chinese state-owned conglomerate specializing in the design, development, and manufacture of aircraft, including military fighters like the J-10 and commercial aircraft, placing it squarely in the aerospace and defence sector.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article's core news. Statement 2 is incorrect; the support was for Chinese-made J-10CE jets, not Russian Sukhoi jets. Statement 3 is correct as Lt. Gen. Rahul R. Singh mentioned Pakistan, China, and Türkiye as adversaries.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions the 'four-day war last May', and the publication date is May 2026, confirming the reference is to May 2025. Other options are close distractors based on other potential conflict timelines.

Explanation

The confirmation directly supports the Indian military's earlier statement about facing three adversaries (Pakistan, China, Türkiye) during Operation Sindoor. This reinforces the strategic challenge of a potential two-front or coordinated threat, a key concern in India's defence planning.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the World Bank acted as the facilitator of the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty and is the acknowledged third party in a procedural role, as per India's position.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; the Treaty allocates the three eastern rivers (Ravi, Sutlej, Beas) to India, not the western ones (Indus, Jhelum, Chenab). Statement 3 is correct as Pakistan's non-permanent UNSC membership began in January 2025.

Explanation

The article states: 'The bulk of its irrigation requirements — more than 70% — is fulfilled by the Indus river system.' This highlights Pakistan's critical dependence as the downstream state.

Explanation

The article quotes India's Ministry of External Affairs: 'the IWT would continue to be held in abeyance till Pakistan "credibly and irrevocably abjures its support for cross-border terrorism".' This links water sharing directly to Pakistan's action on terrorism.

Explanation

Article 174 of the Constitution specifically deals with sessions of the State Legislature, prorogation and dissolution. Clause (2)(b) grants the Governor the power to dissolve the Legislative Assembly, as exercised in this news.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the gazette notification citing Article 174(2)(b). Statement 2 is incorrect; the BJP won 207 seats, not 250. Statement 3 is correct as the article mentions the swearing-in at Brigade Parade Grounds on Saturday (May 9).

Explanation

The article states: 'The Trinamool was reduced to 80 seats.' The other options are close distractors.

Explanation

Dissolution under Article 174(2)(b) formally ends the life of the existing Legislative Assembly. The members cease to be MLAs, and the government (Council of Ministers) also ends, paving the way for a new assembly and government to be constituted. The other options describe different constitutional scenarios not applicable here.

Explanation

The MTP Act, 1971 is the primary legislation that sets the conditions under which a pregnancy can be legally terminated in India. While other laws like POCSO and PCPNDT interact with it, the MTP Act provides the core legal framework for abortion.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as mentioned in the article. Statement 2 is incorrect because the MTP Act does not provide for abortion on demand; it has conditions and a general gestational limit of 24 weeks. Statement 3 is correct as experts highlight that mandatory reporting under POCSO creates a barrier for minors seeking abortion.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the MTP Act sets out general outer limits of 24 weeks, with exceptions for substantial foetal anomalies or to save the life of the pregnant woman. This is a key factual data point from the news.

Explanation

The core argument presented by experts like Dipika Jain and Alka Barua is that the current framework, where abortion is criminalized under BNS and access is conditional under MTP, creates barriers. They advocate for a shift towards a rights-based framework centered on the pregnant person's decisional autonomy and reproductive justice.

Explanation

The Registrar General and Census Commissioner of India, responsible for conducting the decennial census, operates under the administrative control of the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article states it is India's first digital census with online self-enumeration. Statement 2 is correct as the Chief Minister stated the second phase involves individual and caste enumeration. Statement 3 is correct as forest villages are mentioned to be covered for the first time. Hence, all three statements are correct.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that "Around 5.47 lakh personnel have been deployed for the exercise." The figure of 4.5 lakh refers specifically to enumerators, and 5.35 lakh refers to trained personnel.

Explanation

The Chief Minister emphasized that the census was "not merely a count of population, but a strong foundation for holistic, inclusive and well-planned development." Accurate data is intended to improve the implementation of infrastructure, education, healthcare, and welfare schemes.

Explanation

The Tenth Schedule of the Indian Constitution, added by the 52nd Amendment Act, 1985, contains provisions for disqualification of members on grounds of defection. This is directly relevant to the article's discussion on party mergers under Paragraph 4(2).

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; Paragraph 4(2) deems a merger to have taken place 'if, and only if' two-thirds agree, but this verifies a substantive merger in the original party, it is not the merger itself. Statement 3 is incorrect; the 2007 Constitution Bench held that the Speaker has no independent power to recognize a split or merger.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the Bengal Immunity Co. Ltd. vs State of Bihar case was decided in 1955 by a seven-judge Constitution Bench. This is the foundational case on the limits of legal fictions in Indian constitutional law.

Explanation

The article explains that reading the deeming clause as constitutive (creating the merger) instead of verificative (verifying it) transforms it into a substantive grant of power. This allows a legislative faction to effect a merger that the original political party has not authorized, undermining party democracy and the intent of the anti-defection law.

Explanation

The article repeatedly mentions the Forest Department as the agency receiving complaints, deploying task forces, and implementing mitigation strategies like fencing and tracking in conflict zones.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: The article states 259 deaths over five years. Statement 2 is incorrect: The proposed outlay is ₹1,500 crore, not ₹2,000 crore. Statement 3 is correct: Experts point to habitat loss and fragmentation as root causes.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that official data shows 47 people have lost their lives due to animal attacks over the past five years in Kodagu district.

Explanation

Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre stated that the proposed Aane Dhama aims to rehabilitate the around 300 wild elephants currently outside forest areas, which are a major source of conflict.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that on July 18, 2025, the TRF was designated as a Foreign Terrorist Organisation (FTO) and as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT) by the US.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article's description of the three pillars of the 'new normal'. Statement 2 is incorrect; the article mentions the UNSC 1267 Committee's report mentioned TRF, not a unanimous resolution condemning Pakistan. Statement 3 is correct as seven all-party delegations travelled to 33 countries.

Explanation

The article states that 'seven all-party delegations travelled to a total of 33 countries' immediately after Operation Sindoor to shape public opinion in India's favour.

Explanation

The article's 'Hard realisations' section identifies that India needed to be better in its strategic communication, from the profile of spokespersons to perceived transparency, to be more credible internationally. This was a key gap compared to Pakistan's high-level messaging.

Explanation

Article 164 of the Constitution specifically deals with the appointment of the Chief Minister by the Governor and other ministers on the advice of the Chief Minister. Article 163 deals with the Council of Ministers to aid and advise the Governor, while Articles 165 and 166 deal with the Advocate-General and conduct of business, respectively.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect. The Governor asked for proof from 118 MLAs, which is an absolute majority (more than half of 234), not a simple majority. Statement 2 is correct as per the article, which mentions the SC advanced the floor test to 36 hours in the 2018 Karnataka case. Statement 3 is incorrect; Article 164 states ministers hold office during the pleasure of the Governor, not the Chief Minister.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the Governor asked for proof of support from at least 118 legislators, which is the majority mark in the 234-member Assembly. The other options are close distractors.

Explanation

The article cites Supreme Court rulings, including the 2018 Karnataka and 2016 Uttarakhand cases, which underline that the floor test on the floor of the house is the ultimate method to determine the majority and resolve such disputes. While the single largest party convention exists, the Court has emphasized the floor test as the definitive mechanism.

Explanation

The judgment stressed that Article 21 guarantees not merely life but the right to live with dignity, honour and self-respect, and this right does not evaporate upon arrest.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the court specifically prohibited sharing such content. Statement 2 is correct: Justice Farjand Ali delivered the judgment on May 5 (the article mentions May 5, 2026). Statement 3 is correct: the judgment referred to the Law Commission's 200th report on 'Trial by Media'.

Explanation

The article states the petitioners were booked under sections 170 and 126 of the BNSS. Section 126 allows Executive Magistrates to demand security/bonds for keeping peace, while Section 170 enables police to arrest individuals to prevent cognisable offences.

Explanation

The judgment began with the famous 'ship of Theseus' paradox, questioning whether an object remains the same after all its parts are replaced. The court used it to explain that a person, once exposed to such degradation, does not remain the same thereafter.

Explanation

The incident occurred in the forest of Tadmetla village in Dantewada district, which is in the state of Chhattisgarh. The article explicitly mentions Dantewada and Sukma districts, both in Chhattisgarh.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect as the HC upheld the acquittal, not conviction. Statement 2 is correct as the court noted the lack of TIP as a procedural lapse. Statement 3 is incorrect as the judgment explicitly states there was 'no record of the prosecution sanction required under the Arms Act'.

Explanation

The article states that a total of 76 security personnel were killed, comprising 75 CRPF jawans and one policeman. This is a key factual data point from the news.

Explanation

The court emphasized that a conviction cannot be sustained 'in the absence of clear, cogent, and legally admissible evidence establishing guilt beyond reasonable doubt.' This is the cornerstone of criminal jurisprudence, as highlighted in the judgment.

Explanation

The article's byline explicitly states "The writer was GOC-in-C Western Command during Operation Sindoor." This is a direct fact from the source material.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article's opening line. Statement 2 is incorrect; the article says strikes were on "nine terrorist bases," not military bases. Statement 3 is correct as mentioned in the article. Hence, option C is correct.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: "On May 7, 2025 at 0105 hours, India launched Operation Sindoor..." The other dates are distractors: May 10, 2025, is the ceasefire date, and May 8, 2026, is the article's publication date.

Explanation

The core argument of the article is that future responses must "enable a graduated shift from deterrence to compellence" and aim "to compel a durable change in Pakistan’s calculus." The other options either reverse the proposed shift or suggest extremes not advocated in the text.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the Indian Air Force struck the nine key terror targets during Operation Sindoor. This is a direct factual recall from the provided content.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article's opening. Statement 2 is incorrect; the article details continued terror activities post-operation, like the Lal Qila attack. Statement 3 is correct, directly quoted from the article's analysis of the operation's tactical success.

Explanation

The article provides the exact number: 'The Indian Air Force struck nine key terror targets in Pakistan and PoK'. The other numbers are plausible distractors but not mentioned.

Explanation

The article's central argument is that while Operation Sindoor was a tactical success, India lacks a 'clearly defined endgame concerning Pakistan'. The other options contradict the article, which states the operation validated weapon systems and used force but lacked strategic follow-up.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions that SIAM, along with other industry bodies, has raised concerns over the EV mandates proposed by the Delhi government. SIAM is the apex body representing the Indian automobile industry.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article mentions that 65% of consumers buying motorcycles would be affected. Statement 2 is correct as the article states China controls 95% of HRE magnet production globally. Statement 3 is incorrect because the article highlights that 71% of India's electricity comes from coal-based power generation (fossil fuels), limiting the environmental benefit.

Explanation

The article specifically states that around 71% of India's electricity comes from coal-based power generation (fossil fuels). This data point is used by industry representatives to question the net environmental benefit of EV adoption at current energy mix levels.

Explanation

The article highlights that Delhi-NCR is home to many independent workshops and mechanics who may not afford the transition to EV-specific tools and software. A sudden transition could cause widespread business failures in the informal sector, which is a primary socio-economic concern.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that India is using Gardasil-4, a quadrivalent HPV vaccine by MSD India. Cervarix is a bivalent HPV vaccine, while Sputnik V and Covishield are COVID-19 vaccines.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article mentions 90% target achieved. Statement 2 is incorrect because Gardasil-4 is quadrivalent and protects against HPV types 16 & 18 (cervical cancer) AND types 6 & 11 (genital warts). Statement 3 is correct as the drive was conducted in more than 2,200 health centres.

Explanation

The health department identified 5,43,483 eligible teenage girls, as stated in the article. 500,000 is the number vaccinated, not identified. 550,000 and 600,000 are close distractors.

Explanation

The Gardasil-4 vaccine specifically protects against HPV types 16 and 18, which are known to cause cervical cancer. Vaccinating adolescent girls is a preventive strategy aimed at reducing the risk of developing cervical cancer in their adult life.

Explanation

As per the article, the TARA weapon system was designed and developed by Research Centre Imarat (RCI), Hyderabad, along with other DRDO laboratories. RCI is a key DRDO lab focused on guided missiles and strategic systems.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article states TARA is India's first indigenous glide weapon system. Statement 2 is incorrect; it is designed to convert unguided warheads into precision-guided weapons, not guided missiles into ballistic ones. Statement 3 is incorrect; the trial was conducted jointly by DRDO and the Indian Air Force (IAF), not the Navy.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the Tactical Advanced Range Augmentation (TARA) system was tested on Thursday (May 7, 2026). May 8 is the article's publication date, making it a close distractor.

Explanation

The article's core point is that TARA is developed "to convert unguided warheads into precision guided weapons" to enhance lethality and accuracy at low cost. The other options describe roles for different types of weapon systems not mentioned in the context of TARA.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions that the warning was issued by the International Monetary Fund (IMF). The World Bank focuses on long-term development projects, the WTO on trade, and the BIS on central bank cooperation, making the IMF the correct answer.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article which states AI models 'dramatically reduce' exploitation time/cost. Statement 2 is correct as the article highlights systemic risks and contagion. Statement 3 is incorrect; the article specifically warns that emerging and developing countries, which often have weaker defenses, may be disproportionately exposed.

Explanation

The article directly states that 'zero-day' vulnerabilities are considered particularly dangerous when exploited by hackers using advanced AI models like Anthropic's "Mythos".

Explanation

The article quotes the IMF report saying, "Defenses will inevitably be breached, so resilience must also be a priority, specifically to limit how far incidents spread and ensure rapid recovery." This is the core strategic implication, shifting focus from perfect prevention to managing breaches.

Explanation

The National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) is an attached office of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). It is responsible for collecting and analyzing crime data to assist in policy formulation.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article states a 6% decline in cognizable crimes. Statement 2 is incorrect because cybercrime cases increased by 17.9%, not declined. Statement 3 is correct as the ADSI report recorded 1,70,746 (over 1.7 lakh) suicides.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that deaths due to drug overdose saw a 50% increase in 2024 compared with the previous year. The other options are plausible but incorrect distractors.

Explanation

The NCRB report is the authoritative source of national crime statistics. It helps identify trends (like the rise in cybercrime), assess the effectiveness of law enforcement, and formulate data-driven policies and resource allocation for internal security and crime prevention.

Explanation

Article 239 of the Constitution deals with the administration of Union Territories. The notification mentioned in the article is issued 'in pursuance of clause (1) of article 239 of the Constitution'.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect because the powers can be invoked 'in the event of any public emergency or in the interest of public safety', not only during a 'national emergency'. Statement 3 is correct as the notification date is mentioned.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the President directed the LG to exercise powers under 'Sub-Section (2) of Section 20 of the Telecommunications Act, 2023 (44 of 2023)'.

Explanation

The article states these powers allow the LG to block, intercept, decrypt, and suspend telecom services 'in the event of any public emergency or in the interest of public safety'. The core objective is operational control during emergencies.

Explanation

The article states the Supreme Court issued notice to the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY). MeitY is the nodal ministry for the Information Technology Act, under which the blocking order was issued.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the petition argues the blocking violates Article 19 protections. Statement 2 is incorrect; the article mentions Section 69A of the IT Act, not Section 66A (which was struck down). Statement 3 is correct as the petition claims the action is disproportionate by blocking whole accounts.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the petition challenges the order to geo-block the Meta handles of the AAP's Gujarat unit. This is a factual detail directly from the content.

Explanation

The article quotes the petition stating that the platforms were used for 'political speech and democratic engagement, which fall squarely within the protection of Article 19 of the Constitution.' This is the core constitutional challenge.

Explanation

The Strait of Hormuz is a narrow channel that connects the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea. This geographical fact is a key piece of static GK for mapping and international relations.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article states the conflict began on February 28. Statement 2 is incorrect because Iran established the 'Persian Gulf Strait Authority', not the 'Arabian Gulf Strait Authority'. Statement 3 is correct as the article mentions Saudi Arabia and Kuwait restricted access, halting the US operation.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: "global oil benchmark Brent Crude breached $101 a barrel". The price of $125 per barrel was mentioned as a level breached earlier, not immediately after this specific incident.

Explanation

The article's core point is that the strait "accounted for a fifth of global energy supplies." Its strategic importance derives from this role as a vital oil transit route, making it a geopolitical flashpoint. While it is also a trade route, its defining feature for energy security is the volume of oil transiting through it.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions that the US has drafted a 'Security Council resolution'. The UNSC is the primary body responsible for maintaining international peace and security and is the only UN body that can authorize enforcement actions under Chapter VII of the UN Charter.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article's data. Statement 2 is incorrect; the article states the new draft 'avoids explicit language authorising force'. Statement 3 is correct as the article mentions an earlier resolution was vetoed by Russia and China.

Explanation

The article clearly states: 'Under its terms, the UN Secretary-General would report back within 30 days on Iran’s compliance...'. The other options are common timeframes used as distractors in exam questions.

Explanation

The article frames the US action as seeking UN pressure on Iran to cease attacks, remove mines, and allow humanitarian relief. The draft resolution operates under Chapter VII, which can lead to sanctions. While military action is a potential outcome, the primary stated objective is multilateral diplomatic pressure.

Explanation

Article 164(2) of the Constitution states that the Council of Ministers shall be collectively responsible to the Legislative Assembly of the State. This principle of collective responsibility to the lower house is a cornerstone of the parliamentary system.

Explanation

Statements 1 and 2 are correct as per the Sarkaria Commission guidelines detailed in the article. Statement 3 is incorrect. The Supreme Court in SR Bommai held that the Governor's subjective satisfaction cannot replace the objective test of majority on the floor of the House.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the majority mark in the 234-member Assembly is 118 seats. TVK had 108 seats, and with Congress's 5 seats, their claim stood at 113, which was short of the majority mark.

Explanation

The article argues that delay 'manufactures the very instability it claims to prevent' by shifting incentives and creating opportunities for inducements and tactical realignments outside the assembly, as seen in the Karnataka (2018) and Bihar (2005) precedents cited. This undermines the democratic forum of the House.

Explanation

The article explicitly states the matter was remanded for fresh determination under Section 125 of the CrPC. This section deals with maintenance of wives, children, and parents.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect as the court ruled the opposite—maintenance is based on the husband's status, not the wife's past earnings. Statement 2 is correct as the article mentions inconsistencies in the husband's financial disclosures. Statement 3 is incorrect; the court set aside ₹15,000 per month, not ₹25,000.

Explanation

The article clearly states: 'Setting aside the maintenance amount of Rs 15,000 per month by the family court...' The wife had sought ₹25,000, but the amount set aside was ₹15,000.

Explanation

The core ruling of the court, as per the article, is that 'entitlement to maintenance must be assessed in light of the social and economic status of the husband and not merely on the basis of the wife’s past earnings or educational qualifications.' This is its primary legal significance.

Explanation

The article explicitly states the study was led by researchers at the Malaviya National Institute of Technology, Jaipur (MNIT Jaipur). IIT Roorkee is also a premier institute in Uttarakhand but is not mentioned in this context.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the core finding is that average rainfall data gives a false sense of safety. Statement 2 is incorrect; the six factors used were elevation, slope, drainage density, topographic wetness, land use, and rainfall. The primary ones were slope, elevation, and rainfall. Statement 3 is correct as the article mentions the study tracked zones from 2017-2021.

Explanation

The article specifically states: "Across all the years examined, more than 90% of Uttarakhand fell within moderate or high-hazard categories." The other options are plausible but incorrect distractors.

Explanation

The article's conclusion clearly states the authors recommend "flood maps be redrawn around extreme rainfall scenarios rather than long-term averages." The other options, while possibly beneficial, are not the core recommendation derived from the study's findings about the flaw in using average data.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that Sujata Sharma is the Joint-Secretary at the Union Petroleum Ministry, which is formally known as the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas. This ministry oversees the oil and gas sector, including OMCs.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect because the government HAS reduced excise duties, foregoing ₹14,000 crore revenue, but OMCs still face under-recoveries. Statement 2 is correct as per the article. Statement 3 is incorrect; PPAC data showed a 0.25% rise (not decline) in diesel consumption in April compared to the previous year.

Explanation

The Joint Secretary at the Petroleum Ministry clearly stated that the under-recovery for petrol, diesel, and LPG combined is about ₹30,000 crore per month. ₹14,000 crore is the government's monthly revenue loss from excise duty cuts, and ₹44,000 crore is the combined total of both figures.

Explanation

The official, Sujata Sharma, explicitly stated that OMCs are not selling at corresponding higher rates 'to protect our consumers'. This is a direct measure to shield the public from the immediate inflationary impact of high global crude prices, which is a key policy objective.

Explanation

The article explicitly discusses reforms by the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE). NCERT is a research body, UGC regulates universities, and AICTE regulates technical education.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect: The Standard level is compulsory for all, while Advanced is optional. Statement 2 is correct as per the article. Statement 3 is incorrect: 'Assessment' (171 times) appears more than 'Learning' (154 times).

Explanation

The article clearly states that CBSE's new curriculum will be implemented 'from 2026-27 onwards'. The other options are plausible distractors for future policy timelines.

Explanation

The article details that deep-rooted social hierarchy may lead families to view the 'Standard' option as a demotion and the 'Advanced' option as a ticket to elite institutes, converting subject anxiety into status anxiety. Other options, while potential issues, are not the primary social challenge highlighted.

Explanation

The Supreme Court held that the mechanical extension of custody without hearing the accused was 'violative of the fundamental right of liberty of the appellant as guaranteed under Article 21 of the Constitution of India,' as stated in the article.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the SC criticized the 'mechanical' order passed without informing the accused. Statement 2 is incorrect; the right to default bail is described as an 'indefeasible right,' not a discretionary one. Statement 3 is correct as the article mentions the Court 'reiterated' the precedent from Jigar vs State of Gujarat (2023).

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions that the Supreme Court held extensions illegal 'beyond the statutory 90-day period' for filing the chargesheet under UAPA. The other options are standard periods for other categories of offences under CrPC.

Explanation

The Supreme Court's core ruling was that the 'mechanical' extension order itself was 'grossly illegal,' making subsequent custody unlawful. Since the accused had applied for default bail before the chargesheet was filed, his right to statutory bail had 'crystallised,' leading to his release.

Explanation

The article mentions a senior official from the Petroleum Ministry discussing the under-recoveries of OMCs. The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas is the nodal ministry responsible for exploration, production, refining, and marketing of petroleum products in India.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; the article clearly states the government has no plan at present to compensate OMCs for losses on petrol and diesel. Statement 3 is correct, as the article mentions the Strait of Hormuz closure impacted global supplies.

Explanation

The article explicitly states, "According to industry sources, the OMCs’ under-recoveries in April stood at about Rs 18 per litre on petrol and Rs 25 per litre on diesel." The other options are close distractors.

Explanation

The article states that the price freeze is "to protect the domestic consumer from this volatility" arising from the West Asia crisis. While other options might be desirable outcomes, the immediate and stated objective, as per the article, is consumer protection against inflation.

Explanation

The article states that the Ministry of Finance, via an order dated August 7, 2014, approved a scheme and called upon the Indian Bankers' Association to circulate it to all public sector banks. RBI is the regulator, NABARD focuses on rural credit, and BCSBI deals with customer service codes.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect. The court explicitly stated that compassionate appointment is a 'privilege, not a right'. Statement 2 is correct as per the article. Statement 3 is correct, as the judgment references Supreme Court cases like Bhawani Prasad Sonkar v Union of India which held that appointment cannot be made without a policy.

Explanation

The article mentions that the bank's 2023 policy was amended to apply retrospectively to deaths occurring within five years prior to the policy's adoption. This was also referenced in the Central Government's letter dated September 14, 2023.

Explanation

The court's order, as quoted in the article, states that compassionate appointment is 'a narrowly drawn exception... justified only by the need to relieve a family from sudden financial distress caused by the death in harness of its breadwinner.' It is not a reward, a hereditary right, or a tool for community representation.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that 'Project Freedom' aims to reopen movement across the Strait of Hormuz. This strait is a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments located between the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is correct as the article mentions restrictions were imposed after US officials downplayed Iranian attacks. Statement 3 is incorrect; the article states the pause was based on Pakistan's request 'and other countries', and also due to progress in talks with Iran.

Explanation

The article specifically mentions that the Trump administration is looking to restart the operation 'after a 36-hour pause this week'. The other options are close distractors not mentioned in the text.

Explanation

The article's core theme is that 'Project Freedom' aims 'to reopen movement across the Strait of Hormuz' and guide commercial vessels. It involves creating a protected corridor, not establishing a base, launching an offensive, or mediating peace, which are actions not described in the text.

Explanation

The article states the NCRB was established in 1986 and functions under the Union Home Ministry. It is responsible for compiling crime data, which is a function aligned with internal security and law enforcement.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect: the crime rate decreased from 448.3 to 418.9. Statement 2 is correct: ST crimes declined by 23.1% (sharp), while SC crimes fell only 3.6%. Statement 3 is correct: Telangana reported a crime rate of 128.6 per lakh, the highest.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that 1,01,928 cases were registered under cyber crimes in 2024, showing an increase of 17.9% from 86,420 cases in 2023. Option A is the 2023 figure, C is economic offences, and D is total overall cases.

Explanation

The article states the annual report provides crucial data on various crimes that informs policymaking and law enforcement priorities. It is a compilation of annual data, not live updates or judicial records.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions Biswanath Chakraborty as a professor of political science at Rabindra Bharati University, Kolkata. This is a direct factual extraction from the news content.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article details the evolution from ideological to economic violence. Statement 2 is incorrect; the expert states the opposite - in Bengal, violence starts from political rivalry, unlike other states where caste/identity comes first. Statement 3 is correct as kangaroo courts are mentioned as a form of manifestation. Hence, option C is correct.

Explanation

The article specifically states: 'In the 2023 panchayat election, more than 100 people died...'. The other options are plausible but incorrect distractors.

Explanation

The expert's core argument is that the administration has become highly politicized, eroding the separation between politics and governance, and the rule of law is absent. While unemployment is mentioned as a contributing factor, the primary structural reason identified is the politicized administration and weak rule of law.

Explanation

The DGMO hotline is a dedicated military communication channel between India and Pakistan, established primarily for crisis management, preventing misunderstandings, and de-escalating tensions along the border, as mentioned in the article regarding its weekly use.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article explicitly mentions meetings of ex-Army generals and retired diplomats. Statement 2 is correct as the NSCS was made aware of Pakistan's 'willingness'. Statement 3 is incorrect because the article states the DGMOs speak once a week, usually on Tuesdays, not daily.

Explanation

The article's headline and content clearly state that there have been 'two meetings in the last 3 months' involving former Army generals and retired diplomats from both countries, held in Qatar and another Asian capital.

Explanation

The article emphasizes that a key reason for considering back-channel communication is the 'imperative to "manage" escalation in case of another attack,' highlighting the need for a crisis-management mechanism in the absence of other established protocols.

Explanation

The Tenth Schedule was inserted into the Constitution by the 52nd Amendment Act of 1985 to curb the evil of political defections. The other amendments introduced different changes: the 42nd is known for its wide-ranging changes, the 61st lowered the voting age, and the 73rd pertained to Panchayati Raj.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect because Paragraph 4(2) deems a merger to have taken place 'if, and only if' the two-thirds threshold is met, but this verifies a merger that has substantively happened at the party level; it is not the sole condition. Statement 3 is incorrect as the 2007 Constitution Bench held that the Speaker has no independent power to recognize a split or merger.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the case 'Bengal Immunity Co. Ltd. vs State of Bihar' was decided in 1955 by a seven-judge Constitution Bench. 1950 is the year of the Constitution's adoption, 1973 is known for the Kesavananda Bharati case, and 1947 is the year of independence.

Explanation

The article explains that reading the deeming clause as constitutive transforms it from a verifying fiction into a substantive grant of power. This empowers a legislative faction to effect a merger that the original political party has not authorized, which is the danger highlighted by legal scholars like Lon Fuller and addressed in the Bengal Immunity case.