Q1. With reference to the No-Cloning Theorem in quantum mechanics, consider the following statements:
- It prohibits copying of known and unknown quantum states.
- It is a consequence of the linearity of quantum mechanics.
- It forms the basis of security in quantum cryptography.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 3 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 3 only
(d) 2 and 3 only
Answer: (d) 2 and 3 only
Explanation:
- Statement 1: Incorrect
- The theorem prohibits perfect cloning of unknown quantum states only. Known states can be replicated since their information is already available.
- Statement 2: Correct
- It arises from the linearity of quantum mechanics, which prevents copying of arbitrary quantum states.
- Statement 3: Correct
- Forms the basis of quantum cryptography, as any attempt to copy a quantum state disturbs it and reveals eavesdropping.
Q2.Which of the following changes are proposed under the FCRA Amendment Bill, 2026?
- Appointment of a designated authority to manage NGO assets after cancellation.
- Mandatory prior approval of the Central Government for State-level investigations into FCRA violations.
- Increase in maximum imprisonment from 5 years to 10 years.
Select the correct answer using the code below:
(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: Correct
- Introduces asset control mechanism through a designated authority.
- Statement 2: Correct
- Leads to centralisation of investigations, requiring prior Union approval.
- Statement 3: Incorrect
- The amendment reduces punishment (from 5 years to 1 year), indicating partial decriminalisation.
Q3. With reference to the tenure of the Prime Minister in India, consider the following statements:
- The Constitution prescribes a maximum number of terms for the Prime Minister.
- The Prime Minister holds office as long as he/she enjoys the confidence of the Lok Sabha.
- The tenure of the Prime Minister is indirectly limited by Article 83.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 2 only
(b) 1 and 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (a) 2 only
Explanation:
- Statement 1: Incorrect
- No constitutional term limit exists for the Prime Minister.
- Statement 2: Correct
- As per Article 75(3), PM continues in office as long as majority support exists in Lok Sabha.
- Statement 3: Incorrect
- Article 83 limits Lok Sabha tenure, not the Prime Minister’s tenure.
Q4.
Assertion (A): India has explored barter mechanisms like oil–rice trade with Iran.
Reason (R1): U.S. sanctions restrict dollar-denominated transactions with Iran.
Reason (R2): Barter trade reduces dependence on global financial systems like SWIFT.
Which of the following is correct?
(a) A is correct; both R1 and R2 are correct, and both explain A
(b) A is correct; R1 is correct but R2 is incorrect
(c) A is correct; R2 is correct but R1 is incorrect
(d) A is incorrect; R1 and R2 are correct
Answer: (a)
Explanation:
- Assertion (A): Correct
- India has explored barter trade mechanisms to sustain trade under sanctions.
- Reason (R1): Correct
- U.S. sanctions restrict dollar-based financial transactions with Iran.
- Reason (R2): Correct
- Barter trade bypasses systems like SWIFT, reducing dependence on global financial channels.
- Both R1 and R2 together explain the rationale behind barter mechanisms.
Q5. With reference to the Bengal Florican (Houbaropsis bengalensis), consider the following statements:
- It is listed as “Endangered” on the IUCN Red List.
- It is included in Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
- It is endemic only to India.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 2 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (c) 2 only
Explanation:
- Statement 1: Incorrect
- Classified as Critically Endangered due to rapid population decline and habitat loss.
- Statement 2: Correct
- Listed under Schedule I, ensuring highest legal protection in India.
- Statement 3: Incorrect
- Not endemic to India; also found in Nepal and Cambodia.
