20 Jun 2024: UPSC Exam Comprehensive News Analysis

20 June 2024 CNA
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TABLE OF CONTENTS

A. GS 1 Related
B. GS 2 Related
SOCIAL JUSTICE
1. 5UGC-NET cancelled over ‘irregularity’; CBI probe ordered
2. Need to ask if decline in inequality is a good thing: Debroy
INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS
1. Russia, N. Korea sign defence pact, vow to assist each other if attacked
2. India to hold Kanishka memorial event as Canada mourns Nijjar
C. GS 3 Related
ECONOMY
1. Union Cabinet gives go-ahead to increase MSP of 14 kharif crops
D. GS 4 Related
E. Editorials
SOCIAL ISSUES
1. Caste away
INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS
1. Decades of uncertainty for Tibetans
F. Prelims Facts
1. India, U.S. working to scale up partnership on critical minerals
2. A torrid crisis
3. Indian cities are ‘heat traps’ that make summers worse: official
4. India eyes breakthrough against sickle cell
5. PM inaugurates Nalanda University campus in Bihar
6. Climate activists vandalize Stonehenge monument
G. UPSC Prelims Practice Questions
H. UPSC Mains Practice Questions
FIP Magazine

2. Need to ask if decline in inequality is a good thing: Debroy

Syllabus: Issues related to the development and management of the social sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources

Prelims: Multidimensional Poverty Index (MDPI)

Mains: Significance of Multidimensional Poverty Index (MDPI)

Context​: Bibek Debroy, chairman of the Prime Minister’s Economic Advisory Council (PMEAC), has called for a reassessment of India’s official poverty line. He raised questions about the implications of declining inequality and the adequacy of existing measures of poverty, such as the Tendulkar line and the Multidimensional Poverty Index (MDPI) from Niti Aayog.

Background

  • Current Poverty Line: The Tendulkar Committee in 2009 pegged India’s poverty line at ₹33 per day in urban areas and ₹27 per day in rural areas.
  • Rangarajan Committee: A 2014 review by the Rangarajan Committee suggested a higher threshold, but its recommendations were never officially adopted.
  • MDPI: Niti Aayog’s Multidimensional Poverty Index, based on the National Family Health Survey, is not a conventional poverty line but offers a broader measure of poverty.

Key Points Raised by Bibek Debroy

Revisiting the Poverty Line:

  • Debroy emphasized the need to establish a new poverty line using the latest Household Consumption Expenditure Survey (HCES) data.
  • He noted that current poverty measures are outdated and do not fully capture contemporary economic realities.

Inequality Debate:

  • Debroy questioned whether a decline in the Gini coefficient, a measure of economic inequality, is inherently positive.
  • He highlighted that economic growth often correlates with increasing inequality.

Household Consumption Surveys:

  • Debroy pointed out standard issues with household expenditure surveys, including discrepancies between survey findings and national income accounts.
  • He termed the debate over these discrepancies as “sterile”, suggesting it is a common issue across countries.

Personal Income Distribution:

  • India does not officially collect data on personal income distribution, which can provide a different perspective on inequality compared to consumption expenditure data.

Issues

  • Outdated Poverty Lines: The current poverty lines are based on old data and do not reflect current economic conditions.
  • Discrepancies in Data: Differences between household survey data and national income accounts data complicate poverty and inequality assessments.
  • Inadequate Income Data: Lack of official personal income data limits a comprehensive understanding of inequality.

Significance

  • Policy Formulation: Accurate and updated poverty lines are crucial for effective policymaking and targeting welfare schemes.
  • Understanding Inequality: A nuanced understanding of inequality trends is necessary for balanced economic growth.
  • Economic Planning: Reliable data aids in better economic planning and addressing disparities across states.

Solutions

  • Establish a New Poverty Line: Conduct a comprehensive review using the latest HCES data to set a new poverty threshold that reflects current economic conditions.
  • Improve Data Collection: Enhance the scope and accuracy of household expenditure surveys. Officially collect and analyze personal income distribution data.
  • State-Specific Analysis: Evaluate Gini coefficients and other inequality measures at the state level to address regional disparities.
  • Integrate Multiple Indices: Use a combination of poverty indices, including the MDPI, to capture multidimensional aspects of poverty.

Nut Graf: Bibek Debroy’s call for reassessing India’s poverty line and evaluating the implications of declining inequality highlights the need for updated and comprehensive economic measures. Accurate poverty lines and a deeper understanding of inequality are essential for informed policymaking and achieving balanced economic growth.

Category: INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

1. Russia, N. Korea sign defence pact, vow to assist each other if attacked

Syllabus: Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s Interests

Mains: Russia, N. Korea ties

Context​: Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un have signed a significant defence pact, pledging mutual assistance in the event of aggression against either country. This development comes amid rising tensions with the West and concerns about North Korea’s potential support for Russia’s war efforts in Ukraine.

Details of the Pact

  • Mutual Aid Commitment: Both countries have vowed to assist each other if either faces aggression.
  • Comprehensive Upgrade: The pact covers security, trade, investment, and cultural and humanitarian ties, marking a significant enhancement in bilateral relations.
  • Historical Context: This pact is described as the strongest treaty between Russia and North Korea since the end of the Cold War, replacing the weaker 2000 agreement and harking back to the 1961 treaty that required Soviet military intervention if North Korea was attacked.

Context and Background

  • Putin’s Visit to Pyongyang: This marks Putin’s first visit to North Korea in 24 years, highlighting the importance of the pact.
  • US Concerns: The United States and its allies are worried about a potential arms deal where North Korea supplies munitions to Russia in exchange for economic assistance and technology, potentially enhancing North Korea’s nuclear and missile capabilities.
  • Statements from Leaders: Kim Jong-un emphasized the “fiery friendship” and described the pact as the “strongest ever treaty,” while Putin called it a “breakthrough document.”

Strategic Implications

  • Enhanced Military Cooperation: The pact indicates a significant boost in military cooperation between Russia and North Korea.
  • Economic and Technological Exchange: Potential exchanges could enhance North Korea’s technological capabilities, especially in the realm of nuclear and missile technology.
  • Geopolitical Ramifications: The pact could alter the strategic dynamics in the region, affecting relations with South Korea, Japan, and the broader international community.

Reactions from the West

  • US Criticism: U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken criticized the pact, stating that it reflects Russia’s desperation to bolster its resources for the ongoing war in Ukraine.
  • Global Concerns: There is heightened apprehension about the implications of closer Russia-North Korea ties for global security and stability.

Issues

  • Arms Support for Russia: Concerns about North Korea supplying arms to Russia, potentially prolonging the conflict in Ukraine.
  • Nuclear Proliferation: Risks of technological transfers that could advance North Korea’s nuclear and missile programs.
  • Regional Instability: Potential destabilizing effects on the Korean Peninsula and broader East Asian region.

Significance

  • Strengthened Alliances: The pact signifies a deepened alliance between two countries historically isolated from the West.
  • Strategic Realignment: Reflects a strategic realignment in response to Western sanctions and geopolitical pressures.
  • Impact on Global Diplomacy: Could complicate diplomatic efforts to manage the crises in Ukraine and the Korean Peninsula.

Solutions

  • Diplomatic Engagement: Increased diplomatic efforts by the international community to engage Russia and North Korea, aiming to mitigate the risks of the pact.
  • Sanctions and Economic Measures: Potentially strengthening sanctions or implementing new economic measures to limit the capabilities of Russia and North Korea to support each other militarily.
  • Regional Security Initiatives: Enhancing regional security cooperation among neighbouring countries and allies to counterbalance the strengthened Russia-North Korea alliance.

Nut Graf: The defence pact between Russia and North Korea represents a significant shift in their bilateral relations, with potentially far-reaching implications for global security and regional stability. While it strengthens their mutual support in the face of Western opposition, it also raises concerns about arms support, nuclear proliferation, and regional instability. Addressing these challenges will require coordinated international efforts and strategic diplomatic engagement.

2. India to hold Kanishka memorial event as Canada mourns Nijjar

Syllabus: Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s Interests

Mains: India-Canada relations 

Context​: Recent developments in India-Canada relations have highlighted growing tensions between the two nations. On the first anniversary of the killing of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, Canada commemorated his death, while India announced a memorial event for the 1985 Air India Kanishka bombing. These events underscore the divergent narratives and ongoing diplomatic friction between the countries.

Background

  • Hardeep Singh Nijjar: A Canadian citizen and Khalistani separatist, Nijjar was killed a year ago. He was wanted on terror charges in India, which had requested his extradition from Canada.
  • Canadian Response: Canadian parliamentarians observed a moment of silence to mark Nijjar’s death anniversary, reflecting ongoing concerns about his killing and Canada’s stance on protecting its citizens.
  • Khalistani Processions: Khalistani groups in Canada held processions, chanting anti-India slogans and calling for trials against Indian officials, including Prime Minister.

Indian Response

  • Kanishka Bombing Memorial: The Indian consulate in Vancouver announced a memorial for the victims of the Air India Kanishka bombing. The attack, carried out by Khalistani separatists in 1985, killed 329 people, mostly Canadians and Indians.
  • Message of Solidarity: The Indian consulate urged the Indian diaspora in Canada to attend the event, emphasizing India’s commitment to countering terrorism and promoting global security cooperation.

Diplomatic Tensions

  • Divergent Narratives: The commemoration of Nijjar’s death by Canada contrasts sharply with India’s memorial for the Kanishka bombing, highlighting the differing perspectives on terrorism and sovereignty.

Accusations and Concerns:

  • India’s View: India has criticized Canada for providing a safe haven to Khalistani separatists and has raised concerns about their activities, including a planned referendum for a separate state.
  • Canada’s View: Canada has framed the issue as one of sovereignty and rule of law, accusing India of interfering in its internal affairs.

Issues

  • Bilateral Relations: The conflicting narratives and memorials have strained India-Canada relations, making diplomatic resolutions more challenging.
  • Terrorism and Security: Both nations have different approaches to addressing terrorism, complicating collaborative efforts in global security.
  • Diaspora Dynamics: The Indian diaspora in Canada finds itself caught between the geopolitical tensions of their home and host countries.

Solutions

  • Diplomatic Dialogue: Initiate high-level diplomatic talks to address mutual concerns and find common ground on issues of terrorism and sovereignty.
  • Counter-Terrorism Cooperation: Strengthen collaborative efforts in counter-terrorism to ensure both countries work together against common threats.
  • Engage the Diaspora: Foster dialogue with the Indian diaspora in Canada to address their concerns and promote a unified approach to bilateral issues.
  • Confidence-Building Measures: Implement confidence-building measures, such as joint statements or actions, to reduce tensions and build trust between the two nations.

Nut Graf: The recent events surrounding the commemoration of Hardeep Singh Nijjar’s death and the Kanishka bombing highlight the ongoing tensions between India and Canada. The contrasting narratives and diplomatic friction underscore the need for constructive dialogue and cooperation to address mutual concerns.

Category: INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

1. Decades of uncertainty for Tibetans

Syllabus: GS-2, India and its Neighbourhood – Relations

Mains: Concerns about  Tibetan refugees residing in Indian

Introduction:

  • In 1959, thousands of Tibetans arrived in India following the flight of the Dalai Lama due to Chinese occupation.
  • The Indian government provided asylum and temporary settlement assistance.
  • Over 60 years later, Tibetans’ status remains uncertain as they are neither considered foreigners nor refugees.

Legal and Documentation Challenges:

  • Tibetans must obtain registration certificates (RCs) to live in India, similar to other foreigners under the Foreigners Registration Act, 1946.
  • For international travel, they require Identity Certificates (ICs) and Special Entry Permits (SEPs).
  • In 2016, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) made the RC renewal process online and extended the renewal period to five years.

Population and Migration Trends:

  • The Tibetan population in India was 1.10 lakh in 2009, per “The Tibetan Rehabilitation Policy” by MHA.
  • The 2019 Census by the Central Tibetan Relief Committee (CTRC) reported a population of 73,404 Tibetan refugees in India.
  • Significant migration of Tibetans to foreign countries has been observed in the past two decades.

Government Support and Community Concerns:

  • The National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government sanctioned a ₹40 crore grant-in-aid to the CTRC in 2015, extended for another five years.
  • Major concentrations of Tibetan refugees are in Karnataka, Himachal Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, West Bengal, and Ladakh.
  • Young Tibetans feel uncertain about their future, especially after the eventual passing of the Dalai Lama.
  • Divisions within the Tibetan Parliament (in-exile) add to the community’s concerns.

Citizenship and Legal Issues:

  • The Citizenship Act, 1955, states that those born in India between January 26, 1950, and July 1, 1987, are citizens by birth.
  • Few Tibetans have acquired Indian citizenship after court rulings, and in 2018, the Ministry of External Affairs issued guidelines for issuing passports to Tibetan refugees.
  • Tibetan activist Tenzin Tsundue highlights that Tibetans are recognized as foreigners, cannot buy property, and face restrictions if they acquire Indian citizenship.

Education and Awareness:

  • There is little awareness of the Tibetan movement in Indian textbooks.
  • Activist Tenzin Tsundue emphasizes the need for greater awareness and recognition of Tibet’s status and issues.

Nut Graf: More than 60 years after their arrival, Tibetans in India face legal and citizenship challenges, uncertain futures, and significant migration, despite government support and asylum. Young Tibetans feel particularly anxious about their status and the community’s long-term prospects.

F. Prelims Facts

1. India, U.S. working to scale up partnership on critical minerals

Context: India and the United States are advancing their collaboration on critical minerals through the India-U.S. Initiative for Critical and Emerging Technology (iCET). This partnership aims to secure supply chains for essential minerals such as graphite, gallium, and germanium. The bilateral agreement seeks to bolster India’s role in global mineral security and diversify supply sources responsibly and sustainably.

Objectives of the Collaboration

  • Bilateral Agreement: The U.S. Department of Commerce and India’s Ministry of Commerce and Industry and Ministry of Mines are working towards a bilateral agreement to enhance cooperation on critical minerals.
  • Supply Chain Partnership: Focus on establishing a robust supply chain for critical minerals like graphite, gallium, and germanium.
  • Global Engagement: Promote India’s involvement in international mineral security partnerships, including co-investment in lithium and rare earth projects in South America and Africa.

Strategic Initiatives

  • Mineral Security Partnership: India has joined the U.S.-led Mineral Security Partnership, which aims to secure critical mineral supply chains through investment in resource-rich countries.
  • KABIL Joint Venture: Khanij Bidesh India Ltd. (KABIL), a joint venture of three Central Public Sector Enterprises, is tasked with acquiring critical mineral assets abroad to ensure a stable supply for India’s domestic market.
  • Legislative Framework: The Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957, amended by the MMDR Amendment Act, 2023, facilitates India’s acquisition of overseas mines and domestic exploration.

Research and Development Collaboration

  • Advanced Materials Forum: Establishment of an India-U.S. advanced materials R&D forum to enhance collaboration between universities, national laboratories, and private sector researchers in both countries.
  • Technology Collaboration: Exploring opportunities for bilateral collaboration in technologies related to neodymium-iron-boron metal, alloy, and magnet making, as well as partnering with U.S. Department of Energy entities.

Significance

  • Strategic Autonomy: Strengthening India’s critical mineral supply chain is vital for its strategic autonomy and industrial growth.
  • Economic Growth: Securing a consistent supply of critical minerals will support India’s technological and manufacturing sectors, driving economic growth.
  • Global Leadership: Enhancing India’s role in global mineral security partnerships positions the country as a significant player in the global supply chain for critical minerals.

2. A torrid crisis

Context: Northern India is currently experiencing an unprecedented heatwave, marking the longest stretch in the past 15 years. With temperatures consistently soaring above 45°C in some states and night temperatures significantly higher than normal, the region faces severe challenges. This situation is compounded by a sluggish monsoon and significant infrastructure strains, necessitating urgent attention and the classification of prolonged summer heat waves as a natural disaster.

Current Scenario

  • Heatwave Conditions: Minimum day temperatures above 45°C in several states; night temperatures 3°- 6°C above normal due to lack of moisture and rain.
  • Monsoon Stagnation: Monsoon stalled since June 12, with forecasts revised from ‘normal’ to ‘below normal’ rainfall, resulting in an 8% shortfall.
  • Power Demand Surge: Northern India’s power demand peaked at 89 GW on June 17, necessitating imports from other regions and countries.
  • Infrastructure Strain: Despite having an installed power capacity of 113 GW, the northern grid required external power imports, indicating underutilization and strain.

Issues

  • Power Grid Stress: Increased demand for cooling during prolonged heatwaves strains the power grid, leading to blackouts like the one at Delhi’s international airport.
  • Water Crisis: Heightened water demand due to heatwaves, coupled with reduced supply from Haryana, exacerbates the water shortage in Delhi.
  • Agricultural Impact: Heatwaves and delayed monsoon negatively affect agriculture, leading to potential crop failures and economic losses for farmers.

3. Indian cities are ‘heat traps’ that make summers worse: official

Context: Indian cities are increasingly becoming “heat traps,” exacerbating the impact of scorching summers due to unbalanced urban growth, dwindling water bodies, and rising greenhouse emissions. This phenomenon, aggravated by climate change, poses significant challenges to public health and urban resilience.

Factors Contributing to Heat Traps

  • Urban Growth: Rapid and unplanned urbanization has led to the reduction of green spaces, wetlands, and water bodies, which act as natural heat sinks.
  • Greenhouse Emissions: Increased emissions from vehicular traffic, industries, and buildings contribute to higher ambient temperatures.
  • Climate Change: Altered weather patterns and rising global temperatures intensify heatwaves, prolonging periods of extreme heat in cities.

Impact on Cities

  • Temperature Extremes: Cities like Delhi, Hyderabad, Kolkata, and Mumbai experience prolonged spells of high temperatures, with daytime peaks often exceeding 40 degrees Celsius.
  • Night-time Heat: Reduced cooling at night exacerbates discomfort and heat-related health risks, preventing effective recovery from daytime heat exposure.

Issues and Challenges

  • Health Risks: High temperatures pose health risks, including heat strokes, dehydration, and exacerbation of respiratory and cardiovascular ailments.
  • Infrastructure Strain: Increased demand for electricity and water during heatwaves strains urban infrastructure, leading to blackouts and water shortages.
  • Financial Constraints: Municipalities face financial challenges in implementing long-term heat action plans and sustainable urban development strategies.

Solutions

Policy and Governance

  • Long-term Strategies: Establishing comprehensive heat action plans with clear mandates for urban cooling measures, emergency response, and public awareness.
  • Financial Support: Allocating sufficient funds and resources for implementing sustainable urban development practices and climate-resilient infrastructure.
  • Community Engagement: Involving local communities in urban planning decisions and promoting public participation in heat mitigation efforts.

Technological Interventions

  • Building Design: Enhancing heat insulation in buildings, promoting energy-efficient cooling systems, and adopting smart city technologies.
  • Natural Resource Management: Reviving and protecting water bodies, enhancing green cover, and promoting sustainable transportation options.

4. India eyes breakthrough against sickle cell

Context: India is on the brink of a significant medical breakthrough in the fight against sickle cell disease, a genetic blood disorder with high prevalence among the Scheduled Tribes. Researchers are working on gene therapy using CRISPR-Cas9, a cutting-edge gene-editing tool. This development comes with the potential to revolutionize the treatment of the disease in India.

Current Efforts

  • Laboratory Tests: The Union Tribal Affairs Ministry anticipates positive results from ongoing laboratory tests by January 2025.
  • Research Collaboration: The All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) is spearheading research to develop gene therapy using CRISPR-Cas9.

Importance of Ground-Level Healthcare Workers

  • Role of ASHAs and Anganwadi Workers: Union Tribal Affairs Minister Jual Oram emphasized the importance of involving Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) and anganwadi workers for effective implementation.
  • Training and Coordination: These workers are crucial for screening and managing the disease at the grassroots level.

Technological Advancements

  • CRISPR-Cas9 Technology: Recently approved by the U.S. FDA, this technology uses molecular scissors to cut and edit DNA precisely, offering a potential single-dose cure for blood disorders like sickle cell anaemia.

Screening and Outreach

  • Screening Targets: The mission aims to conduct over seven crore screenings among tribal populations across 17 States and Union Territories. So far, three crore screenings have been completed.
  • Government Mission: Launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in July 2023, the mission targets the eradication of sickle cell disease by 2047.

Significance

Health Impact

  • Reduction in Disease Burden: Successful gene therapy could drastically reduce the prevalence of sickle cell disease and improve the quality of life for affected individuals.
  • Global Leadership: Achieving this breakthrough would position India as a leader in genetic therapies and public health innovation.

Social and Economic Benefits

  • Improved Productivity: Healthier populations lead to increased productivity and economic growth, particularly in tribal regions.
  • Reduction in Healthcare Costs: Effective treatment and management of the disease will reduce long-term healthcare costs.

5. PM inaugurates Nalanda University campus in Bihar

Context: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the new campus of Nalanda University in Rajgir, Bihar. The event underscored the significance of Nalanda as a symbol of India’s rich academic heritage and its role in cultural exchange.

Historical Context

  • Ancient Nalanda University: Established in the 5th century, it was a renowned centre of learning attracting students globally. It flourished for 800 years before being destroyed in the 12th century by invaders.

Modern Revival

  • Nalanda University Act, 2010: Established by Parliament, it aimed to revive Nalanda as an international institution for intellectual, philosophical, historical, and spiritual studies.
  • Inception and Development: The university began functioning in 2014 with 14 students and started its construction in 2017.
  • Bodhi Tree Sapling: PM Modi planted a sapling from Bodh Gaya at the ancient ruins site, symbolizing continuity and renewal.

Significance

Cultural and Academic Heritage

  • Symbol of Knowledge: Nalanda represents the indestructible nature of knowledge and India’s ancient academic traditions.
  • International Collaboration: The university aims to be a hub for intellectual exchange and cultural dialogue among nations, particularly in Asia.

Regional Development

  • Economic and Social Impact: The development of Nalanda University contributes to the socio-economic growth of Bihar and enhances its global academic standing.

6. Climate activists vandalize Stonehenge monument

Context: On the eve of the summer solstice, climate activists from the ‘Just Stop Oil’ group vandalized the prehistoric Stonehenge monument by spraying orange powder on its stones. This act of vandalism has sparked widespread condemnation from various quarters, including top UK leaders.

Incident Details

  • Date and Action: The incident occurred on June 19, just before the summer solstice on June 20, when large crowds gather at Stonehenge.
  • Method: Activists sprayed orange powder onto the stones of Stonehenge.
  • Arrests: Two individuals were arrested in connection with the vandalism.

Historical Significance of Stonehenge

  • Construction: Built in several stages between 3000 BCE and 1500 BCE.
  • Cultural Importance: Historically significant as a site for rituals during the summer and winter solstices due to its alignment with the sun’s trajectory.

Just Stop Oil’s Statement

  • Demands: The group called for an end to oil and gas burning and extraction by 2030.
  • Rationale: The group metaphorically linked the inert nature of Stonehenge stones to what they perceive as stagnant climate policies.

H. UPSC Prelims Practice Questions

Q1. Consider the following statements:
  1. India is a signatory to the 1951 Refugee Convention and its 1967 Protocol.
  2. Article 21 of the Constitution of India encompasses the right of non-refoulement.

Which of these statements is/are correct?

  1. 1 only
  2. 2 only
  3. Both 1 and 2
  4. Neither 1 nor 2
CHECK ANSWERS:-

Answer: b

Explanation: India is not a party to the 1951 Refugee Convention and its 1967 Protocol.

Q2. Consider the following pairs:

Community often seen in the news                                      In the affairs of

  1. Kurd                                                                                                  Bangladesh
  2. Madhesi                                                                                                Nepal
  3. Rohingya                                                                                             Myanmar

How many of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?

  1. Only one
  2. Only two
  3. All three
  4. None
CHECK ANSWERS:-

Answer: b

Explanation: Kurds or Kurdish people are an Iranian ethnic group native to Western Asia. They are in the news in the context of Turkey, northwestern Iran, northern Iraq, and northern Syria

Q3. Consider the following statements with respect to Nalanda University:
  1. It was founded by Kumaragupta of the Gupta dynasty in Bihar in the early 5th century.
  2. The details of the university can be found in the writings of the famous Chinese traveller Huang Tsang. 
  3. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

How many of these statements is/are correct?

  1. Only one
  2. Only two
  3. All three
  4. None
CHECK ANSWERS:-

Answer: c

Explanation: All three statements are correct. 

Q4. The National Conclave on Generating Awareness on Sickle Cell Disease, recently 
in the news was organised by the:
  1. Ministry of Tribal Affairs
  2. Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
  3. Ministry of Women and Child Development
  4. Ministry of Science and Technology
CHECK ANSWERS:-

Answer: a

Explanation: The National Conclave on Generating Awareness on Sickle Cell Disease, recently in the news, was organised by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs. 

Q5. Consider the following statements with respect to the Prime Minister’s 
Economic Advisory Council:
  1. It is a constitutional body.
  2. It is a non-permanent and independent body constituted to give economic advice to the Government of India, specifically the Prime Minister.

Which of these statements is/are incorrect?

  1. 1 only
  2. 2 only
  3. Both 1 and 2
  4. Neither 1 nor 2
CHECK ANSWERS:-

Answer: a

Explanation: PMEAC is a non-constitutional, non-permanent and independent body constituted to give economic advice to the Government of India, specifically the Prime Minister.

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