UPSC Daily Current Affairs Quiz : 24 December 2025

Answer: D

Explanation: REEs are essential inputs in modern defence technologies, including missiles, radars, satellites and advanced electronics.

Correct Answer: (b) 2 only

Explanation:

• Statement 1 is incorrect: Only 90–93% of the horn is removed above the germinal layer, allowing natural regrowth.
• Statement 2 is correct: Poaching declined by 78% when dehorning was done abruptly within 1–2 months, compared to gradual implementation.
• Statement 3 is incorrect: Dehorning used only 1.2% of the total anti-poaching budget, not more than 10%.

Correct Answer: (c)

Explanation: India, especially in regions like Kaziranga National Park, has achieved near-zero poaching through smart patrolling, community involvement, and effective conflict mitigation. Since enforcement capacity is strong and poaching pressure is relatively low, dehorning is unnecessary and contextually unsuitable in India.

Correct Answer: (a) 2 and 3 only

Explanation:

• Statement 1 is incorrect: Pakistan’s renewed relevance is not driven by economic strength, but by regional insecurity following the Gaza war and Israel–Iran–U.S. tensions.
• Statement 2 is correct: Civilian leadership has receded, with the Army Chief emerging as the primary diplomatic interlocutor, indicating over-militarisation.
• Statement 3 is correct: Gulf states seek external military capacity without domestic political costs, especially amid doubts over long-term U.S. protection.
  

Correct Answer: (b)

Explanation:  Pakistan’s current relevance is reactive and opportunistic, arising from regional turmoil rather than a coherent grand strategy. As noted by scholars like Stephen P. Cohen, Pakistan often gains leverage during crises, but such relevance tends to fade once regional stability returns. Persistent economic fragility, IMF dependence, and ideological trust deficits further constrain sustainability.