PYST 11: IB Security Assistant (Executive) Official Paper - General Awareness (Held On: 29 Sept, 2025 Shift 3) (Previous Year Paper)

The correct answer is Dhar.

Key Points

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the 'Swasth Nari, Sashakt Parivar Abhiyaan' from Dhar, Madhya Pradesh.
• The initiative focuses on ensuring women's health and well-being, which is closely linked to the health of the entire family.
• The campaign aims to promote awareness regarding health issues in women, ensuring their access to healthcare facilities.
• This initiative aligns with broader government programs aimed at improving maternal health and reducing malnutrition in women and children.
• The program emphasizes community engagement and the active participation of local healthcare institutions.

Additional Information

• Bhopal:
• Bhopal is the capital city of Madhya Pradesh and is known for its historical significance and cultural heritage.
• The city is often associated with government initiatives in education, urban development, and environmental conservation.
• It is also a center for healthcare programs and public awareness campaigns in Madhya Pradesh.
• Indore:
• Indore is the largest city in Madhya Pradesh and recognized as the cleanest city in India for several consecutive years under the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan.
• The city is a hub for various government programs related to urban development and sanitation.
• Indore has been a venue for several national-level initiatives but was not the location for launching this campaign.
• Gwalior:
• Gwalior is renowned for its historical monuments and rich cultural heritage.
• It has hosted several government-led initiatives focusing on tourism, education, and healthcare.

The correct answer is Acid.

Key Points

• The fluffiness of cakes and idlis is due to the release of carbon dioxide (CO₂) gas during a chemical reaction involving baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) and an acid.
• When baking soda reacts with an acid (e.g., lemon juice, vinegar, or lactic acid in curd), CO₂ gas is produced, which gets trapped in the batter, forming air pockets.
• These air pockets expand upon heating, causing the batter to rise and resulting in a fluffy texture in cakes and idlis.
• Common acidic ingredients used in baking include buttermilk, yogurt, vinegar, lemon juice, or cream of tartar.
• This reaction is a part of leavening, a process that makes baked goods light and porous by introducing gases like CO₂ into the batter or dough.

Additional Information

• Salt
• Salt (sodium chloride) is used in baking primarily to enhance the flavor of the final product.
• It also strengthens the gluten structure in bread dough and regulates yeast fermentation, but it does not contribute to the production of carbon dioxide gas.
• Sugar
• Sugar is used in baking to add sweetness, create a tender texture, and contribute to browning during baking.
• While sugar can interact with yeast in bread-making to produce CO₂, it does not react with baking soda to release the gas required for fluffiness in cakes and idlis.
• Oil
• Oil is used in baking to improve the texture and moisture of the final product.
• It does not contribute to the leavening process or the production of carbon dioxide gas.

The correct answer is Small Modular Reactors.

Key Points

• Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) are advanced nuclear reactors with a capacity of up to 300 megawatts per unit, which is about one-third of the capacity of traditional nuclear power reactors.
• The Union Budget 2025-26 highlighted the Nuclear Energy Mission to promote research and development of SMRs as part of India’s clean energy transition strategy.
• SMRs are cost-effective, modular, and scalable, allowing for easier deployment in remote and smaller regions with lower electricity demand compared to traditional nuclear reactors.
• These reactors are designed with enhanced safety features and can operate flexibly to complement renewable energy sources like wind and solar power.
• The Indian government is focusing on SMRs to achieve net-zero emissions by 2070, reduce dependence on fossil fuels, and ensure energy security.

Additional Information

• Fast Breeder Reactors (FBRs):
• FBRs use fast neutrons to sustain the fission process and are capable of producing more fissile material than they consume.
• India has been actively pursuing FBR technology with the construction of the Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) at Kalpakkam, Tamil Nadu.
• These reactors are essential for utilizing thorium reserves and achieving a sustainable nuclear fuel cycle.
• However, FBRs are not the focus of the 2025-26 Nuclear Energy Mission as they are part of India’s long-term nuclear program under its three-stage nuclear power strategy.
• Fusion Energy Reactors:
• Fusion energy reactors aim to replicate the process that powers the sun by fusing hydrogen isotopes to release vast amounts of energy.
• Fusion is considered the “holy grail” of clean energy due to its virtually limitless fuel supply and minimal radioactive waste.
• Currently, fusion energy is in the experimental phase, with international projects like ITER (International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor) leading the charge.
• India is a member of the ITER project, but commercial fusion energy reactors are not yet a feasible option for immediate implementation.
• Thorium-based Reactors:
• Thorium-based reactors use thorium as a fuel, which is abundant in India, to generate nuclear energy.
• India has been investing in thorium-based reactor technology as part of its three-stage nuclear power program.
• The Advanced Heavy Water Reactor (AHWR) is a notable project in this field.
• Although thorium reactors hold great promise for India’s energy future, they are not the focus of the 2025-26 Nuclear Energy Mission.

The correct answer is Madhya Pradesh.

Key Points

• Madhya Pradesh emerged as the champion at the first-ever Khelo India Water Sports Festival held at Dal Lake, Srinagar, in August 2025.
• The event featured numerous water sports competitions, including kayaking, canoeing, rowing, and dragon boat racing, attracting participants from across the nation.
• Madhya Pradesh's athletes showcased exceptional talent and secured the highest number of medals, earning them the championship title.
• The festival was organized under the Khelo India initiative to promote water sports and encourage youth participation in sports.
• Dal Lake in Srinagar was chosen as the venue to highlight the natural beauty of Kashmir and promote tourism alongside sports development.

Additional Information

• Kerala
• Kerala is renowned for its expertise in water sports and hosts the Nehru Trophy Boat Race, one of India's most famous boat races.
• The state has a strong presence in sports like rowing and kayaking, with many athletes representing India at international levels.
• Despite its prominence, Kerala did not secure the championship at the Khelo India Water Sports Festival in 2025.
• Odisha
• Odisha is emerging as a sports hub in India, especially after hosting the Hockey Men's World Cup twice.
• The state has invested heavily in sports infrastructure, such as the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar.
• While Odisha has made strides in sports development, it did not secure the top spot in the water sports festival.
• Chhattisgarh
• Chhattisgarh is gradually building its presence in the sporting arena by promoting regional sports and organizing local competitions.
• Though the state has potential, it is yet to establish a strong foothold in national-level water sports.

The correct answer is Nitin Kushalappa.

Key Points

• Nitin Kushalappa is the author of the book 'Dakshin: South Indian Myths and Fables Retold' that won the Sahitya Akademi’s Bal Sahitya Puraskar, 2025.
• The book presents a unique retelling of myths and fables from South India, showcasing their cultural richness and diversity.
• The Sahitya Akademi Bal Sahitya Puraskar is awarded for outstanding literary works for children in India.
• 'Dakshin' focuses on stories that reflect the traditions, values, and folklore of South Indian culture, making it a valuable contribution to Indian children's literature.
• Nitin Kushalappa is acclaimed for his ability to engage young readers through storytelling that combines history, mythology, and imagination.

Additional Information

• Nandini Sengupta:
• Nandini Sengupta is a noted author of historical fiction and children's books.
• Her works, such as 'The Story of India’s Partition', focus on Indian history, particularly significant events and personalities.
• She is known for weaving historical narratives into engaging formats for young readers.
• Om Goswami:
• Om Goswami is celebrated for his contributions to children's literature, especially in Hindi.
• He has written extensively on topics that include Indian culture, folklore, and moral stories.
• His works are recognized for their simplicity and ability to connect with young audiences.
• Subhadra Sen Gupta:
• Subhadra Sen Gupta was an eminent author known for her works on Indian history and culture, particularly for children.
• Her books, such as 'The Constitution of India for Children' and 'A Children's History of India', are widely appreciated.
• She was awarded the Sahitya Akademi Bal Sahitya Puraskar in 2014 for her contributions to children's literature.

The correct answer is GE Aerospace.

Key Points

• GE Aerospace, previously known as GE Aviation, is a leading American aircraft engine manufacturer.
• In March 2025, GE Aerospace delivered the first batch of 99 F404-IN20 engines to Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mk-1A programme.
• The F404-IN20 engines are known for their reliability, performance, and advanced features, making them ideal for lightweight fighter aircraft like Tejas Mk-1A.
• The collaboration between GE Aerospace and HAL strengthens India’s defense manufacturing capabilities under the "Make in India" initiative.
• GE Aerospace has been a long-time partner of India’s defense industry, previously supplying engines for earlier versions of the Tejas aircraft.

Additional Information

• Northrop Grumman
• Northrop Grumman is an American aerospace and defense technology company specializing in autonomous systems, cyber solutions, and space technology.
• The company is renowned for its advanced defense systems like the B-2 Spirit stealth bomber and Global Hawk UAVs.
• RTX Corporation
• RTX Corporation (formerly Raytheon Technologies) is a major American defense contractor and industrial corporation specializing in aerospace and defense products.
• Although RTX Corporation produces advanced engines and technologies, it is not involved in the F404-IN20 engine supply for HAL or the Tejas Mk-1A programme.
• The company is well-known for its Pratt & Whitney engines and missile systems like the Patriot air defense system.
• Lockheed Martin
• Lockheed Martin is a global leader in aerospace, defense, and security, known for its advanced fighter jets like the F-35 Lightning II.
• Lockheed Martin has proposed to manufacture the F-21 fighter jet specifically for India as part of its defense collaboration.

The correct answer is Maharashtra.

Key Points

• The Maharashtra government announced the establishment of 'NaMo Gardens' in 394 municipal councils and nagar panchayats to celebrate Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 75th birthday in September 2025.
• This initiative aims to commemorate PM Modi’s contribution to national development and foster greenery and environmental sustainability.
• Each municipal council and nagar panchayat will be provided with guidelines for developing gardens with a standard design and layout.
• The gardens will serve as recreational spaces for the public while promoting environmental awareness and urban beautification.
• Maharashtra has been proactive in implementing various innovative projects to align with national policies, particularly those emphasizing sustainability and environmental conservation.

Additional Information

• Uttar Pradesh
• Uttar Pradesh is known for implementing large-scale welfare schemes such as the PM Awas Yojana and the One District One Product (ODOP) initiative.
• The state government has also introduced projects like the Namami Gange program for cleaning and rejuvenating the Ganga River.
• While Uttar Pradesh has undertaken various environmental initiatives, no specific project like 'NaMo Gardens' has been announced to mark PM Modi’s birthday.
• Rajasthan
• Rajasthan has focused heavily on water conservation projects such as the Jal Jeevan Mission and the Mukhya Mantri Jal Swavlamban Abhiyan.
• The state is also known for promoting eco-tourism and sustainability in its desert regions.
• However, there has been no announcement of 'NaMo Gardens' or similar initiatives to mark PM Modi’s birthday.
• Telangana
• Telangana is a leader in urban forestry and afforestation programs, with notable initiatives like the Haritha Haram program aimed at increasing green cover.
• While the state government has shown commitment to environmental conservation, it has not announced plans for 'NaMo Gardens' to celebrate PM Modi’s birthday.

Important Points

• NaMo Gardens
• 'NaMo Gardens' is an innovative initiative by the Maharashtra government to honor Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership and contribution to India’s progress.
• The project not only serves as a tribute but also promotes environmental awareness and urban sustainability.
• It aligns with broader national goals of environmental conservation and beautification of urban spaces.

The correct answer is Karnataka.

Key Points

• The 'Marusinchana' scheme was launched by the Government of Karnataka to improve academic performance among school students.
• The scheme targets students from classes VI to X who are lagging behind academically.
• It utilizes remedial education modules to help students improve their performance in core subjects.
• The initial implementation started in select districts and is being expanded to more districts over time.
• The objective is to reduce dropout rates and ensure that all students meet the required learning outcomes.

Additional Information

• Tamil Nadu
• Tamil Nadu has implemented several educational schemes like the 'Illam Thedi Kalvi' (Education at Doorstep) program.
• This initiative focuses on bridging learning gaps created during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• It involves volunteers teaching children in their neighborhoods to ensure continuity in education.
• Gujarat
• Gujarat has launched the 'Mission School of Excellence' aimed at improving school infrastructure and quality of education.
• The mission focuses on promoting digital learning and enhancing the academic performance of students.
• Maharashtra
• Maharashtra runs the 'Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Shikshan Hami Yojana,' which aims to provide free education to economically weaker sections.
• Additionally, the state has implemented programs like 'E-Balbharti' to enhance digital education for school students.

The correct answer is Tamil Nadu.

Key Points

• The 'Anbu Karangal' scheme was launched in the state of Tamil Nadu to provide monthly financial assistance to parentless children.
• The initiative aims to prevent school dropouts by providing financial support to children until they reach the age of 18.
• The scheme is a part of Tamil Nadu's broader welfare initiatives designed to ensure education and support for underprivileged children.
• The monthly assistance provided under the scheme helps children meet their basic education and living expenses, ensuring they do not have to discontinue their studies due to financial constraints.
• Tamil Nadu has been known for implementing progressive welfare schemes aimed at improving education and social equity across the state.

Additional Information

• Telangana
• Telangana has launched several welfare schemes such as the 'Kalyana Lakshmi' and 'Rythu Bandhu Scheme.'
• 'Kalyana Lakshmi' provides financial assistance for the marriage of girls from economically weaker sections.
• 'Rythu Bandhu' is an innovative investment support scheme for farmers to support agricultural operations.
• Kerala
• Kerala is known for its high literacy rate and progressive social welfare schemes.
• Notable schemes include the 'Subhiksha Keralam' initiative, which promotes agricultural self-sufficiency, and the 'Karunya Arogya Suraksha Padhathi,' a health insurance scheme.
• The state government also focuses on education and healthcare to enhance the quality of life for its citizens.
• Andhra Pradesh
• Andhra Pradesh has introduced schemes such as 'Amma Vodi,' which provides financial assistance to mothers for their children's education.
• The 'YSR Rythu Bharosa' scheme supports farmers with financial aid to enhance agricultural productivity.
• Additionally, the 'YSR Arogya Sri' scheme ensures free medical care for low-income families in the state.

The correct answer is father's gamete.

Key Points

• In humans, the sex of a child is determined by the type of sex chromosome contributed by the father’s sperm cell during fertilization.
• Humans have 23 pairs of chromosomes, including one pair of sex chromosomes. Females have two X chromosomes (XX), while males have one X and one Y chromosome (XY).
• All egg cells (ova) produced by the mother carry an X chromosome, as females have only X chromosomes.
• The sperm cells produced by males can carry either an X chromosome or a Y chromosome. If a sperm carrying an X chromosome fertilizes the egg, the child will be female (XX). If a sperm carrying a Y chromosome fertilizes the egg, the child will be male (XY).
• Thus, the father’s gamete (sperm) determines the sex of the child, as it contributes either the X or Y chromosome.

Additional Information

• Mother's gamete:
• The mother’s gamete (egg) always carries an X chromosome, as females have two X chromosomes (XX).
• While the mother’s gamete contributes half of the genetic material, it does not determine the child’s sex since it always provides an X chromosome.
• Blood group:
• The blood group of parents is determined by the ABO and Rh factor systems and is inherited independently of the sex chromosomes.
• Blood group does not play a role in determining the sex of a child.
• Environmental factors:
• Environmental factors such as temperature, diet, and lifestyle can influence certain biological processes but do not affect the determination of a child’s sex in humans.
• In some reptiles, environmental factors like temperature can influence sex determination.

The correct answer is 33.

Key Points

• As of March 2025, India has 33 officially declared Elephant Reserves (ERs) spread across various states.
• The 33rd Elephant Reserve was notified in Agasthiyamalai, Tamil Nadu, in August 2022, covering an area of approximately 1,197 sq km.
• India is home to nearly 60% of the global Asian elephant population, making the conservation of these reserves vital for biodiversity.
• The Elephant Reserves in India are declared under Project Elephant, a centrally sponsored scheme launched in 1992 to protect elephants, their habitat, and corridors.
• These reserves aim to mitigate human-elephant conflict and ensure the long-term survival of the species through ecological and habitat conservation.

Additional Information

• Project Elephant
• Launched in 1992 by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), Project Elephant aims to protect elephants, their habitat, and migration corridors.
• The initiative focuses on mitigating human-elephant conflict, ensuring the welfare of captive elephants, and promoting research and education about the species.
• Elephant corridors are identified and conserved to facilitate safe movement of elephants between habitats.

The correct answer is 38th.

Key Points

• The 38th edition of the National Games of India is scheduled to be held across various venues in Uttarakhand during January-February 2025.
• The National Games are a multi-disciplinary national-level sporting event organized by the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) in coordination with state governments.
• Uttarakhand was selected as the host state for the 38th National Games due to its infrastructure and commitment to promoting sports.
• The games are expected to feature over 30 sports disciplines with participation from athletes across the country.
• The hosting of the games aims to boost Uttarakhand’s economy, promote tourism, and enhance sports infrastructure in the state.

Additional Information

• National Games of India:
• The National Games of India are a prestigious sporting event held every few years, aimed at promoting sports and identifying talent across the country.
• The first edition was held in Lahore in 1924, and the games have evolved significantly over the decades.
• They serve as a platform for athletes to showcase their skills and prepare for international competitions like the Olympics and Commonwealth Games.
• The games also contribute to the development of sports infrastructure and encourage state governments to invest in sports.

The correct answer is Uttar Pradesh.

Key Points

• Chikankari embroidery is a traditional and intricate hand embroidery style that originated in the state of Uttar Pradesh, particularly in the city of Lucknow.
• The art form has been practiced for over 200 years and is renowned for its delicate and subtle designs, usually done on light fabrics such as cotton, muslin, silk, and chiffon.
• Chikankari involves a variety of stitches such as shadow work, flat stitches, and raised stitches, often depicting floral motifs and geometric patterns.
• This embroidery style was introduced during the Mughal era, with Nur Jahan, the wife of Emperor Jahangir, playing a significant role in popularizing it.
• Chikankari is highly valued for its aesthetic appeal and is widely used in traditional Indian garments like sarees, kurtas, and dupattas.

Additional Information

• West Bengal:
• West Bengal is known for its Kantha embroidery, a traditional hand embroidery technique used to create intricate patterns on sarees, dhotis, and quilts.
• Kantha embroidery involves running stitches and is characterized by motifs inspired by nature, folklore, and mythology.
• This embroidery style is primarily practiced by women in rural areas of Bengal.
• Rajasthan:
• Rajasthan is famous for various embroidery styles, including mirror work, Gota Patti, and Zardozi.
• Gota Patti involves applique work using gold or silver ribbons, while Zardozi uses metallic threads to create elaborate patterns.
• These embroidery styles are often used to embellish traditional Rajasthani attire such as lehengas and dupattas.
• Gujarat:
• Gujarat is renowned for its mirror embroidery, also known as Abhla Bharat, which incorporates small mirrors into intricate designs.
• Another popular embroidery style is Rabari embroidery, practiced by the Rabari community, featuring bold patterns and vibrant colors.
• These embroidery techniques are widely used in traditional garments, accessories, and home decor items.

The correct answer is Carbon monoxide (CO).

Key Points

• Carbon monoxide (CO) has a significantly higher affinity for haemoglobin than oxygen—approximately 200-250 times stronger.
• When inhaled, CO binds with haemoglobin to form carboxyhaemoglobin, which reduces the oxygen-carrying capacity of blood, leading to oxygen deprivation in tissues.
• Exposure to CO can cause symptoms like dizziness, headaches, confusion, and even death in severe cases, as it disrupts cellular respiration.
• CO is a colourless, odourless, and tasteless gas, making it extremely dangerous because its presence is hard to detect without specialized equipment.
• The primary sources of CO include incomplete combustion of fossil fuels, such as in vehicle emissions, faulty heaters, and gas stoves.

Additional Information

• Carbon dioxide (CO2):
• Unlike CO, carbon dioxide does not bind to haemoglobin with high affinity and is not toxic in normal concentrations.
• CO2 is a natural byproduct of respiration and is exhaled by humans and animals.
• In high concentrations, CO2 can displace oxygen in the air, causing asphyxiation, but it is not as harmful as CO in smaller quantities.
• Methane (CH4):
• Methane is a colourless, odourless gas and a significant component of natural gas.
• It is not directly harmful to haemoglobin but is a potent greenhouse gas contributing to global warming.
• In confined spaces, methane can displace oxygen, leading to suffocation.
• Nitrogen dioxide (NO2):
• Nitrogen dioxide is a toxic gas that irritates the respiratory system but does not affect haemoglobin like CO does.
• It is a major air pollutant produced from vehicle emissions and industrial activities.
• Prolonged exposure to NO2 can lead to respiratory diseases such as asthma and bronchitis.

The correct answer is Agra gharana.

Key Points

• Vilayat Hussain Khan was a renowned Hindustani classical vocalist associated with the Agra gharana, one of the prominent styles of Hindustani classical music.
• The Agra gharana is known for its emphasis on intricate ragas, bol-baant (syllable improvisation), and the use of Dhrupad and Khayal traditions.
• Vilayat Hussain Khan was famously known as "Pran Piya", a title he adopted as his pen name for his musical compositions.
• He significantly contributed to the preservation and propagation of the Agra gharana's musical style through his extensive teaching and compositions.
• He was known for his mastery of both Khayal and Thumri forms, showcasing an extraordinary command over laya (tempo) and taan patterns (rapid melodic sequences).

Additional Information

• Jaipur-Atrauli Gharana
• The Jaipur-Atrauli gharana is a prominent school of Hindustani classical music, known for its sophisticated and intricate approach to raga development.
• It was founded by Alladiya Khan, a legendary musician of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
• This gharana focuses on rare and complex ragas, with an emphasis on slow tempo and detailed exploration of musical nuances.
• Rampur-Sahaswan Gharana
• This gharana originated in Rampur, Uttar Pradesh, and was established by Ustad Inayat Hussain Khan.
• It emphasizes clarity of notes and a melodious style of singing, with smooth transitions between notes.
• Singers from this gharana are known for their intricate taans and bol-taans, along with a strong emphasis on maintaining the purity of ragas.
• Gwalior Gharana
• The Gwalior gharana is the oldest Hindustani classical vocal gharana, tracing its roots back to the Mughal era.
• Known for its straightforward and balanced approach, the Gwalior gharana emphasizes the development of ragas through Khayal singing.
• It is characterized by a focus on melody, clarity of pronunciation, and the use of both vilambit (slow) and drut (fast) tempos.

The correct answer is Assam.

Key Points

• Sattriya is one of the eight recognized classical dance forms of India and was introduced by the Vaishnavite saint and reformer Sankardev in the 15th century in Assam.
• It was originally performed in sattras (Vaishnavite monasteries) as a part of religious rituals and storytelling to propagate the teachings of Lord Krishna.
• The dance is deeply rooted in Bhakti movement and is an important medium to narrate mythological and religious stories through intricate footwork, hand gestures, and facial expressions.
• UNESCO recognized Sattriya as an Indian classical dance form in the year 2000, bringing it into the global spotlight.
• Traditionally, Sattriya was performed only by male monks in monasteries, but it has now evolved into a vibrant stage art performed by both men and women.

Additional Information

• Manipur:
• Manipur is famous for its classical dance form called Manipuri, which is a graceful and spiritual dance that revolves around the themes of Radha and Krishna.
• The Manipuri dance is characterized by soft movements, serene expressions, and elegant costumes, depicting the devotional aspects of Vaishnavism.
• It is performed as part of religious and cultural rituals and festivals in Manipur.
• West Bengal:
• West Bengal is renowned for its folk dances such as Chhau and Baul, but it does not have a classical dance form associated with it.
• Chhau dance is a semi-classical martial art dance form performed in Purulia, West Bengal, and it combines storytelling with vigorous movements and masked performances.
• The Baul tradition is a unique folk culture of Bengal, expressing spiritual themes through music and dance.
• Odisha:
• Odisha is home to the classical dance form Odissi, which is considered one of the oldest surviving classical dance forms in India.
• Odissi is known for its fluid body movements, intricate footwork, and graceful expressions, often depicting stories from Hindu mythology, especially Lord Jagannath and Lord Krishna.
• This dance form has a significant connection to temple rituals and sculptures in Odisha.

The correct answer is Pralay.

Key Points

• Pralay is a surface-to-surface short-range ballistic missile (SRBM) developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) of India.
• The missile is capable of carrying conventional warheads and has a range of 150-500 km, depending on the payload.
• It is powered by a solid-fuel rocket motor and incorporates advanced technologies for greater accuracy and reliability.
• In July 2025, DRDO successfully conducted two flight tests of Pralay, demonstrating its readiness for induction into the armed forces.
• The missile is designed for quick deployment in high-intensity conflict zones and enhances India’s deterrence capabilities against adversaries.

Additional Information

• BrahMos-ER
• The BrahMos Extended Range (ER) is an upgraded version of the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile.
• It has a range of over 400 km, compared to the standard version's range of 290 km.
• It can be launched from land, sea, air, or submarine platforms and is jointly developed by India and Russia.
• The missile is known for its speed, precision, and versatility, making it a strategic asset for the Indian armed forces.
• Rudram-I
• Rudram-I is an air-launched anti-radiation missile (ARM) developed by DRDO for the Indian Air Force.
• It is designed to target enemy radar systems and other electronic warfare assets.
• The missile has a range of 100-200 km and can be launched from a variety of fighter aircraft, including the Sukhoi Su-30MKI.
• Rudram-I enhances the IAF's capability to suppress enemy air defense systems during combat operations.
• Varunastra
• Varunastra is a heavyweight torpedo developed by DRDO for the Indian Navy.
• It is an advanced underwater weapon designed to target submarines and surface ships.
• The torpedo is powered by an electric propulsion system and is capable of reaching speeds of up to 40 knots.
• Varunastra is equipped with advanced guidance systems and sensors, making it a reliable asset for anti-submarine warfare.

The correct answer is Tamil Nadu.

Key Points

• The Tamil Nadu government announced a subsidy programme in March 2025 to support gig workers in purchasing electric scooters.
• This initiative aimed to promote the adoption of environmentally friendly transportation and reduce carbon emissions.
• Gig workers, such as delivery personnel and ride-hailing drivers, were the primary beneficiaries of this scheme.
• The subsidy provided by the Tamil Nadu government significantly reduced the upfront cost of electric scooters, making them more affordable for gig workers.
• The programme aligned with Tamil Nadu’s focus on boosting the electric vehicle (EV) sector and strengthening its position as a leader in EV manufacturing and adoption.

Additional Information

• Karnataka
• Karnataka has been a leader in electric vehicle adoption and manufacturing, with Bengaluru being a hub for EV startups.
• The state has implemented initiatives like the Karnataka Electric Vehicle & Energy Storage Policy, focusing on EV infrastructure development.
• Although Karnataka is proactive in EV promotion, no specific subsidy programme for gig workers purchasing electric scooters was announced as of March 2025.
• Maharashtra
• Maharashtra launched the EV Policy 2021, which included subsidies for EV buyers, manufacturers, and charging infrastructure development.
• The state aimed to achieve a 10% EV penetration in new vehicle registrations by 2025.
• While Maharashtra provides incentives for EVs, no targeted scheme for gig workers to purchase electric scooters was introduced in March 2025.
• Gujarat
• Gujarat announced the Gujarat Electric Vehicle Policy 2021 to encourage EV adoption by providing financial subsidies to buyers and promoting EV manufacturing.
• Under this policy, Gujarat aimed to make electric vehicles more affordable and accessible for the general population.

The correct answer is Malla Mahal, Almora.

Key Points

• Malla Mahal is located in the historic city of Almora in the state of Uttarakhand, India, which served as the seat of the Chand dynasty.
• The Chand dynasty ruled over the Kumaon region from the 11th to the 18th century, leaving a significant cultural and architectural legacy.
• The Malla Mahal is a key part of the Chand dynasty's architectural heritage, showcasing their distinctive style and craftsmanship.
• In 2025, the government has planned to transform the Malla Mahal into a heritage museum to preserve and promote the cultural history of the region.
• The museum aims to display artifacts, historical records, and other cultural relics from the Chand dynasty, making it a significant attraction for tourists and historians.

Additional Information

• RK Narayan's house, Mysuru
• RK Narayan, one of India's most celebrated authors, is known for his contributions to Indian English literature.
• His house in Mysuru has been converted into a museum showcasing his life, literary works, and awards.
• The museum celebrates his famous works like "Malgudi Days" and provides insights into his life as a writer.
• Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal, Madurai
• It is a 17th-century palace built by King Thirumalai Nayak of the Nayak dynasty in Madurai, Tamil Nadu.
• The palace is renowned for its grand architecture, including massive pillars and intricate stucco work on its domes and arches.
• It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Madurai and is preserved as a historical monument.
• Jagannath Dham, Digha
• Jagannath Dham refers to temples dedicated to Lord Jagannath, a form of Lord Vishnu, widely revered in Hinduism.
• The Jagannath temple in Digha, West Bengal, is a prominent pilgrimage site and attracts devotees from across the region.
• The temple is also a significant cultural landmark, hosting various religious festivals, including the famous Rath Yatra.

The correct answer is Mohan Charan Majhi.

Key Points

• As of August 2025, the Chief Minister of Odisha is Mohan Charan Majhi, who took office in June 2024 after the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) won the state elections, ending Naveen Patnaik's long tenure.
• He addressed the state on Independence Day in August 2025, focusing on development and welfare.
• Majhi has been actively involved in raising issues concerning the development of Odisha and the rights of its people.

Additional Information

• Sarat Pattanayak
• Sarat Pattanayak is a senior Congress leader from Odisha.
• He has served as a Member of Parliament (MP) from Balangir constituency in Odisha.
• Pattanayak has been associated with the Indian National Congress and has played a significant role in the party's activities in the state.
• Naveen Patnaik
• Naveen Patnaik served as the Chief Minister of Odisha for an uninterrupted 24 years, from March 5, 2000, to June 12, 2024.
• He is the founder and current president of the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) political party, established in December 1997 after a split from the Janata Dal.
• He has authored three books, including A Second Paradise: Indian Courtly Life 1590–1947.
• Baijayant Panda
• Baijayant “Jay” Panda is a politician and senior leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
• He was previously associated with the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) and served as a Member of Parliament from Odisha.
• Panda is known for his contributions to policy discussions, particularly on economic and governance-related issues.