Search Previous Year Questions

The correct answer is Namrup, Assam.

Key Points

• A new urea plant with an annual capacity of 12.7 lakh metric tons has been announced to be set up in Namrup, Assam, as part of the Union Budget 2025-26.
• Namrup is home to the Brahmaputra Valley Fertilizer Corporation Limited (BVFCL), which currently operates existing urea production plants in the region.
• The new plant aims to enhance India’s fertilizer production capacity, reducing dependence on imports and ensuring self-reliance in urea production.
• This initiative aligns with the government’s goal of promoting agricultural development and ensuring the availability of fertilizers for Indian farmers.
• Namrup has strategic importance due to its location in Assam, facilitating the supply of urea to the northeastern states and nearby regions.

Additional Information

• Berhampur, Odisha:
• Berhampur is known as the commercial hub of southern Odisha and is famous for its silk sarees and handicrafts.
• Although it is an important city in Odisha, it is not associated with the announcement of a urea plant in the Union Budget 2025-26.
• Haldwani, Uttarakhand:
• Haldwani is a city located in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand and serves as a gateway to several hill stations.
• The region is primarily known for its horticulture and tourism industry rather than large-scale fertilizer production facilities.
• Ballari, Karnataka:
• Ballari is a major industrial and mining hub in Karnataka, particularly known for its iron ore reserves and steel production.

The correct answer is Soumyajit Ghosh Dastidar.

Key Points

• Soumyajit Ghosh Dastidar directed the short film 'Flowering Man', which won the Best Non-Feature Film award at the 71^st National Film Awards.
• The film was praised for its unique storytelling, visual representation, and poignant depiction of its subject matter.
• The National Film Awards are among the most prestigious film awards in India, recognizing excellence in Indian cinema across various languages and categories.
• 'Flowering Man' reflects Soumyajit Ghosh Dastidar's creative approach to filmmaking, focusing on compelling narratives and emotional depth.
• The 71^st National Film Awards were announced in August 2025, celebrating exceptional cinematic contributions from across the country.

Additional Information

• Yeshoda Prakash Kottukathira:
• Yeshoda Prakash Kottukathira is an independent filmmaker, recognized for her work in regional cinema.
• Her films often explore themes related to cultural identity, folklore, and women's empowerment.
• Harshavardhan Rameshwar:
• Harshavardhan Rameshwar is a noted music composer and filmmaker in the Indian film industry.
• He is best known for his contribution to film scores and soundtracks, especially in the Telugu film industry.
• Yashowardhan Mishra:
• Yashowardhan Mishra is a rising filmmaker who has gained recognition for his thought-provoking and socially relevant cinema.
• He has worked on several acclaimed projects, but he is not the director of 'Flowering Man'.

The correct answer is Suryakumar Yadav.

Key Points

• Suryakumar Yadav broke Yuvraj Singh's record for the fastest T20I fifty by an Indian against Pakistan during the Asia Cup, Super Four in September 2025.
• He achieved this remarkable feat in just 22 balls, showcasing his aggressive batting style and ability to dominate bowlers in high-pressure matches.
• Suryakumar Yadav is widely regarded for his innovative shot-making and versatility, making him one of the most impactful T20I players in the world.
• His innings was crucial in India’s performance against their arch-rivals Pakistan, contributing significantly to the team's total score.
• Yuvraj Singh previously held the record for the fastest T20I fifty against Pakistan, which was broken by Suryakumar Yadav during this match.

Additional Information

• Abhishek Sharma:
• Abhishek Sharma is an emerging Indian cricketer known for his all-round abilities in domestic cricket and IPL.
• He has made a mark in franchise cricket but has not broken any records related to T20I fifties against Pakistan.
• Though talented, he is yet to establish himself in the international arena as a consistent performer.
• Rishabh Pant:
• Rishabh Pant is a dynamic Indian wicketkeeper-batsman known for his aggressive batting and match-winning abilities.
• While Pant has played some memorable T20I innings, he has not set records for the fastest fifty against Pakistan.
• His role in the Indian team is crucial, especially in chasing targets and finishing games.
• Shubman Gill:
• Shubman Gill is a technically sound Indian batsman who excels in all formats of the game, especially ODIs and Tests.
• Although Gill has shown promise in T20Is, he is not known for breaking records like the fastest fifties in this format.
• He is more suited to anchoring innings rather than playing explosive knocks like Suryakumar Yadav.
• Main Theme:
• This question highlights the significance of individual performances in high-stakes matches like India vs Pakistan in the Asia Cup.
• Records such as the fastest T20I fifty showcase the evolving nature of the game and the emergence of aggressive players like Suryakumar Yadav.
• Suryakumar Yadav’s achievement reflects his contribution to modern cricket, where innovation and adaptability play key roles.

The correct answer is Suttur Srikshetra and Shuka Vana.

Key Points

• Suttur Srikshetra and Shuka Vana are the two places in Karnataka's Mysuru district declared as tourist spots under the Karnataka Tourism Policy 2024-29.
• Suttur Srikshetra is a renowned pilgrimage center located in the Mysuru district, which is famous for its spiritual significance and annual fairs.
• Shuka Vana, also known as the Parrot Park, is an aviary established by Dr. Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji. It is home to over 2,100 rare and endangered species of birds, including parrots.
• The Karnataka Tourism Policy 2024-29 aims to promote tourism by identifying and developing unique cultural, spiritual, and ecological destinations across the state.
• This declaration is part of the state government’s initiative to enhance tourism infrastructure and attract more visitors to Karnataka.

Additional Information

• Mysuru Palace, also known as Amba Vilas Palace, is one of the most famous royal residences in India and a popular tourist attraction.
• Chamundi Hills is a sacred hill located near Mysuru, known for the Chamundeshwari Temple dedicated to Goddess Durga.​
• RK Narayan's house in Mysuru has been converted into a museum to honor the legacy of the legendary Indian author.
• Karnataka Tourism Policy 2024-29:
• The Karnataka Tourism Policy is a strategic framework designed to promote the state as a leading destination for cultural, spiritual, and eco-tourism.
• The policy focuses on infrastructure development, employment generation, and boosting both domestic and international tourism.
• It identifies specific regions and sites for development to enhance Karnataka’s tourism potential.

The correct answer is Murali Sreeshankar.

Key Points

• Murali Sreeshankar, an accomplished Indian long jumper, secured the title at the Meeting Maia Cidade do Desporto in Portugal in July 2025 with a jump of 7.75 meters.
• He is one of India’s top long jump athletes and has consistently performed well in international events, including the Olympics and World Championships.
• Murali Sreeshankar is known for his national record-breaking leap of 8.36 meters, achieved at the Federation Cup in 2022.
• He has represented India in multiple prestigious competitions, including the Commonwealth Games 2022, where he won a silver medal in long jump.
• Sreeshankar’s consistent performances have elevated India’s presence in athletics on the global stage, particularly in field events.

Additional Information

• Sandeep Singh Maan
• Sandeep Singh Maan is a para-athlete from India who has represented the country in various international events, including the Paralympics.
• He specializes in track and field events and has won numerous medals at the Asian Para Games and other regional championships.
• He is an inspiration for budding para-athletes in India, showcasing perseverance and excellence.
• Solairaj Dharmaraj
• Solairaj Dharmaraj is a lesser-known Indian athlete who has participated in regional and national events.
• While he has contributed to athletics, his achievements have not yet reached the scale of international recognition like Murali Sreeshankar.
• Kumaravel Premkumar
• Kumaravel Premkumar is an Indian long jumper who has represented India in various international and national competitions.
• He held the national record in long jump with a leap of 8.09 meters until it was surpassed by Murali Sreeshankar in 2018.
• Premkumar has been a significant figure in Indian athletics, inspiring younger athletes in the long jump discipline.

The correct answer is Buddhist, Jain and Hindu.

Key Points

• The Ellora Caves, located in Aurangabad district of Maharashtra, are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and represent the pinnacle of Indian rock-cut architecture.
• These caves were built between the 6^th and 10^th centuries CE and comprise 34 monasteries and temples carved into the vertical face of the Charanandri hills.
• The caves are divided into three groups based on religious affiliations: Buddhist (Caves 1–12), Hindu (Caves 13–29), and Jain (Caves 30–34), showcasing the religious harmony and coexistence in ancient India.
• The Buddhist caves primarily consist of monasteries and include the famous Vishvakarma Cave (Cave 10), also known as the Carpenter’s Cave, which features a large seated Buddha in a prayer pose.
• The Hindu caves are known for their intricate carvings, with the Kailasa Temple (Cave 16) being the most notable. This monolithic structure is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is considered a masterpiece of Indian rock-cut architecture.
• The Jain caves are smaller but highly detailed, reflecting Jain principles of asceticism and simplicity, with elaborate decorations and carvings of Tirthankaras.

Additional Information

• Ajanta Caves
• Focus: Exclusively Buddhist, known for exquisite murals (frescoes) and sculptures depicting Jataka tales and Buddha's life.
• Features: 30 caves with monasteries (viharas) and prayer halls (chaityas).
• Period: Carved between the 2^nd century BCE and 6^th century CE.
• Ellora Caves
• Focus: A unique mix of Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain monuments, showcasing religious coexistence.
• Features: 34 caves, including the magnificent Kailasa Temple (Cave 16), carved from a single rock.
• Period: Built between the 6^th and 11^th centuries.

The correct answer is Xylem.

Key Points

• Xylem is a vascular tissue in plants responsible for the transport of water and dissolved minerals from the roots to the rest of the plant.
• Xylem consists of specialized cells such as tracheids and vessel elements, which are tubular and help in the upward movement of water through capillary action.
• The transport in xylem is a passive process driven by physical forces like transpiration pull, cohesion, and adhesion of water molecules.
• In addition to transportation, xylem also provides mechanical support to the plant due to the presence of lignified cell walls in its structure.
• Xylem operates unidirectionally, meaning water moves only from roots to leaves and other parts of the plant.

Additional Information

• Phloem
• Phloem is another vascular tissue in plants responsible for the transport of organic nutrients (mainly sucrose) produced during photosynthesis.
• It consists of specialized cells such as sieve tube elements, companion cells, phloem fibers, and phloem parenchyma.
• Unlike xylem, phloem transport is bidirectional, meaning nutrients can move both upward and downward in the plant.
• Epidermis
• The epidermis is the outermost layer of cells in plants and serves as a protective barrier against physical damage, water loss, and pathogen invasion.
• It does not play a role in the transport of water or nutrients but may have specialized structures like stomata for gas exchange and root hairs for water absorption.
• Cortex
• The cortex is a layer of tissue between the epidermis and vascular tissues in stems and roots.
• It primarily functions in the storage of nutrients and the transport of materials to the vascular tissues but does not specialize in the transport of water and minerals.
• In roots, the cortex also helps in the absorption of water and nutrients before they enter the vascular system.

The correct answer is Kalinga architecture.

Key Points

• Kalinga architecture is a distinctive style of temple architecture that originated in the historical region of Kalinga, corresponding to present-day Odisha and parts of Andhra Pradesh and Chhattisgarh.
• The three principal types of temples in Kalinga architecture are Rekha Deula, Pidha Deula, and Khakhara Deula, each having unique structural features.
• Rekha Deula refers to temples with a tall, curvilinear spire (Shikhara), as seen in the Lingaraja Temple in Bhubaneswar.
• Pidha Deula is characterized by stepped pyramidal roofs, as observed in the Jagannath Temple in Puri.
• Khakhara Deula has a barrel-shaped roof and is associated with temples dedicated to goddesses, such as the Vaital Deula in Bhubaneswar.
• Kalinga architecture is renowned for its intricate carvings, sculptures, and the use of sandstone and laterite as construction materials.

Additional Information

• Deccan architecture
• Deccan architecture emerged in the Deccan Plateau region of India and is influenced by Hindu, Islamic, and Persian styles.
• It is known for its fortresses, palaces, mosques, and tombs, such as the Golconda Fort and Charminar in Hyderabad.
• Key architectural features include domes, arches, and intricate stucco designs.
• Dravidian architecture
• Dravidian architecture originated in South India and is associated with Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Kerala.
• It is known for its towering gopurams (gateway towers), mandapas (pillared halls), and vimanas (temple towers).
• Notable examples include the Brihadeeswara Temple in Thanjavur and the Meenakshi Temple in Madurai.
• Khmer architecture
• Khmer architecture is associated with the Khmer Empire, centered in present-day Cambodia.
• It is characterized by monumental temple complexes, such as Angkor Wat and Bayon, built using sandstone and laterite.
• Temples often feature intricate bas-reliefs, central towers, and water reservoirs (barays).

The correct answer is Ayodhya Deepotsav.

Key Points

• The Ayodhya Deepotsav is an annual festival celebrated in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, to commemorate the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile.
• In 2025, the event will feature environment-friendly green fireworks and grand decorative arrangements along the Saryu River ghats and Ram Ki Paidi.
• The festival is known for its grandeur, including the lighting of millions of diyas (earthen lamps) along the ghats, creating a spectacular visual treat.
• The event is organized by the Uttar Pradesh government and has gained recognition in recent years as a symbol of cultural and spiritual heritage.
• Ayodhya Deepotsav has also set several records, including lighting the maximum number of diyas, certified by the Guinness World Records.

Additional Information

• Mathura-Vrindavan Festival
• The Mathura-Vrindavan region is famous for its vibrant celebrations of festivals like Holi and Janmashtami.
• During Holi, the region celebrates with unique traditions such as Lathmar Holi in Barsana and Nandgaon, where women playfully hit men with sticks.
• Janmashtami, the birth anniversary of Lord Krishna, is celebrated with great enthusiasm, including performances of Ras Leela and devotional singing.
• Varanasi Dev Deepawali
• Dev Deepawali is celebrated on the full moon night (Kartik Purnima) in Varanasi, marking the victory of Lord Shiva over the demon Tripurasura.
• The ghats of the Ganges are illuminated with millions of diyas, and devotees perform the sacred Ganga Aarti.
• This festival attracts thousands of pilgrims and tourists every year, showcasing the spiritual and cultural essence of Varanasi.
• Haridwar Deepotsav
• Haridwar is renowned for its religious festivals and rituals, particularly the Ganga Aarti performed at Har Ki Pauri.
• Though not specifically associated with Deepotsav, Haridwar celebrates festivals like Diwali with the lighting of lamps along the Ganga ghats, symbolizing devotion and spirituality.
• Haridwar holds immense significance in Hinduism as one of the seven holiest cities in India.

The correct answer is Haryana.

Key Points

• The Supreme Court of India ruled in September 2025 that Haryana's unused village land, arising from agricultural consolidation, should remain with the original landowners rather than being transferred to gram panchayats.
• This decision emphasizes the protection of property rights of individuals, promoting the fair distribution of surplus land.
• The judgment was based on the Haryana Consolidation of Holdings Act, 1948, which governs the consolidation of agricultural land in the state.
• Under the Act, surplus land generated during consolidation processes is traditionally redistributed among landowners instead of being transferred to local administrative bodies.
• The verdict sets a precedent for similar cases in other states, reinforcing the importance of individual ownership rights over government acquisition.

Additional Information

• Punjab
• Punjab has its own laws governing agricultural consolidation, such as the Punjab Land Revenue Act, 1887.
• However, the state has not been involved in similar legal disputes regarding surplus land redistribution.
• Punjab focuses on irrigation and land improvement policies to enhance agricultural productivity.
• Uttar Pradesh
• Uttar Pradesh follows the UP Consolidation of Holdings Act, 1953, for land consolidation and redistribution.
• In this state, surplus land generated during consolidation has been used for public purposes or redistributed to landless farmers in some cases.
• Madhya Pradesh
• Madhya Pradesh handles land consolidation under its Madhya Pradesh Land Revenue Code, 1959.
• The state focuses on equitable redistribution of agricultural land to improve socio-economic conditions of farmers.