27 June 2026, Questions & Answers

Explanation

The article states that the agreement was signed by Yechiel Leiter (Israel) and Nada Hamadeh Moawad (Lebanon) in front of Marco Rubio. Hezbollah was not a signatory.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect because Hezbollah was not part of the talks or the signing. Statement 2 is correct as the State Department announced $100 million in humanitarian aid. Statement 3 is correct as Netanyahu's video stated Israel will remain in the security zone until Hezbollah disarms.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: 'More than 4,000 people in Lebanon have been killed in Israeli strikes since March.' The other options are incorrect as they are not mentioned.

Explanation

The article quotes Lebanese Ambassador Moawad saying the framework is 'a first step on the road to restoring Lebanese sovereignty and territorial integrity, securing a permanent and final cessation of hostilities.' Option A is incorrect as the US-Iran deal is separate. Option C is not mentioned. Option D is humanitarian aid, not military.

Explanation

The Department of Commerce under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry is the nodal agency for negotiating and implementing FTAs, including the India-New Zealand FTA. The Ministry of External Affairs handles diplomatic relations, while Finance handles fiscal policy and Law handles legal vetting.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: New Zealand extended duty-free access across 100% of its tariff lines. Statement 2 is incorrect: India has protected sensitive sectors such as dairy from full liberalization. Statement 3 is correct: The agreement incorporates detailed product-specific RoO and traceability measures.

Explanation

The article states that bilateral merchandise trade stood at $1.3 billion (approximately) in FY 2024-25. Option A ($711 million) is only India's exports to New Zealand, not the total trade. Options C and D are not mentioned in the article.

Explanation

The RoO framework ensures that only goods genuinely originating in a partner country qualify for lower duties, preventing third-country goods from being rerouted to claim benefits. This strengthens the integrity of the agreement, as highlighted in the article.

Explanation

The article states that the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988 imposes duties on motorists vis-à-vis pedestrians but is primarily a law for motor vehicles and cannot secure public rights of pedestrians. This is a static fact linked to the news.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the SC linked the right to walk to Articles 19(1)(d) and 21. Statement 2 is incorrect because the Court emphasized that walking embodies expressional, congregational, and associational rights. Statement 3 is correct: the Court urged the government to introduce a law declaring the right to walk. Hence option C.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions that 'eyes on the street' is a concept developed by urban theorist Jane Jacobs, who observed that public spaces become safer when more people are around. This is a factual data point from the article.

Explanation

The article highlights that responsibilities for pavements are split among municipalities, development authorities, public works departments, traffic police, etc., without any single agency accountable for overall pedestrian safety and comfort. This fragmentation is the key institutional hurdle.

Explanation

The article clearly states that the Telecommunications Act, 2023 replaces both the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885 and the Wireless Telegraphy Act, 1933. Option A is incomplete. Option C is also incomplete. Option D includes the Post Office Act which is not mentioned.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: The licensing framework has been replaced with 'authorisation'. Statement 2 is incorrect: The fund was renamed to 'Digital Bharat Nidhi', not 'PM Gramin Digital Saksharta Nidhi'. Statement 3 is correct: The Final Rules have removed explicit references to GMPCS as mentioned by law firm Khaitan & Co.

Explanation

The article states 'The Telecommunications Act, 2023, saw a clutch of rules being notified this month, namely... June 27, 2026'. The Act was passed in 2023 but the key rules came into force in 2026.

Explanation

The article mentions the 'authorisation' regime 'simplifies and modifies some of the paperwork that telcos and Internet Service Providers (ISPs) have to do'. The objective is regulatory simplification, not revenue increase (A), free spectrum (C), or nationalisation (D).

Explanation

The article states that U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio hosted and witnessed the signing by the ambassadors of Israel and Lebanon. He is the US signatory for the framework agreement.

Explanation

Statement 1 is false: Hezbollah is explicitly excluded from the agreement. Statement 2 is true: the US pledged $100 million in humanitarian aid. Statement 3 is false: the IDF will only withdraw from designated 'pilot zones' and maintain its core security zone. Hence only statement 2 is correct.

Explanation

The article explicitly states 'resulting in over 4,000 casualties in Lebanon'. The 1 million figure refers to displaced persons, not casualties. The other options are not mentioned.

Explanation

According to the article, the Trilateral Military Coordination Group will 'oversee the prevention of any ground violations while simultaneously facilitating the gradual withdrawal of the IDF from the newly designated pilot zones' and verify that the Lebanese Armed Forces assume control. Disarmament of Hezbollah is a separate long-term objective.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: “Iran’s Revolutionary Guards said Saturday that they had attacked U.S. sites in the Gulf region in retaliation for American strikes in Iran.”

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article: “The U.S. military had earlier announced that it had struck targets in Iran in response to an attack on a commercial vessel in the Strait of Hormuz.” Statement 2 is also correct: “Iran’s Revolutionary Guards said... they had attacked U.S. sites in the Gulf region.” Statement 3 is false because the attack occurred in the Strait of Hormuz, not Gibraltar.

Explanation

The article states: “Iran’s Revolutionary Guards said Saturday (June 27, 2026) that they had attacked U.S. sites.”

Explanation

The Strait of Hormuz is a narrow passage through which about 20-30% of the world’s oil passes. Disruptions there directly affect global energy prices and supply, making it a critical chokepoint for trade and security.

Explanation

In the exclusive interview with IANS, US Ambassador Sergio Gor confirmed that preparations for Trump’s visit are underway and that he is travelling to India to finalise the visit. The other individuals mentioned (Marco Rubio, Piyush Goyal) are involved but did not make the confirmation.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: Trump’s visit is his first since tariffs were imposed. Statement 2 is incorrect: the trade deal is in its final stages but not yet signed. Statement 3 is correct: the US ambassador mentioned India’s unique ability to refine Venezuelan heavy crude as part of the energy cooperation plan.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that relations were strained 'over the US’ imposition of over 50% tariffs against Indian imports.' The other options are plausible distractors but not mentioned in the text.

Explanation

The US ambassador specifically stated that 'India is one of the few countries in the world with the ability to refine the heavy crude that Venezuela produces.' This capability, combined with its energy needs, makes India a strategic partner for diversifying supply amid Strait of Hormuz tensions.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that DRDO developed key systems like BrahMos, Tejas LCA, and Akash. DARPA is a US agency, ISRO handles space, and HAL is a manufacturer under DRDO oversight.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the Vision emphasises integration of the three forces. Statement 2 is incorrect: Sudarshan Kavach is a multi-layered AI-enabled air defence system, not an offensive missile system. Statement 3 is correct as the article specifically contrasts DRDO's heavy in-house structure with DARPA's outsourcing model.

Explanation

The article states 'The global defence electronics market is projected to hit $254 billion by 2032.' Other options are plausible distractors but not mentioned.

Explanation

The article mentions that iDEX and DRDO 2.0 aim to direct 80-90% of conventional production to private industry, refocusing DRDO on futuristic technologies. Joint training institutions are a separate recommendation under Vision 2047.

Explanation

The National Horticulture Board is an autonomous organisation under the administrative control of the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, as clearly stated in the article. The other ministries are not involved with NHB.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the SC read right to walk into Articles 19(1)(d) and 21. Statement 2 is incorrect because the Court noted that MV Act is primarily for motor vehicles and cannot secure pedestrian rights; it said the remedy under the judgment is independent of MV Act. Statement 3 is correct as the Court urged the government to bring a law declaring this right. Hence option C.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: 'Up to 50 per cent of the project cost, capped at Rs 1 crore per family, is available as subsidy under the scheme.' The other options are plausible distractors but incorrect.

Explanation

The article quotes an obstetrician explaining that oxytocin is given during C-sections to induce contractions essential for reducing bleeding after childbirth and preventing postpartum haemorrhage, one of the leading causes of maternal mortality. Options A, C, and D are not the primary purpose during C-section.

Explanation

The article mentions 'the Ministry’s FCRA portal' and the FCRA falls under the purview of the Ministry of Home Affairs, which is responsible for regulating foreign contributions.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article states notification on June 22. Statement 2 is incorrect because the article highlights that 'proselytisation' has no definition in the Act or Rules. Statement 3 is correct as the rules require disclosures of publications, websites and social media accounts.

Explanation

The article begins by stating 'Since their notification on June 22, the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Rules (FCRA), 2026' clearly giving the notification date as June 22, 2026.

Explanation

The article argues that the amendments go beyond regulating foreign contributions and now prescribe purposes, states of operation, and reporting of publications/social media, thereby regulating the organisations themselves and raising issues of executive overreach and fundamental freedoms.

Explanation

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) coordinates India's HADR operations abroad, as seen in Operation Amistad. The MEA issued the statement and coordinated with the Indian Air Force and Indian Army for deployment. While the Defence Ministry provides assets (IAF, Army), the overall diplomatic and operational coordination is led by MEA.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: Operation Amistad was launched for earthquake-hit Venezuela. Statement 2 is correct: The 41-member team included personnel from the 60 Para Field Hospital. Statement 3 is incorrect: The aircraft used were C-17 Globemaster, not C-130 Hercules. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article states that the relief consignment included 30 tons of relief supplies, in addition to 6 tons of medicines and medical equipment. The total was over 35 tons (30+6). Option B (30 tons) is the correct answer for the relief supplies specifically.

Explanation

BHISHM cubes are portable, modular hospitals designed for rapid deployment in disaster zones. They provide immediate medical care, including surgery and emergency treatment, without relying on existing infrastructure. They are not meant for long-term replacement of local hospitals or research, but for acute emergency response.

Explanation

Congo filed the case at the International Court of Justice, the principal judicial organ of the UN for disputes between states. The ICC deals with individual criminal responsibility, not state disputes.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article states Congo filed the case on Friday, June 26, 2026. Statement 2 is incorrect because it is the third attempt (previous in 2001 and 2006). Statement 3 is correct as US sanctions on Gasabo Gold Refinery were announced on June 25, 2026.

Explanation

The article explicitly states 'Congo said Friday (June 26, 2026) it has filed a case against Rwanda at the International Court of Justice.' The other options are close distractors.

Explanation

The article states Congo accused Rwanda of breaching international conventions on genocide, racial discrimination, discrimination against women and torture. The ICJ deals with state-to-state disputes under such treaties.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the secretariat is housed at the Observer Research Foundation (ORF) Middle East. The other options are related institutions but do not host the secretariat.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: NK Singh chairs the Board. Statement 2 is incorrect: the secretariat is at ORF Middle East, not LSE. Statement 3 is correct: the Board's work includes MDB reforms. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article mentions India's transition towards 2,500 GW of clean energy by 2047. The other options are plausible distractors but not mentioned in the news.

Explanation

Singh stated that the next bottleneck lies in systems integration – financing, transmitting, storing and distributing clean power through stronger grids, supply chains and institutions. This highlights the need for holistic infrastructure.

Explanation

The article states that France has taxed digital services at 3% since 2019. The levy applies to companies earning more than €25 million in France and €750 million globally.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: DST is on gross revenue, unlike traditional corporate taxes on profits. Statement 2 is correct: French lawmakers proposed doubling the rate to 6% last year. Statement 3 is incorrect: The US-EU deal caps US tariffs on European goods at 15%, not eliminates them entirely. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that French lawmakers proposed doubling the existing 3% DST rate to 6% last year. 3% is the current rate, 9% and 12% are not mentioned.

Explanation

The article states the deal caps American tariffs on European goods at 15% in exchange for the EU eliminating tariffs on US industrial imports entirely. This deal is now threatened by Trump's new ultimatum on DST.

Explanation

The MEA issued the press release announcing the visit. In diplomatic matters, the Ministry of External Affairs is the nodal body for coordinating foreign visits and summits.

Explanation

Statements 1 and 2 are directly mentioned in the article. Statement 3 is incorrect because the article clearly states it is the 16th summit, not the 15th. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The MEA press release specified that the Japanese PM will visit from July 1 to 3 for the annual summit. The other options are close distractors; only July 1-3 matches the article.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that 'India-Japan relations provide a strategic and economic counterweight to China's growing dominance in the region'. Both are core Quad members, and their cooperation includes defense agreements and infrastructure investments. The other options are not highlighted in the news.

Explanation

The article mentions the barrage in Gajoldoba, West Bengal, controlled by the West Bengal government. This barrage is a major irrigation project that holds water upstream, affecting downstream flow to Bangladesh. Sikkim has hydropower projects but the primary barrage for water diversion is in West Bengal.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the MoU was signed in 2016 under Sheikh Hasina's government. Statement 2 is correct: the article specifies 124 km of new embankments and 224 km of road network. Statement 3 is incorrect: the article does not mention World Bank funding; instead, the project is being pursued with China's POWERCHINA under an MoU.

Explanation

The article explicitly states 'dredging of 140 million cubic metres of riverine sediment'. 171 million cubic metres is a distractor related to land reclamation area (171 sq km). 110 km refers to embankment repair length, and 224 km refers to road network development.

Explanation

The article explains that Bangladesh's Teesta water reduces to a trickle in winter months (Dec-Feb), affecting irrigation via the TBIP. China's proposal is a 'comprehensive management and restoration project' that includes dredging and embankments to better utilize the water Bangladesh already receives from India. Option A is not mentioned; option C is inaccurate as India offered a $1 billion dredging project; option D is false as China is not a riparian on the Teesta.

Explanation

The article states that CENTCOM released the video and statement regarding the strikes. CENTCOM is responsible for US military operations in the Middle East and Central Asia.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article: the M/V Ever Lovely is Singapore-flagged and was hit by an Iranian drone on June 25. Statement 2 is incorrect because the ceasefire has been violated by both sides (sporadic violence, including the drone attack and US strikes). Statement 3 is correct: the article states that a fifth of global oil and LNG supplies flow through the Strait of Hormuz.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: 'Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian signed a 14-point agreement on June 17.' Option A is the date the ceasefire took effect, not the signing date.

Explanation

The article states that a fifth of global oil and LNG supplies flow through the Strait of Hormuz, making it a vital energy corridor. Disruption here would impact global energy prices and supply chains.

Explanation

The judgment was delivered by Justice Vivek Kumar Singh of the Allahabad High Court, as mentioned in the article. The court quashed criminal proceedings under Sections 376(2)(n), 504, and 506 IPC.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect because the court ruled that a good-faith promise later broken does NOT amount to rape. Statement 2 is correct as the court relied on SC judgments including Mahesh Damu Khare and others. Statement 3 is correct because the FIR was filed in March 2024 after a relationship that began in May 2022, showing a gap of nearly two years.

Explanation

The article states that the FIR was lodged on March 23, 2024. The relationship began with the first alleged incident on May 7, 2022. The cognisance order was on July 29, 2024, and the judgment was on June 25, 2026.

Explanation

The court emphasized the distinction between a 'false promise' (fraudulent from outset) and a 'mere breach of promise' (genuine but later unfulfilled). Only the former vitiates consent and constitutes rape. This principle was drawn from Supreme Court precedents.

Explanation

The division bench of Justices Sanjay Kumar Medhi and Pranjal Das of the Gauhati High Court issued the order. The Assam High Court does not exist; the Gauhati High Court has jurisdiction over Assam, Nagaland, Mizoram and Arunachal Pradesh.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: compensation enhanced to Rs 4 lakh. Statement 2 is incorrect: the court asked the DGP to consider departmental proceedings, not criminal prosecution (criminal trial is already pending). Statement 3 is correct: the court reiterated settled juvenile law that minors cannot be arrested or kept in police custody.

Explanation

The court enhanced the compensation to Rs 4 lakh, noting that the victim had already received Rs 2 lakh as interim relief under the Assam Victim Compensation Scheme. The additional amount payable is Rs 2 lakh.

Explanation

The court reiterated settled juvenile law jurisprudence that a minor cannot be arrested nor kept in police custody. This is a fundamental protection under the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act.

Explanation

The article states that President Donald Trump signed an executive order establishing a voluntary framework for AI developers. The executive order is a directive from the President, not Congress or an agency.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: OpenAI limited initial access to a small group of vetted partners whose details were shared with the government. Statement 2 is incorrect: the executive order is voluntary, not mandatory. Statement 3 is correct: the US government ordered Anthropic to suspend access for foreign nationals citing national security concerns.

Explanation

The article mentions the voluntary framework allows the US government to offer covered frontier models for up to 30 days before releasing them to trusted partners. This specific number is a key data point for exams.

Explanation

The article states that by securing early access, US officials aim to identify threats ranging from cyberattacks to military misuse before the tools are widely deployed. This reflects a national security perspective, not economic or equity concerns.

Explanation

The Ministry of Cooperation was created in 2021 to strengthen the cooperative movement in India. Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah launched Bharat Taxi under this ministry's purview.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article explicitly calls it 'India's first cooperative-owned, driver-led ride-hailing platform'. Statement 2 is incorrect because the zero-commission model means drivers retain the entire fare, not pay a fixed monthly fee. Statement 3 is correct as the article mentions Bharat Taxi was 'soft-launched in Gujarat in December last year' (2025).

Explanation

The article states that Bharat Taxi was launched in 14 cities across Gujarat, including Ahmedabad, Surat, Vadodara, Rajkot, and others. The other options are distractors: 7 refers to the next phase of cities, and 500 is the two-year expansion target.

Explanation

The article quotes Amit Shah saying the platform was 'conceived to provide an alternative that safeguards the interests of drivers while ensuring better service for passengers'. The cooperative model aims to eliminate exploitative practices like high commissions and arbitrary account suspensions.

Explanation

MGNREGA is a flagship social security scheme of the Ministry of Rural Development. It provides 100 days of guaranteed wage employment to rural households. The other ministries are not directly responsible for this scheme.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the sub-committee was chaired by Irrigation Minister N. Uttam Kumar Reddy. Statement 2 is correct: the news article refers to the proposed Union legislation as the VB-G Ram G Act. Statement 3 is correct: civil society groups warned of a ₹2,500 crore cost to the state exchequer. Hence all three statements are correct.

Explanation

The article states that the sub-committee decided to place the issue before the State Cabinet on July 2, and the Cabinet is expected to take a final decision on that date. The other options are close distractors but do not match the exact date mentioned.

Explanation

The sub-committee felt the proposed law infringes upon the constitutional powers of States. The federal division of powers in India is enshrined in the Seventh Schedule of the Constitution. While the allocation formula was also criticized, the core issue is the encroachment on state subjects.

Explanation

The article states that the Railway Board (RB) communicated its approval in a letter dated May 22, 2026. RDSO and Northern Railway were involved in the process but the final sanction was given by the Railway Board, the apex policy body of Indian Railways.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article explicitly says 'world's longest (10 coaches) and most powerful (2400 kW) Hydrogen Train-set on Broad Gauge platform.' Statement 2 is incorrect; the maximum speed is 75 kmph, not 100 kmph. Statement 3 is correct: 'Zero CO2 emissions; only emission is water vapour.' So option C is correct.

Explanation

The Railway Board's letter cited in the article specifies the maximum speed as 75 kmph over the dedicated section (Jind-Sonipat) of Northern Railway. The close distractor 90 kmph is typical for passenger trains, but this hydrogen train is limited to 75 kmph for the trial.

Explanation

The article explicitly states 'Zero CO2 emissions; only emission is water vapour.' While hydrogen trains may also reduce noise, the primary environmental benefit is elimination of carbon emissions. Hydrogen fuel cells produce electricity through an electrochemical reaction, with water as the only by-product, making them a key green mobility solution.

Explanation

The article specifically mentions that Southern Railway introduced the 15-minute current booking facility for Vande Bharat trains originating in its zone on July 17, 2025. It has since been extended to all 17 Vande Bharat trains over Southern Railway.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct — FY26 saw 77.38 lakh passengers on SR Vande Bharat trains. Statement 2 is correct — the pilot was launched on 8 trains on July 17, 2025. Statement 3 is incorrect because the facility is available at both originating stations and en route stations up to 15 minutes before departure.

Explanation

The article states that in FY26 (2025-26), Southern Railway's 24 Vande Bharat train services generated revenue of ₹803.86 crore. ₹540.65 crore was the FY25 figure. ₹162.96 crore is the Apr-May 2026 figure. ₹222.17 lakh is the monthly average current booking revenue for Aug-Oct 2025.

Explanation

The article explains that the facility enables passengers to book vacant seats up to 15 minutes before a train's departure from both originating and en route stations, making it easier for last-minute travellers to secure reservations. This improved convenience while boosting ridership and revenue, but the primary objective is passenger facilitation.

Explanation

The article states that President A. Subbarayalu Reddiar, the first Chief Minister of Madras Presidency, introduced the scheme at the Cochrane Basin Corporation School in 1920. P. Theagaraya Chetty recommended it, but Reddiar implemented it.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect – eggs were introduced in 1989 by CM Karunanidhi. Statement 3 is correct – the central scheme was renamed PM POSHAN in 2021.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that eggs individually weighing at least 46 grams are served five days a week in Tamil Nadu. The other options are plausible distractors.

Explanation

The article notes that poverty and families' dependence on children's earnings prevented regular attendance. The meal scheme acted as an incentive, compensating for lost wages, and was not primarily about nutrition initially.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the VB-G RAM G Act, 2025 replaces the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA). MGNREGA was a rights-based law providing a legal guarantee of 100 days of employment; the new Act converts it into a norm-based scheme.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct – the Assembly passed a unanimous resolution on Dec 30, 2025 rejecting the Act. Statement 2 is incorrect – the new Act removes the legal guarantee and becomes norm-based, not rights-based. Statement 3 is correct – the notification was issued by the Punjab Rural Development and Panchayats Department. Hence option C.

Explanation

The article clearly states that the notification brings the provisions of the VB-G RAM G Act into force from July 1, 2026. The other options are distractors – Dec 30, 2025 was the date of the Assembly resolution rejecting the Act.

Explanation

The article quotes the resolution stating the new law 'takes away the legal guarantee of employment and timely wages available to poor labourers'. While the Act also changes funding patterns and weakens federal structure, the removal of the legal guarantee of employment and wages is the central criticism highlighted. Options A, C, and D are not mentioned in the article.

Explanation

The Forest Advisory Committee (FAC) works under the MoEFCC and recommends approval or rejection of forest land diversion proposals. The final decision rests with the central government.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: FAC grants Stage-I clearance as mentioned in the article. Statement 2 is incorrect: the FAC stated that no working permission or authorisation on forest land is to be granted until final forest clearance is issued. Statement 3 is correct: the line is through the Satpura-Melghat wildlife corridor.

Explanation

The article specifically states that the Central Railway proposal sought diversion of 8.0357 hectares of forest land. The other options are decimal-place distractions.

Explanation

The NTCA officials stated that the Itarsi-Nagpur line witnesses several wildlife deaths annually, making mitigation structures like overpasses and underpasses crucial to prevent wildlife fatalities while allowing safe passage for animals.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions that 'CENTCOM forces launched strikes' and that CENTCOM issued statements from Tampa, Florida. CENTCOM oversees US military operations in the Middle East, including the Persian Gulf region.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the article says the memorandum 'called for... Iran to allow commercial vessels to transit the strait freely for 60 days.' Statement 2 is incorrect: MT Kiku was struck in the Strait of Hormuz, not the Suez Canal. Statement 3 is correct: CENTCOM said 'Iran was given a chance to honor the ceasefire agreement [after Friday's strikes]. Iran elected not to.' Hence option C.

Explanation

The article states 'close to 20 per cent of the world’s oil supply passes through' the Strait of Hormuz. This is a key data point for exams on global energy chokepoints.

Explanation

The article explains that the ceasefire was designed to ease pressure from the closure of the strait, which sent global fuel prices higher. It called for an immediate end to military operations and required Iran to allow commercial ships to transit freely for 60 days. Options A, C, and D are not mentioned in the article.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the Indian softshell and Indian flapshell turtles are listed under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. This Act is the primary legislation for wildlife conservation in India. The other acts deal with forests, environment, and biodiversity respectively, but not specifically with animal protection.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article mentions both species are under Schedule I. Statement 2 is incorrect: the largest seizure was 311 turtles at Sant Hirdaram Nagar station (Feb 2026), not 282 at Itarsi (the 282 seizure was at Itarsi in Sep 2023, but it is not the largest). Statement 3 is correct: the article identifies three routes: Patna-Lucknow-Indore, Kanpur-Bhopal-Mumbai, and Lucknow-Itarsi-Bengaluru.

Explanation

The article states: 'Between 2020 and 2026, the State Tiger Strike Force (STSF) and Government Railway Police recovered 654 protected animals from passenger trains crossing the state — 647 turtles and seven vultures.' Options 282 and 311 are specific single seizure numbers, while 647 is the number of turtles only, not total animals.

Explanation

The article specifically states that turtles seized in Madhya Pradesh 'are trafficked primarily as exotic pets'. While some species are also used for traditional medicine in Bangladesh, the primary global demand is for the exotic pet market, especially for species like Indian roofed turtles, star tortoises, and the critically endangered Batagur turtle.