Q1. With reference to the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad), consider the following statements:
- The Quad formally emerged in 2007 and was revived in 2017.
- The Quad has a collective defence clause similar to Article 5 of NATO.
- The Quad originated from humanitarian coordination after the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 1 and 3 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: B
Explanation:
- Statement 1 is correct: Quad formally emerged in 2007 and revived in 2017.
- Statement 2 is incorrect: Quad is not a military alliance and lacks NATO-like collective defence obligations.
- Statement 3 is correct: It originated from tsunami relief coordination in 2004.
Q2. Consider the following statements regarding tribal exemptions under the Assam UCC Bill:
- The exemption reflects constitutional protections under the Sixth Schedule.
- Article 371A protects customary laws and social practices in Nagaland.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: C
Explanation:
- Statement 1 is correct: Sixth Schedule areas enjoy tribal autonomy and customary protections.
- Statement 2 is correct: Article 371A protects Naga customary laws and practices.
Q3. Assertion (A): NATO has significantly strengthened its eastern flank after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Reason (R): NATO members near Russia and Belarus are considered strategically vulnerable due to limited strategic depth and geographical proximity.
A. Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
B. Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A.
C. A is true, but R is false.
D. A is false, but R is true.
Answer: A
Explanation:
- Assertion is correct: NATO expanded troop deployment and restructuring after the Ukraine conflict.
- Reason is correct: Baltic states’ proximity to Russia increases vulnerability.
- The vulnerability directly explains NATO’s eastern reinforcement strategy.
Q4. The scientific name of the Asiatic Lion is:
A. Panthera tigris tigris
B. Panthera leo persica
C. Panthera pardus fusca
D. Acinonyx jubatus
Answer: B
Explanation:
- Asiatic Lion → Panthera leo persica.
- Panthera tigris tigris → Bengal Tiger.
- Panthera pardus fusca → Indian Leopard.
- Acinonyx jubatus → Cheetah.
Q5. With reference to NFHS-6, consider the following statements:
- India’s Total Fertility Rate (TFR) has fallen below replacement level fertility.
- Full immunisation coverage among children aged 12–23 months exceeded 85%.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: C
Explanation:
- Statement 1 is correct: India’s TFR is 2.0, below replacement level of 2.1.
- Statement 2 is correct: Full immunisation coverage increased to 87.1%.
