1. Consider the following statements about EPFO reforms:
1. The EPFO has reduced withdrawal categories from 13 to 3.
2. Members can withdraw up to 100% of their EPF balance immediately after job loss.
3. A minimum of 25% of the balance must remain in the account.
Which of the statements are correct?
A) 1 and 3 only
B) 2 only
C) 1 and 2 only
D) 1, 2, and 3
2. The SAIME model implemented by NEWS in Sundarbans primarily aims to —
A) Expand industrial aquaculture for export markets.
B) Restore mangrove ecosystems while supporting local livelihoods.
C) Replace traditional shrimp farming with mechanized methods.
D) Develop chemical-based aquaculture systems.
3. The Sundarbans ecosystem is currently threatened by:
1. Sea-level rise and storm surges
2. Heavy metal contamination
3. Declining tiger populations
Which of the statements are correct?
A) 1 and 3 only
B) 2 only
C) 1 and 2 only
D) 1, 2, and 3
4. According to the State of Climate Action Report 2025, which of the following is a major concern despite increased renewable investments?
A) Rapid decline in coal production
B) Record rise in global coal consumption
C) Overachievement of Paris goals
D) Global temperature stabilization
5. Consider the following statements regarding the 47th ASEAN Summit, 2025:
1. It is being hosted by Thailand in Bangkok.
2. East Timor was formally inducted as the 11th ASEAN member during the summit.
3. The summit also includes the 22nd India–ASEAN Summit.
A) 1 and 3 only
B) 2 only
C) 2 and 3 only
D) 1, 2, and 3
6. “Panda Diplomacy” refers to:
A) The Chinese practice of gifting or loaning pandas to other nations for diplomacy.
B) A global conservation program for pandas.
C) China’s cultural exchange policy with Asian countries only.
D) A United Nations wildlife project.
7. Saudi Arabia recently abolished the Kafala system. The system was primarily related to:
A) Sponsorship of foreign pilgrims during Hajj
B) Labour sponsorship linking foreign workers to employers
C) Agricultural subsidies for migrant farmers
D) Visa regulations for tourists
8. The decline in Kashmir’s saffron yield this year is mainly due to:
A) Pest infestation
B) Excessive rainfall and flooding
C) Heatwaves and prolonged dry spells
D) Shortage of fertilizers
9. The main saffron-growing regions mentioned in the report include:
A) Srinagar and Gulmarg
B) Pampore, Khrew, and Lethpora
C) Anantnag and Baramulla
D) Pulwama and Kupwara
10. The name “Montha”, given to the upcoming cyclone, was suggested by:
A) Myanmar
B) Thailand
C) Bangladesh
D) Sri Lanka
