25 February 2026, Questions & Answers

Explanation

The Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) is formulated by the Department of Commerce, which operates under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. This ministry is the nodal agency for promoting India's international trade.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article's projection. Statement 2 is incorrect; the India-EU FTA reduces or eliminates tariffs on over 90% of traded goods, not all goods and services. Statement 3 is correct as the article explicitly mentions integrating MSMEs into GVCs as a benefit.

Explanation

The article specifically states that India recorded total exports (merchandise and services combined) of $825.25 billion according to the 2025 Year-End Review. The other options are close but incorrect distractors.

Explanation

The article emphasizes that deeper engagement with advanced economies provides India with preferential access to high-demand markets, strengthens export potential, and diversifies trade to avoid over-dependence on any single geography. This is the core strategic rationale highlighted.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the government constituted a committee under the chairmanship of Justice B.N. Sri Krishna to deliberate on the data protection framework, which submitted its report and draft bill in July 2018.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is correct as the amendment creates a 'blanket exemption'. Statement 3 is correct as the original RTI provision allowed disclosure if larger public interest justified it. Hence, all three statements are accurate.

Explanation

The article clearly mentions 'The Supreme Court in Puttaswamy (2017) had declared the right to privacy as a fundamental right'. This is a static fact crucial for polity questions.

Explanation

The article states the amendment 'has been challenged in the Supreme Court... on the ground that it is ultra vires the Constitution.' The core issue is the perceived abridgment of the right to information, which the Supreme Court has held as integral to Articles 19 and 21.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that StartupTN was set up as a Section 8 company as part of the Tamil Nadu Startup and Innovation Mission (TANSIM) in 2021. A Section 8 company is a legal entity established for promoting charitable objectives.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article states Tamil Nadu's real economic growth rate of 11.19% for 2024-25 marks the highest for any State in the country. Statement 2 is correct as with 6% of the population, it contributed 9.21% to national GDP. Statement 3 is incorrect; the article says the state has the second-lowest multidimensional poverty index, not the lowest.

Explanation

The article clearly states that Tamil Nadu accounted for more than 41% of India’s electronics exports in 2024-25. This is a key data point highlighting the state's dominance in this high-growth sector.

Explanation

The article identifies that the servitization of manufacturing and rapid diffusion of digital technologies make adoption a necessity for MSMEs. However, market uncertainties and thin margins deter investments in new tech, creating a long-term threat of productivity divergence with larger firms, thereby endangering the decentralized MSME-led growth model.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: 'According to the International Energy Agency, China accounts for an average market share of around 70 per cent in the refining of 19 of the 20 most strategic critical minerals...'

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article describes Pax Silica as a 'US-led initiative' to loosen China's stranglehold. Statement 2 is incorrect because the article states 'India was initially excluded when the first group of countries signed up last year in mid-December.' Statement 3 is correct as the article mentions the Pax Silica factsheet refers to 'coercive dependencies'.

Explanation

The article states: '...and 94 per cent of the production of rare-earth-containing permanent magnets.' The other options are distractors; 70% is China's share in refining strategic minerals, not magnet production.

Explanation

The article states: 'Pax Silica's aim, therefore, is to reduce the vulnerabilities of its member states.' It focuses on supply chain security for critical minerals, not trade agreements, AI regulation, or direct military countering.

Explanation

Article 3 of the Indian Constitution empowers Parliament to make laws to alter the name of any state. The process involves the President referring a bill to the state legislature for its views, but the final legislative power rests with Parliament.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect because the proposal originated from a resolution passed by the Kerala Legislative Assembly in June 2024, not the Union Cabinet. Statement 3 is incorrect as the campaign will use a single-dose regimen of Gardasil vaccine, not a two-dose regimen of Cervavac.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that every year, 1.15 crore girls who turn 14 years of age will be eligible for the HPV vaccine. The figure 2.6 crore refers to the total number of doses to be provided by the GAVI alliance.

Explanation

The article highlights Israel as a key defence partner (evident from Kargil War support) and an important economic partner in the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), which are central to the strategic dimension of the relationship. While India supports Palestinian statehood, direct mediation is not stated as the primary reason.

Explanation

The CBFC is a statutory body constituted under the Cinematograph Act, 1952, and operates under the administrative control of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect as the judgment clearly states vilification by non-state actors is constitutionally impermissible. Statement 2 is correct as per Justice Bhuyan's observation that fraternity transcends societal disparities. Statement 3 is incorrect as the Court held that screening cannot be prohibited merely on law and order grounds; it is the state's duty to maintain order.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that on February 19, 2026, the bench disposed of the petition after accepting an undertaking to change the film's title.

Explanation

Justice Bhuyan's order directly links the prohibition of vilification to the constitutional objective of promoting fraternity and assuring individual dignity, which is a solemn objective mentioned in the Preamble. While Fundamental Duties support this, the primary rationale provided is the Preamble's fraternity.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions a 'US commerce official' and the 'commerce department' in the context of export enforcement regarding the Nvidia H200 chip. The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) under the Department of Commerce administers US export control regulations.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect. The article states that while a deal exists giving the US a 25% revenue share, 'none have been sold' and conditions have made shipments difficult to approve; approval is not guaranteed. Statement 2 is incorrect as the article clearly states the Blackwell and Rubin series 'remain banned... and were not included in the H200 agreement.' Statement 3 is correct, as mentioned in the article: 'Beijing is ramping up domestic chip development...'

Explanation

The article explicitly states: 'The H200 deal, under which the US government gets a 25 percent cut of sales, was confirmed by the commerce department in January.' The other options are close distractors.

Explanation

The article directly links the restrictions to 'national security concerns' and notes that 'some lawmakers have warned [easing restrictions] could help the Chinese military.' While other options may be secondary effects, the core stated reason in the text is national security.

Explanation

Ayushman Arogya Mandirs are the transformed and upgraded Health and Wellness Centres (HWCs), which form the primary healthcare pillar of the Ayushman Bharat scheme. The article mentions the screening drive was conducted through Ayushman Arogya Mandirs.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article states 'nearly one in three adults affected'. Statement 2 is incorrect; the article says 62,693 required treatment for hypertension, while 36,327 were under treatment for diabetes (hypertension cases were higher). Statement 3 is correct; the survey found 39.8% hypertensive in rural areas vs. 38.6% in urban areas.

Explanation

The article explicitly states 'a statewide screening campaign between January 1 and February 18 screened 9.41 lakh citizens above 30 years of age'. The figure 8.50 lakh refers to the total diabetes cases detected, not the number screened.

Explanation

The article states 'the therapy centre will focus on resistant hypertension, cases where blood pressure remains uncontrolled despite multiple medicines'. This is its primary purpose. While it may contribute to data, its main function is specialized treatment for a specific subset of patients.

Explanation

As per the article, the University Grants Commission (UGC) releases notifications identifying fake universities. It is the statutory body established under the UGC Act, 1956, for coordination and maintenance of standards in higher education.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect. The article states that physical enforcement and closure is a state-level law-and-order issue; the UGC can only identify and notify. Statement 2 is correct as the VBSA Bill 2026 proposes replacing the old ₹1,000 fine. Statement 3 is correct as Delhi leads with 12 fake universities (38% of the total).

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the UGC's February 2026 notification identifies 32 fake universities. This marks a 60% increase from 20 in 2023. The other options are distractors: 20 was the 2023 count, 24 was within the range until 2023, and 38 is not mentioned.

Explanation

The article identifies the core problem as a 'regulatory vacuum'. The UGC Act, 1956, allows the UGC to identify fake universities but does not grant it executive authority to close them. Criminal prosecution and physical closure depend on state-level police and education departments, leading to enforcement gaps.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions that data on India's share of Israel's arms exports comes from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI). SIPRI is a well-known source for global arms trade data.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per SIPRI data mentioned in the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; while India has maintained a trade surplus since 2014-15, the article does not state this was the case since 1992, and trade figures show volatility. Statement 3 is correct as PM Modi's 2017 visit was the first by an Indian PM.

Explanation

The article clearly states that bilateral trade 'peaked at over $10.7 billion in 2022-23'. The other options represent trade values from other years mentioned in the article.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions 'migration and mobility' as another key dimension, detailing the presence of around 32,000 Indian workers and 900 students in Israel. The other options are not mentioned in the provided content.

Explanation

The judgment repeatedly refers to the 'Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC)' as the expert body whose certification, once given, should not be overridden by threats of violence. The CBFC is the statutory body for film certification in India.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect. The judgment explicitly said using threats to stop a certified film would lead to 'anarchy' and is not permissible; the state must handle law and order. Statement 2 is correct as it lists the grounds from Article 19(2). Statement 3 is correct as the judge wrote that constitutional courts must zealously protect Article 19(1)(a) rights.

Explanation

The article states that Justice Bhuyan's opinion is part of a 'judicial order of February 19' pronounced by a Bench. February 25 is the date the opinion was published, not the order date.

Explanation

The judgment directly quotes that 'those who disagree have a simple expedient; of not watching a film...'. This reinforces the principle that tolerance and choice, not suppression, are the correct responses in a democracy, protecting the creator's freedom under Article 19(1)(a).

Explanation

The One Stop Centre (OSC) scheme is a centrally sponsored scheme implemented by the Ministry of Women and Child Development (WCD) under the Nirbhaya Fund framework. It aims to provide integrated support services to women affected by violence.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; the WCSW is headed by an officer of Inspector General of Police (IGP) rank, not DGP. Statement 3 is incorrect; the convictions are 497, which is less than 500. Hence, only statement 1 is correct.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that 164 Shakti teams have been deployed across hotspots. Option D (26) is a distractor, representing the number of One-Stop Centres, not Shakti teams.

Explanation

As defined in the article, Operation TRACE (Track, Reconnect, Assist, Counsel and Empower) aims to streamline the procedural aspects of handling missing persons cases through dedicated teams at district and state levels. The other options, while potentially beneficial, are not the core objective mentioned for this specific operation.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the International Energy Agency (IEA) is a 'Paris-based agency'. This is a key static fact about the institution's location.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article: 'The Strait of Hormuz handles approximately one-fifth of global liquid petroleum consumption...'. Statement 2 is correct as the article notes Colombia became a full member after joining OECD, indicating this prerequisite. Statement 3 is incorrect because the article states India became an associate member in 2017, not 2020.

Explanation

The article provides the specific data point: 'over 40% of crude oil imported by India transits the Strait of Hormuz.' The other options are plausible but incorrect distractors.

Explanation

The article's analysis frames the core strategic implication for India as the diplomatic challenge of safeguarding its energy security and national interests while navigating relations with both the US and Iran, a point highlighted in the 'Points to Ponder' section.

Explanation

The news article specifically mentions Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan making the proposal for DBT for fertiliser subsidy. As the minister heading the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, this ministry would be responsible for implementing agricultural subsidy reforms.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article states ₹1.70 lakh crore allocation for fertiliser subsidy in FY 2026-27. Statement 2 is incorrect because the article mentions urea subsidy is ₹1.16 lakh crore and nutrient-based subsidy is ₹54,000 crore (not the other way around). Statement 3 is correct as the article states India's total fertiliser consumption stood at 329 lakh tonnes in 2024-25.

Explanation

The article specifically states that '8.50 crore farmers' IDs have been generated' according to Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan. These IDs contain land ownership details and can be used for DBT to farmers' bank accounts.

Explanation

The article clearly states the Minister's concern that 'urea meant for farmers... ends up elsewhere—in industries and other places' and that DBT would ensure subsidies reach farmers directly. While other options might be secondary effects, the primary objective stated is to address diversion and ensure proper delivery to farmers.

Explanation

The Knesset is the unicameral parliament of Israel. Prime Minister Modi's address to it marked the first time an Indian Prime Minister did so, as mentioned in the article. The Majlis is Iran's parliament, the Bundestag is Germany's, and the National Assembly is a common name for legislatures in many countries.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article clearly states Modi backed the UNSC-endorsed Gaza peace initiative. Statement 2 is correct as he linked the October 7 attack with the 26/11 Mumbai attacks. Statement 3 is incorrect because Modi was the first Indian Prime Minister to address the Knesset, not the second.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions that Prime Minister Modi delivered a '31-minute speech' which was punctuated by applause and standing ovation. This is a specific factual detail from the news report.

Explanation

In his speech, Modi stated, 'The Gaza peace initiative that was endorsed by the UN Security Council offers a pathway. India has expressed its firm support for the initiative.' This clearly identifies the UNSC-backed initiative as the supported pathway, as opposed to unilateral action or other proposed methods.

Explanation

The term 'Fraternity' is explicitly mentioned in the Preamble to the Indian Constitution, which seeks to promote fraternity assuring the dignity of the individual and the unity and integrity of the nation. It is a guiding philosophy, not a legally enforceable right or duty.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect. The judgment explicitly states the prohibition applies to "whosoever he or she may be," including non-state actors. Statement 2 is correct as the article mentions Shreya Singhal v. Union of India was referenced. Statement 3 is correct as Justice Bhuyan's opinion termed fraternity a 'constitutional dharma'.

Explanation

The article clearly states the bench comprised Justice BV Nagarathna and Justice Ujjal Bhuyan. This is a direct factual recall from the news content, testing attention to key institutional details.

Explanation

The judgment extensively elaborates on 'Fraternity' from the Preamble as a solemn objective and a 'constitutional dharma'. It uses this principle to establish a boundary for free speech, stating that speech which vilifies a community based on identity violates the Constitution's fraternal goal. The other options, while important, are not the central limiting value highlighted in this specific ruling.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the visit unfolds as India assumes the BRICS chairship and plans to hold the 18th BRICS summit. G20 was hosted earlier, and UNSC/SCO are not mentioned.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article states India is Israel's first market for defence exports, accounting for 34% of total sales (2020-2024). Statement 2 is correct as it mentions defence ties worth $2.9 billion over the last decade. Statement 3 is incorrect because Modi's first visit was in July 2017; the 2026 visit is the second official visit.

Explanation

The article specifically mentions that India cannot afford regional fragmentation given the welfare of its 9 million-strong diaspora in the region. The other options are plausible but incorrect distractors.

Explanation

The article emphasizes that defence ties remain the backbone of the relationship, with Israel being a key supplier of advanced military technology like drones and air defence systems, crucial for India's security doctrine. While energy and diplomacy are concerns, the core driver highlighted is defence technology.

Explanation

The Finance Commission is a constitutional body established under Article 280 of the Indian Constitution. Its primary function is to recommend the distribution of financial resources between the Union and the States.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article where Rangarajan states the rise in cesses/surcharges 'is not in the spirit of the Constitution'. Statement 2 is incorrect; he criticized the dropping of grants as a 'short cut', not praised it. Statement 3 is correct as he said such grants 'have a place in federal structure'.

Explanation

The article's title and content explicitly mention that the critique is directed at the report of the 16th Finance Commission. The 15th FC was the previous commission, and the 17th FC is yet to be constituted.

Explanation

The core concern, as implied by Rangarajan's statement and rooted in Article 270, is that cesses and surcharges are retained entirely by the Central Government and not shared with states. This reduces the size of the divisible pool, thereby diminishing the financial resources available for devolution to states.

Explanation

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) is the nodal ministry in India responsible for foreign policy and international negotiations, analogous to Iran's Foreign Ministry mentioned in the article.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article's opening. Statement 2 is incorrect; the article states the upcoming talks are the 'third round', not the fifth. Statement 3 is verbatim from the article. Hence, both 1 and 3 are correct.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that Israel's attack 'triggered a 12-day war.' The other options are close distractors.

Explanation

The Foreign Minister's statement quotes the goal as 'an unprecedented agreement that addresses mutual concerns and achieves mutual interests.' The other options contradict the article's emphasis on diplomacy and denial of weapon ambitions.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) made these recommendations on spectrum auction modalities. TRAI is the statutory regulator for the telecom sector, while DoT is the implementing ministry.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect. TRAI said the upper 6 GHz band should NOT be auctioned now and the issue should be re-examined after WRC-27. Statement 2 is correct as per the article. Statement 3 is incorrect; TRAI proposed halving the net worth to ₹50 crore, not increasing it.

Explanation

The article states: "as per industry calculations, if all the spectrum on offer across bands (excluding 600 MHz) is sold, the radiowaves could fetch nearly ₹81,000 crore at the reserve price." The other figures are plausible but incorrect distractors.

Explanation

The scheme allows successful bidders to offset up to 10% of their spectrum auction costs by deploying new 4G/5G base stations in government-identified 'coverage holes' or 'dead zones' within one year. Its direct objective is to bridge the digital divide, not primarily to boost revenue or reduce prices.

Explanation

The article states that MASHAV is Israel's Agency for International Development Cooperation under Israel's Ministry of Foreign Affairs. It signed agreements with Haryana and Rajasthan on water management.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per SIPRI data cited in the article. Statement 2 is incorrect because the article explicitly states the Barak-8 system was 'co-developed by India and Israel'. Statement 3 is correct as mentioned in the article.

Explanation

The article clearly states: 'India is Israel’s second-largest trading partner in Asia, with bilateral trade reaching $3.75 billion in FY2024-2025.' The other figures are plausible distractors but not mentioned.

Explanation

The article explains that with the Suez Canal route vulnerable to disruptions, 'IMEC could provide an alternative, secure corridor to Europe.' It is a trade and connectivity project, not a military alliance or an exclusive agricultural route.

Explanation

Article 243K deals with the State Election Commission for Panchayats, and Article 243ZA deals with it for Municipalities. Article 324 establishes the Election Commission of India, making it a common distractor.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; the declaration talks about synergising and working together, not ECI taking direct control, which would violate the constitutional autonomy of SECs. Statement 3 is correct as explicitly mentioned.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: "The ECI held the conference of SECs after a gap of 27 years." The other options are close distractors.

Explanation

The declaration's core, as quoted, is that "ECI and SECs will work together to synergise the laws relating to the elections..." Options A and B suggest structural merger or constitutional change, which is not stated. Option D is not mentioned at all.

Explanation

The article states the Union Health Ministry is launching the programme. The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare is responsible for public health initiatives, including vaccination drives.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect because TRAI proposed a 35% cap, not 25%. Statement 3 is incorrect as the process is under Article 3, not Article 4.

Explanation

The article states that if all spectrum on offer (excluding 600 MHz) is sold, it could fetch nearly ₹81,000 crore at the reserve price. The other options are close distractors.

Explanation

The article explicitly states TRAI proposed the cap 'to safeguard competition in the telecom sector'. While revenue and 5G are related outcomes, the stated primary objective is competition.

Explanation

The Election Commission of India, the constitutional body responsible for conducting elections mentioned in the article, is established under Article 324 of the Indian Constitution. This is a fundamental static GK fact for Polity.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the SIR is indeed an ECI process for electoral roll revision. Statement 2 is incorrect; deletions were higher in Tamil Nadu (11.5%) and Gujarat (13.4%) than in Bihar (~6%). Statement 3 is correct as mentioned in the article regarding the situation in West Bengal.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the net number of voters removed in Gujarat was 13.4%. The other figures correspond to Tamil Nadu (11.5%), Chhattisgarh (11.8%), and Bihar (6%).

Explanation

The article criticizes the SIR process for shifting the burden of proof onto voters instead of adopting a more robust household-by-household count conducted by the authorities. This is highlighted as a structural defect disadvantaging migrants and others.

Explanation

The article clearly states that the guidelines were issued by the Supreme Court of India in a 2018 judgment. The Supreme Court, under Article 142, has the power to pass any decree or order necessary for doing complete justice.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article's description of the 2018 judgment. Statement 2 is incorrect; the 2026 observation was a retreat, not an affirmation, and the Court did not initiate contempt proceedings. Statement 3 is correct as the CJI in 2026 called the guidelines 'unmanageable' and favored a case-by-case approach.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions that the guidelines were issued in a 2018 judgment by a bench headed by then Chief Justice of India, Dipak Mishra. This is a key factual date for Prelims.

Explanation

The article states that the CJI favored an approach of taking up each crime on its merits and that affected individuals should seek legal recourse. This indicates a withdrawal from the Court's earlier role as a watchdog, placing the onus on victims to file individual cases.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the WTO dispute settlement body announced the setting up of the panel. The WTO is the primary global body for resolving trade disputes between its member nations.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect: the trade deficit widened to $99.2 billion, it did not narrow. Statement 3 is incorrect: the first step is consultations, not panel establishment, as mentioned in the article ('Seeking consultation is the first step...').

Explanation

The article states: 'The imports, however, rose by 11.52% in 2024-25 to $113.45 billion against $101.73 billion in 2023-24.' $101.73bn is the previous year's import, $14.25bn is India's export to China, and $16.66bn is India's export to China in the previous year.

Explanation

The article mentions China alleged that PLI schemes 'violate global trade rules by discriminating against Chinese goods and exporters.' The core of the dispute is the alleged non-compliance of India's subsidies with WTO norms, not cooperation, compensation, or renegotiation of a separate agreement.

Explanation

The article states that the Union Cabinet approved the National Critical Mineral Mission and mentions the Ministry of Mines in the context of auctioning critical mineral blocks. Mining and mineral development fall under the purview of the Ministry of Mines.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect as the article explicitly mentions the MoU is reported to be non-binding. Statement 2 is correct as the MoU was signed during President Lula's state visit on February 21, 2026. Statement 3 is correct as the article states the agreement will increase India's bargaining power by providing an alternative sourcing option.

Explanation

The article clearly states that the National Critical Mineral Mission is meant to run from 2024-25 to 2030-31. This is a specific data point useful for Prelims.

Explanation

The article explains that having Brazil as a potential source prevents other suppliers from imposing exorbitant terms, as India can now credibly walk away. This enhances India's bargaining power in the global market for critical minerals.

Explanation

The Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006, commonly known as the Forest Rights Act (FRA), is administered by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs. This ministry is the nodal agency for policy, planning, and coordination of programs for the development of Scheduled Tribes.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect. The protest was organised by the All India Kisan Sabha (AIKS) and Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU), and included a diverse group like farmers, government school employees, and construction labourers, not solely tribal groups. Statement 2 is correct as per the article's list of demands. Statement 3 is correct as the article mentions the protestors raised concerns about the Nashik-Pune high-speed railway and potable water supply.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: "The protestors intend to walk almost 150 kilometres to reach the Ahilyanagar Collectorate." The other options are plausible distractors but not mentioned in the provided content.

Explanation

The article quotes protest leader Ajit Navale stating they were forced to call for a fresh agitation because the government had given them a word that their demands would be fulfilled after the previous protest was called off, but no developments had taken place since then, for almost three years. This highlights the issue of unfulfilled government promises.

Explanation

The Ministry of Tribal Affairs is the nodal ministry at the central level for the overall policy, planning, and coordination of programmes for the development of Scheduled Tribes, including Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs).

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; the GSDP for 2026-27 is ₹7,09,553 crore, while ₹6,31,920 crore was the previous year's figure. Statement 3 is incorrect; the Rani Durgavati Scheme provides ₹1.50 lakh when girls attain 18 years, not 21.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the Matnar and Deurgaon barrages on the Indravati River are estimated to cost ₹2,024 crore. This initiative is expected to provide irrigation to an additional 32,000 hectares in the Bastar region.

Explanation

The article explains that the education cities aim to provide an integrated system from primary to higher secondary, with hostels for remote students and IT/skill development programs. This is intended to open job avenues and accelerate economic activity, directly addressing the socio-economic roots of instability in the region.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that GAVI (the Vaccine Alliance) will provide India with 2.6 crore doses for the initial phase of the HPV vaccination drive. WHO sets guidelines but is not the procurement agency in this context.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article mentions a single-dose campaign for 14-year-old girls. Statement 2 is incorrect; the campaign will initially use Gardasil and switch to Cervavac later after approvals. Statement 3 is correct as the article states the U-Win platform will be used for booking slots.

Explanation

The article states, 'An estimated 1.15 crore girls turn 14 every year in India.' The figure 2.6 crore is the number of vaccine doses supplied by GAVI, not the annual eligible cohort.

Explanation

The article explains that 'HPV immunisation in the teenage years — when girls are going through puberty but are not sexually active — results in better and longer immunity.' This is the primary public health rationale for the chosen age group.

Explanation

The Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT) is established under Article 323-A of the Constitution, which empowers Parliament to provide for the adjudication of disputes relating to recruitment and conditions of service of persons appointed to public services.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect as the leave was granted for Class 10 CBSE exams, not Class 12. Statement 2 is correct as the CAT explicitly linked CCL to DPSPs for child welfare. Statement 3 is incorrect as the tribunal rejected the employer's argument, calling it 'wholly untenable'.

Explanation

The CAT granted CCL from February 6 to May 20, 2026, which is approximately 104 days. The employer had granted only 18 days (Feb 16 to Mar 7). The article mentions a 'prolonged period of 6 months' was requested but denied, making option D a close distractor.

Explanation

The core ruling is that CCL under Rule 43-C is a welfare-oriented statutory provision for the child's rights (education, sickness) as envisioned in Directive Principles of State Policy. It cannot be reduced to a discretionary privilege or denied solely due to administrative convenience or manpower shortage.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions the emerging cooperation between India and France on AI governance as seen in the AI Summit, viewing it as a counterbalance to US-China dominance.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: Bias occurs via 'proxy' indicators like postcode. Statement 2 is correct as per the article's description of feedback loops. Statement 3 is incorrect; the article states India's framework remains largely silent on automated decision-making, and the EU's protection is limited.

Explanation

The article specifically states these systems determine 'who receives welfare benefits' and 'how much health insurance premium is charged'. The other domains are not mentioned in the provided text.

Explanation

The article explains that the European law's 'right against decisions based solely on automated processing' evaporates when a human is nominally 'in the loop', allowing minimal human involvement to legitimize automated outcomes.

Explanation

The Department of Commerce under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry is the nodal agency for formulating India's foreign trade policy and negotiating bilateral and multilateral trade and investment agreements, including BITs and FTAs.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect because the partnership is based on multiple factors including shared history, security concerns, and complementary economies, not solely on security. Statement 2 is correct as per the article. Statement 3 is incorrect; the complementarity is the reverse: Israel is the innovation hub, while India provides scale and a large, fast-growing economy.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that deeper cooperation, including the BIT and FTA talks, was achieved thanks to 'nine ministerial visits in both directions' over a short period.

Explanation

The article states that the partnership aims to take the countries 'where we want to be: Building joint resilience to withstand the challenges and elevating competitiveness by merging our efforts in developing cutting-edge technologies.' While defense is a component, the primary objective articulated is broader resilience and tech-driven competitiveness.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the Swadesh Darshan Scheme was launched by the Ministry of Tourism. This ministry oversees the development of theme-based tourist circuits in India.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article which states the Buddhist Circuit is India's first trans-national tourist circuit. Statement 2 is correct as the article mentions projects under the Swadesh Darshan Scheme are 100% centrally funded. Statement 3 is incorrect; the Budget 2026 proposal is for six states (Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Assam, Manipur, Mizoram, Tripura), not all seven sister states.

Explanation

The article clearly states that 15 themes have been identified under the Swadesh Darshan Scheme for developing theme-based circuits. These include Buddhist, Coastal, Desert, Eco, Heritage, Himalayan, Krishna, North-East, Ramayana, Rural, Spiritual, Sufi, Tirthankar, Tribal, and Wildlife Circuits.

Explanation

As stated in the article's relevance section, the aim is 'to project India as the birthplace of Buddhism' and increase tourism's contribution to the economy. This is the core strategic objective, while revenue generation and decentralization are secondary effects.

Explanation

The article mentions the Union Health Ministry clarifying the status of Nipah cases. Disease surveillance, outbreak control, and public health response are under the mandate of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; Nipah virus has a single-stranded negative-sense RNA genome, not DNA. Statement 3 is correct as Pteropus medius is identified as the reservoir in the context of Indian outbreaks.

Explanation

The article states that variations in mutational frequency in RNA viruses range widely, but most occur near the median of 10⁻³ substitutions per site per year. This is significantly higher than the rate for DNA viruses (10⁻⁸).

Explanation

The article explicitly identifies consumption of fresh date palm sap, frequently contaminated by bat saliva, urine, or feces, as a major risk factor for Nipah virus transmission in Bangladesh outbreaks. While deforestation is a broader driver, the specific, direct pathway mentioned is sap consumption.

Explanation

As per the article, the DGCA is under the Ministry of Civil Aviation's (MoCA) administrative control. This structure is cited as a reason for potential government interference, unlike independent global aviation regulators.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the DGCA's review identified these as primary factors. Statement 2 is incorrect; the article states DGCA recruits technical posts primarily through UPSC, which is a long-drawn process. Statement 3 is correct as mentioned in the Parliamentary Committee's report.

Explanation

The article states that roughly half (about 50%) of the total sanctioned staff strength of 1,630 for the DGCA was empty as per data presented in Parliament. This highlights the severe understaffing issue.

Explanation

Experts in the article point out that a regulator stretched for resources (due to understaffing) would naturally focus its limited oversight on larger scheduled airline operations, causing safety lapses in the smaller NSOP segment to slip through the cracks.