1. Which of the following species of malaria parasites can infect humans?
- Plasmodium falciparum
- Plasmodium vivax
- Plasmodium ovale
- Plasmodium malariae
- Plasmodium knowlesi
Select the correct option using the codes given below:
[A] Only 1, 2 & 4
[B] Only 2, 3 & 5
[C] Only 1, 3, 4 & 5
[D] 1, 2, 3, 4 & 5
Show Answer
Correct Answer: D [1, 2, 3, 4 & 5]
Notes:
All five Plasmodium species—falciparum, vivax, ovale, malariae, and knowlesi—can infect humans. P. falciparum, vivax, ovale, and malariae are traditionally recognized, while P. knowlesi, mainly a macaque parasite in Southeast Asia, also causes zoonotic malaria in humans. P. falciparum causes the most severe infections and is associated with significant mortality.
2. With reference to the latest data published by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) regarding global military expenditure in 2021, consider the following statements:
- World military spending declined in 2021 due to the economic fallout of the pandemic.
- India was the third largest spender on military expenditure in 2021.
- The United States and China together accounted for more than half of total global military spending in 2021.
Which of the above statements is / are correct?
[A] Only 2
[B] Only 1 and 3
[C] Only 2 and 3
[D] Only 1 and 2
Show Answer
Correct Answer: C [Only 2 and 3]
Notes:
According to the 2021 SIPRI report, global military spending increased to an all-time high, not declined. India was the third largest spender after the US and China. The US and China together accounted for 52% of global spending, confirming statement 3. Hence, only statements 2 and 3 are correct.
3. Except India, which of the following countries has/have been recommended for ‘Country of Particular Concern’ as per the report released by the US Commission on International Religious Freedom?
- Russia
- Iran
- China
- Nigeria
- Afghanistan
- Vietnam
Select the correct option from the codes given below:
[A] Only 1, 3 & 6
[B] Only 1, 2, 3 & 6
[C] Only 4, 5 & 6
[D] Only 2, 4, 5 & 6
Show Answer
Correct Answer: C [Only 4, 5 & 6]
Notes:
According to the US Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) 2023 report, Afghanistan, Nigeria, and Vietnam—apart from India—are recommended for designation as Countries of Particular Concern (CPC). Russia, Iran, and China are recommended for redesignation, not new recommendations. Thus, only 4 (Nigeria), 5 (Afghanistan), and 6 (Vietnam) are correct.
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