Instructions: –
1. Attempt all the questions.
2. Once you have completed all the questions of a particular section click on the submit button for scores and explanations then move to the next sections.
3. For each correct answer, you receive 1 mark. For this mock, there is no negative marking.
English Language
In the contemporary era, the echoes of the ancient Silk Road resonate as nations rekindle this historic trade route, transforming it into a web of connectivity and cooperation. Once trodden by traders and explorers, the Silk Road’s essence now influences the geopolitics and economies of the present. The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), led by China, is a modern interpretation of the Silk Road, aiming to connect nations through unprecedented infrastructure development. This initiative reflects the evolution of global trade, fostering economic cooperation on a vast scale. As we navigate the digital Silk Road paved with internet cables, the exchange is no longer confined to tangible goods but extends to ideas and information. The once spice-filled caravans are replaced by container ships carrying electronics, machinery, and renewable energy technologies, symbolizing the changing nature of global trade.
However, this revival is not without challenges. Debates around economic hegemony, environmental sustainability, and cultural influence punctuate discussions in international diplomacy. The contemporary Silk Road is a complex mosaic where each piece shapes the geopolitical landscape. In conclusion, the resurfacing of the Silk Road in the 21st century is a testament to the enduring legacy of historical trade routes. Navigating the challenges wisely, nations must ensure that this renewed connectivity leads to shared prosperity and cultural enrichment, mirroring the flourishing markets of the ancient Silk Road.
Legal Reasoning
In contract law, Section 56 addresses the concept of frustration of contract, which occurs when a contract becomes impossible to perform due to unforeseen circumstances beyond the control of the parties involved. When such impossibility arises, the contract is deemed void, releasing both parties from their obligations. However, for frustration to apply, the impossibility must be absolute and strike at the root of the intention of the contract. This means that if there is any possibility whatsoever to perform the contract, it must be fulfilled. Mere commercial hardship or changes in circumstances, even if they make performance more difficult or expensive, do not constitute frustration. Instead, frustration arises in situations where the subject matter of the contract is destroyed or where a contingent event upon which the contract depends fails to occur.
A crucial aspect of frustration is that it should not be induced by one of the parties to the contract. In other words, if one party deliberately causes the impossibility that leads to frustration, they cannot rely on frustration as a defense to escape their contractual obligations. This principle ensures fairness and prevents parties from manipulating the circumstances to their advantage.
The requirement for absolute impossibility underscores the high threshold that must be met for frustration to apply. It is not enough for performance to become more difficult or onerous; rather, the impossibility must be so severe that it renders performance utterly impossible. This reflects the principle that parties should be held to their contractual commitments unless genuinely unforeseeable events intervene to make performance impracticable.
Moreover, frustration of contract operates to mitigate the harsh consequences that would otherwise result from the impossibility of performance. By declaring the contract void, frustration allows parties to be released from their obligations without incurring liability for breach. This serves the interests of fairness and equity by recognizing that parties should not be held accountable for circumstances beyond their control.
However, it is essential to distinguish frustration from other forms of contract termination. For example, frustration differs from breach of contract, where one party fails to perform their obligations under the contract. In cases of frustration, the contract is terminated automatically due to external factors that make performance impossible, rather than due to any fault or wrongdoing on the part of either party.
Overall, frustration of contract represents a vital legal principle that addresses the unforeseen and uncontrollable circumstances that may arise during the course of contractual relationships. By providing a mechanism for the automatic termination of contracts in such situations, frustration promotes fairness, equity, and commercial certainty in contractual dealings. It ensures that parties are not unfairly burdened by obligations that have become impossible to fulfill due to events beyond their control, while also upholding the integrity and enforceability of contractual agreements.
Logical Reasoning
Sutirtha Mukherjee and Ayhika Mukherjee’s remarkable journey at the Asian Games in Hangzhou culminated in a bronze medal. The duo, who became the first Indian women’s doubles pair to secure a table tennis medal at the Asian Games by defeating world champions Chen Meng and Yidi Wang of China, were on the brink of another historic achievement. However, they narrowly missed out on reaching the final after a thrilling semi-final match against North Korea’s Suyong Cha and Sugyong Pak. The North Korean pair clinched the match 4-3, advancing to the gold medal round.
The Mukherjees’ achievement marks India’s third table tennis medal at the Games, following the men’s team and the mixed team of Manika Batra and Sharath Kamal, who won bronze medals in Jakarta in 2018. The semi-final match was a roller-coaster of emotions, with both teams displaying exceptional skill and determination. The Indian pair started aggressively, securing the first game. However, the North Koreans bounced back in the second game. The match saw several shifts in momentum, with both teams taking turns to dominate. In the end, the North Korean duo managed to secure the deciding game, winning 11-2.
This achievement in table tennis is monumental for India. Former Indian table tennis player Somoyadeep Roy, who coaches Ayhika and Sutirtha, stated, “Asian Games TT medal is equivalent to an Olympic medal, especially in women. What they have achieved today will go down in the books.” The significance of their victory over the Chinese pair, who collectively hold 12 world championship medals, cannot be overstated. Historically, defeating a Chinese opponent in table tennis has been a significant challenge for many countries, given China’s dominance in the sport.
Interestingly, Ayhika and Sutirtha were not even deemed suitable to represent India in the previous year’s Commonwealth Games. Their journey from that point to defeating some of the world’s best players on such a grand stage is a testament to their dedication and skill. This landmark achievement could potentially herald a golden era for Indian table tennis.
Quantitative Techniques
Directions: Read the following information and answer the questions that follow:
Mr. Kapoor took voluntary retirement on January 1st, 2015 and received 16 lakhs as his retirement benefits. As on that day, he additionally had 4.5 lakh with him as savings in his bank account. Of the total amount he had because Raghuram Rajan was the governor of RBI then and the interest rates were high, 60% was invested in the bank which gives him annual compounded interest of 10% for three years. Because Narendra Modi was sworn as the Prime Minister of India, of the remaining part, half was invested in shares, which appreciated by 15% in the first year, 6% in the second year and depreciated by 10% the next year. The remaining part was invested in Real Estate. The Real Estate values increased by 10% in the first year, reduced by 10% in the next year and remained steady in the third year.
General Knowledge
The Indian Army is poised to receive its inaugural three AH-64E Apache attack helicopters from Boeing by December 2024. This delivery, initially anticipated between May and July, has faced a delay exceeding six months due to supply chain challenges. Following extensive negotiations between India and the United States, the delivery schedule was prioritized, emphasizing the strategic partnership between the two nations. The Apache helicopters, renowned for their advanced technology and combat capabilities, are specifically engineered for operations in desert environments, excelling in countering armoured threats, including tanks. However, their performance diminishes in high-altitude regions, such as mountainous terrains typical of Northern India.
To mitigate this limitation, India has embarked on developing the indigenous Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) through Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd.  The LCH, equipped with advanced avionics and weapon systems, is optimized for high-altitude operations and is slated for deployment in the Ladakh region between 2024 and 2025. This dual approach to helicopter procurement enhances the Army’s versatility in various operational contexts. The formation of the 451 Aviation Squadron in Jodhpur in March marks a significant milestone for the Indian Army, as it prepares to operationalize the Apache helicopters. This squadron represents the Army’s second attack helicopter variant, complementing the LCH and underscoring its commitment to strengthening aviation capabilities. The establishment of this unit reflects a broader military strategy aimed at modernizing and expanding India’s aerial combat capabilities, particularly in light of evolving regional security dynamics.
In 2020, India formalized an $800 million procurement agreement with Boeing for six Apache helicopters, which includes comprehensive training for six Indian pilots and 24 technicians in the United States. This initiative not only enhances operational readiness but also fosters defense cooperation between India and the U.S. Additionally, the Indian Army has indicated a keen interest in acquiring more Apache helicopters, with a proposal for an additional 11 aircraft currently under evaluation. Strategically, a review led by the Chief of Defence Staff has highlighted the necessity for 39 heavy attack helicopters across the Indian armed forces. In response to this assessment, the Defence Acquisition Council approved the procurement of 156 LCHs, with an estimated total cost of ₹45,000 crore. This strategic decision reflects India’s commitment to augmenting its aerial warfare capabilities in alignment with its defence policy goals.
Presently, the Indian Army’s operational fleet includes 75 Rudra helicopters, armed variants of the Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH). The integration of the Apache, LCH, and Rudra helicopters will significantly enhance the Army’s operational flexibility across diverse terrains, reinforcing its combat capabilities and readiness in a rapidly changing security environment. The emphasis on developing indigenous platforms alongside international collaborations signifies a balanced approach to enhancing national defence.