Search Previous Year Questions

The correct answer is Maratha Military Landscapes, mostly in Maharashtra.

Key Points

• The Maratha Military Landscapes were recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2025 for their historical and strategic significance in Indian history.
• This includes several forts, military outposts, and strategic locations that were critical to the Maratha Empire, predominantly located in Maharashtra.
• These sites showcase the Maratha Empire’s exceptional military architecture and defensive strategies, which were pivotal during the 17^th and 18^th centuries.
• Some of the notable sites include Raigad Fort, Sinhagad Fort, and Pratapgad Fort, which were key centers of Maratha administration and warfare.
• The landscapes reflect a fusion of natural geography and human ingenuity, demonstrating how the Marathas adapted their military strategies to the rugged terrain of the Western Ghats.

Additional Information

• Nayakkar Mahal, Tamil Nadu
• Also known as the Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal, it is a 17^th-century palace in Madurai, Tamil Nadu.
• The palace is an excellent example of Dravidian and Rajput architectural styles, showcasing grand arches, domes, and intricate stucco work.
• It was constructed by Thirumalai Nayak, a ruler of the Nayaka dynasty, but it is not associated with military or defensive significance, making it ineligible for the UNESCO recognition mentioned in this context.
• Khichan Wetland, Rajasthan
• Khichan Wetland is globally renowned for being a significant bird sanctuary, especially for the migratory demoiselle cranes that visit annually.
• It is a prime example of community-driven conservation efforts in Rajasthan.
• Despite its ecological importance, it does not align with the theme of military or historical landscapes required for UNESCO recognition in 2025.
• Suttur Srikshetra, Karnataka
• Suttur Srikshetra is a prominent spiritual and cultural center located in Mysuru, Karnataka.
• It is a key pilgrimage site associated with the Lingayat community and hosts several educational and social service initiatives.
• Although historically significant in a religious context, it is not a military landscape and was not recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2025.

The correct answer is 50 gold medals, ranked 1^st.

Key Points

• India performed exceptionally well in the 16^th Asian Shooting Championship held in August 2025 in Shymkent, Kazakhstan, clinching 50 gold medals.
• With this performance, India secured the 1^st rank in the medal tally, showcasing dominance in shooting sports.
• The event featured participants from multiple Asian countries, making the competition highly competitive.
• India’s shooters excelled in various categories, including rifle, pistol, and shotgun events, contributing significantly to the nation’s medal tally.
• This achievement highlights India’s growing strength in shooting sports and the success of initiatives like Khelo India and enhanced training facilities for athletes.

Additional Information

• Shooting Sports in India
• Shooting has been one of the most successful sports for India in international events like the Olympics, Asian Games, and Commonwealth Games.
• Programs like TOPS (Target Olympic Podium Scheme) and enhanced funding have significantly contributed to the growth of the sport.
• Indian shooters like Abhinav Bindra, Gagan Narang, and Manu Bhaker have inspired the younger generation to excel in the sport.

The correct answer is India Connectivity Act 2025.

Key Points

• The India Connectivity Act 2025 was introduced to accelerate the adoption and penetration of 5G technology across India, ensuring affordable access for all citizens.
• The policy emphasizes boosting local manufacturing of telecom equipment and fostering innovation in the telecommunications sector to achieve self-reliance.
• It aims to enhance digital sovereignty, ensuring that India's data and digital infrastructure are secure and aligned with national interests.
• The act incentivizes the development of telecom infrastructure in rural and remote areas, ensuring digital inclusion across the nation.
• It aligns with the government’s Digital India vision by promoting digital transformation and reducing dependency on foreign technologies.

Additional Information

• Digital India Policy 2025
• The Digital India initiative, launched in 2015, aims to transform India into a digitally empowered society and knowledge economy.
• While the Digital India initiative continues to evolve, there has been no distinct policy introduced under this title for 2025.
• The program focuses on areas such as digital infrastructure, digital literacy, and digital delivery of government services.

The correct answer is 49%.

Key Points

• The Indian government announced a contribution of 49% to the ₹25,000 crore Maritime Development Fund in the Union Budget 2025-26.
• This contribution is aimed at supporting maritime infrastructure development and enhancing the country's shipping and port facilities.
• The Maritime Development Fund is a part of the government's initiative to boost the blue economy and strengthen India's position in global maritime trade.
• The fund will be utilized for modernizing ports, improving logistics, and promoting sustainable maritime practices.
• India's maritime sector plays a critical role in facilitating international trade, as approximately 95% of India's trade by volume is carried through maritime routes.

Additional Information

• Maritime Development Fund: Theme and Objectives
• The Maritime Development Fund is a strategic initiative by the Indian government to bolster the maritime and shipping sector.
• It aligns with the vision of achieving sustainable development and fostering economic growth through maritime trade.
• The fund supports port modernization, technology adoption, and the development of eco-friendly shipping practices.
• India's focus on the blue economy reflects its commitment to utilizing ocean resources for economic and environmental sustainability.

The correct answer is Madhya Pradesh.

Key Points

• The "Ladki Bahin" scheme is an initiative launched by the state of Madhya Pradesh aimed at empowering women and improving their socio-economic status.
• Under this scheme, the state government has made it mandatory for beneficiaries to complete their e-KYC (electronic Know Your Customer) process to ensure transparency and proper identification of recipients.
• The scheme focuses on providing financial assistance and benefits to women to promote gender equality and empower them in various aspects of life, including education, healthcare, and entrepreneurship.
• It aligns with the broader initiatives of the Madhya Pradesh government to implement welfare programs specifically targeted at women and girls to improve their living standards and opportunities.
• The introduction of e-KYC ensures the authenticity of the beneficiaries and reduces the chances of fraudulent claims in the scheme.

Additional Information

• Uttar Pradesh:
• Uttar Pradesh has launched several schemes like Kanya Sumangala Yojana, which provides financial assistance to girls from birth until their marriage to promote their welfare and education.
• The state government has also implemented women-centric initiatives, such as the Rani Laxmi Bai Mahila Samman Kosh Yojana, which aims to provide financial aid to women in distress.
• Rajasthan:
• Rajasthan has introduced the Rajshree Yojana, which provides financial assistance to families for the education and health of girl children.
• The state is also known for the Bhamashah Yojana, aimed at promoting women's financial independence by opening bank accounts in their names and transferring benefits directly to them.
• Maharashtra:
• Maharashtra has implemented schemes like Mazi Kanya Bhagyashree Yojana, which provides financial incentives to families for raising and educating girls, thus reducing female infanticide and improving gender equality.
• Other initiatives, such as the Tejaswini Rural Women Empowerment Programme, focus on empowering women in rural areas through skill development and entrepreneurship.

The correct answer is Bharatanatyam.

Key Points

• CV Chandrasekhar was a renowned Bharatanatyam dancer, choreographer, and academician who contributed immensely to the field of Indian classical dance.
• He was known for his innovative choreographies and his ability to seamlessly blend traditional and modern elements in Bharatanatyam performances.
• CV Chandrasekhar began his journey in Bharatanatyam under the tutelage of prominent gurus and went on to become one of the most celebrated dancers and teachers of the art form.
• He was a recipient of prestigious awards such as the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award and other honors for his remarkable contributions to Bharatanatyam.
• Besides being a performer, he was also a professor of dance at various institutions and worked towards spreading Bharatanatyam through his teaching and workshops globally.

Additional Information

• Kuchipudi:
• Kuchipudi is a classical dance form originating from Andhra Pradesh, India.
• It is characterized by graceful movements, dramatic storytelling, and intricate footwork.
• Traditionally, Kuchipudi was performed as a dance-drama, and the performers also delivered dialogues in addition to dancing.
• Famous exponents of Kuchipudi include Vedantam Satyanarayana Sarma and Yamini Krishnamurthy.
• Mohiniyattam:
• Mohiniyattam is a classical dance form from Kerala, India, known for its elegant and feminine movements.
• The term "Mohini" refers to a divine enchantress, and the dance often portrays themes from Hindu mythology, particularly the story of Mohini.
• It combines elements of Bharatanatyam and Kathakali, emphasizing grace, simplicity, and expressive storytelling.
• Prominent Mohiniyattam dancers include Kalamandalam Kalyanikutty Amma and Sunanda Nair.
• Kathak:
• Kathak is one of the eight classical dance forms of India and has its roots in North India.
• It is characterized by intricate footwork, spins, and expressive gestures, often performed to Hindustani classical music.
• Kathak derives its name from "Katha," meaning story, as it originally involved storytelling through dance.
• Prominent Kathak dancers include Birju Maharaj and Shovana Narayan.
• Classical Dance in India:
• Indian classical dance forms are deeply rooted in spirituality and culture, often based on texts like Natya Shastra.
• There are eight recognized classical dance forms in India: Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi, Kathak, Mohiniyattam, Kathakali, Odissi, Manipuri, and Sattriya.
• Each dance form is unique in its style, costume, and storytelling approach, representing the diverse cultural heritage of different regions of India.

The correct answer is Steatite.

Key Points

• The Priest King, a prominent artefact from the Indus Valley Civilisation, was carved from steatite, also known as soapstone.
• Steatite is a soft material, making it an ideal medium for intricate carvings and detailed sculptures.
• This artefact was discovered in Mohenjo-Daro, one of the major urban centers of the Indus Valley Civilisation.
• The Priest King represents high levels of artistic and cultural sophistication achieved during the Indus Valley era.
• The artefact is believed to have been decorated with intricate motifs, including an armband and a trefoil-patterned robe, which were possibly symbolic or ceremonial in nature.

Additional Information

• Red Sandstone
• Red sandstone is a hard sedimentary rock that was widely used in ancient Indian architecture, especially during the Mughal period.
• Structures like the Qutub Minar and Fatehpur Sikri are made from red sandstone.
• However, it was not commonly used for small artefacts or sculptures in the Indus Valley Civilisation.
• Terracotta
• Terracotta is a type of fired clay that was extensively used during the Indus Valley Civilisation for creating figurines, pottery, and seals.
• Terracotta artefacts from this era typically include human and animal figurines, toys, and utilitarian objects.
• However, the Priest King is not made from terracotta but from steatite.
• Bronze
• Bronze was widely used in the Indus Valley Civilisation, particularly for crafting tools, weapons, and statues such as the famous Dancing Girl of Mohenjo-Daro.
• Bronze is an alloy of copper and tin, known for its durability and lustrous appearance.
• While bronze was a significant material during this period, the Priest King artefact was not made from it.

The correct answer is Nagaland.

Key Points

• La Ganesan served as the Governor of Nagaland during his tenure in office.
• He was a seasoned politician and leader, affiliated with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
• La Ganesan also held the governorship of Manipur and West Bengal at different points in time, showcasing his extensive administrative experience.
• As Governor of Nagaland, he played a vital role in overseeing constitutional responsibilities and maintaining harmony in the state.
• His contributions to Indian politics and governance were widely acknowledged, especially in states with diverse socio-political dynamics like Nagaland.

Additional Information

• Haryana
• Haryana is a northern Indian state known for its agriculture and industrial contributions.
• The state is a hub for automobile manufacturing, with companies like Maruti Suzuki operating in Gurugram and Manesar.
• It was carved out of Punjab in 1966 and has its capital in Chandigarh.
• Rajasthan
• Rajasthan, the largest state in India by area, is famous for its deserts, palaces, and cultural heritage.
• It is home to the Thar Desert and prominent cities like Jaipur, Udaipur, and Jodhpur.
• The state plays a significant role in tourism and is known for its historical landmarks like the Amber Fort and Hawa Mahal.
• Uttar Pradesh
• Uttar Pradesh (UP) is the most populous state in India, with its capital in Lucknow.
• It is known for the Taj Mahal in Agra, one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
• The state has a rich cultural and political history, being the birthplace of leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru.
• Governorship in India
• The Governor is the constitutional head of a state, appointed by the President of India.
• The Governor's primary role is to act as a link between the state government and the central government.
• Governors ensure the smooth functioning of state constitutional machinery and uphold the Indian Constitution.

The correct answer is Andhra Pradesh.

Key Points

• The 'Digi-Lakshmi' scheme was launched by the Andhra Pradesh government in June 2025 to digitally empower urban poor women.
• This initiative aims to promote digital literacy and financial independence among women from economically weaker sections.
• The scheme emphasizes providing access to digital platforms, mobile applications, and e-governance tools for urban poor women to enhance their skills and employability.
• Under the 'Digi-Lakshmi' scheme, beneficiaries receive free smartphones, internet connectivity, and training in digital technologies.
• The program aligns with the state government's broader agenda to leverage digital technology for socio-economic growth and inclusion.

Additional Information

• Karnataka
• Karnataka has implemented several social welfare schemes, such as the 'Karnataka Gruha Lakshmi Yojana,' aimed at empowering women by providing financial assistance to homemakers.
• The state is also known for digital initiatives like the 'Bangalore One' e-governance program, which simplifies access to government services.
• Telangana
• Telangana is known for its flagship welfare programs, such as 'Rythu Bandhu' for farmers and 'Kalyana Lakshmi' for economically weaker sections during marriages.
• The state has made significant strides in digital governance through initiatives like 'T-Hub' and 'MeeSeva.'
• Tamil Nadu
• Tamil Nadu has introduced various women-centric schemes such as 'Amma Two Wheeler Scheme' to promote women's empowerment and mobility.
• It is also known for its e-governance initiatives like 'TNeGA,' which aim to provide citizen-centric services digitally.

The correct answer is Camp Larzac, La Cavalerie, France.

Key Points

• The 8^th edition of the biennial India-France Joint Military Exercise 'Shakti' was held from 18 June to 1 July 2025.
• The location for this edition of the exercise was Camp Larzac, La Cavalerie, France.
• Exercise 'Shakti' aims to enhance military cooperation between India and France and strengthen interoperability between their armed forces.
• It focuses on counter-terrorism operations, urban warfare, and combat drills in semi-urban terrains.
• This exercise is part of the long-standing strategic partnership between India and France, which includes defense, security, and counter-terrorism cooperation.

Additional Information

• Deolali Cantonment, India
• Deolali Cantonment is one of the oldest military establishments in India, located near Nashik in Maharashtra.
• It is known for hosting various military training exercises for the Indian Army.
• Montauban Training Area, France
• The Montauban Training Area is another French military facility used for training and exercises.
• Jodhpur Military Station, India
• Jodhpur Military Station is a significant military base in Rajasthan, India.
• It serves as a training and operational ground for the Indian Armed Forces.
• About Exercise Shakti
• Exercise Shakti is a biennial military exercise conducted between the Indian Army and the French Army.
• The exercise focuses on counter-terrorism operations, disaster relief, and peacekeeping missions.
• It aims to enhance military cooperation and foster strong defense ties between India and France.
• The previous editions of the exercise have been conducted alternately in India and France.