Answer: B

Explanation:

Recently, according to the 2025 report of the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, India, with a defence expenditure of approximately 92 billion dollars, has become the fifth largest defence spender in the world, which reflects the continuous increase in global military expenditure amid rising geopolitical tensions (Russia–Ukraine war, China–India border dispute, Indo-Pacific competition); therefore, statement 1 is correct.

Statement 2 is incorrect because there is not a decline but a continuous increase in global military expenditure. Statement 3 is correct because increasing defence expenditure indicates a “global arms race,” while statement 4 is also correct because India’s defence expenditure is linked to its regional security challenges (China, Pakistan) and strategic priorities (modernization, self-reliance/Atmanirbhar Bharat).

Therefore, the correct answer is (a) Only 1, 3 and 4.

Answer: B

Explanation:

Recently, the Supreme Court of India, in a case related to live-in relationships, clarified that the mere termination of a long-term consensual relationship cannot automatically be considered a criminal act, because such relationships are voluntarily established between two adults and also involve emotional risks. Therefore, statement 1 is correct.

Statement 2 is incorrect because the Court clearly stated that every breakup or mutual dispute does not automatically turn into a criminal offence; rather, it is necessary to examine the nature of the relationship and whether there was any element of deception or coercion.

Statement 3 is correct because the Court specifically considered the distinction between “consent” and “misconception of fact” (such as entering into a relationship based on false promises) as important; criminal liability may arise only if there was deception or misconception from the beginning.

Statement 4 is also correct because the Court indicated that the rights of a child born out of a live-in relationship remain protected, and civil remedies such as maintenance can be available, even if a criminal case is not made out.

Thus, in the present case, the Court has established a balance that the freedom of consensual relationships is preserved while ensuring proper identification of real offences; therefore, the correct answer is (a) Only 1, 3 and 4.

Answer: A

Explanation:

Recently, India has submitted its new Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, which are self-determined climate commitments by countries under the Paris Agreement.

Statement (A) is correct because India has committed to reducing emission intensity by 45% by 2030 and increasing non-fossil fuel-based energy capacity to around 50%.

Reason (R) is also correct because these targets are aligned with the global goal of limiting temperature rise to 1.5°C and are based on the principle of “Common but Differentiated Responsibilities and Respective Capabilities (CBDR-RC),” which emphasizes greater responsibility of developed countries.

Therefore, it is clear that both Statement (A) and Reason (R) are correct, and the reason correctly explains the statement.

Answer: C

Explanation:

Recently, in the Sur Jyotsna National Music Awards 2026 (13th edition), several eminent artists were honored, celebrating the rich tradition of Indian classical music. In this context, statement 1 is correct because this award recognizes outstanding contributions across various musical traditions, including Indian classical music.

Statement 2 is also correct because the award is not restricted only to emerging artists but also honors senior and legendary artists, as seen in the recent edition. Statement 3 is incorrect because this award was not instituted by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India; rather, it was started as a private initiative by the Lokmat Group in memory of Jyotsna Darda this is a common exam trap (government vs private awards).

Statement 4 is correct because, in the 2026 edition, prominent artists of Hindustani classical music were honored, highlighting its cultural significance. Therefore, statements 1, 2, and 4 are correct, and the correct answer is (a) Only 1, 2 and 4.

Answer: D

Explanation:

Recently, in Ladakh, the creation of 5 new districts was approved by the Lieutenant Governor (LG). The main objective is to increase administrative reach in remote and border areas, make service delivery more effective, and strengthen administrative decentralization. In a geographically challenging and strategically important region like Ladakh, the creation of smaller administrative units is considered necessary for improving governance efficiency.

In this context, Statement (A) is incorrect because it states that the decision was taken through a law passed by a legislature. In reality, Ladakh is a Union Territory without a legislature, so district creation is not done through legislative law-making but through executive/administrative decisions taken by the Lieutenant Governor and the Central Government.

Reason (R) is correct because Ladakh indeed does not have its own legislature and is directly governed by the Central Government. Due to this administrative structure, reorganization such as the creation of new districts is carried out through executive authority rather than legislative processes. Thus, Reason (R) correctly explains why Statement (A) is incorrect, and the correct answer is (d).