25 April 2026, Questions & Answers

Explanation

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is the central banking and monetary authority of India. It regulates and supervises banks under the Banking Regulation Act, 1949, which includes the power to grant and cancel banking licences.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article: restrictions started on March 11, 2022. Statement 2 is correct as RBI barred fresh deposits in January 2024. Statement 3 is incorrect because both RBI and PPBL have stated there is sufficient liquidity to repay all deposits.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: "We are also the largest issuer of FASTag with over 8 million FASTag units issued." The other options are plausible but incorrect distractors.

Explanation

The RBI's primary mandate includes maintaining depositor confidence and financial stability. The article emphasizes that both RBI and the bank assured full refunds, indicating the action's core objective is to protect customers and ensure an orderly exit, not to achieve other policy goals.

Explanation

Article 324(5) of the Constitution explicitly states that the Chief Election Commissioner shall not be removed from office except in like manner and on like grounds as a Judge of the Supreme Court. This process involves an address by Parliament to the President.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article, which mentions the notice had 73 MPs' signatures. Statement 2 is incorrect because 'Claude Mythos' is developed by Anthropic, not OpenAI. Statement 3 is incorrect as BRICS failed to reach a consensus, and India only issued a Chair's summary, not a unanimous joint statement.

Explanation

The article clearly states that 'Parliament passed the Chief Election Commissioner and Other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Act, 2023 in December 2023'. This act elaborates on the selection and removal process of Election Commissioners.

Explanation

The article quotes the MEA spokesperson saying, 'Some members of the BRICS are directly involved in the current situation in the West Asia region, which has impacted forging a consensus...'. Members like Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, which are part of BRICS, are directly involved, making a unified position difficult.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the foundational principle of open seas is 'codified in international law with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS)'. The right of 'transit passage' is a key part of this convention, as mentioned in the analysis.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect: the Indonesian minister 'pondered' and 'mused' about tolls but noted its impracticality; he did not formally propose it. Statement 3 is incorrect: the article lists the Suez Canal and Bab al-Mandab among the critical chokepoints for India's trade.

Explanation

The article explicitly lists 'the Strait of Hormuz, the Strait of Malacca, the Suez Canal, and the Bab al-Mandab' as critical chokepoints. The Panama Canal, while important, is not mentioned in this specific article.

Explanation

The article's concluding paragraph directly states that 'New Delhi should, therefore, take the lead in reinforcing the law of the sea, ensuring the free and safe passage of vessels in international waters, and working with like-minded partners...'. This is presented as the key strategic response.

Explanation

The article's byline states that Krishnan is the India chair of the Energy, Green Economy, Climate Working Group of the BRICS Business Council. This is a directly stated fact from the source.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article which states net crop residue is c. 400 mmta. Statement 2 is incorrect; the article says biomethane can replace current LNG imports (~35 BCM), not total natural gas consumption (~70 BCM). Statement 3 is incorrect; SSLNG is suggested to supplement, not replace, the pipeline network for smaller-scale demands.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions the target of '100 GW nuclear power by 2047'. This is a specific data point crucial for energy sector goals.

Explanation

The article states that biomass and manure are 'low-value, low-bulk-density commodities' and that 'significant logistical difficulties' exist in procuring and transporting them to processing centres. This is the primary challenge highlighted, while other options are either not mentioned or are secondary.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen making the announcement. The European Commission is the EU's executive body.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article's core proposal. Statement 2 is incorrect; the trigger was the Iran war, not the Russia-Ukraine war. Statement 3 is correct, as the summit location was Nicosia, Cyprus.

Explanation

The article clearly states the announcement was made by Ursula von der Leyen on Friday, April 25, 2026. The summit was held on April 24, but the announcement was the next day.

Explanation

The article's core theme is creating energy projects that "wouldn't be held hostage to war or geopolitical strife," directly aiming to insulate supply chains from regional conflicts like the Iran war.

Explanation

The article explicitly discusses Sections 263 and 283 of the Indian Succession Act, 1925, which deal with the revocation of probate and citation of interested parties, respectively. This is the principal law governing testamentary succession for non-Muslims in India.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect. The Supreme Court held the opposite: a purchaser from heirs is NOT a stranger and must be cited. Statement 2 is correct as the article mentions the Court referred to the 1972 Madhya Pradesh HC decision in Banwarilal v Kusum Bai. Statement 3 is correct as the SC stated the HC's omission to engage with Sections 263 and 283 was a 'grave error'.

Explanation

The article clearly states: 'In 1997, the appellants purchased the properties from the legal heirs of the 1976 buyers.' The other dates are distractors: 1976 is the year of the will, 1983 is the year of the testator's death, and 2009 is when the probate petition was filed.

Explanation

The article quotes the Court: 'the grant of probate is a judgment in rem and conclusive and binds not only the parties but also the entire world.' The Court clarified that probate courts do not decide title questions (making option A incorrect). Its binding nature on the world is the core reason why proper citation of all interested parties is crucial.

Explanation

The article clearly states that the Kalaignar Magalir Urimai Thittam (KMUT) is a scheme in Tamil Nadu, providing ₹1,000 monthly to eligible women heads of households. It is a state-specific welfare initiative.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article: MGR expanded the noon-meal programme statewide in the early 1980s. Statement 2 is incorrect; KMUT provides ₹1,000 (not ₹1,500) monthly to eligible women heads of households, not to all women above 18. Statement 3 is correct; Jayalalithaa's tenure saw the expansive 'Amma' brand ecosystem.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: "By early 2026, the programme had expanded to about 1.31 crore beneficiaries, up from 1.13 crore in its first phase after an additional 17 lakh women were added in late 2025." The other options are close distractors based on earlier or rounded figures.

Explanation

The article explains that free bus travel "altered mobility at scale. For some, it reduced transport costs. For others, it expanded the geography of work, study and care." This highlights its role in enhancing women's agency and economic participation, which is the core socio-political implication discussed.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the AIP programme is led by the Naval Material Research Laboratory (NMRL), a key DRDO lab based in Ambernath, Maharashtra. NSTL and NPOL are other DRDO naval labs with different specialisations.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect: The module is for Liquid Oxygen (LOX), not Liquid Nitrogen. Statement 2 is correct as per the article. Statement 3 is incorrect: The primary objective of an AIP system is to enhance submerged endurance and stealth, not surface speed.

Explanation

The article specifically mentions that the Naval Material Research Laboratory (NMRL) is based in Ambernath in Maharashtra's Thane district. The other locations are associated with different DRDO labs.

Explanation

The article states the AIP system is a 'critical advancement in enhancing the endurance and stealth of our submarines.' By allowing submarines to stay submerged longer without surfacing, it directly addresses a key vulnerability and enhances their survivability and operational effectiveness.

Explanation

As per the Tenth Schedule, the presiding officer of the House (Speaker in Assembly, Chairman in Council) is the authority to decide on disqualification of members on grounds of defection. This is a core static GK fact linked to the news.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: The article states Shinde took 40 out of 55 Shiv Sena MLAs in 2022. Statement 2 is incorrect: The article clarifies the AAP government in Punjab had an absolute majority and the defection's objective was not to topple it. Statement 3 is correct: The article mentions Speaker Ramesh Tawadkar dismissed the Congress's disqualification petition in 2024.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: "In 2019, 10 of the 15 Congress MLAs switched to the BJP". This is a precise data point from the news that can be tested in Prelims.

Explanation

The article repeatedly highlights the use of Paragraph 4 of the Tenth Schedule, which allows a group constituting not less than two-thirds of a legislature party to merge with another party without facing disqualification. This is the core legal loophole discussed.

Explanation

The U.S. Treasury Department, through its Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), is the primary agency responsible for administering and enforcing economic and trade sanctions. The news mentions the announcement by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect as the U.S. announced it would NOT renew the waiver for Iranian oil. Statement 2 is incorrect; the context is the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, not the Strait of Malacca. Statement 3 is correct as per the article, where Bessent said Iran would have to start shuttering production.

Explanation

The article explicitly states 'Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said Friday (April 24, 2026) that the U.S. does not plan to renew a waiver...'. April 25 is the publication date of the news article.

Explanation

The article directly states that Mr. Bessent's statements come 'as the world is on edge over the U.S.-Israeli war in Iran, and global energy markets have been ensnarled by the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.' This is the immediate geopolitical backdrop for the sanctions decision.

Explanation

As per the article, the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) is the sector's standards-setting body for fuel efficiency and emissions reduction targets. BEE is a statutory body under the Ministry of Power.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article states the target is 77 g/km by 2031-32. Statement 2 is incorrect because the article mentions compliance is to be assessed over three-year blocks, not annually. Statement 3 is correct as the article explicitly mentions super-credits where a battery electric vehicle could count as three vehicles.

Explanation

The article clearly states that the target under CAFE-II was about 113 grams of CO2 per kilometre. The new CAFE-III target is 77 g/km.

Explanation

The article argues that flexible provisions like super-credits, credit banking/trading, and three-year compliance blocks reduce immediate pressure on manufacturers. This allows them to meet targets with incremental technologies rather than making a structural shift to electric mobility, thereby potentially slowing down the urgent transition.

Explanation

IREL (India) Limited is a Public Sector Undertaking under the administrative control of the Department of Atomic Energy, Government of India. It is responsible for the mining and processing of rare earths and atomic minerals.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article mentions IREL seeking CRZ clearance. Statement 2 is incorrect; the mining area is in Killiyoor taluk, not Kanyakumari taluk. Statement 3 is correct as monazite and zircon are listed among the target minerals.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the project is designed to mine atomic minerals across a 1,144-hectare coastal belt in Killiyoor taluk. The other options are close but incorrect distractors.

Explanation

The article's core news is that IREL is seeking CRZ clearance from the Union Environment Ministry. Since the project is along the coastline, the CRZ Notification is the primary environmental regulation applicable, not the Forest Act or a standard pollution NOC.

Explanation

NITI Aayog (established in 2015) replaced the Planning Commission, which was India's central planning body from 1950 until its dissolution. This is a fundamental static GK fact related to India's governance structure.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect because four of the five full-time members were replaced, not all five. Statement 3 is correct as Rajiv Gauba was reappointed and retained. Hence, option C is correct.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that this is the first major revamp of NITI Aayog 'since its inception in 2015'. This is a key factual date often asked in prelims to test knowledge of important institutions.

Explanation

The article's core news is the 'first major revamp of the NITI Aayog since its inception in 2015'. This structural change in its top leadership is significant for policy direction, unlike a routine change. The other options are not supported by the article's content.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the Supreme Court suggested to the National Informatics Centre (NIC) that the software be coded for nationwide implementation. NIC is the premier IT solution provider for the government.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article states the pilot is in Agra and Lucknow jails. Statement 2 is incorrect because the court mentioned tweaking the software to adapt to different state policies. Statement 3 is correct as the case from Uttar Pradesh revealed the delays.

Explanation

The article clearly states: 'Data submitted before the apex court revealed 1,678 prisoners had completed over 14 years of imprisonment.' 915 were cases yet to be forwarded, and 431 were pending before district magistrates.

Explanation

The core objective, as stated in the article, is to eliminate 'humongous administrative delay' by automating the process. The module aims to automatically identify eligible prisoners, enable paperless processing, and enforce timelines, not to change eligibility criteria or transfer powers.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that Ashok Kumar Lahiri was a member of the 15th Finance Commission. The Finance Commission is a constitutional body established under Article 280.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; he is a BJP MLA from West Bengal, not Odisha. Statement 3 is correct as the article mentions he retired as an executive director from the Asian Development Bank. Hence, option C is correct.

Explanation

The article clearly states that Lahiri will take over from Suman Bery, whose term was ending. V K Paul, Arvind Virmani, and Rajiv Gauba are other members mentioned but were not the outgoing Vice Chairperson.

Explanation

The article contrasts Lahiri with his predecessor, noting his extensive experience in administration and electoral affairs as a BJP MLA, alongside his economic credentials. This signifies a blend of expertise, not a singular focus on international banking, pure academia, or corporate representation.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the defence PSU BEML is manufacturing the B28 bullet train at its Aditya plant in Bengaluru. BHEL is involved in power equipment, RITES in consultancy, and IRCTC in catering and tourism.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the Ministry of Railways statement in the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; the contract was awarded by the Chennai-based Integral Coach Factory (ICF), not a Mumbai workshop. Statement 3 is correct as the article mentions the first train ready by Q1 2027 and initial operation on the Surat-Vapi route.

Explanation

The article directly states: "Efforts are underway to start operation using B28... for Surat to Vapi (97km) in Aug 2027." March 2027 is the target for manufacturing completion, not operational launch.

Explanation

The article highlights the complexity of high-speed rail technology and developing it within the country as a milestone for indigenous engineering. Using a defence PSU (BEML) showcases cross-sectoral capability transfer and advances the goal of technological self-reliance, which is a core strategic implication.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman asked the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) to drive the adoption of standardized KYC norms. SEBI is the regulator for the securities market in India.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the FM emphasized the need for a 'seamless, secure, and portable KYC experience'. Statement 2 is incorrect because the FM specifically called for a 'serious push for Municipal Bonds' to deepen the bond market. Statement 3 is correct as the article mentions the Cybersecurity and Cyber Resilience Framework came into effect in April 2025.

Explanation

The article clearly states: "SEBI has done commendably well and good work with the Cybersecurity and Cyber Resilience Framework that came into effect in April 2025." The other options are close distractors based on the article's publication date (2026) or common policy implementation timelines.

Explanation

The article quotes the FM stating that a single successful cyberattack could 'disrupt markets at national scale, erase wealth, and shake public confidence in ways that take years to rebuild.' This directly highlights systemic risk and loss of trust as the core concern, not cost reduction, foreign investment, or foreign compliance.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that 'Data from GRID India shows peak power demand touched 252 gigawatts (GW) on April 24.' GRID-INDIA is the national grid operator responsible for such data.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: The article mentions the rise from 235 GW in April 2025 to 252 GW in April 2026. Statement 2 is incorrect: The forecast for 2026 is 271 GW, not 277 GW (which was last year's projected peak). Statement 3 is incorrect: The government deferred maintenance of coal-based power plants, not hydro-based plants.

Explanation

The article states: 'On April 24, Prayagraj in Uttar Pradesh recorded the highest temperature in the country at 45.2°C.' This is a specific data point directly from the IMD.

Explanation

The TERI expert, Alekhya Datta, stated that 'India’s challenge is no longer one of capacity shortage but of managing demand peaks efficiently.' This marks a shift from the earlier deficit scenario to a focus on peak load management.

Explanation

The article explicitly states the address was made during the 38th SEBI Foundation Day celebrations. SEBI is the regulator for the securities market in India.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; the address was during the 38th SEBI Foundation Day, not RBI's. Statement 3 is incorrect; she warned that an attack on a major exchange, depository, clearing corporation, or large broker could disrupt markets at a national scale.

Explanation

The article clearly mentions the address was given on Saturday, April 25, 2026, during the 38th SEBI Foundation Day celebrations. The other dates are close distractors.

Explanation

The core of the news is the Finance Minister asking SEBI to be ready to meet emerging challenges, specifically cybersecurity challenges. This is a directive to the regulator to enhance its focus and frameworks for market resilience.