20 March 2026, Questions & Answers

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) released the press note on the new GDP series. MoSPI is the nodal ministry for national statistics in India.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is correct as it is listed as the first major refinement. Statement 3 is incorrect; the new series uses ASUSE and PLFS data for household sector GVA, moving away from the old method of extrapolating base year estimates.

Explanation

The article provides the GDP figures for three years: ₹261.18 lakh crore (2022-23), ₹289.84 lakh crore (2023-24), and ₹318.07 lakh crore (2024-25).

Explanation

The article details that the ASI frame covers far fewer factories than the total companies in the MCA database for manufacturing. This truncated frame leads to inaccurate proportional allocation of national GVA across states, affecting GSDP estimates.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that "India’s Income Tax Department (ITD)’s Project Insight (PI) initiative" is aimed at leveraging AI for tax administration. While CBDT is the apex body for direct taxes, the operational department is the ITD.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect because INTRAC processes data from multiple sources including banking, property transactions, GST, and high-value purchases, not just banking. Statement 3 is correct as the NUDGE strategy is a core component.

Explanation

The article clearly states: "Since 2020-21, over one crore revised returns have been filed, resulting in an additional ₹11,000 crore in taxes." The other figures are plausible but incorrect distractors.

Explanation

The article highlights 'algorithmic bias' as a major concern, stating that "AI models trained on historical enforcement data can unintentionally duplicate existing socio-economic or geographic biases," citing the Dutch childcare benefits scandal as an example. The other options are not mentioned as primary risks.

Explanation

The article mentions India's Tri-Service Command at the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. This is India's first and only unified theater command integrating the Army, Navy, and Air Force.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article which states the Strait of Hormuz accounts for ~25% of world oil and over 50% of India's LNG imports. Statement 2 is incorrect because the Malacca Strait connects the Andaman Sea to the South China Sea, not the Arabian Sea. Statement 3 is correct as the article mentions the Phillip Channel is as narrow as 1.5 nautical miles.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: 'For India specifically, nearly 50 per cent of its crude oil imports... pass through the Strait of Hormuz.' The other options are distractors: 25% is the global oil share via Hormuz, while 75% and 100% are not mentioned.

Explanation

The article states the Malacca Strait's mouth opens perilously close to India's Andaman and Nicobar Islands and is 'geographically... beyond the SOS reach of the Chinese mainland.' It further notes China lacks 'Blue Water' capabilities to secure such a distant chokepoint. This geographical and naval limitation is the core strategic vulnerability discussed.

Explanation

As per the article, the Commerce and Industry Ministry announced the Rs 497-crore RELIEF scheme. This ministry is responsible for formulating and implementing foreign trade policy and promoting exports.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the SC struck down the three-month age limit. Statement 2 is correct as the judgment references both the Maternity Benefit Act, 1961, and Section 60(4) of the Code on Social Security, 2020. Statement 3 is incorrect; the Court granted a period of twelve weeks, not six months.

Explanation

The article states: 'India improved its ranking... currently standing at 116th with a life evaluation score of 4.536.' The other options are close distractors using nearby ranks and scores.

Explanation

The article mentions that 'The petitioners argued that the three-month cap was "artificial and violative of Article 14".' Article 14 guarantees equality before the law and equal protection of laws. The Court agreed that the distinction was arbitrary.

Explanation

The article states the Bahishkrit Hitakarini Sabha was founded in 1924 by Ambedkar to promote education and social reform among the Depressed Classes. This is a key static fact about Ambedkar's early organizational work.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article clearly states the satyagraha was centred on the right to draw water from the Chawdar tank. Statement 2 is incorrect; the legal basis was the 1923 Bole Resolution of the Bombay Legislative Council, not a 1925 Temple Entry Proclamation. Statement 3 is correct as the article mentions violence and ritual purification followed the event.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions: "The 1923 Bombay Legislative Council resolution, proposed by SK Bole, granted Dalits access to state-funded public wells, tanks, and institutions." The year 1927 is a close distractor as it is the year of the satyagraha itself.

Explanation

As analyzed in the article, scholars like Anand Teltumbde argue that Mahad represents "the first collective articulation of their civil rights and clear resolve to assert them" beyond local confines, marking a shift to direct action. The other options are unrelated to the event's outcomes as described.

Explanation

Scott Bessent is the US Treasury Secretary, as mentioned in the article announcing the sanctions waiver. The Treasury Department handles economic sanctions.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; Bessent argued the waiver 'will not provide significant financial benefit' and aims to lower prices. Statement 3 is correct as the article mentions a waiver on Russian oil a week prior.

Explanation

The article states Benchmark Brent crude was trading at around $103 per barrel on Friday afternoon. $73 was the price before the war started.

Explanation

Bessent explicitly stated the move would 'compensate for the oil shortages and prevent Tehran from profiting from hiked oil prices.' This is a strategic economic measure within the conflict.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the NavIC constellation is a defence programme managed by ISRO, and highlights the absence of a national space law which leaves ISRO acting as both designer and operator.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article mentions a PNT constellation requires at least four PNT-capable satellites. Statement 2 is incorrect because the article states the first-generation satellites used clocks made by the Swiss company SpectraTime; indigenous clocks were introduced later on NVS-01. Statement 3 is correct as the article directly states this was part of NavIC's genesis.

Explanation

The article clearly states that only three satellites remain capable of providing position, navigation, and timing (PNT) services, leaving the constellation unable to fulfil its purpose.

Explanation

The article states that the absence of a national space law leaves ISRO acting as both designer and operator of NavIC, overextending the agency. This is contrasted with the existence of dedicated bodies like the GPS Directorate or EUSPA for other systems.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that Joe Kent resigned as Director of the National Counterterrorism Center (NCTC), claiming the U.S. entered the war due to pressure from Israel. This is a direct factual recall from the news content.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; Iran closed the Strait of Hormuz, not the Strait of Malacca. Statement 3 is incorrect; the article mentions rising oil, gas, and fertilizer prices. This tests attention to key geographical and factual details.

Explanation

The article clearly states that the war was launched on February 28. March 20 is the publication date, and March 17 is when Joe Kent resigned. This tests precise recall of a key date mentioned in the news.

Explanation

The article's core economic argument is that Iran's closure of the Strait of Hormuz and attacks on Gulf energy facilities have driven up energy prices, which threatens the global economy. The other options are not mentioned or implied in the provided content.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: "The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare launched the TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan on December 7, 2024..." This ministry is responsible for national health programmes including TB control.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: The article states "India's TB incidence dropped by 21% from 2015 to 2024." Statement 2 is incorrect: The article states the male to female ratio of bacteriologically confirmed adult TB cases is 3:1, meaning men have higher bacteriological confirmation. Statement 3 is correct: The article says "In 2023, EPTB constituted 24% of the total notified cases."

Explanation

The article clearly states: "Case Notifications: Women represent approximately 36%–37% of notified TB cases in India, while men account for 58% as of 2023-24." The other options are distractors: 25-26% is close to the global average for women (35%), 45-46% is not mentioned, and 58-59% is the figure for men.

Explanation

The article mentions the TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan is "heavily relying on AI-powered chest X-rays to screen asymptomatic TB, also called sub-clinical TB, among high-risk groups." This is a specific technological intervention aimed at early detection. The other options are either not mentioned (mandatory testing, drug imports) or are generic infrastructure measures not highlighted as a key strategy in this context.

Explanation

The article explicitly states 'according to the International Maritime Organization' when providing data on stranded seafarers and vessels. The IMO is the UN agency responsible for regulating shipping and maritime safety.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the list of six allies in the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; the article states the strait handles one-fifth (20%), not one-third. Statement 3 is correct as the article mentions U.S. President Donald Trump urged world powers and NATO to help, but they rebuffed the call in the short-term.

Explanation

The article provides the specific figure: 'The situation has left around 20,000 seafarers stranded on approximately 3,200 vessels west of the strait, according to the International Maritime Organization.'

Explanation

The joint statement explicitly cites 'Freedom of navigation is a fundamental principle of international law, including under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.' While energy security is an underlying concern, the stated legal and operational principle driving their response is freedom of navigation.

Explanation

The Strait of Hormuz is the narrow passage that links the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea. This geographical fact is crucial static GK for understanding Middle Eastern geopolitics and global energy routes.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article which states the strait facilitates 20% of the world's oil transit. Statement 2 is correct as it lists the exact six nations mentioned. Statement 3 is incorrect; the article says Germany and the Netherlands conditioned their involvement on a ceasefire or halt in hostilities, not their continuation.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the Strait of Hormuz 'facilitate[s] the passage of 20% of the world’s oil transit.' This is a key data point for understanding its global strategic importance.

Explanation

The article's core focus is on addressing Iran's blockade. The nations' statements condemn attacks on commercial vessels and the 'de facto closure' of the strait, emphasizing the importance of 'ensuring safe maritime passage.' The other options are actions not stated as objectives in the provided content.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the Chief Economic Advisor, V Anantha Nageswaran, reportedly told the Standing Committee on Finance about the potential impact of sustained high crude prices on India's growth, inflation, and deficits.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; Iran fired at the Ras Laffan Industrial City in Qatar, not the Ras Tanura refinery in Saudi Arabia. Statement 3 is correct as explicitly mentioned by the Chief Economic Advisor. Hence, option C is correct.

Explanation

The article states: 'The average price of India’s crude oil basket in March is currently $114.08 per barrel, up from $69 in February.' $110 is the Brent crude price, and $90 is mentioned as a threshold for insignificant impact.

Explanation

The article specifically reports that 'India also has 22 vessels stuck in the Persian Gulf that hold 3.2 lakh tonnes of LPG, 2 lakh tonnes of LNG and 16 lakh tonnes of crude oil.' This is a direct, immediate logistical impact mentioned. Other options are not stated in the article.

Explanation

As per the article, the bench hearing the criminal appeal and delivering the judgment consisted of Justices Sanjay Kumar and K Vinod Chandran. The other options are names of other Supreme Court judges not mentioned in this context.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the core ruling was that consent demolishes the rape case. Statement 2 is incorrect because the Court explicitly rejected this, stating paternity proof would not negate prior consent. Statement 3 is correct as the article mentions the Court relied on this precedent. Hence, option C is correct.

Explanation

The article clearly states that the 'FIR was registered on March 28, 2024'. March 12 is the date the accused married another woman, March 15 is when a quarrel occurred, and March 19 is when the Supreme Court made its observation.

Explanation

The judgment's core significance is drawing a legal line between a failed consensual relationship (where a promise was broken) and rape, which requires proof that consent was vitiated by fraudulent intent from the outset. The Court rejected broadening the definition (B) and dismissed the relevance of DNA evidence (A). There is no mention of directing new legislation (D).

Explanation

The article mentions CENTCOM reporting on strikes in Iran. U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) is the unified combatant command responsible for U.S. military operations in the Middle East, Central Asia, and parts of South Asia.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article states Operation Epic Fury began on Feb 28, 2026, and Khamenei was killed. Statement 2 is incorrect because Iran CLOSED the Strait of Hormuz, not opened it. Statement 3 is correct as Iran struck Ras Laffan after Israel hit South Pars. Hence, both 1 and 3 are correct.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that 53% of India's LNG imports are sourced from Qatar and the UAE (via the Strait of Hormuz). This highlights India's significant energy security vulnerability to disruptions in that region.

Explanation

The article frames the closure as Iran's strategic 'leverage'. By blocking a chokepoint for 20% of global seaborne oil, Iran aims to exert pressure on the global economy and the US-led coalition, making it a tool of economic warfare.

Explanation

Article 324 of the Constitution establishes the Election Commission of India, vesting it with the superintendence, direction, and control of elections to Parliament, State Legislatures, and the offices of President and Vice-President.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; the deadline is within 75 days, not 60 days. Statement 3 is correct as the article explicitly mentions Section 77(1) of the RPA, 1951. Hence, option C is correct.

Explanation

The article clearly states that political parties must submit the statement of expenditure incurred on campaigning through internet, including social media, to the Commission within 75 days of the completion of the Assembly election.

Explanation

The directive aims to bring transparency to political advertising by having MCMCs vet content before publication. This helps prevent misleading claims and the covert promotion of parties through paid news, thereby ensuring a fairer electoral process.

Explanation

As per the article and static GK, the Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM) is the official export credit agency of the U.S. federal government. It should not be confused with India's Export-Import Bank (India Exim Bank).

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect because the project is in Minnesota, not Texas. Statement 3 is incorrect as the forum was in Tokyo, not Seoul. Hence, only statement 1 is correct.

Explanation

The article clearly states: "The United States has announced support of up to USD 10 billion to Mesabi Metallics." USD 14 billion is for the Delfin LNG Project, and USD 30 billion is the total value of strategic deals mentioned as being unlocked by EXIM loans.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that EXIM's loans are "designed to strengthen America’s supply chain security alongside Indo-Pacific allies." The other options are contrary to the stated goals of reducing reliance on adversarial suppliers and boosting domestic industry.

Explanation

The Durand Line was negotiated in 1893 between Sir Mortimer Durand, representing British India, and Amir Abdur Rahman Khan of Afghanistan. It was intended to delineate spheres of influence between British India and Afghanistan.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: TTP was founded in 2007 and both groups originate from the Deoband school. Statement 2 is incorrect: While Bhutto did adopt a 'forward policy', the 'Strategic Depth' policy is detailed as being developed in the 1980s, later than Bhutto's tenure. Statement 3 is correct: The article states UNAMA reported at least 146 civilian casualties, with more than half being women and children.

Explanation

The article states: 'more than 400 Afghan soldiers and 55 Pakistani soldiers have lost their lives.' The exact figure given for Pakistani soldiers is 55. The other options are distractors: 'Over 20' refers to civilians killed in February 22nd strikes, and 'Over 400' refers to Afghan soldiers.

Explanation

The article's core analysis is that Pakistan's 'Strategic Depth' policy, which involved supporting groups like the Taliban to gain influence in Afghanistan, has reversed. The TTP, ideologically aligned with the Taliban, now uses Afghan territory to launch attacks against Pakistan, turning a strategic asset into a strategic threat.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the RBI, whose Monetary Policy Committee will announce its decision at 10 am on April 8. The MPC is a committee of the RBI responsible for setting policy rates.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; the outflow in March 2026 was $9.83 billion, while $11.47 billion was the outflow in October 2024. Statement 3 is incorrect; the RBI's forex reserves were down (decreased) by $11.68 billion, not increased.

Explanation

The article states: 'the average price of the basket has shot up to $114.08 per barrel this month'. $70 was RBI's earlier assumption, $88 was the assumed rupee rate, and $93.28 is the rupee-dollar rate.

Explanation

The article directly links the capital outflow to the war: 'Foreign investors have been spooked by the war and its impact on fuel prices'. It explains that currency depreciation hurts returns for foreign investors, prompting a risk-off move from emerging markets like India.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that post-1991, India pushed ONGC Videsh Limited to acquire equity oil assets overseas as insurance against supply disruptions. OVL is the overseas investment arm of ONGC.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: The article states domestic production rose in the 1980s, reducing import dependence to about 30%, "a level it has never reached again." Statement 2 is incorrect: The 1970s response focused on demand-side conservation and fuel substitution, not supply acquisition. Supply-side focus came post-1991. Statement 3 is correct: The article mentions "half of India’s LNG imports coming from one country — Qatar."

Explanation

The article provides the specific data point: "In the early 1970s... Petroleum consumption was modest at about 22 MTPA." The other options are distractors based on later consumption figures (e.g., ~240 MMTPA in 2025).

Explanation

The article's core thesis is that lessons from past oil shocks "have been absorbed only piecemeal" and "what has been missing is the discipline to pursue them." It concludes that the pragmatic road still passes through conservation, efficiency, and electrification. The other options contradict the article's critical analysis.

Explanation

The Bill explicitly states that the 'competent authority' is the District Magistrate or any officer specially authorised by the District Magistrate, who is not below the rank of an Additional District Magistrate.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect: 'Mass conversion' is defined as conversion of two or more persons, not five. Statement 2 is incorrect: All offences are cognisable and non-bailable. Statement 3 is correct as per the article: 'It requires the priest or cleric performing the act to submit a declaration...'

Explanation

The article states that for 'mass conversion', the punishment includes 'a fine that shall not be less than Rs 25 lakh'. The fine for converting a minor/woman/SC-ST person is not less than ₹10 lakh, which is a potential distractor.

Explanation

The article quotes the note: '...it has become necessary to enact a comprehensive law' to control 'the use of force, greed and fraudulent practices for conversion from one religion to another'. The other options are not mentioned as primary objectives in the provided text.

Explanation

The article states that the family filed a claim petition before the Railway Claims Tribunal, which initially awarded ₹8 lakh for the mother's death. This tribunal is specifically established under the Railway Claims Tribunal Act, 1987, to handle such cases.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the court ordered additional ₹8 lakh compensation. Statement 2 is incorrect; the court specified the age threshold as five months onwards, not three months. Statement 3 is correct as the court referenced the Compensation Rules, 1990, under the Railway Act.

Explanation

The court explicitly stated, "an unborn child aged five months onwards in the mother’s womb till its birth can be treated as equal to a child in existence." This is the precise age threshold established in the judgment.

Explanation

The core ruling is that a foetus aged five months or more is a 'person' who can be the subject of an action for damages. This expands the legal interpretation of personhood under the Railway Act and its compensation rules, not just increasing general compensation or safety measures.

Explanation

'Betting and gambling' is listed under Entry 34 of the State List (List II) in the Seventh Schedule of the Indian Constitution. This means state legislatures have the primary power to make laws on this subject, though the central government can legislate on connected matters like IT.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article states the Act banned all real-money games based on both skill and chance. Statement 2 is incorrect because the article explicitly mentions 'the law exempts players from any punishment.' Statement 3 is correct as the article mentions the government set up a special authority for monitoring.

Explanation

The article states that 'Around 4,900 of these were blocked after the Online Gaming Act... came into effect on October 1, 2025.' 300 is the number of new platforms banned in the recent action. 8,400 is the total number blocked. 242 were blocked in an earlier action in January.

Explanation

The article clearly states that the law 'exempts players from any punishment,' while specifying severe penalties for those offering/promoting (operators) and advertising such platforms. This creates a supply-side enforcement strategy. The article also notes free-to-play games are allowed, contradicting option A.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) as the key interest rate setting body of the US Federal Reserve. While the Board of Governors is part of the Fed, the FOMC specifically sets the target for the federal funds rate.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article which states global energy prices have 'almost doubled within weeks'. Statement 2 is incorrect; the article clearly states both central banks announced they 'will not change the interest rates'. Statement 3 is correct and defines 'stagflation', a term explicitly mentioned in the article as the worst combination for central bankers.

Explanation

The article provides the exact figure: 'total annual economic outputs of $31.8 trillion and $22.5 trillion, respectively' for the US and EU. The distractors are close but incorrect values.

Explanation

The article states the 'official reason is that central bankers are plagued with "uncertainty" about the likely outcome of this war.' It elaborates that while inflation may rise, the war could also 'lead to recession' by destroying demand. This uncertainty about which risk will dominate guides their 'wait-and-see' approach.

Explanation

The article discusses the admissibility and competency of a deaf and mute witness's testimony, which is governed by the Indian Evidence Act, 1872. Specifically, Section 118 of this Act deals with who may testify. The RPwD Act, 2016, deals with accessibility but the core evidence law is under the Evidence Act.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article states the High Court validated the conviction based on the survivor's testimony recorded via doll and interpreter. Statement 2 is incorrect; the court explicitly stated that such testimony cannot be discarded merely because the witness is deaf and dumb, implying it is admissible. Statement 3 is correct as it directly quotes the court's 'well-settled principle' from the article.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions the Chhattisgarh High Court's order was dated March 16, 2026. March 2023 is when the trial court convicted the accused. July 2020 is when the incident occurred.

Explanation

The core legal principle upheld by the judgment is that the testimony of a witness with disabilities (deaf and mute) is admissible and reliable if recorded through fair and clear demonstrative methods (like a doll and interpreter), and such testimony alone can be sufficient for conviction. The judgment does not introduce new punishment, mandate dolls for all child cases, or overrule Supreme Court precedents.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the high-level Inter-Departmental Committee (IDC) was constituted by the Union Home Ministry (Ministry of Home Affairs). This ministry handles internal security, police, and law and order, making it the nodal body for coordinating action against cyber-financial frauds like digital arrest.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as blocking device IDs was a key measure discussed. Statement 2 is incorrect because the IT Rules, 2021 mandate data retention for at least 180 days, not 90 days. Statement 3 is correct as the article mentions WhatsApp conveyed it would implement the DoT's SIM binding directive within 4-6 months.

Explanation

The article provides the specific data point: '1.23 lakh cases of digital arrest, involving Rs 1,935 crore, were logged in 2024'. The other options are close distractors using figures mentioned elsewhere in the article, like the overall estimated loss of nearly ₹3,000 crore.

Explanation

As explained in the article, the SIM binding directive aims to ensure platforms can only be used with a specific, active SIM card, thereby 'effectively eliminating anonymous or multi-device usage' and strengthening 'user traceability and enhance compliance with national security and data protection norms'. The other objectives are not mentioned in the context of this directive.

Explanation

The Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) fall under the administrative control of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). The MHA is responsible for internal security, police, and border management in India.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect because the article explicitly states the Bill involves no expenditure from the Consolidated Fund of India. Statement 3 is correct as the Bill aims to replace fragmented rules with a unified framework.

Explanation

The article specifies that a minimum of 67% of Additional Director General (ADG) posts will be reserved for IPS officers on deputation under the proposed Bill. The figure for Inspector General posts is 50%, which is a common distractor.

Explanation

The article quotes veterans accusing 'pressure groups' of driving the Bill to formalise IPS deputations. They argue it sidelines promotees from within the CAPF cadres, as apex ranks like Special DG and DG will be exclusively for deputationists.

Explanation

The Bureau of Immigration (BoI), under the Ministry of Home Affairs, is the agency that officially issues Look Out Circulars to prevent a person from leaving or entering India, based on requests from other agencies like CBI.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; the LOCs were issued by the Bureau of Immigration (BoI) at the request of the CBI, not by the CBI itself. Statement 3 is correct as the article mentions the LOCs were in effect for over five years (since 2019) with no chargesheet filed.

Explanation

The article states that the petitioners had been 'subjected to the LOCs for over five years' since the first LOC was issued in 2019. The court quashed them in 2026, making the duration over five years.

Explanation

The court explicitly held that the right to travel abroad is an integral part of the right to life and personal liberty under Article 21 of the Constitution. The prolonged and arbitrary restriction via LOC was deemed a violation of this fundamental right.

Explanation

Article 324 of the Indian Constitution vests the superintendence, direction, and control of elections in the Election Commission of India. This is the foundational provision empowering the EC to take actions like setting up appellate tribunals.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the EC acted on recommendations from Calcutta HC Chief Justice Sujoy Paul. Statement 2 is incorrect because appeals are against orders passed by designated Judicial Officers, not District Magistrates. Statement 3 is correct as per the EC notification.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that judicial officers are deciding on whether 60.06 lakh electors flagged during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) can remain on the rolls or not. The other options are close distractors.

Explanation

The EC notification states the tribunals are for 'hearing appeals against the orders passed by judicial officers who are currently deciding on the eligibility' of voters. This is the core function, directly linked to the Special Intensive Revision process.

Explanation

The Right to Privacy is protected under Article 21 (Right to Life and Personal Liberty) of the Indian Constitution, as established by the Supreme Court in the Justice K.S. Puttaswamy case (2017). This is a core static GK concept relevant to discussions on data privacy in AI governance.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article mentions the Pentagon-Anthropic dispute over safeguards. Statement 2 is incorrect; experts challenge the assumption that more data is necessary, suggesting alternatives like on-device AI. Statement 3 is correct as the article advocates for the 'do no harm' principle and necessity tests.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions facial recognition, surveillance, autonomous weapons, and certain health applications as high-risk areas for AI where misuse can cause significant harm, warranting caution or even prohibition.

Explanation

The article warns that large partnerships can lock governments into costly arrangements and create accountability gaps, especially when public infrastructure is run through private entities, as seen in projects like Aadhaar and DigiYatra.