UPPSC Prelims 2020 Question Paper with Answers & Explanations

Explanation

The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change launched the National Clean Air Programme in January 2019. It represents the first-ever effort in India to create a time-bound national-level framework for air quality management. The primary objective of the scheme is to achieve a 20 percent to 30 percent reduction in Particulate Matter (PM10 and PM2.5) concentrations by 2024, using 2017 as the base year for comparison. The programme targets 122 non-attainment cities that were identified based on their failure to meet the National Ambient Air Quality Standards between 2011 and 2015.

Explanation

The Ikshvaku dynasty, which ruled the Andhra region in the 3rd century CE, is specifically identified as the Shriparvatiyas in Puranic literature. This designation stems from their capital, Vijayapuri, which was situated near the Shriparvata mountain, identified with the modern site of Nagarjunakonda. The Puranas refer to them as the successors of the Satavahanas in the eastern Deccan, often using terms like Shriparvatiya Andhras. Under rulers such as Chamtamula and Virapurushadatta, the dynasty played a significant role in the political and cultural history of South India, particularly in the promotion of Buddhism and the performance of Vedic sacrifices.

Explanation

The Alagh Committee, officially known as the Task Force on Projections of Minimum Needs and Effective Consumption Demand (1979), established a poverty line based on a specific nutritional requirement for the first time in India. It defined the poverty line as the per capita consumption expenditure level required to satisfy a daily calorie intake of 2400 kcal in rural areas and 2100 kcal in urban areas. The committee used the calorie norms derived from the nutritional recommendations of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) to construct a food basket, which was then converted into a monetary value using prevailing price levels. This approach focused exclusively on the energy intake necessary for survival and physical activity to demarcate the population living below the poverty line.

Explanation

The term Agronomai refers to a specific class of district officials in the Mauryan administration as described by the Greek historian Megasthenes in his work Indica. These officials were primarily responsible for the construction and maintenance of roads, ensuring they were kept in good condition for trade and troop movements. Megasthenes notes that the Agronomai supervised the placement of pillars or milestones at every ten stadia (approximately 2 kilometers) to indicate distances and directions. Their jurisdictional duties also included the supervision of irrigation channels, land measurement for revenue purposes, and the oversight of various rural occupations such as hunting and wood-cutting. In the context of public works, their role in road engineering and infrastructure management was a central feature of their administrative responsibilities.

Explanation

The Human Development Index (HDI) is a summary measure of average achievement in key dimensions of human development: a long and healthy life, being knowledgeable, and having a decent standard of living. It is calculated using three specific indicators: life expectancy at birth for the health dimension, mean years of schooling and expected years of schooling for the education dimension, and Gross National Income (GNI) per capita for the standard of living dimension. Social inequality is not a direct indicator in the standard HDI calculation. While the UNDP publishes the Inequality-adjusted Human Development Index (IHDI) to account for disparities, the core HDI formula remains a geometric mean of the three basic dimension indices and does not incorporate social inequality as a separate metric.

Explanation

The Mahajanpada of Matsya matches with Virat Nagar because it was the royal seat in the Alwar-Jaipur region of Rajasthan. Kuru matches with Indraprastha as it was the administrative heart of the kingdom in the modern Delhi-Meerut area. Sursena matches with Mathura as this city was the capital of the kingdom in the Yamuna valley and a major center of commerce. Asmak matches with Potan because it served as the capital of the only Mahajanpada located in South India near the Godavari river.

Explanation

Oscar Lewis, an American anthropologist, introduced the concept of the Culture of Poverty in his 1959 book Five Families: Mexican Case Studies in the Culture of Poverty. The theory suggests that poverty is not merely a state of economic deprivation but a self-perpetuating lifestyle passed down through generations. Lewis argued that people living in long-term poverty develop a distinct subculture as an adaptation and reaction to their marginal position in a class-stratified, highly individualistic society. This subculture is characterized by a lack of effective participation in major social institutions, a sense of resignation, fatalism, and a focus on the present rather than future planning. Once established, these cultural patterns are internalized by children, making them psychologically unequipped to take advantage of changing conditions or increased opportunities throughout their lives.

Explanation

The Chola period is significantly better documented than earlier South Indian dynasties because of the systematic practice of recording history through epigraphy. Starting primarily with Rajaraja I, Chola monarchs began prefixing their official inscriptions with Meykkirttis, which were formal historical introductions detailing the king's military conquests and major achievements in chronological order. These records were permanently engraved on the stone walls of temples and on copper plates. While information regarding earlier dynasties often relies on Sangam literature which lacks precise dates and continuity, the thousands of Chola inscriptions provide a reliable and detailed framework for reconstructing their political, social, and administrative history. This deliberate practice of using temple architecture as a repository for historical narratives directly accounts for the wealth of information available about the Chola dynasty compared to its predecessors.

Explanation

During the mid-1980s, the global discourse on development shifted significantly toward identifying its adverse ecological and social consequences. This era was defined by the emergence of the sustainable development paradigm, punctuated by the publication of the Brundtland Commission report, Our Common Future, in 1987. This report brought international attention to the degradation of natural resources and the escalating risks of environmental pollution as direct results of unchecked industrial growth. Simultaneously, the rise of grassroots movements against large-scale projects, such as the Narmada Bachao Andolan in India, highlighted the severe social costs of development, specifically the displacement and failed rehabilitation of marginalized populations. While politics inherently influences developmental trajectories, it is considered a structural driver or a field of study rather than a specific negative byproduct or external cost of the developmental process. Consequently, politics and development was not categorized as a primary negative aspect under discussion during this period.

Explanation

Dr. Vishnu Shridhar Wakankar discovered the Bhimbetka rock shelters in 1957. While traveling by train to Bhopal, he noticed the unique sandstone rock formations and suspected their prehistoric significance. Upon further exploration and excavation, he identified the extensive rock art and paintings, which date from the Upper Paleolithic through the Mesolithic to the historical period. His discovery established Bhimbetka as one of the largest and oldest prehistoric complexes in the world, eventually leading to its recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Explanation

The Smart Cities Mission was launched by the Government of India in 2015 with the objective of promoting cities that provide core infrastructure and give a decent quality of life to their citizens. Under this centrally sponsored scheme, a total of 100 cities were selected nationwide through a competitive process known as the City Challenge. In the state of Uttar Pradesh, 10 cities were successfully selected to be part of this mission. These ten cities are Lucknow, Varanasi, Kanpur, Prayagraj, Agra, Bareilly, Aligarh, Jhansi, Moradabad, and Saharanpur. The selection occurred across different phases, starting from the first round in 2016 through subsequent rounds and the fast-track mode. These cities receive financial support from both the Central and State governments to implement various urban development projects focused on sustainability and digital integration.

Explanation

Balu is a significant Harappan site located in the Kaithal district of Haryana. Manda is situated on the right bank of the Chenab River in Jammu and Kashmir and is recognized as the northernmost point of the Indus Valley Civilization within India. Padri is an archaeological site in the Bhavnagar district of Gujarat, notable for its unique ceramic styles and evidence of salt production. Hulas is located in the Saharanpur district of Uttar Pradesh and represents the Late Harappan phase of the civilization in the upper Ganga-Yamuna Doab region.

Explanation

The report titled Our Common Future, published in 1987, was the definitive document that brought the concept of sustainable development into the global mainstream. It was produced by the World Commission on Environment and Development (WCED), which was chaired by Gro Harlem Brundtland, and is consequently often referred to as the Brundtland Report. This landmark document provided the most widely accepted definition of sustainable development: development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. The report was instrumental in highlighting the interdependence of economic growth, social equity, and environmental protection, eventually leading to the 1992 Rio Earth Summit and the global adoption of sustainability goals.

Explanation

The Sun temple of Multan, also known as the Aditya Temple, was a prominent center of solar worship in ancient India. Hiuen Tsang visited it in the 7th century and recorded the presence of a magnificent gold-encrusted idol. Subsequent Arab chroniclers like Abu Zaid, Al-Masudi, and Alberuni also documented the temple's grandeur and its role as a major pilgrimage site that generated significant revenue for the region. Historically, Multan was identified as Sambapura, which according to the Samba Purana and Bhavishya Purana, was founded by Samba, the son of Krishna. Samba is credited with establishing the Sun temple there after being cured of leprosy through his devotion to the Sun god, Surya, thereby making the pilgrimage to Sambapur synonymous with Sun worship.

Explanation

The Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) is a flagship initiative launched by NITI Aayog to create and promote an ecosystem of innovation and entrepreneurship across India. Established in 2016, AIM serves as an umbrella organization that oversees various programs designed to foster a culture of innovation at different levels. Key components include Atal Tinkering Labs for school students to develop a design mindset, Atal Incubation Centres to support world-class startups, and the Atal Community Innovation Centre to encourage research and application in unserved and underserved regions of the country. By operating under NITI Aayog, the mission utilizes a holistic, cross-sectoral approach to drive national policy toward technology-driven economic growth and social development.

Explanation

Narayan Malhar Joshi was nominated by the Government of India as the official representative of Indian labourers at the first International Labour Conference held in Washington, D.C., in 1919. A distinguished member of the Servants of India Society, Joshi was selected to advocate for worker interests at this inaugural summit of the International Labour Organization. His appointment represented the first formal recognition of Indian labour on an international platform and occurred just before he played a central role in establishing the All India Trade Union Congress in 1920.

Explanation

Rachel Carson, an American marine biologist and conservationist, authored Silent Spring, which was published in September 1962. The book meticulously documented the detrimental effects of indiscriminate chemical pesticide use, specifically DDT, on the environment and wildlife. Carson argued that these synthetic pesticides entered the food chain and caused significant ecological damage, famously warning of a future where songbirds would no longer be heard, hence the title. Her work effectively challenged the prevailing scientific and governmental practices of the time regarding chemical usage. It is widely credited with catalyzing the modern global environmental movement, leading to a nationwide ban on DDT for agricultural use in the United States and the eventual creation of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

Explanation

The Treaty of Aix-la-Chapelle, signed in 1748, concluded the War of the Austrian Succession in Europe. Because the First Carnatic War (1740-1748) was the Indian theater of this broader European conflict between Britain and France, the treaty also brought an end to hostilities in India. One of the primary terms of the settlement involved the mutual restoration of captured territories. During the war, the French forces led by La Bourdonnais had captured Madras from the English in 1746. Under the terms of the Treaty of Aix-la-Chapelle, Madras was returned to the English East India Company in exchange for the British returning Louisbourg in North America to the French. This restoration ensured that the English regained their significant commercial and political foothold in South India.

Explanation

The Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) scheme, launched in 1975, is a flagship program aimed at providing a comprehensive package of services for the holistic development of children under six years of age, as well as pregnant and lactating mothers. This package specifically consists of six services: supplementary nutrition, pre-school non-formal education, nutrition and health education, immunization, health check-up, and referral services. Family planning is not a component of the ICDS framework; instead, it is managed as a core part of the National Health Mission and other family welfare programs under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. The ICDS focuses primarily on addressing malnutrition and health issues in early childhood rather than reproductive population control measures.

Explanation

The Indian Arms Act was enacted in 1878 during the viceroyalty of Lord Lytton to regulate the possession and carrying of weapons by Indians. The Royal Titles Act of 1876 was passed to officially confer the title of Empress of India (Kaisar-i-Hind) upon Queen Victoria. The Indian High Court Act of 1861 authorized the establishment of High Courts in the three Presidency towns of Calcutta, Madras, and Bombay, effectively merging the Supreme Courts and the Sadar Adalats. The Indian Divorce Act of 1869 was legislated to provide a legal structure for matrimonial relief and the dissolution of marriages, primarily for the Christian population in India.

Explanation

Indus Valley Civilization (A) is matched with Urban (4) because it represents the first urbanization in the Indian subcontinent, distinguished by its planned grid layouts and advanced drainage systems.

Later Vedic Society (B) is matched with Agrarian (3) because this period marked the transition from a nomadic lifestyle to settled agriculture, facilitated by the use of iron tools to clear land in the Gangetic plains.

Rigvedic Society (C) is matched with Pastoral (1) as the Early Vedic economy was primarily based on cattle rearing, and the society was tribal and semi-nomadic with wealth measured in livestock.

Medieval Period (D) is matched with Land Lordism (2) due to the establishment of feudal structures and complex land revenue systems, such as the Iqta, Jagirdari, and Zamindari systems, where land control was vested in a hierarchy of lords and intermediaries.

Explanation

Lord Dalhousie annexed the Sikkim Terai and the mountainous regions of Sikkim in 1850. This action was taken as a punitive measure following the arrest and mistreatment of two British officials, Dr. Archibald Campbell and the botanist Joseph Dalton Hooker, by the Sikkimese authorities. The annexed territories were subsequently integrated into British India, significantly reducing the sovereign territory of the Chogyal and establishing direct British administrative control over the strategically important Himalayan frontier.

Explanation

Kanpur became the first city in Uttar Pradesh to achieve million-plus status during the 1971 Census, when its population recorded a significant increase to approximately 1.27 million inhabitants. Lucknow followed a decade later, crossing the million-person threshold during the 1981 Census with a recorded population of approximately 1.007 million. these two cities were the earliest urban centers in the state to reach this demographic milestone according to the decennial census data provided by the Registrar General and Census Commissioner of India.

Explanation

Dr. Rajendra Prasad did not participate in the Second Round Table Conference held in London from September to December 1931. While the Indian National Congress was represented at the session, its delegation was limited, and many top-tier leaders including Rajendra Prasad remained in India to oversee the party organizational work and the ongoing national movement. During the time of the conference, he was primarily engaged in political activities and the civil disobedience movement within India, particularly in Bihar. He was not among the individuals nominated or invited by the British government to join the discussions regarding the future constitutional framework of India during this specific session.

Explanation

The regional labour/service systems match their geographical areas as follows: Jajmani is the traditional system of hereditary patron-client relationships found in North India, particularly in UP and Bihar (code 1). Bara Balut (Balutedar) is the service system of Maharashtra where twelve artisan castes serve villages (code 3). Mirasi refers to the hereditary musicians and genealogists of Tamil Nadu (code 4). Adage is the Karnataka equivalent of the Jajmani system (code 2). The correct matching sequence 1, 3, 4, 2 = Option C.

Explanation

The Story of My Deportation was written by Lala Lajpat Rai (3) to document his experience of being deported to Mandalay without trial in 1907. Gita Rahasya, also known as Srimadh Bhagavad Gita Rahasya, was composed by Bal Gangadhar Tilak (4) during his imprisonment in Mandalay jail between 1908 and 1914, focusing on the philosophy of Karma Yoga. A Nation in Making is the autobiography of Surendra Nath Banerjee (1) and provides a detailed account of his political life and the growth of Indian nationalism. India Wins Freedom is the autobiographical work of Maulana Abul Kalam Azad (2), covering the critical years of the Indian independence movement and the partition. The correct matching pairs are A-3, B-4, C-1, and D-2.

Explanation

Robert E. Park introduced the concept of the marginal man in his 1928 essay Human Migration and the Marginal Man. He described the marginal man as a person who lives in two different cultural groups and is not fully integrated into either, typically as a result of migration. Park viewed this individual as being on the margin of two cultures and two societies, which never completely fused. This position often leads to a unique psychological state characterized by heightened self-consciousness and an objective perspective on both cultures. While the concept was later expanded by Everett Stonequist, the original sociological framework for understanding the cultural conflict and transition experienced by such individuals was developed by Park.

Explanation

Hyder Ali was appointed as the Faujdar of Dindigul in 1755 by the Mysore administration. Recognizing the strategic importance of modern weaponry and the military superiority of European forces, he established a sophisticated arsenal and armoury within the Dindigul Fort. He utilized the technical expertise of French advisors to manufacture modern firearms, muskets, and artillery. This initiative allowed him to organize and train a disciplined military force equipped with Western-style weaponry, which was instrumental in his rapid rise to power and his subsequent consolidation of the Kingdom of Mysore.

Explanation

The fast pace of population growth is categorized as an underlying or indirect driver of wildlife extinction rather than a direct proximate cause. While a rapidly increasing human population exerts systemic pressure on the environment and intensifies the demand for resources, the actual process of extinction is carried out through specific mechanisms such as habitat destruction, fragmentation, and overexploitation. In standard conservation biology frameworks, major causes are defined as the direct physical and biological factors that lead to the immediate decline of a species. Population growth acts as a macro-demographic catalyst that facilitates these factors but is not itself the direct biological mechanism responsible for the disappearance of wildlife.

Explanation

The British East India Company implemented diverse land revenue models across the subcontinent, such as the Permanent Settlement in Bengal, the Ryotwari system in the Madras and Bombay Presidencies, and the Mahalwari system in the North-Western Provinces and Punjab. These systems were chosen based on prevailing local conditions, administrative convenience, and the specific revenue needs of the Company. The implementation of these distinct systems led to the stratification of the rural population into various social and economic groups. For instance, the Zamindari system produced a class of powerful landlords and exploited sub-tenants, while the Ryotwari system often empowered moneylenders and led to the impoverishment of individual cultivators. This fragmentation of interests among the Indian peasantry into different classes was a direct consequence of the varied legal frameworks and property rights established by the different land revenue systems. The creation of these distinct class structures across regions explains the functional nature and socio-economic impact of the varied administrative approach adopted by the British government.

Explanation

In August 2020, the Hubballi Railway Museum was dedicated to the nation by the Union Minister of Railways and the Minister of Parliamentary Affairs via video conferencing. Located at Hubballi in Karnataka, this museum is the first of its kind in North Karnataka and the second railway museum in the South Western Railway zone. The museum was established to preserve and showcase the rich heritage of the Indian Railways in the region. It features a diverse collection of indoor and outdoor exhibits, including vintage rolling stock, steam engines, ancient signaling equipment, and historical photographs that trace the evolution of the railway system. The facility includes specialized galleries and a toy train to provide an educational and interactive experience for visitors regarding the technological progress of the rail network.

Explanation

Kitab-ul-Hind was authored by the Persian polymath Al-Biruni in the early 11th century, specifically around 1030 AD, following his travels to the Indian subcontinent with Mahmud of Ghazni. Prithviraja-Raso is an epic poem by Chand Bardai that focuses on the life of the 12th-century king Prithviraj Chauhan, placing its traditional origin in the late 12th or early 13th century. Tabaqat-i-Nasiri was written by Minhaj-i-Siraj Juzjani and completed in 1260 AD, serving as a vital record of the Ghurid dynasty and the early Slave dynasty of the Delhi Sultanate. Fatawa-i-Jahandari was written by Ziauddin Barani during the reign of Firoz Shah Tughlaq in the mid-14th century, approximately 1357 AD, as a treatise on political philosophy and statecraft.

Explanation

The United Arab Emirates launched its Mars mission, known as the Hope probe or Al-Amal, on July 19, 2020. This historic event marked the first interplanetary mission by any Arab nation. The spacecraft was launched from the Tanegashima Space Center in Japan aboard a Mitsubishi Heavy Industries H-IIA rocket. The mission was designed to provide a complete picture of the Martian atmosphere by studying daily and seasonal weather cycles and the transport of heat. By reaching Mars in February 2021, the United Arab Emirates became the fifth entity in the world to successfully reach the Red Planet, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of the nation's formation.

Explanation

Abul Hasan Qutb Shah, also known as Tana Shah, was the eighth and final ruler of the Qutb Shahi dynasty that governed Golkonda. In 1687, the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb led a prolonged eight-month siege against the Golkonda Fort as part of his expansionist policy in the Deccan. Despite the fort's strong defenses and the Sultan's resistance, it was eventually captured through the treachery of an internal official named Abdullah Khan Pani, who opened the gates to the Mughal forces under the cover of night. Following the fall of the fort, Abul Hasan Qutb Shah was taken prisoner and sent to the Daulatabad Fort, where he remained in captivity until his death. This conquest marked the total annexation of the Golkonda kingdom into the Mughal Empire.

Explanation

The Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) issued a directive in July 2020 instructing all telecommunications service providers in the country to stop offering free internet services for social media access. This move was primarily aimed at curbing the spread of misinformation and reducing the potential for criminal activities facilitated by zero-rating platforms. Telecom operators had previously offered packages that allowed users to access sites like Facebook and Twitter without consuming their data balances. The regulator justified the ban by stating that these free services created unhealthy competition among operators and were often misused for spreading rumors. By requiring users to pay for data used on social media, the government sought to establish better control over the digital environment and ensure a level playing field in the telecommunications market.

Explanation

Akbar introduced significant social reforms to regulate the institution of marriage within the Mughal Empire. He issued an ordinance fixing the minimum age for marriage at 16 years for boys and 14 years for girls, based on the rationale that child marriages were detrimental to the health of the couple and their future children. Furthermore, Akbar discouraged forced marriages by mandating that the consent of both the bride and the groom was essential. According to Abul Fazl in the Ain-i-Akbari, the Emperor believed that marriages should involve mutual inclination and not be conducted under the absolute pressure of parents, particularly when such unions were against the will of the individuals involved. To enforce these rules, he appointed special officers known as Tuibegis to verify the age and consent of the parties before a marriage could be solemnized.

Explanation

The India Ideas Summit 2020 was hosted by the US-India Business Council (USIBC) on July 21-22, 2020, to mark the council's 45th anniversary. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the event was held virtually. Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered the keynote address on July 22, 2020, where he invited American companies to invest in various sectors of the Indian economy, such as agriculture, healthcare, and energy. The theme of the 2020 summit was Building a Better Future, focusing on global economic recovery and the strategic partnership between India and the United States in a post-pandemic world. Since the actual theme was not Empowering India, only the first statement is correct.

Explanation

Diwan-i-Tan was the official responsible for looking after the assignment of Jagirs and the payment of cash salaries to the state officials and Mansabdars.

Mustafi served as the Auditor General of the Mughal administration, whose primary duty was to examine and audit the accounts of income and expenditure of the state.

Mushrif acted as an accountant or registrar who looked after the office records and oversaw the day-to-day accounts and administrative tasks of various departments and karkhanas.

Vakanvis, also known as the Waqai-Navis, was the news writer or chronicler responsible for maintaining a detailed list of all state events, imperial orders, and royal firmans.

Explanation

The Uttar Pradesh Cabinet, under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, gave its approval on July 29, 2020, for the establishment of a National Law University in Prayagraj. The decision aimed to provide high-quality legal education in the city that houses the Principal Seat of the Allahabad High Court. This institution was subsequently named the Dr. Rajendra Prasad National Law University, in honor of the first President of India. The establishment of this university was intended to strengthen the legal academic infrastructure in the state and cater to the growing demand for specialized legal professionals and research in the field of law.

Explanation

Shaikh Nizamuddin Auliya was the most prominent Sufi saint of the Chishti Order in India and was centered in Delhi throughout his life. Known as Mahbub-e-Ilahi, he established his spiritual retreat or khanqah in Ghiyaspur, Delhi, where he witnessed the reigns of several successive Sultans. His shrine, the Nizamuddin Dargah, remains a major landmark and pilgrimage site in Delhi. In contrast, Multan was the primary center for the Suhrawardi Silsila, famously associated with saints such as Shaikh Baha-ud-din Zakariya.

Explanation

On July 25, 2020, the Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Kiren Rijiju, and the Chief Minister of Haryana, Manohar Lal Khattar, announced that Haryana would host the fourth edition of the Khelo India Youth Games. The event was scheduled to take place in Panchkula after the Tokyo Olympics. Haryana was selected as the host state because of its strong sporting culture and its consistent performance in the competition, having won the inaugural edition in 2018 and finishing second in the 2020 edition. The announcement was made via video conference, highlighting the state's readiness and infrastructure to support grassroots level sports development in India.

Explanation

The Shahab Nahr was a significant Mughal-era irrigation project initiated by Shahabuddin Ahmad Khan, the governor of Delhi, during the reign of Emperor Akbar around 1568. This canal was created by repairing and desilting the old Rajabwah canal, which had been originally excavated by Sultan Firuz Shah Tughlaq in the 14th century to bring water from the Yamuna river to the arid regions of Hissar. Over the centuries following the Tughlaq dynasty, the original canal had become choked with silt and debris, rendering it useless. Shahabuddin Ahmad Khan restored the flow of water to irrigate his own jagir and the surrounding areas, and the rejuvenated waterway was subsequently named the Shahab Nahr in his honor. This restoration served as the precursor to the more extensive canal systems developed later by Shah Jahan.

Explanation

Mohun Bagan achieved a historic milestone on 29th July, 2020, by becoming the first Indian football club to be featured on the NASDAQ billboards at New York's Times Square. This date is celebrated annually as Mohun Bagan Day to commemorate the club's landmark 1911 IFA Shield victory, where they defeated the East Yorkshire Regiment to become the first native team to win the prestigious trophy. The display on the iconic billboard showcased the club's crest and colors in its traditional maroon and green, recognizing its legacy and massive global fan base during its foundation day celebrations.

Explanation

Ibrahim Adil Shah II, who ruled the Bijapur Sultanate from 1580 to 1627, was the author of the Kitab-i-Nauras. This literary work is a collection of fifty-nine songs and seventeen couplets written in the Dakhni language, intended to be sung in various classical ragas. The title refers to the nine rasas or aesthetic flavors of Indian theory. The book is significant for its syncretic cultural approach, as it begins with an invocation to the Hindu deities Saraswati and Ganapati and contains praises for both Sufi saints and Hindu gods. His profound interest in music and poetry, as demonstrated in this work, earned him the popular title of Jagadguru Badshah.

Explanation

The first Kisan Rail was flagged off on August 7, 2020, to facilitate the quick transport of perishable agricultural produce like vegetables and fruits. The train service operated between Devlali in Maharashtra's Nashik district and Danapur in Bihar, covering a distance of approximately 1,519 kilometres in about 31 hours. This initiative was part of the Union Budget 2020-21 commitment to build a seamless national cold supply chain for perishables, ensuring farmers get better prices for their produce by reaching distant markets faster and reducing post-harvest losses. The train was equipped with frozen containers and functioned as a mobile cold storage, providing a multi-commodity service with several stoppages for loading and unloading.

Explanation

In March 2018, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron inaugurated a 75 MW solar power plant at Dadar Kala village in the Mirzapur district of Uttar Pradesh. Developed by the French energy company ENGIE with an investment of approximately 500 crore rupees, the plant stands as a significant symbol of the International Solar Alliance (ISA) partnership between India and France. The facility was designed to generate around 130 million units of electricity annually and is connected to the Jigna sub-station of the Power Grid Corporation. This project highlights the cooperation between the two nations in transitioning toward sustainable energy sources and reducing carbon emissions in the region.

Explanation

The 15th East Asia Summit in 2020 was hosted by Vietnam, which held the ASEAN Chairmanship for that year. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the summit was conducted virtually via video conference on November 14, 2020, under the chairmanship of the Vietnamese Prime Minister. Singapore had previously hosted the 13th East Asia Summit in 2018. The 2020 summit resulted in the Hanoi Declaration, which commemorated the 15th anniversary of the forum and outlined future cooperation among the member nations.

Explanation

In January 2020, the Government of India announced that the Ramsar Convention had designated 10 additional wetlands from India as sites of international importance. Among these new inclusions, 6 sites were located in Uttar Pradesh, which significantly increased the state's total count from a single site to seven. The newly added wetlands were the Nawabganj Bird Sanctuary, Parvati Agra Bird Sanctuary, Saman Bird Sanctuary, Samaspur Bird Sanctuary, Sandi Bird Sanctuary, and Sarsai Nawar Jheel. These sites were recognized for their ecological significance, particularly as habitats for migratory birds and for maintaining regional biodiversity. The other four sites added during this period were located in Punjab and Maharashtra.

Explanation

Chhattisgarh became the first state in India to organize an E-Lok Adalat on July 11, 2020, amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. The initiative was organized by the Chhattisgarh High Court and the State Legal Services Authority to ensure the continued delivery of justice while maintaining social distancing norms. Presided over by Chief Justice P. R. Ramachandra Menon, the E-Lok Adalat utilized video conferencing to settle thousands of pending cases across various benches in the state. This virtual transition allowed litigants and advocates to resolve disputes from their homes, overcoming the physical limitations imposed by the nationwide lockdown and setting a precedent for digital judicial proceedings in India.

Explanation

The Rengma tribe is an indigenous Naga ethnic group primarily residing in the state of Nagaland and the Karbi Anglong district of Assam in Northeast India. They are distinct from the tribal populations of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, which consist of Negrito groups like the Onge, Jarawa, and Great Andamanese, and Mongoloid groups like the Shompen and Nicobarese. The Rengma people are recognized for their unique cultural heritage, the Ngada harvest festival, and their traditional practice of both jhum and terrace cultivation in the hilly regions of the mainland.

Explanation

The Status of Tigers, Co-predators and Prey in India 2018 report, released in July 2020, estimated India's tiger population at 2,967. This census confirmed that India serves as the largest habitat for wild tigers in the world, hosting approximately 75 percent of the global tiger population. The report also provided a detailed breakdown of tiger distribution, revealing that while the network of tiger reserves is critical for their survival, approximately 35 percent of India's tigers reside in areas outside these reserves. This includes territorial forests and migratory corridors that connect different protected habitats, necessitating a landscape-based approach to conservation.

Explanation

Trans-Himalayan rivers are those that originate in the region beyond the Great Himalayas, specifically in the Tibetan Plateau. The Sutlej river has its source in the Rakshas Tal lake, located near Mansarovar Lake and Mount Kailash in Tibet. It flows westward and enters India through the Shipki La pass in Himachal Pradesh, carving deep gorges as it cuts through the Himalayan ranges. Because its point of origin lies to the north of the main Himalayan axis, it is classified as a Trans-Himalayan river.

Explanation

The Global Vaccine Summit held on June 4, 2020, was hosted virtually by the United Kingdom under the leadership of Prime Minister Boris Johnson. The summit's main goal was to raise 7.4 billion US dollars for Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, to support its work in immunizing children in lower-income countries for the 2021–2025 period. It ultimately exceeded this target, raising over 8.8 billion US dollars from 52 countries and various private sectors. These funds were allocated to protect the next generation against vaccine-preventable diseases and to strengthen health systems globally. The event also highlighted the urgent need for international cooperation to develop and distribute a COVID-19 vaccine equitably, leading to the creation of the COVAX Advanced Market Commitment.

Explanation

The Khas tribe is an ethno-linguistic group primarily settled in the Himalayan regions of Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh, as well as in Nepal. In India, they are notably associated with the Jaunsar-Bawar region of Uttarakhand. They are not indigenous to Arunachal Pradesh, which is home to distinct tribal groups such as the Nyishi, Adi, Apatani, and Mishmi. Because the Khas people inhabit the Western and Central Himalayas rather than the North-Eastern frontier, the pairing of this tribe with Arunachal Pradesh is geographically incorrect.

Explanation

Sarthak is an indigenously developed Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV) launched on August 13, 2020, to enhance maritime security for the Indian Coast Guard. It was designed and built by Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL) as the fourth in a series of five such vessels contracted by the Ministry of Defence. The vessel is equipped with advanced navigation and communication technology, sensors, and machinery suitable for various maritime missions. Its primary roles include search and rescue operations, anti-piracy patrols, and surveillance within India's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). The launch represents a significant step toward the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, highlighting India's growing capabilities in indigenous ship design and construction.

Explanation

Sala Lake is a high-altitude body of water situated in the Tawang district of Arunachal Pradesh, located near the strategically important Sela Pass. Badkhal Lake was a natural lake situated in the Faridabad district of Haryana, nestled within the Aravalli Range. Loktak Lake is the largest freshwater lake in Northeast India, located in Manipur, and is famous for its floating islands known as phumdis and the Keibul Lamjao National Park. Kaliveli Lake is a significant coastal lagoon and seasonal wetland located in the Viluppuram district of Tamil Nadu, serving as a major bird sanctuary on the Coromandel Coast.

Explanation

The Haryana government launched the Pashu-Kisan Credit Card scheme to provide financial assistance to livestock farmers, mirroring the benefits of the Kisan Credit Card available to crop farmers. The initiative aims to promote animal husbandry and diversify rural income by providing credit for the maintenance and rearing of cattle, buffaloes, sheep, goats, and pigs. Under this scheme, livestock owners can access working capital loans at low interest rates, with a collateral-free limit of up to 1.6 lakh rupees. By facilitating easy access to funds for feed and veterinary care, the state government intended to boost dairy production and improve the economic condition of small-scale pastoralists across the state.

Explanation

Mumbai is the largest center of the cotton textile industry in India and is historically known as the Cottonopolis of India. While Ahmedabad is a very significant hub and is often referred to as the Manchester of India, it ranks second to Mumbai in terms of the number of mills and total production capacity. Therefore, the assertion that Ahmedabad is the largest center is factually incorrect. However, the reason provided is accurate as Ahmedabad is situated in Gujarat, which is one of the leading cotton-producing states in the country. The city lies in the heart of a major cotton-growing tract where the fertile black soil ensures a steady and abundant supply of raw materials for the local textile mills, eliminating problems related to raw material procurement.

Explanation

On July 27, 2020, Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually inaugurated three high-throughput COVID-19 testing facilities to boost the country's testing capacity and strengthen early detection. These laboratories were set up at the ICMR-National Institute of Cancer Prevention and Research in Noida, the ICMR-National Institute of Cholera and Enteric Diseases in Kolkata, and the ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health in Mumbai. These advanced facilities were designed to process more than 10,000 samples per day, providing faster results and reducing turnaround time. Beyond COVID-19, these high-end labs are capable of testing for other life-threatening diseases such as HIV, Hepatitis, and Tuberculosis, thereby contributing to long-term public health infrastructure.

Explanation

The Himadri Range, also known as the Great Himalayas, represents the youngest mountain range in India. Geologically, these are classified as young fold mountains because they were formed during the Tertiary period of the Cenozoic era, approximately 40 to 50 million years ago. This formation resulted from the massive tectonic collision between the northward-moving Indian Plate and the Eurasian Plate, leading to the folding of the Tethys Geosyncline. Unlike the ancient Precambrian or Paleozoic landforms found in the peninsular plateau, the Himadri and the broader Himalayan system are still tectonically active and continue to increase in height due to ongoing crustal movements.

Explanation

The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, gave its approval to declare the Kushinagar Airport in Uttar Pradesh as an International Airport on 24th June, 2020. Kushinagar is a vital Buddhist pilgrimage site where Gautama Buddha attained Mahaparinirvana, attracting a significant number of international devotees and tourists from South Asian and South-East Asian countries. The international status was granted to improve air connectivity, facilitate easier access for foreign pilgrims, and provide a boost to the local tourism industry and economic development in the region. This decision made Kushinagar the fourth international airport in Uttar Pradesh, joining the ranks of Lucknow, Varanasi, and the then-under-construction Noida International Airport.

Explanation

Indravati National Park is located in the Bijapur district of Chhattisgarh and is situated on the banks of the Indravati River, which gives the park its name. Mollem National Park is part of the Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary in the Sanguem taluk of Goa, located in the Western Ghats. Kalesar National Park is situated in the foothills of the Shivalik ranges in the Yamuna Nagar district of Haryana. Betla National Park (referred to in the question as Betva) is located in the Palamu and Latehar districts of Jharkhand and was one of the first national parks in India to be included in Project Tiger.

Explanation

Canada failed to secure a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council for the 2021-22 term during the elections held in June 2020. Contesting within the Western Europe and Others Group (WEOG), Canada was one of three countries vying for two available seats. In the first round of voting conducted by the United Nations General Assembly, Canada received only 108 votes, falling short of the required two-thirds majority threshold of 128 votes. This result led to Canada's unsuccessful bid for the council seat, while the other two contenders from its regional group were successfully elected.

Explanation

Copper-Chitradurga is NOT correctly matched (major copper: Khetri/Malanjkhand). Manganese-Bhilwara is NOT correctly matched (Bhilwara known for zinc/silver). Iron ore-Ballari is correct (Karnataka iron ore belt). Bauxite-Katni is correct. Pairs 1 and 3 are NOT correctly matched = Option C.

Explanation

The National Education Policy 2020 was formulated based on the recommendations of the Committee for the Draft National Education Policy chaired by Dr. K. Kasturirangan. The committee submitted its comprehensive report in May 2019, which served as the foundation for the final policy approved by the Union Cabinet. The NEP 2020 replaced the National Policy on Education framed in 1986. Between 1986 and 2020, the previous policy had been in effect for 34 years. As the second statement incorrectly asserts that the previous policy had been followed for 38 years, it is factually wrong, leaving the first statement as the only correct one.

Explanation

The Valley of Kashmir is a large intermontane structural basin located between the Pir Panjal Range to the southwest and the Great Himalayan Range (Himadri) to the northeast. It was formed during the Pleistocene epoch when the tectonic uplift of the Pir Panjal Range dammed the ancestral Jhelum River, creating a massive lake known as Lake Karewa. Over time, lacustrine deposits known as Karewas filled the basin floor. The valley is approximately 135 kilometers long and 32 kilometers wide, drained by the Jhelum River which eventually exits the valley through a deep gorge at Baramulla. This positioning between the Lesser Himalayas (represented by Pir Panjal) and the Inner Himalayas (Himadri) gives the region its unique geographical and climatic characteristics.

Explanation

The Delhi Electric Vehicle Policy was officially launched by the Government of NCT of Delhi on August 7, 2020. This policy was introduced with the primary objectives of reducing air pollution in the national capital and boosting the economy through job creation in the green energy sector. The policy set a target for electric vehicles to constitute 25 percent of all new vehicle registrations in Delhi by 2024. To encourage adoption, it provided substantial financial incentives, such as subsidies of up to ₹30,000 for two-wheelers, auto-rickshaws, and e-rickshaws, and up to ₹1.5 lakh for electric cars. Furthermore, the policy included provisions for waiving road tax and registration fees for all electric vehicles bought in the city.

Explanation

The Yamuna river receives its major right-bank tributaries from the Peninsular plateau, and their points of confluence follow a distinct west-to-east progression. The Chambal river is the westernmost of these tributaries, joining the Yamuna near Etawah. Moving eastward, the Sindh river meets the Yamuna in the Jalaun district. Further east, the Betwa river joins the main stream near Hamirpur. The Ken river is the easternmost among these four, flowing through the Bundelkhand region to join the Yamuna near Banda. This geographical sequence of 4, 3, 1, and 2 accurately represents the longitudinal arrangement of their drainage basins and confluence points along the Yamuna's course.

Explanation

The Naandi Foundation was awarded the Food System Vision Prize (Food Vision 2050) by the Rockefeller Foundation in August 2020 for its "Arakunomics" model. This vision focused on transforming the food system in the Araku Valley of Andhra Pradesh through regenerative agriculture, afforestation, and creating a sustainable circular economy for tribal farmers. The foundation was selected as one of the ten global winners from over 1,300 applicants for its roadmap towards a nourishing and resilient food system by the year 2050.

Explanation

Normandy is a geographical and historical region located in northwestern France, not Germany. It has traditionally been a significant iron-ore producing area within France, specifically within the Lower Normandy iron-ore basin which supplied the metallurgical industries in Caen. Since Normandy is a French territory and its mineral resources are part of the French industrial landscape, it is geographically and politically mismatched when paired with Germany. Germany's primary iron and steel districts are instead located in regions such as the Ruhr Valley, the Saarland, or the Salzgitter area.

Explanation

The first trial movement of container cargo from Kolkata Port to Agartala via the Chattogram (Chittagong) Port in Bangladesh took place in July 2020. This initiative was part of the Agreement on the use of Chattogram and Mongla Ports for movement of goods to and from India, which was signed between the two countries in 2018. The ship, MV Shejyoti, carried containers of TMT steel bars and pulses destined for Tripura and Assam. This transit route significantly reduces the time and distance for transporting goods from the mainland of India to the North Eastern states by bypassing the Siliguri Corridor and utilizing the land route from Chattogram Port to the Agartala Integrated Check Post via Akhaura.

Explanation

Mediterranean regions are characterized by a climate of hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters with abundant sunshine. These specific conditions are exceptionally well-suited for the cultivation of citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons, and grapefruits. The high summer temperatures are essential for the ripening process and the development of high sugar content in the fruit, while the absence of severe winter frost protects the evergreen citrus trees from damage. The moderate winter rainfall provides the necessary moisture balance required for these crops. This climatic synergy has established the Mediterranean Basin and other Mediterranean-type regions as the global leaders in commercial citrus production.

Explanation

Professor Ashok Sahni was conferred with the Life Time Excellence Award by the Ministry of Earth Sciences in July 2020. This prestigious recognition was awarded for his pioneering and significant contributions over several decades in the fields of geology, vertebrate paleontology, and biostratigraphy. His extensive research has been instrumental in advancing the scientific understanding of Indian dinosaurs, early mammalian evolution, and the impact of Deccan volcanism on biotic life. The Ministry honors distinguished scientists with these national awards annually to encourage and recognize excellence in various disciplines of Earth System Science, including atmosphere, ocean, and polar sciences.

Explanation

Tropical cyclones are known by various regional names depending on where they develop. Baguios is the local term used for tropical cyclones in the Philippines, named after the city of Baguio which is known for extreme tropical rainfall. Hurricanes are the intense tropical weather systems that form over the North Atlantic and Northeast Pacific Oceans, frequently impacting the coastal regions of the United States of America. Typhoons are mature tropical cyclones that occur in the Northwest Pacific Ocean, commonly affecting China and the surrounding East Asian regions. Willy-Willies is the traditional nomenclature used for tropical cyclones in Australia. Based on these geographic associations, the correct matching sequence is (A)-3, (B)-4, (C)-2, and (D)-1.

Explanation

Eutrophication is a biological process characterized by the nutrient enrichment of a water body, typically through the accumulation of nitrates and phosphates. This enrichment often results from human activities such as the runoff of fertilizers from agricultural fields or the discharge of domestic sewage. The presence of these excess nutrients triggers a rapid proliferation of algae and aquatic plants, commonly referred to as an algal bloom. As this dense biomass eventually dies and settles at the bottom, it is broken down by aerobic decomposers like bacteria. This decomposition process consumes a massive amount of the dissolved oxygen present in the water. The resulting depletion of dissolved oxygen, a state known as hypoxia, creates an environment where fish and other oxygen-dependent aquatic organisms cannot survive, leading to a loss of biodiversity and degradation of water quality.

Explanation

The Darling Range, often referred to as the Darling Scarp, is a low escarpment that runs north-south in Western Australia. It is situated just inland from the Swan Coastal Plain and the city of Perth, acting as the western edge of the Great Plateau. Geographically, it extends parallel to the Indian Ocean, defining the landscape of the South-Western Coast of Australia. It is primarily composed of ancient granites and gneisses of the Yilgarn Block and serves as a major watershed for the region's rivers.

Explanation

The sequence of these environmental initiatives and legislations reflects India's evolving conservation framework. The Wildlife Protection Act was enacted in 1972 to provide the primary legal structure for protecting various species of flora and fauna and managing their habitats. Following this, Project Tiger was launched in 1973 as a major conservation program specifically aimed at maintaining a viable population of Bengal tigers in India. Project Elephant was subsequently initiated in 1992 to address the conservation of elephants, their habitats, and migratory corridors while also addressing human-elephant conflict. Finally, the Biological Diversity Act was enacted in 2002 to meet the obligations of the Convention on Biological Diversity, focusing on the conservation of biological resources and the fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from their use.

Explanation

The Agulhas Current is the major western boundary current of the South Indian Ocean. It originates in the tropical regions and flows southward along the eastern coast of Africa, following the narrow continental shelf from Mozambique to the southern tip of the continent at Cape Agulhas. It is primarily formed by the confluence of the Mozambique Current and the East Madagascar Current. Known for being one of the strongest and warmest currents in the world, it plays a critical role in the global climate system by transporting heat and salt from the Indian Ocean toward the South Atlantic. Upon reaching the Agulhas Bank, the majority of the current retroflects back into the Indian Ocean as the Agulhas Return Current, while some water enters the Atlantic through the shedding of Agulhas rings.

Explanation

The movement and circulation of nutrient elements through the various biotic and abiotic components of an ecosystem is known as the biogeochemical cycle. This process involves the continuous exchange of essential elements like carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, and oxygen between living organisms and the physical environment, including the atmosphere, lithosphere, and hydrosphere. Since the total amount of these elements on Earth is constant, these cycles are necessary to recycle nutrients so they can be reused by different organisms over time. Biogeochemical cycles are typically divided into gaseous cycles, where the reservoir is the atmosphere or the ocean, and sedimentary cycles, where the reservoir is the Earth's crust. These cycles ensure that the chemical requirements for life are maintained in a balanced state within the biosphere.

Explanation

Jews are the primary ethnic and religious group of Israel, where they form the majority of the population. The Teda, a branch of the Toubou people, are nomadic pastoralists who inhabit the Tibesti Mountains and the desert regions of southern Libya, Chad, and Niger. The Beja are an ancient Cushitic-speaking group of nomadic people inhabiting the Eastern Desert of Egypt and the Red Sea hills of Sudan. The Lur are an Iranian ethnic group who primarily reside in the Zagros Mountains of western and southwestern Iran, particularly in the provinces of Lorestan and Khuzestan.

Explanation

The Mitti Bachao (Save the Soil) movement was initiated in 1977 in the Hoshangabad district of Madhya Pradesh. It began as a protest by local farmers against the ecological damage caused by the Tawa Dam project. While the dam was constructed to provide irrigation, the resulting canal system led to extensive waterlogging and increased salinity in the region. This degradation significantly reduced the fertility of the local black cotton soil, turning productive agricultural fields into marshy land. The movement aimed to draw attention to these environmental consequences and sought corrective measures to restore soil health and improve drainage systems in the affected areas.

Explanation

Cape Verde is an archipelagic nation located in the central Atlantic Ocean, and its capital and largest city is Praia, situated on the island of Santiago. Bamako is the capital and largest city of Mali, a landlocked country in West Africa. Because Bamako serves as the seat of government for Mali rather than Cape Verde, this pair represents an incorrect match between a country and its capital city.

Explanation

The Earth's surface temperature is determined by the balance between incoming solar radiation and outgoing terrestrial infrared radiation. In the absence of the greenhouse effect, the atmosphere would not trap the heat radiated from the surface. The planet would reach radiative equilibrium as a blackbody where the energy absorbed from the sun equals the energy emitted back into space. Using the Stefan-Boltzmann law, P = σAT⁴, and accounting for the Earth's albedo (reflectivity) of approximately 0.3 and the solar constant of 1361 W/m², the effective emission temperature T is calculated as T = [ S(1-α)/4σ ]¹/⁴. This results in a temperature of approximately 255 K, which is equivalent to -18°C. The natural greenhouse effect currently provides about 33°C of warming, maintaining the Earth's actual average surface temperature at approximately 15°C.

Explanation

Postmasburg is located in the Northern Cape province of South Africa and is situated within the Kalahari Manganese Field, which contains some of the largest and highest-grade manganese deposits in the world. The region became a significant mining hub following the discovery of manganese ore in the early 20th century. South Africa is the leading global producer of manganese, and the Postmasburg area, along with the neighboring Kuruman district, accounts for a vast majority of the country's output. The ore extracted from this region is vital for international markets, primarily used as an alloying agent in the production of steel to improve its strength and durability.

Explanation

In ecological studies, a sere refers to the entire sequence of biotic communities that successively colonize and change in a specific area over time. This continuous process begins with the pioneer community, which consists of the first organisms to inhabit a bare or disturbed site, and progresses through several intermediate developmental phases known as seral stages. The sequence eventually terminates in a stable, self-perpetuating climax community that remains in equilibrium with the local climate and environmental conditions. Each transitional seral stage modifies the habitat, leading to changes in species composition, diversity, and biomass until the terminal stage is reached.

Explanation

Myoglobin is an iron- and oxygen-binding protein found in the muscle tissues of vertebrates and almost all mammals. It is a monomeric protein consisting of a single polypeptide chain and a heme prosthetic group. The central component of this heme group is an iron (Fe²⁺) atom, which allows the protein to reversibly bind with oxygen. Myoglobin functions as an oxygen storage unit in muscle cells, providing a reserve of oxygen during periods of intense physical activity when the oxygen demand exceeds the supply provided by the blood.

Explanation

The Kinta Valley, situated in the state of Perak, Malaysia, has historically been one of the most productive tin-producing regions in the world. Following the discovery of vast alluvial tin deposits in the mid-19th century, the valley became the center of the global tin industry, driving significant economic growth and urban development in cities like Ipoh. By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the Kinta Valley alone accounted for a substantial portion of the world's total tin output, making Malaysia the leading global producer of the metal for several decades.

Explanation

Mutation refers to a permanent alteration in the DNA sequence that makes up a gene. At the molecular level, this involves changes in the arrangement or identity of the nitrogenous base pairs—adenine, thymine, cytosine, and guanine—within the genome. Such changes can range from a single nucleotide polymorphism, where one base is swapped for another, to more complex insertions or deletions of base sequences. These alterations can occur spontaneously due to errors during DNA replication or can be induced by environmental factors such as ionizing radiation or chemical mutagens. Because the sequence of bases determines the genetic instructions for building proteins, a mutation can lead to changes in an organism's traits and is the primary driver of genetic variation and evolution.

Explanation

Equatorial Guinea and Rwanda are not traversed by the equator. In the case of Equatorial Guinea, the mainland territory and the island of Bioko are located north of the equator, while the island of Annobon is located to its south, meaning the line passes through the Atlantic Ocean without touching the country's landmass. Rwanda is situated entirely south of the equator, with its northernmost point lying approximately one degree south of the line. In contrast, the equator passes directly through the territories of Gabon on the west coast of Africa and Somalia on the east coast.

Explanation

Photo cells are integral components of photoelectric smoke detectors, which are a primary type of fire alarm. These devices operate on the principle of light scattering. Inside the detection chamber, a light source and a photo cell are positioned at an angle to each other so that the light does not normally strike the sensor. When smoke particles from a fire enter the chamber, they scatter the light beam, causing some of the light to fall onto the photo cell. The photo cell then converts this light energy into an electrical signal that triggers the alarm. This technology is particularly effective at detecting smoldering fires that produce large amounts of smoke.

Explanation

Part IX of the Constitution of India specifically contains the provisions related to the Panchayati Raj System. This part was inserted by the 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act of 1992 and is titled The Panchayats. It encompasses Articles 243 to 243-O, which define the structure, composition, and powers of rural local self-government bodies. The amendment institutionalized a three-tier system consisting of Panchayats at the village, intermediate, and district levels, providing them with constitutional status and mandate to ensure social justice and economic development at the grassroots level. Along with Part IX, the 73rd Amendment also added the Eleventh Schedule to the Constitution, which lists 29 functional items within the purview of the Panchayats.

Explanation

Neoprene, chemically known as polychloroprene, is a synthetic rubber classified as an elastomer. Elastomers are polymers characterized by weak intermolecular forces and a certain degree of cross-linking between polymer chains, which allows the material to be stretched and then return to its original shape. Because of this cross-linked network, neoprene does not exhibit the characteristic behavior of thermoplastics, which are linear or slightly branched polymers that can be repeatedly softened by heating and hardened by cooling. Instead, neoprene maintains its structural integrity and elastic properties across a wide range of temperatures, making it a thermoset-like elastomer rather than a thermoplastic.

Explanation

The third tier of the Indian Federal System was formally established through the 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendment Acts, which were passed by the Parliament in 1992. These amendments institutionalized local self-government by granting constitutional status to Panchayati Raj Institutions for rural areas and Municipalities for urban areas. Before these enactments, the Indian Constitution recognized a two-tier structure consisting of the Union and the States. By adding Part IX and Part IX-A to the Constitution, the 1992 amendments created a mandatory third level of governance, ensuring decentralized power, regular elections, and functional autonomy for local bodies across the country.

Explanation

Protein digestion is initiated in the stomach. The gastric glands in the stomach lining secrete gastric juice, which contains hydrochloric acid and the proenzyme pepsinogen. The highly acidic environment created by hydrochloric acid facilitates the conversion of inactive pepsinogen into the active proteolytic enzyme called pepsin. Pepsin then begins the biochemical breakdown of proteins by hydrolyzing them into smaller peptide fragments such as proteoses and peptones. Although the process continues and is completed in the small intestine with the help of pancreatic enzymes, the initial stage of protein catabolism occurs exclusively in the stomach.

Explanation

Article 3 of the Constitution relates to the internal readjustment of the territories of the constituent states of the Union of India. The admission of new states, which refers to the incorporation of territories that were not previously part of the Union of India, falls under the ambit of Article 2. Article 2 grants Parliament the power to admit into the Union, or establish, new states on such terms and conditions as it thinks fit. Since Article 3 is specifically limited to the modification and reorganization of existing states within the Union, the process of bringing in entirely new territories as states is a distinct power exercised under a different constitutional provision.

Explanation

The process of polishing rice involves the removal of the outer husk, bran, and germ layers to improve texture and shelf life. However, these layers contain the highest concentration of essential nutrients, specifically Thiamine (Vitamin B₁). When rice is polished, a significant portion of its Thiamine content is lost. A diet that relies heavily on polished rice as a staple food, without adequate intake of other Thiamine-rich sources, leads to a deficiency of this vitamin in the body. This specific nutritional deficiency causes Beriberi, a disease that affects the nervous system and the cardiovascular system. Historically, the widespread adoption of steam-powered rice mills led to an increase in Beriberi cases among populations where white rice was the primary caloric source.

Explanation

The Chairman and members of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) are removed by the President of India under the provisions of Article 317 of the Constitution. For removal on the grounds of misbehavior, the President must refer the matter to the Supreme Court for an inquiry. If the Supreme Court, after the inquiry, upholds the cause of removal and advises the President, the Chairman or member can be removed. In this specific procedure, the Parliament has no role to perform. Conversely, Judges of the Supreme Court and High Courts, as well as the Comptroller and Auditor General of India, can only be removed by the President following an address by both Houses of Parliament supported by a special majority, as prescribed under Article 124(4) and Article 148(1).

Explanation

Vitamin K is a fat-soluble vitamin that acts as an essential cofactor for the enzyme gamma-glutamyl carboxylase. This enzyme is responsible for the post-translational modification of specific glutamic acid residues into gamma-carboxyglutamic acid on several key proteins. In the human body, this process is necessary for the activation of vital blood clotting factors synthesized by the liver, specifically factors II (prothrombin), VII, IX, and X. These modified proteins gain the ability to bind calcium ions, which allows them to adhere to phospholipid surfaces and facilitate the coagulation cascade. Without sufficient Vitamin K, these proteins remain inactive, leading to impaired clot formation and an increased risk of uncontrolled bleeding.

Explanation

Article 243K of the Constitution of India, introduced by the 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act of 1992, stipulates that the superintendence, direction, and control of the preparation of electoral rolls for, and the conduct of, all elections to the Panchayats shall be vested in the State Election Commission. This body is headed by a State Election Commissioner who is appointed by the Governor. The constitutional provision ensures that elections to rural local bodies are conducted in a free, fair, and independent manner, separate from the machinery that handles national or state-level legislative elections.

Explanation

The human brain acts as the central command center for the body, overseeing both involuntary and voluntary actions through specialized regions. The regulation of the heartbeat is controlled by the medulla oblongata, located in the brainstem, which manages autonomic functions essential for survival. At the same time, the cerebellum is responsible for maintaining the bodys balance, posture, and equilibrium. It integrates sensory information from the vestibular system and muscles to coordinate smooth motor movements and physical stability. Since the brain encompasses both the medulla oblongata and the cerebellum, it is directly responsible for both cardiac regulation and physical balance.

Explanation

Asafoetida is an oleo-gum-resin obtained from the exudates of the living rhizomes or taproots of several species of Ferula, primarily Ferula assa-foetida. These plants are large perennials belonging to the Apiaceae family. To harvest the substance, the upper part of the root is exposed and incisions are made, allowing a milky latex to seep out. This liquid solidifies upon exposure to the air, forming a resinous mass that is then collected and processed. It is widely used in traditional medicine and as a culinary spice due to its distinct aroma and digestive properties.

Explanation

The Central Vigilance Commission is a statutory body and not a constitutional body, meaning it is not described or established under any specific Article of the Indian Constitution. It was originally set up by an executive resolution of the Government of India in 1964 based on the recommendations of the Santhanam Committee on Prevention of Corruption. It subsequently received statutory status with the passage of the Central Vigilance Commission Act, 2003. As an apex integrity institution, it is independent of executive control and reports directly to the Parliament of India.

Explanation

Sucrose is a disaccharide that undergoes hydrolysis to form an equimolar mixture of glucose and fructose. This chemical reaction is known as inversion because the optical rotation of the solution changes from dextrorotatory to levorotatory. The resulting product, invert sugar, is sweeter than sucrose because the hydrolysis process releases free fructose. On a relative sweetness scale where sucrose is valued at 100, fructose is significantly higher at approximately 170 to 175, while glucose is around 74. The presence of free fructose in the mixture after hydrolysis directly accounts for the increased sweetness intensity of invert sugar compared to the original sucrose molecule. Thus, the formation of these monosaccharides via hydrolysis is the fundamental reason for the change in sweetness.

Explanation

The National Commission for Women was established in 1992 as a statutory body to protect and promote the interests of women in India. Jayanti Patnaik was the first Chairperson of the commission, serving from February 1992 to January 1995. Dr. Poornima Advani served as the fourth Chairperson from January 2002 to January 2005. She was succeeded by Dr. Girija Vyas, who served two consecutive terms as the fifth and sixth Chairperson from February 2005 to July 2011. Mamta Sharma followed her as the seventh Chairperson, holding the office from August 2011 to August 2014. The chronological sequence of their appointments is Jayanti Patnaik (1992), Dr. Poornima Advani (2002), Dr. Girija Vyas (2005), and Mamta Sharma (2011).

Explanation

Sodium: An alkali metal that is extremely soft due to its low metallic bonding strength, allowing it to be cut easily with a knife.

Mercury: The only metal that remains in a liquid state at room temperature because of its unique electronic configuration and weak interatomic bonds.

Silver: Possesses the highest electrical conductivity of any element, making it the most efficient conductor of electricity.

Lead: A dense metal that is a poor conductor of heat and electricity compared to other metals like silver or copper.

Explanation

Article 371-J was inserted into the Constitution of India by the 98th Constitutional Amendment Act, 2012, to provide special provisions for the Hyderabad-Karnataka region. This region includes the six backward districts of Karnataka: Gulbarga, Yadgir, Raichur, Koppal, Bidar, and Bellary. The provision empowers the Governor of Karnataka to establish a separate development board for this region and ensure the equitable allocation of funds for developmental expenditure. It also allows for the reservation of seats in educational and vocational training institutions and the reservation of posts in state government jobs for persons who belong to this specific region by birth or domicile. These measures were implemented to accelerate development and reduce regional imbalances within the state of Karnataka.

Explanation

Fibroin is a natural protein-based polymer produced by various insects, most notably the larvae of the silkworm Bombyx mori, as well as spiders and other moths. It constitutes the structural core of silk fibers, providing them with high tensile strength and durability. Chemically, fibroin is composed of amino acids such as glycine, alanine, and serine, which arrange themselves into stable beta-pleated sheet structures. Since it is synthesized biologically within the silk glands of living organisms rather than being manufactured through industrial chemical processes, it is classified as a natural substance.

Explanation

Blue Vitriol is the common name for copper sulfate pentahydrate (CuSO₄ · 5H₂O), which is extensively used as a fungicide in agriculture to control various plant diseases. Eosin is a bromine derivative of fluorescein used primarily as a red dye in red ink and as a biological stain for imaging cytoplasm and extracellular matrix. Silver Iodide (AgI) is utilized as a nucleating agent in cloud seeding to facilitate the formation of ice crystals, thereby inducing artificial rain. Zinc Phosphide (Zn₃P₂) serves as a rodenticide; when ingested by rodents, it reacts with stomach acid to release toxic phosphine gas (PH₃), which causes systemic poisoning.

Explanation

The Estimates Committee is the largest committee of the Indian Parliament, consisting of 30 members. All its members are elected annually by the Lok Sabha from amongst its own members according to the principle of proportional representation by means of a single transferable vote. Notably, unlike other major financial committees, the Estimates Committee has no representation from the Rajya Sabha. Its primary function is to examine the budget estimates and suggest economies in public expenditure, earning it the description of a continuous economy committee.

Explanation

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) India Index 2019-20 classifies states based on their composite scores into four distinct tiers. Uttar Pradesh recorded a composite score of 55 in this edition of the index. Under the NITI Aayog framework, the Performer category is designated for states and union territories that achieve a score between 50 and 64 inclusive. By scoring 55, Uttar Pradesh successfully transitioned from the Aspirant category in the previous year to the Performer category in 2019-20. This categorization reflects the state's progress across various social, economic, and environmental parameters, specifically showing significant gains in sectors like sanitation, industry, and poverty reduction.

Explanation

Part II of the Constitution of India governs the provisions related to citizenship through Articles 5 to 11. These articles define the criteria for individuals to be considered citizens of India at the time of the Constitution's commencement on January 26, 1950. The framework includes citizenship by domicile under Article 5, rights of migrants from Pakistan under Article 6, and rights of migrants to Pakistan under Article 7. Article 8 addresses persons of Indian origin residing abroad, while Article 9 clarifies that voluntary acquisition of foreign citizenship results in the loss of Indian citizenship. Article 10 provides for the continuance of citizenship rights, and Article 11 empowers the Parliament of India to regulate the right of citizenship by law, which provides the legal basis for the Citizenship Act, 1955.

Explanation

The Heritage City Development and Augmentation Yojana (HRIDAY) was launched by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs in January 2015 with the objective of preserving and revitalizing the soul of heritage cities in India. The scheme focused on the development of core heritage infrastructure, including projects related to urban connectivity, security, and the beautification of heritage sites. Out of the twelve cities identified nationwide for implementation during the scheme's duration, the two cities selected from Uttar Pradesh were Varanasi and Mathura. These cities were included to leverage their status as major cultural and religious hubs, ensuring that urban development preserves their unique heritage character while improving the quality of life for residents and tourists.

Explanation

The Indian political system is characterized by a unique synthesis of varied influences that allow it to evolve while maintaining its core structure, a phenomenon described as continuity and change. Political scientist W.H. Morris-Jones famously identified three distinct idioms or languages that operate within the Indian political landscape: the modern, the traditional, and the saintly. The modern style is reflected in the formal constitutional framework, parliamentary institutions, and legal bureaucracy. The traditional style operates through the deep-seated influence of caste, kinship, and community loyalties, which continue to shape electoral behavior and local power dynamics. The saintly style, rooted in Indian cultural history and exemplified by figures like Mahatma Gandhi and Vinoba Bhave, exerts a moral influence on politics through self-sacrifice and social reform. Because these three styles coexist and interact, the political system can adapt to modern democratic requirements while remaining grounded in traditional social realities, thereby providing the mechanism for both continuity and change.

Explanation

Replacement level fertility is the total fertility rate at which a population exactly replaces itself from one generation to the next without migration. This rate is globally accepted as 2.1 children per woman. The value is slightly higher than 2.0 to account for the fact that some children do not survive to reproductive age and because the natural sex ratio at birth is typically around 105 boys for every 100 girls. By having an average of 2.1 children, a population ensures that, on average, one daughter is born and survives to adulthood to replace her mother, thereby maintaining a stable population size over the long term. In countries with higher infant and child mortality rates, the replacement level can be higher than 2.1, but 2.1 remains the standard benchmark for demographic stability in most contexts.

Explanation

The 91st Constitutional Amendment Act of 2003 introduced Article 164(1A) to the Constitution of India, which stipulates the size of the Council of Ministers in the states. According to this provision, the total number of ministers, including the Chief Minister, in the Council of Ministers in a state shall not exceed 15 percent of the total number of members of the Legislative Assembly of that state. Furthermore, the amendment specifically mandates that the number of ministers, including the Chief Minister, in a state shall not be less than 12. This minimum limit ensures that a state government has a sufficient number of ministers to effectively manage various departments and discharge its constitutional duties, even in smaller states with limited assembly strength.

Explanation

Poverty estimation in India is primarily based on household consumption expenditure rather than income levels. The National Sample Survey Office (NSO), formerly NSSO, conducts periodic Consumer Expenditure Surveys to collect data on Monthly Per Capita Consumption Expenditure (MPCE). This family consumption expenditure data serves as the fundamental metric for identifying individuals living below the poverty line. Historically, expert groups like the Alagh Committee and Lakdawala Committee defined the poverty line based on specific calorie consumption norms, typically 2400 kcal per day for rural areas and 2100 kcal for urban areas. Although subsequent committees like the Tendulkar Committee expanded the basket of goods, the Rangarajan Committee continued to use nutritional requirements as a basis for the threshold. The prevalence of poverty is then measured using the Head Count Method, which calculates the Head Count Ratio (HCR) as the proportion of the population whose expenditure falls below the poverty line. Per capita income is not used for poverty estimation in India due to the volatility of income in the large informal sector and the lack of reliable income data across the population.

Explanation

The doctrine of the Basic Structure was propounded by the Supreme Court in the landmark Kesavananda Bharati v. State of Kerala case in 1973. A 13-judge bench, the largest in Indian judicial history, ruled that while Article 368 gives Parliament the power to amend any part of the Constitution, including Fundamental Rights, such power is not absolute. The court held that the amending power cannot be used to destroy, damage, or alter the fundamental features or the basic structure of the Constitution. This doctrine ensures that the core identity and essential framework of the Constitution remain beyond the reach of parliamentary majorities, preserving the democratic and secular fabric of the nation.

Explanation

The Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY) provides a health cover of 5 lakh rupees per family per year for secondary and tertiary care hospitalization. The benefit is structured as a family-floater cover, meaning it applies to the entire family unit rather than being restricted to a per-person limit. This ensures that the coverage can be utilized by any member of the eligible household as needed. In terms of financing, the scheme is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme where the expenditure is shared between the Central and State Governments. For most states, the funding ratio is established at 60:40 between the Centre and the States. While this ratio is adjusted to 90:10 for North-Eastern and Himalayan states and 100 percent central funding for Union Territories without a legislature, the 60:40 sharing pattern remains the standard for the majority of implementing states.

Explanation

Article 48 of the Directive Principles of State Policy directs the State to organize agriculture and animal husbandry on modern and scientific lines. It specifically emphasizes the preservation and improvement of breeds and the prohibition of the slaughter of cows, calves, and other milch and draught cattle. In contrast, provisions relating to the judiciary, specifically the separation of the judiciary from the executive, are contained in Article 50.

Explanation

Sustainable tourism refers to a development model that meets the needs of present tourists and host regions while protecting and enhancing opportunities for the future. It is defined by the World Tourism Organization as tourism that takes full account of its current and future economic, social, and environmental impacts. The core of this objective is the management of resources in such a way that economic, social, and aesthetic needs can be fulfilled while maintaining essential ecological processes, biological diversity, and life support systems. It also emphasizes respecting the socio-cultural authenticity of host communities, conserving their built and living cultural heritage, and contributing to inter-cultural understanding and tolerance. By balancing these pillars, sustainable tourism ensures the long-term viability of both the environment and the local culture.

Explanation

Article 76 of the Indian Constitution governs the office of the Attorney General for India. Under Article 76(1), the President appoints a person who is qualified to be appointed as a Judge of the Supreme Court to this position. This ensures the appointee possesses the legal expertise required for the highest law officer of the country. Regarding compensation, Article 76(4) stipulates that the Attorney General holds office during the pleasure of the President and shall receive such remuneration as the President may determine. Unlike the salaries of Supreme Court judges or the Comptroller and Auditor General, which are determined by Parliament, the remuneration of the Attorney General is decided by the President.

Explanation

The Ministry of Women and Child Development, Government of India, organized HAUSLA-2018 in New Delhi as a national festival specifically for children residing in Child Care Institutions (CCIs). This annual event provides a platform for children from institutional care across various states and union territories to demonstrate their skills in diverse fields such as athletics, football, chess, painting, and speech. By facilitating such interactions and competitions, the festival aims to empower these children, boost their confidence, and ensure their holistic growth in accordance with the spirit of the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act.

Explanation

The Assertion is correct because K.C. Wheare described the Indian Constitution as quasi-federal due to its unique combination of federal and unitary features, where the central government holds significant power over the states. The Reason is also correct because the Indian Constitution establishes an independent judiciary and grants it the power of judicial review, ensuring that both the Union and the States act within their constitutional limits. However, the Reason does not explain the Assertion. The quasi-federal label is derived from centralizing features such as the appointment of Governors, the power of Parliament to reorganize states, and emergency provisions. In contrast, an independent judiciary and judicial review are standard characteristics of a federal system intended to protect the division of powers, rather than being the cause for the system being labeled quasi-federal.

Explanation

The Union Government of India set a target for the country to reach a $5 trillion economy by the financial year 2024-25. This vision was a key feature of the Economic Survey 2018-19, which outlined that such a valuation would place India among the top five global economies in nominal dollar terms. To achieve this milestone within the 2024 timeframe, the government emphasized the need for a sustained real GDP growth rate of 8% per year. This goal served as a primary benchmark for national economic policy, focusing on increasing investment, enhancing manufacturing through initiatives like Make in India, and strengthening infrastructure to drive economic expansion.

Explanation

Article 108 of the Constitution of India provides for a joint sitting of the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha to resolve a deadlock between the two Houses concerning an Ordinary Bill. A deadlock is deemed to exist if a bill passed by one House is rejected by the other House, the Houses disagree on proposed amendments, or the other House fails to pass the bill within six months of its reception. The President of India summons the joint sitting, which is typically presided over by the Speaker of the Lok Sabha. In this session, the bill is voted upon and passed if it receives a simple majority of the total number of members from both Houses present and voting. This constitutional mechanism ensures that the legislative process for Ordinary Bills can be completed when the two Houses cannot reach a consensus.

Explanation

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) replaced the Human Poverty Index (HPI) with the Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) in the 2010 Human Development Report. Developed by the Oxford Poverty and Human Development Initiative (OPHI) and the UNDP, the MPI was designed to capture the various deprivations experienced by poor people in their daily lives, such as poor health, lack of education, inadequate living standards, and lack of income. Unlike the HPI, which looked at aggregate country-level data, the MPI uses micro-data from household surveys to reflect the intensity of poverty and identify who is poor across three dimensions and ten indicators. This shift marked the 20th anniversary of the Human Development Report series by providing a more nuanced and direct tool for policy targeting.

Explanation

The Government of India utilized the Disaster Management Act, 2005, and the Epidemic Diseases Act, 1897, to provide the legal framework for the nationwide lockdown and containment measures. The Disaster Management Act, 2005, was invoked by the Ministry of Home Affairs to issue uniform guidelines across the country, as the pandemic was treated as a notified disaster under the act’s provisions for disaster mitigation and response. Simultaneously, the Epidemic Diseases Act, 1897, a colonial-era legislation, empowered state governments and the central government to take special measures and prescribe necessary regulations to prevent the spread of dangerous epidemic diseases. This included the authority to restrict the movement of people and regulate the functioning of public spaces, providing the primary legal basis for local and state-level enforcement of health protocols.

Explanation

The National Infrastructure Pipeline (NIP) was launched by the Government of India for the period 2019-20 to 2024-25, not for 2020-30. The NIP represents a group of social and economic infrastructure projects with a total projected investment of approximately 111 lakh crore to be implemented over this five-year period. This initiative was specifically designed to help India achieve its goal of becoming a 5 trillion economy by the fiscal year 2024-25. The primary objective of the NIP is to provide world-class infrastructure across the country, improve the quality of life for all citizens, and enhance the global competitiveness of the Indian economy. While the wording of the reason provided is somewhat imprecise, the general objective of ensuring infrastructure reaches all citizens to improve their standard of living is a core tenet of the scheme. Thus, the assertion regarding the timeline is false, while the statement regarding the objective is true.

Explanation

Article 61 prescribes the detailed procedure for the impeachment of the President of India in the event of a violation of the Constitution. Article 67(b) specifies that the Vice-President may be removed from office by a resolution passed by the Rajya Sabha by a majority of all the then members and agreed to by the Lok Sabha. Article 94 contains provisions for the vacation, resignation, and removal of the Speaker and Deputy Speaker of the Lok Sabha. Article 90 outlines the process for the vacation, resignation, and removal of the Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha.

Explanation

India showed consistent improvement in the World Bank's annual Ease of Doing Business rankings during this period. In the Doing Business 2019 report, India's rank was 77, reflecting a jump of 23 positions from the previous year. This upward trend continued in the Doing Business 2020 report, where India was ranked 63rd out of 190 countries. The improvement was largely driven by reforms in key areas such as dealing with construction permits, trading across borders, and resolving insolvency, alongside the implementation of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code.

Explanation

The Constituent Assembly of India officially adopted the National Flag on 22 July 1947. This historic event occurred during the fourth session of the Assembly, just a few weeks before India attained independence on 15 August 1947. The motion for the flag was moved by Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, proposing a horizontal tricolour consisting of deep saffron, white, and dark green in equal proportions. The central white band features a navy blue wheel known as the Ashoka Chakra, which contains 24 spokes and represents the Dharma Chakra (Wheel of Law). This design was adapted from the Swaraj flag originally designed by Pingali Venkayya, serving as the first official symbol of the sovereign nation.

Explanation

In the Union Budget 2020-21, the Finance Minister announced an increase in the limit for Foreign Portfolio Investment (FPI) in corporate bonds. The investment limit was raised from the previous cap of 9% to 15% of the outstanding stock of corporate bonds. This policy change was aimed at enhancing the depth of the Indian debt market, attracting greater foreign capital, and providing Indian corporates with improved access to long-term global funding. By significantly raising this threshold, the government sought to integrate the domestic bond market more closely with international financial systems.

Explanation

The Bio-technology Park of Uttar Pradesh is situated in Lucknow at Sector-G, Jankipuram. It was established as an autonomous society through a joint initiative between the Department of Biotechnology under the Ministry of Science and Technology, Government of India, and the Department of Science and Technology, Government of Uttar Pradesh. Formally inaugurated in 2003, it was the first biotechnology park in Northern India and serves as a major hub for research, development, and commercialization of biotech products. The park provides specialized infrastructure, including business incubation centers, plant tissue culture facilities, and quality control laboratories, to support entrepreneurs and scientists in fields like agriculture, healthcare, and environmental biotechnology.

Explanation

Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Abhiyan, also known as Ayushman Bharat, was launched by the Prime Minister on September 23, 2018, from Ranchi, Jharkhand. It provides a health cover of up to 5 lakh rupees per family per year for secondary and tertiary care hospitalization to over 10.74 crore poor and vulnerable families.

Pradhan Mantri Vaya Vandhana Yojana is a pension scheme for senior citizens aged 60 years and above, which was formally launched on May 4, 2017. It offers a guaranteed rate of return for 10 years and is implemented through the Life Insurance Corporation of India.

Pradhan Mantri Rojgar Protsahan Yojana was initiated to incentivize employers for generating new employment by the Government paying the full employer's contribution towards EPF and EPS. Although the scheme saw full scale implementation from 2016, it was conceptualized within the 2015-16 fiscal framework.

Swachh Bharat Abhiyan was launched on October 2, 2014, to mark the 145th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. The mission aimed to achieve a clean India and eliminate open defecation through the construction of household-owned and community-owned toilets.

Explanation

The Development, Monitoring and Evaluation Office (DMEO) is an attached office under NITI Aayog, established in September 2015. It was formed through the merger of the erstwhile Program Evaluation Organization and the Independent Evaluation Office. DMEO serves as the apex body for monitoring and evaluating the implementation of various government schemes and long-term policies. Its primary mandate is to provide data-driven feedback and evidence-based insights to help the government improve the efficiency and outcomes of its developmental initiatives. By tracking the progress of output-outcome frameworks, it ensures that national priorities and sectoral targets are met effectively.

Explanation

Nitrogen oxide, which collectively refers to nitric oxide (NO) and nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), is not classified as a direct greenhouse gas. Although these gases are present in the atmosphere due to natural processes like lightning and microbial activity in soil, they do not possess the molecular structure required to directly trap infrared radiation. Instead, nitrogen oxides are considered indirect greenhouse gases because they act as precursors for the formation of tropospheric ozone and influence the atmospheric lifetime of methane. This is distinct from nitrous oxide (N₂O), which is a potent, naturally occurring greenhouse gas that directly contributes to global warming. In standard environmental science and IPCC classifications, nitrogen oxides are treated as reactive trace gases and pollutants rather than primary greenhouse gases.

Explanation

The National Pension Scheme for Traders and Self-Employed Persons, also known as the Pradhan Mantri Laghu Vyapari Maan-dhan Yojana, is a voluntary and contributory pension scheme aimed at providing social security to small business owners. To ensure the benefits target the unorganized sector, the scheme specifically excludes individuals who are already covered under other statutory social security frameworks. Therefore, any person who is a member of the National Pension System (NPS) managed by the Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA), the Employees' State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) scheme, or the Employees' Provident Fund Organization (EPFO) is ineligible to join this scheme. Additionally, individuals who are income tax payers are also barred from enrollment.

Explanation

The National Initiative for Developing and Harnessing Innovations (NIDHI) is an umbrella program launched by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India. It is specifically designed to nurture knowledge-based and technology-driven ideas into successful startups. The program provides a comprehensive support system for the entire startup lifecycle, covering stages from the initial idea and prototype development to seed funding and market scaling. Key components under this initiative include NIDHI-PRAYAS, which focuses on providing grants for converting ideas into prototypes, and NIDHI-EIR, which supports aspiring entrepreneurs with fellowships. By centralizing these various support mechanisms under the DST, the NIDHI program effectively facilitates the translation of technological innovations into commercially viable business ventures, aligning with the broader goals of the Startup India initiative.

Explanation

Operational environment is a term primarily utilized in fields such as business management, military strategy, and systems engineering to describe the specific conditions, influences, and circumstances that affect the execution of tasks or decision-making processes. In the standard study of ecology and environmental science, the environment is fundamentally classified into three categories: physical, biological, and cultural. The physical component includes abiotic factors like land, water, and air; the biological component consists of all living organisms; and the cultural component involves human-made social and economic structures. Operational environment does not fit into this basic environmental classification because it refers to a situational or functional context rather than a structural component of the natural or social world.

Explanation

The Union Budget 2020-21, presented under the theme of Aspirational India, explicitly prioritized the rural economy with the stated goal of doubling farmers income by 2022. To achieve this objective, the Finance Minister announced a comprehensive 16-point action plan specifically targeting agriculture, irrigation, and rural development. These points included initiatives such as the expansion of the PM-KUSUM scheme for solar pumps, the introduction of Kisan Rail and Krishi Udaan for seamless supply chains, and the implementation of model agricultural land leasing and marketing acts. The 16-point plan provided the concrete strategy and roadmap through which the budget intended to drive rural growth and increase agricultural productivity, making the reason a direct explanation for the focus asserted in the budget.

Explanation

The concept of ecological transition was introduced by John W. Bennett in his 1976 work titled The Ecological Transition: Cultural Anthropology and Human Adaptation. Bennett used the term to analyze the process by which human societies increasingly incorporate the physical environment into their social systems. This concept describes the progressive shift from human beings as a biological species interacting within a natural ecosystem to human beings as a social species that manages and dominates nature through technology and cultural institutions. It focuses on how human intervention transforms natural cycles and the resulting environmental impact of social and economic development.

Explanation

The World Economic Forum releases the Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Index as part of its biennial Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Report. This index measures the factors and policies that enable the sustainable development of the travel and tourism sector, which contributes to the development and competitiveness of a country. The framework evaluates economies based on several pillars, including the business environment, safety and security, health and hygiene, human resources, and infrastructure. By providing a comprehensive benchmarking tool, the report assists stakeholders in identifying strengths and weaknesses to enhance the attractiveness of a destination for tourism investment and development.

Explanation

Global warming leads to a rise in sea level through the thermal expansion of ocean water as it heats up and the significant addition of water from the melting of land-based ice such as glaciers and polar ice sheets. The increase in global mean temperatures accelerates the retreat of mountain glaciers worldwide. Public health is affected as warmer conditions and altered rainfall patterns expand the geographic range and transmission seasons of various infectious diseases, particularly vector-borne illnesses like malaria and dengue. Furthermore, rising sea surface temperatures cause mass coral bleaching, a process where corals under thermal stress expel the symbiotic zooxanthellae algae living in their tissues, which can lead to widespread reef mortality. All four listed phenomena are direct and documented consequences of global climate change.

Explanation

The report titled The Limit to Growth was published in 1972 by the Club of Rome to model the consequences of a rapidly growing world population and finite resource supplies. The Brundtland Commission Report, also known as Our Common Future, was released in 1987 and established the foundational definition of sustainable development. The Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer, while signed in 1987, officially saw its enforcement begin on January 1, 1989. The Rio Earth Summit, formally the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development, was held later in June 1992 to produce documents like Agenda 21 and the Rio Declaration.

Explanation

The chronological sequence of these environmental milestones begins with the publication of 'The Limit to Growth' report in 1972, which was commissioned by the Club of Rome to study the consequences of exponential growth on a finite planet. The Brundtland Commission Report, officially titled Our Common Future, was published in 1987 and introduced the global standard for sustainable development. The Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer was signed in 1987 but officially came into enforcement (entry into force) on January 1, 1989. The timeline concludes with the Rio Earth Summit, formally known as the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED), which was held in June 1992 to establish international cooperation on climate change and biodiversity.

Explanation

The Skill India Campaign, officially known as the National Skill Development Mission, was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on July 15, 2015, to mark the occasion of the first World Youth Skills Day. The campaign was designed to provide a centralized institutional framework for all skill development activities across the country. Its primary objective is to empower the Indian youth by providing them with industry-relevant skills training that will help them secure a better livelihood. The scope of this mission is vast and multi-sectoral, aiming to train over 400 million people in various skills by 2022. It covers a wide range of sectors including manufacturing, construction, textiles, gems and jewelry, healthcare, and hospitality, rather than being limited specifically to information technology. This comprehensive approach is intended to align the skill sets of the workforce with the requirements of the industry and the Make in India initiative.

Explanation

The National Chambal Sanctuary, also known as the National Chambal Gharial Wildlife Sanctuary, is a tri-state protected area dedicated to the conservation of the critically endangered gharial, the red-crowned roof turtle, and the endangered Ganges river dolphin. The sanctuary is situated along the Chambal River at the tri-junction of Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh. Haryana is located in northern India and does not share any geographic boundaries with the Chambal River or the designated protected zones of this sanctuary.