10 July 2026, Questions & Answers

Explanation

The article quotes Union Home Minister Amit Shah, indicating that the Ministry of Home Affairs oversees border security and fencing projects. The Ministry of Home Affairs is responsible for internal security, including border management, through agencies like the Border Security Force (BSF).

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: The article says the government is fencing the 1,610-km stretch at ₹31,000 crore. Statement 2 is incorrect: The project is under the Ministry of Home Affairs, as the Home Minister announced it. Statement 3 is correct: Amit Shah cautioned against demographic changes caused by unnatural factors, citing illegal infiltration as the primary cause.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the Home Minister said the government was fencing the border at a cost of ₹31,000 crore. The other options are close distractors; careful reading is required to avoid confusing with similar figures.

Explanation

The article directly quotes Shah: 'illegal infiltration was the primary cause of demographic changes in border areas.' This highlights the government's concern about unauthorized cross-border movements affecting the demographic composition of border regions.

Explanation

The Joint Declaration on Defence and Security Cooperation included an MoU between Australia's Maritime Border Command and the Indian Coast Guard, focusing on maritime domain awareness and cooperation against shadow fleets.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the SHANTI Act (Dec 2025) reformed liability laws, operationalising the uranium deal. Statement 2 is incorrect: PACTS is a bilateral India-Australia partnership (Cyber, Critical Tech, Supply Chains); the trilateral with Canada is AC-ITIP. Statement 3 is correct as per the Lowy Poll data mentioned in the article.

Explanation

The Lowy Poll found that only 5% of Australians see India as the most important power in ten years, while 54% chose China. 31% was the trust rating for the United States, a separate data point. This shows a significant perception gap between elite convergence and public awareness.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that Australia's defence posture (AUKUS, Western Pacific focus) and India's dual attention (continental threats + maritime challenges) mean the 'shared ground is narrower than political convergence suggests.' This is the core gap in operational alignment, not trade or diaspora absence.

Explanation

The Demography Mission was announced by Union Home Minister Amit Shah at the Land Border Districts’ SPs Conference, which is under the Ministry of Home Affairs. The mission focuses on studying abnormal demographic changes in border areas caused by illegal migration, a key internal security concern.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the Home Minister announced a Demography Mission. Statement 2 is incorrect: the cost mentioned is ₹31,000 crore, not ₹21,000 crore. Statement 3 is correct: border infrastructure augmentation of 400% was stated. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the government has decided to fence the 1,610-km-long India-Myanmar border at a cost of ₹31,000 crore. The other options are close distractors but not the exact figure mentioned.

Explanation

The Home Minister stated that a demography mission has been constituted to study the pattern of 'unnatural demographic growth' caused by abnormal factors such as infiltration. The objective is not to increase population or resettle refugees, but to analyse and address the threat of illegal migration.

Explanation

The article states that the Maharashtra Legislative Council passed the amendments on July 8, 2026, and they are yet to be passed by the Legislative Assembly. So the body that passed is the Council.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: Section 170 amendment allows up to 30 days preventive custody. Statement 2 is incorrect: the rank change is from SP to ACP (Assistant Commissioner of Police), not DSP. Statement 3 is correct: Section 98 now includes electronic and digital records. Hence option C.

Explanation

The article states that the amendment allows the judicial magistrate to order detention for a period of 15 days at a time, but not beyond 30 days. So maximum is 30 days.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that state legislatures can make such amendments since criminal law is a subject in the Concurrent List of the Constitution. They must ensure amendments do not conflict with central law.

Explanation

The VBSA Bill, 2025 proposes to dismantle the University Grants Commission (UGC), the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), and the National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE) and replace them with a single apex body called the Viksit Bharat Shiksha Adhishthan (VBSA).

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the Bill proposes to dismantle UGC, AICTE, and NCTE. Statement 2 is correct: Clause 47 allows suspension for up to six months, extendable by another six months (total up to one year). Statement 3 is incorrect because the Bill is currently under review by a Joint Parliamentary Committee and has not been passed.

Explanation

Clause 47 gives the Centre emergency powers to suspend or supersede the Commission or its Councils for up to six months, and allows an extension by another six months, making the total maximum period one year.

Explanation

State governments, including NDA-ruled states like Andhra Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh, have opposed the Bill primarily because Clauses 45 and 47 give the Centre binding direction and supersession powers, limiting state representation in regulatory councils and threatening federal balance in education governance.

Explanation

The article refers to a 'recent regulatory advisory issued to the banks' by the central bank, which is the RBI. The advisory elevates cybersecurity responsibility to the board level.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the article states the advisory 'elevates cybersecurity responsibility to the board level'. Statement 2 is incorrect: the article warns against rushed patching, citing the Crowdstrike incident. Statement 3 is correct: the IndiaAI Mission has a government outlay of ₹10,372 crore, as mentioned.

Explanation

The article states: 'The Stanford AI Index 2026 notes that private AI investment in the United States reached $285.9 billion in 2025.' The other options are also mentioned in the article but refer to China's private investment ($12.4B), China's national AI fund (60B yuan), and UK's compute roadmap (£2B).

Explanation

The article states: 'When AI systems produce findings at high speed, the problem is no longer a lack of insight but overabundance of the same. This might obscure the critical weakness risk in the noise.' Thus, the challenge is prioritization, not lack of data.

Explanation

As per the article, the extradition request is transmitted by the US State Department to India's Ministry of External Affairs, which then consults the Ministry of Home Affairs and agencies like CBI. Hence, MEA is the nodal ministry.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: dual criminality requires >1 year imprisonment in both countries. Statement 2 is incorrect: the treaty explicitly says extradition cannot be refused merely because the person is an Indian citizen. Statement 3 is correct: rule of speciality is a key safeguard. Hence option C.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the bilateral Extradition Treaty between India and the US was signed in 1997. The other options are close distractors: 1995 is not mentioned, 1999 is the year of the Kargil conflict, and 2002 is the year of the first extradition from India to US.

Explanation

Article 14 of the treaty and Section 31 of the Extradition Act allow India to postpone surrender while domestic proceedings are pending. The article specifically mentions this as the most significant legal consideration for Bishnoi. Option A is incorrect because the treaty bars refusal on citizenship grounds. Option C is false as charges likely satisfy dual criminality. Option D is false as the treaty is still in force.

Explanation

The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) is a statutory body under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, established under the Cinematograph Act, 1952, to certify films for public exhibition.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect: OTT platforms are regulated under the IT Rules, 2021, not the Cinematograph Act. Statement 2 is correct: Part III of IT Rules, 2021 prescribes a three-tier grievance structure. Statement 3 is correct: Section 69A of IT Act allows blocking of content subject to safeguards.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the CBFC sought 127 cuts before clearing a theatrical release. The makers refused and opted for an OTT release instead.

Explanation

The IT Rules, 2021 set up a three-tier structure: self-regulation by the publisher, self-regulatory bodies, and government oversight through the I&B Ministry. This allows platforms to first regulate themselves before government intervention, as explained in the article.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that NOAA issued the monthly bulletin with the 81% chance forecast. IMD is mentioned for India's monsoon forecasts, but the strong El Niño prediction is from NOAA.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article: El Niño is declared when the Niño 3.4 anomaly exceeds 0.50°C. Statement 2 is incorrect: El Niño suppresses Indian monsoon rainfall, not strengthens it. Statement 3 is correct: the article states the current El Niño began in June and will intensify through the end of the year.

Explanation

The article states that the NOAA bulletin said the Niño 3.4 index had crossed 1.2°C, still in the moderate range. 0.50°C is the threshold for declaring El Niño, 2.0°C is the threshold for very strong El Niño.

Explanation

The article clearly states that El Niño has the effect of suppressing rainfall over the Indian region. IMD has forecast July rainfall below 94% of the long period average. The Indian Ocean Dipole is neutral, not positive, so it cannot counter the El Niño effect.

Explanation

The article states that the world's major helium producers are the U.S. (meeting 43% of total supply), followed by Qatar, Russia, Canada, and Algeria. Hence the United States is the largest producer.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the article says China imports more than 80% of its helium needs. Statement 2 is incorrect: China produces only about 1.6% of the world's helium, not the largest. Statement 3 is correct: helium is a non-renewable resource generated deep in the earth's crust over millions of years.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: 'In June 2026, the spot price for highly pure helium in Northeast Asia had reportedly spiked to $150-205 per thousand cubic feet, almost double what it was in late 2025.'

Explanation

The article cites the U.S. Geological Survey: 'laboratory use-cases account for 22% of the demand for helium, followed by controlled atmospheres and semiconductors (17%), lifting gas (17%), MRI scanners (15%), aerospace (9%), and detecting leaks (5%).' Hence laboratory uses are the largest.

Explanation

The European Commission issued the charges under the EU's Digital Services Act (DSA), which requires large platforms to assess and mitigate systemic risks like addictive design. GDPR covers data privacy, DMA targets anti-competitive practices, and the AI Act governs artificial intelligence.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect because the charges are preliminary findings, not a final order. Meta has the chance to respond before a final decision. Statement 2 is correct: the fine can be up to 6% of global annual revenue. Statement 3 is correct: the investigation began in 2024 over child safety concerns.

Explanation

The DSA allows for fines up to 6% of a platform's global annual revenue. The other options are distractors: 4% is the maximum under GDPR, 10% is under the DMA, and €20 million is an alternative GDPR threshold.

Explanation

The DSA aims to create a safer digital space by holding platforms accountable for systemic risks. The action against Meta specifically targets design features that harm mental health, with a focus on protecting minors. While the DSA has market implications, its core objective is user safety.

Explanation

While MEA handles diplomatic aspects, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (Department of Commerce) is the nodal ministry for negotiating and signing FTAs, as it deals with trade policy and international trade agreements.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: Modi is the first Indian PM to visit NZ in 40 years. Statement 2 is incorrect: The FTA was signed in April 2026, not March 2025 (March 2025 was when negotiations started). Statement 3 is correct: NZ spends about 1.5% of GDP on R&D as mentioned in the article.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that bilateral trade with New Zealand currently stands at US$2.25 billion. The other options are plausible distractors, but only US$2.25 billion is the correct figure from the news.

Explanation

The article explicitly links India's outreach to New Zealand as part of its Indo-Pacific strategy, alongside engagements with Japan, Australia, and Indonesia, to counter China's assertive behaviour. While technology cooperation and trade are important, the primary strategic objective is geopolitical balancing in the Indo-Pacific.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions the 'latest PLFS city estimates from the National Statistics Office'. The NSO operates under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI).

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect: Female LFPR in big cities is 25.5%, lower than the urban average of 27.7%. Statement 2 is correct: 65.1% of employed women in these cities are in regular salaried work. Statement 3 is incorrect: The gender gap in unemployment is larger in big cities (9.81% for women vs 6.49% for men) compared to elsewhere (9.07% vs 6.36%).

Explanation

The article states that 'women earn 22.7 per cent less than men'. The 12.6% figure refers to the fewer hours worked by women, and 20% is the portion of the earnings gap explained by fewer hours.

Explanation

The article argues that women's employment is 'not just a wage decision'. Evidence from job-search behaviour shows women search closer to home. The 'geography of work'—including safety, household responsibility, social norms, and weak transport systems—prevents women from accessing the jobs available in cities.

Explanation

The article states that the notification was issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade, which is responsible for implementing foreign trade policy in India.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the deal comes into force on July 15, 2026. Statement 2 is incorrect because the initial quota is 20,000 CBUs, not 37,000. Statement 3 is correct as alternate fuel vehicle concessions begin from year 6. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

According to the article, no alternate fuel vehicle with a landed cost of less than 40,000 pounds will receive any concessions. £30,000, £50,000, and £80,000 are distractors; £80,000 is the threshold for ultra-luxury vehicles.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that delaying concessions provides 'domestic manufacturers a buffer before they will have to start competing with U.K. brands.' This infant industry protection rationale is common in trade agreements.

Explanation

The ECI oversees all electoral roll revisions, including SIR, under Article 324 and the Representation of the People Act, 1950. The CEO acts as its state-level delegate but the ultimate authority lies with the ECI.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article: ST constituencies had 64.2% of deletions. Statement 2 is incorrect: 'Death' accounted for 41.9% in General constituencies, not ST; in ST it was only 18.9%. Statement 3 is correct: the draft rolls were released on July 5, 2026. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article states that 1.59 lakh deletions occurred during the enumeration phase. 1.02 lakh is the number of deletions in ST constituencies alone, 56,850 is deletions in General constituencies, and 14,152 is the deletions in Saikot constituency.

Explanation

The article highlights that many organizations expressed concerns over disenfranchisement of voters displaced by conflict who may have lost identity documents. No mention of technology, duplicate entries, or political representation as primary concerns.

Explanation

According to the article, the NeoSep1 trial is sponsored by the GARDP Foundation (Global Antibiotic Research and Development Partnership) in collaboration with UCL, City St George's University of London, and Penta Foundation. WHO, UNICEF, and ICMR are not mentioned as sponsors.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the article defines neonatal sepsis as a bloodstream infection in babies under 90 days old. Statement 2 is incorrect: the article states that GBS accounts for only 2-5% of cases in India, while gram-negative organisms predominate. Statement 3 is correct: the trial aims to enrol 3,000 newborns across Asia and Africa by the end of 2028.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: 'NeoSep1 aims to enrol 3,000 newborns across Asia and Africa by the end of 2028.' The other numbers are not mentioned. This is a direct data point that can be asked in Prelims.

Explanation

The article states the trial's goal is 'to identify one or more safe, effective, and affordable treatments that can reduce the high number of newborn deaths caused by drug-resistant sepsis, especially in low- and middle-income countries.' The other options are not stated or are peripheral.

Explanation

The article states that a bench of Chief Justice Soumen Sen and Justice Syam Kumar V M of the Kerala High Court issued the order on July 8, 2026, directing that the district judge's opinion must be given 'due primacy' in the appointment panel.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the court modified the draft circular to use 'due primacy'. Statement 2 is incorrect because the court made it clear that the district police chief's opinion was not final or binding; it was only meant to assist in antecedent verification. Statement 3 is correct as the court appreciated the amicus curiae's assistance. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article explicitly states 'the July 8 order said' referring to the Kerala High Court's ruling. July 10, 2026 is the publication date of the article, and April 1, 2026 is the date of the Madras High Court order. Hence the correct answer is July 8, 2026.

Explanation

The court stated that the district police chief's input was only meant to assist the committee in verifying a candidate's antecedents, considering the importance of the office. It was not final or binding. This checks the understanding of the court's precise reasoning.

Explanation

The article states the screengrab was released by US Central Command (CENTCOM), which oversees US military operations in the Middle East. CENTCOM's area of responsibility includes Iran, Iraq, and the Persian Gulf region.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as Trump said Iranian attacks on shipping effectively ended the truce. Statement 2 is incorrect because Iran targeted Kuwait and Qatar, not Saudi Arabia and UAE. Statement 3 is correct as Netanyahu raised concerns over Erdogan's rhetoric and potential F-35 sales to Turkey.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that Iran retaliated by targeting 'US-allied Kuwait and Qatar'. The other options are close distractors as Saudi Arabia and UAE are also US allies in the region, but the article specifically names Kuwait and Qatar.

Explanation

The Strait of Hormuz is a critical chokepoint through which a significant portion of global oil passes. India, being a major oil importer, is highly vulnerable to any disruption in this strait, leading to energy price volatility and impacting its economy. While other options may be secondary concerns, energy security is the primary direct impact.

Explanation

The NCB, under the Ministry of Home Affairs, is the nodal agency for coordinating and enforcing the NDPS Act. While Customs and IB assist, NCB is the primary body for drug law enforcement as mentioned in the article.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: five states (Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana) and Puducherry are involved. Statement 2 is incorrect because the article specifies 'at least Superintendent of Police (SP) rank', not Dy.SP. Statement 3 is correct: Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala made the announcement. Thus only statement 1 and 3 are correct? Wait, statement 3 is correct as well. The correct option should be 'Both 1 and 3' (C). Let me correct that. Actually re-evaluate: Statement 3 is explicitly correct. So correct is both 1 and 3. The trap is in statement 2 (rank). So answer is C.

Explanation

The article explicitly states 'nodal officer of at least Superintendent of Police (SP) rank'. Dy.SP is lower, DIG and IG are higher ranks. The close distractor is Dy.SP, which appears later in the article for 'specialised narcotic units' but not for nodal officers of the network.

Explanation

The mechanism aims to strengthen anti-drug surveillance through regular exchange of operational information and coordinated action. It does not reduce court cases (rather special courts increase), nor does it replace central agencies or make states independent. Option B is the core purpose stated in the article.

Explanation

The article explicitly states the decision is guided by the principle that 'those who cause environmental degradation should also contribute towards its mitigation', which is the core of the Polluter Pays Principle.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the green cess targets stone crushers and brick kilns. Statement 2 is incorrect because the budget expanded 'almost threefold', not fivefold. Statement 3 is correct as the Guwahati Tea Auction Buyers' Association appreciated the ₹3 per kg export subsidy.

Explanation

The Finance Minister announced that 48,366 job-seeking graduates would start getting ₹2,500 per month each from September under the Jibon Prerana scheme.

Explanation

The article states the resumption is because 'the prices of these essential commodities have risen due to the West Asia crisis', directly linking the policy to global geopolitical events affecting domestic food security.

Explanation

Drug regulation in India falls under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. The Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) is the central authority under this ministry. Hence option B is correct.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the new rule: >12% v/v and >30 ml require prescription. Statement 2 is incorrect; the amendment does not prohibit sale, only regulates it through prescription and licensing. Statement 3 is correct: products are moved from Schedule K (exemption) to Schedule H1 (prescription). Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The amendment specifies the threshold as 'more than 12% v/v ethyl alcohol'. Distractors like 10% and 15% are common confusions. The correct value is 12% v/v.

Explanation

The government release explicitly states that the move aims to 'significantly reduce the possibility of diversion and misuse while ensuring their continued availability for legitimate therapeutic use'. Options A, C and D are not mentioned as objectives. Hence option B is correct.

Explanation

The article states that the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas released a frequently asked questions (FAQ) document on July 10, 2026, addressing concerns about E20 fuel's mileage and cost.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the government admitted a 3-5% mileage hit in some vehicles. Statement 2 is correct: E20 reduces lifecycle carbon emissions by about 40%. Statement 3 is incorrect: E20 is not cheaper when crude oil is around $70 per barrel; it becomes cheaper only at higher crude prices ($120-130/bbl).

Explanation

The article states: 'We have progressively increased its procurement price and today it is around ₹71.86 per litre, even before GST, transportation, storage and depot handling costs.'

Explanation

The government explains that it buys ethanol at remunerative prices (e.g., ₹71.86/litre) to ensure farmers are fairly compensated. When crude oil is at $70/bbl, the cost of producing E20 is higher than that of pure petrol. The price advantage of ethanol only reverses at much higher crude prices ($120-130/bbl).

Explanation

The article states that CMIE (Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy) estimated the June retail inflation at 4.25%. CMIE is a private economic think tank, not a government agency. RBI sets the target but does not estimate monthly inflation — that is done by the Ministry of Statistics (NSO) and private agencies like CMIE.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct — retail inflation stayed below 4% for 16 consecutive months (since about Feb 2025). Statement 2 is correct — transport inflation estimated at 4.6% due to fuel price hikes and Maruti's price revision. Statement 3 is correct — RBI's tolerance band is +/-2% around the 4% target, i.e., 2% to 6%.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that May retail inflation was 3.93%. 4.00% is the RBI target, 4.25% is the June estimate, and 6.00% is the upper tolerance band limit. This is a direct data recall question for prelims.

Explanation

The article explains that if inflation goes above 6%, RBI will need to raise interest rates in the economy, making loans costlier and reducing economic activity to cool price rise. Option A would be expansionary and fuel inflation further, C is status quo, D is inflationary.

Explanation

The article states that 'A Red Corner Notice was issued against Goldy Brar by the Interpol Secretariat General in Lyon, France.'

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: US law enforcement coordinated with Indian agencies. Statement 2 is incorrect: Green Notice warns about criminal activities, not missing persons (Yellow Notice does). Statement 3 is correct: the bilateral Extradition Treaty of 1997 governs extradition between India and the US.

Explanation

The DoJ press release stated that law enforcement seized approximately 1,000 kilograms of cocaine as part of Operation Hardball.

Explanation

The article explains that the Extradition Treaty of 1997 is based on the principle of dual criminality — an offence is extraditable if punishable with imprisonment of more than one year in both countries.

Explanation

NHSRCL is the special purpose vehicle established to implement India’s first bullet train project. It is jointly owned by the Centre and the governments of Gujarat and Maharashtra.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect – the heaviest beam weighs 1,640 MT and was launched using a 2,200 MT crawler crane (swap of numbers). Statement 3 is correct about the August 2027 target.

Explanation

The article specifically states that the final portal beam at Sabarmati weighs approximately 1,640 metric tonnes. Options 2,200 MT refers to the crane capacity, while 1,500 and 1,800 are distractors.

Explanation

The article states that the hub will allow passengers to easily switch between metro, buses, taxis, autos, and other local transport. While the kite-inspired design is an aesthetic feature and retail outlets generate revenue, the core purpose is multimodal integration and smooth traffic flow.

Explanation

The article states that the Chhattisgarh government issued an advisory on July 3, 2026, asking farmers to prioritize DSR over traditional transplanting due to rainfall uncertainty and labour shortages.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article: DSR saves 20% water. Statement 2 is correct: DSR reduces costs by ₹5,000 per acre and requires less labour. Statement 3 is incorrect because the article mentions that laser levelling equipment is not readily available in Chhattisgarh, contributing to low adoption.

Explanation

The government advisory explicitly states that DSR saves 20% water. The other options are close distractors; 10% is too low, while 30% and 40% are not mentioned in the article.

Explanation

The article highlights that the high cost of super seed drills (₹1.5 lakh) and unavailability of equipment for rent discourage small farmers. While cultural factors may exist, the article specifically mentions economic and logistical barriers as key reasons. The government does provide a price of ₹3,100 per quintal, but DSR adoption remains low due to these practical hurdles.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that China announced the temporary export ban on helium. The other options are countries involved in the conflict mentioned but not the one imposing the ban.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the article says helium is essential for heat management in chip manufacturing. Statement 2 is incorrect: the ban is temporary, not permanent. Statement 3 is correct: the announcement date is July 10, 2026. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article clearly states 'China announced on Friday (July 10, 2026) a temporary export ban on helium'. The other dates are close distractors but not mentioned in the news.

Explanation

The article states the ban aims to 'prevent domestic shortages of critical materials' and that helium is 'critical for chip manufacturing'. While supporting AI and retaliation are plausible, the primary stated reason is preventing domestic shortages.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions that Trump favors lifting 'CAATSA sanctions on Turkey'. CAATSA is a US law passed in 2017 targeting countries that have significant transactions with Russia's defense sector. Turkey's purchase of the S-400 system triggered these sanctions, leading to its removal from the F-35 program.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: Trump asked EU members to reimburse $350 billion that the US spent on Ukraine. Statement 2 is incorrect: SAFE mandates at least 65% EU-origin procurement, and non-EU members like Turkey face veto from Greece and Cyprus, effectively being treated as 'foreigners'. Statement 3 is correct: Trump explicitly stated he attended only because Erdogan was the host. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article states: 'NATO has pledged €70 billion in military aid to Ukraine that will be fully financed by the EU.' $350 billion is the amount the US demanded as reimbursement from Europe, not the pledged aid. €150 billion refers to the SAFE fund's project value, not Ukraine aid. Hence option B is correct.

Explanation

The article explains that SAFE mandates at least 65% procurement from EU-origin sources, aimed at reducing EU's dependency on the US and expediting EU's defence innovation. While SAFE may indirectly benefit Ukraine and NATO, its core objective is EU defense autonomy. Option A is incorrect as SAFE is an EU fund, not a NATO mechanism. Option D is unrelated.

Explanation

The ethanol-petrol blending programme is overseen by the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, as it involves blending ethanol with petrol for use as automotive fuel. The ministry coordinates with oil marketing companies, automobile manufacturers, and other stakeholders.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: India achieved E10 target in June 2022. Statement 2 is incorrect: E20 contains 80% petrol and 20% ethanol, not the reverse. Statement 3 is correct: The government has rejected the demand for multiple fuel grades citing enormous logistical challenges.

Explanation

The petroleum ministry stated that public sector banks have financed nearly ₹1 lakh crore per year of investments in ethanol production and associated infrastructure over the past several years.

Explanation

The government argued that India's vast fuel distribution network (over 1 lakh retail outlets, extensive pipelines and depots) cannot efficiently handle multiple base fuel grades. This would increase handling costs, complicate inventory management, and reduce operational efficiency.

Explanation

The article states that the casket was draped in the red Ya Hussein flag flown from the Karbala shrine itself. Karbala is the site of Imam Hussain's martyrdom, a central symbol in Shia Islam.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the casket travelled from Tehran to Qom, across the border to Najaf and Karbala, and finally to Mashhad. Statement 2 is incorrect: the article says Mojtaba did NOT attend the funeral. Statement 3 is correct: the ceremonies were timed to coincide with Muharram and the 250th anniversary of American independence. Hence option C.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that under the MoU signed with the US, Iran has guaranteed toll-free passage for 60 days. The other options are plausible distractors but not mentioned in the article.

Explanation

The article argues that the funeral was designed as a symbolic inversion to recast defeat as sacrifice, and that the regime needed citizens to be seen grieving. The performance of strength was a substitute for actual power, as seen in the absence of the new leader and the Strait of Hormuz MoU.

Explanation

The article states that Chennai-based Integral Coach Factory (ICF) developed the hydrogen train set. ICF is a premier coach manufacturing unit under the Ministry of Railways.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the train set has 10 coaches and is the world’s longest hydrogen train. Statement 2 is incorrect: total power is 2400 kW (two DPCs of 1200 kW each). Statement 3 is correct: the route is Jind-Sonipat in Haryana. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article clearly mentions that the train will operate at a maximum speed of 75 kmph on the Jind-Sonipat route. The other options are plausible distractors but not mentioned in the news.

Explanation

The article highlights that the hydrogen train produces zero CO2 emissions and the only emission is water vapour, making it a green rail initiative. This is the core environmental advantage compared to diesel or even electric trains (which may have indirect emissions).

Explanation

The article explicitly states that Israel shared intelligence with the US about an alleged Iran assassination plot against President Trump. The other countries were not mentioned as sharing such intelligence.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect because the article says US intelligence agencies have not confirmed any active plot. Statement 3 is correct as Iran has vowed retaliation for Soleimani's killing. Hence option C.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that Washington and Tehran are aiming to reach a nuclear deal by mid-August. The other options are close distractors not mentioned in the article.

Explanation

The article highlights that the intelligence comes amid renewed US-Iran tensions during nuclear negotiations. Such a serious allegation could harden positions and derail progress. The article does not suggest no effect, acceleration, or immediate military action.

Explanation

The article explicitly cites the All India Survey on Higher Education (AISHE) 2023-24 as the source for all enrolment and graduate output data. The other reports cover different domains.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the table shows Computer Engineering has 39.7% enrolment share. Statement 2 is correct: Mechanical had 1,13,390 pass-outs vs Electronics 1,11,242. Statement 3 is correct as the article explicitly states overall higher education enrolment reached 4.5 crore.

Explanation

The article clearly states 'Engineering and Technology enrolment across undergraduate, postgraduate, integrated, MPhil, and PhD programmes stands at 46,33,868 students.' The other options are distractors: 8,33,808 is UG pass-outs, 2,62,408 is Computer Engineering UG pass-outs, and 4.5 crore is overall higher education enrolment.

Explanation

The article states 'The findings point to changing student preferences as India’s digital economy expands' and mentions LinkedIn data on AI hiring growth. Other options are not mentioned or supported by the article.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions Section 151-A of the Representation of the People Act, 1951 as the legal provision under which the court examined whether vacancies are 'clear'. This section governs the procedure for filling casual vacancies in the House of the People and State Legislative Assemblies.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the court restrained ECI from notifying bypolls. Statement 2 is incorrect because the court held that vacancies with pending election petitions are NOT 'clear vacancies'. Statement 3 is correct as the court quoted from D Sanjeevayya vs Election Tribunal, among other precedents.

Explanation

The article specifically lists five constituencies: Tiruchi (East), Perundurai, Ambasamudram, Viralimalai and Karur. This is a direct factual detail from the news.

Explanation

The court explicitly stated that conducting bypolls before deciding election petitions could create a 'constitutional anomaly' where two individuals with competing claims represent the same constituency. This is the core legal reasoning behind the stay.

Explanation

The CBFC is a statutory body under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, established under the Cinematograph Act, 1952. The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology oversees the IT Act, not film certification.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the film is a biopic on Jaswant Singh Khalra. Statement 2 is incorrect: the film never reached cinemas; it was released directly on OTT. Statement 3 is incorrect: the makers refused the cuts and released the uncut version on ZEE5.

Explanation

The article states that the Bombay High Court disposed of the case on January 7, 2025, after the makers withdrew the petition. May 2023 is when CBFC sent a communication prohibiting release. July 3, 2026, is the OTT release date.

Explanation

The article explicitly states the Centre wants to make certification mandatory for movies available for public viewing on any platform, not just theatrical releases. This is a regulatory move, not revenue or promotion driven.

Explanation

As mentioned in the article, FCI falls under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution. The Minister for this ministry was unavailable for comment, confirming the linkage.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct – Joshi is an IA&AS officer of 1994 batch. Statement 2 is incorrect – the suspension order was issued on July 6, 2026, not July 7. Statement 3 is correct – NERAMAC is under the Ministry of DoNER. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article clearly states that five officials were suspended, including the Executive Director (Ashutosh Joshi), General Manager (Anupam Dubey), Deputy General Manager (Vikash Krishna), Assistant General Manager (Brahm Prakash), and General Manager Regional Office Delhi (K P Asha). Thus 5 is correct.

Explanation

As per the article, OMSS(D) is a government initiative under which FCI sells surplus foodgrains through e-auctions at predetermined reserve prices to stabilise market prices and ensure steady supply. Option B correctly captures this objective.

Explanation

An MoU is a non-binding agreement that expresses the common will of parties and is often used as a precursor to a treaty. The article mentions the U.S.-Iran MoU as a ceasefire and talks framework, not a legally binding treaty.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: The MoU was signed on June 17, 2026, and promised a 60-day ceasefire extension. Statement 2 is incorrect: The sticking point was Israel's refusal to withdraw from southern Lebanon, not Iran's. Statement 3 is correct: The U.S. backed an alternative route along Oman's coast while Iran opened its own safe passage route.

Explanation

The article explicitly states, 'It took only 20 days for the U.S.-Iran memorandum of understanding ... to start unravelling' after being signed on June 17, 2026. The other options are distractors; 40 days refers to the duration of U.S. bombing, not the breakdown period.

Explanation

The article highlights that Iran fears the U.S. is promoting an alternative Oman route to strip away Iran's leverage established during the war. Opening a safe passage along its coast is Iran's attempt to remain the sole custodian of the Strait, a key bargaining chip in negotiations.

Explanation

The article states that the SIR is being implemented by the Election Commission of India (ECI). The ECI is the constitutional authority under Article 324 mandated to conduct elections and maintain electoral rolls for Parliament and State Legislatures.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the article notes adverse criticism of SIR for hasty, disproportionate, and summary deletion of voters. Statement 2 is incorrect: the article explicitly states that Manipuri tribals (Kuki-Zo and Naga) do NOT enjoy Sixth Schedule status; they have only Article 371C and weak Autonomous Councils. Statement 3 is correct: the article says 'more than 90% of Kuki-Zo people are unlikely to be able to produce a single, consistent spelling of their own names'. Hence option C.

Explanation

The article mentions that the conflict has 'displaced some 60,000 people within and outside Manipur'. Options A (26,000) is close to the Naga population percentage, B (50,000) is the approximate Kuki-Zo displaced figure, and D (2,60,000) is a distractor. The correct total IDP figure is 60,000.

Explanation

The article argues that SIR, under the prevailing conditions of displacement, lost documents, and biased narratives against Kukis, will lead to their systematic exclusion from electoral rolls, effectively disenfranchising them. The other options are not supported; the SIR is not designed to increase turnout or resolve conflict.

Explanation

The Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) is a statutory body under the MoEFCC that evaluates projects requiring environmental clearance under the Environment Protection Act, 1986. The article specifically mentions the EAC under the Union Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the debris slide happened at the entrance of the twin tunnel at Kalladi in Meppadi panchayat. Statement 2 is correct: the state government suspended construction pending a probe. Statement 3 is incorrect: the Supreme Court actually rejected a plea to halt the project in April 2026, citing 'national importance'.

Explanation

The article mentions the project cost as approximately ₹2,100 crore. The other options are plausible distractors: ₹1,500 crore is too low, ₹2,500 crore and ₹3,000 crore are higher than the stated figure.

Explanation

Environmentalists flagged the project as a 'recipe for disaster' due to the fragile ecology of Wayanad, which has witnessed repeated landslides. The article notes that the region is highly susceptible to climate-induced catastrophes. While cost and displacement may be concerns, the primary environmental argument is ecological fragility.