Search Previous Year Questions

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 11^th 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 6^th to 12^th 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 11^th 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 100^th 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.