13 March 2026, Questions & Answers

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the oil crisis of 1990 and subsequent foreign exchange crisis of 1991 forced India to approach the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for support. The World Bank focuses on long-term development projects, while the WTO deals with trade rules.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; the article mentions the war with China in 1962, not Pakistan. Statement 3 is correct as the article directly links the Gulf War of 1990 to oil price spikes and the subsequent BoP crisis. Hence, only statements 1 and 3 are correct.

Explanation

The article specifically mentions that 'President Lyndon Johnson tried to link food aid to a change in India's stance on the war in Vietnam.' This is a direct factual recall from the provided text.

Explanation

The article frames Atmanirbharta as a strategy for 'managing external dependencies' in the face of 'big-power rivalries' and specifically discusses the weaponization of trade (oil, finance) by the US and G7 as a threat to India's independent foreign policy. The other options are not supported by the article's central argument.

Explanation

The article states the Supreme Court grounded its order in Article 21 of the Constitution, which guarantees the right to life, interpreted to include the right to health. The court stated the State has an obligation to support those who suffered grave outcomes from a state-led health intervention.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: India co-sponsored UNSC Resolution 2817 which condemned Iranian attacks and reaffirmed navigational rights. Statement 2 is incorrect: The gap was increased to 45 days for rural/remote areas, while for urban households it remained 25 days (increased from 21 days). Statement 3 is incorrect: The villages are built all along the LAC, including Arunachal Pradesh, with 90% of the 72% near the LAC located there.

Explanation

The article provides the calculation: India depends on imports for ~60% of its LPG, and 90% of those imports come via the Strait of Hormuz. Therefore, roughly 55% (60% of 90%) of India's total LPG consumption is affected by the closure.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the villages are 'dual-use infrastructure' and that the strategic community sees them as a way for China to assert its claims over disputed areas along the LAC. Their occupation by Chinese nationals since late 2023 reinforces this security concern.

Explanation

The article mentions that the CACP had given two reports on the issue of pulses production and remunerative prices. The CACP is an attached office of the Ministry of Agriculture and is responsible for recommending MSPs for various crops.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; the ASG stated production fell from 273 lakh tonnes (2021-22) to 242 lakh tonnes (2023-24), not increased. Statement 3 is correct, as the CJI suggested reducing paddy area (except Basmati) for pulses to balance production and address water table concerns.

Explanation

The article clearly states the ASG presented data showing production was 273 lakh tonnes in 2021-22, fell to 261 lakh tonnes in 2022-23, and further to 242 lakh tonnes in 2023-24. The other options are distractors: 273 (2021-22), 242 (2023-24), and 280 (not mentioned).

Explanation

The article explicitly states the CJI suggested that diverting paddy area (beyond Basmati export needs) to pulses would balance production. It further adds, 'This will also help address concerns of falling water tables.' The other options, while related to agriculture policy, are not the primary objective mentioned in the context of this suggestion.

Explanation

The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) is the nodal agency for maintaining national statistical data, including the estimation and release of GDP figures, as mentioned in the article.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article states the base year was changed from 2011-12 to 2022-23. Statement 2 is incorrect; 'discrepancies' refer to the statistical difference between the production-side (GVA) and expenditure-side estimates of GDP, not between nominal and real GDP. Statement 3 is correct as the article mentions discrepancies are zero when looking at nominal GDP data in the new series for the base year.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the discrepancies in the current financial year (FY26) are pegged at Rs 4.9 lakh crore. ₹1 lakh crore was the figure for FY24, and ₹3.5 lakh crore was for FY25.

Explanation

The article explains that the base year is updated because 'every few years India produces and buys a different mix of things and their prices also change'. Comparing to an outdated base year can give misleading data, analogous to calculating GDP based on typewriters when the economy has shifted to computers.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions the International Energy Agency (IEA) flagging the supply disruption and announcing the release of oil from strategic reserves. The IEA was established for this specific purpose following the 1973 oil crisis.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article's direct quote from the IEA. Statement 2 is correct as the expert argues LNG reserves are the 'greater concern'. Statement 3 is incorrect; the article states Japan has over 250 days, India has 74 days, and China has over 100 days of oil reserves.

Explanation

The article provides specific data points for strategic oil reserves: 'India 74 days' worth.' The other options are close distractors: 90 days is for the EU's imports, and 100+ days is for China.

Explanation

The expert explicitly states: 'The markets are reacting out of fear more than any evaluation of supply and demand.' This highlights the psychological and speculative dimension of commodity pricing during geopolitical crises, a key analytical point from the article.

Explanation

As per the article, under Iran's constitution, the Supreme Leader alone holds the authority to appoint, dismiss, or accept the resignation of the IRGC's chief commander. This is a key feature of the Iranian theocratic system.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the IRGC was formed in 1979 to safeguard the revolution. Statement 2 is incorrect; the IRGC houses Iran's principal unconventional warfare units, not the Artesh. Statement 3 is correct as the article states the Quds Force conducts foreign ops and helped create Hezbollah.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the IRGC consists of an estimated 125,000 members across its various divisions. This is a key data point regarding the scale of this parallel military force.

Explanation

The article cites that the IRGC's ideological outlook is anchored in principles including belief in velayat-e faqih. It was created as a 'faithful and credible armed force' owing direct allegiance to Ayatollah Khomeini to safeguard the revolution and enforce fundamental changes.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that individuals must submit a written notice to the District Magistrate at least 60 days before the proposed conversion. The DM or an authorized officer may then conduct an inquiry.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect: The bill defines 'mass conversion' as conversion of two or more persons, not five. Statement 2 is incorrect: The burden of proof is on the person who conducted the conversion, not the one who converted. Statement 3 is correct: The article states that where the offence involves a minor, the fine is increased to ₹5 lakh.

Explanation

The article clearly states that for repeat offences by an individual or an organisation, the punishment may extend up to 10 years imprisonment. The initial offence attracts up to 7 years.

Explanation

The article mentions that the bill seeks to prohibit unlawful conversion through force, fraud, coercion, etc., and the statement of objects and reasons cites instances of such conversions. It does not aim to ban all conversions or establish a state religion.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions officials from the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) clarifying the FDI policy changes. DPIIT under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry is the nodal department for formulation and implementation of FDI policy.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article: automatic approval is given for non-controlling LBC beneficial ownership of up to 10%. Statement 2 is incorrect; the 60-day deadline applies only to applications from LBCs in 'specified sectors', not all manufacturing, and the period is 60 days, not 30. Statement 3 is correct as the policy mandates Indian majority shareholding and control for LBC investments in specified sectors.

Explanation

The article clearly states that applications from Land Bordering Countries for 'specified sectors' such as capital goods and rare earth magnets "shall be processed and decided within 60 days." This is a key data point from the policy amendment.

Explanation

As per the article, the amendment aims to 'bring capital and technology' for sectors like electronic components and rare earths where India is import-dependent, while the condition of 'Indian majority shareholding and control' ensures strategic autonomy. This balances investment attraction with national control.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that 'The US Central Command, which oversees American military operations in West Asia, said Tuesday it had destroyed several Iranian naval ships...'. CENTCOM's area of responsibility includes the Middle East (West Asia).

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article's classification. Statement 2 is incorrect; the article states the mine used by Washington's outfit was 'unsuccessful in damaging any British ship'. Statement 3 is incorrect; drifting mines move with the current, while moored mines are anchored. Bottom mines rest on the seafloor.

Explanation

The article directly quotes the CRS report stating 'Iran has about 5,000 to 6,000 naval mines.' The other options are plausible but incorrect distractors.

Explanation

The article's core theme is Iran's use of asymmetric warfare. It states Iran uses mines 'in a bid to deter further American activity' and that mining acts as a 'major deterrent for all commercial activity'. The CIA document also notes Iran is unlikely to completely close the strait, ruling out option A. Options C and D are not supported by the article.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the Watson School of International and Public Affairs in Brown University runs the Cost of War research project. This is a factual recall from the provided content.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the Israeli Finance Ministry claim mentioned. Statement 2 is correct; the article states the US spent $11.3 billion in six days, which is ~$2B/day. Statement 3 is correct as per the cited 2021 study from the Costs of War project. All facts are directly from the article.

Explanation

The article clearly states: 'Crude oil prices have shot up by almost 50% since the start of the war.' The other options are plausible but incorrect distractors.

Explanation

The article defines opportunity cost as the '"money which could have gone towards societally beneficial expenditures such as infrastructure improvements, educational investments, and environmental protection" instead of military spending.' This matches option C. The other options are not supported by the article's explanation.

Explanation

As per the article, the Ministry of Statistics and Policy Implementation (MoSPI) is credited for the consultative process of changing GDP methodology. MoSPI is the nodal ministry for official statistics in India.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect. The article states the methodology underestimated growth by about 1-1.5% between 2004-05 and 2011-12. Statement 2 is correct, as identified in the article. Statement 3 is incorrect; the flaw was using the Wholesale Price Index (WPI), not the CPI, to deflate services.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: "informal enterprises accounted for over 45 per cent of the economy in 2011-12." This highlights the significance of the methodological error in proxying its performance.

Explanation

The article states: "This misreading complicated macroeconomic policy: At various periods the data signalled strength when the economy was weak, and in others, it suggested that policy should be eased when growth was strong." The other options are not mentioned as direct consequences.

Explanation

As per the article, the security dilemma concept largely falls within the realist tradition of international relations, which emphasizes anarchy and power competition among states. Herz and Jervis, the key scholars mentioned, are realists.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is also correct; Jervis's 1978 work introduced these two variables. Statement 3 is incorrect because constructivists like Huwaidin do not reject the concept; instead, they argue for incorporating the role of state identity and shared ideas to explain it better, as seen in his 2015 analysis of Saudi-Iran relations.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that Robert Jervis published his article 'Cooperation under the Security Dilemma' in 1978. John Herz's foundational article was published in 1950.

Explanation

Huwaidin employs a constructivist framework to argue that shared ideas, norms, and beliefs (i.e., identity) determine state relationships. The lack of shared identity between Saudi Arabia (Sunni monarchy) and Iran (Shia theocracy) explains the heightened security dilemma, unlike with Pakistan, with which Saudi Arabia shares a closer ideological and strategic identity.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the US Treasury, under Secretary Scott Bessent, provided the temporary authorization via a post on social media platform X. The Treasury Department handles economic and financial sanctions.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article: the waiver applies to oil loaded on or before 12:01 am EDT on March 12. Statement 2 is incorrect; the article states discounts on Russian oil have largely disappeared and it is even selling at a premium in some cases. Statement 3 is correct as per ship tracking data from Kpler mentioned in the article.

Explanation

The article directly quotes a Financial Times report estimating that Moscow earned around $150 million a day in extra oil revenue since the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz. The other figures are plausible but incorrect distractors.

Explanation

The article quotes an analyst stating that with persistent risks around the Strait of Hormuz, Asian refiners are looking for barrels that are more secure and priced competitively, a role Russian crude fits. The other options are not supported by the article's content.

Explanation

As per standard geography, the Strait of Hormuz connects the Persian Gulf (west) to the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea (east). It is the only sea passage from the Persian Gulf to the open ocean.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: Premiums rose from 0.15-0.25% to 7.5-10% of ship value, which is roughly a tenfold increase. Statement 2 is incorrect: The article explicitly states halting is due to 'safety and security concerns', not a lack of insurance. Statement 3 is correct: Bunker fuel prices doubled to $1,005 per tonne.

Explanation

The article states the Strait of Hormuz 'facilitates export of almost 20% global oil'. The other options are plausible but incorrect distractors commonly associated with other strategic chokepoints.

Explanation

The article directly states, 'The spike in premiums is expected to significantly raise the cost of goods transported through the shipping corridor' and that the increased cost 'will be passed on to customers'. This is the most direct and primary economic impact mentioned.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the ED initiated an investigation under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) based on an FIR. The PMLA is the primary law under which the ED probes financial frauds and money laundering.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article mentions the mismatch in balances of the Development and Panchayat Department, Haryana. Statement 2 is incorrect because the article clearly states Vikram Wadhwa is 'absconding' and raids are being conducted to nab him. Statement 3 is correct as the modus operandi involved routing funds through shell entities and creating an illusion of gold purchase through bogus billing.

Explanation

The article specifically states that the accused 'allegedly siphoned off over Rs. 597 crore from the Haryana Government through IDFC First Bank'. The other options are close but incorrect numerical distractors.

Explanation

The article details that funds were routed through multiple shell entities like Swastik Desh Projects and then channelised through bank accounts of jewellers 'to create an illusion of gold purchase through bogus billing'. This was the core layering technique described.

Explanation

The Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act was enacted in 2013. This is a fundamental static fact about the establishment of India's anti-corruption ombudsman institution.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect. The SC specifically said only para 89 of the HC order (directing fresh sanction within a month) need not be complied with; it did not completely stay the entire order. Statement 2 is correct as the article states the HC set aside the Lokpal's Nov 12, 2025 order. Statement 3 is correct as the bench is mentioned as CJI Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions the Delhi High Court's December 19, 2025, direction. November 12, 2025, is the date of the Lokpal sanction order. March 13, 2026, is the date of the SC hearing. October 2023 is when the initial complaint was made.

Explanation

The central legal question, as stated by the SC bench, is to examine the interplay between Sections 20(7)(a) and 20(8) of The Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013. This pertains to whether these provisions mandate a single composite sanction or two separate stages of sanction for investigation and prosecution.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the US-based agency NOAA confirmed the El Niño forecast in its latest ENSO bulletin. NOAA is a key global agency for ocean and atmospheric monitoring.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; El Niño's emergence post-July would coincide with the 'peak' of the monsoon (June-September), not its retreating phase. Statement 3 is correct as mentioned in the article.

Explanation

The article specifically quotes NOAA saying "El Niño is likely to emerge (about 62 per cent chance)" in June-August 2026. The other options are close distractors.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that El Niño developing post-July "will coincide with the peak of India’s southwest monsoon season, which falls between June and September." This timing is critical as El Niño is typically associated with deficient monsoon rainfall, impacting agriculture and water resources.