18 July 2026, Questions & Answers

Explanation

EPFO is a statutory body under the Ministry of Labour and Employment, Government of India. It administers the Employees' Provident Fund, Pension Scheme (EPS), and Insurance Scheme (EDLI) for formal sector employees.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect: The TRS is convertible to pension at age 60 (not 55). At age 55, the worker gets flexibility to decide the purpose of retirement savings. Statement 2 is correct: The scheme is defined contribution and permits contributions from workers, employers, government, aggregators, and CSR. Statement 3 is correct: Family Benefit Fund is a pooled fund for survivors managed on actuarial principles.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that EPFO expects around 2.5 crore gig workers and BOCW workers over the next five years. This is a key data point for prelims, as it indicates the scale of social security expansion under the new pension plan.

Explanation

The Family Benefit Fund is specifically designed as a pooled fund managed on actuarial principles to provide family and survivor pensions to the spouse, children, and orphans of deceased members. This is distinct from the main pension accumulation account and ensures social security for dependents.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions capital subsidy, manufacturing-linked incentives, and incremental boosters for domestic capabilities. Direct tax exemption is not mentioned in the context of Phase II. Hence option D is correct.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article states the Phase II outlay is ₹1.27 lakh crore. Statement 2 is incorrect because the article says the capital subsidy share is 'smaller than last time's 50%'. Statement 3 is correct: the article mentions 'India risks repeating its decades-old mistake of developing the West's premier technical human capital.' Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article clearly states 'The second phase of the India Semiconductor Mission's outlay far outpaces the first, with a ₹1.27 lakh crore corpus'. ₹76,000 crore was Phase I outlay. Hence option B is correct.

Explanation

The article states the government's goal is 'to make India a strategic destination for the electronics value chain' and that such capabilities create 'hard strategic leverage'. While employment and GDP are side benefits, the core objective is strategic autonomy. Hence option B is correct.

Explanation

The Double Contribution Convention exempts Indian professionals posted to the UK from paying into the British social security system while still contributing in India, for up to five years. This resolves a long-standing grievance where workers paid double contributions without receiving benefits.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: nearly all of India's exports (~99% by value) enter the UK duty-free. Statement 2 is incorrect: the tariff cuts on cars are phased across years and capped by quotas, not immediate. Statement 3 is correct: the Double Contribution Convention saves 75,000+ workers and 900 companies ~$600 million annually.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that India and Britain intend to double their trade from about $56 billion by the end of the decade. Option B correctly captures both the current figure and the target. The other options present incorrect current values or targets.

Explanation

The CEA argues that perpetual protection preserves weak industries, while exposure to competition pushes domestic producers to raise their game. He cites India's success in small and mid-sized vehicles where competition existed, versus sheltered sectors that have had little reason to improve. The tariff cuts are described as 'a favour we Indians do ourselves'.

Explanation

The India Semiconductor Mission is under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), which oversees the development of the semiconductor ecosystem in India. The article mentions the Union Cabinet's approval, but the nodal ministry for implementation is MeitY.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect because Phase 2 shifts focus away from building fabrication plants (which was Phase 1) towards design and innovation. Statement 2 is correct: the article mentions 'subsidies of up to 75 per cent on chip design'. Statement 3 is correct: the mission aims to integrate chip design, equipment, materials, IP, and advanced research.

Explanation

The article explicitly states 'a key objective of the Rs 1,27,500 crore outlay announced earlier this week'. The other options are plausible distractors with slight digit swaps.

Explanation

The article states that chip design is where 'much of the industry’s value is created' and that countries without cutting-edge fabs can occupy pivotal positions through design, architecture, and IP. The shift aims to leverage India's design talent for higher value addition, not just manufacturing. Option C is aspirational, not immediate. Option A is not the primary objective; the outlay is large. Option D is a secondary benefit.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions that the hydrogen train was flagged off by the Prime Minister as a project of Indian Railways, which falls under the Ministry of Railways. The other ministries support related aspects but do not operate the trains.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article: the train connects Jind and Sonipat, with a 89-km journey taking around 2 hours. Statement 2 is incorrect because the maximum operational speed is 75 kmph, not 100 kmph. Statement 3 is correct: the propulsion system uses hydrogen fuel cells and emits only water vapour.

Explanation

The article clearly states that the train has 3200 horsepower (HP). The other options are close distractors: 2600 is the passenger capacity, 3000 and 3500 are not mentioned in the article.

Explanation

The article emphasizes that the hydrogen train is a 'zero-emission' technology, with the only emission being water vapour. This aligns with India's net-zero goals. The other options are not mentioned or are incorrect; the train still uses electric traction (generated from hydrogen) and speed/capacity are separate aspects.

Explanation

The article states that when the draft joint statement was discussed, Home Minister LK Advani and Finance Minister Yashwant Sinha pointed out the absence of references to cross-border terrorism, the Simla Agreement, and the Lahore Declaration. The matter was raised in a meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), which unanimously rejected the draft.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the summit was between PM Vajpayee and Gen. Musharraf. Statement 2 is incorrect because the summit collapsed and no joint statement was issued. Statement 3 is correct as the Indian side (Advani, Sinha) pointed out that the draft lacked any reference to cross-border terrorism, which was a major reason for its rejection.

Explanation

The Agra Summit was held from July 14 to 16, 2001. Option A (1999) is the year of the Kargil War and the Lahore Declaration, which preceded the summit. Option C (2004) is when Vajpayee and Musharraf met in Islamabad during the SAARC Summit. Option D (2007) is a distractor year.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the political cost of a peace initiative is seen as too high, citing examples of Vajpayee (Kargil), Manmohan Singh (Mumbai 2008), and Modi (Pathankot 2016). The fear of being 'caught in a ruse' makes leaders demand a credible guarantee against terrorism before any summit.

Explanation

The article specifically mentions the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) logistics hub near Bandar Abbas. The IRGC is a separate branch of Iran's armed forces with significant influence in Iran's military and economic sectors.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: The US is sending dozens more refueling planes to Israel. Statement 2 is correct: Iran escalated attacks on US bases in Jordan, Qatar, Bahrain, Iraq, and Kuwait. Statement 3 is incorrect: The article states US troops withdrew from a specific base in Syria months earlier, not that all US troops have withdrawn from Syria.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: 'The US carried out strikes for a fifth consecutive day Thursday against targets in the Strait of Hormuz.' This makes 5 days the correct answer.

Explanation

The Strait of Hormuz is a narrow waterway through which a significant portion of the world's oil passes. The article mentions that the US wants to force Iran to reopen the strait, highlighting its critical role in global energy trade. Disruption here would have severe economic consequences worldwide, including for India.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that Skyroot Aerospace said the decks for the launch had been cleared with IN-SPACe, the government agency to promote, permit, and oversee private-sector space activities. ISRO is the space agency, but IN-SPACe is the regulatory and promotional body for private players.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: Vikram-1 is the country's first privately developed orbital launch vehicle. Statement 2 is incorrect: India became the third country to achieve the feat, not the first. Statement 3 is correct: the article mentions the all-carbon-composite structure and 3D-printed engines. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article clearly states that Vikram-1 is designed to carry small satellites weighing up to 350 kg to Low Earth Orbit. The other options are close distractors; 450 km is the target orbit altitude, not the payload capacity.

Explanation

The article highlights that the launch makes India only the third country to achieve private orbital launch capability, marking a major milestone in India's space journey and validating the government's policy to open the space sector to private players. Other options are either not mentioned or are broader claims not supported by the article.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions that Chabahar port on the Gulf of Oman, which Iran has been running with support from India, has been a repeated target of American airstrikes. It is a key trade route for landlocked Afghanistan.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: US strikes hit bridges in Hormozgan province to cut off Bandar Abbas from central Iran. Statement 2 is incorrect: Iran also targeted Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Jordan. Statement 3 is correct: About 90% of Kuwait's drinking water comes from desalination, and a plant was damaged by Iranian attacks.

Explanation

The article states: 'Since the war began, 14 U.S. service members have been killed and 427 wounded.' Option 10 is the number of Army soldiers injured in the latest week, and 13 is the total additional injured since July 13. 46 is the number of Iranian civilians killed in recent strikes.

Explanation

The article mentions that US strikes aim to 'degrade Iran's military' and target 'surveillance sites, military logistics infrastructure, underground weapons storage, and maritime capabilities' used by the Revolutionary Guard to control the Strait. Reopening the strait is a strategic goal, but the immediate objective is degrading military capabilities.

Explanation

The Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) is the nodal agency created to authorize and promote private sector space activities. Vikram-1's launch was authorized by IN-SPACe, as stated in the article.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the article calls it 'India's first privately developed orbital-class rocket'. Statement 2 is correct: the article mentions 'in-house developed solid and liquid propulsion systems' and '3D-printed engines'. Statement 3 is incorrect: the payload capacity is 350 kg, not 500 kg. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article clearly states that the inaugural flight will target a 450-km orbit with an inclination of 60 degrees. The other options are distractors: 350 km is the payload capacity weight, not altitude.

Explanation

The article states that Mission Embrace aims to carry out 'the world's first demonstration of soft robotic capture in orbit'. While this technology supports future debris removal, the immediate objective is the demonstration of the capture mechanism itself.

Explanation

The article states that the launch took place from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) in Sriharikota, which is operated by ISRO. Skyroot used ISRO's First Launch Pad (FLP) for the mission, and ISRO provided necessary support infrastructure.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: Vikram-1 is India's first private orbital-class rocket. Statement 2 is incorrect: the first privately built Indian rocket to reach space was Vikram-S on November 18, 2022, which was a suborbital flight. Vikram-1's mission 'Aagaman' is the first orbital attempt. Statement 3 is correct: the article mentions three solid-fuel stages.

Explanation

The article clearly states: 'capable of carrying payloads weighing up to 350 kg to a 450-km Low Earth Orbit (LEO) at a 60-degree inclination.' The other options are common distractors; 300 kg and 400 kg are payloads of other rockets like ISRO's SSLV and PSLV respectively.

Explanation

The article emphasizes that this launch is a milestone for private space enterprise in India, enabled by the government's opening of the space sector. The Union Minister said 'This marks India’s entry into the highly competitive global space sector.' Options A, C, and D are not supported by the article — Vikram-1 is designed for LEO payloads, not interplanetary or crewed missions, and is not a replacement for PSLV.

Explanation

The Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe) was established as a single-window nodal agency to enable private sector participation. ISRO is the primary space agency, while NewSpace India Limited (NSIL) is the commercial arm of ISRO. Antrix Corporation is the marketing arm of ISRO.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: Vikram-1 uses solid fuel for the first three stages and liquid fuel for the fourth stage. Statement 2 is incorrect: Vikram-1 has a payload capacity of 290 kg to a 500-km sun-synchronous orbit and 480 kg to a low-inclination orbit at similar altitude. Statement 3 is correct: Skyroot was founded in 2018 by former ISRO engineers Pawan Kumar Chandana and Naga Bharath Daka.

Explanation

Vikram-1 can carry 290 kg to a 500-km sun-synchronous orbit and 480 kg to a low-inclination orbit at similar altitude. 1,000 kg is the projected capacity of the future Vikram-2 rocket.

Explanation

The article highlights that the global small-satellite launch market is challenging, with many startups folding or pivoting. Domestic demand is limited, launch services are low-margin, and Skyroot will need to secure international customers to sustain a production rate of 12 rockets per year.

Explanation

IN-SPACe (Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre) is the single-window clearance and regulatory agency for private space players in India, created under the 2020 space reforms.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as Skyroot launched Vikram 1, India's first private orbital rocket. Statement 2 is incorrect - Vikram 1 is a small-lift launch vehicle for low earth orbit, not a heavy-lift vehicle for geostationary orbit. Statement 3 is correct as IN-SPACe regulates private space activities under the Space Policy 2023.

Explanation

Vikram 1 is a small-lift launch vehicle capable of placing up to 300 kg payloads into low earth orbit. The other options are distractors - 100 kg is too low, while 500 kg and 1,000 kg are capacities of larger rockets like Vikram 2 and Vikram 3 planned by Skyroot.

Explanation

The launch of India's first private orbital-class rocket validates the 2020 space sector reforms and the Space Policy 2023, which opened ISRO's infrastructure to private players. It does not involve heavy satellites, human spaceflight, or interplanetary exploration.

Explanation

IN-SPACe was established in 2020 as a single-window nodal agency under the Department of Space to promote, handhold, and authorise private sector participation in space activities. ISRO focuses on R&D and missions, NSIL is the commercial arm, and DoS is the parent ministry.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: Vikram-1 is India's first private orbital launch vehicle. Statement 2 is incorrect: the rocket is named after Dr. Vikram Sarabhai (father of India's space programme), not Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam (the solid engines are named 'Kalam'). Statement 3 is correct: the article mentions 3D-printed engines and a carbon composite body.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that Vikram-1 deposited its payloads in low-Earth orbits at an altitude of about 450 km. The other options are plausible distractors for different satellite orbits.

Explanation

The article emphasizes that this mission validates PM Modi's decision to open the space sector, which was initially seen as risky. India becomes the third country (after US and China) with private orbital launch capability. Option A is incorrect as this is an Earth orbital mission. Option C is not claimed. Option D is incorrect because private companies have launched from Indian soil before (e.g., sub-orbital flights).

Explanation

The article explicitly states that 'The DHS on Thursday announced a rule that eliminates duration of status (D/S)'. USCIS is an agency within DHS, but DHS is the parent department that issued the rule.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article states 'authorised stay capped at a maximum of four years'. Statement 2 is incorrect; the grace period was *halved* from 60 days to 30 days. Statement 3 is incorrect; the article explicitly states 'OPT itself has not been eliminated by the final rule'.

Explanation

The article states 'As of January 2025, there were about 300,000 Indian students in the US'. 300,000 is equivalent to 3 lakh.

Explanation

The article mentions that the US government claims the shift 'restores integrity to the nation's immigration system, combats rampant visa abuse, and strengthens national security'. The other options are not stated objectives of this specific rule.

Explanation

Article 342 empowers the President to specify tribes or tribal communities as Scheduled Tribes. Article 341 deals with Scheduled Castes. Article 343 deals with the official language of the Union. Article 344 deals with the Commission on Official Language.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: Article 342 does not mention religion as a criterion for ST status. Statement 2 is correct: The Constitution (Scheduled Castes) Order, 1950, restricts SC status to Hindus, Sikhs, and Buddhists. Statement 3 is correct: Since Article 342 does not link ST status to religion, any change to delist converted STs would require a constitutional amendment. Hence all three statements are correct.

Explanation

The article states that STs account for 9.35% of Maharashtra's population according to the 2011 Census. The other options are close distractors: 7.5% is the approximate national average for ST population, while 11.2% and 13.0% are not mentioned in the article.

Explanation

Since Article 342 of the Constitution does not make religion a criterion for ST status, any change to delist converted STs would require amending the Constitution itself. A state government resolution or simple parliamentary law would be insufficient. The Supreme Court can only interpret the law, not create new provisions. Hence option B is correct.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the Vikram-1 rocket was built by the Hyderabad firm Skyroot Aerospace. The other options are other Indian space startups but are not mentioned in the article.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article says the rocket 'lifted off ISRO's First Launch Pad at Sriharikota'. Statement 2 is incorrect because 'Aagaman' means 'arrival', not 'departure'. Statement 3 is correct as the payloads were placed 'in an orbit roughly 450 km above the earth'. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article specifically mentions that the payloads were placed 'in an orbit roughly 450 km above the earth'. The other options are close distractors but not mentioned in the news.

Explanation

The article's lead states that the launch 'made India only the third country, after the United States and China, whose private industry can reach orbit on its own launch vehicle.' While the other options are related benefits, the core significance highlighted is India's entry into the elite group of nations with private orbital capability.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the regulations were notified by the department of Municipal Administration and Urban Development (MAUD). This department oversees urban planning and development across the state.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect because the negative-list approach allows activities unless they are specifically prohibited, not the other way around. Statement 2 is incorrect because the regulations explicitly exclude the capital city area. Statement 3 is correct as the regulations introduce nine standard land-use categories.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that specified non-residential activities may be permitted on sites measuring at least 300 square metres and abutting existing or proposed roads of 60 feet width and above, subject to payment of applicable fees.

Explanation

The article states that the regulations are expected to support planned urban expansion while balancing economic growth with public safety and environmental protection. They replace multiple legacy zoning frameworks with nine standard land-use categories and a negative-list approach.

Explanation

NHSRCL is a special purpose vehicle under the Ministry of Railways, responsible for implementing the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High Speed Rail project. The ministry oversees all railway-related projects in India, including bullet trains.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect: The second TBM started from Sawli (Ghansoli) towards Vikhroli, not from Vikhroli to BKC. Statement 2 is correct: 7 km undersea tunnel under Thane Creek is India's first. Statement 3 is correct: The TBM is a Mixshield type, slurry-based, with a 13.6 m diameter cutterhead.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the TBM has a 13.6-metre-diameter cutterhead. The other options are close distractors, but only 13.6 m is mentioned in the news.

Explanation

The Mixshield method uses a pressurized liquid bentonite slurry circuit to actively stabilize the tunnel face during excavation, making it ideal for soft ground and underwater conditions like those under Thane Creek. Option A describes NATM, option C is not necessarily true, and option D is false as the article mentions real-time monitoring systems.

Explanation

The Gauhati High Court, in its July 14, 2026 order, upheld the conviction. The bench comprised Justices Michael Zothankhuma and Sanjeev Kumar Sharma.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the court explicitly held that absence of injury marks does not mean no rape. Statement 2 is incorrect because the accused was convicted under Section 6/17 POCSO (aggravated sexual assault), not Section 6 alone. Statement 3 is correct as per the case details.

Explanation

The trial court had awarded 14 years of imprisonment, which was upheld by the Gauhati High Court. The other options are distractors; 10 years and 7 years are common minimum sentences for certain POCSO offences, but here the specific term was 14 years.

Explanation

The court relied on settled law that physical injury is not a prerequisite for proving rape. This judgment reinforces the credibility of victim testimony and prevents the defence from using lack of injury marks to escape conviction.

Explanation

The article repeatedly refers to KSEB (Kerala State Electricity Board) as the state's electricity utility managing power generation, transmission, and distribution. KSEB is a statutory body established under the Electricity Act.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: Kerala ranks fourth in rooftop solar installed capacity. Statement 2 is correct as per article: Kerala has 2.96 lakh installations covering 3,03,531 households. Statement 3 is false: Karnataka has only 22,383 installations, far less than Kerala's 2.96 lakh.

Explanation

The article states: 'The vast majority of this installed capacity — 2,036 MW — is from rooftop panels.' 1,150 MW is the PM Suryaghar Yojana capacity, 2,508 MW is total solar (including ground-mounted), and 91 MW is Karnataka's total solar capacity.

Explanation

The article highlights that Kerala's peak demand occurs from 6-11 PM due to 75% domestic consumers, while solar generation peaks during the day. This forces prosumers to export solar to the grid and then draw expensive power at night, creating grid voltage and cost issues. Option A is not mentioned; option B is false (industrial consumption is only 20%); option D is not the primary reason mentioned.

Explanation

The article explicitly states the port is 'developed under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model by the Kerala government and Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone (APSEZ).'

Explanation

Statements 1 and 2 are directly mentioned in the article. Statement 3 is incorrect because the article specifies that EXIM operations are set to begin on August 18, 2026, while the port has already been handling commercial transshipment operations (2M TEUs in 18 months).

Explanation

The article's title and content clearly state that EXIM operations at the Vizhinjam seaport are 'set to begin on August 18, 2026'. July 18 is the publication date of the news.

Explanation

The article states Mission Samudra 'aims to transform Kerala into one of the country's leading maritime and logistics hubs by integrating ports, logistics, manufacturing, inland waterways, and multimodal connectivity.'

Explanation

The Bar Council of India (BCI) is a statutory body constituted under the Advocates Act, 1961. It has the authority to regulate the legal profession and legal education, including prescribing rules for professional conduct and etiquette, as seen in this circular on social media norms.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the circular prohibits making reels, videos, or photographs inconsistent with dignity. Statement 2 is incorrect because the circular specifically prohibits creating or circulating AI-generated images, deepfake videos, or voice-cloned recordings. Statement 3 is correct as the circular instructs law schools to conduct mandatory orientation programmes on digital ethics.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the circular was issued on July 17, 2026. The news was published on July 18, 2026. Option A (July 18) is a close distractor being the publication date, while the other options are incorrect dates.

Explanation

The circular aims to prevent acts that undermine public confidence in courts, such as sensationalising proceedings and spreading misinformation. It explicitly states its concern with content that crosses the line into solicitation, misinformation, and conduct inconsistent with the dignity of courts and the Bar. It does not ban all social media use, as positive educational use is allowed.

Explanation

The SARFAESI Act of 2002 empowers banks to enforce security interest and take over secured assets without court intervention after a 60-day notice. Co-operative banks can also invoke it post 2020 SC judgment.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect: SMA-1 is for overdue between 31-60 days, while SMA-2 is for 61-90 days. Statement 2 is correct as per the article. Statement 3 is correct: the Andhyarujina Committee (along with Narasimham Committee) proposed the SARFAESI Act.

Explanation

As per RBI circular of July 2014, if interest or principal remains due for more than 90 days, the loan is classified as NPA. This is a standard global norm.

Explanation

The ban on resale to original borrower or related parties prevents moral hazard, ensuring that defaulters cannot simply buy back the property and continue to delay repayment. This strengthens the recovery process.

Explanation

CENTCOM is the unified combatant command responsible for US military operations in the Middle East, Central Asia, and parts of South Asia. The article specifically mentions US Central Command confirming the strikes and denying IRGC claims.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article mentions US strikes on highway/railway bridges near Bandar Abbas and a tower at Chabahar port. Statement 2 is incorrect because Iran fired missiles at Qatar and Kuwait, not Saudi Arabia and UAE. Statement 3 is correct as the article states Iran effectively shut the strait to shipping after the war began in February.

Explanation

The article states oil rose past $86/barrel Friday, near a one-month high. It also mentions that since the war started, 14 US service members have died and 427 have been wounded. The other options mix up correct and incorrect numbers.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the strikes on highway and railway bridges appear meant to cut off Bandar Abbas, Iran's main port, from roads leading to Tehran. Chabahar port was also hit, which is a key trade route for Afghanistan. The objective is strategic disruption of supply lines, not nuclear facilities or civilian casualties per se.

Explanation

The IRGC claimed responsibility for strikes on Camp Arifjan, a key US military support base in Kuwait. Ali Al Salem was also targeted but the specific claim mentions Camp Arifjan. Sheikh Isa is in Bahrain. Camp Lemonnier is in Djibouti.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: attacks came after seven consecutive nights of US strikes on Iranian targets. Statement 2 is incorrect: the radar installation destroyed was at Ali Al Salem Air Base, not Sheikh Isa. Statement 3 is correct: US enforced a naval blockade, Iran targeted vessels violating its rules.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that 'around one-fifth of global oil supplies pass through' the Strait of Hormuz. One-fifth equals 20%. The other options are common distractors.

Explanation

The article emphasizes that the Strait of Hormuz is a key chokepoint for global oil supply. While the US naval blockade and Iran's control are relevant, the core significance is the volume of oil transiting it. Option A is too absolute (not the only route). Option C is a current event, not the primary significance. Option D is a fact but not the primary significance for energy security.

Explanation

The article states that BrainCo, a Chinese tech unicorn, unveiled the world’s first brain-to-robot platform at WAIC 2026. Neuralink is a different company focused on invasive BCI implants. OpenAI and Boston Dynamics are not mentioned in this context.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the platform records brain signals using an EEG headset. Statement 2 is incorrect: the article says it works with a wide range of third-party hardware, not only proprietary. Statement 3 is correct: AI-based algorithms decode the signals to identify the user’s intentions. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that BrainCo was founded in 2015 in Hangzhou. The other options are distractors not mentioned in the article.

Explanation

The article mentions that the robotics industry faces an acute shortage of high-quality data, and BrainCo’s solution brings together real-world executions, human demos, and virtual simulations to feed more diverse data sets into robotic brains. The other options are not mentioned in the article.

Explanation

The article clearly states that the index is NITI Aayog's first-ever Investment Friendliness Index 2026. NITI Aayog is the policy think tank responsible for various state rankings.

Explanation

All three statements are directly from the article: Gujarat scored 56.6, Maharashtra 53.7, Tamil Nadu 53.3, and the index uses 84 indicators under 8 pillars.

Explanation

The article mentions that Gujarat recorded a fiscal deficit of 2.81% of GSDP in 2024-25, the lowest among all states. The other options are distractors.

Explanation

The article states that the index evaluates states across 84 indicators under eight pillars covering the entire investment lifecycle, including policy, governance, infrastructure, business facilitation, and fiscal management.

Explanation

The Human Space Flight Centre (HSFC) is the dedicated ISRO unit for the Gaganyaan mission, responsible for astronaut training, mission planning, and life support systems. The article specifically mentions HSFC as the signatory unit collaborating with SCTIMST for space medicine research.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect because the PDF programme is a two-year programme, not one year. Statement 2 is correct as the Centre for Space Medicine Research was established at SCTIMST in November 2025. Statement 3 is correct as the article mentions the collaboration aims to understand the impact of microgravity, cosmic radiation, and isolation on human physiology.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that SCTIMST and HSFC had signed an MoU on April 24, 2025, for cooperation in space medicine research related to ISRO's human space missions. The other options are distractors: July 18, 2026 is the date of the implementing agreement, and November 2025 is when the Centre for Space Medicine Research was established.

Explanation

The article states the programme is designed to provide comprehensive understanding of changes in cellular and organ functions during space travel and to enable research addressing critical scientific questions related to human space missions. The focus is on astronaut health and safety, not satellite technology or ISS equipment.

Explanation

The article specifically mentions ExxonMobil, Shell, Halliburton, KBR, and GE Vernova. Chevron is not listed among the companies signing agreements.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect because the agreements explicitly include the oil sector (ExxonMobil, Shell, etc.). Statement 3 is correct as the Starlink deal was signed. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article clearly states that '48 agreements, memoranda of understanding, cooperation agreements, and partnership declarations were signed.' The other options are close distractors but only 48 is correct.

Explanation

The article states that PM Zaidi 'vowed to disarm pro-Iran armed groups in Iraq that have targeted U.S. facilities.' This indicates the primary objective is to counter Iranian influence and secure US assets. Other options are not supported by the news.

Explanation

The news article specifically states that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) issued the new final rule. DHS is the parent agency overseeing immigration and border security. The State Department issues visas at embassies but DHS sets regulations.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the DHS final rule creates a fixed time period for F, J, and I visas. Statement 2 is incorrect: the maximum duration is 4 years, not 5. Statement 3 is incorrect: the rule will come into effect 60 days after publication in the federal register, not immediately.

Explanation

According to the article, the new regulations specify that student and exchange visa periods would be no longer than four years. The other options are distractors.

Explanation

The MEA stated that it 'takes up the issues of difficulties faced by genuine travellers and students bound for the US'. The rule affects F, J, and I visas, not H-1B visas directly. There is no mention of the civil nuclear agreement or fee increases.

Explanation

The Department of Space (DoS) is the nodal department under the Government of India that oversees ISRO. The memorandum was issued by DoS, not by ISRO itself. This distinction is important for exam questions about administrative control.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the 2020 delegation was reversed. Statement 2 is incorrect: the rule applies to scientists associated with 'Gaganyaan and other important missions/projects', not just Gaganyaan. Statement 3 is correct: the memorandum specifies that requests up to Scientist/Engineer-SG level must be referred to DoS.

Explanation

The article states that ISRO has a sanctioned strength of 18,142 employees but around 2,613 posts remain vacant. Of these, 1,636 vacancies are in scientific and technical positions. Option A (1,636) is the scientific/technical vacancies, not total vacancies. Option C (1,449) is the number of posts under recruitment. Option D (18,142) is the sanctioned strength.

Explanation

The memorandum explicitly states that the spate of resignations is 'severely impacting implementation of projects of national importance.' The government's primary concern is to prevent disruption to critical missions. While reducing attrition to private firms is a related issue, the direct objective is project continuity.