Ten MCQs on current International and national events - 180

PRERNA FOR IAS

(ASSOCIATE OF SAMKALP)

A-Category MCQs -180

Q1. Strait of Hormuz and India’s Energy Security

With reference to the Strait of Hormuz, consider the following statements:

1. It connects the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman.
2. Disruption in the Strait can affect crude-oil prices, shipping insurance and freight costs.
3. India's dependence on imported energy makes developments in the Strait economically significant for India.
4. Diversification of energy sources can reduce India's vulnerability to disruptions in maritime chokepoints.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

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

Correct Answer: (d)

Explanation: All four statements are correct according to the supplied summary. The Strait of Hormuz connects the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and carries a substantial share of globally traded petroleum. A prolonged disruption can raise oil prices as well as insurance and freight costs. India is particularly exposed because of its dependence on imported energy and extensive economic relations with Gulf countries. Therefore, India's response should include diplomatic de-escalation, diversified sourcing and resilient maritime supply chains. Elimination clue: energy security is not determined only by domestic availability; transport routes and geopolitical chokepoints are also critical components of supply security.

Q2. Drone Warfare

With reference to the changing nature of modern warfare, consider the following statements:

1. Relatively inexpensive drones can threaten targets located far behind conventional front lines.
2. Large-scale drone warfare can increase expenditure requirements for air defence.
3. The increasing use of drones has eliminated the strategic importance of critical infrastructure protection.
4. Counter-drone technology and electronic warfare are becoming increasingly important.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

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

Correct Answer: (b)

Explanation: Statements 1, 2 and 4 are correct. The Ukraine-Russia conflict demonstrates that comparatively low-cost unmanned platforms can threaten logistics, energy facilities and urban areas far behind conventional battlefields. This creates an asymmetric cost problem, because defending against numerous inexpensive drones may require costly air-defence systems. Statement 3 is incorrect; drone warfare actually increases the importance of protecting critical infrastructure. The supplied summary identifies counter-drone technology, electronic warfare and critical-infrastructure protection as increasingly important requirements. The broader lesson is that technological change is reducing the traditional geographical separation between the battlefield and the strategic rear.