28 June 2026, Questions & Answers

Explanation

The article explicitly states that Raj Narain filed an election petition under the Representation of the People Act, 1951, which governs election conduct and disputes.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the verdict. Statement 2 is correct: on 24 June, SC allowed her to continue as PM but restricted her MP rights. Statement 3 is false because SC struck down the part of the 39th Amendment that sought to immunize the PM's election from judicial review.

Explanation

The article states: 'On 12 June 1975, Justice Sinha set aside Indira Gandhi’s election.' The other dates are distractors: 24 June is the SC stay, 25 June is Emergency proclamation, and 12 June 1971 is the election date.

Explanation

The article explains that the 39th Amendment 'attempted to place the election of the PM beyond judicial challenge' but the Supreme Court struck down that specific provision using the basic structure doctrine, not the entire amendment.

Explanation

The article states TSMC accounts for about 95% of all advanced packaging. Intel and Amkor are also packaging players but hold a much smaller share. Samsung is not mentioned in this context.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the article says the Biden administration allocated more than $50 billion under the CHIPS Act. Statement 2 is false: the Trump administration effectively killed the packaging R&D center, not implemented it. Statement 3 is correct: a Trump administration official said nine packaging projects have received CHIPS Act funding.

Explanation

Analyst Handel Jones is quoted saying TSMC accounted for 'about 95% of all advanced packaging'. The other options are plausible distractors but not supported by the article.

Explanation

The article repeatedly highlights that TSMC's packaging operations are mainly in Taiwan, facing the same threat from China that prompted US chip policy. Intel's former CEO said packaging supply chains 'may be even more precarious' than fabrication. The core concern is geopolitical risk, not just cost or design.

Explanation

The NALSA judgment (2014) recognised the right to self-perceived gender identity as part of the right to life and dignity under Article 21. The other cases deal with privacy, decriminalisation of homosexuality, and triple talaq respectively.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the Act removes the right to self-identification. Statement 2 is incorrect: the Act restricts the definition to traditional communities (hijras, kinnars, aravanis) and excludes trans men and non-binary persons. Statement 3 is correct: medical board recommendation is mandated before DM issues certificate.

Explanation

Raj from Mariwala Health Initiative stated that international evidence shows a 7% to 72% increase in suicide attempts following discriminatory laws. This is a crucial data point for prelims and can be used in mains to highlight the mental health impact of legislation.

Explanation

The Act removes the right to self-identification, which experts describe as a 'protective factor' for mental health. Without this, trans persons face anticipatory anxiety, existential fatigue, and increased vulnerability to stigma and discrimination. Other options are supports that may exist but are not the factor being removed.

Explanation

The Anaemia Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan is a national health program under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. The revised guidelines were launched by Health Minister J.P. Nadda at the Central Council of Health and Family Welfare meeting.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the programme is now called Anaemia Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan. Statement 2 is correct: low birth weight babies are added and T4 approach replaces T3. Statement 3 is incorrect: for severe anaemia in pregnant women, the guidelines recommend intravenous iron therapy (Ferric Carboxymaltose and Iron Sucrose), not oral iron therapy.

Explanation

NFHS-5 data indicates that 59.1% of adolescent girls (15-19 years) are anaemic. Other options: 52.2% refers to pregnant women, 57% refers to women aged 15-49, and 67.1% refers to children aged 6-59 months.

Explanation

The T4 approach (Test, Treat, Talk, Track) emphasizes tracking beneficiaries for referral and follow-up, which was missing in the earlier T3 approach. This ensures continuity of care and better monitoring of anaemia management outcomes.

Explanation

The article states that Schedule H2 was created under the Drugs Rules, 1945. The track-and-trace requirement is part of these rules. Hence option B is correct.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article lists brand name, generic name, batch number, manufacturing date, etc. as mandatory in the QR code. Statement 2 is incorrect because the system currently covers only Schedule H2 drugs (300 brands) and the four new categories, not all medicines. Statement 3 is correct. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the deadline for antimicrobials is July 2028, while vaccines, narcotics, and anticancer drugs have a deadline of July 2027. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article emphasizes that the system aims to prevent counterfeiting, dilution, and tampering. It also allows regulators and companies to locate products quickly in case of a recall. Option C captures the core objective. Other options are not supported by the text.

Explanation

The article states the agreement was US-brokered, with Netanyahu thanking President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The US acted as the mediator between Israel and Lebanon.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article mentions the US-brokered trilateral agreement. Statement 2 is incorrect because Hezbollah was not part of the negotiations and said it would not abide by the conditions. Statement 3 is correct: Netanyahu said Israel will stay in the security zone until Hezbollah is disarmed.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions 'a security zone roughly ten kilometres inside Lebanese territory'. The other options are plausible distractors but the correct figure is 10 km.

Explanation

Netanyahu and Defense Minister Katz repeatedly stated that withdrawal will occur only after Hezbollah and all terrorist organizations are fully disarmed and no longer pose a threat. This is the core condition highlighted in the article.

Explanation

The ICRIER working paper estimates that the EU's imports of iron and steel from India could decline by about 24% due to CBAM, the highest among all CBAM commodities. Aluminium and fertilisers are also affected but to a lesser extent.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as CBAM explicitly prices carbon in production. Statement 2 is incorrect: the mark-up increases over time (10% in 2026, 20% in 2027, 30% from 2028). Statement 3 is correct per the article's industry sources. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article states that India's global export of iron and steel will decline by 5.7% due to CBAM, while China's corresponding decline is 1.2%. The 24% figure refers specifically to the decline in exports to the EU alone.

Explanation

The article explicitly quotes experts stating that the principal challenge for MSMEs is the cost of compliance (Rs 15-20 lakh per unit) - including carbon accounting, third-party verification, and digital reporting systems - rather than the carbon levy itself. Large firms can absorb these fixed costs better, making it a disproportionately heavy burden on MSMEs.

Explanation

According to the article, the Akal Takht was founded by Guru Hargobind, the sixth Guru, between 1606 and 1609, after the execution of his father Guru Arjan Dev by the Mughals. It was built as a symbol of defiance and sovereignty.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the Akal Takht is located directly opposite the Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib) in Amritsar. Statement 2 is incorrect: the Jathedar's authority is moral, not legal, and cannot impose legal fines or jail terms. Statement 3 is correct: the Takht can declare individuals tankhaiya and assign atonement through sewa such as cleaning shoes or utensils at the Golden Temple.

Explanation

The article states that the Takht's summons were issued to 78 Sikh MLAs and 9 Sikh Cabinet ministers (total 87). The question specifically asks for MLAs, so the correct number is 78. The distractor 87 is the total of MLAs and ministers together.

Explanation

The article explains that ignoring a summons is seen as defiance of the Takht's moral authority, leading to being declared tankhaiya and excommunication. This can be politically devastating, as seen when CM Surjit Singh Barnala was excommunicated and his government subsequently collapsed, leading to President's Rule.

Explanation

The article states that NASA's Perseverance rover, using its SHERLOC instrument, detected organic matter in the Neretva Vallis channel. Curiosity found organics in Gale Crater, while Opportunity and Spirit are earlier rovers that did not have this capability.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the detection was in fine-grained mudstones. Statement 2 is correct: SHERLOC detected macromolecular carbon. Statement 3 is incorrect because NASA's Curiosity rover had previously found organic molecules in Gale Crater, so this is not the first organic detection overall.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions that the study was published in Science Advances. This journal is a peer-reviewed open-access publication of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS).

Explanation

The article states that the presence of organics alongside carbonates and sulphates suggests they may have been trapped and preserved by water-driven processes billions of years ago. This does not prove life existed (option A), nor does it directly indicate volcanic or atmospheric origins (options B and D).

Explanation

The article states that DGS coordinates with the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways. The DGS is the primary maritime regulator under this ministry, responsible for shipping safety and seafarer welfare.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the DGS advisory was issued on June 13, 2026 after the US strike on MT Settebello killed 3 Indian seafarers. Statement 2 is incorrect: the withdrawal was on June 28, not June 29. Statement 3 is correct: the article mentions that IMO coordinated with UKMTO and MICA Center for evacuation.

Explanation

The article explicitly states '3 Indian seafarers dead' in the MT Settebello incident, which triggered the initial DGS advisory. This is a factual data point likely to be tested in prelims.

Explanation

The article states the revised order clarifies there is no restriction if ship owners follow security protocols of coastal states and security agencies. It also mentions that IMO initiated evacuation mechanisms. Option A is wrong because the article advises caution, indicating ongoing tensions. Options C and D are not mentioned.

Explanation

The article states that the government will strengthen the information-gathering powers of its internet regulator, the eSafety Commissioner, and that it is actively investigating five platforms for non-compliance.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article clearly states the penalty jump from A$49.5 million to A$99 million. Statement 2 is incorrect because the ban is Australia's national law, not global. Statement 3 is correct as Reddit is separately challenging the ban in the highest court on free speech grounds.

Explanation

The article explicitly cites the BMJ study stating that 85% of Australians aged 12 to 15 were still using social media three months after the ban took effect. The other options are close distractors not mentioned in the article.

Explanation

The article states that the ban is due to 'concerns about the impact of social media on youth mental and physical health'. This is reaffirmed by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's statement. The other options are not mentioned as primary reasons in the article.

Explanation

According to the article, Seychelles conferred its highest presidential distinction, 'Guardian of the Blue Horizon', on Prime Minister Modi during his visit for leadership in environmental conservation and sustainable development.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the award was given for environmental conservation. Statement 2 is incorrect because the vessel is named 'PS LESPWAR', not 'INS LESPWAR' (PS stands for Patrol Ship, not Indian Naval Ship). Statement 3 is correct: the visit coincided with the Golden Jubilee National Day, marking 50 years since independence from the UK in 1976.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the Fast Patrol Vessel was 'Manufactured by Goa Shipyard Limited'. The other options are major Indian shipyards but not the one involved in this transfer.

Explanation

According to the Ministry of External Affairs, the initiative reflects the growing strategic partnership, particularly enhancing the island nation's maritime surveillance and EEZ patrol capabilities. While it may indirectly help counter piracy, the primary stated objective is surveillance and EEZ patrol.

Explanation

The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) operates under the Ministry of Home Affairs. The Vision Document on Drug Control was launched by the Union Home Minister at the NCORD meeting, confirming the Home Ministry's nodal role in drug control policy.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the document targets dismantling 100 major cartels. Statement 2 is incorrect: the Act mentioned for preventive detention is the Prevention of Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1988, not the NDPS Act, 1985. Statement 3 is correct: the document calls for mandatory financial investigations and asset attachment.

Explanation

The article states that Mizoram alone accounted for 1,477 kg of Amphetamine-Type Stimulant seizures in 2025, out of the national total of 3,485 kg. Manipur followed with 535 kg. The 305 kg figure refers to a specific maritime seizure at Porbandar.

Explanation

The document explicitly states that enforcement efforts will shift from targeting individual carriers to identifying, investigating, and dismantling complete drug trafficking networks, including suppliers, financiers, handlers, facilitators, and organized criminal syndicates.

Explanation

The Supreme Court in Bishwanath (1967) explicitly declared that 'an idol is in the position of a minor' and requires protection when its representative fails in duty. Other cases dealt with different aspects: Vidya Varuthi (1921) established deity as juristic person; Angurbala Mullick (1951) reinforced ownership vesting in deity; Yogendra Nath Naskar (1969) dealt with income tax treatment.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article: courts hold the deity as a legal entity capable of holding property. Statement 2 is incorrect: the shebait/mahant is a mere manager, not owner. Statement 3 is correct: the article states that donations belong strictly to the deity. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that Justice B.K. Mukherjea delivered the lead judgment in Angurbala Mullick versus Debabrata Mullick in 1951. 1921 is the year of the Privy Council's Vidya Varuthi case; 1967 is Bishwanath; 1969 is Yogendra Nath Naskar.

Explanation

The Supreme Court in Bishwanath (1967) held that an idol is in the position of a minor and needs protection. When the person representing it fails, someone interested in the worship can be clothed with ad hoc power to protect its interest. This does not mean the deity cannot own property (it can), nor does it directly relate to tax exemption or being sued.

Explanation

The article mentions President Patrick Herminie as the Seychelles President who hosted PM Modi and jointly addressed the press. The other options are previous presidents of Seychelles.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: PM Modi was awarded the 'Guardian of the Blue Horizon'. Statement 2 is incorrect: the package was $125 million Line of Credit and $50 million grant, not the reverse. Statement 3 is correct: President Herminie reaffirmed Seychelles' special place in India's MAHASAGAR vision.

Explanation

The article clearly states the Special Economic Package of $175 million from the Government of India, comprising $125 million in rupee-denominated Line of Credit and $50 million in grant assistance. $200 million is not mentioned; $125 million and $50 million are components of the total.

Explanation

PM Modi explicitly stated that India envisions an Indian Ocean where maritime security is ensured alongside economic prosperity and where partnership is based on mutual respect and trust, not size. While the other options may be related, the core objective as per the article is this balanced approach.

Explanation

The news explicitly states that the Ministry of Railways is introducing the policy through Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw's directives. Static GK: Railway administration falls under Ministry of Railways.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: industries can design wagons based on their needs. Statement 2 is incorrect: safety responsibility rests with RDSO and CCRS, not solely with Ministry of Railways. Statement 3 is correct: the move aims to attract more freight traffic and increase rail's share.

Explanation

The Railways Ministry statement on June 25 said the policy would be finalized within 15 days. Adding 15 days from June 25 gives July 10, 2026. The article also states the policy will be rolled out in July.

Explanation

The article states the policy aims to 'attract more freight traffic, improve customer convenience and increase the rail's share in the country's logistics sector.' Other options are not mentioned or are secondary.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the IRGC was born during the Iran-Iraq war as an ideologically-driven guerrilla force and later became a key economic and political actor. Hezbollah is a Lebanese proxy, Quds Force is an IRGC unit, and Basij is a paramilitary volunteer militia, but the question targets the organization born during that war.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article mentions the MoU was signed at the Palace of Versailles on June 17, 2026. Statement 2 is incorrect because the article states that the MoU left IAEA access unresolved. Statement 3 is correct as the article mentions Iran secured access to frozen funds and an additional $300 billion in funding.

Explanation

The article repeatedly refers to a '14-point Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)'. The other options are plausible distractors but the exact number is 14.

Explanation

The article states: 'Iran shrewdly identified the one major US vulnerability — domestic political damage due to economic pain — and exploited it by blockading the Strait of Hormuz.' The primary motive was not simply to disrupt supply but to exploit a specific US weakness. Options A and C are related outcomes but not the stated reason. Option D is not mentioned.

Explanation

The article mentions KREDL as the nodal agency that released data on small hydel projects and is responsible for allotments. KPCL handles power generation, KERC regulates tariffs, and Forest Department handles clearances – not project allotments.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: 108 projects were commissioned. Statement 2 is correct: projects in Western Ghats faced clearance hurdles. Statement 3 is incorrect: Karnataka has the highest installed capacity (1284 MW), followed by Himachal Pradesh (1013 MW). Hence option A.

Explanation

The article states that in 2022-2023, under a BJP government, 225 projects were allotted, and 220 were cancelled, leaving only 5 commissioned. This is the highest cancellation count in any period.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions the Centre cleared ₹2,584 crore to facilitate installation of about 1500 MW of small hydro power amid fuel shortage. Options A, C, and D are not mentioned. The new push specifically targets private participation with power purchase agreements.

Explanation

The article states that the ban was imposed by the Union Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas under the Motor Spirit and High Speed Diesel Order, 2026. The other ministries are not involved in fuel supply regulation.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the ban was due to the West Asia conflict. Statement 2 is false: industrial and commercial establishments were barred from buying oil from retail outlets. Statement 3 is false: the relaxation is partial (for critical sectors) and not a complete exemption from all restrictions.

Explanation

The article clearly mentions that a maximum of 200 litres of oil could be sold per customer per day under the ban. The other options are close distractors but not mentioned in the article.

Explanation

CM Adhikari stated that the ban had put farmers, hospitals, and emergency services in extreme distress. The relaxation aims to alleviate that by allowing critical sectors to carry diesel with just an identity card. Other options are not mentioned in the article.