Search Previous Year Questions

The correct answer is Banning all development in affected states.

Key Points

• Banning all development in earthquake-prone states is not practical or recommended as it would hinder economic growth and urbanization.
• Instead of a complete ban, authorities focus on regulating construction activities and enforcing earthquake-resistant standards.
• Earthquake-prone areas often require mitigation strategies like retrofitting old buildings and promoting safe construction practices rather than halting all development.
• The emphasis is on preparation, resilience, and reducing risks through scientific and policy-driven approaches, not on banning progress entirely.
• Global practices in earthquake risk reduction advocate improving construction norms, public preparedness, and effective disaster management systems rather than halting development.

Additional Information

• Earthquake Mitigation Strategies:
• Effective earthquake mitigation focuses on preparedness, response, recovery, and long-term risk reduction.
• Key strategies include retrofitting old structures, enforcing strict building codes, and developing early warning systems.
• International collaboration and research contribute significantly to improving earthquake resilience worldwide.

The correct answer is Sulphur dioxide (SO2).

Key Points

• Sulphur dioxide (SO2), along with nitrogen oxides (NOx), is one of the primary precursors of acid rain.
• SO2 is released into the atmosphere mainly through industrial processes, especially the combustion of fossil fuels like coal and oil, as well as from volcanic eruptions.
• When SO2 reacts with water and oxygen in the atmosphere, it forms sulfuric acid (H2SO4), which contributes to acid rain.
• Acid rain has harmful effects on aquatic ecosystems, soil, vegetation, and infrastructure.
• Efforts to reduce SO2 emissions, such as the use of scrubbers in factories and transitioning to cleaner energy sources, have been implemented globally to mitigate its impact on acid rain formation.

Additional Information

• Ozone (O3):
• Ozone is a gas composed of three oxygen atoms and is found naturally in the Earth's stratosphere, where it forms the ozone layer that protects life from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
• Tropospheric ozone (ground-level ozone) is a pollutant formed by chemical reactions between nitrogen oxides (NOx) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the presence of sunlight.
• While ozone plays a critical role in the stratosphere, it is not a precursor of acid rain.
• Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs):
• CFCs are synthetic compounds primarily used as refrigerants, propellants, and in foam production.
• They are known for their role in depleting the ozone layer through chemical reactions in the stratosphere.
• CFCs do not contribute to the formation of acid rain but are significant contributors to ozone layer depletion.
• Methane (CH4):
• Methane is a potent greenhouse gas emitted from sources such as agriculture (especially livestock), wetlands, and fossil fuel production.
• It plays a role in global warming but is not directly involved in the formation of acid rain.
• Methane reacts with hydroxyl radicals in the atmosphere, contributing to the formation of water vapor and carbon dioxide, but it does not produce acidic compounds like SO2 or NOx.
• Acid Rain:
• Acid rain is formed when sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) react with water, oxygen, and other chemicals in the atmosphere to form sulfuric acid (H2SO4) and nitric acid (HNO3).
• It lowers the pH of rainwater and causes environmental damage, including soil acidification, water pollution, and harm to plants and buildings.
• Efforts to combat acid rain include reducing emissions of SO2 and NOx through regulations, cleaner technologies, and international agreements like the 1999 Gothenburg Protocol.

The correct answer is Odisha.

Key Points

• In June 2025, the Odisha state government launched a census of its water resources to create a detailed database.
• The census aims to collect data from the village level to the state level, ensuring comprehensive coverage.
• It is part of the government's initiative to manage water resources effectively and address issues related to water conservation.
• The database will help in identifying water scarcity areas and implementing targeted solutions.
• This project aligns with Odisha's focus on sustainable development and environmental conservation.

Additional Information

• Uttar Pradesh
• Uttar Pradesh has launched several initiatives related to water conservation, such as the "Jal Shakti Abhiyan" to revive water bodies and promote rainwater harvesting.
• The state focuses on creating awareness among rural communities about water conservation and sustainable use of water resources.
• Kerala
• Kerala is known for its initiatives to protect natural water bodies, including backwaters, rivers, and lakes.
• Projects such as "Haritha Keralam" focus on waste management, water conservation, and agricultural development.
• Karnataka
• Karnataka has launched water resource initiatives such as the "Jaladhare Project" to provide drinking water to rural households.
• The state has also implemented policies to rejuvenate lakes and improve irrigation systems in drought-prone areas.
• Water Resource Census Theme
• A water resource census is crucial for assessing the availability and quality of water resources at various levels.
• Such censuses help governments plan sustainable water management strategies and address challenges related to water scarcity.
• Data collected through water censuses can be used for policymaking, disaster management, and ensuring equitable water distribution.

The correct answer is Virat Kohli.

Key Points

• Virat Kohli, representing the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), won the Orange Cap in the 17^th season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) in 2024.
• The Orange Cap is awarded to the player who scores the most runs during the IPL season.
• Virat Kohli demonstrated his exceptional batting skills by scoring the highest runs in the tournament, showcasing consistency and brilliance throughout the season.
• His performances included multiple match-winning innings, with an impressive strike rate and high batting averages.
• Virat Kohli has been one of the most prolific run-scorers in IPL history and has previously won the Orange Cap in the 2016 season as well.

Additional Information

• Rohit Sharma
• Rohit Sharma is the captain of the Mumbai Indians (MI) team and one of the most successful IPL captains with 5 IPL titles under his leadership.
• He is known for his ability to anchor innings and deliver match-winning performances, but he did not secure the Orange Cap in the 2024 season.
• Suryakumar Yadav
• Suryakumar Yadav, also playing for Mumbai Indians, is a highly talented batsman known for his innovative shots and ability to accelerate in the middle overs.
• He had a good season in 2024 but fell short of the runs required to win the Orange Cap.
• David Warner
• David Warner, a consistent performer in the IPL, has won the Orange Cap multiple times in previous seasons (e.g., 2015, 2017, and 2019).
• Representing the Delhi Capitals in 2024, Warner delivered some notable performances but couldn’t surpass Virat Kohli's aggregate runs.
• Orange Cap in IPL
• The Orange Cap is a prestigious award in the IPL, introduced in 2008, and is awarded to the highest run-scorer of the tournament.
• The player wearing the Orange Cap during the tournament reflects their dominance as a batsman in the ongoing season.
• Past winners include notable players like Chris Gayle, Kane Williamson, and KL Rahul.

The correct answer is Scheme for Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment.

Key Points

• The Indian government has launched the Scheme for Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment to encourage and support states in enhancing their capital expenditure.
• This scheme involves a total budgetary allocation of ₹3.6 lakh crore, which will be disbursed as 50-year interest-free loans to states for capital investment purposes.
• The scheme aims to boost economic growth and infrastructure development by providing financial assistance to states for various capital projects.
• The sanctioned amount is to be utilized by states until September 2025 for creating long-term assets in sectors such as transportation, health, education, and housing.
• The initiative aligns with the central government’s vision of accelerating infrastructure development and promoting cooperative federalism by empowering states with financial resources.

Additional Information

• Jal Jeevan Mission (Option 1):
• Jal Jeevan Mission is a flagship initiative by the Government of India launched in 2019 to ensure functional tap water connections to every rural household by 2024.
• The program focuses on providing safe and adequate drinking water to rural areas while promoting water conservation and sustainable usage.
• The mission is implemented by the Department of Drinking Water & Sanitation under the Ministry of Jal Shakti.
• Atmanirbhar Bharat Infrastructure Push (Option 3):
• The Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative was launched by the Government of India to make the country self-reliant and resilient in various sectors, including infrastructure.
• Although not a specific scheme, the infrastructure push under this mission includes projects under the National Infrastructure Pipeline (NIP) to develop transport, logistics, energy, and urban infrastructure.
• The goal is to stimulate economic growth, create jobs, and reduce dependency on imports.

The correct answer is Rohini Gram Panchayat, Maharashtra.

Key Points

• Rohini Gram Panchayat in Maharashtra won the prestigious gold award under the National e-Governance Awards 2025 for its commendable grassroot-level initiatives.
• The gram panchayat has been recognized for leveraging innovative e-governance tools to enhance transparency and efficiency in local administration.
• It implemented advanced digital platforms for citizen services such as online grievance redressal, e-payment of taxes, and digitization of records.
• Rohini Gram Panchayat has actively promoted participatory governance by involving local citizens in decision-making processes using digital mediums.
• The award highlights the gram panchayat's efforts in improving rural infrastructure, healthcare accessibility, and educational outreach through technology-driven solutions.

Additional Information

• Suakati Gram Panchayat, Odisha
• Suakati Gram Panchayat is known for its initiatives in promoting rural employment through sustainable livelihood projects such as the promotion of self-help groups and eco-friendly practices.
• It has also worked extensively in the field of tribal welfare and skill development programs, empowering local communities for better socioeconomic outcomes.
• Palsana Gram Panchayat, Gujarat
• Palsana Gram Panchayat is recognized for its focus on water conservation and agricultural reforms, including the adoption of modern irrigation techniques.
• It has implemented effective waste management and cleanliness drives under the Swachh Bharat initiative, contributing to environmental sustainability in the region.
• West Majlishpur Gram Panchayat, Tripura
• West Majlishpur Gram Panchayat has made significant strides in enhancing healthcare facilities and promoting education in rural Tripura.
• Its initiatives include the establishment of e-learning centers and health camps catering to the needs of marginalized communities.

The correct answer is Leaf variegation in Mirabilis jalapa.

Key Points

• Leaf variegation in Mirabilis jalapa does not follow Mendelian inheritance; it exhibits maternal inheritance, which is controlled by genes present in the chloroplast genome rather than nuclear genes.
• The phenomenon occurs due to the presence of both normal green chloroplasts and mutated white chloroplasts in the cells, leading to variegated patterns.
• Maternal inheritance is determined by the cytoplasmic organelles (such as chloroplasts or mitochondria) passed exclusively through the egg cell during fertilization.
• Unlike Mendelian traits, which rely on dominant and recessive alleles of nuclear genes, cytoplasmic inheritance follows different rules and does not involve segregation of alleles.
• This pattern of inheritance is observed in various plants and organisms but is distinctly different from Mendel's principles of inheritance, which focus on nuclear gene segregation and independent assortment.

Additional Information

• Seed shape in pea plants:
• The inheritance of seed shape in pea plants follows Mendel's principles of inheritance, particularly the principle of dominance and segregation.
• Round seed shape is dominant over wrinkled seed shape, and the traits are determined by nuclear genes.
• Crosses involving homozygous dominant (RR) and homozygous recessive (rr) parents yield offspring with predictable phenotypic ratios, as described by Mendel's laws.
• Height in pea plants:
• Height is a Mendelian trait governed by a single pair of alleles, where tall plants (T) are dominant over dwarf plants (t).
• Through controlled crosses, Mendel demonstrated the principle of segregation, where alleles segregate independently during gamete formation.
• Phenotypic ratios of offspring in monohybrid crosses align with Mendelian expectations (e.g., 3:1 ratio in the F2 generation).
• Flower colour in pea plants:
• The inheritance of flower colour in pea plants follows Mendel's principles, particularly the principle of dominance.
• Purple flower colour is dominant over white flower colour, and the traits are governed by nuclear genes.
• Mendel's experiments on flower colour were among the foundational studies in genetics, demonstrating predictable inheritance patterns.

Important Points

• Mendelian principles:
• Mendelian inheritance is based on the principles of segregation and independent assortment, which apply to traits controlled by nuclear genes.
• Non-Mendelian inheritance patterns, such as maternal inheritance, epigenetics, and polygenic traits, involve mechanisms outside the scope of Mendel's original laws.
• The study of inheritance has expanded significantly since Mendel's time, incorporating concepts like cytoplasmic inheritance, gene linkage, and environmental effects on gene expression.

The correct answer is Delhi.

Key Points

• The National Institute of Kathak Dance, also known as Kathak Kendra, is located in Delhi, India.
• It serves as the premier institution for training, performing, and promoting Kathak, a classical dance form of India.
• Established in 1964, Kathak Kendra operates under the aegis of the Sangeet Natak Akademi, an autonomous body under the Ministry of Culture, Government of India.
• The institute offers intensive training programs for aspiring dancers and provides a platform for experienced performers to showcase their talent.
• It also organizes workshops, seminars, and performances to preserve and promote the rich cultural heritage of Kathak.

Additional Information 

• Kathak Dance:
• Kathak is one of the eight classical dance forms of India, originating in the temples of North India.
• The word 'Kathak' is derived from 'Katha', meaning story, and the dance form is characterized by storytelling through intricate footwork, spins, and expressive gestures.
• It has three major gharanas: Lucknow, Jaipur, and Banaras, each with its unique style and characteristics.
• The National Institute of Kathak Dance plays a pivotal role in preserving and propagating this traditional art form.

The correct answer is Vijayawada.

Key Points

• In July 2025, updates to the Haj Policy 2026 included the addition of Vijayawada as a new embarkation point through an official addendum.
• The addition of Vijayawada aims to provide greater convenience for pilgrims from Andhra Pradesh and surrounding regions to access Haj embarkation services.
• Embarkation points are designated locations from where Haj pilgrims depart for Saudi Arabia, ensuring streamlined travel arrangements.
• The Indian government regularly revises the Haj policy to accommodate regional demands and enhance the travel experience for pilgrims.
• This update reflects efforts to decentralize services and improve accessibility for Haj pilgrims across India.

Additional Information

• Indore
• Indore, a major city in Madhya Pradesh, is already an established embarkation point for Haj pilgrims.
• The city serves as a departure hub for pilgrims from central India.
• Indore’s strategic location helps facilitate Haj travel for pilgrims from Madhya Pradesh and neighboring states.
• Ranchi
• Ranchi, the capital of Jharkhand, has been proposed as an embarkation point in the past.
• While it caters to pilgrims from eastern India, it was not included in the July 2025 updates to the Haj Policy 2026.
• The demand for a dedicated embarkation point in Ranchi continues to grow due to the increasing number of pilgrims from Jharkhand.
• Surat
• Surat, located in Gujarat, is a significant industrial and cultural hub.
• It is already an embarkation point for Haj pilgrims, serving travelers primarily from Gujarat.
• Surat’s inclusion in the Haj Policy is notable for supporting the large Muslim population in the region.
• Haj Policy Overview
• The Haj Policy in India is updated periodically to address logistical challenges, improve services, and ensure the welfare of pilgrims.
• Embarkation points are critical components of the policy as they simplify travel for pilgrims and ensure proper coordination with airlines and authorities.
• The policy also incorporates technological advancements such as online registration, e-visa processing, and digital tracking of pilgrim movements.

The correct answer is Red blood cells.

Key Points

• Red blood cells (RBCs) lack a nucleus: Mammalian RBCs are anucleate, meaning they do not contain a nucleus. This adaptation allows them to have more space for hemoglobin, maximizing oxygen transport efficiency.
• No chromosomes: Since RBCs lack a nucleus, they also lack chromosomes, making them unique among mammalian cells.
• Main function: RBCs primarily transport oxygen from the lungs to tissues and carbon dioxide from tissues back to the lungs.
• Shape and flexibility: RBCs have a biconcave shape, which increases their surface area for gas exchange and allows them to easily navigate through narrow blood vessels.
• Lifespan: The average lifespan of a human RBC is around 120 days, after which they are removed from circulation by the spleen.

Additional Information

• White blood cells (WBCs):
• WBCs are nucleated cells and play a crucial role in the immune system by fighting infections and foreign invaders.
• Types of WBCs include lymphocytes, neutrophils, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils, each with specific immune functions.
• Unlike RBCs, WBCs can move out of the blood vessels to reach infection sites.
• Muscle cells:
• Muscle cells, also known as myocytes, are nucleated and contain genetic material.
• They are specialized for contraction and are responsible for movement in the body.
• There are three types of muscle cells: skeletal, cardiac, and smooth muscle cells, each with distinct functions.
• Liver cells:
• Liver cells, also known as hepatocytes, are nucleated and play a vital role in metabolism, detoxification, and protein synthesis.
• They are involved in bile production and storage of glycogen.
• The liver is a regenerative organ, meaning its cells can divide and repair damage.
• Significance of anucleate RBCs:
• The absence of a nucleus in RBCs is a unique adaptation in mammals, enabling efficient oxygen transport.
• This evolutionary trait distinguishes mammalian RBCs from those of other vertebrates, which typically have nucleated RBCs.