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GS Paper: GS3

  • What Laws govern Import of Gold into India?

    Why in the News?

    India is facing a rise in gold smuggling due to higher global gold prices, with a recent high-profile case where an actor was arrested for smuggling over 14 kg of gold from Dubai to Bengaluru.

    Laws Against Gold Smuggling in India:

    • Gold smuggling is regulated by the Customs Act, 1962.
      • Sections 111 & 112 allow confiscation and fines for illegal imports.
      • Section 135 provides up to 7 years imprisonment if the smuggled goods’ value exceeds ₹1 lakh.
    • Under the Baggage Rules, 2016, men abroad for 1+ year can bring 20g duty-free (₹50,000 cap); women can bring 40g (₹1 lakh cap).
    • Customs duty rates:
      • 3% duty: Men (20-50g), Women (40-100g).
      • 6% duty: Men (50-100g), Women (100-200g).
      • 10% duty: Beyond these limits.
    • The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, punishes organized smuggling with 5 years to life imprisonment under Section 111.
    • Under UAPA Section 15, smuggling that affects India’s monetary stability is treated as a terrorist act, attracting life imprisonment.
    • The Supreme Court (2003) ruled that non-compliant imports are prohibited goods, liable for confiscation and punishment.

    India’s Gold Imports:

    • India is the second-largest gold consumer after China, with gold making up 5% of total imports, mostly for the jewellery industry.
    • Major import sources: Switzerland (40%), UAE (16%), South Africa (10%).
    • Budget 2024 reduced import duty from 15% to 6% to control smuggling and balance trade.
    • In April-July 2024-25, gold imports dipped by 4.23%, easing pressure on the Current Account Deficit (CAD).
    • April-June 2024:
      • Gems & jewellery exports: US$ 6.87 bn.
      • Diamonds: 53.47%, gold jewellery: 32.39% (US$ 608 mn), silver jewellery: 3.36%.
      • Gold jewellery imports: US$ 88.61 mn (June 2024).
    • Major production hubs: Surat, Mumbai, Jaipur, Thrissur, Nellore, Delhi, Hyderabad, Kolkata.
    • India targets US$ 100 billion gems & jewellery exports by 2027, making it a focus sector for export promotion.

    PYQ:

    [2016] What is/are the purpose/purposes of Government’s ‘Sovereign Gold Bond Scheme’ and ‘Gold Monetization Scheme’?

    1. To bring the idle gold lying with Indian households into the economy.

    2. To promote FDI in the gold and jewellery sector.

    3. To reduce India’s dependence on gold imports.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

     

  • India’s 1st Exploration Licence Auction for Critical Minerals

    Why in the News?

    Union Coal and Mines Minister has launched the first-ever auction of Exploration Licences (ELs) for 13 critical mineral blocks.

    About the Critical Minerals Exploration Policy

    • India’s Critical Minerals Policy is designed to reduce import dependence, boost domestic production, and ensure secure access to essential minerals required for modern technology, defense, and clean energy.
    • It is driven by amendments to the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act (MMDR), 2023, introduces systematic exploration, private sector participation, and transparent auctions.
    • Key Features of the Policy:
      • Private Sector Involvement: Allows private companies to explore and develop mineral blocks through Exploration Licences (ELs).
      • Transparent Auction Process: Introduces an auction-based allocation of exploration blocks, ensuring efficiency and competition.
      • Focus on Deep-Seated Minerals: Encourages the exploration of hard-to-extract minerals like lithium, rare earth elements (REEs), and platinum group metals (PGMs).
      • Financial Support for Exploration: Provides risk-sharing mechanisms, where 50% of exploration costs are borne by the government if minerals are not found.

    What are Critical Minerals?

    • Critical minerals are essential elements required for high-tech industries, clean energy technologies, and national security.
    • They are however at risk of supply chain disruptions due to their limited availability or geopolitical factors.
    • India’s 30 Critical Minerals (2023 List) includes: Lithium, Cobalt, Nickel, Graphite, Rare Earth Elements (REEs), Platinum Group Elements (PGEs), Silicon, Phosphorous, Potash, Tin, Tungsten, Vanadium, Zirconium, and others.

    Uses of Critical Minerals:

    • Electronics & Semiconductors: Copper, gallium, germanium, indium.
    • Electric Vehicles & Batteries: Lithium, cobalt, nickel, graphite.
    • Renewable Energy Technologies: Rare Earth Elements (REEs) for wind turbines and solar panels.
    • Aerospace & Defense: Titanium, tungsten, platinum group elements (PGEs).

    PYQ:

    [2019] With reference to the management of minor minerals in India, consider the following statements:

    1. Sand is a ‘minor mineral’ according to the prevailing law in the country.
    2. State governments have the power to grant mining leases of minor minerals, but the powers regarding the formation of rules related to the grant of minor minerals lie with the Central Government.
    3. State Governments have the power to frame rules to prevent illegal mining of minor minerals.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 and 3

    (b) 2 and 3

    (c) 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

     

  • Bird Flu is Spreading in Bihar

    Why in the News?

    Bihar is currently facing a bird flu outbreak, yet the state lacks a dedicated testing facility for confirming cases.

    What is H5N1 Bird Flu?

    • H5N1 (Avian Influenza A) is a highly contagious virus affecting birds and some mammals.
    • It was first detected in China in 1996 and has since spread globally, including India.
    • In 2020, a highly pathogenic strain emerged, leading to outbreaks in Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Americas.

    Impact of H5N1 on Animals:

    • Wild birds, especially endangered species like California condors, have suffered mass casualties.
    • The virus previously targeted poultry, but now marine mammals (sea lions, dolphins) and terrestrial mammals (foxes, bears, pumas, minks) are also infected.
    • India’s first H5N1 outbreak occurred in Maharashtra and Gujarat in 2015.

    Human Risk and Potential Transmission:

    • Direct human infections are rare and usually occur through close contact with infected birds.
    • Climate change is worsening the spread, altering bird migration patterns and increasing interspecies interactions.
    • Human-to-human transmission is uncommon, but experts warn that mutations could make it possible in the future.

    PYQ:

    [2015] H1N1 virus is sometimes mentioned in the news with reference to which one of the following diseases?

    (a) AIDS

    (b) Bird flu

    (c) Dengue

    (d) Swine flu

     

  • Aditya-L1 Mission: Scientists observe a Flareless Coronal Mass Ejection

    Why in the News?

    India’s first solar mission, Aditya-L1, has made a significant scientific observation—a flareless Coronal Mass Ejection (CME) using the Visible Emission Line Coronagraph (VELC) Payload.

    About Flareless Coronal Mass Ejection (CME)

    • A Flareless CME is a solar eruption that occurs without an associated solar flare.
    • Unlike typical CMEs, which are often linked to intense bursts of electromagnetic radiation, flareless CMEs result from magnetic instabilities in the solar corona without sudden energy releases.

    Key Features of Flareless CMEs:

    • No Solar Flare Trigger: Unlike most CMEs, they do not originate from an intense energy burst.
    • Magnetic Instability Driven:  Plasma ejection occurs due to internal rearrangements in the Sun’s magnetic field.
    • Gradual Energy Release: These CMEs may expand more slowly compared to CME-flare events.
    • Scientific Significance: Helps differentiate CME mechanisms from flare activities, improving space weather forecasts.

    About the Aditya-L1 Mission

    • Aditya-L1 is India’s first space-based observatory dedicated to solar studies.
    • Launched by ISRO, it is positioned at Lagrange Point 1 (L1), about 1.5 million km from Earth.
    • It takes 125 days to reach L1, where gravitational equilibrium allows continuous solar observation.
    • It is India’s second space observatory after AstroSat (2015).
    • Mission Objectives:
      • Study the solar corona, photosphere, chromosphere, and solar wind dynamics.
      • Monitor solar activity, flares, and CMEs to predict space weather events.
      • Provide early warnings for geomagnetic storms affecting Earth’s satellites and power grids.
    • Scientific Instruments:
      1. Visible Emission Line Coronagraph (VELC): Observes the solar corona and tracks CMEs.
      2. Solar Ultraviolet Imaging Telescope (SUIT): Captures images of the Sun’s lower atmosphere.
      3. Solar Low Energy X-ray Spectrometer (SoLEXS):  Measures soft X-ray emissions from the Sun.
      4. High Energy L1 Orbiting X-ray Spectrometer (HEL1OS): Detects high-energy solar X-rays.
      5. Aditya Solar Wind Particle Experiment (ASPEX): Studies solar wind particles and their impact on space weather.
      6. Plasma Analyser Package for Aditya (PAPA): Analyzes plasma properties in the solar wind.
      7. Magnetometer: Measures magnetic field variations at L1.

    PYQ:

    [2022] If a major solar storm (solar flare) reaches the Earth, which of the following are the possible effects on the Earth ?

    1. GPS and navigation systems could fail.

    2. Tsunamis could occur at equatorial regions.

    3. Power grids could be damaged.

    4. Intense auroras could occur over much of the Earth.

    5. Forest fires could take place over much of the planet.

    6. Orbits of the satellites could be disturbed.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 3 and 4 only (c) 1, 3, 4 and 6 only (d) 2, 5 and 6 only

     

  • Centre makes ‘Quantum Hub’ operational

    Why in the News?

    The Government of India has launched four Thematic Hubs (T-Hubs) for quantum computing research, with Uttar Pradesh receiving the highest allocation of ₹28.7 crore for quantum technology development in FY 2024-25, followed by Karnataka, Maharashtra, Delhi, and Tamil Nadu.

    About the Quantum Hubs

    • Quantum Hubs, also known as Thematic Hubs (T-Hubs), are specialized research centres established under India’s National Quantum Mission (NQM).
    • They are designed to drive innovation, research, and development in different aspects of quantum technology.
    • Four T-Hubs have been established in leading academic institutions.
    • Each hub focuses on a specific domain of quantum research:
      1. Quantum Computing (IISc Bengaluru).
      2. Quantum Communication (IIT Bombay).
      3. Quantum Sensing & Metrology (IIT Delhi).
      4. Quantum Materials & Devices (IIT Madras).
    • IIT Kanpur serves as the management coordinating center, overseeing administration and funding allocation.
    • The hubs operate across 17 States and 2 Union Territories, with 14 technical research groups collaborating on different projects.

    About National Quantum Mission (NQM)

    • The NQM was launched by the Union Cabinet on April 19, 2023, with a total budget of ₹6,003.65 crore for a period of eight years (2023-2031).
    • It is implemented by the Department of Science & Technology (DST), Ministry of Science & Technology.
    • The mission aims to build intermediate-scale quantum computers, starting with:
      1. 20-50 qubits in 3 years,
      2. 50-100 qubits in 5 years, and
      3. 50-1,000 qubits in 8 years.
    • Additionally, it seeks to establish satellite-based quantum communication over 2,000 km within India, inter-city quantum key distribution (QKD), and multi-node quantum networks.

    PYQ:

    [2022] Which one of the following is the context in which the term “qubit” is mentioned?

    (a) Cloud Services

    (b) Quantum Computing

    (c) Visible Light Communication Technologies

    (d) Wireless Communication Technologies

     

  • What is Hantavirus and how does it spread?

    Why in the News?

    Betsy Arakawa, wife of Oscar-winning actor Gene Hackman, died from a respiratory illness linked to hantavirus, a rare disease transmitted by infected rodents, officials have confirmed.

    What is Hantavirus?

    • Hantavirus is a family of viruses carried by rodents that cause severe illnesses in humans. The two primary diseases it causes are:
    1. Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS) – A fatal respiratory illness common in the Americas.
    2. Hemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome (HFRS) – Affects the kidneys and causes internal bleeding, mostly found in Asia and Europe.
    • Hantavirus spreads through contact with infected rodent waste, primarily via:
      • Inhalation (Aerosolization) – Breathing in airborne particles from rodent urine, droppings, or saliva.
      • Direct Contact – Touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the eyes, nose, or mouth.
      • Open Wounds – Virus entering through cuts or scratches.
      • Rodent Bites (Rare).
      • Human-to-Human Transmission – Extremely rare, except for Andes virus in South America.

    Is there a Cure or Treatment?

    • No specific antiviral treatment or vaccine exists.
    • Medical care focuses on symptom management:
      • Oxygen therapy for breathing difficulties.
      • ICU support & mechanical ventilation in severe cases.
    • Early detection is crucial – Seek medical help immediately after potential rodent exposure.

  • ISRO undocks SpaDex Satellites in First Attempt

    Why in the News?

    India achieved a major milestone in space docking technology with the successful undocking of satellites under the SpaDeX mission, marking ISRO’s first-ever undocking operation on March 14, 2025, just two months after the initial docking.

    With this success, India joins an elite group of nations—the U.S., Russia, and China—that have demonstrated space docking and undocking capabilities.

    What is PSLV-C60 SpaDeX Mission?

    • The PSLV-C60 SpaDeX Mission is a landmark mission aimed at demonstrating in-space docking and undocking technology.
    • This mission would position India as the fourth country in the world to master space docking, following the US, Russia, and China.
    • Objective:
      • To demonstrate the docking, undocking, and rendezvous capabilities of two satellites in low-Earth orbit (LEO).
      • Facilitate power transfer between docked spacecraft, an essential capability for future space missions.
    • Satellites: (Each weighing 220kg.)
      • SDX01 (Chaser): Equipped with a High-Resolution Camera (HRC).
      • SDX02 (Target): Carries a Miniature Multispectral Payload (MMX) and a Radiation Monitor (RadMon).
    • Configuration:
      • The satellites will be launched using the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV-C60) in a core-alone (CA) configuration, meaning without strap-on boosters.
      • They will be placed in a 476-km circular orbit with an inclination of 55°.
    • Post-Docking:
      • After the docking demonstration, the satellites will continue standalone missions for two years, conducting imaging, natural resource monitoring, and radiation environment studies.
    • Significance: It is a strategic step towards several ambitious space objectives, including:
      • Preparing for the Gaganyaan human spaceflight program
      • Enabling Chandrayaan-4 lunar sample return missions
      • Developing the Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS), India’s proposed space station35

    What is Space Docking?

    • Space docking refers to the process where two spacecraft in orbit rendezvous and physically connect to form a single entity. It is a highly complex and precise maneuver essential for advanced space missions.
    • Key Steps of Space Docking:
    1. Rendezvous: Involves bringing two spacecraft into the same orbit with minimal distance and velocity difference.
    2. Docking: Establishing a mechanical connection between the spacecraft using specialized docking systems.
    3. Power and Resource Sharing: Once docked, the spacecraft can transfer power, fuel, or crew to support joint operations.

     

    PYQ:

    [2018] “The experiment will employ a trio of spacecraft flying in formation in the shape of an equilateral triangle that has sides one million kilometres long, with lasers shining between the craft.” The experiment in question refers to-

    Options:

    (a) Voyager-2  (b) New Horizons (c) LISA Pathfinder (d) Evolved LISA

     

  • Neurobiological basis of Substance Abuse Addiction

    Why in the News?

    A groundbreaking study at the University of British Columbia, published in Nature Mental Health, reveals that addiction involves a complex neural circuit regulating cravings, emotions, and decision-making, shifting approaches to treatment and recovery.

    Key Findings of the Research:

    • Addiction Alters a Network of Brain Regions:  A multi-center study analyzing 144 neuroimaging studies with 9,000 participants confirmed that addiction does not affect isolated brain areas but rather disrupts a circuit responsible for craving, emotional regulation, and decision-making.
    • Brain’s Reward System is Hijacked: The nucleus accumbens releases dopamine, reinforcing pleasurable behaviors. Addictive substances exploit this mechanism, making substance use compulsive over time.
    • Withdrawal Causes Emotional Distress: The extended amygdala triggers stress, anxiety, and irritability when substance use stops, driving continued consumption to avoid discomfort.
    • Decision-Making is Impaired: The prefrontal cortex weakens, reducing impulse control and rational thinking, making quitting extremely difficult despite awareness of harm.
    • Adolescents are More Vulnerable: Since the prefrontal cortex matures last, early substance exposure increases long-term addiction risk.
    • Neuroadaptations Persist Even After Abstinence: Brain changes caused by addiction do not immediately reverse, leading to relapse vulnerability even after long periods of sobriety.

    The Three-Stage Cycle of Addiction

    • Binge/Intoxication Stage (Basal Ganglia – Reward Processing)
      • Substance use triggers dopamine release, reinforcing pleasurable behaviors.
      • Over time, the brain associates substance use with intense rewards, increasing dependence.
      • Users experience cravings, leading to compulsive drug-seeking behavior.
    • Withdrawal/Negative Affect Stage (Extended Amygdala – Emotional Distress)
      • When substance use stops, individuals experience withdrawal symptoms like stress, anxiety, and depression.
      • The brain craves relief, pushing individuals toward continued substance use to avoid discomfort.
      • This stage makes quitting extremely difficult, reinforcing addiction.
    • Preoccupation/Anticipation Stage (Prefrontal Cortex – Impulse Control & Cravings)
      • The prefrontal cortex weakens, impairing decision-making and self-control.
      • Cravings dominate thoughts, leading to obsessive focus on substance use.
      • Despite knowing the negative consequences, individuals struggle to quit due to impaired cognitive function.

    This cycle continuously repeats, making addiction a self-reinforcing loop.

    PYQ:

    [2007] Which one of the following parts of the human brain is the regulating center for swallowing and vomiting?

    Options:

    (a) Cerebellum (b) Cerebrum (c) Medulla oblongata (d) Pons

     

  • What the recent GDP data revisions reveal

    Why in the News?

    The rise in real and nominal growth rates is expected to impact future economic growth plans and long-term strategies.

    Recently, the National Statistical Office (NSO) has provided two types of data.

    • Revised Annual GDP/GVA Estimates: Updated figures for Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and Gross Value Added (GVA) for the financial years 2022-23, 2023-24, and 2024-25, reflecting changes based on the latest economic data.
    • Quarterly and Advance Estimates: GDP and GVA data for the third quarter (Q3) of 2024-25, along with the second advance estimates predicting the overall economic performance for 2024-25.

    Why have the real and nominal growth rates been revised upwards?

    • Improved Sectoral Performance: Significant upward revisions in key sectors like manufacturing (by 2.4 percentage points) and financial, real estate, and related services (by 1.9 percentage points) contributed to higher GDP estimates.
    • Higher Investment Contributions: Increased gross capital formation (GCF) in 2023-24 (10.5% growth) led to stronger economic activity, positively impacting overall GDP figures. Example: Real investment rate (Gross Fixed Capital Formation to GDP ratio) reached 33.4% in 2024-25.
    • Stronger Consumption Demand: A rebound in Private Final Consumption Expenditure (PFCE) contributed to the upward revision, especially in sectors like trade and hospitality. Example: PFCE contribution to GDP increased to 5.3 percentage points in Q4, reflecting stronger consumer spending.

    Which sectors experienced the maximum upward revision in growth?

    • Manufacturing Sector: Revised upward by 2.4 percentage points, reflecting improved industrial production and better capacity utilization. Example: Manufacturing growth increased from 2.1% in Q2 to 3.5% in Q3 of 2024-25, indicating a gradual recovery.
    • Financial, Real Estate, and Related Services: Revised upward by 1.9 percentage points, driven by increased financial activities and a stronger real estate market. Example: The growth in these services contributed significantly to the overall 9.2% GDP growth in 2023-24, up from the previous estimate of 8.2%.

    What are the key challenges in achieving the implied fourth-quarter GDP growth of 7.6% for 2024-25?

    • Weak Private Final Consumption Expenditure (PFCE) Growth: The required PFCE growth for achieving 7.6% GDP growth is 9.9%, which is historically high and challenging to sustain. Example: PFCE contribution fell from 4.3 percentage points in Q1 to 3.3 percentage points in Q2, leading to slower GDP growth of 5.6%.
    • Insufficient Government Capital Expenditure: The government needs to spend ₹2.61 lakh crore in the last two months to meet the revised target of ₹10.18 lakh crore, which is significantly higher than the recent trend. Example: Average government capital expenditure during February-March (2021-24) was ₹1.81 lakh crore, making the target difficult to achieve.
    • Slow Recovery in Manufacturing Sector: Despite some improvement, manufacturing growth remains sluggish at 3.5% in Q3, limiting its contribution to overall GDP. Example: Manufacturing growth in Q2 was only 2.1%, indicating continued structural weaknesses and reduced industrial output.
    • Decline in Investment Contribution: The contribution of investment to GDP growth fell from 2.3 percentage points in Q1 to 1.8 percentage points in Q3, reducing overall economic momentum. Example: Gross capital formation growth dropped from 10.5% in 2023-24 to 5.8% in 2024-25, reflecting lower private sector investments.
    • Global Economic Uncertainty: External factors like geopolitical tensions and fluctuating global demand can negatively impact exports and foreign investments. Example: Persistent global uncertainties in energy markets and supply chains may hinder India’s export-led growth in Q4.

    What are the present policies of the Government in this regard?

    • National Infrastructure Pipeline (NIP): Launched to invest approximately ₹111 lakh crore (US$1.4 trillion) in infrastructure projects from 2020 to 2025, focusing on energy, roads, railways, and urban development to stimulate economic growth.
    • PM Gati Shakti Plan: Introduced to enhance multimodal connectivity by integrating various transportation modes, aiming to improve logistics efficiency and boost industrial productivity.
    • Goods and Services Tax (GST) Rationalization: The government plans to reduce and simplify GST rates to alleviate the tax burden on businesses and consumers, fostering a more business-friendly environment.
    • Energy Sector Reforms: Legislation has been approved to encourage oil and gas exploration. For example, Amendments to the Oilfields (Regulation and Development) Act of 1948: In December 2024, the Rajya Sabha approved amendments aimed at streamlining licensing processes and improving investor confidence.
    • Establishment of a Coal Trading Exchange: India’s Coal Ministry is proposing a coal trading exchange to manage increased domestic coal production and facilitate competitive sales. This initiative aims to shift from a government-controlled sales model to a “many-to-many” platform for efficient price discovery.

    Way forward:

    • Enhance Private Sector Participation: Implement targeted incentives and streamline regulatory processes to boost private investments in critical sectors like manufacturing and infrastructure. Example: Expanding the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme to emerging industries can drive long-term growth.
    • Strengthen Consumption and Export Demand: Promote domestic consumption through targeted tax relief and social welfare programs while enhancing export competitiveness by supporting value-added manufacturing and reducing trade barriers. Example: Implementing sector-specific export promotion schemes can mitigate global uncertainties.

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q Investment in infrastructure is essential for more rapid and inclusive economic growth.”Discuss in the light of India’s experience. (2021)

  • Sustainable Construction using Mycelium Bricks

    Why in the News?

    A promising eco-friendly alternative gaining attention is mycelium bricks—a biodegradable, lightweight, and fire-resistant material derived from fungal filaments.

    What Are Mycelium Bricks?

    • Mycelium is a network of thin fungal strands called hyphae that function similarly to plant roots.
      • It grows in soil or other substrates, secreting digestive enzymes to break down organic material, providing nutrients to the fungi, plant partners, and other organisms.
    • Mycelium bricks are made by combining sawdust, husk, and fungal spores, which then solidify into a lightweight, insulating material over a few days.
    • They are biodegradable, fire-resistant, and offer thermal insulation, making them a potential green alternative to conventional bricks.

    Advantages of Mycelium Bricks

    • Lower Carbon Footprint: Mycelium bricks don’t require high-temperature kilns, significantly reducing CO₂ emissions.
    • Lightweight: Easier to transport and handle, reducing logistics-related emissions.
    • Good Thermal Insulation: Helps regulate indoor temperatures, reducing energy consumption in buildings.
    • Biodegradability: Mycelium naturally decomposes, making it a zero-waste material.
    • Versatile Applications: Potential use in interior panelling, circuit boards, liquid filters, and sports equipment.

    Challenges Limiting Large-Scale Adoption

    • Lower Load-Bearing Strength: Mycelium composites have a high strength-to-weight ratio, but they are 100 times weaker than concrete.
    • Susceptibility to Moisture:  Mycelium is highly absorbent, making it prone to fungal decay and moisture damage in humid environments.
    • Shorter Lifespan: Unlike conventional bricks, mycelium biodegrades within a few years, raising concerns about long-term durability.

    PYQ:

    [2023] Consider the following statements:

    1.Some mushrooms have medicinal properties.

    2.Some mushrooms have psychoactive properties.

    3.Some mushrooms have insecticidal properties.

    4.Some mushrooms have bioluminescent properties.

    How many of the above statements are correct?

    (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) Only three (d) All four