Answer: (D)

Explanation:

• The Medicines Patent Pool (MPP) was indeed established in 2010 by UNITAID, a global health initiative, with the support and collaboration of the World Health Organization (WHO). The MPP was created to address the issue of access to essential medicines. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
• The MPP primarily focuses on essential medicines for diseases such as HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, hepatitis C, and other prevalent diseases that affect resource-limited settings. By focusing on these diseases, the MPP aims to improve access to life-saving medications in regions where they are most needed. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
• The MPP works through collaborations with various stakeholders, including generic manufacturers, research institutions, and public health organizations. These partnerships are essential in facilitating the development, production, and distribution of generic versions of patented medicines, making them more affordable and accessible. Hence, statement 3 is correct.
• The main goal of the MPP is to increase access to medicines in resource-limited settings. The MPP achieves this by engaging in pricing negotiations with patent holders and adopting strategies to reduce the cost of medicines, such as voluntary licensing agreements and technology transfers. These efforts contribute to expanding access to affordable medications. Hence, statement 4 is correct.

Answer: (B)

Explanation:

Four Foundational Defence Agreements between India and USA

1. Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement (BECA):

• Signed in 2020.
• Provides India with real-time access to American geospatial intelligence.
• Enhances the accuracy of automated systems and weapons like missiles and armed drones.
• Allows sharing of information on maps and satellite images.
• Helps access topographical and aeronautical data for navigation and targeting.
• Facilitates Air Force-to-Air Force cooperation between India and the US.
• Supports response to natural disasters.

2. Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement (COMCASA):

• Signed in 2018.
• Enables the US to provide India with encrypted communications equipment and systems.
• Allows secure communication between Indian and US military commanders.
• Facilitates communication between aircraft and ships of both countries.
• Supports communication during times of peace and war.
• Enhances interoperability between Indian and US forces.
• Promotes secure data links with other militaries using US-origin systems.

3. Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement (LEMOA):

• Signed in 2016.
• Allows the US and India to replenish and access supplies, spare parts, and services from each other's bases and facilities.
• Supports Navy-to-Navy cooperation.
• Facilitates logistics support and cooperation in the Indo-Pacific.
• Builds mutual trust between the two militaries.
• Institutionalizes and smoothens the process of logistics support.

4. General Security of Military Information Agreement (GSOMIA):

• Signed in 2002.
• Prescribes security standards and protocols for safeguarding shared information.
• Covers information shared by the Pentagon with India's defense ministry.
• Includes information shared by US defense firms with Indian defense public sector undertakings (DPSUs).
• Does not cover exchange of classified information with Indian private companies.
• Strengthens information sharing and security cooperation between the two countries

Answer: (C)

Explanation:

• The World Health Organisation (WHO) reported that 300 children have died across Uzbekistan, Gambia, and Nigeria since August 2022 due to substandard cough syrups made in India. This indicates that the issue of substandard cough syrups has resulted in significant harm and loss of lives in these countries. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
• When codeine was used in children, serious and life-threatening breathing problems such as slow or difficulty breathing and deaths were reported. Codeine should never be used to treat pain or a cough in children younger than 18 years of age. Cough syrups containing codeine should not be given to children as it is addictive and can be lethal. Hence, statement 2 is not correct.

Answer: (D)

Explanation:

• Lambani embroidery has now reached all over the world with the export of bed sheets and cushion covers in subtle colours but the heavily embroidered bags in flamboyant colours remain are a favourite among tourists.
• Lambani embroidery is characterized by its distinct features. It combines various techniques such as pattern darning, mirror work, cross stitch, overlaying, quilting, patchwork, and appliqué on loosely woven cloth.
• Geometric shapes, different stitches, and embellishments like beads, shells, and coins are used to create intricate designs.

Answer: (A)

Explanation:

• The PM-Kisan mobile app with face authentication feature was launched by Union Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Narendra Singh Tomar under the Central government's ambitious and popular scheme for income support to farmers 'Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi'. Hence statement 1 is correct.
• Under the PM-KISAN scheme, all landholding farmers' families shall be provided the financial benefit of Rs. 6000 per annum per family payable in three equal installments of Rs. 2000 each, every four months. Hence, statement 2 is incorrect