13 FEBRUARY 2026

13 FEBRUARY 2026

Q1. With reference to the recent U.S.–Bangladesh Reciprocal Trade Agreement, consider the following statements:

  1. It allows zero-tariff access to Bangladeshi textile exports if they use U.S.-origin raw materials.
  2. The agreement may affect India’s competitiveness in the U.S. textile market.
  3. The agreement provides unconditional zero-tariff access to all Bangladeshi exports.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A. 1 and 2 only

B. 2 only

C. 1 and 3 only

D. 1, 2 and 3

Q2. With reference to ecological discolouration caused by global warming and pollution, consider the following statements:

  1. Coral bleaching in regions such as the Gulf of Mannar and Lakshadweep is linked to rising sea temperatures.
  2. Increase in nutrient pollution can intensify algal blooms in oceans.

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

Q3. With reference to HbA1c as a diagnostic tool for diabetes, consider the following statements:

  1. HbA1c reflects average blood glucose levels over the past 2–3 months.
  2. Iron-deficiency anaemia can distort HbA1c values by altering the lifespan of red blood cells.
  3. HbA1c is unaffected by genetic blood disorders such as thalassaemia and sickle cell disease.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A. 1 and 2 only

B. 2 only

C. 1 and 3 only

D. 1, 2 and 3

Q4. With reference to the Himalayan Griffon, consider the following:

  1. It is mainly found in high-altitude regions of the Himalayas and Central Asia.
  2. It primarily shows altitudinal migration.
  3. It is listed as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List.

Which of the statements given above are incorrect?

A. 1 and 2 only

B. 2 and 3 only

C. 3 only

D. 1, 2 and 3

Q5. The recent discovery of Tamil Brahmi inscriptions in Egypt primarily indicates:

A. Political conquest of Egypt by South Indian kingdoms

B. Maritime trade links between Tamilagam and the Roman world

C. Spread of Buddhism from Egypt to India

D. Establishment of Indian colonies in North Africa