Detailed Explanation:

Answer: Option 3 — Statement-I is correct but Statement-II is incorrect

Switzerland is indeed one of the leading exporters of gold in terms of value, consistently ranking first globally due to its role as a major gold refining and trading hub. However, Switzerland does not have the second largest gold reserves in the world; the United States holds the largest gold reserves (approximately 8,000 tonnes), followed by Germany, Italy, and France—Switzerland ranks much lower.

✅ Statement-I – Correct: Switzerland is the world's leading exporter of gold by value, having exported $86.7B in gold in 2021, primarily due to its extensive gold refining industry.

❌ Statement-II – Incorrect: Switzerland does not have the second largest gold reserves; the United States has the largest reserves, followed by Germany and Italy.

📝 Short Notes: Global Gold Trade and Reserves

• Top Gold Exporters: Switzerland consistently ranks #1 in gold exports by value due to its sophisticated refining infrastructure and position as a global trading hub.
• Top Gold Reserves (2024): 1. United States (~8,000 tonnes), 2. Germany (~3,350 tonnes), 3. Italy (~2,450 tonnes), 4. France (~2,440 tonnes), 5. Russia (~2,300 tonnes).
• India's Gold Resources: Primary gold ore resources are concentrated in Bihar (44%), Rajasthan (25%), Karnataka (21%), with smaller deposits in West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh, and Jharkhand.
• India's Gold Trade: India is one of the largest gold importers (800-1,000 tonnes annually), sourcing mainly from Switzerland, UAE, and South Africa, driven by jewelry and investment demand.
• Switzerland's Role: Acts as a refining center, importing raw gold, refining it to high purity standards, and re-exporting to global markets.