29th April 2025

With reference to the proposed policy changes regarding Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in India’s nuclear power sector, consider the following statements:

1. The policy will allow foreign companies to automatically acquire up to 49% equity in Indian nuclear power plants without any government approval.
2. Amendments to the Atomic Energy Act, 1960, and the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, 2010, are prerequisites for implementing this policy.
3. The policy aims to facilitate private sector participation in atomic fuel mining and manufacturing.
4. The proposed FDI policy is expected to eliminate all regulatory oversight over foreign investments in nuclear power plants.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

Consider the following statements regarding the strategic significance of Crimea for Russia:

1. Russia’s quest for warm water ports is rooted in the fact that the majority of its coastline lies in the Arctic, rendering most ports unusable in winter.
2. Control of the Bosphorus and Dardanelles straits is vital for Russia’s direct maritime access to the Mediterranean from the Black Sea.
3. The city of Sevastopol in Crimea is a shallow water port that limits the operational capacity of Russia’s Black Sea Fleet.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

With reference to India’s recent expansion of its Extended Continental Shelf (ECS) claim in the Central Arabian Sea, consider the following statements:

1. The revised ECS claim by India in 2025 deliberately excluded the region near Sir Creek to avoid maritime disputes with Pakistan.
2. The expansion of the ECS claim, if fully accepted, would result in India’s total seabed area (EEZ plus ECS) exceeding its land area in size.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

Consider the following statements regarding the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme (SVES):

1. The scheme grants visa-free travel to all citizens of SAARC member states for tourism and business purposes.
2. Only certain categories of dignitaries, such as parliamentarians, judges, and senior officials, are entitled to visa exemption under the scheme.
3. The validity of the visa sticker issued under the scheme is generally for one year and is subject to regular review by immigration authorities.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

With reference to the Nilgiri Tahr, consider the following statements:

1. It is the only mountain ungulate endemic to the southern part of the Western Ghats, found in both Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
2. The species is classified as “Endangered” on the IUCN Red List and is listed in Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
3. Both males and females develop a light grey “saddle” on their backs upon reaching maturity.
4. The highest density and largest surviving population is found in the Eravikulam National Park.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?