21 march 2025 Current Affairs

World Puppetry Day

About World Puppetry Day

World Puppetry Day is observed annually on March 21st to celebrate puppetry as a global art form and to honor puppeteers worldwide.
This day highlights the significance of puppetry in cultural storytelling, entertainment, and artistic expression across various mediums, including stage, television, and film.

Understanding Puppetry

Puppetry is an ancient performing art that involves crafting and manipulating puppets—figures representing humans, animals, or abstract forms—without mechanical aid.
Puppets are controlled manually to create theatrical performances that engage audiences through storytelling and social commentary.

Puppetry in India

India has a rich tradition of puppetry, deeply rooted in folklore, mythology, and artistic expression.
The art has been used for centuries to narrate historical epics, moral tales, and social issues.

Major Types of Puppetry in India

String Puppets (Kathputli): Predominantly found in Rajasthan and Gujarat, these puppets are manipulated using strings and often depict folk tales and traditional narratives.
Shadow Puppets: Crafted from leather, these puppets are used to cast shadows on a screen. This form is especially popular in Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala.
Rod Puppets: Controlled with rods, these puppets are commonly used in West Bengal and Assam, often portraying mythological stories.
Glove Puppets: Worn on the puppeteer’s hands, these puppets are particularly known in Kerala (Pavakathakali), blending elements of classical dance with puppetry.
The celebration of World Puppetry Day emphasizes the cultural importance of puppetry and encourages the preservation and promotion of this unique art form.

With reference to puppetry in India, consider the following statements:

The Kathputli form of puppetry, primarily found in Rajasthan, is a type of rod puppetry.
Shadow puppetry is practiced in states such as Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh.
Pavakathakali, a type of glove puppetry, is influenced by Kathakali dance traditions.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, and 3

Answer: (b) 2 and 3 only

Explanation:

Kathputli is not rod puppetry but a string puppetry form, primarily found in Rajasthan and Gujarat. (Statement 1 is incorrect.)
Shadow puppetry is a traditional art form seen in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh, where leather puppets cast shadows on a screen. (Statement 2 is correct.)
Pavakathakali, a glove puppet tradition from Kerala, is inspired by Kathakali dance, incorporating similar costume styles and expressions. (Statement 3 is correct.)

APAAR ID

Syllabus: GS2/ Education

APAAR (Automated Permanent Academic Account Registry) ID is a unique 12-digit identifier designed to digitally store, manage, and access a student’s academic records, including scorecards, mark sheets, grade sheets, degrees, diplomas, certificates, and co-curricular achievements.
This initiative is part of the ‘One Nation, One Student ID’ program introduced by the Ministry of Education, aligning with the objectives of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
The APAAR ID is generated through the Unified District Information System for Education Plus (UDISE+) portal, which maintains a database of schools, teachers, and students, along with regional academic statistics.

Concerns Raised

Despite being voluntary, activists and parents have expressed concerns over the rapid push by schools to create APAAR IDs for students, raising questions about privacy, data security, and informed consent.

With reference to the APAAR (Automated Permanent Academic Account Registry) ID, consider the following statements:

APAAR ID is a 12-digit unique academic identifier launched under the ‘One Nation, One Student ID’ initiative.
It is mandatory for all students enrolled in government and private educational institutions.
The ID is generated through the Unified District Information System for Education Plus (UDISE+)
It aligns with the objectives of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

1 and 3 only
1, 3, and 4 only
2 and 4 only
1, 2, 3, and 4

Answer: (B) 1, 3, and 4 only

Explanation:

Statement 1 is correct: The APAAR ID is a 12-digit unique identifier for students.
Statement 2 is incorrect: While some schools are actively pushing for APAAR ID registration, it remains voluntary and not mandatory.
Statement 3 is correct: The ID is generated through the UDISE+ portal, which compiles educational data.
Statement 4 is correct: APAAR aligns with the NEP 2020, aiming to digitize academic records and improve student mobility.

Implementation of Revised Rashtriya Gokul Mission

Syllabus: GS 3/Economy

The Union Cabinet has approved the Revised Rashtriya Gokul Mission (RGM) with an additional allocation of ₹1,000 crore, increasing the total budget to ₹3,400 crore for the period 2021-2026 under the 15th Finance Commission.
Launched in December 2014, RGM aims to conserve and develop indigenous bovine breeds.
It is implemented by the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, focusing on genetic upgradation, enhancement of milk production and productivity, and improving the profitability of dairy farming for farmers.

The scheme includes several key components.

The Nationwide Artificial Insemination Program seeks to boost milk productivity, while Progeny Testing and Pedigree Selection focus on producing high-genetic-merit bulls, particularly of indigenous breeds.
The implementation of In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF) technology plays a crucial role in genetic upgradation within a single generation. Sex-Sorted Semen Production has been established at five government semen stations in Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Uttarakhand, and Uttar Pradesh.
Additionally, the Multi-purpose Artificial Insemination Technicians in Rural India (MAITRIs) initiative trains and equips technicians to deliver quality artificial insemination services directly to farmers.
The revised mission will now function as a Central Sector component under the Development Programmes scheme.
Two new initiatives have been introduced: a 35% capital assistance provision for setting up Heifer Rearing Centres and a 3% interest subvention on loans for purchasing High-Genetic-Merit (HGM) IVF heifers.
The core activities of strengthening artificial insemination networks, supporting breed improvement programs, and establishing Centres of Excellence will continue.
The mission has significantly contributed to India’s dairy sector. Over the past decade, milk production has increased by 63.55%, with per capita milk availability rising from 307 grams/day in 2013-14 to 471 grams/day in 2023-24.
The Nationwide Artificial Insemination Programme has covered over 8.39 crore animals, benefiting 5.21 crore farmers. RGM has also introduced advanced breeding technologies, including 22 IVF labs, resulting in 2,541 high-genetic-merit calves.
Furthermore, the development of Gau Chip and Mahish Chip for indigenous bovines, along with the introduction of Gau Sort technology, underscores India’s progress toward self-reliance in dairy technology.

Consider the following statements regarding the Revised Rashtriya Gokul Mission (RGM):

The scheme is being implemented as a Centrally Sponsored Scheme under the 15th Finance Commission period.
It aims to enhance the genetic potential of both indigenous and exotic bovine breeds.
The scheme provides interest subvention on loans for the purchase of IVF-generated High-Genetic-Merit (HGM) heifers.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 3 only

Answer: (d) 3 only

Explanation:

The Revised Rashtriya Gokul Mission is implemented as a Central Sector Scheme, not a Centrally Sponsored Scheme. Hence, Statement 1 is incorrect.
The mission primarily focuses on the development and conservation of indigenous bovine breeds rather than exotic ones. Hence, Statement 2 is incorrect.
One of the new initiatives introduced under the revised mission is a 3% interest subvention on loans for purchasing High Genetic Merit (HGM) IVF heifers, making Statement 3 correct.

World Happiness Report 2025

Syllabus: Indexes

The World Happiness Report 2025, recently released by the Wellbeing Research Centre at the University of Oxford, evaluates global happiness levels based on citizens’ self-assessed life satisfaction.

Methodology of the Report

The rankings are derived from global surveys measuring individuals’ perceptions of their lives.
The study is a collaboration between the Wellbeing Research Centre, Gallup, and the United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network.
Key factors influencing happiness include GDP per capita, healthy life expectancy, social support, freedom, generosity, and perceptions of corruption.

Key Insights on Happiness Determinants

The report highlights that happiness is influenced by more than just economic wealth. Strong social bonds, trust, and acts of kindness play a critical role in determining life satisfaction.
Individuals who regularly share meals and have reliable social support networks report higher happiness levels. Interestingly, people underestimate the kindness of others—studies show that actual rates of returning lost items are significantly higher than expected.

Global Rankings and Trends

In 2025, Finland continues to hold the top position, followed by Denmark, Iceland, and Sweden.
Israel secures the eighth spot despite ongoing conflicts. Costa Rica and Mexico enter the top ten for the first time, ranking sixth and tenth, respectively.
Meanwhile, the United States drops to its lowest position at 24, and the United Kingdom ranks 23rd.
Afghanistan remains the least happy nation, followed by Sierra Leone and Lebanon.

Rising Loneliness Among Young Adults

A troubling trend observed in the report is the increasing loneliness among young adults.
Since 2006, there has been a rise in social isolation, with 19% of young people reporting they lack social support.
This lack of human connection significantly reduces happiness levels, emphasizing the need to foster stronger community ties for overall well-being.

India’s Position in the Happiness Index

India is ranked 118 out of 147 countries in the 2025 report.
Despite strong social support structures, the country faces challenges with perceptions of freedom.
Among its neighbors, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Nepal, and China rank lower than anticipated, with China at 68.

The Role of Kindness and Community in Happiness

The report underscores the reciprocal benefits of caring and sharing, where both the giver and receiver experience an uplift in well-being.
Encouraging community participation, trust, and generosity could significantly improve happiness levels across societies.

Consider the following factors used in the World Happiness Report to rank countries:

GDP per capita
Social support
Military expenditure as a percentage of GDP
Perceptions of corruption
Healthy life expectancy

Which of the above factors are considered in the report’s methodology?

1, 2, 3, and 5
1, 2, 4, and 5
2, 3, 4, and 5
1, 3, 4, and 5

Answer: (b) 1, 2, 4, and 5

Explanation:

The World Happiness Report considers GDP per capita, social support, perceptions of corruption, and healthy life expectancy as key determinants.
However, military expenditure is not included as a ranking factor. The report primarily focuses on factors influencing individual well-being rather than national security metrics.

WMO’s State of Climate 2024 Report

Syllabus: Environment

The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has released the State of Climate 2024 report, revealing alarming trends in greenhouse gas concentrations, global temperatures, and environmental changes.

Greenhouse Gas Concentration

In 2023, carbon dioxide (CO₂) levels reached 420 parts per million (ppm)—the highest recorded in 800,000 years.
Alongside CO₂, concentrations of methane (CH₄) and nitrous oxide (N₂O) also surged to record levels, intensifying the greenhouse effect and contributing to unprecedented temperature rises.

Global Temperature Milestone

The year 2024 marked a critical threshold in global warming.
The global mean near-surface temperature was 55°C above pre-industrial levels, exceeding the 1.5°C limit set by the Paris Agreement for the first time in a single year.
While this does not necessarily mean a permanent breach of the target, it signals increased risks to ecosystems and human societies.

Long-Term Warming Trends

The WMO estimates long-term warming to be between 1.34°C and 1.41°C above pre-industrial levels (1850–1900).
Climate projections indicate that, if current trends persist, the 5°C threshold could be permanently exceeded by 2029, pushing the planet closer to critical climate tipping points.

Ocean Heat and Sea Level Rise

The past eight years have recorded the highest ocean heat content, with 90% of excess heat from greenhouse gases absorbed by the oceans.
Sea levels continue to rise at an accelerated pace, doubling since satellite measurements began. The primary contributors to this rise are the melting of polar ice caps and glaciers.

Intensified Extreme Weather Events

The increase in greenhouse gas levels has fueled more frequent and severe extreme weather events, including tropical cyclones, heavy rainfall, floods, and droughts.
In 2024, climate-related displacements reached their highest levels since 2008, highlighting the worsening humanitarian impact of climate change.

Cryosphere Changes and Ice Loss

The cryosphere is undergoing dramatic transformations, with glaciers retreating at an alarming rate.
Antarctic sea ice has recorded its second-lowest extent ever, while seven of the last ten years have witnessed the highest negative mass balance of glaciers, indicating substantial ice loss.
These trends threaten global sea levels, freshwater availability, and ecosystems dependent on frozen water reserves.

With reference to the WMO’s State of Climate 2024 report, consider the following statements:

The global mean near-surface temperature in 2024 was recorded at 55°C above pre-industrial levels, marking the first instance of exceeding the Paris Agreement threshold of 1.5°C for an entire decade.
The rise in greenhouse gases, including CO₂, CH₄, and N₂O, has led to ocean heat content reaching its highest levels in recorded history.
The report indicates that the melting of glaciers and polar ice caps is solely responsible for rising sea levels

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, and 3

Answer: (a) 1 and 2 only

Explanation:

Statement 1 is partially correct; the 1.55°C rise was recorded in a single year, not over a decade. However, it does indicate growing climate instability.
Statement 2 is correct; 90% of excess heat is absorbed by oceans, increasing ocean heat content.
Statement 3 is incorrect; while glacier and ice cap melting contributes significantly to rising sea levels, thermal expansion of seawater due to global warming is another major factor.

Jan Vishwas Bill 2.0

Syllabus:Polity

The Jan Vishwas Bill 2.0, introduced by the Union government, aims to overhaul India’s intricate legal system.
This initiative is part of a broader effort to improve the ease of living by addressing excessive criminalisation and ensuring laws are fair, enforceable, and humane.
The Vidhi Centre for Legal Policy has highlighted the vast number of criminal provisions in India’s legal framework, many of which impose disproportionate penalties for minor infractions.

India’s Overburdened Legal System

India currently has 882 central laws, of which 370 contain criminal provisions, covering a staggering 7,305 offences.
While some laws address serious crimes such as murder and financial fraud, many govern everyday activities like parenting, local community events, and business operations.
The legal landscape often imposes severe penalties, including life imprisonment and even the death penalty, for offences that may not always warrant such harsh measures.

The Problem of Over-Criminalisation

A significant issue with India’s current legal system is the criminalisation of minor infractions.
Citizens can face imprisonment for trivial acts such as failing to report the death of a pet or improper storage of e-cigarettes.
This overreach blurs the distinction between serious and minor offences, leading to arbitrary enforcement by authorities and increasing the risk of legal exploitation.

Disproportionate Punishments and Legal Inconsistencies

One of the key concerns is the lack of proportionality in punishments.
For instance, the Mental Healthcare Act prescribes the same jail term for record-keeping errors as it does for major medical violations.
Such inconsistencies weaken public trust in the justice system and create a disjointed legal structure that does not align with societal needs.

Social and Economic Impact

The consequences of harsh legal provisions fall disproportionately on the poor, who often lack access to legal resources.
With low conviction rates, the judicial process itself becomes a form of punishment, leading to prolonged pretrial detentions.
Many individuals suffer due to outdated or unjust laws that fail to reflect contemporary realities.

Principles of Legal Reform

The Vidhi Centre for Legal Policy has outlined four key principles for legal reform:

Preserving Societal Values – Ensuring laws reflect ethical and cultural norms.
Preventing Justifiable Harm – Criminal laws should address actions that cause significant harm to individuals or society.
Ensuring Effective Legal Solutions – Laws should provide clear and enforceable solutions.
Proportionality in Punishments – Penalties should correspond to the severity of offences.

Future Legal Reforms

The Jan Vishwas Bill 2.0 seeks to shift the focus from punitive justice to restorative justice, reducing unnecessary legal burdens and prioritising reforms that benefit citizens.
A key objective is to decrease the number of undertrial prisoners and streamline judicial procedures to create a more efficient, equitable, and transparent legal system.
As India moves forward, legal reforms must prioritize justice, fairness, and societal well-being to enhance the quality of life for all citizens.

With reference to the Jan Vishwas Bill 2.0, consider the following statements:

It aims to reduce excessive criminalisation by eliminating all provisions of imprisonment from central laws.
The Bill is a step towards prioritising restorative justice over punitive measures.
It was introduced by the Ministry of Law and Justice to rationalise sentencing in criminal laws.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 3 only
(b) 2 only
(c) 1 and 2 only
(d) 1, 2, and 3

Answer: (b) 2 only

Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect: The Jan Vishwas Bill 2.0 does not eliminate all provisions of imprisonment but seeks to reduce disproportionate criminalisation of minor infractions.

Statement 2 is correct: The Bill emphasises restorative justice by focusing on proportionality in punishments and rationalising legal penalties.
Statement 3 is incorrect: The Ministry of Law and Justice is not responsible for introducing the Bill; rather, it is a broad government initiative to reform laws across multiple sectors.

Revised Rashtriya Gokul Mission

Syllabus: Government Policies

The Revised Rashtriya Gokul Mission (RGM) is a flagship initiative of the Government of India, aimed at modernizing and enhancing the livestock and dairy sector.
With an additional allocation of ₹1,000 crore, the total budget for RGM now stands at ₹3,400 crore for the 15th Finance Commission cycle (2021-22 to 2025-26).
The revised mission focuses on boosting milk production, improving cattle productivity, and supporting dairy farmers through targeted interventions.

Key Components of the Revised RGM

Heifer Rearing Centres

Provides one-time financial assistance covering 35% of capital costs.
Aims to establish 30 rearing facilities to accommodate 15,000 heifers.
Ensures the availability of high-quality female calves to improve dairy productivity.

High Genetic Merit (HGM) IVF Heifers

Farmers purchasing HGM IVF heifers receive a 3% interest subvention on loans.
Loans are facilitated through milk unions and financial institutions to promote access to superior breeds.

Ongoing Activities and Enhancements

The revised mission continues several critical initiatives from the original RGM, including:

Strengthening semen stations and expanding Artificial Insemination (AI) coverage.
Accelerating breed improvement through the use of sex-sorted semen and advanced reproductive technologies.
Skill development and farmer awareness programs to enhance knowledge and best practices in livestock management.

Impact on Milk Production and Productivity

Since the inception of RGM, India has witnessed a 63.55% increase in milk production over the past decade. Key improvements include:

Milk availability per capita rose from 307 grams/day (2013-14) to 471 grams/day (2023-24).
Dairy productivity surged by 26.34% within the same period, benefiting both small and large-scale farmers.

Nationwide Artificial Insemination Programme (NAIP)

To enhance breed quality and accessibility, the NAIP provides:

Free Artificial Insemination (AI) services in 605 districts, focusing on areas with AI coverage below 50%.
Over 8.39 crore animals have been inseminated, benefiting 5.21 crore farmers across India.

Technological Innovations in Livestock Breeding

The RGM incorporates cutting-edge advancements to improve livestock genetics and productivity, including:

Establishment of 22 In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) labs for advanced breeding.
Development of genomic chips:
- Gau Chip for indigenous cattle breeds.
- Mahish Chip for buffalo breeds.
Indigenous development of Gau Sort technology for producing sex-sorted semen, ensuring higher birth rates of female calves for dairy farming.

Emphasis on Indigenous Breeds and Farmer Livelihoods

The Revised RGM prioritizes the scientific conservation and genetic improvement of indigenous bovine breeds, fostering a sustainable and self-reliant dairy sector. Key outcomes include:

Systematic bull production programs to enhance breed purity.
Expanded use of IVF and genomic technologies to increase productivity.
Improved economic conditions for over 8.5 crore farmers engaged in dairying, particularly small and marginal farmers.

By integrating modern scientific techniques with traditional livestock practices, the Revised Rashtriya Gokul Mission is playing a crucial role in strengthening India’s dairy industry, ensuring higher productivity, enhanced farmer incomes, and sustainable livestock management.

With reference to the Revised Rashtriya Gokul Mission (RGM), consider the following statements:

It provides capital assistance of 50% for establishing Heifer Rearing Centres.
It offers an interest subvention on loans for purchasing High Genetic Merit (HGM) IVF heifers.
The mission aims to increase milk production but does not focus on indigenous bovine breeds.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 2 and 3 only

Answer: (b) 2 only
Explanation:

The mission provides 35% capital assistance, not 50%, for establishing Heifer Rearing Centres.
It does offer a 3% interest subvention on loans for purchasing HGM IVF heifers.
A major focus of RGM is the conservation and development of indigenous bovine breeds, making statement 3 incorrect.

Sansad Bhashini Initiative

Syllabus: Government Schemes

The Lok Sabha Secretariat, in collaboration with the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), has launched ‘Sansad Bhashini’, an AI-driven initiative aimed at enhancing multilingual accessibility in parliamentary proceedings.
This initiative seeks to streamline access to parliamentary documents for Members of Parliament (MPs) and citizens, thereby improving legislative efficiency and inclusivity.

Key Features of Sansad Bhashini

The initiative integrates several advanced technological solutions to enhance parliamentary operations:

1. Seamless Multilingual Translation of Parliamentary Documents

Facilitates real-time translation of key parliamentary materials, including legacy debates, committee reports, and agenda files.
Ensures greater accessibility for MPs and citizens who prefer regional languages.

2. AI-Powered Chatbot for Instant Information Retrieval

Enables MPs and officials to quickly access procedural rules, legislative documents, and parliamentary records.
Enhances legislative efficiency by reducing time spent on manual document searches.

3. Real-Time Speech Translation and Transcription

Converts live parliamentary debates into text format instantly.
Provides real-time translation of discussions into multiple languages, ensuring linguistic inclusivity.

4. AI-Driven Automatic Summarisation of Debates

Uses natural language processing (NLP) algorithms to generate concise summaries of lengthy parliamentary discussions.
Facilitates quick decision-making for MPs, researchers, and legislative staff.

Impact and Benefits

Enhances Parliamentary Efficiency: Reduces delays in accessing legislative documents and procedural information.
Promotes Transparency & Inclusivity: Makes parliamentary discussions more accessible to a wider audience by supporting multiple languages.
Empowers Lawmakers and Citizens: Helps MPs stay informed and engaged, while also enabling citizens to follow parliamentary debates in their preferred language.

Through Sansad Bhashini, India moves towards a more inclusive, technologically advanced, and transparent parliamentary system, leveraging AI-driven multilingual capabilities for better governance

With reference to the ‘Sansad Bhashini’ initiative, consider the following statements:

It is a joint initiative of the Lok Sabha Secretariat and the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY).
The initiative solely focuses on translating parliamentary documents into Hindi and English.
It incorporates AI-driven chatbots to assist Members of Parliament in retrieving legislative information.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A) 1 only
B) 1 and 3 only
C) 2 and 3 only
D) 1, 2, and 3

Answer: B) 1 and 3 only

Explanation:

Statement 1 is correct: The Lok Sabha Secretariat and MeitY have collaborated to implement Sansad Bhashini to enhance multilingual accessibility in parliamentary operations.
Statement 2 is incorrect: The initiative does not restrict translations to only Hindi and English but supports multiple languages to promote inclusivity.

Statement 3 is correct: AI-powered chatbots assist MPs and officials in retrieving procedural rules and legislative documents.

Global Free Speech Survey 2024

Syllabus: Polity

The Future of Free Speech report, conducted in October 2024 by an independent think tank, ranks India 24th among 33 countries, highlighting concerns about the protection of controversial speech.
While many Indians value free speech, their support for government criticism is notably low. The Future of Free Speech Index ranks countries based on public support for free expression.
The 2024 survey shows a global decline in free speech support since 2021.
Notably, democratic nations like the United States and Japan have experienced drops, whereas Scandinavian countries, including Norway and Denmark, lead the rankings with the highest scores.
India scored 62.6, positioned between South Africa and Lebanon. Despite a strong abstract support for free speech, commitment to protecting controversial speech has weakened.
A concerning 37% of Indian respondents believe the government should restrict criticism of its policies, the highest percentage among surveyed nations, contrasting with just 5% in the UK. The survey indicates a disconnect in India.
While many claim to support free speech, actual protections are lacking. This trend mirrors patterns seen in Hungary and Venezuela, where public sentiment does not align with government actions, signaling democratic backsliding.
When asked about changes in their ability to speak freely, Indians expressed a belief in improvement over the past year.
However, observers suggest the reality has worsened, pointing to a gap between public perception and the actual state of free speech in India.
The report notes that free speech extends beyond legal rights and requires a culture of open debate and tolerance for dissent.
The erosion of willingness to defend controversial speech is evident, threatening the essence of free expression.
Globally, support for free speech tends to correlate with actual freedom of expression. However, India’s situation is atypical.
Nations with high public support usually enjoy better protections, yet in India, the opposite is true.
The survey explored various aspects of free speech, including attitudes toward censorship, criticism of the government, and sensitive topics. Support for free speech often declines when it involves offensive content or criticism of religion, reflecting a complex landscape of public opinion.

With reference to the “Future of Free Speech” report, consider the following statements:

The 2024 survey indicates that support for free speech has increased globally compared to 2021.
Scandinavian nations, particularly Norway and Denmark, have ranked the highest in the index.
India’s ranking in the index suggests that public support for free speech correlates directly with actual protections.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 2 and 3 only

Answer: (b) 2 only

Explanation:

Statement 1 is incorrect: The report highlights a decline in free speech support globally since 2021, especially in democratic nations like the US and Japan.
Statement 2 is correct: Norway and Denmark have consistently scored the highest in the rankings, showing strong public and institutional support for free speech.
Statement 3 is incorrect: The report suggests that while India has public support for free speech, actual protections remain weak. This contradicts the usual correlation seen in other nations.