Bihar Police SI Memory Based Paper (Held on: 21th Jan 2026 Shift 2) (Previous Year Paper)

The correct answer is Surya Sen

Key Points

• The Chittagong Armoury Raid (1930) was a significant revolutionary act against British rule in India, planned and led by Surya Sen, also known as Masterda Surya Sen.
• He was a prominent leader of the Indian independence movement in Bengal.
• The raid took place on 18 April 1930 in Chittagong, now in Bangladesh.
• Surya Sen and his group of revolutionaries aimed to:
• Seize weapons from the British armoury.
• Cut off communication lines like telephone and telegraph.
• Destroy the railway lines to disrupt British troop movements.
• The plan was to inspire a large-scale uprising against British colonial rule.
• Along with Surya Sen, other revolutionaries like Ananta Singh, Kalpana Dutta, Pritilata Waddedar, and Badal Gupta played crucial roles in the raid.

Additional Information

• Rash Behari Bose:
• A revolutionary involved in the Ghadar Conspiracy and later in the Indian National Army movement but not associated with the Chittagong Armoury Raid.
• Badal Gupta:
• A participant in the revolutionary activities under Surya Sen but not the leader. He is known for his role in the Writers' Building attack in Kolkata.
• Hemu Kalani:
• A Sindhi freedom fighter active during the Quit India Movement, much later than the Chittagong Raid.

The correct answer is - Megasthenes

Key Points

• Megasthenes
• Megasthenes was an ancient Greek historian and diplomat.
• He was sent as an ambassador to the Mauryan court by Seleucus Nicator.
• He served at the court of Chandragupta Maurya, the founder of the Mauryan Empire.
• Megasthenes is best known for his work "Indica," which provides valuable insights into Indian society, culture, and politics during that period.

Additional Information

• Chanakya
• Chanakya, also known as Kautilya or Vishnugupta, was an ancient Indian teacher, philosopher, and royal advisor.
• He authored the ancient Indian political treatise, the "Arthashastra."
• Chanakya played a crucial role in the establishment of the Mauryan Empire by helping Chandragupta Maurya rise to power.
• Menander
• Menander I, also known as Milinda, was an Indo-Greek king who ruled in the northwestern regions of the Indian subcontinent.
• He is famous for his dialogues with the Buddhist sage Nagasena, which are recorded in the text "Milinda Panha" (The Questions of Milinda).
• Fa-Hien
• Fa-Hien was a Chinese Buddhist monk and translator who traveled to India in the early 5^th century CE.
• His travel accounts provide valuable information on the Gupta Empire, Indian society, and Buddhism during that period.

The correct answer is Black soil.

Key Points

• Black soil ideal for growing cotton, made up of lava flows, is also made up of extremely fine i.e., clayey material and it develops deep cracks during hot weather.
• Regur Soil or Black soil:
• It is typical of the Deccan trap region spread over the northwest Deccan plateau and is made up of lava flows.
• Regur soil or black soil is ideal for growing cotton and is known as black cotton soil.
• The soil is rich in soil nutrients, such as magnesium, calcium carbonate, potash, and lime.
• The black soils are generally poor in phosphoric contents.
• The black or regur soils are made up of clayey soil, well-known for their capacity to hold moisture.
• They swell and become sticky when wet and shrink when dried. So, during the dry season, this soil develops wide cracks. Thus, there occurs a kind of 'self ploughing'.
• The colour of the soil ranges from deep black to grey.
• Black soils are derivatives of trap lava and are spread mostly across interior Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Madhya Pradesh on the Deccan lava plateau and the Malwa plateau.

Additional Information

The correct answer is crazily towards the gate in the evening.

Key Points​

• ​Adverbs of manner/place/time are used to express how/where/when something is done respectively.
• Example:
• I drove to work hastily. (manner)
• I regularly go there. (place)
• We waited for hours, but she arrived eventually. (time)
• ​If we use these adverbs in the same sentence, the adverbs will always be in this order:
• Manner- Place -Time (MPT).
• Example:
• ​Lauv danced wildly here yesterday.
• As per the rule given above, 'crazily towards the gate in the evening' will be the correct choice.

​Correct Sentence: Umang ran crazily towards the gate in the evening.

Important Points

• The order of adverbs (also called the royal order of adverbs):

          1. Manner 2. Place 3. Frequency 4. Time 5. Purpose

​​​​

Additional Information

• ​​Some negative adverbial expressions follow the inversion of the verb:
• Hardly, scarcely, never, seldom, rarely, etc.
• ​Example:
• Rarely do we see gypsies these days.

The correct answer is Mumps.

Key Points

• Mumps is a viral infection that primarily affects the salivary glands.
• The hallmark symptom of mumps is the swelling of the parotid glands, which are one of the three pairs of major salivary glands, located below and in front of the ears.
• Other symptoms may include fever, headache, muscle aches, tiredness, and loss of appetite.
• Mumps is highly contagious and spreads through respiratory droplets from coughing and sneezing.
• A vaccine called the MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, rubella) is available to prevent mumps.
• The virus that causes mumps is a paramyxovirus.
• Mumps can lead to complications such as meningitis, encephalitis, and orchitis (inflammation of the testicles) in males.

 Additional Information

• Cataract
• A cataract is the clouding of the lens in the eye, leading to a decrease in vision.
• It is often related to aging but can also result from trauma, radiation exposure, or certain medications.
• Cataracts are a common cause of blindness worldwide, especially among older adults.
• Coronary artery disease
• Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a condition where the coronary arteries that supply blood to the heart muscle become hardened and narrowed.
• This is usually caused by the buildup of plaque on the artery walls, a process known as atherosclerosis.
• Symptoms of CAD include chest pain (angina), shortness of breath, and in severe cases, heart attack.
• Pericarditis
• Pericarditis is the inflammation of the pericardium, the thin sac-like membrane surrounding the heart.
• It can cause sharp chest pain that may spread to the shoulders and neck, and it often worsens with breathing or lying down.
• Pericarditis can result from infections, systemic inflammatory disorders, or trauma to the chest.

The correct answer is Ilango Adigal

Key Points

• Some of the best–known epics were written during the Sangam period.
• Epics are grand, long compositions, about heroic men and women, and include stories about gods.
• A famous Tamil epic, the Silappadikaram, was composed by a poet named Ilango, around 1800 years ago.
• It is the story of a merchant named Kovalan, who lived in Puhar and fell in love with a courtesan named Madhavi, neglecting his wife Kannagi.
• Later, he and Kannagi left Puhar and went to Madurai, where he was wrongly accused of theft by the court jeweller of the Pandya king.
• The king sentenced Kovalan to death.
• Kannagi, who still loved him, was full of grief and anger at this injustice, and destroyed the entire city of Madurai.
• Therefore, we can conclude that the Tamil epic, "Silappadikaram' was composed by Ilango.

Additional Information

• Tolkappiyar:
• Tolkappiyar is an ancient Tamil scholar and poet, known for writing the Tolkappiyam, one of the earliest works of Tamil literature.
• The Tolkappiyam is a treatise on grammar, poetics, and rhetoric, and it lays the foundations for the study of the Tamil language.
• It is believed to have been composed around 200 BCE to 300 BCE.
• The text covers phonetics, morphology, syntax, and semantics, providing a detailed description of the Tamil language structure and its rules for poetry.
• Tolkappiyar's work has been influential in shaping Tamil literary tradition.
• Sittalai Sattanar:
• Sittalai Sattanar was a Tamil poet and philosopher, credited with composing Patthupattu, a collection of ten poems.
• He is believed to have lived during the Sangam period, around the 3^rd century BCE.
• Sattanar is noted for his philosophical insights, especially his focus on ethics, governance, and the responsibilities of rulers.
• His work often touches upon the theme of justice, societal values, and the roles individuals play within society.
• Sattalai Sattanar's contributions to Tamil literature and philosophy have had a lasting impact on Tamil culture.
• Tirumalisai Alvar:
• Tirumalisai Alvar was one of the twelve Alvars, a group of poet-saints in Tamil Vaishnavism, who composed devotional hymns dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
• He is believed to have lived during the 8^th century CE.
• His works focus on expressing deep devotion to Vishnu, and he is known for his Prabandham (devotional hymns) which are a part of the Divya Prabandham anthology. Tirumalisai Alvar's hymns reflect the love and reverence for Lord Vishnu and advocate for the importance of surrendering to divine will.
• He is also credited with making significant contributions to the Bhakti movement in Tamil Nadu.

The correct answer is Option 3, i.e Google.

Google

• Android is a mobile operating system developed by Google, based on a modified version of the Linux kernel and other open-source software and designed primarily for touchscreen mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets.
• It is free and open-source software.
• Its source code is known as Android Open Source Project (AOSP) which is primarily licensed under the Apache License.
• Most Android devices ship with additional proprietary software pre-installed, most notably Google Mobile Services (GMS) which includes core apps such as Google Chrome, the digital distribution platform Google Play and associated Google Play Services development platform.

BlackBerry

• BlackBerry is a line of smartphones, tablets, and services originally designed and marketed by Canadian company BlackBerry Limited.
• BlackBerry line traditionally uses a proprietary operating system developed by BlackBerry Limited known as BlackBerry OS.

Apple Inc.

• Apple Inc. is an American multinational technology company headquartered in Cupertino, California, that designs, develops, and sells consumer electronics, computer software, and online services.
• Apple's software includes macOS, iOS, iPad, watchOS, and tvOS operating systems.

The correct answer is 'No Improvement'. 

Key Points

• The given sentence is grammatically correct.
• We know that: 
• 'One of' is followed by 'Plural Noun'.
• Correct Structure: One of+Plural Noun/Pronoun+Singular Verb.
• In the given sentence 'Pastimes' is the Plural Noun.
• Hence, the given sentence is contextually correct.

Correct Answer: Dancing around a totem pole was one of the favourite pastimes of the American Indians. 

Additional Information

• The given structures are the same as that of 'One of'.
• Neither of+Plural Noun/Pronoun+Singular Verb.
• Example: Neither of his sons looks after him.
• ​Either of+Plural Noun/Pronoun+Singular Verb.
• Example: Either of them is at fault.

Correct answer is option 2

Key Points

• The Vishnukundin dynasty was an important ruling dynasty in the Deccan region of India during the early medieval period,
• Roughly between the 5^th and 7^th centuries CE.
• Their coinage, especially the copper coins, feature significant and distinctive symbols that reflect their economic activities and religious affiliations.
• The predominant symbol found on the Vishnukundin copper coinage is the "bull" (Nandi).
• The bull is associated with Lord Shiva and reflects the dynasty’s Shaivite (devotees of Shiva) leaning, which was significant for their cultural and religious identity.
• Apart from the bull, their coins often included other symbols such as:
• Conch shells: Commonly associated with Lord Vishnu.
• Srivatsa symbol: A mark often linked to Lakshmi and Vishnu.
• The presence of such symbols on their coinage not only indicated the economic activities but also demonstrated their devotion to Hindu deities and underscored the region's religious and cultural environment during the Vishnukundin rule.

Additional Information The symbols and features on Vishnukundin copper coinage:

• Sun Symbol (Surya): Represents energy and might, often signifying royal authority and divine blessing.
• Lotus Flower: Symbolizes purity and divinity, frequently associated with both Shiva and Vishnu.
• Chakra (Wheel): Represents dharma or moral order, often associated with Vishnu.
• Elephant: Symbol of strength and royal power, sometimes linked to Lord Ganesha.
• Tree-in-railing: Represents life and growth, also indicating religious architecture like stupas.
• Swastika: An ancient symbol of auspiciousness and well-being.
• Anthropomorphic Figures: Occasionally depicting deities or royals in a stylized manner.
• Inscriptions: Typically in Brahmi or other local scripts, often mentioning rulers' names or titles.
• Geometric Patterns: Decorative elements that may include circles, squares, and other designs.
• Temple Emblems: Indicative of their architectural accomplishments and religious devotion.

The correct answer is Lord William Bentinck.

Key Points

• William Bentinck was the first Governor-General of India.
• Macaulay’s Minute is a historical document in Indian Education.
• It was prepared under the guidance of Thomas Babington Macaulay in 1835.
• Macaulay promotes English literature in India through his Minute on Indian Education.

Additional Information

• Lord Ripon
• Lord Ripon's Resolution on Local Self-Government, passed in 1882, was a landmark reform that marked the beginning of democratic decentralization in India.
• This resolution aimed to promote local self-government by strengthening municipal institutions and providing a framework for involving Indians in the local administration.
• Key Aspects of the Resolution:
• Empowerment of Local Bodies: The resolution emphasized the need for establishing and nurturing local self-governing bodies such as municipalities and district boards, with significant Indian participation.
• Decentralization of Authority: It advocated for the transfer of administrative functions from the central and provincial governments to local bodies, thus laying the foundation for a decentralized administrative structure.
• Encouragement of Local Leadership: By involving locals in governance, it aimed to foster a sense of responsibility and leadership among Indian citizens, thereby paving the way for a more representative and participatory form of governance.​
• Lord Curzon:-
• Lord Curzon served as the Viceroy of India from 1899 to 1905 under Queen Victoria.
• He was born on January 11, 1859, in Kedleston, Derbyshire, England.
• Curzon was a British Conservative statesman who later served as the Foreign Secretary from 1919 to 1924.
• He declared the partition of Bengal in 1905.
• The partition, was implemented for administrative reasons according to the British.
• It was a controversial action that led to widespread protests as it was seen by Indians as an attempt to "divide and rule," given that it separated the largely Muslim eastern areas from the Hindu western areas.
• Lord Cornwallis:
• Lord Cornwallis was the Governor-General of Fort William (Bengal) and the Commander-in-Chief of British India.
• The Third Anglo-Mysore War took place in his tenure.
• Cornwallis introduced the Permanent Settlement of land revenue in Bengal and other parts of India.
• He established thanas to maintain law and order.
• He founded a Sanskrit College at Benaras for Hindus and this is today the Government Sanskrit College in Benares.
• He also established a mint at Calcutta.

The correct answer is Option 3.

Key Points

• Mango (Mangifera indica): Mango is a well-known tropical fruit tree that thrives in warm climates and is native to South Asia. It is widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions around the world. Mangoes require hot summers and are sensitive to frost, which makes them a quintessential tropical crop​. Hence, Mango is a tropical fruit tree.
• Jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus): Jackfruit is another tropical fruit tree that is native to the tropical regions of South Asia. It is known for producing the largest tree-borne fruit, and it grows in hot, humid climates typical of the tropics. It is common in countries like India, Bangladesh, and Thailand​. Hence, Jackfruit is a tropical fruit tree.
• Papaya (Carica papaya): Papaya is a fast-growing, tropical fruit tree that is native to Central America and southern Mexico. It is cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. Papayas thrive in warm, frost-free environments, making them suitable for tropical climates​. Hence, Papaya is a tropical fruit tree.

The correct answer is Champaran.

Key Points

• Champaran Satyagraha of 1917 
• It was the first civil disobedience movement in India.
• Champaran district is a historic region in Bihar, India, that is now divided into the East Champaran district and the West Champaran district.
• Farmers in this region revolted against the British in 1914 and 1916 over the conditions imposed on indigo cultivation.
• Earlier, similar conditions existed in Bengal, but as a result of a major uprising in 1859-61, the peasants there won their freedom from the indigo planters.
• Champaran is a district in the state of Bihar where tens of thousands of landless serfs, indentured labourers, and poor farmers were forced to grow indigo and other cash crops instead of food crops.
• The European planters had forced the peasants to grow indigo on 3/20 of the total land area (called the tinkathia system).
• When German synthetic dyes replaced indigo at the end of the nineteenth century, European planters demanded high rents and illegal dues from the peasants in order to maximize their profits before the peasants could switch to other crops.
• The first Satyagraha movement, inspired by Mahatma Gandhi, took place in the Bihar district of Champaran in 1917.
• The Champaran Satyagraha was the first to be launched, but the term Satyagraha was first used in the Anti-Rowlatt Act agitation.

 Additional Information

• Kheda Satyagrah-
• 1918 was a year of failed crops in the Kheda district of Gujarat due to droughts.
• As per law, the farmers were entitled to remission if the produce was less than a quarter of the normal output.
• But the government refused any remission from paying land revenue.
• Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, under Gandhi’s guidance, led the farmers in protest against the collection of taxes in the wake of the famine.
• The protest was peaceful and people showed remarkable courage even in the face of adversities like confiscation of personal property and arrest.
• Finally, the authorities gave in and gave some concessions to the farmers.
• Kheda peasant struggle :
• The Kheda Satyagraha of 22 march 1918, in the Kheda district of Gujarat.
• India during the period of the British Raj, was a Satyagraha movement organized by Mohandas Gandhi.
• It was a major revolt in the Indian independence movement.
• It was the third Satyagraha movement after Champaran Satyagraha and Ahmedabad mill strike.
• Bardoli Satyagraha:
• The Bardoli satyagraha took place in Gujarat and was led by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.
• It was a tax revolt that took place in 1928 in the taluka (sub-district) of Bardoli, located in the district of Surat in south Gujarat.
• Patel had gathered all the Muslims and Hindus in Bardoli and performed non-violent satyagraha in a revolt against the British.
• The protest achieved its principal objective, which included forcing the colonial state to withdraw a policy aimed at raising the rate of land revenue paid by peasants.

The correct answer is Na.

Key Points

• The chemical symbol for Sodium is Na.
• Sodium's symbol, Na, is derived from its Latin name Natrium.
• Sodium is a soft, silvery-white, highly reactive metal and is a member of the alkali metals within Group 1 of the periodic table.
• Sodium has an atomic number of 11 and an atomic mass of approximately 23 u.

Additional Information

• Properties of Sodium:
• Sodium is highly reactive and must be stored under oil to prevent it from reacting with moisture in the air.
• It has a melting point of 97.79°C and a boiling point of 883°C.
• Occurrence:
• Sodium is the sixth most abundant element in the Earth's crust and is found in many minerals, including halite (rock salt).
• It is also present in the ocean, where it is a major component of seawater.
• Uses of Sodium:
• Sodium is used in the manufacture of various chemicals, including sodium hydroxide (caustic soda) and sodium carbonate (soda ash).
• It is also used in street lighting (sodium vapor lamps) and as a heat exchanger in some nuclear reactors.
• Biological Role:
• Sodium ions play a crucial role in nerve impulse transmission and muscle contraction.
• It helps in maintaining the proper balance of fluids in the body.

The correct answer is 42^d Amendment.

Key Points

• Constitution (42^nd) Amendment Act, 1976 was the lengthiest amendment that brought the most widespread changes to the Constitution in its history.
• It is also called the Mini-Constitution and Constitution of Indira Gandhi.
• The 42^nd Amendment is regarded as the most controversial constitutional amendment in history.
• It attempted to reduce the power of the Supreme Court and High Courts to pronounce the constitutional validity of laws.
• It laid down the Fundamental Duties of Indian citizens to the nation.

Additional Information 

• Objective Resolution moved on - 13 December 1946.
• Preamble passed on - 22 January 1947.
• National Flag adopted on - 22 July 1947.
• Constitution adopted on - 26 November 1949.
• National Song adopted on - 24 January 1950.
• Constitution came into force - 26 January 1950.

The correct answer is It is the branch of science concerned with the origin, structure and composition of rocks.

Key Points

• Petrology is the branch of science concerned with the origin, structure and composition of rocks.
• Petrology is derived from the Greek word "petra" which means rock and "logos" which means study or discourse.
• It is a sub-discipline of geology that focuses on the study of rocks, including their formation, mineralogy, and texture.
• Petrologists use various techniques such as microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and chemical analysis to study rocks and understand their properties.
• The study of petrology is important in understanding the geologic history of the Earth, as rocks provide clues about past geological events and processes.

Additional Information

• The branch of science concerned with the origin, structure and composition of petroleum is called Petroleum Geology.
• The sedimentary rock formed out of deposits of glaciers is called Glacial Till or Glacial Sediment.
• Any naturally occurring solid mass or combination of minerals or mineraloid materials is referred to as rock in geology. 
• Igneous rocks, sedimentary rocks, and metamorphic rocks are the three main categories into which rocks are typically divided.
• Lava cooling on the surface or beneath the ocean creates igneous rocks.
• Magma cooling in the Earth's crust also produces igneous rocks.
• The weathering, movement, and deposition of pre-existing rocks result in the diagenesis and lithification of sediments, which in turn form sedimentary rocks.
• When pre-existing rocks are exposed to extreme temperatures and pressures that cause them to change without significantly melting, new rocks known as metamorphic rocks are created.

The Correct answer is Option 4. 

Key Points

• The President of the Indian National Congress at the Patna Session in 1912 was Rao Bahadur Raghunath Narasinha Mudholkar. Hence, option 4 is correct.
• Session: The 27^th session of the Indian National Congress.
• Place: Held in Patna, Bihar.
• Significance:
• Mudholkar emphasized the importance of self-governance and constitutional methods for attaining India's political goals.
• Discussions were held regarding social and political reforms and increasing participation in governance.
• Background of Mudholkar:
• A prominent lawyer and moderate leader.
• Advocated for cooperation with British authorities while pushing for greater political autonomy for Indians.

The correct answer is 'Sutta Pitaka'.

Key Points

• The Buddha's teachings have been reconstructed from stories, found mainly in the Sutta Pitaka.
• The stories were narrated in the common language understood by ordinary people.
• Although some stories have described his miraculous powers, others have suggested that the Buddha tried to convince people through reason and persuasion and not by displaying his supernatural powers.

Additional Information

• After the death of Buddha, his followers compiled his teachings.
• These scriptures came to be known as the Tripitakas.
• Vinay Pitaka has laid down rules for nuns and monks residing in monasteries, Sutta Pitaka contains Buddha's teachings and Abhidhamma Pitaka contains philosophical debates.

Important Points

The correct answer is Siddhinarsingh Malla.

In News

• Nepal’s historic Kartik Naach Festival concluded on Kartik Purnima at Patan Durbar Square, celebrating its 300-year-old tradition of devotional dance, music, and drama.

Key Points

• The Kartik Naach Festival was established in the 17^th century by King Siddhinarsingh Malla of Patan as a devotional performance dedicated to Hindu deities.
• It is held annually at the Patan Durbar Square in Lalitpur, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• The festival features mythological narratives from the Ramayana and Lord Vishnu’s incarnations through traditional dance and music.
• The performances preserve centuries-old choreography and musical traditions, passed down through local artist families.

Additional Information

• Kartik Naach (Katti Pyakha)
• Duration: 10 days
• Occasion: Concludes on Kartik Purnima
• Location: Patan Durbar Square, Lalitpur, Nepal
• Patan Durbar Square
• Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Showcases Newar architecture and cultural heritage.
• Musical Elements
• Instruments used: Madal, Panchai Baja, and other traditional Nepali instruments.
• Music accompanies classical dance performances depicting mythological tales.
• Modern Additions
• Included an international Painting Exhibition at the Patan Museum by artists from China, Japan, and Germany.
• Proceeds supported children’s welfare initiatives, linking art with social responsibility.
• Tourism and Cultural Impact
• Boosts local tourism and preserves intangible heritage.
• Encourages youth participation and global cultural exchange.

The correct answer is They are highly stable and inert..

Key Points

• Alkenes are a class of hydrocarbons characterized by the presence of at least one carbon-carbon double bond.
• They are unsaturated hydrocarbons, meaning they contain fewer hydrogen atoms than their alkane counterparts.
• Alkenes can undergo addition reactions, where atoms or groups are added to the carbon atoms involved in the double bond.
• They are not highly stable and inert; in fact, the double bond makes them quite reactive.

Additional Information

• Hydrocarbons: Compounds composed entirely of hydrogen and carbon. Alkenes belong to this category and are specifically unsaturated hydrocarbons.
• Double Bond: A chemical bond where two pairs of electrons are shared between two atoms. In alkenes, this occurs between carbon atoms.
• Addition Reactions: Chemical reactions where atoms are added to a molecule. Alkenes commonly participate in these due to their double bonds.
• Reactivity: Alkenes are more reactive than alkanes due to the presence of the double bond, which is a site for chemical reactions.
• Examples of Alkenes: Ethene (C2H4), Propene (C3H6), and Butene (C4H8) are common examples of alkenes.

The correct answer is Nickel.

Key Points

• Ferromagnetic materials exhibit strong magnetic properties due to the alignment of their magnetic domains in the presence of a magnetic field.
• Nickel is one of the few elements that is naturally ferromagnetic at room temperature, along with iron and cobalt.
• The magnetic properties of nickel are due to its electron configuration, where unpaired electrons contribute to its magnetism.
• Materials like manganese, gold, and wood do not exhibit ferromagnetic properties. Manganese is antiferromagnetic, gold is diamagnetic, and wood is non-magnetic.
• Nickel is widely used in applications requiring magnetic properties, such as in the production of magnets, batteries, and electronics.

Additional Information

• Ferromagnetic Materials:
• Ferromagnetic materials possess high magnetic permeability, meaning they can easily be magnetized.
• Examples include iron, cobalt, nickel, and their alloys.
• These materials are used in manufacturing permanent magnets, transformers, and magnetic storage devices.
• Manganese:
• Manganese exhibits antiferromagnetic properties, where adjacent magnetic moments align in opposite directions.
• It is primarily used in steel production to improve hardness and strength.
• Gold:
• Gold is a diamagnetic material, meaning it creates a weak opposing magnetic field in the presence of an external magnetic field.
• It is primarily used in electronics, jewelry, and as a financial asset.
• Wood:
• Wood is a non-magnetic material, meaning it does not exhibit any magnetic properties.
• It is widely used for construction, furniture, and paper production.

Important Points

• Magnetic Domains:
• Ferromagnetic materials contain magnetic domains, which are regions where the magnetic moments of atoms are aligned.
• When subjected to a magnetic field, these domains align to produce a strong magnetic effect.
• Curie Temperature:
• Ferromagnetic materials lose their magnetic properties above a certain temperature, known as the Curie temperature.
• For nickel, the Curie temperature is approximately 358°C.
• Applications of Nickel:
• Nickel is used in electroplating, manufacturing magnetic alloys, and batteries.
• It is also utilized in coins, stainless steel, and electronic components.

The correct answer is San Francisco Conference.

• The United Nations Charter was signed by 51 original members of the United Nations in 1945 at the San Francis conference 850 delegates from 51 nations deliberated, discussed, and finalised the charter which initially led into 4 sections.
• It was passed unanimously on 26^th June 1945.

Important Points

• The United Nations officially came into existence on 24 October 1945.
• United Nations Day is celebrated on 24 October each year.
• The main organs of the UN are:

1. the General Assembly
2. the Security Council
3. the Economic and Social Council
4. the Trusteeship Council
5. the International Court of Justice
6. and the UN Secretariat

• All the 6 were established in 1945 when the UN was founded.
• The General Assembly is the main deliberative, policymaking and representative organ of the UN.

Additional Information

• London conference (officially named as Declaration of St James' palace) was signed on 12^th June 1941.
• This conference led to the idea of the formation of the United Nation,
• The Hague Conference, 1954 is related to the protection of cultural property in the Event of Armed Conflict.
• The Berlin Conference of 1884–1885, also known as the Congo Conference or West Africa Conference regulated European colonization and trade in Africa.

The correct answer is Russia.

Key Points

• The Order of St. Andrew the Apostle is the highest civilian honor of Russia, awarded for extraordinary services to the state.
• This prestigious award was established by Peter the Great in the year 1698 and was revived after the fall of the Soviet Union.
• It is conferred for significant achievements in areas like public service, diplomacy, military service, science, arts, and culture.
• The award includes a gold cross with a blue enameled X-shaped insignia and a sash worn over the shoulder.
• Prominent figures, including heads of states and notable Russian citizens, have been recipients of this honor.

Additional Information

• Historical Background:
• The Order of St. Andrew the Apostle is named after St. Andrew, the patron saint of Russia.
• It was the first and highest order of knighthood in the Russian Empire and symbolized loyalty and service to the Tsar.
• The order was abolished during the Russian Revolution in 1917 but reinstated in 1998 by a decree of the Russian Federation.
• Modern Usage:
• Currently, it is awarded by the President of Russia.
• The award is given sparingly to maintain its exclusivity and high prestige.
• Recipients include individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the development of Russia and its global standing.
• Design and Features:
• The insignia consists of a blue cross with a gold eagle in the center and the motto "For Faith and Loyalty."
• The sash is worn over the right shoulder, with the badge resting on the left hip.
• The star of the order is a silver eight-pointed star worn on the left chest.
• Notable Recipients:
• Prominent recipients include Vladimir Putin, former President Dmitry Medvedev, and other eminent Russian and foreign dignitaries.
• It has been awarded posthumously to notable historical figures for their contributions to Russian history and culture.

Important Points

• Similar Awards in Other Countries:
• Germany: The highest civilian honor is the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany.
• France: The top civilian award is the Legion of Honour (Légion d'honneur), established by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1802.
• Australia: The highest civilian award is the Companion of the Order of Australia (AC).
• Russia’s Civilian Awards:
• Other notable awards include the Order of Alexander Nevsky and the Order of Courage.
• Each award recognizes specific achievements in areas like military valor, public service, and cultural contributions.

The correct answer is - Kodumanal

Key Points

• Kodumanal
• Kodumanal was a significant industrial and trading center during the Sangam period, particularly known for its gem and jewellery work.
• Archaeological excavations have revealed evidence of extensive bead-making activities, including the presence of semi-precious stones like carnelian, quartz, jasper, and agate.
• The site also yielded artifacts like stone tools, pottery, and other materials indicating a thriving craft industry.
• Kodumanal's prominence in gem and jewellery work is well-documented in Sangam literature, highlighting its importance in ancient trade networks.

Additional Information

• Vanji
• Vanji, also known as Vanchi, was the capital city of the Chera dynasty.
• It was a major political and cultural center but not specifically renowned for gem and jewellery work in Sangam texts.
• Kanchi
• Kanchi, or Kanchipuram, was a significant urban center known for its temples and educational institutions.
• It was more famous for its religious and scholarly contributions rather than gem and jewellery work.
• Vraiyur
• Vraiyur (also known as Uraiyur) was a prominent city under the Chola dynasty.
• It was known for its trade and administrative significance but not specifically for gem and jewellery work in Sangam literature.

Sir Cyril Redcliffe was entrusted the task to divide Punjab and Bengal between India and Pakistan.

Key Points

• On 17 August 1947, the borderline that separated India from Pakistan, known as the Radcliffe Line was revealed.
• It was named after the chairman of the Border Commission, Sir Cyril Radcliffe.
• He was a lawyer from England who had no previous knowledge or experience with cartography.
• This borderline is today the international boundary between India and Pakistan on the western side and between India and Bangladesh on the eastern side.
• Before independence, it was decided to do partition of India into India and Pakistan for the Hindu and Muslim communities respectively.
• Sir Cyril Radcliffe was made the Chairman of the two Border Commissions (one each for Bengal and Punjab) in June 1947.
• Each commission had 5 members – Sir Cyril, 2 members nominated by the Muslim League, and 2 members nominated by the Congress Party.
• Sir Cyril Redcliffe was asked to complete the demarcation by 15 August but the final result was published only on the 17^th.

Therefore, we can conclude that Sir Cyril Redcliffe was entrusted the task to divide Punjab and Bengal between India and Pakistan.

The correct answer is Village Panchayat, Block Samiti, Zilla Parishad.

Key Points

• The Panchayati Raj system in India operates at three tiers: Village Panchayat (Gram Panchayat), Block Samiti (Intermediate Panchayat), and Zilla Parishad (District Panchayat).
• Village Panchayat: The lowest level of the Panchayati Raj system, responsible for local governance at the village level.
• Block Samiti: The intermediate level, governing a group of villages within a block or tehsil.
• Zilla Parishad: The highest tier, responsible for governance at the district level, overseeing multiple blocks.
• This structure was institutionalized under the 73^rd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1992, which provided constitutional status to Panchayati Raj institutions.

Additional Information

• Gram Sabha: It is the general assembly comprising all registered voters in a village. It serves as the foundation of the Panchayati Raj system, but it is not considered a tier.
• 73^rd Constitutional Amendment Act: Passed in 1992, it introduced Part IX in the Constitution, providing constitutional status to Panchayati Raj institutions and mandating their formation in every state.
• State Election Commission: Responsible for conducting elections to Panchayati Raj institutions, ensuring free and fair electoral processes.
• Functions of Panchayati Raj Institutions: Include rural development, sanitation, public health, maintenance of water resources, and agricultural development.
• Article 243: Defines the provisions for Panchayati Raj, including Gram Sabha's role, composition, powers, and functions of Panchayati Raj institutions.

The correct answer is 'Special provisions with respect to goods and services tax'.

Key Points

• The 101^st Amendment Act, 2016 amends Special provisions with respect to goods and services tax in Indian Constitution.
• The amendment introduced a national Goods and Services Tax (GST) in India from 1 July 2017.
• It was introduced as the 122^nd Amendment Bill of the Constitution of India,
• GST is a comprehensive indirect tax levy on the manufacture, sale, and consumption of goods as well as services at the national level.
• It replaces all indirect taxes levied on goods and services by the Indian Central and state governments.

Important Points

The correct answer is a - ii, b - i, c - iv, d - iii.

Key Points

Durban

• The official name of the 2009 United Nations World Conference Against Racism (WCAR), also known as Durban II, is the Durban Review Conference.
• The conference took place at the United Nations Office in Geneva, April 20, to Friday, April 24, 2009.
• The Durban Declaration and Programme of Action from the 2001 World Conference against Racism, Racial Discrimination, Xenophobia, and Related Intolerance in Durban, South Africa

Champaran

• At Champaran in Gujarat, European planters used illegitimate methods of indigo cultivation and coerced Indian villagers into dedicating a third of their landholding to the crop.
• This was referred to as the Tinkathia system. With the aid of Gandhi and Rajendra Prasad.
• The Champaran peasants organised Satyagraha, which resulted in the elimination of the Tinkathia system.

Ahmedabad Mill Strike

• ​The Ahmedabad Mill Strike of 1918 was a strike by textile mill workers in Ahmedabad.
• who fought for economic justice after the mill owners stopped paying plague bonuses.
• The Ahmedabad Mill Strike is widely regarded as Mahatma Gandhi's first hunger strike.
• Gandhi stepped in to mediate a dispute between Ahmedabad workers and mill owners.

Kheda Peasants oppression

• The Kheda peasants' main demand was for a reduction in revenue payments.
• They were unable to pay revenue due to excessive taxes, and an outbreak of the plague had rendered them physically incapacitate.
• Preventing them from working during the harvest season and missing out on the time window to pay revenue.
• To meet this demand, the Kheda Satyagraha was launched. Following the Chamaprarn Satyagraha.
• The Kheda Satyagraha was the second satyagraha movement in 1918.

The correct answer is the Constitution of the United States.

Key Points

• Fundamental Rights
• The model for Fundamental Rights in India has been taken from the Constitution of the USA. Fundamental rights are basic rights provided to the people in order to live with dignity and integrity. They are enshrined in Part III of the Indian Constitution.
• They are basic human freedoms that apply universally to all citizens of India, irrespective of their gender, religion, race, or place of birth.
• These rights are defined as the cornerstone of democracy in India.
• There are six fundamental rights recognized by the Indian constitution:

1. Right to Equality (Article 14-18)
2. Right to Freedom (Article 19-22)
3. Right Against Exploitation (Article 23-24)
4. Right to Freedom of Religion (Article 25-28)
5. Cultural and Educational Rights (Article 29-30)
6. Right to constitutional remedies (Article 32)

Additional Information

The Correct answer is Option 3.

Key Points

• The first Hindi daily newspaper to be published in Bihar was "Sarwa Hitaishi". Hence, option 3 is correct.
• Founded by: Bhargava Press.
• Year of Publication: 1874.
• Significance:
• "Sarwa Hitaishi" played a pivotal role in disseminating news and promoting Hindi as a language in journalism.
• It focused on social, cultural, and political issues, aiming to address the concerns of the common people.
• While "Bihar Bandhu" was the first Hindi newspaper in Bihar (published in 1872), "Sarwa Hitaishi" holds the distinction of being the first daily Hindi newspaper in the region.

The correct answer is Venus and Uranus.

Key Points

Our Solar System consists of the Sun and 8 planets:

1. Mercury (nearest to the sun)
2. Venus (Evening star, hottest planet)
3. Earth (Only living planet, blue planet)
4. Mars (the red planet)
5. Jupiter (largest planet in the solar system)
6. Saturn (a planet with rings)
7. Uranus (coldest planet)
8. Neptune (farthest to the sun)

Important Points

• All Planets in our solar system rotates counterclockwise i.e. West to East except for Venus and Uranus.
• Two planets Venus and Uranus are rotating from east to west in our solar system.
• Venus and Uranus are rotating in the opposite direction (clockwise) to the Sun, this is also known as a retrograde rotation.

The correct answer is Call centres.

Key Points

• Call centres service was NOT present in India for the common man at the time of Independence.
• India started to become a popular location for call centres that engage with consumers who are based in developed markets that speak English, like the US, the UK, and Australia, around 1999–2000.
• Since then, the call centre work of the vast majority of consumer companies on the Fortune 500 list has been outsourced to India, and it has been a wonderful growth story. A multi-billion dollar industry has been developed in India around it.
• In 1998, Mr Bhasin established the nation's first call centre with only 18 workers fielding calls in a space where booths were divided by saris suspended from the ceiling.

Important Points

• India Post, a division of the Department of Post under the Ministry of Communications, is a postal service that is run by the government.
• It is the most widely used postal system in the entire globe and is commonly referred to as the Post Office. In 1766, Warren Hastings undertook the initiative on behalf of the East India Company to launch the nation's first postal service. When it first started, it was known as "Company Mail."
• From Calcutta to Diamond Harbour, the first experimental electric telegraph connection was established.
• It was made available to the British East India Company in 1851.
• For telegraph facilities, a separate department was established in 1854. The Indian Telegraph Act was first introduced in India in 1885.
• The first passenger train travelled the 34 km route between Thane and Bori Bunder on April 16, 1853.
• It had thirteen carriages and was driven by three engines with the names Sahib, Sultan, and Sindh.

The correct answer is a - 3, b - 2, c - 4, d - 1

Key Points

• Shri Arif Mohammad Khan → Bihar. Appointed as Governor of Bihar on 2 January 2025.
• Shri La Ganesan → Nagaland. Assumed office as Governor of Nagaland on 20 February 2023. His passing in August 2025.
• **Shri Jagdish Mukhi → Assam. Took charge as Governor of Assam on **10 October 2017 (served till 20 February 2023).
• Shri Kalraj Mishra → Rajasthan. Assumed office as Governor of Rajasthan. Tenure 9 September 2019 to July 2024.
• The appointment of governors is governed by Article 155 of the Indian Constitution, which states that the Governor of a state shall be appointed by the President of India.

Additional Information

• Governor's Role and Responsibilities:
• The Governor is the constitutional head of the state and acts as the representative of the President of India.
• Under Article 163, the Governor exercises executive powers with the aid and advice of the Council of Ministers headed by the Chief Minister.
• Governors also have discretionary powers in certain situations, such as recommending President's Rule under Article 356.
• Key Facts about Governors:
• The tenure of a Governor is typically 5 years, but they serve at the pleasure of the President.
• Governors must meet eligibility criteria under Article 157, which includes being a citizen of India and being at least 35 years old.
• Governors play a significant role in legislative matters, including giving assent to bills, reserving bills for the President's consideration, and addressing the state legislature.
• Other Notable Governors:
• Shri Banwarilal Purohit is the Governor of Punjab.
• Shri R.N. Ravi served as the Governor of Tamil Nadu.
• Important Articles in Context:
• Article 154: Vests executive power of the state in the Governor.
• Article 200: Grants the Governor the power to assent, withhold, or reserve bills passed by the state legislature.

Important Points

• Governor's Appointment:
• The President of India appoints Governors based on the recommendation of the Union government.
• The Governor's role is largely ceremonial, but they have significant powers during times of constitutional crises.
• Constitutional Provisions:
• Article 158: Specifies conditions for the Governor's office, such as not holding any other office of profit.
• Article 361: Provides immunity to the Governor from legal proceedings for actions taken in official capacity.
• Recent Developments:
• Governors have increasingly played a pivotal role in resolving political deadlocks in state legislatures.
• In certain states, Governors have been involved in controversies surrounding their discretionary powers.

The correct answer is option 3.

Key Point

• The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) is responsible for publishing the State of the Climate 2024 report, which provides data on greenhouse gas concentrations, global temperatures, and extreme weather events. Hence, option 3 is correct.

Concept:

Hard water:

• Rainwater is almost pure and a good solvent so it dissolves many salts.
• The presence of calcium and magnesium salts in the form of hydrogen carbonate, chloride and sulphate in water makes water ‘hard’.
• Hard water does not give a lather with soap.

Explanation:

Soap scum:

• The precipitate is created when soap molecules interact with calcium and magnesium salts.
• This precipitate starts to float on the water as an off-white layer.
• We refer to this layer as scum.
• Soap containing sodium stearate (C₁₇H₃₅COONa) reacts with hard water to precipitate out Ca/Mg-stearate.
• Due to the scum buildup in hard water, soaps lose their cleansing ability.

Thus, in hard water, soap reacts with the Calcium (which is relatively high in hard water) to form "soap scum".

Additional InformationSoft water:

• Water free from soluble salts of calcium and magnesium is called Soft water.
• It gives lather with soap easily.

Heavy water:

• Heavy water, D2O is another important compound which is manufactured by the electrolytic enrichment of normal water.
• It is essentially used as a moderator in nuclear reactors.

The correct answer is - High military commander

Key Points

• Mahatalavara
• In the Ikshvaku inscriptions, 'Mahatalavara' refers to a high military commander.
• This term indicates a person with significant authority and command over military forces.
• The Ikshvaku dynasty, which ruled parts of South India, used this term to denote their top military officials.

Additional Information

• Religious functionary
• Typically refers to individuals involved in religious duties and rituals.
• In the context of Indian history, such roles were often filled by Brahmins or other priestly classes.
• Local tribal chief
• This would refer to leaders of local tribes who had authority over their communities.
• Tribal chiefs played important roles in local governance and social organization.
• Tax collector
• Responsible for collecting taxes from the populace.
• Tax collectors were crucial in the administration of ancient and medieval states, ensuring revenue for the kingdom.

The correct answer is 1) 1-A, 2-B, 3-C, 4-D.

Key Points

• Rapid combustion refers to a type of combustion that occurs quickly with the release of heat and light. An example is burning of magnesium ribbon (1-A).
• Spontaneous combustion happens without an external ignition source. An example is forest fires in dry weather (2-B).
• Explosion is a sudden and violent release of energy, often accompanied by sound, heat, and light. An example is fireworks (3-C).
• Incomplete combustion occurs when the oxygen supply is limited, leading to the production of harmful gases. An example is burning of coal in a confined space (4-D).
• The correct matching is 1-A, 2-B, 3-C, 4-D, which corresponds to option 1.

Additional Information

• Combustion is a chemical process in which a substance reacts with oxygen to release energy in the form of heat and light. It is essential for processes like energy generation and heating.
• Types of combustion:
• Rapid combustion: Requires an external ignition source and occurs quickly, e.g., burning of paper or wood.
• Spontaneous combustion: Occurs without an external ignition source due to heat buildup, e.g., stored oily rags or dry grass.
• Explosion: A sudden, violent release of energy caused by rapid combustion or chemical reactions, e.g., dynamite detonation.
• Incomplete combustion: Leads to the production of carbon monoxide (CO) and soot due to insufficient oxygen, e.g., burning of fuels in poorly ventilated spaces.
• Magnesium ribbon combustion: Burning magnesium reacts with oxygen to produce magnesium oxide, releasing intense light and heat.
• Forest fires: These occur naturally or due to human activity, often fueled by dry vegetation, high temperatures, and winds.
• Fireworks: These contain chemicals like potassium nitrate and sulfur, which combust rapidly to produce colorful light and sound.
• Health hazards of incomplete combustion: Carbon monoxide poisoning and air pollution are major risks associated with incomplete combustion.

The correct answer is - (a)-(i), (b)-(ii), (c)-(iii), (d)-(iv)

Key Points

• Northern Black Polished Ware (NBPW)
• NBPW is a type of ancient Indian pottery characterized by its glossy, black surface.
• It was used extensively during the Mauryan period and is considered an indicator of urbanization and trade.
• Arikamedu
• Arikamedu was a coastal city known for its trade relations with the Roman Empire.
• Archaeological excavations have found Roman artifacts, indicating extensive trading activities.
• Punch-marked coins
• These coins were among the earliest forms of currency in India.
• They were stamped with various symbols rather than inscriptions, making them unique.
• Arthashastra's textile regulations
• The Arthashastra, an ancient Indian treatise on statecraft, includes rules about spinning and weaving for specific workers.
• These regulations aimed to ensure the quality and standardization of textile production.

Additional Information

• Northern Black Polished Ware (NBPW)
• NBPW is often considered a hallmark of the Mauryan period and is found extensively across Northern India.
• It signifies advancements in pottery technology and trade networks during ancient times.
• Arikamedu
• Located near Pondicherry, India, Arikamedu was a significant port town during ancient times.
• The site has yielded many Roman artifacts, including amphorae and beads, indicating thriving Indo-Roman trade.
• Punch-marked coins
• These coins date back to the 6^th century BCE and were used until the early centuries CE.
• They are typically made of silver and bear various symbols, possibly representing different kingdoms or economic entities.
• Arthashastra
• The Arthashastra was written by Kautilya (Chanakya) and is a comprehensive manual on governance, economy, and military strategy.
• Its textile regulations aimed to ensure quality control and proper management of textile workshops.

1. Computer Hardware:

• Physical equipment used for input, output and processing.
• The hardware structure depends upon the type and size of the organisation.
• It consists of an input and an output device, operating system, processor, and media devices. This also includes computer peripheral devices.

2. Computer Software:

• The programs/ application program used to control and coordinate the hardware components. It is used for analysing and processing of the data.
• These programs include a set of instructions used for processing information.
• Software is further classified into 3 types:
• System Software
• Application Software
• Procedures

3. Databases:

• Data are the raw facts and figures that are unorganised that are and later processed to generate information.
• Softwares is used for organising and serving data to the user, managing physical storage of media and virtual resources.
• As the hardware can’t work without software the same as software needs data for processing. Data is managed using a Database management system.
• Database software is used for efficient access for required data, and to manage knowledge bases

The correct answer is One-third.

Key Points

• As per the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5), conducted between 2019-2021, it is reported that one-third of households in Bihar live in a pucca house.
• A pucca house refers to a dwelling made with durable materials such as bricks, cement, concrete, or stone, offering better structural stability compared to temporary housing.
• The survey highlights the disparities in housing conditions across states, with Bihar showing a relatively lower percentage compared to national averages.
• The data from NFHS-5 serves as an important indicator for assessing the living standards and infrastructure development in Bihar, a state with significant rural population density.
• Improving housing conditions has been a focus under government schemes like Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana to ensure affordable housing for marginalized sections.

Additional Information

• National Family Health Survey (NFHS):
• The NFHS is conducted periodically by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare in collaboration with International Institute for Population Sciences (IIPS), Mumbai.
• NFHS-5, covering the years 2019-2021, provides data on population, health, and nutrition across India, including housing conditions.
• The survey collects data from households to monitor development indicators, including access to pucca housing, sanitation, and drinking water.
• Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY):
• Launched in 2015, PMAY aims to provide affordable housing for all by 2022.
• The scheme targets marginalized sections, including economically weaker sections (EWS) and low-income groups (LIG), with subsidies for constructing or upgrading houses.
• Bihar, being an economically backward state, is one of the key beneficiaries of this housing initiative.
• Housing in Bihar:
• Bihar has a high rural population, and many residents live in kutcha houses made of mud, bamboo, or other temporary materials.
• The state government, alongside central initiatives, has worked to improve housing infrastructure through schemes like Indira Awas Yojana.
• Challenges remain, including funding gaps, implementation bottlenecks, and the need for better planning in rural areas.
• Comparison with National Averages:
• NFHS-5 indicates that the proportion of households in India living in pucca houses is higher compared to Bihar, reflecting regional disparities in development.
• States with better socioeconomic indicators, such as Kerala and Maharashtra, report higher percentages of pucca houses.
• Significance of Housing Data:
• Housing data from NFHS helps policymakers design targeted interventions to improve living standards in states with infrastructural deficits.
• It also highlights the progress made under various housing schemes and identifies areas needing focused attention.

The correct answer is Arabic word.

Key Points

• The term ‘monsoon’ is derived from an Arabic word.
• The word 'monsoon' is known to have been derived from the Arabic word 'mausim', meaning season.
• The term was reportedly first used in English in British India and refers to the seasonal change in the direction of the prevailing winds of a region.
• Basically, it describes a seasonal wind shift over a region that is usually accompanied by a dramatic increase in precipitation.
• Many of us are familiar with the Indian-Asian monsoon that brings heavy rains during the summer months over widespread areas of India and SE Asia.

Additional Information

• June 1 is regarded as the date of onset of the monsoon in India
• as indicated by the arrival of the monsoon in the southernmost state of Kerala.
• The monsoon accounts for nearly 80% of the rainfall in India.
• The rainfall is a result of the convergence of wind flow from the Bay of Bengal and reverses winds from the South China Sea.
• The onset of the monsoon occurs over the Bay of Bengal in May, arriving at the Indian Peninsula by June, and then the winds move towards the South China Sea.
• Monsoon Formed :
• The primary cause of monsoons is the difference between annual temperature trends over land and sea.
• The apparent position of the Sun with reference to the Earth oscillates from the Tropic of Cancer to the Tropic of Capricorn.
• Thus the low-pressure region created by solar heating also changes latitude.

The correct answer is Sperm cells.

Key Points

• Gap junctions are specialized intercellular connections that allow direct communication between adjacent cells by facilitating the passage of ions, small molecules, and signaling substances.
• Sperm cells lack gap junctions because they are independent entities that travel through the female reproductive tract and do not form intercellular connections with other sperm cells. This is essential for their individual motility and function.
• Reproductive cells, such as oocytes and follicular cells, possess gap junctions. These junctions are critical for nutrient and signaling molecule exchange during oocyte development. Hence, this option is incorrect.
• Brain cells, specifically neurons and glial cells, utilize gap junctions for synchronized electrical activity and metabolic coupling, making them integral to brain function. Hence, this option is incorrect.
• Cardiac cells (cardiomyocytes) are interconnected by gap junctions at their intercalated discs, allowing rapid transmission of electrical signals essential for synchronized contractions of the heart. Hence, this option is incorrect.
• Therefore, the correct answer is "Sperm cells," as they do not require gap junctions for their function.

Additional Information

• Gap Junctions:
• Gap junctions are formed by transmembrane proteins called connexins, which create channels between adjacent cells.
• These channels allow the exchange of ions, nutrients, and signaling molecules, playing a vital role in maintaining tissue homeostasis.
• Gap junctions are abundant in tissues requiring coordinated activity, such as the heart, brain, and epithelial tissues.
• Sperm Cell Characteristics:
• Sperm cells are specialized for reproduction and are structured to deliver genetic material to the oocyte.
• They are motile and independent, relying on their flagellum for propulsion rather than intercellular communication.
• The absence of gap junctions ensures that each sperm operates independently, optimizing the chances of fertilization.
• Role of Gap Junctions in Brain Cells:
• Neurons utilize gap junctions for electrical coupling, enabling rapid transmission of signals across neural networks.
• Glial cells use gap junctions for the distribution of ions and metabolites, supporting neuronal function and homeostasis.
• Importance of Gap Junctions in Cardiac Cells:
• Cardiomyocytes rely on gap junctions for the propagation of action potentials across the heart muscle.
• This ensures synchronized contraction, which is crucial for effective pumping of blood.
• Disruption of gap junctions in cardiac tissue can lead to arrhythmias and impaired heart function.

Important Points

• Connexins: Connexins are the building blocks of gap junctions, with various isoforms that determine the properties of these intercellular channels.
• Cell Communication: Gap junctions are crucial for maintaining coordinated cellular activities in tissues like the heart and brain.
• Independent Cells: Cells that function independently, such as sperm cells, do not possess gap junctions, emphasizing their unique role in human biology.
• Clinical Relevance: Disorders affecting gap junctions can lead to conditions such as cardiac arrhythmias, neuropathies, and developmental anomalies.

The correct answer is Petroleum Mines.

Key Points

• Perm, Ufa, and Kuibyshev are globally recognized for their significant petroleum production activities. These cities in Russia are key centers for oil exploration, extraction, and refining.
• These locations are situated within the Volga-Ural region, which is one of the most important oil-producing areas in Russia, often referred to as the "Second Baku" due to its high oil reserves.
• The petroleum extracted from these mines is crucial for Russia's economy, contributing significantly to global oil supply. Russia is one of the world's largest producers and exporters of crude oil.
• Petroleum mining from these regions involves advanced drilling technologies and infrastructure to extract crude oil effectively from underground reserves.
• The petroleum industry in these areas not only supports domestic energy needs but also plays a critical role in international trade, as Russia exports petroleum to numerous countries worldwide.

Additional Information

• Petroleum:
• Petroleum, also known as crude oil, is a fossil fuel formed from the remains of ancient marine organisms buried under layers of sediment and rock.
• It is a complex mixture of hydrocarbons that can be refined into various products like gasoline, diesel, kerosene, and lubricants.
• Petroleum is a major energy source globally and is used extensively in transportation, power generation, and as a raw material in the production of plastics, chemicals, and pharmaceuticals.
• Volga-Ural Petroleum Region:
• Located in Russia, this region is renowned for its rich oil reserves. It was developed significantly during the Soviet era and continues to be a major contributor to Russia's oil industry.
• The area includes several cities like Perm, Ufa, and Kuibyshev, which host large refineries and oil-processing units.
• The region is strategically important for Russia's energy exports, serving markets in Europe and Asia.
• Global Importance of Petroleum:
• Petroleum is essential for the functioning of modern economies due to its widespread use in transportation, manufacturing, and energy production.
• Countries like Russia, Saudi Arabia, and the United States are among the largest producers, influencing global oil prices and energy policies.
• Petroleum also plays a vital role in geopolitics, with oil-rich nations often having significant economic and strategic power.
• Petroleum Extraction Process:
• The process begins with exploration using geological surveys and seismic data to locate oil reserves.
• Drilling rigs are then used to extract crude oil, which is transported to refineries for processing into usable products.
• Modern technologies like horizontal drilling and hydraulic fracturing have enhanced oil recovery efficiency.

Important Points

• Coal Mines:
• Coal mines are primarily used for extracting coal, a fossil fuel used for power generation and industrial processes.
• Russia is also a significant producer of coal, but it is distinct from petroleum mines.
• Hydroelectric Sites:
• Hydroelectric sites generate electricity by harnessing the energy of flowing water. These are not related to mining activities.
• Russia has several hydroelectric power stations, but these are geographically distinct from Perm, Ufa, and Kuibyshev.
• Iron Ore Mines:
• Iron ore is mined for producing steel and other ferrous products.
• Russia has significant iron ore reserves but they are not located in the regions discussed in the question.

The correct answer is Option 2.

Key Points

• The base year for calculating GDP has been revised to 2022-23. This is a standard procedure to ensure that economic data reflects the current structure of the economy and aligns with recent developments. Statement about GDP base year is correct.
• The Consumer Price Index (CPI) base year has been updated to 2023-24. Changing the base year helps improve the accuracy of inflation measurement by considering newer consumption patterns. Statement about CPI base year is correct.
• The base year for the Index of Industrial Production (IIP) has been revised to 2022-23. This ensures better representation of industrial output and reflects the current composition of industries. Statement about IIP base year is correct.
• Revising base years in economic indicators is a regular exercise performed by statistical agencies such as the National Statistical Office (NSO) to make data more relevant. This process ensures that economic indices are aligned with recent trends in the economy.
• The correct answer aligns with the recent updates made by the government/statistical organizations for improving the accuracy of economic analysis.

Additional Information

• Gross Domestic Product (GDP):
• GDP is the total value of all goods and services produced within a country during a specific period.
• The base year for GDP calculation is periodically updated to reflect the latest economic activities and trends.
• Revised GDP base years improve the comparability of data and incorporate changes in production patterns, technology, and consumption.
• Consumer Price Index (CPI):
• CPI measures changes in the price level of a basket of consumer goods and services purchased by households.
• The base year for CPI is updated to account for changes in consumption patterns and inflation dynamics.
• CPI is crucial for tracking inflation and guiding monetary policy decisions.
• Index of Industrial Production (IIP):
• IIP measures the growth of various sectors of the economy such as manufacturing, mining, and electricity.
• Revising the base year ensures that the index reflects the current composition and importance of industries.
• It is widely used by policymakers to assess industrial growth and formulate strategies.
• Base Year Revision:
• Base year revision is conducted by statistical agencies to ensure that indices are relevant and accurate.
• It includes updating the weights assigned to various components to reflect their current importance.
• Examples of recent revisions include the base year for GDP changing to 2011-12 previously, and CPI changing to 2012.

Important Points

• National Statistical Office (NSO):
• NSO is responsible for collecting, analyzing, and publishing statistical data in India.
• It conducts revisions of base years for various economic indices to keep data updated and relevant.
• Economic Indicators:
• Indicators like GDP, CPI, and IIP are crucial for understanding the economic health of a nation.
• They assist in decision-making by policymakers, businesses, and researchers.
• Importance of Base Year Revision:
• Reflects current economic trends, production patterns, and consumption habits.
• Improves the accuracy and reliability of economic analysis and forecasts.

The correct answer is Child Christ.

 Key Points

• In certain years, there is a reversal in the pressure conditions and the eastern Pacific has lower pressure in comparison to the eastern Indian Ocean. This periodic change in pressure conditions is known as the Southern Oscillation or SO. A feature connected with the SO is the El Nino phenomenon

Important Points

El Nino:

• This is a name given to the periodic development of a warm ocean current along the coast of Peru as a temporary replacement of the cold Peruvian current.
• ‘El Nino’ is a Spanish word meaning ‘the child’, and refers to the baby Christ, as this current starts flowing during Christmas.
• The presence of the El Nino leads to an increase in sea-surface temperatures and weakening of the trade winds in the region
• A warm ocean current that flows past the Peruvian Coast, in place of the cold Peruvian current, every 2 to 5 years.
• The changes in pressure conditions are connected to the El Nino.
• Hence, the phenomenon is referred to as ENSO (El Nino Southern Oscillations)

Additional Information

1. Monsoon: 

• The climate of India is described as the ‘monsoon’ type.
• ‘Monsoon’ refers to the seasonal reversal in the wind direction during a year.

2. Cloud burst: 

• The duration of the monsoon is between 100- 120 days from early June to mid-September.
• Around the time of its arrival, the normal rainfall increases suddenly and continues constantly for several days.
• This is known as the ‘burst’ of the monsoon and can be distinguished from the pre-monsoon showers.

3. Cyclone:

• Cyclones are low-pressure centers surrounded by the rotating wind towards the center.
• It can be tropical and temperate according to the area of origin.

The correct answer is Shortugai.

Key Points

• Shortugai is an ancient Harappan trading port located in present-day Afghanistan.
• It served as a significant commercial center for the Indus Valley Civilization around 2000 BCE.
• Shortugai was strategically situated near lapis lazuli mines, allowing the Harappans to trade precious stones.
• The site has yielded artifacts typical of Harappan culture, including seals, beads, and pottery.

Additional Information

• Harappan Civilization
• Also known as the Indus Valley Civilization, it flourished around 3300 BCE to 1300 BCE.
• It is renowned for its advanced urban planning, architecture, and social organization.
• Key sites include Harappa, Mohenjo-Daro, and Dholavira.
• The civilization is noted for its use of standardized weights and measures, and a script that remains undeciphered.
• Harappan Trade
• Harappans engaged in extensive trade within the Indian subcontinent and with Mesopotamia and Egypt.
• Key exports included cotton, beads, pottery, and precious stones.
• They imported goods such as copper, tin, and luxury items.
• Archaeological Discoveries at Shortugai
• Excavations have unearthed Harappan seals, pottery, and lapis lazuli.
• The presence of these artifacts indicates a thriving trade network.
• Shortugai provides evidence of the Harappan presence beyond the Indian subcontinent.
• Indus Script
• The script consists of symbols and has been found on seals, pottery, and other artifacts.
• Despite numerous attempts, the script has not been deciphered yet.
• Understanding the script could provide deeper insights into the Harappan society and culture.

The correct answer is Endosperm.

Key Points

• Edible portion of the coconut: The edible part of the coconut is the white, fleshy substance found inside the fruit. This portion is scientifically known as the endosperm.
• Role of the endosperm: In coconuts, the endosperm is rich in nutrients and provides nourishment to the developing embryo. It is a significant part of the coconut fruit and is consumed as food.
• Structure of the coconut: The coconut has three primary layers: the outermost green layer called the exocarp, the fibrous middle layer called the mesocarp, and the hard shell called the endocarp. Inside the endocarp, the fleshy endosperm is found, which is the edible part.
• Uses of the coconut endosperm: The edible endosperm is used in various culinary practices worldwide, including desserts, curries, and snacks. It is also a source of coconut milk and oil.
• Scientific importance: The endosperm of the coconut is studied for its high content of essential nutrients, such as proteins, fats, and carbohydrates, making it a valuable food resource.

Additional Information

• Fruit Wall: The fruit wall, also known as the pericarp, consists of three layers (exocarp, mesocarp, and endocarp). While it provides protection and structural support to the fruit, it is not edible in coconuts.
• Cotyledon: In plants, the cotyledon is part of the embryo and serves as the first leaves of a seedling. In coconuts, the cotyledon is not edible.
• Embryo: The embryo is the young developing plant inside the seed. In coconuts, the embryo is tiny and not consumed as food.
• Nutritional Composition: Coconut endosperm contains water, dietary fiber, vitamins (B and C), and minerals such as potassium and magnesium. It is also a source of healthy fats, primarily medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs).
• Applications: Coconut endosperm is used in industries for producing coconut oil, coconut milk, and cosmetics. It is also consumed fresh and dried in households.

Important Points

• Classification: Coconut belongs to the Arecaceae family, and its scientific name is Cocos nucifera.
• Geographical Distribution: Coconuts are cultivated extensively in tropical regions such as India, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Sri Lanka.
• Economic Importance: Coconut is a highly versatile crop with applications in food, agriculture, cosmetics, and construction industries.
• Cultural Significance: In many cultures, coconuts are regarded as auspicious and used in rituals and ceremonies.

The correct answer is International Institute of Sports Management (IISM).

Key Points

• The International Institute of Sports Management (IISM) is the first institution in India to launch a book on sports psychology.
• The book aims to provide insights into the mental aspects of sports and athletic performance.
• It covers various psychological techniques and strategies that athletes can use to enhance their performance.
• The book is targeted at athletes, coaches, sports managers, and students pursuing sports management courses.

Additional Information

• Sports Psychology:
• Sports psychology is the study of how psychological factors affect performance and how participation in sports and exercise affect psychological and physical factors.
• It involves the application of psychological principles to improve athletic performance and well-being.
• Common topics include motivation, performance anxiety, and the psychological benefits of sports.
• Importance of Mental Training in Sports:
• Mental training helps athletes to stay focused, manage anxiety, and maintain a positive attitude.
• Techniques such as visualization, goal setting, and self-talk are often used.
• Mental resilience can be a determining factor in high-pressure situations and competitions.
• Role of Sports Psychologists:
• Sports psychologists work with athletes to enhance performance, cope with pressure, and recover from injuries.
• They may provide individual counseling and mental skills training.
• They also work with coaches and teams to improve communication and team dynamics.
• Applications Beyond Sports:
• The principles of sports psychology can be applied to other areas of life, such as business and education.
• Skills like goal setting, focus, and resilience are valuable in many fields.
• Sports psychology techniques can also be used to improve overall mental health and well-being.

The correct answer is - Sheikh Muhammad Ghaus

Key Points

• Sheikh Muhammad Ghaus
• He was a prominent Sufi saint of the Shattari order in India.
• Sheikh Muhammad Ghaus translated the famous work 'Amrit-Kunda' into Persian under the title 'Bahr-ul-Hayat' (Ocean of Life).
• The translation played a crucial role in the dissemination of yogic and spiritual knowledge among the Sufi community.

Additional Information

• Abdul Qadir
• He was another Sufi saint but not known for translating 'Amrit-Kunda'.
• His contributions were mainly in the field of spiritual guidance and Sufi teachings.
• Kalimullah Jahanabadi
• He was a Sufi saint from the Chishti order.
• Known for his spiritual teachings and practices, but not associated with the translation of 'Amrit-Kunda'.
• Sheikh Muhammad al Hussaini
• He was a Sufi saint but did not translate 'Amrit-Kunda'.
• His works and contributions were different from those related to 'Bahr-ul-Hayat'.

The correct answer is 1121 Crore.

Key Points

• The revenue surplus in 2024-25 is estimated to be Rs 1,121 crore (0.1% of GSDP).
• In comparison, in 2023-24, the state is expected to observe a revenue deficit of Rs 35,530 crore (4.1% of GSDP).
• Fiscal deficit for 2024-25 is targeted at 3% of GSDP (Rs 29,095 crore), which is within the limit of 3.5% of GSDP permitted by the central government (of which 0.5% of GSDP becomes available upon undertaking power sector reforms).

The correct answer is India.

Key Points

• Asian Disaster Preparedness Centre (ADPC) is a regional organization that works to reduce disaster risks and build resilience in Asia and the Pacific.
• For the years 2024-25, India has assumed the chairmanship of the ADPC, showcasing its commitment to disaster preparedness and regional cooperation.
• India has been actively involved in disaster risk reduction (DRR) initiatives, both domestically and internationally, as part of its policy to address climate change and reduce vulnerabilities.
• The decision to appoint India as the chair reflects the country’s growing leadership in global forums addressing disasters and sustainable development goals.
• India has also contributed significantly to disaster relief and management initiatives in South Asia and beyond, such as extending help to neighboring countries during natural calamities.

Additional Information

• Asian Disaster Preparedness Centre (ADPC):
• ADPC was established in 1986 with its headquarters in Bangkok, Thailand.
• The organization collaborates with governments, international organizations, and the private sector to enhance disaster risk management and resilience in the region.
• It focuses on areas such as early warning systems, climate resilience, capacity building, and disaster risk financing.
• India’s Role in Disaster Management:
• India has implemented various frameworks such as the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), which was established under the Disaster Management Act, 2005.
• The country has made significant investments in early warning systems, satellite monitoring, and rapid response mechanisms for natural disasters like cyclones, floods, and earthquakes.
• India’s success in managing cyclones such as Cyclone Fani in 2019 is globally acknowledged.
• Other Countries’ Contributions:
• Thailand, as the host nation of ADPC, plays a crucial role in its operations and supports regional collaborations.
• Indonesia is another key member of ADPC, given its vulnerability to earthquakes and tsunamis, and has worked extensively on disaster preparedness.
• Russia, although not a member of ADPC, is involved in global disaster preparedness through other initiatives such as the United Nations frameworks.

Important Points

• Sendai Framework: The Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030 is a global initiative to reduce disaster risks, and India actively aligns its disaster management policies with this framework.
• Climate Resilience: India has been focusing on climate-resilient infrastructure under initiatives like the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), launched in 2019 during the UN Climate Action Summit.
• Regional Cooperation: India collaborates with neighboring countries such as Nepal, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka for disaster relief and capacity building under frameworks like SAARC Disaster Management Centre.
• Technological Advancements: The use of advanced technologies, such as GIS mapping, satellite-based weather forecasting, and drone technology, enhances India’s disaster preparedness and response mechanisms.

The correct answer Adenine.

Key Points

• There are four nitrogen bases in a DNA-
• Adenine
• Guanine
• Thymine
• Cytosine
• Adenine pairs with up Thymine
• Guanine pairs up with Cytosine.

Additional Information

• DNA stands for Deoxyribo Nucleic Acid.
• It contains genetic information.
• It is made up of
• sugar group - deoxyribose sugar
• phosphate group
• nitrogen base - (Adenine, Guanine, Thymine, Cytosine)
• Genetic information in DNA is wrapped up around a protein called Histones.

Important Points

• RNA (RiboNucleic Acid) also has 4 nitrogenous base.
• Adenine
• Guanine
• Cytosine
• Uracil (instead of Thymine which is present in DNA)
• RNA is single-stranded biopolymer.
• It is of 3 types-
• mRNA (messenger)
• tRNA (transfer)
• rRNA (ribosomal)

The correct answer is option 3, i.e. Janata Party. 

Key Points:

• Janta party announced the formation of a second backward class commission in 1978.
• Morarji Desai was an Indian independence activist and the Prime Minister of India from 1977 to 1979.
• He was also the first Prime Minister to head India's first non-Congress Government.
• He was the first PM to Demonetize India.
• The commission made to see the formation of second backward classes in 1978 was Mandal Commission.

The correct answer is Central Bank of India.

Key Points

• The Central Bank of India, established in 1911, was the first Indian commercial bank that was wholly owned and managed by Indians.
• The bank was founded by Sorabji Pochkhanawala, with the vision of creating a financial institution that would be completely managed by Indians.
• The Central Bank of India was established in the pre-Independence era, during the British colonial period, when most banks in India were managed by British entities or foreign stakeholders.
• This bank played a crucial role in the development of the Indian banking sector and served as an example of self-reliance for other Indian entrepreneurs.
• It continues to be one of the oldest and most prominent public sector banks in India, with its headquarters in Mumbai.

Additional Information

• Punjab National Bank (PNB):
• PNB was established in 1894 in Lahore (now in Pakistan).
• It was the first Indian bank to be owned and managed by Indians but was not entirely commercial in its operations during its early years.
• Though significant, it was not the first wholly Indian-owned commercial bank.
• Oudh Commercial Bank:
• Founded in 1881 in Faizabad, it was one of the earliest banks established in India.
• However, it ceased operations in 1958 and was not as commercially successful as the Central Bank of India.
• State Bank of India (SBI):
• SBI traces its origins to the establishment of the Bank of Calcutta in 1806, later renamed the Imperial Bank of India in 1921, and finally became SBI in 1955.
• It was not initially owned or managed by Indians and became a public sector entity much later in independent India.
• Significance of Indian Commercial Banks:
• These banks played a vital role in promoting economic self-reliance and reducing dependency on British banking institutions during colonial rule.
• They also supported Indian entrepreneurs and businesses, contributing to economic development.

Important Points

• The Central Bank of India is known as the "first Indian bank" due to its wholly Indian ownership and management from inception.
• It was among the pioneering banks to introduce credit cards in India and played a significant role in financial literacy and rural banking.
• It is a public sector bank and continues to be a part of India's financial ecosystem, with a widespread network of branches across the country.

The correct answer is (a) - (iv), (b) - (iii), (c) - (i), (d) -  (ii).

Key Points

Additional Information

• Campos is a type of Brazilian grassland that is characterized by low and sparse vegetation.
• Pampas is a fertile South American grassland that is mostly used for grazing livestock.
• Down is a type of Australian grassland that is characterized by tall and dense vegetation.
• Llanos is a tropical grassland that is mostly found in Venezuela and Colombia. It is used for cattle ranching and farming.

The correct answer is Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic, and Republic.

Key Points

• The order of the Preamble of India is Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic, and Republic.
• The preamble is part of the Constitution.
• The preamble indicates the basic structure of the Constitution. The preamble is neither enforceable nor justifiable in a court of law.
• This implies that courts cannot pass orders against the government in India to implement the ideas in the Preamble.
• The preamble can be amended and it has been amended only once through the 42^nd Constitutional Amendment Act 1976.

Additional Information

• A sovereign state or country is independent and not under the authority of any other country.
• Socialism is an economic and political system where the workers or the government own the buildings and tools that make goods and services like farms and factories. This can be achieved through decentralized and direct worker ownership, or through centralized state ownership of the means of production.
• the Preamble to the Constitution asserted that India is a “secular” nation. The meaning of a secular state is that it does not prioritize any one religion for the country and its people.
• Republic is a form of government in which a state is ruled by representatives of the citizen body. Modern republics are founded on the idea that sovereignty rests with the people, though who is included and excluded from the category of the people has varied across history.

Thus, correct sequence of words mentioned in the preamble of the Indian Constitution is Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic, and Republic.

The Correct Answer is Seven.

Key Points

• India shares its border with seven countries
• Afghanistan and Pakistan to the North-West
• China, Bhutan, and Nepal to the North
• Myanmar to the far East and Bangladesh to the East.

Additional Information

• India is located latitudinally in the Northern Hemisphere and longitudinally in the Eastern Hemisphere.
• India has a land frontier of 15,200 km.
• The total length of the coastline of the mainland, Lakshadweep Islands and Andaman and the Nicobar Islands is 7,516.6 km.
• Sri Lanka (from the South-East) and Maldives (from the South-West) are two countries with water borders.

The correct answer is Capital Expenditure: ₹11.2 Lakh Crore, Capital Receipts: ₹16.4 Lakh Crore.

In News

• The Annual Financial Statement 2025-26 presents a budgetary estimate (BE) of ₹11.2 Lakh Crore for Capital Expenditure and ₹16.4 Lakh Crore for Capital Receipts.

Key Points

• Capital Expenditure for 2025-26 (BE) is estimated at ₹11.2 Lakh Crore, primarily for infrastructure, defense, and public sector projects.
• Capital Receipts for 2025-26 (BE) stand at ₹16.4 Lakh Crore, which includes borrowings and disinvestment proceeds.
• For 2024-25, the Revised Estimate (RE) for Capital Expenditure was ₹13.5 Lakh Crore, while Capital Receipts stood at ₹16.3 Lakh Crore.
• Capital Expenditure includes funds for asset creation, such as roads, railways, defense procurement, and major development projects.

Additional Information

• Capital Expenditure
• It includes spending on roads, highways, railways, defense equipment, and other infrastructure development.
• It is aimed at asset creation and economic growth.
• Capital Receipts
• Capital receipts include borrowings, recovery of loans, and disinvestment proceeds.
• They contribute to increasing liabilities or reducing assets.
• Revenue vs. Capital Expenditure
• Revenue Expenditure: Includes recurring expenses like salaries, pensions, and subsidies, which do not create assets.
• Capital Expenditure: Includes spending on infrastructure and asset-building projects.
• Budget Deficit and Borrowings
• A major portion of capital receipts comes from borrowings, which contribute to the fiscal deficit.
• Managing the fiscal deficit is crucial for macroeconomic stability and growth.

The correct answer is Himalayan Yew.

Key Points

• Himalayan Yew (Taxus wallichiana) is a medicinal plant found in the Himalayan region, known for its use in treating certain types of cancers.
• The bark, leaves, and twigs of the Himalayan Yew produce a compound called Paclitaxel, commercially known as Taxol, which is an essential chemotherapy drug used to treat various cancer types, such as breast and ovarian cancer.
• Paclitaxel works by inhibiting the growth of cancer cells, thereby slowing down the progression of the disease.
• The Himalayan Yew is primarily found at altitudes ranging from 1,800 to 3,300 meters in the Himalayan region, including parts of India, Nepal, Bhutan, and Pakistan.
• The species is currently listed as Endangered due to overexploitation for its medicinal properties and habitat destruction.

Additional Information

• Chir-pine (Pinus roxburghii):
• Native to the Himalayan region, Chir-pine is primarily used for its timber and resin.
• Its resin is used in industries for making turpentine oil, varnishes, and adhesives.
• It does not have any significant medicinal applications for treating cancer.
• Himalayan Oak (Quercus spp.):
• Himalayan Oak trees are known for their ecological importance, providing habitat and nutrients to the forest floor.
• Their primary uses include timber production and serving as fodder for livestock.
• They are not recognized for any medicinal properties in cancer treatment.
• Himalayan Birch (Betula utilis):
• Himalayan Birch is used traditionally for its bark, which serves as paper and has limited medicinal uses in Ayurveda.
• Its medicinal applications are mainly for skin diseases and digestive issues, not cancer treatment.
• Himalayan Yew (Taxus wallichiana):
• As mentioned earlier, it is a highly valued medicinal plant due to its ability to produce Paclitaxel.
• It has been overharvested due to its growing demand in the pharmaceutical industry, making conservation efforts essential.
• The plant plays a vital role in cancer treatment, particularly for advanced-stage patients.

Important Points

• Paclitaxel:
• Paclitaxel is a naturally occurring compound used in chemotherapy to treat cancers like breast, ovarian, and lung cancers.
• The discovery of Paclitaxel marked a significant advancement in the field of oncology.
• It stabilizes microtubules in cells, preventing cancer cells from dividing and proliferating.
• Conservation Status:
• The Himalayan Yew is classified as Endangered by the IUCN Red List due to overexploitation.
• Efforts are being made to cultivate and conserve the species for sustainable medicinal use.
• Geographical Distribution:
• The Himalayan Yew is found in specific high-altitude regions, making it a rare and specialized species.
• Countries like India, Nepal, Bhutan, and Pakistan house this plant in their Himalayan ranges.

The correct answer is A supercooled solution.

Key Points

• Glass is an amorphous solid and lacks a regular crystalline structure. It is formed when certain substances cool down rapidly, preventing the formation of a crystalline lattice.
• It is best described as a supercooled solution, which means it is a liquid that has been cooled below its normal freezing point without solidifying.
• The molecular arrangement of glass is disordered, resembling a liquid rather than a solid. This makes it different from crystalline solids which have an ordered structure.
• Glass is primarily composed of silicon dioxide (SiO2), which is melted at high temperatures and rapidly cooled to form the glass structure.
• The ability of glass to be shaped at high temperatures and retain its form when cooled is due to its supercooled liquid nature.

Additional Information

• Properties of Glass:
• It is transparent, allowing light to pass through, which makes it ideal for windows, lenses, and optical applications.
• Glass is non-crystalline in nature, meaning it lacks the repeating patterns found in crystals.
• It is brittle, meaning it breaks easily under stress without deforming significantly.
• It is chemically stable and resistant to reaction with most chemicals, making it suitable for laboratory equipment and containers.
• Other Descriptions of Glass:
• Glass is not a gel, as gels are semi-solid systems with a liquid phase trapped within a solid matrix. Hence, option 2 is incorrect.
• Glass is not an alloy, as alloys are mixtures of two or more metals. Glass is composed mainly of non-metallic substances such as silica. Hence, option 3 is incorrect.
• Glass is not a eutectic mixture, as eutectic mixtures are combinations of substances with a specific melting point. Hence, option 4 is incorrect.
• Uses of Glass:
• It is widely used in construction (windows, doors) due to its transparency and durability.
• It is used in electronics (screens, optical fibers) due to its insulating properties.
• It is employed in the automotive industry for windshields and mirrors.
• Specialized glasses, such as borosilicate glass, are used in laboratory equipment due to their thermal resistance.
• Formation Process:
• Glass is produced by heating raw materials like silica, soda ash, and lime at high temperatures (around 1700°C).
• Rapid cooling prevents the formation of a crystalline structure, resulting in an amorphous solid.
• Modern techniques like float glass production ensure uniform thickness and smooth surfaces.

Important Points

• Historical Development:
• Glassmaking dates back to around 3500 BCE in Mesopotamia and Egypt.
• Modern glass production techniques were developed in the 19^th and 20^th centuries, enabling mass production.
• Scientific Classification: Glass is classified as an amorphous solid due to its lack of crystalline structure and supercooled liquid nature.
• Innovations: Advances in glass technology have led to specialized types like tempered glass, laminated glass, and optical glass, which are used in various industries.

The Correct Answer is Mixed Martial Arts (MMA).

In News

• Cricket retained, MMA to debut at Asian Games 2026.

Key Points

• Cricket is retained for the Asian Games 2026.
• Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) will debut at the 2026 Asian Games.
• The 2026 Asian Games will be held in Aichi and Nagoya, Japan.
• Dates: September 19 to October 4, 2026.
• Cricket first appeared in the Asian Games in Guangzhou 2010.
• It was also played in Incheon 2014, but those matches had no international status.
• At the 2023 Asian Games in Hangzhou, cricket matches were given international status by the ICC.
• 2026 will mark the fourth appearance of cricket in the Asian Games.

The correct answer is Xuanzang.

Key Points

• Xuanzang also known as Hiuen Tsang, was a 7^th-century Chinese Buddhist monk, scholar, traveler, and translator.
• He visited India during the reign of Harsha Vardhana.
• Si-yu-ki or ‘The Records of the Western World’ was written by him.
• He spent 14 years traveling in India.
• Xuan Zang, who took the land route back to China through the north-west, and Central Asia carried back with him statues of the Buddha made of gold, silver and sandalwood, and over 600 manuscripts loaded on the backs of 20 horses.
• Over 50 manuscripts were lost when the boat on which he was crossing the Indus capsized.
• He spent the rest of his life translating the remaining manuscripts from Sanskrit into Chinese.

Additional Information

• | Traveller | During reign of | | --- | --- | | Abdur Razzak | Deva Raya ll | | Alberuni | Mahmud Ghazni | | Fa hien | Chandragupta II | | Huien Tsang | Harsha Vardhana | | Ibn Battuta | Mohammed Bin Tughlaq | | Marco Polo | Rudramma Devi |

The correct answer is IX

Key Points

• The provisions related to the Panchyati Raj System is mentioned in Part IX of the Indian constitution.
• Part IX contains provisions relating to Panchayati Raj up to Articles 243-243O under the title 'Panchayats'.
• This part is added by the 73^rd Constitutional Amendment Act 1992.
• The 11^th Schedule and the list of 29 subjects were added to the Constitution by the 73^rd Constitutional Amendment.
• The purpose of the Act is to provide a three-tier system of Panchayati Raj, including:
• Village-level - Gram Panchayat
• Block-level - Janpad Panchayat
• District-level - Zila Parishad

Important Points

• India implemented the Community Development Program- CDP on October 2, 1952, on the eve of Gandhi Jayanti.
• The National Extension Service was also started in the year 1953 to support the Community Development Program.
• But both this program could not play an important role.
• After independence, in 1957, the Balwant Rai Mehta Committee was formed by the Planning Commission to study the reasons for the failure of the Community Development Program and the National Extension Service Program.
• In November 1957, the committee submitted its report, which suggested the implementation of the three-tier Panchayati Raj system - village level, intermediate level, and district level.
• The National Development Council accepted the recommendations of the Balwant Rai Mehta Committee in the year 1958.
• The first three-tier panchayat of the country was inaugurated by the then Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru in Nagaur, Rajasthan on October 2, 1959.
• Committees related to Panchayati Raj System:
• Balwant Rai Mehta Committee (1957)
• Ashok Mehta Committee (1977)
• G. V. K. Rao Committee (1985)
• L M Singhvi Committee (1986)
• Sarkaria Commission on Center-State Relations (1988)
• PK Thungan Committee (1989)
• Harlal Singh Kharra Committee (1990)
• Ashok Mehta Committee recommended the two-tier system of Panchayati Raj.
• Zila Parishad
• Mandal Panchayat
• LM Singhvi Committee recommended providing constitutional status to Panchyati Raj institutions.

The correct answer is Konkan.

Key Points

• The northern part of the Western Coastal Plain of India is known as the Konkan coast.
• It extends from Daman to Goa.
• Rice and cashew are mostly grown here.

Important Points

Western Coastal Plain:

• It lies between the Western ghats and the Arabian Sea.
• It extends from Rann of Kutch to Kanyakumari.
• It is narrower than the Eastern coastal plains.
• It is divided into 4 parts:
• Kutch and Kathiawar coast - Extends from Rann of Kutch to Daman
• Konkan Coast (northern part) - Extends from Daman to Goa.
• Kanada Coast (central part) - Extends from Goa to Mangalore.
• Malabar Coast (southern part) - Extends from Mangalore to Kanyakumari.

Eastern Coastal Plain:

• It lies between the Eastern Ghats and the Bay of Bengal.
• It extends from West Bengal to Tamil Nadu.
• The deltas of Mahanadi, Krishna, Godaveri, Cauvery River are present here.
• It is divided into 3 parts:
• Utkal Coast - Extends between Chilka Lake and Kolleru Lake.
• Andhra Coast/Northern Circars - Extends between Kolleru Lake and Pulicat Lake.
• Coromandel Coast - Extends between Pulicat Lake and Kanyakumari.
• Both, the western and eastern coastal plains join at **Kanyakumari.**​

The correct answer is Compensation point.

Key Points

• Compensation point is the stage at which the rate of photosynthesis equals the rate of respiration in plants.
• At this point, the carbon dioxide produced during respiration is completely utilized in photosynthesis, and there is no net gas exchange between the plant and its environment.
• This typically occurs in low light intensity conditions where the energy provided is just enough to sustain the plant's metabolic functions.
• The concept of compensation point is crucial in understanding plant survival, especially in shaded environments or during early morning and late evening when light is minimal.
• The compensation point varies among different plants. For example, shade-tolerant plants have a lower compensation point compared to sun-loving plants.

Additional Information

• Photosynthetic quotient:
• The photosynthetic quotient refers to the ratio of oxygen released to carbon dioxide absorbed during photosynthesis.
• It is usually close to 1 for most plants but can vary depending on the type of photosynthetic pathway (C3, C4, or CAM).
• Respiratory quotient:
• The respiratory quotient (RQ) is the ratio of carbon dioxide produced to oxygen consumed during respiration.
• RQ values differ based on the substrate being metabolized, e.g., carbohydrates (RQ = 1), fats (RQ = 0.7), or proteins (RQ = 0.8).
• Equivalence point:
• This term is primarily used in chemistry and refers to the point in a titration where the amount of titrant added is chemically equivalent to the substance being titrated.
• It does not apply to photosynthesis or respiration processes.
• Light intensity and plant growth:
• Light intensity directly affects the rate of photosynthesis. Below the compensation point, plants rely on stored energy for survival.
• Above this point, plants start producing excess energy, which is used for growth and reproduction.

Important Points

• The compensation point is vital for understanding plant survival strategies, especially in low-light environments like dense forests or during cloudy conditions.
• Plants with low compensation points, such as shade-loving plants, are better adapted to survive in shaded or dim light conditions compared to plants with high compensation points.
• In agriculture, knowledge of the compensation point helps in optimizing plant growth by providing adequate light and understanding plant metabolic needs.
• The interplay between photosynthesis and respiration is essential for maintaining the energy balance within plants.

Correct answer is :Plates and bowls

Key Points Painted Grey Ware (PGW) :

• Time Period: PGW is associated with the later Vedic period (circa 1200–600 BCE), primarily found in Northern India.
• Material: Known for its fine grey surface with simple painted designs, typically in black or dark brown.
• Common Vessel Types:
• Plates and bowls: Most commonly found, used for eating and serving food.
• Other types like jars, cooking pots, and urns are less frequent.
• Production: Wheel-made with smooth surfaces, indicating advanced ceramic technology.
• Cultural Significance: The prominence of plates and bowls suggests their importance in daily life and possibly communal eating practices.

The correct answer is Typhoon Fung-wong.

In News

• Typhoon Fung-wong, locally known as Uwan, has made landfall in the Philippines, prompting the evacuation of over 9 lakh people and claiming two lives as it battered Luzon with destructive winds and torrential rain.

Key Points

• Typhoon Fung-wong struck the Aurora province in Luzon with sustained winds of 185 km/h and gusts reaching 230 km/h.
• It weakened as it moved across La Union in western Luzon but continued to bring heavy rainfall, storm surges, and strong winds.
• Nearly 9 lakh people were evacuated as a precaution, and extensive rescue and relief operations are underway.
• Over 300 flights were cancelled, with multiple airports closed due to safety concerns.

Additional Information

• About Typhoon Fung-wong
• Local Name: Uwan
• Region Affected: Luzon, Philippines
• Wind Speed: 185 km/h (gusts up to 230 km/h)
• Category: Typhoon-level tropical storm
• Impact: Flooding, landslides, power outages, and transportation disruptions
• Government Response
• The Philippine meteorological service (PAGASA) issued severe weather warnings for northern and central Luzon.
• Rescue and evacuation efforts were coordinated by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC).
• Authorities deployed military and police units for relief distribution and clearing operations.
• Aftermath
• Two fatalities have been confirmed, with reports of multiple injuries and missing persons.
• Heavy rainfall triggered flash floods and landslides in mountainous areas.
• Several airports and schools remain closed, and electricity supply was disrupted in many provinces.
• Context
• Typhoon Fung-wong follows Typhoon Kalmaegi, which caused over 200 deaths earlier in the year and led to a state of calamity across the Philippines.
• It highlights the Philippines’ ongoing vulnerability to tropical cyclones and extreme weather events in the Pacific typhoon belt.
• Static Facts
• Country: Philippines
• Local Name: Uwan
• Typhoon Name: Fung-wong
• Region of Landfall: Aurora province, Luzon
• Wind Speed: 185 km/h (gusts up to 230 km/h)
• Agency Monitoring: PAGASA (Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration)
• Preceding Typhoon: Kalmaegi

The correct answer is Retina.

Key Points

• The retina is a light-sensitive layer of tissue located at the back of the inner eye.
• It functions like the film in a camera, receiving the image formed by the lens.
• The retina converts light into electrical signals, which are sent to the brain via the optic nerve.
• Photoreceptor cells, namely rods and cones, are essential components of the retina, responsible for vision in low light and color vision, respectively.

Additional Information

• Cornea
• The cornea is the transparent, dome-shaped surface that covers the front of the eye.
• It helps to focus incoming light onto the retina.
• The cornea provides approximately 65-75% of the eye's total focusing power.
• Iris
• The iris is the colored part of the eye surrounding the pupil.
• It controls the size of the pupil and thus the amount of light that enters the eye.
• Pupil
• The pupil is the black circular opening in the center of the iris.
• It regulates the amount of light that enters the eye by expanding and contracting.
• Photoreceptors
• There are two main types of photoreceptors: rods and cones.
• Rods are responsible for vision in low light conditions, while cones are responsible for color vision and detail in bright light.

The correct answer is Udayin.

The 'microliths' were used by early man during the Mesolithic Age.

Key Points

The period when we find environmental changes, beginning about 12,000 years ago till about 10,000 years ago is called the Mesolithic Age or Middle Stone Age.

• Stone tools found during this period are generally tiny and are called microliths.
• Microliths were probably stuck onto handles of bone or wood to make tools such as saws and sickles.
• At the same time, older varieties of tools continued to be in use during this period.

Hence, we can conclude that the 'microliths' were used by early man during the Mesolithic Age. 

Additional Information

• The Mesolithic Age was a transitional period between the Palaeolithic and Neolithic Age.
• People of this era subsisted on hunting, fishing, and gathering food and later on they domesticated animals also.
• Mesolithic sites have been discovered in Rajasthan, south of the Krishna River, in central and eastern India and in southern Uttar Pradesh.
• Mesolithic sites in India include Bagor in Rajasthan and Adamgarh in Madhya Pradesh.

The correct answer is It forms a greenish layer..

Key Points

• When copper reacts with air and moisture over time, it undergoes oxidation, forming a greenish layer.
• The greenish layer is primarily composed of copper carbonate (CuCO₃) and copper hydroxide (Cu(OH)₂), resulting from the reaction with carbon dioxide and water in the atmosphere.
• This process is commonly referred to as patination, and the resulting green layer is called a "patina."
• Patina acts as a protective coating, preventing further corrosion of the copper surface.
• This phenomenon is commonly observed on copper statues, rooftops, and old coins exposed to air and moisture over extended periods.

Additional Information

• Oxidation Reaction:
• Copper reacts with oxygen, water, and carbon dioxide in the atmosphere to form copper carbonate and copper hydroxide.
• The chemical equation for the formation of patina is:

2Cu + H₂O + CO₂ + O₂ → Cu(OH)₂ + CuCO₃.

• Patination Process:
• Patination is a natural chemical process where metals like copper and bronze develop a protective layer.
• It is often desired in architecture and artwork for its aesthetic appeal.
• Common Examples:
• The Statue of Liberty is a famous example of patination, where the copper surface has turned green due to oxidation over time.
• Patina is also observed on copper utensils, coins, and outdoor monuments.
• Preventing Corrosion:
• While patina protects copper from further corrosion, polishing or coating with clear lacquer can prevent patination.
• In industrial settings, copper surfaces are often treated to control or enhance patination.

The correct answer is Comptroller & Auditor General.

• Comptroller & Auditor General is known as the watchdog of Public Finances in India.

Key Points

• The CAG of India is the head of the Indian Audit and Accounts department.
• The CAG of India is known as the Watch Dog of Public Finance or the Guardian of Public Purse.
• Article 148 - The CAG of India.
• The CAG of India holds office for a term of 6 years or until 65 years of age whichever is earlier.
• The CAG of India gives his resignation letter to the President.
• The first CAG of India - V. Narahari Rao.
• The current CAG of India - Shri K. Sanjay Murthy

The correct answer is Nautanki.

Key Points

• Nautanki is a dance form of Uttar Pradesh which is a combination of mythological plays and folklore.
• It is an operatic form of theatre performance.
• Nautanki has developed according to the changing needs of large masses of people who live in the villages of India.
• Apart from these two places, the other places where Nautanki has its root and grew are Hathras and Kanpur.

Additional Information

• Jatra:
• It is a popular form of folk dance in the eastern region of India.
• It is a multi-person theatrical act consisting of music, acting, singing, and dramatic debate.
• Faguna:
• It is a folk dance form associated with Bihar.
• It is performed by both men and women during the festival of Holi.
• Bihu:
• The Bihu dance takes its name from the Bohag Bihu festival (also called Rangali Bihu), the National festival of Assam.

The correct answer is Lal Bahadur Shastri.

Key Points

• Lal Bahadur Shastri was the second Prime minister in India.
• He served as the Prime minister of India from 1964 to 1966.
• He was the Prime Minister of India during the Indo-Pak war in 1965.
• His birthday also falls on 2^nd October along with Mahatma Gandhi's birthday.
• The famous slogan "Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan" was raised by Lal Bahadur Shastri.
• He signed on Tashkent Declaration along with the then-President of Pakistan Muhammad Ayub Khan on 10^th January 1966.
• He is the first prime minister to die abroad.
• He was honoured with the Bharat Ratna in 1966.
• He was the first person to receive Bharat Ratna posthumously.
• The resting place of Lal Bahadur Shastri is called Vijayghat.

Additional Information

• Jawaharlal Nehru was the Prime Minister of India during the Indo-China war in 1962.
• Indira Gandhi was the Prime Minister of India during the Indo-Pak war in 1971.
• Rajiv Gandhi was the Prime Minister of India when the Bhopal gas tragedy took place in 1984.

The correct answer is J.B. Kripalani.

Key Points

• J.B. Kripalani was the president of the Indian National Congress in 1947.
• Before Kripalani, the President of INC was Jawaharlal Nehru in 1946.
• After Kripalani, Pattabhi Sitaraimayya was the president of INC in 1948 & 1949.
• In 1950, Purushottam Das Tandon was the president of INC and after that in 1951, Jawaharlal Nehru was the president of INC.

Important Points

• The Indian National Congress was founded in Bombay in December 1885.
• A.O. Hume was the founder of the Indian National Congress.
• Wyomesh Chandra Banerjee was the first President of INC in 1885.​
• Badruddin Tyabji was the First Muslim president of INC and overall third president of INC in 1887.
• Annie Besant became the first female president of INC.

The correct answer is Kathmandu (Nepal)

Key Points

• SAARC is South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation, which is a regional intergovernmental organisation.
• It was founded on 8 December 1985 in Dhaka.
• It aims to promote the development of economic and regional integration.
• It is headquartered in Kathmandu, Nepal.
• The South Asian Free Trade Area was launched on 1^st January 2006 to create a free trade zone between its members.
• As of March 2020 Esala Ruwan Weerakoon is the Secretary-General. He assumed office on 1^st March 2020.

Additional Information

• Given below is the list of all members of SAARC:
• Afghanistan
• Bangladesh
• Bhutan
• India
• Maldives
• Nepal
• Pakistan
• Sri Lanka

The correct answer is Decrease in the amount of ozone in the atmosphere is due to chlorofluorocarbons (CFC)..

Key Points

• Ozone is a molecule composed of three oxygen atoms (O₃).
• Ozone depletion refers to the thinning of the ozone layer in the Earth's stratosphere.
• Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) are the primary cause of ozone layer depletion. CFCs are man-made chemical compounds used in air conditioning, refrigeration, and aerosol propellants.
• When CFCs are released into the atmosphere, they eventually rise to the stratosphere, where they are broken down by UV radiation, releasing chlorine atoms.
• The chlorine atoms react with ozone molecules, causing the ozone to break down into oxygen molecules, thus depleting the ozone layer.
• The Montreal Protocol was established in 1987 to phase out the production and use of substances that deplete the ozone layer, including CFCs.

 Additional Information

• It is not poisonous.
• Ozone at ground level is harmful and can cause respiratory problems and other health issues. While in the stratosphere, it is essential for blocking harmful UV radiation.
• It is formed by combining only two atoms of oxygen.
• Ozone is actually formed by combining three oxygen atoms (O₃), not two. The molecule of two oxygen atoms is regular oxygen (O₂).
• It causes blood cancer.
• There is no direct evidence linking ozone to blood cancer. However, exposure to high levels of ground-level ozone can cause respiratory problems and other health issues.

The correct answer is Both 1 and 2.

Key Points

• Both Article 41 (public assistance) and Article 48A (environment protection) indirectly contribute to public health.
• Clean environments and state support for the sick promote a healthier society.These articles fall under the Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP), which guide the state in policy making to promote the welfare of the people.

Article 41: Right to Public Assistance:

• **Article 41: “**The State shall, within the limits of its economic capacity and development, make effective provision for securing the right to work, to education, and to public assistance in cases of unemployment, old age, sickness, and disablement, and in other cases of undeserved want.”

Article 48A: Protection and Improvement of Environment:

• **Text of Article 48A: “**The State shall endeavor to protect and improve the environment and to safeguard the forests and wildlife of the country.”

The correct answer is Sharda Sinha.

Key Points

• Sharda Sinha is widely known as the "Bihar Kokila" for her melodious voice and contribution to Bhojpuri and Maithili music.
• She is a renowned Indian folk singer primarily performing in the languages of Bhojpuri, Maithili, and Magahi, representing the cultural heritage of Bihar.
• Sharda Sinha gained national recognition for singing songs in Bollywood movies such as "Madhushala" in Hum Aapke Hain Koun.
• She was awarded the Padma Bhushan in 2018, India's third-highest civilian award, for her contribution to music.
• Her songs are especially popular during Chhath Puja celebrations, making her a cultural icon in Bihar.

Additional Information

• Folk Music of Bihar
• Bihar is known for its rich tradition of folk music, including Bhojpuri, Maithili, and Magahi genres.
• Music plays a significant role in festivals like Chhath Puja, Holi, and marriage ceremonies.
• Artists like Sharda Sinha have brought regional music to mainstream platforms, preserving the cultural essence of Bihar.
• Padma Bhushan Award
• The Padma Bhushan is India's third-highest civilian award, given for distinguished service of high order.
• It is awarded across various fields such as art, literature, science, and public service.
• Sharda Sinha received this award in 2018, acknowledging her contribution to Indian folk music.
• Chhath Puja Significance
• Chhath Puja is a major festival in Bihar, dedicated to the Sun God and observed with great reverence.
• Folk songs sung during Chhath Puja reflect the devotion and cultural richness of Bihar.
• Sharda Sinha's songs are an integral part of the festival, enhancing its spiritual ambiance.
• Languages of Bihar
• Bihar's linguistic diversity includes Bhojpuri, Maithili, Magahi, and Hindi.
• These languages serve as mediums for preserving and propagating folk traditions and music.
• Sharda Sinha's performances in these languages have played a crucial role in promoting Bihar's cultural identity.