RPSC RAS Prelims 2016 Question Paper with Answers & Explanations

Explanation

Muni Jin Vijay Suri was a distinguished 20th-century Indologist, scholar, and researcher who lived from 1888 to 1976. He is well-known for his contributions to the study of ancient Indian literature and served as the Director of the Rajasthan Oriental Research Institute. Given that Maharana Kumbha ruled the kingdom of Mewar in the 15th century, specifically from 1433 to 1468, Muni Jin Vijay Suri was not a contemporary of the ruler and therefore could not have been a member of his royal court. He was awarded the Padma Shri in 1961 for his academic contributions, centuries after the reign of Kumbha.

Explanation

The Alibakshi Khayal is a traditional folk drama style that originated in the Mundawar thikana of the Alwar district. It was created and popularized by Rao Alibaksh, the ruler of Mundawar, who is often called the Ras-Khan of Mewat for his poetic and musical contributions. This style of khayal is characterized by its lyrical storytelling and is performed primarily in the local Ahirwati dialect. Since its inception was under the patronage of the Mundawar royalty within the Alwar region, the Alibakshi style remains a significant cultural identity of Alwar.

Explanation

The Shankariya dance is a traditional folk dance belonging to the Kalbelia community of Rajasthan. It is a romantic dance form performed by both men and women, usually depicting a folk love story through rhythmic movements and artistic expressions. The Kalbelia community, historically known as snake charmers, has a rich repertoire of folk dances that also includes Paniyari, Indoni, and Bagaria. The cultural importance of Kalbelia performing arts is globally recognized, and their folk songs and dances were inscribed on UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2010.

Explanation

Captain Walter, while serving as the Political Agent of Bharatpur, first formally proposed and emphasized the necessity of establishing a specialized educational institution for the sons of the rulers and nobility of Rajasthan in his annual report for 1868-69. He argued that providing a structured, modern education to the future chiefs within their own cultural environment was essential for the progressive administration of the princely states and for fostering a closer relationship with the British administration. This proposal served as the initial catalyst for the eventual establishment of Mayo College in Ajmer, which was later championed and inaugurated by the Viceroy, Lord Mayo.

Explanation

Hansavali was composed by Asait Thakar in 1370 AD. It is an early Premakhyan or romantic narrative poem written in a language that represents the transition from Apabhramsa to Old Gujarati and Rajasthani. Scholars such as Ganpati Chandra Gupta consider this work to be the first in the Sufi or Premakhyan tradition of Hindi literature. Asait Thakar is also historically significant as the progenitor of the Bhawai folk theater, a popular traditional dance-drama form in Gujarat and Rajasthan. The poem narrates the story of Princess Hansavali and is noted for its cultural and linguistic significance in the medieval literary landscape of western India.

Explanation

Mount Kosciuszko is the highest point on the Australian mainland, located in the Snowy Mountains of New South Wales. Mount Macle, more commonly known as Mount McKinley or Denali, is the highest peak in North America and is situated in the Alaska Range. Mount Elbrus, located in the Caucasus Mountains of Russia, is considered the highest peak in Europe. Mount Kilimanjaro is a dormant volcano in Tanzania and is the highest peak in Africa. Each of these mountains represents the highest point of its respective continent as part of the Seven Summits.

Explanation

Pundarik Vitthal was a distinguished 16th-century musicologist and scholar who authored several seminal treatises on Indian classical music and dance. His work Raagmala is a significant text that provides a systematic classification and personified description of various ragas, reflecting the musical practices of his time. He was a versatile scholar who attempted to bridge the gap between the Hindustani and Carnatic musical traditions. His other notable contributions to musicology include Sadraga-chandrodaya, Ragamanjari, and Nartananirnaya, which remain essential primary sources for studying the historical evolution of Indian musical scales, raga structures, and performing arts during the medieval period.

Explanation

Narottam Lal Joshi was a prominent leader associated with the Shekhawati Peasant Movement in the Jaipur State, particularly active in the Jhunjhunu area. He later gained historical distinction as the first Speaker of the Rajasthan Legislative Assembly. In contrast, the peasant movements in the Bikaner State, such as the Dudhwa Khara movement, were led by individuals like Magharam Vaidya, Kumbharam Arya, and Hanuman Singh. Because Narottam Lal Joshi's political and social activities were centered in the Shekhawati region rather than Bikaner, this pair is incorrectly matched.

Explanation

In the historical administrative and revenue system of Rajasthan, the term Rekh signified the assessment of land revenue. Pattar Rehk or Patta Rekh was the specific value of the estimated annual revenue from a Jagir or fief as formally recorded in the Patta, which was the grant document issued by the state to the Jagirdar. This figure represented the assessed income of the land and was used by the central administration to calculate the various feudal obligations, such as military service or the payment of tribute, that the landholder owed to the ruler.

Explanation

The Shekhawati Brigade was a military force raised by the British in 1835 under the command of Captain Henry Forster. Its primary objective was to suppress lawlessness, unrest, and dacoity within the Shekhawati region of Rajasthan. The headquarters of this brigade was established at Jhunjhunu, where a permanent cantonment was constructed. The force played a vital role in maintaining British administrative influence over the local thikanas and was instrumental in the regional security architecture of the 19th century.

Explanation

Madhyamika, located at modern-day Nagari near Chittorgarh in Rajasthan, is a significant archaeological site documented in both the Mahabharata and Patanjali's Mahabhashya. In the Sabha Parva of the Mahabharata, it is described as a city encountered and conquered by the Pandava prince Nakula during his military campaign to the western regions. Historically, the city is also famously mentioned by the grammarian Patanjali in the 2nd century BCE. In his work, the Mahabhashya, Patanjali uses the phrase "Arunad Yavanah Madhyamikam" (The Yavana besieged Madhyamika) to illustrate the use of the imperfect tense for events that occurred within the author's own time or recent memory, specifically referring to the Indo-Greek invasions led by Menander or Demetrius.

Explanation

The Ghosundi inscription, discovered near Nagari in the Chittorgarh district of Rajasthan, serves as the earliest epigraphic evidence for the Bhagavata sect in the state. Dating to the 2nd century BCE, the inscription is inscribed in the Brahmi script and records the performance of an Ashvamedha sacrifice and the construction of a stone enclosure for the worship of Sankarshana and Vasudeva by King Sarvatata of the Gajayana dynasty. This confirms the prevalence of the Vasudeva cult and the early development of Vaishnavism in ancient Rajasthan during the late Shunga period.

Explanation

The Gurjara-Pratihara style of architecture, also known as the Maha-Maru style, flourished in Rajasthan between the 8th and 11th centuries. The Adiwara Temple at Ahad (Udaipur) belongs to this period, representing the late Pratihara phase with its characteristic Varaha icon and architectural layout. The Harshat Mata Temple at Abhaneri (Dausa), built in the 8th-9th century, is one of the most magnificent examples of this style, featuring a high socle and intricate carvings. The Neelkanth Temple at Rajorgarh (Alwar) was constructed in the 10th century during the reign of the Pratihara feudatories, showcasing the evolved decorative motifs of the era. The Harihar Temple at Osian (Jodhpur) is part of a famous cluster of early Gurjara-Pratihara shrines dating to the 8th and 9th centuries, known for their unique panchayatana plan and ornate pillars. Since all these sites represent different phases and locations of Gurjara-Pratihara temple construction in Rajasthan, they are all correctly attributed to this period.

Explanation

Rajputana Gazette was established in 1885 by Maulvi Murad Ali Bimar in Ajmer. Unlike many other contemporary publications in the region that were established to propagate the socio-religious reforms of Swami Dayanand Saraswati, the Rajputana Gazette functioned primarily as a political and social watchdog. It focused on exposing the administrative corruption, high-handedness of the British officials, and the grievances of the public within the princely states. Its editorial objective was centered on socio-political awareness and advocacy for justice rather than the dissemination of Arya Samaj principles or Vedic philosophy.

Explanation

Gulabi Gangaur is a unique cultural festival celebrated exclusively in Nathdwara, Rajsamand. While the traditional Gangaur festival is observed on Chaitra Shukla Tritiya across Rajasthan, the Gulabi Gangaur festivities take place two days later, on Chaitra Shukla Panchami. The celebration is deeply associated with the Shrinathji Temple and the Pushtimarg tradition of Vaishnavism. On this day, the idols of Gauri and Isar are adorned with pink-colored attire and decorations, and Shrinathji is offered special pink-themed shringar, leading to the name Gulabi or Pink Gangaur. A grand procession is taken out where devotees participate in large numbers to witness the deities dressed in distinctive pink garments and ornaments.

Explanation

Rajasthan Seva Sangh was founded in 1919 at Wardha by Vijay Singh Pathik, Ramnarayan Chaudhary, and Hari Bhai Kinkar to organize the masses and address the grievances of peasants in the princely states. Desh Hitaishee Sabha was established on July 2, 1877, in Udaipur under the chairmanship of Maharana Sajjan Singh to implement social reforms, particularly focusing on regulating marriage expenses and reducing polygamy. All India Deshi Lok Parishad, or the All India States Peoples Conference, was established in 1927 in Bombay to coordinate political activities and represent the people of the various princely states of India. Chamber of Princes, known as the Narendra Mandal, was inaugurated in 1921 by a Royal Proclamation to provide a forum for the rulers of the princely states to discuss matters of common interest and their relationship with the British Crown.

Explanation

Acid rain is primarily caused by the emission of sulfur dioxide (SO₂) and nitrogen oxides (NOₓ) into the atmosphere. These gases react with water vapor, oxygen, and other chemicals in the presence of sunlight to form acidic compounds such as sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄) and nitric acid (HNO₃). These acids then mix with precipitation and fall to the ground as rain, snow, or fog, significantly lowering the pH level of the moisture. While natural rainwater is slightly acidic due to dissolved carbon dioxide, the term acid rain specifically refers to the enhanced acidification resulting from these industrial and vehicular pollutants. Sulfur dioxide is largely produced by power plants and industrial facilities burning fossil fuels, while nitrogen oxides are primarily generated by internal combustion engines and high-temperature industrial combustion processes.

Explanation

The North-South Corridor is the longest highway project in India, forming a major part of the National Highways Development Project (NHDP). It connects Srinagar in Jammu and Kashmir to Kanyakumari in Tamil Nadu through National Highway 44. To arrange the given cities from north to south, their latitudinal positions must be considered along the corridor route.

Agra (2), located in Uttar Pradesh, is the northernmost city among those listed, situated at approximately 27° 10' N latitude. Following the corridor southward, the route enters Madhya Pradesh to reach Gwalior (4), which is located at approximately 26° 13' N. Continuing further south through central India, the corridor passes through Nagpur (1) in Maharashtra, located at approximately 21° 08' N. Finally, as the highway extends into the southern part of the peninsula, it reaches Krishnagiri (3) in Tamil Nadu, situated at approximately 12° 31' N. The correct geographic sequence from north to south is therefore Agra, Gwalior, Nagpur, and Krishnagiri.

Explanation

Lancashire Region is matched with the United Kingdom because it was the historic global center for the cotton textile industry during the Industrial Revolution.

Ruhr Region is matched with Germany as it serves as the country's primary industrial heartland, traditionally dominated by coal mining and steel production.

Cain (Keihin) Region is matched with Japan because it is the nation's leading industrial zone, encompassing the major urban centers of Tokyo, Kawasaki, and Yokohama.

Southern Appalachian Region is matched with the United States due to its extensive coal reserves and its historical role in the American iron and steel industry.

Explanation

The North-South Corridor is a key component of the National Highways Development Project, stretching from Srinagar to Kanyakumari. The geographical arrangement of these cities from North to South corresponds to their decreasing latitudinal values. Agra, located in Uttar Pradesh, is the northernmost city in this list at approximately 27.18 degrees N latitude. It is followed by Gwalior in Madhya Pradesh, situated at approximately 26.22 degrees N. Continuing southward, Nagpur in Maharashtra is located at approximately 21.14 degrees N. Krishnagiri, situated in the state of Tamil Nadu at approximately 12.53 degrees N, represents the southernmost point among the choices provided. This sequence follows the alignment of the highway as it traverses the Indian subcontinent from the northern plains through the Deccan plateau toward the southern tip.

Explanation

The peaks of the Aravalli Range in Rajasthan follow a specific altitudinal hierarchy. Ser, located in the Sirohi district, is the second-highest peak in the state with an elevation of 1597 meters. Jarga, situated on the border of the Udaipur and Rajsamand districts, has a height of 1431 meters. Sajjangarh, located in the Udaipur district, reaches an altitude of approximately 938 meters. Taragarh, which is part of the central Aravalli range in the Ajmer district, stands at an elevation of 873 meters. Comparing these elevations in meters (1597 > 1431 > 938 > 873) confirms that they are arranged in the correct descending order.

Explanation

Sambhar Lake is India's largest inland salt lake and was designated as a Wetland of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention on March 23, 1990. Located in the Jaipur, Ajmer, and Nagaur districts of Rajasthan, it is a critical wintering area for tens of thousands of migratory birds, most notably the Lesser Flamingo and the Greater Flamingo. The lake meets the Ramsar criteria due to its unique saline wetland ecosystem and its role in supporting diverse avian populations during their migratory cycles. Along with Keoladeo National Park, it was one of the two sites from Rajasthan included in the Ramsar list as of 2016.

Explanation

Janakpura and Sarwad are mining localities in the Ajmer district of Rajasthan known for the production of Jasper. Jasper is a variety of microcrystalline quartz that occurs in dense, opaque masses in a range of colors including red, yellow, brown, and green, deriving its coloration from mineral impurities. Rajasthan is a significant producer of this decorative and semi-precious stone, which is used in gemstone jewelry, ornamental carvings, and stone inlay work. The Aravalli geological belt of Ajmer district hosts suitable lithological conditions for jasper deposits. These mines contribute to Rajasthan status as a leading state in the production and export of semi-precious and ornamental stones in India.

Explanation

Jodbi Gadewal is a designated conservation reserve located in the Bikaner district. Gudha Bishnoi is a significant wildlife protection area situated in the Jodhpur district, known for its blackbuck population. Gogela is a conservation reserve established in the Nagaur district. Beed, also known as Bir Jhunjhunu, is a protected forest and grassland area located in the Jhunjhunu district.

Explanation

The Aravalli Range runs in a southwest-to-northeast direction through Rajasthan, acting as a significant geographical barrier that limits the eastward drift of sand from the Thar Desert. By blocking the advancement of desertification into the fertile plains of eastern Rajasthan and the Indo-Gangetic region, it preserves the ecological balance of the eastern plains.

The region is also geologically composed of ancient rocks from the Archean and Proterozoic eras, particularly the Dharwar system, making it exceptionally rich in metallic minerals. It contains major deposits of non-ferrous metals such as copper at Khetri, and lead-zinc-silver ores at the Zawar mines in Udaipur. These deposits make the Aravalli belt one of the most productive mineral zones in India.

Explanation

The Government of Rajasthan approved and released the state's first Forest Policy on February 18, 2010. This decision made Rajasthan the first state in India to adopt an independent state forest policy. The policy was designed to tackle the unique geographical and climatic conditions of the state, particularly the challenges posed by the Thar Desert and the large areas of wasteland. It set a target to increase the forest and tree cover to 20% of the total geographical area of the state, emphasizing environmental stability, ecological balance, and the conservation of biodiversity through social forestry, plantation drives, and community-based forest management practices.

Explanation

In exercise of the powers conferred by Section 63 of the Biological Diversity Act, 2002, the Government of Rajasthan notified the Rajasthan Biological Diversity Rules on September 14, 2010. Simultaneously, the Rajasthan State Biodiversity Board was established as a statutory body to implement the provisions of the Act within the state. The board is mandated to advise the State Government on matters relating to the conservation of biodiversity, sustainable use of its components, and equitable sharing of benefits arising from the utilization of biological resources.

Explanation

The Chaudhary Kumbha Ram Lift Canal, originally known as the Nohwa-Sawa Lift Canal, is a key component of the Indira Gandhi Canal Project (IGNP). It is designed to provide irrigation and drinking water to the arid and semi-arid regions of northern and north-eastern Rajasthan. This lift canal primarily serves the districts of Hanumangarh, Churu, and Jhunjhunu. In Jhunjhunu specifically, it provides drinking water through the Aapni Yojna, a project executed with international assistance to solve water scarcity in the region. The canal also facilitates agricultural activities by providing irrigation water to the Hanumangarh district, making this pair the primary beneficiaries of the system.

Explanation

Palana is situated in the Bikaner district of Rajasthan and is one of the state's most prominent sites for the extraction of lignite coal. This lignite was formed during the Tertiary period and serves as a vital resource for local thermal power generation. Gypsum deposits in Rajasthan are primarily located within the Bikaner-Nagaur-Ganganagar-Hanumangarh region, specifically in areas like Jamsar, Dhirera, and Got-Manglod. Palana is characterized by its extensive lignite seams and is not a geographical source for gypsum.

Explanation

Shipki La is a high mountain pass and border post located on the India-China border in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh. It is the geographical point where the Sutlej River enters India from the Tibetan plateau. Since the pass is situated in Himachal Pradesh and not in Jammu and Kashmir, it is an incorrect match. It remains one of the primary border trade points between India and China, alongside other Himalayan passes like Nathu La and Lipulekh.

Explanation

The Green Revolution, initiated in the mid-1960s, fundamentally transformed Indian agriculture through the introduction of High Yielding Variety (HYV) seeds, particularly for wheat and rice. This technological shift, supported by expanded irrigation facilities and the intensive use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, led to a substantial and rapid increase in the total production of food grains, achieving the primary goal of national food security.

Simultaneously, the Green Revolution resulted in significant regional inequalities because the new agricultural technology required assured irrigation and high capital investment. This meant the benefits were largely concentrated in naturally well-endowed and infrastructure-rich regions such as Punjab, Haryana, and Western Uttar Pradesh, while many other parts of the country remained stagnant. Although both statements are factually correct, the rise in regional disparity is a socio-economic outcome of the program's implementation and does not explain the biological or mechanical reasons behind the increase in food grain production.

Explanation

According to the Indian Minerals Yearbook published by the Indian Bureau of Mines for the period 2013-14, Madhya Pradesh was the leading producer of manganese ore in India, accounting for approximately 33 percent of the total national production. Odisha followed as a major producer with a share of about 22 percent of the output. Andhra Pradesh occupied the subsequent position among the states listed, contributing nearly 14 percent to the total production. Rajasthan, while possessing manganese resources, recorded a significantly lower production level compared to the leading states, placing it at the end of this specific hierarchy.

Explanation

According to the 2011 Census data, the districts of Rajasthan with the highest total populations are ranked in descending order as follows: Jaipur, Jodhpur, Alwar, and Nagaur. Jaipur is the most populous district with a population of approximately 6,626,178. It is followed by Jodhpur with 3,687,165 residents, Alwar with 3,674,179, and Nagaur with 3,307,743. These four districts represent the primary population hubs of the state, with the concentration of residents significantly higher in the state capital and the central-eastern and western industrial and agricultural corridors.

Explanation

Article 18 of the Constitution of India prohibits the state from conferring any titles, except for military or academic distinctions, to maintain social equality and abolish artificial hierarchies. Article 26 grants religious denominations the freedom to manage their own affairs in matters of religion, including the right to establish and maintain institutions for religious and charitable purposes. Article 29 provides for the protection of the interests of minorities by ensuring that any section of citizens with a distinct language, script, or culture has the right to conserve the same. Article 21A, enacted via the 86th Constitutional Amendment Act, establishes the Right to Education as a fundamental right, mandating the state to provide free and compulsory education to all children aged six to fourteen years.

Explanation

Fundamental Duties were incorporated into the Indian Constitution through the 42nd Constitutional Amendment Act of 1976. This addition was made based on the recommendations of the Swaran Singh Committee, which was appointed by the government to suggest changes to the Constitution during the period of Internal Emergency. The amendment inserted a new Part IV-A consisting of Article 51A, which originally enumerated ten fundamental duties for the citizens of India. These duties, inspired by the Constitution of the former USSR, were intended to remind citizens that they have certain social and moral obligations to perform while enjoying their fundamental rights. This helped establish a balance between the rights of the individual and the requirements of the state and society.

Explanation

The states of Sikkim and Mizoram, along with the Union Territory of Chandigarh, are each represented by exactly one seat in the Lok Sabha. According to Article 81 of the Constitution of India and the provisions of the Delimitation Acts, seats in the lower house of Parliament are allocated to states and Union Territories based on their respective populations. For administrative units with relatively small populations, the Delimitation Commission assigns a single seat to ensure that every state and Union Territory has a voice in the national legislature. As of 2016, Sikkim, Mizoram, and Chandigarh are among the entities that do not meet the population threshold required for additional constituencies, thus maintaining their status as single-member constituencies. This allocation ensures that the demographic interests of these smaller regions are protected within the broader parliamentary structure.

Explanation

PROPOSED: [c]

Article 18 of the Constitution prohibits the State from conferring any titles, other than military or academic distinctions, to uphold the principle of social equality. Article 26 grants religious denominations the fundamental right to manage their own affairs in matters of religion, including the right to establish and maintain institutions for religious and charitable purposes. Article 29 provides for the protection of the interests of minorities, ensuring that any section of citizens with a distinct language, script, or culture has the right to conserve the same. Article 21A, which appears in the list as 21 (k), was inserted by the 86th Constitutional Amendment Act of 2002 and establishes the Right to Education as a fundamental right for children aged six to fourteen years.

Matching the provisions with their respective articles: A. Prohibition of titles matches Article 18 (3). B. Freedom of management of religious affairs matches Article 26 (4). C. Protection of the language of minorities matches Article 29 (1). D. Right to Education matches Article 21A (2).

The resulting sequence is 3, 4, 1, 2.

Explanation

Fundamental Duties were incorporated into the Indian Constitution via the 42nd Constitutional Amendment Act of 1976. This inclusion followed the recommendations of the Swaran Singh Committee, which emphasized that citizens should perform certain duties while enjoying their fundamental rights. This amendment added a new Part IV-A and Article 51A to the Constitution, which originally enumerated ten fundamental duties. Inspired by the Constitution of the former USSR, these duties serve as a reminder to citizens of their social and civic obligations toward the nation.

Explanation

The allocation of seats in the Lok Sabha is determined based on the population of each state and union territory according to the provisions of the Constitution of India and the Representation of the People Act, 1950. As of 2016, the states of Sikkim and Mizoram, along with the Union Territory of Chandigarh, are each represented by only one seat in the Lok Sabha. This single-seat representation is a result of their relatively smaller population sizes compared to other states, necessitating a single constituency to maintain a uniform population-to-seat ratio as mandated by delimitation guidelines. Consequently, these three administrative units are among the regions with the minimum representation in the lower house of the Indian Parliament.

Explanation

Article 18 prohibits the State from conferring any titles, except for military or academic distinctions, to ensure social equality among citizens. Article 26 grants every religious denomination the right to manage its own affairs in matters of religion and to own and acquire property. Article 29 provides protection to the interests of minorities by giving any section of citizens the right to conserve their distinct language, script, or culture. Article 21A, which was inserted by the 86th Constitutional Amendment Act of 2002, establishes the Right to Education as a fundamental right, requiring the State to provide free and compulsory education to all children between the ages of six and fourteen years.

Explanation

The Government of India Act, 1935, introduced a three-fold division of legislative powers between the Centre and the provinces through the Federal List, Provincial List, and Concurrent List. According to Section 104 of the Act, the residual powers—those subjects not explicitly mentioned in any of the three lists—were neither assigned to the federal legislature nor the provincial legislatures. Instead, these powers were vested in the Governor-General of India, who had the personal discretion to decide whether the federal or the provincial legislature should legislate on a particular residual matter.

Explanation

According to the Right to Information Act, 2005, the Central Information Commission consists of the Chief Information Commissioner and Central Information Commissioners. Section 13 of the Act specifies that the Information Commissioners shall hold office for a term of five years from the date on which they enter upon their office or until they attain the age of sixty-five years, whichever is earlier. The Act also provides that they are not eligible for reappointment to the same position. These conditions were designed to ensure the autonomy and effective functioning of the commission by providing a fixed tenure with a clear age limit.

Explanation

Under Article 85(2)(b) of the Constitution of India, the President has the power to dissolve the Lok Sabha (House of the People). Dissolution brings the term of the existing House to an end, necessitating fresh general elections to constitute a new House. While the normal tenure of the Lok Sabha is five years from the date of its first meeting, it can be dissolved earlier by the President on the advice of the Council of Ministers, typically when the government loses its majority and no alternative government can be formed. Once the Lok Sabha is dissolved, all business pending before it or its committees—including bills, motions, and resolutions—generally lapses, unless specific constitutional protections apply.

Explanation

The Provisions of the Panchayats (Extension to the Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996, commonly known as PESA, was enacted to extend the panchayat-related provisions of Part IX of the Constitution to the Fifth Schedule areas. These areas are characterized by a predominant population of Scheduled Tribes and are specifically notified by the President of India under Article 244(1). As of 2016, the Act is applicable to the Fifth Schedule areas within ten states: Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha, and Rajasthan. Conversely, states like Assam and Meghalaya are governed by the Sixth Schedule, which provides for Autonomous District Councils and a different administrative structure. Tamil Nadu does not have any areas designated under the Fifth Schedule. Therefore, the PESA Act does not extend to the group comprising Assam, Meghalaya, and Tamil Nadu.

Explanation

Ram Naik, who was the Governor of Uttar Pradesh at the time, was given the additional charge of Rajasthan following the completion of Margaret Alva's tenure. He served as the acting Governor of Rajasthan from August 8, 2014, until September 3, 2014. This arrangement remained in place until Kalyan Singh was officially appointed and sworn in as the regular Governor on September 4, 2014. Under Article 153 of the Constitution of India, the same person can be appointed as Governor for two or more states, facilitating such interim administrative transitions.

Explanation

Devi Shankar Tiwari, commonly known as D. S. Tiwari, holds the record for the longest tenure as the Chairman of the Rajasthan Public Service Commission. He served in this capacity from August 8, 1951, to August 7, 1958. His continuous service of seven years remains the maximum duration any individual has held the chairmanship since the commission was established following the Rajasthan Public Service Commission Ordinance in 1949.

Explanation

The District Planning Committee (DPC) is established under Article 243ZD of the Constitution of India, introduced by the 74th Amendment Act, 1992. The Article mandates that at least four-fifths (80%) of the total members of the committee must be elected by and from amongst the elected members of the Zila Parishad and the Municipalities in the district.

In a standard committee structure consisting of 25 members, 20 members are elected to satisfy this constitutional requirement. The remaining members are either ex-officio or nominated by the State Government to provide administrative and political leadership. The 3 members in the ex-officio or nominated category typically include the Minister in charge of the district (who often serves as the Chairperson), the District Collector (who serves as the Member Secretary), and the President of the Zila Parishad. This composition ensures that local planning is synchronized with state policies and administrative implementation.

Explanation

India has historically faced a structural trade deficit since independence due to the high demand for capital goods, petroleum, and raw materials required for industrialization. However, the balance of trade was positive in two specific fiscal years. In 1972-73, India recorded a trade surplus of approximately ₹104 crore, driven by a surge in exports of leather, sugar, and cotton textiles. In 1976-77, a surplus of about ₹68 crore was achieved because of a significant increase in the export of engineering goods and iron and steel, coupled with a drastic reduction in the imports of food grains and fertilizers. Excluding these two instances, India's trade balance remained negative for the entire period between 1949-50 and 2015-16.

Explanation

The PAHAL (Pratyaksh Hanstantrit Labh) scheme represents the first major implementation of the JAM (Jan Dhan-Aadhaar-Mobile) trinity, utilizing these three pillars to create a robust identification and payment infrastructure. As a Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) initiative, it revolutionized the LPG distribution system by removing the supply-chain inefficiencies associated with physical subsidies. Under this mechanism, the government transfers the LPG subsidy amount directly into the bank accounts of registered consumers. This ensures that beneficiaries purchase cylinders at the market price while receiving the financial support directly in their accounts, effectively eliminating ghost connections and reducing leakage in the subsidy delivery system.

Explanation

During the high-growth phase of the Indian economy in the mid-2000s, the fiscal year 2007-08 recorded the highest growth rate of per capita income at constant prices. Specifically, the Per Capita Net National Income at 2004-05 prices grew by approximately 8.1 percent in 2007-08. This peak was the result of a sustained period of robust macroeconomic performance where the overall GDP growth reached 9.3 percent. The growth was driven by a combination of high domestic investment, significant growth in the services and manufacturing sectors, and a favorable global economic environment prior to the 2008 financial crisis. This specific year represents the historical maximum for real per capita income growth within the 1951-52 to 2015-16 timeframe.

Explanation

The Gram Bhoj Yojana, particularly in the context of food security implementations in Rajasthan, prioritizes women's empowerment by designating the eldest female member as the head of the household. According to the scheme guidelines, any woman who has attained the age of 21 years is declared the head of the family with the consent of the household members. This legal recognition ensures that social welfare benefits and food security entitlements are managed by women, promoting financial and social autonomy within the family structure.

The verification process for registration under this scheme is an administrative function designed to maintain transparency. The first level of verification is performed by government officials like the Gram Sevak (Village Development Officer) or the Patwari rather than the Sarpanch. Utilizing permanent civil servants for the initial verification ensures that the selection of beneficiaries is based on objective criteria and remains free from the potential political influence of elected local representatives. Once the administrative verification is complete, the records are forwarded for final approval to the concerned Tehsildar or block-level authorities.

Explanation

The Anupreet Yojana was launched by the Government of Rajasthan to provide financial assistance and coaching incentives to meritorious students belonging to Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, Special Backward Classes, and other marginalized groups. The primary objective of the scheme is to encourage these students to compete for prestigious positions in civil services and professional fields. It provides monetary support to candidates who clear different stages of competitive examinations conducted by the Union Public Service Commission and the Rajasthan Public Service Commission. Furthermore, the scheme extends financial aid to students securing admission into premier national-level professional institutions such as the Indian Institutes of Technology, Indian Institutes of Management, and various medical colleges, thereby reducing the financial barrier to high-quality education and career advancement.

Explanation

The State Election Commission of Rajasthan is a constitutional body because it was established under the provisions of Article 243K and Article 243ZA of the Constitution of India. These articles were inserted by the 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendment Acts of 1992, which mandated the creation of an independent State Election Commission in every state for the superintendence, direction, and control of the preparation of electoral rolls and the conduct of all elections to the Panchayats and Municipalities. In Rajasthan, the State Election Commission was formally constituted in July 1994 to fulfill these constitutional requirements, ensuring that local self-government elections are conducted independently.

Explanation

The Panchayati Raj system was first inaugurated in India in the Nagaur district of Rajasthan on October 2, 1959. Following this, the first elections for Panchayati Raj institutions in the state were held in 1960. Prior to the 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act, elections were conducted in 1960, 1965, 1978, 1981, and 1988. After the constitutional amendment made regular five-year elections mandatory, the Rajasthan State Election Commission conducted subsequent polls in 1995, 2000, 2005, 2010, and 2015. Summing these instances, the state held a total of ten elections for these local bodies until the end of 2015.

Explanation

The impeachment of the President of India under Article 61 of the Constitution is characterized as a quasi-judicial process because it involves a legislative body performing functions that are judicial in nature. When a charge is preferred by one House of Parliament, the other House investigates the charge or causes the charge to be investigated. During this investigation, the President has the legal right to appear and to be represented by counsel, ensuring the principles of natural justice are followed. Since the Parliament conducts a formal inquiry into the allegations, evaluates evidence, and provides the accused an opportunity to be heard before reaching a final verdict on removal from office, the procedure moves beyond simple legislation into the realm of adjudication.

Explanation

President's Rule under Article 356 has been imposed in Rajasthan on four separate occasions. The first instance occurred in 1967 following a fractured mandate in the state assembly elections where no single party could form a government. The second imposition took place in 1977 when the central government dissolved the state assembly. The third instance was in 1980, when the assembly was again dissolved by the Union government following a change in power at the federal level. The fourth and final imposition occurred from December 1992 to December 1993, following the dismissal of the state government in the aftermath of the Babri Masjid demolition. As of June 30, 2016, these four periods constitute all instances of President's Rule in the state of Rajasthan.

Explanation

The National Sample Survey Office (NSSO), which functions under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, is the nodal agency for conducting large-scale sample surveys in India. Estimates for poverty and unemployment are fundamentally based on the data collected through these nationwide surveys. Poverty estimation has historically been carried out by the Planning Commission (and subsequently NITI Aayog) using the Household Consumer Expenditure Survey (CES) data provided by the NSSO. This methodology uses consumption expenditure as a proxy for income, which is difficult to measure accurately across India's large informal sector. Similarly, unemployment statistics were primarily derived from the NSSO's quinquennial Employment and Unemployment Surveys. While poverty specifically relies on the consumer expenditure data to define the poverty line, the NSSO remains the foundational data source for both socio-economic indicators.

Explanation

Gumbo is a specific variety of fine-grained, heavy clay soil found primarily in North America, particularly in the Mississippi River valley and the western prairies of the United States. It is characterized by its extreme plasticity and high clay content, which causes it to become exceptionally sticky, soapy, and waxy when wet, and to develop deep, wide cracks during dry periods. This terminology is localized to American pedology and is not recognized as a category or type within the Indian soil classification systems, such as those defined by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR).

Explanation

The Ganga is the largest river in India, considering both its length and the extent of its drainage basin within the country. It flows for approximately 2,525 km from its source in the Gangotri Glacier of the Himalayas to its mouth at the Bay of Bengal. The Ganga basin is the largest in India, covering an area of about 8,61,452 square kilometers, which constitutes nearly 26 percent of the total geographical area of the nation. It carries a massive volume of water and supports one of the most fertile and densely populated regions in the world, making it the most significant river system in the country.

Explanation

Bangalore, officially known as Bengaluru, is the capital city of the Indian state of Karnataka. Located on the Deccan Plateau in the southeastern part of the state, it serves as the administrative, legislative, and judicial headquarters. The city became the capital of the Mysore State upon its formation in 1956, which was later renamed Karnataka in 1973. It is a major economic and cultural hub, widely recognized as the center of India's high-tech industry. The city houses the Vidhana Soudha, the seat of the state legislature of Karnataka, and the Karnataka High Court.

Explanation

The District Magistrate serves as the primary authority for the maintenance of law and order within the district, exercising executive magisterial powers under the Code of Criminal Procedure. Under Section 4 of the Police Act of 1861, the District Magistrate is vested with the power of general control and direction over the district police force, which ensures that the police administration remains accountable to the civil authority. Furthermore, the District Magistrate acts as the local representative of the central government regarding the surveillance of foreign nationals, which includes the power to inspect passports and travel documents under the Foreigners Act of 1946. Although the same individual also serves as the District Collector, the specific function of collecting land revenue is a part of the revenue administration duties belonging to the office of the Collector, rather than the magisterial office.

Explanation

The Governor of Rajasthan serves as the ex-officio Chancellor of all state universities established under the acts passed by the Rajasthan State Legislature. This statutory authority allows the Governor to exercise powers such as appointing Vice-Chancellors, presiding over the university senate or board of management, and conferring degrees during convocation ceremonies. The Governor's role as Chancellor is specifically tied to these state-funded and state-constituted institutions. In contrast, central universities located within the state are governed by the Central Universities Act, 2009, where the President of India serves as the Visitor. Similarly, private universities in the state are governed by the Rajasthan Private Universities Act, 2005, which provides for the appointment of a Chancellor by the sponsoring body of the respective private institution rather than the Governor.

Explanation

The Rajasthan State Information Commission was constituted by the State Government of Rajasthan on April 18, 2006, under the powers conferred by Section 15 of the Right to Information Act, 2005. This statutory body was established to exercise the powers conferred on it and to perform the functions assigned to it under the Act, primarily acting as the final appellate authority for RTI matters within the state. M.D. Kaurani was appointed as the first Chief Information Commissioner of the state. The commission is headquartered in Jaipur and consists of the State Chief Information Commissioner and such number of State Information Commissioners, not exceeding ten, as may be deemed necessary. It plays a critical role in ensuring transparency and accountability in the functioning of public authorities across Rajasthan.

Explanation

Based on the Union Budget 2016-17 (Budget Estimates), the contribution of various taxes to the Gross Tax Revenue of the Central Government follow a specific order of magnitude. The collection figures for these taxes were estimated as follows: Service Tax (4) at ₹2,31,000 crore, Union Excise Duty (1) at ₹3,18,670 crore, Taxes on Income other than Corporation Tax (2) at ₹3,53,174 crore, and Corporation Tax (3) at ₹4,93,923 crore.

When arranged in ascending order of their contribution to the total tax revenue, the sequence is Service Tax < Federal Excise Duty < Income Tax < Corporate Tax. This corresponds to the numerical code 4, 1, 2, 3. This ranking reflects the historical trend where direct taxes, led by Corporate Tax, have been the largest contributors to the central exchequer, while Service Tax, though growing rapidly during that period, remained the smallest among the four categories listed.

Explanation

The Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP) evaluates the Minimum Support Price (MSP) by considering the comprehensive C2 cost, which encompasses all paid-out expenses, the value of family labor, the rental value of owned land, and the interest on fixed capital. In the period following 1997-98, the government policy shifted towards ensuring that the MSP serves as a remunerative price rather than a mere floor price. By factoring in a margin for risk and profit to encourage agricultural growth and food security, the MSP for major commodities has been established at levels that surpass the total C2 cost of production. This approach ensures that farmers are compensated for the full opportunity cost of their resources, including their own land and capital, while providing an incentive for continued cultivation and investment in modern agricultural inputs.

Explanation

The Wholesale Price Index for the state of Rajasthan is prepared and released monthly by the Directorate of Economics and Statistics, Jaipur. The base year used for this index is 1999-2000, which provides the benchmark against which changes in the wholesale prices of a representative basket of goods are measured. This basket comprises 154 commodities categorized into three major groups: Primary Articles, Fuel, Power, Light and Lubricants, and Manufactured Products. The index plays a vital role in monitoring the price situation and helps the state government in making informed decisions regarding economic and fiscal policies. Each commodity in the index is assigned a specific weight based on its relative importance in the state's economy during the base period.

Explanation

The 12th Five Year Plan of Rajasthan (2012–2017) was formulated with the objective of achieving an overall average annual growth rate of 7.7 percent for the Gross State Domestic Product at constant prices. To attain this macroeconomic goal, the planning authorities established specific sectoral growth targets. The agriculture sector was assigned a growth target of 3.5 percent, accounting for the inherent variability and monsoon dependency of farming in the state. The industrial sector was targeted to grow at 8.0 percent to encourage manufacturing and infrastructure development. The services sector, which is the largest contributor to the state economy, was set at the highest growth target of 9.5 percent to drive urban development and employment.

Explanation

According to the 2011 Census, the sex ratio of Rajasthan was 928, which was lower than India's national average of 943. Within the state, no district crossed the 1000 mark in its overall sex ratio; the highest was recorded in Dungarpur at 994, followed by Rajsamand at 990. In rural areas, the state average was 933, and Pali was the only district to record a sex ratio above 1000, specifically 1003. In urban areas, the state average was 914, with the highest recorded in Tonk at 985 and the lowest in Jaisalmer at 807. Since no urban area in Rajasthan exceeded the 1000 mark, and Dhaulpur specifically had one of the lowest sex ratios in the state at 846, the first three statements accurately reflect the demographic data of the 2011 census.

Explanation

The first Administrative Reforms Commission (1966-70), initially chaired by Morarji Desai and later by K. Hanumanthaiah, recommended the creation of independent authorities to investigate complaints against administrative actions. In its interim report on the Problems of Redress of Citizens Grievances submitted in 1966, the commission proposed a dual institutional structure patterned after the Scandinavian Ombudsman. This structure consisted of a Lokpal at the Centre to handle complaints against Ministers and Secretaries of the Union government, and a Lokayukta in each state to investigate similar complaints at the state level. This was the first formal recommendation in India to establish a dedicated anti-corruption and grievance redressal mechanism specifically for state-level administration.

Explanation

Under Article 315 of the Constitution of India, two or more states can reach an agreement to establish a Joint State Public Service Commission. If a resolution to this effect is passed by the legislatures of those states, Parliament may by law provide for the creation of such a commission. According to Article 316, the Chairman and other members of a Joint Public Service Commission are appointed by the President of India. While the Governor of a state appoints the members of a State Public Service Commission, the Joint Commission is a statutory body created by an act of Parliament, and therefore the power of appointment and removal of its members is vested in the President.

Explanation

In the history of the Rajasthan Legislative Assembly up to June 30, 2016, a motion of confidence has been presented and discussed on four distinct occasions. The first three instances occurred under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhairon Singh Shekhawat. He moved the first vote of confidence on November 8, 1990, the second on October 25, 1991, and the third on December 31, 1993, to prove his majority amidst shifting political alliances and following the revocation of President's Rule. The fourth instance took place on January 2, 2009, during the tenure of Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot. Gehlot sought the confidence of the House following the 2008 state assembly elections to establish a stable government with the support of independent members and other legislators. These motions are procedural tools used by the ruling government to demonstrate that it continues to command the majority of the House.

Explanation

The Jalipa-Kaprodi Thermal Power Project is a significant energy installation located in the Barmer district of Rajasthan. Statement 1 is correct because the facility is specifically designed to be a lignite-based power plant, utilizing the substantial lignite reserves available in the local Jalipa and Kapurdi mines. Statement 2 is correct as the project was developed under the private sector by Raj WestPower Limited, which is a subsidiary of JSW Energy Limited. The plant has a total installed capacity of 1080 MW, consisting of eight units of 135 MW each, and functions as a pit-head station to ensure efficient power generation by being situated directly near its fuel source.

Explanation

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) provides financial assistance for the Rajasthan Renewable Energy Transmission Investment Program through a Multi-tranche Financing Facility (MFF) totaling 300 million USD. Approved in September 2013, this program supports the state government's initiative to develop a high-capacity transmission system to evacuate clean energy from renewable energy parks in the western districts of Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, and Barmer. The investment focuses on constructing 400 kV and 220 kV grid substations and associated transmission lines to integrate solar and wind power into the state and national grids, specifically facilitating the development of the Rajasthan Solar Park and enhancing the infrastructure needed for green energy distribution.

Explanation

The Savita campaign is centered on the principles of women empowerment, drawing inspiration from the legacy of Savitribai Phule, who was a pioneer of women's education and social reform in India. These initiatives typically focus on enhancing female literacy, promoting gender equality, and fostering financial independence through self-help groups and skill development programs. By addressing the socio-economic barriers faced by women, the campaign seeks to integrate them into the mainstream workforce and decision-making processes, thereby strengthening the overall status of women in society.

Explanation

The Indian Constitution is widely recognized for several distinctive features. It is the longest written constitution in the world, containing a vast number of articles, schedules, and appendices. It also combines elements of both rigidity and flexibility, borrowing from federal and unitary systems and allowing different procedures for amendment depending on the type of provision. "Most expensive constitution" is not a recognized constitutional characteristic in any legal, academic, or political science framework. No constitutional scholar or standard textbook describes any constitution in terms of its cost of drafting or production. Among the given options, being the most expensive constitution in the world is therefore not a characteristic of the Indian Constitution, making it the odd one out.

Explanation

Mahatma Gandhi wrote Hind Swaraj in 1909 while traveling from London to South Africa on board the ship SS Kildonan Castle. Originally written in Gujarati, the book serves as a foundational text for Gandhi's political philosophy. In it, he defines his concept of Swaraj, which he explains as not just political independence from British rule, but as self-rule and self-restraint. The book critiques modern Western civilization, industrialization, and the parliamentary system of government, advocating instead for a return to traditional Indian values and self-sufficiency. It was banned by the British authorities in 1910 as a seditious text, prompting Gandhi to publish an English translation to demonstrate its non-violent message to a wider audience.

Explanation

Rajasthan is the largest state in India by geographical area, covering approximately 342,239 square kilometers. This constitutes about 10.41% of the total land area of the country. Rajasthan has held the position of the largest state since November 1, 2000, when the state of Madhya Pradesh was bifurcated to create Chhattisgarh, thereby reducing the total area of Madhya Pradesh and moving Rajasthan to the first rank.

Explanation

Goa is the smallest state in India by land area, covering approximately 3,702 square kilometers. It is situated on the southwestern coast of the country within the Konkan region. This geographic area makes it the smallest of all the states in the Indian Union in terms of total land surface.

Explanation

According to the 2011 Census of India, Uttar Pradesh is the most populous state in the country. It recorded a population of approximately 19.98 crore, which accounts for nearly 16.5 percent of India's total population. The state's vast area within the fertile Indo-Gangetic plain has historically supported a high concentration of inhabitants, making it the most significant demographic unit in the Indian union.

Explanation

Dolly the sheep was born on July 5, 1996, at the Roslin Institute in Scotland. Because her actual birth occurred in 1996, the statement asserting she was born in 1998 is factually incorrect. She was the first mammal successfully cloned from an adult somatic cell using the technique of somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT). Although her existence was only announced to the world in February 1997, her biological birth date remains recorded as July 1996.

Explanation

Baking soda is the common name for sodium bicarbonate, which has the chemical formula NaHCO₃. It is a salt composed of sodium cations Na⁺ and bicarbonate anions HCO₃⁻. It is primarily produced using the Solvay process, where carbon dioxide, ammonia, and water react with a concentrated solution of sodium chloride. In culinary applications, baking soda acts as a chemical leavening agent; when it reacts with an acid, it releases carbon dioxide gas, which creates bubbles and causes dough or batter to rise.

Explanation

Photovoltaic cells, commonly known as solar cells, are semiconductor devices that convert sunlight directly into electricity through the photovoltaic effect. When photons from solar radiation strike the cell, they are absorbed by materials such as silicon, causing electrons to be knocked loose from their atoms. This flow of electrons creates an electric current. This technology allows for the direct harvesting of solar energy to power everything from small electronics like calculators to large-scale utility grids. Because the process relies entirely on the absorption of light particles to generate a voltage, the photovoltaic cell is the fundamental component of solar energy systems.

Explanation

Android 6.0, codenamed Marshmallow, was officially released by Google in October 2015 as the successor to Android 5.1 Lollipop. This version introduced significant core improvements to the operating system, most notably the Doze power-management system designed to reduce battery consumption when a device is idle. It also implemented a new runtime permissions architecture, allowing users to manage specific app permissions individually rather than granting all permissions at the time of installation. Other key features included native support for fingerprint recognition and the introduction of USB-C support for charging and data transfer.

Explanation

INS Chakra is an Akula-class nuclear-powered attack submarine (SSN) that was officially commissioned into the Indian Navy in April 2012. It was acquired from Russia on a ten-year lease to provide the Indian Navy with advanced underwater endurance and speed, capabilities that are unique to nuclear propulsion. Unlike conventional diesel-electric submarines, INS Chakra does not need to surface frequently to charge batteries, as its onboard nuclear reactor provides a continuous source of energy for propulsion and life support. This vessel followed the legacy of the original INS Chakra, a Soviet Charlie-class nuclear submarine leased by India between 1988 and 1991, making it a primary asset for long-range patrols and training in nuclear maritime operations as of 2016.

Explanation

The Ilyushin Il-78 MKI is the specialized aerial refueling tanker of the Indian Air Force, designed to extend the combat radius and endurance of fighter aircraft. Inducted in 2003 and operated by the No. 78 Squadron (Mid-Air Refuelling Squadron) based at Agra, it is a development of the Il-76 airframe modified for fuel transfer roles. The aircraft utilizes a probe-and-drogue refueling system and is equipped with three refueling pods, allowing it to refuel up to three aircraft simultaneously. This capability provides a critical force multiplier for the IAF, enabling long-range missions and persistent air patrols by providing fuel to aircraft such as the Sukhoi Su-30MKI and Mirage 2000 while they are still in flight.

Explanation

Vinegar is produced through a two-stage fermentation process where sugars from sources like sugarcane juice are first converted into ethanol by yeast and then oxidized into acetic acid by Acetobacter bacteria. Acetic acid, denoted by the chemical formula CH₃COOH, is the primary organic acid in vinegar, typically constituting about 4% to 8% of its volume. This acidic content makes vinegar an effective preservative as it creates an environment with a low pH that inhibits the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms, a property utilized extensively in the pickling and preservation of various food products.

Explanation

The Mukhyamantri Nishulk Dawa Yojana (Chief Minister Free Medicine Scheme) was launched by the Government of Rajasthan on October 2, 2011. Introduced on the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti, the scheme aims to provide essential medicines free of cost to all patients visiting government healthcare institutions, covering both Outpatient Department (OPD) and Inpatient Department (IPD) services. To facilitate the smooth procurement and distribution of generic drugs, the Rajasthan Medical Services Corporation (RMSC) was established as the nodal agency. This initiative was designed to reduce out-of-pocket healthcare expenses for the public and ensure the availability of quality medicines across all levels of state-run medical facilities.

Explanation

The Bhamashah Yojana was introduced by the Government of Rajasthan to institutionalize financial inclusion and women empowerment. The scheme mandates that the Bhamashah card be issued in the name of the female head of the family, effectively making her the primary beneficiary and decision-maker for the household. This card is linked to a bank account in her name, which serves as the destination for the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) of various state-sponsored cash benefits. By routing these funds directly into the bank accounts of women, the scheme ensures transparency and minimizes intermediaries in the distribution of welfare benefits. While the scheme also manages non-cash benefits like food grains through biometric validation at fair price shops, the transfer of monetary value into accounts is specific to cash-based entitlements.

Explanation

The Anupreeti Yojana is a flagship initiative of the Government of Rajasthan designed to provide financial encouragement to meritorious students from disadvantaged sections, including Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, Special Backward Classes, and BPL members of Other Backward Classes and General categories. The scheme offers fixed cash incentives to candidates who successfully clear different stages of competitive examinations such as the Civil Services Examination conducted by the UPSC and the Rajasthan Administrative Service examination by the RPSC. Additionally, it provides financial support to students who secure admission into prestigious professional institutions like the Indian Institutes of Technology, Indian Institutes of Management, and national-level medical colleges. The primary objective is to ensure that financial constraints do not hinder the career prospects of talented students from low-income backgrounds in the state.

Explanation

The development of nanotechnology is categorized into four distinct generations based on the complexity and functionality of the nanostructures. The first generation involves passive nanostructures like aerosols and nanocomposites which maintain stable properties during use. The second generation consists of active nanostructures such as targeted drugs and actuators that can change their state or react to external stimuli. The third generation shifts to systems of nanosystems, involving 3-D networking and hierarchical architectures to create complex functional assemblies. The fourth generation is defined by molecular nanosystems and molecular manufacturing, where precise atomic-level design allows for the creation of sophisticated molecular machines and evolutionary systems. This progression reflects the evolution from simple dispersed structures to complex autonomous molecular assembly.

Explanation

Flaxseeds are the richest plant-based source of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), an essential omega-3 fatty acid with an 18-carbon chain and three double bonds. Approximately 50% to 60% of the total fatty acids found in flaxseed oil consist of ALA, a concentration that far exceeds that found in common legumes or cereal grains. As an essential fatty acid, ALA cannot be synthesized by the human body and must be acquired through dietary intake. Flax is historically and nutritionally distinguished by this high lipid density of polyunsaturated fatty acids, specifically the ω-3 series, making it a superior source for individuals seeking plant-derived ALA.

Explanation

The Flavr Savr tomato, developed by the Californian company Calgene, was the first genetically engineered whole food to be granted a license for human consumption and commercialized in 1994. This biotechnology was designed to increase the shelf life and improve the quality of the fruit. Specifically, the tomato was modified through antisense technology to suppress the production of the enzyme polygalacturonase (PG). Since PG is primarily responsible for the degradation of pectin in cell walls during ripening, its suppression allows the tomato to remain firm for a significantly longer period after harvest. This increased firmness enables the fruit to be ripened on the vine, allowing it to develop its natural flavor and color before being transported to the market, whereas conventional tomatoes are typically picked green and ripened artificially with ethylene gas to survive the shipping process.

Explanation

Jim Corbett National Park was established in 1936 as Hailey National Park, making it the oldest national park in India. Located in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand, it was originally named after Sir Malcolm Hailey, the then Governor of the United Provinces. The park was briefly renamed Ramganga National Park in 1954-55 before being renamed again in 1956 to honor the legendary hunter-turned-conservationist Jim Corbett, who played a crucial role in its creation. This park also served as the launch site for Project Tiger in 1973, a major initiative for the protection of the Bengal tiger.

Explanation

Azolla is a fast-growing floating aquatic fern that hosts the nitrogen-fixing cyanobacterium Anabaena azollae. While widely recognized as a bio-fertilizer for rice cultivation, it is also an ideal nutritional supplement for livestock. It is exceptionally rich in proteins, containing between 25 to 35 percent crude protein on a dry weight basis, along with essential amino acids, vitamins such as A and B12, and minerals including calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium. Its low lignin content makes it highly digestible for ruminants. When used as a supplementary feed for dairy cows, Azolla has been shown to enhance milk production by approximately 15 to 20 percent and improve the quality of milk fat, making it a cost-effective and sustainable alternative to commercial concentrated feeds.

Explanation

The Department of Science and Technology in Rajasthan established Science Parks to promote scientific awareness and curiosity among the public. The first major project was the Regional Science Centre and Science Park at Shastri Nagar in Jaipur. This was followed by the establishment of Sub-Regional Science Centres in Nawalgarh in the Jhunjhunu district and Jhalarpatan in the Jhalawar district. These three locations were identified as the established science parks in the state according to the Economic Review of Rajasthan and government reports of the 2015–2016 period. These facilities offer a variety of interactive exhibits, themed galleries, and open-air scientific models that simplify complex technological concepts for students and visitors.

Explanation

The Government of India implemented a synchronized global switch from the trivalent Oral Polio Vaccine (tOPV) to the bivalent Oral Polio Vaccine (bOPV) in April 2016. This initiative was a critical component of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative's endgame strategy. The trivalent vaccine provided protection against poliovirus types 1, 2, and 3, while the bivalent vaccine focuses only on types 1 and 3. Since wild poliovirus type 2 was officially declared eradicated in 1999, the type 2 component in the oral vaccine was no longer needed for prevention and was instead responsible for the majority of circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus cases. Removing the type 2 strain helps prevent vaccine-induced outbreaks while continuing to protect against the remaining wild strains. India successfully completed this transition on National Switch Day, April 25, 2016.

Explanation

Idukki district in Kerala became the first district in India to be linked to the National Optical Fibre Network (NOFN) on January 12, 2015. This milestone was achieved under the Digital India initiative, providing high-speed broadband connectivity with a bandwidth of 100 Mbps to all Gram Panchayats within the district. The project involved laying extensive underground optical fibre cables to bridge the digital divide in rural areas, enabling e-governance, e-health, and e-education services at the grassroots level. The successful integration of Idukki's 52 Gram Panchayats into the network marked the completion of the first phase of the world's largest rural broadband connectivity project, later renamed BharatNet.

Explanation

Lukoskin is an ayurvedic drug developed by the Defence Institute of Bio-Energy Research (DIBER), a specialized laboratory of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) located in Haldwani. This poly-herbal formulation is specifically designed for the management and treatment of Leucoderma, also known as Vitiligo, which is a skin condition marked by the appearance of white patches due to the loss of melanin pigment. The drug works through a dual approach involving an oral liquid and a topical ointment that help in photosensitization, promoting melanin synthesis, and regulating the immune system to prevent further depigmentation of the skin. It was commercialized through Aimil Pharmaceuticals to provide an affordable and effective solution for patients suffering from this dermatological condition.

Explanation

The Satellite Launch Vehicle-3 (SLV-3) was India's first experimental launch vehicle, which successfully placed the Rohini satellite (RS-1) into orbit on July 18, 1980, making India the sixth nation to possess satellite launch capability. The Augmented Satellite Launch Vehicle (ASLV) was designed to increase payload capacity and successfully launched the Stretched Rohini Satellite Series (SROSS-C) in 1992. The Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) is the workhorse of ISRO and was used for the landmark Chandrayaan-1 mission in 2008, which was India's first mission to the Moon. The Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV) is utilized for heavier communication satellites and successfully launched EduSat (GSAT-3) in 2004, which was the first Indian satellite built exclusively for the educational sector.

Explanation

The Department of Science and Technology, Government of Rajasthan, has developed Science Parks to foster a scientific temper and popularize technology among the youth and the general public. By 2016, established and functional Science Parks were located in Jaipur at Shastri Nagar, in Nawalgarh in the Jhunjhunu district, and in Jhalarpatan in the Jhalawar district. These centers were developed in collaboration with the National Council of Science Museums to provide interactive exhibits, science galleries, and educational models that simplify complex scientific concepts for visitors. The Jaipur Science Park serves as a major hub, while the sub-regional centers at Nawalgarh and Jhalarpatan ensure the reach of scientific infrastructure to more rural and semi-urban parts of the state.

Explanation

The statement uses a double negative, Nothing is beyond the reach, which semantically translates to the positive assertion that everything is within the reach of a hardworking person. This directly matches the premise of Hypothesis 1, which states that a hardworking person can achieve everything. In the context of logical deduction, a hypothesis is implied if it is a direct consequence or a simplified restatement of the information provided in the statement. Since the statement defines the capabilities of a hardworking person as having no boundaries, the conclusion that they can achieve everything is a valid logical implication derived directly from the text.

Explanation

Argument 1 is strong because it addresses a critical concern regarding public safety and the prevention of life-threatening incidents. Using a mobile phone while driving leads to cognitive, visual, and manual distractions, which significantly impair a driver's ability to react to sudden changes in traffic conditions. Scientific studies and road safety statistics consistently demonstrate that distracted driving is a leading cause of vehicular accidents. Therefore, a prohibition based on the objective of saving lives and reducing the frequency of collisions is a logically sound and powerful justification for the statement.

Explanation

The sequence is an arithmetic progression where each subsequent term is obtained by adding a constant difference d to the previous term. By calculating the difference between successive terms:

2247 - 1039 = 1208 3455 - 2247 = 1208 4663 - 3455 = 1208

The common difference is 1208. To find the next term in the sequence, add this difference to the last given term:

4663 + 1208 = 5871

Explanation

The sequence follows two independent patterns for the numbers and the letters.

The numerical part follows the rule n³ - 1 starting from n = 2: 2³ - 1 = 8 - 1 = 7 3³ - 1 = 27 - 1 = 26 4³ - 1 = 64 - 1 = 63 5³ - 1 = 125 - 1 = 124 The next number in the sequence is 6³ - 1 = 216 - 1 = 215.

The alphabetical part follows a pattern of decreasing positions in the alphabet with an increasing gap. Let the position of letters be P: Y (25th letter) V (22nd letter): 25 - 3 = 22 R (18th letter): 22 - 4 = 18 M (13th letter): 18 - 5 = 13 The next letter must be at position 13 - 6 = 7. The 7th letter of the alphabet is G.

Combining these results, the next term in the sequence is 215G.

Explanation

The logic for identifying the inconsistent entry in this set is based on the character count of the words. The names of the animals in options a, b, and d—Cat, Cow, and Pig—all consist of exactly three letters. In contrast, the name Goat in option c consists of four letters. This structural difference in word length distinguishes the third option from the others, making it the logically inconsistent choice within the group.

Explanation

Chand Bibi was a prominent 16th-century stateswoman and warrior who served as the regent of the Bijapur and Ahmednagar Sultanates in the Deccan. She is historically renowned for her strategic defense of the Ahmednagar Fort against the invading Mughal armies of Emperor Akbar. Awadh was a province in North India that became a significant political entity under the Nawabs of Awadh much later, in the 18th century. Chand Bibi had no administrative or territorial connection to Awadh, making this pair historically inaccurate.

Explanation

Vijayalaya, a feudatory of the Pallavas, laid the foundation of the Imperial Chola Empire in the middle of the 9th century. In approximately 850 AD, he captured the city of Thanjavur by defeating the Muttarayar chiefs, who were then subordinates of the Pandyas. He established Thanjavur as the capital of his rising kingdom and constructed a temple dedicated to the goddess Nishumbhasudini there. This victory marked the end of the Cholas' long period of obscurity and initiated their transition into a dominant maritime and territorial power in South India.

Explanation

During the reign of Mughal Emperor Akbar in the late 16th century, the Mahabharata was translated from Sanskrit into Persian as part of a larger project to promote cultural integration and intellectual exchange. This Persian translation is known as the Razmnama, which literally translates to the Book of War. The project was carried out by a team of scholars including Naqib Khan, Mulla Abd al-Qadir Bada'uni, and Sheikh Sultan Thanesari, under the supervision of the poet laureate Faizi. The resulting manuscript was heavily illustrated by the finest artists of the Mughal atelier, serving both as a literary work and a masterpiece of Mughal miniature painting.

Explanation

The coding pattern follows a specific rearrangement of the letter positions in the word. By assigning numerical indices to the original word positions (1-2-3-4-5-6), the transformed word follows the sequence 6-1-4-3-2-5.

In the case of GYPSUM, the letters are G(1), Y(2), P(3), S(4), U(5), M(6). Rearranging them according to the 6-1-4-3-2-5 pattern results in M(6), G(1), S(4), P(3), Y(2), U(5), which gives MGSPYU.

In the case of FATHER, the letters are F(1), A(2), T(3), H(4), E(5), R(6). Applying the same sequence 6-1-4-3-2-5 results in R(6), F(1), H(4), T(3), A(2), E(5), which gives RFHTAE.

Applying this logic to BEYOND, the letters are B(1), E(2), Y(3), O(4), N(5), D(6). Following the 6-1-4-3-2-5 rearrangement yields D(6), B(1), O(4), Y(3), E(2), N(5), which results in the code DBOYEN.

Explanation

To determine the family structure, we analyze the constraints provided: there are 6 members, 3 men and 3 women, and one married couple.

The relationship between B, D, A, and C can be established first. D is a mother of two children (a son and a daughter), and A is the son of B. This identifies B and D as the married couple, with A being their son and C being their daughter.

Genders so far: Men: B (Father), A (Son) Women: D (Mother), C (Daughter)

Next, we integrate F and E. We are told A and E are sons of F. For the family to maintain the required ratio of 3 men and 3 women, and given that B and D are the only married couple, F must belong to the older generation (the grandmother) and E must be the brother of B.

Revised Genders: Men: B, A, E (3 men) Women: D, C, F (3 women)

Family Tree: Generation 1: F (Mother/Grandmother) Generation 2: B (Son of F) and E (Son of F). B is married to D. Generation 3: A (Son of B and D) and C (Daughter of B and D).

In this structure, E is the brother of B. Since C is the daughter of B, C is the niece of E.

Explanation

The 2016 Rio Paralympic Games featured 23 sport disciplines organized across 22 different sports. This total includes the two sports that made their Paralympic debut in 2016: para-canoeing and para-triathlon.

The games organized were Archery, Athletics, Boccia, Canoeing, Cycling (Road), Cycling (Track), Equestrian, Football 5-a-side, Football 7-a-side, Goalball, Judo, Powerlifting, Rowing, Sailing, Shooting, Sitting Volleyball, Swimming, Table Tennis, Triathlon, Wheelchair Basketball, Wheelchair Fencing, Wheelchair Rugby, and Wheelchair Tennis. In this classification, Cycling is typically divided into road and track disciplines, bringing the total number of distinct games or disciplines to 23. These events took place over 11 days, involving approximately 4,342 athletes from 159 nations.

Explanation

The Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) was launched in May 2016 by the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas to provide clean cooking fuel to women belonging to Below Poverty Line (BPL) households. The scheme aims to replace traditional, health-damaging cooking fuels like firewood and coal with Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) to reduce respiratory diseases and improve the overall health of women and children. For the effective implementation of this scheme, the Union Government made a budgetary provision of Rs. 8,000 crore. At its inception, the government set a target to provide 5 crore LPG connections to BPL families across the country over a period of three years, specifically from 2016 to 2019.

Explanation

Prof. Karan Singh was the first sports coach from the state of Rajasthan to be honored with the Dronacharya Award. He received this prestigious national recognition in 1995 for his exceptional contribution to the field of athletics. The Dronacharya Award is the highest honor bestowed by the Government of India upon coaches who have successfully trained athletes to achieve excellence in international sports competitions. Prof. Singh's dedication to track and field coaching set a benchmark for sports development in Rajasthan, making him the pioneer recipient of this award from the state.

Explanation

The cost of lighting bulbs is directly proportional to the total energy consumption, which is the product of the number of bulbs, hours used per day, and the total number of days. This relationship can be solved using the work-rate chain rule formula:

(B₁ × H₁ × D₁)/C₁ = (B₂ × H₂ × D₂)/C₂

Where B is the number of bulbs, H is hours per day, D is the number of days, and C is the expense. Substituting the values from the first case (B₁ = 200, H₁ = 4, D₁ = 6, C₁ = 40) and the second case (H₂ = 3, D₂ = 15, C₂ = 48):

(200 × 4 × 6)/40 = (B₂ × 3 × 15)/48

Simplifying the left side of the equation: 5 × 4 × 6 = 120

Substituting this back into the equation: 120 = (B₂ × 45)/48

Rearranging to solve for B₂: B₂ = (120 × 48)/45

Dividing both 120 and 45 by 15: B₂ = (8 × 48)/3 B₂ = 8 × 16 B₂ = 128

Explanation

Let the marks obtained by X and Y be x and y respectively. From the given conditions, we have the following equations: x = y + 9 x = 0.56(x + y)

Substituting the value of y as x - 9 into the second equation: x = 0.56(x + x - 9) x = 0.56(2x - 9) x = 1.12x - 5.04 1.12x - x = 5.04 0.12x = 5.04 x = 5.04/0.12 = 42

Now, substituting x = 42 back into the first equation: y = 42 - 9 = 33

Alternatively, if S is the sum of their marks, then x = 0.56S and y = 0.44S. The difference x - y = (0.56 - 0.44)S = 0.12S. Given that the difference is 9, we have 0.12S = 9, which yields S = 9/0.12 = 75. Therefore, x = 0.56 × 75 = 42 and y = 0.44 × 75 = 33.

Explanation

Aditya Tare was the captain of the Mumbai cricket team during the 2015-16 Ranji Trophy season. Under his leadership, Mumbai secured their 41st title by defeating Saurashtra by an innings and 21 runs in the final match held at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune. Tare, a wicketkeeper-batsman, led the side throughout the tournament and played a key role in the team's successful campaign, which concluded with him lifting the trophy for Mumbai in February 2016.

Explanation

The 12th South Asian Games were held in Guwahati and Shillong from February 5 to February 16, 2016. India finished at the top of the medal tally for the 12th consecutive time, winning a total of 308 medals. This total included 188 gold medals, along with 90 silver and 30 bronze medals. India's performance in 2016 set a new record for the highest number of gold medals won by any nation in a single edition of the South Asian Games, significantly improving upon the nation's previous best performance of 103 gold medals achieved in 2004.

Explanation

Boris Johnson emerged as one of the most influential figures and a primary leader of the Vote Leave campaign during the 2016 referendum on the United Kingdom's membership in the European Union. His decision to join the leave movement provided the campaign with significant political momentum and a high-profile spokesperson capable of reaching a broad spectrum of the British public. He played a central role in articulating the campaign's core arguments regarding national sovereignty and the reclamation of legislative and budgetary control from Brussels. His leadership was a decisive factor in the campaign's success, which resulted in the majority of the electorate voting to leave the European Union on June 23, 2016.

Explanation

Aditya Tare led the Mumbai cricket team to its 41st Ranji Trophy title during the 2015-16 season. In the final match played at the Captain Roop Singh Stadium in Gwalior, Mumbai defeated Saurashtra by an innings and 21 runs. Under Tare's leadership, the team displayed dominant performance throughout the tournament, including the knockout stages. The wicketkeeper-batsman was instrumental in managing a squad that combined seasoned veterans and emerging young talents, eventually securing the championship for Mumbai after a gap of two seasons. This victory further extended Mumbai's record as the most successful team in the history of the competition.

Explanation

Kerala was officially declared as India's first digital state by President Pranab Mukherjee in February 2016 during a ceremony at Kozhikode. This recognition was the result of the state's pioneering efforts in digital inclusion and e-governance, most notably through the Akshaya project launched in 2002. Kerala achieved high levels of mobile and internet penetration and was the first state to complete the National Optical Fibre Network (NOFN) project, which successfully connected all its gram panchayats with high-speed broadband. The state's focus on digital literacy and the digitisation of government services ensured that information technology became accessible to even the most remote sections of the population.

Explanation

Rajasthan is the largest state in India by geographical area, spanning approximately 342,239 square kilometers. With the total land area of India being about 3,287,263 square kilometers, Rajasthan accounts for approximately 10.41 percent of the country's total territory. This status as the largest state was attained in November 2000 following the bifurcation of Madhya Pradesh. The state's vast expanse includes the Thar Desert and the Aravalli Range, making its land share a critical component of India's national geography.

Explanation

The Thar Desert, also known as the Great Indian Desert, covers a total area of approximately 200,000 square kilometers across India and Pakistan. About 85 percent of the desert's total geographic area lies within India, while the remaining 15 percent is in Pakistan. Within the Indian territory, the desert is spread across the states of Rajasthan, Gujarat, Punjab, and Haryana. Rajasthan holds the most significant portion, as approximately 60 percent of the entire Thar Desert is located within its borders. This desert region covers about 125,000 square kilometers in Rajasthan, accounting for nearly 61 percent of the state's total land area.

Explanation

Afghanistan conferred its highest civilian honor, the Amir Amanullah Khan Award, on Prime Minister Narendra Modi in June 2016. The award was presented by President Ashraf Ghani following the joint inauguration of the Afghan-India Friendship Dam, previously known as the Salma Dam, in the Herat province. Named after the sovereign who led Afghanistan to independence, this prestigious award signifies the deep-rooted friendship between the two nations and acknowledges the Prime Minister's role in promoting regional cooperation and India's extensive support for infrastructure and capacity building in Afghanistan.

Explanation

The Annapurna Bhandar Yojana was launched by the Rajasthan government as a landmark Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model aimed at modernizing the Public Distribution System (PDS). Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje inaugurated the first Annapurna Bhandar at Bhambhori village, located in the Jhotwara block of Jaipur district, on October 31, 2015. This initiative involved a tripartite agreement between the Rajasthan State Food and Civil Supplies Corporation, the Rajasthan State Warehousing Corporation, and Future Consumer Enterprise Ltd. The scheme transformed traditional Fair Price Shops into mini-supermarkets, providing rural residents with access to over 150 varieties of high-quality multi-brand consumer goods at affordable prices.

Explanation

Rajasthan is historically recognized as the pioneer of the Right to Information (RTI) movement in India. The demand for such a law emerged from a grassroots movement led by the Mazdoor Kisan Shakti Sangathan (MKSS) in the early 1990s in the Rajsamand district of Rajasthan. This movement focused on resolving public grievances related to administrative corruption, non-payment of wages, and lack of transparency in local developmental works through the tool of Jan Sunwais (public hearings).

The success of this social struggle led Rajasthan to become one of the first states in the country to enact a dedicated Right to Information Act in 2000. This state legislation predated the Central Right to Information Act of 2005 and served as a foundational model for national transparency laws. By granting citizens the legal right to access government records, the Act transformed the process of grievance redressal, moving it from a discretionary administrative function to a rights-based entitlement for the public.

Explanation

The initial quantity of milk in the 60-liter mixture is calculated as 60 × 5/(5+3) = 37.5 liters, and the initial quantity of water is 60 × 3/(5+3) = 22.5 liters. Since only water is added to the mixture, the quantity of milk remains constant at 37.5 liters.

In the new ratio of 1:2, milk represents 1 part and water represents 2 parts. Given that the quantity of milk (1 part) is 37.5 liters, the required quantity of water (2 parts) in the new mixture is 37.5 × 2 = 75 liters. The amount of water to be added is the difference between the final water quantity and the initial water quantity, which is 75 - 22.5 = 52.5 liters.

Explanation

The numbers in the grid follow a consistent arithmetic pattern in both columns and rows. In the first column, the values are multiples of 5 (5 × 1, 5 × 2, 5 × 3). In the second column, the values are multiples of 4 (4 × 1, 4 × 2, 4 × 3). Following this logic, the third column consists of multiples of 3 (3 × 1, 3 × 2, 3 × 3). Therefore, the missing number is 3 × 3 = 9.

Alternatively, row-wise analysis shows that the second row is twice the first row (5 × 2 = 10, 4 × 2 = 8, 3 × 2 = 6) and the third row is thrice the first row (5 × 3 = 15, 4 × 3 = 12, 3 × 3 = 9). Both methods yield the same result.

Explanation

To find the unit digit of the product of multiple numbers, we calculate the product of the digits in the units place of each individual number. In the given expression 541 × 769 × 357, the digits in the units place are 1, 9, and 7 respectively. Multiplying these unit digits results in 1 × 9 × 7 = 63. The digit in the units place of the resulting value 63 is 3.

Explanation

The Jeevan Dhara Bank project was launched by the Government of Rajasthan in collaboration with the Norway India Partnership Initiative (NIPI) to establish a network of mother's milk banks across the state. The primary objective of this initiative is to reduce the infant mortality rate (IMR) and neonatal mortality rate by ensuring that pasteurized donor human milk is available for infants who cannot be breastfed by their own mothers. This is especially critical for premature babies and those with low birth weight or medical complications. The first such bank under this collaboration was set up at the Pannadhay Mother and Child Hospital in Udaipur, focusing on providing essential nutrients and immunity to newborns through safe, screened, and processed human milk.

Explanation

The official motto for the Rio 2016 Paralympic Games, which was shared with the Olympic Games, is A New World, translated from the Portuguese Um Mundo Novo. This slogan was chosen by the organizing committee to reflect the transformative power of sport and the vision of promoting a more inclusive and harmonious society. It emphasizes the values of diversity, innovation, and the potential for the Games to inspire positive change and a lasting legacy within the host city and the global community.

Explanation

Let the amount deposited for the younger son (age 17) be x and the amount for the older son (age 18) be y. The younger son's investment will compound for 20 - 17 = 3 years, while the older son's investment will compound for 20 - 18 = 2 years. Since they receive the same amount at age 20, we use the compound interest formula A = P(1 + r/100)ⁿ:

x(1 + 5/100)³ = y(1 + 5/100)²

Dividing both sides by (1 + 5/100)² simplifies the equation to:

x(1 + 5/100) = y x(1.05) = y x(21/20) = y

This gives the ratio of the deposits x:y = 20:21. The total amount is given as x + y = 16,400. Substituting y = 21x/20 into this equation:

x + 21x/20 = 16400 41x/20 = 16400 x = (16400 × 20) / 41 x = 400 × 20 = 8000

Explanation

The percentage change is calculated by determining the total exports for all vehicle categories except Heavy Commercial Vehicles (HCV) for the years 2010-11 and 2013-14. Based on the provided data table, the categories other than HCV include Two-wheelers, Three-wheelers, Cars, Light Motor Vehicles (LMV), and Light Commercial Vehicles (LCV).

Total exports excluding HCV in 2010-11: 1250 + 433 + 716 + 823 + 1012 = 4234 (in thousands)

Total exports excluding HCV in 2013-14: 1320 + 516 + 721 + 803 + 968 = 4328 (in thousands)

To find the percentage change, use the formula: Percentage Change = (Value in 2013-14 - Value in 2010-11)/(Value in 2010-11) × 100

Substituting the calculated totals: Percentage Change = (4328 - 4234)/(4234) × 100 Percentage Change = 94/4234 × 100 Percentage Change ≈ 0.022201 × 100 = 2.22%

Since the value increased from 4234 to 4328, the change is a 2.22 percent increase.

Explanation

The increase in the volume of two-wheeled vehicles exported to the European Union (EU) is calculated by comparing the trade data from the financial year 2010-11 to that of 2013-14. According to the trade statistics for these periods, the export of two-wheelers to the EU in 2010-11 was approximately 111,000 units. By 2013-14, this figure grew to approximately 245,000 units.

The calculation for the difference in exports is as follows:

Difference = Exports₂₀₁₃₋₁₄ - Exports₂₀₁₀₋₁₁ Difference = 245,000 - 111,000 = 134,000

When expressed in thousands, the increase is 134. This growth reflects the rising global footprint of Indian automotive manufacturers and the increasing demand for cost-effective, fuel-efficient two-wheelers in European urban centers during that timeframe.

Explanation

The 35th National Games were held in Kerala from January 31 to February 14, 2015. Rajasthan participated in this multi-sport event and secured a total of 18 medals. The medal breakdown for the state included 2 gold medals, 5 silver medals, and 11 bronze medals. With this performance, Rajasthan was placed 21st in the overall medal tally. The gold medals for the state were achieved in the disciplines of Wushu and Rowing.

Explanation

The standard list of the sixteen Mahajanpadas (Shodash Mahajanpadas) is primarily found in the Anguttar Nikaya, a Buddhist scripture within the Sutta Pitaka. This text enumerates the sixteen great states, including Kasi, Kosala, Magadha, and Gandhara, that dominated the political landscape of northern India in the 6th century BCE. The Bhagwati Sutra, a Jaina canonical work, provides a parallel list of sixteen states, which includes names such as Vanga, Malaya, and Malava, reflecting the Jaina geographical perspective of the same period. The Digh Nikaya, another major Buddhist text, corroborates this political organization through suttas like the Janavasabha Sutta and the Mahagovinda Sutta. These sections describe the territorial divisions and list many of these major powers in pairs or groups, contributing to the historical understanding of the Shodash Mahajanpadas. Collectively, these Pali and Prakrit sources provide the literary evidence for the transition from tribal organizations to established territorial states in ancient India.

Explanation

In early 2016, the Rajasthan state government introduced a comprehensive rebranding of its tourism department, adopting the new tagline Jaane Kya Dikh Jaaye. This phrase was incorporated into the official logo and promotional advertisements to highlight the element of surprise and discovery that the state offers to visitors. The campaign was designed to present Rajasthan as a destination with diverse facets, suggesting that every traveler can find something unique and unexpected across its historical, cultural, and natural landscapes. This branding strategy aimed to attract a broader demographic of domestic and international tourists by emphasizing the multifaceted and experiential nature of travel within the state.

Explanation

The 28th ITTF-ATTU Asian Cup Table Tennis Championship was held from March 13 to 15, 2015, at the Sawai Man Singh Indoor Stadium in Jaipur, Rajasthan. This prestigious continental tournament was organized by the Table Tennis Federation of India in coordination with the Rajasthan Table Tennis Association. The event featured elite players from across Asia, including top-ranked competitors from China, Japan, and Singapore. In the men's singles category, Xu Xin of China emerged victorious, while Feng Tianwei of Singapore clinched the women's singles title. The hosting of this international championship in Jaipur marked a significant milestone for the sport's promotion in India.

Explanation

Ramesh Jangid was elected as the Chairman of the Rajasthan Olympic Association in the organizational elections held during the 2015-2016 period. The Rajasthan Olympic Association serves as the premier state-level sports body affiliated with the Indian Olympic Association, responsible for the promotion and regulation of various Olympic disciplines within Rajasthan. Jangid's election to the post of Chairman placed him at the head of the association's executive leadership during this specific timeframe, overseeing the coordination of state sports federations and the preparation of athletes for national events.

Explanation

Jaipur is the capital and largest city of the Indian state of Rajasthan. It was founded on November 18, 1727, by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II and became the state capital upon the formation of Rajasthan on March 30, 1949. It serves as the administrative headquarters of the state, housing the Rajasthan Legislative Assembly and the Secretariat.

Explanation

The story of Satyakama Jabala is contained in the fourth chapter of the Chandogya Upanishad, which is one of the oldest and most significant Upanishads associated with the Samaveda. Satyakama was the son of a woman named Jabala, who had worked as a servant in various households during her youth and was unable to identify his father. When Satyakama sought to become a student of the sage Haridrumata Gautama, he was asked about his family lineage. Following his mother's instructions, he spoke the truth about his birth and his mother's status as an unmarried woman. The sage accepted him as a disciple, declaring that such a commitment to truth is the hallmark of a true seeker, regardless of the social circumstances of one's birth. This narrative serves as a profound early example of valuing character and truthfulness over traditional social hierarchies and the stigma of illegitimate birth.

Explanation

The Naishadhacharita, composed by Sriharsha, draws its theme from the Nala-Damayanti episode found in the Vana Parva of the Mahabharata. The Kiratarjuniya, a celebrated work by Bharavi, details the penance of Arjuna and his subsequent battle with Shiva in the form of a hunter, an account present in the Vana Parva. Magha's Shishupalavadham narratively follows the episode of the Rajasuya Yajna and the subsequent killing of Shishupala by Krishna, which is detailed in the Sabha Parva of the epic. These three compositions are renowned Mahakavyas that utilize the Mahabharata as their primary narrative source.

Explanation

Solar Impulse 2 is the first solar-powered aircraft to successfully complete a circumnavigation of the Earth. The mission was led by Swiss explorers Bertrand Piccard and André Borschberg to demonstrate the potential of renewable energy and clean technologies. The flight began in Abu Dhabi in March 2015 and concluded there in July 2016, covering a total distance of approximately 42,000 kilometers. Throughout the journey, the aircraft crossed the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans without using any liquid fuel. Its wings were covered with more than 17,000 solar cells that powered four electric motors and charged lithium-polymer batteries, allowing the plane to remain airborne through the night using stored solar energy.

Explanation

The Sun Temple at Modhera is a masterpiece of the Solanki (Chaulukya) style of architecture, constructed in 1026-1027 CE during the reign of King Bhima I. The Solanki dynasty ruled from their capital at Anahilavada, which corresponds to the modern-day city of Patan in Gujarat. Situated on the banks of the Pushpavati River, the temple complex is renowned for its three distinct components: the Surya Kund (a massive stepped tank), the Sabhamandapa (an assembly hall), and the Gudhamandapa (the inner sanctum). The structure is designed with astronomical precision so that the first rays of the sun fall directly on the deity in the sanctum during the equinoxes. It represents the height of medieval temple architecture in western India, featuring intricate carvings of various deities, flora, and fauna on its pillars and exterior walls.

Explanation

Sheikh Abdul Jalani, more commonly known as Sheikh Abdul Qadir Gilani, was a 12th-century Persian scholar and Sufi saint who founded the Qadiriyya order (Silsila) in Baghdad. The Qadiriyya is one of the oldest and most influential Sufi orders in the Islamic world, maintaining a distinct spiritual lineage and set of practices separate from those of the Chisti order. While the Chisti order became the most popular Sufi silsila in the Indian subcontinent through its emphasis on simplicity and mass appeal, Sheikh Abdul Jalani focused his teachings in the Middle East, and his followers established the Qadiriyya presence in India much later, primarily during the 14th and 15th centuries.

Explanation

The Vernacular Press Act was enacted in 1878 during the tenure of Lord Lytton, who served as the Viceroy of India from 1876 to 1880. This legislation, often referred to as the Gagging Act, was specifically designed to curtail the freedom of the Indian-language press and suppress the publication of content critical of British policies. Lord Curzon, by contrast, served as Viceroy much later, from 1899 to 1905, and is primarily associated with the Partition of Bengal and the Indian Universities Act of 1904. Since the act preceded Curzon's administration by over two decades, the two are not a matching pair.

Explanation

The socio-religious reform movements of the 19th century, led by figures like Raja Ram Mohan Roy, Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar, and Jyotiba Phule, acted as the precursor to modern India by challenging the medieval social structure and religious orthodoxies. Statement (A) is correct because these movements initiated the transition from a traditional society to a modern one by advocating for social equality, the abolition of regressive practices like Sati and child marriage, and the promotion of education. Reason (R) correctly explains this modernization because these reformers did not rely solely on faith or tradition; instead, they applied the principles of rationalism and a scientific temper to evaluate social and religious norms. By prioritizing human reason and the welfare of society over blind adherence to antiquity, these movements introduced the core values of modernity into the Indian psyche, making (R) the logical cause for the modernization described in (A).

Explanation

According to the first premise, the set of fruits is a subset of the set of trees (F ⊆ T). The second premise states that the set of flowers and the set of trees are disjoint (Fl ∩ T = ∅), meaning they have no elements in common. Since all fruits are contained within the tree set and no tree is a flower, it is logically impossible for any fruit to be a flower. Therefore, Conclusion 1 (No flower is a fruit) follows directly from the transitive property of these sets.

Regarding Conclusion 2, the statement All fruits are trees implies that the intersection of the set of trees and the set of fruits is non-empty, provided the set of fruits is not an empty set. In standard syllogistic logic, a universal affirmative proposition (All A are B) supports the particular affirmative converse (Some B are A). Thus, the existence of the relationship defined in the first premise confirms that Some trees are fruits, making Conclusion 2 valid. Because both statements are logically derived from the given premises, both conclusions follow.

Explanation

The premise is a conditional statement of the form P → Q, where P represents being intelligent and Q represents passing the NET exam. In formal logic, a conditional statement only establishes that the antecedent P is a sufficient condition for the consequent Q. It does not imply the converse, Q → P, which is the basis of assumption 1; passing the exam does not logically require intelligence unless the premise stated it was a necessary condition. Assumption 2 is a categorical assertion that Q will happen, but a conditional premise does not confirm the truth of the consequent on its own; it only describes what would happen if the condition P were met. Since the premise does not confirm that he is intelligent, the conclusion that he will pass cannot be drawn.