21 February 2026, Questions & Answers

Explanation

The article explicitly states that P.P. Chaudhary, a BJP MP, is the chairperson of the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) examining the Bill on simultaneous elections.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; the article clearly states the Bill has 'many infirmities' and is being examined by the JPC. Statement 3 is correct, as the article mentions the panel is examining the 'remainder term' principle used in Panchayats.

Explanation

The article states that a paper presented to the Ram Nath Kovind Committee estimated a recurring loss of 1.6% of the GDP, roughly ₹7 lakh crore, due to frequent elections.

Explanation

The article explicitly lists two main criticisms: first, that the Bill violates the basic structure of the Constitution, and second, that it is against the federal framework. The other options are not mentioned as primary concerns in the text.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that 'Pax Silica is the US Department of State's flagship effort on AI and supply-chain security.'

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: The article mentions India provides 'vital strategic geometry... safely positioned outside the immediate volatility of the South China Sea.' Statement 2 is correct: It states India provides '20 per cent of the world's semiconductor design talent.' Statement 3 is incorrect: Pax Silica focuses on 'AI and supply-chain security' spanning 'frontier foundation models, information connectivity, advanced manufacturing, and critical minerals refining,' not fossil fuels.

Explanation

The article clearly states that India provides '20 per cent of the world's semiconductor design talent.' This is a key data point highlighting India's human capital contribution to the global tech supply chain.

Explanation

The article explains that 'the dual-use nature of critical and emerging technologies (CETs)... has permanently fused national security with economic policy' and that this has 'triggered an irreversible securitization of supply chains.' This is the core impetus for frameworks like Pax Silica.

Explanation

As per the article, the Power Finance Corporation's (PFC) report on Distribution utilities details the financial performance and losses accrued by state DISCOMs. PFC is a leading financial institution in India's power sector.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; RDSS aimed to reduce AT&C losses to 12-15% by FY25-26, not below 10%. Statement 3 is incorrect; the article credits the amended Electricity (Late Payment Surcharge) Rules, 2022 for the significant reduction in dues, not UDAY.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the Centre launched the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS) in 2021, with an overall outlay of ₹3.03 lakh crore over a period of five years till FY25-26.

Explanation

The article states that the 16th Finance Commission report, tabled in February 2026, recommended the privatisation of State-owned DISCOMs. It advised states to create a special purpose vehicle (SPV) to take over debt and allow a private investor to take over the utility.

Explanation

The article clearly states the Supreme Court upheld the award of the National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (NCDRC). NCDRC is the apex body under the Consumer Protection Act for resolving consumer disputes.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article: 'The power of the consumer fora...cannot be curtailed by contractual terms.' Statement 2 is incorrect; the SC made it clear that lawful possession cannot be forced without an Occupancy Certificate, rejecting the builder's 'as is where is' proposal. Statement 3 is correct as the SC upheld the 8% interest award.

Explanation

The article repeatedly mentions that the Supreme Court upheld the National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission's (NCDRC) award of simple interest at the rate of 8% per annum, calling it 'fair and reasonable'.

Explanation

The core of the judgment is that the authority of bodies like NCDRC comes from the Consumer Protection Act (statute), not the private agreement (contract). This allows them to award just compensation even if the builder's contract tries to limit it, protecting consumers from one-sided terms.

Explanation

The 'State of the Economy' chapter is part of the monthly RBI Bulletin, which is published by the Reserve Bank of India to analyse economic conditions.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; the article states inflation is expected to remain 'benign and near the inflation target', not significantly above it. Statement 3 is correct as the article explicitly mentions 'stretched valuation of AI firms' as a negative risk.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the completion of the India-EU free trade negotiations happened in 'end-January'. The other options are close distractors based on the timeline of the bulletin's release.

Explanation

The article states these agreements 'would likely to play a significant role... by improving market access, enhancing export competitiveness, and integrating Indian firms more deeply into global value chains'. The other options are not mentioned or inferred.

Explanation

The article explicitly states, "Hence, the EIA classifies Hormuz as the world’s most important oil chokepoint." The EIA is the statistical and analytical agency within the U.S. Department of Energy responsible for collecting and analyzing energy data.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article: "At its narrowest, it is just 33 km wide." Statement 2 is correct: "According to the U.S. EIA, roughly 82% of crude oil and condensate that passes through the strait went to countries in Asia in 2022." Statement 3 is incorrect: The article mentions the 'tanker war' during the Iran-Iraq conflict involved attacks on vessels, but also states Iran has "never followed through on a full closure."

Explanation

The article provides the specific data point: "For India, which is a net importer of crude oil, more than 40% of its oil supplies come from Gulf countries that use the Strait of Hormuz for these oil exports."

Explanation

The article directly links instability in the Strait to economic impacts on India: "Any minor disruption in this region would likely increase global crude prices, in turn leading to an increase in the prices of domestic petrol, diesel and LPG." While other options are plausible secondary effects, the primary and most direct risk discussed is the impact on energy prices and inflation.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the Ministry of Tribal Affairs wrote to state governments to firm up preparations for the survey rollout. This ministry is the nodal agency for all matters related to Scheduled Tribes, including PVTGs.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article which mentions 'Details of an estimated 12.35 lakh PVTG households...'. Statement 2 is incorrect; the application is developed by the National e-Governance Division (NeGD), not the National Informatics Centre (NIC). Statement 3 is correct as the article states the survey plugs gaps for schemes, and PM-JANMAN is the flagship scheme for PVTGs.

Explanation

The article clearly states the outlay for PM-JANMAN is ₹24,104 crore. The other options are close distractors. It is a flagship scheme launched in November 2023, and this precise figure is a key data point for exams.

Explanation

The article states the aim is 'to plug any gaps in saturation of PVTG households under targeted central and state welfare schemes' and 'create a digital database on the entitlements'. While literacy is a criterion for PVTG identification, the survey's direct purpose is entitlement mapping, not literacy assessment.

Explanation

The article explicitly names Hezbollah in Lebanon as part of Iran's 'axis of resistance'. While other groups like the Houthis are also mentioned, Hezbollah is the only one listed in the options that appears in the article. ISIS, Taliban, and the Muslim Brotherhood are not mentioned in the provided content.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; the article states that Saudi Arabia and the UAE said in January they would NOT allow their airspace to be used for U.S. attacks. Statement 3 is correct, directly quoting the article's data on the Strait of Hormuz.

Explanation

The article states: 'Roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas flows through the narrow waterway.' One-fifth is equivalent to 20%. The other options are plausible but incorrect distractors.

Explanation

The article quotes analyst Sanam Vakil stating Tehran's strategy is to 'quickly escalate and export instability in multiple theatres.' This asymmetric capability via proxies like Hezbollah and the Houthis creates a multi-front risk, making the conflict more complex and costly than a conventional engagement. The other options are contradicted by the article, which mentions Iran's proxy network ('axis of resistance') and its decentralized theocratic structure.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the data is from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) monthly bulletin report. RBI is the central bank responsible for compiling and publishing India's Balance of Payments data, which includes FDI.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article states net FDI was negative for the fourth straight month. Statement 2 is correct as gross inflows were $8.6 billion, a five-month high. Statement 3 is incorrect because the article mentions Singapore, the Netherlands, and Mauritius as accounting for over 80% of inflows; the USA is not listed among the top sources for inflows in this period.

Explanation

The article clearly states that repatriation and disinvestments increased to nearly $7.5 billion in December 2025, which was the highest since at least January 2021. $8.6 billion is the gross inflow figure, and $2.7 billion is the outward investment by Indian companies.

Explanation

The article mentions that in earlier editions of its report, the RBI had said uncertainty over the India-U.S. trade agreement and the 50% tariffs had led to investor hesitation. This directly links the pre-announcement trade deal uncertainty to the negative FDI sentiment observed in the data.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the guidelines for the Urban Challenge Fund (UCF) are to be released by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA). This ministry is the nodal agency for urban development policies in India.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: The fund was announced by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in her Budget speech in 2025. Statement 2 is incorrect: The Central share is 25% of the project cost, not 50%. Statement 3 is correct: The article states that guidelines will include RWAs as one of the 'private' entities that can work with ULBs.

Explanation

The article clearly states: 'at least 50% of the cost is raised by the cities from loans or municipal bonds or through public-private partnerships.' The remaining is split between the Centre (25%) and ULBs/State (25%).

Explanation

The government statement quoted in the article says the UCF aims to 'leverage market finance, private participation and citizen-centric reforms for delivery of high-quality urban infrastructure.' The fund's structure (requiring 50% market funding) directly supports this objective.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions Justice Rajagopala Ayyangar as one of the entrepreneurial policymakers behind India's pharma success, referring to the committee that led to the Patents Act, 1970. Jaisukhlal Hathi was a parliamentarian also involved, but the question asks for the committee head.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; the Hatch-Waxman Act is a United States federal law, not Indian legislation. Statement 3 is correct as the article mentions the $350-billion target in pharma exports by 2047.

Explanation

The article states: "Global mortality in AIDS and TB wouldn’t have crashed by 85 per cent without Cipla’s antiretrovirals and Lupin’s Rifampicin." The other options are plausible but incorrect distractors.

Explanation

The article's core thesis and title highlight the challenge of moving 'from volume to value,' as India produces 60% of global volume but earns only 6% of the value. While other options are relevant sectoral issues, this is the central strategic shift discussed.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the CBI investigated the case, filed the charge sheet, and coordinated with forensic and child protection authorities. The CBI is India's premier investigating agency for serious crimes.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect: The victims were 33 minor boys, not girls. Statement 2 is correct: The court directed ₹10 lakh compensation for each victim. Statement 3 is correct: The conviction was under both POCSO Act and IPC provisions.

Explanation

The article specifies that the duo circulated 'over two lakh objectionable videos and photographs' of the victims via the internet to nearly 47 countries. This exact figure is a key data point from the case.

Explanation

The court termed the crimes as 'rarest of rare' based on their unparalleled depravity and systemic nature, which is the established judicial doctrine for imposing the death penalty in extreme cases, as per Supreme Court precedent.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions that UNESCO publishes the annual State of the Education Report for India. The 2025 edition, the seventh, was titled 'Bhasha Matters: Mother Tongue and Multilingual Education'.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article which states NEP 2020 places mother tongue at the centre. Statement 2 is incorrect; the article states the figure is nearly 44%, not over 50%. Statement 3 is correct as the article mentions the report proposes a National Mission for MTB-MLE.

Explanation

The article directly states that India is home to 121 constitutionally recognised languages, as per the 2011 Census. The Eighth Schedule of the Constitution originally had 14 languages; it now includes 22. The 121 figure refers to all languages with official constitutional status, including those recognised by states.

Explanation

The core argument of the report and the article is pedagogical. MTB-MLE is critical because children learn best in a language they understand, which improves foundational literacy and numeracy, reduces learning gaps, and lowers dropout rates. The other options are either incorrect or not the primary objective stated.

Explanation

The Justice J.S. Verma Committee was formed after the December 2012 Delhi gang rape case. Its recommendations formed the basis for the Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, 2013, which expanded the definition of rape and introduced other reforms.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article states the HC applied the law as it stood before the 2013 amendments. Statement 2 is correct as the article mentions the 2013 Act formalized the Justice Verma Committee's recommendations. Statement 3 is incorrect because the 2013 amendments expanded the definition of rape to be more expansive and consent-centric, moving away from the narrow, penetration-centric definition.

Explanation

The Criminal Law (Amendment) Act was passed in 2013. The trigger was the 2012 Delhi gang rape case, and the law was enacted the following year based on the Justice Verma Committee's recommendations.

Explanation

The article's core criticism is that the High Court's acquittal was based on the pre-2013 definition of rape, which required proof of penetration. This ignores the 2013 reforms that adopted a more expansive, consent-centered approach to sexual violence, thus turning back the clock on legal progress.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions the 'Smoot-Hawley Tariff Act of 1930' in its discussion of Section 338, noting it raised duties and triggered a retaliatory trade war that helped shrink world trade during the Depression.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article's definition of Section 122. Statement 2 is incorrect; the article states the surcharge cannot exceed 15%, not 10%. Statement 3 is correct as the article specifies the 150-day limit unless Congress approves an extension.

Explanation

The article clearly states: 'The surcharge cannot exceed 15%, and can only be in place for, at most, 150 days, unless Congress approves an extension.'

Explanation

The article emphasizes that Section 122 measures are 'temporary' and can only be in place for 'at most, 150 days, unless Congress approves an extension.' This creates a political deadline, unlike other statutes like IEEPA. The other options describe limitations of Section 232 (sector-specific) and Section 301 (unfair practices).

Explanation

The article states that the US Supreme Court struck down Trump's use of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) for imposing tariffs, noting it was 'a law no previous President has used to impose tariffs.'

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect. The article clarifies the ruling 'specifically affects Trump’s IEEPA tariffs' and that 'Tariffs on key goods such as steel and aluminium under other provisions are not affected.' Statement 2 is correct as Trump issued a proclamation for a 10% global tariff under Section 122. Statement 3 is correct as Section 122 allows tariffs 'for up to 150 days'.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: 'This Section allows the temporary imposition of 15% tariffs for up to 150 days in response to “fundamental international payments problems”.' Although Trump imposed a 10% tariff, the provision allows up to 15%.

Explanation

The article quotes trade expert Ajay Srivastava stating that the ruling 'must prompt a review of India’s trade deal with the United States. Reciprocal Tariffs were the US leverage. With that leverage gone, the negotiations become useless.' This directly points to a strategic recalibration being necessary.

Explanation

Article 324 of the Constitution establishes the Election Commission of India and vests in it the superintendence, direction, and control of elections. Article 329 bars interference by courts in electoral matters, Article 352 deals with Proclamation of Emergency, and Article 368 deals with the power of Parliament to amend the Constitution.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article mentions AI-generated EPICs using Google's Gemini software. Statement 2 is correct as EC officials stated they sought re-verification of around 30 lakh electors before the February 21 deadline. Statement 3 is correct as the article states the final electoral roll is to be published on February 28, 2026.

Explanation

The article states that names of 58 lakh electors were deleted in the first phase, which is 'nearly 8 per cent of the total 7.66 crore voters'. The calculation (58 lakh / 7.66 crore) yields approximately 7.57%, which is rounded to 'nearly 8%' in the article.

Explanation

The article explicitly describes the use of AI-generated EPICs as 'misuse of technology and a serious concern for the electoral system'. This represents an evolution in fraud tactics, moving beyond simple forgery to technologically sophisticated methods that are harder to detect with standard procedures, thus posing a significant challenge to electoral integrity.

Explanation

The article states that the state government adheres to keeping the fiscal deficit below 3% of GSDP, in line with the Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management Act. This is a central law applicable to both the Union and State governments.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; the Ladki Bahin Yojana provides Rs 1,500 per month, not Rs 2,000, and the age range is 18-65 years, not 21-65. Statement 3 is accurately mentioned in the article. Hence, option C is correct.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that these three populist schemes account for a sizable allocation of up to Rs 60,000 crore. The other options are close distractors.

Explanation

The article emphasizes the 'tightrope walk' of continuing schemes costing up to Rs 60,000 crore (like Ladki Bahin Yojana) while managing a state debt exceeding Rs 9 lakh crore and adhering to FRBM deficit limits. This is the core fiscal challenge discussed.

Explanation

IPC Section 386 prescribes punishment for extortion by putting a person in fear of death or grievous hurt. Section 384 defines extortion, Section 385 is for putting a person in fear of injury to commit extortion, and Section 387 is for putting a person in fear of death or grievous hurt in order to commit extortion. The news article specifically mentions conviction under Section 386.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect because while the jail term was reduced to the period already undergone, the fine was enhanced from ₹5,000 to ₹10,000 each, not reduced. Statement 2 is correct as the article quotes the court saying "Punishment must not be viewed as an act of vengeance but as a means of reformation." Statement 3 is correct as the article states the High Court was hearing a criminal revision petition, and the trial was held before the Chief Judicial Magistrate, Simdega.

Explanation

The article clearly states: "it enhanced the fine from Rs 5,000 to Rs 10,000 each." The original fine imposed by the trial court was ₹5,000, which the High Court doubled. This is a factual data point directly from the news.

Explanation

The article quotes the court's reasoning: "In the present case, there is nothing on record to reflect that the petitioners possess a criminal bent of mind or that their conduct poses any threat to society." This assessment of the offenders' background and potential for rehabilitation is a key factor in opting for a reformative rather than purely punitive sentence. The other options are not mentioned in the article.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the Airbus H125 helicopter partnership was developed 'in conjunction with the Indian aerospace firm Tata Advanced Systems.' This is a factual detail testable in prelims.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect. France withdrew from NATO's 'integrated military command' in 1966, not its political structure, and rejoined that command in 2009. Statement 2 is correct as the article mentions EDF's refusal to accept supplier liability under India's Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act. Statement 3 is correct as the article cites France's refusal to sanction India post-Pokhran-II as an example of its support.

Explanation

The article provides a specific data point: 'Bilateral goods trade hovered around $15.2 billion in the financial year 2024-25.' This is a direct factual question for prelims.

Explanation

The article explicitly warns that 'Replacing a historical reliance on Russian hardware with a modern reliance on French hardware — without deep transfers of technology — would merely swap one dependency for another.' This highlights the core concern for India's strategic autonomy.

Explanation

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) is a law enforcement agency responsible for enforcing economic laws. It functions under the Department of Revenue, which is part of the Ministry of Finance.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect; the court held the opposite - ancestral property is NOT immune from attachment under PMLA. Statement 2 is correct as per the article: the bench was dealing with a plea against an order by the appellate tribunal under the Smugglers and Foreign Exchange Manipulators Act (SAFEMA). Statement 3 is correct as the court relied on the 'equivalent value' principle.

Explanation

The article states: 'In 2017, a provisional attachment order was passed attaching nine properties held by Suri, valued at a total of Rs 17.52 crore.' The ₹5.18 crore is the value of one specific ancestral property, and ₹2.59 crore is 50% of that value which was attached.

Explanation

The core ruling of the judgment is that when the enforcement agency is unable to trace the actual proceeds of crime (the 'tainted property'), it may attach any other property of the accused of equivalent value ('untainted property'), even if it is ancestral. This principle overrides the source of the property's acquisition.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that 'The AI Impact Summit 2026, held in New Delhi on 18-19 February, concluded with the adoption of the New Delhi Declaration on AI Impact.'

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article mentions '88 countries and international organisations'. Statement 2 is incorrect; the article describes 'voluntary, collaborative global initiatives', indicating it is not a legally binding treaty. Statement 3 is correct as it lists the seven pillars, including the two mentioned.

Explanation

The article clearly states: 'The declaration is structured around seven key pillars that represent the foundation of global AI cooperation.'

Explanation

The article explicitly describes this charter as one that 'seeks to promote affordable access to foundational AI resources, supports locally relevant innovation ecosystems.' The other options describe binding regulations or centralized funding, which are not mentioned in the context of this voluntary charter.

Explanation

The Enforcement Directorate is a law enforcement agency under the Department of Revenue, Ministry of Finance. It is responsible for enforcing laws like the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) and the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA).

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article: Arvind Kumar, RP for Richa Industries, was arrested. Statement 2 is incorrect; the NCLT recalled (terminated) the CIRP in the Alchemist case, it did not initiate a new one. Statement 3 is correct as the article mentions restoration of ₹952 crore in the IL&FS case via a court order dated June 25, 2025.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the Alchemist Group entities had collected over ₹1,840 crore from investors. ₹492.72 crore is the value of assets provisionally attached by the ED in the same case. ₹708 crore is the admitted claim of banks in the Richa Industries case.

Explanation

The core implication from the news is that the ED, under PMLA, is acting against fraud, collusion, and money laundering within the IBC framework. This addresses vulnerabilities where the process is 'vitiated by fraud', as noted in the Alchemist case recall. The other options are not supported by the article's content.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the Goa Maritime Conclave (GMC) 2026 is hosted by the #IndianNavy, as mentioned in the tweet excerpt and the context of the Navy Chief's address.

Explanation

Statements 1 and 2 are correct as per the article, which mentions personnel from 10 IOR countries sailed together for 41 days. Statement 3 is incorrect; the article states the aim was to build a common understanding and enhance interoperability, not to conduct a drill against an adversary. The Navy Chief highlighted it helps tackle issues like narcotics trade and human trafficking, which are non-traditional threats.

Explanation

The article specifically states that under the IOS SAGAR initiative, personnel from 10 IOR countries embarked on an Indian naval platform "last year and sailed together for 41 days". This is a precise data point for factual recall.

Explanation

Admiral Tripathi explicitly stated that "the vast expanse of the Indian Ocean... makes persistent surveillance a major challenge." He then stressed the need for real-time information exchange to tackle issues like narcotics trade and human trafficking. The other options, while potential challenges, are not the specific one highlighted as the primary reason for needing real-time info sharing in this article.

Explanation

The National Medical Commission (NMC), established by the NMC Act, 2019, is the apex regulatory body for medical education and is responsible for implementing the National Exit Test (NExT). The MCI was its predecessor.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as NExT is designed to replace both the final MBBS exam (licensure) and NEET-PG (PG admission). Statement 2 is incorrect because the article mentions a 3-4 year period of mock exams before full implementation, indicating a trial phase. Statement 3 is correct as the article emphasizes the shift towards evaluating competence rather than memorization.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that "several rounds of mock exams will be held over the next three to four years before full implementation." The other options are close distractors not mentioned in the content.

Explanation

The article states the mock exams are intended to prevent a rushed rollout, allowing students to familiarize themselves with the new structure, institutions to adjust curricula, and policymakers to refine scoring methods based on real data, all aimed at shifting towards competence evaluation.

Explanation

The article is based on insights from Arunabha Ghosh, CEO and Founder of the Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW), who references their paper and latest report on scaling India's data centre ecosystem.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; the article clearly states that only 5 of those 15 states have embedded sustainability features. Statement 3 is correct as mentioned in the article. Hence, option C is correct.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that by 2030, data centre power demand "might be anywhere between 4.5 and 6.5" gigawatts, with some estimates even saying up to 8 gigawatts. The core projection range is 4.5-6.5 GW.

Explanation

The article's core argument is that if decarbonisation (climate action) and digitalisation (AI/data centre growth) run on separate tracks, they will create conflict. The 'double helix' concept calls for optimising resources so both revolutions feed off each other sustainably.

Explanation

The article states the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) wrote the letter for deployment and that the movement and deployment shall be coordinated by CRPF. CAPFs operate under the administrative control of the MHA.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; the Supreme Court directed the Calcutta High Court to appoint judicial officers, it did not appoint them directly. Statement 3 is incorrect; the largest contingent of 230 companies is from the CRPF, not the BSF.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that among the 480 CAPF companies, 37 companies will be from the CISF. 46 companies are from SSB, 47 from ITBP, and 120 from BSF.

Explanation

The Supreme Court noted "an unfortunate scenario of allegations and counter-allegations which shows a trust deficit between two constitutional functionaries… that is, the state government and the Election Commission." This was the reason for its extraordinary order.

Explanation

The National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal (www.cybercrime.gov.in) is an initiative of the Government of India under the Ministry of Home Affairs to facilitate reporting of all types of cybercrimes.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; the article mentions the Karnataka High Court appreciated the necessity for the Cyber Command Centre, not the Supreme Court. Statement 3 is correct as the article details the four-pillar operational model.

Explanation

The article cites a study quoting NCRP data stating that a total of Rs 2,915 crore was lost in 6.11 lakh cyber crimes in Karnataka in 2024. ₹660 crore was the 2023 figure, ₹1,860 crore was the loss from private banks only, and ₹285.05 crore was the amount traced through the 869 specific mule accounts.

Explanation

The core theme of the article is the Command's move 'from reactive investigations to AI-led prevention'. This is evidenced by its focus on cybersecurity audits, AI tools for detection, and the 'cyber commandos' for rapid response, aiming to secure systems before breaches occur.

Explanation

The article explicitly states the Court cited Section 8 of Article I of the U.S. Constitution, which says 'Congress shall have power to lay and collect taxes, duties, imposts and excises.' This is the foundational grant of fiscal authority to the legislative branch.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect as the Supreme Court struck down the tariffs, rejecting unilateral presidential action. Statement 2 is correct as the article mentions the Court invoked the 'major questions doctrine'. Statement 3 is correct as per the article, where an immigration attorney states plaintiffs can argue H1B fees are a 'major question'.

Explanation

The article directly quotes immigration attorney Cyrus Mehta mentioning 'the $100,000 fee on H1B'. This is the concrete data point provided, making it a potential fact for Prelims-style questions.

Explanation

The article emphasizes that the ruling 'reinforcing a central tenet of U.S. governance model and public life — checks and balances'. By requiring Congressional approval for tariffs, the Court checked executive power, embodying this core principle. The other options, while relevant to governance, are not the central focus of this specific ruling.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that 'Brazil is India's biggest partner in Latin America.' This is a key static fact about India's international relations.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; trade was $15 billion in 2025. Statement 3 is incorrect; the target is $20 billion by 2030, not $15 billion. This tests precise data recall.

Explanation

The article clearly states: 'bilateral trade topping $15 billion in 2025.' The $20 billion figure is the target for 2030, making it a close distractor.

Explanation

The article directly mentions that 'India, seeking to cut its dependence on top exporter China, has been... scouting for new suppliers.' This is the core strategic driver behind the deal.

Explanation

The article states that The Hindu reached out to the Ministry of Commerce and Industry for a comment on whether India would re-examine the Agreement. This ministry handles India's trade policy and bilateral trade agreements.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article confirms the SC struck down tariffs imposed using IEEPA. Statement 2 is incorrect; the article explicitly states that Section 232 tariffs on steel and aluminium will remain. Statement 3 is correct as the article mentions the new 10% tariff under Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974.

Explanation

The article clearly states: "Exports to the U.S. of these items fell nearly 66% in December 2025, as per the latest trade data, in response to the tariffs." The other options are close but incorrect distractors.

Explanation

The article quotes experts saying the ruling "will result in countries that already have trade deals with the U.S. to re-examine them, and also called for India to do the same regarding its Interim Agreement that is yet to be signed." The other options are not supported by the article's content.

Explanation

The article states that the Board of Peace is a venture 'spearheaded by Donald Trump', the US President. It is a US-led initiative, distinct from UN bodies.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; Pax Silica is aimed at countering China's dominance, not Russia's. Statement 3 is correct as the article details the movement of the Ford Carrier Strike Group and other assets to the region.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: "Investments worth nearly $70 billion are already in the pipeline for India’s data centre sector." The other figures are distractors.

Explanation

The article describes Pax Silica as an initiative aimed at "bringing 'friendly and trusted' countries together to build AI infrastructure and secure tech supply chains" and "seen as a counter to China’s dominance in AI and its monopoly in semiconductor manufacturing and rare earths supplies."