Ten MCQs on current International and national events - 203

PRERNA FOR IAS

(ASSOCIATE OF SAMKALP)

A-Category MCQs -203

Q1. Strategic Autonomy and Changing Great-Power Relations

In the context of the possibility of improved relations between the United States and Russia, consider the following statements:

1. Strategic autonomy requires India to avoid all economic and defence partnerships with major powers.
2. Improvement in US–Russia relations could alter diplomatic pressures on India's energy and defence partnerships.
3. Diversification of strategic partnerships can reduce dependence on any single country.
4. Strategic autonomy involves independent decision-making based on national interests rather than permanent alignment with one geopolitical bloc.

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) 2, 3 and 4 only

Explanation: The supplied Indian Express analysis examines the possibility of improved US–Russia relations and its implications for India. Strategic autonomy does not mean diplomatic isolation. It means retaining the freedom to make foreign-policy decisions according to national interests. Statement 1 is incorrect because India can maintain defence, trade and technological partnerships with multiple countries while preserving independent decision-making. Changes in relations between major powers may create both opportunities and risks. Diversified partnerships reduce vulnerability to external pressure. Hidden trap: Strategic autonomy should not be confused with complete neutrality or isolation.

Q2. BIMSTEC, Regional Security and Transnational Crime

With reference to BIMSTEC and the reported Delhi Declaration on counterterrorism, consider the following statements:

1. BIMSTEC connects countries belonging to South Asia and Southeast Asia.
2. All BIMSTEC member countries are also members of SAARC.
3. Intelligence sharing and coordination among law-enforcement agencies can help address cross-border organised crime.
4. Cooperation against terrorism may include measures against money laundering and extremist financing.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

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

Correct Answer: (c) 1, 3 and 4 only

Explanation: The supplied Hindu summary reports the adoption of the Delhi Declaration at the first BIMSTEC Home Ministers' Meeting. BIMSTEC includes Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Thailand. Statement 2 is incorrect because Myanmar and Thailand are not SAARC members. The organisation connects South Asia and Southeast Asia through regional cooperation. Terrorism, organised crime, narcotics trafficking and illegal financial networks frequently operate across national boundaries. Intelligence sharing and coordinated enforcement can improve regional security. Hidden trap: BIMSTEC and SAARC have overlapping but different memberships.

Q3. Ladakh, Constitutional Reorganisation and Border Diplomacy