A
1 only
B
2 only
C
Neither 1 nor 2
D
Both 1 and 2
Correct answer: (b) 2 only
Explanation
The MMX mission is designed and developed by JAXA (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency), not NASA, to collect and return soil samples from Mars's moon Phobos. Hence, statement 1 is incorrect while statement 2 is correct, making B the proper key.
Same topic · past papers
UPSC has asked this before
These previous-year questions sit on the same topic. Open one to practise the earlier ask.
-
2026 · Q50 · General Studies · 2 marks
Which of the following statements with regard to India's Deep Ocean Mission is/are correct? 1. It was launched by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Government of India. 2. Matsya-6000 has been designed to carry 3 people for deep sea exploration. 3. Samudrayaan is a project under this mission. Select the answer using the code given below: -
2026 · Q95 · General Studies · 2 marks
Which of the following statements about Rare Earth Elements (REEs) and Critical Minerals is/are correct? 1. Modern technological innovations including Artificial Intelligence, robotics and space exploration extensively utilise Rare Earth Elements (REEs). 2. China has the highest share in mining of REEs followed by India. 3. The Government of India launched the National Critical Mineral Mission (NCMM) in 2025 to establish a robust framework for self-reliance in the critical mineral sector. 4. Rare Earth Elements are a set of 13 metallic elements. Select the answer using the code given below: -
2024 · Q45 · General Studies · 2 marks
With reference to the sectors of the Indian economy, consider the following pairs: Economic activity Sector 1. Storage of agricultural produce Secondary 2. Dairy farm Primary 3. Mineral exploration Tertiary 4. Weaving cloth Secondary How many of the pairs given above are correctly matched? -
2021 · Q56 · General Studies · 2 marks
Consider the following statements: 1. The Global Ocean Commission grants licences for seabed exploration and mining in international waters. 2. India has received licences for seabed mineral exploration in international waters. 3. 'Rare earth minerals' are present on seafloor in international waters. Which of the statements given above are correct? -
2016 · Q62 · General Studies · 2 marks
What is/are the purpose/purposes of 'District Mineral Foundations' in India? 1. Promoting mineral exploration activities in mineral-rich districts 2. Protecting the interests of the persons affected by mining operations 3. Authorizing State Governments to issue licenses for mineral exploration Select the correct answer using the code given below