Psus And Industry 40

Statement 1 is incorrect: The revenue earned from disinvestment is not "mainly" used to pay back external debt. Historically, these proceeds were funneled into the National Investment Fund (NIF), where 75% was used for social sector schemes (like health and education) and 25% for the capital requirements of CPSEs. In recent years, disinvestment proceeds have been used to bridge the fiscal deficit and fund large-scale Capital Expenditure (Capex) in infrastructure. India's external debt is relatively small compared to its internal debt, and specific earmarking for external debt repayment is not a policy objective of disinvestment. Statement 2 is incorrect: This is a broad generalization that ignores the distinction between types of disinvestment. In Minority Disinvestment, the government sells a portion of its shares but retains at least 51% equity and full management control. Under the New PSE Policy (2021), CPSEs are divided into Strategic and Non-Strategic sectors. In strategic sectors (like Atomic Energy, Space, and Defense), the government intends to maintain a "bare minimum" presence, meaning it does intend to retain control in certain key areas. Management control is only transferred in cases of Strategic Disinvestment or privatization.

**Statement 1 is Correct:** The Quality Council of India (QCI) is a pioneering experiment of the Government of India in setting up organisations in partnership with the Indian industry. Quality Council of India (QCI) was set up in 1997 jointly by the Government of India and the Indian Industry represented by the three premier industry associations i.e. Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM), Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), to establish and operate national accreditation structure and promote quality through National Quality Campaign. The Department of Industrial Policy & Promotion, Ministry of Commerce & Industry, is the nodal ministry for QCI.QCI is governed by a Council of 38 members including the Chairman and Secretary General. **Statement 2 is Correct:** The chairman is appointed by the Prime Minister on the recommendation of the industry to the government. Therefore, both statement 1 and statement 2 are correct.Hence, option C is the correct answer.

Critical minerals are essential for modern technologies and clean energy, but many countries, including India, depend on imports for several of them. To strengthen supply chains, India has joined international partnerships and reformed mining laws. ✅ **Statement I: Correct** India **joined the Minerals Security Partnership (MSP)** in 2023 to ensure reliable access to **critical minerals**. ❌ **Statement II: Incorrect** India is **not resource-rich in all 30** critical minerals it has identified and remains **import-dependent** for several, like **cobalt** and **nickel**. ✅ **Statement III: Correct** In 2023, Parliament amended the **Mines and Minerals Act**, giving the **Central Government power** to auction leases for **critical minerals**.