MPPSC Prelims 2015 Question Paper with Answers & Explanations

Explanation

The 'World Economic Outlook Report' is a flagship publication of the International Monetary Fund (IMF). It is typically released twice a year, in April and October, with updates in between. The report provides comprehensive analyses and projections of the global economy, covering economic growth, inflation, and other key macroeconomic indicators for both advanced and developing economies. This publication is a crucial part of the IMF's surveillance activities, monitoring economic developments and policies in its member countries and the global economic system.

Explanation

The Maitree Express is an international passenger train service that connects Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh, with Kolkata, the capital of the Indian state of West Bengal. The name "Maitree Express" translates to "Friendship Express" in English, symbolizing the friendly relations between India and Bangladesh. This train service, which began in 2008, re-established a rail link between the two countries that had been closed for 43 years after the 1965 India-Pakistan War. Along with the Bandhan Express and Mitali Express, it is one of the modern passenger train links between India and Bangladesh.

Explanation

Audi AG is a German automotive manufacturer of luxury vehicles. The company is headquartered in Ingolstadt, Bavaria, Germany. Founded by August Horch in 1909, the name "Audi" is a Latin translation of his surname. Audi is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Volkswagen Group and is known for its German engineering excellence and innovation. While Audi has production facilities worldwide, its origins and primary operations remain firmly rooted in Germany.

Explanation

"Ignited Minds: Unleashing the Power Within India" was authored by Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam. Published in 2002, this book reflects Dr. Kalam's vision for India's future and his deep concern for the nation's youth. He encourages young Indians to dream big, work hard, and contribute to making India a developed nation. Dr. Kalam, also known as the "Missile Man of India" and the 11th President of India, wrote several inspirational books.

Explanation

Madhuri Dixit was appointed the brand ambassador for the Mother and Child Health Campaign, known as "Mamta Abhiyaan," by the government of Madhya Pradesh. This campaign, launched by the state's health department, aims to reduce maternal and infant mortality rates and improve overall maternal and child health. Dixit's role was to leverage her popularity to spread awareness and encourage participation in the health initiatives. She launched the second phase of the campaign with Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan.

Explanation

The 'You and Me' campaign is related to Dengue. A multi-pronged national campaign titled "You and Me Against Dengue" was launched on March 11, 2014, to combat dengue across several Indian cities through a public-private partnership. This initiative aimed to eradicate the mosquito-borne viral infection by focusing on public awareness, fumigation, neem plantation, and cleanliness drives. The campaign was a joint effort involving organizations like Mortein, AIIMS, IMA, NDMC, Rotary Blood Bank, and NGO SAHAYOG.

Explanation

The State Museum of Madhya Pradesh, Bhopal, was originally known as the Edward Museum. It was established in 1909 AD by the rule of Bhopal state. The museum was initially located in the present central library building and was governed under the name of Ajayabghar. After the formation of Madhya Pradesh, it was shifted to a new building on Banganga Road and later inaugurated in its current, modern building on Shyamla Hills in 2005.

Explanation

Ferdowsi, also known as Abolqasem Mansour bin Hassan Tusi, was the author of the epic poem 'Shahnama' or 'Book of Kings'. This monumental work, consisting of some 50,000 distichs or couplets, is the national epic of Greater Iran and recounts the mythical and historical past of Iran from the creation of the world until the Muslim conquest in the seventh century. Ferdowsi dedicated over 30 years to its composition, completing it around 1010 CE. The 'Shahnama' is considered a literary masterpiece and is crucial to Persian culture and language.

Explanation

In Hinduism, the total number of Sanskaras is traditionally considered to be 16. These are known as "Shodasha Sanskaras," with "Shodasha" meaning sixteen in Sanskrit. These sacred rites of passage mark significant milestones in an individual's life, from conception to cremation, and are believed to purify the body, mind, and soul. They are prescribed by ancient Hindu scriptures and aim to guide individuals through various stages of life with moral, spiritual, and social refinement.

Explanation

Emperor Ashoka is consistently referred to as 'Devanampriya' and 'Piyadassi' in his inscriptions. These titles, meaning "Beloved of the Gods" and "He who regards others with kindness" respectively, were used by Ashoka in his rock and pillar edicts throughout his vast Mauryan Empire. The Maski Minor Rock Edict, discovered in 1915, was crucial in definitively linking these titles to Ashoka by explicitly mentioning his name alongside "Devanampriya Asoka". While "Devanampriya" was also used by some other rulers, its prominent and consistent use in conjunction with "Piyadassi" is a hallmark of Ashoka's reign. These inscriptions provide valuable insights into Ashoka's reign and his commitment to Buddhist principles after the Kalinga War.

Explanation

Megasthenes, an ancient Greek historian and diplomat, authored the book 'Indica'. He served as an ambassador of Seleucus I Nicator to the court of the Mauryan Emperor Chandragupta Maurya in Pataliputra (modern Patna). Although the original work is now lost, fragments of 'Indica' have survived through quotations and paraphrases by later Greek and Latin writers such as Diodorus Siculus, Strabo, Pliny, and Arrian. This work provides valuable insights into the geography, culture, society, and wildlife of ancient India during the Mauryan period.

Explanation

The Regulating Act was passed in June 1773 by the British Parliament. This act was a significant step by the British government to control and regulate the affairs of the East India Company in India. The primary reasons for its enactment included the company's severe financial crisis, widespread corruption among its officials, and the mismanagement of its territories, particularly in Bengal. It aimed to address the problems of dual governance and bring the company's administration under closer parliamentary supervision.

Explanation

Lord William Bentinck, serving as the Governor-General of Bengal, officially abolished the Sati system in 1829 A.D.. This landmark social reform was enacted through the Bengal Sati Regulation (Regulation XVII), which declared the practice of Sati illegal and punishable by law. Bentinck's decision was strongly supported by Indian social reformers, most notably Raja Ram Mohan Roy, who actively campaigned against the practice. The regulation was passed on December 4, 1829, making Sati a culpable homicide throughout British India. This act marked a significant turning point in Indian social reform.

Explanation

Muhammad Shah, who reigned as Mughal emperor from 1719 to 1748, was known by the epithet 'Rangila'. This nickname, meaning "the colourful" or "the pleasure-loving one," reflected his fondness for a life of aesthetic pursuits, music, dance, and fine clothes. While his reign saw a decline in the empire's administrative efficiency and military power, it was also a period of cultural flourishing, with Muhammad Shah being a significant patron of the arts. He inherited a weakening empire and, despite some administrative efforts, preferred courtly pleasures over rigorous governance, contributing to the fragmentation of Mughal authority.

Explanation

Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism and the first of the ten Sikh Gurus, appointed Bhai Lehna as his successor. Bhai Lehna was renamed Guru Angad, meaning "of my own limb," signifying his deep devotion and embodiment of Guru Nanak's teachings. Guru Nanak chose Angad over his own sons due to Angad's unwavering loyalty, obedience, and commitment to the Sikh faith. Guru Angad became the second Sikh Guru in 1539 and continued to spread Guru Nanak's message.

Explanation

Khusrau Mirza was the eldest son of the Mughal Emperor Jahangir. He was born to Jahangir's first wife, Shah Begum (Man Bai). Khusrau was a prominent figure during his grandfather Akbar's reign, who reportedly favored him. However, Khusrau later rebelled against his father, Jahangir, shortly after Jahangir ascended the throne.

Explanation

Charles Wood's Despatch of 1854 was a comprehensive plan for the future of education in India. It is often referred to as the "Magna Carta of English Education in India" due to its significant recommendations. The Despatch proposed establishing a hierarchical system of education, from primary schools to universities, and recommended setting up departments of public instruction in each province. It also advocated for the establishment of universities in Calcutta, Bombay, and Madras, modeled after the University of London. Furthermore, it promoted vernacular languages in primary education, Anglo-vernacular in secondary education, and English as the medium for higher education, alongside encouraging women's education and a system of grants-in-aid for private institutions.

Explanation

World Earth Day is celebrated annually on April 22nd. The first Earth Day took place on April 22, 1970, in the United States, mobilizing millions of Americans to advocate for environmental protection. This event, spearheaded by Senator Gaylord Nelson and activist Denis Hayes, is credited with launching the modern environmental movement and raising awareness about critical environmental issues. It has since grown into a global observance, with over a billion people participating in more than 193 countries.

Explanation

Pygmies are primarily found in the equatorial forests of Central Africa, particularly within the Congo Basin. These dense rainforests provide the traditional hunter-gatherer lifestyle that Pygmy communities have maintained for centuries. Their habitat spans across several countries, including the Democratic Republic of Congo, Cameroon, Gabon, and the Central African Republic. The equatorial forest environment offers abundant wild resources for their subsistence, such as game, fruits, and nuts. While some Pygmy groups, like certain Twa populations, may live in other environments, the vast majority are associated with the tropical rainforest biome.

Explanation

The Great Barrier Reef is located in the Coral Sea, which is off the northeastern coast of Australia. The Coral Sea is a marginal sea of the Pacific Ocean. This makes the Pacific Ocean the correct answer for the reef's broader oceanic location. The Great Barrier Reef is the world's largest coral reef system, stretching over 2,300 kilometers.

Explanation

Alfalfa, also known as lucerne, is a perennial flowering plant widely cultivated as an important forage crop for livestock. Although botanically it belongs to the legume family (Fabaceae) and not the true grass family (Poaceae), it is commonly referred to as a type of grass or hay due to its primary use as animal feed for grazing, hay, and silage. Its high nutritional value, including protein and digestible fiber, makes it a valuable component of livestock diets. Therefore, in a general studies context, it is considered a kind of grass because of its agricultural application as a forage plant.

Explanation

Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) are the primary pollutants responsible for the most significant damage to the ozone layer. These synthetic compounds, once widely used in refrigerants and aerosol propellants, are highly stable in the lower atmosphere. This stability allows them to drift up into the stratosphere, where intense ultraviolet (UV) radiation breaks them down. This process releases chlorine atoms, which then act as catalysts to destroy thousands of ozone molecules in a chain reaction, significantly depleting the protective ozone layer.

Explanation

The "roaring forties, furious fifties, and shrieking sixties" are terms used by sailors to describe the exceptionally strong westerly winds found in the Southern Hemisphere. These powerful winds occur in specific latitude bands: the Roaring Forties between 40° and 50° South, the Furious Fifties between 50° and 60° South, and the Shrieking Sixties (sometimes called Screaming Sixties) between 60° and 70° South. The Southern Hemisphere's vast expanse of ocean, with minimal landmasses to obstruct air flow, allows these westerlies to blow with remarkable strength and consistency, intensifying as one moves closer to the pole. These winds are a crucial part of the global atmospheric circulation and significantly influence weather patterns and ocean currents in the Southern Hemisphere.

Explanation

Santos, a port city in southeastern Brazil, is renowned as the 'coffee port' of the world due to its historical significance and continued role in global coffee trade. It became the most significant coffee-exporting port when Brazil emerged as the leading producer of coffee. At its peak, Santos' docks handled over 80% of Brazil's coffee production, and today, it remains Brazil's largest coffee shipping port, accounting for a substantial percentage of the nation's coffee exports. The city's port facilities were expanded and modernized to meet the demands of the growing coffee industry, and the aroma of coffee is said to permeate the city. The city even houses a Coffee Museum, which was once the Coffee Exchange Palace, where coffee prices were set and contracts negotiated.

Explanation

An isohyet is a line on a map that connects points receiving equal amounts of precipitation or rainfall over a given period. This term is derived from the Greek words "iso," meaning equal, and "hyetos," meaning rain. In contrast, an isobar connects points of equal atmospheric pressure, an isotherm links points of equal temperature, and an isohaline joins points of equal salinity in a body of water. Therefore, for areas with the same rainfall, the correct term is isohyet.

Explanation

The Alaknanda and Bhagirathi rivers converge at Devprayag, a sacred town in the Tehri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand, India. This confluence is highly significant as it marks the point where these two headstreams officially unite to form the holy Ganges River (Ganga). Devprayag is one of the Panch Prayag, or five sacred confluences, of the Alaknanda River. The other options are incorrect: Vishnuprayag is where the Alaknanda meets the Dhauliganga, and Karnaprayag is where the Alaknanda meets the Pindar River. Badrinath is a pilgrimage town on the Alaknanda, not a confluence point.

Explanation

Sabarimala is a renowned Hindu pilgrimage site located in the Pathanamthitta district of Kerala, India. The temple, dedicated to Lord Ayyappan, is situated atop the Sabarimala hill amidst dense forests in the Periyar Tiger Reserve. It is one of the largest annual pilgrimage sites globally, attracting millions of devotees each year. The sacred shrine is nestled in the rugged terrains of the Western Ghats, offering a spiritual journey through natural beauty.

Explanation

Sikkim is an Indian state located in the northeastern part of the country. To its west, Sikkim shares a border with Nepal. Bhutan lies to Sikkim's east, and the Tibet Autonomous Region of China borders Sikkim to its north and northeast. This unique geographical position makes Sikkim the only Indian state to share international boundaries with these three countries.

Explanation

Bailadila, located in the Dantewada district of Chhattisgarh, is renowned globally for its extensive and high-grade iron ore deposits. The mountain range, named for its resemblance to an ox's hump, contains significant reserves of hematite, a superior quality of iron ore. These mines are crucial for India's steel industry, with the state-owned NMDC Limited being a major operator in the region. Bailadila's iron ore is not only used domestically but also exported to various countries.

Explanation

Andhra Pradesh is the largest mica-producing state in India. The Nellore district in Andhra Pradesh is particularly renowned for producing high-quality mica, including sheet and block mica. The state leads in total mica resources, accounting for 41% of the country's share. Mica from this region is widely utilized in various industries such as electronics and cosmetics due to its superior quality and insulating properties.

Explanation

Talcher is a famous coalfield located in the Indian state of Odisha. It is situated in the Angul district, within the valley of the Brahmani River. This region is a significant hub for coal production and is known for having India's largest reserves of power-grade coal. The Talcher Coalfield plays a crucial role in meeting the energy demands of Odisha and other states.

Explanation

The Human Development Index (HDI) is a composite index that measures average achievement in three fundamental dimensions of human development. These dimensions are a long and healthy life, knowledge, and a decent standard of living. Health is assessed by life expectancy at birth. Education is measured by mean years of schooling and expected years of schooling. A decent standard of living is determined by Gross National Income (GNI) per capita. Therefore, option C, which includes health, education, and standard of living, correctly identifies the bases of the Human Development Index.

Explanation

The Fifth Five-Year Plan (1974-1979) primarily focused on "Garibi Hatao" (poverty removal) and the attainment of self-reliance. This objective was a central theme of the plan, aiming to bring a significant portion of the poor population above the poverty line. The plan also stressed employment generation and justice, alongside self-reliance in agricultural production and defense. The Minimum Needs Programme (MNP) was introduced during this period to provide basic necessities and improve living standards.

Explanation

The Second Five Year Plan (1956-1961) was based on the Mahalanobis model, developed by Indian statistician Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis in 1953. This model prioritized rapid industrialization, with a strong emphasis on the development of heavy and basic industries. The plan aimed to build a robust industrial foundation for India by focusing on sectors like steel, heavy machinery, and chemicals. It advocated for significant investment in capital goods industries to achieve long-term economic growth and reduce dependence on imports.

Explanation

The first general election under the Indian Constitution was held between October 25, 1951, and February 21, 1952. While the process began in late 1951, the majority of the polling and the announcement of results occurred in 1952. This monumental exercise established India as the world's largest democracy, with universal adult suffrage allowing over 173 million eligible citizens to vote. The Indian National Congress secured a landslide victory, and Jawaharlal Nehru became the first democratically elected Prime Minister of independent India.

Explanation

B.R. Ambedkar, often called the "Father of the Indian Constitution," played a pivotal role as the Chairman of the Drafting Committee of the Constituent Assembly. He viewed the Constitution as more than just a legal document; he considered it a foundational scripture embodying the aspirations, values, and principles upon which modern India is built. Ambedkar emphasized its importance as a tool for social transformation, equality, and justice, deserving of utmost sanctity, akin to a sacred religious text. He famously stated that "Constitutions are not merely legal documents but instruments of social revolution." This perspective highlights his belief that the Constitution was crucial for dismantling caste hierarchy, guaranteeing fundamental rights, and adapting to future challenges.

Explanation

The 52nd Amendment to the Indian Constitution, enacted in 1985, introduced the anti-defection law. This amendment added the Tenth Schedule to the Constitution, which outlines the provisions for disqualifying Members of Parliament and State Legislatures on the grounds of defection. The primary objective of this law was to prevent political defections by elected representatives, which often led to instability in governments. It aimed to strengthen party discipline and ensure that legislators remain loyal to the party on whose ticket they were elected. The law specifies that a member can be disqualified if they voluntarily give up their membership of their political party or vote/abstain from voting contrary to any direction issued by their party.

Explanation

The Supreme Court of India is considered the custodian of the Constitution because it is the final interpreter and guardian of the Constitution. It has the power of judicial review, allowing it to examine laws and executive actions and strike them down if they violate the Constitution. Furthermore, the Supreme Court protects the fundamental rights of citizens, and individuals can directly approach it under Article 32 if their rights are violated. This role ensures that all branches of government operate within constitutional limits and upholds the rule of law.

Explanation

The payment of foreign trade, encompassing both imports and exports of goods and services, is directly recorded and managed within the balance of payments. The balance of payments is a systematic record of all economic transactions between residents of a country and the rest of the world over a specific period. It tracks the inflow and outflow of foreign currency resulting from international trade, investments, and financial transfers. Therefore, the overall accounting of a nation's foreign trade payments is intrinsically linked to its balance of payments.

Explanation

Sustainable economic development refers to economic growth that meets the needs of the present generation without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. It integrates environmental protection, social equity, and economic viability to ensure long-term well-being. This approach recognizes that resources are finite and aims to achieve progress that can be sustained indefinitely. Therefore, it encompasses both current development and the preservation of resources for the future.

Explanation

NABARD stands for National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development. It is an apex development bank in India, established in 1982 by an Act of Parliament. Its primary mandate is to provide credit and other facilities for the promotion and development of agriculture, rural industries, and other rural sectors. Therefore, option C accurately represents the full form and core focus of the institution.

Explanation

The tradition of a written constitution, as understood in the modern sense of a single, codified document establishing the framework of a national government, began in America. The United States Constitution, drafted in 1787 and ratified in 1788, is recognized as the world's oldest and shortest written constitution still in force today. This document established a federal system with separated powers and a system of checks and balances, serving as a foundational model for many other nations. While earlier forms of written laws and even some colonial constitutions existed, the U.S. Constitution was the first complete written national constitution that became popular worldwide and influenced subsequent constitution-writing.

Explanation

The Tarkunde Committee, also known as the Citizens for Democracy (CFD) committee, was constituted in 1974 by Jayaprakash Narayan under the chairmanship of Justice V.M. Tarkunde. Its primary objective was to examine the existing electoral system in India and propose reforms to ensure free, fair, and democratic elections. The committee submitted its report in 1975, recommending measures such as lowering the voting age to 18, establishing a three-member Election Commission, and introducing state funding of elections. These recommendations aimed to reduce the influence of money and power, improve voter participation, and strengthen the independence of the Election Commission.

Explanation

M.V. Mathur, a renowned Indian economist and educationist, proposed the merger of the Finance Commission and the Planning Commission. He suggested this merger to streamline the process of resource allocation and planning, aiming for more coherent and effective governance. The idea was to bring together the functions of resource distribution and development planning, which were handled separately by the constitutional Finance Commission and the Planning Commission (now NITI Aayog). Mathur believed that such a merger or closer collaboration would ensure better coordination between financial devolution and planned expenditure.

Explanation

Arun Kumar Mehta served as the Chairman of the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) with an additional charge from June 2015 to July 2016. During his tenure, he led efforts to reduce industrial pollution, particularly in the Ganga river, by ensuring compliance with environmental standards. This included initiatives like implementing Zero Liquid Discharge Systems for paper and pulp industries and distilleries. He also introduced 24x7 online Continuous Emission/Effluent Monitoring Systems for red category industries to improve compliance with environmental standards. Therefore, at that time, Arun Kumar Mehta was indeed the chairman.

Explanation

Energy from water (hydropower), the sun (solar energy), and the earth (geothermal energy) are all considered renewable resources. Renewable resources are natural resources that replenish naturally over a relatively short period of time. Hydropower is generated by the continuous water cycle, solar energy comes from the inexhaustible sun, and geothermal energy harnesses heat from the Earth's interior, which is continuously produced. Since options A, B, and C are all examples of renewable resources, the correct answer to the question "Which is not a renewable resource?" is D) none of the above.

Explanation

"Long term change" is not an indicator of climate change because climate change itself is defined as a significant and lasting shift in global or regional climate patterns over extended periods. Therefore, "long term change" describes the fundamental nature of climate change rather than being a specific observable phenomenon used to detect or measure it. Indicators of climate change are specific, measurable variables or proxies that provide evidence of these shifts. For example, floral indicators track changes in plant life cycles, and cryogenic indicators monitor alterations in ice and frozen water, such as melting glaciers and sea ice. Tectonic indicators, while influencing climate over geological timescales, are also distinct from the overarching concept of long-term change.

Explanation

Agricultural pollution is primarily an environmental issue, involving contamination of soil, water, and air due to farming practices. It stems from the interaction between human activities and the natural environment. In contrast, social pollution refers to problems that arise directly from human societal structures, interactions, and behaviors, negatively impacting the social fabric. Poverty, communal riots, and rape are all examples of social pollution as they are rooted in societal inequalities, conflicts, and crimes against humanity. Therefore, agricultural pollution, being an environmental concern, does not fit the definition of social pollution.

Explanation

Gujarat's coastal area is situated on the Arabian Sea, which is not directly exposed to the major subduction zones in the Indian Ocean that are responsible for generating large tsunamis. The devastating 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami, for instance, originated from an earthquake off the coast of Sumatra and primarily impacted countries bordering the Andaman Sea and the Bay of Bengal, including the coastal areas of Burma (Myanmar) and India's eastern coast. While Gujarat can experience seismic activity, its geographical location makes it less susceptible to tsunamis of the scale seen in the Bay of Bengal or the Pacific Ocean. Therefore, compared to the coastal areas of Burma (Myanmar) and the Bay of Bengal, Gujarat is not typically considered a tsunami-affected area.

Explanation

The Dead Sea is significantly more saline than the other options. Its salinity is approximately 34.2% (342 g/kg), making it one of the world's saltiest bodies of water. This is about 9.6 times saltier than the ocean. The Dead Sea's hypersalinity is due to its endorheic nature, meaning it has no outlet, and water loss occurs primarily through evaporation, leaving behind concentrated salts and minerals. In contrast, the Red Sea has a salinity ranging from 36 to 41 parts per thousand (3.6% to 4.1%), while the Indian Ocean's surface salinity varies between 32 and 37 parts per thousand (3.2% to 3.7%), and the Arabian Sea, a part of the Indian Ocean, has higher salinity due to high evaporation and low freshwater influx, typically above 35 parts per thousand (3.5%).

Explanation

The 1990 report by the National Commission for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, titled "Atrocities on Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes: Causes and Remedies," identified several key factors contributing to atrocities. These included land alienation, bonded labor, and indebtedness, which are all socio-economic issues deeply intertwined with the historical marginalization of these communities. The report also highlighted caste prejudice, the practice of untouchability, and political factions as causes. However, religious causes were not listed as a primary factor for atrocities against Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes in this specific report.

Explanation

The Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act was enacted by the Parliament of India on September 11, 1989. This act, often referred to as the SC/ST Act or the Atrocities Act, aims to prevent atrocities and hate crimes against Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes. While it was enacted in 1989, it came into force on January 30, 1990. The law was a response to the inadequacy of existing legal provisions in addressing the continued mistreatment and violence faced by these communities.

Explanation

Article 17 of the Indian Constitution explicitly abolishes "untouchability" and forbids its practice in any form. This article is a fundamental right, falling under the Right to Equality (Articles 14-18), and aims to ensure social justice and protect the dignity of all citizens. The enforcement of any disability arising out of untouchability is declared an offense punishable in accordance with the law. To further implement Article 17, Parliament enacted the Untouchability Offences Act of 1955, later renamed the Protection of Civil Rights Act in 1976, which makes the practice of untouchability a criminal offense.

Explanation

Sustainable development is a holistic concept that seeks to meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. This requires balancing three interconnected pillars: social equity, economic viability, and environmental protection. A social approach ensures well-being, equality, and justice for all. An economic approach focuses on creating prosperity and livelihoods in a way that is sustainable in the long term. An environmental approach emphasizes the conservation of natural resources and ecosystems. Therefore, all three approaches are fundamental to the base of sustainable development.

Explanation

Primary colors are fundamental colors that cannot be created by mixing other colors, but from which a broad spectrum of other colors can be derived. The commonly recognized primary colors in art and traditional color theory are red, yellow, and blue (RYB). In the context of light, the additive primary colors are red, green, and blue (RGB). Black, however, is not a primary color; it is typically considered the absence of all colors in additive light mixing, or the result of mixing all subtractive primary colors (cyan, magenta, yellow). Therefore, black does not fit the definition of a primary color.

Explanation

J.C. Bose, an Indian physicist and plant physiologist, made pioneering discoveries in plant physiology, demonstrating that plants possess life and respond to various stimuli. He invented the crescograph, an instrument capable of measuring minute plant movements and growth, which allowed him to observe their reactions. Through his experiments, Bose showed that plants exhibit electrical and mechanical responses to external factors like light, temperature, and chemicals, similar to nerve signals in animals. He also documented that plants experience fatigue, excitation, and even a "death spasm," proving a parallelism between animal and plant tissues.

Explanation

A byte is a fundamental unit of digital information in computing and telecommunications. It is most commonly composed of eight bits. A bit, short for binary digit, is the smallest unit of data in a computer, representing either a 0 or a 1. Therefore, eight bits together form one byte, allowing for 256 possible values (2^8). This 8-bit byte is the standard for most modern computer architectures.

Explanation

Memory size units follow a hierarchical structure, where each larger unit represents approximately 1,000 (or 1,024 in binary systems) of the preceding smaller unit. A Kilobyte (KB) is the smallest unit among the given options, typically consisting of 1,024 bytes. A Megabyte (MB) is 1,024 KB, a Gigabyte (GB) is 1,024 MB, and a Terabyte (TB) is 1,024 GB, making KB the smallest in this sequence.

Explanation

Binary language, also known as the binary numeral system, is a base-2 system that uses only two digits to represent all information. These two digits are 0 and 1. Computers use binary because it is easy for electronic devices to distinguish between two states, such as "on" (represented by 1) and "off" (represented by 0). Every piece of information a computer processes, including text, images, and sound, is translated into this binary code.

Explanation

Supercomputers are designed for highly complex computational tasks, making them the largest, fastest, and most expensive type of computer. They achieve their immense speed and power by employing thousands or even millions of processors working in parallel, a stark contrast to the single or few processors found in personal computers, laptops, and notebooks. This advanced technology and massive scale are necessary for applications like weather forecasting, scientific simulations, and AI research, which would take ordinary machines years to complete. The specialized hardware, extensive memory, and sophisticated cooling systems required for such performance contribute to their significantly higher cost.

Explanation

Vijay Bhatkar is widely recognized as the father of the Indian supercomputer. He led the development of India's first indigenous supercomputer, PARAM 8000, in 1991. This achievement was significant as it came after India was denied access to supercomputing technology by other nations. Bhatkar was also the founder and executive director of the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC), which spearheaded India's national initiative in supercomputing. His work established India as a global player in high-performance computing.

Explanation

Basic, C++, and JAVA are all programming languages used to write software and instruct computers to perform specific tasks. These languages consist of a set of commands, syntax, and rules that programmers use to create applications. Paint Brush, on the other hand, is a graphics editing program, an application software itself, not a language used to create other software. It allows users to create and edit images, but it does not provide the means to write code or develop programs.

Explanation

Computers are designed to perform tasks like computing, processing data, and outputting results based on programmed instructions. While they can simulate understanding through complex algorithms and artificial intelligence, they do not possess genuine comprehension, consciousness, or subjective interpretation. True understanding involves cognitive abilities that are currently unique to living beings. Therefore, "understanding" in the human sense is not a function directly performed by a computer.

Explanation

A computer port is a physical connection point on a computer that allows external devices, also known as accessories or peripherals, to be connected. These ports serve as interfaces for data transfer, power delivery, and communication between the computer and devices like keyboards, mice, printers, monitors, and external storage. Different types of ports, such as USB, HDMI, and Ethernet, are designed for specific functions and types of accessories. For example, USB ports are commonly used for connecting a wide range of devices, including keyboards, mice, and external hard drives.

Explanation

When you navigate to a website, the initial page that loads and serves as the main entry point is called the home page. It typically provides an overview of the website's content and often contains links to other sections or pages within the site. The home page acts as a central hub, guiding visitors to the information they are seeking. Options like master page, first page, or banner page are not standard terms for this primary landing page.

Explanation

The 2016 Summer Olympics, officially known as the Games of the XXXI Olympiad, were held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, from August 5 to 21, 2016. Rio de Janeiro was selected as the host city by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) in 2009, beating bids from Chicago, Madrid, and Tokyo. This marked the first time that the Olympic Games were held in South America. The event featured over 11,000 athletes from 207 nations competing in 28 sports.

Explanation

Novak Djokovic won the Men's singles 2015 Wimbledon Championship. He defeated Roger Federer in a four-set match with a score of 7–6 (7–1), 6–7 (10–12), 6–4, 6–3. This marked his third Wimbledon title and his ninth major title overall. Djokovic successfully defended his championship from 2014, becoming the first man to retain the Wimbledon title since Federer in 2007.

Explanation

The headquarters of the Madhya Pradesh Cricket Association (MPCA) is located in Indore, India. This city is also home to the Holkar Cricket Stadium, which is owned and operated by the MPCA and serves as a venue for international and domestic cricket matches. Indore has a rich history in cricket and was formerly the hub of cricket activities in the region under the Holkar Dynasty. The MPCA, an affiliate of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), was originally formed in 1940 as the Holkar Cricket Association.

Explanation

Sandhya Agrawal is a renowned former Indian cricketer and former captain of the India women's cricket team. She was a prolific right-handed batter who represented India in 13 Test matches and 21 One Day Internationals between 1983 and 1995. Agrawal holds the record for the highest run tally by an Indian woman in Test cricket, including four centuries. After her retirement, she continued to contribute to the sport as a selector and administrator, including serving on the BCCI Women's Committee.

Explanation

National Sports Day in India is celebrated annually on August 29. This day commemorates the birth anniversary of the legendary Indian hockey player, Major Dhyan Chand, who was born on August 29, 1905. Major Dhyan Chand is widely regarded as one of the greatest hockey players of all time, having led India to three Olympic gold medals in 1928, 1932, and 1936. The day aims to honor his contributions to Indian sports and promote sportsmanship, discipline, and a healthy lifestyle among the citizens.

Explanation

A polo team consists of four mounted players. Each player is assigned a numbered position (1, 2, 3, or 4) with specific offensive and defensive responsibilities on the field. The objective of the game is for these four players to work together to drive a small ball through the opposing team's goal posts using long-handled mallets. While there is a variation called arena polo with three players, traditional outdoor polo is played with four players per team.

Explanation

Narendra Hirawani achieved his record-breaking feat of taking 16 wickets in a single Test match against the West Indies. This historic performance occurred on his Test debut in January 1988 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai (then Madras). He took 8 wickets for 61 runs in the first innings and another 8 wickets for 75 runs in the second innings, resulting in a match haul of 16 wickets for 136 runs. This remains the best bowling figures by any cricketer on Test debut.

Explanation

Aishbagh Stadium is located in Bhopal, the capital city of Madhya Pradesh, India. It is primarily a field hockey stadium with a seating capacity of 15,000 people. The stadium has hosted various national and international hockey matches, including being the home venue for the World Series Hockey team, Bhopal Badshahs.

Explanation

The Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993, was implemented on September 28, 1993. This Act provides for the constitution of a National Human Rights Commission, State Human Rights Commissions, and Human Rights Courts for the better protection of human rights in India. Although the Act was passed by the Parliament on January 8, 1994, it was deemed to have come into force earlier, on September 28, 1993, through an ordinance. This date marks the official commencement of the legal framework for human rights protection in the country.

Explanation

The Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993, was enacted to provide for the better protection of human rights in India. A key objective was the establishment of a National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) and State Human Rights Commissions (SHRCs) to investigate violations and promote human rights awareness. The Act also aimed to establish Human Rights Courts for the speedy trial of offenses related to human rights violations. Therefore, all the listed options—better protection of human rights, constituting a human protection commission (NHRC), and establishing human rights protection commissions in the states (SHRCs)—were indeed objectives of the Act.

Explanation

Article 123 of the Indian Constitution grants the President of India the power to promulgate ordinances when both Houses of Parliament are not in session. These ordinances have the same force and effect as an Act of Parliament but are temporary in nature. The Protection of Human Rights Ordinance was issued by the President in 1993 under this very article, allowing for the establishment of human rights commissions and related matters before a full parliamentary act could be passed. This power is crucial for addressing urgent matters when the legislature is not in session.

Explanation

Rani Durgavati was the regent queen of the Gondwana kingdom, ruling from 1550 to 1564 during the minority of her son, Vir Narayan. She married Dalpat Shah, the son of the Gond King Sangram Shah, thereby becoming part of the Gond dynasty. Her kingdom, Garha-Katanga, was a significant part of the larger Gondwana region, primarily located in present-day Madhya Pradesh. Rani Durgavati is remembered for her valiant defense of Gondwana against Mughal invasions.

Explanation

Bhima Nayak was a prominent tribal leader who led the tribal movement in the Sendhawa area and the wider Nimad region. He mobilized his people and organized resistance against the British authorities, particularly during the Indian Rebellion of 1857. Nayak is recognized for his efforts in fighting for the rights and welfare of the tribal communities. He was a significant figure in tribal resistance against British rule and is considered a freedom fighter.

Explanation

The Bhil tribe has the largest population in Madhya Pradesh. According to the 2011 Census of India, Madhya Pradesh has the highest tribal population in the country. The Bhils constitute approximately 37.7% of the total Scheduled Tribe population in Madhya Pradesh, making them the most numerous tribal group in the state. Their population is particularly concentrated in districts such as Jhabua, Dhar, Khargone, Ratlam, and Neemuch.

Explanation

The 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act, which aimed to strengthen Panchayati Raj Institutions and establish local self-governance, came into effect on April 24, 1993. Madhya Pradesh was the first state in India to implement this amendment. It achieved this by enacting its own panchayat law and subsequently holding panchayat elections in 1994. This early adoption demonstrated Madhya Pradesh's commitment to decentralization and empowering rural communities.

Explanation

The fellowship given by the Government of Madhya Pradesh in the field of music is named after Ustad Allauddin Khan. Allauddin Khan was a legendary Indian multi-instrumentalist, composer, and a highly influential guru of Indian classical music, who founded the Maihar gharana and spent a significant portion of his life in Maihar, Madhya Pradesh. The Ustad Allauddin Khan Sangeet Academy and the Department of Culture, Government of Madhya Pradesh, organize events and awards in his honor to promote classical music. In contrast, Shrikant Verma was a prominent Hindi poet and journalist, Amrita Sher-Gil was a renowned painter, and Chakradhar Singh was a patron of music and dance in the Raigarh princely state (now in Chhattisgarh), with the "Chakradhar Samman" being given by the Government of Chhattisgarh.

Explanation

Vishnu Chinchalkar was a renowned Indian artist, primarily known for his contributions to painting and art education. He is widely recognized as a "chitrakar," which means painter in Hindi. Chinchalkar was known for his unique approach to art, often experimenting with unconventional materials like dry leaves in his artwork. He studied at the Indore School of Arts and later at Mumbai's J.J. School of Arts, demonstrating proficiency in landscaping and portraiture. His work and teaching significantly impacted the fine arts, particularly in Indore.

Explanation

Sant Singajee is historically and culturally linked to the Nimar region of Madhya Pradesh. He was born in Khajuri village, which is located in the Nimar area, specifically in Barwani district. His samadhi (tomb) is situated in Pipaliya village in Khargone district, also part of the Nimar region, near Khandwa. Sant Singajee is revered as a saint and folk deity, particularly in the rural areas of Nimar, and his devotional songs and teachings are prominent in this region. He is often referred to as the "Kabir of Nimar" due to his influential devotional poetry.

Explanation

"M.P. Pashu chikitsa avem pashu palan vishwa vidyalaya", officially known as Nanaji Deshmukh Veterinary Science University, is situated in Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh. This state agricultural university was established in 2009 by the Madhya Pradesh Pashu Chikitsa Vigyan Vishwavidyalaya Adhiniyam, 2009. It focuses on imparting education and conducting research in various branches of veterinary science, animal husbandry, and fisheries. The main campus and administrative offices of the university are located in Jabalpur.

Explanation

The Ganesh Shankar Vidyarthi Award is directly related to the field of Journalism. This annual award is presented by the President of India to honor excellence and outstanding contributions in journalism. It was instituted in memory of Ganesh Shankar Vidyarthi, a renowned Indian journalist, politician, and freedom fighter who was also the founder-editor of the Hindi newspaper 'Pratap'. The award recognizes significant work in Hindi journalism and mass communication.

Explanation

The currency printing press in Madhya Pradesh is located in Dewas. This facility, known as the Bank Note Press, was established in 1974 and is an industrial unit of the Security Printing & Minting Corporation of India Limited (SPMCIL), which is wholly owned by the Government of India. The Dewas press is responsible for printing various denominations of Indian currency notes and also manufactures high-quality security inks. While Hoshangabad has a Security Paper Mill that produces paper for currency, the actual printing of notes takes place in Dewas.

Explanation

Dhupgarh, also known as Dhoopgarh, is the highest peak of the Satpura Range. It is situated in the Mahadeo Hills, which are part of the Satpura Range, near the hill station of Pachmarhi in Madhya Pradesh, India. With an elevation of approximately 1,350 to 1,352 meters (4,429 to 4,436 feet), it offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The Satpura Range itself is a significant mountain range in central India, running parallel to the Vindhya Range.

Explanation

Subhadra Kumari Chauhan is the writer of 'Bikhare Moti'. This collection of short stories is one of her well-known prose works. She was a prominent Indian poet and writer, recognized for her patriotic poems such as 'Jhansi ki Rani' and her significant contributions to Hindi literature. In contrast, Muktibodh is known for poetry collections like 'Chand Ka Muh Teda Hai' and 'Brahmarakshas', while Agyeya is associated with works such as 'Shekhar: Ek Jivani' and editing 'Tar Saptak'. Dinker Sonwalker is not widely recognized for major works in Hindi literature.

Explanation

G.L. Yadav is an Arjuna Awardee in the field of yachting and belongs to Madhya Pradesh. He received the prestigious Arjuna Award in 2009 for his outstanding achievements in yachting. Yadav is also recognized for his contributions as a coach, having received Madhya Pradesh's highest sporting honor for coaches, the Vishwamitra Award, in December 2020. He has represented India in various national and international yachting competitions. Shivendra Singh, while an Arjuna Awardee from Madhya Pradesh, is a hockey player, not a yachting athlete. Information regarding Sunil Keer and Roop Singh Mallah as Arjuna Awardees in yachting from Madhya Pradesh is not readily available.

Explanation

Junko Tabei, a Japanese mountaineer, became the first woman to reach the summit of Mount Everest on May 16, 1975. She was part of an all-female Japanese expedition. Her ascent marked a significant achievement in mountaineering history. This accomplishment solidified her place as a pioneer for women in extreme sports.

Explanation

A fathometer is an instrument specifically designed to measure the depth of water, particularly in oceans and seas. It operates on the principle of sonar, which involves emitting sound waves into the water. These sound waves travel to the seabed and then reflect back to the instrument as an echo. The fathometer calculates the depth by precisely measuring the time it takes for the sound waves to travel from the surface to the bottom and return. The term "fathom" itself is a unit of length used for measuring water depth, with one fathom equaling six feet.

Explanation

The Tropical Forest Research Institute (TFRI), a regional institute under the Indian Council of Forestry Research & Education (ICFRE), is situated in Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh. Its origin dates back to 1973 when a Regional Centre of the Forest Research Institute, Dehradun, was established in Jabalpur to support forest management in central India. The institute focuses on research related to forestry and ecological issues of tropical forests in the central region, including Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Maharashtra. Therefore, Jabalpur is the correct district for the regional research Indian Forest Research Institute in Madhya Pradesh.

Explanation

A microscope is an optical instrument designed to magnify small objects, making them visible to the human eye. While the primary function is to study "micro" or very small objects that are otherwise invisible, these objects must also be "nearby" to be placed under the microscope's lens system. Therefore, a microscope is used for the study of both micro and nearby objects, allowing for detailed observation of their structures. This distinguishes it from instruments like telescopes, which are used for distant objects.

Explanation

A person with blood group O can be a universal donor because their red blood cells lack A and B antigens on their surface. This means that when O blood is transfused, there are no antigens for the recipient's immune system to attack, preventing an adverse reaction. Specifically, O negative blood is the universal red blood cell donor as it also lacks the Rh factor. This makes it compatible with all other blood types, making it crucial for emergency transfusions.

Explanation

A lactometer is a device specifically designed to measure the density or specific gravity of milk, which helps in determining its purity and water content. It works on the principle of Archimedes, where the depth to which it sinks indicates the milk's density. Thermometers measure temperature, barometers measure atmospheric pressure, and hygrometers measure humidity, none of which are used for assessing milk density. Therefore, the lactometer is the correct instrument for this purpose.

Explanation

A seismograph is an instrument used to detect and record ground motion caused by earthquakes. While magnitude measures the energy released at the earthquake's source, intensity describes the strength of shaking at a particular location, which can be determined from seismometer recordings of ground motion. In contrast, a barometer measures atmospheric pressure, a hydrometer measures the density or specific gravity of liquids, and a polygraph measures physiological responses like heart rate and blood pressure, often used in lie detection. Therefore, the seismograph is the correct instrument for measuring earthquake intensity.

Explanation

Alexander Fleming, a Scottish physician and microbiologist, is credited with the discovery of penicillin. In 1928, while working at St. Mary's Hospital in London, he observed that a mold, later identified as Penicillium notatum, had contaminated a petri dish containing Staphylococcus bacteria. He noticed that the mold prevented the normal growth of the bacteria, indicating its antibacterial properties. This accidental discovery led to the identification of penicillin, the first true antibiotic, which revolutionized medicine by providing an effective treatment for bacterial infections.

Explanation

June 21st is the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere because it marks the summer solstice. This occurs when the Earth's axis, which is tilted at approximately 23.5 degrees, causes the Northern Hemisphere to be most directly tilted towards the Sun. As a result, the Sun's rays hit the Northern Hemisphere at their most direct angle, leading to the maximum number of daylight hours and the shortest night of the year. The term "solstice" comes from Latin words meaning "sun standing still," referring to the sun's apparent halt in its northward movement before beginning its southward journey.

Explanation

The Gandhi Peace Prize for the year 2013 was awarded to Shri Chandi Prasad Bhatt. Chandi Prasad Bhatt is a renowned Indian environmentalist and social activist. He is widely recognized for his pioneering role in the Chipko Movement, a non-violent forest conservation movement in the Himalayas. His work focused on empowering local communities, especially women, in environmental protection and sustainable living. Therefore, the correct option is D) an environmentalist.

Explanation

The Saansad Adarsh Gram Yojana (SAGY) was launched on October 11, 2014, which marks the birth anniversary of Lok Nayak Jai Prakash Narayan. This program aims for the holistic development of villages through the leadership of Members of Parliament. In contrast, the Swachh Bharat Mission was launched on October 2, 2014, the Digital India program on July 1, 2015, and the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana on August 28, 2014. Thus, only the Saansad Adarsh Gram Yojana aligns with the specified launch date and occasion.