Q1. What is the primary objective of the Government’s Scheme to Promote Manufacturing of Sintered Rare Earth Permanent Magnets (REPM)?
- To increase exports of rare-earth minerals in raw form
- To establish end-to-end domestic REPM manufacturing capacity
- To reduce prices of consumer electronics
- To replace all conventional magnets used in India
Correct Option: 2. To establish end-to-end domestic REPM manufacturing capacity
Explanation: The core objective of the scheme is to create an integrated domestic ecosystem for REPM manufacturing, covering the full value chain—from rare-earth oxides to finished magnets. This aims to reduce import dependence, enhance self-reliance, and ensure supply-chain resilience for strategic sectors such as EVs, renewable energy, defense, and electronics. Exporting raw minerals or reducing consumer prices is not the scheme’s primary focus.
Q2. Khanij Bidesh India Limited (KABIL) is a joint venture under which ministry?
- Ministry of Commerce and Industry
- Ministry of Heavy Industries
- Ministry of Mines
- Ministry of External Affairs
Correct Option: 3. Ministry of Mines
Explanation: KABIL functions under the Ministry of Mines and was created specifically to secure India’s supply of critical and strategic minerals. Its role is closely linked to mineral exploration, acquisition, and development, which falls under the mandate of this ministry.
Q3. Which of the following Public Sector Undertakings are partners in Khanij Bidesh India Limited (KABIL)?
- NALCO, NMDC and ONGC
- NALCO, HCL and MECL
- HCL, SAIL and GAIL
- MECL, ONGC and BPCL
Correct Option: 2. NALCO, HCL and MECL
Explanation: KABIL is a joint venture of:
• National Aluminium Company Limited (NALCO)
• Hindustan Copper Limited (HCL)
• Mineral Exploration & Consultancy Limited (MECL)
These PSUs bring expertise in metals, mining, and exploration, enabling KABIL to identify and develop overseas mineral assets critical for India’s clean-energy and emerging technology sectors.
Q4. Under the Shipbuilding Financial Assistance Scheme (SBFAS), what is the range of financial assistance provided by the Government per vessel?
- 10%–15% depending on vessel size
- 15%–25% depending on vessel category
- 20%–30% for all vessels
- 25% fixed assistance for specialised vessels only
Correct Option: 2. 15%–25% depending on vessel category
Explanation: The SBFAS provides graded financial assistance ranging from 15% to 25% per vessel, depending on whether the vessel is classified as small normal, large normal, or specialised. The scheme also links disbursement to defined construction milestones, ensuring accountability and efficient use of public funds.
Q5. Which of the following features is common to both the Shipbuilding Financial Assistance Scheme (SBFAS) and the Shipbuilding Development Scheme (SbDS)?
- 100% capital assistance for brownfield shipyards
- Focus on overseas ship acquisition
- Milestone-based disbursement and independent evaluation
- Exclusive emphasis on defence shipbuilding
Correct Option: 3. Milestone-based disbursement and independent evaluatio
Explanation: Both SBFAS and SbDS emphasize transparent and accountable implementation. They mandate:
• Milestone-based disbursement of funds
• Independent valuation and evaluation agencies
These provisions ensure strong governance, financial discipline, and effective monitoring across India’s shipbuilding initiatives. The schemes focus on domestic commercial shipbuilding, not overseas acquisition or defence-only shipbuilding.