Ten MCQs on current International and national events - 178

PRERNA FOR IAS

(ASSOCIATE OF SAMKALP)

A-Category MCQs -178

Q1. Strategic Autonomy and Energy Security

With reference to India’s crude-oil imports and strategic autonomy, consider the following statements:

1. Diversification of crude-oil suppliers can reduce India's vulnerability to geopolitical disruptions.
2. Secondary sanctions can affect countries and companies even when they are not themselves the primary target of sanctions.
3. Strategic autonomy necessarily requires India to maintain an equal volume of energy imports from all major powers.

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

Correct Answer: (a) 1 and 2 only

Explanation: Statements 1 and 2 are correct. The summaries highlight India's need to balance affordable energy, supply security and strategic autonomy while managing external sanctions pressure. Diversification reduces excessive dependence on a single supplier and therefore improves resilience. Secondary sanctions are designed to influence third-country entities dealing with the principal sanctioned country. Statement 3 is incorrect because strategic autonomy means independent decision-making according to national interest, not mechanically maintaining equal relations or equal import quantities with competing powers. India may purchase different quantities from different suppliers depending on prices, availability, transportation costs and geopolitical risks.

Q2. India-China Relations

With reference to the recent improvement in India-China relations, consider the following statements:

1. Diplomatic normalisation necessarily implies resolution of structural strategic differences.
2. Hydrological-data cooperation can serve as a confidence-building mechanism between the two countries.
3. India can simultaneously pursue diplomatic engagement and insist on stability along the border.

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

Correct Answer: (b) 2 and 3 only

Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect. The summary specifically cautions against assuming that improved diplomatic language represents strategic convergence. Tactical accommodation may occur even while long-term differences continue. Statements 2 and 3 are correct. Restoration or strengthening of mechanisms such as hydrological-data sharing can produce practical cooperation and confidence. Similarly, diplomatic engagement does not require India to dilute its concerns regarding border stability. A prudent policy can combine dialogue, economic engagement and confidence-building with insistence on implementation of agreements. Elimination clue: words such as “necessarily” should be examined carefully; diplomatic improvement does not automatically eliminate underlying disputes.