26 February 2026, Questions & Answers

Explanation

The Sabarimala case centers on the conflict between Article 25 (freedom of conscience and free profession, practice, and propagation of religion) and Article 26 (freedom to manage religious affairs of a religious denomination). The article explicitly discusses balancing these two provisions.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article's description of the 'essential religious practice' test. Statement 2 is correct; Justice Malhotra's dissent held the practice as essential. Statement 3 is incorrect; the 'anti-exclusion test' allows intervention when exclusion impairs dignity or access to basic goods, it does not prevent all intervention.

Explanation

The article states the original ruling was delivered through a 4:1 majority. CJI Dipak Misra (with Justice Khanwilkar), Justice Nariman, and Justice Chandrachud formed the majority. Justice Indu Malhotra gave a dissenting opinion.

Explanation

The article explains that the 'anti-exclusion test' accepts religious autonomy as a starting point but intervenes when the exercise of that liberty leads to systematic exclusion of individuals from places or benefits integral to a life of dignity. This is its core objective, distinguishing it from other approaches.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the vaccination will be conducted 'exclusively at designated government health facilities.' This ensures trained medical oversight and structured AEFI management, a key learning from past incidents.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect because the article states cervical cancer is the 'second most common cancer' in women in India, not the most common. Statement 3 is incorrect as the article clearly states these two types 'together account for more than 80% of cervical cancer cases in India.'

Explanation

The article specifically mentions that 'National screening coverage remains alarmingly low, with only 1.9% of women aged 30-49 being tested.' This highlights a critical gap in the secondary prevention of cervical cancer.

Explanation

The article references the 2009-10 trial deaths and the subsequent ICMR investigation which flagged the need to identify and investigate all AEFI. It concludes that the new programme must ensure 'complete transparency, and meticulous reporting of AEFI across the country.'

Explanation

The Supreme Court issued notice to the Centre and the Election Commission of India (ECI). The ECI is the constitutional body established under Article 324 responsible for administering elections in India, making it a key respondent in matters concerning election expenditure.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article states the plea was filed by NGO Centre for Public Interest Litigation. Statement 2 is incorrect; the article clearly mentions there is a limit on individual candidate expenditure but no limit on spending by parties. Statement 3 is correct as the bench is led by CJI Surya Kant along with Justices Joymalya Bagchi and Vipul M. Pancholi.

Explanation

The article explicitly quotes the counsel stating that in the electoral bonds case, the Supreme Court said, "This is a scourge, a huge problem. This is skewing our electoral democracy because there is unbridled use of money power by political parties in elections." The other options are contrary to the Court's critical stance.

Explanation

Justice Bagchi directly raised the concern that imposing an embargo on funding could be challenged as affecting freedom of expression under Article 19(1)(a), which includes expression through material support. This constitutional tension between regulating money power and protecting free speech is the core legal dilemma highlighted in the proceedings.

Explanation

The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) is the nodal agency responsible for macroeconomic data, including the National Accounts Statistics which contain GDP and GVA estimates. This is a core static GK fact.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article which states the base year is updated from 2011-12 to 2022-23. Statement 2 is incorrect because the article mentions GST data was already being used in quarterly accounts and for some sectors in annual data; the new series expands its use. Statement 3 is correct as the article explicitly states ASUSE data will be used on an annual basis for direct estimation.

Explanation

The article clearly states that the base year is being updated from 2011-12 to 2022-23. This is a direct factual recall question suitable for Prelims. The other options are plausible distractors representing recent years.

Explanation

The article states that GST data will be used 'to better estimate the regional output of private corporations, and will also be used to more accurately determine the contribution of the value added by private companies to the GDP'. This is its primary statistical objective. The other options, like increasing revenue or simplifying filing, are not mentioned as goals of this data integration exercise.

Explanation

The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) is the nodal agency for the release of official statistics including GDP, national income accounts, and related economic data in India.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; the revision reduces reliance on apportionment by using more direct state-specific data. Statement 3 is correct as FRBM fiscal deficit and debt limits are expressed as ratios to GSDP.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the Finance Commission distributes central tax revenues using formula-based criteria that now assign a 10 per cent weight to GSDP.

Explanation

Under FRBM, fiscal deficit and debt limits are expressed as ratios to GSDP. An upward revision in GSDP improves these ratios mechanically, thereby expanding the state's permissible borrowing limits without any change in its actual fiscal behavior.

Explanation

The article's byline explicitly states the writer is 'chairman, Parliamentary Standing Committee on External Affairs.' This is a direct fact from the source material.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: The article states a '15.19 per cent increase.' Statement 2 is incorrect: The capital outlay saw a '21.8 per cent surge,' indicating an increase, not a decrease. Statement 3 is incorrect: The article states 'nearly 75 per cent... for domestic procurement,' not foreign vendors.

Explanation

The article clearly states 'a record allocation of Rs 7.85 lakh crore.' ₹6.81 lakh crore is the previous year's estimate, ₹2.19 lakh crore is the capital outlay, and ₹3.65 lakh crore is the revenue budget.

Explanation

The article's core argument is that the spending is 'deterrence consolidation' and a 'course correction' to close 'glaring gaps' and 'structural weaknesses,' not an arms race. It explicitly rejects the 'arms race' charge and frames it as a necessary response to security realities.

Explanation

The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) is an autonomous organization that works under the Union Ministry of Education. It is responsible for designing the National Curriculum Framework and publishing model textbooks for school education.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article which mentions a 'complete blanket ban' on publication and digital dissemination. Statement 2 is incorrect because the article clearly states the Court took up a 'suo motu case', meaning it initiated proceedings on its own, not based on a PIL. Statement 3 is incorrect as the show-cause notices were issued under the Contempt of Courts Act, not the Official Secrets Act.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: 'The bench asked principal secretaries of all states to file a compliance report in 2 weeks.' This is a factual data point directly from the source.

Explanation

The article states the bench issued notices 'asking them to show cause why action under the Contempt of Courts Act... should not be initiated'. The Court's reasoning, as quoted, was that the textbook chapter was a 'calculated move to undermine and demean dignity of judiciary', which falls under the purview of scandalizing the court, a form of criminal contempt.

Explanation

Article I, Section 8 of the US Constitution explicitly states: 'The Congress shall have Power to lay and collect Taxes, Duties, Imposts and Excises...'. This was the core constitutional provision cited by the US Supreme Court majority to strike down the presidential tariffs.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; the Court ruled that IEEPA does NOT grant the President power to impose tariffs. Statement 3 is correct as the verdict was by a 6:3 majority. Hence, option C is correct.

Explanation

The article states: 'On Chinese goods, for example, the tariffs were increased to 20 per cent and then to 34, 84 and finally to 125 per cent.' Therefore, the final rate was 125%.

Explanation

The majority opinion held that the Constitution did not grant any taxing power to the executive branch (President); this power vested solely with Congress under Article I, Section 8. This is a classic application of the separation of powers doctrine.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the US Department of Commerce imposed the 126% tariff and conducted the anti-subsidy investigation. The Department of Commerce is the primary federal agency responsible for promoting economic growth and enforcing trade laws.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect. The duty was imposed because the two Adani Group companies 'withdrew' and were 'non-responsive', not because they cooperated. Statement 2 is correct as per the article. Statement 3 is incorrect; the campaign will use the Gardasil vaccine by MSD, as Cervavac is yet to receive WHO approval and its single-dose effectiveness is under study.

Explanation

The article clearly states: "the Union Budget 2026-27 has significantly bolstered its national security framework with a record allocation of Rs 7.85 lakh crore." ₹6.81 lakh crore was the previous year's estimate, ₹2.19 lakh crore is the capital outlay, and ₹3.65 lakh crore is the revenue budget.

Explanation

The article argues that the defence surge is "a sign of maturity" and that "strategic autonomy, if it means anything, requires credible national capability." It states the purpose is to build credible deterrence in a complex security environment, not to fuel an arms race. The other options are either incorrect or represent narrower, specific aspects of the budget.

Explanation

The 'Model Employer' doctrine is a principle in service jurisprudence where the State (Central and State Governments) is expected to set exemplary standards of fairness, non-arbitrariness, and welfare for its employees, as highlighted in the article. This concept is central to governance and administrative law.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect. The court specifically stated that the legislative intent behind disqualification is 'redistributive' (to shift financial responsibility), not 'punitive'. Statement 2 is correct as per the article, which mentions 'karewa' is recognized under Section 7 of the Hindu Marriage Act. Statement 3 is correct as the judgment invoked Article 21's right to life with dignity, describing pension as a social security measure vital for dignified survival.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: 'In a judgment delivered on January 29, Justice Harpreet Singh Brar held...' February 26, 2026, is the article's publication date. July 16, 1988, is the date of the first husband's death, and November 6, 1990, is the date of the 'karewa' remarriage.

Explanation

The judgment heavily relied on Article 21, interpreting the 'right to life' to include the right to live with dignity. The court stated that a family pension is a social security measure vital for dignified survival, especially after the loss of the primary breadwinner. This expansive interpretation of Article 21 forms the core constitutional reasoning of the judgment.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the shift to anchoring fiscal policy in public debt follows the recommendation of the Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management Review Committee.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect because the target is 50% (+/- 1%), not 40%. Statement 3 is correct as the article mentions overall sovereign debt is about 83% of GDP.

Explanation

The article provides the specific data point: "states’ debt is about 28% of GDP."

Explanation

The article emphasizes that "debt does matter" and higher debt leads to higher servicing costs and opportunity costs. The shift recognizes debt as the stock that results from annual deficit flows, making it a more holistic anchor for long-term sustainability.

Explanation

The article states Micron Technology is an 'American semiconductor company based in Boise, Idaho.' This static GK fact is crucial as global semiconductor manufacturing is dominated by companies from specific countries like the USA (Intel, Micron), Taiwan (TSMC), and South Korea (Samsung).

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article headline and content. Statement 2 is correct as the article mentions the plant will enable assembly and test for DRAM and NAND products, linking them to AI. Statement 3 is incorrect because the precise investment is ₹22,516 crore (not just 'over ₹20,000 crore') and it will create 5,000 direct jobs (not 10,000).

Explanation

The article provides the precise figure: 'The semiconductor company has invested Rs 22,516 crore in Sanand.' Examiners often test the exact number against rounded figures mentioned in headlines ('over Rs. 20,000 crore').

Explanation

The article explicitly states the plant aims 'to address demand from domestic and international markets' and later explains that the products 'will support the rising demand for memory and storage solutions in the AI sector.' The other options are either too narrow ('solely serve domestic market'), exaggerated ('replace all imports'), or incorrect ('focus exclusively on R&D'), as the plant is for manufacturing.

Explanation

The article clearly states that Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, who holds the portfolio of Information & Broadcasting (I&B), made the statements at the Digital News Publishers Association (DNPA) Conclave.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the Minister identified deepfakes as a major threat. Statement 2 is correct as he said platforms 'must take the responsibility for the hosted harmful content' due to virality. Statement 3 is correct as the article mentions a parliamentary committee gave a report after consultation with stakeholders.

Explanation

The Minister explicitly mentioned, 'we passed a law by which crores of families are saved from becoming absolutely bankrupt by losing out their money to the online money games.' The other options, while plausible, are not mentioned in the article.

Explanation

The Minister linked fair revenue sharing to respect for intellectual property, stating that without it, 'the growth of science, technology, arts and literature, and that of society as a whole, would get stunted.' The other options are not supported by the article's content.

Explanation

The article discusses controversies around NCERT textbooks. NCERT is the apex resource organization for school education in India, tasked with advising governments and developing curriculum frameworks and model textbooks.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article mentions the Class 8 textbook and specific pending case data from March 2025. Statement 2 is correct as it details the CJI's suo motu action and his quoted description. Statement 3 is correct as the article states NCERT withdrew the book and issued an apology with those exact words.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the textbook cited data showing pending cases in the Supreme Court as 81,000 as of March 2025. The other options are common distractors based on misplacing decimal points or adding extra zeros.

Explanation

The article's core criticism, as highlighted in the text, is that the textbook content presented 'opinions and unverified assertions as facts', raising pedagogical and ethical concerns about influencing young minds without proper evidence. This is the central argument against its appropriateness.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the Kerala Migration Survey 2023 was conducted by the Gulati Institute of Finance and Taxation (GIFT), an autonomous institute under the State Finance Department, with technical support from IIMAD. CDS is the institution established by K.N. Raj, and the Planning Board publishes the Economic Review.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: The article states Kerala's per capita GSDP was ₹1,76,072 against the national average of ₹1,24,600. Statement 2 is incorrect: It says rice productivity in Kerala (2,790 kg/hectare) is higher than the national average (2,424 kg/hectare). Statement 3 is incorrect: Kerala is the third-largest seafood exporter by volume and the second-largest by value.

Explanation

The article directly quotes the Periodic Labour Force Survey, stating Kerala's unemployment rate was 7.2%, which is more than double the all-India level of 3.2%. The 9.04% figure refers to the retail inflation rate in August 2025.

Explanation

The article quotes the State Planning Board's working-group paper, which identified high rates of unemployment, and unemployment among the educated, as the visible face of the mismatch between Kerala's economic growth and its impressive human development achievements.

Explanation

The article states that Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan launched Bharat-VISTAAR. Therefore, the nodal ministry is the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: The article mentions the summit was the first held in the Global South. Statement 2 is incorrect: The declaration was signed by 88 countries and organizations, not over 100. Statement 3 is correct: The article lists the seven 'chakras', including 'Safe & Trusted AI' and 'AI for Social Good & Economic Development'.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: "In the Union Budget 2026–27, ₹1,000 crore was allocated to the IndiaAI Mission (FY26–27) to continue support for domestic AI R&D and compute infrastructure."

Explanation

The 'MANAV' vision, as explained, stands for Moral and ethical systems, Accountable governance, National sovereignty, Accessible and inclusive, and Valid and legitimate AI. It outlines a nuanced, human-centric approach to AI governance, focusing on ethics and accountability rather than supremacy, exclusive AGI development, or binding regulations (which the article notes are voluntary).

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the minister, Ashwini Vaishnaw, is the "minister for Information and Broadcasting, Railways and IT." This combination of portfolios is unique and a key static GK fact.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article quotes the minister saying, "The time is gone when platforms could say they are not responsible for content." Statement 2 is incorrect; the article mentions a call for 'mandatory consent' for AI content, not a government watermark. Statement 3 is correct as the minister urged platforms to "share value fairly with creators."

Explanation

The article clearly mentions that the statements were made "at the Digital News Publishers Association (DNPA) Conclave." The other options are major events but were not mentioned in the context of this news.

Explanation

The minister's examples—"How can a video of a famous news anchor be generated without consent"—directly point to the misuse of personal likeness to create deceptive deepfakes. The core objective is to establish a consent framework to prevent such misuse and protect individual identity.

Explanation

As per the article, the joint affidavit was filed by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs and the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change following the Supreme Court's direction. This is a key static fact about the nodal ministries responsible for the Forest Rights Act and Forest Conservation Act respectively.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as Section 3 of FRA includes the right to habitation. Statement 2 is incorrect; the SC in its September 2025 order noted that exemptions under FRA are for government-provided facilities and 'does not include construction of a pucca dwelling house' unconditionally, hence asking for convergence. Statement 3 is correct as the article mentions Swami Pathranand filed a contempt petition on grounds of non-compliance of NGT orders.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that a resolution was passed by the Gram Sabha in January 2016 recommending recognition of Individual Forest Rights for 63 tribal families in Binega village. This is a precise data point from the news.

Explanation

The core of the Centre's affidavit, as reported, is that once IFRs are recognized under FRA 2006, the need for separate prior approval under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 shall not arise for PMAY-G houses. This is the central legal argument with significant implications for scheme implementation.

Explanation

The CAQM is a statutory body established by the Commission for Air Quality Management in National Capital Region and Adjoining Areas Act, 2021. This act specifically created the CAQM to supersede previous authorities and coordinate air quality management in the NCR region.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article states the panel may back 'only electric cars be registered in Delhi-NCR by 2030'. Statement 2 is incorrect; the article clearly states the transport sector accounts for 23% of PM2.5, not 50%. Statement 3 is correct as IGL suggested a 'dual pathway' as mentioned in the article.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: 'Pollution from transport... accounts for 23% of PM 2.5 concentrations, making it the largest primary source in winters, as per the CAQM’s panel report.' The other options are plausible distractors but incorrect.

Explanation

The article directly quotes industry voices warning that 'Delhi... lacks charging infrastructure, grid capacity, and consumer financing ecosystems needed for an all-EV mandate within four years.' The other concerns, while relevant to the broader EV debate, are not mentioned in the provided article text.

Explanation

The article states that the Karnataka High Court allowed a petition filed by the Income Tax Department and set aside an order of the Central Information Commission (CIC). The CIC is the apex body under the RTI Act to adjudicate on information appeals.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect as the article clearly states the RTI Act does NOT permit such disclosure; the court created a separate judicial procedure. Statement 2 is incorrect because the timeline for trial court hearings is 14 days, not 21 days (21 days is for IT Dept compliance). Statement 3 is correct as the article explicitly says the guidelines apply equally to applications filed by wives and husbands.

Explanation

The article specifies that 'the Income Tax Department must comply with judicial orders within 21 working days through the designated nodal officers'. The 14-day timeline is for the trial court to hear the application.

Explanation

The article states the court acted 'on noticing the genuine difficulties faced by spouses in establishing the true income of their partners for determining just maintenance/alimony' and because 'the law does not permit couples in matrimonial disputes to access each other’s financial data under the Right to Information (RTI) Act.' This is the core rationale directly from the source.

Explanation

As per Section 28(1) of the PCPNDT Act, 1994, no court shall take cognizance of an offence under this Act except on a complaint made by the appropriate authority or by any officer authorized in this behalf. This is a key procedural feature of the Act.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect. The SC ruled that evidence from an illegal search is NOT automatically discarded and can be relied upon subject to relevancy. Statement 2 is correct as per Rule 18A(3)(iv) of the PCPNDT Rules mentioned in the judgment. Statement 3 is correct as per the proviso to Section 4(3) of the PCPNDT Act highlighted by the Court.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the doctor allegedly 'demanded Rs. 25,000 for carrying out sex-determination of the foetus'. This is a factual detail from the case background.

Explanation

The Court's characterization of female foeticide as a 'crude manifestation of discrimination' and a 'social malady' sets the context for its subsequent rulings. It justifies adopting a purposive interpretation of the PCPNDT Act, such as allowing evidence from procedurally flawed searches, to effectively achieve the law's objective of preventing sex selection.

Explanation

The NGT is a statutory body established under the National Green Tribunal Act, 2010. While it adjudicates cases under laws like the EPA, 1986 and FCA, 1980, its own founding legislation is the NGT Act, 2010.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article which states NGT is the 'primary appellate authority' for MoEFCC orders. Statement 2 is correct as the article cites data showing 80% success for industry appeals (126 of 159). Statement 3 is incorrect because the Supreme Court's 2021 judgment described the NGT as a 'specialized' protector, not a 'mere adjudicatory body'.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that 'of the 329 appeals filed by citizens and activists against the grant of clearances... only in 20% (65 cases), did the NGT rule in favour of the appeal.' The 7% and 88% figures relate to the more recent 2024-25 period, while 80% is the success rate for industry appeals.

Explanation

The article quotes an expert pointing out that while industry has legal teams to track filings, 'victims from economically weaker sections often miss the 90-day appeal deadline because clearances are rarely publicized in accessible formats.' This highlights a procedural barrier that disadvantages citizens, not a reflection on case merit or process efficiency.

Explanation

The NGT is a statutory body established under the National Green Tribunal Act, 2010. The Environment Protection Act, 1986 and Forest Conservation Act, 1980 are laws under which the NGT exercises appellate jurisdiction. The Tribunals Reforms Act, 2021 amended the appointment process.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the NGT Act. Statement 2 is incorrect: The article states that the Environment Secretary is the member-secretary 'without vote'. Statement 3 is correct as explicitly mentioned in the article. Hence, option C is correct.

Explanation

The article states that 'as many as nine of 13 expert members appointed in the NGT since 2016 were part of the decision-making process... during their stint in the government.' This indicates 9 out of the 13 were former government officers.

Explanation

The article's core critique is that former government officers who granted environmental clearances are now adjudicating appeals against those decisions, creating a conflict of interest. This violates the principle of 'nemo judex in causa sua' (no one should be a judge in their own cause), a cornerstone of natural justice.

Explanation

The article explicitly states the US Department of Commerce initiated the countervailing duty (CVD) investigation on August 6, 2025. It is the executive agency responsible for investigating subsidies and imposing preliminary duties.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect: the period was amended from calendar year 2024 to the Indian fiscal year (April 2024-March 2025), not kept as the calendar year. Statement 3 is correct as the US pointed to India's reliance on Chinese imports.

Explanation

The article states: 'Solar imports from India were valued at $792.6 million in 2024'. The other figures are distractors not mentioned in the text.

Explanation

The article has a dedicated section titled 'US objects to dependence on China' and quotes the report stating the Indian solar industry is 'heavily reliant on imports from China'. This was a key contextual reason alongside the specific subsidy probe.

Explanation

The article explicitly states the estimate was from "A joint report by the World Bank, European Union (EU), United Nations, and Ukraine". The IMF, NATO, OECD, and WTO are not mentioned as authors of this specific report.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article: 'Its GDP growth contracted by almost 30% in 2022.' Statement 2 is incorrect; the article states Russia's economy 'grew by less than 1% last year'. Statement 3 is correct: 'In Ukraine, defence spending consistently accounted for more than half of the country’s spending since 2022.'

Explanation

The article clearly states: 'estimates the cost of post-war construction in Ukraine to be around $558 billion over the next decade.' The other options are plausible but incorrect distractors.

Explanation

The article directly links high defence spending to reduced social sector allocation: 'expenditure on education, health care, and social protection declined by more than half when compared to 2021.' The other outcomes are not supported by the article's content.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the draft 2030 roadmap for CCUS was presented by the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas. This ministry oversees energy resources, including initiatives related to carbon management in the fossil fuel sector.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect because the article states that DST has created a specific R&D roadmap for CCU technologies. Statement 3 is correct, as high cost is identified as the foremost risk. Hence, option C is correct.

Explanation

The article clearly states that CCU aligns with India's net-zero target for 2070. This is a key commitment made by India at the COP26 climate summit and is a crucial data point for environment-related questions.

Explanation

The article emphasizes that CCU offers a pathway to reduce emissions from 'hard-to-abate' sectors like cement and steel, which are difficult to decarbonize, while simultaneously creating new industrial value chains. This aligns with India's net-zero and circular economy goals.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has encouraged domestic LLM development for reasons including fostering the Indian AI ecosystem and addressing language representation issues.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect because Sarvam AI's models demonstrated improvements over other models in Indian languages, not European languages. Statement 3 is correct as the article mentions this as a main reason for government encouragement.

Explanation

The article states: "The government gave Sarvam access to 4,096 GPUs from its common compute cluster, and the subsidy so far is estimated at almost ₹100 crore." The other figures are distractors; ₹246 crore is the 'bill of materials' for the cluster.

Explanation

The article explains that unlike earlier models which activated all parameters, an MoE model 'only activates a fraction of the overall parameters of a model, making it run faster and also consume a lower level of computing resources.' This is its key advantage for cost-effective deployment.

Explanation

The Election Commission of India (ECI) is the autonomous constitutional authority responsible for administering election processes to Parliament (Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha) and State Legislatures, as per Article 324 of the Constitution.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: Article 80 allows a maximum of 250 members. Statement 2 is incorrect: Rajya Sabha members are elected indirectly by the elected members of State Legislative Assemblies and Union Territories. Statement 3 is correct: The President nominates 12 members with special knowledge in fields like art, literature, etc.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that 37 Rajya Sabha seats are going to polls across 10 states. The other numbers are distractors.

Explanation

The 'open ballot' rule requires each party MLA to show their marked ballot to their party's authorized agent before casting it. This ensures party discipline by making it difficult for MLAs to vote against the party's official candidate, thereby preventing cross-voting.

Explanation

The article states that the SDG India Index 2023-24 was published by the NITI Aayog in 2024. NITI Aayog is the premier policy 'Think Tank' of the Government of India, which replaced the Planning Commission.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; the article states Tamil Nadu registered a double-digit growth rate (11.19%) in 2024-25, the only state to do so that year, and after a gap of 14 years. Statement 3 is correct as the article mentions the state accounts for over 30% of electronic exports and 25% of passenger car production.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that Tamil Nadu's composite score in the SDG India Index 2023-24 rose to 78, a significant rise from 66 in 2018. The other numbers are distractors: 66 was the 2018 score.

Explanation

The article directly states that despite overall progress, inter-regional disparity is glaring, with 30 of the 38 districts having a per capita income lower than the state's average. This is a key challenge to the inclusive growth narrative of the dispersed development model.

Explanation

The article's byline explicitly states 'The writer is assistant film research officer, Film & Television Institute of India, Pune.' This is a direct static fact from the source.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article's opening paragraph. Statement 2 is incorrect; the article states 'nearly 40 per cent' not 'over 50%'. Statement 3 is correct as mentioned in the article. Hence, option C is correct.

Explanation

The article states: 'The country has an estimated 12–15 million freelancers...'. The other options are plausible distractors but do not match the specific data point provided in the source.

Explanation

The article's core analysis questions the nature of the projected jobs, highlighting that employment in this sector is increasingly project-based, freelance, and lacks long-term contracts, benefits, or predictable income. This concern about job quality versus quantity is the central argument.

Explanation

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) is the nodal ministry for India's internal security, including counter-insurgency operations and policy against Left Wing Extremism (LWE). The article mentions the MHA's strategy and its February 2026 review of LWE-affected districts.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; the article states the comprehensive strategy was developed by the MHA under P. Chidambaram (UPA government), and the Modi government continued it with minor tweaks. Statement 3 is correct as mentioned in the article.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that 'Over 15,000 km of roads have been built to take forces deep into forested interiors of central India' as part of the infrastructure push to counter Maoist influence. This is a key data point highlighting the state's developmental approach.

Explanation

The article emphasizes that the next phase tests whether the Indian state can 'turn a hard-won security victory into durable legitimacy.' The core challenge is to replace insurgent structures with effective, visible state governance—functional schools, health centres, and grievance redress—to prevent new forms of alienation or criminality in the vacuum left by Maoists.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the judgment was delivered by the Allahabad High Court. Justice Vivek Kumar Singh of the Allahabad High Court allowed a batch of 12 writ petitions filed by interfaith couples.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect. The court held the opposite: that the 2021 Act does NOT apply to live-in relationships where no conversion is sought. Statement 2 is correct as the article mentions the court leaned on SC judgements including Lata Singh vs. State of UP. Statement 3 is correct as the court invoked and directed strict compliance with the state government order dated August 31, 2019.

Explanation

The article states that Justice Vivek Kumar Singh allowed a batch of 12 writ petitions filed by interfaith couples. This is a specific factual detail from the news report.

Explanation

The court's core reasoning, as per the article, was an examination of Section 3 of the Act. Justice Singh noted that for the Act to apply, 'conversion from one religion to another religion is necessary.' Since the petitioners were living together without converting, the Act was not contravened. The other options are not supported by the article's content.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that Anthropic won a $200 million contract with the DoD (Department of Defense) last year and is officially part of the US defence supply chain.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article's opening. Statement 2 is correct as it mentions the $1.5 billion settlement in September 2025. Statement 3 is incorrect; the article argues the opposite, stating that restricting AI knowledge flows is 'increasingly difficult' and input-based controls are 'leaky', unlike the controlled traceability of fissile material.

Explanation

The article states that Anthropic accuses the Chinese companies of deploying coordinated prompts that 'collectively amount to 16 million exchanges' aimed at retrieving data.

Explanation

The article concludes that such episodes highlight the 'inevitability of AI diffusion' because knowledge circulates through open research and talent mobility, making restrictions 'leaky'. The other options are not supported: decoupling is not stated as certain, open-source safety is debated, and the article states Chinese capabilities 'lag behind'.

Explanation

The Supreme Court's 2006 directives in the Prakash Singh case specify that the state government must send a list of eligible IPS officers to the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). The UPSC then vets the list and sends a shortlist of three officers back to the state for appointment.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: The article states the apex court's directions say the DGP should have a tenure of at least two years. Statement 2 is incorrect: The Punjab Bill provides for a committee headed by a retired chief justice or a retired judge, not a sitting judge. Statement 3 is correct: The article mentions the process requires sending the list three months before retirement as per the Prakash Singh case directions.

Explanation

The article states Gaurav Yadav was appointed as officiating DGP on July 5, 2022, and has already completed three years and eight months as acting DGP. This exceeds the Supreme Court's norm that an officiating DGP should not be posted for more than six months.

Explanation

The core conflict is between the state's legislative authority to enact the Punjab Police Amendment Bill (under State List) and the Supreme Court's directives in the Prakash Singh case, which are binding on all authorities under Article 141 of the Constitution. Punjab's potential defiance challenges the enforceability of these judicial guidelines.

Explanation

The article explicitly identifies the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as Iran's entrenched security apparatus that has embedded asymmetric doctrine into statecraft. The other options, while part of Iran's security structure, are not the primary force highlighted for its strategic role.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect. The article states Iran does NOT need conventional parity to create strategic shock; it uses asymmetric tools (proxies, drones). Statement 2 is correct as the article notes every carrier group in the Gulf is a resource not available for the Indo-Pacific pivot. Statement 3 is correct as the article uses the contrast between the two Gulf Wars to show the instability caused by expanding objectives to regime change.

Explanation

The article specifically states: "After October 7, 2023, a sustained Israeli campaign, with US political and military support, has diluted parts of that network." This is the only date provided in the context of the recent campaign against Iran's proxies.

Explanation

The article's core thesis is that US strategy suffers from unclear objectives. It concludes: "Washington lacks a publicly defined end-state that would justify the costs of regime change." The other options are secondary facets or assumptions not presented as the primary dilemma.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the Ministry of Education has been allotted ₹1,39,289 crores in the Union Budget 2026-27, which is an 8.27% increase from the previous year.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article mentions the budget's imperative to strengthen pre-service teacher education via ITEP expansion. Statement 2 is correct as the budget aims to create a bridge between education and employment, with the mentioned committee as an example. Statement 3 is incorrect because the budget allocation saw an 8.27% increase, not a decrease.

Explanation

The article provides the exact figure: "The Ministry of Education has been allotted ₹ 1,39,289 crores, which is an 8.27% increase from previous year." The other options are plausible but incorrect distractors.

Explanation

The article argues that policies and tools only hold significance when teachers can apply them, stating clearly: "When teachers feel supported, confident, and professionally valued, reforms move from paper to practice." This identifies teacher empowerment as the critical enabler for implementation.

Explanation

As mentioned in the article discussing IMEC and I2U2 cooperation, I2U2 stands for India-Israel-United Arab Emirates-United States. This is a minilateral forum focusing on joint investments in areas like water, energy, transportation, and food security.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect: The article states this was PM Modi's second visit to Israel in nine years, and the elevation happened during this visit (2026), not the first visit (2017). Statements 2 and 3 are directly mentioned in the article regarding UPI agreement and defense co-production.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the elevation occurred on Thursday, February 26, 2026, following talks between the Prime Ministers. PM Modi had landed on February 25, and the announcement was made on the 26th.

Explanation

The article directly quotes PM Modi stating, "India’s security interest is linked to peace and stability in West Asia." This connects regional stability to India's own security, making it a primary strategic reason for supporting the peace initiative, beyond humanitarian or economic motives.

Explanation

The article explicitly states the Supreme Court banned an NCERT textbook. NCERT is the autonomous body responsible for curriculum and textbook development at the national level.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect: The textbook was for Class 8, not Class 10. Statement 2 is correct: The article states the Court was hearing a suo motu case. Statement 3 is incorrect: The deadline for compliance reports was two weeks, not one month.

Explanation

The article specifically mentions the NCERT's newest Social Science textbook for Class 8. This is a precise factual data point from the news.

Explanation

The article quotes the CJI-led Bench calling it a 'deep-rooted conspiracy against the judiciary'. The Court's concern was the content's perceived bias and impact on young students, not factual errors, NEP alignment, or copyright.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the talks were mediated by Oman. Omani Foreign Minister Badr al-Busaidi presented Iran's proposals to US officials in Geneva.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect. The article clearly states the negotiations are 'indirect', with Omani intermediaries shuttling proposals. Statement 2 is correct as mentioned in the article. Statement 3 is incorrect; the article describes an intensification of US military pressure, including the deployment of the USS Gerald R. Ford supercarrier, not a reduction.

Explanation

The article specifically mentions the 'supercarrier USS Gerald R. Ford' left Souda Bay in Crete en route to the Middle East as part of the US military pressure during the talks.

Explanation

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei is quoted stating Iran's clear positions are 'the lifting of sanctions and the peaceful use of nuclear energy.' While it insists on peaceful use, the lifting of sanctions is a stated primary objective.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the oil ministry (Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas) issued the notification on February 17 directing oil companies to sell E20 petrol. This ministry is the nodal body for fuel policies and regulations in India.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect because the mandated minimum RON is 95, not 97. This is a classic examiner trap swapping the number. Statement 3 is correct as the article clearly states the policy aims to 'help cut oil imports as also reduce emissions'.

Explanation

The oil ministry data cited in the article states that India has saved more than ₹1.40 lakh crore in foreign exchange since 2014-15 through petrol substitution via ethanol blending. The other options are plausible but incorrect distractors.

Explanation

The article directly states that the 'insistence on minimum RON 95 is to prevent engine damage.' It explains that RON measures a fuel's resistance to knocking (pre-ignition), which can cause power loss and damage. This is the core technical safeguard mentioned.