30 June 2026, Questions & Answers

Explanation

Article 44 is a Directive Principle of State Policy in Part IV of the Constitution. It states: 'The State shall endeavour to secure for the citizens a Uniform Civil Code throughout the territory of India.' Article 14 deals with equality, Article 21 with life and personal liberty, and Article 368 with the amendment of the Constitution.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect because Scheduled Tribes (as defined under Article 366(25) read with Article 342) are explicitly exempt from the UCCs to protect their customary laws. Statement 2 is correct: all three Codes prohibit nikah halala and provide that remarrying a divorced spouse must be without any condition of marrying a third person. Statement 3 is correct: all three Codes explicitly recognise every child born out of a live-in relationship as legitimate.

Explanation

The three UCCs prescribe that partners who cohabit for more than one month without submitting the required statement to the Registrar may face imprisonment for up to three months, a fine of up to ₹10,000, or both. Options A, C, and D are incorrect as they do not match the penalty framework outlined in the article.

Explanation

The article cites S. Khushboo v. Kanniammal (2010) where the Supreme Court held that morality and criminality are not synonymous and that live-in relationships should not be associated with criminality. The UCCs prescribe criminal penalties for non-registration, raising questions under Article 21 (personal liberty, dignity, and autonomy). This is a classic tension between state regulatory power and fundamental rights, not a direct conflict between Articles 14 and 15 or between Directive Principles and Fundamental Duties.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the rocket force must be placed under the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) to ensure operational effectiveness and jointmanship among the three services.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article mentions China has deployed more than 200 conventional missile launchers opposite India. Statement 2 is incorrect because DF-26 is a dual-role missile suited to hit high-value targets in depth, not primarily border targets (DF-15B, DF-16, DF-21C are for border targets). Statement 3 is correct as hypersonic missiles DF-100 and CJ-1000 can hit deeper with no launch warning.

Explanation

The article states that the two missile bases located at Korla and Kunming can fire a range of conventional missiles including DF-15B, DF-16, DF-21C, and DF-26. These bases are opposite India.

Explanation

The article argues that without a rocket force, India would have to absorb a Chinese missile strike. With one, both sides get hurt, creating mutual vulnerability. This deters China from launching a conventional missile campaign, as India can inflict comparable damage below the nuclear threshold.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions Aadhaar and UPI as examples of India's DPI successes. DigiLocker is a well-known DPI component. Reliance Jio is a private telecom operator that benefited from the DPI ecosystem but is not itself a DPI platform.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article proposes free tokens for top 100 R&D institutions and 5,000 schools. Statement 2 is incorrect; the estimated cost is $2 billion, not $49 billion (which is the total current subsidy spend). Statement 3 is correct as the article recommends a 40:30:30 hardware mix.

Explanation

The article states that UPI handles 50% of the world's real-time digital payments. This is a key data point highlighting the scale and success of India's DPI.

Explanation

The article explicitly warns against NVIDIA's 80%+ control of AI training hardware, calling it a 'deep vendor lock-in' that is both financially and strategically costly. The 40:30:30 mix is proposed to build 'sovereign AI infrastructure' and reduce dependence on any single ecosystem, not just for cost or speed.

Explanation

The article specifically mentions 'the latest report of the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM)' that estimates vehicular emissions contribute around 23% of Delhi's PM2.5 pollution during winter. While TERI, IIT Kanpur, and SAFAR have also conducted related studies, the 23% figure is from the CAQM report.

Explanation

All statements are directly from the article. Statement 1: The CAQM report notes two-wheelers constitute nearly 67% of Delhi's vehicle stock. Statement 2: The TERI draft report identified three-wheelers as the largest source of VOCs. Statement 3: The article states electric two-wheelers made up only about 7.5% of total annual two-wheeler registrations in 2025 and 2024.

Explanation

The image caption in the article states 'Delhi mandates all new 2-wheelers be electric from '28'. This is the year from which the mandate will apply. The overall policy target of 30% fleet electrification is by March 31, 2030.

Explanation

The article repeatedly emphasizes that two-wheelers account for 67% of the vehicle stock, so their rapid electrification is essential. While emission intensity is also a factor, the primary argument is the sheer number. The policy also targets high-mileage commercial vehicles, but the two-wheeler focus is due to their dominance in the vehicle mix.

Explanation

The Supreme Court judgment specifically dealt with Section 17 of the ITPA, which empowers magistrates to order protective custody of rescued persons. The Court held that this section cannot be applied mechanically without considering the consent of adult sex workers.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the Court ruled that consent is paramount. Statement 2 is incorrect because the Court explicitly rejected the 'one-size-fits-all' approach. Statement 3 is correct as the judgment explicitly references the Budhadev Karmaskar (2022) judgment.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the judgment was delivered on May 29, 2026. Option A is a year earlier, option C is the date of the news article, and option D is a close distractor.

Explanation

The Victim Protection Plan, prepared at the behest of Senior Advocate Aparna Bhat, aims to protect the rights of trafficking victims while ensuring that rehabilitation is not imposed coercively on consenting adults. The judgment emphasizes dignity and agency.

Explanation

The article specifically mentions SIPRI's annual yearbook. SIPRI is an independent institute based in Sweden that conducts research on conflict, armaments, and disarmament. The IAEA focuses on peaceful nuclear energy, UNODA is a UN body, and Carnegie is a think tank. Hence, option B is correct.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article – SIPRI classified 12 warheads as operationally deployed for the first time. Statement 2 is incorrect because the article explicitly states that India has not abandoned its 'no first use' policy. Statement 3 is correct as the article notes that this development comes amid a broader global trend of nuclear modernisation and weakening arms-control frameworks. Therefore, option C is correct.

Explanation

The article clearly states 'for the first time, it classified 12 of India’s estimated stockpile of 190 nuclear warheads to be operationally deployed.' Option A (10) is a close distractor; option C (15) is not mentioned; option D (190) is the total estimated stockpile, not the deployed number. Hence, option B is correct.

Explanation

The article explains that the new classification does not represent a policy shift or an increase in total warheads. Instead, it reflects the maturation of India’s second-strike capability, largely due to canisterised Agni-series missiles. Options A, B, and D are not supported by the article. Therefore, option C is correct.

Explanation

The article mentions Union Minister for Electronics and IT Ashwini Vaishnaw's statements regarding ISM 2.0, confirming MeitY as the nodal ministry. The Finance Ministry's EFC clears the outlay but does not implement the mission.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: ISM 2.0 outlay ₹1.25 lakh crore > ISM 1.0 ₹76,000 crore. Statement 2 is incorrect: among the 12 projects, only one is a fabrication unit, not two. Statement 3 is correct: 105 companies have been assisted with advanced chip design tools.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: 'As many as 12 semiconductor manufacturing projects have been approved with an investment pipeline of about ₹1.64 lakh crore'. ₹1.25 lakh crore is the outlay for ISM 2.0, and ₹76,000 crore is for ISM 1.0.

Explanation

The article quotes the government's stance that ISM 2.0 aims to promote the chip manufacturing ecosystem including equipment, materials, indigenous intellectual property and resilient supply chains. Options A, C, and D are not mentioned or are exaggerated.

Explanation

TEU stands for Twenty-foot Equivalent Unit, a standard measure of container capacity. One TEU represents the volume of a standard 20-foot container. Port capacities and vessel sizes are expressed in TEUs, as used in the article describing Vizhinjam's capacity.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: Vizhinjam is India's first deep-draft mega transshipment port. Statement 2 is incorrect: MSC acquired a 49% stake, not 100%. Statement 3 is correct: the port has a natural draft of 18–20 meters, as mentioned in the article. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article states that TiL will invest US$1.397 billion, representing its proportionate 49% share of the total $2.85 billion valuation. Options B, C, and D are distractors: $2.85 billion is the total valuation, $1.6 billion and $1.0 billion are not mentioned.

Explanation

India previously relied on transshipment ports in Colombo, Singapore, and others due to lack of deep-draft capacity. Vizhinjam, as a deep-draft hub, allows Indian cargo to be transshipped domestically, reducing costs and delays. The article highlights its strategic location and ability to capture Bangladesh cargo, reinforcing this objective.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the conviction and death sentence were under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act of 2012, which provides for stringent punishments including death for aggravated penetrative sexual assault.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the court confirmed the death sentence under POCSO. Statement 2 is incorrect because the victims were aged 6, 7, and 8 years, not 5,6,7. Statement 3 is correct as the judges referred to the 1992 SC verdict in Madan Gopal Kakkad vs Naval Dubey. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article clearly states that the judgment was delivered on Tuesday, June 30, 2026. The trial court had imposed the death sentence on March 12, 2026, which is a distractor. So the correct date is June 30, 2026.

Explanation

The judges explicitly stated that this case stood as the 'tragic epitome' of the rarest of rare exception, where the crime was devoid of human conscience and involved systematic terrorization of young children. They emphasized the need to send a message of deterrence and restore moral order, not vengeance.

Explanation

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) handles India's foreign policy and bilateral relations, including the India-Japan Annual Summit. The article mentions the MEA announcing the visit, confirming its role.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the partnership was elevated in 2014 during PM Modi and PM Abe's summit. Statement 2 is correct: the Act East Forum focuses on connectivity and development in Northeast India. Statement 3 is correct: the article explicitly states Japan is the only country with such a dedicated mechanism.

Explanation

The article specifically states bilateral trade reached $27.5 billion in 2025-26. The other options are close distractors: $25.5B and $30.2B are not mentioned, while $32.0B is a plausible but incorrect figure.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that India-Japan relations provide a strategic and economic counterweight to China's growing dominance in the region. While cultural exchanges and tourism are secondary benefits, the core strategic objective is geopolitical balancing, especially through the Quad and defence cooperation.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions the Doctrine of Discovery as the idea that the first European nation to 'discover' a territory acquired exclusive rights over it, disregarding the rights of indigenous inhabitants already living there. The other options are different colonial doctrines: Doctrine of Lapse (annexation of princely states), Doctrine of Paramountcy (British supremacy), and Doctrine of Escheat (property reverting to state).

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article lists these components. Statement 2 is incorrect because the numbers are swapped: the project requires 73 sq km of tribal reserve areas, and 77 sq km of compensatory peripheral land is provided. Statement 3 is correct as the article states the Shompen are fewer than 300 and are the world's only population of this indigenous group.

Explanation

The article states that since the arrival of British settlers in the 1850s, the Great Andamanese population fell from an estimated 35,000-60,000 to fewer than 650 in just five decades. Today, less than 100 survive on Strait Island. The other options are close distractors but incorrect.

Explanation

The article's central question is 'Is what can be justified also just?' It argues that even if all justifications (strategic, economic) are accepted, the project remains unjust because it displaces the Shompen and Great Nicobarese without their consent, echoing colonial-era injustices. The other options are secondary concerns mentioned in the article but not the primary ethical dilemma.

Explanation

According to the article, PM Modi formally invited Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian to the upcoming BRICS Leaders’ Summit to be hosted by India. BRICS is a grouping of major emerging economies including Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, with Iran as a newer member.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the Iranian readout mentioned in the article. Statement 2 is correct - the MoU was signed on June 17, 2026. Statement 3 is incorrect because the article says Modi may be unable to attend and India is sending a special delegation led by Bihar Governor and MoS for External Affairs.

Explanation

The article clearly states that Iranian President Pezeshkian signed a Memorandum of Understanding with US President Donald Trump on June 17 to end hostilities. February 28 is the date Khamenei was killed, and July 4 is the start of his funeral.

Explanation

The article highlights that freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz is 'key to India's energy imports'. Multiple India-bound vessels, including crude tankers and LPG carriers, have transited the strait, and the conflict disrupted India's energy shipments, causing loss of life.

Explanation

The article explicitly names Sergio Gor as the U.S. Ambassador to India. The other options are former ambassadors (Garcetti, Juster, Verma) who served earlier.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the deal has been under negotiation for 18 months. Statement 2 is false: the article mentions President Trump's previous visit to India and his fond memories. Statement 3 is correct: the Ambassador announced that Quad Foreign Ministers will meet in the Philippines in about two weeks.

Explanation

The article quotes Ambassador Gor: 'we've been trading for 20 years'. The other options are distractors; 20 years is the exact figure mentioned.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: 'The U.S. envoy to India cited the personal equation between U.S. President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi which was driving the ties.' While other factors are relevant, the Ambassador specifically highlighted the personal rapport.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the Indian Army is raising dedicated Baaz Battalions to enhance its Remotely Piloted Aircraft capability. This is a defence news item from The Hindu.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the new battalions are built upon existing RPA Flights. Statement 2 is incorrect because the decision was driven by both the LAC standoff and Operation Sindoor, not solely by the latter. Statement 3 is correct as per the article—they will manage the entire lifecycle of RPA operations.

Explanation

The article published on June 30, 2026 states that Operation Sindoor was carried out 'in May last year'. Since last year from 2026 is 2025, the correct answer is May 2025.

Explanation

The article clearly states that the Baaz Battalions aim to strengthen battlefield surveillance, intelligence gathering, and rapid response through a specialised drone force. The other options are not supported by the text.

Explanation

As mentioned in the article, General Upendra Dwivedi took over as the 30th Chief of the Army Staff in June 2024 and retired on June 30, 2026.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as Gen Dwivedi emphasized joint, integrated, theatre-oriented warfare. Statement 2 is incorrect: he cited Operation Sindoor, not Operation Snow Leopard, as an example of jointness. Statement 3 is correct; he was commissioned into the J&K Rifles in 1984. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article specifically states that Gen Dwivedi was commissioned into the Jammu and Kashmir Rifles in 1984. The other options are close distractors.

Explanation

The article highlights that theatre-oriented warfare requires the armed forces to 'see together, decide together, and act together'. This directly implies promoting jointness and integration among the Army, Navy, and Air Force for unified operations.

Explanation

The report titled 'Asia-Pacific synergies report: Advancing synergistic solutions to the triple planetary crisis and the SDGs' was released by the Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP), a UN regional commission. UNEP and UNDP are different UN bodies, and IPCC is a scientific body, not a commission.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the report explicitly cites ICAP for treating cooling as a health and safety issue. Statement 2 is incorrect because the gap is $800 billion, not million (a common distractor). Statement 3 is correct as the Satoyama initiative in Kalrayan Hills is highlighted.

Explanation

The report specifically mentions a climate financing gap of approximately $800 billion annually. The other options are close distractors with different magnitudes (million instead of billion, or different decimal places).

Explanation

The report states that 'finance-driven approaches rely on the structure of the financial mechanism itself to actively generate co-benefits' and that synergistic financing aims to deliver benefits across multiple environmental domains. Option A is not mentioned, and options C and D are distortions of the report's recommendations.

Explanation

According to the article, APSEZ is the concessionaire for the Vizhinjam port through its subsidiary Adani Vizhinjam Port Private Limited (AVPPL). MSC is investing via TiL but is not the concessionaire. The Kerala government is not the concessionaire, as the port is operated under a PPP model.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the article states Vizhinjam is India's first automated port with AI-enabled VTMS. Statement 2 is incorrect: the article says over 70 ULCVs, not 100. Statement 3 is correct: the port expansion will increase capacity to 5.7 million TEUs by December 2028.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the port crossed 2 million TEUs within 18 months of operations. 1.3 million TEUs was the first-year handling, 1.6 million is the current capacity, and 5.7 million is the planned capacity by December 2028.

Explanation

The article emphasizes that Vizhinjam will capture transshipment traffic currently going to competing Southeast Asian hubs, reducing India's reliance on foreign ports. While capacity increase (A) is a benefit, the strategic advantage is reducing foreign dependency. Tourism (C) is not mentioned. The investment is from Switzerland, not China (D).

Explanation

CareEdge Ratings is India's first homegrown sovereign credit rating agency. The Commerce Minister specifically praised it for its objective, quantitative-heavy methodology, contrasting it with global agencies like S&P and Moody's.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: India has never defaulted on its sovereign debt. Statement 2 is incorrect: S&P upgraded India to BBB (not BBB+) in August 2025. Statement 3 is correct: The 2020-21 Economic Survey had a chapter on this issue. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

Moody's upgraded India's rating to Baa2 (equivalent of BBB) from Baa3 in 2017, which was its first upgrade in 13 years. The other options are distractors: 2025 is when S&P upgraded India.

Explanation

The government argues that global agencies give too much weight to qualitative factors (like governance perceptions) and not enough to hard quantitative data (like GDP growth, low debt, and foreign reserves), leading to an unfairly low rating for India.

Explanation

The article identifies Justice Muralidhar as Chair of the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem, and Israel. The ICC, UNHRC, and ICJ are different bodies not chaired by him.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the interview: 'reasonable grounds to believe... part of a larger plan for genocide.' Statement 2 is false – Israel did not cooperate, refused access and ignored note verbales. Statement 3 is correct – the report states at least 20,179 children killed.

Explanation

The article explicitly states 'at least 20,179 children killed' since the October 7, 2023 armed incursions. Option B (44,143) is the number of children injured, not killed.

Explanation

Justice Muralidhar states: 'If they have been named as being involved in war crimes... there is an obligation on these countries... to investigate them.' Naming allows home countries to exercise universal jurisdiction over their own nationals. Direct ICC prosecution requires a separate referral.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that in August 2007, the late Shinzo Abe spoke of the 'Confluence of the Two Seas' during his historic address to the Indian Parliament, arguing that the destinies of the Indian and Pacific Oceans had become inseparable.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article mentions the Trump administration officially adopted the Indo-Pacific lexicon in 2017. Statement 2 is incorrect because the article stresses the Indo-Pacific is not an American invention but reflects Asian geography and power politics. Statement 3 is correct as the article notes China's increasing integration of the two oceans, which ironically validates the Indo-Pacific concept.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: 'Defence spending crossed the two per cent of GDP threshold ahead of schedule.' The other options are plausible distractors but the correct figure is 2%.

Explanation

The article repeatedly emphasizes that the Indo-Pacific rests on Asian geography and Asian power politics, not on American terminology. It points to China's simultaneous expansion into both oceans and Japan's strategic transformation as evidence of this structural reality.

Explanation

The article states that the Haryana Department of Town and Country Planning approved the amendment on June 5, 2026. This department is responsible for planning and building regulations in the state.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as mentioned in the article. Statement 2 is incorrect because 3,321 is the number of EVs registered in Gurgaon in FY 2024-25, not FY 2025-26; the correct number for FY 2025-26 is 2,249. Statement 3 is correct as per the building code amendment details.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that out of 1,00,675 two-wheelers registered, only 2,249 were electric, representing a 2.23% share. Option B (3.79%) is the previous year's share, often used as a distractor.

Explanation

The article states that the amendment was approved 'in an attempt to address gaps in the charging infrastructure'. It is a regulatory measure to facilitate EV ownership by ensuring availability of charging points in new buildings, thereby supporting the state's EV policy goals.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that General Dhiraj Seth was commissioned into the Armoured Corps in December 1986. The Armoured Corps is responsible for tank and mechanised warfare.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect. Gen Dhiraj Seth is the 31st COAS, not the 30th. Statement 2 is correct as he served as VCOAS before becoming COAS. Statement 3 is correct as the article mentions he maintained high operational readiness during Operation Sindoor while heading the Southern Command. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article clearly states that he was commissioned into the Armoured Corps in December 1986. The other options are close distractors (1985 and 1987) that a student might confuse if they do not read carefully.

Explanation

The article highlights his rare distinction of leading both the South Western Command and Southern Command, which are crucial for India's western defence against Pakistan. This directly impacts India's operational readiness and strategic planning on that front. While he has counter-insurgency experience, the most strategically significant aspect mentioned is his western front command experience.

Explanation

The committee's name includes 'Education' and it reviews the functioning of the Ministry of Education. The article specifically mentions officials from the Ministry of Education and NTA will appear before the panel, confirming its oversight role over education policy.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: the article says the original May 3 exam was cancelled over an alleged paper leak and CBI is investigating. Statement 2 is false: the re-exam was on June 21, not July 1 (July 1 is the committee meeting). Statement 3 is correct: K Radhakrishnan heads the high-powered committee for NTA reforms. Hence option C.

Explanation

The article clearly states the meeting is on July 1. June 21 is the re-exam date, May 3 is the original exam, and June 30 is the publication date of the article.

Explanation

The article says Radhakrishnan heads the high-powered committee tasked with overseeing NTA reforms, with a focus on security, transparency, and credibility. The CBI handles the investigation, while the re-examination was conducted by NTA. Drafting a new education policy is not mentioned.

Explanation

The SOLAS convention, under the International Maritime Organization (IMO), requires vessels over 300 gross tonnage to carry and operate AIS transponders at all times. 'Going dark' violates this requirement.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: 45 of 73 ships (62%) went dark. Statement 2 is incorrect: the Omani route is backed by the US and Oman but is NOT recognized by Iran. Statement 3 is correct: the Sanmar Herald was cleared by IRGC navy before being attacked.

Explanation

The article states that only four India-flagged ships made the crossing during this period. Two switched off their trackers, while the remaining two continued broadcasting.

Explanation

The Strait of Hormuz is a critical chokepoint for India's crude oil imports. Ships going dark and facing attacks directly threaten the steady supply of oil, impacting India's energy security and economic stability. While legal and revenue aspects exist, the core concern is energy security.

Explanation

The article mentions Transport Minister Ashish Sood, who heads the panel formalising the EV policy, and the Delhi Cabinet approval. The Delhi Transport Department is the nodal agency for transport-related policies in the capital.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct – the policy mandates a switch to electric two-wheelers. Statement 2 is incorrect – incentives for strong hybrids have been dropped. Statement 3 is correct – the article states there are 5,884 EV charging stations.

Explanation

The article explicitly states 'there are around 5,884 EV charging stations and 8,912 charging points.' 8,912 is the number of charging points (not stations), 30,000 is the target, and 893 is the number of battery swapping stations.

Explanation

IIT Delhi expert Vikas Nimesh stated that 'bikes running on fuel are responsible for 70 to 80% of vehicular emissions in the Capital.' While reducing fossil fuel imports is a secondary benefit (double dividend as per Transport Minister), the primary push is air pollution control.

Explanation

GAIL is primarily a gas marketing and transmission company, not an oil marketing company. The article mentions BPCL, HPCL, and IOCL as the OMCs involved in ethanol allocation.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the SC directed status quo. Statement 2 is incorrect because the allocation exercise was finalized in October 2025, not 2026. Statement 3 is correct as per the article that 680 crore litres were supplied by June 18. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article states that allocations were communicated to 378 suppliers for a total supply of 1,050 crore litres. 680 crore litres is the amount already supplied by June 18, not the total allocation.

Explanation

The Attorney General submitted that the 20% ethanol blending programme is still an ongoing experiment and its impact would become clearer by next year. This indicates caution about the programme's effects on supply, prices, and vehicle compatibility.

Explanation

The article explicitly states the Monthly Economic Review is by the Department of Economic Affairs. This department handles economic policy analysis, including reports on external sector performance.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article states a 70% rise. Statement 2 is incorrect because the article says remittances are not driven by financial market signals or stock market performance. Statement 3 is correct as the report warns that a sustained deterioration in labour market conditions in host economies is the principal risk.

Explanation

The article clearly states net remittances rose to $16 billion in April 2026. The 70% increase is from a lower base in April 2025, but the absolute figure is $16 billion.

Explanation

The article explains that remittances are pegged to labour market conditions in the host economy (Gulf countries) and are insulated from financial market volatility. Options A, C, and D are not mentioned in the article.

Explanation

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) administers the FCRA through the Foreigners Division and also handles OCI card issuance. The Ministry of External Affairs deals with passports and visa policy but not FCRA or OCI directly.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the portal eliminates physical document submission and uses e-Sign and OCR. Statement 2 is incorrect because the new e-OCI 2.0 card removes the need to re-issue the booklet after passport renewal – the registration number remains unique and card digital. Statement 3 is correct as the data is hosted on MeghRaj cloud. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The Home Minister stated that the e-OCI 2.0 card will bring great convenience to more than 50 lakh OCI cardholders. Options 10 lakh and 25 lakh are underestimates, while 1 crore is an overestimate not mentioned in the article.

Explanation

The Home Minister emphasised that the new initiatives aim to make governance easier for honest citizens while putting a strict surveillance system for wrongdoers. The focus is on reducing paperwork, enabling real-time monitoring, and using technology to ensure transparency and security, not on increasing donations or restricting OCI issuance.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the scheme is overseen by the National Credit Guarantee Trustee Company Limited (NCGTC). The other options are related financial institutions but not the nodal body for ECLGS.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: MSMEs get 100% guarantee. Statement 2 is incorrect: loans must be sanctioned by March 31, 2027, and disbursed by June 30, 2027. Statement 3 is correct: the scheme supports businesses affected by the West Asia crisis. Hence option C is correct.

Explanation

The article clearly states that the maximum additional loan that can be sanctioned to an individual borrower is capped at ₹100 crore. The other options are plausible distractors but not mentioned in the news.

Explanation

The article states the scheme intends to 'ensure uninterrupted business operations, safeguard employment and improve liquidity for enterprises affected by global economic uncertainties.' Options A, C, and D are not mentioned as objectives of ECLGS 5.0.

Explanation

The PLI scheme for speciality steel was launched by the Ministry of Steel in 2021 to boost domestic production and reduce import dependence. The Ministry of Steel oversees all policy and regulatory aspects of the steel sector in India.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: India is the second-largest steel producer with ~9% global share. Statement 2 is incorrect: the top five firms account for 40-45% of domestic output, not 60-65%. Statement 3 is correct: the iron and steel sector constitutes 90% of India's CBAM-exposed exports to the EU.

Explanation

The article states that India's crude steel production expanded from 28 million tonnes in FY02 to 152 million tonnes in FY25. The other options are close distractors: 128 MT and 142 MT are lower figures, while 165 MT is an overestimate.

Explanation

CBAM is a climate policy tool aimed at reducing carbon leakage by imposing carbon tariffs on imports from non-EU countries with lower environmental regulations. For India, the iron and steel sector is particularly vulnerable as it constitutes 90% of India's CBAM-exposed exports.

Explanation

The NHSRCL is a special purpose vehicle formed to implement the MAHSR corridor. It is a joint venture between the Government of India and the state governments of Maharashtra and Gujarat, as mentioned in the article.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article states the priority section is between Surat and Bilimora (47 km). Statement 2 is incorrect because the travel time will be reduced to around 2 hours, not 4 hours. Statement 3 is correct as the corridor passes through Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Dadra & Nagar Haveli.

Explanation

The article clearly states that the MAHSR corridor is 508 km long. The 47 km option refers to the priority stretch between Surat and Bilimora, not the full corridor.

Explanation

The article highlights that the bullet train will reduce travel time to ~2 hours, enabling business travelers, professionals, and students to make same-day return trips. This will boost business opportunities, investment, and economic integration between the two cities.

Explanation

The news features Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, and the initiatives (C-295 programme, K-9 Vajra, defence production targets) fall under the purview of the Ministry of Defence. The Ministry of Home Affairs handles internal security, while Commerce and Industry deals with trade policy.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article: domestic defence production rose from ₹46,000 crore (2014) to ₹1.78 lakh crore. Statement 2 is correct: the K-9 Vajra is manufactured in Gujarat. Statement 3 is incorrect because the C-295 facility is India's first private-sector (not public-sector) military aircraft manufacturing facility.

Explanation

The article states that CM Bhupendra Patel announced investment proposals worth ₹3.34 lakh crore through 3,700 MoUs. ₹1.78 lakh crore is the current domestic defence production figure, ₹39,000 crore is the defence exports figure, and ₹46,000 crore was the defence production in 2014.

Explanation

While all options are benefits, the core strategic objective is self-reliance in defence (Atmanirbhar Bharat). The article highlights that India was once heavily dependent on imports but is now emerging as a major force in defence manufacturing and exports. The other options are secondary outcomes of this primary goal.

Explanation

The court directed the State Legal Services Authority to consider compensation under Section 396(4) of BNSS. This section deals with victim compensation in criminal cases. The other options are either from IPC or CrPC/BNSS but not the correct section mentioned in the judgment.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect because the minor initially sought termination but later changed her mind, and the court allowed continuation of pregnancy, not termination. Statement 2 is correct as the court directed preservation of DNA sample for the investigating officer. Statement 3 is correct as the court ordered strict confidentiality and removal of father's name from case records.

Explanation

The medical board report mentioned that the current MMR in India is 88 per 1 lakh live births. The other options are close distractors - 97 and 112 are historical figures, while 130 is the global average. This data point is important for prelims as MMR is a key health indicator.

Explanation

The court specifically directed preservation of the DNA sample and forwarding it to the investigating officer. This is crucial for forensic evidence in the rape case, as DNA can help identify the perpetrator. While other options may be secondary benefits, the primary purpose is criminal investigation as stated in the judgment.

Explanation

The judgment was delivered by Justice Vikas Bahl of the Punjab and Haryana High Court on June 25, 2026. The court directed Haryana Police to protect the life and liberty of a live-in couple where both partners were major but below marriageable age.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the court explicitly held that Article 21 includes the right to choose a partner. Statement 2 is incorrect because the court did not equate live-in relationships with marriage; it only granted protection of life and liberty. Statement 3 is correct as the court directed the Superintendent of Police to consider the representation and take appropriate action.

Explanation

The article states that Justice Vikas Bahl pronounced the judgment on June 25, 2026. The petitioners had given a representation on June 26, 2026, and the article was published on June 30, 2026.

Explanation

The court held that the protection of life and liberty is a basic feature of the Constitution and every major has the right to live with a person of their choice. This right exists independently of marriage laws, meaning even if a person is below marriageable age, they can still choose to live with a partner and are entitled to police protection.

Explanation

The article mentions the US Central Command chief held meetings with Lebanese leaders. CENTCOM oversees US military operations in the Middle East, including West Asia, making it the relevant command for this mediation.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect because Israeli Defense Minister Katz explicitly said Israel has 'no territorial ambitions in Lebanon'. Statement 2 is correct as the agreement binds Lebanon to 'verified disarmament of non-state armed groups'. Statement 3 is correct as the US-Iran MoU expects all parties to halt hostilities across the region, including Lebanon.

Explanation

The article states 'As many as 18 lives were lost overnight on Thursday, threatening to derail the US-Iran agreement'. This is a specific data point that could be tested in prelims.

Explanation

The article states the agreement binds Lebanon to restoring sovereignty by 'verified disarmament of non-state armed groups and dismantlement of associated infrastructure', which would enable progressive Israeli withdrawal. This is the core objective, not border demarcation or UN control.

Explanation

The article clearly states that the HLC-NFRR under Gauba was constituted by the Cabinet Secretariat on August 19, 2025. K.K. Pathak leads a different task force on Compliance Reduction.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the meeting was at Seva Teerth and lasted nearly 4 hours. Statement 2 is incorrect because the focus was on TWO themes: Ease of Doing Business AND Promoting Atmanirbharta. Statement 3 is correct per the article that secretaries had three minutes each.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions the committee was constituted by the Cabinet Secretariat on August 19, 2025. The other options are distractor dates from the article (June 30 is the date of the interaction, May 21 is the Council of Ministers meeting).

Explanation

The article states PM Modi highlighted the importance of a whole-of-government approach and breaking departmental silos. This approach aims at improving coordination, not centralization or reduction of personnel. Option A is opposite to the deregulation agenda, and option C/D are not mentioned.

Explanation

The NHAI (National Highway Authority of India), which executes the expressway, operates under the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways. The Ministry of Environment is involved in clearance for eco-sensitive zones, but the primary implementing ministry is MoRTH.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article: 4.89 km length and 22m width. Statement 2 is incorrect: the original cost was ₹1,000 crore and later revised to ₹1,250 crore – a classic examiner trap of swapping the figures. Statement 3 is correct: there are 480m and 1084m cut-and-cover sections for animal movement. Hence option C.

Explanation

The article clearly states the expressway is 1,386 km long, making it India's longest expressway. 912 km is the section operational by October 2026, 8.3 km is the total section including the tunnel, and 1,000 km is a distractor.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the cut-and-cover sections are camouflaged to allow animals to move from one side to another without disturbance, addressing the eco-sensitive nature of the Mukundra Hills tiger habitat. Other options are plausible but not the stated purpose.