PYQ Bank — UPSC Civil Services

The IMO 2030 sulfur cap regulations (implemented in 2020, with enhanced targets for 2030) do require reduction in sulfur content and aim to reduce air pollution-related health impacts.

However, statement 3 is incorrect as the regulations provided transition periods and exemptions for certain ships, particularly those with scrubber technology.

The regulations represent a significant environmental initiative to combat marine pollution and its health consequences.

India's G20 presidency in 2023 focused on prioritizing the concerns of the Global South and developing nations, emphasizing inclusive development, climate action, and reducing inequality.

The motto 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' (the world is one family) reflected this inclusive approach.

While other options touch on international issues, they do not represent the central theme of India's G20 agenda, which was to ensure that developing nations' voices were heard in global economic discussions.

The Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework established ambitious targets including the protection of at least 30% of land and ocean areas by 2030 and the reduction of subsidies harmful to biodiversity.

Statement 3 is incorrect because benefit-sharing from genetic resources is meant to be equitable and benefit all nations, particularly developing countries rich in biodiversity, under the principles of the Nagoya Protocol.

Statements 1 and 2 correctly reflect key commitments of this landmark biodiversity agreement.

The 'One Sun One World One Grid' initiative conceptualizes a global solar energy infrastructure that leverages time zone differences to ensure continuous solar power availability.

Statement 2 is incorrect as this initiative was first proposed earlier by India, though it gained prominence during the G20 presidency.

The core idea (statements 1 and 3) is scientifically sound: by linking solar grids across continents, when one region experiences night, another experiences day, enabling theoretically continuous renewable energy supply globally.

COP28 achieved historic milestones including the establishment of a 'Loss and Damage Fund' to support vulnerable nations facing climate impacts, and made language about 'transitioning away' from fossil fuels in energy systems, marking a significant shift in global climate negotiations.

However, statement 3 is incorrect as the conference did not commit to phasing out coal by 2030; the language was more cautious, focusing on transitioning away from fossil fuels without specifying a fixed timeline for coal phase-out.

Statements 1 and 2 represent genuine breakthroughs at COP28.