16th September 2025

Explanation – Russia carried out another successful test of its Zircon hypersonic cruise missile (not ballistic missile), one of the latest additions to the country's arsenal of weapons called "invincible" by President Vladimir Putin. A hypersonic delivery system operates at speeds higher than 5 Mach (not 6 Mach), typically 5-10 times the speed of sound at lower altitudes. This allows it to evade interception from current Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD) systems and execute high degrees of maneuvers. 

Explanation – The Pink tax is neither a real tax nor is it a government-imposed fee. It is a term used to describe the extra cost that some companies charge for products marketed to women compared to similar products marketed to men. When companies charge more for pink (female) products compared to blue (male) versions, the extra revenue goes to the companies, not the government. The "pink tax" is not prohibited by law in India, and there are no set government regulations on this pricing practice. Female-targeted goods and services prices are determined based on market dynamics and demand. 

Explanation – Australian government has upgraded the conservation status of the Koalas from 'vulnerable' to 'endangered' in Queensland, New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory. Koala species have inhabited parts of Australia for at least 25 million years. But today, only one species remains — the Phascolarctos cinereus (not 32 species). They are found in the wild in the southeast and eastern sides of Australia. The impact of prolonged drought, bushfires, disease, urbanisation and habitat loss have led to this classification change. 

Explanation – White Goods indeed refer to large household appliances such as refrigerators, washing machines, and air conditioners. The term originally referred to products with white enamel finishes, which is true. However, White Goods are not exempt from Goods and Services Tax (GST) in India. They are typically taxed at higher GST rates due to their non-essential nature. 

Explanation – The advisory jurisdiction is provided under Article 143 of the Constitution. The President may refer a question that "has arisen, or is likely to arise" and must be of public importance requiring the Supreme Court's opinion. Article 143(1) states the Supreme Court "may" report its opinion, indicating that the Court has the discretion to decline a reference. The SC has declined at least two such references in the past. The advisory opinion under Article 143 is non-binding and not a substitute for judicial review. The Court may refuse to answer if the issue is already in court, violates constitutional principles, or becomes irrelevant.