Search Previous Year Questions

The Correct Answer is Maharashtra.

In News

• Khelo India Youth Games 2025 to conclude with colourful ceremony in Patna.

Key Points

• The games started on 4^th May 2025.
• It will be held at Pataliputra Sports Complex, Kankarbagh, Patna, Bihar.
• Maharashtra is the overall champion.
• It won 149 medals in total.
• This includes 56 gold and 45 silver medals.
• Haryana finished in second place.
• It won 107 medals.
• This includes 35 gold and 26 silver medals.
• Rajasthan came in third place.
• It won 55 medals, including 22 gold.
• The closing ceremony will have colorful performances and entertainment.

The correct answer is Bryophyllum: Budding.

Key Points

• Bryophyllum reproduces through vegetative propagation, specifically by leaf buds, not budding as mentioned in the incorrect option.
• Vegetative propagation in Bryophyllum occurs when new plantlets grow from the notches of its leaves.
• Budding is a mode of asexual reproduction observed in organisms like yeast and hydra, where a new organism develops as an outgrowth.
• The correct mode of reproduction for Bryophyllum is vegetative propagation, which differs significantly from budding.
• This vegetative reproduction mechanism allows Bryophyllum to multiply efficiently without seeds.

Additional Information

• Binary Fission:
• A type of asexual reproduction where a single organism divides into two identical daughter organisms.
• It is commonly observed in unicellular organisms like Leishmania and bacteria.
• Leishmania exhibits binary fission with a longitudinal splitting of the cell.
• Multiple Fission:
• In multiple fission, the parent cell divides into many daughter cells simultaneously.
• This process is typical in organisms like Plasmodium (malaria parasite).
• Plasmodium undergoes multiple fission during its life cycle in the human host and mosquito vector.
• Regeneration:
• Regeneration is the ability of an organism to regrow lost or damaged parts.
• Planaria exhibits remarkable regeneration abilities, allowing it to regrow its body parts.
• It involves the division of cells and their specialization to form different tissues and organs.
• Vegetative Propagation:
• A form of asexual reproduction where new plants grow from vegetative parts like roots, stems, or leaves.
• Bryophyllum reproduces through vegetative propagation via leaf buds.
• This method is common in various plants such as potatoes, ginger, and sweet potatoes.

The correct answer is Bhagalpur.

Key Points

• The new power plant under the "PM Modi Green Energy Scheme" is expected to significantly benefit Bhagalpur, Bihar, by improving electricity availability and infrastructure.
• This initiative aligns with India’s National Green Energy Mission, focusing on renewable energy sources such as solar and wind to enhance sustainable development.
• The plant is anticipated to support industrial growth and provide a boost to local employment opportunities in Bhagalpur and surrounding areas.
• The project is part of the government’s commitment to achieving 500 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030 as per international climate agreements.
• Bhagalpur’s selection is strategic, considering its potential to serve as a hub for clean energy distribution in eastern India.

Additional Information

• PM Modi Green Energy Scheme:
• An initiative aimed at accelerating India’s transition towards clean and renewable energy sources.
• Focuses on solar, wind, and hybrid energy projects while reducing dependency on fossil fuels.
• Renewable Energy in India:
• India is the 3^rd largest producer of renewable energy globally, with a target of achieving net-zero emissions by 2070.
• As of 2023, India has installed over 175 GW of renewable energy capacity.
• Benefits of Green Energy Projects:
• Reduces carbon emissions and mitigates climate change.
• Creates job opportunities and boosts local economies.
• Improves energy security and reduces import dependency on fossil fuels.
• Bhagalpur’s Strategic Importance:
• Known as the “Silk City,” Bhagalpur is a major trade and economic center in Bihar.
• Better power infrastructure can enhance industrial activity, including silk production and other small-scale industries.

The correct answer is Vinod Kumar Shukla.

Key Points

• Vinod Kumar Shukla was selected for the 59^th Jnanpith Award for the year 2024, announced in March 2025.
• He is a prominent Hindi poet and novelist, known for his minimalist and introspective literary style.
• Born in 1937 in Rajnandgaon, Chhattisgarh, he is the first author from the state to receive this prestigious award.
• His notable works include poetry collections like 'Lagbhag Jaihind' and novels such as 'Naukar Ki Kameez' and 'Deewar Mein Ek Khidki Rehti Thi'.
• The award recognizes his outstanding contribution to Indian literature in Hindi spanning over five decades.

Additional Information

• Jnanpith Award
• Established in 1961 by the Bharatiya Jnanpith Trust, it is India's highest literary honour.
• Awarded annually to writers for outstanding literary works in any of the 22 Indian languages listed in the 8^th Schedule of the Constitution.
• Includes a cash prize, citation, and a bronze replica of Goddess Saraswati (Vagdevi).
• Vinod Kumar Shukla's Literary Contributions
• His writing is marked by philosophical depth, poetic language, and reflection on everyday life.
• He received the Sahitya Akademi Award in 1999 for 'Deewar Mein Ek Khidki Rehti Thi'.
• 'Naukar Ki Kameez' was adapted into a Hindi film by Mani Kaul in 1999.
• Previous Jnanpith Laureates
• 2023 (58^th): Jagadguru Rambhadracharya for Sanskrit literature.
• 2022 (57^th): Damodar Mauzo for Konkani literature.
• 2021 (56^th): Nilmani Phookan for Assamese literature.
• Eligibility and Selection
• The award is given to living authors with a proven track record of significant literary contribution.
• A selection board comprising eminent scholars and literary experts recommends the recipient.

The correct answer is Option 2 (All three).

Key Points

• Mansabdari System: The Mansabdari system was introduced by the Mughals, specifically under Akbar, and it integrated military and civil services. Mansabdars were assigned ranks (Mansabs) and were responsible for maintaining a set number of troops for the empire. This system ensured an efficient administrative mechanism combining military and civil duties. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
• Dahsala System: Akbar introduced the Dahsala system of land revenue assessment as part of his administrative reforms. This system calculated revenues based on the average yield and prices over the last ten years. It was introduced by Raja Todar Mal, Akbar's finance minister, and ensured a uniform and systematic method of taxation. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
• Jagirdari System: In the Mughal administration, the Jagirdari system was a practice where Mansabdars were granted land assignments (Jagirs) instead of cash salaries. The revenue generated from these Jagirs was used to pay for their services. This system played a crucial role in maintaining the Mughal administrative and military structure. Hence, statement 3 is correct.
• All three statements are correct.

Additional Information

• Mansabdari System:
• The Mansabdari system was introduced by Akbar in 1571. The term "Mansab" means rank or position.
• Mansabdars were ranked based on two measures: Zat (personal rank) and Sawar (number of cavalry).
• Mansabdars were responsible for maintaining soldiers and horses, which they had to present during inspections.
• Ranks varied from 10 to 10,000 and were revised based on the Emperor's needs.
• Dahsala System:
• The Dahsala system was introduced in 1580 by Akbar to streamline revenue collection.
• Revenue was fixed based on the average production of crops over the previous ten years.
• The payment could be made in cash or kind, depending on the region's preferences.
• This system brought consistency and reduced exploitation of peasants by local revenue collectors.
• Jagirdari System:
• Mansabdars were assigned Jagirs, which were land grants to collect revenue.
• Jagirdars had no ownership rights over the land, and their position was transferable.
• This system ensured loyalty to the empire but sometimes led to corruption due to misuse of revenue collections.
• It was a critical component of the Mughal administrative and military apparatus.
• Akbar's Administrative Reforms:
• Akbar introduced several reforms, including the Sulh-i-kul policy, emphasizing tolerance and harmony.
• He created a centralized administration divided into provinces, districts, and villages for efficient governance.
• Akbar's revenue reforms, including the Dahsala system, ensured fairness and efficiency in taxation.

Important Points

• Role of Raja Todar Mal: He was Akbar's finance minister and played a pivotal role in establishing the Dahsala system and other revenue reforms.
• Impact of Mansabdari System: The system ensured an organized military and administrative framework but also led to challenges like corruption and inefficiency in later years.
• Historical Significance: These systems contributed to the stability and prosperity of the Mughal empire and were later studied for their administrative excellence.

I. Two successive discounts of 30% and 20%

For successive discount of a% and b%,

Total discount = a + b – (ab/100)

Now, Total discount = 30 + 20 – {(30 × 20)/100} = 50 – 6 = 44%

II. Buy 4 get 7

Let marked price of one item be Rs. 100

⇒ Marked price of 7 items = Rs. 700

⇒ Amount actually paid = Marked price of 4 item = Rs. 400

⇒ Discount = Rs. (700 – 400) = Rs. 300

⇒ Discount % = (Discount/Total marked price) × 100 = (300/700) × 100 = 42.85%

III. Buy 4 get 3 free

Buy 4 get 3 free is another way of saying buy 4 get 7

So,

⇒ Discount % = 42.85%

∴ Maximum profit is gained by scheme I

The correct answer is Neutrophils, macrophages.

Key Points

• Phagocytic cells are specialized immune cells that engulf and digest foreign particles, pathogens, and cellular debris. This process is known as phagocytosis.
• Neutrophils: These are the most abundant type of white blood cells in the human body. They play a crucial role in the innate immune response by engulfing and destroying bacteria and fungi. Neutrophils are highly effective in combating acute infections.
• Macrophages: These are large phagocytic cells derived from monocytes. Macrophages not only engulf pathogens but also present antigens to T cells, aiding the adaptive immune response. They are found in tissues throughout the body.
• Mast cells: While mast cells are involved in allergic reactions and inflammation, they are not phagocytic. Instead, they release histamine and other chemicals during immune responses. Hence, option 2 and option 4 are incorrect.
• Antibodies: These are proteins produced by B cells that bind specifically to antigens on pathogens, marking them for destruction by other immune cells. However, antibodies themselves are not phagocytic. Hence, option 1 is incorrect.
• Thus, the correct phagocytic cells are Neutrophils and Macrophages.

Additional Information

• Phagocytosis Mechanism:
• Phagocytic cells recognize pathogens through receptors that bind to pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs), such as lipopolysaccharides on bacteria.
• Once a pathogen is recognized, the cell membrane forms extensions called pseudopodia that engulf the pathogen, creating a vesicle known as a phagosome.
• The phagosome then fuses with lysosomes to form a phagolysosome, where enzymes digest the pathogen.
• Debris is expelled from the cell, completing the process of phagocytosis.
• Roles of Phagocytic Cells:
• Neutrophils: Act as the first responders to infection, migrating to the site of injury or infection through chemotaxis.
• Macrophages: Apart from phagocytosis, macrophages release cytokines to recruit other immune cells and are involved in tissue repair.
• Dendritic Cells: Although they are primarily antigen-presenting cells, dendritic cells also exhibit phagocytic activity to capture antigens.
• Immune System Overview:
• The immune system is divided into two main branches: innate immunity (non-specific and immediate) and adaptive immunity (specific and delayed).
• Phagocytic cells like neutrophils and macrophages are part of the innate immune response, providing the first line of defense against pathogens.
• Adaptive immunity involves T cells and B cells, with B cells producing antibodies and T cells attacking infected cells directly.
• Diseases Associated with Phagocytic Dysfunction:
• Chronic Granulomatous Disease (CGD): A genetic disorder where phagocytic cells fail to kill pathogens due to defective enzymes.
• Leukocyte Adhesion Deficiency (LAD): A rare disorder where phagocytes cannot migrate effectively to infection sites.

Important Points

• Neutrophils: They have a short lifespan (6-12 hours) and are replenished continuously by the bone marrow.
• Macrophages: They are long-lived and can survive for months, providing sustained immune responses.
• Cytokines: Macrophages release signaling molecules like interleukin-1 (IL-1) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) to coordinate immune responses.
• Phagocytic Activity in Inflammation: Phagocytic cells accumulate at the site of inflammation, forming pus, which consists mainly of dead neutrophils and pathogens.
• Applications: Understanding phagocytosis is crucial for developing therapies for infections, cancer immunotherapy, and vaccine design.

The correct answer is Both overall sex ratio and child sex ratio decreased.

Key Points

• Overall Sex Ratio: The overall sex ratio in Bihar refers to the number of females per 1,000 males in the total population. Between Census 2001 and Census 2011, the overall sex ratio in Bihar decreased, indicating a decline in the proportion of females compared to males.
• Child Sex Ratio: The child sex ratio is the ratio of females to males in the age group of 0-6 years. Data from Census 2011 showed a decline in the child sex ratio in Bihar compared to Census 2001, highlighting gender disparities among children.
• Reasons for Decline: The decline in both ratios can be attributed to social factors like gender bias, preference for male children, and practices such as female infanticide or sex-selective abortions.
• State Trends: Bihar, despite showing economic improvements, continues to face challenges in addressing gender inequalities, particularly in rural areas where traditional norms prevail.
• Correct Statement: Based on the data, the statement that both the overall sex ratio and child sex ratio decreased in Bihar is correct, reflecting the gender disparity trends observed during the Census period.

Additional Information

• Sex Ratio in India:
• The national average sex ratio as per Census 2011 was 943 females per 1,000 males, showing a marginal improvement from the Census 2001 figure of 933 females per 1,000 males.
• States such as Kerala and Puducherry recorded higher sex ratios, while states like Haryana and Punjab had significantly lower ratios.
• Child Sex Ratio:
• The child sex ratio at the national level decreased from 927 in Census 2001 to 919 in Census 2011.
• This decline highlights the persistent issue of gender preference and societal biases against girl children.
• Reasons for Decline:
• Sex-selective abortions: Due to the availability of prenatal diagnostic techniques, many parents opt for male children.
• Social norms: Preference for male children is often rooted in cultural and economic factors, such as inheritance laws and the perception of males as breadwinners.
• Lack of awareness: Gender equality campaigns and legal frameworks often fail to reach rural and marginalized communities effectively.
• Government Initiatives:
• Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao: Launched in 2015, this program aims to address declining child sex ratios and promote gender equality.
• Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana: A savings scheme launched for the welfare of girl children to encourage financial independence.
• Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (PCPNDT) Act: Enacted in 1994, this law aims to prevent sex-selective abortions and regulate the use of diagnostic techniques.

Important Points

• Impact of Declining Ratios:
• Declining sex ratios can lead to social imbalance, increased instances of violence against women, and issues related to marriage patterns.
• Regions with lower sex ratios often witness practices like trafficking and forced marriages.
• Role of Education:
• Education and awareness campaigns are crucial in changing societal attitudes towards gender equality.
• Programs like gender sensitization in schools can help address biases early.
• Regional Disparities:
• States with better socioeconomic indicators like Kerala often show higher sex ratios due to improved awareness and reduced gender biases.
• Conversely, states with lower development indices like Bihar and Uttar Pradesh face challenges in addressing gender disparities.

The correct answer is 1864.

Key Points

• Sir Syed Ahmed Khan founded the Scientific Society in 1864.
• The main objective was to translate Western works on science and other subjects into Urdu.
• It aimed to promote modern scientific knowledge among Indians, especially Muslims.
• The society played a crucial role in the educational and social reform movement in India.
• It was one of the first institutions to promote Western education and knowledge in India.

Additional Information

• Sir Syed Ahmed Khan
• Born on October 17, 1817, in Delhi, India.
• He was a prominent Muslim reformer, educator, and politician.
• He is best known for founding the Aligarh Muslim University in 1875.
• His efforts were aimed at modernizing Muslim education and promoting social reforms.
• Scientific Society
• Established in 1864 in Ghazipur, India.
• It was one of the first institutions in India to translate Western scientific works into Urdu.
• The society published journals and books to spread scientific knowledge.
• It served as a platform for intellectual discussions and debates.
• Impact of the Scientific Society
• Contributed to the spread of modern education among Muslims in India.
• Encouraged the adoption of Western scientific knowledge and methodologies.
• Played a significant role in the educational and social reform movement of the 19^th century.
• Helped bridge the gap between traditional and modern education systems.
• Aligarh Movement
• Started by Sir Syed Ahmed Khan to promote modern education among Muslims.
• Aimed at creating a class of educated Muslims who could serve in government and other modern professions.
• The movement led to the establishment of the Muhammadan Anglo-Oriental College, which later became Aligarh Muslim University.
• It emphasized the importance of scientific and rational thinking.

Here the correct answer is Agreement.

Key Points:-

• Let's look at the meaning of the given word:-
• Controversy*(noun)* - a lot of disagreement or argument about something, usually because it affects or is important to many people.
• For Example - There was a big controversy surrounding/over the use of drugs in athletics.
• Let's look at the meaning of the correct answer:-
• Agreement*(noun)* - the situation in which people have the same opinion, or in which they approve of or accept something.
• For Example - The whole family was in agreement with her about/on what they should do.
• Let's look at the meaning of the other options:-
• Argument*(noun)* - a disagreement, or the process of disagreeing.
• For Example - The children had an argument about/over what game to play.
• ​Difference*(noun)* - a disagreement.
• For Example - They had a terrible argument a few weeks ago, but now they've settled/resolved their differences.
• Quarrel*(noun)* -an angry disagreement between two or more people or groups..
• For Example - They had a bitter quarrel about/over some money three years ago and they haven't spoken to each other since

Therefore, the correct antonym for the given word is Agreement.