Ten MCQs on current International and national events - 214

PRERNA FOR IAS

(ASSOCIATE OF SAMKALP)

A-Category MCQs -214

Q1. Iran–US Tensions, Strait of Hormuz and India's Energy Security

In the context of the reported military tensions between Iran and the United States, consider the following statements:

1. The Strait of Hormuz connects the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman.
2. A disruption in the Strait of Hormuz can affect global petroleum trade and maritime insurance costs.
3. India's strategic autonomy requires it to support every military action taken by its major defence partners.
4. Diversification of energy suppliers can reduce India's vulnerability to regional geopolitical disruptions.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

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

Correct Answer: (b) 1, 2 and 4 only

Explanation: The supplied newspaper summaries discuss rising tensions between Iran and the United States and the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz. Statement 1 is correct because the Strait connects the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman. Statement 2 is correct because disruption of this maritime route can affect energy supplies, shipping costs and insurance premiums. Statement 3 is incorrect. Strategic autonomy means that India independently evaluates international developments according to its national interests. Statement 4 is correct because diversified energy sources reduce excessive dependence on one region. Hidden trap: Strategic partnership does not mean automatic military alignment.

Q2. El Niño, Indian Monsoon and Climate Adaptation

In the context of forecasts suggesting a potentially powerful El Niño event, consider the following statements:

1. El Niño is associated with unusually warm sea-surface temperatures in the central and eastern equatorial Pacific Ocean.
2. Every El Niño event necessarily causes drought throughout India.
3. The Indian Ocean Dipole can influence Indian monsoon conditions.
4. Climate-resilient agriculture includes drought-tolerant crops, efficient irrigation and improved seasonal forecasting.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

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

Correct Answer: (b) 1, 3 and 4 only

Explanation: The supplied Hindu summary discusses unusually warm Pacific Ocean conditions and the possibility of a strong El Niño. Statement 1 is correct because El Niño involves warming in the central and eastern equatorial Pacific. Statement 2 is incorrect. El Niño increases the risk of weaker Indian monsoon rainfall, but it does not guarantee drought everywhere. Other climatic influences also matter. Statement 3 is correct because the Indian Ocean Dipole can influence monsoon rainfall. Statement 4 is correct because adaptation measures reduce agricultural vulnerability. Hidden trap: A statistical climate relationship is not a guaranteed outcome.

Q3. Cauvery Water Dispute and Cooperative Federalism