28 April 2026 — Current Affairs Questions with Answers for UPSC, SSC, Banking & MPSC

Explanation

The Women's Reservation Bill was enacted as the Constitution (One Hundred and Sixth Amendment) Act, 2023. The 103rd Amendment introduced EWS quota, the 104th dealt with Anglo-Indian representation, and the 105th restored state power on OBC lists.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the law reserves 33% seats in Lok Sabha and State Assemblies. Statement 2 is incorrect because the law provides a sub-quota for SC/ST women but explicitly excludes an OBC sub-quota. Statement 3 is correct as the Act's commencement is tied to delimitation after the next Census.

Explanation

The IPU report 'Women in parliament 1995-2025' states India's representation rose from 7.2% in 1995 to 13.8% in 2025. 7.2% is the 1995 figure, 11.3% is the global figure for 1995, and 27.2% is the global average for 2025.

Explanation

The article clearly states that the law 'awaits delimitation of constituencies — a process linked to the forthcoming Census — before it can take effect.' The other options are not mentioned as reasons for the delay in the provided text.

Explanation

As mentioned in the article, the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) is headquartered in New Delhi. It was launched by PM Modi in Mysuru in 2023, but its headquarters are in New Delhi.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article states the Nayara block was a 'wakeup call'. Statement 2 is correct as per the article's details on IBCA membership. Statement 3 is incorrect; the article describes the current system as 'managed deregulation', operating in a 'grey zone' and not fully market-based.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that 'India imports 84% of the petroleum products consumed in the country'. The 75% figure refers to 2000-01, and 95% refers to 2016-17.

Explanation

The article states the move is aimed at 'reducing dependence on foreign cloud providers and strengthening data security', ensuring control over sensitive data and resilience against disruptions. Cost reduction and exports are not the primary drivers mentioned.

Explanation

The article explicitly states Ambedkar was appointed as the Labour Member in the Viceroy's Executive Council in 1942. This was the central executive government of British India before independence.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is correct: the 1942 conference aimed at a uniform labour code. Statement 3 is incorrect; the article states the Labour Investigation Committee (1944) extended its inquiry beyond coal and cotton into a wide range of previously neglected sectors.

Explanation

The article specifies that amendments in 1943 and 1945 extended the period of maternity benefit to 16 weeks (10 weeks before childbirth and 6 weeks after). The other options are plausible but incorrect distractors.

Explanation

The article directly links Ambedkar's pre-independence work to the Directive Principles, specifically citing Articles 39 and 43 which direct the state to ensure livelihood, equal pay, a living wage, and decent work conditions. The other bodies or lists are not mentioned as direct outcomes in the provided text.

Explanation

The Supreme Court order explicitly states that 'in every death sentence confirmation reference... the Legal Services Committee concerned shall assign a dedicated legal team.' This refers to the state or district-level committees constituted under the Legal Services Authorities Act.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; if the trial court doesn't call for the report, the High Court (not the Supreme Court) must call for it at the stage of admission of the death reference. Statement 3 is incorrect; the minimum practice requirement for advocates is 7 years, not 5 years.

Explanation

The Supreme Court order specifies that the dedicated legal team must comprise 'at least two advocates having a minimum of 7 years practice.' The other options are close but incorrect distractors.

Explanation

The Court stated that delayed consideration of these factors undermines a balanced sentencing process. Calling for reports at the trial stage aims to collect essential information early to aid courts in making a proper and informed determination on the sentence, aligning with reformative principles.

Explanation

The Supreme Court has held that the right to a fair trial and protection against wrongful conviction is an integral part of Article 21. The principle of 'proof beyond reasonable doubt' is a crucial procedural safeguard to protect an individual's life and liberty from arbitrary state action.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the Court drew a sharp line between 'may be true' (suspicion) and 'must be true' (proof). Statement 2 is incorrect; the Court specifically cautioned against over-reliance on the 'last seen together' doctrine, stating it does not by itself lead to the conclusion of guilt. Statement 3 is correct as the Court reiterated the settled principle for convicting on circumstantial evidence.

Explanation

The article states that the Karnataka High Court upheld the conviction in December 2021. The Supreme Court heard the appeal and delivered its acquittal judgment in 2026.

Explanation

The core ruling is that suspicion, however strong, cannot replace proof. By stating that the prosecution's case must be 'must be true' and not merely 'may be true', the Court reaffirmed the stringent standard of 'proof beyond reasonable doubt' required under Indian criminal law for a conviction.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the Haryana Human Rights Commission has taken suo motu cognisance of the tragedies at NIT Kurukshetra and initiated an inquiry. This is a state-level commission.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect because the article mentions a 65% increase over the past decade, not five years. Statement 2 is correct as per the article's mention of the Supreme Court's 2025 directives. Statement 3 is correct as the article lists academic stress and online gambling debt among the preliminary findings.

Explanation

The article clearly states that the NCRB 2023 report recorded student suicides at a record high of 13,892. The other options are plausible but incorrect distractors.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that overlaying the issue of academic pressure is 'the paucity of seats in premier institutions and an increasingly precarious job market'. This highlights a structural issue of limited opportunity and future insecurity that exacerbates student anxiety.

Explanation

The article is written by the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh and details the state's 'Udyog Vishwas' policy framework, which is built on decriminalisation, deregulation, and digitisation.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article states making a 'bhay mukt pradesh' was the foremost goal. Statement 2 is correct as these three expressways are explicitly mentioned. Statement 3 is incorrect because the three pillars are Decriminalisation, Deregulation, and Digitisation, not Demonetisation.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: "Today, crime rates have declined by 50 per cent, and people feel safer. This renewed security has laid the foundation for economic growth."

Explanation

The article states: "The third phase, Udyog Vishwas, addresses this trust deficit." It aims to replace complex, punitive regulations with a principles-based approach to decriminalisation, thereby building partnership and trust with enterprises.

Explanation

The Indian Railways, which operates under the Ministry of Railways, is responsible for the construction and operation of railway lines including the USBRL project in Kashmir.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the USBRL became fully operational on June 6, 2025. Statement 2 is incorrect; the Chenab Bridge is the world's highest (not second-highest) railway arch bridge at 359 meters. Statement 3 is correct as the article states T-50 is India's longest operational transportation tunnel (12.77 km).

Explanation

The article states that 155 out of the total 203 rakes were loaded with cement. This constitutes approximately 76% of the total freight rakes.

Explanation

The article emphasizes the two-way freight movement: cement and cars coming into Kashmir for construction/development, and apples (the Valley's leading produce) going out to markets. This stabilizes supply chains and boosts the regional economy.

Explanation

Justice B.V. Nagarathna explicitly stated that if there is polarization, the state will step in under Article 25(2)(b) for reform. Article 26(b) deals with denominational autonomy, while Articles 15(3) and 29(2) relate to special provisions for women and cultural/educational rights, respectively.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article mentions a nine-judge bench headed by CJI Surya Kant. Statement 2 is incorrect; Justice B.V. Nagarathna explicitly said religious activity cannot be done by blocking all roads. Statement 3 is correct as it is listed as the sixth question for consideration by the court.

Explanation

The article's background section clearly states: 'On September 28, 2018, a five-judge bench of the Supreme Court, by a 4:1 majority, lifted the age restriction on women visitors...' The other dates are close distractors.

Explanation

Justice B.V. Nagarathna's remark, as quoted, directly links state intervention to Article 25(2)(b) when there is polarization. While public order (Article 25(1)) is a general limitation, the specific power for social reform is enshrined in Article 25(2)(b).

Explanation

Lokniti is the research program on Indian democracy and elections under the Centre for the Study of Developing Societies (CSDS), Delhi. This is a key institution for political data in India.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect. The article states the pattern of low engagement 'cuts across socio-economic groups', meaning it is not confined to specific sections. Statement 2 is incorrect as the study shows 74-84% of women are 'not at all active' beyond voting. Statement 3 is correct as it is the core argument of the article, highlighting that reservation's impact is shaped by existing inequalities.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: 'a large majority of women (74%-84%) report being "not at all active" in electoral processes beyond voting.' This is the key data point from the study. The other options are plausible distractors but not mentioned.

Explanation

The article's central argument is that while reservation addresses underrepresentation, its impact is 'shaped by existing inequalities.' The study's finding of widespread political inactivity beyond voting, cutting across groups, supports this. It implies quotas need complementary measures to tackle deeper barriers.

Explanation

Article 44 of the Constitution, under the Directive Principles of State Policy, states that "The State shall endeavour to secure for the citizens a uniform civil code throughout the territory of India."

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: The committee is chaired by former Supreme Court judge Ranjana Prasad Desai. Statement 2 is incorrect: The committee has a 60-day (not six-month) deadline to submit a draft bill. Statement 3 is correct: The article states the committee will examine models adopted by other states, particularly Uttarakhand and Gujarat.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: "With more than 21 per cent of Madhya Pradesh’s population belonging to Scheduled Tribes, the issue carries significant political sensitivity."

Explanation

Tribal leaders argue that constitutional protections under the Fifth Schedule and laws like PESA safeguard their distinct traditions and systems of self-governance, and a uniform legal framework could undermine these protections.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that 'Data from the Grid Controller of India (Grid India) shows...' the shortage in meeting peak demand. Grid India is the national grid operator responsible for system operation.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: The article says the daily peak demand was recorded at around 3:45 PM and 'was met without any shortage'. Statement 2 is incorrect: The primary reason was a spike in 'forced and partial outages' (which surged to ~26 GW), not planned outages (which were limited to ~3 GW). Statement 3 is correct: The article states spot prices in the DAM 'touch[ed] the maximum regulatory limit of Rs 10 per kilowatt hour (KWh) at night'.

Explanation

The article states that 'forced and partial outages surged to nearly 26 GW'. It further clarifies that forced outages in coal plants stood at ~18 GW and partial outages were ~3-4 GW, totaling ~21 GW from coal, with the remaining from other sources reaching the ~26 GW figure.

Explanation

The core challenge identified is the 'duck curve' phenomenon: nearly 150 GW of solar capacity goes offline after sundown, precisely when demand remains high due to cooling needs. This creates a steep ramp-up requirement for conventional plants, which are themselves facing availability issues. The article focuses on this timing mismatch, not on total capacity, fuel imports, or distribution losses.

Explanation

The Ministry of Commerce and Industry, through its Department of Commerce, is the nodal agency for formulating India's foreign trade policy and negotiating bilateral and multilateral trade agreements. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal was quoted speaking on the signing.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect. The investment commitment is over 15 years, not 10 years. Statement 2 is correct as per the Commerce Ministry's statement. Statement 3 is also correct as mentioned in the 'Goods market access' section of the article.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: 'In FY26, India’s exports to New Zealand stood at $711 million...'. Option A is the value of imports, Option C is the investment pledge, and Option D is the services export figure.

Explanation

The article states: 'The investment commitment has been a new feature... largely to strike a balance since New Delhi is offering steep tariff relaxation... but is receiving a minor reduction in tariffs in return, as average tariffs in advanced countries are typically 2-3%.' This is the direct reason provided.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the UAE quit the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC). OPEC is the correct organization focused on coordinating petroleum policies among member nations.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article date. Statement 2 is incorrect; the UAE criticized fellow Arab states for not doing enough to protect it, implying dissatisfaction. Statement 3 is correct as the article describes the exit as a 'heavy blow' to the groups and Saudi Arabia.

Explanation

The article clearly states 'The United Arab Emirates said on Tuesday (April 28, 2026) it quit Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and OPEC+'. The other dates are close distractors.

Explanation

The article mentions the UAE criticized fellow Arab states for 'not doing enough to protect it from numerous Iranian attacks during the war'. This security concern is highlighted as a key reason for the exit, linking geopolitics directly to economic alliance decisions.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the Vehicles Research and Development Establishment (VRDE) is a premier facility of the DRDO. DRDO is the apex body under the Ministry of Defence for military R&D in India.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article mentions the project includes two variants: wheeled and tracked. Statement 2 is incorrect; the platform is pitched to replace the ageing BMP-2 fleet of Infantry Combat Vehicles, not the T-72 tanks. Statement 3 is correct as per the article's mention of 'about 65 percent of the system is made in India'.

Explanation

The article clearly states, 'with plans to increase indigenous content to 90 per cent.' Therefore, 90% is the specific target figure mentioned, while 75%, 80%, and 85% are plausible but incorrect distractors.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that the requirement 'stems from the need to replace the ageing BMP-2 fleet... and keep pace with modern, network-centric warfare.' The other options, while potentially related to broader defence goals, are not cited as the primary reason in the provided content.

Explanation

The article states that WhatsApp asserted the details of the ban to the Home Ministry. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) is the nodal ministry for internal security and law enforcement in India.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect. The article clarifies that warnings were not treated as isolated reports but as a 'seed' for broader mapping. Statement 2 is correct as per the article's description of the probe methodology. Statement 3 is incorrect; the article states the networks were mostly active in Cambodia, not within India.

Explanation

The article's headline and content explicitly state that 9,400 accounts were banned. The other options are close distractors to test precise factual recall, a common Prelims tactic.

Explanation

The core of the news is the proactive, network-based investigation strategy. The article states warnings were used as a 'seed' to map and disrupt the entire network, moving beyond just shutting down the initial reported account. The other options describe potential actions but are not the primary shift discussed.

Explanation

The NPCI, established by RBI and IBA, is the umbrella organization that operates retail payment systems including UPI. RBI regulates payments, but NPCI is the operational entity.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; the value exceeded ₹314 lakh crore, not less than ₹300 lakh crore. Statement 3 is correct as India's share is 49%. Hence, option C is correct.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that India accounts for 49% of all real-time digital transactions globally. The other options are close distractors.

Explanation

UPI's core objective is to facilitate easy, instant, and low-cost digital payments, bringing more people into the formal financial system and reducing reliance on cash. While it may have secondary effects, its primary impact is on financial inclusion and digitization of payments.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions the Border Security Force (BSF) as the force that patrols the India-Bangladesh border (IBB) and to whom land needs to be handed over for fencing. The BSF is under the Ministry of Home Affairs and is the primary border guarding force on the India-Pakistan and India-Bangladesh borders.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as mentioned in the article. Statement 2 is incorrect because the High Court directed the cost to be paid by the officer from his own pocket, not from the public exchequer. Statement 3 is correct as per the Union Home Secretary's affidavit cited in the news.

Explanation

The article states that the reply affidavit by the then Union Home Secretary Ajay Bhalla said that '78% border of feasible length is fenced' along the West Bengal-Bangladesh border. The other options are plausible distractors.

Explanation

The April 22 order of the Calcutta High Court explicitly states that it deprecated 'the practice of filing such evasive and sketchy report' and deemed it appropriate to impose the cost. The officer's report was filed after the court's deadline for land transfer had passed with minimal compliance.

Explanation

The Ministry of Railways is the nodal ministry responsible for the administration and creation of new zones in Indian Railways, as seen in the article where the Railway Minister made the announcement and the Railway Board provided clarifications.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect because SCoR was carved out from areas of two zones: East Coast Railway (ECoR) and South Central Railway (SCR). Statement 3 is correct as the article explicitly mentions the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act, 2014 as the foundation for the zone's creation.

Explanation

The article clearly states that Rs. 184 crore has been sanctioned for the setting up of the South Coast Railway headquarters. The other figures are plausible distractors but not mentioned.

Explanation

The article states that the zone 'connects to the area rich in minerals and natural resources with the important ports on the eastern coast' and is 'set to become one of the important zones for freight loading'. The other options, while potential benefits, are not the primary reason highlighted.

Explanation

The article explicitly states 'The UGC-NET, as currently structured, tests neither; it is a relic that needs fundamental reimagining.' The UGC-NET is conducted by the University Grants Commission.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article's core argument is that demanding both roles from everyone is a 'foundational fiction'. Statement 2 is correct as it details outcomes like substandard research and fractured teaching. Statement 3 is incorrect; the proposed solution is a structural 'dual-track' reform, not primarily increased funding.

Explanation

The article states, 'Journals that charge a fee and publish without meaningful peer review are not a fringe phenomenon in India. They are a structural response to a structural demand.' This demand is created by the system forcing all faculty to publish research.

Explanation

The article argues teaching and research require different temperaments and skills, and it is rare for both to coexist. The dual-track system aims to create 'lecturer or teaching-track positions for those who are gifted educators' and 'research-track positions for those whose primary contribution is knowledge production', with both tracks being equally legitimate.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that according to the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), subsea fibre-optic cables carry roughly 99% of global internet traffic. The ITU is the UN agency for ICT issues.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article mentions FALCON connects India (via Mumbai) to Gulf countries. Statement 2 is incorrect because experts in the article state satellite networks cannot handle comparable data volumes and are significantly more expensive, hence not a scalable alternative. Statement 3 is correct as the article states India produces nearly half its aluminium via recycled scrap, much imported from regions including the Middle East.

Explanation

The article states: 'India produces nearly half of its 4.2 million metric tonnes of aluminium via recycled scrap...'. 'Nearly half' corresponds to approximately 50%.

Explanation

The article highlights that repair operations may face major delays primarily due to security risks, naval activity, insurance constraints, and 'often one of the biggest problems... is getting permits into the waters where the damage is,' as stated by telecom analyst Alan Mauldin.

Explanation

The article mentions the 'Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Personnel, Public Grievances, Law and Justice'. This committee oversees the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions, which houses the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) that deals with UPSC matters.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect as the article clearly states 'The committee did not recommend the abolition of the paper.' Statement 2 is correct as per the article's 'What is CSAT?' section. Statement 3 is correct as the article mentions the committee flagged delayed implementation of Baswan Committee reforms.

Explanation

The article explicitly states: 'Candidates must score a minimum of 33 per cent — 66 out of 200 — to qualify.' This is a direct factual recall question from the provided content.

Explanation

The article's core argument is that the committee found the 'quantitative and analytical orientation of the CSAT paper may pose challenges for candidates from non-science and non-quantitative academic backgrounds.' This directly addresses the equity and level-playing field concern.

Explanation

The status report states that the 3rd meeting of the IDC was convened under the Chairmanship of Special Secretary (Internal Security), Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). Internal security matters, including cyber fraud, fall under the purview of the MHA.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article: the IDC agreed with the RBI's SOP framework. Statement 2 is incorrect; the article mentions the Prevention of Money Laundering Act-2002 (PMLA), not FEMA. Statement 3 is correct as the report urges the Department of Telecommunications to expedite notification of the required rules within three months.

Explanation

The report specifically states that the technical system for national-level visibility of SIM issuance across operators should be implemented within six months after rule notification (within three months), so that the BIVS-based system becomes operational before December 2026.

Explanation

The article clearly states that the RBI's proposed Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) framework prescribes temporary debit holds on suspicious amounts/accounts to prevent money-mule activities. Money mules are individuals used to transfer illegally acquired money; temporary holds can disrupt this flow. Other options are not mentioned in the report.

Explanation

According to the article, the UAE energy ministry issued the statement announcing the decision to exit OPEC and OPEC+. This is the nodal body responsible for the country's energy policy.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect: The UAE was the third-largest producer, not the second (behind Saudi Arabia and Iraq). Statement 2 is correct as per the article: UAE joined in 1967 via Abu Dhabi. Statement 3 is correct: The exit is effective May 1, 2026.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that OPEC was established in 1960 by its founding members. 1967 is the year the UAE joined, and 1971 is when the UAE became a country.

Explanation

The UAE energy ministry's statement, quoted in the article, says the decision "reflects the UAE’s long-term strategic and economic vision and evolving energy profile, including accelerated investment in domestic energy production." The other options are not supported by the article's content.

Explanation

The NCB is the central agency for drug control in India and operates under the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), as mentioned in the article's context of the NCB submitting its roadmap to the MHA.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article states Operation Global-Hunt is a three-year NCB roadmap targeting 100 fugitives. Statement 2 is incorrect; the operation involves international coordination, Interpol notices, and extradition, not just domestic actions. Statement 3 is correct as Dola's extradition from Turkey is cited as the first target under the operation.

Explanation

The article explicitly states that Operation Global-Hunt is a mission launched to dismantle 100 drug networks run by India's fugitives abroad.

Explanation

The core objective of Operation Global-Hunt is to proactively target and dismantle the networks of drug kingpins who are fugitives abroad, using tools like extradition and Interpol notices, as opposed to focusing only on domestic seizures or rehabilitation.

Explanation

The article's author bio states the writer is a "former head of the maritime policy initiative at ORF, New Delhi." This directly identifies the Observer Research Foundation (ORF) as the referenced think tank.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect. The article states the right of transit passage is 'neither acknowledged nor reliably assured' in the current contest, but UNCLOS itself does not allow for its suspension; the crisis represents a practical, not legal, suspension. Statement 2 is correct as the article explicitly mentions 'War-risk insurance premiums have been withdrawn or repriced to prohibitive levels, significantly deterring commercial transit.' Statement 3 is correct as the article states, 'the shocks could ripple across the global economy on a scale comparable to the oil crises of the 1970s.'

Explanation

The article directly states: 'The transit passage concept was intended to ensure that narrow waterways such as Hormuz are not subject to unilateral control; the right it establishes is non-suspendable and legally binding.' The other options are different concepts within the UNCLOS framework.

Explanation

The article explicitly outlines India's appropriate response: 'Operationally, India must ensure the safe transit of Indian shipping through naval escorts and careful deconfliction... Diplomatically, New Delhi must work to underscore the wider stakes involved and support efforts to restore a measure of normalcy to the strait.' This encapsulates the 'calibrated pragmatism' approach.

Explanation

Article 324 of the Constitution vests the superintendence, direction, and control of elections in the Election Commission of India (ECI). The ECI is the permanent constitutional body mentioned in the article as conducting the Special Intensive Revision.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as per the article. Statement 2 is incorrect; the article states this categorisation is 'unknown to the election law'. Statement 3 is correct as the article lists these states/UTs. Hence, option C is correct.

Explanation

The article explicitly lists four states (Assam, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal) and one union territory (Puducherry) as being affected. The total count is five entities, but the correct description is four states and one union territory.

Explanation

The article frames the issue as raising 'constitutional questions'. The core constitutional principle at stake is the right to vote based on universal adult suffrage, which is enshrined in Article 326. Deleting voters without a clear legal basis risks violating this fundamental right.

Explanation

The IMO is a specialized agency of the United Nations, established to promote maritime safety and security and prevent pollution from ships. This is a core static GK fact relevant to international organizations.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect because the IMO addressed the UN Security Council, not the General Assembly. Statement 2 is incorrect because the principle of freedom of navigation applies to the high seas and EEZs, but the non-negotiable declaration in this context was about straits used for international navigation. Statement 3 is correct as per the article's content.

Explanation

The article explicitly mentions IMO Secretary-General Mr. Arsenio Dominguez. Kitack Lim is a former IMO Secretary-General. António Guterres is the UN Secretary-General, and Peter Thomson is the UN Secretary-General's Special Envoy for the Ocean.

Explanation

The core message of the address, as stated in the article, was to call on states to uphold freedom of navigation and reject any imposition of tolls or discriminatory measures for passage through straits like the Strait of Hormuz. The other options are not mentioned in the provided content.

Explanation

As per the article, the IT Ministry (Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology) sought Microsoft's response on why it had suspended services to Nayara Energy. This ministry is the nodal body for information technology policy in India.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct as the article explicitly mentions these sectors. Statement 2 is incorrect; the trigger was Microsoft (not Google) blocking Nayara Energy. Statement 3 is correct as the article states Indian-made products are 'not at the same level as their foreign counterparts yet'.

Explanation

The article states that Russian oil giant Rosneft holds 49.13% in Nayara Energy. This ownership link was the reason for EU sanctions, which subsequently led to Microsoft's action.

Explanation

As per the article, the move is aimed at 'reducing dependence on foreign cloud providers and strengthening data security' and to 'insure against geopolitical risks' following the Nayara Energy incident. The other options are potential secondary effects but not the primary objective stated.