Consider the following statements regarding Cybersecurity cooperation and information technology pacts:
1. The 2021 Inter-Governmental Agreement on Cybersecurity includes provisions for the mutual recognition of digital signatures and allows for the automatic extradition of cyber-criminals identified through joint investigations.
2. The 2016 Agreement on Cooperation in the Field of Information Security between India and Russia serves as the foundational framework for information sharing regarding cyber-attacks and data protection.
3. The 2017 Memorandum of Understanding between CERT-In and FSTEC encompasses the exchange of classified source codes for critical infrastructure software and provides for the joint development of offensive cyber-defense tools.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 2 is correct. Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 2 is correct as the 2016 Agreement established the primary bilateral framework for cooperation in information security, including incident response and capacity building. Statement 1 is incorrect because the 2021 agreement focuses on cooperation against cyber-terrorism and crime but does not include provisions for automatic extradition, which is governed by separate legal treaties. Statement 3 is incorrect because the MoU between CERT-In and FSTEC focuses on technical cooperation and information sharing regarding cyber threats, but it does not involve the exchange of classified source codes or the development of offensive cyber-defense tools.
Consider the following statements regarding Arctic region engagement and Northern Sea Route cooperation:
1. The Arctic Council's 2017 Fairbanks Declaration includes a specific clause that allows India to provide technical assistance for the construction of nuclear-powered icebreakers at the Zvezda shipyard.
2. In 2022, the Russian Federation extended an invitation to India to join the Northern Sea Route Administration, which grants New Delhi regulatory oversight over transit fees for international cargo vessels.
3. The 2019 Vladivostok summit between India and Russia resulted in a memorandum of understanding to explore the development of the Chennai-Vladivostok Maritime Corridor to facilitate trade along the Northern Sea Route.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 3 is correct. Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect.
Statement 3 is correct because the 2019 Vladivostok summit established the Chennai-Vladivostok Maritime Corridor (CVMC) to enhance connectivity between India and the Russian Far East. Statement 1 is incorrect as the Arctic Council's Fairbanks Declaration focuses on environmental protection and sustainable development, not bilateral industrial projects like icebreaker construction. Statement 2 is incorrect because while Russia has invited India to collaborate on the Northern Sea Route, it has not granted India any regulatory oversight or authority over transit fees, which remain under exclusive Russian sovereign control.
Consider the following statements regarding Rupee-Rouble payment mechanism and currency settlement:
1. The 2023 bilateral trade volume between India and Russia reached a record high of approximately 65 billion USD, largely driven by energy imports settled through alternative currency channels.
2. The Russian Central Bank maintains a significant portion of its foreign exchange reserves in Indian Rupees to manage the trade surplus generated by energy exports.
3. The 2014 Agreement on Cooperation in the Peaceful Uses of Atomic Energy includes provisions for the establishment of a direct currency swap line between the Reserve Bank of India and the Central Bank of Russia to stabilize the exchange rate.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is correct as bilateral trade surged to over $65 billion in 2023, primarily fueled by discounted Russian crude oil imports settled via non-dollar channels. Statement 2 is correct because the accumulation of Indian Rupees in Vostro accounts held by Russian banks effectively acts as a reserve for Russia to manage its trade surplus and facilitate ongoing imports from India. Statement 3 is incorrect because the 2014 agreement focuses exclusively on nuclear energy cooperation, and there is no formal direct currency swap line established between the RBI and the Central Bank of Russia for exchange rate stabilization.
Consider the following statements regarding Russia's stance on India's permanent membership in UNSC:
1. In the 2005 India-Russia summit held in Moscow, the two nations signed the 'Roadmap for Multilateral Reform' which established a formal timeline for India's induction into the UNSC by the year 2020.
2. In the 2010 Joint Statement during President Dmitry Medvedev's visit to India, Russia officially reiterated its support for India as a strong and appropriate candidate for a permanent seat in an expanded UN Security Council.
3. The 1971 Treaty of Peace, Friendship and Cooperation included a specific annex regarding the restructuring of the UN Security Council, which served as the foundational document for Russia's subsequent endorsement of India's permanent seat.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 2 is correct. Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 2 is correct as Russia has consistently expressed its support for India's candidature in various joint statements, including the 2010 visit of President Medvedev. Statement 1 is incorrect because no such 'Roadmap for Multilateral Reform' with a 2020 timeline for UNSC induction was ever signed between the two nations. Statement 3 is incorrect because the 1971 Treaty of Peace, Friendship and Cooperation focused on security and bilateral cooperation during the Cold War context and did not contain any provisions or annexes regarding the restructuring of the UN Security Council.
Consider the following statements regarding Impact of Russia-Ukraine conflict on India's strategic autonomy:
1. The 1971 Treaty of Peace, Friendship and Cooperation includes a clause on the automatic deployment of joint naval forces in the Indian Ocean, which was invoked by India during the 2022 Ukraine crisis to secure maritime supply routes.
2. In the 22nd India-Russia Annual Summit held in July 2024, both nations set a target to increase bilateral trade to $100 billion by the year 2030.
3. The Vladivostok-Chennai Maritime Corridor, operationalized through a 2019 memorandum, provides for the transit of Russian military hardware through the Northern Sea Route, bypassing the Malacca Strait to ensure uninterrupted defense deliveries.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 2 is correct. Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 2 is correct as the 22nd India-Russia Annual Summit in July 2024 reaffirmed the commitment to reach a $100 billion bilateral trade target by 2030. Statement 1 is incorrect because the 1971 Treaty contained no provision for automatic joint naval deployment and was not invoked during the 2022 Ukraine crisis. Statement 3 is incorrect because the Vladivostok-Chennai Maritime Corridor is a commercial shipping route designed to facilitate trade and energy supplies, not a mechanism for the transit of military hardware.
Consider the following statements regarding Space exploration collaboration and Gaganyaan mission support:
1. The 2018 bilateral agreement on human spaceflight established a joint venture for the manufacturing of the Gaganyaan crew module, which is currently operational at the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre.
2. Russia provided the cryogenic engine technology for the GSLV Mk III launch vehicle, which was successfully integrated into the Gaganyaan mission architecture during the 2019 technical review.
3. The 2004 Protocol on Space Cooperation allows for the joint development of the Indian Reusable Launch Vehicle (RLV-TD), with Russian engineers providing the guidance systems for the 2016 test flight.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
All three statements are incorrect because the Gaganyaan mission is primarily an indigenous effort developed by ISRO, with Russia providing critical astronaut training and life support systems rather than manufacturing crew modules or providing GSLV Mk III engines. Specifically, the cryogenic engine technology for GSLV Mk III (LVM3) was developed indigenously by ISRO after the 1990s technology transfer restrictions, and there is no 2004 protocol for joint RLV-TD development, as the RLV-TD is a homegrown technology demonstrator program.
Consider the following statements regarding Joint military exercises like INDRA and their strategic signaling:
1. The 2000 Declaration on Strategic Partnership between India and Russia established the annual summit mechanism and formally integrated the Indian Armed Forces into the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) framework.
2. The INDRA-NAVY exercise series, which commenced in 2005, incorporates the interoperability of the INS Vikramaditya and the Russian Admiral Kuznetsov aircraft carrier to secure maritime trade routes in the South China Sea.
3. The inaugural edition of the INDRA joint military exercise between India and Russia was conducted in 2003, focusing primarily on counter-terrorism operations in the Rajasthan desert.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 3 is correct. Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect.
Statement 3 is correct as the inaugural INDRA exercise was held in 2003, focusing on counter-terrorism. Statement 1 is incorrect because while the 2000 Declaration established the annual summit mechanism, India is not a member of the CSTO and has never integrated its armed forces into that framework. Statement 2 is incorrect because INDRA-NAVY exercises are primarily conducted in the Indian Ocean and the Bay of Bengal, not the South China Sea, and the exercises do not involve the joint operational deployment of the Admiral Kuznetsov.
Consider the following statements regarding BrahMos Aerospace joint venture and defense technology transfer:
1. In January 2022, the Philippines signed a $374.96 million contract with BrahMos Aerospace for the supply of shore-based anti-ship missile systems.
2. Under the 2010 India-Russia Military-Technical Cooperation agreement, the production of the BrahMos missile airframe was shifted to the HAL facility in Bengaluru to facilitate indigenous technology absorption.
3. The BrahMos-II is a proposed hypersonic cruise missile currently under development, intended to achieve speeds of Mach 7 or higher.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 3 is correct. Statement 2 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is correct as India and the Philippines signed the $374.96 million deal in January 2022, marking India's first major export of the BrahMos system. Statement 3 is correct because BrahMos-II is a planned hypersonic cruise missile project designed to reach speeds of Mach 7 or higher using scramjet technology. Statement 2 is incorrect because, while India focuses on indigenization, the primary airframe production and integration for BrahMos are handled by BrahMos Aerospace’s dedicated facilities and various public/private sector partners, not specifically under a 2010 agreement shifting production to HAL.
Consider the following statements regarding Kudankulam Nuclear Power Project and civil nuclear cooperation:
1. The 2014 Strategic Vision document includes provisions for the joint manufacturing of reactor components in India, and it designated the Jaitapur site as the primary location for Russian-designed reactors.
2. The civil nuclear cooperation agreement signed in 2008 allows for the reprocessing of spent fuel from Russian-supplied reactors, and it incorporates the specific safeguards protocols defined in the 1998 Indo-Russian friendship treaty.
3. The 'Strategic Vision for Strengthening Cooperation in Peaceful Uses of Atomic Energy' was adopted by India and Russia during the 15th Annual Summit in December 2014.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 3 is correct. Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect.
Statement 3 is correct as the 'Strategic Vision' was indeed adopted during the 15th Annual Summit in December 2014. Statement 1 is incorrect because the Jaitapur site is designated for French (EDF) reactors, not Russian ones, which are primarily located at Kudankulam. Statement 2 is incorrect because the 2008 agreement does not reference the 1998 friendship treaty for safeguards; instead, it operates under IAEA safeguards and specific bilateral protocols established in the 2008/2010 agreements.
Consider the following statements regarding Cooperation in the Russian Far East development projects:
1. The 2018 bilateral summit in New Delhi resulted in the establishment of a dedicated Russian Far East Development Fund, which provides venture capital for Indian start-ups operating in the Primorsky Krai territory.
2. India and Russia signed a Memorandum of Understanding in 2019 focusing on cooperation in the exploration and exploitation of coking coal deposits in the Magadan region.
3. Cooperation in the diamond industry is facilitated by the 2016 bilateral protocol, which allows Indian firms to engage in direct rough diamond procurement from the Alrosa mines located in the Yakutia region.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 2 is correct. Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 2 is correct as India and Russia signed an MoU in 2019 to cooperate in coking coal mining in the Russian Far East, specifically targeting the Magadan region to secure raw material supplies. Statement 1 is incorrect because the 2019 Vladivostok summit, not the 2018 New Delhi summit, saw India extend a $1 billion Line of Credit for the development of the Russian Far East, rather than a venture capital fund for start-ups. Statement 3 is incorrect because while India and Russia have strong diamond trade ties, the direct procurement from Alrosa mines was facilitated by various commercial agreements and the 'Special Notified Zone' in Mumbai, not a specific 2016 bilateral protocol.
Consider the following statements regarding Fertilizer supply chain security and agricultural trade:
1. The 2019 Vladivostok summit resulted in the signing of the India-Russia Fertilizer Trade Protocol, which provides for the direct transfer of Russian state-owned fertilizer assets to Indian public sector undertakings.
2. The 2007 joint venture between Rashtriya Chemicals and Fertilizers and PhosAgro provides for the construction of a dedicated fertilizer pipeline from the Russian Far East to the port of Vladivostok for export to Indian markets.
3. The 1993 Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation encompasses the framework for the current Rupee-Rouble payment mechanism, which was utilized during the 2022 fertilizer supply crisis to bypass third-party clearing houses.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
All three statements are factually incorrect: the 2019 Vladivostok summit focused on energy and connectivity rather than the transfer of state-owned fertilizer assets; there is no 2007 joint venture between RCF and PhosAgro involving a pipeline, as fertilizer trade relies on maritime shipping; and the 1993 Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation does not contain the framework for the Rupee-Rouble mechanism, which is instead governed by separate bilateral banking arrangements and RBI guidelines.
Consider the following statements regarding Convergence and divergence in SCO and BRICS multilateral platforms:
1. The New Development Bank, established by the Fortaleza Declaration of 2014, provides for the inclusion of non-BRICS members provided they hold a majority share in the bank's voting rights.
2. The SCO's 2005 Moscow Declaration introduced the concept of the 'Greater Eurasian Partnership', a framework Russia uses to align its bilateral economic ties with India's Act East Policy.
3. The 2023 BRICS expansion invited six new countries to join the bloc, with Iran and Egypt formally becoming members on January 1, 2024.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 3 is correct. Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect.
Statement 3 is correct as the 2023 BRICS expansion invited six nations, with Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, and the UAE formally joining on January 1, 2024. Statement 1 is incorrect because the New Development Bank's Articles of Agreement allow for non-BRICS members, but voting power is determined by capital contribution, and BRICS nations must always collectively hold at least 55% of the voting power. Statement 2 is incorrect because the 'Greater Eurasian Partnership' was proposed by Vladimir Putin in 2015, not the 2005 SCO Moscow Declaration, which focused primarily on regional security and counter-terrorism.
Consider the following statements regarding Rupee-Rouble payment mechanism and currency settlement:
1. The Integrated Payments Interface (UPI) and Russia's Faster Payments System (FPS) have been discussed in bilateral forums to explore technical interoperability for financial messaging.
2. State Bank of India and UCO Bank have been identified as key institutions for maintaining special Rupee Vostro accounts to handle transactions with Russian entities.
3. Under the current settlement framework, Indian exporters receive payments in Indian Rupees, which are then credited to the Vostro accounts of Russian banks held in India.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct.
Statement 1 is correct as India and Russia have held high-level talks to link India's UPI with Russia's Faster Payments System (FPS) to facilitate seamless cross-border financial messaging. Statement 2 is correct because the RBI authorized several Indian banks, including UCO Bank and SBI, to open Special Rupee Vostro Accounts (SRVAs) to facilitate trade settlements in local currency following Western sanctions on Russian banks. Statement 3 is correct as the mechanism allows Russian banks to hold Rupee accounts in India, enabling Indian exporters to receive payments directly in Rupees, thereby bypassing the need for third-party currencies like the US Dollar.
Consider the following statements regarding Chennai-Vladivostok Maritime Corridor (CVMC) strategic relevance:
1. The Chennai-Vladivostok Maritime Corridor was formally inaugurated under the framework of the 2017 India-Russia Strategic Partnership Agreement, which established a dedicated joint task force to oversee the construction of deep-sea berths in both ports.
2. The Eastern Maritime Corridor project involves the participation of the Chennai Port Authority and the Far East Agency for Investment Attraction and Export Support.
3. The development of the CVMC is intended to facilitate the transportation of coking coal, oil, liquefied natural gas, and fertilizers between the two nations.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct. Statement 1 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is incorrect because the CVMC was proposed during the 2019 Eastern Economic Forum, not the 2017 Strategic Partnership Agreement, and does not involve a joint task force for berth construction. Statement 2 is correct as the project is a collaborative effort involving India's Chennai Port Authority and Russia's Far East Agency for Investment Attraction and Export Support to enhance connectivity. Statement 3 is correct because the corridor is specifically designed to reduce transit time by 40% for the strategic trade of commodities like coking coal, oil, LNG, and fertilizers.
Consider the following statements regarding Joint military exercises like INDRA and their strategic signaling:
1. During the 2019 INDRA exercise held in Babina, the participating contingents utilized the T-90S Bhishma tanks to practice joint maneuvers based on the protocols defined in the 1971 Treaty of Peace, Friendship and Cooperation.
2. Under the 2010 Inter-Governmental Agreement on Military-Technical Cooperation, the two nations established a framework for the joint development and production of the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile system.
3. The Vostok-2022 strategic command-staff exercise, hosted by the Russian Eastern Military District, included Indian infantry participation and served as the primary platform for activating the mutual defense clauses of the 1993 bilateral friendship treaty.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 2 is correct. Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 2 is correct as the 2010 Inter-Governmental Agreement reinforced the framework for the BrahMos project, which originated from an earlier 1998 agreement. Statement 1 is incorrect because the 1971 Treaty of Peace, Friendship and Cooperation does not contain operational protocols for joint military maneuvers, and the INDRA exercises focus on counter-terrorism and interoperability rather than treaty-specific tactical protocols. Statement 3 is incorrect because while India participated in Vostok-2022, the exercise is a multilateral platform that does not activate mutual defense clauses, as India maintains a policy of strategic autonomy and is not part of any formal military alliance with Russia.
Consider the following statements regarding BrahMos Aerospace joint venture and defense technology transfer:
1. The 2016 India-Russia Inter-Governmental Agreement allowed for the formation of a joint venture to produce spare parts for Russian-origin defense platforms in India.
2. The BrahMos missile system derives its name from the confluence of the Brahmaputra River in India and the Moskva River in Russia.
3. BrahMos Aerospace is structured as a joint venture with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) of India holding a 50.5% equity stake and NPO Mashinostroyeniya of Russia holding 49.5%.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct.
Statement 1 is correct as the 2016 Inter-Governmental Agreement facilitated the 'Make in India' initiative for manufacturing Russian-origin spare parts. Statement 2 is correct, reflecting the linguistic fusion of the Brahmaputra and Moskva rivers, symbolizing the bilateral partnership. Statement 3 is correct because BrahMos Aerospace was established in 1998 as a joint venture between India's DRDO (50.5%) and Russia's NPO Mashinostroyeniya (49.5%) to develop supersonic cruise missiles.
Consider the following statements regarding Fertilizer supply chain security and agricultural trade:
1. The 2015 bilateral agreement on agricultural cooperation allows for the establishment of a joint grain reserve, which currently functions as the primary mechanism for regulating fertilizer price volatility between New Delhi and Moscow.
2. The 2010 India-Russia Intergovernmental Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific, Technological and Cultural Cooperation established a dedicated working group to facilitate long-term supply contracts for Diammonium Phosphate (DAP).
3. In 2022, India emerged as the largest importer of Russian fertilizers, with imports of potash and complex fertilizers reaching approximately 2.4 million tonnes during the fiscal year.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct. Statement 1 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is incorrect because there is no 2015 bilateral agreement establishing a joint grain reserve for regulating fertilizer prices; price volatility is managed through commercial contracts and government-to-government negotiations rather than a joint reserve mechanism. Statement 2 is correct as the 2010 Intergovernmental Commission established specific working groups to streamline trade, including long-term supply arrangements for critical agricultural inputs like DAP. Statement 3 is correct because, following the 2022 geopolitical shifts, India significantly increased its procurement of Russian fertilizers, successfully importing over 2.4 million tonnes of potash and complex fertilizers to secure domestic agricultural stability.
Consider the following statements regarding BrahMos Aerospace joint venture and defense technology transfer:
1. The BrahMos Aerospace joint venture was established in 1998 through an Inter-Governmental Agreement between the Government of India and the Government of the Russian Federation.
2. The BrahMos missile utilizes a two-stage propulsion system consisting of a solid propellant booster and a liquid ramjet engine, which was first successfully flight-tested at the Pokhran-II range in 2001.
3. The 2000 Declaration on Strategic Partnership between India and Russia formally integrated the BrahMos project into the framework of the Vande Mataram defense initiative.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is correct as the BrahMos Aerospace joint venture was indeed established in 1998 via an Inter-Governmental Agreement between India and Russia. Statement 2 is incorrect because while the missile uses a two-stage propulsion system, the first successful flight test occurred at the Integrated Test Range, Chandipur, Odisha, not the Pokhran-II range. Statement 3 is incorrect because the 'Vande Mataram defense initiative' is a fictitious term, and the BrahMos project operates independently of any such framework under the India-Russia strategic partnership.
Consider the following statements regarding Energy security and Rosneft-Nayara Energy investment dynamics:
1. The 2010 India-Russia Inter-Governmental Agreement on Cooperation in the Oil and Gas Sector established the framework for the Rosneft acquisition of the Essar Oil assets in the Vadinar region.
2. Under the 2019 Vladivostok Summit agreements, Rosneft increased its equity holding in Nayara Energy to a majority stake of 51%, facilitating direct management of the refinery's crude procurement.
3. The 2000 Declaration on Strategic Partnership between India and Russia serves as the primary legal instrument governing the taxation and dividend repatriation policies of the Rosneft-Nayara joint venture.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
All three statements are incorrect because the 2017 Rosneft-Nayara deal was a commercial transaction involving Trafigura and UCP, not an outcome of a 2010 inter-governmental agreement. Furthermore, Rosneft holds a 49.13% stake in Nayara Energy, not a majority 51% stake, and the 2000 Strategic Partnership Declaration is a high-level political framework rather than a legal instrument for specific corporate taxation or dividend repatriation policies.
Consider the following statements regarding Joint military exercises like INDRA and their strategic signaling:
1. The Russian-led Zapad-2021 exercise involved observer delegations from the Indian Ministry of Defence to evaluate the operational effectiveness of the S-400 Triumf missile systems deployed under the 2018 procurement contract.
2. The 2020 edition of the INDRA-NAVY exercise in the Indian Ocean region featured the integration of Russian nuclear-powered submarines into the Indian Western Naval Command's tactical grid for coordinated anti-submarine warfare drills.
3. The 2017 INDRA exercise marked the first time the three branches of the Indian military participated simultaneously in a single theater, utilizing the logistical support provisions of the 2016 Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement (LEMOA).
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
All three statements are incorrect because they misrepresent historical facts: Zapad-2021 was a multi-nation exercise where India participated with a contingent, not merely for S-400 evaluation; the INDRA-NAVY exercises have never involved the integration of Russian nuclear submarines into the Indian Western Naval Command's tactical grid; and the 2017 INDRA exercise was indeed the first tri-service drill between the two nations, but it did not utilize LEMOA, which is a bilateral logistics agreement exclusively signed with the United States, not Russia.
Consider the following statements regarding International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) connectivity:
1. The accession of Armenia to the INSTC agreement in 2006 expanded the geographical scope of the corridor to include the South Caucasus region as a transit hub.
2. In 2014, the INSTC underwent two major dry-run studies to identify bottlenecks in the route, which involved the movement of goods from Mumbai to Baku via Bandar Abbas.
3. The INSTC framework includes the Trans-Caspian route, which utilizes the Iranian ports of Bandar Anzali and Bandar Amirabad to connect with the Russian port of Astrakhan.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct.
Statement 1 is correct as Armenia joined the INSTC agreement in 2006, integrating the South Caucasus into the transit network. Statement 2 is correct because the 2014 dry-run studies, conducted by the Federation of Freight Forwarders' Associations in India, successfully tested the Mumbai-Bandar Abbas-Baku route to assess logistical efficiency and identify infrastructure bottlenecks. Statement 3 is correct because the Trans-Caspian segment serves as a critical maritime link within the INSTC, connecting Iranian ports like Bandar Anzali and Bandar Amirabad to Russia's Astrakhan port to facilitate multimodal cargo movement.
Consider the following statements regarding Russia's stance on India's permanent membership in UNSC:
1. During the 2019 Vladivostok Economic Forum, the joint communiqué proposed a trilateral mechanism between India, Russia, and China to coordinate a unified voting strategy for the expansion of the UNSC permanent membership.
2. The 2015 India-Russia Joint Statement signed in Ufa during the BRICS summit introduced a clause linking India's permanent membership in the UNSC to the successful implementation of the Indo-Russian nuclear energy cooperation agreement.
3. The 2022 India-Russia Joint Statement, following the meeting in New Delhi, underscored the importance of comprehensive reform of the UN Security Council, with Russia viewing India as a key player in the evolving multipolar international order.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 3 is correct. Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect.
Statement 3 is correct as Russia has consistently supported India's permanent membership in the UNSC, explicitly reaffirming this in the 2022 Joint Statement as part of its vision for a multipolar world order. Statement 1 is incorrect because no such trilateral mechanism for a unified voting strategy on UNSC expansion was proposed at the 2019 Vladivostok Economic Forum. Statement 2 is incorrect because India's UNSC bid has never been linked to nuclear energy agreements; Russia's support for India's candidature is based on its global stature and contribution to international peace, not conditional on bilateral commercial contracts.
Consider the following statements regarding Space exploration collaboration and Gaganyaan mission support:
1. Russian state corporation Roscosmos provided critical training for four Indian Air Force pilots at the Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Center in Star City between 2020 and 2021.
2. The 2007 Inter-Governmental Agreement on cooperation in the exploration and use of outer space for peaceful purposes serves as the foundational framework for India-Russia space collaboration.
3. The Gaganyaan mission utilizes Russian-made flight suits, specifically the Sokol-KV-2 model, which were procured through Glavkosmos for the crewed orbital flight.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct.
Statement 1 is correct as four Indian Air Force pilots underwent rigorous training at Russia's Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Center from 2020 to 2021. Statement 2 is correct because the 2007 Inter-Governmental Agreement established the formal framework for bilateral cooperation in space exploration, including technology transfer and crew training. Statement 3 is correct as ISRO procured the Sokol-KV-2 space suits from Glavkosmos, a subsidiary of Roscosmos, to ensure the safety of the Gaganyaan crew during the orbital mission.
Consider the following statements regarding India-Russia Annual Summit mechanism and diplomatic continuity:
1. The India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific, Technological and Cultural Cooperation meets concurrently with the Annual Summit to finalize the roadmap for the International North-South Transport Corridor.
2. The India-Russia Annual Summit held in 2018 in Sochi resulted in the signing of the S-400 Triumf missile system deal, which was the first major defense acquisition finalized under the 2000 Strategic Partnership framework.
3. The 2000 Declaration on Strategic Partnership established the India-Russia Business Council, which holds its plenary session during the Annual Summit to review the progress of the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Project.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is incorrect because the Inter-Governmental Commission (IRIGC-TEC) is a separate institutional mechanism that meets independently of the Annual Summit, and the INSTC roadmap is managed by dedicated transport working groups. Statement 2 is incorrect because the S-400 deal was signed during the 2018 summit in New Delhi, not Sochi, and it was not the first major acquisition under the 2000 framework, as several significant deals like the BrahMos missile program preceded it. Statement 3 is incorrect because the 2000 Declaration established the Strategic Partnership, but the India-Russia Business Council was not its primary creation, and the Kudankulam project is overseen by the dedicated Inter-Governmental Commission on Military-Technical Cooperation and Nuclear energy working groups rather than the Business Council plenary.
Consider the following statements regarding Impact of Russia-Ukraine conflict on India's strategic autonomy:
1. India's abstention from the March 2022 UN General Assembly resolution ES-11/1 regarding the situation in Ukraine was consistent with its long-standing policy of maintaining strategic autonomy in international conflicts.
2. The Inter-Governmental Agreement on the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Project, signed in 1988 and reaffirmed in 2008, remains a cornerstone of India-Russia energy cooperation despite the ongoing geopolitical shifts in Eastern Europe.
3. The 2000 Declaration on Strategic Partnership between India and the Russian Federation serves as the foundational framework for the bilateral relationship, emphasizing a multipolar world order.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct.
Statement 1 is correct as India's abstention reflects its policy of 'strategic autonomy,' prioritizing national interest and diplomatic dialogue over bloc-based alignment. Statement 2 is correct because the Kudankulam project, initiated in 1988 and expanded in 2008, remains a vital pillar of civil nuclear cooperation unaffected by current geopolitical tensions. Statement 3 is correct as the 2000 Declaration on Strategic Partnership established the vision of a multipolar world, which continues to guide the 'Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership' between the two nations.
Consider the following statements regarding Kudankulam Nuclear Power Project and civil nuclear cooperation:
1. Under the 2008 civil nuclear cooperation framework, Russia became the first country to sign a bilateral agreement with India for the construction of additional nuclear power units.
2. As of 2023, the roadmap for the Kudankulam project includes the construction of six power units, with Units 3 and 4 currently in the advanced stages of development.
3. The Kudankulam Nuclear Power Project is implemented by the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited in technical collaboration with Atomstroyexport, a subsidiary of Rosatom.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct.
Statement 1 is correct as Russia signed the landmark civil nuclear cooperation agreement with India in December 2008, following the NSG waiver. Statement 2 is correct because the project encompasses six VVER-1000 units, with Units 1 and 2 operational, and Units 3 and 4 in advanced construction stages. Statement 3 is correct as the project is a joint venture between India's NPCIL and Russia's state-owned Rosatom subsidiary, Atomstroyexport, utilizing pressurized water reactor technology.
Consider the following statements regarding India-Russia Annual Summit mechanism and diplomatic continuity:
1. The 2015 India-Russia summit held in Moscow saw the signing of the 'Druzhba-Dosti' agreement, which serves as the foundational document for the annual summit process and the current visa-free travel arrangement for diplomats.
2. The India-Russia summit mechanism includes the '2+2' Ministerial Dialogue, which was formally established in 2000 to facilitate regular communication between the Foreign and Defense Ministers of both nations.
3. The 2004 India-Russia summit in Moscow introduced the 'Vision 2020' document, which provided for the joint development of the Fifth Generation Fighter Aircraft (FGFA) as a core pillar of the annual diplomatic dialogue.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
All three statements are incorrect: the 'Declaration on the India-Russia Strategic Partnership' was signed in 2000, not 2015, and there is no 'Druzhba-Dosti' visa-free agreement; the India-Russia '2+2' Ministerial Dialogue was only established in 2021, not 2000; and while the 'Vision 2020' document was signed in 2000 to outline long-term cooperation, the FGFA project was a separate subsequent defense initiative rather than a core pillar of the original 2004 summit document.
Consider the following statements regarding Chennai-Vladivostok Maritime Corridor (CVMC) strategic relevance:
1. The operationalization of the CVMC was formally discussed during the 20th India-Russia Annual Summit held in Vladivostok in September 2019.
2. The Chennai-Vladivostok Maritime Corridor (CVMC) spans approximately 5,600 nautical miles, significantly reducing the transit time compared to the existing route via the Suez Canal.
3. The corridor connects the port of Chennai on the eastern coast of India to the port of Vladivostok in the Russian Far East, traversing the South China Sea and the Sea of Japan.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct.
Statement 1 is correct as the CVMC was formally launched during the 2019 Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok. Statement 2 is correct because the corridor spans roughly 5,600 nautical miles, cutting transit time from 40 days via the Suez Canal to approximately 24 days. Statement 3 is correct as the route strategically connects the Bay of Bengal and the South China Sea to the Sea of Japan, facilitating deeper economic integration between India's eastern coast and the Russian Far East.
Consider the following statements regarding International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) connectivity:
1. The INSTC route aims to reduce the transit time between Mumbai and Moscow by approximately 40 percent compared to the traditional maritime route via the Suez Canal.
2. The corridor spans a 7,200-kilometer multi-mode network involving ship, rail, and road routes for moving freight between India, Iran, Azerbaijan, and Russia.
3. The Chabahar Port in Iran is frequently cited as a strategic maritime node that links the INSTC to the Indian Ocean, facilitating trade with landlocked Central Asian countries.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct.
Statement 1 is correct as the INSTC reduces transit time by 30-40% and costs by 30% compared to the Suez Canal route. Statement 2 is correct because the 7,200 km multi-modal network connects India to Russia via Iran and Azerbaijan using a combination of sea, rail, and road links. Statement 3 is correct because the Chabahar Port serves as a vital gateway, providing India with a direct sea-land route to Afghanistan and Central Asia, effectively complementing the INSTC framework.
Consider the following statements regarding Cybersecurity cooperation and information technology pacts:
1. The 2016 Agreement on Cooperation in the Field of Information Security provides for the establishment of a dedicated military-to-military hotline between the Indian Cyber Command and the Russian Main Intelligence Directorate (GRU).
2. The 2021 Inter-Governmental Agreement on Cooperation in the Field of Information Security established a joint working group to address threats posed by the use of ICTs for criminal purposes.
3. During the 21st India-Russia Annual Summit in December 2021, both nations reaffirmed their commitment to the 'non-militarization of outer space' and the protection of critical information infrastructure.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct. Statement 1 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is incorrect because the 2016 Agreement focused on broad cooperation against cyber-terrorism and information security threats, not the establishment of a military-to-military hotline between the Cyber Command and GRU. Statement 2 is correct as the 2021 Inter-Governmental Agreement formalized institutional mechanisms, including a joint working group, to combat the use of ICTs for criminal and terrorist activities. Statement 3 is correct because the Joint Statement issued during the 2021 Annual Summit explicitly highlighted the shared vision for a secure cyberspace and the prevention of an arms race in outer space.
Consider the following statements regarding Energy security and Rosneft-Nayara Energy investment dynamics:
1. In 2017, a consortium led by Rosneft acquired a 49.13% stake in Nayara Energy, which operates the Vadinar refinery in Gujarat with a capacity of 20 million metric tonnes per annum.
2. In the 2022 bilateral energy protocol, both nations agreed to settle all transactions related to the Rosneft-Nayara refinery operations in Indian Rupees to bypass the SWIFT payment system.
3. The 2017 acquisition of Nayara Energy by Rosneft was preceded by a formal memorandum of understanding signed during the 2016 Goa BRICS summit, which granted Rosneft exclusive rights to downstream distribution in India.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is correct as the 2017 deal involved a consortium led by Rosneft acquiring a 49.13% stake in Nayara Energy, which manages the 20 MMTPA Vadinar refinery. Statement 2 is incorrect because there is no such bilateral protocol mandating the settlement of all refinery transactions in Rupees to bypass SWIFT, as payments remain subject to complex international banking compliance. Statement 3 is incorrect because the 2016 BRICS summit MoU facilitated the acquisition but did not grant Rosneft 'exclusive' rights to downstream distribution in India, as the sector remains open to other domestic and international competitors.
Consider the following statements regarding S-400 Triumf missile system acquisition and CAATSA implications:
1. The S-400 Triumf acquisition was finalized under the framework of the 2000 Declaration on Strategic Partnership, which established the Inter-Governmental Commission on Military-Technical Cooperation as the primary oversight body for the deal.
2. The CAATSA legislation includes a specific 'grandfather clause' that exempts defense contracts signed prior to the 2014 annexation of Crimea, a provision often cited in diplomatic discussions regarding the S-400 delivery timeline.
3. The first regiment of the S-400 system was operationalized in the Punjab sector in December 2021, following the successful completion of the joint India-Russia technical validation trials conducted in the Astrakhan region.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is incorrect because the S-400 deal was signed in 2018 under the India-Russia Inter-Governmental Agreement (IGA), not the 2000 Declaration. Statement 2 is false as CAATSA does not contain a 'grandfather clause' for defense contracts; instead, the US President is granted waiver authority under Section 231 to exempt countries on a case-by-case basis. Statement 3 is incorrect because, while the first regiment was operationalized in December 2021, the deployment was in the Punjab sector, but it did not involve joint technical validation trials in the Astrakhan region as a prerequisite for this specific operationalization.
Consider the following statements regarding Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership framework:
1. Under the 2021 India-Russia Joint Statement, both nations agreed to a roadmap for defense cooperation extending until 2031, focusing on joint production of military equipment and technology transfer.
2. The 'Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership' between India and Russia was formally elevated from a 'Strategic Partnership' in October 2000 during the visit of President Vladimir Putin to New Delhi.
3. The 2010 Declaration on 'Enhancing the Partnership to a Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership' included the establishment of the India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific, Technological and Cultural Cooperation.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct.
Statement 1 is correct as the 2021 summit resulted in a ten-year defense cooperation program (2021-2031) emphasizing 'Make in India' and technology transfer. Statement 2 is correct because the 'Strategic Partnership' established in 2000 during President Putin's visit served as the foundational elevation for the current framework. Statement 3 is correct as the 2010 upgrade specifically consolidated institutional mechanisms like the Inter-Governmental Commission to deepen bilateral economic and technological integration.
Consider the following statements regarding Fertilizer supply chain security and agricultural trade:
1. The 2012 India-Russia roadmap for agricultural trade includes provisions for the harmonization of organic certification standards, which served as the legal basis for the 2021 increase in Russian potash import quotas.
2. Under the 2023 memorandum of understanding between the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers of India and the Ministry of Industry and Trade of Russia, both nations agreed to explore joint ventures for the production of Potash in the Urals region.
3. The 2000 Declaration on Strategic Partnership between India and the Russian Federation includes provisions for cooperation in the agricultural sector, specifically focusing on the stabilization of input costs for nitrogenous fertilizers.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct. Statement 1 is incorrect.
Statement 2 is correct as the 2023 MoU between India and Russia facilitates long-term supply security, including potential joint ventures for potash production in the Urals. Statement 3 is correct because the 2000 Declaration on Strategic Partnership established the foundational framework for bilateral cooperation, which has been consistently leveraged to stabilize agricultural input costs, including nitrogenous fertilizers. Statement 1 is incorrect because there is no 2012 roadmap for agricultural trade that serves as the legal basis for potash quotas; potash trade is governed by commercial long-term agreements and inter-governmental supply MoUs rather than organic certification harmonization.
Consider the following statements regarding Russia's role in the evolving security architecture of Afghanistan:
1. The 2001 Bonn Agreement serves as the primary legal framework for Russia's current security cooperation with the Taliban, providing the basis for the 2022 bilateral counter-terrorism memorandum.
2. Russia maintains a diplomatic presence in Kabul through its embassy, which remained operational following the Taliban's takeover in August 2021.
3. The Moscow Format of consultations on Afghanistan, established in 2017, includes representatives from Russia, India, China, Pakistan, and Iran to facilitate national reconciliation.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct. Statement 1 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is incorrect because the 2001 Bonn Agreement established the post-Taliban political transition, whereas Russia's current engagement with the Taliban is pragmatic and lacks a formal legal basis like a 2022 counter-terrorism memorandum. Statement 2 is correct as Russia is one of the few nations that kept its embassy in Kabul fully operational after the Taliban takeover in August 2021. Statement 3 is correct because the Moscow Format, launched in 2017, serves as a key multilateral mechanism involving regional powers like India, China, Pakistan, and Iran to promote stability and inclusive governance in Afghanistan.
Consider the following statements regarding Rupee-Rouble payment mechanism and currency settlement:
1. The 1978 Indo-Soviet trade agreement established a framework for non-convertible currency trade, which served as a historical precedent for modern Rupee-Rouble arrangements.
2. The Rupee-Rouble trade mechanism relies on the Vostro accounts opened by Russian banks with Indian partner banks to facilitate cross-border settlements.
3. In July 2022, the Reserve Bank of India issued a circular allowing for international trade settlements in Indian Rupees to promote the growth of global trade.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct.
Statement 1 is correct as the 1978 Indo-Soviet agreement utilized a rupee-based clearing system to bypass hard currency requirements, mirroring current efforts to insulate trade from third-party sanctions. Statement 2 is correct because the RBI-approved mechanism mandates that Russian banks open Special Rupee Vostro Accounts (SRVAs) with authorized Indian banks to settle import-export payments in local currency. Statement 3 is correct because the RBI issued a circular on July 11, 2022, formally permitting international trade settlements in Indian Rupees to reduce dependence on foreign currencies like the US Dollar.
Consider the following statements regarding Russia's stance on India's permanent membership in UNSC:
1. The 2017 India-Russia Joint Statement issued during the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum reaffirmed Russia's backing for India's candidacy, citing India's significant contribution to international peace and security.
2. During the 2021 India-Russia Annual Summit, the joint document highlighted the shared commitment of both nations to a reformed multilateral system, with Russia explicitly endorsing India's role as a global power deserving of a permanent UNSC seat.
3. Russia has consistently supported India's bid for permanent membership in the UNSC since the 2000 Declaration on Strategic Partnership, which established the framework for high-level political consultations.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct.
All three statements are correct: Russia has consistently utilized high-level platforms, including the 2017 St. Petersburg Forum and the 2021 Annual Summit, to reaffirm its support for India's permanent membership, citing India's significant contributions to global peace and its status as a key pole in a multipolar world. This diplomatic backing has been a cornerstone of the bilateral relationship since the 2000 Declaration on Strategic Partnership, which formally aligned both nations on the necessity of reforming the UNSC to reflect contemporary geopolitical realities. There are no incorrect statements as Russia remains one of the most vocal and unwavering supporters of India's candidacy among the P5 nations.
Consider the following statements regarding Arctic region engagement and Northern Sea Route cooperation:
1. India became a permanent observer member of the Arctic Council in 2013, a status that grants it voting rights on the governance of the Northern Sea Route under the Ilulissat Declaration.
2. Under the 2010 India-Russia Strategic Partnership agreement, both nations established a joint task force to manage the seasonal transit of icebreakers through the Bering Strait during the winter navigation period.
3. The 2021 Russian Arctic Policy document formally designates India as a primary stakeholder in the Yamal LNG project, providing for joint naval patrols to secure commercial shipping lanes in the Kara Sea.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is incorrect because while India became an Arctic Council observer in 2013, this status does not grant voting rights on the governance of the Northern Sea Route, which remains under Russian jurisdiction. Statement 2 is incorrect as no such joint task force for icebreaker management exists under the 2010 agreement, and the Northern Sea Route is managed primarily by Russia's Rosatom. Statement 3 is incorrect because the 2021 Russian Arctic Policy does not designate India as a primary stakeholder in Yamal LNG, nor does it provide for joint naval patrols in the Kara Sea, as Russia maintains strict sovereignty over these waters.
Consider the following statements regarding S-400 Triumf missile system acquisition and CAATSA implications:
1. India signed the $5.43 billion deal for the procurement of five S-400 Triumf air defense missile systems with Russia during the 19th India-Russia Annual Bilateral Summit in October 2018.
2. Under the 2010 Agreement on Military-Technical Cooperation, India and Russia established a joint venture to facilitate the local assembly of S-400 components, aiming to achieve 40 percent indigenization by the final delivery phase.
3. The United States Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA), enacted in 2017, targets specific sectors of the Russian economy including defense and intelligence through Section 231.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 3 is correct. Statement 2 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is correct as India signed the $5.43 billion deal for five S-400 systems during the 19th India-Russia Summit in October 2018. Statement 3 is correct because CAATSA Section 231 mandates sanctions against entities engaging in significant transactions with the Russian defense and intelligence sectors. Statement 2 is incorrect because there is no such agreement or joint venture for the local assembly or indigenization of S-400 components; the systems are being procured directly from Russia as complete units.
Consider the following statements regarding Impact of Russia-Ukraine conflict on India's strategic autonomy:
1. The BrahMos Aerospace joint venture, established in 1998, continues to operate as a successful model of defense collaboration, with the first export order to the Philippines finalized in 2022.
2. Russia has remained India's primary supplier of crude oil since 2022, with imports reaching record levels due to discounted pricing mechanisms amidst global supply chain disruptions.
3. The 2021 India-Russia 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue, held in New Delhi, institutionalized the cooperation between the foreign and defense ministers of both countries to address regional security challenges.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct.
Statement 1 is correct as the BrahMos joint venture remains a flagship project, with the Philippines signing a $375 million deal in January 2022 for the shore-based anti-ship missile system. Statement 2 is correct because, following the 2022 conflict, India significantly increased its intake of Russian crude, making Russia one of India's top oil suppliers due to competitive pricing. Statement 3 is correct as the inaugural 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue held in New Delhi in December 2021 formally established this high-level mechanism to deepen strategic and security ties between the two nations.
Consider the following statements regarding Space exploration collaboration and Gaganyaan mission support:
1. The India-Russia Space Cooperation Working Group, established in 1994, oversees the transfer of heavy-lift launch technology for the Gaganyaan mission under the provisions of the Missile Technology Control Regime.
2. Under the 2021 India-Russia Joint Statement, both nations agreed to enhance cooperation in the development of space-based systems, including the deployment of GLONASS ground stations on Indian territory.
3. The Indian Space Research Organisation and the Russian Federal Space Agency signed a memorandum of understanding in 2015 to facilitate the exchange of data from the Chandrayaan-2 mission's lunar orbiter.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct. Statement 1 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is incorrect because the Gaganyaan mission is primarily an indigenous effort supported by Russia through the training of Indian astronauts at the Yuri Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Center, not through the transfer of heavy-lift launch technology under the MTCR. Statement 2 is correct as the 2021 India-Russia Joint Statement reaffirmed cooperation in space, including the integration of Indian NavIC with the Russian GLONASS system and the establishment of ground stations. Statement 3 is correct because ISRO and Roscosmos signed a 2015 MoU to enhance bilateral space cooperation, which included provisions for data sharing and scientific collaboration regarding lunar exploration missions.
Consider the following statements regarding Kudankulam Nuclear Power Project and civil nuclear cooperation:
1. The Inter-Governmental Agreement for the construction of the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Project was signed between India and the Russian Federation in November 1988.
2. Units 1 and 2 of the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Project utilize VVER-1000 pressurized water reactor technology, which is designed to meet post-Fukushima safety standards.
3. The 1988 Inter-Governmental Agreement established the initial framework for the project, and the first unit achieved its first criticality in 2010 following the full transfer of enrichment technology.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is incorrect.
The 1988 Inter-Governmental Agreement between India and the USSR laid the foundation for the Kudankulam project, and Units 1 and 2 indeed employ VVER-1000 reactors, which were retrofitted with advanced safety features post-Fukushima. Statement 3 is incorrect because, while the 1988 agreement provided the framework, the first unit achieved criticality only in 2013, not 2010, and the project operates under a 'supply-and-build' model without the transfer of sensitive nuclear enrichment technology to India.
Consider the following statements regarding Convergence and divergence in SCO and BRICS multilateral platforms:
1. The 2000 Declaration on Strategic Partnership between India and Russia established the institutional framework for annual summits between the heads of state.
2. During the 2016 BRICS Goa Summit, India and Russia signed the S-400 Triumf missile defense deal, which was subsequently integrated into the SCO's joint military exercise protocols.
3. Under the SCO Charter, the Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS) is based in Tashkent and coordinates counter-terrorism intelligence sharing among member states.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 3 is correct. Statement 2 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is correct as the Declaration on Strategic Partnership signed in October 2000 during President Putin's visit to India institutionalized annual summits. Statement 3 is correct because the SCO Charter mandates the Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS), headquartered in Tashkent, to facilitate intelligence sharing and counter-terrorism cooperation. Statement 2 is incorrect because while the S-400 deal was signed in 2016, it is a bilateral defense agreement between India and Russia and has never been integrated into the SCO's joint military exercise protocols, which focus on regional stability rather than specific bilateral hardware acquisitions.
Consider the following statements regarding Russia's role in the evolving security architecture of Afghanistan:
1. The Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO), led by Russia, conducted military exercises in Tajikistan in October 2021 to address potential security spillover from Afghanistan.
2. Russia has consistently advocated for the formation of an inclusive government in Afghanistan as a prerequisite for formal diplomatic recognition, as reiterated in the 2023 Kazan Declaration.
3. In the 2022 St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, Russian officials engaged with Taliban-appointed representatives to discuss potential trade in energy and grain supplies.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct.
Statement 1 is correct as the CSTO held 'Interaction-2021' exercises in Tajikistan in October 2021 to bolster border security following the Taliban takeover. Statement 2 is correct because the 2023 Kazan Declaration of the Moscow Format consultations explicitly emphasized the necessity of an inclusive government representing all ethnic and political groups in Afghanistan. Statement 3 is correct as Russia engaged with Taliban officials at the 2022 St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, leading to subsequent bilateral agreements on the supply of gasoline, diesel, and grain to Afghanistan.
Consider the following statements regarding Defense procurement diversification and Make in India initiative:
1. The Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant project, initiated under the 1988 bilateral agreement, reached a significant milestone in 2013 when Unit 1 attained criticality using fuel supplied by the Russian state corporation Rosatom.
2. Under the 2010 Agreement on Military-Technical Cooperation, the Indian Navy commissioned the INS Vikramaditya, a modified Kiev-class aircraft carrier that completed its sea trials in the Barents Sea during the summer of 2012.
3. The 2000 Declaration on Strategic Partnership between India and Russia established the framework for the BrahMos Aerospace joint venture, which successfully test-fired its first supersonic cruise missile from a Sukhoi-30MKI in 2001.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is incorrect because while the Kudankulam project began in 1988, Unit 1 attained criticality in 2013, but the fuel was supplied by Russia's TVEL (a Rosatom subsidiary) and the 1988 agreement was between India and the USSR, not Rosatom directly. Statement 2 is incorrect because the INS Vikramaditya was commissioned in 2013, not 2010, and the 2010 Agreement on Military-Technical Cooperation focused on broader defense technology rather than the specific procurement of the carrier. Statement 3 is incorrect because the BrahMos joint venture was established in 1998, and the first successful test-fire of the BrahMos missile from a Sukhoi-30MKI did not occur until 2017, not 2001.
Consider the following statements regarding Energy security and Rosneft-Nayara Energy investment dynamics:
1. The India-Russia Strategic Economic Dialogue, launched in 2018, provides the regulatory oversight for the supply of Siberian crude oil to the Vadinar refinery through the Northern Sea Route.
2. Nayara Energy, formerly known as Essar Oil, completed its transition to a fully Russian-owned entity in 2021 following the divestment of the remaining 49% stake held by the Trafigura-UCP consortium.
3. The Kudankulam Nuclear Power Project and the Rosneft investment in Nayara Energy are both administered under the same bilateral 'Energy Security Roadmap' signed during the 2015 BRICS summit in Ufa.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is incorrect because the India-Russia Strategic Economic Dialogue focuses on policy coordination rather than regulatory oversight of specific crude supply routes, and the Northern Sea Route is not the primary conduit for Vadinar's supplies. Statement 2 is false as Nayara Energy remains a joint venture where Rosneft holds 49.13% through its subsidiary, while the remaining stake is held by the Kesani Enterprises consortium, not a fully Russian-owned entity. Statement 3 is incorrect because there is no singular 'Energy Security Roadmap' signed at the 2015 Ufa summit that encompasses both the Kudankulam project-governed by the 1988 Inter-Governmental Agreement-and the Nayara investment, which was a private commercial acquisition finalized in 2017.
Consider the following statements regarding Cooperation in the Russian Far East development projects:
1. The 2017 India-Russia Joint Statement on Energy Cooperation includes provisions for the joint development of the Sakhalin-II oil field, which currently accounts for 15 percent of Russia's total annual crude oil exports.
2. The Chennai-Vladivostok Maritime Corridor, spanning approximately 5,600 nautical miles, is designed to reduce the transit time between the two ports by nearly 40 percent compared to the existing route via the Suez Canal.
3. During the 2019 Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok, India extended a $1 billion line of credit to Russia for the development of the Russian Far East.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct. Statement 1 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is incorrect because the 2017 Joint Statement focused on broader energy cooperation, and India's involvement in Sakhalin-I dates back to 2001, not Sakhalin-II, which does not account for 15% of Russia's crude exports. Statement 2 is correct as the Chennai-Vladivostok Maritime Corridor (CVMC) spans about 5,600 nautical miles and is projected to cut transit time to approximately 24 days, a 40% reduction compared to the 40-day route via the Suez Canal. Statement 3 is correct because, during the 2019 Eastern Economic Forum, India announced a $1 billion line of credit to boost infrastructure and development projects in the Russian Far East.
Consider the following statements regarding Cooperation in the Russian Far East development projects:
1. The Vladivostok-Chennai maritime connectivity project incorporates the use of the International North-South Transport Corridor, which connects the port of Bandar Abbas to the Caspian Sea through the Caucasus region.
2. Under the 2020 bilateral agreement on arctic research, India has gained access to the Northern Sea Route for commercial shipping, facilitating the transport of liquefied natural gas from the Yamal Peninsula.
3. The Eastern Economic Forum, established in 2015, serves as the primary platform for the India-Russia Intergovernmental Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific, Technological and Cultural Cooperation.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is incorrect because the Vladivostok-Chennai Maritime Corridor is a direct sea route via the Sea of Japan, South China Sea, and Malacca Strait, independent of the INSTC. Statement 2 is incorrect as India's engagement with the Northern Sea Route involves potential commercial cooperation and research, but there is no bilateral agreement granting exclusive access for Yamal LNG transport. Statement 3 is incorrect because the Eastern Economic Forum is a platform for developing the Russian Far East, whereas the India-Russia Intergovernmental Commission is a separate bilateral mechanism for broader economic and strategic cooperation.
Consider the following statements regarding International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) connectivity:
1. The INSTC project was initiated under the framework of the 2002 Ashgabat Agreement, which provides for the creation of an international transport and transit corridor between Central Asia and the Persian Gulf.
2. The 2018 expansion of the INSTC saw the inclusion of the Baku-Tbilisi-Kars railway line, which serves as the primary electrified track connecting the Indian rail network to the European market.
3. The International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) was formally established through an inter-governmental agreement signed by India, Russia, and Iran in St. Petersburg on September 12, 2000.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 3 is correct. Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect.
Statement 3 is correct as the INSTC was indeed established by an inter-governmental agreement signed by India, Russia, and Iran in St. Petersburg on September 12, 2000. Statement 1 is incorrect because the INSTC was established by a separate agreement in 2000, whereas the Ashgabat Agreement is a distinct multimodal transport agreement signed in 2011 to facilitate transit between Central Asia and the Persian Gulf. Statement 2 is incorrect because the Baku-Tbilisi-Kars railway is not part of the INSTC framework, and there is no direct electrified rail link connecting the Indian rail network to the European market via this corridor.
Consider the following statements regarding Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership framework:
1. The 2015 India-Russia Joint Statement on 'Partnership for Global Stability' introduced the 'Make in India' initiative as a core component of the bilateral defense manufacturing cooperation framework.
2. The Vladivostok-Chennai Maritime Corridor project was officially inaugurated in 2019 as part of the bilateral agreement on Arctic cooperation, providing a direct shipping route for the transport of Russian liquified natural gas to Indian ports.
3. The 2004 BrahMos Aerospace joint venture was established under the specific protocols of the 1993 Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation, allowing for the export of cruise missiles to third-party nations in Southeast Asia.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is incorrect because the 'Make in India' initiative was launched in 2014, and while defense cooperation is a pillar, it was not introduced as a core component by the 2015 'Partnership for Global Stability' statement. Statement 2 is incorrect as the Vladivostok-Chennai Maritime Corridor (VCMC) was announced in 2019 to enhance trade in commodities like coal and oil, not specifically for Arctic cooperation or LNG transport. Statement 3 is incorrect because the BrahMos joint venture was formed in 1998, not 2004, and its export policy is governed by strict bilateral agreements that prioritize Indian and Russian defense needs over third-party sales.
Consider the following statements regarding Cybersecurity cooperation and information technology pacts:
1. India and Russia signed a Memorandum of Understanding in 2017 to foster collaboration between the Computer Emergency Response Team of India (CERT-In) and its Russian counterpart, FSTEC.
2. The 2022 bilateral consultations on cybersecurity included discussions on the implementation of the 'International Code of Conduct for Information Security' proposed within the United Nations framework.
3. Under the 2015 roadmap for cooperation in the field of peaceful uses of nuclear energy, both countries integrated specific cybersecurity protocols to protect the control systems of the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct.
Statement 1 is correct as India and Russia signed an MoU in 2017 to facilitate information exchange between CERT-In and Russia's FSTEC. Statement 2 is correct because both nations have consistently advocated for the 'International Code of Conduct for Information Security' at the UN to promote state sovereignty in cyberspace. Statement 3 is correct as the 2015 roadmap for nuclear cooperation explicitly included provisions for cybersecurity to safeguard the critical infrastructure of the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant against cyber threats.
Consider the following statements regarding Convergence and divergence in SCO and BRICS multilateral platforms:
1. The 2001 Shanghai Convention on Combating Terrorism, Separatism and Extremism serves as the primary legal basis for the BRICS Counter-Terrorism Action Plan adopted in 2021.
2. India formally joined the Shanghai Cooperation Organization as a full member during the 2017 Astana Summit, alongside Pakistan.
3. India and Russia signed the Inter-Governmental Agreement on the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Project in 1988, which remains the central pillar of their cooperation within the SCO energy working group.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 2 is correct. Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 2 is correct as India and Pakistan were formally admitted as full members of the SCO during the 2017 Astana Summit. Statement 1 is incorrect because the BRICS Counter-Terrorism Action Plan is an independent initiative of the BRICS bloc and is not legally anchored to the 2001 Shanghai Convention. Statement 3 is incorrect because while the Kudankulam project was initiated in 1988, it is a bilateral project between India and Russia and is not a central pillar of the SCO energy working group, which focuses on broader regional energy cooperation.
Consider the following statements regarding S-400 Triumf missile system acquisition and CAATSA implications:
1. The United States President holds the authority under Section 231 of CAATSA to issue a national interest waiver to countries engaged in significant transactions with the Russian defense sector.
2. The waiver process for CAATSA sanctions is governed by the 2019 National Defense Authorization Act, which links the granting of exemptions to the recipient country's participation in the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue.
3. The S-400 Triumf system utilizes a multi-layered radar architecture capable of tracking up to 300 targets simultaneously and engaging them at ranges of up to 400 kilometers.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 3 is correct. Statement 2 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is correct as Section 231 of the Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA) empowers the U.S. President to issue a national interest waiver for transactions with Russian defense entities. Statement 3 is correct because the S-400 Triumf is a long-range surface-to-air missile system designed to track up to 300 targets and engage them at ranges of up to 400 kilometers. Statement 2 is incorrect because the waiver process is not linked to the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad); instead, it requires the recipient to demonstrate a reduction in dependency on Russian military equipment and cooperation with the U.S. on security matters.
Consider the following statements regarding India-Russia Annual Summit mechanism and diplomatic continuity:
1. The 2010 India-Russia summit in New Delhi resulted in the elevation of the bilateral relationship to a 'Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership', marking a decade of the annual summit process.
2. The India-Russia Annual Summit mechanism was institutionalized under the Declaration on Strategic Partnership signed during the visit of President Vladimir Putin to India in October 2000.
3. The 1971 Treaty of Peace, Friendship and Cooperation serves as the primary legal framework for the current annual summit mechanism, which was formally inaugurated during the 1993 visit of Prime Minister P.V. Narasimha Rao to Moscow.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is correct as the 2010 summit in New Delhi marked the 10th anniversary of the strategic partnership, elevating it to a 'Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership'. Statement 2 is correct because the Annual Summit mechanism was formally established under the 'Declaration on Strategic Partnership' signed during President Putin's visit in October 2000. Statement 3 is incorrect because, while the 1971 Treaty provided a historical foundation, the current annual summit mechanism was institutionalized in 2000, not in 1993, and the 1993 Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation replaced the 1971 treaty rather than serving as the framework for the annual summits.
Consider the following statements regarding Chennai-Vladivostok Maritime Corridor (CVMC) strategic relevance:
1. The transit time for cargo vessels moving between Chennai and Vladivostok via the CVMC is estimated to be approximately 24 days, compared to the 40 days required via the traditional route.
2. A Memorandum of Intent on the development of the maritime shipping route between Chennai and Vladivostok was signed by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways of India and the Ministry for the Development of the Russian Far East and Arctic.
3. The Russian government has identified the development of the Northern Sea Route as a complementary component to the broader connectivity initiatives involving the CVMC.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct.
Statement 1 is correct as the CVMC reduces transit time to approximately 24 days compared to the 40 days taken by the current route via the Suez Canal. Statement 2 is correct because the Memorandum of Intent was signed in 2019 during the Eastern Economic Forum to boost connectivity between India and the Russian Far East. Statement 3 is correct as Russia views the CVMC as a strategic southern extension that integrates with its broader Northern Sea Route development to enhance maritime trade efficiency across the Arctic and Indian Oceans.
Consider the following statements regarding Russia's role in the evolving security architecture of Afghanistan:
1. Russia's involvement in the 2019 Doha Peace Process involved the deployment of specialized border monitoring units to the Wakhan Corridor under the auspices of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.
2. Under the provisions of the 1993 Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation, Russia maintains a permanent military base in Mazar-i-Sharif to support the logistical operations of the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan.
3. The 2018 Tashkent Conference on Afghanistan saw the formal integration of the Russian-led Eurasian Economic Union into the regional infrastructure projects proposed by the Afghan interim administration.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
All three statements are incorrect as they contain historically inaccurate claims. Russia did not deploy troops to the Wakhan Corridor under the SCO, as it has consistently avoided direct military intervention in Afghanistan post-1989; Russia does not maintain a military base in Mazar-i-Sharif, and its regional security presence is primarily concentrated in Tajikistan (201st Military Base); furthermore, the Eurasian Economic Union has not been formally integrated into Afghan infrastructure projects, and the 2018 Tashkent Conference focused on regional connectivity and peace processes rather than EAEU-led economic integration.
Consider the following statements regarding Defense procurement diversification and Make in India initiative:
1. The Indo-Russian Rifles Private Limited, a joint venture established in 2019, focuses on the indigenous production of AK-203 assault rifles at the Korwa Ordnance Factory in Uttar Pradesh.
2. The 2021 India-Russia 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue concluded with the signing of a ten-year military-technical cooperation program, extending the provisions of the 1994 bilateral treaty on defense collaboration until 2031.
3. The Inter-Governmental Agreement (IGA) signed in 2018 for the procurement of S-400 Triumf missile systems involves a deal worth approximately $5.43 billion.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 3 is correct. Statement 2 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is correct as the Indo-Russian Rifles Private Limited was established in 2019 to manufacture AK-203 rifles in Korwa, Uttar Pradesh. Statement 3 is correct because India and Russia signed the $5.43 billion IGA for S-400 missile systems in 2018. Statement 2 is incorrect because the ten-year military-technical cooperation program signed during the 2021 2+2 dialogue extends the framework until 2031, but it updates the 2011-2020 agreement, not the 1994 treaty.
Consider the following statements regarding Arctic region engagement and Northern Sea Route cooperation:
1. The India-Russia intergovernmental agreement on energy cooperation signed in 2015 includes provisions for the joint extraction of hydrocarbons in the Pechora Sea and the establishment of a dedicated port facility in Murmansk for Indian crude oil exports.
2. The 2019 memorandum on the Chennai-Vladivostok Maritime Corridor provides for the transit of Indian naval warships through the Northern Sea Route to participate in the annual Vostok military exercises.
3. India's 2022 Arctic Policy, titled 'India and the Arctic: Building a Partnership for Sustainable Development', incorporates a binding commitment from Russia to prioritize Indian shipping containers for transit through the Northern Sea Route.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
All three statements are incorrect because the 2015 energy agreement focused on general cooperation rather than specific Pechora Sea extraction or Murmansk port facilities for crude exports. The 2019 Chennai-Vladivostok Maritime Corridor (CVMC) memorandum is strictly a commercial maritime logistics initiative to facilitate trade, not a military agreement for naval warship transit. Furthermore, India's 2022 Arctic Policy is a national document outlining India's strategic vision and does not contain binding international commitments from Russia regarding the prioritization of Indian shipping containers.
Consider the following statements regarding Defense procurement diversification and Make in India initiative:
1. The India-Russia Military Industrial Conference held in New Delhi in 2017 facilitated discussions on the localization of spare parts for T-90 tanks, aligning with the broader objectives of the 2014 Make in India policy framework.
2. The 2019 Vladivostok summit resulted in the signing of a roadmap for cooperation in the hydrocarbon sector, which includes the expansion of the Sakhalin-1 project and the involvement of ONGC Videsh in the Vostok Oil initiative.
3. The 2015 Memorandum of Understanding on the Kamov Ka-226T helicopter project envisions the production of 200 units in India, with the initial batch of airframes scheduled for delivery from the Ulan-Ude Aviation Plant by the end of 2017.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is incorrect because the 2017 Military Industrial Conference focused on the production of spare parts for Russian-origin equipment like the T-90 tanks, but the specific localization roadmap was formalized under the Inter-Governmental Agreement (IGA) signed in 2019, not the 2017 conference itself. Statement 2 is incorrect as the 2019 Vladivostok summit focused on a roadmap for cooperation in the hydrocarbon sector, but it did not include the involvement of ONGC Videsh in the Vostok Oil project, which was a later development. Statement 3 is incorrect because, while the 2015 MoU aimed to produce 200 Kamov Ka-226T helicopters in India, the project faced significant delays regarding localization percentages and technology transfer, and the initial batch was never delivered by the end of 2017.
Consider the following statements regarding Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership framework:
1. The India-Russia Strategic Economic Dialogue, launched in 2018, functions as the primary mechanism for overseeing the implementation of the Free Trade Agreement between India and the Eurasian Economic Union.
2. The Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant project, which involves the construction of VVER-1000 reactors, operates under the framework of the 1988 Inter-Governmental Agreement signed between India and the Soviet Union.
3. The 1971 Treaty of Peace, Friendship and Cooperation serves as the foundational legal document for the current Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership, having been renewed in 2000 to include provisions for joint naval exercises in the Indian Ocean.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 2 is correct. Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 2 is correct because the Kudankulam project is based on the 1988 Inter-Governmental Agreement, utilizing Russian VVER-1000 pressurized water reactors. Statement 1 is incorrect because the Strategic Economic Dialogue focuses on boosting bilateral trade and investment, not the implementation of the India-Eurasian Economic Union FTA. Statement 3 is incorrect because the current partnership is governed by the 2000 Declaration on Strategic Partnership, which replaced the 1971 Treaty, and the 1971 treaty did not contain provisions for joint naval exercises.