Emerging Information Technologies

The scenario described involves various devices (smartphone, geyser, smart mirror, refrigerator, car, etc.) communicating with each other and with the user, and automatically performing tasks based on certain triggers. This is characteristic of the Internet of Things (IoT). Option B is correct: Internet of Things (IoT) is a system of interrelated computing devices, mechanical and digital machines, objects, animals or people that are provided with unique identifiers (UIDs) and the ability to transfer data over a network without requiring human-to-human or human-to-computer interaction. Option A is incorrect: Border Gateway Protocol is a protocol used to exchange routing information across the internet and is not relevant to the scenario described. Option C is incorrect: Internet Protocol is a set of rules for sending and receiving messages at the Internet address level, but it doesn't cover the broad range of device intercommunication described in the scenario. Option D is incorrect: A Virtual Private Network is a technology for using the internet or another intermediate network to connect computers to isolated remote computer networks that would otherwise be inaccessible, which also doesn't fit the scenario.

3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing, is a process of making three dimensional solid objects from a digital file. It is used in a wide range of industries and has various applications. It can be used to create intricate and customized shapes in confectionery items like chocolates, candies, and other desserts. It has been used to create customized bionic ears for people with hearing impairments. It is used in the automotive industry for rapid prototyping, manufacturing of customized parts, and even some production of vehicle components. It is used in reconstructive surgeries to create patient-specific implants, prosthetics, and surgical guides. It can be used to create specialized components and parts for data processing technologies, such as computer hardware. Therefore, all the five statements are correct.

GPS, or Global Positioning System, is a satellite-based navigation system that provides geolocation and time information to a GPS receiver anywhere on or near the Earth. It has a wide range of applications. Statement 1 is correct. GPS is used in mobile phones for various purposes such as location tracking, navigation, and location-based services. Statement 2 is correct. GPS is used in banking operations for ATM location services and for time-stamping transactions, which is crucial for maintaining accurate records. Statement 3 is correct. GPS is used for time-stamping power system measurements, which is vital for grid stability and synchronization. Therefore, GPS technology can be used in all the three areas mentioned.

* THAAD is a missile defense system developed by the United States to intercept and destroy short, medium, and intermediate-range ballistic missiles during their terminal phase of flight. * It is designed to defend against threats both within and outside the Earth's atmosphere, providing protection against potential missile attacks. * THAAD has been deployed by the United States military and has also been sold to allied countries such as South Korea and Saudi Arabia.

The terms 'WannaCry, Petya and EternalBlue' are all related to cyber attacks. * 'WannaCry' is a ransomware that locks users' devices and prevents them from accessing data and software until a certain ransom is paid to its creator. * 'Petya' is another type of ransomware that spreads rapidly through networks that use Microsoft Windows. * The Petya and WannaCry cyber-attacks in May and June 2017 are two of the biggest in history and impacted the finances of companies throughout the globe. * 'EternalBlue' is a cyber exploit developed by the U.S. National Security Agency (NSA). It was used in the 2017 WannaCry ransomware attack and exploits a vulnerability in the Microsoft implementation of the Server Message Block (SMB) Protocol.

The availability of open APIs for Aadhaar means that the Aadhaar system can be easily integrated into various electronic devices, such as smartphones, laptops, point-of-sale terminals, etc. This allows these devices to leverage the Aadhaar platform for authentication and other services. The Aadhaar APIs provide the capability to perform online authentication using biometric modalities like fingerprint and iris scans. This allows for secure identity verification and authentication through electronic devices and applications. Therefore, both statements 1 and 2 are correct.

* Statement 1 is not correct: The formation of India’s own internet companies, similar to China’s approach, is not an aim of the Digital India programme. The initiative focuses on creating digital infrastructure, providing digital services, and promoting digital literacy — not establishing government-backed internet firms. * Statement 2 is not correct: The Digital India plan does not include any policy framework to attract foreign multinational corporations to build data centres in India. While data localisation and data centre policies have emerged later under different frameworks, they are not part of the original Digital India objectives. * Statement 3 is correct: One of the key aims of Digital India is to connect villages through broadband and to provide Wi-Fi access in schools, public places, and tourist centres. This is part of its core pillars like Broadband Highways, Public Internet Access Programme, and Early Harvest Programmes.

An organic light-emitting diode (OLED) is a light-emitting diode (LED) in which the emissive electroluminescent layer is a film of organic compound that emits light in response to an electric current. Statement 1 is correct: One of the key advantages of OLED technology is that the organic light-emitting materials can be deposited on flexible plastic or metal foil substrates, enabling the creation of flexible and foldable displays. Statement 2 is correct: The flexibility of OLED displays allows for the creation of roll-up or rollable displays, which can be integrated into clothing and other flexible surfaces. Statement 3 is correct: OLED display technology can be used to create transparent displays, where the light-emitting pixels can be made semi-transparent, allowing the display to be integrated into various surfaces and objects. Therefore, all three statements are correct.

Statement 1 is incorrect: The Smart India Hackathon (SIH) is not a scheme for developing Smart Cities. Instead, it is a nationwide initiative aimed at identifying innovative digital technology solutions to solve real-world challenges across various sectors. Statement 2 is correct: The Government of India launched the Smart India Hackathon to encourage students and professionals to develop innovative digital solutions for challenges in agriculture, health, education, energy, environment, and other domains. It serves as a platform for young minds to engage in problem-solving and contribute to technological advancements. Statement 3 is incorrect: While the hackathon focuses on digital technology innovations, it is not specifically centered on digital financial transactions. Instead, it covers a wide range of sectors where technology can drive efficiency and innovation. Hence, correct answer is option (B).

In India, section 70-B of the Information Technology Act, 2000 (the IT Act) gives the Central Government the power to appoint an agency of the government to be called the Indian Computer Emergency Response Team. Further, it is legally mandatory for service providers, data centres and body corporates to report on cybersecurity incidents as outlined in the Information Technology (The Indian Computer Emergency Response Team and Manner of Performing Functions and Duties) Rules, 2013, which were notified under the Information Technology Act, 2000.