Q1. With reference to India–Sri Lanka defence cooperation, consider the following statements:
- The recent defence cooperation includes institutional-level engagement involving both cadet training and higher defence education.
- The L70 gun involved in the cooperation is primarily an artillery system designed for surface-to-surface warfare.
- Sri Lanka's assurance regarding its territory is relevant to India's broader maritime and regional security concerns.
- The fisheries issue between India and Sri Lanka has a significant geographical dimension associated with the Palk Strait.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1, 3 and 4 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 2, 3 and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
Answer: (a)
Explanation:
- Statement 1 is correct: The MoUs cover cooperation between the National Cadet Corps and the National Defence Colleges of the two countries.
- Statement 2 is incorrect: The L70 is a 40 mm anti-aircraft gun, not a surface-to-surface artillery system.
- Statement 3 is correct: Sri Lanka's assurance that its territory will not be used against India's security interests is significant for India's regional-security concerns.
- Statement 4 is correct: The fisheries dispute involving fishermen of both countries is closely associated with the Palk Strait.
