12 September 2026, Questions & Answers

Explanation

As per the article, BRICS has 11 members: Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Indonesia (joined Jan 2025). Turkey is not a member.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: Commission forwarded proposal to Council. Statement 2 is incorrect: the deal eliminates tariffs on 96% of EU goods exports to India, not Indian goods. Statement 3 is correct: Parliament consent is required. Hence option B.

Explanation

The article states that 'Around 12% of global trade usually passes through it.' 5% refers to oil and petroleum products. 20% is the approximate share of global oil passing through the Strait of Hormuz.

Explanation

Perim Island overlooks the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, which connects the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden and leads to the Suez Canal. Disruption here forces ships to take longer routes around Africa, increasing costs. India's trade with Europe and energy imports depend on this route. The Strait of Hormuz is a separate chokepoint.

Explanation

As per the article, India's BRICS summit preparation was led by the Ministry of External Affairs, which handles foreign policy and multilateral engagements. The ministry coordinates summits, meetings, and diplomatic outreach for groupings like BRICS.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the summit was in New Delhi on September 12-13, 2026. Statement 2 is incorrect: the article says BRICS has 11 members AND about 10 partner countries. Statement 3 is correct: India's focus was on 'building resilience, innovation, cooperation and sustainability'.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: 'around 350 meetings were conducted by India in cities across the country, with as many as 22 held at the ministerial level.' Hence, 22 is the correct figure. The other options are close distractors.

Explanation

The article states: 'The central tenet of the Indian agenda... is to create a collaborative platform that enables the sharing of knowledge and best practices, facilitates joint research, and promotes capacity building.' This reflects a people-centric, humanity-first approach. Options A, C, and D are not supported by the article.

Explanation

BRICS stands for Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. Japan is not a member. The other three are founding or current members of the grouping.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: Xi visited India in October 2019 for an informal summit at Mamallapuram. Statement 2 is incorrect: the standoff began in summer 2020, not 2021. Statement 3 is correct: as mentioned by India’s ambassador, the combined population is 2.8 billion. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that Xi last visited India in October 2019 when he travelled to Mamallapuram for an informal bilateral summit. The other options are distractors: 2017 and 2018 are incorrect, and 2020 is the year the standoff began, not a visit year.

Explanation

The article states that Xi’s visit is 'expected to give new impetus to efforts by the two countries for restoration of ties after a long, tense military standoff'. While trade or border resolution may be discussed, the core significance is the diplomatic thaw. Options A, C, and D are not supported by the article as primary objectives.

Explanation

BRICS originally began as BRIC (Brazil, Russia, India, China) in 2009. South Africa was added in 2010, making it a later entrant, not a founding member. The article mentions BRICS as a grouping but does not specify founding members; this static fact is linked to the organization.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the article states Modi met Putin for a 45-minute sit-down at Bharat Mandapam. Statement 2 is incorrect: the deficit is $112 billion in China's favour, not India's. Statement 3 is correct: the article says India is pushing BRICS toward practical cooperation.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that Modi and Putin reaffirmed the target of lifting bilateral trade to $100 billion by 2030. Option D ($127.7 billion) is the actual India-China trade figure for FY 2024-25, a common distractor.

Explanation

The article highlights that the sequence showcases India's balancing act: deepening ties with Moscow, testing a fragile reset with Beijing, and refusing to be boxed into either a Western or Sino-Russian camp. This is a classic example of India's multi-alignment strategy.

Explanation

The Ministry of Jal Shakti is the nodal ministry for water resources management and inter-state/inter-country water disputes in India. It handles the technical and policy aspects of the Farakka Treaty, though the Ministry of External Affairs handles diplomatic negotiations.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the Farakka Treaty is a bilateral water-sharing agreement between India and Bangladesh. Statement 2 is incorrect: the 1996 treaty notably lacks a 'minimum flow guarantee clause', unlike the earlier 1977 temporary agreement. Statement 3 is correct: the treaty was signed on December 12, 1996, for 30 years, expiring in 2026.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the treaty regulates water sharing 'primarily during the dry season (January 1 to May 31)'. The other options represent different seasonal periods and are distractors. Bihar receives water only from July to October, which is the monsoon season.

Explanation

The article highlights that Bihar argues the Farakka Barrage has created a 'flood-and-parch' dynamic, trapping silt and raising the riverbed, which destroys natural water storage and causes devastating floods in districts like Bhagalpur and Munger. The state demands year-round flow but receives water only for four months.

Explanation

South Africa joined BRICS later in 2010, making it a later entrant. The original 'BRIC' grouping (2001) consisted of Brazil, Russia, India, and China. The article mentions South Africa as a 'later entrant' to the grouping.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the article states 20 Indian personnel were killed in the June 2020 clashes. Statement 2 is correct: the Doklam standoff was in 2017, before the 2020 clashes. Statement 3 is incorrect: the LAC is a de facto border, not a legally demarcated boundary.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions 'deployment of about 50,000 Indian troops along the Line of Actual Control (LAC)' in eastern Ladakh. The other options are close distractors but are not mentioned in the article.

Explanation

The article states India has built robust ties with the US and Western nations for capital, technology, and markets. Therefore, India does not wish to be seen as 'anti-West', preferring a 'non-Western' stance to maintain strategic autonomy and partnerships with both sides.

Explanation

As per the article caption, Brazilian Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira attended the Leaders' Session, not the President. This is a subtle static fact that can be tested in prelims to check attention to detail.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect because the article explicitly states 'reducing reliance on the US dollar' is a priority. Statement 2 is correct as the summit is held in New Delhi. Statement 3 is correct as Iran is mentioned as a member of the expanded BRICS group.

Explanation

The article states: 'Leaders of the BRICS nations were meeting in New Delhi on Saturday (September 12, 2026) for a summit'. The previous day (Sept 11) was a separate Leaders' Session of the BRICS Business Forum. The correct preliminary date for the main summit is Sept 12.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: 'Reducing reliance on the U.S. dollar will also be a priority, with members promoting greater use of their own currencies in trade and payments'. This reflects the bloc's push for de-dollarization.

Explanation

The original five BRICS members are Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. Indonesia joined later in 2025 as part of the grouping's expansion. The article confirms Indonesia became a full BRICS member in 2025, making it a newer member, not a founding one.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: The article explicitly states that Xi Jinping's visit to New Delhi is his first trip to India since the deadly 2020 border clashes. Statement 2 is incorrect: Saudi Arabia was invited to join BRICS in 2023 and is listed among its members, but the article says it 'maintained a degree of ambiguity over the formal status of its BRICS membership.' Therefore it is not a confirmed full member. Statement 3 is correct: The summit begins Saturday, September 12 in New Delhi.

Explanation

The article clearly states: 'Bilateral trade reached nearly $70 billion in 2024–25.' The other options are distractors: $50 billion is not mentioned, $100 billion is the target set for 2030, and $90 billion is not referenced.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that Iran's presence is important because India 'has to balance several relationships simultaneously: its strategic partnership with the UAE and Gulf states, its ties with Israel and the US, and its longstanding relationship with Tehran.' BRICS gives India a forum to maintain dialogue with Iran while advocating de-escalation and protecting its interests in energy, connectivity, and regional stability.

Explanation

The Border Security Force (BSF) is under the administrative control of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), not the Ministry of Defence. BSF guards India's international borders during peacetime.

Explanation

Statements 1 and 2 are correct as per the article: over 1,200 interceptions since 2024, and drone tech evolved from radio to satellite/anti-jamming. Statement 3 is incorrect: 'Baaz Akh' was launched by the Punjab state government (Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann), not the central government.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: 'Nearly 294 Pakistani drones were intercepted by the BSF and other allied agencies in Punjab in 2024'. 287 was the figure for 2025; 1,200 is the cumulative since 2024; 300 is an approximate monthly figure.

Explanation

The article states that 'Baaz Akh' was launched 'to stop cross-border smuggling from Pakistan.' It is a mobile anti-drone grid for detection, tracking, jamming, and neutralisation of drones carrying contraband. The other options are not mentioned in the article.

Explanation

The Ministry of External Affairs handles India's foreign policy and multilateral engagements including BRICS summits. The article mentions India hosted the summit, which is coordinated by MEA.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct per the article (overcoming sharp divisions between Iran and UAE). Statement 2 is incorrect because the meeting was after 7 years, not 5. Statement 3 is directly quoted from the article. Hence option C.

Explanation

The article explicitly states 'As many as 26 families have been living in plastic tents since the August 2019 floods destroyed their homes.' Options are close numbers to test exact recall.

Explanation

The article mentions PM Modi highlighted 'the current imbalance between decision-makers and those impacted by their decisions' and called for global reform. The phrase 'rule-takers to rule-shapers' implies developing countries want a greater say in global institutions like UN, IMF, etc. Options A and D are not mentioned; C is partially true but not the primary significance.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that PM Modi addressed the 18th BRICS Summit at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. BRICS is the grouping of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: Modi proposed that leaders jointly prepare 10 proposals. Statement 2 is correct: the Continuity and Implementation Mechanism would be used by the Troika. Statement 3 is incorrect because the proposal says 'maritime authorities and missions', not only naval authorities.

Explanation

The article clearly states 'the 18th BRICS Summit that began on Saturday in New Delhi'. The other numbers are distractors; the summit was the 18th.

Explanation

The article emphasizes Modi's call to move from 'rule-takers to rule-shapers' and to reform global governance structures. The other options are not mentioned; the focus is on governance reform, not trade, military, or currency.

Explanation

The article states that unilateral tariff measures are 'inconsistent with the World Trade Organisation's (WTO) rules'. The BRICS declaration specifically calls for WTO reform and upholding its foundational principles.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article mentions 'Members of BRICS on Saturday adopted The New Delhi Declaration 2026'. Statement 2 is false because total global sanctions since 1949 are 1,325, but the US imposed 486 of them. Statement 3 is correct as BRICS advocated for 'immediate restoration' of the appellate body.

Explanation

The article cites Urjit Patel's working paper stating 'out of 1,325 global sanctions since 1949, 486 have been imposed by the US'. Option B is the total global count, C is the number of US sanctions programmes, and D refers to African countries receiving zero-tariff treatment from China.

Explanation

The declaration states they will 'work together to enhance the WTO's responsiveness to trade disruptions' and 'engage constructively in the WTO reform'. Options A, B, and D are contrary to the declaration's content, which upholds multilateralism and special treatment for developing nations.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions the BRICS Counter-Terrorism Working Group (CTWG) as the mechanism for coordinating counter-terrorism cooperation among BRICS nations. The other options are not mentioned in the declaration.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the declaration expressed condemnation of 'unilateral coercive measures'. Statement 2 is false because the declaration steered clear of a common BRICS currency and instead focused on promoting local currency settlements. Statement 3 is correct as the declaration reiterated support for a two-state solution with East Jerusalem as capital. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the April 2025 terrorist attack in Pahalgam killed 26 people. The other numbers are distractors; 20 is lower, 30 and 35 are higher than the actual figure.

Explanation

The article mentions that 'Members also expressed interest in taking forward discussions on India's proposal for a BRICS Risk Lab at the GIFT City International Financial Services Centre in Gujarat.' It was not rejected, launched, or referred to the NDB at this stage.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions the 'WTO dispute settlement mechanism' and the need to appoint new Appellate Body members. The other options are not mentioned in the context of trade dispute resolution.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article says 'expressing concern over the tensions... sought maximum restraint'. Statement 2 is correct: 'strongly advocate for immediate restoration of... two-tier binding WTO dispute settlement mechanism'. Statement 3 is incorrect because Iran and UAE joined BRICS in 2024, not as founding members (original five: Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa).

Explanation

The article states: 'Ever since the start of the war on February 28, when the US and Israel attacked Iran'. The other dates are either the BRICS summit (Sept 12) or the foreign ministers' meeting (May).

Explanation

The article explains that since the war started, 'Tehran has targeted US bases in the Gulf region, including the UAE. This has had the Emiratis and the Iranians at loggerheads.' The other options are not supported by the article.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the project is in Odisha, positioning the state as a global aluminium manufacturing hub. The other options are major industrial states but not mentioned in this context.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect because the investment amount is $11.5 billion, not $15 billion. Statement 3 is correct as the meeting occurred at the BRICS summit under India's chairship. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article mentions a $11.5 billion integrated greenfield aluminium project. The other options are close distractors; $15 billion is mentioned nowhere, and $10.5/$12.5 are not correct.

Explanation

The article quotes PM Modi stating that a strong India-UAE is a symbol of stability, prosperity, and peace at a time of uncertainty in West Asia. While the other options may be tangential, the core message from the meeting is about stability in the region.

Explanation

The article states that 'Sagar Manthan' is being built for NCPOR under the Union Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES). NCPOR functions under MoES, which also administers the Deep Ocean Mission and other ocean-related programs.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article mentions length 89.5 m and gross tonnage 5,900 tonnes. Statement 2 is incorrect: the maximum depth capability is 6 km, not 10 km. Statement 3 is correct: the ORV can launch AUVs and ROVs under the Deep Ocean Mission. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article clearly states that the ORV will be capable of surveys in coastal seas and deep waters at a maximum depth of 6 km. Options 4 km, 8 km, and 10 km are distractors; 4 km is too shallow, 8 and 10 km are not mentioned.

Explanation

The article lists the components of the Deep Ocean Mission: developing technologies for deep sea mining, underwater vehicles, robotics, and a crewed submersible (Samudrayaan). While fisheries, marine stations, and mapping are related, the core objective is deep-sea mining and submersible technology.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: 'China and Russia, as permanent members of the UN Security Council, reiterate their support to the aspirations of Brazil and India to play a greater role in the UN, including its Security Council.'

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect because the declaration avoided any mention of Ukraine. Statement 2 is correct: the declaration condemned the Pahalgam attack (22 April 2025). Statement 3 is correct: the declaration expressed strong support for Iran's WTO accession bid.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: 'We condemn in the strongest terms the terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir on 22 April 2025, during which 26 people were killed and many more injured.'

Explanation

The article explains that these terms are standard BRICS shorthand for Western sanctions regimes, and the declaration also opposes 'carbon border adjustment mechanisms' aimed at US/EU trade-climate measures. The context shows a swipe at US tariff policies without naming Trump directly.

Explanation

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) regulates NBFCs under the RBI Act, 1934. It issued the directive to Tata Sons as an NBFC-Upper Layer, rejecting its plea to remain unregistered and ordering listing.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: Tata Sons is indeed an NBFC-UL. Statement 2 is incorrect: the RBI rejected the voluntary surrender. Statement 3 is correct: the 18.3% stake held by Shapoorji Pallonji can be monetised through listing. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article states that the RBI replaced the previous methodology with a simple criterion: only NBFCs with assets of ₹1 lakh crore or more will be classified as NBFC-UL. Tata Sons meets this threshold.

Explanation

RBI's SBR framework designates large NBFCs (assets ≥₹1 lakh crore) as Upper Layer requiring stricter compliance. Allowing Tata Sons to become unregistered CIC would bypass these rules, undermining systemic risk regulation.

Explanation

The New Delhi Declaration of the 18th BRICS Summit explicitly states that NIMHANS will be the coordinating centre for the network of training hubs and centres of excellence for mental health among BRICS countries.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect because the roadmap is for 2026-29, not 2025-28. Statement 3 is correct as the declaration commits to MHPSS interventions for vulnerable groups including children and adolescents.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions the '18th BRICS Summit' and the 'New Delhi Declaration' adopted during this summit. The other options are plausible distractors but not supported by the text.

Explanation

The declaration states the network 'could also serve as a platform to facilitate collaborative research, policy dialogue, exchange of best practices, and the co-development of evidence-based mental health promotion strategies'. The other options are not mentioned in the article.

Explanation

The article clearly states Xi Jinping made the remarks at a BRICS-related meeting, calling on the grouping to play a 'due role' in West Asia peace. SCO and G20 are other groupings but not the focus of this statement.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as Xi urged BRICS to oppose Cold War mentality. Statement 2 is correct as per Pezeshkian's remarks. Statement 3 is incorrect because Putin said BRICS credibility is 'steadily growing', not declining. Hence option C.

Explanation

Xi explicitly said 'It has been 20 years of self-reliance and self-strengthening' for BRICS. The grouping officially started in 2009, making 20 years approximately correct in context of 2029? But the speech is in 2026, so 20 years likely refers to the broader cooperation. The exact number from the article is 20 years.

Explanation

Xi urged 'relevant parties to follow the direction of political settlement and work for a permanent, comprehensive ceasefire.' While economic interests may be a background factor, the stated objective is peace and stability through dialogue, not military alignment or replacing UN efforts.

Explanation

The article clearly states that the New Delhi Declaration was adopted at the 18th BRICS Summit. The other options are distractors; the 13th Education Minister's meeting was held in Bhubaneshwar, not the summit itself.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the declaration text. Statement 2 is incorrect; the meeting was in Bhubaneshwar, not New Delhi. Statement 3 is correct because the declaration looks forward to the BRICS-TCA Biennial Progress Report. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article explicitly states 'the New Delhi Declaration adopted at the 18th BRICS Summit'. The other options are incorrect, with Bhubaneshwar being the location of the Education Minister's meeting and not the summit declaration.

Explanation

The article states that India circulated the BRICS Guiding Principles on strengthening academic collaboration on traditional and indigenous knowledge systems. The declaration encourages the BRICS Network University to consider including it as an International Thematic Group, aiming to enhance collaboration and preserve such knowledge. Options A and B are not mentioned; option D is unrelated.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions India’s Resourcesat 2 and 2A as part of the RSSC. INSAT-3DR, Cartosat-2, and Oceansat-2 are other Indian remote sensing/communication satellites but are not part of this BRICS constellation.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article: 'acknowledges the significant progress in finalising the amendment ... for including new space agencies'. Statement 2 is incorrect because the declaration notes the initiative of some members to create a working group that 'will also look into a legally binding instrument on PAROS', not a call for immediate creation. Statement 3 is correct: the declaration explicitly welcomes the 65th jubilee of Gagarin’s flight.

Explanation

The article states: 'the 65th jubilee of the first human spaceflight by Yuri Gagarin on 12 April, 1961'. Hence the correct year is 1961. 1957 was the Sputnik launch, 1969 was Apollo 11, 1971 was Salyut 1.

Explanation

The article describes RSSC as a 'virtual network of existing observation satellites' used for remote sensing. Typically such constellations support agriculture, disaster management, urban planning, and environmental monitoring – civilian purposes. Military surveillance is not mentioned, and the constellation is not for communication or navigation.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that Indonesia's induction happened in 2025, while Egypt, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE joined in 2024. This is a key factual detail often tested in prelims.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the article says 'a summit convened in 2009'. Statement 2 is incorrect: Indonesia joined in 2025, not 2024 (the 2024 expansion included Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, UAE). Statement 3 is correct: 'half the world's population' is mentioned. Hence option C.

Explanation

The article states 'a fourth of global trade' (i.e., 25%). One half is the share of world population, two fifths is the share of global economy. This statistical data is a common prelims target.

Explanation

The article highlights that the Iran-UAE conflict (Iran attacked UAE, UAE was attacked by Iran) and differing positions on Israel make consensus difficult. This is a central diplomatic challenge. Other options are not discussed in the article.

Explanation

According to the article, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE became full members of BRICS more than two years ago (i.e., around 2022). Egypt, Indonesia, and Turkey are not mentioned as new members in the article.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article mentions wars, disrupted energy supplies, and soaring costs are fragmenting the world order. Statement 2 is incorrect because India aims to reduce its economic dependence on China. Statement 3 is correct as the article states Xi's presence in Delhi is his first visit since the Galwan clashes.

Explanation

The article clearly states 'The 18th BRICS Summit comes when wars, disrupted energy supplies and soaring costs are fragmenting the world order.' The other options are close distractors.

Explanation

The article states, 'For Delhi, the summit is a test of whether it can advance its own and the forum's interests — through more resilient supply chains and greater use of national currencies in trade.' It also clarifies that BRICS is not an anti-Western alliance. The other options are not supported by the article.

Explanation

According to the article, the exposition was organised by the Ministry of Education in coordination with the Ministry of External Affairs as part of the 18th BRICS Summit. This reflects the collaborative approach between education and foreign policy for innovation diplomacy.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article mentions 37 innovations including AI-based cancer screening and floating solar PV. Statement 2 is incorrect because the maiden edition was held in Nice, France from June 14-16, 2026, not New Delhi. Statement 3 is correct as the BBI Exposition aligns with the BRICS Chairship theme mentioned in the article.

Explanation

The article specifically states that 'AI-enabled cervical cancer screening, floating solar PV, marine robotics... are among 37 innovations on display' at the exposition. The other options are close distractors that could be confused with other summit statistics.

Explanation

The article describes the BBI Exposition as 'designed as a global accelerator for innovations from the Indian Higher Education Ecosystem' and aims to facilitate 'B2B engagements, technology partnerships, investment discussions, business linkages and international market access'.

Explanation

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) is the nodal ministry for road safety, motor vehicle regulation, and implementation of the Motor Vehicles Act. The Supreme Court in this news directed this ministry to consider the petition.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article: 1% vehicles, 11% fatalities. Statement 2 is incorrect: the article says the Court referred the petition to the Centre, acknowledging that road safety has outgrown judicial fiat, unlike its interventionist posture in 2019. Statement 3 is correct: speeding is the dominant recorded violation associated with fatalities.

Explanation

The article states that two-wheeler riders constituted 46.2% of road deaths in 2024. Pedestrians were 20.6%. The other options are distractors: 33% is roughly one-third (seat belt/child restraint coverage), 11% is India's global fatality share.

Explanation

The Safe System approach focuses on reducing both the probability and severity of crashes by creating forgiving road environments, rather than solely relying on individual responsibility. Options A and D are part of measures but not the core objective. Option C is a separate enforcement issue.

Explanation

According to the article, IN-SPACe is an independent and autonomous nodal agency under the Department of Space that acts as an interface between ISRO and NGEs, assesses utilization of space resources, and authorizes space activities.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: ISRO is to transition out from manufacturing operational space systems. Statement 2 is incorrect: Commercialisation of publicly developed space technologies is the role of NSIL, not IN-SPACe (which promotes and authorises private activities). Statement 3 is correct: SSLV can be assembled in three days by six people, as mentioned in the article.

Explanation

The article states that SSLV costs around ₹30 crore, compared to PSLV which costs ₹100 crore. The other options are distractors; ₹60 crore and ₹150 crore are not mentioned.

Explanation

The article clearly states that the vision behind opening up the space sector was to expand India's share in the global space economy, which was less than 2% due to ISRO's focus on national priorities. The target is $40-45 billion over the next decade.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the BRICS grouping adopted the New Delhi Declaration at the 18th BRICS Summit hosted by India in New Delhi. G20, SCO, and ASEAN are other groupings but not relevant here.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article mentions BRICS is a consensus-based grouping and any single member can block a declaration. Statement 2 is incorrect; India hosted the summit, not China. Statement 3 is correct as the article references PM Modi's 10-point proposal for global governance (found in the live updates link within the article). Hence option B is correct.

Explanation

The article repeatedly refers to the '18th BRICS Summit', hosted by India at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. The other options are distractors representing previous or subsequent summits.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that 'sharp divisions between Iran and the UAE over the West Asia conflict' threatened the joint declaration, and back-channel negotiations were needed to achieve consensus. The other issues are not mentioned in the article.

Explanation

The Farakka Barrage, commissioned in 1975 on the Ganga in West Bengal, was built to divert water to the Hooghly River to flush silt from the Kolkata port. The article mentions Bihar's contention that this barrage has altered the Ganga's flow regime and exacerbated silt accumulation and flood risks in the state.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect: the article clearly states Bihar received 27% below-normal rainfall. Statement 2 is correct: the backwater effect is accurately described. Statement 3 is incorrect: the article says the Ganga Basin River Management Plan 'acknowledges these imperatives' but that 'much needs to be done,' implying poor implementation.

Explanation

The article explicitly states, 'Bihar received 27 per cent below-normal rainfall between June 1 and the first week of September.' This is the exact data point provided.

Explanation

The article directly states that 'embankments separate rivers from their floodplains, while continuous silt deposition raises riverbeds and reduces channel capacity. When an embankment breaches, the artificially contained water can rush into homes and fields.' This explains the structural flaw in the embankment strategy.

Explanation

The announcement was made by Nitin Gadkari, the Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways. The ministry oversees national highways, toll plazas, and the FASTag system through NHAI.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the minister's speech at Global Fintech Fest. Statement 2 is incorrect because barrier-free booths are being piloted and the target is 100% by March 2027, not currently operational. Statement 3 is correct — the minister said over 70% will be barrier-free by end of December 2026. Hence option C.

Explanation

The article states: 'FASTags have helped increase the toll booth income by 10%, from about ₹7,000 crore to over ₹82,000 crore now.' ₹7,000 crore is the previous income, ₹25,000 crore is the projected benefit from full FASTag, and ₹87,000 crore is not mentioned.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that studies show over ₹5,250 crore has been saved in fuel costs alone per year due to reduced waiting time. Toll rates are not mentioned to be reduced, and FASTags remain essential. While barrier-free does increase toll income, that is a government benefit, not a vehicle owner benefit.

Explanation

The article states that the BRICS joint statement acknowledges the efforts of the BRICS Payment Task Force towards exploring pragmatic solutions for efficient cross-border payment mechanisms. The NDB is involved in local currency financing but not specifically tasked with payment mechanisms. IMF and World Bank are not mentioned in this context.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect because the article explicitly says 'There is no mention of a common BRICS currency' in the joint statement. Statement 2 is correct as Iranian President Pezeshkian argued that the current financial system is vulnerable to political shocks due to concentration on a limited number of currencies. Statement 3 is correct as the article mentions the BRICS Multilateral Guarantees initiative to improve project creditworthiness and attract private capital.

Explanation

The article clearly states 'There is no mention of a common BRICS currency or a formal call for replacement of the U.S. dollar.' The statement did mention local currency settlement, the New Development Bank, and the BRICS Payment Task Force. Therefore, the common currency is the omitted element.

Explanation

The article states that Iran is under extensive US sanctions and sees greater use of national currencies and alternative payment mechanisms as a way of reducing exposure to financial restrictions imposed through the dollar-based system. The other options are not supported by the article.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the Iran-linked group used 'Anthropic's Claude AI'. Anthropic is the AI safety company that developed Claude. OpenAI, Google, and Microsoft are not the developers of Claude.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article says the group used Claude to organise public information into targeting material. Statement 2 is incorrect because the activity took place from December 2025 to August 2026, not January 2026. Statement 3 is correct as Anthropic shared information with US government authorities.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: 'the activity took place between December 2025 and August 2026'. Options A, C, and D provide alternative timeframes that are not mentioned in the report.

Explanation

The article states the account 'used Claude to organise publicly available information into targeting material and track US military movements'. It did not develop new AI (A), nor directly hack systems (C). While propaganda was also done (D), the primary purpose for naval reconnaissance was organizing OSINT into actionable targeting handbooks.

Explanation

The Election Commission of India, established under Article 324, is the constitutional authority responsible for preparing and updating electoral rolls, as mentioned in the news article where CEC Gyanesh Kumar outlined the initiative.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the ECINET app enables enrollment checking and Form-6 submission. Statement 2 is incorrect: the declaration requires details of parents' polling booth number and serial number from last SIR, not Aadhaar details. Statement 3 is correct: the article mentions 'more than 11 lakh booth level officers (BLOs)' are involved.

Explanation

The article explicitly states '15 lakh booth level agents (BLAs) of recognised political parties are involved in this initiative.' The other options are distractors: 11 lakh is the number of BLOs, and 19 lakh is not mentioned.

Explanation

The article quotes the Chief Electoral Officer stating that ELCs are 'now being developed into year-round, experiential, and digital platforms through ELC 2.0'. This upgrade aims to sustain voter education throughout the year, not just during elections.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that India's chairship released a report titled 'Advancing MSME Competitiveness in BRICS: Strengthening Access to Finance & Technology and Sustainable Growth'. This was recognized for its potential to foster cooperation and inclusive growth among MSMEs across BRICS countries.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the declaration voiced serious concerns about the rise of unilateral tariff and non-tariff measures. Statement 2 is correct: the declaration condemned the imposition of unilateral coercive measures, including secondary sanctions. Statement 3 is incorrect: the article says BRICS supported the accession of Ethiopia and Iran, not Egypt.

Explanation

The article clearly states: 'India is the chair of BRICS in 2026, with China taking over the chairship in 2027.' Brazil chaired in 2025, Russia in 2024. China is the correct answer.

Explanation

The article states: 'It further welcomed the Jaipur Consensus to study the establishment of an Invoice Discounting Mechanism for BRICS members aimed at facilitating invoice discounting, which would help MSMEs unlock working capital.' This directly addresses the objective of improving MSME access to finance.

Explanation

The New Development Bank (NDB) was established by BRICS in 2014 with headquarters in Shanghai. It provides financing for infrastructure and sustainable development projects. The AIIB is led by China, while the World Bank and IMF are Bretton Woods institutions.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the target of $30 billion by 2030 was announced by PM Modi and President Lula. Statement 2 is incorrect: the FM explicitly said BRICS is not anti-Western and does not seek to replace the dollar. Statement 3 is correct: Indonesia is the last country to enter as a full member in the expansion process.

Explanation

The FM stated that trade reached around $15 billion last year (2025). The current year (2026) is projected to reach $20 billion, and the target for 2030 is $30 billion. The other options are distractors: $10 billion is too low, $20 billion is the current projection, and $30 billion is the future target.

Explanation

The FM stated that NDB aims to have a faster, more agile, and efficient system under the control of member countries, in contrast to the outdated mechanisms of the Bretton Woods institutions. While it offers an alternative, its primary objective is efficient financing, not replacing the dollar or promoting anti-Western agendas.

Explanation

The Lucknow Bench of the Allahabad High Court, presided over by Justice Subhash Vidyarthi, dealt with the issue. The Supreme Court is not the immediate court; the news concerned the High Court itself.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as stated explicitly in the news. Statement 2 is wrong: the order relied on two criminal cases — one from 2010 where the person was acquitted, and another from 2020; no conviction was mentioned. Statement 3 is false: the court refused to accept the beat report as a valid basis, finding it violated natural justice.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the Gonda District Magistrate's order declared the person a 'goonda' and 'externing him from the district for six months'. The court quashed this order.

Explanation

The High Court noted that a case where the person had been acquitted in 2017 was used as a major ground, and the beat report was not based on any FIR or hearing. This violated the principles of natural justice and lacked a rational nexus to public order.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the CURE Act replaces the GHMC Act made in 1955. The other options are not mentioned in the news. This tests static knowledge of the old act's year and name.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect because the CURE area covers municipalities and nagar panchayats besides the GHMC area. Statement 3 is correct as the article mentions GHMC has been reorganised into GHMC, Malkajgiri MC, and Cyberabad MC for decentralised administration.

Explanation

The article clearly states: 'the CURE area within the Outer Ring Road limits would cover 2,053 sq. km. area covering municipalities and nagar panchayats, besides the GHMC area.' The other options are plausible distractors.

Explanation

The article emphasises that the Act aims to bring 'uniform governance, rules and standardised practices with decentralised administration for more effective governance' to support the region's growth. The other options are not supported by the article.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the UN Security Council has five permanent members—China, France, Russia, the UK and the US—and that each holds veto power. The other options wrongly include India or Brazil, which are aspirants for a greater role, not current permanent members.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct because the declaration reiterated support for comprehensive reform of the UN, including its Security Council. Statement 2 is incorrect because the declaration only supported India and Brazil's aspirations to play a greater role, not explicit permanent membership. Statement 3 is correct as PM Modi used the 'rule-taker' to 'rule-shaper' phrase.

Explanation

The New Delhi Declaration states that China and Russia, as permanent members of the UN Security Council, reiterate their support to the aspirations of Brazil and India to play a greater role in the UN, including its Security Council.

Explanation

PM Modi said the current global decision-making architecture looks like a 'pyramid'—the powerful at the top make decisions, while those at the bottom are affected but have no power or leverage. He called for transforming the 'pyramid of privilege' into a 'platform of partnership'.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the 13th BRICS Education Ministers’ Meeting was held in Bhubaneswar. This is a factual detail from the BRICS summit communiqué.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the declaration encourages safe, ethical, human-centred use of AI in education. Statement 2 is incorrect; BRICS-TCA is a platform for project cooperation, information exchange, and resource sharing in TVET, not for ranking. Statement 3 is correct as the leaders noted with appreciation India’s initiative.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions '13th BRICS Education Ministers’ Meeting in Bhubaneswar'. This is a direct data point from the news.

Explanation

The article states that the BRICS-TCA plays an important role in building a multilateral platform for project cooperation, promoting information exchange and resource sharing, and advancing joint development of TVET.

Explanation

The article states PM Modi proposed the network at the BRICS Leaders' Summit in September 2026. BRICS is a key grouping for India's foreign policy, and this question tests static knowledge of its recent diplomatic initiatives.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the network was proposed at the BRICS Summit. Statement 2 is incorrect: India provides over 12% (not 15%) of trained seafarers. Statement 3 is correct: the article confirms attacks in West Asia and Black Sea have killed 15 Indian seafarers.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: '15 Indian seafarers have lost their lives while two remain missing due to attacks in West Asia and the Black Sea.' The other options are plausible distractors but incorrect.

Explanation

PM Modi stated the network would provide distress alerts, medical aid, family communication, and evacuation support. The core purpose is safety, not trade or tourism. This question tests understanding of the policy's intent, not just facts.

Explanation

The article specifically states that the interoperability protocol should build on UPI's existing presence in the Gulf and South-East Asia. UPI (Unified Payments Interface) is India's real-time payment system developed by NPCI.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the article says the summit opens 'today at Bharat Mandapam'. Statement 2 is incorrect: the article explicitly says it is not a BRICS currency but a set of alternatives. Statement 3 is correct: the article lists 'reform of NDB governance that gives newer members more power over its capital' as one of three things within India's reach.

Explanation

The article states that the leaders 'represent almost half the world’s population, 40 per cent of global GDP and over a quarter of global trade'. Thus 40% is the correct figure.

Explanation

The article says: 'Not a BRICS currency, but a set of alternatives so that no country ever has to rely on a single financial plumbing system.' The aim is financial resilience and choice, not replacement of SWIFT or creation of a new reserve currency.

Explanation

The article states that the 18th edition of the BRICS summit is being held in India, and the Modi-Xi bilateral is a key engagement at this summit.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: Nathu La Pass reopened after six years. Statement 2 is incorrect: The US imposed a 10% forced labour tariff on India and 12.5% on China. Statement 3 is correct: ISID reports that China supplies 19.2% of India's total imports.

Explanation

The article states that a US Treasury report said China accounts for over 60% of global goods trade surpluses, highlighting the unsustainable nature of its trade surplus model.

Explanation

The article notes that MSMEs have deep dependency on Chinese capital goods and technical expertise. Additionally, a Stanford research report indicates that no other country has fully absorbed China's role in labour-intensive manufacturing, making competition difficult.

Explanation

The article states that Mokha is about 60 km from the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait. This strait connects the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden and is a global maritime chokepoint. The other options are major straits but not near Mokha.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article: Houthi forces seized Mokha on September 11 and also captured Perim and Zuqar islands. Statement 2 is correct: Saudi Arabia shut its East-West pipeline after drone strikes which Riyadh said originated in Iraq. Statement 3 is incorrect – the Houthis specifically said they would NOT threaten international shipping but would target Saudi-linked vessels.

Explanation

The article explicitly states 'On September 11, Houthi forces in Yemen seized the strategically vital port town of Mokha'. The other dates are distractors: September 3 is when escalated fighting began, and July 2026 is when the Saudi-backed strike on Sana'a airport occurred.

Explanation

The article states: 'the Houthis asserted that they would not threaten international shipping but would continue targeting Saudi-linked vessels transiting the Strait.' This distinguishes their approach from Iran's blanket deterrent in Hormuz. Option C describes Iran's strategy, not Houthi's.

Explanation

The New Development Bank (NDB) was established by BRICS countries in 2014 to finance infrastructure and sustainable development projects. The article mentions the NDB's potential role in de-risking long-term projects, confirming its centrality to BRICS.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the article states the deficit has widened to more than $112 billion. Statement 2 is incorrect: only 'global funds with small, non-controlling Chinese shareholdings' and 'proposals from Chinese firms in selected manufacturing sectors' are eased, not all Chinese firms. Statement 3 is correct: the White House report placed India in first tier for potential tariff circumvention, though no Indian firm was accused.

Explanation

The article explicitly states India 'rose to become the world's eleventh-largest FDI destination last year'. The other options are close distractors, but the correct figure is 11th.

Explanation

The article argues that while BRICS has many voluntary platforms, the summit's importance depends on whether it can convert the theme into capital that actually builds things. The theme emphasizes production capacity, not just financial architecture, and aims to ensure investment creates real value in host economies like India.