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?

1. Statement 1 is correct. 'Photovoltaics' (PV) is indeed a technology that involves the direct conversion of light (photons) into electricity using semiconductor materials. 'Solar Thermal' technology, particularly Concentrated Solar Power (CSP), utilizes the Sun's rays to generate heat, which is then used to produce steam and drive a turbine for the electricity generation process. 2. Statement 2 is incorrect. Photovoltaics inherently generates Direct Current (DC). An inverter is required to convert this DC to Alternating Current (AC) for grid connection or use in most household appliances. Solar Thermal power plants typically use the generated heat to drive turbines connected to generators, which produce Alternating Current (AC). 3. Statement 3 is incorrect. India has a significant and growing manufacturing base for Photovoltaics, including solar cells and modules. While the manufacturing base for Solar Thermal components (especially for large CSP plants) might be less extensive compared to PV, it does exist. The statement that India does *not* have a manufacturing base for Photovoltaics is factually wrong. Therefore, only statement 1 is correct.