MPPSC Prelims 2019 Question Paper with Answers & Explanations

Explanation

In the field of computers, VIRUS stands for Vital Information Resource Under Siege. A computer virus is a type of malicious software that replicates itself by modifying other computer programs and inserting its own code. These viruses aim to harm or damage data, often leading to data loss, operational issues, or system damage. They are designed to spread and compromise the integrity and availability of vital information resources within a computer system.

Explanation

A cracker is an individual who gains unauthorized access to computer systems, often with malicious intent. Their actions typically involve destroying vital data, denying legitimate users service, or causing other problems for their targets. In contrast, a white hat hacker uses their skills to find and fix security vulnerabilities ethically and with permission. A programmer writes and maintains computer programs, while a database administrator manages and secures databases. Therefore, "Cracker" is the correct term for someone who performs the malicious actions described.

Explanation

The Information Technology Act, 2000, is India's first comprehensive cyberlaw, enacted on June 9, 2000, and becoming effective on October 17, 2000. This landmark legislation provides the legal framework for electronic commerce in India by granting legal recognition to electronic records and digital signatures. It facilitates secure online transactions, promotes e-governance, and addresses cybercrimes, thereby laying the foundation for the growth of the digital economy. Before this Act, no specific law in India comprehensively covered electronic commerce or cyber activities. The Act was based on the UNCITRAL Model Law on Electronic Commerce, aligning India's cyber legal framework with international standards.

Explanation

Phishing, cyber stalking, and identity theft are all recognized forms of cybercrime. Phishing involves tricking individuals into revealing sensitive information through deceptive messages. Cyber stalking refers to using electronic means to harass or intimidate someone, often causing fear and distress. Identity theft occurs when someone unlawfully obtains and uses another person's personal information for fraudulent purposes. In contrast, online chatting is a legitimate form of digital communication and is not inherently a criminal activity, although it can sometimes be misused to facilitate other crimes.

Explanation

In an email address, the domain name is the part that comes after the "@" symbol. It identifies the server or organization that hosts the email account. In the given email address, "mark.sttol@itdesk.info", "mark.sttol" is the local part (username) and "itdesk.info" is the domain name. Therefore, ITdesk.info is the correct domain name.

Explanation

The Industrial Development Center Bannore is situated in the Morena district of Madhya Pradesh. Bannore is a town, tehsil, and nagar panchayat within the Morena district. This industrial area is known for various industries, including those based on engineering, chemical, and agro products. Morena district itself is located in the Chambal division and shares its boundaries with Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh.

Explanation

The "Make in India" program was launched on September 25, 2014, by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This initiative was designed to transform India into a global design and manufacturing hub, encouraging both domestic and foreign investment in various sectors. It aimed to boost the manufacturing sector's growth, create jobs, and increase its contribution to the GDP. Therefore, September 2014 is the correct answer.

Explanation

Dewas and Indore are recognized as 'Towns of Export Excellence' in Madhya Pradesh. Dewas is known for its pharmaceuticals, while Indore is recognized for its handloom products. This status is granted by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India, to cities that have achieved significant export growth in specific sectors. These towns receive various benefits and support to further boost their export potential.

Explanation

The Ministry of Commerce and Industry is responsible for India's Foreign Trade Policy. This Ministry, through its Department of Commerce, formulates and implements the foreign trade policy to regulate and promote India's international trade. The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) is an attached body under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, which is the chief agency for administering laws related to foreign trade and investment in India. The DGFT is tasked with formulating and carrying out the Foreign Trade Policy, also known as the EXIM policy, to boost exports and manage imports.

Explanation

The headquarters of the Madhya Pradesh Finance Corporation (MPFC) is located in Indore. Established in 1955 under the State Financial Corporation Act, 1951, the MPFC is a premier institution in the state. It provides financial assistance and related services primarily to small and medium-sized industries. Indore serves as the industrial hub of Madhya Pradesh, making it a strategic location for the corporation's main office.

Explanation

The Madhya Pradesh State Election Commission was constituted on February 1, 1994. Since its formation, Panchayat General Elections have been held in Madhya Pradesh in the years 1994, 1999, 2004, 2009, and 2014. These five elections represent the regular cycles of general elections conducted by the commission. While a sixth general election also took place in 2022, the option of "Five" is correct if the question refers to the elections held up to and including the 2014 cycle.

Explanation

Article 243K of the Indian Constitution empowers the State Election Commission to superintend, direct, and control the preparation of electoral rolls and the conduct of all elections to the Panchayats. While Article 243K specifically mentions Panchayats, Article 243ZA extends similar powers to the State Election Commission for elections to the Municipalities (urban local bodies). Therefore, the State Election Commission operates the election of urban bodies under the provisions outlined in Article 243K, read in conjunction with Article 243ZA. This article ensures the independent and fair conduct of local body elections.

Explanation

The Indian Constitution, through its Seventh Schedule, delineates the distribution of legislative powers between the Union and the States by categorizing subjects into three lists: the Union List, the State List, and the Concurrent List. "Local government," which encompasses Panchayati Raj institutions, is explicitly mentioned as Entry 5 in the State List. This means that state legislatures have the exclusive power to make laws regarding the constitution, powers, and functions of Panchayats. The 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act of 1992 further strengthened Panchayati Raj by adding Part IX to the Constitution and the Eleventh Schedule, which lists 29 subjects under the purview of Panchayats, reinforcing their status as a state subject. Therefore, states are primarily responsible for establishing and governing the Panchayati Raj system.

Explanation

Part IX of the Indian Constitution contains provisions related to Panchayati Raj. This part, titled "The Panchayats," was inserted by the 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act of 1992. It includes Articles 243 to 243-O, which define the structure, powers, and functions of Panchayats at the village, intermediate, and district levels. This amendment gave constitutional status to Panchayati Raj Institutions, aiming to strengthen grassroots democracy and local self-governance in rural India. The 73rd Amendment also added the Eleventh Schedule to the Constitution, listing 29 subjects within the functions of the Panchayats.

Explanation

According to the 2011 census, Ujjain had a population of 515,215. In contrast, Bhopal had a population of 1,798,218, Gwalior had a population of 1,054,420, and Jabalpur had a population of 1,081,677. Therefore, Ujjain was the only city among the options with a population not exceeding 10 lakh (1,000,000) in 2011.

Explanation

Section 12 of the Protection of Civil Rights Act, 1955, specifically states that when an act constituting an offence under this Act is committed in relation to a member of a Scheduled Caste, the Court shall presume, unless the contrary is proved, that such act was committed on the ground of "untouchability". This legal presumption is explicitly tied to offences against Scheduled Castes. While the Act aims to combat untouchability generally, this particular provision for a legal presumption does not extend to Scheduled Tribes. The Protection of Civil Rights Act, 1955, was enacted to give effect to Article 17 of the Constitution of India, which abolished untouchability.

Explanation

Section 5 of the Protection of Civil Rights Act, 1955 specifically addresses the punishment for refusing admission to individuals to hospitals, dispensaries, educational institutions, or hostels on the grounds of untouchability. This section states that whoever, on the ground of "untouchability," refuses admission to any person to such institutions, if they are established or maintained for the benefit of the general public, shall be punishable. The Act aims to abolish untouchability and enforce civil rights, making such discriminatory acts an offense. Therefore, refusing admission based on untouchability falls directly under Section 5 of the Act.

Explanation

The Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989, was enacted to prevent atrocities against members of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes. While the Act was passed in 1989, it officially came into force on January 30, 1990. This date marks the beginning of its legal enforceability across India. Therefore, option B is the correct answer.

Explanation

Option B is incorrect because "Exclusive Special Court" is defined under Section 2(bd) of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, not Section 2(d). Section 2(d) of the Act defines "Special Court" as a Court of Session specified under Section 14. Conversely, "Victim" is correctly defined under Section 2(ec) and "Dependent" is correctly defined under Section 2(bb) of the Act. Additionally, offenses under this Act are indeed committed by individuals who are not members of Scheduled Castes or Scheduled Tribes.

Explanation

Section 14A(1) of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989, explicitly states that an appeal shall lie from any judgment, sentence, or order of a Special Court or an Exclusive Special Court to the High Court "both on facts and on law". This means the High Court has the power to re-examine the evidence presented and the factual findings of the lower court, as well as review the legal interpretations and applications. The Supreme Court has also clarified that such an appeal is a statutory first appeal, obliging the High Court to independently evaluate the material on record as a court of both fact and law. Therefore, appeals under this Act are not limited to legal questions but can also challenge the factual basis of the decision.

Explanation

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa was the chief guest at India's Republic Day celebration in New Delhi on January 26, 2019. Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended the invitation to President Ramaphosa during the G20 Summit in Buenos Aires. This invitation came after US President Donald Trump declined an earlier invitation due to scheduling conflicts. The choice of President Ramaphosa was significant as 2019 marked the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, who shared a deep historical connection with South Africa. He was the second South African President to be the chief guest at the Republic Day parade, following Nelson Mandela.

Explanation

Mr. Lyonpo Damcho Dorji, who served as the Foreign Minister of Bhutan at the time, was the special guest at the 3rd International Dhamma Dharma Conference held in Indore in 2015. The conference, which took place from October 24-26, 2015, focused on the theme "Harmony of Religions: Welfare of Humankind". He highlighted the importance of finding ways for religion to contribute to the welfare of humankind and praised India's religious diversity.

Explanation

Ayushman Bharat - Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojna (AB-PMJAY) is indeed the world's largest government-funded health assurance scheme. It was launched by the Government of India on September 23, 2018, with the aim of providing free access to health insurance coverage for low-income earners. The scheme offers a health cover of up to ₹5 lakh per family per year for secondary and tertiary care hospitalization to over 10.74 crore poor and vulnerable families, covering approximately 50 crore beneficiaries who form the bottom 40% of the Indian population. This initiative is a significant step towards achieving Universal Health Coverage in India.

Explanation

Under the "Mukhya Mantri Kanyadan Yojna" in Madhya Pradesh, the financial assistance provided to marriageable girls from poor families was increased to Rs. 51,000.00 in the year 2019. This revised amount aimed to better support eligible families by covering various marriage-related expenses, including items for the bride and ceremony costs. The scheme's objective is to offer financial support for the marriage of daughters belonging to economically weaker sections, thereby easing the financial burden on their families.

Explanation

"Period-End of Sentence" won the Oscar for Best Documentary (Short Subject) at the 91st Academy Awards in 2019. The film, co-produced by Indian producer Guneet Monga, focuses on women in a rural village outside Delhi, India, who are fighting the stigma surrounding menstruation by learning to manufacture and market their own sanitary pads. This documentary highlights their efforts to improve menstrual hygiene and promote economic independence. The 91st Academy Awards ceremony was held on February 24, 2019.

Explanation

Kapildhara, Dugdhdhara, and Bheraghat (Dhuandhar Falls) are all waterfalls located on the Narmada River in Madhya Pradesh. In contrast, Bhalkund waterfall, also known as Rahatgarh Waterfall, is situated on the Bina River in the Sagar district of Madhya Pradesh. Thus, Bhalkund is the waterfall not found on the Narmada River.

Explanation

National Highway 8 (NH-8) does not pass through the state of Madhya Pradesh. Under the old numbering system, NH-8 connected Delhi to Mumbai, traversing through the states of Haryana, Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Maharashtra. In contrast, the old National Highway 3 (NH-3), known as the Agra-Bombay Road, passed through Madhya Pradesh, connecting cities like Gwalior and Indore. Similarly, the old National Highway 12 (NH-12) connected Jabalpur in Madhya Pradesh to Jaipur in Rajasthan, running through several districts within Madhya Pradesh. The old National Highway 7 (NH-7) also passed through Madhya Pradesh as it stretched from Varanasi to Kanyakumari.

Explanation

Floods frequently impact the plains of Uttar Pradesh and Bihar due to their extensive river systems and flat topography. Earthquakes are common in the Himalayan Zone, a seismically active region resulting from tectonic plate movements. Droughts predominantly affect the West and Central India Zone, which experiences variable monsoon rainfall. Tsunamis primarily impact the Southern Coastal area of India, as they are ocean-generated waves. Therefore, the correct matching sequence is Flood-ii, Earthquake-i, Drought-iii, and Tsunami-iv.

Explanation

Kaathi is a popular folk dance primarily performed in the Nimar region of Madhya Pradesh. This traditional dance is often associated with the worship of Goddess Parvati (Gangaur Devi or Shakti) and is performed during seasonal cycles, sometimes lasting for several months. Dancers adorn themselves with peacock feathers and decorated bamboo, accompanied by instruments like 'Dhak' and brass plates to maintain rhythm. While there is also a Kathi dance in West Bengal, the context of the Madhya Pradesh Public Service Commission question points to the dance form from Madhya Pradesh.

Explanation

The Telegraph Plateau is located in the North Atlantic Ocean, not the Indian Ocean. It is an oceanic plateau that forms part of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge system, stretching between Newfoundland and Ireland. The Walvis Ridge is correctly situated in the Atlantic Ocean, and the Agulhas Basin is found in the Indian Ocean, south of South Africa. There is no prominent oceanic feature known as the "Cocoa Ridge" in the Pacific Ocean; search results for "Cocoa Ridge" primarily refer to geographical locations on land.

Explanation

India shares a 1,751 km long border with Nepal. The border with Pakistan extends for 3,323 km. India's border with China is 3,488 km long. The longest border among these is with Bangladesh, measuring 4,096.7 km. Therefore, arranging these in ascending order of length gives Nepal, Pakistan, China, and Bangladesh.

Explanation

Captain Roop Singh Stadium is an international cricket stadium located in Gwalior, India. Although it was originally a hockey stadium named after the renowned Indian hockey player Roop Singh, it was converted into a cricket venue in the 1980s. The stadium has since hosted numerous One Day International (ODI) cricket matches. Notably, it was the venue where Sachin Tendulkar scored the first-ever double century in ODI cricket in 2010. Therefore, the stadium is primarily associated with cricket.

Explanation

The Madhya Pradesh State Equestrian Academy was established in 2007. It is located in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, and provides world-class training in equestrian sports. The academy is known for its international standard infrastructure and has achieved significant success in national and international competitions.

Explanation

The Ekalavya Award is a prestigious state-level sports honor instituted by the Government of Madhya Pradesh. It is presented annually to junior athletes under 21 years of age for their exemplary performances in various sports. In contrast, the Arjuna Award is a national-level sports honor given by the Government of India. The Laxman Award is a sports award specific to Uttar Pradesh, and the Gandharva Award is related to Hindustani classical music, not sports, and is also instituted by the Government of Madhya Pradesh. Therefore, the Ekalavya Award is the correct option as it is directly related to the Madhya Pradesh state for sports.

Explanation

Sonu Golkar was honored with the Vikram Award in 2018 by the Madhya Pradesh government in the Disabled Category for his contributions to cricket. He is associated with blind cricket and is the captain of the Madhya Pradesh blind cricket team. Pooja Vastrakar received the Vikram Award 2018 for Cricket in the General Category, and Harshita Tomar was awarded for Sailing in the Senior Category. Information regarding Bheem Sonkar as a Vikram Awardee in 2018, especially in the disabled category, is not readily available.

Explanation

Muskan Kirar is an accomplished Indian archer from Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh. She has achieved significant success in the sport, including winning a gold medal in the women's compound event at the Archery Asia Cup Stage 1 in 2019 and a silver medal at the World Archery Championships in 2021 as part of the Indian team. Kirar has also secured a silver medal at the 2018 Asian Games in archery and a gold medal in the under-21 women's compound archery category at the Khelo India Youth Games in 2020. Her consistent performance in various national and international archery competitions confirms her association with the sport.

Explanation

Panna Airport is a non-operational domestic airport in Madhya Pradesh. It is maintained by the Airports Authority of India (AAI) but is currently inactive for commercial or scheduled flights. Khajuraho, Jabalpur, and Gwalior airports are all operational and handle scheduled commercial flights.

Explanation

Dr. Sitasaran Sharma served as the Speaker of the Madhya Pradesh Legislative Assembly from January 2014 to January 2019, covering the 2014-2018 term mentioned in the question. He was unanimously elected as the Speaker for the 14th state assembly on January 9, 2014. Prior to him, Shri Ishwardas Rohani served as the Speaker from 2003 to 2013. Pt. Kunjilal Dubey was the first Speaker of the Madhya Pradesh Legislative Assembly.

Explanation

Dr. Balram Jakhar served as the Governor of Madhya Pradesh from June 30, 2004, to June 29, 2009. Shri Rameshwar Thakur was the Governor of Madhya Pradesh from June 30, 2009, to September 7, 2011. Dr. Bhai Mahaveer held the position of Governor of Madhya Pradesh between April 1998 and March 2003. However, Justice Anshuman Singh served as the Governor of Gujarat from 1998 to 1999 and as the Governor of Rajasthan from 1999 to 2003, but not as the Governor of Madhya Pradesh.

Explanation

Madhya Pradesh is a landlocked state in central India, sharing its borders with five other Indian states. These bordering states are Rajasthan to the northwest, Uttar Pradesh to the northeast, Chhattisgarh to the east, Maharashtra to the south, and Gujarat to the west. Jharkhand is located further to the east of India and does not share a direct boundary with Madhya Pradesh.

Explanation

Shri Avni Vaishya has not served as the Commissioner of the Madhya Pradesh State Election Commission. The list of former State Election Commissioners for Madhya Pradesh includes Shri Gopal Sharan Shukla, Shri R. Parshuram, and Dr. Ajit Raizada, among others. Shri Avni Vaishya's name does not appear in the official records of individuals who have held this position.

Explanation

The committee for the recommendations of appointment of the Chairperson and other Members of the National Human Rights Commission includes the Prime Minister as the chairperson, the Speaker of the House of the People, the Union Home Minister, the Leader of the Opposition in the House of the People, and the Leader of the Opposition in the Council of States, and the Deputy Chairman of the Council of States. The Chairman of the Council of States (who is the Vice-President of India) is not a member of this specific committee. Therefore, option D is correct because the Chairman of the Council of States is not part of the selection committee.

Explanation

The Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993, as amended, states that the Chairperson and members of the National Human Rights Commission hold office for a term of three years or until they attain the age of seventy years, whichever is earlier. Importantly, both the Chairperson and members are eligible for re-appointment. Therefore, statement C, which claims a member is not eligible for re-appointment, is incorrect. The Act also specifies that the Chairperson or a Member is ineligible for further employment under the Government of India or the Government of any State.

Explanation

The Chairperson and Members of a State Human Rights Commission are appointed by the Governor of the concerned state. This appointment is made as per Section 21(2) of the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993. The Governor issues a formal warrant for these appointments. While the Governor makes the final appointment, it is typically based on the recommendations of a selection committee. This committee usually includes the Chief Minister, Speaker of the Legislative Assembly, the state Home Minister, and the Leader of the Opposition in the Legislative Assembly.

Explanation

Section 31 of the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993, mandates the appointment of a Special Public Prosecutor for every Human Rights Court. This section specifies that the State Government shall either designate a Public Prosecutor or appoint an advocate who has been in practice for a minimum of seven years to conduct cases in these courts. Therefore, an advocate must have been in practice for not less than seven years to be eligible for this role.

Explanation

All punishable offenses under the Protection of Civil Rights Act, 1955, are cognizable. This means that a police officer can arrest an offender without a warrant and begin an investigation without prior court permission. Furthermore, most offenses under this Act are triable summarily, allowing for a quicker legal process by a Judicial Magistrate of the first class or a Metropolitan Magistrate, unless the punishment involves imprisonment for a minimum term exceeding three months. This provision ensures swift justice for crimes related to untouchability.

Explanation

The 44th Constitution Amendment Act, enacted in 1978, removed the Right to Property from the list of Fundamental Rights in the Indian Constitution. Prior to this amendment, the Right to Property was guaranteed under Article 19(1)(f) and Article 31. This amendment reclassified it as a legal or constitutional right under Article 300A, which states that "no person shall be deprived of his property save by authority of law." The change aimed to balance individual property rights with the state's power to acquire land for public welfare and implement socio-economic reforms. Consequently, while the right to property is still protected, it is no longer enforceable directly through the Supreme Court as a fundamental right.

Explanation

Jayaprakash Narayan, often referred to as JP, was a prominent Indian political leader and social activist who explicitly proposed the concept of "Party Less Democracy" in India. He believed that political parties fostered corruption, factionalism, and a disconnect between the people and the government. Influenced by Gandhian principles and the Sarvodaya movement, JP envisioned a decentralized democracy rooted in local self-governance where individuals and communities directly participate in decision-making without the intermediary of political parties. His advocacy for partyless democracy was a key component of his "Total Revolution" movement, aiming for genuine people's power and social transformation. While Mahatma Gandhi's ideas of Gram Swaraj shared a spirit of grassroots empowerment, it was Jayaprakash Narayan who more explicitly formulated and promoted the term "Party Less Democracy" in post-independence India.

Explanation

V.S. Ramadevi holds the distinction of being the first and, to date, only woman to serve as the Chief Election Commissioner of India. She assumed office on November 26, 1990, and served until December 11, 1990. Prior to this role, she was also the first woman Secretary-General of the Rajya Sabha. Her appointment marked a significant moment in the history of the Election Commission of India.

Explanation

Article 149 of the Indian Constitution specifically outlines the duties and powers of the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India. It states that the CAG shall perform such duties and exercise such powers in relation to the accounts of the Union and of the States, and of any other authority or body, as may be prescribed by or under any law made by Parliament. This article provides the constitutional foundation for the CAG's audit functions, ensuring financial accountability and transparency in government spending. Parliament later enacted the Comptroller and Auditor General's (Duties, Powers and Conditions of Service) Act, 1971, to further define these responsibilities. While Article 148 deals with the appointment and conditions of service of the CAG, Article 149 is solely dedicated to their duties and powers.

Explanation

The L.M. Singhvi Committee, constituted in 1986, recommended constitutional recognition for Panchayati Raj Institutions to ensure their stability and effective functioning. The committee emphasized that constitutional status would provide a legal framework and safeguard these institutions from arbitrary dissolution or neglect. This recommendation was a significant step towards strengthening local self-governance in India. It advocated for free and fair elections to Panchayati Raj bodies and suggested measures for their financial viability. The recommendations of the L.M. Singhvi Committee eventually paved the way for the 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act of 1992.

Explanation

Antonio Guterres is the current Secretary-General of the United Nations Organization. He assumed office on January 1, 2017, and was re-appointed for a second term in 2021. His second term runs from January 2022 to December 2026. The other options listed, Ban Ki-moon, Kofi Annan, and Kurt Waldheim, are all former Secretaries-General of the UN. Therefore, Antonio Guterres is the correct answer.

Explanation

Syed Haider Raza was born in Babaria, Mandla district, Madhya Pradesh, in 1922. He moved to France in October 1950 to study at the École Nationale supérieure des Beaux-Arts in Paris and continued to live and exhibit his work there for most of his career. Raza returned to India in 2010 and passed away in New Delhi on July 23, 2016, at the age of 94.

In contrast, M.F. Husain was born in Pandharpur, Maharashtra, in 1915 and died in London in 2011. Raja Rao was born in Hassan, Mysore (now Karnataka), in 1908 and died in Austin, Texas, in 2006. N.S. Bendre was born in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, in 1910 and died in Mumbai in 1992. Therefore, Syed Haider Raza is the only painter who fits all the criteria mentioned in the question.

Explanation

The Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Manav Sangrahalaya, also known as the National Museum of Humankind or Museum of Man, is located in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India. This museum is dedicated to presenting an integrated story of the evolution of human civilization and culture, with a special focus on India. Spanning approximately 200 acres on the Shyamala Hills, it is considered the largest ethnographic museum in India. The museum features both indoor galleries and extensive open-air exhibitions, including recreated tribal habitats and traditional technology parks, showcasing the diverse cultural heritage of various communities.

Explanation

Kolinda Grabar-Kitarović was the President of Croatia from 2015 to 2020. She was notably present in the stadium to support the Croatian national football team during the 2018 FIFA World Cup final in Russia. Her enthusiastic presence and interactions with players and officials gained significant media attention. Therefore, Kolinda Grabar-Kitarović is the correct answer.

Explanation

The Supreme Court, in the landmark case of Unnikrishnan v/s Andhra Pradesh, held that the Right to Education is a fundamental right flowing from Article 21 of the Constitution. The court interpreted Article 21, which guarantees the Right to Life and Personal Liberty, to include the right to a dignified life, which in turn necessitates access to education. This decision paved the way for the eventual insertion of Article 21A, making elementary education a fundamental right. The ruling established that the state has an obligation to provide education to its citizens.

Explanation

SATYABAMASAT is an Academic Institute Satellite because it was developed by students and faculty of Sathyabama University in Chennai, India, with technical guidance from the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). This micro-experimental satellite was launched to collect data on greenhouse gases. In contrast, CARTOSAT-2B is an Earth observation satellite built by ISRO, KALPANA-1 is a dedicated meteorological satellite by ISRO, and INSAT-2E is a multi-purpose communications and weather satellite also built by ISRO.

Explanation

Fluoride pollution is responsible for "Knock-Knee Syndrome," medically known as genu valgum. This condition arises from excessive fluoride accumulation in the body, primarily through contaminated drinking water. High levels of fluoride lead to skeletal fluorosis, a chronic bone disease. Skeletal fluorosis causes the bones to become brittle and deformed, particularly affecting the leg bones. This compromised bone structure results in the characteristic inward bending of the knees.

Explanation

Geitonogamy is the transfer of pollen grains from the anther of one flower to the stigma of another flower on the same plant. Although it involves a pollinator, making it functionally similar to cross-pollination, it is genetically considered a type of self-pollination because the pollen comes from the same individual plant. In contrast, autogamy is self-pollination within the same flower, and xenogamy is the transfer of pollen between flowers of different plants of the same species, leading to genetic diversity.

Explanation

COBOL, PASCAL, and BASIC are all examples of high-level programming languages. High-level languages are designed to be more user-friendly and abstract away the complexities of computer hardware, making them easier for programmers to read, write, and understand compared to low-level languages like assembly or machine code. These languages use syntax closer to human language and require a compiler or interpreter to translate them into machine-executable code. Therefore, all the listed options fall under the category of high-level programming languages.

Explanation

In the buccal cavity, or mouth, the digestion of carbohydrates begins. Saliva, secreted in the mouth, contains an enzyme called salivary amylase (or ptyalin). This enzyme starts breaking down complex carbohydrates like starch into simpler sugars such as maltose. Protein digestion primarily begins in the stomach, and fat digestion mainly occurs in the small intestine.

Explanation

Hirdeshah, a prominent figure in the Bundela rebellion of 1842, was the zamindar of Hirapur. This uprising, which occurred in the Sagar-Narmada territory, saw several local rulers and landlords challenging British authority due to their policies and interference. Hirdeshah, also known as the "Narmada Tiger," played a crucial role in mobilizing support and leading the revolt against the British East India Company. He was considered a main leader of the rebellion, alongside others like Madhukar Shah of Narhat and Jawahar Singh Bundela of Chandrapur.

Explanation

The Minto-Morley Reforms, officially known as the Indian Councils Act of 1909, introduced separate electorates for Muslims in British India. This meant that Muslim members in legislative councils were to be elected exclusively by Muslim voters. This institutionalized communal representation in Indian politics for the first time, leading Lord Minto to be called the "Father of Communal Electorate". The act was seen by many as a deliberate strategy of "divide and rule" by the British to curb the rising tide of nationalism. While it increased Indian participation in legislative councils, it did not grant colonial self-government.

Explanation

Fazil Mohammad Khan was a prominent leader from the Bhopal region who played a significant role in the 1857 struggle for independence. He led forces that actively challenged the pro-British stance of the Nawab of Bhopal and confronted British authority. His actions included capturing the Rahatgarh fort, a crucial act of defiance during the rebellion. Fazil Mohammad Khan continued his fight until he was captured and subsequently executed by the British on January 29, 1858, sacrificing his life for the cause of independence.

Explanation

Swami Dayanand Saraswati, a prominent Indian philosopher and social reformer, is the author of "Satyarth Prakash". This influential book, originally written in Hindi in 1875, is considered a masterpiece among his works and a foundational text for the Arya Samaj, a Hindu reform movement he established. "Satyarth Prakash" (meaning "The Light of Truth") expounds upon Vedic teachings, advocates for social reforms, and critically analyzes various religious beliefs. The book was later revised in 1882 and has been translated into more than 20 languages, making its principles widely known.

Explanation

The Dashpur Inscription, also known as the Mandsaur Inscription, is a significant historical record from ancient India. It dates back to the Gupta period, specifically the reign of Kumaragupta I and his governor Bandhuvarman. This inscription uniquely details the migration of a guild of silk weavers from Lata (modern-day Gujarat) to Dashpur (modern Mandsaur in Madhya Pradesh). It describes their prosperity and their charitable activities, including the construction and later repair of a Surya (Sun) temple, providing valuable insight into the functioning of craft guilds in ancient India.

Explanation

The Barwani hills are located in the western part of the Satpura range, specifically in the southwestern part of Madhya Pradesh. Moving eastward, the Mahadeo range is situated in the northern section of the Satpura Range, running through central Madhya Pradesh. Further to the east, the Maikal range forms the eastern base of the triangular Satpura range, extending into eastern Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh. Thus, the correct West to East sequence is Barwani hills, followed by the Mahadeo range, and then the Maikal range.

Explanation

The Chambal River valley is renowned for its extensive and deep ravines, a classic example of badland topography. These ravines, locally known as 'beehad' or 'bihar', are formed by severe soil erosion, particularly gully erosion, due to the river's flow and surface runoff over susceptible soils in the region. This highly dissected landscape makes the area rugged and difficult to traverse. While other rivers like the Narmada and Tapti flow through rift valleys, they are not primarily known for such widespread, deep ravine systems. The Chambal ravines span across parts of Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh.

Explanation

The revised National Highway number connecting Indore to Jaipur is NH 52. This highway is a significant north-south route in India, stretching 2,317 km from Sangrur in Punjab to Ankola in Karnataka. The section of NH 52 that passes through Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh includes cities like Jaipur and Indore. Previously, parts of the route between Indore and Jaipur were covered by different National Highways, but they were renumbered and consolidated under NH 52.

Explanation

Navsahsank Charit, an epic poem by Padmagupta, was written in the court of the Paramara king Sindhuraja and provides a contemporary account of his reign and the dynasty's history. Prabandha Chintamani, authored by Merutunga, is a collection of historical anecdotes that includes narratives about various Indian dynasties, including the Paramaras of Malwa, drawing from earlier traditions. The Udaipur Prashasti is a crucial stone inscription found in the historical Paramara kingdom, offering a genealogical list of the Paramara kings and detailing their accomplishments. Thus, all three sources are valuable for understanding the history of the Parmar Dynasty.

Explanation

Parmar Raja Bhoj, a prominent ruler of the Paramara dynasty, is credited with constructing the Tribhuvan Narayan Temple in Chittour. He reigned in the 11th century CE and was known for his patronage of art, literature, and architecture. The temple, which is now often referred to as the Samadhishvara temple, is located within the Chittor Fort. Historical evidence and inscriptions attribute its original construction to Raja Bhoj.

Explanation

Dr. Vikram Ambalal Sarabhai is widely recognized as the Father of the Indian Space Programme. He was a visionary scientist who initiated space research in India and played a pivotal role in establishing the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). Sarabhai successfully convinced the Indian government about the significance of a space program for national development, focusing on its applications for communication, meteorology, and resource management. He also founded the Physical Research Laboratory (PRL), which served as the cradle for space sciences in India.

Explanation

Cells of Leydig, also known as interstitial cells of the testes, are responsible for secreting androgen hormones, primarily testosterone, in human males. These cells are located adjacent to the seminiferous tubules in the testicles and are stimulated by luteinizing hormone (LH) from the pituitary gland to produce these hormones. Sertoli cells, on the other hand, are "nurse" cells that support and nourish developing sperm within the seminiferous tubules and produce substances like androgen-binding protein, but they do not directly secrete androgens. Germinal cells are involved in the production of gametes (sperm or eggs) through meiosis. Mucus cells produce mucus, which serves as a protective and lubricating fluid in various parts of the body, such as the respiratory and digestive tracts.

Explanation

Carbon dioxide (CO2) is the greenhouse gas with the highest contribution to global warming. This is primarily due to the vast quantities released into the atmosphere by human activities, especially the burning of fossil fuels for electricity, heat, and transport. While other gases like methane and nitrous oxide have a higher global warming potential per molecule, CO2's sheer abundance and long atmospheric residence time make its overall impact on trapping heat the most significant. Since the Industrial Revolution, atmospheric CO2 concentrations have increased dramatically, leading to a substantial amplification of the Earth's natural greenhouse effect.

Explanation

Oxygen is the most abundant element in the human body, making up approximately 65% of its total mass. This high percentage is primarily due to the fact that water (H2O) constitutes about 50-70% of the human body, and oxygen accounts for a significant portion of water's mass. Beyond water, oxygen is also a crucial component of all major organic molecules essential for life, including proteins, carbohydrates, fats, and nucleic acids. In comparison, carbon makes up about 18% and hydrogen around 10% of the body's mass.

Explanation

Opium is classified as a depressant drug because it slows down the messages traveling between the brain and the body. It is derived from the opium poppy and contains alkaloids like morphine and codeine. The effects of opium include euphoria, relaxation, pain relief, slower breathing, and a lower heart rate, all indicative of central nervous system depression. This action on the central nervous system is why it is used for pain relief and can induce drowsiness and sedation.

Explanation

JSP stands for Java Server Pages. It is a server-side technology that allows developers to create dynamic, data-driven web pages using Java. JSP enables the embedding of Java code directly within HTML, XML, or other document types to generate content that changes based on user interaction or other factors. This technology was originally released by Sun Microsystems in 1999 and is an extension of Servlet technology.

Explanation

Bing is a web search engine that is owned and operated by Microsoft. It was launched in 2009 as a successor to Microsoft's previous search engines, including MSN Search, Windows Live Search, and Live Search. Microsoft developed Bing to offer a variety of search services, such as web, video, image, and map searches. The company has continuously evolved Bing, integrating features like AI-powered conversational answers through Microsoft Copilot.

Explanation

A web crawler is an internet bot that systematically browses the World Wide Web. It is commonly known as a web spider, spiderbot, or simply a spider. These automated programs are primarily used by search engines to discover and index web content, allowing them to provide relevant search results to users. The term "spider" is used because these bots "crawl" through websites, following links to find new pages, much like a spider moving across its web.

Explanation

Output devices are hardware components that display or provide data and results from a computer to the user. A plotter is used to produce high-quality graphics and drawings on paper, functioning as an output device. A printer produces hard copies of electronic data, making it an output device. A monitor displays visual output from the computer, also categorizing it as an output device. Therefore, the group consisting of Plotter, Printer, and Monitor exclusively comprises output devices.

Explanation

A bookmark is a feature in web browsers that allows users to save the address (URL) of a website for easy and quick access in the future. When you bookmark a website, its link is stored in your browser, enabling you to revisit it without typing the URL again. Cookies are small data files stored by websites to remember information about you, while a blog is a type of website, neither of which serves the purpose of saving a favorite website for quick access within the browser. Therefore, bookmark is the correct answer.

Explanation

The Rigvedic "Pani" were a class of citizens primarily known for their involvement in trade and commerce. They are often depicted as wealthy merchants who accumulated riches, particularly cattle, and were sometimes portrayed as hoarders of wealth. Maharshi Yaska described them as "Varthaka," meaning business people who sold goods for profit. While they were distinct from the priestly or warrior classes, their commercial activities and wealth accumulation strongly align them with the role of traders in Rigvedic society.

Explanation

Chand-Pradyota, also known as Pradyota Mahasena, was a significant ruler in ancient India. He was the king of the Avanti kingdom, one of the sixteen Mahajanapadas. Avanti was a powerful monarchy with its capital at Ujjain, not a republic, but among the given options, it is the correct association for Chand-Pradyota. Historical sources consistently identify Chand-Pradyota as the ruler of Avanti, and he was a contemporary of figures like Gautama Buddha and King Bimbisara.

Explanation

Ziauddin Barni is the author of "Tarikh-i-Firojshahi". This significant work of Indo-Persian historiography was completed in 1357 CE during the reign of Sultan Firoz Shah Tughlaq and dedicated to him. Barni's "Tarikh-i-Firojshahi" covers the history of the Delhi Sultans from the reign of Ghiyas ud Din Balban up to the first six years of Firoz Shah Tughlaq's rule, including the Balban dynasty, the Khaljis, and the Tughlaqs. While Shams-i-Siraj Afif also wrote a book with the same title, his work focuses specifically on the reign of Firoz Shah Tughlaq and was written later. Barni's account is considered a crucial source for understanding the socio-economic conditions of the time, not just wars and accessions.

Explanation

Akbar abolished the Jaziya tax in 1564. This move was part of his broader policy of religious tolerance and reconciliation between different religious communities in his empire. The Jaziya was a per capita annual tax historically levied by Islamic states on non-Muslim subjects. Akbar's decision to abolish it aimed to foster a more inclusive and equitable society.

Explanation

The Hindu Widow Remarriage Act was passed in the year 1856. This significant social reform legislation, also known as Act XV of 1856, was enacted on July 26, 1856, to legalize the remarriage of Hindu widows across all territories under East India Company rule. The act was drafted by Lord Dalhousie and subsequently passed by his successor, Lord Canning. It was a crucial step towards improving the condition of women in Indian society, largely due to the tireless efforts of social reformers like Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar.

Explanation

The Arjuna Award was instituted in 1961. The Dronacharya Award was established in 1985. The Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award, now known as the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award, was instituted in 1991-1992. The Dhyan Chand Award for Lifetime Achievement in Sports and Games was established in 2002. Therefore, the correct chronological order from earliest to latest is Arjuna Award (1961), Dronacharya Award (1985), Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award (1991-1992), and Dhyan Chand Award (2002), which corresponds to option C) 3,4,1,2.

Explanation

Abhinav Bindra, India's sole individual Olympic gold medalist at the time, was chosen as the flag bearer for the Indian contingent at the opening ceremony of the Rio Olympics in 2016. The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) confirmed this decision, recognizing his significant achievements in shooting, including his historic gold medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Bindra, who was making his fifth Olympic appearance, expressed his honor and gratitude for being chosen for this prestigious role.

Explanation

India secured the third position in the final medals tally of the Commonwealth Games 2018. The country achieved a total of 66 medals, which included 26 gold, 20 silver, and 20 bronze medals. This placed India behind Australia and England in the overall rankings. The 2018 Games, held in Gold Coast, Australia, marked India's best performance as a non-host nation.

Explanation

Los Angeles, USA, will organize the 2028 Summer Olympic Games. The city was formally awarded the Games at the 131st IOC Session in Lima, Peru, on September 13, 2017. These will mark the third time Los Angeles has hosted the Summer Olympics, having previously done so in 1932 and 1984. The event, officially known as the Games of the XXXIV Olympiad, is scheduled to take place from July 14 to 30, 2028. The Games will utilize existing venues across the Greater Los Angeles area, with some events also scheduled for Oklahoma City.

Explanation

The headquarters of the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF), now known as World Athletics, is situated in Monaco. The organization moved its headquarters to Monaco in October 1993, following a decision made at its 39th Congress in Stuttgart. The new headquarters were officially inaugurated on June 10, 1994, and are located at 6-8, Quai Antoine 1er, on Monaco's Port Hercules. Before moving to Monaco, the IAAF had its headquarters in Stockholm from 1912 to 1946 and then in London from 1946 to 1993.

Explanation

Karewa landforms are unique lacustrine deposits predominantly found in the Kashmir Himalaya. These are elevated tablelands formed during the Pleistocene Period when the Kashmir Valley was submerged under a vast lake. Sediments, including glacial clay and other materials, accumulated in this ancient lake. Over time, as the lake drained, these unconsolidated deposits were left behind, forming the distinctive flat-topped mounds known as Karewas. These fertile deposits are particularly significant for the cultivation of saffron, almonds, and apples in the region.

Explanation

Kalahandi is a significant region for bauxite deposits in India. Zawar mines are historically known for their zinc and lead production. Kolar Gold Fields are famous for gold mining. Mosabani is a prominent area for copper mining. Therefore, matching Kalahandi with Bauxite (iii), Zawar with Zinc and Lead (iv), Kolar with Gold (i), and Mosabani with Copper (ii) gives the correct sequence (iii), (iv), (i), (ii), which corresponds to option C.

Explanation

Mukambika Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Karnataka. Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary is situated in Jharkhand. Kotigao Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Goa. However, Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Kerala, not Chhattisgarh. Therefore, the pairing of Neyyar - Chhattisgarh is not correctly matched.Mukambika Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Karnataka. Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary is situated in Jharkhand. Kotigao Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Goa. However, Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary is found in Kerala, specifically in the Thiruvananthapuram district, and not in Chhattisgarh. Therefore, the option "Neyyar - Chhattisgarh" is not correctly matched.

Explanation

The sex ratio in India recorded its sharpest decline during the 1961-71 census decade. During this period, the sex ratio dropped by 11 points, from 941 females per 1000 males in 1961 to 930 in 1971. This decline was more significant than in other decades, such as a 4-point decline between 1931-41 and a 7-point decline between 1981-91. The overall sex ratio in India has shown a secular decline since the beginning of the twentieth century, with some minor improvements in certain decades. This persistent decline is often attributed to factors like a strong societal preference for male children, female foeticide, and neglect of girl children leading to higher mortality rates.

Explanation

The East-West corridor, a significant part of the National Highways Development Project (NHDP), connects Silchar in Assam to Porbandar in Gujarat. This corridor spans approximately 3,300 kilometers, linking the easternmost and westernmost points of India. While often discussed alongside the Golden Quadrilateral, it is technically a separate highway corridor, though it complements the larger network. The Golden Quadrilateral itself primarily connects the four major metropolitan cities of Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Kolkata. The East-West corridor plays a crucial role in improving infrastructure and reducing travel time across the country.

Explanation

Bodhan Doua served as the Commander (Senapati) of Shahgarh King Bakhatwali. King Bakhatwali was a significant ruler in the Sagar district region and played an important role during the 1857 uprising. Bodhan Doua was his trusted military leader, supporting Bakhatwali Shah in his kingdom which extended from Shahgarh to Gadhakota, Malathoun. Both Bodhan Doua and Bakhatwali assisted Indian rebels like Tatya Tope during the revolt.

Explanation

Agariya is a well-known sub-caste of the Gond tribe, primarily involved in iron smelting. Similarly, Bijhwar is recognized as a sub-caste within the Baiga tribe. The Bharia tribe is predominantly found in the Patalkot region of Chhindwara, Madhya Pradesh, and while their sub-caste structure is sometimes described as loose, the pairing with Patliya is considered a match in this context. However, Mahar is a distinct Indian caste, largely found in Maharashtra and neighboring states, and is classified as a Scheduled Caste, not a sub-caste of the Korku tribe. The Korku tribe has its own sub-divisions, such as Bawaria, Roma Thakur, Bondoya, and Mawasi. Therefore, the pairing of Korku with Mahar is not well-matched.

Explanation

Mandu is an ancient city located in the present-day Mandav area of the Dhar district in Madhya Pradesh, India. The Hindola Mahal, also known as the "Swinging Palace," is an ancient palace situated within the Mandu Fort in Mandu. It is part of a royal palace complex in Mandu. Thus, both statements are factually correct.

Explanation

The Jalbihari fair is organized in Chhatarpur, a city and district in Madhya Pradesh. This popular annual event is a religious and cultural fair, typically held around September or October, centered around the Jalbihari temple. The fair attracts many tourists and is traditionally known for having numerous shops decorated for women.