Current Affairs Quiz 18 March 2026

Q1. Consider the following statements regarding the Transgender Persons (Amendment) Bill, 2026:

1. It removes the right to self-identification of gender.
2. It introduces mandatory medical certification for gender recognition.
3. It expands the definition of transgender persons to include all non-binary identities.

How many of the above statements are correct?
A. Only one
B. Only two
C. All three
D. None

Q1. (B)

Explanation:

• Statement 1 – Correct: The Bill removes the principle of self-perceived gender identity, which was recognised in NALSA (2014) as part of Article 21 (dignity and autonomy).
• Statement 2 – Correct: It introduces medical certification via medical boards, shifting from a rights-based → medicalised framework.
• Statement 3 – Incorrect: Instead of expanding, the Bill narrows the definition, potentially excluding trans men and non-binary persons.

Q2. Consider the following countries added under BRICS+ expansion:

1. Saudi Arabia
2. Egypt
3. Argentina
4. Iran

How many of the above are members of BRICS+?
A. Only one
B. Only two
C. Only three
D. All four

Q2. (C)

Explanation:

• Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Iran – Correct: These are part of the recent BRICS expansion (2023–25 phase) aimed at strengthening Global South representation.
• Argentina – Incorrect: Initially invited but withdrew due to domestic political decision (2023)

Q3. Consider the following institutions:

1. International Monetary Fund (IMF)
2. World Bank
3. World Trade Organization (WTO)
4. Asian Development Bank (ADB)

Which of the above promoted or implemented policies aligned with the Washington Consensus?
A. Only one
B. Only two
C. Only three
D. All four

Q3. (D)

Explanation:

• IMF & World Bank – Core promoters: Implemented Structural Adjustment Programmes (SAPs) enforcing liberalisation, privatisation, austerity.
• WTO – Indirect enforcer: Through agreements like TRIPS & TRIMs, restricted policy space and promoted free trade regime.
• ADB – Regional extension: Supported similar reforms in Asia-Pacific economies.
• WC is not limited to IMF/WB → includes global trade architecture (WTO).

Q4. Consider the following literary forms awarded under Sahitya Akademi Awards 2025:

1. Poetry
2. Novels
3. Short stories
4. Scientific papers

How many of the above are correct?
A. Only one
B. Only two
C. Only three
D. All four

Q4. (C)

Explanation:

• Poetry, Novels, Short Stories – Correct: Core literary genres recognised by Akademi, reflecting creative literature.
• Scientific Papers – Incorrect: These fall under academic/scientific research, not literary categories.
• Akademi focuses on literary expression, not technical/scientific writing.

Q5. Consider the following statements regarding Quantum Key Distribution (QKD):

1. It enables secure communication using principles of quantum mechanics.
2. It is immune to hacking by classical computers.
3. It relies on satellite-based communication systems in India’s context.

How many of the above statements are correct?
A. Only one
B. Only two
C. All three
D. None

Q5. (C)

Explanation:

• Statement 1 – Correct: QKD uses quantum principles like superposition and entanglement to securely exchange encryption keys. Any interception disturbs the system → detectable.
• Statement 2 – Correct: Classical hacking fails because measurement alters quantum state, ensuring theoretical unbreakability.
• Statement 3 – Correct: India is developing satellite-based QKD (ISRO initiatives) for long-distance secure communication.
• QKD = physics-based security (not algorithm-based like classical encryption)