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Government Schemes and Economic Reports PYQs – Economics, SSC & Railway

361 Government Schemes and Economic Reports (Economics) questions asked in recent SSC and Railway exams, newest first, with exam, date & shift, answers and solutions.

📚 361 questionsSSC 251 · Railway 110
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SSC Stenographer 2026 – 15 September 2026 Shift 1 · Global indices - publishers and methodology

Q1. India's consistent rise in the Global Climate Risk Index signifies what major challenge in its environmental and disaster management system?

  1. (a) Absence of green zones in cities
  2. (b) Low carbon emission from agriculture
  3. (c) Frequent climate-related disasters like floods and heatwaves, and vulnerability due to population density
  4. (d) Overuse of electric vehicles
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Frequent climate-related disasters like floods and heatwaves, and vulnerability due to population density

Answer: Option 3 — Frequent climate-related disasters like floods and heatwaves, and vulnerability due to population density
The Climate Risk Index ranks countries by the human and economic losses they suffer from extreme weather — floods, heatwaves, cyclones and storms.
A high position for India therefore signals repeated climate disasters hitting a densely populated country, a strain on its disaster-management system — not anything to do with green zones, farm emissions or electric vehicles.
Revision note — The Global Climate Risk Index
• Published by Germanwatch, a Bonn-based NGO, since 2006; it counts deaths and economic losses from weather events, so it measures exposure and vulnerability, not emissions.
• CRI 2025 placed India 6th among the countries most affected over the long term (1993–2022); CRI 2021 had ranked India 7th for the year 2019.
• India's main hazards are floods (about 12 per cent of the land is flood-prone), cyclones on the east coast, heatwaves in the north and west, and droughts in the peninsula.
• The Disaster Management Act, 2005 created the NDMA (chaired by the Prime Minister), SDMAs under Chief Ministers and the NDRF.
• India's climate policy rests on the National Action Plan on Climate Change (2008) with its eight missions, and the Paris Agreement target of net zero by 2070.
Do not mix these up
• Climate Risk Index vs Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI) — both come from Germanwatch, but the CRI measures losses suffered, while the CCPI ranks climate action (emissions, renewables, energy use, policy); India was 10th in CCPI 2025.
• Vulnerability vs emissions — a high CRI rank does not mean India emits more; it means India loses more when the weather turns extreme.
Also asked from this topic: India's long-term rank in the Climate Risk Index 2025 (6th, for 1993–2022); India's rank in the Climate Change Performance Index 2025 (10th); the criteria of the CCPI (GHG emissions, renewable energy, energy use, climate policy).
SSC Stenographer 2026 – 15 September 2026 Shift 1 · Global indices - publishers and methodology

Q2. In the Environmental Performance Index (EPI) 2024, India ranked near the bottom globally. What is the primary reason for such a low rating despite ongoing environmental programs like National Clean Air Programme (NCAP)?

  1. (a) Under-reporting of pollution levels
  2. (b) Lack of carbon pricing
  3. (c) Delayed implementation of emission control laws and poor waste management systems
  4. (d) High solar energy subsidies
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Delayed implementation of emission control laws and poor waste management systems

Answer: Option 3 — Delayed implementation of emission control laws and poor waste management systems
India stood 176th of 180 countries in EPI 2024, dragged down by very poor scores on air quality (PM2.5 exposure), waste management and greenhouse-gas emissions.
Programmes such as NCAP exist on paper, but slow enforcement of emission norms and weak solid-waste and sewage handling keep the measured environmental health low.
Revision note — Environmental Performance Index
• Prepared every two years by Yale University and Columbia University with the World Economic Forum; first published in 2006 (it grew out of the Environmental Sustainability Index).
• EPI 2024 used 58 indicators in 11 issue categories under three policy objectives — environmental health, ecosystem vitality and climate change.
• Estonia topped EPI 2024, followed by Luxembourg and Germany; Vietnam was last at 180, with India at 176.
• In EPI 2022 India was placed last (180th), which the government rejected as based on unscientific assumptions.
• NCAP was launched in January 2019 by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change for 131 non-attainment cities; its target was a 20–30 per cent cut in particulate matter by 2024 against the 2017 base, later revised to 40 per cent by 2026.
• Air quality in India is monitored by the CPCB (set up in 1974 under the Water Act); the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) operates in Delhi-NCR under the CAQM (2021).
Do not mix these up
• EPI vs CCPI — the EPI (Yale–Columbia) rates overall environmental performance; the Climate Change Performance Index (Germanwatch) rates climate action only, where India ranks near the top ten.
• NCAP vs National AQI — NCAP is the programme to cut pollution; the AQI is the daily index that reports it.
Also asked from this topic: the universities that produce the EPI (Yale and Columbia); the number of indicators in EPI 2024 (58); the country that topped EPI 2024 (Estonia); NCAP's original target (20–30 per cent cut in particulates by 2024–25).
SSC Stenographer 2026 – 15 September 2026 Shift 1 · Energy and power sector schemes

Q3. Which scheme provides free LPG connections to women from poor households in India?

  1. (a) Saubhagya Yojana
  2. (b) PM Garib Kalyan
  3. (c) Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana
  4. (d) Aayushman Bharat
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana

Answer: Option 3 — Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana
PMUY gives a free LPG connection in the name of an adult woman of a poor household, replacing firewood, dung and coal as cooking fuel.
Saubhagya gives electricity connections, PM Garib Kalyan gives free food grain, and Ayushman Bharat gives health cover.
Revision note — Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana
• Launched on 1 May 2016 at Ballia, Uttar Pradesh, by PM Narendra Modi; run by the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas; slogan "Swachh Indhan, Behtar Jeevan".
• Original target 5 crore connections by 2019, raised to 8 crore, which was achieved in September 2019, ahead of schedule.
• Ujjwala 2.0 was launched on 10 August 2021 from Mahoba, Uttar Pradesh, with a free first refill and stove and easier paperwork for migrant families.
• Beneficiaries get a targeted subsidy of Rs 300 per 14.2-kg cylinder for up to 9 refills a year; PMUY connections crossed 10.33 crore by March 2025.
• Saubhagya (2017): free electricity connections to all households. PM Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (2020): free food grain, extended for five years from January 2024. Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY (2018): health cover of Rs 5 lakh per family per year.
Do not mix these up
• Ujjwala vs Saubhagya — both target poor households, but Ujjwala (launched at Ballia, Uttar Pradesh, 2016) gives LPG, while Saubhagya (launched in New Delhi, 25 September 2017) gives electricity connections.
• Ujjwala vs PAHAL — PAHAL (2013–15) is the direct transfer of LPG subsidy to bank accounts for all consumers; Ujjwala is a new-connection scheme for the poor.
Also asked from this topic: who is eligible under PMUY (women from BPL households); the number of PMUY beneficiaries as of March 2025 (10.33 crore); the 2017 scheme for universal household electrification (Saubhagya).
SSC Stenographer 2026 – 15 September 2026 Shift 2 · Global indices - publishers and methodology

Q4. The Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) is widely cited in governance discourse. How does India's position on this index affect its foreign investment potential?

  1. (a) Negatively, as it signals high regulatory risk and lack of institutional transparency
  2. (b) Positively, due to high public sector employment
  3. (c) Negligibly, since foreign firms ignore such reports
  4. (d) Only in defense contracts
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) Negatively, as it signals high regulatory risk and lack of institutional transparency

Answer: Option 1 — Negatively, as it signals high regulatory risk and lack of institutional transparency
Investors read a low CPI score as a warning of bribes, opaque rules and weak contract enforcement, so perceived corruption raises the cost of doing business and deters FDI.
A weak rank therefore works against India's investment pull; it is neither ignored nor confined to defence.
Revision note — Corruption Perceptions Index
• Published every year since 1995 by Transparency International, a civil-society body founded in 1993 by Peter Eigen and headquartered at Berlin, Germany.
• Scores run from 0 (highly corrupt) to 100 (very clean); it measures perceived public-sector corruption, drawing on expert and business surveys.
• CPI 2024 (released February 2025): India scored 38 and ranked 96th of 180, down from a score of 39 and rank 93 in 2023.
• Denmark topped CPI 2024 (score 90), followed by Finland and Singapore; South Sudan was last.
• The 2024 report's theme was corruption and climate action — it warned that corruption diverts climate funds and lets vested interests shape environmental policy.
• Other TI publications: the Global Corruption Barometer and the Bribe Payers Index; the Democracy Index is by the Economist Intelligence Unit, not TI.
Do not mix these up
• CPI (corruption) vs CPI (inflation) — Transparency International's Corruption Perceptions Index and the Consumer Price Index compiled by India's NSO share initials only.
• Corruption Perceptions Index vs Ease of Doing Business — the CPI is by a civil-society body; Ease of Doing Business was a World Bank ranking, discontinued in 2021.
Also asked from this topic: the body that releases the Corruption Perceptions Index (Transparency International); what a score near 0 means (more corruption); India's score in CPI 2024 (38, rank 96).
SSC Stenographer 2026 – 12 September 2026 Shift 1 · Global indices - publishers and methodology

Q5. The main factors considered in the UN's Happiness Index include all EXCEPT:

  1. (a) GDP per capita
  2. (b) Political stability
  3. (c) Social support
  4. (d) Healthy life expectancy
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Political stability

Answer: Option 2 — Political stability
The World Happiness Report explains a country's score with six variables — GDP per capita, social support, healthy life expectancy, freedom to make life choices, generosity and perceptions of corruption.
Political stability is not one of them.
Revision note — World Happiness Report
• Published every year since 2012 by the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN) with Gallup and, since 2024, the Wellbeing Research Centre, University of Oxford — not by the UNDP.
• Released around 20 March, the International Day of Happiness, declared by the UN General Assembly in 2012.
• The score itself comes from the Cantril ladder question in the Gallup World Poll — people rate their life from 0 to 10; the six variables only explain the differences between countries.
• Finland has been ranked first every year since 2018 — eight years running to 2025; Nordic countries fill the top places.
• Afghanistan was last in 2024 (143rd) and again in 2025 (147th).
• India ranked 126th in 2024 and 118th of 147 in 2025, behind Nepal and Pakistan but ahead of Sri Lanka and Bangladesh.
Do not mix these up
• World Happiness Report vs Human Development Index — the HDI is the UNDP's measure of income, education and life expectancy; the Happiness Report comes from the SDSN.
• Freedom to make life choices vs political freedom — the report measures people's sense of control over their own lives, not the political system.
Also asked from this topic: the number of key variables in the World Happiness Index (6); the body that publishes it (UN SDSN, not UNDP); the least happy country in the 2024 report (Afghanistan).
SSC Stenographer 2026 – 12 September 2026 Shift 2 · Global indices - publishers and methodology

Q6. Despite India's reforms in taxation and digital governance, the Ease of Doing Business (EoDB) ranking has been discontinued by the World Bank. What led to this decision?

  1. (a) Lack of data on digital startups
  2. (b) Disputes between BRICS countries
  3. (c) Accusations of data manipulation involving certain countries
  4. (d) Overlapping with IMF's structural index
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Accusations of data manipulation involving certain countries

Answer: Option 3 — Accusations of data manipulation involving certain countries
On 16 September 2021 the World Bank scrapped its Doing Business report after an independent review by the law firm WilmerHale.
It found that senior management had pressed staff to alter the scores of China, Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Azerbaijan in the 2018 and 2020 editions.
The ethics of the data, not India's reforms or any BRICS dispute, ended the ranking.
Revision note — Ease of Doing Business and its successor
• The report ran from 2003 to 2020, ranking 190 economies on 10 indicators given equal weight.
• The indicators: starting a business, construction permits, electricity, property, credit, protecting minority investors, paying taxes, trading across borders, enforcing contracts and resolving insolvency.
• It measured a formal firm in each country's largest business city (for India, Mumbai and Delhi), so the informal sector was excluded.
• India's climb: 142nd (2015 report) to 63rd (Doing Business 2020), helped by GST (2017), the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (2016) and single-window clearances.
• New Zealand topped the last edition (Doing Business 2020).
• The successor is Business Ready (B-READY), first published in October 2024 for 50 economies; it scores the regulatory framework, public services and operational efficiency.
• Later B-READY rounds are to bring in India.
• At home, DPIIT runs the Business Reforms Action Plan that ranks Indian states on ease of doing business.
Do not mix these up
• Doing Business (World Bank) vs Global Competitiveness Report (WEF) — the discontinued ranking was the World Bank's; the WEF report is a separate index.
• Ease of Doing Business vs Ease of Living Index — the latter is an Indian MoHUA ranking of cities, unrelated to the World Bank.
Also asked from this topic: why the EoDB report was discontinued (data manipulation, 2021); how its 10 indicators were weighted (equally); why the informal sector was excluded (not measurable consistently).
SSC Stenographer 2026 – 11 September 2026 Shift 1 · Financial inclusion schemes (PMJDY, PMJJBY, PMSBY, APY)

Q7. Which financial support scheme targets women's entrepreneurship, as per the 2025 updates?

  1. (a) Stand-Up India
  2. (b) Nari Shakti Scheme
  3. (c) Mahila Udyam Yojana
  4. (d) PM Kusum Women
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) Stand-Up India

Answer: Option 1 — Stand-Up India
Stand-Up India, launched on 5 April 2016, makes every bank branch lend ₹10 lakh to ₹1 crore to at least one woman borrower and at least one SC or ST borrower for a new enterprise.
Women's entrepreneurship is written into the scheme's own design, which is why it is the answer.
Revision note — Stand-Up India and the credit schemes for women
• Launched 5 April 2016 by the Ministry of Finance (Department of Financial Services); loan size ₹10 lakh to ₹1 crore, composite (term loan plus working capital).
• The borrower must be SC, ST or a woman, aged 18 or above, and the unit must be a greenfield — that is, first-time — venture in manufacturing, services, trading or allied agriculture.
• For a non-individual enterprise, at least 51 per cent of the shareholding must be held by an SC/ST or woman entrepreneur.
• Repayment up to 7 years with a moratorium of up to 18 months; margin money up to 15 per cent, with the borrower bringing at least 10 per cent of the project cost.
• Security is backed by the Credit Guarantee Fund for Stand-Up India (CGFSI); the scheme has been extended to 2025.
• Union Budget 2025-26 announced a new scheme built on the Stand-Up India experience — term loans of up to ₹2 crore for 5 lakh first-time women, SC and ST entrepreneurs over five years.
• Related credit lines: PM MUDRA Yojana (2015) — Shishu up to ₹50,000, Kishor ₹50,000 to ₹5 lakh, Tarun ₹5 lakh to ₹10 lakh, with most accounts held by women.
Do not mix these up
• Stand-Up India vs Start-up India — the first is a bank credit scheme for SC/ST and women; Start-up India (16 January 2016) gives tax and regulatory benefits to recognised startups.
• Stand-Up India vs MUDRA Yojana — MUDRA funds small, non-farm units up to ₹10 lakh for anyone; Stand-Up India starts where MUDRA stops, at ₹10 lakh, and is reserved for SC, ST and women.
• PM-KUSUM is a solar pump scheme for farmers under the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy — nothing to do with women's enterprise.
Also asked from this topic: the year Stand-Up India was launched (2016); who benefits from it (women and SC/ST entrepreneurs); its loan range (₹10 lakh to ₹1 crore).
SSC Stenographer 2026 – 11 September 2026 Shift 2 · Global indices - publishers and methodology

Q8. In the 2024 E-Government Development Index (EGDI), India scored high in digital services but lagged in one particular domain. What was that?

  1. (a) Cybersecurity regulations
  2. (b) Online payment volume
  3. (c) Human capital and digital literacy in rural areas
  4. (d) Digital taxation laws
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Human capital and digital literacy in rural areas

Answer: Option 3 — Human capital and digital literacy in rural areas
The EGDI averages three sub-indices — Online Service Index (OSI), Telecommunication Infrastructure Index (TII) and Human Capital Index (HCI).
In the 2024 survey India scored well on online services and telecom infrastructure.
Its Human Capital Index was the weakest of the three, reflecting gaps in education and digital literacy, especially in rural areas.
Revision note — UN E-Government Survey 2024
• Published every two years by the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA); the 2024 edition is the 13th.
• India ranked 97th of 193 countries in 2024 with an EGDI of about 0.668, up from 105th in 2022; it sits in the "high" EGDI group (0.50 to 0.75).
• Top three in 2024: Denmark, Estonia, Singapore; Denmark has topped the index since 2018.
• The Human Capital Index uses adult literacy, gross enrolment ratio, expected and mean years of schooling.
• Indian e-governance platforms that lift the OSI score: UMANG (one app for many government services), DigiLocker, BHASHINI (AI translation in Indian languages), CoWIN, UPI.
• Digital India was launched on 1 July 2015; its three vision areas are digital infrastructure, governance and services on demand, and digital empowerment of citizens.
Do not mix these up
• EGDI vs E-Participation Index (EPI) — both come from the same UN survey; EGDI measures readiness and capacity, EPI measures how citizens are consulted and involved online.
• Digital literacy vs internet access — TII captures access (subscriptions, bandwidth); HCI captures the skills to use it.
Also asked from this topic: the single platform for accessing many government services online (UMANG); the AI initiative for digital services in Indian languages (BHASHINI).
SSC Stenographer 2026 – 10 September 2026 Shift 1 · Global indices - publishers and methodology

Q9. Which of the following indexes is published by the Institute for Economics and Peace and reflects social stability and safety levels across countries?

  1. (a) Democracy Index
  2. (b) Global Peace Index
  3. (c) World Justice Index
  4. (d) Freedom in the World Index
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Global Peace Index

Answer: Option 2 — Global Peace Index
The Global Peace Index (GPI) is the flagship report of the Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP).
It scores countries on societal safety and security, ongoing conflict and militarisation — exactly the social stability the question describes.
Revision note — Global Peace Index and who publishes which index
• The GPI is published by the Institute for Economics and Peace, an Australian think-tank founded by Steve Killelea; it has tracked world peacefulness since 2008.
• It ranks about 163 countries on 23 indicators grouped in three domains: Ongoing Conflict, Societal Safety and Security and Militarisation.
• Iceland has been ranked the world's most peaceful country every year since the index began.
• The IEP also publishes the Global Terrorism Index, the Positive Peace Report and the Ecological Threat Report.
• Positive Peace is the IEP's idea of the attitudes, institutions and structures that sustain peaceful societies, and it can forecast future falls in peacefulness.
• The three distractors belong elsewhere: Democracy Index — Economist Intelligence Unit; Rule of Law Index — World Justice Project; Freedom in the World — Freedom House.
• Other pairs worth memorising: Human Development Index — UNDP; Global Hunger Index — Concern Worldwide and Welthungerhilfe; World Happiness Report — UN SDSN.
Do not mix these up
• Global Peace Index vs Global Terrorism Index — both are IEP products, but the GTI measures the impact of terrorism alone.
• Freedom in the World vs Democracy Index — Freedom House rates political rights and civil liberties; the EIU rates democratic functioning.
Also asked from this topic: the country ranked most peaceful in the GPI (Iceland); Pakistan's rank in the Global Terrorism Index 2025 (2nd).
SSC Stenographer 2026 – 9 September 2026 Shift 1 · Economic indices and rankings

Q10. In the context of India's Financial Inclusion Index (FI-Index) developed by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), which of the following best reflects the multidimensional nature of the index and its policy significance in 2025?

  1. (a) The FI-Index is a single-dimensional score based only on the number of bank accounts per 1,000 adults, useful solely for rural credit planning
  2. (b) The FI-Index measures the total value of digital payments in the economy and is used primarily to track fintech investments
  3. (c) The FI-Index captures multiple dimensions—Access, Usage, and Quality—making it a comprehensive tool for assessing inclusive financial growth, guiding both central and state-level policies
  4. (d) The FI-Index is used only by private sector banks for internal risk assessment and is not a public policy instrument
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) The FI-Index captures multiple dimensions—Access, Usage, and Quality—making it a comprehensive tool for assessing inclusive financial growth, guiding both central and state-level policies

Answer: Option 3 — The FI-Index captures Access, Usage and Quality, making it a comprehensive tool for assessing inclusive financial growth
The RBI's Financial Inclusion Index rests on three dimensions, so it measures how inclusive finance actually is.
A count of bank accounts alone would not say whether they are used, or used well.
Revision note — RBI Financial Inclusion Index (FI-Index)
• Three parameters with fixed weights — Access 35 per cent, Usage 45 per cent, Quality 20 per cent. Usage carries the largest weight.
• Access is the availability of banking, insurance, pension and post-office outlets.
• Usage is actual transactions, credit, insurance and pension use. Quality is financial literacy, consumer protection and inequality of service.
• Scale 0 to 100 — 0 is complete financial exclusion, 100 is full inclusion. It uses about 97 indicators and has no base year, so each value reflects cumulative effort.
• First published by the RBI in August 2021 for the year ended March 2021, at 53.9. A fresh value is released annually for the financial year ending March.
• Later values reported by the RBI were about 64.2 for March 2024 and 67.0 for March 2025. Always quote the figure with its year — the number moves every release, the three-dimension structure does not.
• Policy use: it guides the Centre, the states, the RBI and banks and tracks the National Strategy for Financial Inclusion.
• It also tracks the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (28 August 2014), which crossed 55 crore accounts by mid-2025.
Do not mix these up
• FI-Index vs Digital Payments Index — the FI-Index measures financial inclusion on three dimensions; the RBI's DPI measures the spread of digital payments and is based on March 2018 = 100.
• Access vs Usage — Access asks whether the outlet or account exists; Usage asks whether it is actually used.
Also asked from this topic: who releases the Financial Inclusion Index (the Reserve Bank of India); its number of sub-indices (3); its value for March 2025 (67.0).
SSC Stenographer 2026 – 9 September 2026 Shift 1 · Global indices - publishers and methodology

Q11. According to the World Economic Forum's Global Competitiveness Index (GCI), India faces significant institutional challenges. Which one below best illustrates such a challenge?

  1. (a) Lack of foreign language education
  2. (b) Inefficient government bureaucracy and weak legal enforcement
  3. (c) Rise in rural tourism
  4. (d) Increase in household debt
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Inefficient government bureaucracy and weak legal enforcement

Answer: Option 2 — Inefficient government bureaucracy and weak legal enforcement
The GCI's Institutions pillar measures precisely this — red tape, contract enforcement, judicial independence, corruption — and it is where India scores weakest.
Revision note — The Global Competitiveness Index
• Published by the World Economic Forum (WEF) in its annual Global Competitiveness Report.
• The WEF was founded in 1971 by Klaus Schwab, is headquartered at Cologny near Geneva, Switzerland, and holds its annual meeting at Davos.
• The index scores economies on 12 pillars, of which Pillar 1 is Institutions — property rights, corruption, judicial independence, bureaucratic burden, contract enforcement, security.
• India ranked 68th of 141 in the GCI 2019, slipping 10 places, with institutions among its weak areas.
• The WEF also publishes the Global Gender Gap Report, the Energy Transition Index, the Global Risks Report and the Travel and Tourism Development Index.
• The Human Development Index is not a WEF product — it is published by the UNDP.
Do not mix these up
• Global Competitiveness Index vs Ease of Doing Business — the GCI is the WEF's; Doing Business was the World Bank's, and it was discontinued in September 2021 after data irregularities.
• WEF indices vs UN indices — Gender Gap, Energy Transition and Competitiveness are WEF; the HDI is UNDP.
Also asked from this topic: the publisher of the Global Competitiveness Report (World Economic Forum); the index NOT published by the WEF (Human Development Index); where its annual meeting is held (Davos).
RRB Group D 2025-26 – 21 August 2026 Shift 1 · Housing, sanitation and rural development schemes

Q12. The increased allocation for PMAY-G in the Union Budget 2026–27 is primarily intended to support which of the following?

  1. (a) Modernization of agricultural markets
  2. (b) Construction of pucca houses for eligible rural families
  3. (c) Promotion of digital banking services
  4. (d) Expansion of rural railway infrastructure
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Construction of pucca houses for eligible rural families

Correct Answer:
Correct Answer: Option 2 – Construction of pucca houses for eligible rural families
Explanation:
Confirmed via PIB press release on Union Budget 2026-27 and related coverage (e.g., organiser.org on Bihar's PMAY-G allocation) — PMAY-Gramin's increased budget allocation is directed toward constructingpucca (permanent) houses for eligible rural families, continuing the scheme's core housing-for-all mandate.
Important Facts:
• PMAY-G (Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana – Gramin) targets providing pucca houses with basic amenities to rural households.
• Recent allocations (e.g., ₹13,427 crore for 11.19 lakh houses in Bihar) illustrate the scale of the scheme's rural housing push.
• PMAY-G is unrelated to agricultural market reform, digital banking, or rural railways, which are separate government initiatives.
RRB Group D 2025-26 – 19 August 2026 Shift 1 · Education and research schemes

Q13. In January 2026, the One Nation One Subscription (ONOS) initiative mainly aimed to improve access to which resource?

  1. (a) National digital television channels
  2. (b) Government land record databases
  3. (c) International academic research journals
  4. (d) Public sector employment portals
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) International academic research journals

Correct Answer:
Correct Answer: Option 3 – International academic research journals
Explanation:
TheOne Nation One Subscription (ONOS)initiative of the Government of India provides researchers, faculty and students at government higher-education and R&D institutions with seamless access to over 13,000 international peer-reviewed e-journals from major global publishers.
ONOS was formally launched on 1 January 2025; reports around early 2026 (e.g., first-year usage data of 11–12 crore article downloads) continued to highlight the scheme, so the 'January 2026' framing likely refers to this ongoing coverage rather than a fresh launch — the substantive fact (its purpose = access to research journals) is well confirmed.
Important Facts:
• ONOS is implemented by the Department of Higher Education via the INFLIBNET Centre (UGC).
• It covers over 6,300 government higher education institutions.
• The scheme recorded over 11–12 crore research article accesses in its first year.
RRB Group D 2025-26 – 18 August 2026 Shift 3 · Economic Survey and economic reports

Q14. Who tabled the Economic Survey 2025-26 in the Parliament on 29ᵗʰ January 2026?

  1. (a) Amit Shah
  2. (b) Narendra Modi
  3. (c) V. Anantha Nageswaran
  4. (d) Nirmala Sitharaman
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) Nirmala Sitharaman

Economic Survey 2025-26
The Economic Survey is conventionally tabled in Parliament by theUnion Finance Minister, a day before the Union Budget. Finance MinisterNirmala Sitharamantabled the Economic Survey 2025-26 in Parliament on29 January 2026(confirmed by Business Standard, DD News, News on Air reports dated 28–29 January 2026).
The Chief Economic Advisor (V. Anantha Nageswaran) prepares/authors the survey, but it is formally tabled/presented in Parliament by the Finance Minister.
Correct Answer: Nirmala Sitharaman
RRB Group D 2025-26 – 13 August 2026 Shift 3 · Social welfare schemes

Q15. Which national campaign is being strengthened in 2026 to address the problem of drug abuse among the youth in India?

  1. (a) Fit India Movement
  2. (b) Startup India Scheme
  3. (c) Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan
  4. (d) Digital India Programme
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan

Answer: Option 3 – Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan.
• TheNasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyanis being strengthened (2026) to tackle youth drug abuse.
RRB Group D 2025-26 – 9 August 2026 Shift 2 · Social welfare schemes

Q16. Under the Mission Shakti Scheme (March 2026 update), what type of approach is adopted to strengthen women’s safety, security, and empowerment?

  1. (a) Industry-centric approach
  2. (b) Technology-only approach
  3. (c) Market-driven approach
  4. (d) Holistic and victim-centric approach
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) Holistic and victim-centric approach

Answer: Option 4 — Holistic and victim-centric approach
Mission Shakti adopts aholistic, victim-centricapproach to women's safety → Option 4.
RRB Group D 2025-26 – 6 August 2026 Shift 2 · Housing, sanitation and rural development schemes

Q17. Which feature of PMAY-G was highlighted in the Union Budget 2026–27 as an indicator of women-centric rural housing empowerment?

  1. (a) Allotment of houses in women’s names or joint spousal ownership
  2. (b) Allotment of houses only through women-led self-help groups
  3. (c) Allotment of houses only to women rural wage workers
  4. (d) Allotment of houses through women-exclusive housing boards
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) Allotment of houses in women’s names or joint spousal ownership

Answer: Option 1 — Allotment of houses in women's names or joint spousal ownership
PMAY-G empowers women throughhouse ownership in their name/joint ownership→ Option 1.
RRB Group D 2025-26 – 5 August 2026 Shift 1 · Economic Survey and economic reports

Q18. According to the Economic Survey 2025–26, which health condition was highlighted as a rapidly emerging public health challenge and an important social concern in India?

  1. (a) Obesity
  2. (b) Tuberculosis
  3. (c) Malnutrition
  4. (d) Anaemia
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) Obesity

Answer: Option 1 — Obesity
The Economic Survey 2025–26 flaggedobesityas an emerging public-health challenge → Option 1. *(Verify against the official key.)*
RRB Group D 2025-26 – 4 August 2026 Shift 2 · Economic Survey and economic reports

Q19. In January 2026, the Economic Survey 2025–26 was presented in Parliament before which event?

  1. (a) Presentation of Union Budget
  2. (b) Release of Census Report
  3. (c) Publication of Labour Survey
  4. (d) Announcement of Monetary Policy
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) Presentation of Union Budget

Answer: Option 1 — Presentation of Union Budget
The Economic Survey is tabled a daybefore the Union Budget→ Option 1.
RRB Group D 2025-26 – 4 August 2026 Shift 3 · Social welfare schemes

Q20. The One Stop Centre scheme, frequently mentioned in discussions on women's safety during 2025–26, is funded primarily through which mechanism of the Government of India?

  1. (a) National Social Assistance Programme supporting livelihood security for vulnerable households
  2. (b) Nirbhaya Fund supporting integrated assistance for women affected by violence
  3. (c) Rashtriya Mahila Kosh supporting micro-credit facilities for women entrepreneurs
  4. (d) District Mineral Foundation supporting welfare measures in mining-affected regions
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Nirbhaya Fund supporting integrated assistance for women affected by violence

Answer: Option 2 — Nirbhaya Fund
The One Stop Centre scheme is funded through theNirbhaya Fund→ Option 2.
RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2025-26 – 20 June 2026 Shift 1 · Financial inclusion schemes (PMJDY, PMJJBY, PMSBY, APY)

Q21. What is the maximum loan amount available under PMMY for entrepreneurs who have successfully repaid previous ‘Tarun’ category loans?

  1. (a) ₹10 lakh
  2. (b) ₹20 lakh
  3. (c) ₹50 lakh
  4. (d) ₹5 lakh
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) ₹20 lakh

PMMY (Pradhan Mantri MUDRA Yojana)
Three loan categories:
• Shishu: up to ₹50,000
• Kishore: ₹50,001 to ₹5 lakh
• Tarun: ₹5,00,001 to ₹10 lakh
Special Provision:
Entrepreneurs who successfully repay Tarun loans
are eligible fornext cycle loan up to ₹20 lakh
Answer: Option 2 → ₹20 lakh
RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2025-26 – 19 June 2026 Shift 1 · Financial inclusion schemes (PMJDY, PMJJBY, PMSBY, APY)

Q22. The Atal Pension Yojana, introduced as a social security measure in the post-1991 reform period, is available for individuals in which age group?

  1. (a) 18-60 years
  2. (b) 21-60 years
  3. (c) 21-50 years
  4. (d) 18-40 years
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) 18-40 years

Atal Pension Yojana (APY)
Launched: May 2015 under PFRDA
Key Features:
• Government co-contribution scheme for unorganized sector workers
• Guaranteed pension of ₹1,000 to ₹5,000 per month after 60 years
•Eligibility: Age 18-40 yearsat time of joining
• Subscriber must have a savings bank account
Lower joining age → Lower monthly contribution
Answer: Option 4 → 18-40 years
RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2025-26 – 19 June 2026 Shift 3 · Housing, sanitation and rural development schemes

Q23. What is the primary criterion for the selection of beneficiaries under the Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana-Gramin (PMAY-G)?

  1. (a) Educational qualifications
  2. (b) Income generated from agriculture
  3. (c) Land ownership documents
  4. (d) Socio-Economic Caste Census, 2011
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) Socio-Economic Caste Census, 2011

Topic: Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana-Gramin (PMAY-G)
Primary Selection Criterion:
PMAY-G usesSocio-Economic Caste Census (SECC) 2011data for identifying beneficiaries.
Key Points:
• SECC 2011 identifies households based on housing deprivation parameters.
• Beneficiaries are selected from 0, 1, 2 room kutcha houses without pucca walls/roof.
• Excludes households with certain exclusion criteria (govt employees, taxpayers, etc.).
Answer: Option 4 → Socio-Economic Caste Census, 2011
RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2025-26 – 16 June 2026 Shift 1 · Energy and power sector schemes

Q24. Which of the following Government of India schemes was launched in 2017 to achieve universal household electrification by providing electricity connections to all un-electrified households in rural areas and all poor households in urban areas in the country?

  1. (a) Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Gram Jyoti Yojana (DDUGJY)
  2. (b) Saubhagya Scheme (Pradhan Mantri Sahaj Bijli Har Ghar Yojana)
  3. (c) Power for All Scheme
  4. (d) Pradhan Mantri Ghar Ghar Bijili Yojana (PMGGBY)
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Saubhagya Scheme (Pradhan Mantri Sahaj Bijli Har Ghar Yojana)

Topic: Government Schemes - Electricity
Saubhagya Scheme(Pradhan Mantri Sahaj Bijli Har Ghar Yojana)
Launched:September 2017
Objective:Universal household electrification
Target: All un-electrified households in rural areas
Also covers: Poor households in urban areas
DDUGJY focuses on rural infrastructure, not direct connections.
Answer: Option 2 → Saubhagya Scheme (Pradhan Mantri Sahaj Bijli Har Ghar Yojana)
RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2025-26 – 15 June 2026 Shift 1 · Housing, sanitation and rural development schemes

Q25. What is the aim of the Indian Government initiative Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY)?

  1. (a) Provide rural road connectivity
  2. (b) Connect Waterways
  3. (c) Build national highways
  4. (d) Promote bullet trains
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) Provide rural road connectivity

Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY)
Launched in December 2000 by Government of India.
Primary objective: Provide all-weather road connectivity to unconnected habitations in rural areas.
Focus: Rural development through improved road infrastructure.
Answer: Option 1 → Provide rural road connectivity
RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2025-26 – 15 June 2026 Shift 1 · Housing, sanitation and rural development schemes

Q26. Launched in 2019 by the Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, which initiative evaluates cities on climate resilience and sustainability performance?

  1. (a) Climate Smart Cities Assessment Framework
  2. (b) Urban Climate Change Adaptation Programme
  3. (c) National Action Plan on Climate Change
  4. (d) National Mission on Sustainable Habitat
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) Climate Smart Cities Assessment Framework

Topic: Climate Smart Cities Assessment Framework (CSCAF)
Key Facts:
Launched in 2019 by Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs.
Evaluates cities on climate resilience and sustainability.
Part of Smart Cities Mission to promote climate-friendly urban development.
Answer: Option 1 → Climate Smart Cities Assessment Framework
RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2025-26 – 15 June 2026 Shift 2 · Education and research schemes

Q27. Rashtriya Avishkar Abhiyan, introduced in 2015, focuses on encouraging school students to develop interest in:

  1. (a) Arts and cultural activities
  2. (b) Sports and physical education
  3. (c) Science and mathematics learning
  4. (d) Environmental awareness programmes
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Science and mathematics learning

Rashtriya Avishkar Abhiyan (RAA)
Launched:July 2015by Ministry of HRD (now Ministry of Education)
Objective: Foster scientific temper and innovation among students from Class VI to XII
Focus Areas:Science, Mathematics and Technologylearning through hands-on activities, experiments, and innovation
Key Features: Establishment of innovation clubs, science exhibitions, and practical learning in schools
Answer: Option 3 → Science and mathematics learning
RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2025-26 – 14 June 2026 Shift 2 · Housing, sanitation and rural development schemes

Q28. By what percentage did rural road connectivity improve under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) between 2000 and 2020, according to the Ministry of Rural Development?

  1. (a) 80%
  2. (b) 65%
  3. (c) 55%
  4. (d) 40%
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) 80%

Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY)
Launched: December 2000
Objective: Provide all-weather road connectivity to unconnected habitations
Achievement (2000-2020): Rural road connectivity improved by80%
Ministry of Rural Development data confirms this significant improvement
Answer: Option 1 → 80%
SSC GD 2026 – 30 May 2026 Shift 2 · Global indices - publishers and methodology

Q29. What is the purpose of the World Happiness Report?

  1. (a) Track poverty alone
  2. (b) Rank only developing countries
  3. (c) Provide data for investment decisions
  4. (d) Measure human well-being and guide policy for human happiness
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) Measure human well-being and guide policy for human happiness

Correct Answer: Measure human well-being and guide policy for human happiness (Option 4)
The World Happiness Report is published annually by the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN). It ranks countries by their happiness levels using indicators such as GDP per capita, social support, healthy life expectancy, freedom to make life choices, generosity, and perceptions of corruption. Its goal is to measure overall human well-being and guide governments on policies that promote happiness.
Why others are wrong:
- Track poverty alone: The report measures happiness, not just poverty.
- Rank only developing countries: It covers all countries worldwide.
- Provide data for investment decisions: It is a public policy and well-being tool, not an investment guide.
SSC GD 2026 – 30 May 2026 Shift 3 · Economic indices and rankings

Q30. In the World Happiness Report 2024, the world's least happy country was _________.

  1. (a) Pakistan
  2. (b) Afghanistan
  3. (c) North Korea
  4. (d) China
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Afghanistan

Correct Answer: Afghanistan (Option 2)
The World Happiness Report 2024 ranked Afghanistan at the very bottom (last place) as the least happy country in the world. Afghanistan scored the lowest on key well-being indicators including GDP per capita, social support, healthy life expectancy, freedom to make life choices, generosity, and absence of corruption — largely due to decades of conflict, the Taliban takeover in 2021, and resulting economic and humanitarian crises.
Why others are wrong:
- Pakistan: Ranked low on the happiness index but not the least happy country.
- North Korea: Does not officially participate in the WHR survey; data is limited.
- China: Ranked significantly higher than Afghanistan on the 2024 Happiness Index.
SSC GD 2026 – 30 May 2026 Shift 1 · Housing, sanitation and rural development schemes

Q31. Swabhav Swachhata Sanskar Swachhata Abhiyan 2024 is built around _____ key pillars.

  1. (a) 3
  2. (b) 5
  3. (c) 7
  4. (d) 8
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) 3

Correct Answer: 3 pillars — Option (a)
Swabhav Swachhata Sanskar Swachhata Abhiyan 2024 is built around 3 key pillars. About Swabhav Swachhata Sanskar Swachhata Abhiyan (S4 Abhiyan): Full name: Swabhav Swachhata Sanskar Swachhata Abhiyan; Also called: S4 Abhiyan; Launched: 2024 (as part of Swachh Bharat Mission); Launched by: Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs ( MoHUA ) and Ministry of Jal Shakti; Context: As India approaches the 10th anniversary of Swachh Bharat Mission (launched October 2, 2014); The S4 Abhiyan focuses on making cleanliness a ' Swabhav ' (natural behavior/instinct) and 'Sanskar' (cultural value); Three Key Pillars of S4 Abhiyan: Pillar 1 — Swabhav (Natural behavior): Making cleanliness an ingrained habit/natural behavior of every Indian; Moving from external compliance to internal motivation for cleanliness; Pillar 2 — Swachhata (Cleanliness): Maintaining physical cleanliness of surroundings, public spaces, and environment; Emphasis on waste management, open defecation free status, solid waste management; Pillar 3 — Sanskar (Cultural values): Embedding cleanliness as a cultural value and social norm; Making cleanliness part of India's cultural ethos (drawing from traditions); Inculcating values in the next generation; About Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM): Launched: October 2, 2014 (on Mahatma Gandhi's birth anniversary); By: PM Narendra Modi; Key achievements: India declared Open Defecation Free (ODF) in 2019; Over 11 crore toilets built; Swachh Survekshan annual cleanliness rankings; SBM 2.0 launched in 2021 focuses on ODF++, solid and liquid waste management.
Option (b) 5 — Incorrect: Swabhav Swachhata Sanskar Swachhata Abhiyan 2024 is NOT built around 5 pillars; it is built around 3 key pillars — Swabhav (natural behavior), Swachhata (cleanliness), and Sanskar (cultural values); 5 pillars would be an incorrect number for the S4 Abhiyan.
Option (c) 7 — Incorrect: Swabhav Swachhata Sanskar Swachhata Abhiyan 2024 is NOT built around 7 pillars; it is built around 3 key pillars; the candidate incorrectly selected 7 as the number of pillars; the 3 pillars of the S4 Abhiyan are Swabhav , Swachhata , and Sanskar.
Option (d) 8 — Incorrect: Swabhav Swachhata Sanskar Swachhata Abhiyan 2024 is NOT built around 8 pillars; it is built around 3 key pillars — Swabhav (natural instinct for cleanliness), Swachhata (physical cleanliness), and Sanskar (cultural values of cleanliness); the 3 pillars reflect the 3 key words in the scheme's name itself.
SSC GD 2026 – 30 May 2026 Shift 1 · Social welfare schemes

Q32. As of 12 March 2025, how many One Stop Centres (OSC) are operational across India for helping distressed women?

  1. (a) 802
  2. (b) 1102
  3. (c) 102
  4. (d) 402
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) 802

Correct Answer: 802 — Option (a)
As of 12 March 2025, 802 One Stop Centres (OSCs) are operational across India. About One Stop Centres (OSC): Also known as: Sakhi Centres ; Scheme: One Stop Centre (OSC) Scheme; Launched: April 1, 2015; Ministry: Ministry of Women and Child Development; Objective: To provide integrated support and assistance to women affected by violence — both in private and public spaces; Services provided at OSC: Police assistance; Medical assistance (first aid, medical examination); Legal aid and counseling; Psycho-social counseling; Temporary shelter (short- term — up to 5 days); Multi-sectoral services under one roof — hence 'One Stop' Centre; Who can avail: Women and girls (of any age) affected by violence; Women in distress from domestic violence, sexual assault, acid attacks, trafficking, etc.; Funding: Centrally sponsored scheme — funded 100% by Centre; Implementation: District level — usually co-located with district hospitals; Run under Nirbhaya Fund; Progress: Started with a pilot of 36 OSCs in 2015; Target: One OSC per district; As of 12 March 2025: 802 OSCs operational across India; About Nirbhaya Fund: Created in 2013 after the December 2012 Delhi gang rape case ('Nirbhaya' case); Used to fund schemes for safety and security of women; OSC scheme, CCTNS, safe city projects funded from Nirbhaya Fund.
Option (b) 1102 — Incorrect: As of 12 March 2025, the number of operational One Stop Centres (OSCs) in India is NOT 1,102; the correct number is 802; 1,102 would exceed even the total number of districts in India (approximately 766 districts); the target is one OSC per district and 802 is the verified count as of 12 March 2025.
Option (c) 102 — Incorrect: As of 12 March 2025, the number of operational One Stop Centres is NOT 102; 102 would be far too few — the OSC scheme has been expanding rapidly since 2015; the correct number is 802 OSCs operational as of 12 March 2025.
Option (d) 402 — Incorrect: As of 12 March 2025, the number of operational One Stop Centres is NOT 402; 402 was perhaps an earlier figure; by 12 March 2025, the number had grown to 802 operational OSCs across India; the scheme has been expanding rapidly with Nirbhaya Fund support.
SSC GD 2026 – 30 May 2026 Shift 1 · Economic Survey and economic reports

Q33. In India, between NFHS-4 and NFHS-5, the use of clean cooking fuel increased from 44% to _____.

  1. (a) 59%
  2. (b) 65%
  3. (c) 71%
  4. (d) 75%
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) 59%

Correct Answer: 59% — Option (a)
Between NFHS-4 and NFHS-5, the use of clean cooking fuel in India increased from 44% to 59%. About this Statistic: NFHS-4: National Family Health Survey - 4 (2015-16); Percentage using clean cooking fuel: 44%; NFHS-5: National Family Health Survey - 5 (2019-21); Percentage using clean cooking fuel: 59%; Increase: From 44% to 59% — an increase of 15 percentage points; This represents a significant improvement largely attributed to the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY); About NFHS: National Family Health Survey: Conducted by: Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MOHFW), Government of India; Implementation: International Institute for Population Sciences (IIPS), Mumbai; Frequency: Every 4-5 years; Coverage: Health, nutrition, population, and family welfare data; About Clean Cooking Fuel: Clean cooking fuels include: LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas), PNG (Piped Natural Gas), Biogas, Electric stoves, Solar cookers; Unclean/traditional fuels: Firewood, crop residue, cow dung, kerosene; About Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY): Launched: May 1, 2016; By: PM Narendra Modi in Ballia, UP; Objective: Provide LPG connections to BPL (Below Poverty Line) households, especially women; Target: 8 crore LPG connections to BPL women (initial target); Achievement: By 2020, 8 crore connections given; PMUY 2.0: Launched in 2021; Extended to migrants and other deprived categories; Now over 10 crore connections provided; Impact: The significant increase from 44% to 59% in clean cooking fuel usage (NFHS-4 to NFHS-5) is largely credited to PMUY; Health benefits: Reduces indoor air pollution (HAP — Household Air Pollution); Reduces risk of respiratory diseases, especially for women and children.
Option (b) 65% — Incorrect: The use of clean cooking fuel in India between NFHS-4 and NFHS-5 did NOT increase to 65%; the correct figure from NFHS-5 (2019-21) is 59%; while 65% would represent further progress, the actual NFHS-5 data shows 59% — a 15 percentage point increase from NFHS-4's 44%.
Option (c) 71% — Incorrect: The use of clean cooking fuel in India did NOT increase to 71% between NFHS-4 and NFHS-5; the correct figure from NFHS-5 (2019-21) is 59%; 71% would be much higher than the actual recorded figure; while clean cooking fuel access continues to improve, the NFHS-5 recorded percentage is 59%.
Option (d) 75% — Incorrect: The use of clean cooking fuel in India did NOT increase to 75% between NFHS-4 and NFHS-5; the correct figure from NFHS-5 (2019-21) is 59%; while 75% might be a future target or aspiration, the actual NFHS-5 data shows 59%; the question specifically asks about the NFHS-4 to NFHS-5 change.
SSC GD 2026 – 29 May 2026 Shift 1 · Housing, sanitation and rural development schemes

Q34. In 2025 India marked 10 years of the AMRUT initiative. Which is the nodal ministry for the AMRUT initiative?

  1. (a) Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs
  2. (b) Ministry of Urban Development
  3. (c) Ministry of Finance
  4. (d) Ministry of Jal Shakti
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs

Correct Answer: Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs — Option (a)
The nodal ministry for the AMRUT initiative is the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs ( MoHUA ). About AMRUT: Full form: Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation; Launched: June 25, 2015 (by PM Narendra Modi); Named after: Atal Bihari Vajpayee (former PM of India); Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs ( MoHUA ); 2025 milestone: India marked 10 years of AMRUT in 2025; Objectives: Ensure that every household has access to a tap with an assured supply of water; Ensure every household has access to sewerage connection; Increase the amenity value of cities by developing greenery and well-maintained open spaces; Reduce pollution by switching to public transport or constructing facilities for non- motorised transport; Mission coverage: Initially covered 500 cities with a population of 1 lakh and above; AMRUT 2.0: Launched on October 1, 2021; Extended to all cities with Urban Local Bodies (about 4,800 cities); Focus: Sewerage & septage management; Water supply; Urban transport; Green spaces and parks; About Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs ( MoHUA ): Created in 2017 by merging the Ministry of Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation with the Ministry of Urban Development; Handles all urban development schemes including PMAY (Urban), Smart Cities Mission, AMRUT, Swachh Bharat Mission (Urban), Heritage City Development Scheme (HRIDAY); Note: 'Ministry of Urban Development' as a separate ministry no longer exists after the 2017 merger.
Option (b) Ministry of Urban Development — Incorrect: The Ministry of Urban Development no longer exists as a separate entity — it was merged with the Ministry of Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation in 2017 to form the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs ( MoHUA ); the AMRUT initiative is under MoHUA , NOT a separate 'Ministry of Urban Development.'
Option (c) Ministry of Finance — Incorrect: The Ministry of Finance handles India's financial and economic policies, budget, taxation, and banking regulation — it is NOT the nodal ministry for AMRUT; the nodal ministry for AMRUT (urban infrastructure scheme) is the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs ( MoHUA ).
Option (d) Ministry of Jal Shakti — Incorrect: The Ministry of Jal Shakti is responsible for water resources management — specifically the Jal Jeevan Mission (rural drinking water) and national water policy; while AMRUT also has water supply components, the nodal ministry for AMRUT is the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs ( MoHUA ), NOT the Ministry of Jal Shakti.
SSC GD 2026 – 29 May 2026 Shift 1 · Social welfare schemes

Q35. Which of the following is a social development scheme in India?
I. PM-AJAY
II. SMILE scheme

  1. (a) Only I
  2. (b) Only II
  3. (c) Both I and II
  4. (d) Neither I nor II
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Both I and II

Correct Answer: Both I and II — Option (c)
Both PM-AJAY and SMILE are social development schemes in India. About PM-AJAY: Full form: Pradhan Mantri Anusuchit Jaati Abhyuday Yojana; Ministry: Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment; Launched: 2021-22 (by merging three earlier schemes — Special Central Assistance to Scheduled Caste Sub Plan, Babu Jagjivan Ram Chhatrawas Yojana, and Dr. Ambedkar Pre-Matric and Post-Matric Scholarship for EBC); Beneficiaries: Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Economically Backward Classes (EBCs); Objectives: Improving socio-economic indicators of SC population; Providing Pre-Matric and Post-Matric scholarships; Constructing hostels for SC students; Reducing SC poverty through targeted interventions; About SMILE Scheme: Full form: Support for Marginalized Individuals for Livelihood and Enterprise; Ministry: Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment; Launched: 2022; Beneficiaries: Two groups — Transgender persons; People engaged in the act of begging; Objectives: Welfare and rehabilitation of transgender persons — education, healthcare, vocational training, livelihood support; Rehabilitation of persons engaged in begging — shelter, food, medical care, counseling, vocational training; Key components: SMILE for Transgender: Scholarship, skill development, PM-DAKSH, healthcare (Ayushman Bharat); SMILE for Beggars: Comprehensive rehabilitation; Both PM-AJAY and SMILE are administered by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment and are clearly social development schemes.
Option (a) Only I — Incorrect: PM-AJAY IS a social development scheme (for Scheduled Castes), but so is the SMILE scheme (for transgender persons and persons engaged in begging); both are social development schemes under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment; 'Only I' is incorrect because SMILE is also a valid social development scheme.
Option (b) Only II — Incorrect: SMILE IS a social development scheme (for transgender persons and persons engaged in begging), but so is PM-AJAY (for Scheduled Castes); both schemes are under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment; 'Only II' is incorrect because PM-AJAY is also a valid social development scheme.
Option (d) Neither I nor II — Incorrect: Both PM-AJAY and SMILE ARE social development schemes under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment; PM-AJAY supports Scheduled Castes through scholarships, hostels, and poverty reduction; SMILE supports transgender persons and persons engaged in begging; stating 'Neither I nor II' would be completely wrong.
SSC GD 2026 – 29 May 2026 Shift 2 · Economic indices and rankings

Q36. In recent reports, which region typically scores highest on the happiness index?

  1. (a) Sub-Saharan Africa
  2. (b) Middle East
  3. (c) Nordic countries (Northern Europe)
  4. (d) South Asia
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Nordic countries (Northern Europe)

Correct Answer: Nordic countries (Northern Europe) — Option (c)
Nordic countries (Northern Europe) consistently score highest on the World Happiness Report/Index. About the World Happiness Report: Published by: United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN); Based on: Gallup World Poll data; Measures: Six key variables — GDP per capita, Social support, Healthy life expectancy, Freedom to make life choices, Generosity, Perceptions of corruption; About Nordic countries' dominance: Nordic countries — Finland, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Iceland — have topped the report consistently; Finland has been ranked #1 in the World Happiness Report since 2018 (6 consecutive years at the time of this exam); Why Nordic countries rank highest: High GDP per capita; Strong social welfare systems (healthcare, education, childcare); High levels of social trust; Low corruption; High personal freedom; Work-life balance; Strong community bonds; Stable democratic governance; Top countries in recent World Happiness Reports: 1st: Finland (consistently since 2018); 2nd: Denmark; 3rd: Iceland; 4th: Sweden; 5th: Israel (varies); 6th: Netherlands; Contrast with lower-ranked regions: Sub-Saharan Africa: Consistently ranks lowest (conflict, poverty, low social support); Middle East: Mixed — varies widely by country (UAE ranks higher, Yemen ranks lowest); South Asia: India typically ranks in the lower half (around 120-140 out of 150+ countries); Afghanistan has ranked last in some recent reports.
Option (a) Sub-Saharan Africa — Incorrect: Sub-Saharan Africa consistently ranks LOWEST (not highest) on happiness indices; countries in this region face challenges of poverty, conflict, disease burden, political instability, and low social support; countries like Lesotho, Botswana, Rwanda, Zimbabwe typically appear near the bottom of the World Happiness Report.
Option (b) Middle East — Incorrect: The Middle East does NOT consistently score highest on happiness indices; while some Gulf countries (UAE, Bahrain) score moderately high, others (Yemen, Syria, Iraq) rank among the lowest globally; the Nordic countries (Northern Europe) consistently score the highest on happiness indices.
Option (d) South Asia — Incorrect: South Asia does NOT score highest on happiness indices; on the contrary, South Asian countries including India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka typically rank in the lower-middle to low range of the World Happiness Report; Afghanistan (South Asia) has ranked last or near last in recent reports; Nordic countries consistently score highest.
SSC GD 2026 – 29 May 2026 Shift 3 · Housing, sanitation and rural development schemes

Q37. Which initiative promotes the rational use of groundwater through community participation?

  1. (a) Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi
  2. (b) Jal Jeevan Mission
  3. (c) Atal Bhujal Yojana
  4. (d) Atal Pension Yojana
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Atal Bhujal Yojana

Correct Answer: Atal Bhujal Yojana — Option (c)
Atal Bhujal Yojana promotes the rational use of groundwater through community participation. About Atal Bhujal Yojana (Atal Jal): Official name: Atal Bhujal Yojana (also called Atal Jal); Launched: December 25, 2019 (birth anniversary of Atal Bihari Vajpayee); Launched by: PM Narendra Modi; Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Jal Shakti; Implementation support: World Bank-assisted scheme; Budget: Rs. 6000 crore (50% World Bank loan, 50% Central Government); Duration: 2020-21 to 2024-25 (5 years); Objective: Sustainable management of groundwater resources through community participation; Key features: COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION: Gram Panchayats play a central role in water budgeting and planning; Water Security Plans (WSP) prepared at village level; Demand-side management: Focus on reducing groundwater extraction through better water use efficiency; Coverage: 7 states with over-exploited/stressed groundwater — Gujarat, Haryana, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh; 78 districts, 8,350 Gram Panchayats; Key strategies: Water user associations; Crop diversification to less water-intensive crops; Drip irrigation promotion; Rainwater harvesting; Awareness campaigns; Named after: Atal Bihari Vajpayee (former PM); About other options: PM Kisan Samman Nidhi: Income support of Rs 6000/year to farmers; Jal Jeevan Mission: Tap water to every rural household (supply-side); Atal Pension Yojana: Pension scheme for unorganized sector workers.
Option (a) Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi — Incorrect: PM Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) does NOT promote rational use of groundwater; it is an income support scheme that provides Rs 6,000 per year (in three equal installments of Rs 2,000) to small and marginal farmers; it has nothing to do with groundwater management; the scheme for rational groundwater use through community participation is Atal Bhujal Yojana. The candidate incorrectly selected this option.
Option (b) Jal Jeevan Mission — Incorrect: Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) does NOT specifically focus on rational groundwater use through community participation; JJM focuses on providing tap water supply to every rural household (supply-side intervention for drinking water); while it includes some water source sustainability components, its primary goal is household tap water connections; Atal Bhujal Yojana is specifically designed for rational groundwater management through community participation.
Option (d) Atal Pension Yojana — Incorrect: Atal Pension Yojana (APY) has NO connection with groundwater management; it is a pension scheme launched in 2015 for unorganized sector workers; it provides a guaranteed monthly pension of Rs 1,000-5,000 after the age of 60 years; the scheme for rational groundwater use through community participation is Atal Bhujal Yojana.
SSC GD 2026 – 29 May 2026 Shift 3 · Social welfare schemes

Q38. What is the full form of NAMASTE scheme?

  1. (a) National Action for Mechanized Sanitation Ecosystem
  2. (b) New Authority for Mechanized Service Ecosystem
  3. (c) New Action for Mechanized Sanitation Ecosystem
  4. (d) National Authority for Mechanized Service Ecosystem
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) National Action for Mechanized Sanitation Ecosystem

Correct Answer: National Action for Mechanized Sanitation Ecosystem — Option (a)
NAMASTE stands for National Action for Mechanized Sanitation Ecosystem. About NAMASTE Scheme: Full form: National Action for Mechanized Sanitation Ecosystem; Launched: 2022-23; Implementing ministries: Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs ( MoHUA ) AND Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (jointly); Objective: Eliminate manual scavenging in India by mechanizing sanitation work; Ensure safety and dignity of sanitation workers (Safai Mitras); Provide alternative livelihoods; Promote use of mechanized tools for hazardous sanitation cleaning; Key features: Identification: Identify all sanitation workers (Safai Mitras) involved in hazardous cleaning; PPE kits: Provide Personal Protective Equipment to all sanitation workers; Occupational Safety: Ensure no manual entry into sewers/septic tanks; Mechanization: Replace manual cleaning with machines (suction machines, jet machines); Self-employment: Support sanitation workers to own sanitation services enterprises; Capital subsidy: Up to Rs 5 lakh for purchasing sanitation equipment; Insurance: Provide Ayushman Bharat health coverage to sanitation workers; Background: Manual scavenging has been illegal in India since 1993 (amended 2013 — Prohibition of Employment as Manual Scavengers and their Rehabilitation Act, 2013); Despite prohibition, manual scavenging continues — NAMASTE aims to eliminate it through mechanization; NAMASTE is implemented in 500 AMRUT cities; Data: Around 58,000 sanitation workers identified in 2022-23 in NAMASTE cities.
Option (b) New Authority for Mechanized Service Ecosystem — Incorrect: This is NOT the correct full form of NAMASTE; NAMASTE stands for 'National Action for Mechanized Sanitation Ecosystem'; 'New Authority for Mechanized Service Ecosystem' is incorrect on multiple counts — 'New' instead of 'National', 'Authority' instead of 'Action', 'Service' instead of 'Sanitation'; the candidate incorrectly selected this option.
Option (c) New Action for Mechanized Sanitation Ecosystem — Incorrect: This is NOT the correct full form of NAMASTE; the word 'New' in option (c) is incorrect — the 'N' in NAMASTE stands for 'National' (NOT 'New'); and 'A' stands for 'Action' (this part is correct), 'M' for 'Mechanized' (correct), 'A' for... wait — the correct full form is 'National Action for Mechanized Sanitation Ecosystem'; the 'N' must stand for National, not New.
Option (d) National Authority for Mechanized Service Ecosystem — Incorrect: This is NOT the correct full form of NAMASTE; in this option, 'Authority' is incorrect — the 'A' in NAMASTE stands for 'Action' (not 'Authority'); and 'Service' is incorrect — the 'S' in NAMASTE stands for 'Sanitation' (not 'Service'); the correct full form is 'National Action for Mechanized Sanitation Ecosystem.'
SSC GD 2026 – 27 May 2026 Shift 1 · Financial inclusion schemes (PMJDY, PMJJBY, PMSBY, APY)

Q39. The PM Shram Yogi Maandhan (PM-SYM) scheme
is designed for which group?

  1. (a) Housewives
  2. (b) Corporate sector professionals
  3. (c) Unorganized sector workers
  4. (d) Government employees
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Unorganized sector workers

Correct Answer: Unorganized sector workers — Option (c)
The PM Shram Yogi Maandhan (PM-SYM) scheme is designed for workers in the unorganized sector. About PM Shram Yogi Maandhan (PM-SYM): Full name: Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maandhan; Launched: February 2019 (announced in Union Budget 2019-20); Type: Voluntary and contributory pension scheme; Implementing agency: Ministry of Labour and Employment; Target beneficiaries: Workers in the unorganized/informal sector with monthly income of ₹15,000 or less; Examples of eligible workers: Street vendors, rickshaw pullers, construction workers, domestic workers, sanitation workers, cobblers, rag pickers, agricultural workers, beedi workers, auto and taxi drivers, home-based workers, etc.; Key features: Entry age: 18-40 years; Pension amount: ₹3,000 per month after the age of 60 years; Contribution: Subscriber and Central Government contribute equally (50:50 matching contribution); Monthly contribution ranges from ₹55 to ₹200 per month (depending on entry age); Implementation: Through Common Service Centres (CSCs) and Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC); LIC is the Fund Manager; The scheme uses Jan Dhan accounts for auto-debit of contributions; About the broader context: India has about 42 crore unorganized sector workers; Most lack formal pension or social security; PM-SYM provides them a basic old-age pension safety net; Comparison with other pension schemes: NPS (National Pension System): For organized sector; PM-SYM: For unorganized sector workers; Atal Pension Yojana (APY): For unorganized sector (focused on 18-40 age group, similar to PM-SYM).
Option (a) Housewives — Incorrect: PM-SYM is NOT specifically designed for housewives; it targets unorganized/informal sector workers who earn less than ₹15,000 per month; while a housewife who works as a domestic worker may qualify, the scheme broadly targets unorganized sector workers.
Option (b) Corporate sector professionals — Incorrect: Corporate sector professionals are part of the organized sector and are covered by EPF (Employees' Provident Fund), NPS, and other formal pension mechanisms — PM-SYM is specifically designed for the UNORGANIZED sector workers, the opposite of corporate professionals.
Option (d) Government employees — Incorrect: Government employees have their own pension systems — the New Pension System (NPS) for Central Government employees and state government employees; PM-SYM is specifically designed for unorganized sector workers, NOT government employees.
SSC GD 2026 – 27 May 2026 Shift 3 · Economic Survey and economic reports

Q40. India's first Economic Survey was presented in _______.

  1. (a) 1947-48
  2. (b) 1950-51
  3. (c) 1951-52
  4. (d) 1952-53
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) 1950-51

Correct Answer: 1950-51 — Option (b)
India's first Economic Survey was presented in 1950-51. About India's Economic Survey: First Economic Survey: Presented for the year 1950-51; Presented by: Ministry of Finance, Government of India; Current practice: The Economic Survey is presented by the Chief Economic Adviser (CEA) to the Finance Minister, typically one day before the Union Budget; Publication: It comes in two volumes — Volume I (thematic chapters) and Volume II (statistical data); Content: Comprehensive review of the Indian economy — agriculture, industry, services, fiscal situation, external trade, balance of payments, monetary policy, employment, infrastructure; About the 1950-51 survey: It was the first systematic economic review after India became a Republic (January 26, 1950); Provided data on India's nascent economy after independence; Context: India had just recovered from the upheaval of Partition (1947); The first Five Year Plan was being formulated (launched 1951); Historical note: The Economic Survey was previously presented alongside the budget on the same day; In 2017, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley moved the Union Budget to February 1 (from the earlier last day of February); Accordingly, the Economic Survey presentation was also moved earlier; Currently it is presented a day before the Union Budget (usually late January/early February).
Option (a) 1947-48 — Incorrect: India's first Economic Survey was NOT presented for 1947-48; in 1947-48, India had just become independent (August 15, 1947) and the institutional framework was still being established; the Constitution had not yet come into force; the first Economic Survey was presented for 1950-51 after India became a Republic.
Option (c) 1951-52 — Incorrect: India's first Economic Survey was NOT presented for 1951-52; it was presented for 1950-51; 1951-52 was the year when the first Five Year Plan was launched (it ran from 1951-56), but the Economic Survey had already begun for 1950-51.
Option (d) 1952-53 — Incorrect: India's first Economic Survey was NOT presented for 1952-53; it was presented for 1950-51; 1952-53 is three years after the actual first Economic Survey; the candidate incorrectly selected this option.
SSC GD 2026 – 27 May 2026 Shift 3 · Financial inclusion schemes (PMJDY, PMJJBY, PMSBY, APY)

Q41. In India, the number of Jan Dhan accounts has increased to ______ crore by June 2025.

  1. (a) 42.94
  2. (b) 22.94
  3. (c) 25.22
  4. (d) 55.22
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) 55.22

Correct Answer: 55.22 crore — Option (d)
By June 2025, the number of Jan Dhan accounts in India had reached 55.22 crore (approximately 552.2 million). About Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY): Launched: August 28, 2014 (by Prime Minister Narendra Modi); Purpose: Comprehensive financial inclusion — ensuring every Indian household has access to basic banking services; Guinness World Record: On the day of its launch, 1.5 crore bank accounts were opened in a single day (Guinness World Record); Key features: Zero-balance account (no minimum balance required); Rupay debit card provided with each account; Accident insurance cover of ₹1 lakh (enhanced to ₹2 lakh for new accounts opened after August 28, 2018); Life insurance cover of ₹30,000; Overdraft facility of up to ₹10,000 (for Aadhaar-linked accounts); Access to pension and insurance products; Progress: The number of PMJDY accounts has been steadily growing; By June 2025: 55.22 crore accounts; The growth shows continued financial inclusion; Of these accounts: About 55-56% are held by women; About 65-67% are in rural/semi-urban areas; Deposits in PMJDY accounts: Have grown significantly over the years (from near zero initially to lakhs of crores); Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT): PMJDY accounts are used for DBT — direct transfer of government subsidies (LPG, MNREGA wages, scholarships) directly into accounts; Significance: PMJDY is considered one of the world's largest financial inclusion programs.
Option (a) 42.94 crore — Incorrect: The number of Jan Dhan accounts as of June 2025 was 55.22 crore — NOT 42.94 crore; 42.94 crore was an earlier figure (around 2021-2022); by June 2025, the number had grown to 55.22 crore. The candidate selected this incorrect option.
Option (b) 22.94 crore — Incorrect: The number of Jan Dhan accounts as of June 2025 was 55.22 crore — NOT 22.94 crore; 22.94 crore would represent an earlier period (possibly around 2016-2017); the number has grown substantially since then.
Option (c) 25.22 crore — Incorrect: The number of Jan Dhan accounts as of June 2025 was 55.22 crore — NOT 25.22 crore; 25.22 crore would also represent an earlier period; by June 2025, the Jan Dhan accounts had reached 55.22 crore, significantly higher than 25.22 crore.
SSC GD 2026 – 26 May 2026 Shift 2 · Social welfare schemes

Q42. 'Jeevan Pramaan ' initiative is related to which of the following?

  1. (a) Expansion of rural electrification
  2. (b) Providing skill development training for youth
  3. (c) Providing insurance to farmers
  4. (d) Issuing digital life certificate for pensioners
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) Issuing digital life certificate for pensioners

Correct Answer: Issuing digital life certificate for pensioners — Option (d)
'Jeevan Pramaan ' is a government initiative for issuing digital life certificates for pensioners. About Jeevan Pramaan : Full name: Jeevan Pramaan (Jeevan Pramaan Patra = Life Certificate); Launched by: Prime Minister Narendra Modi; Launch date: November 10, 2014; Type: Biometric-enabled Digital Life Certificate service; Purpose: To simplify the process of submitting Annual Life Certificates for pensioners of Central Government; Background: Previously, pensioners had to physically visit their pension disbursing offices/banks every November to submit their Life Certificate ( जीवन प्रमाण पत्र ) to prove they are alive and continue receiving pension; This was a major inconvenience, especially for elderly and differently-abled pensioners; How Jeevan Pramaan works: Uses Aadhaar-based biometric authentication; Pensioner authenticates using fingerprint or iris scan; A digital Life Certificate (Jeevan Pramaan ID) is generated; This is electronically delivered to the pension disbursing agency; Pensioner can submit certificate from home, common service centres , bank branches, post offices, or even via smartphone; Benefits: Eliminates the need for physical visits to banks/offices; Reduces fraud in pension disbursement; Accessible from anywhere — home, CSCs, banks; Available on mobile app (Jeevan Pramaan app); Scope: Covers Central Government civil pensioners, defence pensioners, telecom pensioners, etc.; Also adopted by many State Governments.
Option (a) Expansion of rural electrification — Incorrect: Rural electrification is handled by schemes like the Rajiv Gandhi Grameen Vidyutikaran Yojana and later Saubhagya Scheme (Pradhan Mantri Sahaj Bijli Har Ghar Yojana) — 'Jeevan Pramaan ' has nothing to do with electrification; it is about digital life certificates for pensioners.
Option (b) Providing skill development training for youth — Incorrect: Skill development for youth is addressed by schemes like Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) and the Skill India Mission — 'Jeevan Pramaan ' is specifically for pensioners and their digital life certificates, not for youth skill development.
Option (c) Providing insurance to farmers — Incorrect: Insurance for farmers is provided through schemes like Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) — 'Jeevan Pramaan ' is not about farmer insurance; it is an initiative that enables pensioners to submit their annual life certificate digitally using Aadhaar biometric authentication.
SSC GD 2026 – 26 May 2026 Shift 3 · Education and research schemes

Q43. Which of the following projects come under the SHRESHTHA Yojana?
I. Residential schools
II. Non-residential schools

  1. (a) Only I
  2. (b) Only II
  3. (c) Both I and II
  4. (d) Neither I nor II
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Both I and II

Correct Answer: Both I and II — Option (c)
Both residential schools (Statement I) and non-residential schools (Statement II) come under the SHRESHTHA Yojana. About SHRESHTHA Yojana: Full name: Scheme for Residential Education for Students in High Schools in Targeted Areas; Launched by: Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India; Target beneficiaries: Students belonging to Scheduled Castes (SC); Objective: To provide quality education to meritorious SC students by placing them in best private residential schools across India; Components of SHRESHTHA Yojana: Residential Component: Provides residential school education to SC students; SC students are placed in CBSE-affiliated private residential schools; School fees, hostel expenses, and other costs are borne by the government; Non-Residential Component: Provides educational support for SC students attending day schools (non-residential); This includes coaching, educational materials, and other support; Selection: Students are selected through a National Entrance Test (NETS) conducted by NTA (National Testing Agency); Funding: 100% Centrally Sponsored Scheme; About other key schemes for SC students: Pre-matric Scholarship Scheme for SC students; Post-matric Scholarship Scheme for SC students; Dr. Ambedkar Post Matric Scholarship for EBC; BARTI (Dr. Ambedkar Research and Training Institute) for skill training; Distinction from Navodaya Vidyalaya: Navodaya Vidyalayas are government residential schools for meritorious students from rural areas (not specifically SC-targeted); SHRESHTHA specifically targets SC students for private residential school education.
Option (a) Only I — Incorrect: While residential schools are indeed a component of SHRESHTHA Yojana (Statement I is correct), the scheme also has a non-residential component (Statement II is also correct); selecting 'Only I' misses the non-residential component of the scheme. The candidate selected this incorrect option.
Option (b) Only II — Incorrect: While non-residential schools are a component of SHRESHTHA Yojana (Statement II is correct), the scheme's core feature is providing residential school education to SC students (Statement I is also correct); selecting 'Only II' misses the primary residential component.
Option (d) Neither I nor II — Incorrect: SHRESHTHA Yojana specifically deals with BOTH residential schools AND non-residential schools — both Statements I and II are components of SHRESHTHA Yojana; the correct answer is 'Both I and II.'
SSC GD 2026 – 25 May 2026 Shift 1 · Economic indices and rankings

Q44. The Municipal Performance Index is associated with which of the following ministries?

  1. (a) Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs
  2. (b) Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment
  3. (c) Ministry of Home Affairs
  4. (d) Ministry of Jal Shakti
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs

Correct Answer: Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs — Option (a)
The Municipal Performance Index (MPI) is associated with the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs ( MoHUA ). About the Municipal Performance Index (MPI): The Municipal Performance Index is a comprehensive framework to assess urban local bodies (municipalities/municipal corporations) in India; Released by: Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs ( MoHUA ); It evaluates municipalities on parameters like: Services (water supply, sewerage, solid waste management, storm water drainage); Finance (own revenue generation, expenditure efficiency, debt management); Technology (use of IT, e-governance); Governance (urban planning, social infrastructure, citizen grievance redressal); It covers 111 cities (class 1 cities across India); Objectives: Promote competitive and cooperative federalism at the urban local body level; Identify best practices and areas needing improvement; Help municipalities benchmark their performance; Promote data-driven urban governance; About Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs ( MoHUA ): Responsible for urban planning, housing, and development of cities and towns; Key schemes: Smart Cities Mission, AMRUT (Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation), PM Awas Yojana (Urban), Swachh Bharat Mission (Urban), HRIDAY, National Urban Livelihood Mission; Also releases: Swachh Survekshan (urban cleanliness ranking), Ease of Living Index.
Option (b) Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment — Incorrect: The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment deals with welfare of SCs, OBCs, persons with disabilities, elderly — it does NOT release the Municipal Performance Index; that is MoHUA's domain.
Option (c) Ministry of Home Affairs — Incorrect: The Ministry of Home Affairs deals with internal security, border management, disaster management, and Union Territories administration — it does NOT release the Municipal Performance Index; that is released by MoHUA .
Option (d) Ministry of Jal Shakti — Incorrect: The Ministry of Jal Shakti deals with water resources, drinking water, and rural sanitation (Swachh Bharat Mission Grameen, Jal Jeevan Mission) — the Municipal Performance Index is a MoHUA initiative for urban governance, not Jal Shakti.
SSC GD 2026 – 25 May 2026 Shift 1 · Global indices - publishers and methodology

Q45. Which of the following indices is NOT published by the World Economic Forum?

  1. (a) Global Gender Gap Index
  2. (b) Energy Transition Index
  3. (c) Global Competitiveness Index
  4. (d) Human Development Index
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) Human Development Index

Correct Answer: Human Development Index — Option (d)
The Human Development Index (HDI) is NOT published by the World Economic Forum — it is published by UNDP (United Nations Development Programme ). About the Human Development Index (HDI): Published by: UNDP (United Nations Development Programme ) — annually in the Human Development Report; Measures: Three dimensions: Health (Life expectancy at birth), Education (Mean years of schooling + Expected years of schooling), Living Standard (GNI per capita); First published: 1990 (concept developed by Mahbub ul Haq and Amartya Sen); India's HDI rank: Around 130-135 out of ~193 countries (medium human development); About WEF (World Economic Forum) and the indices it publishes: Global Gender Gap Index: Measures gender equality in 4 areas — Economic participation, Educational attainment, Health and survival, Political empowerment; Annual report; Energy Transition Index (ETI): Measures performance of countries on energy system and readiness for energy transition; Published jointly by WEF and Accenture; Global Competitiveness Index (GCI): Assesses competitiveness of nations across 12 pillars (institutions, infrastructure, skills, innovation, etc.); WEF also publishes: Global Risks Report, Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Index, Financial Development Index; About UNDP: Part of the United Nations system; Works in 170 countries on sustainable development, poverty eradication, and democratic governance.
Option (a) Global Gender Gap Index — Incorrect: The Global Gender Gap Index IS published by the World Economic Forum (WEF) — it measures gender equality across 4 dimensions; therefore it CANNOT be the answer to 'NOT published by WEF'. The candidate selected this incorrect option.
Option (b) Energy Transition Index — Incorrect: The Energy Transition Index IS published by the World Economic Forum (in partnership with Accenture); it IS a WEF publication, so it cannot be the answer.
Option (c) Global Competitiveness Index — Incorrect: The Global Competitiveness Index IS published by the World Economic Forum — it is one of WEF's flagship annual publications assessing 12 pillars of economic competitiveness; it cannot be the 'NOT published by WEF' answer.
SSC GD 2026 – 25 May 2026 Shift 2 · Global indices - publishers and methodology

Q46. The Annual Survey of India's City-Systems (ASICS) was published by which of the following?

  1. (a) Janaagraha Centre for Citizenship and Democracy
  2. (b) NITI Aayog
  3. (c) Council for Social Development
  4. (d) Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) Janaagraha Centre for Citizenship and Democracy

Correct Answer: Janaagraha Centre for Citizenship and Democracy — Option (a)
The Annual Survey of India's City-Systems (ASICS) is published by Janaagraha Centre for Citizenship and Democracy. About Janaagraha Centre for Citizenship and Democracy: Type: Non-governmental organization (NGO); Headquarters: Bengaluru, Karnataka, India; Founded: 2001; Mission: To transform the quality of life in India's cities and towns by transforming urban governance; About ASICS (Annual Survey of India's City-Systems): Full form: Annual Survey of India's City-Systems; Published by: Janaagraha Centre for Citizenship and Democracy; Purpose: Evaluates and benchmarks urban governance in Indian cities; Covers: About 30-40 major cities across India; Parameters: Urban planning and design capacity, urban capacities and resources, empowered and legitimate political representation, transparency and accountability in urban governance; The ASICS report scores cities on these urban governance parameters; Significance: ASICS helps identify gaps in urban governance, best practices, and areas needing reform; It complements government schemes like Smart Cities Mission; It provides evidence-based data for urban policy reform; Other indices related to urban governance: Municipal Performance Index (MPI): By Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs; Ease of Living Index: Also by MoHUA ; Swachh Survekshan : Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (urban cleanliness).
Option (b) NITI Aayog — Incorrect: NITI Aayog publishes various indices (State Health Index, SDG India Index, Innovation Index) but NOT the Annual Survey of India's City-Systems (ASICS); ASICS is published by Janaagraha .
Option (c) Council for Social Development — Incorrect: The Council for Social Development (CSD) is a social science research institute — it does NOT publish the ASICS; the Annual Survey of India's City-Systems is published by Janaagraha Centre for Citizenship and Democracy. The candidate selected this incorrect option.
Option (d) Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment — Incorrect: This ministry deals with welfare of SC/ST/OBC and differently-abled persons — it does NOT publish urban governance surveys; ASICS is a Janaagraha publication focused on city governance systems.
SSC GD 2026 – 25 May 2026 Shift 3 · Global indices - publishers and methodology

Q47. India Discrimination Report was published by which of the following?

  1. (a) Oxfam India
  2. (b) Centre for Equity Studies
  3. (c) Tata Trusts
  4. (d) Praja Foundation
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) Oxfam India

Correct Answer: Oxfam India — Option (a)
The India Discrimination Report was published by Oxfam India. About India Discrimination Report: Published by: Oxfam India (Indian arm of the global development organization Oxfam); The report analyzes discrimination in India's labor market based on religion and gender; Key findings: Documented systematic discrimination against Muslim workers and women in the formal labor market in India; Shows disparity in wages, employment opportunities, and economic participation based on religious identity and gender; The report uses NSSO (National Sample Survey Office) data and employment surveys to highlight discrimination patterns; Significance: Highlights economic inequality arising from discrimination; Important for policy-making regarding equal opportunity employment; Sparked national debate on workplace discrimination in India; About Oxfam India: Part of Oxfam International (global confederation of 21 NGOs); Established in India to fight poverty, inequality, and discrimination; Publishes various reports on inequality: Survival of the Richest report, India Inequality Report; About other options: Centre for Equity Studies: Works on equity and social justice but did not publish this particular report; Tata Trusts: Philanthropic foundation of the Tata Group — focuses on health, education, livelihoods; Praja Foundation: Works on urban governance and citizen participation — publishes urban governance reports, not discrimination reports.
Option (b) Centre for Equity Studies — Incorrect: The Centre for Equity Studies (CES) is an organization working on equity and social justice — it did NOT publish the India Discrimination Report; that was published by Oxfam India. The candidate selected this incorrect option.
Option (c) Tata Trusts — Incorrect: Tata Trusts is the philanthropic arm of the Tata Group focused on health, education, rural development, and natural resources — it did not publish the India Discrimination Report; Oxfam India is the correct publisher.
Option (d) Praja Foundation — Incorrect: Praja Foundation is known for its annual reports on urban governance (Delhi Annual Report, Crime Against Women) — it did not publish the India Discrimination Report; that was published by Oxfam India.
SSC GD 2026 – 22 May 2026 Shift 1 · Skill development and employment schemes

Q48. Under the PM-DAKSH scheme, candidates belonging to OBC and EWS categories whose annual family income is less than _____ lakh rupees are eligible to receive training.

  1. (a) 3
  2. (b) 5
  3. (c) 8
  4. (d) 10
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) 3

Correct Answer: 3 lakh — Option (a)
Under the PM-DAKSH scheme, OBC and EWS candidates with annual family income less than Rs 3 lakh are eligible to receive training. About PM-DAKSH Scheme: Full name: Pradhan Mantri Dakshta Aur Kushalta Sampann Hitgrahi (PM-DAKSH) Yojana; Implementing Ministry: Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment; Objective: To provide skill training to marginalized communities (SC, OBC, EWS, sanitation workers, de-notified tribes) to enhance their livelihood and help them become self-reliant; Eligibility criteria: Scheduled Castes (SC): No income limit; Other Backward Classes (OBC): Annual family income less than Rs 3 lakh; Economically Weaker Section (EWS): Annual family income less than Rs 3 lakh; Sanitation workers ( safai karamcharis ) and their dependents: No income limit; De-notified, nomadic and semi-nomadic tribes: No income limit; Types of training: Short-term training (up to 6 months) — for wage employment; Long-term training — for skilled trades; Reskilling/Upskilling — for self-employment; Benefits: Free training, stipend during training, free boarding & lodging at training centers, assessment and certification, placement assistance.
Option (b) 5 lakh — Incorrect: The income limit under PM-DAKSH for OBC and EWS candidates is Rs 3 lakh per annum (not Rs 5 lakh); Rs 5 lakh is a different income threshold used in other government schemes. The candidate selected this incorrect option.
Option (c) 8 lakh — Incorrect: Rs 8 lakh is the annual income limit used to define the 'Non-Creamy Layer' for OBC reservations in central government jobs — but for PM-DAKSH training eligibility, the income limit for OBC and EWS is Rs 3 lakh per annum.
Option (d) 10 lakh — Incorrect: Rs 10 lakh is not the income limit for PM-DAKSH training eligibility for OBC/EWS candidates; the correct income threshold under the PM-DAKSH scheme is Rs 3 lakh per annum.
SSC GD 2026 – 22 May 2026 Shift 2 · Housing, sanitation and rural development schemes

Q49. Swachh Survekshan Grameen (SSG) 2025 is a nationwide rural sanitation survey by _____.

  1. (a) Ministry of Jal Shakti
  2. (b) NITI Aayog
  3. (c) National Green Tribunal
  4. (d) Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) Ministry of Jal Shakti

Correct Answer: Ministry of Jal Shakti — Option (a)
Swachh Survekshan Grameen (SSG) 2025 is a nationwide rural sanitation survey conducted by the Ministry of Jal Shakti. About Swachh Survekshan Grameen (SSG): Swachh Survekshan Grameen is an annual rural sanitation survey conducted by the Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation (DDWS) under the Ministry of Jal Shakti; It assesses the sanitation status and cleanliness of rural areas across India; It is the rural counterpart of the urban Swachh Survekshan (conducted by Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs); Implemented under: Swachh Bharat Mission (Grameen) — SBM(G); Objective: To rank states, districts, and gram panchayats based on their sanitation and cleanliness performance; Parameters assessed: ODF (Open Defecation Free) status, toilet construction and usage, solid and liquid waste management, behavioural change, water quality, cleanliness of public places; Awards: Top-performing states, districts, and villages receive awards under SSG; About Ministry of Jal Shakti: Created in 2019 by merging the Ministry of Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation with the Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation; Responsible for: Jal Jeevan Mission (drinking water to every rural household), Swachh Bharat Mission Grameen (rural sanitation), AMRUT, National Water Mission; The Ministry of Jal Shakti plays a central role in India's water security and rural sanitation goals.
Option (b) NITI Aayog — Incorrect: NITI Aayog (National Institution for Transforming India) is the government's policy think-tank that conducts studies, rankings, and evaluations in various sectors — but Swachh Survekshan Grameen is specifically conducted by the Ministry of Jal Shakti (DDWS), not NITI Aayog.
Option (c) National Green Tribunal — Incorrect: The National Green Tribunal (NGT) is a judicial body for environmental disputes — it does NOT conduct the Swachh Survekshan Grameen survey; SSG is conducted by the Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation under Ministry of Jal Shakti. The candidate selected this incorrect option.
Option (d) Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change — Incorrect: MoEFCC deals with environmental protection, forest conservation, wildlife, and pollution control — it does NOT conduct the Swachh Survekshan Grameen; that survey is conducted by the Ministry of Jal Shakti as part of Swachh Bharat Mission (Grameen).
SSC GD 2026 – 21 May 2026 Shift 1 · Global indices - publishers and methodology

Q50. The India Social Development Report is one of the major publications of _____.

  1. (a) CSD (Council for Social Development)
  2. (b) Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment
  3. (c) NITI Aayog
  4. (d) CPCB
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) CSD (Council for Social Development)

Correct Answer: CSD (Council for Social Development) — Option (a)
The India Social Development Report (ISDR) is one of the major publications of the Council for Social Development (CSD). About CSD: The Council for Social Development (CSD) is an autonomous, non-governmental research institution based in New Delhi; Established: 1962; It conducts multidisciplinary research on issues of social development, social policy, poverty, inequality, education, health, and governance in India; Its objectives include research, training, documentation, and policy advocacy for social development; About the India Social Development Report (ISDR): Published periodically by CSD since 2005; It provides a comprehensive assessment of India's social development — covering education, health, nutrition, poverty, inequality, social security, and related themes; It analyzes social development data and trends and makes policy recommendations; It is considered an important reference document for policymakers, researchers, and civil society organizations.
Option (b) Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment — Incorrect: The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment is a government ministry that implements welfare schemes for marginalized communities; while it publishes its own reports, the India Social Development Report is specifically a publication of the Council for Social Development (CSD — an autonomous research institution). The candidate selected this incorrect option.
Option (c) NITI Aayog — Incorrect: NITI Aayog is India's premier policy think-tank; while it publishes numerous policy and development reports (like the SDG India Index, Composite Water Management Index), the India Social Development Report is a specific publication of the Council for Social Development (CSD), not NITI Aayog.
Option (d) CPCB — Incorrect: CPCB (Central Pollution Control Board) is a statutory body under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change that monitors and regulates pollution; it has no connection to the India Social Development Report — that is published by CSD.
SSC GD 2026 – 21 May 2026 Shift 2 · Economic indices and rankings

Q51. Which of the following is related to the 'RESIDEX' index in India?

  1. (a) Stock market performance
  2. (b) Industrial production
  3. (c) Agricultural commodity
  4. (d) Housing prices
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) Housing prices

Correct Answer: Housing prices — Option (d)
The RESIDEX is India's residential property price index, related to housing prices. About RESIDEX: RESIDEX (Residential Property Price Index) is an index that tracks the movement and trends in residential real estate prices in India; Launched by: National Housing Bank (NHB) in 2007 (India's apex housing finance institution, wholly owned by the Reserve Bank of India); Current manager: Later, the management of RESIDEX was transferred to NHB's subsidiary; Coverage: Tracks property prices across multiple cities in India (initially covering 5 cities, later expanded to cover 50+ cities); Types of indices under RESIDEX: RESIDEX (Residential Price Index — tracks residential property transaction prices), Construction Cost Index (CCI — tracks input costs for construction), Rental Rate Index (RRI — tracks residential rental rates), Land Price Index (LPI — tracks land prices), Housing Price Index (HPI); Purpose: To provide credible data on housing price trends for homebuyers, investors, policymakers, and financial institutions; transparency in the real estate market; helps in monetary policy decisions by RBI; Significance: RESIDEX data helps identify housing bubbles, affordability trends, and regional variations in property prices across Indian cities.
Option (a) Stock market performance — Incorrect: Stock market performance in India is tracked by indices like SENSEX (BSE Sensitive Index, Bombay Stock Exchange) and NIFTY 50 (National Stock Exchange) — NOT RESIDEX; RESIDEX specifically tracks residential property prices.
Option (b) Industrial production — Incorrect: Industrial production in India is measured by the Index of Industrial Production (IIP) published by the National Statistical Office (NSO) — not RESIDEX; RESIDEX tracks housing/property prices.
Option (c) Agricultural commodity — Incorrect: Agricultural commodity prices in India are tracked through various systems like AGMARKNET, Minimum Support Price (MSP) data from government, and commodity exchanges — not RESIDEX; RESIDEX is specifically for residential real estate/housing prices.
SSC GD 2026 – 21 May 2026 Shift 3 · Social welfare schemes

Q52. As of July 2025, more than _____ Anganwadi centres have been upgraded to Saksham Anganwadi centres .

  1. (a) 57,897
  2. (b) 67,600
  3. (c) 77,554
  4. (d) 87,661
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) 57,897

Correct Answer: 57,897 — Option (a)
As of July 2025, more than 57,897 Anganwadi centres have been upgraded to Saksham Anganwadi centres . About Saksham Anganwadi: 'Saksham Anganwadi' (meaning 'Empowered/Capable Anganwadi') is an upgraded version of the traditional Anganwadi centres under Mission Saksham Anganwadi and Poshan 2.0 (a flagship government program for nutrition and child development); Upgraded features: Better infrastructure (improved buildings, drinking water, toilets), Smartphones/tablets for digitized data entry and monitoring, Audio-visual aids and smart TVs for teaching children, Improved services — health, nutrition, pre-school education, immunization; Mission Poshan 2.0 (PM Poshan): The government's flagship scheme merging ICDS (Integrated Child Development Services) with other nutrition programs; focuses on reducing malnutrition among children under 6 years, pregnant/lactating mothers, and adolescent girls; About Anganwadis : Traditional Anganwadis are village-level childcare centres run by the government — they provide nutrition, health, and pre-school education services; managed by Anganwadi workers and helpers under ICDS; India has over 1.3 million Anganwadi centres across the country.
Option (b) 67,600 — Incorrect: The correct figure for Anganwadi centres upgraded to Saksham Anganwadi as of July 2025 is more than 57,897 — not 67,600.
Option (c) 77,554 — Incorrect: The correct number of Anganwadi centres upgraded to Saksham Anganwadi as of July 2025 is more than 57,897, not 77,554.
Option (d) 87,661 — Incorrect: 87,661 is not the correct figure; as of July 2025, more than 57,897 Anganwadi centres have been upgraded to Saksham Anganwadi centres .
SSC GD 2026 – 20 May 2026 Shift 1 · Economic indices and rankings

Q53. According to the World Bank's Logistics Performance Index (LPI) 2023, India has reached _____ rank in the international shipment category in the global ranking.

  1. (a) 22nd
  2. (b) 12th
  3. (c) 44th
  4. (d) 31st
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) 22nd

Correct Answer: 22nd — Option (a)
According to the World Bank's Logistics Performance Index (LPI) 2023, India achieved the 22nd rank in the international shipment category in the global ranking. This is a significant improvement from India's previous rankings in the LPI. The World Bank's LPI measures logistics performance of countries across 6 components: Customs efficiency; Infrastructure quality; Ease of arranging international shipments; Logistics services quality; Tracking and tracing of shipments; Timeliness of shipments. India's improved ranking in the international shipment category reflects better trade facilitation, digitization of customs processes, improvements in port infrastructure, and growth of dedicated freight corridors. The LPI 2023 covered 139 countries.
Option (b) 12th — Incorrect: India's rank in the international shipment category of the World Bank's LPI 2023 was 22nd, not 12th.
Option (c) 44th — Incorrect: India ranked 22nd in international shipment in the LPI 2023, significantly better than 44th; India has been improving its logistics performance consistently.
Option (d) 31st — Incorrect: The correct rank for India in the international shipment category of the World Bank's LPI 2023 is 22nd, not 31st.
SSC GD 2026 – 20 May 2026 Shift 2 · Housing, sanitation and rural development schemes

Q54. On how many main pillars is the design of the Swachh Survekshan survey in India based?

  1. (a) 3
  2. (b) 5
  3. (c) 6
  4. (d) 7
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) 3

Correct Answer: 3 — Option (a)
The Swachh Survekshan (Cleanliness Survey) in India is designed based on 3 main pillars: Pillar 1 — Service Level Progress: Assesses the progress of Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) in achieving key sanitation and cleanliness service delivery indicators (such as open defecation free status, waste collection, processing, and disposal systems); Pillar 2 — Direct Observation: Involves physical on-the-ground assessment of cleanliness levels in cities by trained field assessors who evaluate sanitation infrastructure and cleanliness conditions; Pillar 3 — Citizen Voice (Citizen Feedback): Gathers feedback from citizens through mobile apps, web portals, and direct interaction regarding their satisfaction with urban sanitation and cleanliness services. Swachh Survekshan is conducted by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs under the Swachh Bharat Mission (Urban). It was first conducted in 2016 and has since become the world's largest urban sanitation survey, covering thousands of cities across India annually.
Option (b) 5 — Incorrect: The Swachh Survekshan is based on 3 main pillars (Service Level Progress, Direct Observation, and Citizen Voice), not 5 pillars.
Option (c) 6 — Incorrect: 6 is not the correct number of pillars forming the design of the Swachh Survekshan survey; the survey is structured around 3 main pillars.
Option (d) 7 — Incorrect: The Swachh Survekshan survey design is based on 3 main pillars, not 7; while the survey has multiple sub-indicators and parameters, the overarching design rests on 3 fundamental pillars.
SSC GD 2026 – 19 May 2026 Shift 1 · Global indices - publishers and methodology

Q55. How many major pillars did the Network Readiness Index 2024 use to evaluate the network readiness of 133 economies?

  1. (a) 4
  2. (b) 6
  3. (c) 8
  4. (d) 10
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) 4

Correct Answer: 4 — Option (a)
The Network Readiness Index (NRI) 2024 evaluated the network readiness of 133 economies based on 4 major pillars: Technology (digital infrastructure, access, and content); People (individuals, businesses, and governments using technology); Governance (trust, regulation, and inclusion); Impact (economy, quality of life, and SDGs). The NRI is published by the Portulans Institute and measures how countries are leveraging information and communication technology (ICT) for economic and social development. India has been improving its NRI rankings, reflecting growth in digital infrastructure, internet penetration, and digital public goods like UPI, Aadhaar, and DigiLocker .
Option (b) 6 — Incorrect: The NRI 2024 is structured around 4 major pillars (Technology, People, Governance, Impact), not 6.
Option (c) 8 — Incorrect: The Network Readiness Index 2024 uses 4 pillars for evaluation, not 8.
Option (d) 10 — Incorrect: The NRI 2024 framework is based on 4 major pillars with sub-pillars and variables; the total number of pillars is 4, not 10.
SSC GD 2026 – 19 May 2026 Shift 2 · Social welfare schemes

Q56. Until August 2025, how many sewer and septic tank workers (SSW) have been validated under the Namaste scheme?

  1. (a) 84902
  2. (b) 74900
  3. (c) 64900
  4. (d) 44900
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) 84902

Correct Answer: 84902 — Option (a)
The Namaste (National Action for Mechanised Sanitation Ecosystem) scheme is a Central Sector Scheme launched jointly by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment and the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs. The scheme aims to eliminate hazardous cleaning of sewers and septic tanks and ensure the safety and dignity of sanitation workers (SSWs). As of August 2025, approximately 84,902 sewer and septic tank workers have been validated (profiled and registered) under the Namaste scheme. The scheme provides: safety kits to SSWs, health insurance, livelihood training, alternative occupations, and capital subsidies for sanitation-related enterprises.
Option (b) 74900 — Incorrect: The number of SSWs validated under the Namaste scheme as of August 2025 was 84,902, not 74,900.
Option (c) 64900 — Incorrect: 64,900 does not reflect the actual count of SSWs validated under the Namaste scheme; the correct figure is 84,902.
Option (d) 44900 — Incorrect: 44,900 significantly underestimates the number of sewer and septic tank workers validated under the Namaste scheme as of August 2025.
SSC GD 2026 – 9 May 2026 Shift 1 · Social welfare schemes

Q57. Which state government launched the ' Mukhyamantri Maiya Samman Yojana' in August 2024?

  1. (a) Jharkhand
  2. (b) Haryana
  3. (c) Odisha
  4. (d) Bihar
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) Jharkhand

Correct Answer: Jharkhand — Option (a)
The Mukhyamantri Maiya Samman Yojana was launched by the Jharkhand state government under Chief Minister Hemant Soren in August 2024. Under this scheme, eligible women in Jharkhand receive a financial assistance of ₹1,000 per month (i.e., ₹12,000 annually) directly transferred to their bank accounts. 'Maiya' means 'mother/woman' in the local dialect. The scheme aimed to support women's financial independence and welfare, particularly targeting women from economically weaker sections. It was a flagship welfare scheme of the JMM-led government in Jharkhand.
Option (b) Haryana — Incorrect: Haryana did not launch the Mukhyamantri Maiya Samman Yojana; this scheme was specific to Jharkhand.
Option (c) Odisha — Incorrect: Odisha has its own women welfare schemes (such as Subhadra Yojana) but the Mukhyamantri Maiya Samman Yojana was launched by Jharkhand.
Option (d) Bihar — Incorrect: Bihar has various welfare schemes for women but the Mukhyamantri Maiya Samman Yojana was a Jharkhand government initiative launched in August 2024.
SSC GD 2026 – 8 May 2026 Shift 1 · Economic indices and rankings

Q58. 'Freedom to make life choices' in the Happiness Index refers to:

  1. (a) Freedom of media
  2. (b) People's perception of having control over life decisions
  3. (c) Economic liberalization
  4. (d) Political democracy
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) People's perception of having control over life decisions

Correct Answer: People's perception of having control over life decisions — Option (b)
In the World Happiness Report (WHR), 'Freedom to make life choices' is one of the six key variables used to measure happiness. It refers to people's perception of having control over important life decisions — the national average of binary responses to the question: 'Are you satisfied or dissatisfied with your freedom to choose what you do with your life?' It measures subjective autonomy and personal agency, not political freedom, economic policy, or media freedom. The other five variables in WHR are: GDP per capita, Social support, Healthy life expectancy, Generosity, and Freedom from corruption.
Option (a) Freedom of media — Incorrect: Media freedom is a separate concept (measured by Press Freedom Index); 'Freedom to make life choices' in WHR refers to personal autonomy over life decisions.
Option (c) Economic liberalization — Incorrect: Economic liberalization is a macroeconomic policy; 'Freedom to make life choices' measures individual-level subjective perception of autonomy.
Option (d) Political democracy — Incorrect: Political democracy relates to governance systems; 'Freedom to make life choices' in WHR is about individual satisfaction with personal freedom.
SSC GD 2026 – 8 May 2026 Shift 3 · Housing, sanitation and rural development schemes

Q59. The theme of Swachhata Hi Seva Abhiyan 2024 was:

  1. (a) Swabhaav Swachhata, Sanskaar Swachhata
  2. (b) Swachhata Se Samridhi
  3. (c) Plastic Mukt Bharat
  4. (d) Har Ghar Swachhata
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) Swabhaav Swachhata, Sanskaar Swachhata

Correct Answer: Swabhaav Swachhata, Sanskaar Swachhata — Option (a)
The theme of the Swachhata Hi Seva (SHS) Abhiyan 2024 was ' Swabhaav Swachhata , Sanskaar Swachhata ' (Cleanliness as Nature, Cleanliness as Culture). The campaign was observed from September 14 to October 2, 2024 (Gandhi Jayanti), as part of the larger Swachh Bharat Mission. The theme emphasizes making cleanliness an inherent personal behaviour ( Swabhaav = innate nature) and a cultural value ( Sanskaar = cultural instinct) — going beyond mere campaigns to embed cleanliness as a way of life in Indian society.
Option (b) Swachhata Se Samridhi — Incorrect: This ('Prosperity through Cleanliness') was a theme for the Swachhata Hi Seva Abhiyan in earlier years, not 2024.
Option (c) Plastic Mukt Bharat — Incorrect: 'Plastic-Free India' was a theme focused on eliminating single-use plastics; it was not the theme for Swachhata Hi Seva Abhiyan 2024.
Option (d) Har Ghar Swachhata — Incorrect: 'Cleanliness in Every Home' is a broader Swachh Bharat campaign message, not specifically the 2024 Swachhata Hi Seva Abhiyan theme.
SSC GD 2026 – 7 May 2026 Shift 1 · Tourism and culture schemes

Q60. Which national initiative was launched by the Ministry of Tourism
in December 2024 to promote responsible tourism?

  1. (a) Paryatan Mitra & Paryatan Didi
  2. (b) Tourism in Bharat
  3. (c) Dekho Apna Desh
  4. (d) Atulya Bharat 2.0
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) Paryatan Mitra & Paryatan Didi

Correct Answer: Paryatan Mitra & Paryatan Didi — Option (a)
The Ministry of Tourism launched the 'Paryatan Mitra' and 'Paryatan Didi' initiative in December 2024 to promote responsible and sustainable tourism in India. Under this initiative, local community members — primarily women (Paryatan Didi) and men (Paryatan Mitra) — are trained as local tourism ambassadors and guides who help tourists explore their region safely and responsibly. The initiative aims to promote grassroots tourism, empower local communities (especially women), and create a welcoming and safe environment for tourists across India.
Option (b) Tourism in Bharat — Incorrect: 'Tourism in Bharat' is not the name of a specific December 2024 initiative; Paryatan Mitra & Paryatan Didi was the initiative launched in that period.
Option (c) Dekho Apna Desh — Incorrect: 'Dekho Apna Desh' is an earlier campaign by the Ministry of Tourism promoting domestic tourism; the December 2024 responsible tourism initiative is Paryatan Mitra & Paryatan Didi.
Option (d) Atulya Bharat 2.0 — Incorrect: Atulya Bharat (Incredible India) is a long-running brand campaign for promoting India internationally; Paryatan Mitra & Paryatan Didi is the specific December 2024 responsible tourism initiative.
SSC GD 2026 – 7 May 2026 Shift 3 · Social welfare schemes

Q61. Which state was ranked first under the PM-JANMAN Yojana for the month of July 2025?

  1. (a) Madhya Pradesh
  2. (b) Maharashtra
  3. (c) Uttar Pradesh
  4. (d) Gujarat
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) Gujarat

Correct Answer: Gujarat — Option (d)
Gujarat was ranked first under the PM-JANMAN (Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan) Yojana for the month of July 2025. PM-JANMAN was launched on 15 November 2023 ( Janjatiya Gaurav Divas) to improve the socio-economic conditions of Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) across India. The scheme covers 75 PVTG communities across 18 states/UTs and provides benefits in areas of housing, road connectivity, clean drinking water, mobile medical units, anganwadi centres , and livelihood.
Option (a) Madhya Pradesh — Incorrect: Madhya Pradesh has a large tribal population and performs well under tribal welfare schemes, but Gujarat was ranked first for July 2025 under PM-JANMAN.
Option (b) Maharashtra — Incorrect: Maharashtra was not the top-ranked state under PM-JANMAN for July 2025.
Option (c) Uttar Pradesh — Incorrect: Uttar Pradesh was not the top-ranked state under PM-JANMAN for July 2025; Gujarat achieved first rank.
SSC GD 2026 – 6 May 2026 Shift 1 · Skill development and employment schemes

Q62. Which of the following is a target group for PM-DAKSH Scheme
as seen in news in July 2025?
I. Scheduled Caste II. Other Backward Caste

  1. (a) Only I
  2. (b) Only II
  3. (c) Both I and II
  4. (d) Neither I nor II
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Both I and II

Correct Answer: Both I and II — Option (c)
PM-DAKSH (Pradhan Mantri Dakshta Aur Kushalta Sampann Hitgrahi) Yojana is a skill development scheme implemented by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment. The scheme targets multiple marginalized groups: Scheduled Castes (SC), Other Backward Classes (OBC), Economically Backward Classes (EBC), De-notified/Nomadic/Semi-Nomadic Tribes (DNT), Safai Karamcharis, and Sanitation Workers. Both Scheduled Caste and Other Backward Caste communities are covered under PM-DAKSH, making 'Both I and II' the correct answer.
Option (a) Only I — Incorrect: PM-DAKSH covers not only Scheduled Castes but also Other Backward Castes and other marginalized communities.
Option (b) Only II — Incorrect: PM-DAKSH covers both Scheduled Castes and Other Backward Castes, not just OBC.
Option (d) Neither I nor II — Incorrect: Both Scheduled Castes and Other Backward Castes are explicitly listed as target groups under PM-DAKSH.
SSC GD 2026 – 6 May 2026 Shift 3 · Global indices - publishers and methodology

Q63. The Global Energy Transition Index is published by which organization?

  1. (a) International Energy Agency
  2. (b) World Bank
  3. (c) World Economic Forum
  4. (d) Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) World Economic Forum

Correct Answer: World Economic Forum — Option (c)
The Global Energy Transition Index (ETI) is published annually by the World Economic Forum (WEF). It benchmarks countries on their energy systems' readiness to transition towards secure, sustainable, affordable, and inclusive energy. The index evaluates countries on two dimensions: the current performance of their energy systems and the readiness of their enabling environment (regulatory framework, political commitment, infrastructure, human capital). Sweden consistently tops the ETI rankings.
Option (a) International Energy Agency — Incorrect: The IEA publishes the World Energy Outlook (WEO) and other energy reports; the Global Energy Transition Index is specifically a WEF publication.
Option (b) World Bank — Incorrect: The World Bank publishes reports on development, poverty, and sustainability; it does not publish the Global Energy Transition Index.
Option (d) Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) — Incorrect: OPEC publishes the World Oil Outlook; it has no connection to the Global Energy Transition Index.
SSC GD 2026 – 6 May 2026 Shift 3 · Education and research schemes

Q64. Which of the following schemes is related to residential education for students?

  1. (a) SHRESTHA Scheme
  2. (b) Udaan Scheme
  3. (c) PM-KUSUM
  4. (d) FAME India Scheme
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) SHRESTHA Scheme

Correct Answer: SHRESTHA Scheme — Option (a)
SHRESTHA (Scheme for Residential Education for Students in High Schools in Targeted Areas) is a scheme implemented by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment for meritorious SC (Scheduled Caste) students. Under this scheme, selected SC students from Classes 9 to 12 are provided free quality residential education in top private residential schools. The objective is to provide best-in-class education to SC students from economically weaker backgrounds, enabling them to secure better career opportunities.
Option (b) Udaan Scheme — Incorrect: Udaan Scheme (launched by CBSE) aims to improve the enrollment rate of girl students in premier technical institutions; it focuses on bridging the gender gap in engineering, not residential education for SC students.
Option (c) PM-KUSUM — Incorrect: PM-KUSUM (Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan ) is a scheme for solar energy in the agriculture sector (solar pumps for farmers); it has nothing to do with residential education.
Option (d) FAME India Scheme — Incorrect: FAME India (Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles) promotes electric vehicles; it is unrelated to residential education.
SSC GD 2026 – 5 May 2026 Shift 2 · Financial inclusion schemes (PMJDY, PMJJBY, PMSBY, APY)

Q65. Which age group is covered under Atal Pension Yojana (APY)?

  1. (a) 18 to 40 years
  2. (b) 18 to 60 years
  3. (c) 21 to 40 years
  4. (d) 21 to 60 years
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) 18 to 40 years

Correct Answer: 18 to 40 years — Option (a)
The Atal Pension Yojana (APY), launched in May 2015, covers Indian citizens between the ages of 18 to 40 years. Subscribers contribute for a minimum of 20 years and receive a fixed monthly pension of Rs. 1,000 to Rs. 5,000 per month after the age of 60, depending on their contribution amount. The scheme is primarily targeted at workers in the unorganized sector who lack access to formal pension benefits.
Option (b) 18 to 60 years — Incorrect: The upper age limit for joining APY is 40 years (not 60). One must join before age 40 to ensure at least 20 years of contributions.
Option (c) 21 to 40 years — Incorrect: The minimum entry age for APY is 18 years, not 21.
Option (d) 21 to 60 years — Incorrect: Both the minimum (18, not 21) and maximum (40, not 60) ages are incorrect for APY.
SSC GD 2026 – 4 May 2026 Shift 1 · Economic indices and rankings

Q66. Which of the following ministry has unveiled 'Logistics Ease Across Different States (LEADS) 2024' Report?

  1. (a) Ministry of Commerce & Industry
  2. (b) Ministry of Finance
  3. (c) Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways
  4. (d) Ministry of Cooperation
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) Ministry of Commerce & Industry

Correct Answer: Ministry of Commerce & Industry — Option (a)
The 'Logistics Ease Across Different States (LEADS)' report is published by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India. The LEADS index ranks Indian states and Union Territories based on the quality of logistics infrastructure, services, and human resources. The 2024 edition evaluates states' logistics ecosystems to promote ease of doing business and reduce logistics costs.
Option (b) Ministry of Finance — Incorrect: The Ministry of Finance handles fiscal policy and budget matters, not logistics rankings.
Option (c) Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways — Incorrect: While this ministry manages port and waterway logistics, the LEADS report is under Commerce & Industry.
Option (d) Ministry of Cooperation — Incorrect: The Ministry of Cooperation deals with the cooperative sector, not logistics ease rankings.
SSC GD 2026 – 4 May 2026 Shift 2 · Global indices - publishers and methodology

Q67. The 'Getting Electricity' indicator in the Ease of Doing Business (EODB) index measures ___.

  1. (a) Number of electrified households
  2. (b) National electricity production
  3. (c) Cost, time and procedures to get electricity
  4. (d) Energy efficiency
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Cost, time and procedures to get electricity

Correct Answer: Cost, time and procedures to get electricity — Option (c)
The 'Getting Electricity' indicator in the World Bank's Ease of Doing Business (EODB) index measures the procedures, time, cost, and reliability of electricity supply required for a business (typically a small or medium enterprise) to obtain a permanent electricity connection. It reflects how easy or difficult it is for businesses to access reliable electricity infrastructure.
Option (a) Number of electrified households — Incorrect: This is a rural electrification metric, not what the EODB indicator measures.
Option (b) National electricity production — Incorrect: Total electricity production is a macroeconomic energy statistic, not an EODB indicator.
Option (d) Energy efficiency — Incorrect: Energy efficiency metrics relate to conservation and sustainability, not to the ease of obtaining an electricity connection.
SSC GD 2026 – 4 May 2026 Shift 2 · Economic Survey and economic reports

Q68. According to Economic Survey 2024-25, social service expenditure has registered an annual growth rate of _____ between FY2021 and FY2025.

  1. (a) 2%
  2. (b) 15%
  3. (c) 21%
  4. (d) 33%
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) 15%

Correct Answer: 15% — Option (b)
According to the Economic Survey 2024-25 presented by the Ministry of Finance, Government of India, the social service expenditure (covering health, education, housing, and social welfare) registered an annual growth rate of approximately 15% between FY2021 and FY2025. This reflects the government's increased commitment to human development and social infrastructure.
Option (a) 2% — Incorrect: A 2% growth rate would indicate near-stagnation in social spending, which does not reflect the actual trend.
Option (c) 21% — Incorrect: While social spending did increase, the Economic Survey figure is 15%, not 21%.
Option (d) 33% — Incorrect: This overstates the growth rate reported in the Economic Survey 2024-25.
SSC GD 2026 – 4 May 2026 Shift 3 · Social welfare schemes

Q69. Under the Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY), maternity benefits have been provided to more than _____ crore beneficiaries till July 2025.

  1. (a) 4.05
  2. (b) 5.05
  3. (c) 6.05
  4. (d) 6.55
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) 4.05

Correct Answer: 4.05 crore — Option (a)
The Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY) is a centrally sponsored conditional cash transfer scheme launched in 2017 to provide partial wage compensation to pregnant and lactating women. According to government data as of July 2025, the scheme has benefited more than 4.05 crore (40.5 million) women since its inception, providing direct benefit transfers to eligible beneficiaries.
Option (b) 5.05 crore — Incorrect: This figure overstates the official number of PMMVY beneficiaries reported till July 2025.
Option (c) 6.05 crore — Incorrect: This is higher than the official figure reported for PMMVY beneficiaries.
Option (d) 6.55 crore — Incorrect: This significantly overstates the reported PMMVY beneficiary count as of July 2025.
SSC GD 2026 – 30 April 2026 Shift 1 · Global indices - publishers and methodology

Q70. The insolvency resolution indicator evaluates __.

  1. (a) Government debt levels
  2. (b) Insurance cover for businesses
  3. (c) Time, cost and recovery rate in insolvency cases
  4. (d) Loan interest rates
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Time, cost and recovery rate in insolvency cases

Correct Answer: Time, cost and recovery rate in insolvency cases — Option (c)
The Insolvency Resolution Indicator evaluates the time, cost, and recovery rate in insolvency (bankruptcy) cases. Key facts about the Insolvency Resolution Indicator: The Insolvency Resolution indicator is a component of the World Bank's Doing Business Report (now evolved into the Business Ready or B-READY index); It specifically measures how efficiently and effectively a country's legal and judicial system resolves business insolvency; Three key parameters evaluated: Time — The number of years it takes to complete insolvency proceedings (from filing to resolution/closure); Cost — As a percentage of the estate value, covering legal fees, court costs, and administrative expenses; Recovery Rate — The amount of money (cents per dollar) recovered by secured creditors through insolvency proceedings; India's Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC), 2016: India enacted the IBC in 2016 to streamline insolvency resolution; The National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) handles insolvency cases; The code has significantly improved India's ranking in this indicator.
Option (a) Government debt levels — Incorrect: Government debt levels are measured by different indicators (fiscal deficit, debt-to-GDP ratio) published by agencies like IMF and World Bank; the Insolvency Resolution Indicator specifically measures time, cost, and recovery rate in business insolvency proceedings.
Option (b) Insurance cover for businesses — Incorrect: Insurance cover for businesses is assessed through separate insurance and financial sector indicators; the Insolvency Resolution Indicator evaluates time, cost, and recovery rate in insolvency cases, not insurance coverage. The candidate selected this incorrect option.
Option (d) Loan interest rates — Incorrect: Loan interest rates are tracked through monetary policy and banking sector indicators; the Insolvency Resolution Indicator focuses on the efficiency of insolvency proceedings (time, cost, and recovery rate), not lending rates.
SSC GD 2026 – 30 April 2026 Shift 1 · Social welfare schemes

Q71. As of March 1, 2025, India has _____ crore active domestic LPG consumers, including 10.33 crore PMUY beneficiaries.

  1. (a) 32.94
  2. (b) 38.94
  3. (c) 42.94
  4. (d) 22.94
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) 32.94

Correct Answer: 32.94 crore — Option (a)
As of March 1, 2025, India has 32.94 crore active domestic LPG consumers, including 10.33 crore PMUY (Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana) beneficiaries. Key facts about LPG and PMUY in India: Total active domestic LPG consumers as of March 1, 2025: 32.94 crore (329.4 million); PMUY beneficiaries within this: 10.33 crore (103.3 million); About PMUY: Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) was launched on May 1, 2016 by PM Narendra Modi from Ballia, Uttar Pradesh; Objective: To provide free LPG connections to women from BPL (Below Poverty Line) households to replace traditional cooking fuels (wood, dung, kerosene) that cause indoor air pollution; PMUY 2.0: The scheme was relaunched in August 2021 with expansion to migrant workers and additional categories; Impact: The scheme has dramatically increased LPG penetration in rural India, improving health outcomes (especially for women and children) by reducing indoor air pollution.
Option (b) 38.94 — Incorrect: As of March 1, 2025, India had 32.94 crore active domestic LPG consumers (not 38.94 crore); 38.94 crore overstates the actual number.
Option (c) 42.94 — Incorrect: India had 32.94 crore active domestic LPG consumers as of March 1, 2025 (not 42.94 crore); this figure significantly overstates the actual consumer base.
Option (d) 22.94 — Incorrect: 22.94 crore understates the number of active domestic LPG consumers in India as of March 1, 2025; the correct figure is 32.94 crore.
SSC GD 2026 – 30 April 2026 Shift 2 · Global indices - publishers and methodology

Q72. Which of the following reports does Transparency International NOT publish?
I. Democracy Index
II. Corruption Perceptions Index

  1. (a) Only I
  2. (b) Only II
  3. (c) Both I and II
  4. (d) Neither I nor II
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) Only I

Correct Answer: Only I — Option (a)
Transparency International publishes the Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) annually, which ranks countries by their perceived levels of public sector corruption.
The Democracy Index is published by the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU), NOT by Transparency International.
Therefore, only Statement I (Democracy Index) is NOT published by Transparency International, while Statement II (Corruption Perceptions Index) IS published by Transparency International.
Option (b) Only II — Incorrect: The CPI is indeed published by Transparency International, so Statement II is wrong.
Option (c) Both I and II — Incorrect: CPI is published by Transparency International, so this option is incorrect.
Option (d) Neither I nor II — Incorrect: The Democracy Index is not published by TI, so at least Statement I is correct.
SSC GD 2026 – 30 April 2026 Shift 3 · Global indices - publishers and methodology

Q73. Healthy life expectancy in the Happiness Index is based on:

  1. (a) Number of hospitals
  2. (b) Expected years of healthy living
  3. (c) Total fertility rate
  4. (d) Average years of schooling
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Expected years of healthy living

Correct Answer: Expected years of healthy living — Option (b)
The World Happiness Report uses several key variables to measure happiness. Healthy life expectancy is measured as the expected number of years a person will live in good health (free from disease and disability). This metric is based on data from the World Health Organization (WHO) and represents the quality-adjusted years of life.
Option (a) Number of hospitals — Incorrect: The number of hospitals is not a direct indicator used in the Happiness Index for life expectancy.
Option (c) Total fertility rate — Incorrect: Total fertility rate measures births per woman and is unrelated to healthy life expectancy.
Option (d) Average years of schooling — Incorrect: This is a component of the Human Development Index (HDI), not of the healthy life expectancy measure in the Happiness Index.
SSC GD 2026 – 29 April 2026 Shift 2 · Global indices - publishers and methodology

Q74. How many key variables are used to rank countries in the World Happiness Index?

  1. (a) 4
  2. (b) 5
  3. (c) 6
  4. (d) 7
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) 6

Correct Answer: 6 — Option (c)
The World Happiness Report (which ranks countries by the Happiness Index) uses 6 key variables to explain the variation in happiness scores across countries. The 6 key variables are: 1) GDP per capita (standard of living/economic wellbeing); 2) Social support (having someone to count on in times of trouble); 3) Healthy life expectancy at birth (how long and healthy people live); 4) Freedom to make life choices (satisfaction with freedom to choose what to do with one's life); 5) Generosity (recent donations to charity); 6) Perceptions of corruption (perceived level of corruption in government and business). The World Happiness Report is published annually by the United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN); The happiness score is based on a ' Cantril ladder' survey where respondents rate their own lives on a scale from 0 to 10; Finland has consistently ranked as the world's happiest country in recent years; India typically ranks in the lower half of the happiness rankings.
Option (a) 4 — Incorrect: The World Happiness Index does not use only 4 variables; it uses 6 key variables (GDP per capita, social support, healthy life expectancy, freedom of choice, generosity, and perceptions of corruption) to rank countries.
Option (b) 5 — Incorrect: The World Happiness Index uses 6 (not 5) key variables to explain happiness differences across countries; all six dimensions — including generosity and corruption perception — are essential components of the framework.
Option (d) 7 — Incorrect: The World Happiness Index uses exactly 6 key variables, not 7; while there may be additional factors studied in the report, the standard ranking framework is based on these 6 specific variables.
SSC GD 2026 – 29 April 2026 Shift 3 · Housing, sanitation and rural development schemes

Q75. In June 2024, the Union Cabinet approved the construction of an additional _____ crore houses under PMAY-G for the period 2024-25 to 2028-29.

  1. (a) 2
  2. (b) 3
  3. (c) 4
  4. (d) 5
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) 2

Correct Answer: 2 crore — Option (a)
In June 2024, the Union Cabinet approved the construction of 2 crore (20 million) additional houses under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Gramin (PMAY-G) for the period 2024-25 to 2028-29. Key facts about PMAY-G: Full name: Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana- Gramin (Prime Minister's Rural Housing Scheme); Launch: PMAY-G was launched on November 20, 2016, replacing the earlier Indira Awaas Yojana (IAY); Objective: To provide pucca (permanent) houses to all rural households living in temporary/kutcha houses; Financial support: Under PMAY-G, financial assistance of Rs. 1.20 lakh per house is provided in plain areas and Rs. 1.30 lakh in hilly and difficult areas; The June 2024 Cabinet decision approved 2 crore additional houses under PMAY-G Phase 2 (2024-29); Progress: Under PMAY-G Phase 1, approximately 2.94 crore houses were built for the rural poor; The expanded scheme continues the government's commitment to 'Housing for All' as part of the Viksit Bharat 2047 vision.
Option (b) 3 — Incorrect: The Union Cabinet in June 2024 approved 2 crore (not 3 crore) additional houses under PMAY-G for the 2024-25 to 2028-29 period.
Option (c) 4 — Incorrect: The Cabinet approval was for 2 crore additional houses (not 4 crore) under PMAY-G for the period 2024-25 to 2028-29.
Option (d) 5 — Incorrect: The Union Cabinet approved 2 crore additional PMAY-G houses (not 5 crore) in June 2024 for the five-year period from 2024-25 to 2028-29.
SSC GD 2026 – 28 April 2026 Shift 1 · Economic indices and rankings

Q76. Which of the following is an example of the generosity factor in the World Happiness Index?

  1. (a) National tax rates
  2. (b) Foreign aid
  3. (c) Government subsidies
  4. (d) Willingness to donate or help others
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) Willingness to donate or help others

Correct Answer: Willingness to donate or help others — Option (d)
The World Happiness Report, published annually by the United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network, measures happiness across countries using six key variables: GDP per capita, Social support, Healthy life expectancy, Freedom to make life choices, Generosity, and Perceptions of corruption. The 'Generosity' factor specifically measures individual charitable behavior — it is based on the Gallup World Poll question: "Have you donated money to a charity in the past month?" and other indicators of helping strangers. This captures the personal willingness to donate or help others (prosocial behavior) rather than government or macro-economic measures. Generous societies where people help each other tend to have higher levels of happiness and social cohesion.
Option (a) National tax rates — Incorrect: National tax rates are a government fiscal policy measure; the generosity factor in the World Happiness Index measures individual charitable behavior and personal willingness to help others, not government taxation.
Option (b) Foreign aid — Incorrect: Foreign aid is a government-to-government transfer at the macro-economic level; the generosity factor in the Happiness Index captures individual/personal charitable behavior and altruism.
Option (c) Government subsidies — Incorrect: Government subsidies are fiscal policy tools and are part of the economic structure; the generosity factor specifically measures individual willingness to donate or help others, not government spending on subsidies.
SSC GD 2026 – 28 April 2026 Shift 1 · National sample surveys (NFHS, PLFS, NSS) - findings

Q77. For what purpose was the National Sample Survey Organisation (NSSO) established?

  1. (a) To promote agriculture
  2. (b) To monitor industry
  3. (c) To promote exports
  4. (d) To collect statistical data on socio-economic conditions
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) To collect statistical data on socio-economic conditions

Correct Answer: To collect statistical data on socio-economic conditions — Option (d)
The National Sample Survey Organisation (NSSO), now reorganised as part of the National Statistical Office (NSO) under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation ( MoSPI ), was established in 1950 with the primary purpose of collecting statistical data on socio-economic conditions of the Indian population. The NSSO conducts large-scale sample surveys across India on topics such as: Employment and unemployment patterns; Household consumption expenditure; Housing conditions and amenities; Health and morbidity; Education and literacy; Land and livestock holdings; Debt and investment. The NSSO's surveys are crucial for policy planning, resource allocation, and measuring development outcomes. The data collected helps the government formulate welfare schemes and track living standards across different sections of society.
Option (a) To promote agriculture — Incorrect: The promotion of agriculture is the mandate of the Ministry of Agriculture and agencies like ICAR; the NSSO was not established to promote agriculture but to collect statistical data for evidence-based policymaking.
Option (b) To monitor industry — Incorrect: Industrial monitoring and regulation falls under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry and other regulatory bodies; the NSSO's mandate is statistical data collection across socio-economic domains.
Option (c) To promote exports — Incorrect: Export promotion is handled by agencies like DGFT, Export Promotion Councils, and APEDA; the NSSO's core purpose is to collect comprehensive socio-economic statistical data through sample surveys.
SSC GD 2026 – 28 April 2026 Shift 3 · Global indices - publishers and methodology

Q78. The Global Liveability Index is published by which organization?

  1. (a) Economist Intelligence Unit
  2. (b) World Bank
  3. (c) UN Development Programme
  4. (d) World Economic Forum
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) Economist Intelligence Unit

Correct Answer: Economist Intelligence Unit — Option (a)
The Global Liveability Index is published by the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU), the research and analysis division of The Economist Group. The index assesses living conditions in cities around the world across five broad categories: Stability (25% weightage); Healthcare (20%); Culture and Environment (25%); Education (10%); Infrastructure (20%). Each city is scored from 1 (intolerable) to 100 (ideal) in each category, and the overall liveability score is calculated. The index is published annually and is widely used for benchmarking cities. Cities like Vienna (Austria), Copenhagen (Denmark), and Zurich (Switzerland) have consistently topped the Global Liveability Index in recent years. Indian cities like Chennai, Mumbai, and Delhi typically rank lower due to challenges in stability and infrastructure.
Option (b) World Bank — Incorrect: The World Bank publishes indices like the Logistics Performance Index (LPI), Ease of Doing Business Index (discontinued), and Human Capital Index; it does not publish the Global Liveability Index.
Option (c) UN Development Programme — Incorrect: UNDP publishes the Human Development Index (HDI), Gender Inequality Index (GII), and Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI); the Global Liveability Index is published by the Economist Intelligence Unit.
Option (d) World Economic Forum — Incorrect: WEF publishes the Global Competitiveness Report, Global Gender Gap Report, and Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Report; the Global Liveability Index is not among its publications.
SSC GD 2026 – 28 April 2026 Shift 3 · Skill development and employment schemes

Q79. Which social development scheme was approved for ₹450 crore from 2021-22 to 2025-26?

  1. (a) SMILE Scheme
  2. (b) PM-DAKSH Scheme
  3. (c) NAMASTE Scheme
  4. (d) Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) PM-DAKSH Scheme

Correct Answer: PM-DAKSH Scheme — Option (b)
PM-DAKSH (Pradhan Mantri Dakshata Aur Kushalta Sampann Hitgrahi) Yojana was approved with a budget of ₹450 crore for the period 2021-22 to 2025-26. It is a Central Sector Scheme implemented by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment. Key features of PM-DAKSH: Target beneficiaries: Scheduled Castes (SC), Other Backward Classes (OBC), Economically Backward Classes (EBC), Sanitation Workers, De-Notified and Nomadic Tribes (DNT); Objectives: Upskilling and reskilling of target groups to improve their employability and enable them to earn better incomes; Types of training: Short-term training, Long-term training, Entrepreneurship development programs, Re-skilling/up-skilling programs; Training is provided free of cost with stipend support. The scheme was launched in 2021 and the PM-DAKSH portal facilitates online registration of beneficiaries and training institutions.
Option (a) SMILE Scheme — Incorrect: SMILE (Support for Marginalized Individuals for Livelihood and Enterprise) is a scheme by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment focused on transgender persons and persons engaged in begging, but it was not the scheme approved for ₹450 crore for 2021-22 to 2025-26.
Option (c) NAMASTE Scheme — Incorrect: NAMASTE (National Action for Mechanised Sanitation Ecosystem) is a scheme to mechanize sewage cleaning and eliminate hazardous manual scavenging; it was not the scheme with ₹450 crore budget for 2021-22 to 2025-26.
Option (d) Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan — Incorrect: Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan (Drug-free India campaign) is an anti-drug initiative under the Ministry of Social Justice; it is not the scheme associated with the ₹450 crore allocation for 2021-22 to 2025-26.
SSC GD 2026 – 27 April 2026 Shift 2 · Global indices - publishers and methodology

Q80. The Ease of Doing Business (EODB) indicator 'Enforcing Contracts' measures:

  1. (a) Implementation of labor regulations
  2. (b) Ease of paying and managing taxes
  3. (c) Efficiency of the judicial system in resolving commercial disputes
  4. (d) Effectiveness of law enforcement agencies
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Efficiency of the judicial system in resolving commercial disputes

Correct Answer: Efficiency of the judicial system in resolving commercial disputes — Option (c)
The 'Enforcing Contracts' indicator in the World Bank's Ease of Doing Business (EODB) index measures the time, cost, and quality of processes for resolving a commercial dispute through the court system. Specifically, it measures: Time (in calendar days) to resolve a commercial dispute; Cost (as a percentage of the claim value) including court fees and attorney fees; and Quality of judicial processes index — which assesses court structure, case management, automation, and alternative dispute resolution (ADR) mechanisms. This indicator reflects how efficiently the judicial system handles commercial (business-to-business) disputes, which is crucial for business confidence and investment decisions.
Option (a) Implementation of labor regulations — Incorrect: Labor regulations and their implementation are measured by the 'Labor Market Regulation' indicator, not 'Enforcing Contracts'.
Option (b) Ease of paying and managing taxes — Incorrect: Tax-related compliance is measured by the 'Paying Taxes' indicator in the EODB framework; 'Enforcing Contracts' focuses on commercial dispute resolution.
Option (d) Effectiveness of law enforcement agencies — Incorrect: Law enforcement effectiveness is not measured by the 'Enforcing Contracts' EODB indicator; that indicator specifically measures the judicial system's efficiency in resolving commercial disputes.
SSC GD 2026 – 27 April 2026 Shift 2 · Housing, sanitation and rural development schemes

Q81. What is the goal of the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT) scheme launched in 2015?

  1. (a) Promote digital services
  2. (b) Expand rural employment
  3. (c) Enhance agricultural marketing
  4. (d) Urban infrastructure and water supply
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) Urban infrastructure and water supply

Correct Answer: Urban infrastructure and water supply — Option (d)
AMRUT (Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation) was launched by the Government of India in June 2015 with the goal of providing basic urban infrastructure services to improve the quality of life, especially for the urban poor. The key objectives of AMRUT include: Ensuring every household has access to a tap with assured supply of water and a sewerage connection; Increasing the amenity value of cities by developing greenery and well-maintained open spaces (parks); Reducing pollution by switching to public transport or constructing facilities for non- motorised transport; Making governance transparent, improving urban local bodies' capacity. AMRUT 2.0 was launched in 2021 with an enhanced focus on making cities water-secure. The scheme covered 500 cities/towns with a total outlay of ₹50,000 crore.
Option (a) Promote digital services — Incorrect: Digital services promotion is covered under schemes like Digital India and Smart Cities Mission; AMRUT focuses on urban physical infrastructure (water supply, sewerage, transportation).
Option (b) Expand rural employment — Incorrect: Rural employment is addressed through schemes like MGNREGS (Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme); AMRUT is specifically an urban mission.
Option (c) Enhance agricultural marketing — Incorrect: Agricultural marketing is addressed through schemes like eNAM (National Agriculture Market); AMRUT's mandate is urban infrastructure, particularly water supply and sewerage.
RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2025-26 – 27 March 2026 Shift 2 · Housing, sanitation and rural development schemes

Q82. Which central government scheme is primarily aimed at providing road connectivity to rural and remote areas in India?

  1. (a) Rural Infrastructure Development Fund
  2. (b) Setu Bharatam Scheme
  3. (c) Bharatmala Pariyojana
  4. (d) Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana

Topic: Central Government Rural Development Schemes
Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY)launched in 2000.
Primary objective: All-weather road connectivity to unconnected habitations in rural areas.
Other schemes: RIDF (funding), Setu Bharatam (bridge safety), Bharatmala (national highways).
Answer: Option 4 → Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana
RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2025-26 – 27 March 2026 Shift 2 · Housing, sanitation and rural development schemes

Q83. As of December 2025, under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana – Gramin (PMAY-G), what is the minimum size required for a house unit provided to beneficiaries?

  1. (a) 25 sq. m
  2. (b) 15 sq. m
  3. (c) 20 sq. m
  4. (d) 35 sq. m
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) 25 sq. m

Topic: Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana – Gramin (PMAY-G)
Key Facts:
PMAY-G aims to provide pucca houses with basic amenities to rural homeless and inadequate housing families.
Under PMAY-G guidelines, theminimum size of house unit = 25 sq. m(approx. 269 sq. ft).
This includes a cooking area and ensures adequate living space for beneficiary families.
Answer: Option 1 → 25 sq. m
RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2025-26 – 25 March 2026 Shift 2 · Social welfare schemes

Q84. Which centrally sponsored scheme aims to create community infrastructure in Minority Concentration Areas (MCAs) to address development deficits, as stated by Minister of MINORITY AFFAIRS in July 2025?

  1. (a) Seekho Aur Kamao
  2. (b) Pradhan Mantri Virasat Ka Samvardhan (PM VIKAS)
  3. (c) Pradhan Mantri Jan Vikas Karyakram (PMJVK)
  4. (d) Padho Pardesh
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Pradhan Mantri Jan Vikas Karyakram (PMJVK)

Topic: Centrally Sponsored Schemes for Minorities
Pradhan Mantri Jan Vikas Karyakram (PMJVK)is a centrally sponsored scheme launched by the Ministry of Minority Affairs.
Objective: Create community infrastructure inMinority Concentration Areas (MCAs)to address development deficits.
Focus areas: Education, health, skill development, and basic amenities in areas with significant minority population.
Minister of Minority Affairs confirmed this scheme's role in July 2025 for infrastructure development in MCAs.
Answer: Option 3 → Pradhan Mantri Jan Vikas Karyakram (PMJVK)
RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2025-26 – 25 March 2026 Shift 2 · Social welfare schemes

Q85. In 2025, which state had One-Stop Centres that assisted approximately 2.39 lakh women?

  1. (a) Gujarat
  2. (b) Maharashtra
  3. (c) Uttar Pradesh
  4. (d) Bihar
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Uttar Pradesh

Topic: One-Stop Centres (OSCs) for Women
One-Stop Centres are integrated support centers providing assistance to women affected by violence.
In 2025,Uttar Pradeshreported that its OSCs assisted approximately2.39 lakh women.
This reflects the state's extensive network of support services for women in distress.
Answer: Option 3 → Uttar Pradesh
RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2025-26 – 24 March 2026 Shift 2 · Financial inclusion schemes (PMJDY, PMJJBY, PMSBY, APY)

Q86. Which Indian government initiative has been introduced to support informal workers in urban areas?

  1. (a) PM Ujjwala Yojana
  2. (b) PM-KISAN
  3. (c) Jal Shakti Abhiyan
  4. (d) PM-SVANidhi
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) PM-SVANidhi

Topic: Government Schemes for Urban Workers
PM- SVANidhi (Street Vendor's AtmaNirbhar Nidhi)
Launched in June 2020 to support street vendors and informal workers in urban areas.
Provides collateral-free working capital loans up to ₹10,000.
Aims to help urban vendors restart businesses post-COVID-19.
Other options: PM Ujjwala (LPG), PM-KISAN (farmers), Jal Shakti (water conservation).
Answer: Option 4 → PM- SVANidhi
RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2025-26 – 24 March 2026 Shift 3 · Financial inclusion schemes (PMJDY, PMJJBY, PMSBY, APY)

Q87. Stand Up India Scheme was launched in which of the following years?

  1. (a) 2016
  2. (b) 2015
  3. (c) 2019
  4. (d) 2014
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) 2016

Stand Up India Scheme
Launched by: Prime Minister Narendra Modi
Launch Date:5th April 2016
Purpose: Facilitate bank loans between ₹10 lakh to ₹1 crore for SC/ST and women entrepreneurs to set up greenfield enterprises.
Answer: Option 1 → 2016
RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2025-26 – 24 March 2026 Shift 3 · Skill development and employment schemes

Q88. What is the primary purpose of the Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Grameen Kaushalya Yojana (DDU-GKY)?

  1. (a) To skill rural youth and promote wage employment opportunities
  2. (b) To offer old-age pensions in villages
  3. (c) To provide free food to rural households
  4. (d) To supply subsid ised agricultural inputs to farmers
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) To skill rural youth and promote wage employment opportunities

Topic: Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Grameen Kaushalya Yojana (DDU-GKY)
Launched in 2014 under Ministry of Rural Development.
Primary objective: Skill training for rural poor youth (15-35 years).
Focus on placement-linked skill development and wage employment.
Part of National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM).
Answer: Option 1 → To skill rural youth and promote wage employment opportunities
RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2025-26 – 24 March 2026 Shift 3 · Energy and power sector schemes

Q89. Which of the following is the primary objective to promote the "Ultra Mega Power Projects" (UMPP) initiative in India?

  1. (a) Rooftop solar systems in rural areas
  2. (b) Wind farms in rural areas
  3. (c) High-capacity coal-based power plants
  4. (d) Small-scale solar plants
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) High-capacity coal-based power plants

Ultra Mega Power Projects (UMPP)
UMPP is a Government of India initiative launched in 2006.
Primary objective: Develop large-scale thermal power plants with capacity ≥4000 MW each.
These are primarilycoal-based power plantsto meet India's growing electricity demand.
Projects awarded through competitive bidding to ensure lower tariffs.
Answer: Option 3 → High-capacity coal-based power plants
RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2025-26 – 22 March 2026 Shift 3 · Housing, sanitation and rural development schemes

Q90. When was the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojna launched?

  1. (a) 2008
  2. (b) 2000
  3. (c) 2014
  4. (d) 1991
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) 2000

Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY)
Launched on25 December 2000by Atal Bihari Vajpayee government.
Objective: Provide all-weather road connectivity to unconnected habitations.
Implemented by Ministry of Rural Development.
Answer: Option 2 → 2000
RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2025-26 – 19 March 2026 Shift 2 · Skill development and employment schemes

Q91. In which year was the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) launched?

  1. (a) 2025
  2. (b) 2010
  3. (c) 2020
  4. (d) 2015
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) 2015

Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY)
Launched by: Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship
Launch Date:15 July 2015
Objective: Skill training and certification for Indian youth
Answer: Option 4 → 2015
RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2025-26 – 19 March 2026 Shift 2 · Skill development and employment schemes

Q92. Which of the following is NOT correct about the scheme of Jan Shikshan Sansthan of the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE)?

  1. (a) It is implemented through Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs)
  2. (b) It focuses to improve the occupational skills and technical knowledge of the non/neo literates and persons having rudimentary level of education
  3. (c) It focuses on creation of a pool of master trainers
  4. (d) It focuses on identifying and promoting traditional skills in the districts through skilling/upskilling
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) It is implemented through Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs)

Jan Shikshan Sansthan (JSS) Scheme
Key Features:
• Targets non-literates, neo-literates, and school dropouts
• Focuses on vocational training for marginalized groups
• Implemented throughNGOs and registered societies
• Creates master trainers and promotes traditional skills
Incorrect Statement:
JSS is NOT implemented through ITIs
ITIs are separate institutions under DGT for formal training
Answer: Option 1 → It is implemented through Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs)
RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2025-26 – 19 March 2026 Shift 3 · Economic Survey and economic reports

Q93. The Economic Survey 2024–25 states that India’s foreign exchange reserves were adequate to cover approximately what percentage of external debt as of December 2024?

  1. (a) About 75%
  2. (b) About 60%
  3. (c) More than 110%
  4. (d) About 90%
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) About 90%

Topic: Economic Survey 2024-25 - Foreign Exchange Reserves
India's foreign exchange reserves as of December 2024 were sufficient to cover external debt obligations.
According to the Economic Survey 2024-25, the forex reserves provided coverage ofapproximately 90%of India's total external debt.
This indicates strong external sector stability and adequate buffer for debt servicing.
Answer: Option 4 → About 90%
RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2025-26 – 17 March 2026 Shift 1 · Housing, sanitation and rural development schemes

Q94. As of February 1, 2025, what percentage of rural households in India had been provided tap water connections under the Jal Jeevan Mission?

  1. (a) 84.15%
  2. (b) 79.74%
  3. (c) 69.34%
  4. (d) 92.67%
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) 79.74%

Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM)
Launched: August 15, 2019
Objective: Provide Functional Household Tap Connections (FHTC) to every rural household by 2024
Progress as of February 1, 2025:
79.74% of rural households provided with tap water connections
Over 15.22 crore households covered under the scheme
Aim: 'Har Ghar Jal' (Water for Every Home)
Answer: Option 2 → 79.74%
RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2025-26 – 17 March 2026 Shift 1 · Financial inclusion schemes (PMJDY, PMJJBY, PMSBY, APY)

Q95. As of December 2025, under the Pradhan Mantri Jan-Dhan Yojana (PMJDY), eligible account holders can access an overdraft facility of up to:

  1. (a) ₹15,000
  2. (b) ₹8,000
  3. (c) ₹5,000
  4. (d) ₹10,000
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) ₹10,000

Pradhan Mantri Jan-Dhan Yojana (PMJDY)
Launched: August 28, 2014
Overdraft Facility (as of December 2025):
• Eligible account holders can availup to ₹10,000
• Initially started with ₹5,000 limit
• Enhanced to ₹10,000 to increase financial inclusion
Answer: Option 4 → ₹10,000
RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2025-26 – 17 March 2026 Shift 3 · Housing, sanitation and rural development schemes

Q96. Which scheme launched in 2000 aims at reducing rural poverty by increasing rural connectivity?

  1. (a) Bharatmala Pariyojana
  2. (b) Swarna Jayanti Shahari Rozgar Yojana
  3. (c) Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana
  4. (d) Swaranjayanti Gram Swarozgar Yojana
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana

Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY)
Launched:December 25, 2000
Objective: Provide all-weather road connectivity to unconnected habitations in rural areas.
Aim: Reduce rural poverty by improving access to markets, healthcare, education through better connectivity.
Ministry:Ministry of Rural Development
Answer: Option 3 → Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana
RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2025-26 – 17 March 2026 Shift 3 · Education and research schemes

Q97. In which year was the Padhe Bharat Badhe Bharat (PBBB) scheme launched?

  1. (a) 2010
  2. (b) 2018
  3. (c) 2007
  4. (d) 2014
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) 2014

Padhe Bharat Badhe Bharat (PBBB) Scheme
Launched by: Ministry of Education (MHRD)
Year:2014
Objective: Promote reading culture and improve learning outcomes in primary classes
Answer: Option 4 → 2014
RRB JE CBT-1 2025-26 – 25 February 2026 · Financial inclusion schemes (PMJDY, PMJJBY, PMSBY, APY)

Q98. Under the Stand-Up India Scheme, bank loans from Scheduled Commercial Banks (SCBs) are provided in what range for eligible beneficiaries?

  1. (a) ₹25 lakh to ₹2 crore
  2. (b) ₹1 crore to ₹5 crore
  3. (c) ₹10 lakh to ₹1 crore
  4. (d) ₹5 lakh to ₹50 lakh
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) ₹10 lakh to ₹1 crore

Solution:
Under theStand-Up India Scheme, loans are provided byScheduled Commercial Banks (SCBs).
The scheme supportsSC/ST and women entrepreneurs.
The loan range is fixed between₹10 lakh to ₹1 crore.
SSC MTS 2025 – 18 February 2026 Shift 1 · Financial inclusion schemes (PMJDY, PMJJBY, PMSBY, APY)

Q99. The Atal Pension Yojna was launched in _____.

  1. (a) 2001
  2. (b) 2006
  3. (c) 2011
  4. (d) 2015
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) 2015

The Atal Pension Yojana (APY) was launched in 2015 by the Government of India under Prime Minister Narendra Modi. It is a pension scheme targeting workers in the unorganised sector, providing guaranteed pension amounts after the age of 60. 2001, 2006, and 2011 are all incorrect years.
SSC MTS 2025 – 11 February 2026 Shift 2 · National sample surveys (NFHS, PLFS, NSS) - findings

Q100. As per NFHS-5, what percent of people living in urban areas live in households with electricity?

  1. (a) 99.1%
  2. (b) 83.2%
  3. (c) 75.6%
  4. (d) 65.3%
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) 99.1%

The correct answer is 99.1% (Option 1). According to the National Family Health Survey-5 (NFHS-5, 2019-2021), 99.1% of people living in urban areas in India live in households with access to electricity. This reflects the significant progress in urban electrification in India. Option 2 (83.2%) roughly corresponds to rural electrification figures. Options 3 and 4 are lower figures that do not match NFHS-5 urban data.
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