10 JANUARY 2026

Q1. With reference to the Piprahwa Relics, consider the following statements:

1. They were discovered in the year 1898 at the Piprahwa Stupa in present-day Uttar Pradesh.
2. The discovery is attributed to William Claxton Peppé, a British civil engineer.
3. The relics are believed to be associated with the mortal remains of Lord Buddha.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

A. 1 and 2 only

B. 2 and 3 only

C. 1 and 3 only

D. 1, 2 and 3

Q2. Which of the following factors best explains India’s emergence as the world’s largest rice producer?

1. Adoption of high-yielding varieties (HYVs)
2. Expansion of irrigation facilities
3. Policy support such as MSP and procurement

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

Q3. The rice crop that is sown during May–June and harvested during September–October is known as:

A. Aman

B. Aus

C. Boro

D. Rabi

Q4. Israel recently became the first country to formally recognise which of the following entities as an independent and sovereign state?

A. Puntland

B. Western Sahara

C. Somaliland

D. South Sudan

Q5. With reference to the Election Commission of India, consider the following statements:

1. The ECI is a constitutional authority.
2. It is entrusted with ensuring free, fair, and credible elections in India.
3. It functions under the administrative control of the Union Executive.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

A. 1 and 2 only

B. 2 and 3 only

C. 1 and 3 only

D. 1, 2 and 3