30 JANUARY 2026
Q1. Consider the following statements about the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) in the context of the India–EU FTA:
- The Agreement includes provisions for technical assistance to help Indian MSMEs meet green compliance standards.
- The FTA completely exempts Indian exports from the EU’s CBAM.
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
Q2. With reference to the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS), consider the following statements:
- IONS is a voluntary and cooperative forum of navies of Indian Ocean littoral states.
- It is a treaty-based organisation with legally binding commitments.
Which of the statements given above is/are incorrect?
A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Q3. Assertion (A): The Solid Waste Management Rules, 2026 promote segregation of waste at source into four categories.
Reason (R): Source-level segregation improves recycling efficiency and reduces the volume of waste sent to landfills.
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
Q4. Which of the following principles are incorporated in the SWM Rules, 2026?
- Circular Economy
- Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)
- Polluter Pays Principle
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
Q5. Which of the following countries are part of the IGP-HF airshed covered in the report (World bank’s A Breath of Change Report)?
- Bangladesh
- Bhutan
- Sri Lanka
- Pakistan
Select the correct answer using the code below:
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 1, 2 and 4 only
C. 2, 3 and 4 only
D. 1, 2, 3 and 4
29 JANUARY 2026
Q1. The World Economic Forum’s decision to establish a Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution in Andhra Pradesh primarily aims to:
A. Develop defence manufacturing and aerospace technologies
B. Promote innovation-led energy transition and strengthen cyber resilience across industries
C. Expand traditional industrial employment through labour-intensive sectors
D. Regulate digital taxation and e-commerce platforms globally
Q2. Which of the following statements regarding CERT-In is/are correct?
- CERT-In was established under Section 70B of the Information Technology Act, 2000.
- CERT-In functions under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY).
- CERT-In is responsible only for investigating cyber crimes, not for prevention or awareness.
Choose the correct answer:
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Q3. Assertion (A): Community participation is a central pillar of India’s groundwater management strategy.
Reason (R): Schemes such as Atal Bhujal Yojana and Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari encourage local communities to adopt rainwater harvesting, aquifer recharge, and demand-side water management practices.
Choose the correct option:
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
Q4. Which of the following statements about the polar vortex is/are incorrect?
- A weakened polar vortex can make the jet stream wavy, allowing cold Arctic air to spill into mid-latitudes.
- Sudden Stratospheric Warming (SSW) strengthens the polar vortex and confines cold air near the poles.
options:
A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Q5. Which of the following statements about the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) is/are correct?
- APEDA was established under the APEDA Act, 1985 and functions under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
- APEDA is responsible for implementing the National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP) in India.
Options:
A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
28 JANUARY 2026
Q1. Which of the following statements about the C-295 transport aircraft is/are correct?
- It is a medium-range, twin-engine turboprop military transport aircraft.
- It is being manufactured in India through an Airbus–Tata collaboration at Vadodara.
- It is designed to replace the ageing Avro-748 aircraft of the Indian Air Force.
- It is India’s first indigenously developed fighter aircraft produced by the private sector.
Options:
A. 1, 2 and 3 only
B. 1 and 4 only
C. 2 and 4 only
D. 1, 2, 3 and 4
Q2. Consider the following statements regarding India’s FDI trends as per GITM 2025:
- India recorded a sharp rise in FDI inflows in 2025, driven mainly by services and manufacturing sectors.
- India’s FDI inflows declined in 2025 due to global economic slowdown.
Which of the statements given above is/are incorrect?
A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Q3. Assertion (A): The United States’ exit from the International Solar Alliance (ISA) has disrupted India’s solar energy expansion to the extent that it is irreversible.
Reason (R): The U.S. contributes only a marginal share to ISA’s funding, while India’s solar sector is sustained by domestic policy support, long-term contracts, and growing indigenous manufacturing capacity.
Choose the correct answer:
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
Q4. With reference to the Padma Awards, consider the following statements:
- The Padma Awards were instituted in 1954 by the Government of India.
- The total number of Padma Awards conferred in a year is capped at 120, excluding posthumous and foreign/NRI/OCI awardees.
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
Q5. Which country co-chaired the 6th ASEAN–India Digital Ministers’ Meeting (ADGMIN) along with India?
A. Thailand
B. Indonesia
C. Vietnam
D. Singapore
27 JANUARY 2026
Q1. Which of the following statements about steel slag is/are correct?
- Steel slag is an industrial by-product generated during steel manufacturing and contains calcium and magnesium silicates.
- Steel slag is used in road construction due to its higher strength and better skid resistance.
- Use of steel slag in infrastructure increases dependence on natural aggregates.
- Steel slag can be used for environmental remediation, including mine water treatment.
Options:
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 1, 2 and 4 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2, 3 and 4
Q2. Consider the following statements:
- Jamma Bane lands include both paddy-growing wetlands and forested highlands in Kodagu.
- The Karnataka Land Revenue (2nd Amendment) Act, 2025 aims to modernize land records and resolve ownership ambiguities in Jamma Bane lands.
Options:
A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Q3. Consider the following statements:
- The Digital Climate Atlas (ACASA-India) has been developed by ICAR-led NARES in collaboration with BISA–CIMMYT.
- NICRA was launched in 2011 by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
- Climate Resilient Agriculture focuses on both adaptation and mitigation to withstand climate shocks.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
A. 1 and 3 only
B. 1 and 2 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Q4. Assertion (A): The Government is promoting diversification of fish species in aquaculture to reduce economic and ecological risks.
Reason (R): Dependence on a single fish or shrimp species increases vulnerability to diseases, climate impacts, and export uncertainties.
Options:
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
Q5. Lakkundi, which is being considered for inclusion in UNESCO’s World Heritage Site list, is located in which district of Karnataka?
A. Hampi district
B. Belagavi district
C. Gadag district
D. Dharwad district
26 JANUARY 2026
Q1. Consider the following statements:
- Secondary particulate matter forms in the atmosphere through chemical reactions and is not emitted directly from sources.
- A CAQM meta-analysis identifies secondary particulate matter as the largest contributor to Delhi’s winter PM2.5 pollution.
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
Q2. Assertion (A): Deodar (Devdar) forests play a critical role in preventing natural disasters in the Himalayan region.
Reason (R): Their deep root systems stabilise mountain slopes, reduce landslides and avalanches, and help regulate local air and water temperatures.
Options:
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
Q3. With reference to the Governor’s address to the State Legislature, consider the following statements:
- The Governor can modify or omit portions of the address prepared by the elected State government.
- The Governor is constitutionally required to address the Legislature at the commencement of the first session after a general election and at the first session of every year.
- The Governor exercises the power to summon or delay the Legislature independently of the Council of Ministers.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Q4. Parakram Diwas is observed annually on 23 January to commemorate the birth anniversary of which Indian freedom fighter known for founding the Forward Bloc and leading the Indian National Army?
A. Bhagat Singh
B. Lala Lajpat Rai
C. Subhash Chandra Bose
D. Jawaharlal Nehru
Q5. What is the full form of LR-AShM?
A. Long Range Advanced Strike Missile
B. Long Range Anti-Ship Hypersonic Missile
C. Low Range Anti-Submarine Missile
D. Long Range Atmospheric Shield Missile
23 JANUARY 2026
Q1. With reference to the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Act, 2025, consider the following statements:
- The Act prohibits offering, advertising, or facilitating real-money online gaming.
- It empowers authorities to block illegal betting and gambling websites using provisions of the Information Technology Act, 2000.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Neither 1 nor 2
D. Both 1 and 2
Q2. With reference to the Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace, Disarmament and Development, consider the following statements:
- It was instituted in the year 1986 in memory of Indira Gandhi.
- It is awarded only to Indian citizens for contributions to peace and development.
- The award carries a cash prize of ₹1 crore along with a citation and trophy.
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
Q3. Assertion (A): The introduction of a digital attendance system in the Lok Sabha will improve discipline, transparency, and accountability among Members of Parliament.
Reason (R): The digital attendance system uses biometric verification from designated seats inside the House and links attendance strictly with daily allowance, preventing proxy marking and post-adjournment attendance.
Answer options:
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
Q4. With reference to the Miyawaki Method of afforestation, consider the following statements:
- It involves dense plantation of native species to create fast-growing and self-sustaining forests.
- Trees planted under this method grow slower than conventional plantations due to limited space.
- The method was developed by Akira Miyawaki and is based on the concept of potential natural vegetation.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 1 and 3 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Q5. Which of the following best describes the newly launched ECINET platform by the Election Commission of India?
A. A social media monitoring tool managed by political parties to counter fake news
B. A single digital platform integrating over 40 Election Commission apps to provide electoral services to voters, officials and political parties
C. A mobile-only application meant exclusively for election officials to manage voter rolls
D. A privately managed portal allowing public edits to electoral data
22 JANUARY 2026
Q1. With reference to the Arbitration Council of India (ACI), consider the following statements:
- The Arbitration Council of India was proposed through amendments to the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996 in 2019.
- The ACI is intended to act as the central regulator for institutional arbitration in India.
- The ACI has been fully constituted and operational since the enactment of the 2019 amendments.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Q2. With reference to the global ‘Copper Crunch’, consider the following statements:
- Rapid growth in EV adoption has sharply increased copper demand due to higher copper use per vehicle.
- Environmental opposition and regulatory hurdles have contributed to slower expansion of copper mining capacity.
- Copper shortages are expected to have no impact on global decarbonisation targets.
Which of the statements given above are incorrect?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Q3. Assertion (A): State police are legally empowered to investigate bribery and corruption cases against Central Government employees under the Prevention of Corruption Act.
Reason (R): Section 17 of the Prevention of Corruption Act does not bar State police from registering or investigating corruption offences, and Section 156 of the Criminal Procedure Code authorises police to investigate cognizable offences without prior approval.
Choose the correct answer using the code below:
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
Q4. Which of the following is a key reason why rising State borrowings in India are pushing up Central Government bond yields?
A. States borrow exclusively from foreign markets
B. State Development Loans (SDLs) offer higher yields than G-secs, attracting investors away from them
C. RBI mandates banks to stop investing in Central Government bonds
D. Central Government has stopped issuing long-term securities
Q5. With reference to the Greater Bengaluru Area (Advertisement) Rules, 2025, consider the following statements:
- The rules lift the long-standing ban on outdoor advertisements in Bengaluru.
- Advertisers are required to make an upfront payment of five months after securing advertising rights.
- Commercial advertisements are prohibited on roads narrower than 18 metres, except in notified commercial or industrial zones.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 1 and 3 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
21 JANUARY 2026
Q1. With reference to the proposal to link Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs) of BRICS countries, consider the following statements:
- The Reserve Bank of India has suggested placing the issue of linking BRICS CBDCs on the agenda of the 2026 BRICS Summit to be hosted by India.
- CBDCs are privately issued digital assets that operate outside the control of central banks.
- One objective of linking BRICS CBDCs is to reduce dependence on the US dollar in cross-border payments.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 1 and 3 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Q2. Assertion (A): Project Suncatcher aims to host AI data centres in space to reduce the energy and cooling burden of Earth-based data centres.
Reason (R): Solar-powered satellites can generate continuous renewable energy and support AI computing using onboard Tensor Processing Units (TPUs).
Choose the correct answer using the code below:
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
Q3. With reference to India–UAE relations, consider the following statements:
- India and the UAE have set a target to double bilateral trade to USD 200 billion by 2032.
- India–UAE CEPA was signed in 2020 to promote bilateral trade and investment.
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
Q4. With reference to Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms in India, consider the following statements:
- Arbitration leads to a binding decision called an arbitral award.
- Section 89 of the Code of Civil Procedure, 1908 empowers courts to refer disputes to ADR mechanisms.
- The Mediation Act, 2023 institutionalises mediation and promotes pre-litigation mediation for certain disputes.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1, 2 and 3
D. 1 and 3 only
Q5. With reference to copper, consider the following statements:
- Copper has the second-highest electrical conductivity among metals, after silver.
- Malanjkhand mine in Madhya Pradesh is the largest open-pit copper mine in India.
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
20 JANUARY 2026
Q1. With reference to the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), consider the following statements:
- ECOSOC is one of the six principal organs of the United Nations.
- It was established under the United Nations Charter in 1945.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Q2. Consider the following statements regarding river dolphins:
- River dolphins are functionally blind and depend on echolocation for navigation and hunting.
- River dolphins are primary consumers in the river ecosystem.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Q3. With reference to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), consider the following statements:
- The IMF was established at the Bretton Woods Conference in 1944.
- India became a founding member of the IMF in 1947.
- The headquarters of the IMF is located in Washington D.C.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 and 3 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 2 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Q4.With reference to India’s labour codes, consider the following:
- Code on Wages, 2019
- Industrial Relations Code, 2020
- Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020
- Code on Social Security, 2020
Which of the above were cited by the committee as providing coverage to domestic workers?
A. 1 and 4 only
B. 2, 3 and 4 only
C. 1, 2, 3 and 4
D. 1, 2 and 3 only
Q5. With reference to the CHIPS to Start-up (C2S) Programme, consider the following statements:
- It is a capacity-building initiative launched by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology in 2022.
- The programme focuses exclusively on semiconductor fabrication, excluding chip design and testing.
- It aims to promote start-ups and technology transfers in the semiconductor ecosystem.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 1 and 3 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
19 JANUARY 2026
Q1.With reference to Karnataka’s performance in Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY), consider the following statements:
- Karnataka was ranked second among large states in the implementation of PMFBY.
- The ranking was based on the performance during Kharif 2024 and Rabi 2024-25 seasons.
- The certificate of commendation was issued by NITI Aayog.
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. With reference to Mission Suraksha, consider the following statements:
- It has encouraged minors to report cases of sexual assault and domestic violence.
- Vigilance committees were constituted only in rural gram panchayats.
- The initiative operates at both rural and urban local body levels.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
A. 1 and 3 only
B. 1 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Q3. Assertion (A): Child trafficking continues to be a grave human rights violation in India.
Reason (R): NCRB data shows a low conviction rate of about 10.8% in child trafficking cases between 2018 and 2022.
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
Q4. Consider the following statements regarding coconut-producing states in India:
- Karnataka is the largest coconut-producing state in India.
- Tamil Nadu and Kerala are among the top three coconut-producing states.
- Andhra Pradesh is the largest coconut producer in India.
Which of the statements given above are incorrect?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Q5. The Kaziranga Elevated Corridor project is primarily intended to achieve which of the following objectives?
A. Promote tourism within Kaziranga National Park only
B. Ensure uninterrupted animal movement and reduce human–wildlife conflict
C. Expand urban connectivity between Guwahati and Dibrugarh
D. Increase commercial traffic through protected forest areas
18 JANUARY 2026
Q1. Jallikattu, recently seen in news, is best described as:
A. A ritual animal sacrifice performed during Tamil New Year
B. A traditional bull-taming sport associated with the Pongal festival in Tamil Nadu
C. A form of competitive goat racing practised across South India
D. A martial art performed to honour warriors in ancient Tamil society
Q2. With reference to Startup India Mission completing 10 years, consider the following statements:
- Startup India was launched in 2016 to promote entrepreneurship, innovation and investment-led growth.
- India has emerged as the world’s largest start-up ecosystem.
- The mission places special emphasis on deep-tech sectors to strengthen Atmanirbhar Bharat and reduce import dependence.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
A. 1 and 3 only
B. 1 and 2 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Q3. With reference to the proposed International Dugong Conservation Centre in Tamil Nadu, consider the following statements:
- The proposed site overlaps with ecologically sensitive CRZ-III (No Development Zone) and CRZ-I areas.
- Dugongs are critically endangered marine mammals that depend on seagrass meadows for survival.
- The Expert Appraisal Committee recommended increasing the use of concrete structures within the CRZ-III area.
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. The Reserve Bank – Integrated Ombudsman Scheme (RB-IOS), 2026, recently notified by the RBI, primarily aims to:
A. Regulate interest rates of banks and NBFCs
B. Provide a centralized, cost-effective and non-adversarial grievance redress mechanism against RBI-regulated entities
C. Replace all consumer courts dealing with financial disputes
D. Impose monetary penalties on regulated entities without hearings
Q5. Q. Under the Reserve Bank – Integrated Ombudsman Scheme (RB-IOS), 2026, which of the following statements is correct?
A. The RBI Ombudsman can award compensation without any upper monetary limit.
B. Complaints can be filed only after exhausting judicial remedies.
C. Appeals against the Ombudsman’s decision can be filed within 30 days.
D. Only banks are covered under the Integrated Ombudsman Scheme.
17 JANUARY 2026
Q1. Which of the following statements best describes the purpose and scope of the proposed Karnataka Jnana Bhandar Manuscripts and Digitalisation Bill, 2025?
A. It aims to regulate the export of ancient manuscripts and restrict private ownership of historical records.
B. It focuses only on digitising printed manuscripts preserved in state-run libraries.
C. It mandates compulsory acquisition of all inscriptions by the state government.
D. It seeks to survey, preserve, digitise, and provide public access to unpublished manuscripts of various materials linked to Karnataka, including those in private custody.
Q2. With reference to the NITI Aayog report “Achieving Efficiencies in MSME Sector through Convergence of Schemes”, consider the following statements:
- The report evaluates existing Government of India MSME schemes to assess the level of convergence.
- The report recommends integrating SFURTI with the Micro and Small Enterprises – Cluster Development Programme (MSE-CDP).
- Information convergence refers to aligning and unifying MSME schemes to eliminate operational overlaps.
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
Q3. Assertion (A): Ethylene Glycol ingestion can lead to severe metabolic acidosis and kidney failure in humans.
Reason (R): Ethylene Glycol is metabolized in the human body into toxic acidic compounds.
Choose the correct answer:
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
Q4. With reference to Exercise Sanjha Shakti, consider the following statements:
- It is a joint Military–Civil Fusion (MCF) exercise aimed at enhancing coordination between armed forces and civil agencies.
- The exercise was conducted under the Southern Command at the Dighi (Diggi) Hills Range.
- It involved participation only from the Indian Army and excluded state police forces.
- One of its objectives is to test communication protocols and rapid response mechanisms during crisis situations.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
A. 1, 2 and 3 only
B. 1 and 3 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 4 only
Q5. Kathputli, recently in news, is best described as:
A. A shadow puppetry tradition from Odisha using leather puppets
B. A traditional string puppet theatre form from Rajasthan
C. A glove puppetry art form practised mainly in Kerala
D. A rod puppetry tradition associated with West Bengal
16 JANUARY 2026
Q1. Consider the following statements regarding India’s first Vulture Conservation Portal:
- It was launched in Assam ahead of International Vulture Awareness Day.
- It was developed by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
- The portal aims to build a national network for vulture conservation.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 and 3 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Q2. Assertion (A): Active euthanasia is illegal in India.
Reason (R): Causing death through direct medical intervention is treated as culpable homicide under Indian law.
Choose the correct answer:
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
Q3. A Living Will or Advance Medical Directive allows a person to:
A. Transfer property after death
B. Authorize active euthanasia
C. Refuse life-support treatment in future medical conditions
D. Appoint a legal guardian
Q4. Consider the following statements regarding the Export Preparedness Index (EPI) 2024:
- It is released by NITI Aayog.
- It assesses export preparedness of States and Union Territories.
- It is aligned with India’s target of USD 1 trillion merchandise exports by 2030.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
A. 1 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 2 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Q5. Who has been nominated to chair the Advisory Board on Disarmament Matters (ABDM) for the 2026–27 term?
A. Syed Akbaruddin
B. Ruchira Kamboj
C. D.B. Venkatesh Varma
D. Vikram Misri
15 JANUARY 2026
Q1. Consider the following statements regarding Quick Commerce (Q-commerce):
- Q-commerce focuses on ultra-fast delivery of essential goods, usually within 10–20 minutes.
- It relies primarily on centralized national warehouses.
- Gig workers form the backbone of last-mile delivery in Q-commerce.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 1 and 3 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Q2. The removal of speed-centric branding by quick commerce platforms indicates:
A. End of digital commerce
B. Shift towards worker-sensitive business practices
C. Government takeover of platforms
D. End of gig economy
Q3. Assertion (A): Karuna Abhiyan is widely considered as India’s first state-driven, festival-linked widlife protection campaign.
Reason (R): It was launched to rescue birds and animals injured mainly due to kite-flying during festivals like Uttarayan through coordinated state-wide efforts.
Choose the correct answer:
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
Q4. Why are vultures considered ecologically important?
- They help prevent the spread of diseases.
- They contribute to natural sanitation by disposing carcasses.
- They increase soil fertility through grazing.
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
Q5. Marine biotechnology primarily involves the use of:
A. Terrestrial plants for industrial enzymes
B. Marine organisms such as microbes, algae and seaweeds for bio-based products
C. Freshwater fish for pharmaceutical research only
D. Fossil fuels for chemical synthesis
14 JANUARY 2026
Q1. With reference to solar panels and biofuels, consider the following statements:
- Biofuels require large areas of land but produce relatively low energy per acre due to the low efficiency of photosynthesis.
- Solar panels convert sunlight directly into electricity with efficiencies much higher than biological processes.
- Replacing biofuel crops with solar installations can help free land for food production, reforestation, and biodiversity conservation.
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
Q2. With reference to the significance of carbon markets under the Paris Agreement for India, consider the following statements:
- Carbon markets can help mobilise private international finance to support India’s energy transition.
- Participation in carbon markets can facilitate access to advanced low-carbon technologies and support decarbonisation of hard-to-abate sectors.
- Carbon markets eliminate the need for domestic regulatory frameworks in participating countries.
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
Q3. Assertion (A): The Union Government has constituted a high-level Inter-Departmental Committee to address the rising incidence of “digital arrest” scams in India.
Reason (R): “Digital arrest” is a legally recognised procedure under Indian law that requires inter-ministerial coordination for its enforcement.
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
Q4. The recently constituted Inter-Departmental Committee (IDC) to tackle “digital arrest” scams in India is chaired by:
A. Cabinet Secretary of India
B. Director, Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C)
C. Special Secretary (Internal Security), Ministry of Home Affairs
D. Union Home Secretary
Q5. Why is there a growing concern about the environmental impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI)?
A. AI systems depend primarily on rare earth minerals for their functioning
B. Training and deployment of AI models require large computing power, leading to high energy use, water consumption, and increased carbon emissions
C. AI development increases employment in traditional sectors, increasing poverty
D. AI technologies are restricted to developed countries and cannot be regulated
13 JANUARY 2026
Q1. With reference to delimitation in India, consider the following statements:
- Delimitation involves the redistribution of Lok Sabha seats among States based on population data.
- The present freeze on Lok Sabha seat allocation was introduced by the 84th Constitutional Amendment Act.
- Any delimitation exercise must mandatorily be based on the 2011 Census.
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
Q2. The principle of “digressive proportionality” aims to:
(a) Provide equal seats to all States irrespective of population
(b) Allocate seats strictly in proportion to population size
(c) Ensure larger States have more seats but fewer representatives per capita
(d) Replace population with economic contribution as the basis of representation
Q3. Assertion (A): The Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012 provides a comprehensive and child-centric legal framework to address sexual offences against children in India.
Reason (R): The Act is gender-neutral, clearly categorizes offences with stringent punishments, and mandates Special Courts to conduct speedy, in-camera trials while ensuring compensation and rehabilitation for child victims.
Choose the correct answer using the code given below:
(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
Q4. What is the primary concern raised by smartphone manufacturers regarding India’s proposal to seek access to phone source codes under the Indian Telecom Security Assurance Requirements (ITSAR)?
(a) It would significantly increase smartphone prices in India
(b) It risks exposure of proprietary encryption systems and software architecture
(c) It mandates complete data localization of user information
(d) It eliminates the need for private cybersecurity audits
Q5. With reference to the Pax Silica Initiative, consider the following statements:
- Pax Silica is a US-led economic security partnership focused on securing semiconductor and AI-critical supply chains.
- The initiative is led by the US Department of Commerce and was launched at the first summit in 2024.
- It seeks to build trusted technology ecosystems by restricting cooperation to reliable partner countries.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1 and 3 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
12 JANUARY 2026
Q1. Which of the following components are integrated under Climate-Resilient Agriculture?
- Climate-tolerant and genome-edited crops
- Biofertilisers and biopesticides
- AI-based agro-advisories
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
Q2. Climate-Resilient Agriculture (CRA) primarily aims to:
A. Maximise short-term farm output through chemical inputs
B. Sustain productivity while adapting to climate variability
C. Replace traditional farming with industrial agriculture
D. Focus only on export-oriented crops
Q3. Assertion (A): India ranks second highest in Asia in the World Risk Index.
Reason (R): The World Risk Index measures disaster risk only on the basis of hazard frequency.
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
Q4. The GOBARdhan initiative contributes to urban climate action primarily by:
A. Eliminating landfill usage
B. Producing compressed biogas from organic waste
C. Promoting electric waste collection vehicles
D. Recycling electronic waste
Q5. With reference to Rani Velu Nachiyar, consider the following statements:
- She was trained in horse riding, archery, and martial arts such as Silambam and Valari.
- She ruled after the Revolt of 1857.
- She fought against British colonial forces in South India.
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
10 JANUARY 2026
Q1. With reference to the Piprahwa Relics, consider the following statements:
- They were discovered in the year 1898 at the Piprahwa Stupa in present-day Uttar Pradesh.
- The discovery is attributed to William Claxton Peppé, a British civil engineer.
- 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?
- Adoption of high-yielding varieties (HYVs)
- Expansion of irrigation facilities
- 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:
- The ECI is a constitutional authority.
- It is entrusted with ensuring free, fair, and credible elections in India.
- 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
9 JANUARY 2026
Q1. Which of the following statements about India’s GDP growth estimates for FY 2025–26 is correct?
A. Real GDP growth is projected to be lower than that of FY 2024–25
B. Gross Value Added (GVA) is projected to grow at 7.3%
C. Agriculture and allied activities are expected to grow faster than services
D. Gross Fixed Capital Formation (GFCF) is projected to grow below 6%
Q2. Spina Bifida is best described as:
A. A hereditary muscular disorder affecting only adults
B. A birth defect of the spinal cord that develops during early pregnancy
C. An infectious disease caused by vitamin deficiency after birth
D. A temporary neurological condition curable with medication
Q3. Consider the following statements about India–Europe relations in the current geopolitical context:
- India’s participation in the Weimar Triangle reflects Europe’s recognition of India as a strategic and geopolitical actor, beyond its economic importance.
- Growing uncertainty in U.S. commitments to NATO and the Ukraine conflict has contributed to Europe’s search for new strategic partners like India.
- India’s engagement with Europe marks a shift away from strategic autonomy towards formal alliance-building.
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
Q4. Assertion (A): A 500% tariff proposed under the U.S. Sanctioning Russia Act of 2025 would effectively act as a trade embargo on Indian goods in the U.S. market.
Reason (R): Such an extremely high tariff would make Indian exports economically uncompetitive, reducing their market access in the United States.
Choose the correct answer:
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
Q5. Under the Draft Pesticides Management Bill, which of the following penalties may be imposed for violations causing death or grievous hurt?
A. Only monetary fine up to ₹5 lakh
B. Imprisonment up to 5 years or fine between ₹10 lakh and ₹50 lakh, or both
C. Imprisonment up to 1 year with no monetary penalty
D. Cancellation of licence without criminal liability
8 JANUARY 2026
Q1. With reference to Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) in India, consider the following statements:
- AMR occurs when microorganisms develop the ability to withstand the effects of antimicrobial medicines, making common infections difficult to treat.
- India’s National AMR Surveillance Network (NARS-Net) contributes data to the WHO’s GLASS platform.
- The WHO Global Action Plan on AMR (2015) focuses only on public awareness and rational use of antibiotics.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Q2. Assertion (A): India has largely met its Paris Agreement climate commitments related to emissions intensity reduction and non-fossil power capacity.
Reason (R): India’s absolute greenhouse gas emissions is completely eliminated due to reduced dependence on coal.
Choose the correct answer:
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
Q3. Which of the following best explains why the expansion of NATGRID has raised concerns of mass surveillance in India?
A. NATGRID operates as a constitutional body with parliamentary oversight, enabling comprehensive population data mapping.
B. Integration of NATGRID with the National Population Register (NPR) enables population-wide profiling without adequate legal safeguards.
C. NATGRID is restricted only to counter-terror investigations and does not access identity-related databases.
D. The use of analytics tools like GANDIVA is limited to manual verification and does not involve automated data linkage.
Q4. Which of the following correctly describes the Karnataka Border Area Development Authority (KBADA)?
A. A constitutional body established under the Seventh Schedule
B. A statutory authority created under the Karnataka Border Area Development Authority Act, 2010
C. A joint body of Karnataka and neighbouring States for border dispute resolution
D. An advisory body under the Ministry of Home Affairs
Q5. The recently discovered 12th-century inscription at Sri Mahalakshmi Temple, K. Bettahalli is significant because it:
A. Confirms the decline of Hoysala power after the Chola invasions
B. Demonstrates close socio-political and cultural links between Hoysala Karnataka and Tamilakam
C. Establishes Sanskrit as the sole administrative language of the Hoysalas
D. Proves that Dwarasamudra was founded during the Vijayanagara period
7 JANUARY 2026
Q1. With reference to biomaterials, consider the following statements:
- Biomaterials can be derived from plants, microbes, or agricultural waste.
- Drop-in biomaterials are chemically different from petroleum-based materials and require new supply chains only.
- Polylactic Acid (PLA) is an example of a drop-out biomaterial.
- Biomaterials can be used in sectors such as packaging, textiles, and healthcare.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1, 3 and 4 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 2, 3 and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
Q2. Assertion (A): ISRO has invited Indian scientists to submit research proposals to analyse observational data from the Aditya-L1 solar mission.
Reason (R): Aditya-L1 is India’s second dedicated solar observatory positioned at the Sun–Earth L1 point to continuously study the solar atmosphere, solar winds, and space weather.
Choose the correct answer using the code given below:
(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
Q3. Which Public–Private Partnership (PPP) model involves the government paying 40% of the project cost during construction while the private developer recovers the remaining investment through annuity payments?
(a) Build Operate Transfer (BOT)
(b) Design Build Finance Operate (DBFO)
(c) Engineering Procurement and Construction (EPC)
(d) Hybrid Annuity Model (HAM)
Q4. With reference to the Design Linked Incentive (DLI) Scheme for Semiconductors, consider the following statements:
- The DLI Scheme is implemented by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) under the Semicon India Programme.
- It focuses on promoting semiconductor fabrication (fabs) rather than chip design.
- Design Infrastructure Support under the scheme is provided through the ChipIN Centre operated by C-DAC.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 3 only
(b) 1 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Q5. The United Nations has declared 2026 as the International Year for Rangelands and Pastoralists. Which of the following is the primary objective of this declaration?
(a) To promote commercial agriculture and intensive livestock farming in arid regions
(b)To highlight the role of rangelands and pastoralists in biodiversity conservation, food security, and sustainable livelihoods
(c) To replace traditional pastoralism with settled farming systems
(d) To focus exclusively on carbon trading mechanisms in grassland ecosystems only
