A sustained strong Manufacturing PMI reading, as observed in August 2026, is generally a positive indicator for which of the following?
A Inflationary pressures
B Economic growth and employment
C Government debt levels
D Interest rate hikes
Answer: B
A strong PMI suggests robust manufacturing activity, which often correlates with higher economic growth and increased employment opportunities.
62.
Which organization is typically responsible for compiling and releasing the Manufacturing PMI data for India?
A Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
B National Statistical Office (NSO)
C S&P Global
D Ministry of Finance
Answer: C
The Manufacturing PMI for India is compiled and released by S&P Global (formerly IHS Markit).
63.
In August 2026, India's Manufacturing Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) remained strong. What does a PMI reading above 50 generally indicate?
A A contraction in manufacturing activity
B No change in manufacturing activity
C An expansion in manufacturing activity
D A stagnation in manufacturing output
Answer: C
A PMI reading above 50 indicates that the manufacturing sector is expanding compared to the previous month. A reading below 50 suggests contraction, and a reading of 50 indicates no change.
64.
India and France have significantly enhanced their cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region. This collaboration primarily aims to achieve which of the following objectives?
A Establish a joint military base in the region
B Promote a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific
C Form an exclusive economic bloc
D Counter specific regional powers unilaterally
Answer: B
Both India and France advocate for a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific region, based on international law and shared values. Their cooperation in this region focuses on maritime security, connectivity, sustainable development, and multilateralism, rather than establishing exclusive blocs or unilateral actions.
65.
Which of the following is a key pillar of the India-France strategic partnership, particularly highlighted by joint exercises like 'Varuna' (naval), 'Garuda' (air), and 'Shakti' (army)?
A Economic and Trade Cooperation
B Cultural Exchange Programs
C Defence and Security Cooperation
D Space Exploration Initiatives
Answer: C
Defence and security cooperation is a cornerstone of the India-France strategic partnership. The regular conduct of joint military exercises like Varuna, Garuda, and Shakti underscores the depth of their interoperability and mutual trust in this critical sector.
66.
The 'Horizon 2047' roadmap, unveiled in 2023, outlines the future of the strategic partnership between India and which other country, aiming for deeper cooperation across various sectors by the centenary of India's independence?
A United States
B Russia
C France
D Japan
Answer: C
The 'Horizon 2047' roadmap was unveiled during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to France in July 2023, marking 25 years of the India-France Strategic Partnership. It aims to deepen cooperation in defence, space, nuclear energy, digital technology, climate change, and cultural exchanges by 2047.
67.
What is the primary responsibility of the UN Security Council, as outlined in the UN Charter?
A To promote economic development globally
B To maintain international peace and security
C To administer international justice
D To protect human rights worldwide
Answer: B
Article 24 of the UN Charter states that 'in order to ensure prompt and effective action by the United Nations, its Members confer on the Security Council primary responsibility for the maintenance of international peace and security, and agree that in carrying out these duties under this responsibility the Security Council acts on their behalf.'
68.
The UN Security Council consists of how many non-permanent members, and for what term are they elected?
A 10 members, elected for a 2-year term
B 15 members, elected for a 3-year term
C 5 members, elected for a 1-year term
D 12 members, elected for a 4-year term
Answer: A
The UN Security Council has 15 members in total: 5 permanent members and 10 non-permanent members. The 10 non-permanent members are elected by the General Assembly for a two-year term, with five new members elected each year.
69.
As of 2026, which of the following countries is NOT a permanent member of the UN Security Council, possessing veto power?
A China
B France
C Germany
D United Kingdom
Answer: C
The five permanent members of the UN Security Council are China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Germany is a significant contributor to UN peacekeeping and a frequent non-permanent member, but it does not hold a permanent seat or veto power.
70.
Which of the following is NOT a key objective of the 'Ayushman Bhav' campaign launched in 2023?
A To provide Ayushman Card to all eligible citizens
B To ensure access to health services for all, especially the underserved
C To promote organ donation awareness
D To establish a universal basic income for healthcare expenses
Answer: D
The 'Ayushman Bhav' campaign focuses on extending healthcare services and benefits to all citizens, including the creation of Ayushman Cards and ensuring access to services. Promoting organ donation awareness is also part of its broader health promotion goals. Establishing a universal basic income for healthcare expenses is not a direct objective of this campaign.
