2916: With reference to a grouping of countries known as BRICS, consider the following statements :
1. The First Summit of BRICS was held in Rio De Janeiro in 2009.
2. South Africa was the last to join the BRICS grouping.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
2917: In the new Panchayati Raj Bill enacted in 1993, there are several fresh provisions deviating from the past. Which one of the following is not one such provision ?
(a) A number of added responsibilities in the area of agriculture, rural development, primary education and social forestry among others.
(b) Elections being made mandatory for all posts at the time they are due.
(c) A statutory representation for women in the panchayats, upto a third of the strength.
(d) Regular remuneration to the panchayat members, so as to ensure their punctuality and accountability.
2918: Parliament or a State Legislature can declare a seat vacant if a member abstains himself without permission from the sessions for atleast
(a) 30 days
(b) 60 days
(c) 90 days
(d) 120 days
2919: Consider the following names:
1. Ike
2. Kate
3. Gustav
Which of the above are the names of hurricanes that had occurred very recently?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
2920: Consider the following statements:
1. The Accelerated Irrigation Benefits Programme was launched during 1996-97 to provide loan assistance to poor farmers.
2. The Command Area Development Programme was launched in 1974-75 for the development of water-use efficiency.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2