31 March 2026, Questions & Answers

Explanation

The Delimitation Commission is an independent, high-powered body established by an Act of Parliament to carry out the redrawing of electoral constituency boundaries. The Election Commission conducts elections based on these boundaries.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: The 84th Amendment (2002) extended the freeze till the first census after 2026. Statement 2 is correct: The freeze applies to both the total seats and their inter-state distribution. Statement 3 is correct: As per the article, the freeze was a 'motivational measure' for population stabilisation.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that a Total Fertility Rate (TFR) of 2.1 births per woman is needed to stabilise population growth. This is the demographic 'replacement level'.

Explanation

The article argues that pure population-based delimitation would punish states that successfully controlled population growth. The DemPer principle aims to reward such states within the new seat allocation, thereby balancing the 'one person, one vote' principle with federal fairness and stability.

Explanation

As mentioned in the article, a Delimitation Commission is expected to be set up to execute the delimitation exercise. This commission is established under the Delimitation Act to redraw Lok Sabha and assembly constituency boundaries.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; the Bill was passed in 2023, not 2010. In 2010, it passed the Rajya Sabha but was not brought to the Lok Sabha. Statement 3 is correct; the Bill was rechristened as the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam.

Explanation

The article explicitly states the government has suggested increasing the number of Lok Sabha seats from 543 to 816. The additional 273 seats (one-third of the increase) are then proposed to be allocated to women.

Explanation

The article explains that southern states feared delimitation based on newer population data would reward northern states with more seats while penalizing the south for successful population control. Using the 2011 Census data is proposed to defuse this tension and freeze the seat ratio between states.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the core issue was whether POCSO cases could be quashed under the High Court's inherent powers under Section 528 of the BNSS (formerly Section 482 CrPC). Section 528 of the BNSS, 2023, corresponds to the inherent powers provision.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect. The court held the opposite: there is NO legal bar on quashing POCSO proceedings under the High Court's inherent jurisdiction. Statement 2 is incorrect. The article clearly states that while acknowledging the surge in cases, the court reiterated that 'consent of a minor is legally immaterial' under POCSO. Statement 3 is correct as per the article, which mentions safeguards like verification of genuine consent and independent assessment by legal services authorities.

Explanation

The article specifically mentions: 'The case involved a 22-year-old man and a 16-year-old girl, against whom an FIR was registered on May 3, 2019, alleging offences under the POCSO Act after the girl became pregnant.' This exact data point is crucial for factual recall.

Explanation

The article states under 'Unique socio-cultural factors in Meghalaya': 'Highlighting the distinct social fabric of Meghalaya, the court noted the prevalence of cohabitation-based unions... The matrilineal system, where women enjoy greater autonomy. These factors, it said, are crucial in assessing whether continuation of prosecution would serve justice.' The other options are not mentioned in the article.

Explanation

The PM-KUSUM scheme is a flagship solar energy scheme for farmers, falling under the domain of renewable energy promotion, which is the primary mandate of the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE). While the Ministry of Power is also involved, MNRE is the nodal ministry.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; the article states Feeder-Level Solarisation (FLS) has covered 'over 13 lakh pumps', while Individual Pump Solarisation (IPS) has covered 'over 12,787 pumps'. Statement 3 is correct as reducing the subsidy burden on states is listed as an objective. Hence, only statements 1 and 3 are correct.

Explanation

The article states that with 12,164 MW installed against a target of 34,800 MW, the scheme had achieved 35% of its target as of February 2026. This is a precise data point crucial for prelims.

Explanation

The article explains that agricultural demand is high in the morning and evening, while solar generation peaks at noon. Battery storage is proposed to store surplus noon-time solar energy for use when demand is high but generation is low, thereby solving the operational challenge of demand-supply timing mismatch.

Explanation

The Supreme Court, in various judgments (like Shakti Vahini vs Union of India, 2018), has held that the right to choose a life partner is a part of the right to life and personal liberty under Article 21. This forms the constitutional basis for laws against honour killings.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect: The 'Eva Nammava Vedike' is headed by the Deputy Commissioner (executive head of district), not the District Judge. Statement 2 is correct as per the article. Statement 3 is also correct as the article specifies offences are cognizable and non-bailable.

Explanation

The article states: 'According to data, around 15 cases of honour killings were reported in Karnataka over the past five years.' This is a specific data point useful for factual recall in prelims-style questions.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions the Bill stipulates the formation of 'Eva Nammava Vedike', a district-level body comprising officials and experts to help solemnise inter-caste marriages and offer counseling services. While fast-track courts are also created, the Vedike is the primary support mechanism mentioned.

Explanation

As per the article, the Census is conducted by the Registrar General of India (RGI), which comes under the Ministry of Home Affairs. This is a key static fact for Polity and Governance sections.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article: 'The first phase of Census 2027, the Houselisting and Housing Census, is scheduled to begin on April 1 this year.' Statement 2 is correct: 'The Bill removes the liquidator’s powers of admitting or rejecting claims and determining their value. It offers to the committee of creditors (CoC) the power to appoint or remove the liquidator...' Statement 3 is incorrect; the RBI cap is $100 million, not $500 million. Hence, option C is correct.

Explanation

The article states: 'The number of LWE-affected districts has shrunk from nearly 200 in the early 2000s to just 38 by the end of 2025.' Option C is the historical figure, and option D refers to the number categorised as 'Most Affected'.

Explanation

The article clearly states: 'The RBI’s goal in taking this step is to stabilise the falling rupee and protect the country’s foreign exchange reserves...' This is a direct application of monetary policy tools to manage currency volatility, a core concept for Economy and Banking exams.

Explanation

The article repeatedly cites data from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), an independent institute focused on conflict and armaments research. The other organizations are not the primary source for this specific data.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article: 'SIPRI ranks India as the second-largest arms importer, accounting for 8.3 per cent of global imports in 2020–24.' Statement 2 is correct: 'Russia remains India’s largest supplier, but its share has fallen over the years – from about 60–70 per cent in the early 2010s to around 36–38 per cent in 2020–24.' Statement 3 is correct: 'France has emerged as a major partner, accounting for about 29–33 per cent of imports.'

Explanation

The article explicitly states: 'India’s $86.1 billion defence spending places it among the top five globally...'. $314 billion is China's spending, and $10.2 billion is Pakistan's spending, making them close but incorrect distractors.

Explanation

The article explains diversification as an effort 'towards reducing reliance on a single source' and to 'manage risks arising from global conflicts, such as supply disruptions linked to the war in Ukraine and West Asia.' While cost and competition might be side benefits, the primary strategic objective highlighted is risk mitigation and reducing vulnerability.

Explanation

The Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) is implemented under the aegis of the Ministry of Jal Shakti, which was formed in 2019 to handle all matters related to water resources and drinking water supply. The article mentions the 'Union Jal Shakti Ministry' in its statement.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article: the Union Cabinet approved the extension till 2028 with ₹1.51 lakh crore additional central funding. Statement 2 is incorrect; the article clearly states the total outlay increased from ₹3.60 lakh crore to ₹8.69 lakh crore. Statement 3 is correct as the article mentions action against 596 officials, 822 contractors, and 152 TPIAs.

Explanation

The article states that 'about 15.83 crore (around 81.8 per cent) households now have tap water supply in their homes' out of 19.36 crore rural households. 16.7% was the initial coverage at the mission's launch.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions that 'after signing the reformed‑linked MoU, five states received funds under Jal Jeevan Mission 2.0.' This highlights a shift towards conditional fund release linked to governance reforms, ensuring better accountability and outcomes.

Explanation

As per the article, the Act received the assent of President Droupadi Murmu. The President is the constitutional head of state whose assent is required for a bill to become an Act.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article mentions inclusion of identities like kinner, hijra, aravani. Statement 2 is correct as it introduces a medical board headed by a CMO. Statement 3 is incorrect; the amendment moves towards medical certification, which contradicts the NALSA judgment's principle of self-identification, a point highlighted by the Rajasthan HC.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the bench consisted of Justices Arun Monga and Yogendra Kumar Purohit. The other justices are not mentioned in the context of this news.

Explanation

The Rajasthan High Court, as quoted in the article, stated: 'What was recognised by the Supreme Court as an inviolable aspect of personhood now risks being reduced to a contingent, State-mediated entitlement.' This directly addresses the core constitutional concern about the right to dignity and self-identification under Article 21.

Explanation

Motor Accident Claims Tribunals (MACTs) are established under Chapter XII of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988. This Act provides the legal framework for compensation in road accident cases, which is the central theme of the news article.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect. The court explicitly rejected equating a homemaker with an unskilled worker and valued her contribution at the level of a semi-skilled worker. Statement 2 is correct as per the article: the court applied a multiplier of 9 and added 10% for future prospects. Statement 3 is correct as the appeal was filed under Section 173 of the Motor Vehicles Act.

Explanation

The Motor Accident Claims Tribunal had initially awarded ₹4,28,400. The Madhya Pradesh High Court reassessed the compensation and enhanced it to ₹5,44,129. The figure ₹7,982 was the reassessed monthly income, not the total compensation.

Explanation

The core ruling of the judgment is that a homemaker's labour cannot be equated with that of an unskilled worker and must be valued realistically, at least at a semi-skilled worker's wage level. This sets a precedent for future cases, moving away from minimal valuations based on lack of formal records.

Explanation

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is India's central bank and the primary authority for managing the country's monetary policy and foreign exchange reserves. As mentioned in the article, the RBI intervenes in the forex market to contain volatility.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article's data. Statement 2 is incorrect; the article states that despite RBI being a net seller of dollars since 2022, the rupee has continued to weaken, proving intervention cannot offset persistent imbalances. Statement 3 is correct as mentioned in the article.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: 'Energy dependence also remains elevated, with crude oil import reliance at 88.6 per cent from April 2025 to January 2026.' This is a key data point highlighting a structural vulnerability of the Indian economy.

Explanation

The article argues that structural factors—specifically, elevated oil prices increasing the import bill and the volatility of capital flows (FII/FPI)—create persistent external pressure. Since adjustment is not happening through trade competitiveness or production structures, the exchange rate inevitably absorbs this pressure.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the India-Semiconductor Mission was launched in 2021 during the Covid pandemic to build a domestic semiconductor ecosystem. The other missions are related but distinct initiatives.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article clearly mentions the facility is in Sanand, Gujarat. Statement 2 is incorrect; the current market is ₹4.5 lakh crore, with a target of ₹9 lakh crore by 2030. Statement 3 is incorrect; the PM described the mission as 'a declaration of India’s self-confidence', not just an industrial policy.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: 'the plant has been built at an estimated cost of Rs 3,300 crore in Sanand GIDC.' ₹1,500 crore is the scheme for mineral recycling, ₹4.5 lakh crore is the current market size, and ₹9 lakh crore is the 2030 target.

Explanation

The article quotes PM Modi stating that 'the biggest victim of conflicts is the global supply chain whether it is chips, rare earth minerals or energy.' The core rationale is building resilience against such geopolitical disruptions. While exports and meeting demand are benefits, the primary driver is supply chain security.

Explanation

The article clearly states that the FIMA (Foreign and International Monetary Authorities) Repo Facility is a facility of the US Federal Reserve, which foreign central banks like the RBI can access.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect because the facility involves a temporary repurchase (repo) agreement, not a permanent sale. Statement 3 is correct as the article mentions it was made into a standing facility in July 2021.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: "The FIMA was established in March 2020 as a pandemic response." The year 2021 is when it was made a standing facility, which is a close distractor.

Explanation

The core argument by former DG Patra is that using FIMA would 'flush dollars continuously in and out of the market', making it liquid, while also 'economising on the use of the RBI's foreign exchange reserves' and providing space to rebuild them.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the Deputy Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh declared the end of armed Maoism in the state by March 31, 2026.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the Deputy CM's declaration. Statement 2 is incorrect because the focus is on Bastar, not Surguja (Surguja is mentioned as a region that got rid of Maoism earlier). Statement 3 is correct as the article states the economy will be built on minor forest produce and women-led SHGs.

Explanation

The article clearly mentions that armed Maoism was declared 'completely eliminated' in Chhattisgarh by the March 31 deadline. The other dates are close distractors not mentioned in the text.

Explanation

The article quotes the Deputy CM stating the focus is on 'preserving tribal culture and creating economic opportunities for youth.' He also explicitly denied plans for increasing mining, making option A incorrect. Options B and D are not mentioned as the primary focus.

Explanation

The article explicitly states the bill proposes to amend Section 5 of the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act, 2014. This was the Act that bifurcated the erstwhile state.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect as the bill amends Section 5, not Section 6. Statement 2 is incorrect; the article states the committee opposed the idea of a 'super capital'. Statement 3 is correct as mentioned in the article.

Explanation

The article clearly states the resolution was passed by the Andhra Pradesh Assembly on March 28, 2026. This is a factual data point examiners can test.

Explanation

The article's core news is the introduction of a bill to amend the 2014 Act specifically to incorporate Amaravati as the state's sole capital, providing it legal sanctity and ending uncertainty.

Explanation

The article mentions Union Social Justice and Empowerment Minister Virendra Kumar countering charges against the Bill. The welfare and protection of transgender persons is under the mandate of the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: The Rajya Sabha passed the Bill on March 25, a day after the Lok Sabha cleared it on March 24. Statement 2 is incorrect: The new definition explicitly states it shall NOT include 'persons with different sexual orientations and self-perceived sexual identities'. Statement 3 is correct: The article quotes the government saying the 'existing vague definition' made it impossible to identify genuine beneficiaries.

Explanation

The article states that the Union Law Ministry said in a gazette notification on Monday (March 30, 2026) that the President had given her assent. March 24 and 25 are the dates of passage in Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, respectively. March 31 is the article's publication date.

Explanation

The article quotes activists saying 'the community fought to ensure that the right to self-identification was codified into law when the Act was drafted in 2019.' The new biological definition is seen as moving away from that principle. The other options are not mentioned in the article.

Explanation

The article states that in February 2016, the Supreme Court directed SEBI to set up a committee under the chairmanship of former Chief Justice of India R.M. Lodha to dispose of PACL's assets for investor refunds.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article clearly states 'The ED probe is based on a First Information Report registered by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI)'. Statement 2 is incorrect; the total money raised was over ₹68,000 crore, while ₹48,000 crore remained unpaid. Statement 3 is correct as the article mentions 'Proceedings under the Fugitive Economic Offenders Act have been initiated against Sukhwinder Kaur and Gurpartap Singh.'

Explanation

The article states: 'During the current financial year, the agency has attached assets worth about ₹26,324 Crore, taking the total attachment in the case so far to ₹27,030 crore.' ₹15,582 crore is the value of the restituted properties, and ₹48,000 crore is the amount unpaid to investors.

Explanation

The article explicitly states the move 'is aimed at returning the funds invested by lakhs of victims in an alleged fraudulent scheme operated by the group.' While the other options are related outcomes, the stated primary objective is victim restitution as per the court directive.

Explanation

Article 324 of the Indian Constitution establishes the Election Commission of India, vesting it with the superintendence, direction, and control of elections. This is fundamental static GK for Polity sections.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: The article mentions elections follow the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Assam, Kerala, Puducherry, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal. Statement 2 is incorrect: Section 28A binds officials' allegiance solely to the Election Commission of India, not State Governments. Statement 3 is correct: The article explicitly states SVEEP has enhanced voter engagement.

Explanation

The article states: 'Over 25 lakh election officials will serve a 17.4 crore electorate in these elections, making it one official for every 70 electors.' This is a direct factual data point.

Explanation

While the article mentions high voter turnout, the context for live webcasting is set against concerns about election-related violence and the need for vigilance, particularly in states like West Bengal. Its primary purpose is to ensure transparency and deter/record malpractices, not directly boost turnout or reduce costs.

Explanation

PMUY is a scheme related to providing Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) connections, which is under the domain of the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas. This ministry formulates policies for exploration, production, and distribution of petroleum products including LPG.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article states the crisis began following the war in West Asia which disrupted Strait of Hormuz shipping lanes. Statement 2 is incorrect; the article says India's Strategic Petroleum Reserves cover about 9.5 days of crude oil supply with no equivalent LPG-specific buffer. Statement 3 is correct as the article explains PMUY replaced the earlier PDS kerosene system.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: 'India imports about 60% of its LPG consumption'. The 90% figure is a distractor, as it refers to the percentage of those imports that pass through the Strait of Hormuz.

Explanation

The article critically analyzes that 'The scheme made women the formal beneficiaries of an entitlement while leaving its actual delivery entirely outside their control.' This is highlighted as a gendered design flaw, especially when supply fails and women revert to biomass without institutional support.

Explanation

The Strait of Hormuz is a narrow channel connecting the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea. It is a vital global oil transit route.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article states the U.S. and Israel attacked Iran on February 28. Statement 2 is incorrect; crude prices have risen from under $80 to around $114 per barrel. Statement 3 is correct as the article mentions Iran's parliament considering NPT withdrawal post-assassination.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: 'Crude prices, under $80 a barrel before the war, are now hovering around $114 a barrel.' The other options are plausible but incorrect distractors.

Explanation

The editorial's core argument is that the U.S. has no easy exit, a ground invasion would be disastrous, and it is in a strategic quagmire. The other options are contradicted by the article, which states Iran continues to attack U.S. bases and the Strait remains closed.

Explanation

Article 25 of the Indian Constitution guarantees the freedom of conscience and the right to freely profess, practice, and propagate religion. This is the core article discussed in the context of anti-conversion laws mentioned in the article.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect. The article states the Maharashtra law requires a 60-day notice, not 30 days. Statement 2 is correct as per the article's mention of the Chhattisgarh legislation. Statement 3 is correct as the article mentions a batch of petitions is pending before the Supreme Court.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: 'Conversion must be registered within 25 days, or it will be treated as null and void.' The 60-day option is the notice period, and 30 days is the objection period, making them close distractors.

Explanation

The article criticizes the laws for 'shifting the burden of proof to the accused' and restricting 'the individual freedom of faith'. This directly relates to concerns about infringing upon the right to freedom of religion (Article 25) by creating procedural barriers that assume guilt.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the phrase harks back to a *vachana* of the 12th-century philosopher-reformer Basavanna. His teachings emphasized social equality and rejection of caste hierarchy.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; the Bill proposes a minimum five-year sentence, not ten years. Statement 3 is correct as the Bill provides for establishment of state-funded safe houses in every district. Hence, option B is correct.

Explanation

The article clearly mentions that Home Minister G. Parameshwara provided statistics of 15 hate crimes against couples over the past five years in Karnataka. The other options are close distractors.

Explanation

The article states the Bill's aim is not only to prevent crimes but also 'to provide legal safeguards, remedies, and institutional mechanisms for prevention, redressal, and rehabilitation.' The other options are not mentioned as aims in the provided content.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that grid stability is a binding duty under the Electricity Act and the Grid Code. The Electricity Act, 2003 is the primary legislation governing the power sector in India, establishing the legal framework for grid operations.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; the article clarifies the curtailment is a 'planning and synchronisation gap, not an operational lapse'. Statement 3 is correct as a joint committee identified measures like STATCOMs in July 2025. Hence, option C is correct.

Explanation

The article states: 'The State has 23 GW of renewable capacity, but effective evacuation stands closer to 19 GW.' The other options are close distractors but not the figure mentioned in the source text.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: 'The curtailment in Rajasthan is a planning and synchronisation gap, not an operational lapse. When generation outpaces transmission commissioning, mismatch appears as curtailment.' The other options are not supported by the article's content.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions the 'Parliamentary Standing Committee on Public Grievances, Law and Justice' as the body that flagged concerns on slow CSS fund utilization for judicial infrastructure. This is a specific committee under the Rajya Sabha.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article: SNA-SPARSH is a JIT system launched in Jan 2024. Statement 2 is correct; CSS rationalization happened in 2014-15, which was a precursor reform. Statement 3 is incorrect. The article states that while SNA-SPARSH reduced idle funds, utilization rates remained low (e.g., 14% for PMAY-R), indicating it did not lead to a significant increase in final spending.

Explanation

The article clearly states: "The share of unutilised funds in total revised estimates declined from 42 per cent in 2024-25... to 18 per cent (Rs 69,000 crore) by December 2025." The other figures are distractors: 42% is the 2024-25 figure, 14% is the PMAY-R utilization rate, and 50% relates to the number of schemes with low utilization.

Explanation

The article emphasizes that the problem is not idle funds in bank accounts (which SNA-SPARSH addressed) but that "scheme implementing agencies are not claiming and spending it in time." It cites CAG report findings of manual processes, verification delays, and beneficiary mapping errors as the procedural bottlenecks causing low utilization.

Explanation

Article 342 of the Constitution empowers the President to specify, with respect to any State or Union Territory, the tribes or tribal communities which shall be deemed to be Scheduled Tribes. The demand for a separate schedule for DNT/NT communities would require an amendment or notification under this framework.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: The Criminal Tribes Act of 1871 was repealed in 1952. Statement 2 is correct: The 2008 Renke Commission report offered the first population estimate of 10.74 crore. Statement 3 is incorrect: The Idate Commission (2017) did recommend Census inclusion and also identified 1,200 such communities from existing lists and listed 269 unclassified ones, providing a specific list.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that estimates of the DNT/NT population vary between 8 and 14 crore. This highlights the significant size of a population that remains largely uncounted and invisible in official policy.

Explanation

The article states that the demands begin with three Cs: Cognisance (acknowledge existence), Categorisation (create a new constitutional schedule), and Counting (include them in the Census). This sequence addresses the foundational issue of official recognition before specific welfare measures.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the then Governor, C V Ananda Bose, was the 'ex officio Chancellor of all state-aided universities'. This is a standard constitutional provision where the Governor acts as the Chancellor of state universities.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect: The article clarifies that only Darjeeling Hill University had statutory recognition earlier; the other 10 got it only in January 2026, and seven function from temporary premises. Statement 2 is correct as mentioned: 'On July 8, 2024, the Supreme Court constituted a committee to break the stalemate.' Statement 3 is correct: The article states most depend on guest lecturers 'working at the UGC-mandated rate of Rs 500 per class.'

Explanation

The article provides the specific data point: 'Currently, around 17,000 students are enrolled across eight of these universities, with three not sharing their exact numbers.' The other options are distractors not supported by the text.

Explanation

The article details multiple instances of high dropout rates (e.g., Dakshin Dinajpur University) and declining admissions (e.g., Harichand Guruchand University), directly linking these trends to the lack of proper infrastructure and permanent faculty. The other options are opposite to the article's findings.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the home voting facility is availed as per the Representation of the People Act, 1951. This Act governs all electoral procedures in India, including postal ballots.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect because the article specifies the age criteria is 'above 85 years,' not 80. Statement 2 is correct as per the article's description of the process. Statement 3 is correct as the EC said the process 'will be completed by April 5'.

Explanation

The article states: 'EC said 1.67 lakh electors above 85, or 53% of the total number of such electors, had opted for home voting.' The other percentage, 15%, refers to PwD electors.

Explanation

The article's core is about enabling voting access for two specific vulnerable groups facing mobility challenges: senior citizens above 85 and Persons with Disabilities. While it may increase turnout among these groups, that is a secondary effect. The facility does not replace polling stations for others.

Explanation

The article quotes Chhattisgarh Additional Director General (Naxal Operations) Vivekanand Sinha. This post is specifically mentioned within the Chhattisgarh Police structure to handle anti-Naxal operations in the state.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: Union Home Minister Amit Shah set March 31, 2026 as the deadline. Statement 2 is correct: 103 new police camps were set up, largely in Bastar districts. Statement 3 is incorrect: Thippiri Tirupathi surrendered in February 2026, while Nambala Kesava Rao was killed in May 2025. Therefore, the surrender happened after the killing.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that '531 Maoists have been killed in the state' during this period. Option B (500) is a close distractor, referring to the number killed specifically in the Bastar region, while option C is the total for the entire state.

Explanation

Inspector General Sundarraj explicitly states: 'One challenge is the threat posed by improvised explosive devices (IEDs) planted earlier by Maoists.' While rehabilitation, administrative outreach, and consolidation are also mentioned as part of the way forward, the immediate and specific 'challenge' highlighted is the IED threat.

Explanation

As per Schedule V of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, the power to declare a species as vermin for a specific area and period rests with the Central Government. This is a key point of contention mentioned in the article, where Kerala's demand to declare wild boar as vermin has been repeatedly rejected by the Centre.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article states '70 of the state’s 140 constituencies have been grappling with wildlife attacks'. Statement 2 is correct as the data mentions '6,329 people were injured'. Statement 3 is incorrect because, while the Assembly passed a Bill to amend the Act, the article clarifies it 'has yet to get the Centre’s approval' and is not implemented.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: 'There had been 62,199 incidents of crop loss during this period.' The other options are close distractors designed to test precise recall of the figure mentioned in the data snapshot.

Explanation

The article details how villages are becoming 'desolate' with 'uninhabited houses', people migrating due to fear, and youths leaving for sundry jobs. It explicitly states 'farmers have abandoned their land' and 'about 50 families are said to have moved out of the village'. While compensation is mentioned, it is described as 'meagre', and political cooperation is shown to be lacking.

Explanation

The article explicitly states the verdict was delivered by a jury in the Los Angeles Superior Court. The Supreme Court is mentioned in the context of a different, earlier case (Gonzalez v. Google).

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the case framed platforms as 'defective products'. Statement 2 is incorrect because Section 230 is part of the US Communications Decency Act, not the Indian IT Act. Statement 3 is incorrect; the larger share (70%) went to Meta, not YouTube.

Explanation

The article directly quotes the internal research reported by The Wall Street Journal, which found that '32% of teen girls said Instagram made them feel worse.' This is a key data point from the 'Facebook Files'.

Explanation

The core legal innovation was to sidestep Section 230 immunity, which protects platforms from liability for user content, by arguing the product (the platform's design) itself was defective. This changes the fundamental basis for holding tech companies accountable.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the 'IT ministry' (Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology - MeitY) issued the proposed rules. It is the nodal ministry for the Information Technology Act and related policies.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; the article states the timeline was compressed to 3 hours from 36 hours, not 12 hours from 72 hours. Statement 3 is correct as the ministry's notice mentions these aims. Hence, option C is correct.

Explanation

The article clearly states that the ministry's notice is 'inviting public feedback by April 14.' The other dates are close distractors not mentioned in the text.

Explanation

The article directly quotes the ministry saying the changes are proposed to 'strengthen enforceability' and 'improve legal certainty'. The mechanism to achieve this is by treating non-compliance as a failure to meet safe harbour conditions, which is a powerful deterrent for platforms. The other options are not the primary objective stated in the article.

Explanation

The article explicitly states the Houthis are formally known as 'Ansar Allah', which translates to 'Partisans of God'. The other options are distinct militant or political groups in the Middle East and South Asia.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; the Bab el-Mandeb Strait is 26-32 km wide, not 50-60 km, and while it is a key route, it is not the 'sole' route (others exist, like the Suez Canal). Statement 3 is correct, as the article details the rerouting via the Cape of Good Hope.

Explanation

The article states that the Bab el-Mandeb Strait 'serves as a maritime artery for 10-12 per cent of global trade.' The 20% figure corresponds to oil/LNG through the Strait of Hormuz, making it a potential distractor.

Explanation

The article's core analysis is that Houthi actions threaten a vital global trade chokepoint (Bab el-Mandeb), which, combined with the threat to Hormuz, escalates the war's economic impact worldwide. The other options are either incorrect (A, D) or not the primary implication discussed (B).

Explanation

The article clearly states that the 'Rajasthan High Court' has held that the state cannot impose the bank guarantee requirement. Justice Nupur Bhati of the Rajasthan High Court heard the writ petition.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect. The court held the opposite: the new condition could NOT be applied retrospectively to candidates who had already cleared NEET-SS. Statement 2 is correct as the court ruled candidates are governed by the policy at the start of the process. Statement 3 is correct as the court disposed of the petition directing that petitioners be governed by the earlier April 1, 2025 policy.

Explanation

The article states, 'the court said on March 25.' January 28, 2026 is the date of the challenged government order. March 19, 2026 is the date of a referenced earlier judgment (Dr Ishant Kumar Sahu case). April 1, 2025 is the date of the earlier policy that was upheld.

Explanation

The court's core observation was that applying the new condition after the process had begun was a retrospective change that violated the doctrine of legitimate expectation. The article explicitly states the move 'violated the principle of legitimate expectation' and that such a change 'is legally unsustainable.'

Explanation

The article mentions PGCIL as part of a joint committee. PGCIL is designated as the Central Transmission Utility (CTU) under the Electricity Act, 2003, responsible for the inter-state transmission system.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; the article clarifies the curtailment is a 'planning and synchronisation gap, not an operational lapse.' Statement 3 is correct as the article mentions the joint committee and its findings in July 2025.

Explanation

The article states: 'The State has 23 GW of renewable capacity, but effective evacuation stands closer to 19 GW.' This highlights the gap between installed capacity and the transmission system's usable capability.

Explanation

The article's core argument is that 'Transmission projects need to be commissioned in step with generation.' It calls for disciplined implementation and alignment to bridge the planning gap, not penalties, target reduction, or privatization.

Explanation

The judgment explicitly states that the right to be considered for promotion is a fundamental right under Article 14 (Equality before law) and Article 16(1) (Equality of opportunity in public employment). Articles 19 and 21 relate to freedoms and right to life, while 32/226 are for remedies and 309/311 are for service conditions.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect. The court declared the right to be 'considered' for promotion as fundamental, not the right to 'get' promoted. Statement 2 is incorrect as the court directed quarterly (every three months) DPC meetings, not every six months. Statement 3 is correct as the order mentions that delayed promotions cause financial loss and impact future progression.

Explanation

The court's order explicitly directs the respondents to hold DPCs every three months (quarterly) during every calendar year. This is also in line with the Punjab government's instructions from May 8, 2017, mentioned in the article.

Explanation

The core legal principle established is that an employee has a fundamental right (under Articles 14 & 16) to be considered for promotion. However, they do not possess a vested right to actually be promoted, as the final decision depends on vacancies, merit, and DPC recommendations. This distinction is highlighted by the court's own words and references to other rulings.

Explanation

Article 324 of the Indian Constitution establishes the Election Commission and vests in it the superintendence, direction, and control of elections. This constitutional basis is central to understanding the EC's powers, as highlighted in the news.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect. The Court did not strike down the EC's orders; it dismissed the PIL challenging them. Statement 2 is correct as the judgment explicitly states the petitioner could not establish arbitrariness or public injury. Statement 3 is correct as the Court noted that 'a transfer is an incident of service'.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: 'Votes will be counted on May 4.' The other dates are close distractors; April 29 is the second phase of polling, not counting.

Explanation

The core legal reasoning, as stated in the judgment, is that the petitioner 'could not establish that the actions were arbitrary and had hurt public interest.' This failure to meet the basic maintainability criteria for a PIL led to its dismissal. The Court did not rule on the justification or necessity of the transfers.

Explanation

The India Semiconductor Mission (ISM) is the nodal agency under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) for driving India's strategies for developing a sustainable semiconductor and display ecosystem. This is a key static fact for governance-related questions.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect. The article states the facility is for 'semiconductor assembly and test', which is an ATMP unit, not a wafer fab. Statement 2 is correct as per PM Modi's quote. Statement 3 is incorrect; Pax Silica is a U.S.-led coalition, not India-led.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: 'The plant, built at an estimated cost of ₹3,300 crore...'. ₹1.60 lakh crore is the value of projects under ISM, ₹4.5 lakh crore is the current market size, and ₹9 lakh crore is the 2030 target.

Explanation

The article emphasizes vulnerabilities in global supply chains due to conflicts and the pandemic, and India's move to position itself as a 'reliable supplier'. This points to the core objectives of strategic autonomy (Atmanirbhar Bharat) and supply chain resilience, not merely cost reduction or forex earnings.

Explanation

The EY report explicitly mentions textiles, paints, chemicals, fertilizers, cement, and tires as sectors that could be directly impacted, noting they are employment-intensive. The other sectors are not mentioned in the article.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; the article states India imports nearly 90% of its crude oil, not 75%. Statement 3 is correct as mentioned in the article. Therefore, both 1 and 3 are correct.

Explanation

The report clearly states that CPI inflation could rise by approximately 1.5 percentage points from its baseline estimate of 4%. The other options are plausible but incorrect distractors.

Explanation

The article explicitly states the conflict has 'significantly disrupted global crude oil and energy markets by affecting supply, storage, transportation and prices.' This is identified as the primary channel of impact, given India's high import dependency. The other options, while possible secondary effects, are not the core mechanism highlighted in the report.

Explanation

As per the article, the stage of 'Cognisance & Summoning' involves the court (Magistrate or Judge) taking cognisance if a prima facie case exists. This is a judicial function, not an executive or investigative one.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect. For cognisable offences, the process begins with filing an FIR with the police, not a complaint to a magistrate. Statement 2 is incorrect. The framing of charges happens after cognisance and supply of documents, but BEFORE the recording of prosecution evidence. Statement 3 is correct as explicitly mentioned in the article for the stage 'Statement of Accused (Section 351 BNSS)'.

Explanation

The article's title and infographic clearly state '12 step visual guide' and list 12 stages from FIR/Complaint to Judgment & Sentencing. This is a direct factual recall question.

Explanation

The 'Supply of Documents' stage, where the 'Accused receives copies of the final report and all documents filed by the police', is a fundamental fair trial right. It allows the accused to know the case against them and prepare an effective defence, upholding the principles of natural justice.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions the Gujarat government's 1992 policy was framed under Section 432 of the CrPC, 1973, which deals with the power to suspend or remit sentences.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect as the article clearly states the SC said "the right for premature release is not a fundamental right." Statement 2 is correct as per the Court's observation that it becomes a "vested right." Statement 3 is correct as the order directed the personal appearance of the Chief Secretary and others to show cause.

Explanation

The Supreme Court order quotes the policy: "the process is to be initiated three months prior to the date on which the person completes 14 years of imprisonment."

Explanation

The article quotes the Court stating that "every day beyond the period which in law has been prescribed... the person would be considered to be in illegal custody." This is the core legal consequence emphasized.