29 June 2026, Questions & Answers

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the UK-India FTA is formally known as the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA). CEPA is a different type of agreement used in other contexts (e.g., India-UAE).

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the article calls it 'the most economically significant trade deal that the U.K. has done since leaving the European Union'. Statement 2 is incorrect: the article states '99% of U.K. tariff lines will be duty-free for Indian products', not the other way around. Statement 3 is correct: the deal includes India's first standalone chapters on anti-corruption, gender, and development.

Explanation

The article states the FTA is forecast to 'increase bilateral trade by £25.5 billion every year in the long run'. £4.8 billion is the projected boost to UK GDP, £5.1 billion is for India's GDP, and £48 billion was the existing bilateral trade in 2025.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that improved customs provisions will 'help goods reach markets faster — particularly valuable for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that cannot afford excessive red tape'. This is a trade facilitation measure, not about revenue generation, IPR, or a common currency.

Explanation

The news explicitly states that the Health Ministry issued the notification to expand Schedule H2 drugs. The other ministries are not directly responsible for drug regulatory frameworks under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article says the Health Ministry expanded Schedule H2 to entire therapeutic classes. Statement 2 is incorrect because the Jan Vishwas Act 2026 actually distinguishes between procedural and substantial non-compliance, considering only the latter as meaningful enforcement. Statement 3 is correct because the article mentions that the new system addresses recurring concerns of US FDA and European Medicines Agency.

Explanation

The article explicitly states 'The government had introduced Schedule H2 in 2022-23'. The other options are close distractors, but 2022-23 is the correct year mentioned in the news.

Explanation

The article states that authorities hope to 'better track down defective batches' and mentions concerns about counterfeit networks targeting vaccines, cancer medicines, and antimicrobials. While MSME compliance is a challenge, it is not the objective. Revenue and patent alignment are not mentioned as primary goals.

Explanation

The article states that the IBGs will be carved out of the Panagarh-based XVII Corps (Mountain Strike Corps) facing China. The other options are distractors: IX Corps was used for test-bedding, XXXIII Corps is not mentioned, and 59 Division is a division under XVII Corps.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: Each IBG will be commanded by a Major General rank officer. Statement 2 is correct: Each IBG will comprise over 5,000 troops with 12-13 units. Statement 3 is incorrect: The concept was test-bedded at IX Corps around 2019, not 2020. Hence only statements 1 and 2 are correct.

Explanation

According to the article, four IBGs and a fire support group will be created under the XVII Mountain Strike Corps. The fire support group is separate, so the correct number of IBGs is 4. Option D (5) would include the fire support group, which is not an IBG.

Explanation

The article emphasises that IBGs are agile and self-contained, allowing rapid deployment in mountainous terrain, eliminating the wait for the entire corps (up to 1 lakh troops) to mobilise. While other options may be benefits, this is the core advantage explicitly stated.

Explanation

The JPC, chaired by PP Chaudhary, was formed after the bills were introduced in Parliament. The HLC (Ram Nath Kovind) submitted the original report, but scrutiny of the legislation is done by the JPC.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect - the JPC is considering partial relaxation, not abolition. Statement 3 is correct - under the appointed date mechanism, complete synchronisation is expected by 2034.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions 'The Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) has had 18 meetings' during the interaction. The other options are distractors.

Explanation

The German model pairs a no-confidence motion with a confidence motion for an alternative government. This prevents premature dissolutions that would disrupt the ONOE calendar. The article states the committee is examining this model to find a 'middle path' and avoid destabilisation.

Explanation

The article mentions the Union Rural Development Ministry notified the draft rules for VB-G RAM G. This ministry oversees rural employment and poverty alleviation programs in India.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article explicitly states VB-G RAM G marks a shift from demand-driven to supply-driven. Statement 2 is incorrect because under VB-G RAM G, states must bear 40% of total expenditure, not 100% Centre funding. Statement 3 is correct as the article mentions a blackout period of 60 non-working days during peak agricultural season.

Explanation

The article states that under VB-G RAM G, a majority of States must bear 40% of the total expenditure. Under MGNREGA, the Centre bore 100% of the wage bill and states paid only a part of the material bill (about 10% of total budget).

Explanation

The article highlights that states like Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, and Jharkhand opposed the shift requiring them to bear 40% of total expenditure, a sharp increase from the ~10% material cost they paid under MGNREGA. This increases the financial burden on state governments.

Explanation

The article states that the decision to launch 112 ERSS was based on the recommendation of the expert committee on the 2012 Delhi bus gangrape case, known as the Justice J S Verma Committee, which included Justice Leila Seth and Gopal Subramanium.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: IBGs are being created from the XVII MSC. Statement 2 is incorrect: each IBG is commanded by a Major General, not a Brigadier (Brigadier is Chief Operations Officer). Statement 3 is correct: the article mentions IBGs can carry out both offensive and defensive roles. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that only five states and Union Territories — Delhi, Kerala, Gujarat, Haryana and Lakshadweep — have integrated all emergency helpline numbers into the 112 NERS. The other options are distractors; 16 states have partial integration, and 10 have none.

Explanation

The article quotes PM Modi saying 'Our vision is to make the Indian Ocean an Ocean of Opportunity' and emphasizes partnership based on mutual respect and trust, not size. MAHASAGAR builds on SAGAR and focuses on security, sustainability, and prosperity for all, not dominance or countering any specific country.

Explanation

The article repeatedly mentions MoSPI as the nodal ministry responsible for the statistical system, including GDP, CPI, and surveys. The PMO acted as a catalyst, but MoSPI remains the implementing body.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: PK Mishra is Principal Secretary to PM Modi. Statement 2 is incorrect; the article states the survey was junked due to data quality issues, not budget constraints. Statement 3 is correct: the meeting involved MoSPI, NITI Aayog, and the World Bank.

Explanation

As per the article, discussions in the PMO started in January 2020 with a meeting involving MoSPI, NITI Aayog, and the World Bank. The decision for an in-depth analysis was taken in July 2023, and further issues were identified in September 2023.

Explanation

The article quotes Mishra: administrative data should become a 'strategic national asset' to help in timely evidence-based decision-making, improve programme design, and enhance service delivery. It is meant to complement surveys, not replace them entirely.

Explanation

The article explicitly references the Corfu Channel case of 1949, which ruled that where a strait connects two parts of the high seas and is used for international navigation, ships enjoy unrestricted passage during peacetime so long as security is not threatened.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the article states the Strait of Hormuz is generally considered an 'international strait'. Statement 2 is incorrect: Iran signed but never ratified UNCLOS. Statement 3 is correct: the article mentions Iran's 1993 law allows suspension and prior authorisation.

Explanation

The article explicitly states the Corfu Channel case was of 1949. Option 1945 is too early; 1952 and 1960 are later and incorrect.

Explanation

The article explains that Iran uses the persistent objector argument because it consistently objected to transit passage as customary law, and its 1993 law allows suspension and prior authorisation. The Strait is not solely Iranian territory (shared with Oman), and Iran has not ratified UNCLOS.

Explanation

The article specifically mentions the 'United Nations Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Occupied Palestinian Territory, headed by former Orissa High Court Chief Justice S Muralidhar' as the body that released the report. The UN Human Rights Council established this Commission, but the Commission itself issued the report.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the report accused Israel of 'deliberately targeting children'. Statement 2 is correct: those numbers are directly from the article. Statement 3 is incorrect: Israel released an 18-page rebuttal but 'did not deny the evidence' and 'did not claim the soldiers' videos were fake' according to the article. Hence only statements 1 and 2 are correct.

Explanation

The article explicitly states 'left over 58,000 children orphaned, said the report.' 20,179 is the number killed, 44,143 is the number injured, and 6,000 is the number of French nationals serving in Israeli forces mentioned later in the article. The correct figure for orphans is 58,000.

Explanation

The article quotes: 'We are also urging countries that supply arms to Israel – and India exports small arms to Israel – to cease doing so... The supplying country cannot escape the charge of aiding and abetting war crimes.' This makes option B correct. Options A, C, and D are not stated in the article.

Explanation

The article mentions Transport Secretary and Commissioner Niharika Rai announcing details of the policy, indicating the Transport Department as the implementing body under the Delhi government. The policy relates to vehicle registration, which falls under state transport departments.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the article clearly states that after March 31, 2028, every new two-wheeler sold in Delhi must be electric. Statement 2 is incorrect: the draft had proposed a 50% exemption for strong hybrids, but the final policy excluded it. Statement 3 is correct: the scrapping incentive for BS-IV or older two-wheelers is ₹10,000.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: 'two-wheelers constitute approximately 67% of the total vehicle stock in Delhi'. 46% is the contribution of two- and three-wheelers to vehicular pollution load, while 33% is the contribution of commercial goods vehicles. 80% is the share of N1 category among commercial goods vehicles.

Explanation

The article quotes Chief Minister Rekha Gupta describing the policy as a major step towards making Delhi pollution-free by March 31, 2030. The policy targets a rapid transition to EVs in two- and three-wheeler segments, which contribute heavily to pollution. Options A and D are not mentioned; option B is a possible side effect but not the primary objective.

Explanation

The news mentions Union Jal Shakti Minister C.R. Patil was present at the MoU signing, indicating that the Ministry of Jal Shakti is the nodal ministry for the Upper Yamuna River Board and implementation of the agreement.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect because Uttarakhand was included in the MoU after its creation in 2000, not at its inception in 1994. Statement 2 is correct as the article mentions an underground pipeline from Hathnikund Barrage. Statement 3 is correct as Union Home Minister Amit Shah chaired the meeting.

Explanation

The article clearly states the UYRB agreement was signed in 1994. 2000 is the year Uttarakhand was created and included later. 2024 is when the CMs met to prepare DPR. 2026 is when the MoU was signed to implement the agreement.

Explanation

The article emphasizes that the MoU implements a long-pending water sharing agreement and will provide drinking water to drought-prone districts like Churu, Sikar, Jhunjhunu in Rajasthan. Other options are not mentioned in the news.

Explanation

The article states that the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) released detailed implementation guidelines for the three-language policy in its affiliated schools. NCERT is involved in providing textbooks, but the guidelines were issued by CBSE.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the article explicitly says 'The existing Class 10 batch will continue under the old two-language system'. Statement 2 is incorrect: Class 9 students' third language will be assessed through internal school-based assessment only, not a CBSE Board exam. Statement 3 is correct: the guidelines provide a special one-time relaxation for students studying two non-native languages – they can continue both and add one Bhartiya Bhasha as R3. Hence, both 1 and 3 are correct.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions 'NCERT has already prepared dedicated R3 textbooks for Class 6 in 22 scheduled Bhartiya Bhashas, which is available at ncert.nic.in'. The other numbers are distractors; 22 corresponds to the number of Eighth Schedule languages.

Explanation

The article repeatedly emphasises that the policy requires at least two of the three languages to be Bhartiya Bhashas, and that a non-native language can be taken only if the other two are already Indian. This is the core objective – promoting native Indian languages. Option C is wrong because English is optional as a non-native third language; it is not compulsory. Option A and D are not supported by the article.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: 'The Cabinet Secretariat constituted the High-Level Committee on Non-Financial Regulatory Reforms (HLC-NFRR) under Gauba on August 19, 2025.' The PMO, NITI Aayog, and Ministry of Finance are not mentioned as the constituting body.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article says PM concludes his official visit to Seychelles Monday and heads into the briefing on Tuesday. Statement 2 is incorrect: the committee is 'non-financial' regulatory reforms, not financial. Statement 3 is incorrect: the article states each secretary gets a strict three-minute window, not five.

Explanation

The article states: 'The Cabinet Secretariat constituted the High-Level Committee on Non-Financial Regulatory Reforms (HLC-NFRR) under Gauba on August 19, 2025.' The other dates are distractors: May 21 is the joint meeting, June 29 is the article publication, and August 19, 2024 is not mentioned.

Explanation

The article repeatedly mentions that the deregulation reforms aim to improve 'ease of doing business' and 'ease of living.' Revenue generation, secretarial reduction, or Finance Commission are not the focus. The goal is to create a trust-based regulatory framework for the 21st century.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the Bill's preventive detention provision is similar to the National Security Act, 1980, which allows detention for up to 12 months without trial to maintain public order.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the Bill allows a police officer of rank DIG or above to issue externment orders. Statement 2 is correct: one of the definitions of 'goonda' is a person charge-sheeted under BNS sections 111 or 112. Statement 3 is incorrect: the Bill criminalises harbouring such persons, but the article does not specify it as non-cognisable; it says offences under the Bill are proposed to be cognisable and non-bailable.

Explanation

The article states that the order can prohibit a person from entering or returning to a specified area for a period not exceeding one year.

Explanation

The Bill allows preventive detention for up to 12 months without formal charges or trial, which raises concerns about violation of personal liberty and due process, similar to the NSA.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the Strait of Hormuz is the world’s most important energy shipping route. The other options are other significant maritime chokepoints but not mentioned in this news.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article: the MOU was signed on 17 June. Statement 2 is incorrect – the article says Iran launched missiles at US bases in Kuwait but Kuwait intercepted them, no damage reported; damage in Bahrain was to a residential building but not to a US installation. Statement 3 is correct: a Qatari national died due to shrapnel aboard a vessel.

Explanation

The article refers to a '14-point memorandum of understanding' signed on 17 June. The other numbers are distractors not mentioned in the article.

Explanation

The article states the MOU was 'originally designed to halt fighting that the US and Israel began on February 28, and to reopen the Strait of Hormuz while negotiations continued on Iran’s nuclear programme and other outstanding issues.' Option B is wrong because it is an interim accord, not permanent. Options C and D are not the primary objective.

Explanation

Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority (YEIDA) is the nodal agency under the Uttar Pradesh government, and the project is part of its Master Plan 2041.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per article: 'one of four major urban nodes planned by YEIDA'. Statement 2 is incorrect: the area is 4,000 hectares (10,000 acres), not 10,000 hectares. Statement 3 is correct: article lists food processing, dairy, glass beads, brass jewellery as industrial clusters.

Explanation

The article explicitly states 'more than 10,000 registered MSME units' in Hathras's existing industrial base.

Explanation

The article states that the location within the airport's catchment area, along with connectivity via Yamuna Expressway, is expected to attract manufacturing and logistics investments. The project aims to build on the existing MSME base and ODOP industries with export-oriented infrastructure.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation released the IIP data. This ministry is responsible for compilation and dissemination of economic statistics including IIP, CPI, and GDP estimates.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect because the article attributes the electricity sector growth to a 'delayed monsoon and higher temperatures,' not early monsoon. Statement 3 is correct as the article states that WPI was replaced by PPI. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article clearly states that the manufacturing sector grew by 5.5% in May 2026. 4.2% was the growth in May last year, 6.1% was the April 2026 figure, and 7.2% is the consumer durables growth rate. These are common distractors.

Explanation

The article states that the Ministry decided to discontinue the use of WPI in the measurement of 'some value-based outputs' and adopted PPI 'for the purpose.' Options A and B are not explicitly mentioned in the article, so only C is supported by the given text.

Explanation

The article states that the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) issued the revised guidelines. NCERT is a curriculum development body, CISCE is another board, NIOS is for open schooling – only CBSE is directly involved here.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the relaxation is for current Classes 7,8,9. Statement 2 is incorrect: the original May circular mandated two Indian languages, not foreign languages. Statement 3 is correct: students can keep two foreign languages and add one Indian language. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

As per the news, the revised guidelines apply to the 'current batches of Classes 7, 8, and 9'. Options A, C, D are incorrect as they exclude or include wrong grades.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that parents of students studying foreign languages (French, German, etc.) protested the abrupt mid‑session switch, leading CBSE to revise its circular. The other options are not mentioned in the news.

Explanation

NTCA is the statutory body established under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 for tiger conservation. WII is an autonomous research institute, Project Tiger is a scheme, and Central Zoo Authority deals with zoos.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: first reintroduction was in Sariska (2008) from Ranthambore. Statement 2 is correct: Satkosia had zero tigers in 2026 despite starting in 2018. Statement 3 is correct: population increased 658% from 38 to 288.

Explanation

The report states that the current population of tigers across the 12 reserves analysed is 288, which is 658% more than the initial 38. 56 is Sariska's count, 38 is the baseline, and 658% is the percentage increase, not the number.

Explanation

The report explicitly states that challenges included adaptation difficulties, human-tiger conflict, livestock depredation, and negative local responses. The area had sufficient forest cover and historical tiger presence, and genetics weren't cited as the issue.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the Commerce Ministry issued the statement and the control list. The Ministry of Commerce is responsible for export controls and trade regulations in China.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect because only 20 entities are on the control list, not all 40. The other 20 are on a watch list with conditional restrictions. Statement 2 is correct: the watch list includes Mitsui E&S and requires licences, risk assessments, and pledges. Statement 3 is correct as per the Chinese Commerce Ministry statement.

Explanation

The article clearly states that 20 entities were placed on a watch list, and another 20 on a control list, totalling 40. Option A (20) matches the watch list count. Options B and C are distractors.

Explanation

The Chinese Commerce Ministry statement explicitly said the measures are aimed at deterring Japan's 'reckless pursuit of new militarism.' The article links this to Japan's missile deployments, revised defence documents, and stance on Taiwan. The other options are not mentioned in the article.

Explanation

The article states that HBM chips are produced by stacking multiple layers of DRAM and are pivotal in the global race to build advanced AI systems. SRAM, NAND Flash, and EEPROM are other types of memory but not mentioned in this context.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article says 'over $576 billion'. Statement 2 is incorrect because the new fabrication sites are in the southwestern region, not the Seoul metropolitan area. Statement 3 is correct: the industry minister said the country will double DRAM output within five years. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: 'Samsung and SK Hynix will invest 800 trillion won ($518.30 billion) with suppliers to build two new chip fabrication sites each in South Korea's southwest region.' The other options are different amounts mentioned in the article for other components.

Explanation

The article states that President Lee's plan aims to align South Korea's AI and chip ambitions with his pledge to narrow regional disparities and revive economies beyond the Seoul metropolitan area. While cost may be a factor, the primary stated objective is regional balance.

Explanation

Deepak Parekh delivered the speech at the annual general meeting of the Indian Merchants' Chamber (IMC), as mentioned in the article. IMC is one of the oldest chambers of commerce in India.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: Parekh called for further consolidation among PSU banks. Statement 2 is incorrect: he advocated for raising, not lowering, FDI limits. Statement 3 is correct: he said the corporate bond market (18% of GDP) needs to double. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article quotes Parekh: 'India faces a housing shortage estimated at 30 million units just over the next five years.' The annual supply is only around 600,000 units, creating a large gap.

Explanation

Parekh emphasized the need for a more diversified investor base and deeper markets to meet India's investment requirements. Cross-border securitisation and credit default swaps are tools to attract foreign capital and enhance market depth, not directly to reduce government borrowing or stock liquidity.

Explanation

The article states that Niharika Rai, principal secretary and commissioner of Delhi's Transport Department, announced the policy details, indicating the Transport Department is the nodal agency.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect because the policy dropped hybrid incentives and only provides 100% waiver for pure EVs. Statement 2 is correct: from April 1, 2028 only electric two-wheelers will be registered. Statement 3 is correct: the policy waives entry fee for the first 1,000 electric N2 trucks bought within three months.

Explanation

CM Rekha Gupta stated the government will spend Rs 15,000 crore on incentives and strengthening charging infrastructure. The other options are distractors.

Explanation

The article quotes that two- and three-wheelers contribute 46% of vehicular pollution in Delhi. The ban is a direct measure to cut emissions from that segment, with the CM stating the policy aims to reduce air pollution and make Delhi a smart city.

Explanation

The news explicitly mentions NHSRCL as the corporation inviting bids for design consultancy. NHSRCL is a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) formed for implementing high-speed rail corridors in India, including the Mumbai-Ahmedabad corridor and the new expansion corridors.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the article lists Chennai, Whitefield and Baiyappanahalli as underground stations for the Bengaluru-Chennai corridor. Statement 2 is incorrect: the Delhi-Varanasi corridor has only one underground station at Jewar, not Delhi and Varanasi. Statement 3 is correct: the article states the seven corridors will span around 4,000 route km.

Explanation

The article explicitly states the 14.79-km mountain tunnel through the Kaundinya Wildlife Sanctuary. 3.87 km is the Chennai Terminal approach tunnel, 15.92 km is the Bengaluru Terminal approach tunnel, and 34.58 km is approximately the sum of all three tunnels, not a single tunnel length.

Explanation

The article states that to take up a large volume of work at a fast pace, NHSRCL decided to adopt the best design and construction practices from MAHSR. Standardisation reduces duplication, speeds up procurement, and ensures consistent quality. Reducing travel time (option A) is an outcome, not the objective of standardization. Options C and D are not mentioned.

Explanation

IIP is compiled and released by the National Statistical Office (NSO) under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI). The article specifically mentions MoSPI as the releasing authority.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct – IIP grew 5.1% (5-month high) and electricity jumped 11.1%. Statement 2 is incorrect – manufacturing growth actually slowed from 6.1% in April to 5.5% in May. Statement 3 is correct as per the article: MoSPI replaced WPI with OPPI for 234 items.

Explanation

The article clearly states: 'electricity generation from renewable sources jumped 18% while that from non-renewable sources increased by 8.8%, leading to overall electricity production rising by 11.1%'. Option A (8.8%) is non-renewable growth, option B (11.1%) is total electricity, option D (20.8%) is electrical equipment growth.

Explanation

The article mentions that this change 'has led to material changes in growth across segments such as manufacturing and is also likely to lead to revisions in the GDP data.' Option A is wrong because item count is unchanged (the same 463 items). Option C is about base year change, not deflation change. Option D is not mentioned.

Explanation

The article states that the CJI was addressing an event organized by the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA) in Sweden. This is the specific organizing body mentioned.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect because the CJI explicitly said judicial review is a duty and responsibility, not merely a power. Statement 2 is correct as per the article. Statement 3 is correct – he used the story of King Prahlada to emphasize judicial impartiality.

Explanation

The article is published on June 29, 2026, and states 'CJI said on Monday' – that Monday corresponds to June 29, 2026. The date is clearly mentioned in the metadata as 2026-06-29.

Explanation

The CJI explicitly stated that 'the greatest safeguard to ensuring that these two pillars fulfil their duty lies in an independent Judiciary'. This directly links to the core theme of the speech.

Explanation

The Tungabhadra Board was established under the Inter-State River Water Disputes Act to manage sharing and releases from the Tungabhadra dam among Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect: the Centre made a provision of ₹5,300 crore in the 2023-24 budget but later did not include it under any scheme. Statement 3 is correct: Andhra Pradesh and Telangana view it as an irritant.

Explanation

The article states that the original storage capacity was 133 tmc ft, which has now reduced to about 106 tmc ft due to excessive siltation.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions that siltation has reduced the dam's storage from 133 tmc ft to 106 tmc ft. While gate replacement was needed, the longer-term issue is silt accumulation, which the Centre plans to address across reservoirs.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the Vision SoC was funded under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology's (Meity) Design Linked Incentive scheme. This is a nodal ministry for semiconductor policies.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: Mindgrove Technologies is headquartered at IIT Madras Research Park. Statement 2 is incorrect: the MoU covers CCTV surveillance cameras and advanced video security systems. Statement 3 is correct: the Vision SoC is its second chip. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article clearly mentions that the Vision SoC was funded under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology's (Meity) Design Linked Incentive scheme. PLI is a manufacturing scheme, not for design.

Explanation

The article states that the collaboration strengthens efforts to reduce reliance on imported chipsets in sensitive domains such as security and surveillance. This is the core objective, while other options are not mentioned.

Explanation

External humanitarian aid and disaster relief missions are coordinated by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), often in conjunction with the Ministry of Defence for logistics. The news mentions External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar announcing the arrival of aid, confirming MEA's lead role.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: Operation Amistad was launched for quake-hit Venezuela. Statement 2 is correct: Two IAF C-17s were used. Statement 3 is correct: The article states the death toll rose to 1,430 on June 28. Hence option D is correct.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions the aircraft carried 66 tonnes of humanitarian aid. 55, 75, and 80 tonnes are close distractors used to test attention to exact figures.

Explanation

The article and IAF tweet highlight India's capability as a 'responsible first responder and a reliable humanitarian partner'. The mission was purely humanitarian, not military or economic, and reflects India's soft power diplomacy under the 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' ethos.

Explanation

Pope Leo XIV's encyclical 'Magnifica Humanitas' grounds the crisis in theological human dignity and calls for binding law over AI. The other encyclicals deal with environment, fraternity, and social charity respectively.

Explanation

Statement 2 correctly reflects Tharoor's first pillar. Statement 1 is false because he argues AI governance cannot remain merely regulatory or technical but must be constitutional. Statement 3 is opposite of his call to remove safe-harbour immunities.

Explanation

Tharoor explicitly outlines five pillars: rights-based framework, democratic accountability, free speech protection, media literacy, and early warning systems. The other options are distractors.

Explanation

Tharoor advocates for sophisticated, cross-sector early-warning systems leveraging advanced detection tools and collaboration with fact-checkers and ethical hackers, to neutralise foreign information warfare campaigns.

Explanation

The Sarkaria Commission was set up in 1983 to examine the working of Centre-state relations and suggest improvements. The article mentions its establishment amid the federal transition post-Emergency.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the article states the Emergency provided the exceptional concentration of power to secure compliance. Statement 2 is incorrect: the agreement was in 1976, not 1977. Statement 3 is correct: disputes are ongoing before the Second Krishna Water Disputes Tribunal.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions that the Telugu Ganga agreement took shape in 1976, under the Emergency.

Explanation

The article explains that after the Emergency, leaders like NTR used the project to build alliances and challenge central dominance, making it a tool for regional assertion.

Explanation

Under Article 324 of the Constitution, the Election Commission of India has superintendence, direction, and control over the preparation of electoral rolls for all elections to Parliament and State Legislatures. The article specifically mentions this constitutional mandate in the context of SIR.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article states existing electors are being asked to submit fresh enumeration forms for the first time. Statement 2 is false – the ECI clarified that Aadhaar is not sufficient on its own and is not accepted as standalone proof. Statement 3 is correct as the article mentions the last Intensive Revision of Special Nature in Karnataka was in 2002–03.

Explanation

The article explicitly states 'the pattern from SIR conducted in other States, barring the notable exception of Kerala, shows that around 10-12% of names were deleted from the electoral rolls.' This is a key data point for prelims. The other options are distractors not mentioned in the article.

Explanation

The article explains that 'progeny mapping' is used for those who were below 18 years of age or were not yet born when Karnataka last underwent SIR in 2002. Officials seek to link present voter records with electoral records of parents or immediate family members to establish continuity. This is a factual application of the concept.

Explanation

NATO's core principle is collective defence under Article 5, meaning an attack on one member is considered an attack on all. This is explicitly stated in the alliance's founding treaty, making it a security-focused organisation.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: German FM Wadephul said he and Mr. Rubio will discuss at a meeting in Washington. Statement 2 is incorrect: the article explicitly says they will discuss 'how we can achieve a new burden-sharing arrangement...and secure stable, long-term support for Ukraine', so Ukraine support is included. Statement 3 is correct: the article mentions 'next week's NATO summit in Ankara'. Hence option D is correct.

Explanation

The article states that Mr. Wadephul said this on Monday, June 29, 2026. The publication date and the update both confirm June 29 as the date of the statement.

Explanation

The article quotes Wadephul saying the support will 'make Moscow realise that it is finally time to end the killing in Ukraine and come to the negotiating table'. This directly states the goal of pressuring Russia toward peace negotiations.

Explanation

The Patna High Court, presided over by Justice Ansul, issued the order on June 24, 2026, in a petition filed by Rishu Shree. The court directed all media platforms to refrain from using guilt-imputing language before a judicial determination of guilt.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect because the court explicitly stated it was not in favour of a media gag and allowed factual reporting. Statement 2 is correct as the court prohibited guilt-imputing expressions. Statement 3 is incorrect because the order applies to all platforms including print, electronic, digital, and social media.

Explanation

The Patna High Court passed the order on June 24, 2026. June 29, 2026 is the publication date of the article. April 30, 2025 is the date of FIR registration, and May 27, 2026 is the date of the petitioner's arrest.

Explanation

The court balanced the freedom of the press under Article 19(1)(a) with the accused's right to a fair trial under Article 21. It allowed factual reporting but prohibited language that pre-judges guilt, thereby preventing 'trial by media' while upholding press freedom.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that CTARA is at IIT Bombay, established in 1985 as a research hub and later launching its M.Tech in 2007. IIT Delhi, Madras, and Hyderabad run other interdisciplinary programs but not CTARA.

Explanation

Statement 1 is wrong: the program admits engineering graduates AND medical graduates (MBBS, Ayurveda, Homeopathy). Statement 2 is correct: clinical immersion is a central feature at partner hospitals. Statement 3 is correct: the M.Tech in Mobility Engineering is anchored in Mechanical Engineering but also integrates other fields.

Explanation

The article mentions that India relies on importing nearly 80% of its medical devices, which motivated IIT Hyderabad to start the Center for Healthcare Entrepreneurship and the M.Tech in Medical Device Innovation.

Explanation

The article narrates Priyanka Gorade's experience: she faced language barriers and realized that technology solutions must consider local beliefs and ground realities. The purpose is to sensitize engineers to social and cultural contexts, not just to collect data or sell products.

Explanation

The article repeatedly refers to the 'Health Ministry' leading the revised AMB programme. The scheme falls under the ambit of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, which oversees national health programmes including nutrition interventions.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: low birth weight newborns are a new beneficiary group. Statement 2 is incorrect: JANANI captures data for pregnant women; children's data goes through RBSK and U-WIN portals. Statement 3 is correct: the article highlights a comprehensive lifecycle approach to prevent anaemia at every stage.

Explanation

The article specifically states that anaemia affects about 67.1% of children aged 6–59 months. The other options are for adolescent girls (59.1%), women (52.2%), and adolescent boys (31.1%) respectively.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that anaemia creates an intergenerational cycle and that breaking it requires interventions at every stage rather than waiting until pregnancy. The lifecycle approach aims to prevent anaemia before it starts, improving maternal and child health outcomes.

Explanation

The article explicitly calls UNCLOS the 'Constitution of the Oceans'. It defines maritime zones and navigational rights, including transit passage. Even non-parties (like the U.S.) are bound by its customary law provisions.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: IHL protects civilians and civilian objects at sea. Statement 2 is incorrect – the traditional view holds that commercial exports do not become military objectives merely because they generate revenue; the oil must make an effective contribution to military action. Statement 3 is correct: the San Remo Manual (para 67) lists contraband and blockade as grounds for attack after warning.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that three Indians – the chief engineer, an engine fitter, and a deck cadet – were killed aboard the Settebello. Other tankers (Marivex and Jalveer) had no casualties.

Explanation

The article states that under the doctrine of diplomatic protection, India has standing to espouse claims arising from injuries to its citizens caused by an internationally wrongful act. This allows India to demand explanations, compensation, and an independent investigation. Other options are not mentioned or not the primary remedy.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that CBSE issued the circular and press statement. NCERT is responsible for curriculum and textbooks, but CBSE is the examination board that implements the policy for its affiliated schools.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the article says the current batch of Class 10 will not have to follow the new language policy. Statement 2 is incorrect: for Class 9 (current batch), the third language will be assessed by the school through internal school-based assessment only, not by CBSE board examination. Statement 3 is correct: exemptions for CwSN are granted as per the RPwD Act, 2016.

Explanation

The article states: 'The dedicated R3 textbooks for Class 6 in 22 Scheduled Bhartiya Bhashas are being made available on www.ncert.nic.in'. The Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution lists 22 scheduled languages.

Explanation

CBSE stated that these guidelines are issued to align with NEP 2020 while protecting student interests. The relaxation addresses the disruption faced by students who had already taken two foreign languages and were asked to switch mid-session. The board emphasized 'joyful, meaningful language learning, not on examination.'

Explanation

The article explicitly states 'Delhi Cabinet approves new EV policy'. The Delhi Cabinet is the executive decision-making body of the Delhi government, responsible for approving major policies.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the policy is effective July 1, 2026 to March 31, 2030. Statement 2 is incorrect: the purchase incentives for two-wheelers are ₹30,000 in the first year, ₹20,000 in the second, and ₹10,000 in the third (the amounts given are for three-wheelers). Statement 3 is correct: the article mentions a dedicated online portal will be developed. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article specifies purchase incentives for three-wheelers: ₹50,000 in the first year, ₹40,000 in the second, and ₹30,000 in the third. ₹30,000 is the first year incentive for two-wheelers, not three-wheelers. ₹40,000 is the second year incentive for three-wheelers. ₹60,000 is not mentioned.

Explanation

The article states that 33% of pollution is from commercial goods vehicles and 46% from two-wheelers and three-wheelers. The policy specifically targets these segments to convert them to EV, directly aiming to reduce pollution. Revenue, foreign investment, and employment are secondary benefits, not the primary objective highlighted.