How many molecules of ATP are obtained by the respiration of one molecule of glucose?
● Correct
● Not quite — the correct answer is highlighted
Show answer & explanationHide answer⌄
Answer: (D) 2
Explanation
The process of glycolysis, which is the initial stage of cellular respiration, results in a net gain of 2 ATP molecules per molecule of glucose. During this pathway, a total of four ATP molecules are synthesized via substrate-level phosphorylation; however, two ATP molecules are consumed in the earlier energy-investment phase to phosphorylate glucose and its derivatives. In anaerobic respiration, such as fermentation, this net yield of 2 ATP constitutes the total energy recovered from one glucose molecule. This net gain of 2 ATP represents the direct energy profit from the cytoplasmic part of the respiratory process before any further oxidation occurs in the mitochondria.
202General Awareness
Constantan is an alloy of copper and
● Correct
● Not quite — the correct answer is highlighted
Show answer & explanationHide answer⌄
Answer: (C) nickel
Explanation
Constantan is a copper-nickel alloy typically consisting of 55 percent copper and 45 percent nickel. It is characterized by its high electrical resistivity and a notably low temperature coefficient of resistance, meaning its electrical resistance remains nearly constant over a wide range of temperatures. Because of these stable electrical properties and its high thermal electromotive force when paired with other metals, constantan is extensively used in the fabrication of precision resistors, strain gauges, and thermocouples.
203General Awareness
Which of the following rivers was known as Purushni in the Vedic period?
● Correct
● Not quite — the correct answer is highlighted
Show answer & explanationHide answer⌄
Answer: (C) Ravi
Explanation
The river Ravi was known as Purushni in the Vedic period, particularly in the Rigveda. It was on the banks of the Purushni that the famous Battle of the Ten Kings, known as the Dasrajan War, took place. In this historic Vedic conflict, King Sudas of the Bharata tribe defeated a confederacy of ten other tribes. The Rigveda frequently mentions this river as a significant geographical landmark of the Sapta Sindhu region. Over time, the name evolved through various Sanskrit forms like Iravati before becoming known as the Ravi in the modern era.
204General Awareness
Which tales are related with the painting and sculptures of the Ajanta caves?
● Correct
● Not quite — the correct answer is highlighted
Show answer & explanationHide answer⌄
Answer: (C) Jataka Tales
Explanation
The Ajanta Caves, located in Maharashtra, consist of nearly 30 rock-cut Buddhist cave monuments dating from the 2nd century BCE to about 480 CE. The world-renowned murals and relief sculptures found within these caves are predominantly focused on Buddhist religious themes, specifically the life of Gautama Buddha and the Jataka Tales. The Jataka Tales are a large collection of stories describing the previous incarnations of the Buddha in both human and animal forms, illustrating his journey toward enlightenment through the practice of various virtues. Detailed depictions of stories such as the Chaddanta Jataka, Vessantara Jataka, and Mahajanaka Jataka are found on the walls of several caves, including Caves 1, 2, 16, and 17, serving as a visual narrative for the teachings of Mahayana and Hinayana Buddhism.
205General Awareness
Who among the following is NOT a recipient of the 2019 Mother Teresa Memorial Awards for Social Justice?
● Correct
● Not quite — the correct answer is highlighted
Show answer & explanationHide answer⌄
Answer: (C) Medha Patkar
Explanation
Medha Patkar was not a recipient of the Mother Teresa Memorial Awards for Social Justice in 2019. These awards, instituted by the Harmony Foundation, focused on the theme of Combating Modern Day Slavery for the 2019 cycle. The recognition was specifically aimed at honoring those who worked towards the eradication of human trafficking, forced labor, and child exploitation. Although she is a highly prominent social activist recognized globally for her leadership in the Narmada Bachao Andolan and her advocacy for the rights of marginalized communities, she did not feature among the awardees for this particular thematic focus in that year.
206General Awareness
Who among the following is the Chief Minister of Mizoram as on November 2019?
● Correct
● Not quite — the correct answer is highlighted
Show answer & explanationHide answer⌄
Answer: (D) PU Zoramthanga
Explanation
Zoramthanga, the leader of the Mizo National Front (MNF), assumed the office of the Chief Minister of Mizoram on December 15, 2018. His appointment came after the MNF secured a majority in the 2018 Mizoram Legislative Assembly elections, winning 26 out of 40 seats. He remained in power throughout 2019 and beyond. This tenure represents his third term as the head of the state government, having previously served as Chief Minister for two terms from 1998 to 2008. His leadership during November 2019 was part of this legislative cycle following the transition of power from the Indian National Congress.
207General Awareness
'Pedology' is the science of:
● Correct
● Not quite — the correct answer is highlighted
Show answer & explanationHide answer⌄
Answer: (B) soil
Explanation
Pedology is a primary branch of soil science that focuses on the formation, morphology, and classification of soils within their natural environment. The term is derived from the Greek word pedon, which translates to soil or earth. It involves the study of pedogenesis, the process by which soil is created through the weathering of rocks and the decomposition of organic matter over time. Pedologists examine soil profiles and horizons to understand how environmental factors such as climate, topography, and biological activity influence soil development and distribution across different geographical regions.
208General Awareness
Who among the following initiated 'Din-i-Ilahi'?
● Correct
● Not quite — the correct answer is highlighted
Show answer & explanationHide answer⌄
Answer: (D) Akbar
Explanation
Akbar initiated the Din-i-Ilahi, or Divine Faith, in 1582 AD as a syncretic socio-religious program. His objective was to bridge the religious divides within the Mughal Empire by blending the best elements of various faiths, including Islam, Hinduism, Zoroastrianism, Christianity, and Jainism. The system was rooted in the philosophy of Sulh-i-kul, meaning universal peace and harmony, and emphasized ethical conduct, monotheism, and loyalty to the emperor. By promoting a unified spiritual path that transcended traditional sectarian boundaries, Akbar sought to foster national integration and consolidate his authority over a diverse population.
209General Awareness
Which of the following ministries is NOT associated with the initiative of Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao Scheme?
● Correct
● Not quite — the correct answer is highlighted
Show answer & explanationHide answer⌄
Answer: (B) Ministry of Rural Development
Explanation
The Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao (BBBP) scheme is a tri-ministerial effort launched in January 2015 to address the declining Child Sex Ratio and related issues of women empowerment. The initiative is a joint collaboration between the Ministry of Women and Child Development, which serves as the nodal ministry, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, and the Ministry of Human Resource Development (now renamed the Ministry of Education). These three ministries work in convergence to ensure the survival, protection, and education of the girl child. The Ministry of Rural Development is not a participating or implementing partner in this specific inter-ministerial framework.
210General Awareness
Which among the following is a non-biodegradable waste?
● Correct
● Not quite — the correct answer is highlighted
Show answer & explanationHide answer⌄
Answer: (A) Plastic
Explanation
Plastic is a synthetic material made from long-chain polymers that cannot be broken down by the natural action of microorganisms such as bacteria or fungi. The chemical bonds within plastics are highly stable and do not exist in organic matter found in nature, meaning biological decomposers lack the specific enzymes required to metabolize or decompose them. As a result, plastic remains in the environment for hundreds to thousands of years without undergoing significant natural decay, which classifies it as a non-biodegradable waste.
211General Awareness
What does 'C' stand for in ITCZ?
● Correct
● Not quite — the correct answer is highlighted
Show answer & explanationHide answer⌄
Answer: (B) Convergence
Explanation
The acronym ITCZ stands for Intertropical Convergence Zone. It refers to the low-pressure belt located near the Earth equator where the trade winds of the Northern and Southern Hemispheres meet. This process of air masses coming together from different directions is known as convergence. When the Northeast trade winds and the Southeast trade winds encounter each other in this zone, the air is forced to rise into the atmosphere. This upward movement leads to the cooling of air, condensation of moisture, and the development of the frequent thunderstorms and heavy precipitation characteristic of tropical regions. The position of the ITCZ shifts seasonally following the apparent movement of the sun, which significantly influences global weather patterns and the timing of monsoon seasons.
212General Awareness
In 2019, IIT-Madras launched the country's first indigenously designed standing wheelchair named as:
● Correct
● Not quite — the correct answer is highlighted
Show answer & explanationHide answer⌄
Answer: (A) Arise
Explanation
IIT-Madras launched Arise, India's first indigenously designed standing wheelchair, in November 2019. The device was developed at the TTK Center for Rehabilitation Research and Device Development (R2D2), headed by Professor Sujatha Srinivasan, in collaboration with Phoenix Medical Systems. Arise allows a person with a mobility impairment to shift from a sitting to a standing position and vice versa independently using a manual actuation system. This innovation was designed to provide affordable assistive technology specifically suited for Indian conditions, helping users improve their health outcomes and social integration by enabling them to stand comfortably.
213General Awareness
Who signed the treaty of Alinagar with the British?
● Correct
● Not quite — the correct answer is highlighted
Show answer & explanationHide answer⌄
Answer: (B) Siraj- ud- Daula
Explanation
The Treaty of Alinagar was signed on February 9, 1757, between Siraj-ud-Daula, the Nawab of Bengal, and Robert Clive of the British East India Company. This agreement followed the British recapture of Calcutta, which the Nawab had seized and renamed Alinagar in June 1756. Under the terms of the treaty, the Nawab was forced to restore the Company's trading privileges, permit the fortification of Calcutta, and grant the British the right to coin their own currency in Bengal. The treaty was a strategic maneuver by the British to consolidate their position before the final confrontation at the Battle of Plassey later that year.
214General Awareness
Under which Amendment to the Constitution of India was Goods and Services Tax imposed?
● Correct
● Not quite — the correct answer is highlighted
Show answer & explanationHide answer⌄
Answer: (B) 101st
Explanation
The Goods and Services Tax (GST) was implemented in India through the Constitution (One Hundred and First Amendment) Act, 2016. This amendment introduced a comprehensive indirect tax regime that subsumed various central and state taxes like excise duty, service tax, and value-added tax (VAT). It inserted critical provisions into the Constitution, such as Article 246A, which gives both Parliament and State Legislatures the power to legislate on GST, and Article 279A, which mandated the formation of the GST Council to oversee the implementation and regulation of the tax. The amendment received presidential assent in September 2016 and the GST regime officially came into effect across India on July 1, 2017.
215General Awareness
How many medals did India win in the 2012 Summer Olympics?
● Correct
● Not quite — the correct answer is highlighted
Show answer & explanationHide answer⌄
Answer: (D) 6
Explanation
India achieved its then-best ever Olympic performance at the 2012 London Summer Olympics by winning a total of 6 medals. This haul consisted of 2 Silver medals and 4 Bronze medals. The silver medals were secured by Vijay Kumar in the Men's 25m rapid fire pistol shooting event and Sushil Kumar in Men's freestyle 66 kg wrestling. The four bronze medals were won by Gagan Narang in the Men's 10m air rifle shooting, Saina Nehwal in Women's singles badminton, Mary Kom in Women's flyweight boxing, and Yogeshwar Dutt in Men's freestyle 60 kg wrestling. This performance significantly surpassed India's previous record of three medals set at the 2008 Beijing Olympics.
216General Awareness
What is the rank of India in the Global Peace Index 2019?
● Correct
● Not quite — the correct answer is highlighted
Show answer & explanationHide answer⌄
Answer: (D) 141
Explanation
India was ranked 141st among 163 countries in the 13th edition of the Global Peace Index (GPI) 2019, which is released annually by the Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP). This ranking marked a drop of five places from India's 2018 position of 136th. The report attributed India's lower rank to factors such as internal security challenges, political instability, and ongoing tensions with neighboring countries. The GPI evaluates nations based on 23 qualitative and quantitative indicators across three thematic domains: societal safety and security, ongoing domestic and international conflict, and the degree of militarization. In the 2019 report, Iceland remained the most peaceful country in the world, while Afghanistan was ranked as the least peaceful.
217General Awareness
Who among the following was the mascot of the Men's Hockey World Cup held at Bhubaneswar in 2018?
● Correct
● Not quite — the correct answer is highlighted
Show answer & explanationHide answer⌄
Answer: (D) Turtle Olly
Explanation
Olly, an Olive Ridley sea turtle, served as the official mascot for the 2018 Men's Hockey World Cup held in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. The mascot was designed to represent the state's commitment to the conservation of this vulnerable species, as Odisha's coast is one of the world's most significant nesting sites for Olive Ridley turtles. Olly was depicted as a friendly, sport-loving turtle wearing the hockey jersey, symbolizing the fusion of Odisha's ecological heritage with its passion for field hockey. The mascot played a central role in the tournament's branding and was used to promote environmental awareness and spirit of the game among fans and participants.
218General Awareness
In July 2019, which of the following schemes was launched to accelerate water harvesting and conservation measures?
● Correct
● Not quite — the correct answer is highlighted
Show answer & explanationHide answer⌄
Answer: (A) Jal Shakti Abhiyan
Explanation
The Jal Shakti Abhiyan was launched by the Government of India on July 1, 2019, as a time-bound, mission-mode water conservation campaign. It was specifically designed to accelerate water harvesting and conservation measures in 1,592 water-stressed blocks across 256 districts in the country. The initiative focused on five key intervention areas: water conservation and rainwater harvesting, renovation of traditional and other water bodies, reuse and recharge structures, watershed development, and intensive afforestation. By mobilizing central and state officials along with local communities, the program aimed to transform water conservation into a Jan Andolan (people's movement) to address the critical challenges of groundwater depletion and water scarcity.
219General Awareness
Who of the following authored the book 'Revolution 2020'?
● Correct
● Not quite — the correct answer is highlighted
Show answer & explanationHide answer⌄
Answer: (C) Chetan Bhagat
Explanation
Revolution 2020 is a novel written by the prominent Indian author Chetan Bhagat, published in 2011. The book is set against the backdrop of the city of Varanasi and explores themes of love, ambition, and corruption within the Indian education system. It follows the lives of three childhood friends—Gopal, Raghav, and Aarti—as they navigate the competitive landscape of engineering entrance exams and the socio-political challenges of modern India. Chetan Bhagat is widely recognized for his contemporary fiction that resonates with the aspirations and struggles of the Indian youth.
220General Awareness
The Kyalk Htee Yoe pagoda is located in:
● Correct
● Not quite — the correct answer is highlighted
Show answer & explanationHide answer⌄
Answer: (B) Mayanmar
Explanation
The Kyaiktiyo Pagoda, commonly referred to as the Golden Rock or Kyalk Htee Yoe, is a renowned Buddhist pilgrimage site situated in the Mon State of Myanmar. It consists of a small pagoda built on top of a massive granite boulder that is completely covered in gold leaf applied by devotees. The boulder appears to balance precariously on the edge of a cliff on Mount Kyaiktiyo at an elevation of approximately 1,100 meters above sea level. Local tradition holds that the rock is held in place by a single strand of the Buddha's hair, making it one of the most sacred religious locations in the country.
221General Awareness
Which of the following is the only correct pair as described by Chola inscriptions?
● Correct
● Not quite — the correct answer is highlighted
Show answer & explanationHide answer⌄
Answer: (A) Pallichchhandam land donated to Jaina institutions
Explanation
Chola inscriptions categorized land into several types based on their purpose and the identity of the recipients. Pallichchhandam was the specific term used to denote land donated to Jaina institutions. The Chola administration maintained detailed records of these land grants to ensure the support and maintenance of various religious and educational establishments across the empire.
222General Awareness
Which of the following was NOT a type of sacrifice performed by kings in ancient India to establish their position?
● Correct
● Not quite — the correct answer is highlighted
Show answer & explanationHide answer⌄
Answer: (D) Muvendavelan
Explanation
Muvendavelan was an honorific title or designation used in the Chola Empire rather than a religious sacrifice. In the context of Chola administration, the term is derived from muvenda, referring to the three crowned kings of the Tamil country (the Cheras, Cholas, and Pandyas), and velan, meaning a peasant. A Muvendavelan was a wealthy landowner who served all three kings, and the title was bestowed by the Chola monarchs as a mark of respect and trust. These individuals were often appointed to important administrative offices at the center of the state. Unlike Vedic rituals performed by kings to claim spiritual or military authority, Muvendavelan represented a social and administrative rank within the medieval South Indian political structure.
223General Awareness
______ was the first host country of the FIFA (Federation Internationale de Football Association) World Cup.
● Correct
● Not quite — the correct answer is highlighted
Show answer & explanationHide answer⌄
Answer: (B) Uruguay
Explanation
Uruguay was chosen as the host for the inaugural FIFA World Cup in 1930. The decision was made by the FIFA Congress in 1929 to honor the country's centenary of its first constitution and to recognize the national team's success in winning consecutive gold medals at the 1924 and 1928 Summer Olympics. The entire tournament took place in the capital city of Montevideo, with the Estadio Centenario being constructed specifically for the event. Uruguay also became the first nation to win the trophy, defeating Argentina in the final.
224General Awareness
___ was executed at Lahore in November 1915 for his role in the Ghadar Conspiracy in February 1915
● Correct
● Not quite — the correct answer is highlighted
Show answer & explanationHide answer⌄
Answer: (A) Kartar Singh Sarabha
Explanation
Kartar Singh Sarabha was a founding member and a leading figure of the Ghadar Party, which aimed to overthrow British rule in India through an armed revolution. He was a primary architect of the Ghadar Conspiracy of February 1915, traveling across India to organize and incite Indian soldiers within the British Indian Army to revolt. After the planned uprising was foiled by British intelligence, Sarabha was arrested and tried in the First Lahore Conspiracy Case. He was convicted of sedition and sentenced to death, leading to his execution by hanging at the Lahore Central Jail on November 16, 1915. He was only nineteen years old at the time of his martyrdom and remains a significant icon of the Indian independence struggle.
225General Awareness
The amalgamation of Vijaya Bank and Dena Bank with Bank of Baroda (BoB) came into effect from:
● Correct
● Not quite — the correct answer is highlighted
Show answer & explanationHide answer⌄
Answer: (C) 1 April 2019
Explanation
The merger of Vijaya Bank and Dena Bank into Bank of Baroda was a landmark event in the Indian banking sector, representing the first-ever three-way consolidation of public sector banks. This amalgamation was officially executed on 1 April 2019. From this date, all branches of Vijaya Bank and Dena Bank began functioning as branches of Bank of Baroda, and the customers of the erstwhile banks were treated as customers of Bank of Baroda. This strategic move was intended to create a globally competitive bank with increased operational efficiency, a wider reach, and a stronger balance sheet, making Bank of Baroda the third-largest lender in India at the time of the merger.
226General Awareness
Which of the following books is NOT authored by RK Narayan?
● Correct
● Not quite — the correct answer is highlighted
Show answer & explanationHide answer⌄
Answer: (D) The Jungle Book
Explanation
The Jungle Book was authored by the English writer Rudyard Kipling and published in 1894. It is a classic collection of fables featuring anthropomorphic animals and the feral child Mowgli, primarily set in the Seoni region of India. Rudyard Kipling remains the sole author of this work, which is distinct from the literary portfolio of R.K. Narayan, who focused on the fictional South Indian town of Malgudi.
227General Awareness
As of January 2020, ___ has the maximum number of seats in the Rajya Sabha.
● Correct
● Not quite — the correct answer is highlighted
Show answer & explanationHide answer⌄
Answer: (C) Uttar Pradesh
Explanation
The allocation of seats in the Rajya Sabha is provided in the Fourth Schedule of the Constitution of India. Representation in the upper house of Parliament is determined by the population of each state as per the census. Uttar Pradesh, being the most populous state in the country, is allocated 31 seats in the Rajya Sabha, which is the highest number of seats assigned to any state or union territory in India.
228General Awareness
Christiaan Barnard is famous for:
● Correct
● Not quite — the correct answer is highlighted
Show answer & explanationHide answer⌄
Answer: (B) performing the world's first human heart transplant
Explanation
Dr. Christiaan Barnard was a pioneering South African cardiac surgeon who achieved international fame for performing the world's first successful human-to-human heart transplant. This landmark surgery took place on December 3, 1967, at Groote Schuur Hospital in Cape Town, South Africa. Leading a team of thirty medical professionals, Barnard transplanted the heart of a young woman, Denise Darvall, into 54-year-old Louis Washkansky. While the patient lived for only eighteen days after the operation before succumbing to pneumonia, the procedure proved that the human heart could be successfully transplanted. This breakthrough revolutionized the field of cardiology and established the foundation for modern organ transplantation techniques used worldwide today.
229General Awareness
Name the state capital located 530 metres above sea level between 93 East longitude and 27 North latitude
● Correct
● Not quite — the correct answer is highlighted
Show answer & explanationHide answer⌄
Answer: (B) Itanagar
Explanation
Itanagar, the capital of Arunachal Pradesh, is geographically situated in the foothills of the Himalayas. Its coordinates are approximately 27.1 degree North latitude and 93.6 degree East longitude, placing it precisely within the parameters specified. The city has an average elevation of approximately 530 metres above sea level. Located in the Papum Pare district, Itanagar features a humid subtropical climate influenced by its altitude and its position in the northeastern part of India.
230General Awareness
The first Wimbledon Championship was held in:
● Correct
● Not quite — the correct answer is highlighted
Show answer & explanationHide answer⌄
Answer: (B) 1877
Explanation
The inaugural Wimbledon Championship took place in 1877 at the All England Croquet and Lawn Tennis Club in London. Originally established as a croquet club, the organization introduced lawn tennis to its grounds and held the first tournament to raise funds for the repair of a pony-drawn roller. The event featured only the Gentlemen's Singles competition, which was won by Spencer Gore. This tournament established Wimbledon as the world's first official lawn tennis championship, laying the foundation for the modern Grand Slam era.
231General Awareness
Kandhamal Haldi, a variety of turmeric indigenous to ____, earned the Geographical Indication (GI) tag from Intellectual Property (India) in April, 2019.
● Correct
● Not quite — the correct answer is highlighted
Show answer & explanationHide answer⌄
Answer: (A) Odisha
Explanation
Kandhamal Haldi is a famous variety of turmeric indigenous to the Kandhamal district in southern Odisha. It is widely recognized for its medicinal values, deep golden yellow color, and distinct aroma. The cultivation is primarily carried out by the tribal inhabitants of the region using traditional organic farming methods, which involve no synthetic fertilizers or pesticides. On April 1, 2019, coinciding with Odisha's foundation day (Utkal Divas), the Geographical Indication (GI) tag was officially granted to Kandhamal Haldi by the Intellectual Property (India) office. This recognition protects the unique characteristics of the crop and ensures that only turmeric grown in this specific geographic region can be marketed under the Kandhamal name, thereby supporting the livelihoods of local tribal farmers.
232General Awareness
In January 2020, China tested the world's first high-speed driverless bullet train between Beijing and:
● Correct
● Not quite — the correct answer is highlighted
Show answer & explanationHide answer⌄
Answer: (C) Zhangjiakou
Explanation
China inaugurated the Beijing-Zhangjiakou high-speed railway in early January 2020, marking the debut of the world's first smart, high-speed driverless bullet train. This 174-kilometer line was specifically designed to link the two primary host cities of the 2022 Winter Olympic Games. The Fuxing series trains operating on this route are capable of reaching speeds up to 350 kilometers per hour and feature an automated driving system that manages starting, stopping, and speed adjustments between stations. Although a driver remains on board to monitor the system and handle emergencies, the operational aspects of the journey are controlled autonomously, significantly reducing the travel time between the capital and Zhangjiakou to approximately 47 minutes.
233General Awareness
The Government of India launched the ______ Initiative on 16 January 2016, with the objective of supporting entrepreneurs, building a robust start-up ecosystem and transforming India into a country of job creators instead of job seekers.
● Correct
● Not quite — the correct answer is highlighted
Show answer & explanationHide answer⌄
Answer: (C) Start-up India
Explanation
The Startup India initiative was officially launched by the Government of India on 16 January 2016 at Vigyan Bhavan, New Delhi. The program was introduced with an Action Plan centered on three pillars: Simplification and Handholding, Funding Support and Incentives, and Industry-Academia Partnership and Incubation. Its primary objective is to nurture innovation and design a robust ecosystem that supports budding entrepreneurs, allowing them to scale their businesses and transition India into a nation of job creators rather than job seekers. The initiative is managed by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) and provides benefits like a three-year tax holiday, capital gains tax exemptions, and a simplified self-certification scheme to reduce the regulatory burden on new ventures.
234General Awareness
Snails belong to Phylum:
● Correct
● Not quite — the correct answer is highlighted
Show answer & explanationHide answer⌄
Answer: (B) Mollusca
Explanation
Snails are members of the class Gastropoda, which is the largest and most diverse group within the Phylum Mollusca. Organisms in this phylum are characterized by their soft, unsegmented bodies, which are typically divided into a head, a muscular foot for movement, and a visceral mass containing the internal organs. A defining feature of most mollusks is the mantle, a fold of skin that covers the visceral mass and secretes a hard calcareous shell for protection. Snails also possess a specialized rasping organ called a radula, which is used for feeding by scraping or cutting food. These anatomical traits align snails with the fundamental biological definition of mollusks.
235General Awareness
Which of the following is a beach in Goa?
● Correct
● Not quite — the correct answer is highlighted
Show answer & explanationHide answer⌄
Answer: (B) Palolem
Explanation
Palolem Beach is a prominent coastal destination located in Canacona, South Goa. It is widely recognized for its distinctive crescent-shaped shoreline and calm waters, making it one of the most picturesque beaches in the state. The area is heavily frequented by tourists for its natural beauty, fringing coconut palms, and traditional beach shacks.
236General Awareness
Haemophobia is the fear of:
● Correct
● Not quite — the correct answer is highlighted
Show answer & explanationHide answer⌄
Answer: (D) Blood
Explanation
Haemophobia is a specific phobia characterized by an intense and irrational fear of blood. The term is derived from the Greek words haima, meaning blood, and phobos, meaning fear. Individuals with this condition often experience a unique physiological reaction known as a vasovagal response when exposed to blood, which involves a sudden drop in heart rate and blood pressure that can lead to fainting. This reaction distinguishes haemophobia from most other phobias, which typically trigger an increase in heart rate and blood pressure as part of the fight-or-flight response.
237General Awareness
The Mission Indradhanush, an initiative of Govt. of India, is associated with:
● Correct
● Not quite — the correct answer is highlighted
Show answer & explanationHide answer⌄
Answer: (A) immunization
Explanation
Mission Indradhanush was launched by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare in December 2014 as a strategic initiative to strengthen and re-energize the immunization program in India. The primary objective of the mission is to achieve full immunization coverage for all children up to two years of age and pregnant women. It specifically targets segments of the population that have been partially vaccinated or remain unvaccinated against vaccine-preventable diseases. The program provides protection against several life-threatening conditions, including diphtheria, whooping cough, tetanus, polio, tuberculosis, measles, and hepatitis B. By focusing on high-priority districts with low coverage, the mission aims to ensure that the benefits of the Universal Immunization Programme reach the most vulnerable populations across the country.
238General Awareness
Crocodiles have a chambered heart.
● Correct
● Not quite — the correct answer is highlighted
Show answer & explanationHide answer⌄
Answer: (B) four
Explanation
Crocodiles are unique among reptiles because they possess a heart with four distinct chambers, consisting of two atria and two ventricles. While most other reptiles have a three-chambered heart with a partially divided ventricle, the ventricular septum in crocodilians is complete. This anatomical structure allows for the full separation of oxygenated and deoxygenated blood within the heart, a physiological trait they share with birds and mammals. This advanced circulatory system supports the high metabolic demands and physical requirements of their semi-aquatic lifestyle.
239General Awareness
The spice, cinnamon, is native to:
● Correct
● Not quite — the correct answer is highlighted
Show answer & explanationHide answer⌄
Answer: (C) Sri Lanka
Explanation
Cinnamon, specifically the species Cinnamomum verum, is native to the island of Sri Lanka. Historically known as Ceylon cinnamon, this spice is derived from the inner bark of trees belonging to the genus Cinnamomum. The botanical name Cinnamomum zeylanicum is directly derived from Zeylan, which was the previous name for Sri Lanka. The country has been the world's primary source of true cinnamon since ancient times, as the plant thrives in the specific tropical climate and sandy soil found in the southwestern coastal belt and central hills of the island.
240General Awareness
was appointed Chief Justice of India with effect from 18 November 2019.
● Correct
● Not quite — the correct answer is highlighted
Show answer & explanationHide answer⌄
Answer: (C) Sharad Arvind Bobde
Explanation
Justice Sharad Arvind Bobde was sworn in as the 47th Chief Justice of India on November 18, 2019, succeeding the previous incumbent. His appointment was formalized by the President of India in accordance with Article 124 of the Constitution. Before reaching this position, he had a distinguished career including service as a judge of the Supreme Court of India since 2013 and a tenure as the Chief Justice of the Madhya Pradesh High Court. He presided over the Indian judiciary until his retirement in April 2021.
241General Awareness
was awarded the Nobel Prize in 1913 and a knighthood in 1915.
● Correct
● Not quite — the correct answer is highlighted
Show answer & explanationHide answer⌄
Answer: (C) Rabindranath Tagore
Explanation
Rabindranath Tagore was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1913 for his work Gitanjali and was granted a knighthood by the British Crown in 1915. He later famously renounced his knighthood in 1919 as a protest against the Jallianwala Bagh massacre.
242General Awareness
Article of the Constitution of India deals with provisions related to the administration and control of Scheduled Areas and Scheduled Tribes.
● Correct
● Not quite — the correct answer is highlighted
Show answer & explanationHide answer⌄
Answer: (B) 244(1)
Explanation
Article 244(1) of the Constitution of India stipulate that the provisions of the Fifth Schedule shall apply to the administration and control of Scheduled Areas and Scheduled Tribes in any State other than the States of Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Mizoram. This clause provides the legal basis for the special administrative regime governed by the Fifth Schedule, which empowers the President to declare Scheduled Areas and grants the Governor significant authority to regulate land transfers, money-lending, and the application of central or state laws to protect the interests of Scheduled Tribes. Under this article, Tribes Advisory Councils are established to advise on matters pertaining to the welfare and advancement of the Scheduled Tribes in such states.
243General Awareness
The last recognised king of the Gupta line _________
● Correct
● Not quite — the correct answer is highlighted
Show answer & explanationHide answer⌄
Answer: (D) Vishnugupta
Explanation
Vishnugupta is historically recognized as the final sovereign of the imperial Gupta dynasty, reigning approximately between 540 and 550 CE. His position in the dynastic lineage is confirmed by a clay sealing found at Nalanda, which identifies him as the son of Kumaragupta III and the grandson of Narasimhagupta Baladitya. During his tenure, the once-vast Gupta Empire had fragmented into smaller regional powers following a series of Huna invasions and internal administrative decay. His reign marks the end of the dynasty that had unified much of Northern India during the Classical Age.
244General Awareness
In ______ economies, all productive resources are owned and controlled by the government.
● Correct
● Not quite — the correct answer is highlighted
Show answer & explanationHide answer⌄
Answer: (B) socialist
Explanation
A socialist economy is an economic system where the means of production, including land, factories, and natural resources, are owned and managed by the state or the community as a whole. In this model, the government exercises control over the allocation of resources and the production of goods and services to achieve specific social and economic goals. A central planning authority determines production levels and distribution patterns, aiming for social welfare and the reduction of economic inequalities. Since private ownership of productive assets is restricted or non-existent, the government acts as the primary coordinator of all economic activities to ensure collective benefit.
245General Awareness
The birth anniversary of ______ is celebrated as 'International Nurses Day' every year.
● Correct
● Not quite — the correct answer is highlighted
Show answer & explanationHide answer⌄
Answer: (A) Florence Nightingale
Explanation
International Nurses Day is observed globally on May 12 each year to mark the birth anniversary of Florence Nightingale. Born in 1820, Nightingale is celebrated as the founder of modern nursing. She gained prominence for her pioneering work in organizing care for wounded soldiers during the Crimean War, where her dedication earned her the nickname The Lady with the Lamp. Her efforts in improving sanitary conditions and establishing formal nursing education through the Nightingale Training School for Nurses laid the foundation for professional nursing standards worldwide. The International Council of Nurses has officially celebrated this day since 1965 to honor her legacy and recognize the contributions of nurses to society.
246General Awareness
The city of ______ is located at the mouth of the Yangtze River.
● Correct
● Not quite — the correct answer is highlighted
Show answer & explanationHide answer⌄
Answer: (C) Shanghai
Explanation
Shanghai is situated on the eastern coast of China and occupies a strategic position at the estuary of the Yangtze River, which is the longest river in Asia. It lies on the southern bank of the river mouth where the Yangtze empties into the East China Sea. This geographic location at the heart of the Yangtze River Delta has established the city as a premier global hub for shipping, trade, and finance. The city is also bisected by the Huangpu River, which is the last major tributary of the Yangtze before it reaches the sea.
247General Awareness
As of December 2019, ______ was the largest crude oil supplier to India.
● Correct
● Not quite — the correct answer is highlighted
Show answer & explanationHide answer⌄
Answer: (A) Iraq
Explanation
Iraq emerged as India's leading crude oil supplier for the third consecutive year by December 2019. During the first nine months of the 2019-20 fiscal year, Iraq exported approximately 38 million tonnes of crude oil to India, fulfilling nearly a quarter of the country's total oil demand. This consistent supply was facilitated by favorable pricing and the technical suitability of Iraqi crude for Indian refineries, ensuring its position as the largest supplier during the period in question.
248General Awareness
Who among the following publishes the Economic Survey of India?
● Correct
● Not quite — the correct answer is highlighted
Show answer & explanationHide answer⌄
Answer: (B) Ministry of Finance
Explanation
The Economic Survey of India is the flagship annual document of the Ministry of Finance, Government of India. It is prepared by the Economics Division of the Department of Economic Affairs under the guidance of the Chief Economic Advisor. The document is presented in both houses of Parliament during the Budget Session, typically one day before the presentation of the Union Budget. It provides a detailed report on the performance of the national economy over the preceding year, analyzing trends in agricultural and industrial production, infrastructure, employment, money supply, and foreign exchange reserves. It serves as a vital policy guide by outlining the government's economic priorities and providing a framework for the upcoming fiscal year's budgetary allocations.
249General Awareness
Name the Indian elected to the International Narcotics Control Board by the UN Economic and Social Council on 23 April 2014 and re-elected by the Council for a 5-year term (2020-2025) on 7 May 2019.
● Correct
● Not quite — the correct answer is highlighted
Show answer & explanationHide answer⌄
Answer: (B) Jagjit Pavadia
Explanation
Jagjit Pavadia, a former officer of the Indian Revenue Service, was first elected to the International Narcotics Control Board (INCB) in 2014. Due to her extensive experience in narcotics control and administration, including her tenure as the Narcotics Commissioner of India, she was re-elected by the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) on 7 May 2019. She secured the maximum number of votes in the election, 44 out of 54, ensuring her second five-year term from 2020 to 2025. The INCB is an independent and quasi-judicial monitoring body responsible for overseeing the implementation of the United Nations international drug control conventions.
250General Awareness
In October 2019, ______ was appointed as the secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
● Correct
● Not quite — the correct answer is highlighted
Show answer & explanationHide answer⌄
Answer: (C) Jay Shah
Explanation
Jay Shah was elected unopposed as the Secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) during the general body meeting held in October 2019. He succeeded Amitabh Choudhary in this role following the conclusion of the tenure of the Committee of Administrators (CoA). His appointment was part of a new set of office-bearers elected to manage the governing body of cricket in India.