18th September 2025

Explanation – BIS works under the aegis of Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution, Government of India. The Bureau of Indian Standards Act 2016 establishes BIS as the National Standards Body of India, responsible for harmonious development of standardization, marking and quality certification activities. 

Explanation – The ILO was established in 1919 by the Treaty of Versailles and became a UN specialized agency in 1946. It received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1969 for improving peace among classes and promoting decent work. After 35 years, India has recently assumed the Chairmanship of the ILO Governing Body, marking a significant milestone in India-ILO relations. 

Explanation – Buddha's First Noble Truth states that life is characterized by suffering (dukkha), making statement 1 correct. However, the Stupa at Sarnath (not Bodh Gaya) was built to mark the place where Buddha first taught his message. Bodh Gaya is where Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree. 

Explanation – The NPS encourages regular investments during employment and is open to Indian citizens including NRIs between 18-60 years. However, the money invested in NPS is managed by PFRDA-registered Pension Fund Managers (currently eight), not directly by PFRDA itself. PFRDA serves as the nodal regulatory agency overseeing the scheme. 

Explanation – The UPS is applicable to both current and future Central Government employees under the NPS, provided they choose to opt for it. The scheme was implemented from 1st April 2025, with existing NPS subscribers having until 30th September 2025 to exercise their option. The UPS guarantees an assured payout of 50% of the average basic pay of the last 12 months prior to retirement for employees who have completed 25 years of service. However, the UPS is contributory in nature, requiring a 10% contribution from employees and 18.5% from the central government, making statement 3 incorrect.