5th February 2025

Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. The DPI was launched in January 2021 with March 2018 as the base period. Statement 2 is correct. Payment performance has the highest weightage (45%) among all parameters. Statement 3 is incorrect. The index comprises five broad parameters, not three. Statement 4 is correct. Consumer centricity is given the lowest weightage (5%) in the DPI.

Explanation: The Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maandhan Yojana (PM-SYM) is a voluntary and contributory pension scheme for unorganized workers aged 18-40 years with a monthly income below Rs. 15,000. It is administered by the Ministry of Labour and Employment and implemented through LIC and CSC eGovernance Services India Limited.

Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. SMRs are defined as small nuclear reactors with a maximum output of 300 Megawatt electric (MWe). Statement 2 is incorrect. SMRs may require less frequent refueling, every 3 to 7 years, compared to 1-2 years for conventional plants. Statement 3 is correct. SMRs offer distinct safeguards, security, and non-proliferation advantages. Statement 4 is incorrect. SMRs are capable of supplying heat for industrial applications, district heating, and hydrogen production.

Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect. Trump imposed 10% tariffs on all imports from China and 25% on imports from Canada and Mexico. Statement 2 is incorrect. Energy imports from Canada, including oil and natural gas, are taxed at 10%, the same as other imports from China. Statement 3 is correct. The move aims to curb illegal immigration and fentanyl exports. Statement 4 is incorrect. India was not included in the first round of US trade restrictions, despite Trump's frequent criticism of India's tariffs.

Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. India's acceptance of deportations is aimed at preserving legal immigration channels for Indian professionals, students, and tourists. Statement 2 is incorrect. In 2024, the US deported only about 1,100 Indians, but under Trump's latest policies, an estimated 20,000 Indians could face deportation. Statement 3 is correct. As of May 2024, 351,000 Indian students were enrolled in US institutions, primarily in STEM graduate programs, contributing significantly to the US economy.