15th February 2025

With reference to the appointment process of the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) in India, consider the following statements:

1. The rationale behind the removal of the Chief Justice of India (CJI) from the Selection Committee was primarily to uphold the principle of separation of powers and prevent judicial overreach into executive functions related to election management.
2. The new selection process, as defined by The Chief Election Commissioner and Other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Act, 2023, mandates that the Search Committee must include at least one former Chief Election Commissioner to ensure continuity and expertise in the shortlisting process.

Which of the statements given above is/are incorrect?

Assess the implications of potential increase in Deposit Insurance Coverage in India.

1. An increase in deposit insurance beyond ₹5 lakh is primarily intended to mitigate systemic risk associated with the growing presence of shadow banks and non-banking financial companies (NBFCs), which are not directly covered by DICGC.
2. While a higher deposit insurance cover can enhance depositor confidence, it may also incentivize riskier lending practices by banks, necessitating enhanced regulatory oversight and stricter enforcement of Prompt Corrective Action (PCA) frameworks by the RBI.
3. The decision to raise deposit insurance is contingent upon a comprehensive assessment of the moral hazard implications and the potential impact on the profitability of commercial banks, which bear the premium burden.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

The Climate Risk Index, published by Germanwatch, assesses the impact of extreme weather events globally. Which of the following factors are considered when determining a country's ranking in the index?

Consider the following statements regarding the BRICS economic alliance and its implications for global trade:

1. The expansion of BRICS, incorporating nations like Saudi Arabia and the UAE, has led to a significant increase in its control over global crude oil production, potentially challenging the petrodollar system.
2. The threat of a 100% tariff on all imports into the United States, if BRICS nations proceed with launching a common currency, indicates a fundamental shift in US trade policy aimed at preserving the dominance of the US dollar.
3. Despite its growing economic influence, BRICS faces internal challenges, including disparate economic policies and geopolitical tensions, limiting its ability to function as a cohesive counterweight to Western-dominated institutions.
4. Indonesia's recent inclusion in BRICS is primarily motivated by its strategic interest in leveraging the bloc's collective bargaining power to enhance its access to advanced technologies and infrastructure investments.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

With reference to Article 356 of the Indian Constitution, which of the following conditions must be met to extend President’s Rule beyond one year in Manipur?

1. A declaration of National Emergency affecting the entire Indian Union, specifically invoked due to imminent external aggression from neighboring countries.
2. Certification by the Election Commission of India stating the impossibility of conducting free and fair assembly elections in the state due to ongoing security concerns and logistical challenges.
3. A formal request from the Union Cabinet, ratified by a two-thirds majority in a joint session of the Parliament, citing exceptional circumstances and the necessity for continued central governance.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?