25th October 2024

Explanation: Statements 1 and 3 are correct. SRM faces technological and financial obstacles, and it could affect agriculture and biodiversity.
Statement 2 is incorrect as SRM does carry risks to global weather patterns.
Statement 4 is incorrect as SRM is not considered the most cost-effective solution.

Explanation:
Statement 1 is incorrect. India is part of the Quad, while China is not a member.
Statement 2 is correct. India seeks permanent membership in the UNSC, which China
has not openly supported.
Statement 3 is correct. The RIC trilateral serves as a dialogue platform for Russia, India,
and China.
Statement 4 is correct. Both countries advocate for CBDR in international climate
negotiations.

Explanation - The establishment of NSIL was announced in Budget 2019. One of the mandates of NSIL is to mass-produce and manufacture the SSLV (Small Satellite Launch Vehicle) and the more powerful PSLV (Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle) in partnership with the private sector in India through technology transfers. Its aim is to use research and development carried out by ISRO over the years for commercial purposes through Indian industry partners. It differs from ISRO’s existing commercial arm Antrix Corporation - Antrix will handle ISRO’s commercial deals for satellites and launch vehicles with foreign customers. NSIL will deal with capacity building of local industry for space manufacturing.

Explanation - Indian National Space, Promotion & Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) will
help private players through encouraging policies, through a regulatory environment that is
friendly as well as guiding private players in space activities. Indian Space Research
Organisation (ISRO) will remain the basic body that decides what missions are to be
undertaken but this new body will help fill the gaps. The IN-SPACe will also hand-hold,
promote and guide the private industries in space activities through encouraging policies
and a friendly regulatory environment. ’New Space India Limited (NSIL)’ would
endeavour to reorient space activities from a ‘supply driven’ model to a ‘demand driven’
one, thereby ensuring optimum utilisation of the nation’s space assets.

Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect; the Indian Skimmer is classified as Endangered,
not Critically Endangered, on the IUCN Red List. Statement 2 is correct; it is protected
under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. Statement 3 is correct; its
population is estimated at 2,450-2,900 mature individuals. Statement 4 is incorrect; the
bird's lower mandible is longer than its upper mandible, not shorter

Explanation: Statement 1 is correct as the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Act,
2023 did amend Section 15 of the Environment Protection Act, 1986. Statement 2 is
incorrect because the NGT does not have the power to impose penalties under the
amended Section 15; this power lies with adjudicating officers who are yet to be
appointed. Statement 3 is correct as the Supreme Court has interpreted Article 21 to
include the right to a pollution-free environment in various judgments. Statement 4 is
incorrect because Article 48A is a Directive Principle of State Policy, not a fundamental
duty; the fundamental duty to protect the environment is under Article 51A(g).