25 August 2026, Questions & Answers

Explanation

Section 17 of the PC&PNDT Act specifically provides for the composition and appointment of the Appropriate Authority, which has the primary responsibility to enforce the Act and investigate complaints.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect because the SC ruled that police cannot independently investigate PC&PNDT offences despite being cognisable. Statement 2 is correct as per Section 17 of the Act. Statement 3 is correct as per Section 28 which creates a 'complete statutory embargo' on taking cognizance except through the specified complaint route.

Explanation

The judgment was delivered on August 20, 2026, as mentioned in the article. The article itself was published on August 25, 2026, which is a common distractor.

Explanation

The SC held that police cannot independently investigate PC&PNDT offences. If only a PC&PNDT violation is disclosed, the police must record the information and forward it to the Appropriate Authority. The police should not investigate or file a charge sheet for the PC&PNDT offence.

Explanation

P.P. Chaudhary, a BJP MP from Rajasthan, is the chairman of the 31-member joint parliamentary committee examining the Constitution (129th Amendment) Bill, 2024 and the Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2024. Ram Nath Kovind headed the earlier high-level panel that recommended simultaneous polls.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: simultaneous elections were held from 1951 to 1967 for four consecutive elections. Statement 2 is correct: the bills were introduced in December 2024. Statement 3 is incorrect: the JPC is headed by P.P. Chaudhary, not Ram Nath Kovind, who headed the earlier high-level panel.

Explanation

P.P. Chaudhary stated that if the constitutional amendment is approved by Parliament by 2028, the rollout of 'One Nation, One Election' can begin in 2029, with state elections held alongside the Lok Sabha polls if states voluntarily dissolve their assemblies.

Explanation

As a constitutional amendment bill, the Constitution (129th Amendment) Bill requires a special majority: at least two-thirds of members present and voting in each House, plus a majority of the total membership of that House. This is a higher threshold than ordinary legislation.

Explanation

The US Department of State is responsible for designating Foreign Terrorist Organizations (FTOs) under the Immigration and Nationality Act. The Treasury Department implements financial sanctions but does not make the designation itself.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as Treasury Secretary Bessent stated the action will foster investment. Statement 2 is incorrect because al-Nusra Front was the Syrian branch of Al-Qaeda, not ISIS. Statement 3 is correct as the Treasury Department announced sanctions relief.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that HTS broke ties with Al-Qaeda in 2016. Option D (2024) is the year HTS-led rebels overthrew Bashar al-Assad, which is a common distractor.

Explanation

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated the action will 'help foster additional investment in Syria to promote political and economic stability.' The delisting removes barriers for private sector investment, not isolation or new sanctions.

Explanation

The article explicitly quotes U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer. He is the current USTR under President Trump. The other options are former USTRs or officials not mentioned in the article.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the official announcement. Statement 2 is correct: Trump warned of new 50% tariffs on Canadian vehicles, auto parts, and steel. Statement 3 is correct: Ford said 'everything is on the table' including cutting electricity and critical minerals. Hence all three are correct.

Explanation

The article states that Trump's threatened 50% tariffs were triggered on about $20 billion worth of Canadian goods after Canada walked away from negotiations. The other options are distractors not mentioned in the article.

Explanation

Carney stated, 'We learned during the negotiations that the Americans want to destroy our major industries, including autos, steel and aluminium.' This is the core concern. The other options are not supported by the article.

Explanation

The article states that the notification was issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT). DGFT is the apex body under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry responsible for formulating and implementing export-import policies.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: The ban was imposed in May 2022 to control domestic prices. Statement 2 is incorrect: The article mentions that earlier in 2026, a partial allowance of 60 lakh tonnes was permitted before the full ban was lifted. Statement 3 is correct: Production reached a record 120.65 million tonnes in 2025-26.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the all-India average retail price of wheat stood at ₹31.46 per kg on August 24, 2026. ₹37.30 per kg was the price of wheat flour, not raw wheat. The other options are not mentioned.

Explanation

The article quotes the Food Secretary stating the ban was lifted 'in the interest of farmers' as domestic prices are depressed, and allowing exports will increase market prices and encourage good sowing. While other factors may be secondary, the core objective is farmer welfare.

Explanation

The clause mirrors the collective self-defence principle under UN Charter Article 51, which allows states to jointly respond to an armed attack. The other options are incorrect: Non-Intervention prohibits interference, R2P relates to humanitarian crises, and Pacta Sunt Servanda is about treaty adherence.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the signatories are Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan. Statement 2 is incorrect: the article explicitly states that the extent and nature of commitments and the geographical scope are not known. Statement 3 is correct: the pact was signed amidst the volatile West Asia crisis and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.

Explanation

The article states that '13,000 ground troops were deployed in the eastern part of Saudi Arabia in April this year' under the SMDA. The other options are close distractors not mentioned in the article.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that if attacked, India would exercise self-defence, and it would be useful to sensitise Saudi Arabia because Pakistan could invoke the pact. The other options are not directly supported: oil access is not the primary concern, the pact is not a formal NATO, and India maintains friendly ties with both Iran and Saudi Arabia.

Explanation

The article states that US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent unveiled the new sanctions. The US Treasury Department is responsible for economic sanctions and financial enforcement, making option B correct.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: Parliament Speaker Ghalibaf said Washington isn't in a strong economic position to isolate itself. Statement 2 is incorrect: Iran tightened pressure on shipping but did not threaten immediate closure; it blacklisted 45 tankers for violating rules. Statement 3 is correct: Economy Minister Madanizadeh said China and Russia haven't accepted the US measures. Hence option C.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: 'Tehran has blacklisted 45 tankers it says violated its rules for crossing the waterway.' The other options are distractors: 30 is the number of missile sites Iran still holds (per Senator Murphy), 60 is the US sanctions target count, and 33 is the original missile site count.

Explanation

The article states: 'Before the war began, the Strait of Hormuz typically carried cargoes equal to about 20% of global oil use.' This highlights its role as a critical energy chokepoint. Option A refers to the Suez Canal, B is incorrect (Russia uses other routes), D is wrong as it is a natural waterway.

Explanation

The ITRI has been introduced by SEBI, the capital markets regulator in India. It is designed to measure the resilience of critical IT systems at MIIs such as stock exchanges, clearing corporations, and depositories. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) regulates banking and monetary policy, while IRDAI regulates insurance.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect because the ITRI shifts from a pure compliance-based mode to a quantitative risk-monitoring framework. Statement 2 is correct: Availability and Security each have a 20% weight, the highest among all parameters. Statement 3 is correct: MIIs are required to develop an Early Warning System to detect deterioration in ITRI parameters and take remedial measures.

Explanation

Scalability has been assigned a 5% weight in the ITRI. This reflects SEBI's view that Indian markets are growing rapidly but do not pose an immediate stability risk. The highest weights are 20% each for Availability and Security, while Business Continuity & Reliability has 10%.

Explanation

The ITRI aims to gauge whether IT systems supporting trading, clearing, settlement, and securities holding can handle operational shocks, cyber threats, and spikes in market activity. It shifts from a compliance-based approach to a quantitative risk-monitoring framework, providing a measurable resilience barometer. Options A and D are not objectives of the ITRI; option C is incorrect as the ITRI does not replace all regulations but adds a new measurement layer.

Explanation

UNCERD is the treaty body of 18 independent experts that monitors state parties' compliance with ICERD. UNHRC is a political body, UNHCR deals with refugees, and CESCR monitors the ICESCR.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is also correct—UNCERD called for prompt, thorough investigations. Statement 3 is incorrect because the review was the 11th periodic review, not the 12th.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the committee carried out the eleventh periodic review of India on August 11-12, 2026. The press note came on August 25, 2026, which was the ninth anniversary of the Rohingya crisis.

Explanation

The committee called on India to refrain from collective expulsions and ensure access to international protection in line with the principle of non-refoulement, which prohibits returning people to places where they face serious threats. India is not a signatory to the 1951 Refugee Convention, but ICERD obligations still apply.

Explanation

Article 19(1)(a) guarantees freedom of speech, while Article 19(2) lists the grounds on which reasonable restrictions can be imposed, including defamation. Article 21 protects the right to life and personal liberty, which includes reputation. Article 14 is the right to equality. Hence, Article 19(2) is the correct answer.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: Shreya Singhal struck down Section 66A. Statement 2 is incorrect: criminal defamation under BNS (Section 356) is punishable with up to two years imprisonment, not three. The three-year term was proposed in the Kerala Police Act amendment (2020) which was later withdrawn. Statement 3 is correct: Subramanian Swamy (2016) upheld criminal defamation as a reasonable restriction. Hence, only statements 1 and 3 are correct.

Explanation

The Supreme Court delivered the judgment in Shreya Singhal vs Union of India on March 24, 2015. The year 2014 is when the case was filed or argued, 2016 is the year of the Subramanian Swamy judgment, and 2017 is the year of the Puttaswamy judgment. Hence, 2015 is correct.

Explanation

In Shreya Singhal, the Court held that Section 66A was 'vague in its entirety' and 'overbroad' because it covered speech that did not cause any immediate threat to public order. The principle of proportionality was later applied in Puttaswamy (2017) for privacy cases. Reasonable classification relates to Article 14, and severability is a doctrine for partial invalidity. Hence, vagueness and overbreadth is the correct principle.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the excess industrial capacity probe was initiated under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974, which allows the president to levy tariffs against nations that discriminate against U.S. companies or commerce.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the tariff targets China for underpriced goods. Statement 2 is incorrect because the Supreme Court struck down Trump's plan for a sweeping tariff scheme, not upheld it. Statement 3 is correct as the new tariff would be on top of the 10-12.5% tariffs already announced for 60 economies.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that 'Surging exports pushed China's trade surplus to a record of nearly $1.2 trillion last year.' The other options are close distractors.

Explanation

The article states the tariff level is 'considered by administration officials would not endanger the one-year trade truce between Washington and Beijing or a planned White House meeting between Mr. Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping.' This shows the calibrated diplomatic intent.

Explanation

The MHA is the nodal ministry for citizenship matters, including the CAA. The article explicitly states that the Union Ministry of Home Affairs transferred the processing of pending applications to District Collectors.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the CM announced 23,000 certificates issued. Statement 2 is correct: 2.3 lakh applications were made. Statement 3 is incorrect because the MHA has transferred processing from Empowered Committees to District Collectors. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article clearly states that 23,000 certificates have been issued. 2.3 lakh is the total applications made, and 2.07 lakh is the pending count. 2.3 crore is not mentioned.

Explanation

The MHA transferred pending applications from Empowered Committees to District Collectors in eight states/UTs to expedite the process. This decentralization aims to speed up the grant of citizenship certificates, fulfilling PM Modi's election promise.

Explanation

The article explicitly references the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023 (DPDPA) as the primary law governing data protection in India, noting its technology-agnostic nature and exclusion of publicly available information.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect because the article states that banning such devices is impractical, not that they are banned. Statement 2 is correct: DPDPA 2023 excludes publicly available information. Statement 3 is correct: the Puttaswamy judgment established privacy as a fundamental right under Article 21.

Explanation

The article specifically states that of the 3,678 women-centric cybercrimes in 2023, 2,767 cases involved transmission or publication of sexually explicit material. The other options are distractors: 698 is the number of child sexual abuse material cases, and 3,678 is the total women-centric cybercrimes.

Explanation

The article's central theme is the privacy gap created by smart glasses enabling non-consensual recording. While cost, battery life, and disruption are mentioned, the core concern is the violation of privacy and the inadequacy of current laws to protect individuals from being recorded without their knowledge.

Explanation

The article clearly states that action was initiated under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 and the Food Safety and Standards Rules, 2011. The Prevention of Food Adulteration Act was repealed in 2006. The other options are unrelated to food safety regulation in this context.

Explanation

Statement 1 is directly from the article. Statement 2 is also correct as BigBasket said it had stopped selling Datura and would change labelling. Statement 3 is false because the department found the responses unsatisfactory, not satisfactory. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article specifically mentions that the Karnataka Food Safety Department suspended the food licences of Amazon, Swiggy Instamart, and BigBasket. Flipkart, Zomato, and Swiggy (without Instamart) are not mentioned. This is a direct factual recall question from the news.

Explanation

The article states that Datura is poisonous and poses a serious public health risk. The suspension was to stop the sale and distribution of Datura as a food product. The other options are either irrelevant or opposite to the intent. This tests understanding of the 'why' behind the regulation.

Explanation

The article mentions the DoPT as the department that issued the 2004 clarification, rejected OBC claims, and filed the clarification plea. DoPT is the nodal agency for personnel management of central civil services.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the SC ruling. Statement 2 is incorrect because the government is seeking non-retrospective application to avoid disrupting CSE-2025. Statement 3 is correct as the 2004 clarification included salary income from PSUs and private sector.

Explanation

The article states 'around 100 candidates' who cleared the CSE but had their OBC claims rejected by DoPT on creamy layer grounds since the rigorous application began from CSE-2015 (2016 batch).

Explanation

The article explicitly states that delay in finalising the category-wise merit list would affect training schedules, batch strength, logistics, cadre allocation, and seniority/pay fixation of the incoming batch.

Explanation

The article mentions that the 40 questions for the Census 2027 were notified by the Ministry of Home Affairs. The Office of the Registrar General and Census Commissioner operates under this ministry.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the article states the categories increased from 8 in 2011 to 9 in 2027. Statement 2 is correct: the RPwD Act 2016 expanded the schedule to 21 conditions. Statement 3 is incorrect: autism is not a separate category; it is omitted (the article notes it is often misclassified as intellectual disability).

Explanation

The article explicitly says 'The categories have increased from eight in 2011 to nine'. Therefore, the 2011 Census had 8 categories.

Explanation

The article argues that aggregating distinct conditions like thalassemia, haemophilia, and sickle cell under 'blood disorder' makes it impossible to evaluate specific missions (e.g., National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission) or allocate resources appropriately.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the data is sourced from the State of Working India 2026 report by researchers at the Azim Premji University. This is a key static fact to remember for exam linkage.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: NEET is defined as 'Not in Employment, Education, or Training' and it captures those not in the labour force as well as the unemployed. Statement 2 is correct: the article states 25% of youth were in NEET according to PLFS data. Statement 3 is incorrect: NEET includes both unemployed and those out of the labour force (e.g., discouraged workers). Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article calculates that applying the 25% NEET rate to the 2026 youth population of 36.8 crore yields 9.2 crore youth in NEET. The other options are distractors: 6.8 crore is close to the number of jobs added in agriculture, while 10.5 and 12.3 are not mentioned.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that in India, many people, particularly women, do not register as looking for work due to social norms or discouragement, so they are not counted in the labour force. Thus UER underestimates the true extent of joblessness. The other options are not supported by the article.

Explanation

The USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement) replaced NAFTA in 2020 and is the current framework governing trade among the three nations. The article mentions the pact underpins $1.6 trillion in North American trade.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: Canada will announce retaliatory tariffs on Tuesday. Statement 2 is incorrect: the 50% tariff is specifically on vehicles, auto parts, and steel, not all Canadian imports. Statement 3 is correct: Ford suggested charging more for energy exports. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article states that Trump threatened new 50% tariffs on Canadian vehicles, auto parts, and steel, effective from 1st January. The current rate is 25%, but the threatened increase is to 50%.

Explanation

The article mentions Carney is pushing to diversify Canada's trade, which has historically depended heavily on the US. The icebreakers are meant to help open winter shipping routes through Canada's northern and Atlantic waters, enabling trade with other countries.

Explanation

The article states that the Centre, through the Department of Personnel and Training, argued before the Supreme Court. This department is the nodal body for personnel management and training in the central government.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct because the judgment directed the Centre to create supernumerary posts within six months. Statement 2 is incorrect because the judgment changed the method of determining creamy layer, not abolished it. Statement 3 is correct as the Centre cited over 3.7 lakh OBC recruitments since 2016.

Explanation

The Centre's application says retrospective application would affect over 3.7 lakh OBC recruitments in Central government posts since 2016. The other figures are distractors.

Explanation

The Centre argued that implementation might affect the claims and rights of resource-deprived candidates and result in a cascade of litigation from previous years' candidates. The other options are not supported by the article.

Explanation

According to the article, NSA Ajit Doval is the Special Representative on the India-China Boundary Question. His counterpart is Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. This is a static GK fact from the SR mechanism.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the 25th SR talks are in Beijing. Statement 2 is incorrect: the mechanism was established in 2003, not 2005. Statement 3 is correct: the visit is ahead of Xi's expected trip for the BRICS Summit on September 12.

Explanation

The article explicitly states the border spanning 3,488 km. Options B, C, and D are common distractors. This number is important for prelims mapping questions.

Explanation

The article states the SR mechanism was established 'to comprehensively address the dispute of the India-China border'. While trade and BRICS are related contexts, the core mandate of the SR talks is boundary resolution.

Explanation

The Strait of Hormuz is a narrow waterway between Iran and Oman, separating the Persian Gulf from the Arabian Sea. It connects the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman, which then opens into the Arabian Sea.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the Strait of Hormuz is a 55-km wide narrow waterway. Statement 2 is correct as the article mentions Pakistan signed as a guarantor for the interim peace agreement. Statement 3 is incorrect because the conflict began on February 28, 2026, not in April.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that 'a fifth of global oil passed through it before the conflict began on February 28.' This is a key data point for Prelims questions on energy security and strategic chokepoints.

Explanation

The article states that Pakistan's visit is part of its 'diplomatic efforts to break the deadlock in the ongoing U.S.-Iran conflict' and to explore 'ways for achieving enduring peace.' The discussions focused on the 'reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and expedited termination of the conflict.'

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the State School Education and Sports Department released the draft Bill. This is a static fact linking the news to the state's administrative structure.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the draft bill prohibits enrollment of students below 13 years. Statement 2 is incorrect: the minimum is 25 students, not 50. Statement 3 is correct: the bill mandates a weekly off and no tests the day after a holiday. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article states that for major violations, the penalty ranges from ₹10 to ₹50 lakh. The maximum is ₹50 lakh. Other options are lower amounts mentioned for minor violations (₹1-5 lakh) or in other states.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the draft law was released in the wake of the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak, where the primary accused was the founder of a reputed NEET coaching centre in Maharashtra. This event highlighted the lack of regulation.

Explanation

The article states that KSERC has drawn up the draft MYT regulations. KSEB is the utility board, not the regulator. CERC is central, and Ministry of Power is not involved at this stage.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the article says 'first time that provisions for energy storage systems have been proposed as part of the MYT regulations.' Statement 2 is correct: ESSD is recognized as a new regulated entity. Statement 3 is incorrect: the control period starts from 2027-28, not 2026-27.

Explanation

The article mentions the Mylatti project in Kasaragod with a capacity of 125 MW/500 MWh as the largest. The other options are capacities of other projects (Mulleria 15/60, Sreekantapuram 40/160, Areacode 30/120).

Explanation

The article highlights that absence of large-scale energy storage has prevented Kerala from benefiting from its solar capacity surge, and the budget announced plans for storage to meet peak demand. The regulations aim to facilitate storage deployment, not reduce tariffs or privatize distribution.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that Jaishankar co-chaired a meeting of the India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific, Technological and Cultural Cooperation (IRIGC-TEC) with First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov. This is a key bilateral mechanism for economic and cultural cooperation.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as Jaishankar called on Putin and also held talks with Lavrov. Statement 2 is incorrect: the visit was wide-ranging, covering bilateral cooperation, regional hotspots (Ukraine, Afghanistan, Iran), and global challenges – not exclusively Ukraine. Statement 3 is correct as per the article that Putin's expected visit to New Delhi for the BRICS summit is on September 12-13. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the visit comes ahead of Russian President Vladimir Putin's expected visit to New Delhi for the BRICS leaders' summit on September 12-13. The other options are distractors: August 23-24 is the date of Jaishankar's visit, and August 25 is the publication date.

Explanation

The article highlights that the visit aimed to discuss bilateral cooperation, regional hotspots, and multilateral issues, and it comes ahead of Putin's expected visit for the BRICS summit. While defense and trade may be part of broader ties, the primary significance is the coordination of stances on global issues and preparation for the summit, reflecting India's strategic autonomy.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the U.S. Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) announced the sanctions on its website. OFAC is the primary agency for administering and enforcing economic sanctions.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect because the sanctions were imposed by the U.S. Treasury (unilateral action), not the UN. Statement 2 is correct as the article mentions Mohammad Hossein Shamkhani is the son of the now-deceased senior Iranian security official Ali Shamkhani. Statement 3 is correct as the article states the measures target nearly 60 companies, individuals, and ships.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: 'the measures targeting nearly 60 companies, individuals and ships.' The other options are close distractors but the exact figure mentioned is 'nearly 60'.

Explanation

The article states the U.S. is 'stepping up measures to target Tehran's global financial links.' The sanctions target entities involved in shipping Iranian oil, which is a key revenue source for Iran. Options A, C, and D are not mentioned or are contrary to the objective of the sanctions.

Explanation

As per the established mechanism, the National Security Advisor (NSA) of India serves as the Special Representative for the boundary talks with China. The article confirms that NSA Ajit Doval led the Indian side in the 25th round of talks.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect as the talks were held in Beijing, not New Delhi. Statement 2 is correct: Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi led the delegation. Statement 3 is correct: the talks precede Xi Jinping's expected visit for the BRICS Summit. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that India and China held the '25th round of talks between the Special Representatives (SRs) on the boundary question' on August 25, 2026. The other options are close distractors.

Explanation

The article quotes Chinese scholar Hu Shisheng stating that the focus of both countries would be on 'institutionalising stability' even as structural differences persist. This is the core objective mentioned, rather than a final resolution or other specific agreements.

Explanation

The article states that the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has set up a rare disease registry based on data uploaded by experts from 19 specialised hospitals. This is a static fact directly from the article.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article explicitly says the inspiration comes from the dairy cooperative Amul. Statement 2 is incorrect because the PDC is proposed as a cooperative that holds patients’ data on their behalf, not a government-run database. Statement 3 is correct as the article mentions using AI to synthesize medical records and suggest possible diagnoses.

Explanation

The article states that the ICMR registry has collected data on around 4,000 patients with select diseases over the last five years. The other options are distractors; 19 is the number of hospitals, not patients.

Explanation

The article explains that the PDC aims to hold patients’ data to facilitate research, improve trial design, and help bring safe and effective treatments to patients with rare diseases more quickly. The other options are not supported by the article.

Explanation

According to the article, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) filed the proposal for the new fee. The State Department handles visa issuances, but DHS oversees immigration fees and petitions.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the article states revocation of B1/B2 visas issued to asylum seekers. Statement 2 is incorrect: the fee applies to 'H-1B cap-subject petitions' only, not all H-1B petitions. Statement 3 is correct: the earlier $100,000 fee was struck down by a Massachusetts federal court in June 2026. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article clearly states that DHS proposed a fee of $103,265 (approximately ₹98.9 lakh) for new H-1B cap-subject petitions. The earlier $100,000 fee was struck down, and $98,900 is the approximate rupee value, not the USD amount.

Explanation

According to the article, DHS stated that the money from the fee would help cover the government's costs of running the legal immigration system, spanning work by DHS, DOJ, State, and Labor. The other options are not supported by the text.

Explanation

DRDO functions under the Ministry of Defence, and the approval for technology transfer was given by the Defence Minister, making the Ministry of Defence the nodal body for this decision.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the Defence Minister approved the transfer. Statement 2 is incorrect because the move is to promote domestic industries, not foreign industries. Statement 3 is correct as per the ministry's announcement that it will enable transition from development to industrial production.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that 'Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has approved the transfer of DRDO-developed technologies of all conventional missile systems to the Indian defence industry.'

Explanation

The Defence Ministry stated that the objective is to 'enhance domestic manufacturing capabilities, strengthen the defence industrial base and create opportunities for the participation of Indian MSMEs and other technology partners in the supply chain.'

Explanation

The DGCA, under the Ministry of Civil Aviation, is the statutory regulator for civil aviation safety in India, including licensing and medical fitness of pilots. BCAS handles security, AAI manages airports, and NCB deals with narcotics enforcement – not pilot drug testing.

Explanation

All statements are correct as per the article. Statement 1: Current rules test 10% of pilots. Statement 2: The government proposes 100% round-the-year random testing. Statement 3: Air India and Air India Express have started mandatory testing of all their pilots.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the current rules mandate random drug tests for 10% of the overall pilot network. The other options are close distractors – 5% is too low, 15% and 25% are higher than the actual figure.

Explanation

The article clearly states that the issue of substance use by pilots came under scrutiny after an Air India captain operating a Phuket-Delhi flight involved in a sudden altitude loss incident tested positive for marijuana. This incident directly prompted the DGCA to review and strengthen drug-testing standards.

Explanation

The TN-ARIVU curriculum was announced by the Tamil Nadu School Education Minister Rajmohan, making the School Education Department the nodal body for its implementation. Higher Education deals with colleges/universities, IT department handles technology infrastructure, and SCERT is a research body under the School Education Department.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect: The curriculum will be implemented from the academic year 2027-28, not 2026-27. Statement 2 is correct as per the article: ARIVU Foundation (I-V), Discovery (VI-VIII), Edge (IX-XII). Statement 3 is correct: Vetripathai Scheme will be implemented in 172 government higher secondary schools with ₹22.36 crore allocation.

Explanation

The article explicitly states 'a total of 31 initiatives under the department with a total estimated outlay of ₹44,527 crore'. The other options are plausible distractors: ₹45,000 crore is a rounded figure, ₹40,000 crore is a lower round figure, and ₹50,000 crore is a higher round figure.

Explanation

The article states that the Mathichudar Scheme is a 'competency-based assessment' implemented to 'improve the conceptual understanding of students in Class VI-XII'. Option A refers to the sports uniform initiative, option C is a separate funding announcement, and option D is the chess coaching initiative.

Explanation

The Food Secretary, who announced the price intervention measures, belongs to the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution. This ministry oversees the Essential Commodities Act and manages food price stabilization, including sugar.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the government allowed import of 1 million tonnes of raw sugar. Statement 2 is incorrect: the article explicitly states the decline in ex-mill prices has NOT yet filtered down to wholesale and retail markets. Statement 3 is correct: annual domestic demand stands at 280-285 lakh tonnes. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article states that the average retail price stood at ₹63.05 per kg on August 24, as per data from the Consumer Affairs Ministry. ₹55/kg is the ex-mill price, ₹58.29/kg is the wholesale price, and ₹67/kg was the record high ex-mill price last week.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the government imposed stock limits on bulk consumers and directed states to intensify inspections to check hoarding and speculation. This is a supply-side measure under the Essential Commodities Act to ensure adequate market supply and cool prices, not for revenue or export promotion.

Explanation

The law explicitly states that the person must inform the district magistrate 60 days in advance. This is a key administrative procedure under the act. The other options are distractors; the district magistrate is the designated authority for such notifications.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the law mandates 60-day notice to the district magistrate. Statement 2 is incorrect: the punishment is 7 years, not 10 years. Statement 3 is incorrect: the law does not require the person to be born into a particular religion; it regulates conversions from any faith. Hence only statement 1 is correct.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions that the law provides for punishment of seven years in jail for violations of procedures. Options 5, 10, and 3 years are common distractors used in exams to test precise recall.

Explanation

The article states that the forms are taken for 'self-safety' and to show to authorities if asked, because of attacks on churches and harassment by right-wing groups. The other options are not supported by the news; the forms are not a legal requirement, nor are they for registration or census purposes.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the agreement was signed between the Andhra Pradesh government and the UK's Department for Business and Trade. UKEF is a separate agency that may provide financial assistance but is not the signatory department.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: Singapore opted out in 2019 when TDP lost power. Statement 2 is correct: In 2025, the state signed an MoU with Singapore. Statement 3 is incorrect because the UK agreement covers not just Amaravati but also 123 municipalities and municipal corporations across the state.

Explanation

The article specifically mentions that there are infrastructure projects worth Rs 40,000 crore going on in the 123 municipalities. This data point is important for prelims questions testing exact figures mentioned in the news.

Explanation

The article emphasizes that the collaboration aims to leverage UK expertise and technical support for sustainable urban development, technology transfer (ITS, BIM, digital twins), and knowledge exchange. While financial assistance through UKEF is possible, the core objective is expertise and technology, not direct aid or replacing Singapore.

Explanation

The article states that PM Modi attended the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Kyrgyzstan during his 2026 Central Asia visit. The other options are regional organizations not mentioned in the context of this visit.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the article mentions the Central Asian Five signed a friendship treaty. Statement 2 is incorrect: India lacks direct land access to Central Asia, as Pakistan blocks the obvious overland route. Statement 3 is correct: border disputes in the Fergana Valley have been settled among Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that 'at the Central Asian summit with the US in Washington last November, Kazakhstan announced its accession to the Abraham Accords.' The other options are close distractors but not mentioned in this context.

Explanation

The article argues for a 'less romantic and more modest Indian approach' and suggests a 'practical economic agenda focused on areas where India can contribute.' It explicitly states India cannot match China's infrastructure spending or Russia's advantages, and recommends against grand schemes.

Explanation

The article mentions Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, indicating he heads the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. This ministry handles trade, commerce, and industrial policy of India.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the article quotes FICCI President Anant Goenka expressing concern over the widening trade deficit since the 2011 EPA. Statement 2 is incorrect: the article says critical minerals are 'either physically located in a few countries, or they have been blocked by a few countries', not many countries. Statement 3 is correct: the article states 'Over 200 business leaders from India are currently travelling to Japan along with the Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal'. Hence option C.

Explanation

The article explicitly states 'the economic partnership agreement in 2011'. This is a key date for bilateral trade relations between India and Japan.

Explanation

The article begins by stating that India and Japan 'recognise the world’s growing dependency on China for critical minerals'. Joint investments in Africa are a direct response to this dependency, aiming to secure supply chains and expand mining capabilities.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, businesses involved in sale and distribution of food are regulated as Food Business Operators (FBOs). E-commerce platforms selling food fall under this category and must obtain an FSSAI licence.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article: an online entity that merely provides a directory or listing of food businesses may be exempt. Statement 2 is incorrect because the suspension is not permanent; platforms can submit compliance reports and authorities must give a hearing before revoking. Statement 3 is incorrect: the order does not specify licence numbers or premises.

Explanation

The article states: 'Under FSSAI rules, e-commerce FBOs are required to obtain a Central Licence from the Central Licensing Authority, irrespective of their turnover.' This is a key factual point for exams.

Explanation

The article directs that platforms must immediately remove or discontinue all listings of datura fruits and seeds for human consumption. They must also submit compliance reports to authorities. The suspension does not automatically stop all food sales; the impact depends on which licences are suspended.

Explanation

The article identifies NSA Ajit Doval as the Special Representative of India on the boundary issue, who held talks with Chinese FM Wang Yi, the Chinese Special Representative.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article states they discussed ways to 'make progress on boundary delimitation'. Statement 2 is correct as both sides agreed to strengthen peace and tranquillity in border areas. Statement 3 is incorrect because the article mentions previous meetings in Kazan (2024) and Tianjin (2025), indicating this is not the first meeting after Galwan.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the meeting set the stage for Xi's likely visit to India for the summit of the BRICS leaders on September 12-13, as mentioned in the text: 'Xi’s likely visit to India for the summit of the BRICS leaders on September 12-13.'

Explanation

The article quotes the MEA stating that the two Special Representatives agreed to 'continue their work in seeking a political settlement of the boundary question'. The Chinese readout also mentions 'seeking a fair, reasonable, and mutually acceptable comprehensive solution to the border issue.'

Explanation

CERD is the treaty body that monitors ICERD, as mentioned in the article. The UNHRC is a political body, OHCHR provides support, and ICJ handles disputes between states.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the report was released in Geneva. Statement 2 is incorrect because the report criticised the NRC, not praised it. Statement 3 is correct as per the article that mentions the SIR process being called out.

Explanation

The article states the report was released in Geneva on Tuesday, consistent with the UN Office in Geneva being the seat of CERD.

Explanation

The article clearly states the panel urged suspension of NRC and review of the legislative framework to address systematic racial discrimination, not to expedite or expand it.

Explanation

The article states that Iran's Persian Gulf Strait Authority (PGSA) released the list of 'non-compliant' vessels. The PGSA was established in June 2026 and is responsible for regulating transit through the Strait of Hormuz according to Tehran's terms. The other options are not mentioned in the article as responsible for this action.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article: Disha (LNG tanker) and Maha Roos (bulk carrier) are the two Indian vessels on the blacklist. Statement 2 is incorrect because Disha is owned by India LNG Transport Company No.1, a joint venture between SCI and foreign companies, not solely by SCI. Statement 3 is correct: the article states the strait accounted for 20% of global crude and LNG flows before the war.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: 'Around 40% of India's crude oil imports, 60% of its LNG imports, and a whopping 90% of its LPG imports came from West Asia through the strait.' Therefore, 60% is the correct figure for LNG imports. The other options are distractors: 40% for crude, 90% for LPG, and 50% is not mentioned.

Explanation

The article states that the PGSA intends to charge fees for services like maritime security, navigation assistance, environmental protection, and insurance, and that Tehran insists vessels use its designated routings. This indicates the objective is to control and monetize transit through the strait, not to block all shipments to specific countries or support the US blockade. Option A is partially correct but not the primary goal; PGSA's actions are more about asserting authority.

Explanation

The report 'Reimagining Skilling for Viksit Bharat' was released by NITI Aayog on Saturday (August 2026), as mentioned in the article. NITI Aayog is the premier policy think tank of the Government of India.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the report says over 90% of graduates are in roles not aligned with their qualifications. Statement 2 is correct: graduate unemployment is 13% overall and 20.4% for women. Statement 3 is incorrect: the NEET category refers to youth not in education, employment or training, and the report clarifies that it does not measure joblessness or those seeking work.

Explanation

The report, citing BCG's Higher Education Survey, states that individuals pursuing a generic undergraduate degree without skilling earn an average starting salary of Rs 22,000 per month. Those with skilling earn Rs 29,000 per month. Thus the correct answer is Rs 22,000.

Explanation

The report recommends redesigning generic university courses (BA, B.Sc, B.Com) into industry-aligned applied specialisations such as BA Hospitality, B.Sc Applied Technology, and B.Com Analytics. This is a key reform to bridge the gap between education and labour market demands.

Explanation

PRAGATI is an ICT-enabled platform chaired by the Prime Minister, and the PMO coordinates its meetings. The PMO is responsible for the platform's implementation and monitoring, as it directly involves the Prime Minister's supervision of project progress.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article mentions the review of cyber fraud cases including digital arrest. Statement 2 is correct as the article states six infrastructure projects were reviewed. Statement 3 is incorrect because AgriStack comes under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare, not the Ministry of Electronics and IT.

Explanation

The article specifically mentions a cumulative investment of more than ₹30,000 crore for the six infrastructure projects. The other options are close distractors, but ₹30,000 crore is the exact figure mentioned.

Explanation

The PM emphasized leveraging the latest digital technologies, including AI, to derive greater value from agricultural data. AgriStack aims to build a data ecosystem for the agricultural value chain, enabling informed interventions and better targeting for farmers.