Ten MCQs on current International and national events - 177

PRERNA FOR IAS

(ASSOCIATE OF SAMKALP)

A-Category MCQs -177

1. With reference to secondary sanctions and India's energy security, consider the following statements:

1. Secondary sanctions may target countries or entities dealing with the primary sanctioned country.
2. The proposed U.S. legislation could permit tariffs of up to 100% on countries purchasing Russian energy.
3. India's purchase of Russian crude has been influenced partly by price and energy-security considerations.
4. Diversifying crude suppliers necessarily requires India to stop purchasing Russian crude completely.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

(a) 1, 2 and 3 only
(b) 1 and 4 only
(c) 2, 3 and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

Correct Answer: (a)

Explanation: Statements 1, 2 and 3 are correct in the context of the summaries. The proposed U.S. measure illustrates secondary economic pressure because it can impose costs on third countries purchasing Russian energy. India has defended its imports primarily on affordability and energy-security grounds. Statement 4 is incorrect. Diversification means reducing excessive dependence by developing multiple suppliers and energy alternatives; it does not automatically mean eliminating an existing supplier.

Elimination clue: Diversification ≠ complete disengagement. It means increasing options and reducing concentration risk.

2. Consider the following statements regarding India's semiconductor strategy:

1. Semiconductor fabrication alone is sufficient to establish complete technological self-reliance.
2. Chip design, packaging, testing, materials and research are important components of the semiconductor ecosystem.
3. Semiconductor manufacturing requires reliable electricity, water, capital and specialised skills.
4. Semiconductor capacity has implications for both economic competitiveness and national security.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

(a) 1, 2 and 3 only
(b) 2, 3 and 4 only
(c) 1 and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

Correct Answer: (b)

Explanation: Statements 2, 3 and 4 are correct. India's Semiconductor Mission 2.0 is moving beyond individual fabrication plants towards an integrated ecosystem covering design, equipment, materials, packaging, testing, R&D and skilled manpower. Semiconductor manufacturing also needs large capital investment and dependable electricity and water. Statement 1 is therefore incorrect. A few fabrication facilities cannot independently provide technological self-reliance when important inputs, technologies or skills remain externally dependent.

Elimination clue: In strategic manufacturing, factory ≠ ecosystem. Look for upstream and downstream capabilities.