17 May 2026, Questions & Answers

Explanation

Article 123 of the Indian Constitution grants the President the power to promulgate ordinances when Parliament is not in session. This power was used for the recent Supreme Court judge strength ordinance, as mentioned in the article.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article states the total sanctioned strength rises from 34 to 38. Statement 2 is incorrect; the ordinance was promulgated because 'Parliament is not in session', not after a bill was passed. Statement 3 is correct as per the article: the ordinance ceases if resolutions are passed in both Houses disapproving it.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: 'The current backlog is over 93000 cases, and threatening to reach six figures...'. The other options are close distractors but not the precise figure mentioned.

Explanation

The article quotes the Constitution's framers: 'The Framers of the Constitution had originally in Article 124(1) envisaged a Supreme Court... until the "Parliament by law prescribes a larger number".' This is the primary mechanism, and the recent ordinance amends the existing parliamentary law, the Supreme Court (Number of Judges) Act, 1956.

Explanation

As per the article, Henrietta Lacks sought treatment at the 'coloured ward' in Johns Hopkins Centre in 1951, where her cells were extracted without consent to create the HeLa line.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article clearly states cells were extracted without permission in 1951. Statement 2 is incorrect; HeLa was the first HUMAN cell line, not animal cell line. Statement 3 is correct as the article mentions the family found closure with a settlement in 2026.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the best-selling book 'The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks' by Rebecca Skloot was published in 2010. This book played a crucial role in highlighting the ethical issues.

Explanation

The core ethical violation in this case was the lack of informed consent, as cells were taken from Henrietta Lacks without her knowledge or permission. The article states this omission led to a battle for dignity and today, more regulations govern ethical research based on informed consent.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the two nations agreed to link the Dutch Semicon Competence Centre with the Indian Semiconductor Mission (ISM). This mission is a government initiative to promote semiconductor manufacturing in India.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article mentions a comprehensive five-year roadmap (2026–30). Statement 2 is incorrect; the 'brain bridge' was established with six premier Indian institutes (IISc Bangalore and five IITs: Bombay, Delhi, Gandhinagar, Guwahati, Madras), not just five IITs. Statement 3 is correct as the leaders expressed deep concern over tensions in West Asia and called for freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.

Explanation

The article's headline and content clearly state that India and the Netherlands sealed a historic '17-pact' strategic partnership. The other numbers are close distractors.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the MoU between Tata Electronics and ASML aims to support the semiconductor Fab facility in Dholera, Gujarat. This aligns with India's strategic goal of boosting domestic semiconductor manufacturing.

Explanation

The Ministry of Defence is the nodal ministry responsible for defence procurement, acquisition policies, and the 'Make in India' initiative in the defence sector. The article discusses challenges and reforms within this domain.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is correct; the SP model aims for such collaboration. Statement 3 is incorrect; the article states DPSUs account for over 70% of total defence manufacturing, not less than 50%.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the Committee observed, "Of 178 projects, the original time tables were not adhered to in 119 cases." Option A refers to projects where additional time taken was more than the original allotted time.

Explanation

The article emphasizes that recent conflicts show the advantage of cost-effective technologies like UAVs and underscore the need for strategic self-reliance to avoid supply-chain disruptions. This points towards investing in indigenous capabilities and scalable tech.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the official release came from the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which is responsible for China's diplomatic communications and foreign policy statements.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article states diplomatic relations were established in 1979. Statement 2 is incorrect; the 'One China' policy means the US recognizes Taiwan as part of China, not as an independent country. Statement 3 is correct as per the article's mention of Trump considering a $14 billion arms sale.

Explanation

The article states that the year 2027 has been proposed as a potential starting point because it will mark 100 years (the centenary) of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA).

Explanation

The 'silicon shield' theory argues that Taiwan's position as the world's foremost producer of semiconductors, which are crucial for modern electronics and global supply chains, provides a significant economic deterrent to military conflict, giving the US and other powers a clear interest in Taiwan's defense.

Explanation

The article repeatedly discusses the Reserve Bank of India's (RBI) interventions in the forex market during 2023 and 2024. The RBI is India's central bank and the primary body responsible for managing the country's foreign exchange reserves and influencing the rupee's exchange rate.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article states the rupee fell past the 96-per-dollar mark, hitting a new record low. Statement 2 is correct as it mentions 'Since the start of 2025, the rupee is down 11%.' Statement 3 is incorrect; the article states the BoP surplus of $64 billion was in 2023-24, not 2024-25. In 2024-25, the BoP was a deficit of $5 billion.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: 'The RBI’s gross sales jumped to a record $399 billion' in the context of the 2024-25 financial year. $213 billion refers to sales in 2022-23, $41 billion refers to net purchases in 2023-24, and $68 billion refers to the increase in forex reserves in 2023-24.

Explanation

The article quotes SBI's Soumya Kanti Ghosh stating that beyond a 'critical depreciation threshold', further weakness could erode the benefits of domestic fuel price hikes. His calculations show an additional depreciation of Rs 2 raises crude import costs enough to offset those gains. The other options are not mentioned as direct consequences.

Explanation

The International Health Regulations (IHR 2005) are a legally binding instrument of international law that governs the global response to public health risks. The WHO declares a PHEIC under the authority granted by these regulations to coordinate an international response.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the WHO declared a PHEIC. Statement 2 is incorrect because the outbreak is caused by the Bundibugyo virus, not the Zaire ebolavirus, and it lacks approved vaccines. Statement 3 is correct as the article mentions a lab-confirmed case in Kinshasa, DRC, and in Kampala, Uganda.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that 80 suspected deaths had been reported in DRC's Ituri province. The figure 8 refers to lab-confirmed cases, and 246 refers to suspected cases.

Explanation

The article directly states the outbreak is 'extraordinary' as there are no approved Bundibugyo virus-specific therapeutics or vaccines, unlike for Ebola-Zaire strains. This absence of medical countermeasures significantly increases the public health risk and challenge of containment.

Explanation

The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) is the nodal ministry for the India Semiconductor Mission (ISM) and the broader policy framework to develop a semiconductor ecosystem in the country.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; the investment for this specific Tata-ASML plant is $11 billion (the $14 billion figure is for a different Tata facility mentioned). Statement 3 is correct as the deal was signed in the presence of PM Modi and Dutch PM Jetten.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that Tata Electronics is developing the plant in Dholera, Gujarat, with an investment of $11 billion. The $14 billion option is a distractor, referring to a different Tata Electronics facility also mentioned in Gujarat.

Explanation

The article directly states that Dutch semiconductor firms are seeking new markets and geographical diversification due to export controls and trade restrictions linked to the U.S.-China technology rivalry. This is the primary strategic driver mentioned.

Explanation

Article 342 of the Constitution specifically deals with the specification of Scheduled Tribes. Article 341 deals with Scheduled Castes. Articles 343 and 344 relate to the official language of the Union.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article: his 1984 appointment was based on a backward class 'Mallah' certificate. Statement 2 is incorrect: 'Majhwar' is a Scheduled Tribe (not Scheduled Caste) as mentioned under Article 342. Statement 3 is correct: the Supreme Court quashed the case because he gained no benefit and prosecution after 33 years was futile.

Explanation

The article explicitly states the Supreme Court cleared the retired engineer in a '33-year-old' case. The certificate was produced in 1993, and the judgment was in 2026, making it a 33-year duration.

Explanation

The Supreme Court's judgment explicitly states that the 'only saving grace' was that the appellant 'was not able to obtain any benefit of the status he wrongly claimed' and the 'futility of taking the prosecution to its logical conclusion at this point of time'. This was the core rationale for quashing the proceedings.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions leveraging alternatives through NIOS and State Open Schools. NIOS is the apex body for open schooling in India, functioning autonomously under the Ministry of Education.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect as the article emphasizes using flexible alternatives like Open and Distance Learning through NIOS, not expanding conventional schools. Statement 2 is correct as per the phased rollout plan. Statement 3 is incorrect; the data source mentioned is the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS), not ASER.

Explanation

The article states: "of every 100 children who enrol in Class I, only 62 make it to Class 12." This is a key data point highlighting the dropout crisis.

Explanation

The article clearly states that for children who cannot return to conventional schools, flexible alternatives must be made available through NIOS using the ODL framework. The core objective is inclusion and adaptability, not cost-cutting or replacement.

Explanation

The World Health Organization (WHO) is the specialized UN agency responsible for international public health. Under the International Health Regulations (2005), the WHO Director-General has the authority to declare a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC).

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the WHO declared a PHEIC on May 17, 2026. Statement 2 is incorrect; the article clearly states the outbreak is caused by the Bundibugyo virus strain, not the Zaire strain. Statement 3 is correct; the article reports 80 suspected deaths in DRC's Ituri province as of May 16, 2026.

Explanation

The article states that as of Saturday (May 16, 2026), eight laboratory-confirmed cases had been reported in DRC's Ituri province, alongside 246 suspected cases and 80 suspected deaths.

Explanation

Declaring a PHEIC is the WHO's highest level of alert. Its primary purpose is to signal that the event is serious, unusual, and carries a risk of international spread, thereby mobilizing a coordinated international response, technical expertise, and funding to support affected countries in containment efforts.

Explanation

A Strategic Partnership signifies a significant diplomatic relationship focused on comprehensive, long-term cooperation in strategic sectors such as defence, security, trade, and technology. It is more substantial than a regular partnership but does not entail the mutual defence guarantees of a formal alliance (like NATO).

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect. While the Netherlands is a major trading partner, the article states it is 'one of India's largest', not necessarily the largest. Germany is often cited as India's largest trading partner in the EU. Statement 2 is correct as the article mentions cumulative FDI of $55.6 billion. Statement 3 is incorrect; the article mentions the India-EU FTA, not an India-ASEAN FTA.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that bilateral trade touched $27.8 billion in 2024-25. $55.6 billion is the figure for cumulative Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), not annual trade. The other options are plausible but incorrect distractors.

Explanation

The article highlights cooperation in water, healthcare, education, and PM Modi's invitation to Dutch companies in sectors like maritime, renewable energy, digital tech, and semiconductors. The core objective is economic and technological synergy. The other options are either extreme, not mentioned, or beyond the scope of the announced partnership.

Explanation

The article states the NTA was established by the Central Government as an autonomous testing organisation under the Ministry of Education. It conducts exams like NEET-UG, JEE (Main), and CUET.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article's 'Legal challenges' section. Statement 2 is incorrect; the article mentions the negative marking is -1, not -2. Statement 3 is correct as the article details the committee's formation and recommendations.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: 'The NEET-UG question paper consists of 180 compulsory questions with +4 marks awarded for every correct answer and −1 mark for every incorrect answer.'

Explanation

The article quotes NTA Director General Abhishek Singh saying the exam 'cannot be permitted to stand' and that the decision was taken 'to preserve the transparency, fairness, and credibility of the process.' This was a direct consequence of the confirmed paper leak.

Explanation

As per Article 241 of the Constitution, the Calcutta High Court has jurisdiction over the Union Territory of Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The article mentions the case being heard by the Calcutta High Court's Port Blair circuit bench.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the plea contends the Gram Sabhas were 'settler panchayats' with no legal standing under FRA. Statement 2 is correct as per the FRA Rules mentioned in the article. Statement 3 is incorrect because the plea states the Shompen's consent was obtained through a government officer (AAJVS), not directly from them, and their consent was later revoked.

Explanation

The article explicitly states the project cost as 'Rs 81,000 crore'. The other figures are plausible distractors for large infrastructure projects but are not mentioned in this context.

Explanation

The article's core argument, as quoted, is that consent must be given by those who have rights under the FRA, and the process was vitiated as it involved government officers and non-tribals from settler panchayats. The other options, while potentially relevant to broader debates, are not the primary legal contention of this specific PIL.

Explanation

The PHEIC is a formal instrument defined under the International Health Regulations (IHR 2005), a legally binding agreement among WHO member states. The IHR provides the legal framework for global health security.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect; the outbreak is caused by the Bundibugyo virus variant, not the Sudan virus. Statement 2 is incorrect; the WHO explicitly advised AGAINST the closure of international borders. Statement 3 is correct as per the article, which mentions cases in DRC and Uganda.

Explanation

The article states that Ebola virus disease 'has an average case fatality rate of around 50%'. The other percentages are common distractors for other hemorrhagic fevers or incorrect recalls.

Explanation

The article clarifies that the WHO stated the outbreak 'does not meet the criteria of a pandemic emergency' and 'advised against the closure of international borders'. A PHEIC declaration focuses on coordinated international response to contain spread without resorting to overly restrictive travel/trade measures that a pandemic emergency might entail.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that both sides agreed to connect the Dutch Semicon Competence Centre to the Indian Semiconductor Mission to support the semiconductor sector. This is a key component of India's domestic chip manufacturing strategy.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article mentions a five-year roadmap (2026-30). Statement 2 is correct as the ASML-Tata Electronics pact for Dholera is a major highlight. Statement 3 is incorrect; the joint statement called for freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, not the Strait of Malacca, which is a classic examiner's trap.

Explanation

The article clearly states that India and the Netherlands signed as many as 17 pacts while elevating their ties to a strategic partnership. This is a direct factual recall question.

Explanation

PM Modi's statement about combining the Netherlands' expertise with India's speed and scale, and the specific collaboration on the Dholera fab and talent development, indicate the core objective is to build a resilient supply chain. The article does not mention outcompeting China, full IP transfer, or focusing solely on the EU market.

Explanation

The Essential Commodities Act, 1955, is administered by the Department of Consumer Affairs under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution. This ministry is responsible for ensuring the availability of essential commodities to consumers at fair prices.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect as Moody's report explicitly states 'A return to pre-conflict traffic volumes in 2026 is unlikely.' Statement 2 is incorrect; the article states 46% of India's crude oil imports come from the Middle East, while 90% refers to LPG imports. Statement 3 is correct as Tehran formalized the 'Persian Gulf Strait Authority (PGSA)' for toll collection on May 5.

Explanation

The article clearly states: 'The report has also slashed India’s GDP growth estimate for 2026 by 0.8 percentage points to 6 per cent.' The other options are distractors; 0.2-0.8 ppts was the range for several major economies, but India's specific cut was 0.8 ppts.

Explanation

A structural constraint implies a fundamental, long-term change in the supply system. As Moody's indicates, this means disruptions will continue, forcing importers like India into slow, opaque bilateral deals with Iran, and leading to persistently higher and more volatile energy prices, unlike a temporary shock which would see a quick reversion.

Explanation

The Central Electricity Authority (CEA) is a statutory body constituted under the Electricity Act, 2003. It advises the government on power policy and planning and functions under the administrative control of the Union Ministry of Power.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article states that fixed costs include capacity payments and transmission costs, paid regardless of sales. Statement 2 is incorrect; the article clearly states fixed charges contribute only 9-20% of total revenues, not more than 50%. Statement 3 is correct, as the article explains that consumers using solar/open access rely on the grid for backup, leaving DISCOMs with stranded fixed costs.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that fixed expenses account for nearly 38% to 56% of a DISCOM's total Annual Revenue Requirement (ARR). The other figures are plausible distractors but are not mentioned in the report.

Explanation

The core issue identified is the mismatch where DISCOMs have high fixed costs but recover them through variable sales, leading to liquidity crises during low demand. The proposed tariff redesign aims to recover a larger share of fixed costs directly through fixed charges, making revenue more predictable and stable, akin to a telecom subscription model.

Explanation

The article repeatedly mentions the 'Union Jal Shakti Ministry' as the body that drafted, amended, and finalized the guidelines for the Jal Jeevan Mission. This ministry is responsible for water resources, river development, and Ganga rejuvenation.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article: the 2019 rules stated that cost escalation had to be borne by states. Statement 2 is correct: the 2022 amendment removed 'Tender Premium' from the inadmissible list, and the article cites data showing ₹16,839 crore in additional costs. Statement 3 is incorrect because the new JJM 2.0 guidelines have REINSTATED the ban on 'Tender Premiums', not permanently removed it.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the investigation showed the rule change 'resulted in additional costs totalling Rs 16,839 crore for 14,586 schemes'. ₹1.51 lakh crore is additional funding for Phase 2, ₹2.08 lakh crore is the central share for Phase 1, and 14,586 is the number of schemes, not the cost.

Explanation

The article frames the reinstatement as 'plugging a gap' that 'led to cost escalations'. The core issue was states using central funds to cover 'Tender Premiums' (inflated bids). The corrective action aims to reinstate a financial safeguard, ensuring central funds are used efficiently and as per original estimates, which is about fiscal discipline.

Explanation

The article discusses the nuclear energy sector and the SHANTI Act, which governs this domain. The Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) is the nodal body responsible for India's nuclear power programme, research, and development.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article states the SHANTI Act opened the sector's operations and fuel management to private players. Statement 2 is incorrect; the delegation was organized by the Nuclear Energy Institute and the US India Strategic Partnership Forum, not solely by the US DoE. Statement 3 is correct as the article mentions India's civil nuclear programme has expertise in PHWRs.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: 'The new Act replaced two earlier legislations — the Atomic Energy Act, 1962 (AE Act) and the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, 2010 (CLNDA) — effectively redrawing the rules that govern the nuclear power sector.'

Explanation

The article quotes a government official stating that the external outreach for nuclear collaborations 'is driven more by the need for capital than the need for technology.' While India seeks LWR technology, the primary driver identified is financing for capacity expansion.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that efforts to secure the landscape under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 ran into resistance. The Supreme Court's order directs notification under this Act, which is the primary legislation for declaring wildlife sanctuaries in India.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the timeline: NGT asked Jharkhand to consider declaring the sanctuary in July 2022. Statement 2 is correct as Jharkhand raised concerns about tribal habitation and mining (26% of India's iron ore reserves). Statement 3 is correct as the SC noted that the state should have educated forest dwellers about protection under both Acts and that the Collector can allow continuance of rights.

Explanation

The article clearly states: 'In 1968, undivided Bihar declared 314 sq km of sal forests as the Saranda Game Sanctuary.' 249 sq km was Jharkhand's later draft notification, 292 sq km is the final SC-directed area, and 575 sq km was a proposal made in December 2024.

Explanation

The article quotes the Court's November 2025 judgment, calling the state's contention 'without any substance' and adding that the state should have educated forest dwellers about protections under both Acts. It also notes the Collector's power to allow continuance of rights, demonstrating existing legal safeguards.

Explanation

The UDISE+ database is the official school education data collection system managed by the Ministry of Education, Government of India. It is the primary source for indicators like enrolment, infrastructure, and teachers.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect. The article states girls' NER falls sharply from 79.4% at primary to 35.8% at higher secondary. Statement 2 is correct as the article emphasizes that aid must cover the full duration to ensure completion. Statement 3 is correct as it advocates for scholarships as part of a broader ecosystem including mentorship.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that according to UDISE+ 2024-25, girls' Net Enrolment Rate (NER) falls sharply to just 35.8% at the higher secondary level. Option D (79.4%) is the NER at the primary level, making it a key distractor.

Explanation

The article argues that the returns from a woman completing a STEM degree and building a technical career dwarf the initial investment, generating higher productivity, tax revenue, and contributing to companies and technologies. This multiplier effect makes it a strategic investment.

Explanation

The article states the Pacific 'Ring of Fire' is characterized by active volcanoes and frequent earthquakes, being home to about 75% of the world's volcanoes and 90% of earthquakes. This is its defining geological feature.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect: Sijimali is part of the Eastern Ghats (not Western Ghats) and is spread over Rayagada and Kalahandi districts in Odisha only. Statement 2 is correct as per the article. Statement 3 is correct as Great Nicobar is 910 sq km and houses Indira Point.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that according to the Indian Bureau of Mines' 2022 Yearbook, Odisha alone accounts for 41% of India's bauxite resources. The 73% figure is Odisha's share of total production in 2021-22, not total resources.

Explanation

The article states the Shyok Tunnel's strategic significance lies in providing round-the-year connectivity to areas close to the LAC, aiding in the quick mobilisation and redeployment of troops. The other options are not supported by the article's content.

Explanation

The article mentions the Vienna-based International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) as the United Nations' nuclear watchdog. This is its primary role in promoting peaceful nuclear use and preventing military applications.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; the plant was built with help from South Korea and went online in 2020, not Russia and 2022. Statement 3 is correct as mentioned in the article. Hence, only statements 1 and 3 are correct.

Explanation

The article specifically states that the Barakah nuclear power plant was a $20 billion project. The other options are plausible but incorrect distractors.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that 'Nuclear power plants increasingly have found themselves targeted in wars in recent years,' citing examples from Ukraine and Iran. This is the primary security concern highlighted, beyond the specific incident.

Explanation

The article states that the data is according to Commerce Ministry data. The Ministry of Commerce and Industry is responsible for trade policy and export promotion in India.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article: North America exports were $97.7 billion accounting for 22.1%. Statement 2 is correct: Exports to East Africa increased 13.7% to $12.6 billion. Statement 3 is incorrect: Latin America exports rose 7.8% to $16.4 billion, not exceeding 15%. Hence, both 1 and 2 are correct.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that India's merchandise exports stood at $441.78 billion in 2025-26. The other options are close distractors.

Explanation

The article states that this trend highlights a gradual shift from traditional commodity-led expansion toward broader participation across high-value manufacturing, engineering, agri-processing, and technology-intensive sectors. This is the core implication of the diversification data.

Explanation

The article explicitly discusses the 'Public Trust Doctrine' as the principle underlying the relationship between public examination institutions and citizens, where legitimacy derives from ethical credibility and trust.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article centers on ethical governance and probity. Statement 2 is incorrect because 'administrative evil' is defined as emerging from negligence and indifference as well. Statement 3 is incorrect as the article mentions parents, honest administrators, and society as other stakeholders.

Explanation

The article directly references Immanuel Kant's ethical principle that human beings must never be treated merely as means, but always as ends in themselves. This is used to critique how examination leaks reduce students' efforts to 'collateral damage'.

Explanation

The article concludes that real change requires collaboration among examination boards, educational institutions, and civil society to create transparent and accountable systems. It states that laws and surveillance alone cannot sustain ethical systems.

Explanation

The article specifically mentions the Indus Waters Treaty in relation to the arbitration award rejected by India. This is the key bilateral agreement on the Indus river system.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as India rejected the CoA award. Statement 2 is incorrect; the article states the relationship was elevated to a 'strategic partnership', not a 'comprehensive partnership'. Statement 3 is correct as the Chola-era plates were returned from Leiden University, acquired in 1862.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the Chola-era Anaimangalam Plates were in the possession of Leiden University in the Netherlands and were returned during the ceremony.

Explanation

The article states India rejected the award and reiterated that it does not recognise the tribunal as legitimately constituted. This action highlights India's stance on sovereignty and its approach to resolving such disputes directly with Pakistan.

Explanation

As per the article, the three royal temples inscribed as 'Great Living Chola Temples' by UNESCO are the Tanjore Brihadēśvara, Gangaikoṇḍacōl̥apuram, and Darasuram Airavatēśvara. These correspond to the temples listed in option B.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect: As per the article, the 'Eastern Rivers' (Sutlej, Beas, Ravi) are allocated for unrestricted use by India, not Pakistan. Statement 2 is correct as the IWT was signed on September 19, 1960, after negotiations with the World Bank's involvement. Statement 3 is correct as mentioned that India issued its first such notice in January 2023.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: 'As per the IMD’s monsoon onset schedule, the normal date for the monsoon onset over the south Andaman Sea, and Port Blair in Andaman and Nicobar Islands is May 22.' The onset this year was on 16 May, which was early.

Explanation

The article directly links these measures to conserving forex and managing the current account. It states the steps were taken 'to discourage precious metal imports, which strain the current account and increase forex outflow' and that 'India’s foreign exchange resources... must be prioritised towards essential imports'.