MPPSC Prelims 2025 Question Paper with Answers & Explanations

Explanation

The Kailasanathar temple of Kanchi is built in the Rajsimha style because it was constructed under the patronage of the Pallava king Narasimhavarman II, who was also known as Rajasimha. This architectural style is a significant example of early Dravidian temple architecture, marking a transition from rock-cut to structural temples. The temple, dating back to the late 7th to early 8th century CE, showcases the artistic and engineering prowess of the Pallavas during Rajasimha's reign. Key features of this style include the use of sandstone as the primary building material for the superstructure and pillars with stylized lion bases.

Explanation

Adobe Photoshop is a widely used application primarily designed for creating, editing, and manipulating raster images. This functionality, which involves working with visual elements like photos and digital art, places it squarely in the category of graphics software. Graphics software is specifically developed for tasks related to visual content, making Photoshop a prime example. It is not multimedia software, which typically handles various media types like audio and video, nor is it web series or database software.

Explanation

The States Reorganisation Act, enacted on August 31, 1956, and coming into effect on November 1, 1956, was a significant reform that reorganized India's states and territories primarily along linguistic lines. This act led to the creation of 14 states and 6 Union Territories. The states formed were Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Bihar, Bombay, Jammu and Kashmir, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Madras, Mysore, Orissa, Punjab, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal. The six Union Territories established were Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Delhi, Himachal Pradesh, Laccadive, Minicoy and Amindivi Islands, Manipur, and Tripura.

Explanation

The Muslim League announced 'Direct Action Day' on August 16, 1946. This day was called by Muhammad Ali Jinnah and the All-India Muslim League to press their demand for a separate Muslim homeland, Pakistan, after the British withdrawal from India. The League's resolution for Direct Action was passed in late July 1946, and August 16th was chosen for a general strike and mass protests. The protests, particularly in Calcutta, unfortunately escalated into widespread communal riots and violence.

Explanation

The date April 6, 1930, is well known in the history of India because it marks the conclusion of Mahatma Gandhi's Dandi March. On this day, Gandhi and his followers reached the coastal village of Dandi and ceremonially broke the British salt laws by picking up a handful of salt from the seashore. This act of civil disobedience was a direct protest against the British salt monopoly and the oppressive salt tax. It also signaled the beginning of the wider Civil Disobedience Movement across India. The Dandi March, also known as the Salt Satyagraha, began on March 12, 1930, from Sabarmati Ashram.

Explanation

The National Development Council (NDC) and the erstwhile Planning Commission established specific criteria for granting Special Category Status (SCS) to states in India. These criteria include hilly and difficult terrain, low population density, strategic location along international borders, economic and infrastructural backwardness, and non-viable state finances. While a sizeable tribal population is considered a factor, the presence of a sizeable Scheduled Caste (SC) population is not a generally accepted parameter for granting special status. Therefore, "Sizeable SC and ST population" as a combined criterion is not a generally accepted parameter for SCS.

Explanation

The pair "Estimates Committee - Baijayant Panda" is incorrect. For the 18th Lok Sabha for the year 2024-25, Sanjay Jaiswal was appointed as the Chairperson of the Estimates Committee. Baijayant Panda was appointed as the Chairperson of the Committee on Public Undertakings. K.C. Venugopal chairs the Public Accounts Committee, Faggan Singh Kulaste chairs the Committee on Welfare of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, and Ganesh Singh chairs the Committee on Welfare of Other Backward Classes.

Explanation

Annu Rani won a gold medal in the Women's Javelin Throw event at the 2023 Asian Games in Hangzhou, China, with a season-best throw of 62.92m. The pairing of Annu Rani with 100m Spring (Women) is incorrect. Tajinderpal Singh Toor won gold in Men's Shot Put, Avinash Sable in Men's 3000m Steeplechase, and Parul Chaudhary in Women's 5000m, making their pairings correct.

Explanation

The pair "Thailand - Yudh Abhyas" is incorrect. Yudh Abhyas is a joint military exercise conducted between India and the United States, not Thailand. The joint military exercise between India and Thailand is called "Maitree". The other pairs are correctly matched: "Indra" is a joint military exercise between India and Russia, "Khanjar" is conducted between India and Kyrgyzstan, and "Lamitiy" (or Lamitye) is the joint exercise between India and Seychelles.

Explanation

Confidentiality is the principle of data security management that ensures information is accessible only to those authorized to have access. It involves implementing procedures, policies, and controls to protect data from unauthorized disclosure or use, aligning directly with the description of securing data against illicit access or use. While privacy relates to an individual's right to control their personal information, confidentiality is the mechanism used to enforce that privacy by restricting access. Integrity focuses on maintaining the accuracy and completeness of data, and availability ensures that authorized users can access data when needed.

Explanation

According to the India State of Forest Report (ISFR) 2021, Bhind district has a forest cover of 1.89% of its geographical area, which is less than 10 percent. In contrast, Ashoknagar and Morena districts are reported to have forest cover percentages that do not fall below 10 percent. Guna district's forest cover stands at 26.41% of its geographical area, well above the 10 percent threshold. Therefore, among the given options, Bhind is the district with less than 10 percent forest cover.

Explanation

Article 338 of the Indian Constitution mandates the formation of the National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC). This constitutional body is dedicated to safeguarding the rights and interests of Scheduled Castes in India. Originally, Article 338 provided for a Special Officer for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, but through the 65th and 89th Constitutional Amendment Acts, it evolved into the multi-member National Commission for Scheduled Castes. The NCSC investigates and monitors all matters relating to the safeguards provided for Scheduled Castes under the Constitution and other laws.

Explanation

The Mukhyamantri Ladli Behna Yojana, implemented across Madhya Pradesh, aims to enhance women's economic self-reliance by providing financial assistance. In addition to this, a key objective of the scheme is to improve the health and nutritional status of women and their dependent children. The financial aid provided helps women meet essential needs, including those related to health and nutrition, thereby contributing to their overall well-being. This initiative also seeks to strengthen women's role in family decision-making.

Explanation

Shri Satya Narayan Sinha was the Governor of Madhya Pradesh when President's rule was imposed in the state between April 30, 1977, and June 23, 1977. His tenure as Governor of Madhya Pradesh began on March 8, 1971, and concluded on October 13, 1977. This period of President's rule was the first such instance in Madhya Pradesh's history. Therefore, option B is the correct answer.

Explanation

Pattabhi Sitaramayya served as the first Governor of Madhya Pradesh from November 1, 1956, to June 13, 1957. This tenure lasted for approximately seven months and twelve days. In comparison, Hari Vinayak Pataskar served for over seven years, Kyasamballi Chengalaraya Reddy had a tenure of approximately one year in his first term and over five years in his second term, and Satya Narayan Sinha served for over six years. Therefore, Pattabhi Sitaramayya had the shortest tenure among the listed governors.

Explanation

As of March 2023, Rajasthan had the highest installed capacity of solar energy in India. The state's vast desert terrain, abundant sunshine (over 325 clear sunny days annually), and supportive government policies have been key factors in its leadership in solar power generation. Rajasthan has actively promoted large-scale solar parks, including the Bhadla Solar Park, which is one of the largest in the world. These factors have enabled Rajasthan to significantly surpass other states in solar energy capacity.

Explanation

Meghalaya recorded the highest decadal population growth rate among Indian states during 2001-2011, with a rate of 27.95%. This was significantly higher than the national average decadal population growth rate of 17.64% for the same period. Factors contributing to Meghalaya's high growth rate include high fertility rates and improved healthcare facilities. While Dadra and Nagar Haveli had a higher growth rate when considering all states and Union Territories, Meghalaya held the top spot among states.

Explanation

Cyclone Fengal significantly impacted the coastal region of Tamil Nadu during November-December 2024. The cyclone made landfall near Puducherry on November 30, 2024, bringing heavy rainfall and strong winds to northern Tamil Nadu, including Chennai. In contrast, Cyclone Asna affected Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh in August-September 2024, and Cyclone Dana impacted West Bengal and Odisha in October 2024. Cyclone Biparjoy occurred earlier, in June 2023, affecting Gujarat and Pakistan.

Explanation

Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant had the highest installed capacity in India in 2024. It is recognized as the largest nuclear power station in India, with a scheduled installed capacity of 6,000 MW upon completion of all six VVER-1000 reactors. As of 2024, Kudankulam had two operational units, each with a gross capacity of 1000 MWe, totaling 2000 MWe. In comparison, Kakrapar's installed capacity in 2024 was 1840 MW (two 220 MW units and two 700 MW units), Kaiga had an installed capacity of 880 MW from its four 220 MWe units, and Kalpakkam (Madras Atomic Power Station) had an installed capacity of 440 MW from its two 220 MW units.

Explanation

The famous philosophical dialogue between the revered Vedic sage Yajnavalkya and the woman philosopher Gargi Vachaknavi is prominently featured in the Brihadaranyaka Upanishad. This Upanishad is one of the oldest and most significant of the principal Upanishads. The debate, which takes place in the court of King Janaka, showcases Gargi's profound questions about the nature of reality and the ultimate pervader of all existence, to which Yajnavalkya provides insightful answers concerning Brahman, the Immutable and Imperishable Reality. This exchange is a cornerstone of Upanishadic wisdom, exploring concepts of the unmanifested ether and the Supreme Unconditioned Brahman.

Explanation

The All India Council for Robotics and Automation (AICRA) is recognized as the apex body in India for establishing standards in the robotics and automation sector. This not-for-profit organization focuses on empowering the ecosystem through education, standardization, and industrial innovation. AICRA's mission includes upgrading robotics and AI skills to international standards by developing necessary frameworks for standards, curriculum, and quality assurance. It also provides support systems to institutions, including quality assurance and information systems.

Explanation

A Trojan is a type of malware that deceives users by appearing to be a legitimate or harmless program. It relies on social engineering to trick a user into downloading and installing it. Once installed, a Trojan can perform various malicious actions, such as stealing data, deleting files, or providing remote access to an attacker, much like a virus or worm. Unlike viruses or worms, Trojans do not self-replicate.

Explanation

Article 342 of the Indian Constitution empowers the President to issue a public notification specifying the tribes or tribal communities, or parts thereof, that are to be considered Scheduled Tribes in relation to a particular state or Union Territory. This is done after consultation with the Governor of the concerned state. Parliament can later include or exclude any tribe from this list by law.

Article 340 deals with the appointment of a Commission to investigate the conditions of socially and educationally backward classes. Article 349 outlines a special procedure for the enactment of certain laws relating to language, particularly during the first fifteen years of the Constitution. Article 338 establishes the National Commission for Scheduled Castes, which investigates and monitors safeguards for Scheduled Castes.

Explanation

The President of India can be impeached solely on the ground of "violation of the Constitution." This is explicitly stated in Article 61 of the Indian Constitution, which outlines the procedure for impeachment. While the Constitution does not precisely define what constitutes a "violation of the Constitution," it is the only specified reason for initiating impeachment proceedings. Other options like professional misconduct, carrying on a vocation of profit, or mental instability are not grounds for impeachment under the Indian Constitution.

Explanation

Black soil, also known as Regur soil, is formed by the weathering of Deccan lava, making statement A correct. This soil is known for its high clay content, which gives it an excellent capacity to retain moisture, making statement C correct. Black soil is predominantly found in the western parts of Madhya Pradesh, covering regions like Malwa, Nimar, and parts of the Satpura range, making statement D correct. However, black soil is generally deficient in nitrogen, phosphorus, and organic matter, making statement B incorrect.

Explanation

The ICMR - National Institute of Research in Tribal Health (NIRTH) is located in Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh. It operates under the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and is dedicated to research on the health of tribal populations in India. The institute was established in 1984 and was formerly known as the Regional Medical Research Centre for Tribals (RMRCT). Its strategic location in Jabalpur allows it to work closely with tribal communities in the central Indian region.

Explanation

The Shankar Shah and Rani Durgavati awards are specifically designed to encourage tribal students who achieve meritorious positions in their 10th and 12th class examinations. This initiative by the Tribal Welfare and Scheduled Caste Department of the Government of Madhya Pradesh aims to recognize and reward academic excellence at crucial secondary and higher secondary stages. The awards provide monetary incentives to motivate tribal students to excel in their board examinations. Therefore, the primary objective is to celebrate and promote the success of tribal students in these standard academic milestones.

Explanation

The 'Ahar Anudan Yojana' was launched on December 23, 2017, by the Government of Madhya Pradesh to combat malnutrition. This scheme specifically targets women from Special Backward Tribal Communities, including the Baiga, Bharia, and Saharia tribes. It provides monthly financial assistance to these vulnerable families to ensure access to nutritious food. Therefore, the scheme is designed to address malnutrition within the Special Backward Tribal Community.

Explanation

Madhya Pradesh has a total of 31 major and medium Integrated Tribal Development Projects (ITDPs) in existence for the year 2023-24. These projects are crucial initiatives aimed at the holistic development of tribal communities, focusing on improving socio-economic conditions, education, health, infrastructure, and cultural preservation in tribal areas. ITDPs are typically delineated in contiguous areas with a significant concentration of Scheduled Tribes, covering larger regions than individual blocks. This figure is consistent across various reports and government information for the specified period.

Explanation

Monetary policy primarily aims to maintain price stability, which means keeping inflation at a low and predictable level. This prevents the erosion of purchasing power and fosters a stable economic environment. Simultaneously, central banks use monetary policy tools to promote sustainable economic growth and achieve maximum employment. These two objectives are often referred to as a "dual mandate" in many economies, as they are seen as complementary goals for overall economic well-being.

Explanation

India's services exports played a pivotal role in mitigating the nation's overall trade deficit in the financial year 2023-24. While merchandise exports experienced a decline, service exports demonstrated robust growth, reaching an estimated USD 341.1 billion. This strong performance led to a significant services trade surplus of approximately USD 163 billion. This surplus was instrumental in offsetting the merchandise trade deficit, contributing to a substantial reduction in the overall trade deficit from USD 121.6 billion in FY23 to USD 78.1 billion in FY24.

Explanation

As per the Annual Survey of Industries (ASI) 2017–18 data, released by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI), Madhya Pradesh recorded the highest capital intensity in the manufacturing sector among Indian states. Capital intensity is calculated as the ratio of fixed capital to the number of workers, indicating the amount of capital used per unit of labor in the manufacturing process. This suggests that manufacturing units in Madhya Pradesh in 2017-18 utilized a relatively higher proportion of capital investment compared to labor.

Explanation

India holds the distinction of being the world's largest producer of milk, with a significant and consistently growing dairy sector. The country is also the largest global producer of pulses, which are a vital source of protein for its population. Furthermore, India is recognized as the world's largest producer, consumer, and exporter of a wide variety of spices. These three agricultural products collectively highlight India's prominent position in global agriculture.

Explanation

According to the 2011 Census, Indore district recorded the highest decadal growth rate of population among the given options. Indore's population grew by 32.88% during the 2001-2011 decade. In comparison, Bhopal district had a decadal growth rate of 28.62%, Singrauli district's rate was 28.03% (or 28.05%), and Barwani district experienced a growth rate of 27.57%. This data confirms that Indore had the most significant population increase over the decade among these districts.

Explanation

Madhya Pradesh achieved a composite SDG score of 62 in the SDG India Index 3.0 for the period 2020-21. This index, developed by NITI Aayog, measures the progress of states and Union Territories towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. A score of 62 placed Madhya Pradesh in the 'Performer' category, indicating progress in various SDG indicators. The SDG India Index 3.0 report was released in 2021, covering the assessment years 2020-2021.

Explanation

The National Centre for Earth Science Studies (NCESS) is located in Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city of Kerala. It was established by the Government of Kerala in 1978 and later became an autonomous research center under the Ministry of Earth Sciences, Government of India. NCESS conducts multidisciplinary research in various earth science fields, including solid-earth studies, coastal processes, and natural hazards. Therefore, Kerala is the correct state where NCESS is situated.

Explanation

The Udyam Kranti Yojana, also known as Mukhyamantri Udyam Kranti Yojana, primarily aims to provide collateral-free credit for self-employment. This scheme offers financial assistance in the form of loans to educated youth to establish their own businesses or ventures. It seeks to encourage entrepreneurship and create employment opportunities by making it easier for individuals to secure funding without requiring security or collateral. The scheme also provides an interest subsidy on these loans, further supporting new entrepreneurs.

Explanation

The Madhya Pradesh government allocated 12.22% of its total expenditure budget to education in the fiscal year 2023-24. This allocation is part of the state's overall expenditure, which was estimated at approximately ₹2,81,553 crore for the same period. Education remains a crucial sector for the state, reflecting its commitment to human resource development. This percentage represents the specific share of the state's spending directed towards educational initiatives and infrastructure.

Explanation

In Madhya Pradesh, tomato recorded the highest productivity in 2023-24. The state achieved a productivity of 28.92 metric tonnes per hectare for tomatoes, which was the highest among vegetables. This strong performance was supported by increased production, with tomato being the only major vegetable among the options to register a rise in output during this period. Madhya Pradesh also ranks first in the country for overall tomato production.

Explanation

Saaransh is the official compendium that documents and highlights the achievements, progress, and status of various Mission Mode Projects (MMPs) under the National e-Governance Plan (NeGP). It provides a comprehensive overview of e-Governance initiatives across ministries and departments in India. Therefore, it serves as the compilation of information regarding these projects. E-Praama is a framework for e-authentication, DigiLocker is a digital platform for storing documents, and MeitY is the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, none of which are compendiums of MMPs.

Explanation

Mark Zuckerberg founded the social media platform Facebook in 2004 while he was a student at Harvard University. He initially launched it as "TheFacebook" to connect Harvard students. The platform quickly expanded to other universities and eventually became accessible to the general public. While Zuckerberg had several co-founders and collaborators, he is widely recognized as the primary founder of Facebook.

Explanation

Gartner's Evolution Model of E-Governance outlines a progressive development of online government services. It begins with the Information phase, where government agencies primarily provide static information online. This is followed by the Interaction phase, allowing for two-way communication between citizens and the government. The Transaction phase then enables citizens to complete services and transactions online, such as paying taxes or applying for licenses. Finally, the Transformation phase represents a complete rethinking and integration of government processes, leading to more citizen-centric and efficient governance. This sequential progression makes option A the correct answer.

Explanation

Ms. Vyjayantimalal Bali, Shri Konidela Chiranjeevi, and Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu were all recipients of the Padma Vibhushan award in 2024. Shri A.R. Rahman was not among the individuals honored with the Padma Vibhushan in 2024. He previously received the Padma Bhushan in 2010. Therefore, Shri A.R. Rahman is the correct answer as he was not a recipient of the Padma Vibhushan in 2024.

Explanation

Article 332 of the Indian Constitution specifically provides for the reservation of seats for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes in the Legislative Assemblies of the States. This article ensures their political representation in state legislatures, with the number of reserved seats being proportionate to their population in the state. In contrast, Article 339 deals with the control of the Union over the administration of Scheduled Areas and the welfare of Scheduled Tribes, including the appointment of a commission to report on these matters. Article 334 outlines the period after which the reservation of seats for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, and the representation of the Anglo-Indian community, would cease to have effect, though this period has been extended multiple times through amendments. Finally, Article 243D mandates the reservation of seats for Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and women in Panchayats (local self-government institutions). Therefore, Article 332 is the correct provision for reservations in State Assemblies.

Explanation

A) Field Programmable Gate Array is the correct full form of FPGA. An FPGA is an integrated circuit that can be configured or reprogrammed by a user after manufacturing, which is why it's called "field-programmable". It consists of an array of programmable logic blocks and interconnects that can be customized to perform various digital functions. This flexibility allows FPGAs to be adapted for different applications, including AI deployment, without needing physical hardware modifications.

Explanation

The correct matching of books with their authors is as follows: 'The Tribes and Castes of the Central Provinces of India' was authored by R.V. Russell and R.B. Hiralal. 'Tribal Development in M.P.: A Planning Perspective' is attributed to Ajit Raizada. T.B. Naik wrote 'The Bhils: A Study'. Finally, 'The Baiga' was penned by Verrier Elwin. Therefore, the sequence 3, 4, 2, 1 correctly matches the books to their respective authors, making option A the correct answer.

Explanation

In computer networks, resilience refers to the ability of the network to maintain an acceptable level of service even when faced with various failures or challenges, such as connection failures or data loss. It encompasses the network's capacity to quickly recover from errors and continue operating effectively. This includes mechanisms like redundant paths, fault tolerance, and rapid recovery protocols to ensure continuous availability. Routing, bandwidth, and contention are related but do not specifically describe the network's ability to recover from errors. Therefore, resilience is the most accurate term for this capability.

Explanation

Rajasekhara was a prominent 10th-century Sanskrit poet, dramatist, and critic. He is credited with writing several significant works, including "Kavyamimamsa," a guide for poets, and the plays "Karpuramanjari" and "Vidhdhaslabahnjika" (also known as "Viddhasalabhunjika"). The book "Prabandhachintamani," however, was not authored by Rajasekhara. It is a collection of semi-historical biographical narratives compiled by the Jain scholar Merutunga around 1304 CE.

Explanation

MS-DOS is an operating system that relies on users typing specific commands at a prompt to interact with the computer. This method of interaction is known as a Command-Line Interface (CLI) or command-based interface. Unlike modern operating systems with Graphical User Interfaces (GUIs) that use visual elements like icons and windows, MS-DOS requires textual input for all operations. Therefore, options A, B, and D are incorrect as they describe different types of user interfaces not characteristic of MS-DOS.

Explanation

Narsinghgarh is a cement industry located in the Damoh district. Malanpur is a cement industry situated in the Bhind district. The Maihar cement industry is found in the Satna district. Banmore is a cement industry located in the Morena district. Therefore, the correct matching is (i)-2, (ii)-1, (iii)-4, (iv)-3, which corresponds to option A.

Explanation

The Mahan Aluminium plant is indeed located near Bargawan in Singrauli district, Madhya Pradesh. The plant commenced production with its first hot metal in 2013, with full commissioning by 2015. The smelting operations at Mahan Aluminium utilize Aluminium Pechiney's AP-36 technology, which is French technology. While a significant portion of its production is exported, reports indicate it is over 50% or approximately 60%, not 80%. Therefore, statements 1, 2, and 4 are correct.

Explanation

Madhya Pradesh has three Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs): Saharia, Baiga, and Bharia. The Saharia tribe is mainly found in the districts of Morena, Sheopur, Bhind, Gwalior, Datia, Shivpuri, Vidisha, and Guna in Madhya Pradesh. The Baiga tribe primarily resides in the state of Madhya Pradesh, particularly in the Baiga-chuk region of Mandla and Balaghat districts. The Bharia tribe is concentrated in the Patalkot valley of Chhindwara district, Madhya Pradesh. In contrast, the Asur tribe is primarily located in the Indian state of Jharkhand, where they are recognized as a PVTG, with smaller populations in Bihar and West Bengal. Therefore, Asur is not one of the Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups of Madhya Pradesh.

Explanation

The Bharia tribe is the dominant tribe in the Patalkot area of Chhindwara district, Madhya Pradesh. They have inhabited this isolated valley for centuries, with some sources indicating over 500 years. While the Patalkot valley is also home to the Gond tribe, the Bharias constitute the majority of the population, making up approximately 80% of the residents. The Bharias are recognized as a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG) and are deeply connected to the unique cultural and ecological landscape of Patalkot.

Explanation

P.R. Sreejesh has received several prestigious awards during his career, including the Arjuna Award in 2015, the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award in 2021, and the Padma Bhushan in 2025. However, the Dronacharya Award is a national sports honor specifically for outstanding coaches who have enabled sportspersons to excel in international events. As P.R. Sreejesh is primarily recognized for his achievements as a player, particularly as a goalkeeper for the Indian hockey team, he has not received the Dronacharya Award. While he has recently transitioned into a coaching role, this award is not for his playing career.

Explanation

The 86th Constitutional Amendment Act of 2002 is responsible for adding the Fundamental Right to Free and Compulsory Education for children between the age of 6 to 14 years. This amendment inserted Article 21A into the Constitution, making education a fundamental right. It also amended Article 45 and Article 51A to reflect this change, directing the state to provide early childhood care and education for all children until they complete the age of six years, and making it a fundamental duty of parents or guardians to provide opportunities for education to their child or ward between the age of six and fourteen years. Therefore, option C is the correct answer.

Explanation

The Betwa River flows through Orchha, a historic town in Madhya Pradesh, where it is known for its scenic beauty and ancient temples along its banks. The Tapti (Tapi) River originates from Multai in the Betul district of Madhya Pradesh. The Kshipra River is sacred to Hindus and flows through the holy city of Ujjain, where the Kumbh Mela is held. The Wainganga River drains the western, central, and eastern regions of the Balaghat district in Madhya Pradesh. Therefore, the correct matching is (i)-4, (ii)-3, (iii)-2, (iv)-1.

Explanation

Most of the rainfall in Madhya Pradesh is indeed received from the monsoon, primarily the South-West monsoon. The distance from the sea significantly influences the distribution of monsoon rains, with rainfall generally decreasing as one moves further inland. Pachmarhi, being a hill station, experiences cooler summer temperatures due to its higher altitude above sea level. However, wind speeds in Madhya Pradesh are generally higher during the summer and rainy seasons, especially during the monsoon, compared to the winter months. Therefore, statement 2 is incorrect, making C the correct option.

Explanation

Copper is primarily found in the Malanjkhand area of the Balaghat district, and Baihar is a significant location within this region for copper mining. Diamond deposits are concentrated in the Panna district, with Hinota being a known area for diamond excavation near the Panna Tiger Reserve. Mandsaur district holds a monopoly over slate manufacturing in Madhya Pradesh, producing white and red colored slate. Bauxite reserves are spread across several districts, including Shahdol, which is a key bauxite-producing region in the state. Therefore, the correct match is (i) Copper - 3. Baihar, (ii) Diamond - 4. Hinota, (iii) Slate - 1. Mandsaur, and (iv) Bauxite - 2. Shahdol.

Explanation

The "One District One Product" (ODOP) initiative for Chhatarpur district in Madhya Pradesh focuses on Wooden furniture. This selection highlights the region's traditional craftsmanship and the availability of resources for woodcraft. The initiative aims to support local artisans, promote unique designs, and enhance market access for these products, contributing to the district's economic development.

Explanation

Jagnik is widely recognized as the author of 'Alhakhand', an epic ballad from the 12th century. He was a court poet under the patronage of King Parmardidev (also known as Paramal) of Mahoba. This work celebrates the valorous deeds of the legendary brothers Alha and Udal, who were generals in King Parmardidev's army. While the original text is now lost, the ballads from 'Alhakhand' are still sung by professional bards in various parts of northern India. Other options like Chand Bardai authored 'Prithviraj Raso', and Rajasekhara was a Sanskrit poet, neither of whom are associated with 'Alhakhand'. King Parmardidev was the patron, not the author, of the epic.

Explanation

Keshavdas, a prominent Hindi poet of the Ritikaal period, is credited with writing several significant works including Ramchandrika (1600), Kavipriya (1601), and Ratan Bavani (c. 1581). Ramchandrika is an abridged translation of the Ramayana, Kavipriya focuses on poetics, and Ratan Bavani is his earliest attributed work. "Ram Rasayan," however, was written by Rasikvihari Kavi. Therefore, Ram Rasayan is the book not authored by Keshavdas.

Explanation

The Matangeshwar temple is located in Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh. It is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and is part of the renowned Khajuraho Group of Monuments, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in the early 10th century during the Chandela dynasty, it is unique among the Khajuraho temples as it is still actively used for daily worship. The temple houses a massive, eight-foot-tall Shiva Lingam made of sparkling yellow limestone.

Explanation

The stapedius is recognized as the smallest skeletal muscle in the human body, measuring just over one millimeter in length. This tiny muscle is located in the middle ear, where it attaches to the stapes, which is the smallest bone in the body. Its primary function is to stabilize the stapes and dampen its vibrations, thereby controlling the amplitude of sound waves reaching the inner ear and protecting it from excessively loud noises. In contrast, the bicep and tricep are large muscles of the upper arm, and the sartorius is the longest muscle in the human body.

Explanation

Mansukha folk drama is predominantly prevalent in the Baghelkhand region of Madhya Pradesh. It is a Bagheli variant of Ras-Leela, a traditional dramatic form. This folk drama typically dramatizes the playful interactions between Krishna and the Gopis of Vrindavan. Mansukha performances are often staged during festivals and other celebratory occasions in the Baghelkhand area.

Explanation

Satkaryavada is a fundamental theory of causation in Indian philosophy, asserting that the effect pre-exists in its cause in a subtle or potential form. This means that creation is not the emergence of something entirely new, but rather the manifestation of what already exists. The Sankhya school of philosophy, known for its dualistic framework of Purusha (consciousness) and Prakriti (primordial matter), strongly upholds Satkaryavada. According to Sankhya, all phenomena evolve from Prakriti, with the effect being a real transformation of its cause. This theory contrasts with Asatkaryavada, which posits that effects are new entities arising from non-existent causes.

Explanation

The Grihastha Ashram, or the householder stage, is the period in a person's life where they are expected to marry, raise a family, and fulfill social responsibilities. The Panch Mahayagya, meaning "five great sacrifices" or daily duties, are specifically prescribed for individuals in this stage of life. These rituals include offerings to gods (Deva Yajna), ancestors (Pitri Yajna), all living beings (Bhuta Yajna), guests (Manushya Yajna), and the study of scriptures (Brahma Yajna). Performing these acts is considered essential for a householder to maintain cosmic balance and fulfill their dharma.

Explanation

Vaishnavism was indeed propagated by the Alvar saints of Tamil Nadu. Among the twelve principal Alvar saints, Andal is uniquely recognized as the only female Sadhvi. She is revered for her profound devotion to Lord Vishnu and her poetic compositions, particularly the "Tiruppavai" and "Nachiyar Tirumozhi," which are central to Srivaishnava tradition. Her works express intense love and longing for the divine, making her a significant figure in the Bhakti movement.

Explanation

During the agricultural year 2021-22, Madhya Pradesh held the top position in the country for pulse production. The state produced approximately 58.51 lakh tonnes of pulses, making it the leading producer. In terms of the area under pulse cultivation, Madhya Pradesh ranked second, with approximately 58.10 lakh hectares dedicated to these crops, following Rajasthan. This dual performance of being second in area and first in production highlights Madhya Pradesh's significant contribution to India's pulse economy.

Explanation

The Yajurveda is associated with the Taittiriya and Shatapatha Brahmanas. The Taittiriya Brahmana is linked to the Krishna (Black) Yajurveda, while the Shatapatha Brahmana is the most significant Brahmana for the Shukla (White) Yajurveda. These texts provide detailed explanations of Vedic sacrificial rituals, symbolism, and mythology. In contrast, Gopatha Brahmana is associated with the Atharvaveda, Panchvish and Jaiminiya Brahmanas are related to the Samaveda, and Aitareya and Kaushitaki Brahmanas belong to the Rigveda.

Explanation

The first meeting of the Constituent Assembly of India indeed took place on December 9, 1946, in New Delhi, making Statement I true. Jawaharlal Nehru was a prominent figure and a key member of the Constituent Assembly, actively participating in its proceedings and even moving the 'Objectives Resolution'. Therefore, Statement II, which claims he was not invited, is false. This confirms that Statement I is true, and Statement II is false, making option C the correct answer.

Explanation

Madhya Pradesh had one oil refinery in 2024. The Bina Refinery, located in Bina in the Sagar district, is the state's sole oil refinery. It is owned and operated by Bharat Petroleum (BPCL). The refinery has an expanded capacity of 7.8 million tonnes per annum as of 2024.

Explanation

The doctrine of 'basic structure' was first propounded in the landmark Kesavananda Bharati V. State of Kerala case in 1973. This pivotal judgment by the Supreme Court of India established that while Parliament has the power to amend the Constitution, it cannot alter or destroy its fundamental features, which constitute its "basic structure." This doctrine acts as a safeguard against arbitrary amendments, ensuring the preservation of core constitutional principles like democracy, secularism, federalism, and judicial review. The cases of Sankari Prasad, Champakam Dorairajan, and Golaknath dealt with the Parliament's amending power and fundamental rights, but none of them formally introduced or adopted the 'basic structure' doctrine.

Explanation

The provisions relating to the appointment of Supreme Court and High Court Judges in the Indian Constitution were indeed incorporated based on the published recommendations of the Sapru Committee in 1945. This committee, chaired by Sir Tej Bahadur Sapru, was officially known as the Committee for Constitutional Reforms (1944–45). Its report specifically addressed the appointment process for judges, emphasizing the need for a system that ensured judicial independence and competence. The principles and suggestions made by the Sapru Committee were considered by the framers of the Constitution when deliberating on Articles 124 (for the Supreme Court) and 217 (for the High Courts) concerning the appointment of judges.

Explanation

Initially, the Right to Property was a Fundamental Right under Article 31 of the Indian Constitution. However, due to various issues related to land reforms and acquisition, it was removed from the list of Fundamental Rights. The 44th Amendment Act of 1978 abolished the Right to Property as a Fundamental Right. It was then re-positioned as a legal right under Article 300A of the Constitution. Therefore, in present times, the Right to Property is a legal right, not a fundamental right, human right, or a directive principle.

Explanation

Madhya Pradesh had the largest forest cover in India during the year 2021. According to the India State of Forest Report (ISFR) 2021, Madhya Pradesh recorded 77,482 square kilometers of forest cover. This makes it the state with the most extensive forest area in the country. It was followed by Arunachal Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, and Maharashtra in terms of forest cover by area.

Explanation

Thakur Ranmat Singh, a prominent freedom fighter from Baghelkhand, was a key leader in the 1857 Revolt in Central India. He led armed resistance against the British in Rewa and surrounding areas. After a prolonged struggle, he was captured by the British and subsequently hanged in August 1859. His execution marked the British efforts to suppress the remaining resistance in princely states and tribal regions. Some sources specify the date as August 1, 1859.

Explanation

The Southern Oscillation is a large-scale atmospheric pressure fluctuation that occurs between the tropical eastern and western Pacific Ocean waters, and extends to the Indian Ocean. It is the atmospheric component of the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) phenomenon, which involves coupled changes in both ocean temperatures and atmospheric pressure. This "seesaw" pattern involves an inverse relationship in atmospheric pressure: when pressure is high in the eastern Pacific, it tends to be low in the Indian Ocean and western Pacific, and vice versa. This pressure difference drives changes in wind patterns, which in turn affect sea surface temperatures and global weather. The Southern Oscillation Index (SOI) measures this pressure difference, typically between Tahiti (Pacific) and Darwin, Australia (near the Indian Ocean).

Explanation

Odisha was ranked first in iron-ore reserves in India for the period 2020-21. The state holds the largest estimated iron-ore reserves in the country, particularly in regions like Keonjhar, Sundargarh, and Mayurbhanj. These areas are rich in high-quality hematite ore, contributing significantly to India's total iron ore resources. While other states like Karnataka, Chhattisgarh, and Jharkhand also possess substantial iron ore deposits, Odisha consistently holds the leading position in terms of overall reserves.

Explanation

The Godavari River is the longest among the given options, flowing for approximately 1,465 kilometers (910 miles). It is also recognized as the second-longest river in India after the Ganges and the largest in Peninsular India, often referred to as the Dakshina Ganga (Southern Ganges). In comparison, the Krishna River is about 1,400 kilometers long, the Narmada River spans approximately 1,312 kilometers, and the Cauvery (Kaveri) River has a length of around 800-859 kilometers. Therefore, the Godavari surpasses the others in length.

Explanation

November 15th is celebrated as 'Janjatiya Gaurav Divas' to commemorate the birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda. Birsa Munda was a revered tribal freedom fighter and folk hero who played a significant role in the Indian independence movement. His contributions to tribal rights and his fight against British colonial rule are honored on this day. The Government of India declared November 15th as 'Janjatiya Gaurav Divas' in 2021 to recognize the contributions of tribal communities and their leaders to the nation.

Explanation

The T20 World Cup Final 2024 was played at the Kensington Oval in Bridgetown, Barbados, which is in the West Indies, not South Africa. India defeated South Africa in the final by 7 runs. Virat Kohli was named Player of the Match for his 76 runs off 59 balls. Jasprit Bumrah was awarded the Player of the Tournament for his outstanding bowling performance, taking 15 wickets in eight matches. Therefore, statement A is incorrect.

Explanation

The Madhya Pradesh Government has launched several initiatives to commemorate the 500th birth anniversary of Rani Durgavati. Among these, the 'Rani Durgavati Anna Protsahan Yojana' was introduced to provide financial incentives to farmers cultivating coarse grains. Additionally, the formation of a dedicated Rani Durgavati Memorial and Garden in Jabalpur has been undertaken to honor her legacy. These two initiatives are directly linked to the commemoration of her 500th birth anniversary.

Explanation

Rajkumar Hirani, a renowned Indian filmmaker, was honored with the Madhya Pradesh Government's prestigious Kishore Kumar Samman for the year 2023. He received the award for his exceptional contributions to Indian cinema, particularly in direction and scriptwriting. The award ceremony took place on October 13, 2024, in Khandwa, Kishore Kumar's hometown, coinciding with the legendary singer's 37th death anniversary. Hirani is celebrated for directing iconic films such as "Munna Bhai MBBS," "3 Idiots," and "PK." This recognition further solidifies his place among India's cinematic greats, with previous recipients including legends like Amitabh Bachchan and Dilip Kumar.

Explanation

On International Tourism Day, September 27, 2024, the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, recognized three villages in Madhya Pradesh for their outstanding sustainable tourism efforts. These villages were Pranpur, Sabarvani, and Ladpura Khas. Pranpur was awarded in the Craft category, while Sabarvani and Ladpura Khas received recognition in the Responsible Tourism category. Ghogra was not among the villages that received this prestigious award.

Explanation

National Space Day is celebrated on August 23rd in India to commemorate the historic success of the Chandrayaan-3 mission. On this day in 2023, India's Chandrayaan-3 spacecraft successfully achieved a soft landing on the Moon's south pole, making India the first country to do so and the fourth overall to achieve a soft lunar landing. Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially declared August 23rd as National Space Day to honor this significant achievement and inspire future generations in space science and technology.

Explanation

The Government of India passed the Environment (Protection) Act in 1986. This comprehensive legislation was enacted with the primary objective of protecting and improving the quality of the environment and addressing related matters. It was a significant step towards a unified legal framework for environmental protection in India, especially following the Bhopal gas tragedy in 1984. The Act also aimed to implement the decisions made at the United Nations Conference on the Human Environment held in Stockholm in June 1972.

Explanation

A sere refers to the entire sequence of communities that successively change in a given area during ecological succession. Each individual stage within this sequence is known as a seral stage. Ecological succession is the broader process of gradual change in species composition over time in an ecosystem, while a climax community is the stable, mature endpoint of this succession. Parallel evolution, on the other hand, describes the independent development of similar traits in distinct species. Therefore, "sere" specifically denotes the complete series of communities.

Explanation

The Indian Institute of Petroleum (IIP) is located in Dehradun, Uttarakhand. Established in 1960, it is one of the constituent laboratories of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR). The institute is dedicated to research and development in the hydrocarbon sector, including petroleum refining, petrochemicals, and alternative fuels. It initially started in New Delhi in 1960 and moved to Dehradun in 1963.

Explanation

The per capita income of Madhya Pradesh, at current prices, was ₹38,497 in the financial year 2011-12. By the financial year 2023-24, this figure had increased to an estimated ₹1,40,583. This represents an approximate 3.65-fold increase, which is commonly rounded to "nearly four-fold" in economic reporting. Therefore, the per capita income has nearly quadrupled over this period.

Explanation

The Rashtriya Kishor Swasthya Karyakram (RKSK) is a health program launched by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare in 2014. It specifically targets adolescents in the age group of 10 to 19 years. This program aims to address various health and developmental needs of young people, including nutrition, sexual and reproductive health, mental health, and substance abuse. The RKSK focuses on universal coverage, encompassing both males and females, urban and rural populations, as well as in-school and out-of-school adolescents.

Explanation

The Biological Diversity (Amendment) Act, 2023, was officially published in the Gazette of India by the Ministry of Law and Justice, Government of India, on August 3, 2023. This date signifies the formal announcement of the amendment act. The Act received the President's assent and was subsequently published in the Gazette of India Extraordinary on the same day.

Explanation

The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) Academy was established in 2018 in Nagpur, Maharashtra. This academy was created by merging with the existing National Civil Defence College (NCDC) in Nagpur. Its primary objective is to provide specialized training in disaster management to NDRF and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) personnel, civil defense volunteers, and disaster response officials from neighboring countries. The academy focuses on various training areas, including collapsed structure search and rescue, flood rescue, and chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) emergency response.

Explanation

Dr. Vishnu Shridhar Wakankar discovered the rock shelters of Bhimbetka in 1957. He was traveling by train to Nagpur and noticed similar rock formations to those he had seen in Spain and France. This led him to explore the area and uncover the significant prehistoric site. Therefore, the period 1957-1958 is the correct answer.

Explanation

The National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission, launched by the Government of India in July 2023, aims to eliminate sickle cell anaemia from India by the year 2047. This mission was announced in the Union Budget 2023-24 and was officially launched by Prime Minister Modi from Madhya Pradesh. The program focuses on awareness creation, targeted screening of 7 crore people in the age group of 0-40 years in affected tribal areas, and counselling. The long-term commitment is to eradicate the disease by 2047, aligning with the government's broader goal of achieving universal health coverage.

Explanation

Uchehara is a town and nagar panchayat located in the Satna district of Madhya Pradesh. It is widely recognized as a significant center for traditional bronze craft, particularly known for casting "Batholi" (bronze pots) and other idols and decorative items. This craft involves the fusion of tin and copper, creating items used in both sacred rituals and daily life. The preservation and promotion of these ancient techniques in Uchehara contribute to the cultural heritage and local economy of the region.

Explanation

The Fourth Cave of Bagh, located in the Dhar district of Madhya Pradesh, is famously known as 'Rang Mahal'. This name, which translates to 'Palace of Colors' or 'Palace of Paintings', was given due to the extensive and vibrant mural paintings that once adorned its walls and ceilings. These murals, depicting Buddhist themes and scenes of everyday life, are a significant example of ancient Indian art, similar to those found in the Ajanta Caves. Although only fragments of the original paintings remain, the Fourth Cave is considered the most important among the surviving Bagh caves for its artistic heritage.

Explanation

The Nilgiri Hills are a mountain range located in southern India, primarily in the state of Tamil Nadu. They are situated at the convergence point of the Sahyadris, which are also known as the Western Ghats, and the Eastern Ghats. This unique geographical position makes the Nilgiri Hills a crucial link between these two major mountain ranges of peninsular India.

Explanation

The Charan Paduka firing incident, often called the "Jallianwala Bagh of Bundelkhand," occurred on January 14, 1931, in Chhatarpur, Madhya Pradesh. During a peaceful assembly protesting against the princely state's policies and colonial administration's taxes, the British Army opened fire on the unarmed crowd. The order to open fire was given by G.T. Fisher, who was the Political Agent for Bundelkhand at that time. This tragic event resulted in the death of 21 freedom fighters and numerous injuries.

Explanation

Mooka Lohar was a prominent leader of the Turiya Jungle Satyagraha, which took place in the Seoni district of Madhya Pradesh. This movement was a part of the broader Civil Disobedience Movement in 1930, protesting against British forest laws that deprived tribal communities of their traditional rights. Lohar's leadership was crucial in mobilizing local tribal communities against the exploitation of forest resources. While other leaders like Ganjan Singh Korku were involved in similar jungle satyagrahas in different regions, Mooka Lohar is specifically associated with the Turiya Jungle Satyagraha.