1. Consider the following statements:
Statement-I: Landslides occur primarily in hilly or mountainous regions with steep slopes.
Statement-II: Heavy rainfall is a common trigger for landslides.
Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?
(a) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is the correct explanation for Statement-I.
(b) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is not the correct explanation for Statement-I.
(c) Statement-I is correct but Statement-II is incorrect.
(d) Statement-I is incorrect but Statement-II is correct.
Answer: (a) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is the correct explanation for Statement-I.
Explanation:
In NEWS: More than 1,000 people killed and village wiped out in Sudan landslide
- Landslides are more frequent in regions with steep slopes, where gravitational forces can easily displace loose or weathered material.Hence statement 1 is correct.
- This includes mountain ranges like the Himalayas, Andes, Alps, etc.
- Slope angle is a major geomorphological factor in landslide susceptibility.
- Rainfall infiltration reduces cohesion in soil and rock layers, increasing pore water pressure.Hence statement 2 is correct.
- This can destabilize slopes, especially in already weathered or loosely packed material.
- In monsoonal regions, rainfall-induced landslides are common, e.g., in Western Ghats, Northeastern India, Japan, Philippines, etc.
Does Statement-II explain Statement-I?
- The reason landslides are more common in hilly terrain is because rainwater interacts with steep slopes, accelerating mass wasting processes.
- Heavy rainfall → saturates steep slopes → leads to landslides.
- Therefore, Statement-II is a valid and correct explanation for Statement-I.
| PYQ REFERENCE: (2024) Q. Consider the following statements : (2024) Statement-I: The atmosphere is heated more by incoming solar radiation than by terrestrial radiation. Statement-II: Carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases in the atmosphere good absorbers of long wave radiation Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements? (a) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II explains Statement-I (b) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct, but Statement-II does not explain Statement-I (c) Statement-I is correct, but Statement-II is incorrect (d) Statement-I is incorrect, but Statement-II is correct |
2. With reference to the Immigration and Foreigners Act, 2025, consider the following statements:
- The Act empowers Foreigners Tribunals with the powers of a first-class judicial magistrate.
- The Act allows the government to send persons to detention centers if they fail to prove their citizenship.
- While the law applies across India, Foreigners Tribunals currently operate only in Assam.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3
Explanation:
In NEWS: FTs can issue arrest warrants, send ‘foreigners’ to detention centres
- The Immigration and Foreigners Order, 2025, notified under the new Act, grants Foreigners Tribunals (FTs) the powers equivalent to those of a first-class judicial magistrate. Hence Statement 1 is correct
- This includes powers such as issuing arrest warrants against individuals who fail to appear before the tribunal.
- The Order allows the government to send individuals to detention or holding centers if they fail to provide proof that they are not foreigners.Hence Statement 2 is correct
- This provision, previously implemented via executive orders, is now codified in law.
- The Act and Order are applicable nationwide, but FTs are presently functional only in Assam.Hence Statement 3 is correct
- In other states, cases of illegal migration are handled by regular courts, not dedicated tribunals.
| PYQ REFERENCE: (2017) Q. With reference to the ‘Prohibition of Benami Property Transaction Act, 1988 (PBPT Act)’, consider the following statements: 1. A property transaction is not treated as a benami transaction if the owner of the property is not aware of the transaction. 2. Properties held benami are liable for confiscation by the Government. 3. The Act provides for three authorities for investigations but does not provide for any appellate mechanism. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 2 and 3 only |
3. With reference to the “SEMICON India – 2025” and India’s semiconductor mission, consider the following statements:
- The India Semiconductor Mission (ISM) functions as an autonomous body under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology.
- SEMICON India – 2025 aims to promote a comprehensive semiconductor ecosystem including High-Volume Fabs, Compound Semiconductors, OSATs, and 3D Packaging.
- The Design Linked Incentive (DLI) scheme has approved start-ups and academic institutes working on critical semiconductor applications.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1 and 3 only
(c) 1, 2 and 3
(d) 2 and 3 only
Answer: (c) 1, 2 and 3
Explanation:
In NEWS: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurates Semicon India 2025 in New Delhi
- The India Semiconductor Mission (ISM) functions as an autonomous body under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY).Hence Statement 1 is correct
- It is the nodal agency responsible for implementing the Semicon India Programme, managing fiscal incentives, evaluating proposals, and facilitating partnerships with both domestic and international stakeholders.
- SEMICON India – 2025 specifically focuses on promoting a comprehensive semiconductor ecosystem, including:
- High-Volume Fabrication Units (Fabs)
- Compound Semiconductors (including Silicon Carbide – SiC)
- 3D Heterogeneous Packaging
- Outsourced Semiconductor Assembly and Test (OSATs)
- These are key strategic components of the 10 approved projects under the Government’s initiative.Hence Statement 2 is correct
- The Design Linked Incentive (DLI) scheme has been approved: 23 start-ups working on critical semiconductor applications like CCTV systems, navigation systems, motor controllers, communication chips, and microprocessor units.Hence Statement 3 is correct
- Additionally, 280 academic institutions and 72 start-ups have been provided with state-of-the-art design tools, enhancing R&D capabilities.
| PYQ REFERENCE: (2018) Q. With reference to Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana, consider the following statements: 1. It is the flagship scheme of the Ministry of Labour and Employment. 2.It, among other things, will also impart training in soft skills, entrepreneurship, financial and digital literacy. 3. It aims to align the competencies of the unregulated workforce of the country to the National Framework Skill Qualification Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 and 3 only (b) 2 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 |
Source: https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2162980
4. With reference to the “Coconut Development Board” in India, consider the following statements:
- The Coconut Development Board is a statutory body.
- It is a regulatory body attached to the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
- The Coconut Development Board’s Head Office is situated in Kochi.
- The Board has overseas offices in Indonesia and Philippines.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1 and 3
(b) 2 and 4
(c) 3 and 4
(d) 1 and 4
Answer: (a) 1 and 3
Explanation:
In NEWS:Coconut Development Board Launches Revised Schemes
- Coconut Development Board (CDB) is a statutory body established under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Government of India for the integrated development of coconut cultivation and industry in the country with focus on productivity increase and product diversification.Hence Statement 2 is incorrect
- The Coconut Development Board (CDB) was established under the Coconut Development Board Act, 1979, making it a statutory body. Hence Statement 1 is correct
- The Head Office of the Coconut Development Board is in Kochi, Kerala, with Regional Offices at Bangalore in Karnataka, Chennai in Tamil Nadu, Guwahati in Assam and Patna in Bihar. Hence Statement 3 is correct
- No, the Coconut Development Board (CDB) does not have overseas offices, while the top coconut producing countries are Indonesia, the Philippines, and India, which together account for the majority of the world’s coconut output. Hence Statement 4 is incorrect
| PYQ REFERENCE:(2022) Q. With reference to the “Tea Board” in India, consider the following statements: 1. The Tea Board is a statutory body. 2. It is a regulatory body attached to the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare. 3. The Tea Board’s Head Office is situated in Bengaluru. 4. The Board has overseas offices at Dubai and Moscow. Which of the statements given above are correct? (a) 1 and 3 (b) 2 and 4 (c) 3 and 4 (d) 1 and 4 |
Source: https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2163062
5. With reference to the ‘National Designated Authority for Carbon Markets (NDA-CM)’ in India, consider the following statements:
- According to the Energy Conservation (Amendment) Act, 2022,Carbon Market is a market-based mechanism where carbon credits are traded to incentivize reduction of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.
- NDA – CM is responsible for the authorization of carbon credit trading projects under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement.
- One of its functions is to authorize international carbon credit trading projects aligned with India’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1 and 3 only
(c) 1, 2 and 3
(d) 2 and 3 only
Answer: (c) 1, 2 and 3
Explanation:
In NEWS:
The Energy Conservation (Amendment) Act, 2022 formally introduced provisions for a carbon credit trading scheme:
- It defines the carbon market as a market-based approach to encourage emission reductions by allowing trading of carbon credit certificates Hence Statement 1 is correct
Main Aim of the National Designated Authority for Carbon Markets (NDA-CM) – As per Government of India:
The main aim of the National Designated Authority for the Implementation of the Paris Agreement (NDAIAPA) – now referred to as the National Designated Authority for Carbon Markets (NDA-CM) – is:
- To oversee and regulate carbon market mechanisms in India, particularly in alignment with Article 6 of the Paris Agreement, and to authorize bilateral/multilateral carbon credit trading projects.
Official Purpose and Functions (as per MoEFCC notification, 2022):
According to the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) notification dated May 30, 2022, the NDA-CM was set up:
- “To serve as the national authority to approve Article 6-compliant projects and ensure environmental integrity, transparency, and alignment with India’s climate goals.”
Core Aims of NDA-CM:
- Authorize International Carbon Credit Projects
- Appraises and authorizes bilateral and multilateral carbon market projects under Article 6.2 and 6.4 of the Paris Agreement.Hence Statement 2 is correct
- Ensure Alignment with National Interests.
- Ensures that carbon trading aligns with India’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and developmental priorities Hence Statement 3 is correct
- Promote Environmental Integrity.
- Verifies that all carbon market projects contribute to real, measurable, and verifiable emission reductions, maintaining transparency and environmental integrity.
- Support Carbon Market Framework.
- Works with other government agencies (like BEE) to help develop India’s compliance-based carbon credit market under the Energy Conservation (Amendment) Act, 2022.
- Facilitate International Cooperation.
- Represents India in international climate negotiations and bilateral arrangements related to carbon markets.
| PYQ REFERENCE: (2023) Q. Consider the following statements: Statement-I : Carbon markets are likely to be one of the most widespread tools in the fight against climate change. Statement-II : Carbon markets transfer resources from the private sector to the State. Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements? (a) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is the correct explanation for Statement-I (b) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is not the correct explanation for Statement-I (c) Statement-I is correct but Statement-II is incorrect (d) Statement-I is incorrect but Statement-II is correct |
6. The Global Peace Index (GPI) 2025 which was seen in news is released by
(a) World Economic Forum (WEF)
(b) Institute for Economics & Peace (IEP)
(c) Transparency International
(d) United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
Answer: (b) Institute for Economics & Peace (IEP)
Explanation:
In NEWS: India ranks 115th in the Global Peace Index (GPI) 2025.
Global Peace Index (GPI) 2025
- The Global Peace Index (GPI) 2025 is published by the Institute for Economics & Peace (IEP). Hence option (b) is correct.
- It ranks countries on parameters like peace, governance, social trust, and security.
- Iceland has topped the index for the 18th consecutive year (since 2008).
- India ranks 115th, reflecting challenges in internal security and harmony.
- Challenges: regional disputes, urban crime, communal and internal tensions.
- Despite rich cultural diversity, achieving higher safety and harmony is difficult.
- Singapore is the only Asian country in the top 10 list.
| PYQ REFERENCE: (2019) Q. The Global Competitiveness Report is published by the (a) International Monetary Fund (b) United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (c) World Economic Forum (d) World Bank |
Source: https://www.gktoday.in/global-peace-index-2025/
7. With reference to the traditional ‘Pashmina Shawl’ of India, consider the following statements:
- The wool used for Pashmina shawls is obtained from a special breed of Changthangi (goat) indigenous to the high altitudes of the Himalayas.
- It is under the consideration of tentative list to be certified for Geographical Indication (GI) Tag
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: (a) 1 only
Explanation:
In NEWS: PM Modi’s gifts to Prime Minister of Japan and his wife
Pashmina Shawl
- Origin & Region: Pashmina refers to a fine type of cashmere wool obtained from the Changthangi goat (Capra hircus) found in high altitudes of Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir. Hence statement 1 is correct.
- Weaving Tradition: Hand-spun and hand-woven by Kashmiri artisans; known for its soft texture, warmth, and intricate embroidery.
- Geographical Indication (GI) Tag: Granted in 2008, ensuring authenticity and protecting artisans. Hence statement 2 is incorrect.
- Economic & Cultural Value: Symbol of Kashmiri cultural heritage; contributes significantly to local livelihoods and India’s handicraft exports.
Challenges:
- Influx of machine-made imitations threatening genuine artisans.
- Declining number of skilled craftsmen due to low returns.
- Climate change affecting Changthangi goat habitat.
Government Initiatives:
- Pashmina Testing & Quality Certification Centre (PTQCC) in Leh.
- GI label enforcement and promotion under Handloom Marketing Assistance Scheme.
- Export promotion via India Handloom Brand (IHB).
| PYQ REFERENCE: (2018) Q. Consider the following pairs: Craft Heritage of 1. Puthukkuli shawls – Tamil Nadu 2. Sujni embroidery – Maharashtra 3. Uppada Jamdani saris – Karnataka Which of the pairs given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 1 and 2 (c) 3 only (d) 2 and 3 |
8. The BHARATI initiative launched in 2025 is related to:
(a) Promoting rural health infrastructure
(b) Enhancing women’s participation in agriculture
(c) Empowering startups for agri-food exports through technology and incubation
(d) Expanding irrigation facilities in semi-arid regions
Answer: (c) Empowering startups for agri-food exports through technology and incubation
Explanation:
In NEWS: APEDA launches BHARATI initiative to boost agri-food exports
BHARATI Initiative:
- Launch: APEDA launched BHARATI (Bharat’s Hub for Agritech, Resilience, Advancement & Incubation for Export Enablement) on 2nd Sept 2025.
- Objective: To empower 100 agri-food and agri-tech startups from September 2025. Hence option (c) is correct.
- Export Goal: Supports India’s target of achieving $50 billion in agri-food exports by 2030.
Focus Areas:
- GI-tagged products
- Organic and AYUSH-based foods
- Value-added processed foods
- Tech-driven solutions: AI for quality, Blockchain for traceability, IoT in cold chains, Agri-fintech innovations
- Implementation: Includes a 3-month acceleration cohort for startups.
- Collaboration: Will connect startups with industry bodies, agri-universities, IITs, NITs and global networks.
- Challenges Addressed: Perishability, logistics, packaging, compliance, and quality control in exports.
- Significance: Aims to blend innovation + incubation + technology for sustainable agri-export growth.
| PYQ REFERENCE: (2016) Q. ‘SWAYAM’, an initiative of the Government of India, aims at (a) promoting the Self Help Groups in rural areas (b) providing financial and technical assistance to young start-up entrepreneurs (c) promoting the education and health of adolescent girls (d) providing affordable and quality education to the citizens for free |
Source: https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2163196
9. The Blue Dragon (Glaucus atlanticus) is best described as:
(a) A nudibranch sea slug adapted to feed on venomous siphonophores
(b) A plankton species feeding on phytoplankton
(c) A coral polyp dependent on symbiotic algae
(d) A cephalopod mollusk related to squids and octopuses
Answer: (a) A nudibranch sea slug adapted to feed on venomous siphonophores
Explanation:
In NEWS: Several beaches in Spain and Famara beaches in Lanzarote were closed earlier this month after blue dragons began to wash ashore.
Blue Dragon:
- Blue Dragon (Glaucus atlanticus) is a small blue sea slug (nudibranch). Hence option (a) is correct.
- It is found in warm ocean waters of the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans.
- The creature floats upside down on the water surface using an air bubble in its stomach.
- It shows countershading: blue on top (camouflage with water/sky) and silvery below (camouflage with sunlight).
- It feeds on venomous siphonophores like the Portuguese Man o’ War and stores their venom in its tissues.
- Its sting can be more painful than the original prey’s venom and harmful to humans.
- Size is typically 3–4 cm in length.
- Occasionally spotted on Indian coasts (Goa, Kerala) and reported in news.
- Plays a role in marine biodiversity and ecological adaptation studies.
- Conservation status: Not endangered, but populations depend on ocean currents.
| PYQ REFERENCE: (2025) Q. Regarding Peacock tarantula (Gooty tarantula), consider the following statements: I. It is an omnivorous crustacean. II. Its natural habitat in India is only limited to some forest areas. III. In its natural habitat, it is an arboreal species. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) I only (b) I and III (c) II only (d) II and III |
Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-sci-tech/blue-dragons-spain-10220509/
10. Which of the following are in Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve?
(a) Neyyar, ldl Peppara and Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuaries; and Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve
(b) Mudumalai, Sathyamangalam and Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuaries; and Silent Valley National Park
(c) Kaundinya, Gundla Brahmeswaram and Papikonda Wildlife Sanctuaries; and Mukurthi National Park
(d) Kawal and Sri Venkateswara Wildlife Sanctuaries; and Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve
Answer: (a) Neyyar, ldl Peppara and Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuaries; and Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve