Q. 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:

1. World military spending declined in 2021 due to the economic fallout of the pandemic.
2. India was the third largest spender on military expenditure in 2021.
3. 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?
Answer: 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.