PYST 14: IB Security Assistant (Executive) Official Paper - General Awareness (Held On: 30 Sept, 2025 Shift 2) (Previous Year Paper)

The correct answer is Phosphate compounds and nitrate compounds.

Key Points

• Phosphate compounds and nitrate compounds are the primary nutrients responsible for eutrophication and the proliferation of algal blooms in aquatic ecosystems.
• When these nutrients are present in excess, they stimulate the growth of algae and aquatic plants, leading to a dense algal bloom that depletes oxygen levels in the water.
• This process, known as eutrophication, causes hypoxic (low oxygen) or anoxic (no oxygen) conditions, which can lead to the death of aquatic life, including fish and other organisms.
• Sources of these nutrients include agricultural runoff, untreated sewage, and industrial effluents, which introduce large amounts of fertilizers into water bodies.
• Efforts to mitigate eutrophication include improving wastewater treatment, regulating agricultural practices, and minimizing the use of phosphate-based detergents.

Additional Information

• Potassium salts, such as potassium chloride, are essential for plant growth but are not directly linked to eutrophication or algal blooms.
• Urea is a nitrogenous fertilizer, but its contribution to eutrophication is less significant compared to phosphates and nitrates because urea breaks down and releases nitrogen more slowly.
• Potassium primarily aids in water regulation and enzyme activity in plants rather than causing nutrient overloading in water bodies.
• Zinc salts are essential micronutrients for plant and animal growth but are not directly linked to eutrophication.
• Eutrophication
• Eutrophication is primarily caused by nutrient enrichment, especially with nitrogen and phosphorus, in aquatic ecosystems.
• It results in overgrowth of algae, oxygen depletion, and biodiversity loss.
• Effective management strategies include reducing nutrient inputs, promoting sustainable farming practices, and enhancing water treatment facilities.

The correct answer is Bhimavva Shillekyathara.

Key Points

• Bhimavva Shillekyathara is a renowned artist specializing in Togalu Gombeyaata, a traditional shadow puppetry art form from Karnataka.
• Togalu Gombeyaata is a unique cultural art that uses leather puppets to narrate mythological and folk tales.
• Bhimavva has preserved and promoted this art form, ensuring it continues to thrive despite challenges faced by traditional performing arts.
• She was honored with the Padma Shri in 2025 for her contributions to the field of arts and culture.
• This recognition highlights her efforts in keeping alive the heritage of shadow puppetry and inspiring future generations to appreciate and participate in traditional art forms.

Additional Information

• Madugula Nagaphani Sarma
• Madugula Nagaphani Sarma is a noted scholar and performer specializing in Harikatha, a traditional art form of storytelling accompanied by music.
• Harikatha is popular in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana and is used for disseminating spiritual and mythological stories.
• He is known for his ability to engage audiences and promote cultural heritage through his performances.
• Harchandan Singh Bhatty
• Harchandan Singh Bhatty was a significant figure in environmental conservation and forestry in India.
• He contributed to sustainable forestry practices and raised awareness about ecological preservation.
• While his expertise lies in environmental sciences, he is not associated with Togalu Gombeyaata or traditional art forms.
• Joynacharan Bathari
• Joynacharan Bathari is known for his contributions to Assamese culture, particularly in the preservation of traditional music and dance forms.
• He works to promote the Sattriya dance and other heritage art forms of Assam.
• Although significant in his field, he is not linked to Togalu Gombeyaata or shadow puppetry.
• Togalu Gombeyaata
• Togalu Gombeyaata, meaning "play of leather dolls," is a form of shadow puppetry native to Karnataka.
• It involves intricate leather puppets and is traditionally performed to narrate stories from epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata.
• This art form has deep cultural significance but faces challenges due to modernization and lack of patronage.
• Artists like Bhimavva Shillekyathara play a crucial role in reviving interest in Togalu Gombeyaata.

The correct answer is 1.751 million MT.

Key Points

• India generated 1.751 million metric tons (MT) of e-waste during the financial year 2023-24, according to data presented in the Rajya Sabha in December 2024.
• E-waste refers to discarded electronic and electrical equipment, such as computers, mobile phones, refrigerators, and televisions, which contain hazardous and non-hazardous components.
• India is one of the world’s largest producers of e-waste, ranking third globally, after China and the United States, as per various international reports.
• The significant contributors to e-waste in India include consumer electronics, IT equipment, and household appliances, driven by rapid technological advancements, urbanization, and increased electronic consumption.
• The Government of India has mandated e-waste management rules (E-Waste Management Rules, 2016, and subsequent amendments) to ensure proper collection, disposal, and recycling of e-waste.

Additional Information

• E-Waste Management in India
• The E-Waste (Management) Rules, 2016, provide a comprehensive framework for Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), ensuring producers take responsibility for collecting and recycling e-waste.
• Key initiatives include the establishment of e-waste collection centers, formal recycling units, and awareness campaigns to promote proper disposal and recycling.
• India is also encouraging the informal recycling sector to integrate with formal systems for better efficiency and environmental safety.

The correct answer is Decreased from 5.6% to 5.2%.

Key Points

• India's unemployment rate in Current Weekly Status (CWS) among persons aged 15 years and above decreased from 5.6% in June 2025 to 5.2% in July 2025, as per the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) Monthly Bulletin (July 2025).
• The Current Weekly Status (CWS) method of unemployment measurement considers the status of employment during the reference week.
• This decline indicates a positive trend in employment generation, reflecting improvements in labor market conditions for the given period.
• The PLFS, conducted by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI), collects comprehensive data related to employment and unemployment in India.
• The survey aims to provide estimates of key labor market indicators such as workforce participation rate, unemployment rate, and distribution of workers across industries.

Additional Information

• Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS):
• The PLFS is an ongoing survey conducted by MoSPI to gather data on employment and unemployment in India.
• It uses two measures: Usual Status (US) and Current Weekly Status (CWS) to estimate the labor force and unemployment rates.
• Data collected through the PLFS helps policymakers design targeted interventions to address employment-related challenges.
• The survey provides critical insights into the distribution of workers by industry, gender, and rural/urban sectors.

The correct answer is Gujarat.

Key Points

• Gundiyali is a village in the Kutch district of Gujarat, India, renowned for its traditional pottery craft.
• Artisans in Gundiyali specialize in creating beautifully handcrafted clay products, using techniques passed down through generations.
• The pottery from Gundiyali is highly valued for its intricate designs and eco-friendly nature.
• Gujarat, particularly the Kutch region, is a hub for various traditional crafts, including pottery, textile weaving, and embroidery.
• The state government and NGOs have been actively promoting and supporting traditional crafts in villages like Gundiyali to preserve the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Additional Information

• West Bengal:
• West Bengal is known for its terracotta art, especially in places like Bishnupur, which is famous for its terracotta temples and pottery.
• The state also excels in crafts like kantha embroidery, jute products, and clay doll-making.
• Rajasthan:
• Rajasthan is famous for its blue pottery, a traditional craft originating in Jaipur.
• Other crafts include block printing, meenakari (enamel work), and marble carving.
• Madhya Pradesh:
• Madhya Pradesh is renowned for its terracotta art, primarily in areas like Bastar and Jhabua.
• The state is also well-known for other traditional crafts, such as Chanderi and Maheshwari textiles, and Dhokra metalwork.
• Pottery in India:
• Pottery is one of the oldest crafts in India, dating back to the Indus Valley Civilization.
• Different regions in India have their unique styles of pottery, such as black pottery of Nizamabad, Khurja pottery, and Longpi pottery of Manipur.
• Efforts are being made at the national and state levels to revive and promote traditional pottery practices across the country.

The correct answer is Men's compound team.

Key Points

• India’s men’s compound archery team made history by securing the country's first-ever gold medal at the World Archery Championships held in Gwangju, South Korea, in September 2025.
• The Indian men's compound team defeated strong contenders like South Korea and the USA in the championship, showcasing remarkable precision and teamwork.
• This victory marked a significant milestone for Indian archery, raising hopes for future successes in international tournaments.
• The men's compound team consisted of experienced archers who demonstrated exceptional skill and composure under pressure.
• The win further highlighted India's growing prominence in compound archery, a discipline that requires a mix of technical accuracy and mental resilience.

Additional Information

• The World Archery Championships are among the most prestigious tournaments in the sport of archery, held biennially under the governance of World Archery Federation.
• India’s growing success in archery reflects the country's investment in sports infrastructure and talent development.
• Archery requires exceptional focus, precision, and physical control, making it one of the most challenging and rewarding sports globally.

The correct answer is Uttarakhand.

Key Points

• The state of Uttarakhand repealed its Madrassa Act in 2025 with the intent of bringing all minority educational institutions under a common legal framework.
• This decision was taken to ensure uniformity, standardization, and quality education across all educational institutions, including madrassas.
• The move was seen as part of a larger initiative to modernize madrassa education and integrate it with mainstream education.
• By repealing the Madrassa Act, the government aimed to enhance transparency, accountability, and inclusiveness in the state's education system.
• This reform aligns with the central government's educational policies to promote a holistic approach to education and encourage skill development in minority communities.

Additional Information

• Uttar Pradesh:
• Uttar Pradesh has the largest number of madrassas in India and has implemented various reforms to modernize madrassa education, including the introduction of subjects like mathematics, science, and English.
• The Uttar Pradesh government also initiated a process to survey unrecognized madrassas in 2022 to ensure compliance with education standards.
• Jammu & Kashmir:
• In Jammu & Kashmir, madrassas play a significant role in providing religious education.
• Post the abrogation of Article 370, the focus shifted towards integrating madrassas into the national education framework to ensure uniformity and inclusivity.
• Himachal Pradesh:
• Himachal Pradesh has a relatively smaller number of madrassas compared to other northern states.
• The state has focused on promoting universal education and has implemented policies to encourage minority education.
• Educational Reforms in Madrassas:
• Across India, madrassa reforms aim to integrate modern subjects with traditional religious studies to enhance employability and skill development among students.
• Several states have introduced vocational training and IT courses in madrassas to align with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
• The central government has also provided financial assistance under schemes like the Scheme for Providing Quality Education in Madrasas (SPQEM).

The correct answer is Fort Wainwright-Yukon-Donnelly Training Areas, Alaska.

Key Points

• The 21st edition of the India-US Army exercise 'Yudh Abhyas 2025' was conducted from 1-14 September 2025.
• It was held at the Fort Wainwright-Yukon-Donnelly Training Areas in Alaska, USA.
• 'Yudh Abhyas' is an annual bilateral military exercise between the Indian Army and the United States Army aimed at enhancing interoperability and understanding between the two armed forces.
• The exercise focuses on counter-terrorism, peacekeeping operations, and disaster relief efforts in challenging terrains and adverse climatic conditions.
• The location in Alaska provides a unique opportunity for both armies to train in extreme cold weather conditions and high-altitude operations, enhancing operational readiness.

Additional Information

• Mahajan Field Firing Range, Rajasthan
• Located in Rajasthan, India, this range is used extensively by the Indian Armed Forces for live-fire exercises and military drills.
• It is one of the largest and most advanced firing ranges in India.
• However, it is not the location for the Yudh Abhyas 2025 exercise.
• Fort Irwin, California
• Fort Irwin is a major training ground for the United States Army, located in the Mojave Desert, California.
• It is home to the National Training Center (NTC), which prepares US soldiers for combat scenarios.
• While Fort Irwin has hosted past military exercises, it was not the location of Yudh Abhyas 2025.
• Auli, Uttarakhand
• Auli is a well-known hill station in Uttarakhand, India, and is primarily famous for its skiing and mountaineering training facilities.
• Although it has hosted military exercises in the past, it is not related to Yudh Abhyas 2025.
• About Yudh Abhyas
• 'Yudh Abhyas' is a longstanding military cooperation effort between India and the USA, conducted annually since 2004.
• The exercise alternates between the two countries, with Indian and American troops participating jointly in tactical drills and training.
• The primary objective is to boost bilateral defense collaboration and readiness for joint operations in diverse operational environments.

The correct answer is Ranganayakamma.

Key Points

• In September 2025, the Telangana Government announced Ranganayakamma as the recipient of the prestigious Kaloji Narayana Rao Literary Award.
• Ranganayakamma is a renowned Telugu writer and is widely celebrated for her bold and progressive writings.
• She is best known for her Marxist approach in literature and her critique of societal norms and structures.
• Her magnum opus, “Ramayana Vishavruksham”, is a critical analysis of the Ramayana through a Marxist lens, and it brought her both acclaim and controversy.
• The Kaloji Narayana Rao Literary Award, named after the famous poet and activist Kaloji Narayana Rao, is given annually to honor exceptional contributions to Telugu literature.

Additional Information

• N Rama Devi:
• She is a prominent Telugu poet and writer known for her contributions to Telugu literature.
• Her works primarily focus on themes of feminism, social justice, and human values.
• Though a respected literary figure, she was not the recipient of the Kaloji Narayana Rao Literary Award in 2025.
• K Varalakshmi:
• K Varalakshmi is a well-known Telugu writer whose works often delve into themes of women's empowerment and social change.
• She has received several accolades for her literary contributions, but she did not win the Kaloji Narayana Rao Literary Award in 2025.
• Tenneti Hemalata:
• Tenneti Hemalata, popularly known as Lata, is a prominent novelist in Telugu literature.
• Her novels are known for their emotional depth and vivid portrayal of human relationships.
• While highly regarded, she was not the awardee of the Kaloji Narayana Rao Literary Award in 2025.
• Kaloji Narayana Rao Literary Award:
• Named after Kaloji Narayana Rao, a celebrated poet, freedom fighter, and activist from Telangana.
• The award recognizes outstanding contributions to Telugu literature and is one of the most prestigious literary honors in Telangana.

The correct answer is light travels 1.33 times slower in water than in vacuum.

Key Points

• The refractive index of a medium is defined as the ratio of the speed of light in a vacuum (c) to the speed of light in that medium (v).
• Mathematically, refractive index (n) = c/v, where c = speed of light in vacuum and v = speed of light in the medium.
• A refractive index of 1.33 for water means that light travels 1.33 times slower in water than in a vacuum.
• This reduction in speed is due to the interaction of light with water molecules, which causes the light to refract or bend as it passes through the medium.
• Water's relatively high refractive index compared to air explains why objects appear distorted or bent when viewed underwater.

Additional Information

• Refractive Index: Concept and Importance
• The refractive index is a fundamental property of a medium that affects the propagation of light and other electromagnetic waves.
• It is used in optical instruments like lenses, microscopes, and telescopes to manipulate light paths.
• Knowledge of refractive indices is critical in fields like physics, engineering, and medical imaging.

The correct answer is Kamaicha.

Key Points

• Kamaicha is a traditional stringed musical instrument primarily used in folk music of Rajasthan, India, especially by the Manganiyar community.
• The instrument is made from a single block of wood. It features a spherical bowl that extends into a neck and fingerboard.
• The resonator of the Kamaicha is covered with leather, while the upper portion is covered with wood.
• It has three main gut strings and several sympathetic strings that enhance the sound quality.
• The Kamaicha is played using a bow, and its unique sound is integral to the folk music traditions of Rajasthan.

Additional Information

• Ektara
• The Ektara is a single-stringed musical instrument commonly used in Indian folk music, devotional songs, and Sufi music.
• It consists of a resonator made of wood or dried pumpkin and a bamboo neck attached to it.
• The Ektara is played by plucking the string with the fingers, and its pitch is modulated by pressing the string along the neck.
• It is simple yet versatile, often used by wandering minstrels and religious singers.
• Sheng Kheng
• Sheng Kheng is a traditional bamboo mouth organ used in the northeastern states of India, particularly among tribal communities.
• It consists of multiple bamboo pipes attached to a wind chamber. When air is blown into the chamber, it produces harmonious sounds.
• This instrument is an essential part of tribal music, used in festivals and cultural ceremonies.
• Bugchu
• The Bugchu is a percussion instrument used in Punjabi folk music.
• It consists of a small wooden resonator, often covered with skin or leather, attached to a string and a stick.
• The player holds the resonator in one hand and strikes or pulls the string with the other hand to produce rhythmic beats.
• It is a simple and portable instrument commonly used in Bhangra and other Punjabi folk performances.

The correct answer is Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary.

Key Points

• Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the state of Odisha, India, and is renowned for its diverse flora and fauna.
• In June 2025, the sanctuary recorded a significant rise in the population of Indian bison (gaur), with numbers increasing from 659 to 788 within six months.
• This growth is attributed to the sanctuary's conservation efforts, including habitat restoration, reduction of human disturbances, and effective wildlife management strategies.
• The Indian bison (gaur) is the largest extant bovine species and is classified as “Vulnerable” on the IUCN Red List due to habitat loss and poaching threats.
• Debrigarh is also home to other wildlife species such as leopards, tigers, elephants, and a variety of bird species, making it a vital biodiversity hotspot in eastern India.

Additional Information

• Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary
• Located in Karnataka, it is known for its rich biodiversity, including evergreen and semi-evergreen forests.
• The sanctuary is home to species like tigers, elephants, leopards, and Nilgiri langurs.
• It is named after the Brahmagiri Hills and serves as a popular trekking destination.
• Tamor Pingla Wildlife Sanctuary
• Situated in Chhattisgarh, this sanctuary is part of the Sarguja Forest Division.
• It forms a portion of the larger Sanjay-Dubri Tiger Reserve and is known for its diverse wildlife, including tigers, leopards, and various deer species.
• The sanctuary is named after the Tamor Hill and Pingla Nalla (stream), which flow through the region.
• Dibang Wildlife Sanctuary
• Located in Arunachal Pradesh, this sanctuary is known for its stunning alpine and sub-alpine ecosystems.
• It is home to rare species such as the Mishmi takin, red panda, and snow leopard.
• Dibang Wildlife Sanctuary forms part of the Eastern Himalayan biodiversity hotspot.

The correct answer is a lower critical angle.

Key Points

• The critical angle is inversely proportional to the refractive index of the material. A higher refractive index leads to a lower critical angle as per the formula: critical angle = arcsin(1/refractive index).
• When light travels from a denser medium (higher refractive index) to a rarer medium (lower refractive index), the critical angle is the angle of incidence beyond which total internal reflection occurs.
• A material with a higher refractive index bends light more sharply, reducing the angle at which light can escape, hence lowering the critical angle.
• Common examples include diamond, which has a very high refractive index (around 2.42) and consequently a very low critical angle of approximately 24.4°.
• This phenomenon is widely applied in optical instruments and technologies such as fiber optics and prisms for efficient light transmission and reflection.

Additional Information

• Total Internal Reflection
• Total internal reflection occurs when light travels from a denser medium to a rarer medium and the angle of incidence exceeds the critical angle.
• This principle is utilized in technologies like fiber optics, binoculars, and optical instruments for efficient light manipulation.
• Refractive Index
• Definition: Ratio of light's speed in a vacuum to its speed in a material (n=c/v).
• Optical Density: Directly indicates how optically dense a material is; higher 'n' means denser, slower light.
• Bending Light (Refraction): Determines how much light bends towards or away from the normal when entering a new medium, according to Snell's Law.
• Dimensionless: It's a ratio of speeds, so it has no units.

The correct answer is Settling disputes related to damages, interest, and insurance coverage.

Key Points

• The "AMNESTY Scheme-2025" is introduced by the Employees' State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) to address disputes related to pending damages, interest, and contributions under the Employees' State Insurance (ESI) Act, 1948.
• The scheme aims to provide relief to employers by allowing them to settle long-pending disputes through a one-time payment mechanism.
• Under this scheme, employers can pay principal dues to resolve cases, and a waiver on interest and damages may be granted to encourage compliance.
• This initiative is designed to reduce litigation and enhance the financial health of the ESIC system by improving the compliance of employers.
• The scheme primarily targets employers who have defaulted on their contributions to the ESI fund, ensuring that workers' insurance benefits are not interrupted.

Additional Information

• ESI Act and Compliance
• The Employees' State Insurance (ESI) Act, 1948, is a social security legislation aimed at providing health insurance and social security benefits to workers in India.
• ESIC is responsible for implementing this Act, ensuring workers have access to medical benefits, disability benefits, maternity benefits, and more.
• The "AMNESTY Scheme-2025" is an initiative to improve compliance with this Act and resolve disputes to maintain the integrity of the ESI fund.

The correct answer is Maru-Gurjara style.

Key Points

• The Sun Temple at Modhera, located in Gujarat, was constructed in the 11th century during the reign of King Bhima I of the Solanki dynasty.
• The temple exemplifies the Maru-Gurjara architectural style, which originated in Gujarat and Rajasthan and is known for its intricate carvings and detailed ornamentation.
• This style prominently features ornate pillars, beautifully sculpted ceilings, and exquisite toranas (arches), reflecting the artistic and cultural heritage of the Solanki period.
• The temple is divided into three main parts: Garbhagriha (sanctum sanctorum), Gudhamandapa (assembly hall), and Surya Kund (stepwell), showcasing the unique structural layout of Maru-Gurjara architecture.
• The temple is dedicated to the Sun God (Surya) and aligns perfectly with the solar equinox, allowing sunlight to illuminate the sanctum directly during specific times of the year.

Additional Information

• Chalukyan Style
• The Chalukyan architectural style, also known as Vesara style, emerged in Karnataka under the Chalukya dynasty during the 6th to 12th centuries.
• It is characterized by a blend of the Dravidian and Nagara styles of temple architecture.
• Temples such as the Virupaksha Temple at Pattadakal and Mahakuta Temples are prominent examples of the Chalukyan style.
• The style incorporates detailed sculptures, large mandapas (halls), and shikharas (spires).
• Rock-cut Style
• Rock-cut architecture involves carving temples, monasteries, and other structures directly into rock faces or caves.
• Prominent examples in India include the Ajanta and Ellora caves in Maharashtra and the Mahabalipuram rock-cut temples in Tamil Nadu.
• The style is known for its monolithic structures, intricate carvings, and frescoes depicting religious themes.
• Indo-Saracenic Style
• The Indo-Saracenic architectural style emerged during the colonial period in India, blending Indian, Islamic, and Gothic architectural elements.
• It is seen in buildings such as the Victoria Memorial in Kolkata and the Chennai Central Railway Station.
• This style features domes, arches, minarets, and decorative motifs, reflecting a fusion of Eastern and Western design principles.
• Sun Temple Architecture
• Sun temples in India are dedicated to the worship of the Sun God (Surya) and are often designed to align with solar movements.
• Famous examples include the Konark Sun Temple in Odisha and the Sun Temple at Modhera in Gujarat.
• These temples represent the zenith of ancient Indian architectural ingenuity and celestial alignment.

The correct answer is Upper Lake, Bhopal.

Key Points

• The Raja Bhoj Multiclass Sailing Championship 2025 was held in Upper Lake, Bhopal, which is a prominent freshwater lake in Madhya Pradesh, India.
• Upper Lake, also known as Bhojtal, is one of the oldest man-made lakes in India and is an iconic location for water-based activities and championships.
• This lake has been a preferred venue for national and international water sports events due to its vast expanse and calm waters.
• The championship is named after Raja Bhoj, a renowned ruler of the Paramara dynasty, who is credited with constructing the lake in the 11th century.
• The event promotes sailing as a sport in India and attracts participants from across the globe.

Additional Information

• Brahma Sarovar, Kurukshetra:
• Located in Haryana, Brahma Sarovar is a sacred water tank associated with Hindu mythology.
• It is believed to be the site where Lord Brahma performed the Ashvamedha Yajna.
• Though a significant pilgrimage site, it is not commonly used for sailing or water sports activities.
• Mansar Lake, Samba:
• Situated in Jammu and Kashmir, Mansar Lake is a pristine freshwater lake known for its scenic beauty.
• The lake holds religious significance and is a popular destination for tourism and picnics.
• It is not associated with hosting major water sports events like sailing championships.
• Gourisagar Pukhuri, Sivasagar:
• Located in Assam, Gourisagar Pukhuri is a historic artificial lake constructed during the Ahom dynasty.
• It is primarily known for its archaeological and cultural significance rather than for hosting water sports or sailing activities.
• Upper Lake, Bhopal:
• Upper Lake, also known as Bhojtal, is a crucial source of water for the city of Bhopal.
• The lake covers an area of approximately 31 square kilometers and is surrounded by greenery, making it an ideal location for water-based activities.
• It has hosted several national and international-level sailing and water sports events, making it one of the most prominent venues for such championships in India.

The correct answer is Swasth Nari, Sashakt Parivar Abhiyaan.

Key Points

• Swasth Nari, Sashakt Parivar Abhiyaan was launched by the Prime Minister on 17 September 2025 in Dhar, Madhya Pradesh.
• This campaign is recognized as the largest women and child health outreach program in India, aiming to improve health outcomes for women and children.
• The initiative includes 10 lakh+ health camps planned across the country until 2 October 2025.
• It focuses on addressing crucial health issues such as maternal and child health, nutrition, and preventive healthcare measures.
• The program is part of a broader effort to strengthen India's healthcare system by providing accessible and affordable healthcare services.

Additional Information

• Mission Shakti Health Drive
• Mission Shakti is primarily focused on women empowerment and safety, rather than being a specific health-related initiative.
• It includes measures to enhance women’s participation in workforce, entrepreneurship, and decision-making roles.
• While health awareness may be a component, it does not align with the scale of Swasth Nari, Sashakt Parivar Abhiyaan.
• Poshan Pakhwada 2025
• Poshan Pakhwada is an annual event under the Poshan Abhiyaan initiative, focusing on nutrition awareness and community engagement.
• It typically involves activities like nutritional counseling, awareness campaigns, and monitoring of nutritional status.
• While it is an important initiative for addressing malnutrition, it is not a large-scale health outreach program like Swasth Nari, Sashakt Parivar Abhiyaan.
• Ayushman Bharat 2.0
• Ayushman Bharat is India’s flagship health insurance scheme that provides Rs. 5 lakh coverage per family annually for secondary and tertiary care.
• It is aimed at financial protection for low-income families and universal healthcare access.
• Ayushman Bharat 2.0 would focus on expanding the reach and scope of the original scheme, but it is not directly related to women and child health outreach programs.

The correct answer is To expand indigenous defence manufacturing base.

Key Points

• The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) transferred technologies of nine defence systems to 10 Indian firms to enhance the indigenous defence manufacturing capabilities.
• It aligns with India’s “Make in India” initiative, which emphasizes self-reliance in defence production and technology development.
• Technology transfer provides Indian firms with the capability to manufacture advanced defence systems domestically, reducing dependency on foreign suppliers.
• Expanding the indigenous defence manufacturing base increases India’s ability to export defence products, thereby boosting economic growth and global competitiveness.
• This step also complements the government’s efforts to modernize the Indian Armed Forces through domestically developed and manufactured equipment.

Additional Information

• DRDO
• Established in 1958, it works across domains (aeronautics, armaments, electronics, etc.) and transfers technology to Indian industries, though it has faced scrutiny over project delays and cost overruns.
• Key Functions & Goals:
• Self-Reliance: Develop indigenous defense capabilities, reducing import dependence.
• Empower Armed Forces: Equip services with state-of-the-art systems (missiles, combat vehicles, sensors).
• Technology Focus: Covers areas like missiles, aircraft, armaments, electronics, materials, AI, and cyber security.
• Technology Transfer: Supports Indian industries for local production.
• Major Achievements:
• Missiles: Agni & Prithvi series, Akash, Pinaka.
• Aircraft: Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA).
• Systems: Radars, Electronic Warfare (EW) systems, Sonar, UAVs.

The correct answer is peaceful scientific research and regulated tourism.

Key Points

• The Antarctic Treaty, signed in 1959 and entered into force in 1961, designates Antarctica as a region for peaceful purposes only, banning military activity and promoting international cooperation.
• The 1991 Environmental Protocol to the Antarctic Treaty, also known as the Madrid Protocol, reinforces environmental protection by prohibiting commercial resource extraction and focusing on conservation efforts.
• Permitted activities under the treaty include scientific research, which is often conducted collaboratively by multiple nations to understand climate change, biodiversity, and geophysical phenomena.
• Regulated tourism is allowed under strict guidelines to ensure minimal impact on the fragile ecosystem of Antarctica, such as limiting the number of tourists and regulating landing sites.
• All activities in Antarctica require adherence to environmental impact assessments and are subject to inspection by member nations to ensure compliance.

Additional Information

• Key Provisions of the Antarctic Treaty (1959)
• Peaceful Purposes: Antarctica is a demilitarized zone, used only for peaceful activities.
• Scientific Freedom: Guarantees freedom for scientific research and international cooperation, with data shared freely.
• Territorial Claims: Suspends, but doesn't settle, existing territorial claims, preventing new ones.
• No Military/Nuclear Activity: Prohibits military bases, weapons testing, nuclear explosions, and radioactive waste disposal.
• Inspections: Allows inspections of all stations, ships, and aircraft to ensure compliance.
• Key Provisions of the Madrid Protocol (1991)
• Environmental Protection: Designated Antarctica as a "natural reserve, devoted to peace and science".
• Mining Ban: Prohibits all mineral resource activities, including oil exploration, for at least 50 years (renewable).
• Environmental Impact Assessment: Mandates strict rules for any activity that might affect the Antarctic environment.

The correct answer is Viksit Bharat 2047.

Key Points

• Viksit Bharat 2047 is a comprehensive initiative launched by the Government of India to establish a national framework for long-term development goals to achieve a developed nation status by 2047.
• The program focuses on reforms and action plans submitted by various ministries and departments to align with the vision of a progressive India.
• Under this framework, ministries are directed to prepare five-year action plans with reform goals aimed at addressing critical national challenges and promoting sustainable development.
• The high-level committee led by former Cabinet Secretary Rajiv Gauba oversees the implementation and coordination of reforms under the Viksit Bharat 2047 initiative.
• This framework aligns with the government's vision for India's 100th year of independence, focusing on areas like infrastructure development, digital transformation, sustainable growth, and social inclusion.

Additional Information

• National Reform Vision
• This term refers to overarching policy frameworks that aim to implement wide-ranging reforms in governance, economy, and social sectors.
• While not a specific initiative, it represents the government's intent to streamline and modernize various aspects of administration and policy-making.
• It is often linked to measures promoting transparency, efficiency, and accountability across government systems.
• Mission GatiShakti
• Mission GatiShakti is a flagship initiative launched by the Government of India to facilitate integrated infrastructure development.
• It aims to break silos and ensure coordination among various ministries for faster project execution and economic growth.
• This initiative focuses on multi-modal connectivity and efficient logistics management through a GIS-based platform.
• Mission GatiShakti plays a crucial role in promoting India's competitiveness and reducing logistics costs.
• Digital India 2.0
• Digital India 2.0 is an extension of the original Digital India program aimed at accelerating digital transformation in India.
• This initiative focuses on leveraging emerging technologies like AI, blockchain, and IoT to enhance governance and citizen services.
• It includes programs to promote digital literacy, expand broadband connectivity, and strengthen cybersecurity measures.
• Digital India 2.0 aligns with the government's vision to create a digitally empowered society and knowledge economy.