23 April 2026, Questions & Answers

Explanation

Article 145(3) states that any case involving a substantial question of law as to the interpretation of the Constitution shall be heard by a bench of not less than five judges. The news mentions a 9-judge bench, which exceeds this constitutional minimum.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect. The 9-judge bench is not reviewing the 2018 judgment but is answering broader questions of law referred to it. Statement 2 is correct as per the article's context. Statement 3 is correct as the bench's observation on 'WhatsApp University' is the central theme of the news headline.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the observation came from a 'nine-judge Constitution bench'. This is a key factual detail for Prelims. The other options are common sizes for other Constitution Benches but are incorrect for this specific case.

Explanation

The term 'WhatsApp University' is a colloquial reference to the spread of misinformation via social media platforms like WhatsApp. The bench's remark to 'respect all views except Whatsapp University' highlights the judiciary's concern about such misinformation influencing public debate on complex constitutional matters like religious freedom and gender equality.

Explanation

As per the article, the data on net FDI inflows was released by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) in its monthly State of the Economy article. The RBI is India's central bank and is responsible for compiling and publishing data on external sector transactions, including FDI.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: Net FDI inflow was $4.62 billion in Feb 2026, highest since $5.31 billion in May 2022. Statement 2 is correct: Net FPI sales in 2025-26 totalled a record $16.59 billion. Statement 3 is incorrect: The REER of 92.72 in March 2026 was the lowest in exactly 12 years, not 10 years.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that according to RBI data, India saw net FDI inflows of $4.62 billion in February 2026. $5.31 billion was the inflow in May 2022. $4.17 billion was FPI buying in Feb 2026. $1.46 billion was net FDI for Apr-Feb of 2024-25.

Explanation

The article quotes Morgan Stanley economists stating that a sustained weakening in net FDI flows "could increase reliance on more volatile portfolio capital, with potential spillovers to external balance metrics, currency stability and financial markets." This directly highlights the risk to external sector stability from volatile capital flows.

Explanation

The article discusses the Supreme Court examining the scope of religious freedom under the Constitution, which is enshrined in Articles 25 (Freedom of conscience and free profession, practice and propagation of religion) and Article 26 (Freedom to manage religious affairs).

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: The article states the 2018 judgment was by a five-judge bench. Statement 2 is incorrect: The article clearly states the current hearing is by a nine-judge bench, not seven. Statement 3 is correct: The article mentions the 2018 judgment struck down Rule 3(b) of the Kerala Hindu Places of Public Worship Rules, 1965.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: "On September 28, 2018, a five-judge bench of the Supreme Court, by a 4:1 majority, lifted the age restriction on women visitors..." April 23, 2026, is the publication date of the news article.

Explanation

The article's background states the apex court is hearing pleas concerning discrimination against women and "the scope of religious freedom under the Constitution." The detailed observations about denominations and protected worship further confirm this is the core issue. Other options are not mentioned in the article.

Explanation

The news article details the visit of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and discussions on defence co-development. The Ministry of Defence is the nodal ministry for all defence procurement, partnerships, and industrial policy in India.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article lists these as key collaboration areas. Statement 2 is incorrect; the signed documents were the 'Defence Industrial Cooperation Roadmap' and an arrangement for UN Peacekeeping Training, not a Free Trade Agreement. Statement 3 is correct as explicitly mentioned in the article.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that "Singh is currently on a three-day official visit to Germany." The other options are plausible distractors for a short diplomatic visit.

Explanation

The article repeatedly emphasises moving from a buyer to a partner model to build a "self-reliant defence industrial base" which is "essential for strategic autonomy." While reducing imports is a benefit, the core objective is building indigenous capability and strategic independence.

Explanation

The article states that the NDMA issued 'Guidelines for Preparation of Action Plan – Prevention and Management of Heat Wave' in 2016, which were revised in 2017 and 2019. The NDMA collaborates with states to implement HAPs.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per IMD thresholds mentioned in the article. Statement 2 is incorrect because the article explicitly states heatwave is NOT among the 12 disasters eligible for NDRF/SDRF support. Statement 3 is correct as the article links ICAP to the Kigali Amendment commitments for HFC phase-down.

Explanation

The article directly states: "According to a 2022 report by the World Bank, about 75 per cent of India’s workforce (~ 380 million people) is involved in heat-exposed work." This is a key data point for understanding the scale of vulnerability.

Explanation

The article highlights that only 12 disasters qualify for NDRF/SDRF support and heatwave is not one of them, leaving states severely underfunded for response. This is cited as a major structural gap, unlike the other options which are factually incorrect based on the article's content.

Explanation

Article 226 of the Constitution empowers High Courts to issue writs for the enforcement of fundamental rights and for any other purpose. The Punjab and Haryana High Court's order regarding DA dues falls under this jurisdiction, as mentioned in the article's context of enforcing entitlements.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: The article states the fiscal deficit was 4.45%, within the 4.60% FRBM ceiling. Statement 2 is incorrect: The share was 65% in 2023-24; 69% was the figure for 2019-20. Statement 3 is correct: The subsidy bill is ₹26,612 crore, which exceeds the revenue deficit of ₹21,955 crore.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that commitments increased from ₹52,544 crore in 2019-20 to ₹76,388 crore in 2023-24, growing at a compound annual rate of 9.78%. The other options are close distractors.

Explanation

The article clearly states that high committed expenditure leaves "limited room for discretionary spending" and limits the "ability to spend on sectors such as health, education and infrastructure." This is the core implication of the structural fiscal stress described.

Explanation

Article 324 of the Constitution empowers the Election Commission of India (ECI) with the superintendence, direction, and control of all elections, including the preparation of electoral rolls. The Supreme Court intervened in this case due to petitions against the ECI's process.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article explicitly mentions the Supreme Court invoked Article 142. Statement 2 is correct as per the data shared by ECI. Statement 3 is incorrect; the article states 60.06 lakh electors were flagged, while 27.10 lakh were deleted after adjudication.

Explanation

The article states, 'Nineteen former judges were then appointed by the EC on March 20 as single-member appellate tribunals.' The number 700 refers to the judicial officers appointed earlier, 34 lakh is the number of pending appeals, and 7 is not mentioned.

Explanation

The article begins by stating among the grounds cited are 'the lack of notice or hearing before being struck off the rolls'. The other options are not mentioned as grounds for appeal in the provided content.

Explanation

The article explicitly quotes Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal welcoming Japan's review. The MEA handles India's foreign relations and diplomatic statements.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect: The article says Japan can sell to 17 countries with which it has defence agreements; while Quad members (US, Australia) are likely included, it is not explicitly stated as 'all'. Statement 2 is correct as per the article. Statement 3 is correct as the article mentions bilateral and multilateral cooperation, including at the Quad.

Explanation

The article clearly states: 'This means Japan can now sell lethal weapons to the 17 countries with which it has defence agreements, including the US and the UK.' The number 5 refers to the old restricted categories, not the number of countries.

Explanation

The article links Japan's policy shift to increased 'practical cooperation' and 'technological and industrial collaboration' with India for national security resilience. While spending may increase, it's not the primary implication stated. The move expands, not restricts, Japan's international security role.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that Senior Advocate M R Shamshad was appearing for the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB). AIMPLB is a body that represents Muslim interests regarding Islamic personal law.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article: AIMPLB said "there is no bar in Islam on Muslim women visiting mosques to pray." Statement 2 is incorrect because AIMPLB explicitly argued that women "cannot demand entry through the main door." Statement 3 is correct as the counsel cited the Prophet's instruction from Hadith.

Explanation

The article specifically mentions "the SC's September 28, 2018, judgment that had struck down age restrictions on the entry of women to the hill shrine in Kerala." This is a key factual date for Prelims.

Explanation

Justice Amanullah, during the hearing, stated the reason: "they may be needed at home 'to look after the children' when others go for prayers." This is the specific reason mentioned in the article text.

Explanation

The National Security Advisor (NSA) is the chief executive of the National Security Council (NSC), which is the apex body for strategic policy planning on security matters. The NSA advises the Prime Minister and coordinates security policies.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article states the talks were held under the annual India-UK Strategic Dialogue. Statement 2 is incorrect; the article mentions reviewing progress under the 'Technology Security Initiative (TSI)', not a Trade Agreement. Statement 3 is correct as the NSAs reiterated the significance of the India-UK Vision 2035 Document.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that collaboration under TSI enabled the setting up of a 'Silicon Carbide-based compound semiconductor facility' at Bhubaneswar, Odisha by Clas-SiC Wafer Fab Ltd, UK, and India’s SiCSem Pvt. Ltd. The other options are not mentioned.

Explanation

The article directly states that the talks focused on 'addressing New Delhi’s concerns related to terrorism, extremism and pro-Khalistan elements operating from the UK.' While other options are general security issues, the specific concern highlighted in this bilateral context is related to pro-Khalistan activities.

Explanation

Labour welfare, including conditions of work, is placed in the Concurrent List (List III, Entry 24). This allows both Parliament and State Legislatures to make laws on this subject, but in case of repugnancy, the doctrine established in Article 254 applies, which was the core issue in this news.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect. The court held the opposite: the parliamentary Maternity Benefit Act prevails over the executive instructions of the Financial Handbook. Statement 2 is correct as the court emphasized the liberal interpretation of beneficial statutes. Statement 3 is correct as the article mentions the court directed sanction of leave from April 6 to October 2, 2026.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the woman's leave request was rejected under Rule 153(1) of the financial handbook, and the court later ruled that this rule could not be used to deny second maternity leave, effectively reading it down. The other options are distractors.

Explanation

The core legal principle established is the hierarchy of laws. When a state has adopted a parliamentary law (on a concurrent subject), its provisions override inconsistent executive instructions issued by the state, such as those in a Financial Handbook. This does not mean state governments cannot make rules (A), nor does it apply to all state laws (C), and the handbook itself was not struck down as unconstitutional (D).

Explanation

The article explicitly states the foundation stone will be laid by the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, N. Chandrababu Naidu, and the project location is in Visakhapatnam district, Andhra Pradesh.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is correct as the article mentions the cost and area. Statement 3 is incorrect; the foundation stone is to be laid by the Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, not a Union Minister.

Explanation

The article specifically mentions that Google is setting up its 'first hyperscale 1 GW AI data centre outside the United States' in Tarluvada. The other options are plausible distractors for different scales of data centres.

Explanation

The establishment of such a large-scale, cutting-edge facility outside the US indicates a strategic shift in global AI infrastructure location, highlighting India's potential as a key player. While cost reduction and local impact may be secondary benefits, the core implication is about India's positioning in the global tech landscape.

Explanation

The International Criminal Court (ICC) is permanently headquartered in The Hague, Netherlands. This is a fundamental static fact about the institution mentioned in the article.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect because the article specifies the confirmed charge is 'crimes against humanity', not 'war crimes'. Statement 2 is correct as the charges stem from the 'war on drugs'. Statement 3 is correct as the article states the judges' decision was 'unanimous'.

Explanation

The article explicitly states the judges confirmed the charges on Thursday, April 23, 2026. This is a direct data point from the news.

Explanation

The core implication is the precedent it sets for international justice. The ICC is testing its ability to prosecute a former national leader for alleged systematic crimes (the 'war on drugs') committed within his own country, challenging notions of absolute sovereignty.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the African Union, representing 55 member countries, is an important player in the India-Africa Forum Summit discussions. The other options are regional or financial bodies within Africa.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is correct; the 2015 summit included all African nations, unlike earlier editions. Statement 3 is incorrect; the theme for IAFS-IV is 'IA SPIRIT', not 'Shared Future, Inclusive Growth'.

Explanation

The article states that India-Africa trade grew from around $75 billion in 2015 to $103 billion in FY 2025. The other options are close distractors: $75 billion was the 2015 figure, while $90 and $120 billion are not mentioned.

Explanation

The article explicitly links the summit's focus to India's larger geopolitical aspiration to center 'voices from the Global South'. While other options may be broader foreign policy goals, this specific objective is directly mentioned in the context of the summit.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the Online Gaming Authority of India (OGAI) is housed under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY). This ministry is the nodal body for IT and internet-related policy in India.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the rules establish OGAI. Statement 2 is incorrect; the article clarifies that registration/determination is 'not universally mandatory' and is required only in specific cases. Statement 3 is correct as financial institutions are required to verify a game's status and act on OGAI directions.

Explanation

The article clearly states that the rules are 'scheduled to come into force on May 1'. April 23 is the notification date, while the other dates are not mentioned.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that concerns over addiction, fraud, and regulatory arbitrage—with different states following different rules—prompted the Centre to step in. The other options are not cited as primary rationales in the provided content.

Explanation

The Election Commission of India (ECI), established under Article 324, is the constitutional body that issues and enforces the Model Code of Conduct. The article states the MCC is part of the ECI's drive to ensure free and fair elections.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; the MCC has no statutory backing and relies on moral sanction. Statement 3 is correct as the article mentions the provision was added in October 1979. Hence, option C is correct.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that holding public meetings during the 48-hour period before the hour fixed for closing of the poll is prohibited, and this period is known as 'election silence'. The other options are incorrect distractors.

Explanation

The article states the MCC is a set of guidelines issued to regulate political parties and candidates prior to elections, so that free and fair elections are conducted. The MCC does not set spending limits (regulated by other laws) and its enforcement is moral, not legal.

Explanation

The NIA was created in 2008 in the wake of the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks. The NIA Act was passed by Parliament in December 2008 to establish a dedicated federal agency for investigating terror cases across state boundaries.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article states the four were discharged, leaving no accused. Statement 2 is incorrect; the court criticized the NIA for NOT collecting fresh evidence and instead relying on retracted statements and hearsay. Statement 3 is correct as the HC quashed the Special Court order for showing 'no application of judicial mind'.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the September 8, 2006 blasts killed 31 people and injured 312. This is a direct factual recall from the news content.

Explanation

The core of the HC's judgment was that the two investigative agencies presented 'diagonally opposite stories' that could not be reconciled, leading to a legal dead end. The court held that both versions of the incident could not be true, making a fair trial impossible.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas (MoPNG) issuing the clarification regarding fuel prices. This ministry is the nodal body for policies related to petroleum, natural gas, and refineries in India.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article states prices have been 'more or less frozen since April 2022'. Statement 2 is incorrect because the article clearly mentions that government-owned OMCs have '90% market share in fuel retail', not less than 50%. Statement 3 is correct as the article mentions the government slashed excise duty by Rs 10 per litre last month.

Explanation

The article provides the specific data point: 'On April 1, the MoPNG had said that the OMCs were incurring under-recoveries of over Rs 24 per litre on petrol and almost Rs 105 per litre on diesel.' The other options are plausible but incorrect distractors.

Explanation

The article's core theme is that the government and OMCs have taken 'relentless steps to insulate the Indian citizens from steep increases in international prices.' It further states that a continued price freeze is expected to 'blunt the inflationary impact of the oil price spurt.' The other options are not the primary objective mentioned.

Explanation

The article states the petitioner approached the Allahabad High Court in 1997 regarding the rejection of his appointment. This High Court allowed his plea in 2004.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect: The fine of ₹1 lakh was imposed on the state of Uttar Pradesh, not Uttarakhand. Statement 2 is correct: The article confirms he was finally appointed in July 2011. Statement 3 is correct: The court's findings explicitly state the distinction between a transfer and a change in cadre.

Explanation

The article clearly states: "The bench ordered award costs of Rs 1 lakh to the petitioner, which will be paid by the state of Uttar Pradesh."

Explanation

The court noted that the cadre allocation policy has an exception for persons with 'mental illness', which includes family members. The petitioner's son was cognitively challenged, making proximity to family a critical factor for support, which the state failed to provide for decades.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions the writer as the Union Minister for Railways, and the entire discussion revolves around the modernization program undertaken by Indian Railways, which falls under the Ministry of Railways.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article: 'The track machine fleet has doubled from 748 in 2014 to 1,785 in 2026.' Statement 2 is incorrect because USFD is for checking hidden cracks inside rails, while ride quality is measured by GPS-enabled Oscillation Monitoring Systems (OMS). Statement 3 is correct: 'Track fit for 110 kmph and above has risen from about 40 per cent to 80 per cent.'

Explanation

The article states: 'Since 2014, about 55,000 km of tracks have been renewed...' The other options are distractors: 44,000 km is the length of long rail panels laid, 80,000 km is the length of 60-kg rails in use, and 1,00,000 km is the length where deep screening of ballast was carried out.

Explanation

The article directly links USFD testing to a preventive maintenance outcome: 'As a result, rail and weld failures have come down by about 90 per cent, a shift from fixing problems after the event to preventing them beforehand.' While other options are mentioned as part of the modernization, they are not the direct outcome of USFD adoption.

Explanation

The article clearly states that a bench of the Supreme Court, comprising Justices Sanjay Kumar and K Vinod Chandran, lifted the status quo order and disposed of the petitions. The Madras High Court was involved earlier in 2019, but the final ruling came from the Supreme Court.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect because the status quo order was from October 2019, not 2018. Statement 2 is correct as the court held that the state cannot undo decades-old transactions affecting innocent third parties. Statement 3 is correct as the court dismissed the 2026 contempt petition for being time-barred, reiterating that contempt proceedings must generally be initiated within one year.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the Supreme Court's decision paves the way for possession and regularization of 'more than 2,000 homes including flats and villas'. The breakdown includes 450 occupied flats, 482 flats in one project, 852 flats in another, and 333 villas, totaling well over 2,000.

Explanation

The court's central reasoning was that third-party rights created over decades involving innocent citizens who invested their money cannot be brushed aside by the state attempting to reclaim land. It emphasized that a welfare state cannot 'turn back the clock' and undo old transactions, protecting the legitimate expectations of homebuyers.

Explanation

The Strait of Hormuz is a narrow channel situated between the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman. It is the only sea passage from the Persian Gulf to the open ocean, making it a critical global oil transit route.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article: Iran vowed it would not reopen the Strait of Hormuz as long as the US continues the blockade. Statement 2 is correct: the article states the standoff has dominated the ceasefire in the West Asia war. Statement 3 is incorrect; the Strait of Hormuz is a crucial chokepoint for global oil trade, typically accounting for about 20-30% of it, not less than 5%.

Explanation

The article explicitly states the tense standoff occurred 'on Thursday (April 23, 2026)' and the publication date is also April 23, 2026. The other dates are close distractors.

Explanation

The article frames the situation as a 'standoff' where 'the two sides exercising their economic leverage in a bid to force the other to back down.' Iran's closure of the strait is a countermeasure to the US blockade, aiming to apply economic pressure (by threatening global oil trade) to achieve its political goal.

Explanation

The article explicitly states the arrest was made by the 'Enforcement Wing (South Zone) of the Commercial Taxes Department, Government of Karnataka.' The other agencies are central investigative bodies not mentioned in the report.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; the names are swapped. Mohammed Tauqeer was arrested, and Shaik Jakeer Hussain is absconding. Statement 3 is correct as the article mentions the three states.

Explanation

The article clearly states: 'wrongful ITC claims estimated at ₹102.5 crore.' ₹410 crore is the total value of fraudulent transactions, making it a key distractor.

Explanation

The core news is about a state tax department cracking down on a significant inter-state fraud network. The article does not mention it being the first arrest, full recovery of funds, or any immediate amendment to the law.

Explanation

The MPC is a statutory committee established by an amendment to the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934. Its primary mandate is to determine the policy repo rate to achieve the inflation target.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; the meeting was held from April 6 to April 8, 2026. Statement 3 is incorrect; all members voted for a status quo, not a change in the policy rate.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that a ceasefire was announced by U.S. President Donald Trump on April 7, 2026. This event preceded the MPC's unanimous vote for a status quo on April 8.

Explanation

The article's sub-headline and content highlight that supply chain disruptions pose downside risks to growth and upside risks to inflation. While other options may be secondary effects, the primary channel discussed is supply chain disruption.