MPPSC Prelims 2012 Question Paper with Answers & Explanations

Explanation

Scientists at the National Dairy Research Institute (NDRI) in Karnal, Haryana, successfully developed the world's second cloned buffalo calf. This significant achievement in animal biotechnology involved cloning a buffalo, not a sheep, cow, or goat. The calf, named Garima, was born in 2009, following their first cloned buffalo calf, Samrupa, born in 2009 as well. This research highlights NDRI's expertise in buffalo cloning.

Explanation

Python is a non-poisonous snake because it is a constrictor, meaning it kills its prey by coiling around them and suffocating them, rather than injecting venom. Unlike pythons, cobras, vipers, and coral snakes are all venomous. Cobras and coral snakes possess potent neurotoxic venom that affects the nervous system, while vipers inject venom that typically causes tissue damage and affects the cardiovascular system. Therefore, pythons lack the venom glands and fangs characteristic of poisonous snakes.

Explanation

Project Tiger was launched in India in 1973 to address the alarming decline in the country's tiger population. This major wildlife conservation project was initiated by the Government of India on April 1, 1973, with the primary aim of ensuring a viable population of Bengal tigers in their natural habitats and protecting them from extinction. The project began with nine tiger reserves, including the iconic Jim Corbett National Park, and has since expanded significantly. Its implementation followed the enactment of the landmark 1972 Wildlife Protection Act, demonstrating India's commitment to wildlife preservation.

Explanation

An anemometer is an instrument specifically designed to measure wind speed and direction. While it directly measures velocity, the force of the wind is directly related to its speed. Options A, B, and D are incorrect because the velocity of water-flow is measured by devices like current meters or flowmeters, the depth of water is measured by echo sounders or sonar, and the intensity of light is measured by lux meters or photometers. Therefore, an anemometer is used to measure the force or speed of the wind.

Explanation

Dengue fever is a viral infection transmitted to humans through the bite of infected mosquitoes. The specific type of mosquito responsible for transmitting dengue is the female Aedes aegypti mosquito. This mosquito carries the dengue virus, and when it bites a human, it transfers the virus, causing the disease. Therefore, dengue is caused by a virus and transmitted by the female Aedes mosquito.

Explanation

Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning primarily affects the oxygen-carrying capacity of blood because CO has a significantly higher affinity for hemoglobin than oxygen does. Hemoglobin, found in red blood cells, is responsible for transporting oxygen throughout the body. When inhaled, carbon monoxide binds to hemoglobin, forming carboxyhemoglobin (COHb), which prevents oxygen from binding to those sites. This reduces the amount of oxygen that can be delivered to tissues and organs, leading to cellular hypoxia. Additionally, the presence of COHb increases the affinity of the remaining hemoglobin for oxygen, making it harder for oxygen to be released to the body's tissues.

Explanation

Statics is a branch of mechanics that deals with the analysis of loads (force, torque/moment) on physical systems in static equilibrium. In simpler terms, it focuses on bodies that are either at rest or moving at a constant velocity. Therefore, statics specifically studies objects that are in a state of rest, where all forces and moments acting on them are balanced, resulting in no acceleration. This distinguishes it from dynamics, which deals with objects in motion with changing velocities.

Explanation

In 2006, the International Astronomical Union (IAU) established a new definition for a planet, requiring it to orbit the Sun, be massive enough to be nearly round, and have cleared the neighborhood around its orbit. Pluto meets the first two criteria but fails the third, as its orbit is influenced by Neptune and it shares its orbital space with other Kuiper Belt objects. Consequently, Pluto was reclassified as a 'dwarf planet'. Uranus, Neptune, and Jupiter all satisfy the IAU's three criteria for being a planet.

Explanation

World AIDS Day is observed annually on December 1st. This international day is dedicated to raising awareness about the AIDS pandemic caused by HIV infection and to mourning those who have died from the disease. It was first conceived in August 1987 and officially recognized by the UN General Assembly in 1988. The day serves as an opportunity for people worldwide to unite in the fight against HIV, show support for those living with HIV, and advocate for increased funding, awareness, and an end to stigma and discrimination.

Explanation

NHPC stands for National Hydroelectric Power Corporation, which is India's largest hydropower development organization. It is responsible for planning, promoting, and developing hydroelectric power projects, and has also diversified into solar and wind energy generation. Therefore, NHPC is directly related to electricity generation.

In contrast, MMTC (Minerals and Metals Trading Corporation of India) is a trading company dealing in minerals, metals, and other commodities. MTNL (Mahanagar Telephone Nigam Limited) is a telecommunications service provider in major Indian cities. NCL can refer to Northern Coalfields Limited, which is involved in coal mining, or National Chemical Laboratory, a research center, or Norwegian Cruise Line, a cruise company. None of these other options are primarily involved in electricity generation.

Explanation

The Ajanta Caves are renowned for their ancient rock-cut Buddhist cave monuments, which include magnificent paintings and sculptures. The artwork predominantly narrates the Jataka tales, which are Buddhist legends describing the previous births of the Buddha in both human and animal forms. These tales illustrate various morals and teachings of Buddhism, serving as visual sermons for monks and visitors. Therefore, the Ajanta Caves are intrinsically linked to the Jataka Stories, as these narratives form the core thematic content of the stunning cave paintings.

Explanation

The Indus Valley Civilization utilized cotton for manufacturing textiles, with archaeological evidence from sites like Mohenjo-Daro and Harappa indicating cultivation and spinning of cotton as early as 3000 BCE. India is considered the birthplace of cotton cultivation, and the Harappans were among the earliest known people to spin and weave cotton. Furthermore, the Indus Valley Civilization was predominantly secular; while religious elements like the Great Bath and Mother Goddess figurines were present, they did not dominate the urban planning or political structure as seen in contemporary civilizations like Egypt or Mesopotamia. The focus of Harappan society leaned more towards trade, utility, and civic administration rather than monumental religious structures.

Explanation

The Tripitaka, also known as the Pali Canon, is the foundational scripture of Buddhism. It is a comprehensive collection of sacred texts that contain the teachings of Siddhartha Gautama, the Buddha, and his earliest followers. The term "Tripitaka" translates to "three baskets" in Sanskrit, referring to its division into three main sections: the Vinaya Pitaka (monastic rules), the Sutta Pitaka (Buddha's discourses), and the Abhidhamma Pitaka (philosophical and doctrinal analysis). These texts provide a comprehensive guide to Buddhist practice and philosophy, influencing all Buddhist traditions.

Explanation

Kalhan's 'Rajatarangini', meaning "River of Kings", is a historical chronicle written in Sanskrit verse in the 12th century CE. This significant work provides a detailed account of the kings and dynasties that ruled the Kashmir region from the earliest times up to the date of its composition. It is considered a crucial source for understanding the ancient and early medieval history of Kashmir. The text is divided into eight books and contains nearly 8000 verses, offering a continuous chronology of the region.

Explanation

Bhulabhai Desai was a prominent Indian lawyer and independence activist who served as the lead counsel for the defense at the famous Indian National Army (INA) trials. These trials, also known as the Red Fort trials, took place between November 1945 and May 1946, where officers of the INA were charged with treason by the British Indian government. Desai, despite his poor health, passionately argued that the INA soldiers were patriots fighting for their country's independence and were not subject to the Indian Penal Code. His defense, which also included other notable lawyers like Jawaharlal Nehru and Tej Bahadur Sapru, significantly influenced public opinion and became a rallying point for India's independence movement.

Explanation

B.R. Ambedkar attended all three Round Table Conferences held in London between 1930 and 1932. He represented the depressed classes and advocated for their rights and separate electorates. His participation was crucial in highlighting the issues faced by untouchables and ensuring their representation in future constitutional reforms.

Explanation

Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, also known as Veer Savarkar, founded the Abhinav Bharat Society in 1904. This secret revolutionary organization, initially established as "Mitra Mela" in 1899 by Savarkar and his brother Ganesh, aimed to overthrow British rule through armed rebellion. The society expanded its network across India and even to London, playing a significant role in the Indian independence movement by promoting nationalist sentiments and revolutionary activities.

Explanation

Atal Bihari Vajpayee holds the distinction of being the first person to deliver a speech in Hindi at the United Nations General Assembly. He made this historic address in 1977, during his tenure as India's External Affairs Minister. This marked a significant moment for the Hindi language on an international platform.

Explanation

Amir Khusro was a renowned court poet, musician, and scholar who served under several rulers of the Delhi Sultanate. His association with Sultan Allauddin Khilzi (who ruled from 1296 to 1316 CE) was particularly significant and productive. During Allauddin's reign, Khusro flourished as a court poet, documenting the Sultan's military campaigns and administrative achievements in his works like "Khaza'in ul-Futuh" (The treasures of victory). He also composed the romantic masnavi "Duval Rani - Khizr Khan" about one of Allauddin's sons. Khusro's close relationship with Allauddin allowed him creative freedom and recognition, making this period the most productive phase of his life.

Explanation

Mohenjo Daro, a significant archaeological site of the ancient Indus Valley Civilization, is located in the Sindh Province of Pakistan. It lies on the right bank of the Indus River, specifically in the Larkana District. This ancient city, built around 2500 BCE, was one of the largest and most advanced urban settlements of its time. Its strategic location along the Indus River was crucial for its development and prosperity.

Explanation

The Nagarjun Sagar Dam is situated across the Krishna River and straddles the border between Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. While the dam structure itself is partly in Telangana, a significant portion of its reservoir and the irrigation command area it serves lies within Andhra Pradesh. Historically, before the bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh, the entire project was considered part of the undivided state. Therefore, option B, Andhra Pradesh, is the correct answer as a major part of the project's impact and water body is within this state.

Explanation

Uttar Pradesh is primarily characterized by the fertile Gangetic Plain, which covers the majority of the state. While its northern border includes the Shivalik foothills and the Terai region, which are the outermost ranges of the Himalayas, the extensive plains dominate its geography. In contrast, Uttarakhand, Sikkim, and Himachal Pradesh are states where the Himalayan mountain ranges form a significant and defining part of their landscape. Therefore, the Himalayan mountain ranges are not considered a major part of Uttar Pradesh.

Explanation

The summer monsoon in India, also known as the Southwest Monsoon, generally flows from the South-west to the North-east. This occurs because during summer, the landmass of India heats up significantly, creating a low-pressure zone over the northern plains. Simultaneously, the Indian Ocean remains relatively cooler, resulting in a high-pressure area. This pressure difference causes moisture-laden winds to blow from the high-pressure region over the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal towards the low-pressure area over the Indian subcontinent. These winds are deflected by the Coriolis effect, leading to their south-westerly origin and their general movement towards the north and northeast across India.

Explanation

As per the provisional data of the Census of India 2011, the sex ratio of India was 940 females per 1000 males. This figure represented an increase of 7 points compared to the 2001 Census, which recorded a sex ratio of 933. The 2011 sex ratio of 940 was the highest recorded at the national level since the 1971 Census.

Explanation

Corbett National Park, originally established as Hailey National Park in 1936, holds the distinction of being India's first national park. It was later renamed Jim Corbett National Park in honor of the renowned hunter and naturalist Jim Corbett. The park was a pioneering effort in wildlife conservation in India, primarily aimed at protecting the endangered Bengal tiger. Its establishment predates Kanha, Dudhwa, and Rajaji National Parks.

Explanation

Alaska is a constituent state of the United States of America. The United States purchased Alaska from Russia in 1867 for $7.2 million. It was officially admitted to the Union as the 49th U.S. state on January 3, 1959. Although geographically separated from the contiguous United States by Canada, Alaska is an integral part of the country.

Explanation

The Andes Mountain Range is located in South America. It is the longest continental mountain range in the world, stretching approximately 7,000 to 9,000 kilometers along the western edge of the continent. This vast mountain system passes through seven South American countries: Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela. The formation of the Andes is a result of tectonic plate activity, specifically the subduction of oceanic crust beneath the South American Plate.

Explanation

The Equator is an imaginary line at 0 degrees latitude that divides the Earth into the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. It passes through 13 countries across South America, Africa, and Asia. Kenya, Indonesia, and Brazil are among these countries. Mexico, however, is located entirely in North America, north of the Equator, with its southernmost point at approximately 14°N latitude. Therefore, the Equator does not pass through Mexico.

Explanation

Venice is famously known as the 'City of Canals' due to its unique geography and infrastructure. The city is built on a group of 118 small islands separated by canals and linked by over 400 bridges. Instead of roads, Venice relies on its intricate network of canals as the primary means of transportation, with gondolas and vaporettos (water buses) serving as common modes of travel. This distinctive urban layout, where waterways replace streets, makes Venice synonymous with canals.

Explanation

The Indian states that share a border with Bhutan are Sikkim, West Bengal, Assam, and Arunachal Pradesh. Meghalaya is located to the south of Assam and shares its international border primarily with Bangladesh. Therefore, Meghalaya does not share a border with Bhutan.

Explanation

The Constituent Assembly was not elected on the basis of universal adult franchise. Its members were indirectly elected by the provincial assemblies, which themselves were elected on a restricted franchise based on tax, property, and educational qualifications. This electoral process was based on the provisions of the Government of India Act of 1935. Therefore, statement C is incorrect as it claims universal adult franchise was used.

Explanation

Political parties are fundamental institutions within a state that organize electoral competition, articulate and aggregate public opinion, and facilitate the formation and operation of government. The party system, which refers to the number of parties and the nature of their interactions, directly shapes how power is contested and exercised within a country. Consequently, the party system is an integral and defining component of the larger political system, which encompasses all institutions and processes related to governance and power distribution. It is distinct from social, economic, or international systems, though it interacts with all of them.

Explanation

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) issues currency notes under the Minimum Reserve System (MRS), which mandates that all banknotes are backed by a combination of assets. These assets include gold coin and gold bullion, foreign securities, and Government of India rupee securities. The RBI Act, 1934, specifically outlines this requirement in Section 33, ensuring the stability and credibility of the currency. Under the MRS, the RBI is required to maintain a minimum reserve of ₹200 crore, with ₹115 crore in gold and the remaining ₹85 crore in foreign securities. This system allows the RBI flexibility in issuing currency while maintaining public confidence in the rupee.

Explanation

The Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs is responsible for constituting the Consultative Committee of Members of Parliament for Railway Zones. This function is explicitly allocated to the Ministry under the Government of India (Allocation of Business) Rules, 1961. These committees serve as a platform for informal discussions between the government and Members of Parliament regarding policies and programs of various ministries, including the Ministry of Railways. The Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs oversees the constitution of these committees, arranges their meetings, and lays down guidelines for their functioning. Therefore, even though the committee focuses on railway matters, its formation and coordination fall under the purview of the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs.

Explanation

The 12th Five Year Plan in India ran from 2012 to 2017. This plan aimed for a growth rate of 8 percent over the five-year period. It commenced during a time of global economic challenges, including a financial crisis in the Eurozone. The plan emphasized bringing the economy back to rapid growth while ensuring it was inclusive and sustainable.

Explanation

The Central Statistical Organisation (CSO), now integrated into the National Statistical Office (NSO) under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, is responsible for computing National Income in India. It collects data from various sources, including government ministries, administrative records, and surveys, to compile national accounts statistics. The CSO/NSO uses standardized methodologies like the Production Approach, Income Approach, and Expenditure Approach to ensure consistency and comparability of economic data. These estimates are crucial for economic planning, policy formulation, and monitoring the country's economic performance.

Explanation

Verghese Kurien is widely recognized as the "Father of the White Revolution" in India. He was a social entrepreneur who spearheaded Operation Flood, the world's largest dairy development program, launched in 1970. This initiative transformed India from a milk-deficient nation into the world's largest milk producer. Kurien's work involved establishing and scaling up a cooperative model for dairy farming, most notably through the Amul brand, which empowered millions of rural farmers. M.S. Swaminathan, on the other hand, is known as the "Father of the Green Revolution" in India, focusing on increasing food grain production. P.J. Kurien and M.S. Raghunathan are not associated with the White Revolution.

Explanation

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is the central bank of India, established in 1935 under the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934. It plays a crucial role in the Indian economy by regulating the country's monetary policy, issuing currency, and supervising the banking and financial system. The RBI also acts as a banker to the government and commercial banks, ensuring financial stability and economic growth. Its functions distinguish it from other commercial banks like State Bank of India, Bank of India, and Union Bank of India, which are primarily involved in retail banking operations.

Explanation

G.V. Mavalankar was indeed the Speaker of the first Lok Sabha. He served as the Speaker from May 15, 1952, until his death in February 1956. Prior to this, he was also the Speaker of the Central Legislative Assembly and the Provisional Parliament. His extensive experience in parliamentary procedures made him a suitable choice for the role.

Explanation

NTPC, SAIL, and BHEL are all examples of Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) in India, meaning they are majority-owned and controlled by the government. TISCO, which stands for Tata Iron and Steel Company, was founded by Jamshedji Tata and is a privately owned enterprise. It is now known as Tata Steel and remains a prominent private sector company. Therefore, TISCO is not a public sector undertaking.

Explanation

Indore is home to the biggest indoor stadium in Madhya Pradesh, known as the Abhay Prashal Indoor Stadium. This stadium boasts a seating capacity of 10,000 spectators. It was inaugurated in December 1994 by the then Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, Arjun Singh. The venue is utilized for various events, including sports like table tennis, badminton, basketball, and lawn tennis, as well as political and music events.

Explanation

The Subroto Cup is a prestigious international inter-school football tournament held annually in New Delhi, India. It was established in 1960 and is named after Air Marshal Subroto Mukerjee, the first Indian Chief of Air Staff, who conceived the idea to promote football at the grassroots level. The tournament aims to encourage young talent and foster sportsmanship among schoolchildren from India and various other countries. It is one of the oldest and largest youth football tournaments in Asia.

Explanation

Michael Phelps, representing the U.S.A., is the Olympic swimmer who has won a remarkable 23 gold medals in his career, making him the most decorated Olympian of all time. This far surpasses the 18 gold medals mentioned in the question. In contrast, Florent Manaudou has won one Olympic gold medal, Cullen Jones has won two Olympic gold medals, and Ian Thorpe has won five Olympic gold medals.

Explanation

Mary Kom is a highly decorated Indian boxer who has achieved numerous accolades throughout her career. She won a bronze medal in the 51kg category at the 2012 London Olympics, making her the first Indian female boxer to win an Olympic medal. Additionally, she was honored with the Arjuna Award in 2003 for her outstanding sporting achievements. Furthermore, Mary Kom is a recipient of the Padma Shree, India's fourth-highest civilian award, which she received in 2006. Therefore, all the options listed are correct.

Explanation

Tukoji Rao Pawar served as the Sports and Youth Welfare Minister of Madhya Pradesh. In this capacity, he would have held a prominent leadership role in the state's sports administration, including any associated sports councils or bodies responsible for promoting sports. For instance, he was noted as the Sports and Youth Welfare Minister in August 2012. Therefore, at the time this question's "at present" refers to, Tukoji Rao Pawar was the chairman of the Madhya Pradesh Sports Council.

Explanation

In Kho-kho, nine players from one team are on the field during a contest. For Kabaddi, each team has seven players on the court at any given time. A volleyball team has six players on the court. In basketball, five players from each team are actively playing on the court at one time. Therefore, the correct sequence of players for Kho-kho, Kabaddi, Volleyball, and Basketball is 9, 7, 6, and 5 respectively.

Explanation

The Vikram award is presented by the Government of Madhya Pradesh primarily to senior players for their outstanding performance in national and international sports competitions. This award recognizes athletes who are residents of the state for their achievements in various sporting events. In contrast, the Madhya Pradesh government specifically bestows the Vishwamitra Award upon coaches to acknowledge their significant contribution and dedication to sports. The Dronacharya Award is a national-level honor given by the Government of India to outstanding sports coaches, not a state award from Madhya Pradesh.

Explanation

Shankar Laxman was the goalkeeper for the Indian Hockey team that secured gold medals at both the 1956 Melbourne Olympics and the 1964 Tokyo Olympics. He was a pivotal player in India's success during this golden era of hockey. Laxman also earned a silver medal at the 1960 Rome Olympics. His exceptional goalkeeping skills were crucial to these victories.

Explanation

Sunil Gavaskar was honored with the prestigious C. K. Naidu Lifetime Achievement Award by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in 2012. This award is considered the highest honor the BCCI can bestow upon a former player. Gavaskar was recognized for his immense contributions to Indian cricket, including being the first batsman to score 10,000 runs in Test cricket and leading India to victory in the 1985 World Championship of Cricket. While other legendary cricketers like Sachin Tendulkar have also received this award, Gavaskar was among the earlier recipients, making him the correct answer in this context.

Explanation

Pankaj Advani won the World Billiard Championship in the timed format in 2012. He defeated defending champion Mike Russell in the final held in Leeds, England. This marked Advani's seventh World Billiards Championship title and eighth world title overall. In the same year, Rupesh Shah won the World Billiards Championship in the points format.

Explanation

Anupam Kher was awarded the prestigious 'Kalidas Samman' by the Madhya Pradesh Government in November 2012 for his significant contributions to theatre and cinema. The award recognized his extensive body of work as an actor and his overall impact on the performing arts. This distinguished honor is bestowed upon eminent personalities in the fields of classical music, classical dance, theatre, and plastic arts. His selection in 2012 highlighted his enduring legacy and artistic excellence.

Explanation

The Malwa region of Madhya Pradesh is renowned for its significant soybean production. It is often referred to as India's US Midwest due to the extensive cultivation of this crop. The fertile black soil, also known as regur soil, found in the Malwa plateau, is highly suitable for soybean cultivation, requiring minimal effort. This region's favorable agro-climatic conditions and soil type contribute to it being the leading area for soybean production in the state.

Explanation

Bhind, Satna, and Shivpuri districts of Madhya Pradesh all share a boundary with Uttar Pradesh. Bhind district is bordered by several districts of Uttar Pradesh to its north and east, including Agra, Etawah, Jalaun, and Jhansi. Satna district's northern and eastern parts are adjacent to Uttar Pradesh, with districts like Chitrakoot and Prayagraj sharing a border. Shivpuri district's eastern boundary touches Jhansi district of Uttar Pradesh. In contrast, Sheopur district is located in the north of Madhya Pradesh and borders Rajasthan to its south and northwest, with the Chambal River forming part of this border. Sheopur district does not share a border with Uttar Pradesh.

Explanation

Harda is the smallest district of Madhya Pradesh in terms of population among the given options. According to the 2011 Census, Harda district had a population of 570,465. In comparison, Sheopur had a population of 687,861, Datia had 786,754, and Raisen had 1,331,597. Although Niwari district, formed in 2018, is now the least populous district in Madhya Pradesh, among the choices provided, Harda holds the distinction of having the lowest population based on the 2011 census data.

Explanation

Ravishankar Shukla was the first Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh. He assumed office on November 1, 1956, when the state was reorganized under the States Reorganisation Act. Shukla, a prominent leader of the Indian National Congress and an independence activist, served in this role until his death on December 31, 1956. His appointment was crucial for integrating diverse administrative structures into the newly unified state.

Explanation

Madhya Pradesh is home to two of the twelve Jyotirlingas in India. These two sacred shrines are Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga, located in Ujjain, and Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga, situated on an island in the Narmada River in Khandwa district. Therefore, option B, which states there are 2 Jyotirlingas in M.P., is the correct answer.

Explanation

Rani Rupmati is famously associated with Mandu due to her legendary love story with Sultan Baz Bahadur, the last independent ruler of Mandu. She was a Hindu singer and poetess who became Baz Bahadur's queen. The Rani Rupmati Pavilion in Mandu was built for her, offering views of the Narmada River, which she revered. Their tragic romance is a prominent part of Mandu's folklore and history, with several monuments in the city bearing witness to their tale.

Explanation

The Bheel tribe is the largest in population among the tribes of Madhya Pradesh. According to the 2011 Census of India, the Bhil tribe had a total population of 4,618,068, making up 37.7% of the state's total Scheduled Tribe population. This makes them the most populous tribal group in the state. The Gond tribe is the second largest in Madhya Pradesh.

Explanation

Phadake Studio, a renowned center for sculpture, is situated in Dhar, Madhya Pradesh. The studio was established in 1933 by the acclaimed sculptor Raghunath Krishna Phadke. He moved to Dhar at the invitation of the Maharaja of Dhar, who was a patron of the arts. The studio is famous for its portrait sculptures and houses works of many historical figures and local leaders.

Explanation

The All India Classical Dance Festival, also known as the Khajuraho Dance Festival, is organized annually in Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh. This renowned cultural event showcases various classical Indian dance forms against the backdrop of the magnificent Khajuraho Group of Monuments. The festival aims to promote Indian classical dance and heritage. It is a major tourist attraction and is typically held in February or March.

Explanation

Nepal's Constituent Assembly, tasked with drafting a new constitution, received multiple extensions due to political disagreements. On November 29, 2011, Nepalese lawmakers granted a fourth and final six-month extension to the Constituent Assembly to complete the constitution-drafting process. This extension was crucial as the previous deadline was set to expire on November 30, 2011. The Constituent Assembly had been extended thrice before its fourth extension in November 2011.

Explanation

In June 2011, President Barack Obama announced a plan to withdraw 33,000 American "surge" troops from Afghanistan. This withdrawal was to occur in phases, with 10,000 troops leaving by the end of 2011 and the remaining 23,000 departing by the summer of 2012. By September 2012, then-Defense Secretary Leon Panetta confirmed that the last of these 33,000 additional troops had indeed left Afghanistan. This marked the completion of the specific troop reduction by the end of 2012.

Explanation

In November 2011, Pakistan and China held their joint military exercise, "Youyi-IV" (Friendship-IV), near Jhelum in Punjab, Pakistan. This brigade-level counter-terrorism training aimed to enhance the expertise of both armies in combating terrorism and non-traditional security threats. The exercises involved special forces from both countries and included drills such as airborne jumps, heli-lifting of troops, and assaults on simulated targets. Senior military leaders from both nations witnessed the concluding ceremony of the two-week-long war games.

Explanation

China and Russia boycotted the "Friends of Syria" conference held in Tunis in February 2012. They stated their opposition to the conference's perceived goal of "regime change" in Syria, emphasizing their support for the principle of sovereignty. Both countries have also repeatedly vetoed UN Security Council resolutions aimed at condemning or imposing sanctions on the Syrian government, viewing such actions as interference in Syria's internal affairs and counterproductive to a peaceful resolution.

Explanation

Aung San Suu Kyi became the first woman, other than the reigning Queen of Britain, to address both houses of the British Parliament. She delivered a historic speech in Westminster Hall to a joint session of the House of Commons and the House of Lords on June 21, 2012. This honor is typically reserved for heads of state, and her address marked a significant moment as she was then an opposition leader from Myanmar (Burma). Neither Indira Gandhi, Benazir Bhutto, nor Sonia Gandhi have addressed a joint session of both houses of the British Parliament in this capacity.

Explanation

The Sir Creek Dispute is a long-standing territorial conflict between India and Pakistan. It involves a 96-kilometer strip of water in the marshlands of the Rann of Kutch, which serves as a natural boundary between India's Gujarat state and Pakistan's Sindh province. The disagreement stems from differing interpretations of historical maps and agreements regarding the maritime boundary after the 1947 partition of British India. India asserts the boundary should lie in the middle of the creek, adhering to the Thalweg Principle of international law, while Pakistan claims the entire creek based on a 1914 resolution.

Explanation

In 2011, TIME magazine named "The Protestor" as its Person of the Year, featuring a photo essay of 36 prominent demonstrators from around the world. Anna Hazare, a leading figure in India's anti-corruption movement, was included in this photo essay. His anti-corruption movement was also recognized among TIME magazine's top 10 news stories of the year. Anna Hazare secured the tenth position in the list of 36 demonstrators released by TIME.

Explanation

National Voters' Day is celebrated every year on January 25th. This date was chosen to commemorate the foundation day of the Election Commission of India (ECI), which was established on January 25, 1950. The main purpose of observing this day is to encourage, facilitate, and maximize voter enrollment, especially among new and young voters. It aims to spread awareness about the importance of voting and promote informed participation in the electoral process, thereby strengthening India's democracy. The first National Voters' Day was celebrated in 2011.

Explanation

The Asian Shooting Championship in 2012 was held in Doha, Qatar. The event took place from January 11 to January 22, 2012. It served as the Asian qualifying tournament for the 2012 Summer Olympics in London. India, for instance, won medals at the championship held in Doha.

Explanation

After being shot by the Taliban in October 2012, Malala Yousafzai was transferred from Pakistan to the United Kingdom for specialized medical treatment. She was admitted to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham, which is a major trauma center. The decision to move her was made by a panel of Pakistani doctors and international experts who determined she would require prolonged and integrated care, including neuro-rehabilitation and repair of damaged skull bones. The United Arab Emirates provided a specially equipped air ambulance for her transfer, and the Pakistani government bore all expenses for her treatment abroad.

Explanation

In the Rail Budget of 2012-13, a plant for the manufacture of traction alternators for high horsepower diesel locomotives was proposed to be set up in Vidisha, Madhya Pradesh. This factory was also intended to manufacture traction motors. The project aimed to produce 100 units of traction alternators per year and overhaul 600 units of traction motors annually, which were largely being imported at the time.

Explanation

Mandideep Industrial Cluster is situated in the Raisen district of Madhya Pradesh. Mandideep is a town and municipality within the Goharganj sub-district of Raisen district, located about 23 km from Bhopal. It is a significant industrial hub, housing numerous manufacturing units of national and international companies. While it is close to Bhopal, it officially falls under the administrative jurisdiction of Raisen district.

Explanation

The railway sleeper manufacturing factory in Madhya Pradesh is situated in Budni, which falls under the Sehore district. Budni is a significant location for railway infrastructure, with various projects and facilities related to the Indian Railways in the area. The presence of this factory in Sehore district contributes to the supply of concrete sleepers for railway tracks.

Explanation

Uma Bharti holds the distinction of being the first woman Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh. She served in this role from December 8, 2003, to August 23, 2004. A prominent leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), she was succeeded by Babulal Gaur.

Explanation

The Jaldeep Yojana was initially launched by the Madhya Pradesh Government from the Indira Sagar reservoir. This scheme was introduced to promote fisheries in the state. Indira Sagar is Madhya Pradesh's largest multi-purpose river valley project, located across the Narmada River in the Khandwa district.

Explanation

Ishwardas Rohani served as the Speaker of the Madhya Pradesh Legislative Assembly from 2003 until his death in 2013. He was also the Deputy Speaker of the assembly from 1998 to 2003. His significant tenure in these leadership roles makes him a prominent figure in the history of the Madhya Pradesh Vidhan Sabha. Therefore, in a historical context, Ishwardas Rohani was indeed the Speaker of the Madhya Pradesh Assembly.

Explanation

On November 1, 2000, when the state of Madhya Pradesh was divided to form Chhattisgarh, Digvijay Singh was the Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh. He served two full five-year terms as Chief Minister from 1993 to 2003. The Madhya Pradesh Reorganization Act of 2000 led to the creation of Chhattisgarh from the southeastern portion of Madhya Pradesh.

Explanation

Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) has coal bed methane (CBM) blocks in the Shahdol district of Madhya Pradesh. Specifically, RIL was awarded the Sohagpur West and East blocks, located in Shahdol district, under the first round of the CBM policy. These CBM fields in Sohagpur, Shahdol, are India's largest surface footprint hydrocarbon project. Reliance Gas Pipelines Limited, a subsidiary of RIL, operates a 302 km pipeline connecting these CBM gas fields in Shahdol to Phulpur in Uttar Pradesh, integrating them with the national gas grid.

Explanation

The Dushyant Kumar Manuscript Museum, also known as Dushyant Kumar Smarak Pandulipi Sangrahlaya, is situated in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India. It is a significant cultural institution dedicated to preserving manuscripts and literary works. The museum is located in Shivaji Nagar, Bhopal, and is easily accessible. It serves as a valuable resource for literature enthusiasts and researchers, housing original handwritten scripts and rare manuscripts of renowned writers.

Explanation

The Sanchi Stupa, a significant Buddhist complex, was originally commissioned by the Mauryan Emperor Ashoka the Great in the 3rd century BCE. The nucleus of the Great Stupa (Stupa 1) was a simple hemispherical brick structure built over relics of the Buddha. Ashoka's connection to Sanchi is further highlighted by the fact that his wife, Devi, was from nearby Vidisha and oversaw the initial construction. This makes Ashoka the primary figure responsible for its construction, establishing Sanchi as one of the oldest stone structures in India.

Explanation

HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol) is the fundamental protocol used for accessing the World Wide Web. It defines how messages are formatted and transmitted, and what actions web servers and browsers should take in response to various commands. When you type a website address into your browser, HTTP is the protocol that allows your browser to request and receive web pages and other content from a web server. SMTP (Simple Mail Transfer Protocol) is used for sending and receiving email, while SLIP (Serial Line Internet Protocol) is an older protocol for transmitting IP packets over serial lines, neither of which are used for direct web access.

Explanation

.com, .gov, and .net are all examples of valid top-level domain (TLD) extensions. .com is widely used for commercial entities, .gov is reserved for government organizations, and .net is often used for network-related services or general purposes. These are just a few of the many recognized domain extensions available for websites. Therefore, all the provided options are correct.

Explanation

A URL stands for Uniform Resource Locator. It is a specific type of Uniform Resource Identifier (URI) that provides a unique address for a resource on the internet. This address tells web browsers and other applications how and where to retrieve a resource, such as a webpage, image, or video. The "Uniform" aspect signifies that there is a standard format for these addresses, ensuring consistency across the web.

Explanation

E-mail is a widely used method of exchanging digital messages across the internet or other computer networks. The 'E' in E-mail specifically stands for 'Electronic'. Therefore, E-mail is an abbreviation for Electronic mail, referring to the electronic transmission of messages. This distinguishes it from traditional postal mail, which is physical.

Explanation

Hotmail, Rediffmail, and Yahoo are all well-known email service providers that offer free email accounts to users. Hotmail, now known as Outlook.com, was one of the earliest free webmail services. Rediffmail is a popular Indian webmail service that also provides free accounts. Yahoo Mail has been a long-standing free email service globally. Therefore, since all three options provide free email services, "All of the above" is the correct answer.

Explanation

HTML stands for Hypertext Markup Language. It is the standard markup language used for creating web pages and other information that can be displayed in a web browser. HTML uses a system of tags to structure content, such as headings, paragraphs, and images, and to define how a web page should be displayed. This language is fundamental to the World Wide Web.

Explanation

A computer virus is a type of malicious software program that, when executed, replicates itself by modifying other computer programs and inserting its own code. This self-replicating ability is a defining characteristic of a computer virus. Unlike biological viruses, computer viruses do not affect human health; they specifically target and infect computer systems. Therefore, a computer program that can replicate itself accurately describes a computer virus.

Explanation

A computer hacker, in the most commonly understood and often malicious sense, is an individual who gains unauthorized access to computer systems or networks. This access is typically achieved by exploiting vulnerabilities in security measures. Their actions are driven by malicious intent, often for personal gain such as stealing data, disrupting services, or causing damage. While some hackers (ethical or "white hat" hackers) work to improve security, the term "hacker" in a general context, especially when implying a negative connotation, refers to those who violate security with harmful intentions.

Explanation

Video conferencing involves real-time, two-way visual and audio communication between two or more participants in different locations. It utilizes telecommunications technology, such as the internet or dedicated networks, to transmit video and audio signals. This allows individuals to conduct virtual meetings, presentations, and discussions as if they were in the same room. Therefore, it is essentially the conduct of video calls facilitated by telecom technology.

Explanation

Cybercrime encompasses a wide range of illegal activities carried out using digital devices and networks. Hacking, which involves gaining unauthorized access to computer systems or data, is a prominent form of cybercrime. Cyberstalking, the use of electronic means to harass or intimidate an individual, is also a serious cybercrime. Additionally, denial-of-service (DoS) and distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks, which aim to make a network resource unavailable to its intended users by overwhelming it with traffic, are classified as cybercrimes. Therefore, all the listed options are indeed forms of cybercrime.

Explanation

Pandit Ravishankar, the legendary sitar maestro, was indeed selected for the Lifetime Achievement Grammy Award in 2012. The Recording Academy announced this prestigious honor shortly after his passing on December 11, 2012, at the age of 92. He was recognized for his immense contributions to music, particularly for pioneering the introduction of Indian classical music to the Western world. The award was presented posthumously at the 55th Annual Grammy Awards ceremony in February 2013.

Explanation

The office of the Accountant General (Accounts & Entitlements)-I, Madhya Pradesh, is situated in Gwalior at Lekha Bhawan, Jhansi Road. Similarly, the Principal Accountant General (Audit-I), Madhya Pradesh, also has its office in Gwalior at Audit Bhavan, Jhansi Road. While there are other Accountant General offices in Bhopal, the primary Accountant General's Office for Accounts & Entitlements and Audit-I is located in Gwalior. Therefore, Gwalior is the correct answer.The office of the Accountant General (Accounts & Entitlements)-I, Madhya Pradesh, is located in Gwalior at Lekha Bhawan, Jhansi Road. Additionally, the Principal Accountant General (Audit-I), Madhya Pradesh, also has its office in Gwalior at Audit Bhavan, Jhansi Road. While other Accountant General offices exist in Bhopal, the primary Accountant General's Office for Accounts & Entitlements and Audit-I is situated in Gwalior. Thus, Gwalior is the correct answer.

Explanation

The R.C.V.P. Noronha Administrative Academy is located in Bhopal, the capital city of Madhya Pradesh, India. It serves as the apex and nodal training institute for the state, organizing training programs for government officers. The academy's campus is situated in the southeastern part of Bhopal, on the banks of Shahpura Lake.

Explanation

All offenses punishable under the Protection of Civil Rights Act, 1955, are classified as cognizable. This means that a police officer can arrest an accused person without a warrant, allowing for immediate police action upon receiving information about the commission of such an offense. The Act aims to prescribe punishment for the practice of untouchability and enforce civil rights. Due to the serious nature of these offenses, they are also considered non-bailable, implying that granting bail is not a matter of right but is at the discretion of the court. This classification ensures that cases related to untouchability are dealt with swiftly and effectively, deterring potential offenders and providing justice to victims.

Explanation

An offense arising out of "untouchability" is typically predicated on discrimination against individuals belonging to a historically marginalized or "untouchable" community. If the accused and the complainant victim belong to the same social group, the element of discrimination based on the traditional concept of untouchability is generally absent. The Protection of Civil Rights Act, 1955, which criminalizes untouchability, aims to prevent discrimination against Scheduled Castes and similar groups. Therefore, if both parties share the same social status, the specific legal criteria for an "untouchability" offense would not be met.

Explanation

The Protection of Civil Rights Act, 1955, extends to the whole of India. This Act, originally known as the Untouchability (Offences) Act, 1955, was enacted to abolish "untouchability" and prohibit its practice in any form. It applies uniformly across all states and union territories, including the erstwhile state of Jammu & Kashmir. Therefore, the Act's jurisdiction covers the entire geographical area of India.

Explanation

The Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989, was enacted on September 11, 1989. However, it officially came into force on January 30, 1990. Some sources also mention January 31, 1990, as the commencement date. Therefore, option B, 31st January, 1990, is the correct answer as it aligns with the enforcement period of the Act.

Explanation

The Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989, is based on the Doctrine of Protective Discrimination. This doctrine, also known as affirmative action or positive discrimination, aims to rectify historical injustices and promote equality for historically disadvantaged groups like SCs and STs. It acknowledges that formal equality is insufficient and special provisions are necessary to uplift marginalized communities and ensure their representation in society. The Act provides special privileges and stringent punishments for offenses against SCs and STs, reflecting the state's commitment to achieving social justice and protecting their rights.

Explanation

The Special Court constituted under the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989, is not empowered to authorize a person for extra investigation other than the police. The Act primarily vests investigation powers with the police, specifically an officer not below the rank of Deputy Superintendent of Police. The Special Court does, however, have the power to order the forfeiture of property of a convict, to remove a person from the area if there is a doubt of them committing a crime, and to take measurements and photographs of a person suspected of committing a crime. These other powers are aimed at ensuring the effective implementation of the Act and the protection of victims.

Explanation

The Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989, mandates the establishment of Special Courts to ensure the expeditious disposal of cases involving atrocities against members of SC/ST communities. Section 14 of the Act explicitly states that a Court of Session is specified as a Special Court "for the purpose of providing for speedy trial" of offences under this Act. This dedicated judicial forum aims to prevent delays often associated with regular courts by focusing solely on these sensitive cases. The 2015 amendment further emphasized this by providing for Exclusive Special Courts, with a mandate for trials to be completed within two months from the date of filing the charge sheet, highlighting the paramount importance of a speedy trial.