14 June 2026 — Current Affairs Questions with Answers for UPSC, SSC, Banking & MPSC

Explanation

The Strait of Hormuz is a narrow channel that connects the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman and the wider Arabian Sea. It is one of the world's most important oil transit points.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; the draft says the US will not impose NEW sanctions and will waive oil sanctions for a period, but it does not mention lifting all existing sanctions immediately. Statement 3 is correct as Iran agreed to reopen the Strait immediately.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the US will facilitate the release of $25 billion in Iranian assets through direct cash transfers, cooperation with regional countries, and financial credit lines.

Explanation

The draft states Iran will maintain its current nuclear programme 'including by not enriching uranium and refraining from expanding nuclear facilities' until a final agreement. This freeze is a key US objective to prevent advancements in Iran's nuclear capabilities during negotiations.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully tested the Multi-layered BMD capability. DRDO is India's premier agency for military R&D under the Ministry of Defence.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article mentions 'multi-layered defence against long-range ballistic missiles'. Statement 2 is correct as it states the system can engage 'targets including Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles (ICBMs)'. Statement 3 is incorrect; the article mentions the maiden test of the 'Naval Anti-Ship Missile-Medium Range (NASM-MR)', not 'Short Range (NASM-SR)'. This is a classic examiner trap swapping range specifications.

Explanation

The article specifically states that the DRDO conducted three consecutive flight tests on June 10 and 11, 2026. Precise dates are a common target for Prelims factual questions.

Explanation

The core implication highlighted in the article is that with this advancement, 'India joins an elite group of nations that possess the ability to defend against ICBMs.' This enhances India's strategic deterrence and national security posture, which is the primary significance. The other options are not supported by the article's content.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the Zojila Tunnel is being constructed by NHIDCL in collaboration with Megha Engineering & Infrastructures Ltd (MEIL). NHIDCL is a specialized agency under MoRTH for strategic highway projects, especially in border areas.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect because the tunnel connects Baltal in Kashmir's Ganderbal district to Minamarg in Ladakh's Drass district (the article says 'connect Baltal in Kashmir's Ganderbal district and Minamarg in Ladakh's Drass'). Statement 3 is correct as the article mentions construction started on October 15, 2020, after the India-China face-off in Galwan in June 2020.

Explanation

The article provides a 'tunnel in numbers' section which clearly states the total project length, including tunnel roads and bridges, is 30.894 km. The 13.153 km refers to the main tunnel length, 9.5 metres is the tunnel width, and 2.35 km is the length of cut-and-cover structures.

Explanation

While tourism and economic benefits are mentioned, the article's core strategic emphasis, as stated by Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, is on ensuring year-round connectivity for the movement of the Indian Army, supplies, and logistics to strengthen strategic preparedness, given Ladakh's borders with China and Pakistan.

Explanation

Motor Accident Claims Tribunals (MACTs) are specialized tribunals established under the provisions of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, to provide a speedy remedy for compensation to victims of road accidents.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect because the increase is 10% on a cumulative basis every three years, not simple interest annually. Statement 3 is incorrect as the ruling clarified that where the homemaker is also part of the workforce, compensation under this head would be awarded in addition to any proven income.

Explanation

The Supreme Court directed that the ₹30,000 monthly benchmark be enhanced by 10%, on a cumulative basis, every three years. This is a specific data point mentioned in the article.

Explanation

The core objective of creating this new head is to formally recognize and assign an independent economic value to the unpaid domestic labour performed by homemakers, which was previously overlooked or undervalued in compensation calculations. This addresses a systemic gender bias in tort law.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the draft 'CERC (Power Market) (Second Amendment) Regulations, 2026' were issued by the Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC). CERC is the central regulator for the electricity sector in India.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect. The draft regulations propose Grid India as the sole MCO. The rotational basis was part of an earlier framework from July 2025. Statement 2 is incorrect. While Grid India supports the rollout, it has raised concerns about the 'single point of failure' and suggested a fallback mechanism. Statement 3 is correct as per the article which states IEX dominates with over 90% share.

Explanation

The article directly states: 'IEX dominates the market with over 90% share, while PXIL and HPX account for the remainder.' The other options are close distractors not mentioned in the text.

Explanation

The article defines market coupling as 'a mechanism that aggregates bids from all power exchanges to determine a uniform market-clearing price for electricity.' It further states the concept is aimed at improving price discovery and reducing price disparities. The other options are not supported by the article's content.

Explanation

The Strait of Hormuz is a narrow channel that connects the Persian Gulf (where major oil producers like Saudi Arabia are located) to the Gulf of Oman and the open ocean, making it a critical passage for global oil shipments.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect. The draft states that the US agrees to allow Iran to dilute its stockpile 'under a future comprehensive agreement,' not immediately. Statements 2 and 3 are directly mentioned in the article regarding the blockade timeline and the reconstruction plan.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: "The U.S. agrees to release $25 billion of Iran’s frozen assets, including via direct cash transfers, cooperation among regional countries, and financial credit lines."

Explanation

The Strait of Hormuz is a critical global oil chokepoint. Its closure or restriction threatens energy security worldwide. Reopening it ensures the stable flow of oil from the Persian Gulf to international markets, which is a primary strategic concern.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the Supreme Court directed the 'Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC)' to consider Reliance Industries' master layout plan. BMC is the civic body governing Mumbai.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article mentions the Court took on record Reliance's assurance of capping the ticketed area at 15%. Statement 2 is incorrect because the article clearly states the Court's January order said 'no residential and commercial development for sale or lease... shall be permitted'. Statement 3 is correct as the bench directed BMC to act 'without violating this Court’s earlier order dated January 12, 2026'.

Explanation

The article states: 'the BMC appointed Reliance Industries to undertake landscaping and maintenance of the open space under its CSR initiative at a cost of Rs 400 crore for a period of 30 years.'

Explanation

The article quotes Reliance informing the court that fees from the ticketed 'iconic' attractions are 'intended to cover operation and maintenance costs.' This creates a sustainable model for maintaining the public asset without burdening the municipal corporation.

Explanation

The Speaker of the Lok Sabha is elected by the members of the Lok Sabha from amongst themselves, as per Article 93 of the Constitution. The Speaker's role is crucial in parliamentary proceedings and in deciding on matters like the recognition of groups.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per Article 368. Statement 2 is correct as the article mentions DMK and AAP distancing themselves. Statement 3 is incorrect; the article clearly states the two-thirds majority in Lok Sabha requires 363 MPs, not 263.

Explanation

The article states that from a current strength of 148 MPs, the NDA will gain 3 seats from independent seats and 3 from West Bengal bypolls, bringing the total to 154. 163 is the two-thirds majority target, and 213 is a potential Lok Sabha number.

Explanation

The article explicitly states the NDA is striving for a two-thirds majority to help pass crucial Constitutional Amendment Bills. While a simple majority is enough for ordinary bills and the budget, a special majority under Article 368 is required for constitutional amendments.

Explanation

The article explicitly states the Supreme Court constituted a National Task Force headed by a former judge, Justice Ravindra Bhat. The other names are former or sitting Chief Justices of India not mentioned in this context.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect. The report argues the opposite, stating suicides are symptoms of deeper institutional deficits, not just individual mental health issues. Statement 2 is correct as per the article's data. Statement 3 is incorrect because the recommended deadline is three months, not six months.

Explanation

The article states, "More than 65 per cent of the faculty in IITs, NITs, and private institutions are from non-SC, ST, and OBC communities." The other options are close but incorrect distractors.

Explanation

The article states that institutional responses 'usually seek to individualise these deaths... Rarely do institutions introspect and ask questions about the cultures of exclusion within campuses.' This is the core critique. The other options, while plausible, are not the primary argument presented in the report.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions the existence of a 'National Assisted Reproductive Technology and Surrogacy Board to advise and oversee implementation' of the respective Acts. The other bodies, while related to health regulation, are not the specific oversight bodies for these Acts.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article: the ART Act 'permits unilateral withdrawal of consent'. Statement 2 is correct as the article states the age limit for women accessing ART is 21-50 years. Statement 3 is incorrect; the article clarifies that the surrogacy Act allows OCI cardholders to avail surrogacy only if they are married, not if they are single or divorced.

Explanation

The article provides the specific data point: 'In the past year alone, high courts across India have heard at least 33 such petitions.' The other options are plausible but incorrect distractors.

Explanation

Bhoomi Patel's case, as detailed in the article, challenges the Act's provision that allows surrogacy for divorced women (35-45 years) only if they are Indian citizens, thereby excluding OCI divorcees. This is cited as a key legal hurdle and a potential constitutional injustice.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) gave approval for translocating tigers to the Udanti-Sitanadi Tiger Reserve. The NTCA is the statutory body under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, mandated for tiger conservation.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; BrahMos is a joint venture between India and Russia, not France. Statement 3 is incorrect; the 2026 surge is predominantly Granulomatous Amoebic Encephalitis (GAE) caused by Acanthamoeba, not Naegleria fowleri (which causes PAM).

Explanation

The article clearly states that 'India depends on imports for over 88% of its crude oil and about half of its natural gas needs.' This is a critical data point for energy security discussions.

Explanation

The article's core point about the MoU is that it 'paves the way for the resumption of oil and gas exploration along the resource-rich and contested boundary' after three decades. While it may aid coordination, its primary objective is enabling exploration for energy security.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the Israeli military launched strikes against the 'Lebanon-based Hezbollah militant group'. All its operations mentioned, including infrastructure in Beirut's Dahiyeh suburb, are in Lebanon.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article states the strikes were 'in retaliation for Hezbollah’s attacks in northern Israel'. Statement 2 is incorrect because the deal aims to reopen the 'Strait of Hormuz', not the Strait of Malacca. Statement 3 is correct as per the report citing regional officials.

Explanation

The article clearly states: 'the fragile ceasefire that was signed between Washington and Tehran on April 8.' February 28 is the date of a US-Israel strike on Iran, and June 14 is the date of the reported Israeli strike on Beirut.

Explanation

The article states that the US-Iran agreement 'could cease the hostilities in the region and reopen the strategic Strait of Hormuz, whose closure has led world markets to plunge.' This directly links the deal to securing a vital global oil chokepoint.

Explanation

The article states that the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), in its June 5 circular, granted relief measures of force majeure and price adjustment to highway contractors. This ministry oversees national highway projects and related policies.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect: Bitumen is a residual product obtained after vacuum distillation of the atmospheric residue, not a primary product like petrol. Statement 2 is correct as per the article: Over 99% of imports come from Iraq, UAE, Iran, Oman, and Bahrain. Statement 3 is incorrect: The article explicitly states domestic bitumen production has 'remained almost the same over the last 10 years' while highway length increased significantly.

Explanation

The article provides specific data: India imported 2.36 lakh tonnes of bitumen in April 2026. This is lower than the 2.97 lakh tonnes imported in April 2025 and 2.74 lakh tonnes in April 2024, indicating the impact of the West Asia conflict.

Explanation

The article states the government is projecting bio-bitumen as a 'dual solution to reduce import dependence and address winter pollution in northern India, where stubble burning is a contributor.' The other options are either exaggerated or not supported by the article's content.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that 'economists from the Federal Reserve — the world’s most important central bank — wrote of the "unprecedented contribution" to core inflation...' This refers to the US central bank's analysis of its Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) price index.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article states the AI boom pushed manufacturers to make advanced chips for data centers, sacrificing DRAM production. Statement 2 is incorrect; the price index for pen drives and hard disks 'risen sequentially in 15 of the last 16 months'. Statement 3 is incorrect; analysts warn the shortage is 'structural' and may last '3-5 years'.

Explanation

The article clearly states: 'Together, these nine items make up just 1% of India’s entire Consumer Price Index (CPI) basket of goods and services.' The figure 2% is the weight for TOP vegetables (tomato, onion, potato), mentioned as a comparison point.

Explanation

The article quotes analysts from Nomura stating that 'demand will overwhelm supply for at least 3-5 years' and that the shortage is structural as well as 'self-reinforcing — buyers are locking in multi-year deals and pre-funding capacity'. This behavior intensifies and prolongs the shortage. The other options are not mentioned as causes in the article.

Explanation

The Enforcement Directorate is a specialized financial investigation agency under the Department of Revenue, Ministry of Finance. It is responsible for enforcing economic laws like FEMA and PMLA.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article which mentions Rs 92.55 crore transacted via US debit cards. Statement 2 is incorrect; the article explicitly states funds were used 'without a valid FCRA registration or government permission'. Statement 3 is correct as the article links a portion of funds to Maoist-affected areas in Chhattisgarh and Assam.

Explanation

The article specifically states that 'Mathai’s office was searched, and Rs 37 lakh in cash was seized.' The other options are distractors: Rs 92 lakh is close to the total amount involved, while Rs 17 lakh and Rs 57 lakh are not mentioned.

Explanation

The FCRA's core objective is to regulate foreign contributions to ensure they are not used for activities detrimental to national interest. The article highlights its violation as funds were received without registration. Other options describe functions of FEMA (D), RBI's role in FDI (A), or general banking services (C).

Explanation

The article mentions Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari presiding over the breakthrough ceremony. Major tunnel and highway infrastructure projects in India are typically executed by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH).

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; it connects Sonamarg (Baltal) in Kashmir to Meenamarg in Ladakh's Drass district. Statement 3 is correct as the tunnel's primary purpose is to provide all-weather connectivity, ending the 4-6 month winter closure.

Explanation

The article explicitly states the Zojila tunnel was 'Built at a cost of ₹6,800 crore'. The other figures are plausible distractors for similar infrastructure projects but are not mentioned in this context.

Explanation

The article highlights that historically, India's military response was hampered by poor connectivity. It states the tunnel 'is now expected to provide year-long transportation access to the Indian forces stationed in Ladakh', making it a strategic game-changer. While aiding pilgrims and the local economy are benefits, the primary strategic objective is military mobility.

Explanation

The article mentions Hezbollah as one of Iran's 'terrorist proxies in the region'. Static GK defines Hezbollah as a Shiite political and militant group headquartered in Lebanon, acting as a key proxy for Iran.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article: 'any future agreement would require Iran to surrender its stockpile of enriched nuclear material'. Statement 2 is incorrect; the article clearly states 'Israel is not a party to the memorandum of understanding'. Statement 3 is correct as the article mentions enforcing 'limits on its nuclear and missile programmes'.

Explanation

The article includes a tweet from the Prime Minister of Israel dated 'June 11, 2026' discussing President Trump's commitment. June 12 is the date of Netanyahu's subsequent post, and June 14 is the article's publication date.

Explanation

The article's core is Trump's assurance that 'no agreement would be reached unless the issues that led the US and Israel to war against Iran were addressed.' The specific commitments listed (removing enriched material, limiting missiles, stopping support for proxies) all relate to embedding Israeli security concerns into the deal's framework.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the Supreme Court upheld the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls by the Election Commission (EC). The Election Commission of India is the permanent constitutional body under Article 324 responsible for superintendence, direction, and control of electoral rolls and elections.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article states the SC order 'essentially shifts the burden on the deleted individual to prove their citizenship.' Statement 2 is correct as the article mentions IMDTs placed the onus 'on the complainant and the authorities,' unlike FTs. Statement 3 is incorrect; the article says the competent authority was the 'Superintendent of Police of the district concerned' in Assam's 1997 revision, not necessarily the District Magistrate.

Explanation

The article states: 'the Assam government said that till January 31, 2025, a little over 77,000 'D' voters had been declared Indians, while 1.18 lakh cases were still pending.' Option A (Over 77,000) refers to those declared Indian, and Option B (93,021) is the total number of 'D-voters' ahead of the 2025 Assembly elections.

Explanation

The article cites a former FT member stating there is 'institutional lethargy from all directions, as well as systemic problems like a lack of staff and facilities at tribunals.' This is further corroborated by the Gauhati High Court's remark on the lack of facilities. The other options are not supported by the article's content.