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?

Statement 1 is correct because Photovoltaics (PV) utilize the photoelectric effect to convert sunlight directly into electricity, whereas Solar Thermal systems concentrate solar radiation to heat a fluid that drives a turbine. Statement 2 is incorrect because PV cells generate Direct Current (DC) while Solar Thermal systems produce Alternating Current (AC) through conventional generators, and Statement 3 is false as India has a manufacturing base for both technologies. The core concept being tested is the fundamental operational and technical distinction between direct (PV) and indirect (Solar Thermal) solar energy conversion methods.