Ten MCQs on current International and national events - 215

PRERNA FOR IAS

(ASSOCIATE OF SAMKALP)

A-Category MCQs -215

Q1. Siang Hydropower Project: National Security, Ecology and Indigenous Rights

In the context of the proposed Siang Upper Multipurpose Project in Arunachal Pradesh, consider the following statements:

1. The Siang River forms part of the Brahmaputra river system.
2. Hydropower projects in Himalayan regions may involve geological, ecological and displacement-related risks.
3. A project considered strategically important is automatically exempt from all applicable environmental-clearance requirements.
4. Public consultation and scientific impact assessment can improve the sustainability and acceptability of infrastructure projects.

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 newspaper summaries discuss protests against the proposed Siang hydropower project and concerns involving national security, energy generation and indigenous communities. Statement 1 is correct because the Siang is part of the Brahmaputra river system. Statement 2 is correct because Himalayan projects can affect fragile ecosystems, river flows and local settlements. Statement 3 is incorrect. Strategic importance does not automatically remove statutory environmental obligations. Statement 4 is correct because consultation and credible scientific assessment help identify risks and improve project planning. Hidden trap: National-security importance does not automatically override environmental law.

Q2. Myanmar Drug Trafficking: Golden Triangle and Financial Security

In the context of reported anti-narcotics operations in Northeast India, consider the following statements:

1. The Golden Triangle is associated with parts of Myanmar, Laos and Thailand.
2. Drug trafficking networks may use money laundering to conceal the illegal origin of their earnings.
3. The Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985, provides the principal legal framework for narcotics control in India.
4. Effective action against international drug trafficking falls exclusively within the jurisdiction of State police forces.

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: (a) 1, 2 and 3 only