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Edition · Friday, 17 July 2026 · 35 Prelims · 10 Mains

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Your daily UPSC current-affairs edition — a syllabus-wise brief from India's newsrooms, then the day's Prelims MCQs and Mains model answers. Free, ungated, added to every day. Practice the full growing bank (173 MCQs · 400 Mains) →

📰 Today's Current Affairs

Organised by syllabus head — read the brief, then test yourself below

Polity & Governance

Prelims favourite — fix the constitutional provision/Article and the authority involved.

  • Six murders, a dead suspect and a chilling trail gone cold On July 10, six persons were killed across two homes in Daivalaguda, a peaceful farming village near Hyderabad. With investigations under way, the case raises uncomfortable questions about police procedure, anticipatory — The Hindu
  • Former Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan Urges CM Mohan Yadav To Expedite Land Transfer For Runway Extension — Free Press Journal
  • CBI Arrested MD Of KAPL Red-Handed For Taking A Bribe Of ₹5 Lakh From A Madhya Pradesh-Based Company — Free Press Journal

Economy & Finance

Tie this to the indicator and its latest figure; recurs in Prelims & Bank GA.

  • DARS-SKUAST K Organizes Field Day for tribal farmers Kulgam: The All India Coordinated Research Project (AICRP) on Soybean, Dryland Agriculture Research Station (DARS), Rangreth, SKUAST-Kashmir, organized a Tribal Sub Plan (TSP) Programme at Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Kul — Kashmir Reader
  • Sensex today | Stock Market Live: Stock to buy today: HEG Sensex, Nifty, Share Prices LIVE: The short-term outlook is bullish for HEG. The stock has been moving inside a bull channel for more than a year now. After consolidating above the lower end of this channel for over a mo — The Hindu BusinessLine
  • Wipro's strong deal wins offset by weak revenue and margin decline ET Intelligence Group: Wipro reported sustained momentum in order bookings and large deal wins for the June quarter. However, its revenue fell 1.4% sequentially to $2,614.5 million after a marginal improvement seen in th — Economic Times

International Relations

Note the country, the grouping/summit and India's stake — GS-II and General Awareness.

  • Unite to fight terror, organised crime, Ajit Doval urges Bimstec NSA Ajit Doval chaired the Bimstec national security chiefs meeting in New Delhi. The grouping discussed practical solutions to combat terrorism and organized crime. Security chiefs also endorsed principles for maritime — Times of India
  • DC Edit | For FTAs To Work, India Must Boost Manufacturing The agreement will over a period of time create an $8-trillion free trade region, which will be mutually beneficial to both India and the United Kingdom. As a result of the deal, bilateral trade is expected to rise from — Deccan Chronicle
  • Two Bangladesh nationals get two-year prison term under Foreigners Act — The Hindu · Coimbatore

Social Issues & Welfare

Map the scheme to its ministry, target group and outlay — GS-II / RBI ESI.

  • DARS-SKUAST K Organizes Field Day for tribal farmers Kulgam: The All India Coordinated Research Project (AICRP) on Soybean, Dryland Agriculture Research Station (DARS), Rangreth, SKUAST-Kashmir, organized a Tribal Sub Plan (TSP) Programme at Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Kul — Kashmir Reader
  • NEET Aspirant Dies After Checking Answer Key Danvita had recently given the NEET examination, they said. — Deccan Chronicle
  • Telangana now has 10,000 MBBS seats after NMC approves 810 additional seats — The Hindu

Environment & Ecology

Prelims staple — link the species/site/treaty and its protection status.

  • ‘We plan to raise ore output to 12 lakh tonnes annually with ₹1,200 cr investment’ Expansion, renewable energy, and ferrochrome capacity additions position IMFA for sustained growth ahead — The Hindu BusinessLine
  • Raise public issues during monsoon session of Parliament, Jagan tells YSRCP MPs Governance in Andhra Pradesh has completely collapsed, he alleges — The Hindu
  • HC directs penalties against those behind 43 illegal bore wells in Chimbel NT Reporter Panaji The High Court of Bombay at Goa has directed the ground water officer to initiate penal action against those responsible for 43 illegal bore wells found in Chimbel village. While the authorities have a — Navhind Times

Science & Technology

Remember the agency (ISRO/DRDO), the mission name and its first/largest tag.

  • Skyroot Aerospace to launch India’s first private orbital rocket on Saturday India's private space sector is poised for a significant advancement this Saturday. Skyroot Aerospace will launch the Vikram-1, its first orbital-class rocket. This historic mission, named Mission Aagaman, will lift off — Times of India
  • Western Railway To Replace Century-Old Hydraulic Buffers At Churchgate, Mumbai Central Stations For Enhanced Safety — Free Press Journal
  • YSRCP launches Jagan 2.0 Super App to connect cadre with party leadership YSRCP president Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy launched the Jagan 2.0 Super App, describing it as a secure digital platform to connect party workers directly with the leadership, facilitate communication, share organisational up — Telangana Today

Defence & Security

Note the platform/exercise, indigenous content and the forces involved.

  • Unite to fight terror, organised crime, Ajit Doval urges Bimstec NSA Ajit Doval chaired the Bimstec national security chiefs meeting in New Delhi. The grouping discussed practical solutions to combat terrorism and organized crime. Security chiefs also endorsed principles for maritime — Times of India
  • Army chief visits military base near Siliguri Corridor to review operational preparedness Army chief General Dhiraj Seth reviewed operational preparedness of Eastern Command formations. He visited IV Corps, XXXIII Corps, and III Corps during his tour. General Seth was briefed on security situations and capabi — Times of India
  • Avoid deploying sailors on vessels moving via Strait, DGMA tells companies India's shipping regulator has advised against deploying seafarers in the Strait of Hormuz. This directive follows recent attacks on merchant vessels in the West Asia region. Two attacks on Tuesday involved commercial sh — Times of India

Geography & Disaster Management

Locate it on the map; recall the physical feature or the agency (NDMA).

  • 86 dams in Tamil Nadu, including Mettur and Vaigai, to come under the scanner of independent panels of experts The first comprehensive dam safety assessment for each dam should be carried out on or before December 30, 2026 — The Hindu
  • Over 50% of Indian major reservoirs still half-empty 59% of the country has received deficient or no rainfall as the monsoon is 24% below normal — The Hindu BusinessLine
  • DMK MPs urges Centre to constitute tribunal for Mekedatu “The Mettur Dam could not be opened because of Karnataka’s recalcitrant stand. This has caused enormous hardship to farmers,” a resolution adopted at the meeting said — The Hindu · Tamil Nadu

Reports, Indices & Summits

Near-certain GA question — the publisher, India's rank and the metric.

  • NSE to launch derivatives on Nifty India FPI 150 Index from August 12 The exchange will offer 3 serial monthly index futures and index options contract cycle — The Hindu BusinessLine
  • NITI Aayog charts 2047 roadmap to expand India's Bioeconomy to $2.6T In a bid to realise India's $2.6 trillion BioEconomy vision by 2047, the country must move from fragmented initiatives to a coordinated national execution architecture, the Aayog said. — YourStory
  • 13.5 Million Children Missed All Vaccines In First Year Of Life In 2025: WHO Report New Delhi: An estimated 13.5 million children worldwide did not receive a single routine vaccine during their first year of life in 2025, according to the latest World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF estimates. The — Odisha Bytes

Art, Culture & History

Link the site/art form to its state, period and UNESCO/GI status.

  • Dates with devotion: The division in Puri’s Rath Yatra celebrations The Jagannath Temple in Puri holds its Rath Yatra every year on a date prescribed by its centuries-old ritual calendar. A branch of ISKCON, however, stages international events of the procession on dates that differ from — The Hindu
  • Odisha Government Confirms 2 Deaths, Denies Stampede At Puri Rath Yatra The Odisha government has confirmed the deaths of two devotees but denied reports of any stampede-like incident during the annual Rath Yatra festival. — NDTV
  • Tribal artisans’ empanelment mela held in Araku Valley — The Hindu · Andhra

Awards & Sports

Quick recall — the winner, the field/event and the host/venue.

  • NRAI urges state govt to extend restaurant hours to 2.30am for FIFA World Cup final — TOI · Pune
  • Argentina beat England, book FIFA World Cup final with Spain — Assam Tribune
  • Former Bengal Santosh Trophy player Arjun Chattopadhyay arrested for Kolkata robbery — TOI · Kolkata

Persons & Appointments

Classic who's-who — the person, the post, the predecessor and the body.

  • Kerala govt. effects reshuffle in bureaucracy Minhaj Alam, Additional Chief Secretary, Home and Vigilance, will hold full additional charge of Industries (Coir) — The Hindu · Kerala
  • Ex-chief secretary’s son posed as IPS, RAW and army officer, swindled lakhs; arrested Police said Yashovardhan, a retired IAS officer’s son, wanted to become an IPS officer but could not clear UPSC’s civi services exam despite multiple attempts — Hindustan Times
  • Fourth Trinamool Congress MP, actor Koel Mallick, resigns from Rajya Sabha Three former Trinamool Congress Rajya Sabha MPs, Sushmita Dev, Prakash Chik Baraik, and Sukhendu Sekhar Ray, recently filed nomination for their seats in Rajya Sabha as Bharatiya Janta Party candidates. — The Hindu · Kolkata

🧠 Prelims MCQs

35 current-affairs questions · tap an option to reveal the explanation

Attempt all 35

0 / 35

Q1.Consider the following pairs:
Item : Descriptor
1. Sukhendu Sekhar Roy : BJP
2. Sushmita Dev : TMC
3. Prakash Chik Baraik : BJP
Which of the pairs is/are correctly matched?

Sukhendu Sekhar Roy and Prakash Chik Baraik are correctly matched with the BJP, while Sushmita Dev is correctly matched with the TMC.

Q2.With reference to the news item on NEET-UG 2026 results, consider the following statements:
1. The qualifying rate for women was higher than that for men.
2. The top scorer in the re-test was a woman.
3. The re-test was conducted to address issues with the original exam.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Statement 1 is correct; the qualifying rate for women was higher than that for men. Statement 2 is also correct; the top scorer in the re-test was a woman. Statement 3 is not correct; the re-test was not conducted to address issues with the original exam.

Q3.With reference to the news item on the Indian-origin man stabbed in the US, consider the following statements:
1. The victim was a Muslim.
2. The attack was motivated by religious intolerance.
3. The US government has taken steps to prevent such attacks.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Statement 1 is correct; the victim was a Muslim. Statement 2 is also correct; the attack was motivated by religious intolerance. Statement 3 is not correct; the US government has not taken steps to prevent such attacks.

Q4.With reference to the news item on the NIA chargesheet, consider the following statements:
1. Hafiz Saeed is accused of orchestrating the cross-border conspiracy.
2. LeT and TRF are charged as legal entities for their role in planning, facilitating, and executing the attack.
3. The NIA has collected sufficient evidence to prove the charges.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Statement 1 is correct; Hafiz Saeed is accused of orchestrating the cross-border conspiracy. Statement 2 is also correct; LeT and TRF are charged as legal entities for their role in planning, facilitating, and executing the attack. Statement 3 is not correct; the NIA has not stated that it has collected sufficient evidence to prove the charges.

Q5.With reference to the news item on the monsoon session, consider the following statements:
1. The government aims to reintroduce its ambitious women's reservation bill in the upcoming monsoon session.
2. Speaker Om Birla's decision on defecting MPs could bolster the ruling alliance's numbers.
3. The government is confident of passing key bills in the monsoon session.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Statement 1 is correct; the government aims to reintroduce its ambitious women's reservation bill in the upcoming monsoon session. Statement 2 is also correct; Speaker Om Birla's decision on defecting MPs could bolster the ruling alliance's numbers. Statement 3 is not correct; the government is not confident of passing key bills in the monsoon session.

Q6.With reference to the news item on the data breach, consider the following statements:
1. The data breach was caused by a cyber attack.
2. The files exposed in the data breach are related to the Kudankulam nuclear power plant.
3. The data breach has been contained and no further action is required.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Statement 2 is correct; the files exposed in the data breach are related to the Kudankulam nuclear power plant. Statement 1 is not correct; the data breach was caused by a data leak, not a cyber attack. Statement 3 is not correct; the data breach has not been contained and further action is required.

Q7.With reference to the news item on the Supreme Court order, consider the following statements:
1. The State of Tamil Nadu has been banned from slaughtering cows in public places.
2. The Supreme Court has upheld the ban on cow slaughter in Tamil Nadu.
3. The ban on cow slaughter in Tamil Nadu is unconstitutional.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Neither statement 1 nor statement 2 is correct; the State of Tamil Nadu has not been banned from slaughtering cows in public places, and the Supreme Court has not upheld the ban on cow slaughter in Tamil Nadu. Statement 3 is not correct; the ban on cow slaughter in Tamil Nadu is constitutional.

Q8.With reference to the news item on the Special Intensive Revision, consider the following statements:
1. The Election Commission of India is conducting the Special Intensive Revision across 16 states and 3 Union Territories.
2. The Special Intensive Revision is a one-time exercise.
3. The Special Intensive Revision is aimed at updating the electoral rolls.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Statement 1 is correct; the Election Commission of India is conducting the Special Intensive Revision across 16 states and 3 Union Territories. Statement 2 is not correct; the Special Intensive Revision is not a one-time exercise. Statement 3 is also correct; the Special Intensive Revision is aimed at updating the electoral rolls.

Q9.Consider the following pairs:
Item : Descriptor
1. Vietnam tragedy : Phu Quoc island
2. Flipkart case : Bengaluru
3. PM Modi's visit : New Zealand
4. Wangchuk's case : Delhi High Court
Which of the pairs is/are correctly matched?

Only pair 1 is correctly matched; the Vietnam tragedy occurred near Phu Quoc island.

Q10.With reference to the news, consider the following statements:
1. The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita is a parent Act.
2. The case was registered under sections 75, 79, and 329(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
3. The incident occurred in Bengaluru.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Both statements 1 and 2 are correct; the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita is a parent Act, and the case was registered under sections 75, 79, and 329(2) of the Act.

Q11.With reference to the news, consider the following statements:
1. The Delhi High Court has ordered regular monitoring of Wangchuk's health.
2. Wangchuk's health has worsened due to the hunger strike.
3. The government has assured the High Court of necessary medical intervention.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

All statements 1, 2, and 3 are correct; the Delhi High Court has ordered regular monitoring of Wangchuk's health, his health has worsened due to the hunger strike, and the government has assured the High Court of necessary medical intervention.

Q12.With reference to the news, consider the following statements:
1. The Rath Yatra celebrations turned tragic due to a stampede-like situation.
2. The incident occurred near the Singhadwara of the Jagannath Temple.
3. The crowd surge led to panic among pilgrims.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

All statements 1, 2, and 3 are correct; the Rath Yatra celebrations turned tragic due to a stampede-like situation, the incident occurred near the Singhadwara of the Jagannath Temple, and the crowd surge led to panic among pilgrims.

Q13.With reference to the news, consider the following statements:
1. Direct tax collection jumped 16% to ₹6.5 lakh crore.
2. Net corporate tax collections surged over 22% to approximately ₹2.40 lakh crore.
3. Net personal income tax (non-corporate) collections grew by around 12% to ₹3.85 lakh crore.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

All statements 1, 2, and 3 are correct; direct tax collection jumped 16% to ₹6.5 lakh crore, net corporate tax collections surged over 22% to approximately ₹2.40 lakh crore, and net personal income tax (non-corporate) collections grew by around 12% to ₹3.85 lakh crore.

Q14.How many of the following statements are correct regarding the US-Iran conflict?
1. The US has imposed sanctions on Iran.
2. Iran has attacked a US ship with 11 Indians on board.
3. The US has declared a ceasefire with Iran.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Statements 1 and 2 are correct; the US has imposed sanctions on Iran and Iran has attacked a US ship with 11 Indians on board.

Q15.With reference to the news, consider the following statements:
1. India and New Zealand have elevated their trade ties to ₹35,000 crore by 2030.
2. The trade agreement between India and New Zealand was signed during Modi's three-nation tour.
3. The trade agreement between India and New Zealand is focused on forging closer economic ties.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Statements 1, 2, and 3 are correct; India and New Zealand have elevated their trade ties to ₹35,000 crore by 2030, the trade agreement was signed during Modi's three-nation tour, and the trade agreement is focused on forging closer economic ties.

Q16.How many of the following statements are correct regarding the arrest of a couple in Manipur?
1. The couple was arrested for their alleged involvement in the abduction and killing of six Naga civilians.
2. The joint security team comprising the NIA, CRPF, and Manipur Police arrested the couple.
3. The couple was arrested in Kangpokpi district.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Statements 1, 2, and 3 are correct; the couple was arrested for their alleged involvement in the abduction and killing of six Naga civilians, the joint security team comprising the NIA, CRPF, and Manipur Police arrested the couple, and the couple was arrested in Kangpokpi district.

Q17.With reference to the news, consider the following statements:
1. The Delhi High Court has upheld the conviction of actor Rajpal Yadav in cheque bounce cases.
2. The Delhi High Court has sentenced Rajpal Yadav to three months in jail.
3. Rajpal Yadav has filed petitions challenging the trial court's judgment.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Statements 1, 2, and 3 are correct; the Delhi High Court has upheld the conviction of actor Rajpal Yadav in cheque bounce cases, the Delhi High Court has sentenced Rajpal Yadav to three months in jail, and Rajpal Yadav has filed petitions challenging the trial court's judgment.

Q18.With reference to the news, consider the following statements:
1. Novo Nordisk India has rolled out once-weekly basal insulin Awiqli.
2. The product will be imported from Denmark.
3. The product is priced at ₹2611 for a 1 ml pen (700 insulin units).
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Statements 1, 2, and 3 are correct; Novo Nordisk India has rolled out once-weekly basal insulin Awiqli, the product will be imported from Denmark, and the product is priced at ₹2611 for a 1 ml pen (700 insulin units).

Q19.With reference to the news, consider the following statements:
1. US President Donald Trump has declared a ceasefire with Iran.
2. The ceasefire was announced at the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Summit in Ankara.
3. The ceasefire is over for Trump.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Statement 1 is correct; US President Donald Trump has declared a ceasefire with Iran, but statement 2 is incorrect as the ceasefire was not announced at the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Summit in Ankara, and statement 3 is correct as the ceasefire is over for Trump.

Q20.With reference to the news, consider the following statements:
1. Champat Rai has resigned as the head of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust.
2. The trust has appointed Krishna Mohan as the interim chief.
3. The trust has taken some important decisions amid countrywide furore and an ongoing investigation into the alleged embezzlement of donations.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Statements 1, 2, and 3 are correct; Champat Rai has resigned as the head of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, the trust has appointed Krishna Mohan as the interim chief, and the trust has taken some important decisions amid countrywide furore and an ongoing investigation into the alleged embezzlement of donations.

Q21.With reference to the news, consider the following statements:
1. Teejan Bai was the foremost exponent of Pandavani, Chhattisgarh’s traditional folk art form.
2. Teejan Bai was widely regarded as the foremost exponent of Pandavani.
3. Teejan Bai died at the age of 70.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Statements 1, 2, and 3 are correct; Teejan Bai was the foremost exponent of Pandavani, Chhattisgarh’s traditional folk art form, Teejan Bai was widely regarded as the foremost exponent of Pandavani, and Teejan Bai died at the age of 70.

Q22.With reference to the body in the news, consider the following statements:
1. The trade deal between India and UK is expected to boost labour-intensive industries in India.
2. The UK will eliminate duties on 99% of Indian tariff lines.
3. The trade deal is expected to create jobs at scale in India.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Only statement 1 is correct; the trade deal is expected to boost labour-intensive industries in India. Statement 2 is correct as the UK will eliminate duties on 99% of Indian tariff lines. Statement 3 is also correct as the trade deal is expected to create jobs at scale in India.

Q23.With reference to the incident in the news, consider the following statements:
1. The fire in the residential building was caused by sparks from an electric vehicle battery.
2. The fire was contained within the building.
3. The incident highlights the risks associated with the use of electric vehicle batteries.
How many of the above statements are correct?

All three statements are correct; the fire in the residential building was caused by sparks from an electric vehicle battery, the fire was contained within the building, and the incident highlights the risks associated with the use of electric vehicle batteries.

Q24.With reference to the film in the news, consider the following statements:
1. The film 'Jana Nayagan' is a biographical drama.
2. The film is directed by a renowned Indian filmmaker.
3. The film is expected to receive critical acclaim.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Both statements 1 and 2 are correct; the film 'Jana Nayagan' is a biographical drama, and the film is directed by a renowned Indian filmmaker. Statement 3 is also correct as the film is expected to receive critical acclaim.

Q25.With reference to the incident in the news, consider the following statements:
1. The security forces responded to the violence by firing blank rounds.
2. The security forces used tear-gas grenades to disperse the crowd.
3. The violence was sparked by a protest against the government's policies.
How many of the above statements are correct?

Both statements 1 and 2 are correct; the security forces responded to the violence by firing blank rounds and using tear-gas grenades to disperse the crowd. Statement 3 is not correct as the violence was not sparked by a protest against the government's policies.

Q26.With reference to the incident in the news, consider the following statements:
1. The Indian government has summoned the Iranian envoy after an Indian national was killed in an attack on a ship.
2. The Indian government has condemned the attack on the ship.
3. The attack on the ship is a violation of international law.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Both statements 1 and 2 are correct; the Indian government has summoned the Iranian envoy after an Indian national was killed in an attack on a ship, and the Indian government has condemned the attack on the ship. Statement 3 is not correct as the attack on the ship is not necessarily a violation of international law.

Q27.With reference to the Supreme Court's order in the news, consider the following statements:
1. The Supreme Court has issued notices to the Centre, CBSE, and NCERT on fresh petitions challenging the revised three-language policy.
2. The Supreme Court has declined interim relief in the case.
3. The Supreme Court has scheduled a detailed hearing on the matter.
How many of the above statements are correct?

All three statements are correct; the Supreme Court has issued notices to the Centre, CBSE, and NCERT on fresh petitions challenging the revised three-language policy, the Supreme Court has declined interim relief in the case, and the Supreme Court has scheduled a detailed hearing on the matter.

Q28.With reference to the statement in the news, consider the following statements:
1. India's commitment to aid Palestine and its backing for a membership in the United Nations reaffirms its stance on the two-state solution.
2. India's commitment to aid Palestine and its backing for a membership in the United Nations is a departure from its previous stance.
3. India's commitment to aid Palestine and its backing for a membership in the United Nations is a unilateral decision.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Only statement 1 is correct; India's commitment to aid Palestine and its backing for a membership in the United Nations reaffirms its stance on the two-state solution. Statements 2 and 3 are not correct as India's commitment to aid Palestine and its backing for a membership in the United Nations is not a departure from its previous stance and is not a unilateral decision.

Q29.With reference to the data in the news, consider the following statements:
1. The retail inflation in India has hit an 18-month high of 4.4% in June 2026.
2. The retail inflation is expected to increase in July 2026 due to a lacklustre monsoon.
3. The retail inflation is not a concern for the Indian economy.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Both statements 1 and 2 are correct; the retail inflation in India has hit an 18-month high of 4.4% in June 2026, and the retail inflation is expected to increase in July 2026 due to a lacklustre monsoon. Statement 3 is not correct as the retail inflation is a concern for the Indian economy.

Q30.With reference to the body of the Hyderabad student found dead in Finland, consider the following statements:
1. The student was reported missing in May this year.
2. The student's body was recovered from the sea in Helsinki.
3. The Indian Embassy in Finland provided information to the family members.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Statements 1 and 2 are correct; the student was reported missing in May this year, and the student's body was recovered from the sea in Helsinki. Statement 3 is also correct as the Indian Embassy in Finland provided information to the family members.

Q31.With reference to the chargesheet filed by the NIA, consider the following statements:
1. The attack targeted the Baldev Nagar police station in Ambala.
2. Pakistan-based gangster Shehzad Bhatti masterminded the car bomb blast.
3. The attack was carried out by local operatives.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Statements 1 and 2 are correct; the attack targeted the Baldev Nagar police station in Ambala, and Pakistan-based gangster Shehzad Bhatti masterminded the car bomb blast. Statement 3 is also correct as the attack was carried out by local operatives.

Q32.With reference to the recommendation of the committee set up by the Central government, consider the following statements:
1. The ban on the film 'Satluj' should remain as it allegedly goes against India's sovereignty.
2. The ban on the film 'Satluj' should be lifted as it is a patriotic film.
3. The ban on the film 'Satluj' should be lifted as it is a commercial success.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Statement 1 is correct; the ban on the film 'Satluj' should remain as it allegedly goes against India's sovereignty. Statements 2 and 3 are not correct as the ban should not be lifted due to patriotic or commercial reasons.

Q33.With reference to the notices issued by the FSSAI, consider the following statements:
1. Swiggy Instamart has been issued nine notices over alleged sale of expired products.
2. The FSSAI has issued notices to Swiggy Instamart due to consumer complaints.
3. The FSSAI has issued notices to Swiggy Instamart over alleged sale of adulterated products.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Statements 1 and 2 are correct; Swiggy Instamart has been issued nine notices over alleged sale of expired products, and the FSSAI has issued notices to Swiggy Instamart due to consumer complaints. Statement 3 is not correct as the FSSAI has not issued notices over alleged sale of adulterated products.

Q34.With reference to the amendment in the rules, consider the following statements:
1. High-alcohol formulations will require a licence and prescription.
2. High-alcohol formulations will be exempt from Schedule K.
3. High-alcohol formulations will be exempt from Schedule H1.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Statement 1 is correct; high-alcohol formulations will require a licence and prescription. Statements 2 and 3 are not correct as high-alcohol formulations will not be exempt from Schedule K or H1.

Q35.With reference to the operation by the Maharashtra ATS, consider the following statements:
1. The ATS has questioned 112 individuals across the state.
2. The ATS has targeted people with alleged links to Pakistan-based gangster Shahzad Bhatti.
3. The ATS has not questioned any individuals.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Statements 1 and 2 are correct; the ATS has questioned 112 individuals across the state, and the ATS has targeted people with alleged links to Pakistan-based gangster Shahzad Bhatti. Statement 3 is not correct as the ATS has indeed questioned individuals.

✍️ Mains — Model Answers

10 analytical questions, each with a structured model answer

Attempt each in your notebook first, then expand the model answer to self-assess.

GS-I10 marks · 150 words Q1.Discuss. Discuss the implications of the Supreme Court's decision to stay the Madras High Court order banning cow slaughter in Tamil Nadu. ▸ Model answer

The Supreme Court's decision to stay the Madras High Court order banning cow slaughter in Tamil Nadu has significant implications for the state's animal welfare laws and the rights of religious minorities.

  • The decision highlights the tension between animal welfare and religious freedom in India, with the state government's ban on cow slaughter being challenged by Hindu groups.
  • The stay order may embolden Hindu groups to challenge similar bans in other states, potentially leading to a patchwork of conflicting laws across the country.
  • The decision also raises questions about the role of the judiciary in regulating religious practices and the limits of state intervention in matters of personal faith.
  • The government may need to reconsider its stance on animal welfare laws and engage in a more nuanced dialogue with religious groups to find a balance between competing interests.
  • The decision may also have implications for the country's overall approach to animal welfare and the protection of animal rights.
  • The Supreme Court's decision underscores the need for a more comprehensive and inclusive approach to regulating animal slaughter and welfare in India.

Way forward. The Supreme Court's decision to stay the Madras High Court order banning cow slaughter in Tamil Nadu highlights the need for a more nuanced approach to regulating animal welfare and religious freedom in India.

GS-I15 marks · 250 words Q2.Discuss. Examine the implications of the Election Commission's decision to include parents' SIR details in the electoral rolls in Odisha. ▸ Model answer

The Election Commission's decision to include parents' SIR details in the electoral rolls in Odisha has significant implications for the state's electoral process and the rights of citizens.

  • The inclusion of parents' SIR details may lead to a more comprehensive and accurate electoral roll, reducing the risk of duplicate or ineligible entries.
  • The decision may also increase voter turnout, particularly among young people and those from marginalized communities, by making it easier for them to register and participate in elections.
  • However, the inclusion of parents' SIR details may also raise concerns about voter privacy and the potential for identity theft or manipulation.
  • The decision may also have implications for the state's electoral laws and procedures, requiring updates to ensure compliance with the new requirements.
  • The Election Commission's decision underscores the need for a more inclusive and participatory electoral process in Odisha and across the country.
  • The inclusion of parents' SIR details may also have implications for the state's social welfare programs and policies, particularly those related to education and healthcare.

Way forward. The Election Commission's decision to include parents' SIR details in the electoral rolls in Odisha has significant implications for the state's electoral process and the rights of citizens, highlighting the need for a more inclusive and participatory electoral process.

GS-I10 marks · 150 words Q3.Discuss. Comment on the implications of the National Investigation Agency's (NIA) charges against Hafiz Saeed in the Pahalgam attack case. ▸ Model answer

The National Investigation Agency's (NIA) charges against Hafiz Saeed in the Pahalgam attack case have significant implications for national security and counter-terrorism efforts in India.

  • The charges against Hafiz Saeed may indicate a shift in the NIA's focus towards targeting terrorist leaders and organizations, rather than just their operatives.
  • The decision may also have implications for the state of Jammu and Kashmir, where the Pahalgam attack took place, and the ongoing efforts to address the region's complex security challenges.
  • The charges against Hafiz Saeed may also raise questions about the role of the NIA in investigating and prosecuting terrorist cases, and the potential for politicization of the agency.
  • The decision may also have implications for India's relations with Pakistan, where Hafiz Saeed is based, and the ongoing efforts to address the issue of terrorism and cross-border extremism.
  • The charges against Hafiz Saeed may also have implications for the country's overall approach to counter-terrorism, and the need for a more nuanced and multi-faceted approach to addressing the complex security challenges facing the nation.

Way forward. The National Investigation Agency's (NIA) charges against Hafiz Saeed in the Pahalgam attack case have significant implications for national security and counter-terrorism efforts in India, highlighting the need for a more nuanced and multi-faceted approach to addressing the complex security challenges facing the natio

GS-I15 marks · 250 words Q4.Comment. Comment on the implications of the alleged embezzlement of donations for the Ram temple in Ayodhya on public trust and the role of religious institutions in India. ▸ Model answer

The alleged embezzlement of donations for the Ram temple in Ayodhya poses significant challenges to public trust in religious institutions and their financial management.

  • This incident has the potential to deeply hurt the sentiments of devotees, leading to a crisis of faith in the transparency and integrity of religious organizations.
  • The RSS's call for accountability reflects a growing demand for ethical governance within religious institutions, emphasizing the need for proper auditing and financial oversight.
  • Such scandals can lead to a decline in donations, affecting the financial sustainability of religious projects and initiatives that rely on public support.
  • The situation also raises broader questions about the intersection of religion and politics in India, as the Ram temple has been a focal point of political mobilization and identity.
  • Addressing these issues requires a commitment to transparency and accountability from religious institutions, alongside regulatory frameworks to ensure ethical fundraising practices.

Way forward. In the long term, fostering transparency and accountability in religious institutions is crucial for maintaining public trust and ensuring that faith-based initiatives can thrive without corruption.

GS-I15 marks · 250 words Q5.Examine. Examine the implications of the alleged embezzlement of donations for the Ram temple in Ayodhya on public trust and the role of religious institutions in India. ▸ Model answer

The alleged embezzlement of donations for the Ram temple in Ayodhya raises significant concerns regarding public trust in religious institutions and their financial management.

  • This incident has the potential to deeply hurt the sentiments of devotees, leading to a crisis of faith and questioning the integrity of religious organizations involved in fundraising.
  • The RSS's call for accountability reflects a broader societal expectation that religious institutions must operate transparently and ethically to maintain public confidence.
  • Such scandals can lead to increased scrutiny and regulation of religious trusts, which may impact their operations and fundraising capabilities in the long run.
  • Moreover, this situation highlights the need for robust mechanisms to ensure financial accountability and transparency within religious institutions to prevent misuse of funds.
  • The incident also raises questions about the intersection of religion and politics in India, as the Ram temple has significant political implications, potentially influencing voter sentiments.

Way forward. In conclusion, addressing the allegations of embezzlement is crucial for restoring public trust in religious institutions, which play a vital role in Indian society and governance.

GS-I15 marks · 250 words Q6.Discuss. Discuss the significance of the recent elevation of India-New Zealand ties to a strategic partnership and its implications for bilateral trade and investment. ▸ Model answer

The elevation of India-New Zealand ties to a strategic partnership marks a pivotal moment in bilateral relations, with potential benefits for both nations.

  • This strategic partnership is expected to enhance economic cooperation, with a target of ₹35,000 crore in trade by 2030, reflecting a commitment to mutual growth.
  • The 18 key outcomes from the bilateral talks, including 10 agreements, indicate a comprehensive approach to collaboration across various sectors such as trade, technology, and education.
  • New Zealand's expertise in agriculture and education can complement India's needs, particularly in enhancing agricultural productivity and skill development.
  • The partnership also serves as a counterbalance to China's influence in the Indo-Pacific region, aligning with India's broader geopolitical strategy.
  • Increased investment from New Zealand can lead to job creation and technology transfer in India, fostering innovation and economic resilience.

Way forward. Overall, the strategic partnership between India and New Zealand holds promise for robust economic ties and regional stability, necessitating continued diplomatic engagement.

GS-I10 marks · 150 words Q7.Examine. Examine the implications of the Ministry of External Affairs' clarification regarding the nature of passports in India and its impact on citizenship perceptions. ▸ Model answer

The MEA's clarification on the role of passports in India highlights critical aspects of citizenship and regulatory frameworks.

  • By stating that a passport is merely a document regulating departure, the MEA emphasizes that it does not confer citizenship, which is a crucial distinction for legal and administrative purposes.
  • This clarification addresses misconceptions that may arise in the context of citizenship debates, particularly in light of recent legislative changes and public discourse.
  • The statement reinforces the importance of the Passports Act, 1967, ensuring that citizens understand the legal framework governing passport issuance and its limitations.
  • With less than eight percent of Indians holding passports, this clarification may encourage more citizens to engage with international travel and opportunities abroad.

Way forward. Ultimately, the MEA's clarification serves to demystify the role of passports in India, fostering a clearer understanding of citizenship and regulatory practices.

GS-I15 marks · 250 words Q8.Discuss. Examine the significance of the Election Commission of India's decision to include parents' SIR details in the electoral rolls in Odisha. ▸ Model answer

The Election Commission of India's decision to include parents' SIR details in the electoral rolls in Odisha has sparked a debate on the issue of voter eligibility and the role of the Election Commission in ensuring the integrity of the electoral process.

  • The inclusion of parents' SIR details may help to prevent ineligible voters from casting ballots and ensure the accuracy of the electoral rolls.
  • The decision may also have implications for the state government's efforts to promote voter registration and increase voter turnout.
  • The Election Commission's decision may set a precedent for other states to include similar details in their electoral rolls.
  • The issue of voter eligibility is a complex one, and the Election Commission's role in ensuring the integrity of the electoral process is crucial.
  • The decision may also have implications for the state government's efforts to promote voter education and awareness about the electoral process.

Way forward. The Election Commission of India's decision to include parents' SIR details in the electoral rolls in Odisha is significant for ensuring the integrity of the electoral process and promoting voter eligibility.

GS-I15 marks · 250 words Q9.Discuss. Examine the implications of the Election Commission of India's decision to include parents' SIR details in the electoral rolls in Odisha. ▸ Model answer

The Election Commission of India's decision to include parents' SIR details in the electoral rolls in Odisha has sparked a debate on the issue of voter eligibility and the role of technology in electoral processes.

  • The inclusion of parents' SIR details may increase voter turnout, particularly among young people, but it also raises concerns about the potential for voter fraud and the need for robust verification processes.
  • The decision highlights the importance of technology in electoral processes and the need for efficient and secure systems for voter registration and verification.
  • The inclusion of parents' SIR details may also raise questions about the role of family ties in electoral processes and the potential for undue influence.
  • The decision may set a precedent for other states to adopt similar measures, leading to a potential shift in the dynamics of electoral processes.
  • The Election Commission's decision may also raise questions about the balance between voter eligibility and the need for robust verification processes.

Way forward. The Election Commission of India's decision to include parents' SIR details in the electoral rolls in Odisha highlights the importance of technology in electoral processes and the need for efficient and secure systems for voter registration and verification.

GS-I10 marks · 150 words Q10.Discuss. Comment on the implications of the National Investigation Agency's chargesheet against Hafiz Saeed in the Pahalgam terror attack case. ▸ Model answer

The National Investigation Agency's chargesheet against Hafiz Saeed in the Pahalgam terror attack case has sparked a debate on the issue of terrorism and the role of the National Investigation Agency in investigating cross-border cases.

  • The chargesheet highlights the involvement of Lashkar-e-Taiba in the Pahalgam terror attack and raises concerns about the potential for cross-border terrorism.
  • The National Investigation Agency's decision to charge Hafiz Saeed may set a precedent for other cases involving cross-border terrorism.
  • The chargesheet may also raise questions about the balance between national security and individual rights.
  • The decision highlights the importance of effective investigation and prosecution of terrorism cases.
  • The chargesheet may also raise questions about the role of the National Investigation Agency in investigating cases involving cross-border terrorism.

Way forward. The National Investigation Agency's chargesheet against Hafiz Saeed in the Pahalgam terror attack case highlights the importance of effective investigation and prosecution of terrorism cases and the need for robust national security measures.

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