5th July 2025 – Current Affairs

1. Socialism & Secularism: The Spirit of the Constitution – Polity

Why in News?

There has been renewed public and political discourse around removing the terms “Socialist” and “Secular” from the Preamble of the Indian Constitution. Critics argue that these were political insertions during the 42nd Constitutional Amendment (1976). However, constitutional scholars and the judiciary have reiterated that these ideals are not foreign additions but part of the Constitution’s original spirit and structure.

Key Highlights

1. Socialism in the Indian Context

• Emphasizes social and economic justice, not strict state ownership of all resources.
• Aims to reduce inequalities in wealth, status, and opportunity.
• Reflected in:
  • Fundamental Rights (e.g., Article 15 – Prohibition of discrimination)
  • Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSPs) (e.g., Article 39 – Equal pay for equal work)

2. Secularism in Indian Democracy

• Indian secularism ensures equal treatment and respect for all religions, rather than the Western model of a complete separation between State and religion.
• Citizens are free to profess, practice, and propagate any religion (Article 25).
• The State maintains principled distance and does not favour any religion.
• The Supreme Court has declared secularism as part of the Basic Structure Doctrine (e.g., S.R. Bommai vs Union of India, 1994).

3. 42nd Constitutional Amendment (1976)

• Introduced the words “Socialist” and “Secular” into the Preamble during the Emergency under the Indira Gandhi government.
• However, these principles were already implicit in the Constitution’s structure and philosophy.

4. Recent Controversy

• Calls to remove these terms are seen as part of an ideological shift aiming to redefine the Indian state’s character.
• Critics argue such moves risk undermining the inclusive and pluralistic foundation of the Indian Republic.

Summary

Socialism and secularism are not mere political slogans or decorative terms in the Indian Constitution. Though formally added to the Preamble in 1976, they were already embedded in the constitutional ethos from the beginning. Indian socialism emphasizes social justice and equality, while secularism upholds equal respect for all religions, ensuring the State remains impartial. The recent demand to remove these terms is viewed as a broader ideological challenge to the inclusive and justice-oriented foundations of the Constitution. The Supreme Court has repeatedly upheld these principles as part of the Constitution’s basic structure, safeguarding them from arbitrary change.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding the inclusion of the terms “Socialist” and “Secular” in the Indian Constitution?
   1.They were part of the original Constitution adopted in 1950.
   2.They were added through the 42nd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1976.
   3.They form part of the Basic Structure of the Constitution.
   Select the correct option:
   A. 1 and 2 only
   B. 2 and 3 only
   C. 1 and 3 only
   D. 1, 2 and 3
   Answer: B. 2 and 3 only
   
   
2. Which of the following judgments affirmed secularism as part of the Basic Structure of the Constitution?
   A. Kesavananda Bharati v. State of Kerala
   B. S.R. Bommai v. Union of India
   C. Minerva Mills v. Union of India
   D. Golaknath v. State of Punjab
   Answer: B. S.R. Bommai v. Union of India

Mains

1. Examine the significance of the terms “Socialist” and “Secular” in the Preamble of the Indian Constitution. How do they influence legislative and judicial actions in India?
   
2. The demand to remove socialism and secularism from the Preamble poses an ideological challenge to constitutional values. Critically analyze in the context of the Basic Structure Doctrine.
3. Discuss how Indian secularism differs from Western secularism. In what ways does this distinction suit the Indian socio-religious context?

2. Government’s Strategic Push for Arhar and Urad Cultivation – Economy

Why in News?

In response to rising pulse imports and growing domestic demand, the Department of Consumer Affairs, under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, has launched a targeted initiative to boost the cultivation of arhar (tur) and urad during the Kharif 2025 season. This move aligns with India’s broader objective of achieving food security and import reduction.

Key Highlights

1. Program Overview

• Implemented by the National Cooperative Consumer’s Federation of India Ltd. (NCCF).
• Extension of a pilot project from two districts in Jharkhand to twelve districts across seven states.
• Focused on rainfed regions and Aspirational Blocks as identified by NITI Aayog.
• ₹1 crore allocated for seed distribution under the initiative.
• 100% procurement guarantee at Minimum Support Price (MSP).

2. Targeted States

• Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Karnataka, Manipur, and Tripura.
• Selection based on agro-climatic suitability and policy focus on underdeveloped regions.

3. Nutritional & Economic Importance of Pulses

• Pulses like arhar and urad are rich in protein (20–25% protein content).
• Vital to balance India’s carbohydrate-heavy diet, especially for lower-income groups.
• Serve as an affordable and sustainable protein source in vegetarian diets.

4. Trends in Pulse Production

• Domestic production rose from 163.23 lakh tonnes (2015–16) to 244.93 lakh tonnes (2023–24).
• However, pulse imports still reached 47.38 lakh tonnes in 2023–24, underlining continued dependency.

Summary

To counter increasing pulse imports and ensure food security, the Government of India has initiated a focused cultivation program for arhar and urad dal under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs. Implemented by NCCF, the program targets twelve rainfed and Aspirational districts across seven states. It includes seed distribution, financial support, and a 100% procurement guarantee at MSP. Despite growth in domestic production, high import levels persist due to rising demand, making this initiative crucial for reducing dependency, supporting farmers, and promoting nutritional security across the country.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. Which of the following pulses are targeted under the government’s strategic cultivation push for Kharif 2025? A. Moong and Masoor
   B. Arhar and Urad
   C. Chana and Rajma
   D. Moong and Chana
   Answer: B. Arhar and Urad
   
   

2. Consider the following statements:
   1.The National Cooperative Consumers’ Federation (NCCF) is implementing the pulse cultivation campaign.
   2.All the selected districts under the campaign are irrigated areas.
   3.Pulses generally contain 20–25% protein.
   Which of the statements are correct?
   A. 1 and 2 only
   B. 2 and 3 only
   C. 1 and 3 only
   D. 1, 2, and 3
   Answer: C. 1 and 3 only
   
   

3. Which of the following correctly explains the term “Aspirational Districts” used in the context of government schemes? A. Districts with highest per capita income
   B. Districts prioritized for infrastructure investment only
   C. Underdeveloped districts identified by NITI Aayog for focused development
   D. Urban districts with high potential for industrial growth
   Answer: C. Underdeveloped districts identified by NITI Aayog for focused development
   
   

Mains

1. India continues to import pulses despite being one of the largest producers in the world. Examine the factors behind this paradox and suggest policy measures to address it.
   
2. Discuss the significance of the government’s targeted push for pulses like arhar and urad in achieving self-sufficiency and improving nutritional security.
   
3. Evaluate the role of rainfed agriculture in India’s food security strategy. How can programs like the current pulse initiative strengthen rainfed farming systems?
   

3. 170th Anniversary of Santhal Revolt – History & Culture

Why in News?

On June 30, 2025, Jharkhand observed ‘Hul Diwas’ to mark the 170th anniversary of the Santhal Revolt (Santhal Hul) of 1855 — one of the earliest organized tribal uprisings against British colonial rule in India.

Key Highlights

1. Nature of the Revolt

• The Santhal Hul (revolt) was a tribal agrarian movement against the exploitative policies of the British East India Company, Zamindars, and moneylenders.
• It began on June 30, 1855, in the Rajmahal Hills of present-day Jharkhand.

2. Key Leaders

• Sidho Murmu, Kanho Murmu, Chand, Bhairav Murmu, and sisters Phulo and Jhano Murmu.
• These leaders mobilized tens of thousands of Santhals through oral communication and village councils.

3. Causes of the Revolt

• Land Alienation: Tribals lost land due to the introduction of the Zamindari system.
• Debt Bondage: Moneylenders imposed usurious interest rates, trapping Santhals in perpetual debt.
• Forced Labor: Many Santhals were coerced into bonded labor or displaced due to revenue demands.
• Damin-i-Koh Policy (1832): Established a special land settlement area for Santhals, but eventually led to land loss and economic distress.

4. Course of the Revolt

• A widespread armed rebellion involving bows, arrows, and traditional weapons.
• British retaliation included Martial Law (Nov 10, 1855), use of modern firearms and war elephants.
• The rebellion was suppressed by January 3, 1856, but left a lasting legacy.

5. Impact & Legacy

• Though the revolt failed militarily, it inspired future tribal and peasant movements.
• Paved the way for protective laws:
  • Santhal Pargana Tenancy Act (1876) – Protected Santhal land from transfer to non-tribals.
  • Chhotanagpur Tenancy Act (1908) – Ensured land rights and restricted alienation in tribal areas.
• The revolt is commemorated as “Hul Diwas”, symbolizing tribal assertion and resistance.

Summary

The Santhal Revolt of 1855, also called Santhal Hul, marked a significant tribal uprising against the British colonial system, exploiting Zamindars, and oppressive moneylenders. Led by Sidho, Kanho, and other Murmu leaders, it was rooted in land alienation, debt, and forced labor, especially after the Damin-i-Koh policy. Though brutally suppressed, the revolt triggered key land reform legislations that shaped tribal rights in eastern India. Commemorated annually as Hul Diwas, it stands as a symbol of early indigenous resistance to colonial rule.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. Which of the following leaders were associated with the Santhal Revolt (1855)?
   1. Sidho Murmu
   2.Kanho Murmu
   3.Birsa Munda
   3. Phulo and Jhano
   Select the correct option:
   A. 1, 2 and 3 only
   B. 1, 2 and 4 only
   C. 2, 3 and 4 only
   D. All of the above
   Answer: B. 1, 2 and 4 only
   
   

2. Which of the following laws were passed as a consequence of tribal movements like the Santhal Hul?
   A. Rowlatt Act and Ilbert Bill
   B. Chhotanagpur Tenancy Act and Santhal Pargana Tenancy Act
   C. Government of India Act, 1858
   D. Land Acquisition Act, 1894
   Answer: B. Chhotanagpur Tenancy Act and Santhal Pargana Tenancy Act
   
   

3. The term ‘Damin-i-Koh’ refers to:
   A. A British-era fort in Jharkhand
   B. A forest clearing strategy in tribal regions
   C. A designated land settlement area for Santhals under British rule
   D. A tribal festival observed in eastern India
   Answer: C. A designated land settlement area for Santhals under British rule
   

Mains

1. The Santhal Hul of 1855 was a milestone in tribal resistance against colonial oppression. Discuss its causes, leadership, and legacy.
   
2. How did tribal revolts in 19th-century India differ from mainstream nationalist movements? Evaluate the role of such revolts in shaping regional land policies.
   
3. “Tribal uprisings were not just protests but assertions of identity and rights.” Discuss this statement in the context of the Santhal Revolt.
   

4. Child Adoption in India – Governance

Why in News?

In a significant digital reform, the Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA) has announced that digitally certified adoption orders sent via email are now legally valid. This streamlines the adoption process, making it more efficient and accessible, especially for prospective adoptive parents in remote regions.

Key Highlights

1. Legal Framework Governing Adoption

Adoption laws in India vary based on religion and child’s legal status:

Hindu Adoption and Maintenance Act (HAMA), 1956

• Applicable to Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Sikhs.
• Allows full legal adoption with rights akin to biological children.

Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015

• Covers orphans, abandoned, and surrendered children.
• Applicable to all religions.
• Adoption is granted by a District Magistrate after Home Study and Matching.

Guardians and Wards Act, 1890

• Applicable to Muslims, Christians, Jews, and Parsis.
• Only provides guardianship, not full legal adoption.

2. Eligibility Criteria for Adoption

For Children:

• Must be legally free for adoption, as declared by the Child Welfare Committee (CWC).
• Children may be orphaned, abandoned, surrendered, or related/stepchildren.

For Parents:

• Indian citizens, NRIs, OCIs, and some foreign nationals are eligible.
• Must be:
  • Physically, mentally, and financially stable.
  • Married couples must be in a stable relationship (minimum 2 years).
  • Combined age of the couple should not exceed 110 years.
  • Single women can adopt any child; single men cannot adopt girls.
  • Minimum age gap of 25 years between parent and child is mandatory.
  • Couples with 3 or more children are generally not eligible, unless adopting a child with special needs.

3. Adoption Process in India

1. Registration via CARA’s CARINGS portal.
2. Submission of documents and Home Study Report (by licensed agency).
3. Counseling and orientation sessions for prospective parents.
4. Matching of child with parents.
5. Foster care phase (pre-adoption).
6. Issuance of Adoption Order by District Magistrate (as per 2021 amendment).
7. Two-year follow-up by adoption agency to ensure child’s well-being.

4. Role of CARA (Central Adoption Resource Authority)

CARA is the statutory authority under the Ministry of Women and Child Development responsible for:

• Regulating domestic and inter-country adoptions.
• Managing the CARINGS portal for end-to-end adoption tracking.
• Issuing NOCs and Conformity Certificates for international adoptions.
• Promoting in-country adoption via awareness campaigns.
• Monitoring children’s well-being through post-adoption follow-ups.
• Overseeing the foster-to-adoption process, especially in regions like Jammu & Kashmir.
• Ensuring child rights and ethical practices in adoption.

Summary

Adoption in India is governed by a complex legal framework involving religion-based and child-status-based distinctions. The Juvenile Justice Act, HAMA, and Guardians and Wards Act collectively regulate who can adopt and how. The Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA) plays a pivotal role in managing, regulating, and promoting adoption, especially for orphaned and abandoned children. The recent recognition of digitally certified adoption orders marks a progressive step towards streamlining legal processes and enhancing accessibility. CARA’s comprehensive approach ensures ethical adoption practices and protects the rights of vulnerable children.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. Which of the following laws governs adoption for Muslims in India?
   A. Hindu Adoption and Maintenance Act, 1956
   B. Juvenile Justice Act, 2015
   C. Guardians and Wards Act, 1890
   D. Family Courts Act, 1984
   Answer: C. Guardians and Wards Act, 1890
   
   

2. Which of the following is not true regarding eligibility for adoption in India?
   A. Single men can adopt girl children.
   B. Married couples must be in a stable relationship for at least 2 years.
   C. There must be a minimum age gap of 25 years between the child and parent.
   D. Couples with more than three children are generally ineligible for adoption.
   Answer: A. Single men can adopt girl children.
   
   

3. What is the role of the CARINGS portal in the Indian adoption process?
   A. Online database for missing children
   B. Portal for tracking and managing adoption applications
   C. Recruitment portal for adoption agencies
   D. Legal platform for child custody disputes
   Answer: B. Portal for tracking and managing adoption applications

Mains

1. “Adoption in India is regulated by multiple legal frameworks that often complicate the process.” Discuss with reference to the role of CARA and recent digital reforms.
   
2. Examine the challenges faced in promoting domestic adoption in India. Suggest policy measures to streamline and popularize the adoption process.
   
3. How does the adoption process in India reflect the balance between child rights and family rights? Analyze the ethical and legal dimensions.
   

5. Quad Unites to Secure Critical Minerals: A Challenge to China’s Dominance – International Relations

Why in News?

The Quad nations — India, Australia, Japan, and the United States — have launched the Quad Critical Minerals Initiative to secure and diversify supply chains for essential minerals. This strategic move is a response to China’s dominance in the critical minerals sector and increasing global supply chain vulnerabilities, particularly in technology and electric vehicles (EVs).

Key Highlights

1. What is the Quad Critical Minerals Initiative?

• A new collaborative framework launched by Quad foreign ministers in Washington, DC.
• Focuses on:
  • Diversification of mineral sources
  • Recycling and recovery from e-waste
  • Building resilient, transparent, and sustainable supply chains
• Seeks to reduce over-dependence on China, particularly for rare earth elements (REEs) used in:
  • Electric Vehicles (EVs)
  • Smartphones
  • Semiconductors
  • Renewable energy technologies

2. Why Are Critical Minerals Important?

• Used in high-tech applications: batteries, solar panels, wind turbines, defense systems.
• Essential for energy transition and digital infrastructure.
• Key minerals include:
  • Lithium, cobalt, nickel, graphite
  • Rare earth elements (e.g., neodymium, dysprosium)

3. China’s Dominance in Critical Minerals

• Controls over 70–90% of global rare earth processing capacity.
• Has imposed export restrictions and bureaucratic hurdles, causing disruptions in global production.
• Japan and the US have reported EV production delays due to supply constraints.
• India’s EV sector is also impacted by dependency on Chinese rare earth magnets.

4. Strategic Importance for India

• Reducing supply chain dependence aligns with India’s goals of:
  • Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-reliant India)
  • Expanding domestic EV production and battery storage
  • Enhancing bilateral and multilateral cooperation in technology and clean energy
• Potential for domestic mining and refining of critical minerals in states like Jharkhand, Odisha, Rajasthan, and Andhra Pradesh

Summary

In response to growing global concerns over China’s monopoly in critical mineral processing, the Quad nations have launched the Quad Critical Minerals Initiative. This multilateral effort seeks to develop resilient and diversified supply chains for minerals essential to modern technologies such as EVs, semiconductors, and renewable energy systems. China’s recent export controls have exposed global vulnerabilities, particularly affecting countries like India and Japan. By collaborating on resource recovery, technology, and strategic sourcing, the Quad aims to secure the foundation for future economic and technological growth.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. Which of the following countries are part of the Quad grouping?
   A. India, China, Japan, Australia
   B. India, Australia, Japan, United States
   C. India, Japan, South Korea, Australia
   D. India, Russia, United States, Japan
   Answer: B. India, Australia, Japan, United States
   
   

2. Which of the following are considered critical minerals used in electric vehicle technology?
   1. Lithium
   2. Cobalt
   3. Neodymium
   4. Uranium
   Select the correct option:
   A. 1 and 2 only
   B. 1, 2, and 3 only
   C. 1, 3, and 4 only
   D. All of the above
   Answer: B. 1, 2, and 3 only
   
   

3. What is the primary objective of the Quad Critical Minerals Initiative?
   A. To promote free trade among Quad nations
   B. To establish a central mineral stockpile
   C. To secure and diversify supply chains for critical minerals
   D. To set global standards for fossil fuel production
   Answer: C. To secure and diversify supply chains for critical minerals
   

Mains

1. Discuss the strategic importance of critical minerals in shaping India’s clean energy and technology future. How does the Quad Critical Minerals Initiative serve India’s interests?
   
2. China’s control over rare earth elements poses a global supply chain risk. Evaluate the role of multilateral forums like the Quad in addressing such challenges.
   
3. Highlight India’s policy measures to reduce dependence on critical mineral imports. How can international collaborations strengthen domestic capacity?
   

6. Endocrine Disruptors in Plastic Waste – Science & Technology

Why in News?

Rising health concerns have emerged over the widespread infiltration of microplastics and Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs) into the human body. These substances, often found in plastic waste, are now being linked to severe long-term health effects, including reproductive disorders, cancer risks, and developmental abnormalities in children.

Key Highlights

1. What Are Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs)?

• EDCs are substances that interfere with the endocrine (hormonal) system in humans and animals.
• They mimic, block, or alter natural hormones like estrogen, testosterone, and thyroid hormones, disrupting biological processes.

2. Major Sources of EDCs

• Microplastics from plastic waste act as carriers of EDCs, entering food chains and water sources.

3. Health Implications of EDCs

Reproductive Health:

• Reduced sperm count and quality
• Irregular menstrual cycles
• Higher miscarriage risk
• Early puberty onset

Cancer Risks:

• Linked to breast, uterine, prostate, and testicular cancers
• Some EDCs are classified as probable human carcinogens

Metabolic Disorders:

• Disruption of insulin function, increasing risk of:
  • Obesity
  • Type 2 diabetes
  • Liver and cardiovascular diseases

Neurological Effects:

• Early-life exposure linked to:
  • ADHD
  • Autism spectrum disorders
  • Lower IQ and learning issues

Transgenerational Impact:

• EDCs can alter gene expression (epigenetic changes)
• Can affect future generations even without direct exposure

Summary

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs)—found in plastics, cosmetics, pesticides, and packaging—pose a growing public health threat by interfering with the body’s hormonal system. Their presence in microplastics contributes to reproductive issues, hormonal imbalances, increased cancer risks, obesity, and developmental problems in children. Some EDCs can even have transgenerational effects by altering gene expression. With EDCs entering our bodies through food, water, and air, their regulation and control have become critical for safeguarding public health.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. Which of the following substances is commonly found in plastic bottles and is known to disrupt endocrine function?
   A. Dioxin
   B. Atrazine
   C. Bisphenol A (BPA)
   D. Lead
   Answer: C. Bisphenol A (BPA)
   
   

2. Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are known to cause which of the following?
   1. Reproductive issues
   2. Metabolic disorders
   3. Neurological developmental problems
   4. Enhanced immunity
   Select the correct option:
   A. 1 and 2 only
   B. 1, 2, and 3 only
   C. 1, 2, and 4 only
   D. All of the above
   Answer: B. 1, 2, and 3 only
   
   

3. Which of the following is not a source of endocrine-disrupting chemicals?
   A. Phthalates in toys
   B. PFAS in food wrappers
   C. Caffeine in beverages
   D. Atrazine in pesticides
   Answer: C. Caffeine in beverages
   

Mains

1. What are endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs)? Discuss their sources, health implications, and the need for regulatory mechanisms in India.
   
2. Plastic waste is not just an environmental hazard but a public health concern. Critically analyze in the context of microplastics and endocrine disruptors.
   
3. Discuss the transgenerational impact of environmental toxins like EDCs. What measures can India take to protect future generations from such exposure?
   

7. NITI Aayog Recommends Incentives and Port Upgrades to Boost Chemical Exports – Economy

Why in News?

The NITI Aayog has proposed a strategic roadmap to double India’s chemical exports by 2030, addressing key constraints such as limited domestic demand and logistical inefficiencies. The plan focuses on production-linked incentives, port infrastructure upgrades, and the creation of production clusters.

Key Highlights

1. Current Position of India’s Chemical Industry

• 6th largest chemical producer in the world and 3rd largest in Asia.
• Contributes 7% to India’s GDP.
• 14th in global chemical exports (excluding pharmaceuticals).
• Trade deficit of $31 billion in chemicals (2023).
• Chemical market value: $220 billion (2023); projected to reach $1 trillion by 2040.

2. NITI Aayog’s Key Recommendations

3. Existing Initiatives and Sectoral Landscape

PCPIR Policy (Petroleum, Chemicals and Petrochemicals Investment Region)

• Envisions $284 billion investment by 2035.
• Targets infrastructure, R&D, and FDI attraction in designated regions.

Industry Landscape

• Over 80,000 chemical products commercially manufactured in India.
• Major states: Gujarat, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal.
• India is:
  • 4th largest producer of agrochemicals
  • 3rd largest consumer of polymers
  • Contributes 16–18% of global dye production

4. Why the Push for Exports?

• Limited domestic demand restricts economies of scale.
• Export growth is essential to meet the $1 trillion market target by 2040.
• Export-led strategy can:
  • Boost employment
  • Improve foreign exchange reserves
  • Strengthen India’s position in global value chains

Summary

In an effort to position India as a global chemical export powerhouse, NITI Aayog has recommended key reforms including production-linked incentives, port upgrades, and cluster-based manufacturing. Currently the 6th largest global producer, India faces challenges like limited domestic demand and a trade deficit in the chemical sector. The proposed initiatives, aligned with the PCPIR policy and regional industrial strengths, aim to double exports by 2030 and reach a market valuation of $1 trillion by 2040. These measures seek to improve scale, efficiency, and global competitiveness.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. Which of the following is a goal of the Petroleum, Chemicals and Petrochemicals Investment Region (PCPIR) Policy?
   A. Exporting crude oil
   B. Promoting solar panel manufacturing
   C. Attracting investments in the chemical sector
   D. Ensuring rural electrification
   Answer: C. Attracting investments in the chemical sector
   
   

2. India ranks as the ___ largest chemical producer in the world and the ___ largest in Asia.
   A. 5th and 1st
   B. 6th and 3rd
   C. 4th and 2nd
   D. 8th and 4th
   Answer: B. 6th and 3rd
   
   

3. Which of the following states are major hubs for chemical production in India?
   1.Maharashtra
   2. Gujarat
   3. Tamil Nadu
   4. Uttar Pradesh
   Select the correct option:
   A. 1 and 2 only
   B. 1, 2, and 3 only
   C. 1, 3, and 4 only
   D. All of the above
   Answer: B. 1, 2, and 3 only

Mains

1. India’s chemical sector has significant export potential but faces structural and logistical constraints. Discuss the steps recommended by NITI Aayog to overcome these barriers.
   
2. Evaluate the impact of infrastructure and incentive policies such as the PCPIR and proposed sales-linked schemes in boosting India’s manufacturing competitiveness.
   
3. What role can exports play in driving growth in India’s chemical industry? Examine the economic and environmental dimensions of this export-led approach.