Regarding the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in judicial processes, the High Court of Delhi, in a 2026 ruling, stated that AI can be used as a tool for research and analysis, but not for final decision-making. What is the underlying judicial concern?
A AI algorithms are too complex to understand.
B Potential for bias in AI, lack of transparency, and the need for human oversight in justice.
C AI systems are too expensive for courts to acquire.
D AI will replace judges entirely.
Answer: B
The judiciary's stance reflects concerns about the ethical implications of AI, including potential biases embedded in algorithms, the 'black box' nature of some AI decisions, and the fundamental principle that justice requires human judgment and accountability.
642.
In a landmark judgment in early 2026, the Supreme Court upheld the constitutional validity of the 'Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023'. What was a key aspect emphasized by the judiciary in its ruling?
A The Act excessively curtails freedom of speech online.
B The need for robust data protection measures to safeguard citizens' privacy.
C The Act is technologically unfeasible for implementation.
D The government has no right to regulate digital data.
Answer: B
The Supreme Court's judgment affirmed that while the Act balances data protection with legitimate processing needs, its core purpose of safeguarding individual privacy in the digital age is constitutionally sound and essential.
643.
The Sagarmala Programme, aimed at modernizing India's port infrastructure and promoting coastal shipping, has made strides. In 2026, a key development has been the increased cargo handling capacity. What is a direct consequence of this?
A Increased reliance on road transport for international trade.
B Reduced efficiency in import-export logistics.
C Enhanced competitiveness of Indian exports and reduced logistics costs.
D Closure of several minor ports.
Answer: C
Increased port capacity and efficiency through the Sagarmala Programme lead to faster turnaround times for ships, reduced demurrage charges, and a greater ability to handle larger volumes of cargo, making Indian goods more competitive globally.
644.
The 'Gati Shakti National Master Plan' is a transformative initiative for integrated infrastructure development. As of 2026, what is a major benefit observed from its implementation?
A Increased inter-departmental coordination and reduced project execution time.
B Greater reliance on manual planning and execution.
C Deterioration in the quality of infrastructure projects.
D Limited scope, focusing only on road transport.
Answer: A
The Gati Shakti plan utilizes a digital platform to bring together various ministries and departments, leading to better planning, reduced duplication of efforts, and faster execution of infrastructure projects.
645.
The 'Bharatmala Pariyojana Phase II', focusing on economic corridors and inter-corridor linkages, has seen significant progress in 2026. Which of the following is a key achievement reported for this phase?
A Completion of all rural road networks.
B Significant increase in the operational length of national highways and expressways.
C Reduction in the number of airports in the country.
D Decommissioning of all existing railway lines.
Answer: B
Bharatmala Pariyojana Phase II aims to develop a robust network of national highways and expressways. Reports from 2026 indicate a substantial increase in the kilometers of operational high-speed road infrastructure.
646.
Under the 'Digital Gaon Abhiyan' launched in early 2026, the government aims to connect all villages with high-speed internet. What is a significant expected outcome of this initiative for rural development?
A Increased reliance on traditional farming methods.
B Reduced access to online education and healthcare services.
C Improved access to information, e-governance services, and market linkages for rural producers.
D Decline in the adoption of modern agricultural technologies.
Answer: C
High-speed internet connectivity in villages facilitates access to online learning platforms, telemedicine, government services, and digital marketplaces, empowering rural communities and boosting economic opportunities.
647.
The 'Panchayati Raj Strengthening Fund' (PRSF), established in 2025, is a key component of the government's rural development strategy. What is the main purpose of PRSF?
A To provide financial assistance for the construction of national highways.
B To empower Gram Panchayats with financial autonomy and capacity building.
C To fund research and development in urban planning.
D To manage foreign direct investment in the rural sector.
Answer: B
The PRSF is designed to enhance the functioning of Panchayati Raj Institutions by providing them with resources for infrastructure development, service delivery, and capacity building of elected representatives.
648.
In 2026, the Ministry of Rural Development launched the 'Gram Vikas Samriddhi Yojana' to accelerate rural development. Which of the following is a primary objective of this scheme?
A To promote urban migration by creating job opportunities in cities.
B To enhance agricultural productivity and diversify rural livelihoods.
C To reduce the number of rural schools and healthcare facilities.
D To centralize all decision-making power at the national level.
Answer: B
The 'Gram Vikas Samriddhi Yojana' aims to boost rural economies by improving farming techniques, introducing new crops, and supporting non-farm rural enterprises, thereby diversifying income sources for rural populations.
649.
The expansion of regional content by platforms like 'StreamNow' is intensifying competition in the Indian OTT market. This strategy primarily aims to achieve which of the following?
A Reduce overall subscription costs for users
B Attract a wider, more diverse audience base
C Force traditional cinema halls to close down
D Focus solely on ad-supported models
Answer: B
By offering content in various regional languages, OTT platforms aim to tap into diverse linguistic and cultural segments of the Indian population, thereby significantly expanding their subscriber base beyond urban, English-speaking audiences.
650.
As part of its regional content expansion, 'StreamNow' is reportedly focusing on increasing its offerings in a specific South Indian language known for its vibrant film industry and large diaspora. Which language is most likely being prioritized?
A Konkani
B Tulu
C Malayalam
D Bhojpuri
Answer: C
Malayalam cinema (Mollywood) is renowned for its high-quality content, critical acclaim, and a significant global diaspora, making it a prime target for OTT platforms expanding regional libraries. Bhojpuri is a North Indian language, while Konkani and Tulu have smaller film industries compared to Malayalam.