25th September 2025

Explanation – The Central Water Commission (CWC) was established in 1945 under the Ministry of Jal Shakti (formerly Ministry of Water Resources) to address water-related challenges. It is responsible for scientific planning and management of water resources, including river basin studies and flood forecasting. The CWC monitors and assesses water resources, develops water-related projects, and manages flood control measures. However, statement 3 is incorrect—the CWC does not focus on telecommunications infrastructure and rural development projects; its mandate is specifically related to water resource management and development. 

Explanation – The Varkala Cliff exposes the Warkalli Formation of the Mio-Pliocene age (1.3 million to 25 million years ago) and has been recognized as a National Geological Monument by the Geological Survey of India. It acts as a crucial aquifer and natural water harvesting system, and supports underwater reefs essential for local fishing communities. However, it is the second National Geological Monument in Kerala, not the first—the Angadipuram Laterite was the first. The Varkala Cliff is the 27th national geological monument in the country. 

Explanation – Perovskite Solar Cells are named after the mineral Calcium Titanium Oxide (CaTiO₃), which has a specific crystalline structure with the general formula ABX₃. In solar technology, the 'A' cation can be either organic (like methylammonium or formamidinium) or inorganic, making statement 2 incorrect. PSCs have achieved power conversion efficiencies above 25% in laboratory settings, making them comparable to silicon cells and demonstrating their significant potential for commercial applications. 

Explanation – Personality rights protect an individual's privacy, reputation, and the commercial value of their persona or identity. These rights are derived from the fundamental right to life and personal liberty under Article 21 of the Indian Constitution, as interpreted by the Supreme Court. The Supreme Court has recognized the right to publicity as a subset of personality rights, allowing individuals to control the commercial exploitation of their name, image, likeness, or other aspects of their identity and preventing unauthorized commercial use without consent. 

Explanation – The Sixth Schedule under Article 244 correctly provides for the formation of Autonomous District Councils (ADCs). However, these councils are not completely independent—they have some legislative, judicial, and administrative autonomy within a state but operate under state government oversight in various matters. While most ADCs have up to 30 members with five-year terms, the Bodoland Territorial Council in Assam is an exception with more than 40 members. The Sixth Schedule applies to Assam, Meghalaya, Mizoram (three Councils each), and Tripura (one Council).