13 September 2026, Questions & Answers

Explanation

The article clearly states that the IMD had forecast above-normal temperatures and below-normal rainfall for September. IMD is the nodal agency for weather and climate forecasting in India.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article states peak demand touched 269 GW on Sep 10. Statement 2 is incorrect: the summer peak of 270 GW was recorded in May, not June. Statement 3 is correct: the average market clearing price was Rs 7.48/unit during Sep 1-9. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions that hydropower generation declined by 10.85% (from 91,652.19 MU in 2025 to 81,709.09 MU in 2026) for the period April to September. 15% is the rainfall deficit, 20.7% is the increase in electricity consumption during Sep 1-9, and 80.32% is the increase in gas-based generation.

Explanation

The article states that the combination of higher demand, lower hydro generation, and coal supply disruptions 'tightened the supply-demand balance and pushed up prices in the electricity market.' Options A, C, and D are opposite of what happened.

Explanation

The article states that the 18th BRICS Summit was held at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, chaired by PM Modi. The declaration is named 'New Delhi Declaration' after the host city.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the declaration called for 'maximum restraint' in West Asia. Statement 2 is incorrect because the article says 'no separate mention of the Russian war in Ukraine'. Statement 3 is correct as PM Modi chaired the meeting. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article describes BRICS as an '11-member grouping' after Iran and UAE joined, along with other new members. The earlier 5-member structure is outdated after the 2024 expansion.

Explanation

The article highlights that India forged a consensus after Iran and UAE agreed to a last-minute compromise on the language about the war in West Asia. This consensus was critical to adopt the New Delhi Declaration. Other options are not mentioned.

Explanation

MoSPI is the nodal ministry for GDP estimation in India. The RBI, Ministry of Finance, and NITI Aayog use GDP data but do not compile it. This is a standard static GK question linking to the article's reference of MoSPI releasing Q1 GDP numbers.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect: constant price GDP growth was 7.8%, not 10.3% (nominal was 10.3%). Statement 2 is incorrect: the article concludes 'the economy has not shifted gears; nor is it in overdrive' - CAGR is marginally higher, not a significant shift. Statement 3 is correct: trade deficit touched USD 150 billion in April-August 2026.

Explanation

The article explicitly states 'the unemployment rate among youth of 15-29 years at a high of 16.2 per cent'. Option D (40.5%) is a distractor from the statistic for graduates aged 29-34. Options A and B are not mentioned in the article.

Explanation

The article's title 'Holding a mirror' and multiple questions about jobs, wages, FDI, trade deficit, and public goods emphasize that despite 7.8% growth, common citizens feel no improvement. Options A, C, D are specific observations but not the central argument.

Explanation

BRICS was originally formed by Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. Iran was invited to join and became a new member during the expansion process, but it is not a founding member.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article – PM Modi indeed warned against weaponising technology and critical minerals. Statement 2 is incorrect – the early warning system was for infectious diseases, not climate disasters. Statement 3 is correct – the summit was held at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that PM Modi made his remarks on Sunday, September 13, 2026. September 12 would have been the opening day, and the other dates are not mentioned. This is a direct factual recall question.

Explanation

PM Modi explicitly mentioned that consensus was reached on a 'BRICS Integrated Early Warning System for the prevention of and response to infectious diseases.' The other options are not mentioned and represent common distractors related to BRICS discussions but not the specific proposal.

Explanation

The New Delhi Declaration expressed concern over deliberate attacks on peaceful nuclear facilities under full safeguards of the IAEA. The IAEA is the global nuclear watchdog that ensures compliance with non-proliferation norms.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article: BRICS expanded in 2024 to include those five nations. Statement 2 is incorrect: Indonesia joined in 2025, not 2024. Statement 3 is correct: Belarus, Bolivia, Kazakhstan are listed as BRICS partner countries. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article states that the declaration was adopted on the first day of the two-day summit, which was Saturday, September 12, 2026. The summit was hosted by India in New Delhi.

Explanation

The declaration explicitly states 'serious concern over deliberate attacks on civilian infrastructure and peaceful nuclear facilities under full safeguards of the IAEA'. This reflects the bloc's stance on protecting nuclear safety during armed conflicts.

Explanation

The article states that the project falls under the administrative jurisdiction of Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) zone. NFR is responsible for railway operations in most of Northeast India.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the line is 51.38 km long connecting Bairabi to Sairang. Statement 2 is correct: the Sairang-Anand Vihar Rajdhani Express gave Mizoram its first direct premium connection with Delhi. Statement 3 is incorrect: the article says 45 tunnels covering nearly 16 km, not 20 km.

Explanation

The article states that the Sairang Railway Bridge has a pier of height 114 m, which is 42 m taller than Delhi's Qutub Minar (72 m).

Explanation

The article explicitly states that tourism in Mizoram has grown by over 86% since the introduction of train connectivity, benefiting hotels, homestays, and other tourism-related businesses.

Explanation

The directive was issued by a division bench of the Bombay High Court comprising Justices Girish S Kulkarni and Aarti A Sathe. The other options are incorrect because the Supreme Court was not involved, and the case was filed in the High Court, not in a tribunal or commission.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the Court directed regularisation of over 450 staff. Statement 2 is incorrect because the Court quashed those communications, not upheld them. Statement 3 is correct as per the bench's observation. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article states that the petitioners had served 8–11 years continuous service on contract basis after fulfilling eligibility criteria. Options A, C, and D do not match the specific range mentioned in the news.

Explanation

The Court observed that ad-hocism in public employment is counterproductive and creates tremendous uncertainty for contractual employees. The judgment aimed to consign such ad-hocism to history by regularising those who had served for years through a proper selection process. Options A, C, and D are contrary to the Court's observations.

Explanation

The article mentions that according to the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), SAT-1 was first reported in several countries. WOAH (formerly OIE) is the intergovernmental organization responsible for improving animal health worldwide and reporting transboundary animal diseases.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: FMD is highly contagious and spreads via contaminated vehicles, equipment, footwear, and animal products. Statement 2 is correct: FMD affects cloven-hoofed animals. Statement 3 is incorrect: FMD is not a major human health threat; it primarily affects animals. The article explicitly states 'For people, the concern is primarily about animal health, food production and livelihoods, rather than a major human-health threat.' Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article states: 'The SAT-1 was first identified in 1948 and has traditionally been associated with southern Africa.' 2025 is the year it was first reported in new countries, not the year of first identification.

Explanation

The article clearly states: 'NADCP aims to control and subsequently eradicate FMD in cattle, buffaloes, sheep, goat and pigs and also for control of Bovine Brucellosis, with vaccination.' It is a vaccination-driven programme, not focused on treatment or trade monitoring.

Explanation

The original BRIC (later BRICS) grouping was formed by Brazil, Russia, India, China, and later South Africa (2010). Saudi Arabia is not a founding member of this intergovernmental organization.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct – the article states the summit was held in New Delhi. Statement 2 is correct – Xi Jinping outlined the five-point initiative. Statement 3 is incorrect – the article says China will host next year's (2027) summit and take over as chair from India. Hence option B is correct.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that Xi Jinping 'put forward five AI- and technology-focused initiatives for the grouping.' These include an AI open-source community, special economic zone partnership, digital ecosystem cloud platform, intelligent manufacturing cooperation, and engineer cultivation alliance.

Explanation

The article notes that China's proposal comes 'against the backdrop of China's push to offer its AI platforms and smart manufacturing know-how to emerging countries and its trade and technology war with the U.S.' This reveals the strategic goal of building influence in the Global South through technology cooperation.

Explanation

The news explicitly states that the state government will approach the National Medical Commission for permission to introduce the training as part of the PG programme. NMC is the current apex regulator for medical education in India, having replaced MCI in 2020.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect: the proposal is specifically for postgraduate medical students, not undergraduates. Statement 2 is correct: the former NIMS Director confirmed nearly 1,000 robotic surgeries at NIMS funded under Rajiv Aarogyasri. Statement 3 is correct: the proposal is for 6 months training within the 3-year PG programme.

Explanation

Former NIMS Director Dr N. Bheerappa is quoted saying NIMS had recently completed nearly 1,000 robotic surgeries. The other options are plausible but incorrect distractors.

Explanation

The Health Minister and MCR TIMS Director both emphasized decentralizing robotic surgery from premier Hyderabad institutions to district hospitals. The training aims to create a statewide pool of surgeons, ensuring equitable access to advanced surgical care for rural populations.

Explanation

The article discusses the demand for expansion of the UN Security Council (UNSC), which currently has five permanent members with veto power. The UN General Assembly, ICJ, and ECOSOC are other UN organs but are not the subject of the reform demand here.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the Declaration reiterated support for India and Brazil. Statement 2 is not explicitly stated; the Declaration called for 'comprehensive reform' and increasing representation but did not specifically demand more permanent members. Statement 3 is correct: China and Russia reiterated support as permanent members.

Explanation

The article states: 'The UN Security Council has five permanent members – China, France, Russia, the UK and the US.' The total UNSC membership is 15, but permanent members are specifically five.

Explanation

The BRICS Declaration pressed for making the UNSC 'more democratic, representative, effective and efficient, and to increase the representation of developing countries'. While veto reform is part of broader discussions, the Declaration specifically focused on increasing developing country representation.

Explanation

The article states that the Department of Consumer Affairs amended the rules. This department operates under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution and is responsible for consumer protection regulation.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the rules are effective from January 1, 2027. Statement 2 is incorrect: the prior price is the lowest price, not the average price. Statement 3 is correct; sponsored products require clear disclosure.

Explanation

The article states the NCH received 17,71,622 grievances in 2025, of which 5,11,196 (about 29%) related to e-commerce. Option A is the exact total number.

Explanation

The PIB release explicitly states the aim is to strengthen consumer protection while facilitating a transparent and balanced regulatory framework. Other options are either not mentioned or contrary to the spirit of the amendments.

Explanation

The article states that the trial was conducted by RDSO on the Ahmedabad-Vadodara-Mumbai Central section of Western Railway. ICF manufactured the train, but RDSO is the testing agency.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the trial achieved 130 kmph with 50% payload. Statement 2 is incorrect: the article explicitly says the rake is not an alternative to heavy freight trains on DFCs; it is for smaller, high-value cargo. Statement 3 is correct: CCTV, fire detection, and Kavach are listed as features.

Explanation

The article mentions that the rake has a design speed of around 160 kmph. The trial achieved 130 kmph with payload and 145 kmph empty, but the design maximum is 160 kmph.

Explanation

The article clearly states the train is for transporting smaller, high-value and time-sensitive cargo at higher speeds on passenger railway routes, aiming to offer an express logistics alternative to road transport. It is not a replacement for DFC heavy trains.

Explanation

According to the article, Sukhpal Singh, chairman of the Punjab State Farmers’ and Farm Workers’ Commission, chaired the 11-member committee. Gurpreet Singh Banawali chaired the subsequent legislative committee, K A P Sinha was a member, and Jagmohan Singh is a farmer leader.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the draft was submitted on October 13, 2023. Statement 2 is incorrect: the policy proposes stopping paddy in 'critically stressed areas', not all areas. Statement 3 is correct: the legislative committee recommended phased implementation as per the article.

Explanation

The article explicitly states, 'around 1.02 lakh suggestions were received from different organisations and stakeholders'. Options B, C, and D are close distractors but incorrect.

Explanation

The article highlights two main hurdles: 'finances' (substantial public expenditure needed) and the lack of 'clear implementation architecture' including budgets, timelines, and accountability. Political will and lack of central support are also mentioned, but the primary structural hurdle is the combination of finance and unclear road map.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) is conducting the meeting and has issued a questionnaire to Ladakh representatives. The MHA is the nodal ministry for Union Territories and internal security matters.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the Centre offered Article 371(K) instead of statehood. Statement 2 is incorrect: the article says the arrangement is 'neither statehood nor the status of a UT with a legislature'. Statement 3 is correct: MHA asked about the formal name and composition of the UT-level body. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the meeting was held on September 9, 2026, between officials of the MHA and Ladakh representatives. The other dates are distractors; September 13 is the publication date of the article.

Explanation

The article describes the proposed arrangement as 'sui generis' and states that it would give Ladakh neither statehood nor a UT with legislature, but a special constitutional amendment providing executive and financial powers. Options A, B, and D are specific demands that have been ruled out or are not the primary objective.

Explanation

The article mentions that India brought the African Union into the G20 fold during its presidency in 2023. This is a key diplomatic achievement for India and a fact often tested in exams.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as PM Modi met leaders of Egypt, South Africa, and Indonesia. Statement 2 is correct as the article mentions cooperation in mining and critical minerals, infrastructure, food security, and digital public infrastructure. Statement 3 is incorrect because the article says the early convening of IAFS-IV was discussed, not that it has already been held.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that PM Modi had 15 bilateral meetings with visiting leaders over the last three days. This is a specific data point that can be tested in prelims.

Explanation

The article mentions that PM Modi and other leaders discussed a more representative, inclusive, and multi-polar international order. This reflects India's broader foreign policy goal of amplifying the voice of developing countries in global governance.

Explanation

The article states that after the bilateral meeting, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) issued a statement expressing satisfaction at the progress in bilateral cooperation. The MEA is the nodal ministry for India's foreign relations and diplomatic engagements.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the article mentions ties were elevated to a Strategic Partnership a year before the 2026 BRICS Summit, i.e., in 2025. Statement 2 is incorrect: the BrahMos deal was signed in 2022, not 2024. Statement 3 is correct: Modi welcomed Manila's decision to join the CDRI at the 2026 BRICS Summit. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that 'trade has grown past $3 billion', driven by Indian pharmaceutical exports, IT services, and agricultural cooperation. The other options are close distractors but $3 billion is the correct figure mentioned.

Explanation

The article clearly states that 'both sides are driven by shared concerns over China's aggressive territorial assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific and the South China Sea.' While other factors like maritime security are mentioned, the primary driver is the shared concern about China's actions. India supports a rules-based order under UNCLOS.

Explanation

The court specifically interpreted Rule 26(5) which allows withdrawal of resignation only on grounds of 'material change in circumstances' or 'compelling reason'. The other options are related but not the rule under consideration in this case.

Explanation

Statement 1 is wrong because the court ruled that losing an election does NOT constitute a material change in circumstances. Statement 2 is correct: Neeraj Bishnoi contested from Ratangarh on a BSP ticket. Statement 3 is correct: the court upheld that contesting as a party candidate violates political neutrality under CCS (Conduct) Rules.

Explanation

The article states that Neeraj Bishnoi was a senior auditor with North Western Railway. This factual detail is important for identifying the employee's cadre and the responding authority (North Western Railway).

Explanation

The court reasoned that resignation to contest elections was a voluntary act, and subsequent defeat did not retroactively alter the circumstances. Therefore, Rule 26(5) could not be invoked. Option A is not mentioned; C is false (he contested on BSP ticket); D is incorrect as writ petitions can be filed against CAT orders.

Explanation

The article states that the SIT, composed of police and drug inspectors, raided Krupa Healthcare near Minerva Circle. CBI, NIA, and ED are central agencies and not mentioned in the news.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: investigators suspect medicines supplied to more than 90 hospitals. Statement 2 is incorrect because the article mentions both low-cost rebranded medicines and expired medicines were used, not only expired. Statement 3 is correct: batch numbers were blocked on the Karnataka FDA portal.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: 'During the operation, authorities seized suspected counterfeit medicines worth approximately ₹4.91 crore'. The other options are close distractors.

Explanation

The article states the SIT was formed 'to probe the fake medicine racket busted near Bidadi'. While seizures and arrests are part of the operation, the broader objective is to investigate the entire network, including financial transactions and distribution channels.

Explanation

The article identifies Sudhakar Dalela as Secretary (Economic Relations) in the Ministry of External Affairs and India's BRICS Sherpa. Therefore, the Sherpa belongs to the Ministry of External Affairs.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per paragraph 28 details in the article. Statement 2 is correct because the article says it mirrors the G20 2023 consensus and the declaration was adopted after successful negotiations. Statement 3 is incorrect because the May 2026 Foreign Ministers meeting could not bridge differences, and India issued a chair statement noting divergences.

Explanation

The article mentions 'the 11 member countries of the grouping' during the Sherpa negotiations. BRICS expanded in 2024 to include Iran, UAE, Egypt, Ethiopia, and Saudi Arabia, making the total 11 (original 5 plus 6 new).

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the war in West Asia had divided Iran and UAE, and that India worked to bridge the gap between the two sides. The other options are not mentioned in the context of the BRICS declaration challenge.