Master your Daily Current Affairs 1 August 2024

Daily Current Affairs MCQ ‘s 2024

1) Consider the following statements about the lithium reserves in India:

1.       The Geological Survey of India (GSI) established an inferred resource of 5.9 million tonnes of lithium ore in Jammu and Kashmir's Reasi district.

2.      Another significant lithium reserve was discovered in Degana, Rajasthan, which is believed to be larger than the one found in Jammu and Kashmir.

3.      These discoveries are sufficient to meet 100% of India's lithium demand.

Which of the above-given statements is/are correct?

A) 1 and 2 only
B) 2 and 3 only
C) 1 and 3 only
D) 1, 2, and 3

Answer: A) 1 and 2 only

Explanation:

• Statement 1 is correct: The GSI identified an inferred lithium resource of 5.9 million tonnes in Reasi district, Jammu and Kashmir.
• Statement 2 is correct: A more significant reserve has been found in Degana, Rajasthan, which is expected to be larger than the one in Jammu and Kashmir.
• Statement 3 is incorrect: While these discoveries are substantial, they are estimated to meet around 80% of India's total lithium demand, not 100%.

2) Consider the following statements regarding the importance of
     lithium for India:

1.       Lithium is crucial for India's electric vehicle (EV) market, which is expected to expand significantly by 2030.

2.      India currently imports a substantial amount of lithium batteries, reflecting the country's dependence on foreign lithium sources.

3.      The global shift towards low-carbon economies will not significantly impact the demand for lithium.

Which of the above-given statements is/are correct?

A) 1 and 2 only
B) 2 and 3 only
C) 1 and 3 only
D) 1, 2, and 3

Answer: A) 1 and 2 only

Explanation:

• Statement 1 is correct: Lithium is a key component in rechargeable batteries, crucial for India's growing EV market, projected to reach $152.21 billion by 2030.
• Statement 2 is correct: India imported 450 million units of lithium batteries valued at $929.26 million in 2019-2020, indicating significant dependence on imports.
• Statement 3 is incorrect: The global transition to low-carbon economies and technologies like AI and 5G are expected to significantly increase the demand for lithium, influencing global and regional geopolitics.

3) Consider the following challenges faced by investors regarding the lithium block auction in Jammu and Kashmir:

1.       Difficulties in extracting and processing lithium from hard rock pegmatite deposits.

2.      Well-established and clear mineral reporting standards in India.

3.      Concerns over the small size of the block and limited information provided in bid documents.

Which of the above-given statements is/are correct?

A) 1 and 3 only
B) 2 and 3 only
C) 1 and 2 only
D) 1, 2, and 3

Answer: A) 1 and 3 only

Explanation:

• Statement 1 is correct: Extracting and processing lithium from hard rock pegmatite deposits is challenging and costly.
• Statement 2 is incorrect: India currently has underdeveloped mineral reporting standards, which are not fully aligned with international norms, causing concern among potential investors.
• Statement 3 is correct: Investors have expressed concerns over the block's small size and the limited information provided in the bid documents, including the lack of clarity on the feasibility of extraction and processing.

4) Consider the following measures suggested to boost lithium exploration and investment in India:

1.       Adoption of CRIRSCO-aligned internationally-compliant mineral reporting standards.

2.      Allocation of underbid blocks to government companies for prospecting or mining operations.

3.      Restricting the exploration of lithium exclusively to private companies.

Which of the above-given measures is/are suggested?

A) 1 and 2 only
B) 2 and 3 only
C) 1 and 3 only
D) 1, 2, and 3

Answer: A) 1 and 2 only

Explanation:

• Measure 1 is suggested: Adopting CRIRSCO-aligned standards can improve transparency and attract more private investment by providing clearer information on the economic viability of lithium mining projects.
• Measure 2 is suggested: The allocation of underbid blocks to government companies is recommended under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, to continue exploration and potential mining operations.
• Measure 3 is incorrect: The suggestion is not to restrict exploration exclusively to private companies but to involve both private and government entities in the exploration and mining processes.

 5) Consider the following statements about landslides:

1.       A landslide involves the movement of rock, debris, or earth down a slope due to gravitational forces.

2.      Landslides only occur due to natural causes like heavy rainfall and earthquakes.

3.      Kerala, especially the western part, is highly susceptible to landslides.

Which of the above-given statements is/are correct?

A) 1 and 2 only
B) 1 and 3 only
C) 2 and 3 only
D) 1, 2, and 3

Answer: B) 1 and 3 only

Explanation:

• Statement 1 is correct: A landslide is the downward movement of rock, debris, or earth along a slope due to the force of gravity.
• Statement 2 is incorrect: Landslides can be triggered by both natural causes (like heavy rainfall, earthquakes, snow melting) and anthropogenic activities (such as excavation, deforestation, and infrastructure development).
• Statement 3 is correct: Kerala, particularly its western region with hilly terrain, is prone to landslides, as indicated by the landslide atlas released by ISRO's National Remote Sensing Centre.

6) Consider the following factors contributing to the Wayanad landslide in Kerala:

1.       Heavy rainfall exceeding 140 mm in 24 hours.

2.      The presence of a fragile ecological layer with significant deforestation.

3.      Mining and quarrying activities in ecologically sensitive areas.

Which of the above-given factors contributed to the landslide in Wayanad?

A) 1 and 2 only
B) 2 and 3 only
C) 1, 2, and 3
D) 1 only

Answer: C) 1, 2, and 3

Explanation:

• Factor 1 is correct: The region received more than 140 mm of rainfall in 24 hours, which is much higher than usual and contributed to the landslide.
• Factor 2 is correct: The loss of green cover and deforestation increases the fragility of the terrain, making it more susceptible to landslides.
• Factor 3 is correct: Mining and quarrying activities in the Western Ghats, a region with unique geology and dense forests, have exacerbated the risk of landslides.

7) Consider the following statements about the impact of climate change on the landslide risk in Kerala:

1.       The warming of the Arabian Sea has led to more intense and unpredictable rainfall in Kerala.

2.      Deep cloud systems due to the warming of the Arabian Sea contribute to short, heavy rainfall spells.

3.      Climate change is leading to a decrease in the frequency of landslides in Kerala.

Which of the above-given statements is/are correct?

A) 1 and 2 only
B) 2 and 3 only
C) 1 and 3 only
D) 1, 2, and 3

Answer: A) 1 and 2 only

Explanation:

• Statement 1 is correct: The warming of the Arabian Sea has resulted in more intense and unpredictable rainfall patterns in Kerala.
• Statement 2 is correct: This warming leads to the formation of deep cloud systems, causing heavy rainfall in short periods, which increases landslide risk.
• Statement 3 is incorrect: Climate change has increased the frequency and intensity of landslides, not decreased it, especially due to erratic weather patterns and heavy rainfall.

8) Consider the following recommendations made by the "Western Ghats Ecology Expert Panel" regarding the Wayanad region:

1.       Declaring 75% of the Western Ghats area as ecologically sensitive.

2.      Implementing a ban on mining, quarrying, and large-scale wind energy projects in the most vulnerable areas.

3.      Allowing unrestricted commercial activities to boost local economies.

Which of the above-given recommendations was/were made by the panel?

A) 1 and 2 only
B) 2 and 3 only
C) 1 and 3 only
D) 1, 2, and 3

Answer: A) 1 and 2 only

Explanation:

• Statement 1 is correct: The panel recommended declaring 75% of the Western Ghats as ecologically sensitive due to its unique ecology and biodiversity.
• Statement 2 is correct: They advised banning mining, quarrying, and other large-scale projects in the most ecologically sensitive zones to protect the region.
• Statement 3 is incorrect: The panel recommended restrictions on commercial activities to preserve the environment, rather than allowing unrestricted activities.

9) Consider the following statements regarding remittances in India as discussed in the RCF:

1.       India is the highest remittance recipient in the world, accounting for 13.5% of the global total in 2023.

2.      The ratio of remittances to GDP for India has decreased from 2.8% in 2000 to 1.9% in 2023.

3.      India's working-age population is expected to decline before 2048, impacting future remittances.

Which of the above-given statements is/are correct?

A) 1 only
B) 1 and 3 only
C) 2 and 3 only
D) 1, 2, and 3

Answer: A) 1 only

Explanation:

• Statement 1 is correct: India is the highest remittance recipient globally, with $115.3 billion in remittances, accounting for 13.5% of the world total in 2023.
• Statement 2 is incorrect: The ratio of remittances to GDP in India has increased from 2.8% in 2000 to 3.2% in 2023, not decreased.
• Statement 3 is incorrect: India's working-age population is expected to rise until 2048, not decline, which is anticipated to increase remittances to around $160 billion by 2029.

 10) Consider the following statements about the causes and at-risk populations for drowning incidents:

1.       Rising sea levels and urban flooding are contributing factors to drowning incidents.

2.      Children, adolescents, forcibly displaced people, and individuals living in poverty are among the most at-risk populations for drowning.

3.      Drowning incidents occur exclusively in natural water bodies.

Which of the above-given statements is/are correct?

A) 1 and 2 only
B) 2 and 3 only
C) 1, 2, and 3
D) 1 only

Answer: A) 1 and 2 only

Explanation:

• Statement 1 is correct: Rising sea levels and urban flooding are significant causes of drowning incidents.
• Statement 2 is correct: Children, adolescents, forcibly displaced people, and individuals living in poverty are particularly vulnerable to drowning.
• Statement 3 is incorrect: Drowning incidents can occur in various settings, including natural water bodies, urban areas with poor infrastructure, and during floods.

11) Consider the following statements about the impact of drowning incidents:

1.       Drowning has significant economic impacts, such as the loss of livelihood for families when breadwinners drown.

2.      Socially, drowning incidents can lead to disruption and insecurity in communities.

3.      Educational impact is minimal, as drowning does not affect school attendance or student safety.

Which of the above-given statements is/are correct?

A) 1 and 2 only
B) 2 and 3 only
C) 1 and 3 only
D) 1, 2, and 3

Answer: A) 1 and 2 only

Explanation:

• Statement 1 is correct: The economic impact of drowning includes the loss of livelihood for families, particularly when breadwinners are affected.
• Statement 2 is correct: Socially, drowning incidents can lead to disruption and insecurity, especially in communities where such incidents are frequent.
• Statement 3 is incorrect: Drowning can have a significant educational impact, including the loss of students and affecting school attendance, especially in regions where children must navigate unsafe waters to reach school.

12) Consider the following statements regarding the public health crisis of drowning:

1.       Drowning is often under-recognized as a critical public health issue, leading to insufficient funding and attention.

2.      Fragmented data collection and reporting hinder effective policy-making for drowning prevention.

3.      The complexity of drowning prevention solutions requires simple, one-dimensional approaches for effective implementation.

Which of the above-given statements is/are correct?

A) 1 and 2 only
B) 2 and 3 only
C) 1, 2, and 3
D) 1 only

Answer: A) 1 and 2 only

Explanation:

• Statement 1 is correct: Drowning is often overlooked as a critical public health issue, resulting in a lack of sufficient funding and attention.
• Statement 2 is correct: Inadequate data collection and reporting on drowning incidents make it challenging to develop effective policies.
• Statement 3 is incorrect: Addressing drowning requires multi-faceted solutions, including community engagement, infrastructure improvements, and education, rather than simple, one-dimensional approaches.

13) Consider the following statements about the steps taken for drowning prevention globally and in specific countries:

1.       The WHO’s Global Report on Drowning Prevention (2014) and the UN General Assembly resolution on drowning prevention (2021) are significant global initiatives.

2.      Vietnam and Bangladesh have implemented country-specific measures such as swimming lessons and community-based childcare centres.

3.      India's Strategic Framework for Drowning Prevention (2023) focuses solely on transport safety measures.

Which of the above-given statements is/are correct?

A) 1 and 2 only
B) 2 and 3 only
C) 1 and 3 only
D) 1, 2, and 3

Answer: A) 1 and 2 only

Explanation:

• Statement 1 is correct: The WHO’s Global Report on Drowning Prevention and the UN General Assembly resolution on drowning prevention are key global initiatives aimed at addressing the issue.
• Statement 2 is correct: Vietnam has introduced the Swim-Safe curriculum for children, and Bangladesh has established community-based childcare centres (Anchal) to supervise young children, as part of their drowning prevention measures.
• Statement 3 is incorrect: India's Strategic Framework for Drowning Prevention (2023) includes a multi-sectoral response, encompassing robust data collection, infrastructure improvements, transport safety, and public awareness campaigns, not solely focusing on transport safety.

14) Consider the following statements about the current state of employment in India:

1.       The workforce in India was estimated to be nearly 56.5 crore in 2022-23.

2.      Agriculture accounts for more than 45% of the workforce, while manufacturing contributes 11.4%.

3.      The unemployment rate reported was 3.2%, but this statistic may not reflect the true state of underemployment.

Which of the above-given statements is/are correct?

A) 1 and 2 only
B) 2 and 3 only
C) 1, 2, and 3
D) 1 and 3 only

Answer: C) 1, 2, and 3

Explanation:

• Statement 1 is correct: The workforce in India was estimated to be nearly 56.5 crore in 2022-23.
• Statement 2 is correct: Agriculture accounts for more than 45% of the workforce, and manufacturing contributes 11.4%.
• Statement 3 is correct: The officially reported unemployment rate was 3.2%, but many economists suggest this figure does not fully capture underemployment and informal sector employment.

15) Consider the following statements regarding the challenges of regular salaried work in India:

1.       The percentage of people in regular salaried work has increased significantly over the past five years.

2.      Many salaried workers do not have access to contracts or social security benefits.

3.      The formalisation of the workforce is indicated by the growing number of contributing subscribers to the Employees Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO).

Which of the above-given statements is/are correct?

A) 1 and 2 only
B) 2 and 3 only
C) 1, 2, and 3
D) 1 only

Answer: B) 2 and 3 only

Explanation:

• Statement 1 is incorrect: The percentage of people in regular salaried work has actually dropped from 22.8% in 2017-18 to 20.9% in recent years.
• Statement 2 is correct: Many salaried workers do not have access to contracts or social security benefits, which are typical features of formal employment.
• Statement 3 is correct: The increasing number of contributing subscribers to the EPFO indicates a trend towards the formalisation of the workforce.

16) Consider the following statements about the employment-linked incentive schemes introduced in the Union Budget 2024-25:

1.       The First-Time Employee Hiring Support scheme offers a wage subsidy of up to ₹15,000 paid directly to the employee.

2.      The Manufacturing Sector Employee Hiring scheme provides wage subsidies to both employees and employers for up to five years.

3.      All the schemes require employees to be registered with the Employees Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO).

Which of the above-given statements is/are correct?

A) 1 and 3 only
B) 2 and 3 only
C) 1 and 2 only
D) 1, 2, and 3

Answer: A) 1 and 3 only

Explanation:

• Statement 1 is correct: The First-Time Employee Hiring Support scheme does offer a wage subsidy of up to ₹15,000, which is paid directly to the employee in three instalments.
• Statement 2 is incorrect: The Manufacturing Sector Employee Hiring scheme provides wage subsidies for up to four years, not five, with a maximum incentive of 24% of a ₹25,000 monthly wage.
• Statement 3 is correct: All these schemes require employees to be registered with the EPFO to be eligible for the benefits.

17) Consider the following statements regarding the broader issues affecting job creation in India:

1.       The schemes introduced in the Union Budget 2024-25 primarily target large employers who are constrained by high wage costs.

2.      There is a need to focus on MSMEs and labour-intensive sectors to effectively create jobs.

3.      Increasing wages in schemes like MGNREGA and creating urban employment guarantee schemes can help stimulate demand and job creation.

Which of the above-given statements is/are correct?

A) 1 and 2 only
B) 2 and 3 only
C) 1 and 3 only
D) 1, 2, and 3

Answer: B) 2 and 3 only

Explanation:

• Statement 1 is incorrect: The schemes are actually more beneficial for small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) rather than large employers, as large employers are generally less constrained by wage costs.
• Statement 2 is correct: There is indeed a need to focus on MSMEs and labour-intensive sectors for job creation, as these sectors can absorb a larger portion of the workforce and have the potential for greater job creation.
• Statement 3 is correct: Increasing wages in rural schemes like MGNREGA and creating similar schemes for urban areas can stimulate demand, which in turn can drive job creation by increasing consumption.

 18) Consider the following statements about the GROWTH-India Telescope and its recent observations:

1.       The GROWTH-India Telescope is India's first fully robotic optical research telescope, located in Hanle, Ladakh.

2.      It recently captured images of asteroid 2011 MW1, which is approximately 116 meters in size and traveled at a speed of 28,946 kilometers per hour.

3.      The images showed background stars as streaks due to the rapid motion of the asteroid.

Which of the above-given statements is/are correct?

A) 1 and 2 only
B) 2 and 3 only
C) 1, 2, and 3
D) 1 and 3 only

Answer: C) 1, 2, and 3

Explanation:

• Statement 1 is correct: The GROWTH-India Telescope, located in Hanle, Ladakh, is indeed India's first fully robotic optical research telescope, part of the international GROWTH project.
• Statement 2 is correct: The telescope captured images of the Near Earth Asteroid 2011 MW1, which measured approximately 116 meters and traveled at a speed of 28,946 kilometers per hour.
• Statement 3 is correct: The rapid motion of the asteroid caused the background stars to appear as streaks in the telescope's images, a common phenomenon when observing fast-moving objects.

19) Consider the following statements about the GROWTH project and its significance:

1.       The GROWTH (Global Relay of Observatories Watching Transients Happen) project is an international network focused on time-domain astronomy.

2.      It involves collaboration among institutions from multiple countries, including the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) and the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IITB).

3.      The primary goal of the project is to study long-term astronomical events like planetary orbits and stellar formation.

Which of the above-given statements is/are correct?

A) 1 and 2 only
B) 2 and 3 only
C) 1, 2, and 3
D) 1 and 3 only

Answer: A) 1 and 2 only

Explanation:

• Statement 1 is correct: The GROWTH project is an international network focused on time-domain astronomy, which involves the study of transient astronomical events that change over short periods.
• Statement 2 is correct: The project includes collaboration among various international institutions, such as the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) and the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IITB), along with others from the USA, Japan, Israel, and several European countries.
• Statement 3 is incorrect: The primary goal of the GROWTH project is not to study long-term events like planetary orbits and stellar formation, but rather transient events such as supernovae, gamma-ray bursts, and near-Earth asteroids, which change rapidly and require timely observation.

20) Consider the following statements about the causes and at-risk populations for drowning incidents:

1.       Rising sea levels and urban flooding are contributing factors to the increasing frequency of drowning incidents.

2.      Children, adolescents, and individuals living in poverty are among the most at-risk populations for drowning.

3.      The majority of drowning incidents occur in rural settings due to poor infrastructure and safety measures.

Which of the above-given statements is/are correct?

A) 1 and 2 only
B) 2 and 3 only
C) 1, 2, and 3
D) 1 only

Answer: A) 1 and 2 only

Explanation:

• Statement 1 is correct: Rising sea levels and urban flooding are significant contributing factors to drowning incidents, as they increase the risk of sudden and unexpected immersion in water.
• Statement 2 is correct: Children, adolescents, and individuals living in poverty are particularly vulnerable to drowning due to factors like lack of swimming skills, risky living conditions, and inadequate safety measures.
• Statement 3 is incorrect: While rural settings can contribute to drowning due to poor infrastructure, drowning incidents also occur in urban settings, as evidenced by recent events like the IAS coaching centre incident in New Delhi.

21) Consider the following statements about the impact of drowning and the steps taken for prevention:

1.       Drowning has significant economic and social impacts, including loss of livelihood and disruption in communities.

2.      The WHO's Global Report on Drowning Prevention and the UN General Assembly resolution are key global initiatives to address drowning.

3.      India's Strategic Framework for Drowning Prevention (2023) focuses exclusively on swimming lessons for children.

Which of the above-given statements is/are correct?

A) 1 and 2 only
B) 2 and 3 only
C) 1, 2, and 3
D) 1 only

Answer: A) 1 and 2 only

Explanation:

• Statement 1 is correct: Drowning can have far-reaching economic impacts, such as the loss of income for families when breadwinners drown, and social impacts, including community disruption and emotional trauma.
• Statement 2 is correct: The WHO's Global Report on Drowning Prevention and the UN General Assembly resolution are significant global efforts aimed at reducing drowning incidents worldwide.
• Statement 3 is incorrect: While swimming lessons are an important part of India's Strategic Framework for Drowning Prevention, the framework also includes broader measures such as data collection, infrastructure improvements, transport safety, and public awareness campaigns.

22) Consider the following statements about Hantavirus and its transmission:

1.       Hantavirus can be transmitted to humans primarily through inhalation of aerosolized particles from rodent urine, feces, or saliva.

2.      Direct contact with infected rodents or their bodily fluids poses no risk of transmission.

3.      Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS) and Hemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome (HFRS) are the two main diseases caused by Hantavirus.

Which of the above-given statements is/are correct?

A) 1 and 3 only
B) 2 and 3 only
C) 1, 2, and 3
D) 1 only

Answer: A) 1 and 3 only

Explanation:

• Statement 1 is correct: Hantavirus is primarily transmitted to humans through the inhalation of aerosolized particles from rodent excreta, such as urine, feces, or saliva.
• Statement 2 is incorrect: Direct contact with infected rodents or their bodily fluids can also pose a risk of transmission.
• Statement 3 is correct: Hantavirus can cause two main diseases in humans: Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS) and Hemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome (HFRS).

 23) Consider the following statements regarding the prevention and control of rodent-borne hantavirus infections:

1.       There is a specific antiviral treatment available for hantavirus infections.

2.      Prevention focuses on minimizing exposure to rodent populations and their habitats.

3.      Sealing up holes in homes and proper sanitation are key preventive measures against hantavirus.

Which of the above-given statements is/are correct?

A) 1 only
B) 2 and 3 only
C) 1, 2, and 3
D) 2 only

Answer: B) 2 and 3 only

Explanation:

• Statement 1 is incorrect: There is no specific antiviral treatment for hantavirus infections; supportive care in a medical facility is critical, especially for severe cases.
• Statement 2 is correct: Prevention focuses on minimizing exposure to rodent populations and their habitats to reduce the risk of infection.
• Statement 3 is correct: Key preventive measures include sealing up holes in homes to prevent rodent entry and maintaining proper sanitation to avoid attracting rodents.

 24) Consider the following statements about Livermorium (Element116):

1.       Livermorium is a superheavy element, part of the "island of stability" in the periodic table.

2.      It was first synthesized by a collaboration between the Joint Institute for Nuclear Research (JINR) in Dubna, Russia, and the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) in the United States in 2000.

3.      Livermorium's most stable isotope has a half-life of approximately 60 milliseconds.

Which of the above-given statements is/are correct?

A) 1 and 2 only
B) 2 and 3 only
C) 1, 2, and 3
D) 1 and 3 only

Answer: B) 2 and 3 only

Explanation:

• Statement 1 is incorrect: While Livermorium is a superheavy element, it is not within the "island of stability," a hypothetical set of superheavy isotopes predicted to have relatively longer half-lives. Livermorium is unstable, with very short-lived isotopes.
• Statement 2 is correct: Livermorium was indeed first synthesized in 2000 by JINR and LLNL.
• Statement 3 is correct: The most stable isotope of Livermorium, ^293Lv, has a half-life of approximately 60 milliseconds, making it one of the more stable superheavy elements.

25) Consider the following statements about the process of synthesizing superheavy elements like Livermorium:

1.       Superheavy elements are typically created using a particle accelerator to smash together isotopes of lighter elements.

2.      Titanium-50 was used as a projectile in creating Livermorium, while calcium-48 has been commonly used in creating other superheavy elements.

3.      The synthesis of superheavy elements like Livermorium can provide insights into the stability of atomic nuclei and the potential discovery of new elements.

Which of the above-given statements is/are correct?

A) 1 and 2 only
B) 2 and 3 only
C) 1, 2, and 3
D) 1 only

Answer: C) 1, 2, and 3

Explanation:

• Statement 1 is correct: Superheavy elements are synthesized using particle accelerators, which involve accelerating and colliding isotopes of lighter elements.
• Statement 2 is correct: In the synthesis of Livermorium, isotopes of titanium (specifically titanium-50) and plutonium were used, whereas calcium-48 is commonly used in synthesizing other superheavy elements.
• Statement 3 is correct: The study of superheavy elements like Livermorium can offer valuable insights into nuclear stability and the properties of atomic nuclei, potentially leading to the discovery of more stable or even new elements.

 26) Consider the following statements about INS Tabar:

1.       INS Tabar is a stealth frigate built for the Indian Navy in Russia and is the third vessel of the Talwar-class frigates.

2.      It was commissioned in 2004 and is capable of conducting air, surface, and subsurface missions.

3.      INS Tabar is part of the Indian Navy’s Eastern Fleet, based in Visakhapatnam.

Which of the above-given statements is/are correct?

A) 1 and 2 only
B) 2 and 3 only
C) 1, 2, and 3
D) 1 only

Answer: A) 1 and 2 only

Explanation:

• Statement 1 is correct: INS Tabar is indeed a stealth frigate built in Russia and is the third vessel of the Talwar-class frigates for the Indian Navy.
• Statement 2 is correct: The ship was commissioned in 2004 and is capable of conducting air, surface, and subsurface missions.
• Statement 3 is incorrect: INS Tabar is part of the Indian Navy's Western Fleet, based in Mumbai under the Western Naval Command, not the Eastern Fleet.

27) Consider the following statements about the role of INS Tabar in  naval diplomacy and interoperability:

1.       INS Tabar's participation in Russia’s Navy Day celebrations highlights the mutual respect and camaraderie shared between the Indian and Russian navies.

2.      The ship's presence at such international events is crucial for coordinated efforts in maritime security and humanitarian assistance.

3.      INS Tabar's deployment for international naval events is a recent development in India's naval strategy.

Which of the above-given statements is/are correct?

A) 1 and 2 only
B) 2 and 3 only
C) 1, 2, and 3
D) 1 only

Answer: A) 1 and 2 only

Explanation:

• Statement 1 is correct: INS Tabar’s participation in Russia's Navy Day celebrations indeed reflects the strong naval ties and mutual respect between India and Russia.
• Statement 2 is correct: The presence of INS Tabar in international events contributes significantly to coordinated maritime security and humanitarian assistance efforts, showcasing India's commitment to global naval cooperation.
• Statement 3 is incorrect: INS Tabar's participation in international naval events is not a recent development but part of a long-standing tradition of India's naval diplomacy and efforts to enhance interoperability with other navies.

28) Consider the following statements about India's Digital Revolution as highlighted in the RBI's Report on Currency and
       Finance (RCF) for 2023-24:

1.       India ranks first globally in biometric-based identification through Aadhaar and real-time payments volume.

2.      The Unified Payments Interface (UPI) has not significantly impacted the retail payment experience in India.

3.      India is ranked second in the world in terms of the startup ecosystem.

Which of the above-given statements is/are correct?

A) 1 only
B) 1 and 2 only
C) 1 and 3 only
D) 1, 2, and 3

Answer: A) 1 only

Explanation:

• Statement 1 is correct: India leads globally in biometric-based identification (Aadhaar) and real-time payments volume.
• Statement 2 is incorrect: The Unified Payments Interface (UPI) has revolutionized the retail payment experience in India, making transactions faster and more convenient.
• Statement 3 is incorrect: India is ranked third, not second, in the world in terms of the startup ecosystem.

29) Consider the following aspects of digitalisation in finance in India:

1.       The digital lending ecosystem includes initiatives like the Open Credit Enablement Network and the Public Tech Platform for Frictionless Credit.

2.      Digitalisation has increased the cost of financial services in India.

3.      The RBI's participation in Project Nexus aims to enable instant cross-border retail payments.

Which of the above-given statements is/are correct?

A) 1 only
B) 1 and 3 only
C) 2 and 3 only
D) 1, 2, and 3

Answer: B) 1 and 3 only

Explanation:

• Statement 1 is correct: The digital lending ecosystem in India is supported by initiatives such as the Open Credit Enablement Network and the Public Tech Platform for Frictionless Credit.
• Statement 2 is incorrect: Digitalisation has generally improved access to financial services at affordable costs, rather than increasing them.
• Statement 3 is correct: The RBI's participation in Project Nexus is part of a multilateral international initiative to enable instant cross-border retail payments by interlinking domestic Fast Payments Systems (FPS).

30) Consider the following challenges posed by the digitalisation in finance as highlighted in the RCF:

1.       Issues related to cybersecurity and data privacy.

2.      The proliferation of fraudulent apps and complex business models.

3.      Lack of need for upskilling and reskilling in the financial sector.

Which of the above-given statements is/are correct?

A) 1 and 2 only
B) 2 and 3 only
C) 1 and 3 only
D) 1, 2, and 3

Answer: A) 1 and 2 only

Explanation:

• Statement 1 is correct: Cybersecurity and data privacy are significant concerns in the digital finance ecosystem.
• Statement 2 is correct: The emergence of complex products and business models, including fraudulent apps, presents challenges in the digital finance space.
• Statement 3 is incorrect: Digitalisation requires strategic investments in upskilling and reskilling in the financial sector, contrary to the statement that there is no such need.