Ten MCQs on current International and national events - 150

PRERNA FOR IAS

(ASSOCIATE OF SAMKALP)

A-Category MCQs -150

1. With reference to the revamped MGNREGA framework, consider the following statements:

1. The guaranteed period of employment has been increased from 100 to 125 days.
2. The Supreme Court characterised employment under MGNREGA merely as gratuitous assistance by the State.
3. The scheme creates a statutory entitlement to work.
4. Its implementation involves questions of livelihood security as well as Centre-State fiscal relations.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1, 3 and 4 only
(c) 2, 3 and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

Correct Answer: (b)

Explanation: Statements 1, 3 and 4 are correct. The revamped framework increases guaranteed employment from 100 to 125 days and revises the Centre-State funding pattern. The Supreme Court described MGNREGA as a statutory entitlement to work rather than gratuitous assistance, making Statement 2 incorrect. Elimination clue: MGNREGA differs from a simple cash transfer because payment is linked to employment demanded and work performed. The larger governance issue is balancing livelihood security and dignity with adequate wages, timely payments, State fiscal capacity and sustainable financing. Thus, rights-based welfare and fiscal responsibility need not be treated as opposites.

2. With reference to the use of pellet guns for crowd control, consider the following statements:

1. The State's responsibility to maintain public order permits unrestricted use of potentially disabling weapons.
2. Necessity and proportionality are relevant principles in assessing police use of force.
3. Weapons capable of causing permanent injury require stringent safeguards and operating procedures.
4. An impartial investigation can examine both the equipment used and the chain of authorisation.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

(a) 1, 2 and 3 only
(b) 2, 3 and 4 only
(c) 1 and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

Correct Answer: (b)

Explanation: Statements 2, 3 and 4 are correct. Delhi Police registered an FIR after allegations of pellet injuries during a protest, including serious damage to an individual's eye. Statement 1 is incorrect because maintenance of public order does not permit unlimited force. Elimination clue: legitimate State objectives do not automatically validate every method used to achieve them. The relevant standards are necessity, proportionality, clear operating procedures and accountability. An effective investigation should determine what weapon was used, whether its use was justified, who authorised it and whether established protocols were followed.