With reference to technologies for solar power production, consider the following statements: 1. 'Photovoltaics' is a technology that generates electricity by direct conversion of light into electricity, while 'Solar Thermal' is a technology that utilizes the Sun's rays to generate heat which is further used in electricity generation process. 2. Photovoltaics generates Alternating Current (AC), while Solar Thermal generates Direct Current (DC). 3. India has manufacturing base for Solar Thermal technology, but not for Photovoltaics. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Let's analyze the given statements regarding solar power production technologies: 1. 'Photovoltaics' is a technology that generates electricity by direct conversion of light into electricity, while 'Solar Thermal' is a technology that utilizes the Sun's rays to generate heat which is further used in electricity generation process: This statement is correct. Photovoltaic (PV) cells convert sunlight directly into electricity using the photoelectric effect. Solar thermal power (Concentrated Solar Power - CSP) systems use mirrors to concentrate sunlight to heat a fluid, which then generates steam to drive a turbine, producing electricity. This accurately distinguishes the two technologies. 2. Photovoltaics generates Alternating Current (AC), while Solar Thermal generates Direct Current (DC): This statement is incorrect. Photovoltaic panels primarily generate Direct Current (DC), which then needs to be converted into Alternating Current (AC) using inverters for grid connection or household use. Solar thermal power plants, similar to conventional power plants, generate Alternating Current (AC) using a turbine connected to a generator. 3. India has manufacturing base for Solar Thermal technology, but not for Photovoltaics: This statement is incorrect. India has a growing manufacturing base for both solar photovoltaic cells/modules and components for solar thermal systems. The 'not for Photovoltaics' part is definitively false, as India is a significant producer and consumer of PV technology. Therefore, only statement 1 is correct.