UPSC Current Affairs Quiz :12 July 2025

The Current Affairs Quiz 2024 is a daily quiz based on the DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS AND PIB SUMMARY from the previous day, as posted on our website. It covers all relevant news sources and is designed to test your knowledge of current events. Solving these questions will help you retain both concepts and facts relevant to the UPSC IAS civil services exam.

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• Question 1 of 10 1. Question 1 points Which one of the following best describes the core function of the ‘psychometric testing’ component within the TALASH initiative? a) To conduct annual academic examinations for students in Eklavya Model Residential Schools. b) To provide training modules for improving the emotional intelligence of teachers. c) To assess student aptitude and generate personalized career guidance cards. d) To digitally track student attendance and academic performance for the Ministry of Tribal Affairs. Correct Solution: C The core function of the psychometric testing component in the TALASH initiative is to systematically assess the inherent aptitudes and interests of tribal students. This is not a conventional academic test but a scientific evaluation of a student’s natural abilities and inclinations. Based on the results of these tests, which are structured around the NCERT’s Tamanna model, the platform generates personalized Career Cards. These cards serve as a foundational tool for career counselling, helping students make informed decisions by aligning their interests, aptitudes, and aspirations. Incorrect Solution: C The core function of the psychometric testing component in the TALASH initiative is to systematically assess the inherent aptitudes and interests of tribal students. This is not a conventional academic test but a scientific evaluation of a student’s natural abilities and inclinations. Based on the results of these tests, which are structured around the NCERT’s Tamanna model, the platform generates personalized Career Cards. These cards serve as a foundational tool for career counselling, helping students make informed decisions by aligning their interests, aptitudes, and aspirations.

#### 1. Question

Which one of the following best describes the core function of the ‘psychometric testing’ component within the TALASH initiative?

• a) To conduct annual academic examinations for students in Eklavya Model Residential Schools.

• b) To provide training modules for improving the emotional intelligence of teachers.

• c) To assess student aptitude and generate personalized career guidance cards.

• d) To digitally track student attendance and academic performance for the Ministry of Tribal Affairs.

Solution: C

• The core function of the psychometric testing component in the TALASH initiative is to systematically assess the inherent aptitudes and interests of tribal students. This is not a conventional academic test but a scientific evaluation of a student’s natural abilities and inclinations.

• Based on the results of these tests, which are structured around the NCERT’s Tamanna model, the platform generates personalized Career Cards. These cards serve as a foundational tool for career counselling, helping students make informed decisions by aligning their interests, aptitudes, and aspirations.

Solution: C

• Question 2 of 10 2. Question 1 points Consider the following statements regarding Machine Vision-Based Inspection Systems (MVIS): Statement I: The deployment of AI-powered Machine Vision-Based Inspection Systems (MVIS) aims to automate the inspection of freight train rolling stock. Statement II: MVIS utilizes high-speed color cameras and Optical Character Recognition (OCR) to identify wagon numbers and defects simultaneously. Statement III: The system’s primary objective is to enable preventive maintenance and reduce the risk of accidents by providing real-time alerts. Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements? (a) Both Statement II and Statement III are correct and both of them explain Statement I (b) Both Statement II and Statement III are correct but only one of them explains Statement I (c) Only one of the Statements II and III is correct and that explains Statement I (d) Neither Statement II nor Statement III is correct Correct Solution: C Statement I is a correct assertion about the purpose of MVIS. Statement II is incorrect. While MVIS does use OCR for wagon number detection, it employs monochrome cameras, not color cameras, for faster processing and better clarity in defect detection. Statement III is correct. The fundamental goal of MVIS is to shift from manual, periodic inspections to an automated, continuous monitoring system. By detecting issues like hanging parts or hot axles in real-time, it allows for preventive maintenance before a component fails catastrophically, thereby enhancing safety and reducing accident risks. Since Statement III is correct and directly explains *why* the automation described in Statement I is being implemented, it serves as a valid explanation for Statement I. Incorrect Solution: C Statement I is a correct assertion about the purpose of MVIS. Statement II is incorrect. While MVIS does use OCR for wagon number detection, it employs monochrome cameras, not color cameras, for faster processing and better clarity in defect detection. Statement III is correct. The fundamental goal of MVIS is to shift from manual, periodic inspections to an automated, continuous monitoring system. By detecting issues like hanging parts or hot axles in real-time, it allows for preventive maintenance before a component fails catastrophically, thereby enhancing safety and reducing accident risks. Since Statement III is correct and directly explains *why* the automation described in Statement I is being implemented, it serves as a valid explanation for Statement I.

#### 2. Question

Consider the following statements regarding Machine Vision-Based Inspection Systems (MVIS):

Statement I: The deployment of AI-powered Machine Vision-Based Inspection Systems (MVIS) aims to automate the inspection of freight train rolling stock.

Statement II: MVIS utilizes high-speed color cameras and Optical Character Recognition (OCR) to identify wagon numbers and defects simultaneously.

Statement III: The system’s primary objective is to enable preventive maintenance and reduce the risk of accidents by providing real-time alerts.

Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?

• (a) Both Statement II and Statement III are correct and both of them explain Statement I

• (b) Both Statement II and Statement III are correct but only one of them explains Statement I

• (c) Only one of the Statements II and III is correct and that explains Statement I

• (d) Neither Statement II nor Statement III is correct

Solution: C

• Statement I is a correct assertion about the purpose of MVIS.

• Statement II is incorrect. While MVIS does use OCR for wagon number detection, it employs monochrome cameras, not color cameras, for faster processing and better clarity in defect detection.

• Statement III is correct. The fundamental goal of MVIS is to shift from manual, periodic inspections to an automated, continuous monitoring system. By detecting issues like hanging parts or hot axles in real-time, it allows for preventive maintenance before a component fails catastrophically, thereby enhancing safety and reducing accident risks.

• Since Statement III is correct and directly explains *why* the automation described in Statement I is being implemented, it serves as a valid explanation for Statement I.

Solution: C

• Statement I is a correct assertion about the purpose of MVIS.

• Since Statement III is correct and directly explains *why* the automation described in Statement I is being implemented, it serves as a valid explanation for Statement I.

• Question 3 of 10 3. Question 1 points With reference to INS Nistar, consider the following statements: It is a Russian-origin vessel refurbished and commissioned into the Indian Navy. The vessel is equipped with Side Scan SONAR and can function as a mother ship for the Deep Submergence Rescue Vehicle (DSRV). Its primary role is offensive, focused on anti-submarine warfare in the Indian Ocean Region. How many of the above statements is/are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three (d) None Correct Solution: A Statement 1 is incorrect. INS Nistar is India’s first indigenously designed and developed Diving Support Vessel (DSV), built by Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL) with 80% indigenous content. While it revives the name of a former Soviet-origin vessel, the new ship itself is a product of the Atmanirbhar Bharat Statement 2 is correct. The vessel is equipped with advanced underwater systems, including Side Scan SONAR for seabed mapping and object detection, and Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs). A key capability is its role as a mother ship for DSRVs, which significantly extends the operational range and endurance of submarine rescue missions. Statement 3 is incorrect. The primary role of INS Nistar is not offensive anti-submarine warfare but support-oriented. Its main functions are deep-sea diving support, submarine rescue, and underwater salvage operations, filling a critical gap in India’s maritime disaster response and undersea operational capability. Incorrect Solution: A Statement 1 is incorrect. INS Nistar is India’s first indigenously designed and developed Diving Support Vessel (DSV), built by Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL) with 80% indigenous content. While it revives the name of a former Soviet-origin vessel, the new ship itself is a product of the Atmanirbhar Bharat Statement 2 is correct. The vessel is equipped with advanced underwater systems, including Side Scan SONAR for seabed mapping and object detection, and Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs). A key capability is its role as a mother ship for DSRVs, which significantly extends the operational range and endurance of submarine rescue missions. Statement 3 is incorrect. The primary role of INS Nistar is not offensive anti-submarine warfare but support-oriented. Its main functions are deep-sea diving support, submarine rescue, and underwater salvage operations, filling a critical gap in India’s maritime disaster response and undersea operational capability.

#### 3. Question

With reference to INS Nistar, consider the following statements:

• It is a Russian-origin vessel refurbished and commissioned into the Indian Navy.

• The vessel is equipped with Side Scan SONAR and can function as a mother ship for the Deep Submergence Rescue Vehicle (DSRV).

• Its primary role is offensive, focused on anti-submarine warfare in the Indian Ocean Region.

How many of the above statements is/are correct?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• (c) All three

Solution: A

• Statement 1 is incorrect. INS Nistar is India’s first indigenously designed and developed Diving Support Vessel (DSV), built by Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL) with 80% indigenous content. While it revives the name of a former Soviet-origin vessel, the new ship itself is a product of the Atmanirbhar Bharat

• Statement 2 is correct. The vessel is equipped with advanced underwater systems, including Side Scan SONAR for seabed mapping and object detection, and Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs). A key capability is its role as a mother ship for DSRVs, which significantly extends the operational range and endurance of submarine rescue missions.

• Statement 3 is incorrect. The primary role of INS Nistar is not offensive anti-submarine warfare but support-oriented. Its main functions are deep-sea diving support, submarine rescue, and underwater salvage operations, filling a critical gap in India’s maritime disaster response and undersea operational capability.

Solution: A

• Question 4 of 10 4. Question 1 points Consider the following statements regarding HTBt cotton Statement-I: HTBt cotton is referred to as a dual-trait technology crop. Statement-II: The genetic modification in HTBt cotton involves the integration of the CP4-EPSPS gene, which allows the crop to survive the spraying of glyphosate, a broad-spectrum herbicide. 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 Correct Solution: B Statement-I is correct. HTBt cotton is a dual-trait technology because it combines two distinct genetically engineered characteristics: insect resistance (from the Bt gene, specifically Cry genes) and herbicide tolerance. Statement-II is also correct. The herbicide tolerance trait is achieved by introducing a specific gene, CP4-EPSPS. This gene allows the cotton plant to produce a protein that is unaffected by glyphosate, a widely used herbicide. This enables farmers to spray glyphosate “over-the-top” to kill weeds without harming the cotton crop itself. However, Statement-II only explains one of the two traits (herbicide tolerance). It does not explain the other trait (insect resistance via the Bt gene), which is also essential to its identity as a “dual-trait” technology. Incorrect Solution: B Statement-I is correct. HTBt cotton is a dual-trait technology because it combines two distinct genetically engineered characteristics: insect resistance (from the Bt gene, specifically Cry genes) and herbicide tolerance. Statement-II is also correct. The herbicide tolerance trait is achieved by introducing a specific gene, CP4-EPSPS. This gene allows the cotton plant to produce a protein that is unaffected by glyphosate, a widely used herbicide. This enables farmers to spray glyphosate “over-the-top” to kill weeds without harming the cotton crop itself. However, Statement-II only explains one of the two traits (herbicide tolerance). It does not explain the other trait (insect resistance via the Bt gene), which is also essential to its identity as a “dual-trait” technology.

#### 4. Question

Consider the following statements regarding HTBt cotton

Statement-I: HTBt cotton is referred to as a dual-trait technology crop.

Statement-II: The genetic modification in HTBt cotton involves the integration of the CP4-EPSPS gene, which allows the crop to survive the spraying of glyphosate, a broad-spectrum herbicide.

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

Solution: B

• Statement-I is correct. HTBt cotton is a dual-trait technology because it combines two distinct genetically engineered characteristics: insect resistance (from the Bt gene, specifically Cry genes) and herbicide tolerance.

• Statement-II is also correct. The herbicide tolerance trait is achieved by introducing a specific gene, CP4-EPSPS. This gene allows the cotton plant to produce a protein that is unaffected by glyphosate, a widely used herbicide. This enables farmers to spray glyphosate “over-the-top” to kill weeds without harming the cotton crop itself.

• However, Statement-II only explains one of the two traits (herbicide tolerance). It does not explain the other trait (insect resistance via the Bt gene), which is also essential to its identity as a “dual-trait” technology.

Solution: B

• Question 5 of 10 5. Question 1 points With reference to the S-400 ‘Sudarshan Chakra’ air defence system in Indian service, which of the following statements is correct? a) India procured the system from the United States under the CAATSA agreement. b) All five squadrons ordered by India were delivered and deployed by 2023. c) The system is primarily deployed to provide air defence cover for India's naval assets in the Indian Ocean. d) It is a multi-layered, long-range surface-to-air missile system designed to neutralize a wide variety of aerial threats. Correct Solution: D Statement (d) is the most accurate description of the S-400 system’s role and capability in India. It is a sophisticated, multi-layered surface-to-air missile (SAM) system capable of engaging targets at various altitudes and ranges (up to 400 km). Its purpose is to counter a broad spectrum of threats, including fighter jets, cruise and ballistic missiles, and UAVs. (a) The S-400 was procured from Russia, not the United States. The procurement has, in fact, been a point of contention with respect to the US’s CAATSA (Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act). (b) As of mid-2025, only 3 of the 5 ordered squadrons have been delivered. The remaining two are scheduled to arrive by 2026 and 2027. (c) The system is a land-based air defence system. Its current deployments are strategic land locations like the Pathankot and Siliguri Corridor to counter threats along land borders, not primarily for naval asset protection at sea. Incorrect Solution: D Statement (d) is the most accurate description of the S-400 system’s role and capability in India. It is a sophisticated, multi-layered surface-to-air missile (SAM) system capable of engaging targets at various altitudes and ranges (up to 400 km). Its purpose is to counter a broad spectrum of threats, including fighter jets, cruise and ballistic missiles, and UAVs. (a) The S-400 was procured from Russia, not the United States. The procurement has, in fact, been a point of contention with respect to the US’s CAATSA (Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act). (b) As of mid-2025, only 3 of the 5 ordered squadrons have been delivered. The remaining two are scheduled to arrive by 2026 and 2027. (c) The system is a land-based air defence system. Its current deployments are strategic land locations like the Pathankot and Siliguri Corridor to counter threats along land borders, not primarily for naval asset protection at sea.

#### 5. Question

With reference to the S-400 ‘Sudarshan Chakra’ air defence system in Indian service, which of the following statements is correct?

• a) India procured the system from the United States under the CAATSA agreement.

• b) All five squadrons ordered by India were delivered and deployed by 2023.

• c) The system is primarily deployed to provide air defence cover for India's naval assets in the Indian Ocean.

• d) It is a multi-layered, long-range surface-to-air missile system designed to neutralize a wide variety of aerial threats.

Solution: D

Statement (d) is the most accurate description of the S-400 system’s role and capability in India. It is a sophisticated, multi-layered surface-to-air missile (SAM) system capable of engaging targets at various altitudes and ranges (up to 400 km). Its purpose is to counter a broad spectrum of threats, including fighter jets, cruise and ballistic missiles, and UAVs.

• (a) The S-400 was procured from Russia, not the United States. The procurement has, in fact, been a point of contention with respect to the US’s CAATSA (Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act).

• (b) As of mid-2025, only 3 of the 5 ordered squadrons have been delivered. The remaining two are scheduled to arrive by 2026 and 2027.

• (c) The system is a land-based air defence system. Its current deployments are strategic land locations like the Pathankot and Siliguri Corridor to counter threats along land borders, not primarily for naval asset protection at sea.

Solution: D

• (b) As of mid-2025, only 3 of the 5 ordered squadrons have been delivered. The remaining two are scheduled to arrive by 2026 and 2027.

• Question 6 of 10 6. Question 1 points Consider the following statements about the Agricultural Monitoring & Event Detection (AMED) API: It is a closed-source, proprietary tool available only to government agencies. The API provides real-time data on crop types, field size, and a three-year land-use history for individual fields. The data is updated once every crop season to reflect harvest outcomes. It aims to support sustainable farming and improve data-backed rural lending systems. How many of the above statements is/are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) Only three (d) All four Correct Solution: B Statement 1 is incorrect. The AMED API is described as an open-source tool, designed for integration by a wide range of users, including agri-tech developers and financial institutions, not just government agencies. Statement 2 is correct. The API provides granular, field-level intelligence, including details like the type of crop being grown, the size of the field, the crop season, and a historical overview of land use for the past three years. Statement 3 is incorrect. A key feature of the AMED API is its high frequency of updates. The data is refreshed every two weeks (biweekly), enabling near real-time monitoring, not just once per season. Statement 4 is correct. By providing accurate and timely agricultural data, the API’s objective is to empower stakeholders to make better decisions, thereby supporting sustainable agricultural practices, climate adaptation, and enabling financial institutions to create more accurate, data-backed rural lending Incorrect Solution: B Statement 1 is incorrect. The AMED API is described as an open-source tool, designed for integration by a wide range of users, including agri-tech developers and financial institutions, not just government agencies. Statement 2 is correct. The API provides granular, field-level intelligence, including details like the type of crop being grown, the size of the field, the crop season, and a historical overview of land use for the past three years. Statement 3 is incorrect. A key feature of the AMED API is its high frequency of updates. The data is refreshed every two weeks (biweekly), enabling near real-time monitoring, not just once per season. Statement 4 is correct. By providing accurate and timely agricultural data, the API’s objective is to empower stakeholders to make better decisions, thereby supporting sustainable agricultural practices, climate adaptation, and enabling financial institutions to create more accurate, data-backed rural lending

#### 6. Question

Consider the following statements about the Agricultural Monitoring & Event Detection (AMED) API:

• It is a closed-source, proprietary tool available only to government agencies.

• The API provides real-time data on crop types, field size, and a three-year land-use history for individual fields.

• The data is updated once every crop season to reflect harvest outcomes.

• It aims to support sustainable farming and improve data-backed rural lending systems.

How many of the above statements is/are correct?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• (c) Only three

• (d) All four

Solution: B

• Statement 1 is incorrect. The AMED API is described as an open-source tool, designed for integration by a wide range of users, including agri-tech developers and financial institutions, not just government agencies.

• Statement 2 is correct. The API provides granular, field-level intelligence, including details like the type of crop being grown, the size of the field, the crop season, and a historical overview of land use for the past three years.

• Statement 3 is incorrect. A key feature of the AMED API is its high frequency of updates. The data is refreshed every two weeks (biweekly), enabling near real-time monitoring, not just once per season.

• Statement 4 is correct. By providing accurate and timely agricultural data, the API’s objective is to empower stakeholders to make better decisions, thereby supporting sustainable agricultural practices, climate adaptation, and enabling financial institutions to create more accurate, data-backed rural lending

Solution: B

• Question 7 of 10 7. Question 1 points With reference to the Dholera Special Investment Region (SIR), consider the following statements: It is India’s first greenfield smart industrial city, established under the Gujarat SIR Act, 2009. The implementation is managed solely by the Government of Gujarat through the Dholera Industrial City Development Ltd. (DICDL). It is designed to host India’s first semiconductor fabrication plant. How many of the above statements is/are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three (d) None Correct Solution: B Statement 1 is correct. Dholera is designated as India’s first greenfield smart city and is being developed as a Special Investment Region under the legal framework of the Gujarat SIR Act, 2009. Statement 2 is incorrect. The implementation body, Dholera Industrial City Development Ltd. (DICDL), is not solely a Government of Gujarat entity. It is a joint venture between the National Industrial Corridor Development Corporation (NICDC) Trust (representing the Central Government) and the Government of Gujarat. This reflects a collaborative effort between the central and state governments. Statement 3 is correct. A major economic anchor for Dholera is its selection as the site for India’s first commercial semiconductor fab, which will be set up by Tata Electronics in partnership with Taiwan’s Powerchip Semiconductor Manufacturing Corp (PSMC) under the Semicon India Programme. Incorrect Solution: B Statement 1 is correct. Dholera is designated as India’s first greenfield smart city and is being developed as a Special Investment Region under the legal framework of the Gujarat SIR Act, 2009. Statement 2 is incorrect. The implementation body, Dholera Industrial City Development Ltd. (DICDL), is not solely a Government of Gujarat entity. It is a joint venture between the National Industrial Corridor Development Corporation (NICDC) Trust (representing the Central Government) and the Government of Gujarat. This reflects a collaborative effort between the central and state governments. Statement 3 is correct. A major economic anchor for Dholera is its selection as the site for India’s first commercial semiconductor fab, which will be set up by Tata Electronics in partnership with Taiwan’s Powerchip Semiconductor Manufacturing Corp (PSMC) under the Semicon India Programme.

#### 7. Question

With reference to the Dholera Special Investment Region (SIR), consider the following statements:

• It is India’s first greenfield smart industrial city, established under the Gujarat SIR Act, 2009.

• The implementation is managed solely by the Government of Gujarat through the Dholera Industrial City Development Ltd. (DICDL).

• It is designed to host India’s first semiconductor fabrication plant.

How many of the above statements is/are correct?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• (c) All three

Solution: B

• Statement 1 is correct. Dholera is designated as India’s first greenfield smart city and is being developed as a Special Investment Region under the legal framework of the Gujarat SIR Act, 2009.

• Statement 2 is incorrect. The implementation body, Dholera Industrial City Development Ltd. (DICDL), is not solely a Government of Gujarat entity. It is a joint venture between the National Industrial Corridor Development Corporation (NICDC) Trust (representing the Central Government) and the Government of Gujarat. This reflects a collaborative effort between the central and state governments.

• Statement 3 is correct. A major economic anchor for Dholera is its selection as the site for India’s first commercial semiconductor fab, which will be set up by Tata Electronics in partnership with Taiwan’s Powerchip Semiconductor Manufacturing Corp (PSMC) under the Semicon India Programme.

Solution: B

• Question 8 of 10 8. Question 1 points Consider the following statements regarding HTBt cotton in India: It was developed indigenously by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). The primary purpose of its herbicide tolerance trait is to combat the Tobacco Streak Virus (TSV). Commercial cultivation of HTBt cotton has been legally approved and practiced across India for over a decade. How many of the above statements is/are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three (d) None Correct Solution: D HTBt cotton was not developed by ICAR. It was developed by Mahyco-Monsanto Biotech (now part of Bayer), a private entity, and features the Bollgard II Roundup Ready Flex (BG-II RRF) trait. The herbicide tolerance trait is designed to provide resistance against herbicides like glyphosate to simplify weed management. While managing weed hosts can indirectly help with some viral diseases, the primary purpose is weed control, not directly combating the Tobacco Streak Virus (TSV). HTBt cotton has not yet received legal approval for commercial cultivation in India. The Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) is still in the process of evaluating it. Its widespread use currently is through illegal seed sales, not regulated commercial cultivation. Therefore, none of the statements are correct. Incorrect Solution: D HTBt cotton was not developed by ICAR. It was developed by Mahyco-Monsanto Biotech (now part of Bayer), a private entity, and features the Bollgard II Roundup Ready Flex (BG-II RRF) trait. The herbicide tolerance trait is designed to provide resistance against herbicides like glyphosate to simplify weed management. While managing weed hosts can indirectly help with some viral diseases, the primary purpose is weed control, not directly combating the Tobacco Streak Virus (TSV). HTBt cotton has not yet received legal approval for commercial cultivation in India. The Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) is still in the process of evaluating it. Its widespread use currently is through illegal seed sales, not regulated commercial cultivation. Therefore, none of the statements are correct.

#### 8. Question

Consider the following statements regarding HTBt cotton in India:

• It was developed indigenously by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR).

• The primary purpose of its herbicide tolerance trait is to combat the Tobacco Streak Virus (TSV).

• Commercial cultivation of HTBt cotton has been legally approved and practiced across India for over a decade.

How many of the above statements is/are correct?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• (c) All three

Solution: D

• HTBt cotton was not developed by ICAR. It was developed by Mahyco-Monsanto Biotech (now part of Bayer), a private entity, and features the Bollgard II Roundup Ready Flex (BG-II RRF) trait.

• The herbicide tolerance trait is designed to provide resistance against herbicides like glyphosate to simplify weed management. While managing weed hosts can indirectly help with some viral diseases, the primary purpose is weed control, not directly combating the Tobacco Streak Virus (TSV).

• HTBt cotton has not yet received legal approval for commercial cultivation in India. The Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) is still in the process of evaluating it. Its widespread use currently is through illegal seed sales, not regulated commercial cultivation.

Therefore, none of the statements are correct.

Solution: D

• HTBt cotton was not developed by ICAR. It was developed by Mahyco-Monsanto Biotech (now part of Bayer), a private entity, and features the Bollgard II Roundup Ready Flex (BG-II RRF) trait.

Therefore, none of the statements are correct.

• Question 9 of 10 9. Question 1 points Consider the following statements: Statement-I: The celebration of National Statistics Day on June 29, 2025, with the theme ‘75 Years of National Sample Survey’, highlights the foundational role of the NSS in India’s governance. Statement-II: The National Sample Survey was designed to generate high-quality socio-economic data for informed policy formulation through nationwide sample surveys. Statement-III: The NSS was established in 1950 by the Planning Commission to directly support the framing of the First Five-Year Plan. Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements? (a) Both Statement II and Statement III are correct and both of them explain Statement I (b) Both Statement II and Statement III are correct but only one of them explains Statement I (c) Only Statement II is correct and it explains Statement I (d) Neither Statement II nor Statement III is correct Correct Solution: C Statement I is a factual premise, linking the 2025 National Statistics Day theme to the legacy of the NSS. Statement II is correct and it directly explains Statement I. The reason the 75th anniversary of the NSS is a significant theme for National Statistics Day is precisely because of its objective and function. The NSS was established with the core purpose of conducting large-scale sample surveys to collect reliable socio-economic data (on consumption, employment, health etc.), which is indispensable for evidence-based policy planning and governance. This foundational role is what is being celebrated. Statement III is incorrect. While the NSS was established in 1950 and its data was crucial for planning, it was the brainchild of P.C. Mahalanobis and was established under his guidance within the framework of the Indian Statistical Institute and the central government. It was not a direct creation of the Planning Commission itself, although they were a primary user of its data. The NSS’s role was broader than just supporting the First Five-Year Plan; it was to create a continuous data-gathering mechanism for the nation. Incorrect Solution: C Statement I is a factual premise, linking the 2025 National Statistics Day theme to the legacy of the NSS. Statement II is correct and it directly explains Statement I. The reason the 75th anniversary of the NSS is a significant theme for National Statistics Day is precisely because of its objective and function. The NSS was established with the core purpose of conducting large-scale sample surveys to collect reliable socio-economic data (on consumption, employment, health etc.), which is indispensable for evidence-based policy planning and governance. This foundational role is what is being celebrated. Statement III is incorrect. While the NSS was established in 1950 and its data was crucial for planning, it was the brainchild of P.C. Mahalanobis and was established under his guidance within the framework of the Indian Statistical Institute and the central government. It was not a direct creation of the Planning Commission itself, although they were a primary user of its data. The NSS’s role was broader than just supporting the First Five-Year Plan; it was to create a continuous data-gathering mechanism for the nation.

#### 9. Question

Consider the following statements:

Statement-I: The celebration of National Statistics Day on June 29, 2025, with the theme ‘75 Years of National Sample Survey’, highlights the foundational role of the NSS in India’s governance.

Statement-II: The National Sample Survey was designed to generate high-quality socio-economic data for informed policy formulation through nationwide sample surveys.

Statement-III: The NSS was established in 1950 by the Planning Commission to directly support the framing of the First Five-Year Plan.

Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?

• (a) Both Statement II and Statement III are correct and both of them explain Statement I

• (b) Both Statement II and Statement III are correct but only one of them explains Statement I

• (c) Only Statement II is correct and it explains Statement I

• (d) Neither Statement II nor Statement III is correct

Solution: C

• Statement I is a factual premise, linking the 2025 National Statistics Day theme to the legacy of the NSS.

• Statement II is correct and it directly explains Statement I. The reason the 75th anniversary of the NSS is a significant theme for National Statistics Day is precisely because of its objective and function. The NSS was established with the core purpose of conducting large-scale sample surveys to collect reliable socio-economic data (on consumption, employment, health etc.), which is indispensable for evidence-based policy planning and governance. This foundational role is what is being celebrated.

• Statement III is incorrect. While the NSS was established in 1950 and its data was crucial for planning, it was the brainchild of P.C. Mahalanobis and was established under his guidance within the framework of the Indian Statistical Institute and the central government. It was not a direct creation of the Planning Commission itself, although they were a primary user of its data. The NSS’s role was broader than just supporting the First Five-Year Plan; it was to create a continuous data-gathering mechanism for the nation.

Solution: C

• Statement I is a factual premise, linking the 2025 National Statistics Day theme to the legacy of the NSS.

• Question 10 of 10 10. Question 1 points In the context of the India Energy Stack (IES), consider the following statements: Statement I: The IES aims to create a unified digital foundation for India’s power sector, analogous to the role of Aadhaar and UPI in identity and payments. Statement II: It promotes interoperability through open APIs and assigns unique identifiers for consumers and energy assets. 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 but 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 Correct Solution: A Explanation: Statement-I is correct. The overarching vision for the India Energy Stack (IES) is to digitally transform the power sector. It is explicitly compared to the success of other Digital Public Infrastructures (DPIs) like Aadhaar (for identity) and UPI (for payments). The goal is to build a similar foundational, interoperable, and secure digital layer for all energy-related transactions and data flow. Statement-II is correct. This statement details the key technical features that enable the vision described in Statement I. To create a unified digital foundation, the IES will rely on Open APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) to ensure different systems can communicate with each other seamlessly. Furthermore, it proposes assigning unique identifiers to consumers, assets (like transformers and meters), and transactions to ensure traceability, efficiency, and accurate data management. Statement-II provides the direct technical explanation for how the ambition in Statement-I will be achieved. Incorrect Solution: A Explanation: Statement-I is correct. The overarching vision for the India Energy Stack (IES) is to digitally transform the power sector. It is explicitly compared to the success of other Digital Public Infrastructures (DPIs) like Aadhaar (for identity) and UPI (for payments). The goal is to build a similar foundational, interoperable, and secure digital layer for all energy-related transactions and data flow. Statement-II is correct. This statement details the key technical features that enable the vision described in Statement I. To create a unified digital foundation, the IES will rely on Open APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) to ensure different systems can communicate with each other seamlessly. Furthermore, it proposes assigning unique identifiers to consumers, assets (like transformers and meters), and transactions to ensure traceability, efficiency, and accurate data management. Statement-II provides the direct technical explanation for how the ambition in Statement-I will be achieved.

#### 10. Question

In the context of the India Energy Stack (IES), consider the following statements:

Statement I: The IES aims to create a unified digital foundation for India’s power sector, analogous to the role of Aadhaar and UPI in identity and payments.

Statement II: It promotes interoperability through open APIs and assigns unique identifiers for consumers and energy assets.

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 but 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

Solution: A

Explanation:

• Statement-I is correct. The overarching vision for the India Energy Stack (IES) is to digitally transform the power sector. It is explicitly compared to the success of other Digital Public Infrastructures (DPIs) like Aadhaar (for identity) and UPI (for payments). The goal is to build a similar foundational, interoperable, and secure digital layer for all energy-related transactions and data flow.

• Statement-II is correct. This statement details the key technical features that enable the vision described in Statement I. To create a unified digital foundation, the IES will rely on Open APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) to ensure different systems can communicate with each other seamlessly. Furthermore, it proposes assigning unique identifiers to consumers, assets (like transformers and meters), and transactions to ensure traceability, efficiency, and accurate data management.

• Statement-II provides the direct technical explanation for how the ambition in Statement-I will be achieved.

Solution: A

Explanation:

• Statement-II provides the direct technical explanation for how the ambition in Statement-I will be achieved.

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