20 February 2026, Questions & Answers

Explanation

The article clearly states that Pax Silica is a 'US-led initiative'. It was launched by the US to bring together friendly countries. Japan and the UK are member allies, while India is a recent joiner.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; India was notably left out initially and joined later. Statement 3 is correct as the article describes it as a counter to China's grip and aims to 'reduce coercive dependencies'.

Explanation

The article's publication date is February 20, 2026, and it states India is 'likely to sign' the declaration 'today', i.e., on that date. December 12, 2025, is the launch date of the initiative itself.

Explanation

The article emphasizes securing supply chains from hostile control, reducing dependencies, and attracting US investment for India's semiconductor mission and AI growth. There is no mention of military technology, EU policies, or replacing the Quad.

Explanation

The Secret Intelligence Service (SIS), commonly known as MI6, is the United Kingdom's foreign intelligence agency. The CIA is the US foreign intelligence agency, the FBI is the US domestic security agency, and the NSA is the US signals intelligence agency.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; the proposed body is a Japanese version of the US Committee on Foreign Investment (CFIUS), not the UK's MI5 (which is a domestic security service). Statement 3 is correct as PM Takaichi promised to speed up nuclear reactor restarts.

Explanation

The article explicitly states the target is to be met 'by the end of March'. The specific year, 2026, is derived from the article's context and the PM's tenure. 'End of March' typically refers to the end of the Japanese fiscal year.

Explanation

The article directly links the supply chain strengthening to reducing dependence on 'specific countries', a clear reference to China which dominates the global rare earths market. This is a move towards economic security and strategic autonomy, not primarily about employment, R&D, or environmental compliance.

Explanation

The article states that 'the fine print issued by the US State Department after the initiative was launched in December...'. This makes the State Department the nodal body for the diplomatic and strategic communication of the initiative.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article's definition of Pax Silica. Statement 2 is incorrect; India was NOT a founding member and joined later in February 2026. Statement 3 is correct as the article lists protecting sensitive tech and building trusted ecosystems as key measures under the initiative.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: 'Microsoft late last year announced plans to spend $17.5 billion to expand its AI infrastructure and cloud computing capacity in India over the next four years.' The $3 billion is an earlier announced amount, and $15 billion is Google's investment.

Explanation

The core objective of Pax Silica is to counter China's dominance by building a coalition of 'friendly and trusted' countries to reduce 'coercive dependencies' and secure supply chains from minerals to semiconductors, as stated by the US Ambassador and the US State Department's fine print.

Explanation

The news article states that IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw was India's representative. The IT Minister heads the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), which is responsible for policy related to IT, electronics, and internet governance.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; the article clearly states India was initially left out and joined later in February 2026. Statement 3 is correct as the initiative is described as a 'counter to China's grip'. Hence, both 1 and 3 are correct.

Explanation

The article explicitly states the initiative "was launched on December 12, 2025". February 20, 2026, is the date India signed it, making it a close distractor.

Explanation

The core objective, as per the US State Department, is to bring 'friendly and trusted' countries together to ensure key technologies are safe and "not controlled by hostile actors," specifically countering China's influence. The other options are not the focus of this particular initiative.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the data was released by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on a Friday. The RBI is the central bank responsible for compiling and publishing India's Balance of Payments data, which includes FDI flows.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article mentions gross FDI inflows rose to a five-month high of $8.58 billion. Statement 2 is incorrect because net FDI was negative at (-)$1.61 billion, not positive. Statement 3 is correct as repatriation hit a record $7.45 billion. Hence, only statements 1 and 3 are correct.

Explanation

The article states that FDI by Indian companies (outward FDI) increased in December, rising to $2.75 billion. This was up 78% from November and 31% from December 2024. The other options are close but incorrect distractors.

Explanation

The article specifically states that the announcement on February 2 of an interim US-India agreement, which would remove the penal 25% tariff and reduce the reciprocal tariff to 18%, sparked a turnaround. This led to foreign investors purchasing almost $2 billion of Indian equities so far in February, alleviating pressure on the rupee.

Explanation

Article 80(3) of the Indian Constitution empowers the President to nominate 12 members to the Rajya Sabha who have special knowledge or practical experience in literature, science, art, and social service.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect. The domicile requirement was removed by an amendment to the Representation of the People Act, 1951, not a constitutional amendment, as upheld in the Kuldip Nayar case. Statement 2 is correct as per the article. Statement 3 is incorrect; a Minister from Lok Sabha can speak but not vote in Rajya Sabha.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that among the 37 MPs whose terms are ending, seven are from Maharashtra. The other options are close distractors representing counts from other states mentioned.

Explanation

As quoted from Shri Gopalaswami Ayyangar in the article, the Rajya Sabha is intended as an instrument to 'delay action which might be hastily conceived' and allow seasoned individuals to contribute to debates, fulfilling the role of a revising chamber.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the data is from the 'State of the economy' article in the Reserve Bank of India's monthly bulletin. The RBI regularly publishes such analytical articles in its bulletin.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect: The article states the FY26 intention is Rs 4.35 lakh crore, which is above the previous year's figure of 'below Rs 4 lakh crore'. Statement 2 is incorrect: The resource flow increased by 35.29%, supported by credit from both bank and non-bank sources, with non-bank sources showing a 'marked increase'. Statement 3 is correct as per the article.

Explanation

The article clearly states that 'External commercial borrowings and IPOs — for capital expenditure purposes — accounted for another Rs 85,800 crore'. Rs 3.45 lakh crore is the amount sanctioned by banks/FIs, Rs 34.5 lakh crore is the total financial resource flow, and Rs 25.5 lakh crore is the previous year's resource flow.

Explanation

The article defines the flow as 'total financial funds mobilised and made available to businesses... to support their operations, investment, expansion, and working capital needs.' An increase in this flow, therefore, directly indicates better funding availability for corporate activity, which fuels economic growth. The other options are not supported by the article's content.

Explanation

As per Article 112 of the Constitution (Annual Financial Statement), the Budget is laid before Parliament by the President. However, it is presented by the Finance Minister on behalf of the government.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; the article states India does NOT lack vision or announcements, but lacks implementation. Statement 3 is correct as the article mentions the Laffer effect in the context of improving compliance through lower compliance costs and trust.

Explanation

The article states that out of roughly 90 million individuals in the tax net, about 30 million pay income tax. The other options are distractors: 90 million is the total tax net, while 60 and 120 million are not mentioned.

Explanation

The article's core thesis is that India's development challenge is no longer about policy design but about bridging the 'distance between intention and outcome' and making 'implementation itself...the central reform agenda'. The other options are mentioned as symptoms or sub-points, not the central argument.

Explanation

As per the article, the Supreme Court of India, recognizing the 'constitutional sensitivity' of the issue, referred the petitions to a Constitution Bench. The Supreme Court is the highest constitutional court in India.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article states the DPDP Act dilutes RTI by removing the public interest override. Statement 2 is incorrect; the amendment was effected by Section 44(3) of the DPDP Act, not Section 7. Statement 3 is correct as mentioned in the first paragraph of the article.

Explanation

The article specifically mentions that non-compliance with the DPDP Act can attract fines up to ₹250 crore. This is a key data point regarding the Act's stringent provisions, especially concerning potential impacts on journalism.

Explanation

The core issue is the tension introduced by the DPDP Act's amendment to the RTI Act. The amendment prioritizes data privacy (a facet of the right to privacy under Article 21) by restricting disclosure, potentially at the cost of transparency and the citizen's right to information, which is crucial for accountability.

Explanation

The P5+1 refers to the five permanent members of the UN Security Council (China, France, Russia, UK, USA) plus Germany. This group was instrumental in negotiating the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) with Iran.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: JCPOA was finalized in 2015. Statement 2 is incorrect: The US withdrew from the JCPOA in 2018, not 2020. Statement 3 is correct: The article mentions Oman hosting talks between US and Iranian interlocutors in Muscat in 2026.

Explanation

The article states that in 2018, as the first presidency of Donald Trump began, the U.S. exited the JCPOA agreement. This is a key factual date for Prelims.

Explanation

The article highlights that beyond oil, Iran remains important for India due to the Chabahar Port connectivity, Iran's role in Afghanistan vis-à-vis the Taliban, and its posturing in Central Asia against Turkish and Pakistani influences.

Explanation

The 'Central Sector Scheme for Rehabilitation of Bonded Labourers' is implemented by the Ministry of Labour and Employment. This ministry is the nodal agency for policies and laws concerning labour welfare, including the Bonded Labour System (Abolition) Act, 1976.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the definition in the Act. Statement 2 is incorrect because the Act places the responsibility of identification, release, and rehabilitation on State Governments and Union Territories, not the Central Government. Statement 3 is correct; the Act was passed in 1976 but came into force retrospectively from 25th October 1975.

Explanation

The article states that as per the SECC 2011 assessment, the number of legally released bonded labourers in the country was 1.65 lakh. The figure 8,304 refers specifically to bonded labourers rescued in Odisha.

Explanation

The core analysis points out that timely financial and livelihood support is critical. Delays in rehabilitation assistance leave rescued labourers with no economic alternative, pushing them back into the same exploitative professions to survive, thus nullifying the rescue effort.

Explanation

The article explicitly references the American Council on Education (ACE) model, which defines comprehensive internationalisation as a strategic, coordinated framework integrating policies, programmes, and individuals to make universities more globally oriented.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article data (13.8 lakh in 2025). Statement 2 is incorrect; Kerala's share is nearly 11%, not 20%. Statement 3 is incorrect; the ACE model is based on three lenses: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI); Agility and Transformation; and Data-Informed Decision-Making.

Explanation

The article states that the U.S. and Canada together attract nearly 40% of Indian students going abroad. The other options are plausible distractors but not the specific figure mentioned.

Explanation

The core objective, as stated in the article, is to create 'global-ready graduates' equipped with international perspectives and skills, thereby enhancing domestic education quality and reducing the need for students to migrate abroad for better opportunities.

Explanation

The landmark Arnesh Kumar vs State of Bihar (2014) judgment laid down guidelines to prevent automatic arrests under Section 41 of the CrPC, which deals with when police may arrest without a warrant. Section 144 relates to urgent orders, Section 154 to FIR registration, and Section 438 to anticipatory bail.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: The guidelines apply to offences punishable with imprisonment up to seven years, including Section 498-A IPC. Statement 2 is incorrect: Magistrates are directed NOT to authorize detention mechanically and must record reasons. Statement 3 is correct: Police must prepare a checklist and forward reasons/material to the magistrate. Hence, both 1 and 3 are correct.

Explanation

The Supreme Court delivered the Arnesh Kumar vs State of Bihar judgment on July 2, 2014. The year 2014 is a critical factual data point often asked in prelims. The other options are plausible distractors related to other landmark judgments or amendments.

Explanation

The core objective of the Arnesh Kumar guidelines is to curb the mechanical and unnecessary arrest of individuals, especially in cases like dowry harassment, thereby protecting the fundamental right to personal liberty under Article 21. The guidelines aim to balance the need for investigation with the protection of individuals from arbitrary arrest.

Explanation

The article mentions the Economic Survey of India 2025-26 has called for age-based limits for social media usage by children. The Economic Survey is a flagship annual document of the Ministry of Finance, analyzing economic trends and suggesting policy measures.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: The plaintiffs argue that the design of the platform is a 'product' and should face product liability. Statement 2 is incorrect: The APA defines it as 'problematic and compulsive use', not a clinical addiction. Statement 3 is correct: The article explicitly states the case is compared to the war against Big Tobacco in the 1980s.

Explanation

The article cites the Pew Research Center study from December 2025, which notes that 36% of teens use one of the five platforms (YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat, Facebook) 'almost constantly'. This is a precise data point for factual recall.

Explanation

The plaintiffs are making a case against 'hostile platform design', arguing features like infinite scroll are engineered to be addictive. This moves beyond liability for user content (protected by Section 230) to product liability for the design of the platform itself.

Explanation

While multiple ministries are involved, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) is the nodal ministry for policies related to electronics manufacturing, IT, and artificial intelligence in India. The Ministry of Mines handles critical mineral exploration, but the AI and broader tech focus aligns primarily with MeitY.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: The Pax Silica initiative was launched in December 2025 and the summit was held in Washington on December 12. Statement 2 is incorrect: The coalition focuses on supply chains for critical minerals and artificial intelligence, not agricultural products. Statement 3 is correct: India signed the agreement on February 20, 2026.

Explanation

The article clearly states that India signed the agreement on Friday, February 20, 2026. December 12, 2025, is the date of the inaugural Pax Silica Summit. The other dates are not mentioned.

Explanation

The core objective of the Pax Silica coalition, as stated in the declaration, is to build a secure, resilient, and innovation-driven supply chain for critical minerals and artificial intelligence. India's joining aligns with this objective to secure its economic and technological future, not with military, agricultural, or UN reform goals.

Explanation

The chief negotiator for India, Darpan Jain, is a Joint Secretary in the Commerce Ministry. The Ministry of Commerce and Industry is the nodal body responsible for formulating India's foreign trade policy and conducting trade negotiations.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect because the joint statement announcing the framework was released earlier in February 2026, not January. Statement 3 is incorrect as the pact involves a reduction of US tariffs on Indian goods from 25% to 18%, not their complete elimination.

Explanation

The article clearly states that the US has announced it will reduce the reciprocal tariffs on Indian goods from 25% to 18%. The other options are plausible distractors but not mentioned in the given text.

Explanation

The removal of these punitive tariffs indicates that the US and India are separating the contentious issue of India's energy imports from Russia from their broader trade relationship. This allows the trade negotiations to progress on their own merits, reflecting pragmatic diplomacy.

Explanation

Starlink is a satellite internet constellation operated by the private American aerospace company SpaceX, founded by Elon Musk. It aims to provide global broadband coverage using a network of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as LEO satellites like Starlink offer lower latency, which is vital for real-time applications like drone control. Statement 2 is incorrect because Russia does not have an indigenous Starlink-like LEO constellation; it relied on its older GEO satellites (Yamal, Express) as an alternative. Statement 3 is correct as the article mentions Russia used its Yamal and Express geo-stationary satellites, which are higher up and require large parabolic antennas.

Explanation

The article states that after the Starlink cutoff, Russia's alternative satellite terminals with large parabolic antennas became prime targets, forcing them to move these antennae back by 10-15 kilometers (six to nine miles) from the front lines.

Explanation

The core implication is the strategic vulnerability created when a modern military's tactical operations become reliant on commercial technology like Starlink, which can be unilaterally denied by a private company based in a third country. This creates a new dimension of risk and dependency in warfare.

Explanation

The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) is the nodal agency for policy matters relating to IT, electronics, and the internet. It oversees critical initiatives like the India Semiconductor Mission and digital infrastructure development, making it central to implementing tech-focused international agreements like Pax Silica.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect: Pax Silica focuses on de-risking AI and semiconductor supply chains, not pharmaceuticals and textiles. Statement 2 is correct as per the article, which mentions the tariff rollback preceded the agreement. Statement 3 is correct, directly quoting the US State Department's objective for the initiative.

Explanation

Microsoft committed $17.5 billion and Google committed $15 billion. The sum is $32.5 billion. The other options are close distractors: $25.5bn is too low, $30bn is the rounded sum of the two figures, and $35bn is an overestimate.

Explanation

The core theme of the article is de-risking supply chains and replacing 'coercive dependencies' (a reference to over-reliance on China) with 'trusted alliances'. While attracting investment is a benefit, the primary driver is strategic—securing critical technology infrastructure and gaining a share in the manufacturing supply chain shift away from China.

Explanation

Article 324 of the Indian Constitution establishes the Election Commission and vests in it the superintendence, direction, and control of elections. Article 352 deals with National Emergency, Article 356 with President's Rule, and Article 368 with the power of Parliament to amend the Constitution.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the SIR instructions. Statement 2 is correct; the article mentions SIR began with Bihar as its Assembly elections were due. Statement 3 is incorrect; Assam is excluded because the National Register of Citizens (NRC) has not been finalized, not because its rolls are up-to-date.

Explanation

The article clearly states that the SIR is set to start in the remaining 22 states and Union Territories in April 2026. 12 is the number of states/UTs where SIR started earlier in October 2025. 28 is the total number of Indian states, and 31 is a distractor.

Explanation

As mentioned in the article, petitioners have questioned the EC's power to conduct a citizenship check and argued that the SIR process violates the Representation of the People Act, 1950, and differs from the process followed in previous intensive revisions. The other options are not mentioned as grounds for the challenge in the given text.

Explanation

The Olive Ridley turtle is listed under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. Species under this schedule are accorded the highest level of protection, with stringent penalties for offenses. This is a fundamental static GK fact for environment and biodiversity sections.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: The NGT registered the case suo motu following a January 2025 news report. Statement 2 is incorrect: The NGT directed implementation of measures mandated by the Supreme Court of India (in the Arnav Sinha case), not the Delhi High Court. This is a classic examiner trap swapping judicial bodies. Statement 3 is correct: The order stressed TED installation, supported by a ₹57.72 crore allocation under PMMSY.

Explanation

The article specifically states that the Centre approved a budget allocation of ₹57.72 crore under PMMSY for supporting the nationwide distribution of TEDs, with the Centre's share being ₹34.64 crore. Option A is a close distractor representing only the central share.

Explanation

Turtle Excluder Devices (TEDs) are specialized grids fitted into trawl nets that allow captured turtles to escape, thereby reducing bycatch mortality. This is their core conservation objective. While other options might be incidental benefits or functions of other devices, the primary and stated purpose in the context of the news is turtle protection.

Explanation

The Supreme Court's cancellation was based on the violation of Article 14 (Right to Equality), which prohibits arbitrary and discriminatory state action. While Article 32 provides the right to constitutional remedies, the substantive right violated was equality under Article 14.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: Total penalty was ₹1.75 lakh (₹1L on society, ₹50k & ₹25k on officials), and ₹50,000 from this was directed to the petitioner. Statement 2 is incorrect as the allotment was done by the Haryana Urban Development Authority Employees Welfare Organisation (HEWO), a registered society, not HUDA directly. Statement 3 is incorrect because the Supreme Court set aside the order of the Punjab and Haryana High Court, not the Delhi High Court.

Explanation

The Supreme Court imposed costs totalling ₹1.75 lakh (₹1 lakh on the HEWO society, ₹50,000 on the third respondent, and ₹25,000 on the fourth respondent). This precise figure is a key factual takeaway from the judgment.

Explanation

The core of the judgment is the application of Article 14's guarantee of equality, which prohibits arbitrary state action. The Court found the society's actions, as an instrumentality of the State, to be arbitrary and biased, thus violating this fundamental right. The other principles, while important, are not the central focus of this specific case.

Explanation

The National Health Authority (NHA) is the apex body established to implement AB-PMJAY. While the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare is the nodal ministry, the NHA is the dedicated agency for design, rollout, and management of the scheme. NHM focuses on primary healthcare, and NITI Aayog is a policy think tank.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect: AB-PMJAY provides an annual health cover of ₹5 lakh per eligible family (household), not per individual. Statement 2 is correct: It is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme. Statement 3 is correct: It was launched nationwide in September 2018. Hence, option C is correct.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that 'A total of 19,287 patients received treatment under the scheme till December 2025.' This is a factual data point from the report. The other options are plausible distractors but not the exact figure mentioned.

Explanation

The article clearly states that industry representatives argue 'package rates under the scheme are significantly lower than prevailing market rates, discouraging participation.' While other factors may exist, the primary reason highlighted in the news report is the financial disincentive due to low rates.

Explanation

The DPIIT, under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, is the nodal department for formulation and implementation of promotional and developmental measures for growth of the industrial sector, including FDI policy. RBI handles monetary policy, SEBI regulates securities markets, and MEA handles diplomatic relations.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect. The article states the US is the third-largest source of FDI into India, not the largest. Statement 2 is correct as per the article. Statement 3 is incorrect because the $500 billion purchase includes energy, aircraft, precious metals, technology products, and coal, not exclusively defense.

Explanation

The article explicitly states California's GDP exceeds $4.1 trillion, making it the world's fourth-largest economy. The other options are plausible distractors for world economies but are not the figure mentioned for California.

Explanation

The article emphasizes that the one-sided investment relationship 'creates a significant political liability' and 'can be wielded as a political cudgel, leaving the more exposed partner with little leverage.' This is the core strategic risk discussed. The other options are not mentioned or implied in the context of the FDI asymmetry.

Explanation

The Finance Commission is a constitutional body established under Article 280 of the Constitution. Its primary mandate is to recommend the distribution of the net proceeds of taxes between the Union and the States, and the principles governing grants-in-aid to the States.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: The article states combined revenue growth was 7.7% vs. 22% budgeted. Statement 2 is incorrect: State GST collections grew only 3.3%, which is weak, not robust. Statement 3 is correct: Capex grew 25.7% in Q3, supported by central capex loans.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: "Out of the Rs 1.5 trillion allocated under capex loans for this year...". ₹1.0 trillion is the amount already disbursed by end-January 2025, making it a close distractor.

Explanation

The article concludes that state capex 'would support the country’s economic momentum, more so in the ongoing quarter, amid a possible contraction in the Union government’s own capex.' This makes it a critical growth lever. The article does not link it directly to fiscal deficit reduction or social sector spending.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the Ministry of Commerce introduced these interventions. While MSMEs are beneficiaries, the policy falls under the trade promotion mandate of the Commerce Ministry.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; the interest subvention is 2.75%, not 3.5%. Statement 3 is correct as mentioned. Hence, both 1 and 3 are correct.

Explanation

The article clearly states that assistance of up to 30% of the approved project cost is provided to support exporters in instituting warehouses overseas. The other options are plausible but incorrect distractors.

Explanation

The ministry's statement explicitly says the interventions seek to 'address structural constraints faced by MSMEs, including high cost of capital... and barriers to market entry'. The other options are not mentioned as objectives.

Explanation

The article explicitly states, "The Department of Energy is speaking to the Ministry of Energy here..." regarding the negotiations on Venezuelan oil sale to India.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; the deal is effective in April 2026, not 2025. Statement 3 is incorrect; licenses were granted to Vitol and Trafigura, not Shell. This is a classic trap swapping entity names.

Explanation

The article states, "the U.S. is likely to issue a formal notification this month to reduce its tariff on Indian goods to 18%." The other options are plausible but incorrect distractors.

Explanation

The core objective, repeatedly stated, is to help India diversify its sources of crude oil and reduce its reliance on Russian oil imports. This is directly linked to the U.S. geopolitical stance following sanctions on Russia.

Explanation

The article quotes Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal and mentions the Commerce Ministry's joint secretary as the chief negotiator. Trade agreements fall under the purview of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per Minister Goyal's announcement. Statement 2 is incorrect; the reduction is from 25% to 18%, not from 50% to 25%. The 50% figure was the total tariff some sectors faced. Statement 3 is correct as per the joint statement mentioned in the article.

Explanation

The article states: 'The U.S. has announced that it will reduce the reciprocal tariffs on Indian goods from 25% to 18%'. The other options are close distractors: 25% is the old rate, 20% is Vietnam's rate mentioned, and 15% is not cited.

Explanation

The article explains that India needs coking coal for its steel production, which is slated to double, and that sourcing from 'trusted partners' like the U.S. diversifies supply chains. This is a key strategic import objective, not primarily about trade balance or climate finance.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that a three-judge Bench of the Supreme Court of India, headed by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, made the observation about a 'clear nexus between police and power'.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article: 'The Supreme Court requested the Chief Justice of the Andhra Pradesh High Court to assign a senior judicial officer...'. Statement 2 is correct: 'the probe, if any, has to be concluded before March 31, 2026'. Statement 3 is incorrect because the trial completion deadline set by the court is November 30, 2026, not December 31, 2026.

Explanation

The article clearly states: 'The Bench ordered the trial to be completed before November 30, 2026.' This is a direct factual data point from the news.

Explanation

The Supreme Court's core observation was about a 'clear nexus between police and power', indicating its concern that political power was being used to hobnob with investigating agencies and influence the probe, as mentioned in the remarks by the CJI.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu expressing confidence about the world talking about the 'Amaravati Quantum Valley' being developed by the state.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect because the article states the aim is for the 'global market', not just domestic. Statement 2 is correct as the article mentions the intent to use 'sovereign AI'. Statement 3 is correct as the CM asserted Visakhapatnam's transformation into an AI hub.

Explanation

The article states that the Chief Minister made these remarks at a roundtable organised by the World Economic Forum (WEF) at the 'India AI Impact Summit' in New Delhi.

Explanation

The core objective, as derived from the article, is dual: to make a mark in the global quantum computing equipment market and to utilize sovereign AI for the benefit of every citizen, indicating a focus on global competitiveness and public welfare through technology.

Explanation

The judgment explicitly states that the preservation of public water bodies is fundamental to the right to life under Article 21 of the Constitution. This article guarantees the right to life and personal liberty, which the judiciary has interpreted to include the right to a healthy environment.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the judgment applied the Public Trust Doctrine. Statement 2 is incorrect; the court ruled that permissions granted without statutory authority are 'void ab initio' and confer no legal protection. Statement 3 is incorrect; the court explicitly directed expanding the investigation to identify all discharge points and violators, rejecting selective enforcement.

Explanation

The court's order specifically mentions that the Indian Penal Code, through Sections 277 (fouling water of public spring or reservoir) and 278 (making atmosphere noxious to health), recognizes pollution as a criminal wrong. The other sections listed pertain to public nuisance, mischief, etc.

Explanation

The principle of Intergenerational Equity, as applied by the court, underscores that public water bodies are shared natural resources held in trust for both present and future generations. This imposes a duty on the state and citizens to preserve these resources, making it a core objective of the judgment, unlike the other options which contradict the ruling's essence.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions the US Energy Information Administration (EIA) in the context of defining the strategic significance of the Strait of Hormuz. The EIA is a statistical agency within the U.S. Department of Energy responsible for collecting and analyzing energy data.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article, which states a blockade would alienate China, a key buyer of Iranian oil. Statement 2 is incorrect; while India imports over 88% of its crude, it is the world's third-largest consumer, not the largest. Statement 3 is correct, quoting analyst Clayton Seigle's projection that such an attack could lead to a historic spike potentially exceeding the $130/barrel mark of 2022.

Explanation

The article states: 'Given India imports around 2 billion barrels of oil annually, every $1 increase in oil prices could increase the country’s already hefty oil import bill by around $2 billion on an annualised basis.' The other options are plausible distractors but not mentioned in the text.

Explanation

The core apprehension, as detailed in the article, is that military action could lead Iran to disrupt energy flows via the Strait of Hormuz, a vital chokepoint for other major producers like Saudi Arabia, Iraq, UAE, and Kuwait. This systemic risk to global supply is a greater concern than just the loss of Iranian barrels.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the Tehrik-e-Taliban (TTP), also called the Pakistan Taliban, wants Pakistan run on a strict interpretation of Islamic law and opposes the Pakistan government's assistance to the US 'war on terror'. The BLA is a Baloch separatist group, while IS and LeT are not the primary focus described with these specific objectives.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article mentions Pakistan's improved ties with the US (Trump administration) and China, and a $1.3 billion US investment in Balochistan's Reko Diq mine. Statement 2 is incorrect; the article states that in just three quarters of 2025, there were 2414 fatalities, which was 'nearly as deadly as all of 2024 (2546)', not surpassing it. Statement 3 is incorrect; the article concludes that Shehbaz Sharif is 'happily playing second fiddle to the field marshal', indicating the military, led by General Asim Munir, is dominant.

Explanation

The article directly quotes the CRSS report stating, "In just three quarters, 2025 has proven nearly as deadly as all of 2024, with 2414 fatalities recorded compared to the entire tally of 2024 (2546)." 2546 is the figure for all of 2024. 670 and 924 are numbers related to police encounters in Punjab.

Explanation

The article quotes analyst Muhammad Amir Rana stating, "The latest surge in terrorist attacks began in 2021, following the Taliban's capture of power in Afghanistan. The spillover of leftover NATO weapons contributed to this escalation, while the ideological triumph of the Taliban emboldened groups such as the TTP." The other options, like IMF sanctions or reduced defense spending, are not cited as primary reasons for the surge.

Explanation

The Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) is established under Article 148 of the Constitution of India. Article 324 deals with the Election Commission, Article 280 with the Finance Commission, and Article 76 with the Attorney General of India.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article states losses exceeding ₹435 crore. Statement 2 is incorrect because the report mentions 19 SPSEs were profit-making, 11 were loss-making, and 4 had eroded net worth. Statement 3 is correct as Karnal Smart City Limited incurred ₹356.87 crore on projects outside the ABD area, violating guidelines.

Explanation

The article states that test checks of 117 units revealed under-assessment and short levy of ₹260.24 crore. ₹79.04 crore was the amount accepted by departments, ₹435 crore is the total cumulative financial implication, and ₹1.97 crore is a specific loss from plot allotment.

Explanation

The primary function of tabling a CAG report in the legislature is to enable legislative oversight. The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of the legislature examines these reports, questions the executive, and recommends corrective measures, thereby enforcing financial accountability. The report itself does not lead to automatic prosecution or fund re-allocation.

Explanation

The article states Union Minister for Electronics and Information Technology Ashwini Vaishnaw attended and signed the pact at the AI Impact Summit. This ministry handles policies related to IT, electronics, and the semiconductor mission.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article's final paragraph. Statement 2 is incorrect; US Under Secretary Helberg clarified it is NOT just a G2G platform but also enables private sector partnerships. Statement 3 is correct as the MEA statement defines its goal as building secure supply chains for technologies foundational to the AI era.

Explanation

The article's published timestamp is 'February 20, 2026 at 06:49 PM' and it reports the event occurring 'Friday', which corresponds to that date. December 12, 2025, is the launch date of the initiative, not India's joining date.

Explanation

The article explicitly states the initiative is 'seen as a counter to China's grip on the global manufacturing supply chain' and was launched to 'reduce coercive dependencies'. US officials also referenced challenges from 'over-concentrated' supply chains and 'economic coercion', a veiled reference to China.

Explanation

The Ministry of Commerce and Industry, led by the Commerce Minister (Piyush Goyal in the article), is the nodal agency for formulating India's foreign trade policy and negotiating trade agreements. The Department of Commerce under this ministry handles these matters.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article which states the pact will come into effect before trade agreements with the UK and EU. Statement 2 is incorrect; the US has rolled back (removed) the additional 25% tariffs it had imposed on India over Russian oil purchases. Statement 3 is correct as the article mentions India committed to stop buying Russian oil with a snap-back clause monitored by a US committee.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that in FY25, India's exports to the US stood at $86.51 billion. $45.62 billion is the import figure from the US. $500 billion is the target for Indian imports from the US over five years. $140 billion is not mentioned in the trade context.

Explanation

Goyal's statement, 'Is it better to have two sources of a product or six sources of a product?' in the context of coking coal for the steel industry highlights the objective of supply chain diversification. This is a strategic move to secure essential raw materials for industrial growth, not primarily about consumer goods, retaliatory tariffs, or reducing trade.

Explanation

The article explicitly lists International Solar Alliance (ISA) among the plurilateral fora where India and Brazil enjoy excellent cooperation, alongside BRICS, IBSA, G20, and others. NATO, APEC, and SAARC were not mentioned.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article states the relationship was elevated to Strategic Partnership in 2006. Statement 2 is incorrect because the defence cooperation agreement was signed in 2003 and ratified in 2006, not 2003. Statement 3 is incorrect as the bilateral trade for 2025 was $15.21 billion, not over $16 billion.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: "in calendar year 2025, bilateral trade reached USD 15.21 billion." The other options are close distractors based on rounding or projection figures.

Explanation

The article identifies the pact between Embraer and Adani Defense & Aerospace for the Construction of an E175 Aircraft Final Assembly Line in India as a likely agreement from the meeting. The other options, while plausible in broader India-Brazil relations, are not mentioned in this article.

Explanation

The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) is the nodal ministry for IT policy, electronics, and internet governance in India. It oversees the National AI Strategy and the IndiaAI Mission.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article explicitly mentions the vision as an alternative to digital colonialism and centers on 'open code'. Statement 2 is correct as the article mentions partnerships with Google and Microsoft for tech and capital transfer. Statement 3 is incorrect because the article clearly states that success requires tackling structural deficits like bureaucracy, skills, and infrastructure, not just funding.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that PM Modi outlined this vision in his speech at the 'India AI Impact Summit'. This is a specific, testable fact for prelims-style questions.

Explanation

The article quotes PM Modi saying, 'AI solutions that are affordable and scalable... can be exported to countries around the world, serving a global need.' This highlights the export-oriented, global bridge role. While self-reliance and data localization might be related secondary goals, the primary objective stated is creating export-worthy solutions.

Explanation

As stated in the article, scholars of international relations credit the Peace of Westphalia for laying the foundation of the modern state and its key principles, making it a foundational narrative for the discipline of International Relations.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article states the war took place within the fragmented Holy Roman Empire and ended in 1648. Statement 2 is correct as the article lists territoriality and legal equality of states as key principles established. Statement 3 is incorrect; the United Nations was created after World War II, not by the Peace of Westphalia, which established a system with 'no higher authority' above states.

Explanation

The article explicitly states the Peace of Westphalia refers to treaties signed in 1648. 1618 is the start year of the Thirty Years' War, 1789 is the French Revolution, and 1945 is the end of World War II and the creation of the UN.

Explanation

The article clearly explains that sovereign states 'came to operate within an anarchic system of international relations, as no higher authority exists above states.' This is a direct consequence of the Westphalian principle of sovereignty. The other options describe features of other systems (like the UN) or are not supported by the article.