Answer: A

Explanation:

The Union Cabinet has given its approval for India to sign the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Agreement. The Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction Agreement, also known as the 'High Seas Treaty', is an international treaty within the framework of United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). Hence, statements 1 and 2 both are correct.

Its primary objective is to address concerns regarding the long-term conservation of marine biodiversity in the high seas. Hence, statement 3 is correct.

The treaty establishes precise mechanisms to ensure the sustainable use of marine biological diversity through international cooperation and coordination. The Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction adopts an inclusive, integrated, ecosystem-centric approach guided by the precautionary principle, incorporating traditional knowledge and the best available scientific knowledge. Hence, statement 4 is incorrect.

Answer: D

Explanation:

Recently, the National Commission for Minorities held a meeting with representatives from 18 states and Union Territories to discuss the implementation and registration of Sikh marriages under the Anand Marriage Act. The National Commission for Minorities (NCM) is an autonomous body. It was established by the Indian government in 1992 under the National Commission for Minorities Act, 1992. Hence, statement 1 is incorrect.

Its primary objective is to safeguard the rights and interests of minorities in India. It advises the Government on issues related to the socio-economic and educational development of minorities. Hence, statement 1 is incorrect.

As per Section 3 of the NCM Act 1992, the commission consists of a Chairperson, a Vice-Chairperson and five members, all nominated by the Central Government from amongst persons of eminence, ability and integrity. Each Member holds office for a period of three years from the date of entering the office. Hence, statement 3 is incorrect.

Answer: C

Explanation:

Recently, the President of India Droupadi Murmu, visited the historic Udayagiri caves in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. Udayagiri Caves are situated near Bhubaneswar, the capital city of Odisha. These caves are renowned for the Hathigumpha inscription, written in Brahmi script, which chronicles the military exploits of King Kharavela of Kalinga (ancient Odisha). Hence, statement 1 is correct.

The caves date back to the 2nd century BCE and 1st century CE, showcasing rock-cut architecture and sculptures depicting various religious and secular themes. The Udayagiri Stupa serves as a reference point for studying Vajrayana Buddhism. Important antiquities include Buddha, Tara, Manjusri, Avalokitesvara, Jatamukuta Lokesvara and terracotta seals. Hence, statement 2 is correct.

Answer: A

Explanation:

Recently, the scientists have discovered the world's oldest confidently dated cave painting on the Indonesian island of Sulawesi, specifically in the Leang Karampuang cave in the Maros-Pangkep region of South Sulawesi province. Leang Karampuang cave is situated in the Maros-Pangkep region of South Sulawesi province, Indonesia. Hence, statement I is correct.

Leang Karampuang cave is the site where the world's oldest confidently dated cave painting was discovered, depicting three human-like figures interacting with a wild pig. Scientists used a new scientific approach involving laser dating of calcium carbonate crystals that formed naturally over the painting to determine its minimum age. Hence, statement II is correct.

Here, statements I and II both are correct and statement II is the correct explanation of statement I. Hence, option (a) is correct.

Answer: D

Explanation:

Electric vehicles benefit from state-led incentives and subsidies, with regenerative braking enhancing their energy efficiency significantly. Braking Mechanism slows down a vehicle by reducing its kinetic energy, crucial for safe operation. Hence, statement 1 is incorrect.

Regenerative Braking has designed for electric vehicles to reclaim kinetic energy during braking. It operates by converting the vehicle's kinetic energy into electrical energy using the traction motor acting as a generator. Hence, statement 2 is incorrect.