Ten MCQs on current International and national events - 160

PRERNA FOR IAS

(ASSOCIATE OF SAMKALP)

A-Category MCQs -160

1. With reference to India's position on the Iran–West Asia situation, consider the following statements:

1. India has emphasised peace and stability in West Asia.
2. India considers freedom of navigation and commerce important for its economic interests.
3. Iran has requested India to use its diplomatic contacts to facilitate dialogue.
4. India's approach requires exclusive alignment with either Iran or the United States.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

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

Correct Answer: (a)

Explanation: Statements 1, 2 and 3 are correct. India has stressed peace, stability, dialogue and freedom of navigation amid tensions involving Iran, the U.S. and Israel. Iran has also asked India to use its diplomatic relationships to encourage dialogue. Statement 4 is incorrect. The summary describes India's preferred approach as strategic autonomy, maintaining relations with competing powers without rigid bloc alignment. India's interests include energy security, Chabahar, trade routes, the diaspora and relations with Gulf countries. Elimination clue: strategic autonomy generally rejects the idea that India must automatically choose one geopolitical camp.

2. With reference to India's economic performance in Q1 of 2026-27, consider the following statements:

1. Real GDP grew by 7.8% year-on-year.
2. Manufacturing grew by 9.2%.
3. Services grew by 10%.
4. The growth figures imply that external energy and climate-related risks have disappeared.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

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

Correct Answer: (b)

Explanation: Statements 1, 2 and 3 are correct. India's real GDP grew 7.8% in April-June 2026-27, while manufacturing expanded 9.2% and services 10%. Private consumption and investment indicators were also supportive. Statement 4 is incorrect. West Asian tensions, elevated crude-oil prices, food inflation and a strengthening El Niño remain important risks. Elimination clue: strong current growth does not eliminate future vulnerabilities. UPSC often tests the distinction between economic resilience and economic immunity. Sustainable growth requires stable inflation, investment and protection against external energy and climate shocks.

3. With reference to the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, consider the following statements: